One of my favorite stories of Peter (besides when he walked on the water) is at the end of the life of Jesus. When Jesus declares that somebody will betray Him, Peter quickly announces that it would not be him. In fact, he would never do such a thing! Can you imagine how Peter must have felt when Jesus looked him straight in the eyes and said, “Actually Peter, you’re going to disown me three times before morning breaks”? Poor Peter put up his guard so that the prediction would not come true. In fact, he shows just how dedicated he was when he drew his sword at the arrest of Jesus. We all know the story, however. Peter let’s down his guard and disowns not only his Savior, but his best friend three times before the night is over.

The reason I love this story is not because of the events and Peters commitment (or lack there of). No, the real reason I love this story is because of Peters reaction after he disowns his friend. At a low in Peters life, the Bible tells us he heard the rooster, remembered the words of Jesus, and then went out and bitterly wept. Even though Peter messed up, you can still see his love for Christ.

When we mess up, do we still weep? Have we been hardened so much that it has been a long time since a tear was shed on the behalf of Christ? A while back I stated that one thing I loved about the Amazed!? video was it reminds me of my sinfulness and Christ’s love. Do you still weep at the thought of your sinfulness? Do you still have a passion for God or have you allowed the world to harden your heart?

Look around at today’s young people. One thing missing is the discipline of prioritization. Caught up in incredible technology, advanced communication, and an ever changing culture, young people have become accustom to the art of multi-tasking. However, while this is an important skill, when it is not balanced with prioritization multi-tasking becomes a crutch. In fact, even adults deal with this dilemma. A church does not grow by adding 20 or 30 ministries to its portfolio. Rather, it grows by assessing and prioritizing needs. It grows by excelling in one or two areas. Sadly, because so many want to play the resume game, multi-tasking becomes the only disciplined practice of Christ’s body. If we are going to be intentional about growth, we must prioritize.

A poem by William H. Hinson reads:
He who seeks one thing, and but one,
May hope to achieve it before life is done.
But he who seeks all things wherever he goes
Must reap around him in whatever he sows
A harvest of barren regret.

Interestingly enough, this mirrors a teaching of Jesus found in Luke 14:28-33. It is here that Jesus discusses the discipline of planning and prioritizing. As Hinson and Jesus point out, those who fail by lack of prioritizing will be ridiculed for it.

As a church (and individual) we can take a very important lesson from this. If we take a shotgun approach to reaching our community, we will likely fail. Although that multi-tasking is at times beneficial, it cannot be separated from prioritization. However, if as a congregation we prioritize and excel in one or two areas to begin with, growth will come. The same is true for ones spiritual life. We all have lots to work on. Some of us need to work on our prayer life, cussing, drinking, Bible reading, etc. Rather than tackling all at once, try focusing on one or two at first. Once those are mastered it’s time to move to the next. This approach will bring more success and will leave you with a better sense of accomplishment.

Moses, Samson, Abraham, and Noah are all considered leaders. These great leaders all had something in common: whenever they led the people, they FOLLOWED AFTER GOD. Another good example of this is the Apostle Paul. We would all agree that Paul knows how to lead people. After all, he had a HUGE impact on the early church and has continued to impact us over the last many centuries. Paul was able to confidently say “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1).

As leaders, we must be able to make a similar claim as Paul. We need to encourage others to follow us. They need to have an example of how to walk, talk, live, and give of themselves. We must be able to exclaim “follow me as I follow Christ.” It isn’t for our glory. It’s not to bring attention to ourselves and our actions, it is to point those following toward Christ. We are only a mirror of Christ. We reflect the image of Christ back to Christ himself. What do you need to change in your life so that you can exclaim “follow me as I follow Christ?”

The gospel message can be broken down into four parts: GOD, US, CHRIST, YOU.

GOD—God is loving (1 John 4:16b), holy (1 Peter 1:15-16) and just (2 Thessalonians 1:6). When discussing the central theme of the gospel, this is the first step one should take. These three understandings about God are key in ones understanding about salvation.

US—We need to understand that we have rebelled against the loving God. We were created good, but became sinful (Romans 3:23), we deserve death (Romans 6:23), and we are spiritually helpless (Isaiah 64:6; Ephesians 2:8-9). This puts into perspective that because of our rebellion against God, we are sinful, deserving of death, and unable to rectify the situation ourselves.

CHRIST—We must realize that Christ is the only one who can solve this dilemma. Christ is God who became man (John 1:1,14; 8:24), Christ died in our place as our substitute (1 Peter 2:24; 3:18; 2 Corinthians 5:21), and finally, Christ offers forgiveness as a gift (Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 6:23).

