Exploring Faith: Thoughts & Theology

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

2011-12-26T12:17:00.000-05:00

The First Hobbit Trailer

2011-12-21T10:54:00.000-05:00

Here is the first trailer for The Hobbit. It is scheduled to be in theaters December 2012.

Favorite Books of 2011

2011-12-20T16:21:00.000-05:00

Here are 10 of my favorite reads of 2011 in no particular order.

Ephesians, Clinton Arnold

Steve Jobs, Walter Isaacson

Great By Choice, Collins & Hansen

The Peacemaker, Ken Sande

Wise Counsel, John Newton

The Forgotten Ways, Alan Hirsch

The Hobbit, J.R.R. Tolkien

Carry On, Jeeves, P.G. Wodehouse

Rawhide Down, Del Quentin Wilber

The Captain, Ian O'Connor

That's 10...I'll mention two more...

The first is Desiring God by John Piper. I enjoyed reading this with my Dad. The second is Doctrine by Driscoll and Breshears which I read with my oldest Son.

One more thing...The Jesus Storybook Bible by Sally Lloyd-Jones. We used this with our family devotions. Excellent!

What books did you enjoy in 2011?

Book Lover Ideas

2011-12-19T19:35:00.000-05:00

Ideas for the book lover. First, a shelf to help with reading goals.

Second, a design idea if you have stairs.

The Importance of Giving

2011-12-12T21:40:00.000-05:00

"We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give."

-Winston Churchill

What are you making of your life?

Book Christmas Tree

2011-12-12T16:39:00.000-05:00

Cool and Creative idea:

The Gospel, Thanksgiving, and Family Grace

2011-11-22T21:24:00.000-05:00

The Gospel, Thanksgiving, and Family Grace

Into the Wild

2011-11-18T11:42:00.000-05:00

At Explore Church we started a new series last week titled "Into the Wild." Here are a few shots of the set.

Another amazing job by the Creative Team! I Love My Church!!!

Painting Steve Jobs in 6 Minutes

2011-11-18T11:25:00.000-05:00

Artist Aaron Kizer paints a portrait of Steve Jobs in an intriguing performance piece put on at the 11th Hour Live Music and Arts Show in Owensboro, Kentucky.

A PLAN for Giving Generously

2011-11-17T12:21:00.000-05:00

A PLAN for Giving Generously

3 Questions to Ask When Reading from the Bible

2011-11-15T10:44:00.000-05:00

3 Questions to Ask When Reading from the Bible

Advice for Reading Theology Books Even Though You're Busy

2011-11-14T15:45:00.000-05:00

Advice for Reading Theology Books Even Though You're Busy

Write to Understand

2011-11-09T13:34:00.000-05:00

Write to Understand

Calvin & Hobbes on Creativity

2011-11-09T12:34:00.000-05:00

"X"

2011-11-06T19:52:00.000-05:00

2012 marks the 10th year of Explore Church. January 1 marks the beginning in our living room. Easter 2012 marks our move to Purfoy Road and the second Sunday in September will mark our launch to the public. Over the years our vision and mission has become clearer. When we started, we narrowed the focus by identifying several things we did not want to be known for as a church. Here is a list of some of what we did not want to be known for:

We did not want to be known as a church on mission to reach churched people. We wanted to go after folks not involved in church or connected to God. To reach people that no one else was reaching meant doing things no one else was doing.
We did not want to be known for what we were "against." (like--Halloween, Disney, War, or the Lottery). We wanted to be known for what we were for--A BIG GOD...who has provided a way to Him through His Son, Jesus Christ.
We did not want to be known as a church driven by religious rituals and traditions.
We did not want to be known as a church that was dull and boring.
We did not want to be known as a church that was a functional club geared to members only.
We did not want to be known as a church that was a drain on the community. We want to be a blessing to the community.
We did not want to be known as a program-driven church. If other churches or ministries were doing a ministry well, like AWANA, we were not going to do it. We were going to limit what we offered as a church so people will have time to be on mission in their neighborhood.
We did not want to be known as a church that tolerated sin and allowed folks to enjoy a marginal, mediocre Christian life. We feel that it is our responsibility to equip, train, stretch, and challenge people toward their potential in Christ.

More on this in the future as we approach 10 years of Explore Church!!!

Pause &

2011-11-02T20:29:00.000-04:00

When it comes to making decisions...it is good to have a plan. Decisions determine the course and trajectory of our lives. Therefore, we must choose wisely.

Before making a decision:

PAUSE & REMEMBER: Just because you can doesn't mean you should.
PAUSE & ASK: Is this a wise thing for me to do?
PAUSE & DETERMINE: What's best next?

Martin Luther at the Diet of Worms

2011-11-01T11:32:00.000-04:00

I love this scene and this movie!

John Piper on Halloween

2011-10-31T21:16:00.000-04:00

Being Missional on Halloween

2011-10-31T17:52:00.001-04:00

Being Missional on Halloween

Motive Reminder

2011-10-25T14:03:00.000-04:00

Simon Sinek: How great leaders inspire action

2011-10-19T17:13:00.000-04:00

Steve Jobs

2011-10-08T12:40:00.000-04:00

Just a few thoughts on the recent passing of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs...actually a few notes on my experience with Apple products and a thank you to Jobs.