YOU—This final point relates to you, me, and our friends. Individually, each one of us decides the outcome of our own story. We must respond (John 1:12; Romans 10:13), we must ask for forgiveness and be baptized (1 John 1:9; Acts 2:38) and we must understand the result is a spiritual transformation (2 Corinthians 5:17; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

In short, this sums up the story of God and his people (you, me, and the world). If we can learn to be able to share this message in a timely manner, we can get to the heart of the gospel quickly and confidently. Pray that God sends somebody your way this week who is searching for truth!

—Josh
“Try great things for God and expect great things from Him!”

There are four characteristics a community of believers must have in order to grow. These four characteristics must also be passed down to every believer and “new comer.” These characteristics can easily be remembered as the C.A.R.E. principle (communal, accountable, respectful, and evangelical).

Communal—Community is HUGE when it comes to today’s culture. Note that even in the book of Acts followers of Christ spent a lot of time with each other. We must not be any different today. If we claim to be a family, we must truly function as one. I’m not sure about you, but my family was always with each other and helping each other. The building of community also encompasses the building of relationships. We must build relationships with both those inside and those who are outside.

Accountable—Accountability is another priority. This does not mean shun somebody who has slipped up and fallen. It does not even mean to lecture that person. However, it does mean that we need to watch out for each other and help each other achieve the standard set before us. We need to help each other stay on track in our prayer life, our struggles, our attitudes, and every other aspect of our walk with Christ.

Respectful—A growing body of Christ is respectful to all of its members. It does not talk behind anyone’s back and it does not disrespect somebody intentionally. If we are to grow, we must constantly respect each other and those who are outside of our congregation. It’s true, our respect should extend to everyone. We can disagree and still be respectful…whether its within our family or if its with someone who is outside of the family.

Evangelical—Evangelism is the lifeline of the body of Christ. Just like milk helps our physical bodies grow strong and be nurtured, evangelism helps grow and nurture the body of Christ. We are commanded to go and share the Good News of Christ. We are not commanded to share doctrines, theologies, or even opinions, but the good news. Everything else comes later. If we are not evangelizing in our daily lives (not only on Sundays) we are not living a right life with Jesus Christ. Even more, if we are not evangelizing daily, we are out right disobeying Jesus.

If we hold to these four characteristics, we will see a harvest and growth both spiritually and numerically. Where do you need improvement?

—Josh
“Try great things for God and expect great things from Him!”

Today, we live in a “post-modern” culture. It is truly a unique culture that requires a little bit of creativity and understanding if you wish to reach it. It is a culture who would rather have a friend then a stranger share the good news. It is a culture that desires authenticity and relationship before the exchanging of ideas and “truth.” It’s not that the “post-moderns” don’t believe in anything, it’s that they believe anything that comes their way. The movement comes from the scrutiny of modernism and its tight reigns. The post-modern movement is an outcry for an actual relationship and meaning in life rather than statistics and facts. Our advantage is while all of these “seekers” are searching for meaning and purpose, we have that to offer them. Our challenge is that there are many false shepherds out there claiming to offer a better alternative (i.e. Wicca, Baha’i, etc.).

If one wishes to reach this culture of “post-modernists,” there are a few rules to follow:

1. Learn to speak their language. When the KJV was translated, it was written in the vulgar (or common) language. Although this is not a horrible translation, if you are witnessing to someone under the age of 30 who did not grow up in church, you are better off using a translation that speaks their language (as the KJV is no longer fulfilling its intention…i.e. it is no longer in the common language). I typically use the NIV. Other good suggestions are the ESV and the NKJV. Whatever you use, make sure it is not hard for someone to read and understand.This rule also means use down to earth terms. Canonical, eschatological, and temporal are a few examples of words that would only detract from the goal.

2. Feed the masses. I am not literally talking about feeding people (although it is a good example). Most people don’t care what you know until they know that you care. Finding a few non-threatening events to invite someone two will open up lines of communication. For example: inviting someone to bowling and other events are good ways for you to get to know each other. A conversion is not likely to take place within the first three meetings with someone you just met. Use the time to get to know them. Find ways to interest people in you and your life. Notice that those who came to Jesus typically came for their own needs (i.e. food, healing, answers, overthrowing of the government). Jesus used these as ways into their life. We find those who came for selfish reasons be changed and begin following Christ.

3. Be genuine. People don’t need another gimmick. They don’t need another person to befriend them in order to win them to their side only to be dropped if they fail to comply. People today (just like long ago) need a real friend, that means a friend who is still a friend even if they don’t accept the gospel.

Following these three simple rules will get you off on the right foot in evangelism. Only by studying the culture and our surroundings will we know how to present the Gospel in a relevant way without changing the message of the Gospel. Teaching methods can change as long as the Gospel stays the same.

—Josh
“Try great things for God and expect great things from Him!”

1) There is a time and a place for that. One must constantly remember that there is a time and place to discuss ones opinions about something that could potentially look negative. Sharing the gospel is not the time to vent frustration or pursue any certain “agenda.” Most of us struggle with this sometimes.