Our first family computer circa 1984-85.

I typed my 12th grade term paper on one like this! Thanks SJ for making is easier to correct typing mistakes!

My first computer class at UNC--Comp 4, used one like this...

Pretty cool...drop and drag and easy to use spread sheets!

Then there were several dark days of PC use and frustration...until my wife got me an iPod for my 40th birthday. My initial thoughts were: "great...what am I going to do with this? Could be complicated; could kill my already sputtering PC; I don't listen to much music anyway...I'll just return it and get something else." Well it stayed in the box for over two months...past the opportunity to return window. Soooo, I finally opened it. Tried it. Loved it. It was easy to set up and use and instantly became a valuable tool in my life. Additionally, it served as a reminder: Apple = Useful + Simple.

Today I use multiple Apple products everyday. They make work fun and make me more productive. In sum, Apple products set me up for success. For that, Steve Jobs, I say thank you.

To everyone else: Life is short. Don't waste it.

My current workhorse. Basically all my work is done on and through one of these.

Currently Reading

2011-10-05T14:11:00.000-04:00

My family and I greatly enjoy reading. Even if my job did not require me to read a lot, I still would. Here is a sampling of what I have going right now.

Ephesians by Clinton Arnold. Makes sense as I am currently preaching through the book of Ephesians.
The Pleasures of God by John Piper. I usually have a book by Piper going. I have also recently picked up his new one, Bloodlines.
Instruments in the Redeemer's Hands by Paul David Tripp.
The Making of a Leader by Robert Clinton. I usually have a leadership book or two going all the time.
The Great Bridge by David McCullough. Great writer who has twice won the Pulitzer Prize. His biographies on John Adams and Harry Truman are fantastic.
Building Below the Waterline by Gordon MacDonald. A ministry leadership book.
Wise Counsel edited by Grant Gordon. This is a collection of letters sent by John Newton, of "Amazing Grace" fame, to encourage and guide a young pastor named John Ryland Jr. The time of the letters is the late 1700s.
The Christian Ministry by Charles Bridges. Ministry guidance from the 1800s.
The Captain by Ian O'Connor. This is a baseball book about the Yankees and Derek Jeter. Go Yankees!
Made to Stick by Chip & Dan Heath. This is a book about how to better communicate your ideas.
In the Name of Jesus by Henri Nouwen. This is a brief book that captures some of Nouwen's reflections on leadership. Very good.
Five Who Changed The World by Danny Akin. Inspiring book about five missionaries who impacted the world. The five are William Carey, Adoniram Judson, Bill Wallace, Lottie Moon, and Jim Elliot. The is a brief book and is well worth the investment of time and money, especially if you are considering how to be on mission for God.

Expand your perspective. Expand your world. READ!!!

Another Sunday Picture

2011-10-01T10:35:00.000-04:00

This one courtesy of Jeff Rolan.

The previous one was courtesy of Emily Gelzinis.

Sunday Shot

2011-09-26T15:46:00.000-04:00

Community

2011-09-09T11:42:00.002-04:00

Edit Your Life

2011-08-29T10:20:00.000-04:00

Nike CEO, Mark Parker says that shortly after becoming CEO and working on Nike+ with Apple he talked with Steve Jobs on the phone. "Do you have any advice?" Parker asked Jobs. Here is what Jobs had to say:

Time is limited. You cannot do everything. You cannot even do several things well. But you have the potential to do a few things great. What do you need to focus on? What do you need to give your life to? To achieve maximum impact you may have to edit your life. Make some cuts. What matters most? Pour your energy into that.

As you consider your life...what do you need to cut?

Five Reasons to Memorize Scripture

2011-08-20T22:22:00.000-04:00

Five Reasons to Memorize Scripture

I Love My Church

2011-08-14T21:29:00.000-04:00

New series coming Sunday at Explore Church!

John Stott: An Appreciation

2011-07-28T16:05:00.000-04:00

John Stott: An Appreciation

If You Can Only Read One of John Stott's Books

2011-07-28T14:15:00.000-04:00

If You Can Only Read One of John Stott’s Books

John R. W. Stott (1921-2011)

2011-07-27T16:47:00.000-04:00

John Stott died earlier this morning. He is one of my favorite writers and commentators. His books and insights have impacted me greatly. My favorite book of his is The Cross of Christ.

For more about John Stott and his life and ministry you can start with this link.
John R. W. Stott (1921-2011)

A Return to Swimming

2011-07-22T21:22:00.000-04:00

It had been well over a year...maybe two...maybe more, hard to say, hard to remember. But as my youngest son was signed up to participate in a basketball camp this week at the gym, it seemed like a good opportunity to get back to regular workouts. Which brings us to Tuesday morning. Following "drop off" I made my way to the pool to try a few laps. It is supposed to be good for you. Again, it has been one...maybe two years since I have last attempted this. Remembering how it used to be...one to two years ago--it should not be too hard.

I entered the water, which was a little cloudy but not too cold. I adjusted my goggles and pushed off the wall...if Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps is a jet in the water, then I'm a helicopter--slapping and flapping in the water in a desperate attempt to stay afloat. Not pretty! After what seemed like an hour I grabbed the edge of the pool with much puffing and blowing...light headed. Half a lap done. I don't remember it being so hard.

Push off and back toward the other end...

Several laps later--a man asked, "How are you doing?" I replied, "I'm trying not to drown!" He said, "I understand." Push off toward another lap.

Thirty minutes later I had flapped and slapped my way through eleven laps. The results, or at least what it felt like to me: torn rotator cuff, torn ACL, ear lavage, bruised or broken ribs--maybe both, brown lung, black lung, iron lung, hey!--aqualung! I crawled up the ladder and flopped on a nearby chair...it took some time to regroup. Muscles were shaking and quaking. Hurling is not out of the question. Oh, what was I thinking?

Then it dawned on me, you have to swim more than once a year...or two, in order not to suffer complete body systems failure. You must vigilantly practice. You must discipline yourself regularly to grow and become proficient at anything. Neglect will cause regress.

Not surprisingly, the same principle applies to our spiritual growth. You must discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness. You cannot drift towards holiness. It takes hard work. Regular hard work, otherwise you will be slapping and flapping around spiritually and you will fall short of your potential in Christ.

Jeter Reaches 3000

2011-07-09T15:04:00.000-04:00

DEREK JETER GETS HIS 3,000th HIT!
With a third-inning home run on Saturday, Derek Jeter became the 28th player in Major League history with at least 3,000 career hits. Tampa Bay’s David Price surrendered the hit on a 3-2 count. Jeter is the first Yankees player to accomplish the feat and the 11th player in history to get to 3,000 hits while playing for one team during his career. He is also just the second Major Leaguer to get his 3,000th hit on a home run.

Luther on Five Actions for Struggling Believers

2011-07-07T14:23:00.000-04:00

Luther on Five Actions for Struggling Believers

Speak With, Like, Conviction (?)

2011-07-06T16:40:00.000-04:00

Beach Evening

2011-06-02T16:21:00.000-04:00

Ronald Reagan--Some Observations

2011-05-30T13:47:00.000-04:00

While on vacation last week I read a new book about Ronald Reagan titled Rawhide Down: The Near Assassination of Ronald Reagan. As indicated by the title, this book primarily covers the day in which John Hinckley, Jr attempted to shoot President Reagan. In author Del Wilber's telling of the events leading up to and around that day, I noted several observations regarding Reagan the man. I will share them with you here.

He was self-confident. He was "not bothered by criticism that he was lazy or followed a script crafted by advisors." He was a secure man.
He was humble. He was "never overly impressed with himself."
He was a perpetual optimist. He "did not dwell on the negative."
He was simple, not simplistic. Being "simple" means being clear as in dealing with the Russians: "we win; they lose."
He was funny. He used humor often.
He connected with others using stories.
He had a sense of service. I think he understood that impact comes through selfless service.

Wage Love Recommended Reading

2011-05-11T17:33:00.001-04:00

Here are four great books to consider when seeking to resolve relational conflict.

God the Peacemaker, Graham A. Cole

Resolving Everyday Conflict, Ken Sande and Kevin Johnson

Humility, C. J. Mahaney

The Peacemaker, Ken Sande

I hope you enjoy these as we closeout this series on conflict resolution.

Good Preaching

2011-05-03T15:22:00.000-04:00

According to Mark Driscoll and Gerry Breshears in their book Doctrine, "A good church will always have good preaching." The preaching will be:

Biblical--focusing on what Scripture says;
Theological--teaching what Scripture means;
Memorable--practically speaking to the lives and culture of people;
Transformational--leading to repentance, response, and spiritual maturity;
Missional--explaining why this matters for the mission of God and the salvation of lost people; and,
Christological--showing how Jesus is the hero-savior.

Tornadoes and the Trustworthiness of God

2011-05-03T14:03:00.000-04:00

Here are some good points about the recent storms we encountered.

Tornadoes and the Trustworthiness of God

Cool Pic From Sunday

2011-05-02T19:53:00.000-04:00

Eric Schreier captured this image Sunday at Explore Church.

Easter Sunday Pics

2011-04-27T17:16:00.000-04:00

Sunday was a big day at Explore Church. We not only celebrated the resurrection of Jesus Christ, but we also set a new attendance record! Here are a couple pictures from the day.

Record attendance, warm weather, and a poor performance from the A/C unit led to a HOT time in the worship center. It was a two bottles of water morning.

...but the root cause could have been... "the tie." Don't look for a repeat appearance anytime soon.

Wage Love continues this Sunday and the text will be James 4:1-12 if you would like to read ahead.

Wage Love

2011-04-23T10:04:00.000-04:00

New series starts tomorrow!

Decision-Making

2011-04-14T13:51:00.000-04:00

Good decision-making is important. Where you are in life is the result of the choices and decisions that you have made. No one ever plans to ruin their life. No one ever plans to get divorced, fired, or arrested. That's never the dream. We all dream of success and victory, but not everyone obtains that, so what is the difference? No one ever plans to ruin their life...they just never plan NOT to!

So what if you had a decision-making strategy? What if you had a grid through which you filtered your thoughts and emotions before making a choice? Would that be helpful?

Here are 3-Steps that I recommend you use as you make decisions:

Does God command it? If yes, OBEY. John 14:15 says "If you love me, you will keep my commandments."
If God does not command it, He gives freedom (with responsibility) and wisdom to choose. Ephesians 5:15 says "Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise." Consider asking yourself this question: IS THIS A WISE THING FOR ME TO DO? As you ask it, consider the following:

Does it glorify God?
How does it effect others?
Have I sought out wise counsel?