2) Perception is reality. Whether it is true or not, how your friend sees you is their reality. How they perceive you as a follower of Christ becomes their reality. We must watch our tones, body language, etc. when sharing the Gospel (Col. 4:5).

3) Each person is not a project. Too often people we witness to feel as though we are using them as a “project.” Whether they accept the gospel or not, prepare to invest in this person for the long haul.

4) Be a friend first! In today’s culture, nobody cares about your convictions until they see a genuine care for their current situation. Make sure you aren’t just starting a project, but that you are beginning a long term friendship.

5) Ask questions. The worst thing you can do is preach at somebody for 45 minutes or so. Try asking questions! Questions are magical…they can lead somebody to a conviction and give you insight into their world.

6) Don’t chase every rabbit. Not everything that comes up has to be looked into at the moment. You will run into a lot of scenarios and interesting questions/comments. Keep the focus of the conversation in mind and don’t preach about every issue that comes up. It’s okay to say “let me get back to you on that.”

7) Don’t leave without setting a time and a place for the next “get together.” Before you close with a prayer, discuss a time and place to meet together again and exchange contact information.

8) Have some fun! Get together sometimes just to hang out or watch a ball game! Show that you are interested in them and not just their response! Nobody likes to feel used.

9) Ask them to pray. If you are comfortable with this, try asking them to start the prayer after a few meetings…let them know that it’s okay if they wish not too. If they do, be patient…it may be their first time. If they do pray, listen carefully…prayers often reveal a lot about an individual.

—Josh
“Try great things for God and expect great things from Him!”

As we near the conclusion of our study of the Life of Christ and Jesus Style, this Sunday is a very special benchmark. We find many throughout the New Testament who marvel at Jesus Christ, His character, and what He accomplished for those who would follow Him. Jesus had a history of “jaw-dropping” as He went from city to city preaching the Kingdom of God. His miracles, teachings, and style were completely different from all those who have gone before. Jesus challenged the way the first century viewed God and the Messiah. The secret is, Jesus still challenges us today! I pray that your view of God has come to be more Biblical throughout these last few months. I pray that your view of our Messiah and His style has changed to more accurately represent who Jesus Christ really was and is. Jesus was a “radical” in the first century, and continues to be one today. I want to encourage you to refrain from putting Christ into a box of our preconceived ideas and misconceptions.

This morning we are focusing on how amazing Christ is and what that means for our lives. Often times we cease to be amazed by Jesus. We often fall into the same rut and forget the awesome power Christ brought to this world. When we cease to be amazed by Christ, we declare (intentionally or not) that there is nothing special about this man Jesus. When we don’t live out a life of one who has been amazed we discredit His claim to change lives. When was the last time you were amazed by Jesus Christ?

—Josh
“Try great things for God and expect great things from Him!”

Life is full of struggles, ups, and downs. We do our best to trudge through the swamps and (on a good day) enjoy the grassy fields. As a people of God, we must follow the example of the spiritual giant when we face both difficulty and a time of joy. The spiritual giant asks for God’s direction, even if it takes him down a less desirable path at the time. Often we get so caught up in making a decision that we forget to seek out God’s decision FIRST. However, sometimes we paralyze ourselves when we cannot clearly see God’s direction (especially between two wonderful choices) by not moving at all. When this happens I want to encourage you to do what Peter did in Matthew 14—get out of the boat and just GO! But when you do, stay focused on the goal and don’t second guess your choice. Trust that God will let you know if it was the right choice or not. After all, God works all things for the good. What boat do you need to step out of this week?

Although our part in the mission trip has been completed the mission is not finished. Journey Mission Camp is in need of many things. More groups are coming in over the next year and the camp is suffering from disrepair and broken down vehicles. Tires, new engines, fans, paint, and much more are needed in order to get the camp back on its feet and fully efficient. Three of us was not much of a strain, but after evaluation, a group of 20-30 will have trouble accomplishing their goals. Journey Mission does much more than build houses. It plants churches, clothes the poor, feeds the hungry, educates those who cannot afford schooling, and much more! The longer the camp is in disrepair the less the mission will be able to accomplish. We all know that a house in disrepair costs much more to run than a house that is kept up and run smoothly. Due to our economy and recent events, Journey Mission has lost some of its finances which would normally go towards camp upkeep. They have attempted to keep finances helping others, but unless the camp is brought up to par, it will eventually fall to self defeat! Returning JMC to complete working condition will enable more funds to be poured into the true mission of Journey—the people. If you or someone you know is interested in helping donate to the much needed repairs please let me (Josh) know!

Thanks to the Fairfax Church of Christ and Phil McKinney, we had the funds to build a house while in Honduras. Their group had to cancel their trip so we were graciously allowed to use those funds and build a house for a family in need. Thank you all for your prayers and support as we prepared and carried out this mission trip! I pray more of you will be able to go next summer and truly Live The Mission!

—Josh
“Try great things for God and expect great things from Him!”