Trust God with the results. Remember Romans 8:28.

Again, choose wisely because your destination is determined by the decisions you make regarding the direction of your life!

Memorizing Scripture: Why and How

2011-04-09T16:19:00.000-04:00

Memorizing Scripture: Why and How

Leadership is a Stewardship

2011-03-30T10:40:00.000-04:00

Andy Stanley from the 2006 Catalyst Conference.

You Are in Danger (Updated)

2011-03-30T10:30:00.000-04:00

Turning Points

2011-03-29T09:56:00.000-04:00

The following comes from the current sermon series at Explore Church called "Turning Points." Consider reading 1 & 2 Samuel for more details on the life of David.

Turning points come at unusual and unexpected times. Additionally, they are rarely easy...even when you recognize the need for change. Understanding that where we are, our current circumstances, is the result of the decisions that we have made. None of us want to mess up or miss out...but how can we be prepared when opportunity knocks? How can we insure that we will make good choices? A lot has to do with our perspective...how do you see things? What is your perspective?

Here are a few key ideas:

God is always at work and He choses and uses those who have a heart for Him.
Faith sees what God can do as if it is already done.

Here are some key reminders:

God knows where you are.
God speaks, so be listening!
The condition of your heart is key to usability by God.
When preparing you, God never seems in a hurry, but when He moves, it is often sudden and surprising, so be ready!

This series continues this Sunday with part 3. The text will be 1Samuel 30 if you would like to read ahead. Hope to see you there!

Read Through "Desiring God" with John Piper

2011-03-24T17:02:00.001-04:00

I am planning on doing this with my Dad and oldest son. You should consider it as well.

Read Through emDesiring God/em with John Piper

Do We Really Believe What We're Saying?

2011-03-23T22:50:00.000-04:00

If I Had A Million Dollars (Recap)

2011-03-21T22:18:00.000-04:00

At Explore Church we recently finished a five week sermon series on finances. Money can be a difficult topic because people are funny and possessive when it comes to their stuff. Some even question why church should even address the topic of money. The answer to that question is actually very important. The reason pastors should preach on money is because it is God's chief competitor for our affections. While many of us try to straddle the fence and serve both, the Bible tells us that it is just not possible. Jesus states in Luke 16:13--"You cannot serve God and money."

Money can certainly become an idol that derails our life. It is amazing the power it can have over us and that the lust for more of it can cause us to make some rather stupid decisions. John Piper makes the following statement in considering the betrayal of Jesus by Judas: "Nothing shows the irrational, almost infinite power of money like the selling of the Son of God for thirty pieces of silver." So we must be cautious when dealing with money.

In this series we learned that with money comes many obstacles that can frustrate us, but we also learned that many opportunities to please God arise as well. We learned that we do not actually own anything-- God owns everything and that what we have, has been given to us by His grace. In fact, the area of our greatest need--separation from our heavenly Father due to our sin--God provided for us. He gave us His Son. In turn, His Son gave His life as a sacrifice to redeem us and reconcile us to our Creator.

WE GIVE BECAUSE HE GAVE

If we are not owners, what are we? Stewards. Managers. We are to take care of God's stuff as ones who will have to give an account. Compared to most of the world we are wealthy. So, what are we to do with all that we have been given? Invest in the things that matter to God. A good money manager desires to help the owner reach his financial goals. As stewards then, we need to manage our finances in a way that helps God's goals become reality. That leads us to the question: What matters to God? The answer is people. We need to invest in people. We must trust God with our finances and look for opportunities to impact others. The most important way to impact others is with the Gospel. By giving to your church you help contribute to the reaching of people for Christ.

GOD HAS BLESSED YOU TO BLESS OTHERS

Practically speaking, we all need money...to pay the rent, buy groceries, and clothes. But as managers are we handling our finances as well as possible? Do we have a plan? Do you know where each dollar is going? Money should not be a mystery. Money should never be the cause of any arguments. Why? Because you can track it, you can count it. Careful planning removes all the mystery and it also does something else. Planning allows you to be prepared for unexpected opportunities. You could go on that mission trip or support that special project that needs funding. Living without financial stress is possible, but it takes planning.

GIVE, SAVE, LIVE

Building a financial plan requires that we consider all that God has given us--refusing to plan is not a recipe for success and freedom. To the contrary, it will lead to worry, stress, and heartache.

Most people prioritize their money like this:

Spend
Pay Debt
Pay Taxes
Save
Give

We know from experience that budgeting like this does not relieve stress or honor God. The challenge is to flip the list and budget this way:

Give
Save
Pay Taxes
Pay Debt
Spend (or live off the rest)

By giving first, it shows that we trust God. It shows that matters of His Kingdom are important to us. It also helps us become disciplined with our money and learn to live on less. Finally, giving does something strange...it is hard to explain...but it just happens...

Dave Ramsey sums it up this way: "Good things that cannot be calculated or quantified are set in motion in your life and in your finances when you give."

A final application: Write out your future hopes, dreams, goals, and desires. Consider what you want your life to look like in 10, 25, 50 years. Now, what is your plan to fund those hopes, dreams, goals, and desires? What if your dreams and plans lined up with God's plans? Imagine the impact your life could have if fully surrendered to God!

Remember, where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Piper on "What Is the Gospel?"

2011-03-14T10:07:00.000-04:00

Piper on "What Is the Gospel?"

Japan, Sovereignty, and Mercy

2011-03-12T16:28:00.000-05:00

Japan, Sovereignty, and Mercy

The Gospel Is For Christians

2011-03-09T15:28:00.000-05:00

A reminder for those who think the Gospel is only for those apart from Christ. Believers need to be gospeled regularly!

The Gospel Is For Christians

Engage people with the Gospel...including yourself!

John Piper - You Need the Gospel Every Day

2011-03-08T18:17:00.000-05:00

Fighter Verses on Your iPhone or Android

2011-03-05T13:44:00.000-05:00

If you have a smart phone, here is a helpful tool for memorizing Scripture. It seems to be a very robust app that includes many important verses and several key books of the Bible to memorize. Additionally it comes with several features to help you in the process. Remember: Hiding God's Word in your heart helps you not to sin against Him!

Fighter Verses on Your iPhone or Android

Four thoughts on worship as a witness - Ministry Toolbox - Pastors

2011-02-21T14:56:00.000-05:00

Four thoughts on worship as a witness - Ministry Toolbox - Pastors

Every Story Whispers His Name

2011-02-21T13:36:00.000-05:00

Every Story Whispers His Name

Smartphone Apps: Fighting Fire with Fire

2011-02-21T13:02:00.000-05:00

Smartphone Apps: Fighting Fire with Fire

If I Had A Million Dollars

2011-02-12T16:11:00.000-05:00

We start a new series this Sunday at Explore Church! Here are the verses we will be studying so you can read ahead:

Luke 12:13-21
Luke 12:22-34
Luke 12:35-48
Luke 16:1-13
1Timothy 6:6-10; 17-19

Here are some books to consider as well:

Money: God or Gift, Jamie Munson
The Treasure Principle, Randy Alcorn
Fields of Gold, Andy Stanley
I Was Broke. Now I'm Not, Joseph Sangl
The Generosity Ladder, Nelson Searcy
Money, Possessions, and Eternity, Randy Alcorn
Doctrine, Driscoll & Breshears

With each dollar God gives us...we are faced with an obstacle or an opportunity. In this series we will be looking at how to overcome the obstacles and not miss the opportunities that money provides. Don't miss a single week!

What's Wrong with Religious People?

2011-02-08T19:31:00.000-05:00

An Interview with John Piper on the 25th Anniversary Edition of Desiring God

2011-02-01T21:59:00.000-05:00

An Interview with John Piper on the 25th Anniversary Edition of Desiring God

Words Gone Public

2011-01-31T15:41:00.000-05:00

We live in a time when anyone can publish their thoughts. In the push of a button, our words and sentiments can go public. But is this a good thing? Well, it depends...do you give much thought about the impact of your words before you shoot them out into the cyber-world like an arrow? The Bible teaches us that words have the power of life and death. With that kind of impact, perhaps we should carefully consider our words before allowing them to go public.

With that in mind, I give you the following thoughts on social networks and media, specifically blogging, Tweeter, and Facebook.

They are spiritually and theologically neutral.
They can be used for either good or evil. Remember, words have the power of life and death...and you will have to give an account for every word you utter and put in print (see Matthew 12:36-37). Thus, communicate wisely.
They are tools. Redeem them for good. Glorify God with your words. (Mark Driscoll, when considering various elements of culture, says we can reject, receive, or redeem it. Here is an opportunity to use something neutral for good).
Leverage tools and technology to influence others for good (see Ephesians 4:25-32). Encourage, inspire, and bring hope with your ability to communicate.
Once you have said it, sent it, posted it, etc...it is out there. Remember--"Just because you can doesn't mean you should."
Gospel others as much as possible! Bring good news when ever possible. You need it and others need it as well.
Follow the advice of James: "be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger." When angry or upset--take time to PAUSE before sending or saying something stupid and damaging.

It is easy to go public with your words...harder, yet wiser, is to hold your tongue, limit your rants, and speak words of life.

Are you leaving a Godly legacy with your words? Are you ready to give an account for what you have said today?

Martin Luther King "I have a dream"

2011-01-17T11:23:00.000-05:00

Creative Types: Embrace Chaos | Malcolm Gladwell | Big Think

2011-01-14T13:58:00.000-05:00

Creative Types: Embrace Chaos | Malcolm Gladwell | Big Think

What Is a Generosity Theology? | The Resurgence

2011-01-14T11:38:00.000-05:00

What Is a Generosity Theology? | The Resurgence

What are your thoughts on giving? What would you do if you had $1,000,000?

Piper from Trout Lake 1/12/2011

2011-01-12T23:18:00.000-05:00

First Flight

2011-01-06T17:42:00.000-05:00

I recently had the opportunity to spend a few hours in Kitty Hawk on New Year's Day. We were on the way home following a few days in Buxton, NC near the Cape Hatteras lighthouse. Short for time because it was Saturday and I had to get back to prepare to preach the following day, I was a bit anxious. Having to paid $4 a person to get in did not help matters. In fact, I told a friend while we were waiting for our wives, "we are not going to get our money's worth at this stop!" He replied with "No?" At that moment his buddy rounded the corner to my surprise. Turns out he had just landed his small plane and my friend, Jeff, had arranged a flight over the Kitty Hawk area for us! Awesome! I even got the opportunity to manage the controls briefly. Best part of the trip by far!

I was overwhelmed at the thought of flying over the area where the Wright brothers made the first flight in history. It inspired a few thoughts on explorers:

They are willing to take a risk. In a word: Courageous.
They are persistent.
They are creative.
They are curious.
They are optimistic.

To explore means: 1. to examine (something) carefully; investigate. 2. to travel (in a little known region) for discovery.

What does your attitude toward exploration look like? What is your desire toward discovery? Do you hunger and thirst for the things of God? What legacy or monuments will you leave behind for others to follow? Will you inspire others to explore the things of God?

Make 2011 a year of adventure! Stretch your faith. Press into Truth. Be available for friendship. Serve beyond the level of convenience. Strive for satisfaction in Jesus Christ!

Bible Reading Plans

2010-12-31T20:08:00.000-05:00

Select a Bible Reading plan for the New Year!!!

Bible Reading Plans

Favorite Books of 2010

2010-12-28T14:26:00.000-05:00

Here is a list, in no particular order, of books that I enjoyed in 2010. I recommend them all to you.

John Adams, David McCullough
The Jesus Storybook Bible, Sally Lloyd-Jones
Desiring God, John Piper
Church Planter, Darrin Patrick
Making Ideas Happen, Scott Belsky
Rescuing Ambition, Dave Harvey
Hard Work, Roy Williams
What Is The Gospel? Greg Gilbert
The God of Promise and the Life of Faith, Scott Hafemann
The Checklist Manifesto, Atul Gawande
Leaders Who Last, Dave Kraft

Set a bold reading plan for 2011 and read!!!

Straight No Chaser - 12 Days (original from 1998)

2010-12-13T14:34:00.000-05:00

North Point's iBand

2010-12-07T17:12:00.000-05:00

Apple Music...pretty cool!

Be the Church: Parade Prep

2010-12-04T22:07:00.000-05:00

Explore Church getting ready for tomorrow's Christmas parade.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T12:46:00.000-05:00

Save the Date!

2010-11-23T17:05:00.000-05:00

Be the Church: Christmas Edition

2010-11-23T11:06:00.000-05:00

On December 5th Explore Church will be serving our community during the Fuquay-Varina Christmas Parade. Make sure you sign up so you can help us: "BE THE CHURCH!"

Carson: People Don’t Learn What I Teach Them; They Learn What I’m Excited About

2010-11-19T15:07:00.000-05:00

D.A. Carson:

If I have learned anything in 35 or 40 years of teaching, it is that students don’t learn everything I teach them. What they learn is what I am excited about, the kinds of things I emphasize again and again and again and again. That had better be the gospel.
If the gospel—even when you are orthodox—becomes something which you primarily assume, but what you are excited about is what you are doing in some sort of social reconstruction, you will be teaching the people that you influence that the gospel really isn’t all that important. You won’t be saying that—you won’t even mean that—but that’s what you will be teaching. And then you are only half a generation away from losing the gospel.
Make sure that in your own practice and excitement, what you talk about, what you think about, what you pray over, what you exude confidence over, joy over, what you are enthusiastic about is Jesus, the gospel, the cross. And out of that framework, by all means, let the transformed life flow.

Carson: People Don’t Learn What I Teach Them; They Learn What I’m Excited About

Closing the Gap

2010-11-18T16:22:00.000-05:00

On November 7th we started a new series: "Closing the Gap." There always seems to be a gap between where you are and where you want to be...a divide between your dream and your reality. Many things can contribute to the creation of that gap. It could be lack of opportunity, lack of education, lack of time or energy, or just a lack of ability. The question remains: How can you reach your potential if you can never close the gap from your current situation to your desired future? What do you do? Where do you start? The world tells us to work harder, make adjustments, or get more training. But these all focus on what we can do.

Take a pause and ask: Is this even the gap that needs closing? The bible points out a gap between us and God. The problem though--we can't close it! The one who can is Jesus Christ. He is the closer! He offers to take our place--be our substitute. He offers to pay the price we cannot afford--be our redeemer. Only by putting our faith and trust in Jesus can the gap between us and our Creator be closed.

This seven part series will take us through the book of First Thessalonians. Each week we will explore a gap, that with God's help, can be closed so that we can reach our ultimate potential and be like Christ in our actions and attitude.

The book will be outlined as follows:

1 Thessalonians 1:1-10
1 Thessalonians 2:1-12
1 Thessalonians 2:13-20
1 Thessalonians 3:1-13
1 Thessalonians 4:1-12
1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11
1 Thessalonians 5:12-28

For digging deeper--consider the following resources:

The Message of 1 & 2 Thessalonians, John Stott
1-2 Thessalonians, G. K. Beale

The ESV

2010-11-09T14:01:00.000-05:00

The ESV is the translation that is used and recommended at Explore Church. Here are some endorsements from some well-known Christian leaders. The ESV

Day in Downtown - Explore Church

2010-11-01T23:07:00.000-04:00

Happy Reformation Day

2010-10-31T20:32:00.000-04:00

Today is the anniversary of Martin Luther posting his 95 Theses which lead to the Protestant Reformation. It changed the world!

Highlights From Day In Downtown!

2010-10-30T21:29:00.000-04:00

Some photos above...

The stats below...

Over 100 volunteer hours.
60 balloons to add excitement.
700 lbs of ice used to cool the water.
2,100 bottles of water given out.
4,000 pieces of candy given out.

Day In Downtown

2010-10-27T11:49:00.000-04:00

This Saturday in Fuquay-Varina Explore Church has the opportunity to "Be The Church" in our community. Join us from 10-4 in downtown!!!

On Mission

2010-10-18T23:21:00.000-04:00

On Sunday we wrapped up our sermon series titled: "GOT KEYS?"

The final key was: "Faith in Jesus Christ is not about trying, it's about trusting." Based on this truth we said that those who have moved from trying to trusting have a responsibility, an obligation, and an imperative to tell others about the one in whom they now trust.

Following Paul's example of how to engage others with the Gospel in Acts 17:16-34, we should consider his strategy and apply it in our context.

1) We must study our culture. We should ask what are the barriers (idols) that are preventing our community from connecting with Jesus Christ.

In their book, Vintage Church, Driscoll and Breshears offer the following ideas for becoming a student of culture.

Watch Television.
Surf Talk Radio.
Walk The Mall.
Pay Attention At The Grocery Store.
Hang Out At The Magazine Rack.
Pay Attention To Kids.
Talk To People.
Go Online.
Break Your Routine.

2) We must be moved to action. Paul took the message of trusting Christ to the synagogue and the marketplace. He intentionally went where the people were.

3) We must contextualize the Gospel.

Driscoll and Breshears describe it this way:

"Too many churches are built solely to accommodate religious people, even though their culture and cultural methods of ministry are not welcoming or hospitable to those outside their Christian culture. Contextualization is about making the church as culturally accessible as possible without compromising the truth of Christian belief. In this, what is sought is timeless truth and timely methods. In other words, contextualization is not making the gospel relevant, but showing the relevance of the gospel."

With this in mind, Darrin Patrick adds:

"We must literally consider everything we do through the lens of the unbeliever, always asking the question, "How does this come across to unbelievers?"

4) We must hold out a BIG God! Paul informed them that there is a God who is not only big, but also near. He is creator, sustainer, ruler, and judge.

5) We must call people to action. Based on the fact that God is going to judge us through Jesus Christ we must repent and trust him as our substitute and stop trying to save ourselves.

6) We must trust God with the results. We are not tasked to save people, just to tell people. As with Paul, some will mock us, some will want to hear more, and others will believe. It is for that last group that we must be busy proclaiming the good news about Jesus Christ.

Trust or Try...which way will you go?

Looking Back

2010-09-28T17:12:00.000-04:00

This is not new news, but...time flies! Here is a picture I found today from 5 years ago. The Burgess Boys in battle armor in Jamestown, VA.

And here is a journal entry where I was doodling the logo and name for Explore Church.

And here is what that evolved into...

Good times. Take pictures, write in your journal, and make memories!!!

Book Lovers Furniture

2010-09-28T16:16:00.000-04:00

The chair...

and the desk!

Politics According To The Bible

2010-09-23T14:39:00.000-04:00

Just got my copy of Wayne Grudem's new book...

This book has over 600 pages and covers a wide range of topics including worldview, the protection of life, marriage, family, economics, the environment, national defense, and foreign policy. Additionally, he addresses many specific issues as well including abortion, euthanasia, capital punishment, gun control, and taxes. If you would like to view your political issue through the lens of Scripture then this is the source for you.

Grudem begins his book with what he considers five wrong views about Christians and Government. I list them here:

Government should compel religion.
Government should exclude religion.
All government is evil and demonic.
Do evangelism, not politics.
Do politics, not evangelism.

I have found Grudem's previous writings to be clear and well thought out. Based on that, I recommend this book as a source on understanding today's political issues in Light of Scripture.

Home Protection System

2010-09-21T12:14:00.000-04:00

How good is your security system? Does with come with aerial support?

If not, look into it. Pretty cool!!!

Tests Of True Humility

2010-09-03T18:35:00.000-04:00

In his book, Embracing Brokenness, Alan E. Nelson offers his thoughts on humility and several ways to spot a humble spirit.

Humility does not demand its own way.
Humility exudes an attitude of service.
Humility does not seek attention or credit.
Humility forgives when offended, but is hard to offend.
Humility does not criticize others.
Humility produces a teachable spirit.
Humility is gracious and thankful.

"Humility is the best soil test for showing us whether we've embraced brokenness."

The following is found in both James 4:6 and 1Peter 5:5: God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.

Are you humbling yourself? Are you walking with humility?

End of Summer

2010-09-01T17:28:00.002-04:00

Bake at the Lake--2010

2010-08-30T11:30:00.002-04:00

Fall Sneak Peak

2010-08-16T14:20:00.000-04:00

Looking ahead to the Fall preaching calendar...

On September 12th Explore Church will be celebrating its 8th birthday!

Beginning September 19th Explore Church will start this 5 week series.

Get Excited!

Review of Ruth

2010-08-10T14:20:00.002-04:00

We recently concluded a series called "The Plan." During this four week study we walked through the book of Ruth. Below are some of the highlights and helps.

The Big Ideas:

Week 1--"God's Plan Is The Best Plan."
Week 2--"God Is Always Working To Rescue His People Through His Plan."
Week 3--"God's Plan Is A Faith Plan And A Faith Plan Involves Taking Risks."
Week 4--"Even When We Can't See It--God Is Still Working His Plan."

Key Thoughts:

We tend to plan so that we can organize a series of decisions toward a desired outcome.
Just because we plan doesn't mean that we will achieve our desired outcome.
Events outside our control and sin can derail our plan.
God is sovereign, faithful, and in control.
God is always at work.
What are you risking that if God does not show up...will fail miserably?
What are you willing to risk?
God's plan is the best plan because His plan is a rescue plan...that involves faith and risk taking.
God uses dark circumstances and suffering to draw us closer to Him.

Key Verses To Consider:

Acts 2:22-24
Ephesians 3:20
Philippians 1:6
Romans 8:28
Proverbs 3:5-6
Matthew 1:21
Luke 19:10
Revelation 21:4

Books And Commentaries That Were Helpful:

A Sweet & Bitter Providence, John Piper

Atkinson, David. The Message of Ruth, in the Bible Speaks Today series.
Block, Daniel I. Judges, Ruth, in the NAC series.
Duguid, Iain M. Esther & Ruth, in the REC series.
Cundall, Arthur E. and Leon Morris. Judges and Ruth, in the TOTC series.

God continues to work His plan through the ordinary events of our lives for our good and His glory.

John Adams and Books

2010-08-09T09:08:00.000-04:00

I am currently reading John Adams by David McCullough. He is a great writer and I recommend his books Truman and 1776.

"I want to see my wife and children every day," he would write while away on the court circuit. "I want to see my grass and blossoms and corn....But above all, except the wife and children, I want to see my books."

I can totally identify with John Adams' sentiment. Love some books!

Rework

2010-07-28T12:09:00.001-04:00

New book by Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson, the founders of 37Signals.

Some of my favorite quotes:

"Unless you're a fortune-teller, long-term business planning is a fantasy. There are just too many factors that are out of your hands:...Writing a plan makes you feel in control of things you can't actually control."

"Why don't we just call plans what they really are: guesses." (page 19)

"If you're going to do something, do something that matters." (page 32)

NO TIME IS NO EXCUSE-- "...the perfect time never arrives. You're always too young or old or busy or broke or something else. If you constantly fret about timing things perfectly, they'll never happen." (page 40-41)

"When you don't know what you believe, everything becomes an argument. Everything is debatable. But when you stand for something, decisions are obvious." (page 44)

"Standing for something isn't just about writing it down. It's about believing it and living it." (page 48)

EMBRACE CONSTRAINTS--"I don't have enough time/money/people/experience." Stop whining. Less is a good thing. Constraints are advantages in disguise. Limited resources force you to make do with what you've got. There's no room for waste. And that forces you to be creative." (page 67)

"Creativity is one of the first things to go when you lose sleep." (page 121)

WELCOME OBSCURITY--"Use this time to make mistakes without the whole world hearing about them. Keep tweaking. Work out the kinks. Test random ideas. Try new things. No one knows you, so it's no big deal if you mess up. Obscurity helps protect your ego and preserve your confidence."

"It makes no sense to tell everyone to look at you if you're not ready to be looked at yet. (page 167)

"Clear writing is a sign of clear thinking."

"Writing is today's currency for good ideas." (page 222)

"A good apology accepts responsibility. It has no conditional if phrase attached." (page 238)

And my favorite...

"You don't create a culture. It happens....Culture is the by-product of consistent behavior. ....Culture is action, not words." (page 249)

How to Love One Another

2010-07-24T11:54:00.000-04:00

Check out this link:

http://thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/justintaylor/2010/07/24/how-to-love-one-another-affirm-share-and-serve/

Being Liked

2010-07-23T10:47:00.000-04:00

"If you set out to be liked, you would be prepared to compromise on anything at anytime, and you would achieve nothing." --Margaret Thatcher

The Plan

2010-07-16T23:19:00.000-04:00

We start a new series Sunday at Explore Church. "The Plan" is a 4 week study of the book of Ruth.

Join us Sundays at 9:30 and 11:00!

Prayer & Providence

2010-07-15T19:56:00.000-04:00

The following is from David Atkinson in his commentary on the book of Ruth.

Prayer is, as it were, the flip side to the doctrine of providence. Prayer is the acknowledgment, not of the psychological benefit of some mythological exercise, but of the fact that we believe that God is there, God cares, God rules and God provides, and believe it in such a way that we are ready to do something on that basis, namely speak to him. Providence reminds us of our creatureliness and dependence on God, and that together with all men, we stand under God's lordship; prayer is an activity by which we acknowledge that we cannot be our own lord. Providence reminds us that everything is not ultimately absurd or meaningless; prayer is our way of expressing our 'yes' to the conviction that God is working his purposes out in nature, in men, in history. Providence is a reminder that the Lord is a God of grace and generosity; prayer is our way of responding to his invitation to be a member of his covenant family, his son or daughter, his co-worker in this world. Providence reminds us that the living God is not an irresistible fate before whom we can only keep silent and passive; prayer is our response to God's invitation to share fellowship with him, an expression of our union with him.