Scott Miller Blog :: Good Stuff

What I’ve been reading…Steve Martin: Born Standing Up

Interesting autobiography of the comedian Steve Martin. From his start at Knott's Berry Farm and Disneyland, all the way through SNL, his comedy has been making people laugh nonstop.

I don't know why I so enjoy hearing the story behind people's lives, but I do. Learning interesting tidbits about people's history can explain a lot of why they are the way they are. (just re-read that previous sentence and the one thought came to my mind – DUH!)

No quotes to share from this book…and I'm not sure I'd even suggest you read it cover to cover…but parts are very funny.

What I’ve been reading…Sacred Marriage by Gary Thomas

In Mark Driscoll's book, Real Marriage, I read a quote in there that made me think twice. It was actually a thought borrowed from author Gary Thomas, who wrote Sacred Marriage. The idea was this – what if God meant for marriage to make us holy, not so much happy.

This book is more about a theology of marriage (if there is such a thing) than a 'do this' type of marriage book. This isn't bad, but it caused me to drift off into la la land a few times.

My take is that marriage is definitely there to make us righteous and holy…but not at the expense of happiness! You can and should have both/and! Maybe that's what I'll use for the title of my marriage book: Both And by Scott and Megan Miller. Hah!

What I’ve been reading…Spirit Rising: Tapping into the Power of the Holy Spirit

Great book…as with all Cymbala books, full of amazing testimonies of God's grace and power in the lives of those in his church. This one focuses specifically on the power of the Holy Spirit being in everyday life.

A few quotes I liked:

I sometimes wonder, if the early Christians were around today, would they even recognize what we call Christianity? Our version is blander, almost totally intellectual in nature, and devoid of the Holy Spirit power the early church regularly experienced. How much loss do we suffer because we don't expect the Spirit to show up as promised? Everything we read about the church in the New Testament centered on the power of the Holy Spirit working in the hearts of Christian believers. Sadly, for many of us, this has not been our experience. I believe

Cymbala, Jim (2012-02-21). Spirit Rising: Tapping into the Power of the Holy Spirit (Kindle Locations 313-317). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

"Tarry [literally 'sit down'] … until you are endued with power from on high"1 (Luke 24:49). If all believers were full of the Holy Spirit, if everyone in the community were Spirit-controlled, the apostles wouldn't have laid down such a qualification. In fact, it would be downright silly. Imagine them saying, "Choose seven people who are breathing." Being a Christian does not necessarily guarantee that a person lives a life controlled by the Spirit.

Cymbala, Jim (2012-02-21). Spirit Rising: Tapping into the Power of the Holy Spirit (Kindle Locations 545-547). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

The apostle Paul told the church at Ephesus: "Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit" (Eph. 5:18). If all Christians were already filled with the Spirit at all times, why would there be this strong command from Paul?

Cymbala, Jim (2012-02-21). Spirit Rising: Tapping into the Power of the Holy Spirit (Kindle Locations 569-570). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

What I’ve been Reading…Bob Hope: A Life in Comedy

Very interesting and thorough book on the life of comedian Bob Hope. I've always liked The Road to… movies that Bob Hope starred in, along with most of his classic comedy. Really was a brilliant man, who wasn't perfect of course.

I think the most intriguing things I read had to do with the back story on most of his major films and such. The on again off again friendship with Bing Crosby was interesting to read about, along with Bob's journey's oversees to entertain our troops.

What I’ve been reading…Choosing to See: A Journey of Struggle and Hope by Mary Beth Chapman

I've wanted to read this book for some time now, but simply didn't take the time to do such. Mary Beth is the wife of Christian musician, Steven Curtis Chapman. Over all, the book is heart wrenching as she shares their story of losing one of their children, and the journey toward a new normal. Although it sounds a bit cliché-ish, she did have me laughing one minute, and biting my lower lip the next, trying not to cry. I've experienced deep hurt in the loss of both of my parents at the same time as a teenager, but I still think losing a child would have to be the most pain a person could ever go through.

The book is sprinkled with 'stories behind the music' from Steven Curtis, which I found really interesting. For instance, the sung at every Christian wedding song in the late 80's and early 90's, "I Will Be Here," was written after Steven Curtis' mom and dad shockingly and out of nowhere got divorced. It was a love song of commitment written to Mary Beth.

Now for some who are reading this, you might think this is a stupid observation, but I think it is worth noting – Mary Beth Chapman is a female author. Duh! Not that hard of a conclusion to come to. Personally, and I'm not saying this is good or bad, 95% of what I read comes from a male author. A few times I had to stop for a few moments to collect myself as the further I read I had a feeling I was sitting in a group of women, at Starbucks, talking life together. I'm all for women getting together at Starbucks talking life, but it would make for an awkward couple of moments for a man sitting with them given some of the female natured discussion. Anyhow - just an observation and a heads up for any male readers who may read this book.

Trying to think of any quotes or whatever that really stuck out to me…I think the most powerful quote I found was actually a chapter heading from C.S. Lewis –

"We're not necessarily doubting that God will do the best for us; we are wondering how painful the best will turn out to be." Wow…that will make you think…

As with any books, certain parts moved along better than others, but I would recommend it. I would especially recommend it to a parent who they themselves have dealt and are dealing with the loss of a child.

What I’ve been reading…Through my Eyes by Tim Tebow

I'm a little over half way through Tim Tebow's first book. I really like Tim Tebow…liked him ever since I saw the first ESPN interview on him before he won the Heisman. His book is, well, informative. So far, he has a little biographical information, and a whole lot of re-living many of the college football games of his career. I find myself getting bored a bit, but there have been a few interesting stories interspersed.

One of my favorites is from the FSU game during his sophomore season I believe. He stiff armed a guy with his right hand, and at the same time, someone missed tackling him which pinned this right hand between two helmets. Tim knew something happened to his hand, but did not want to come out of the game. So the trainer sprayed a cooling spray on it every time Tim came to the sideline, and it seemed to help keep the pain and swelling down. After the game, an X-ray showed that his hand did have a clean break and would need attention. Tim asked the trainer what the cooling spray was that seemed to work so well, and the trainer responded – "Bactine antiseptic spray." Hah! No medical value for breaks at all!

The mind and will is a powerful thing!

What I’ve been reading…The Circle Maker by Mark Batterson

I laughed when I read that someone called Mark Batterson 'controversial' b/c of some of the things he writes in this book about prayer. This book is packed full of faith building stories, as well as simple, yet profound teaching from the Bible. I dare you to read it and not allow it to affect your prayer life. Seriously, if you read one book of a spiritual discipline nature in 2012, make it this one.

Favorite Quotes (for some reason page numbers aren't appearing on the Kindle edition):

"As I read this story, I felt as though the Spirit of God said to my spirit, "Stop praying for it and start praising me for it." True faith doesn't just celebrate ex post facto, after the miracle has already happened; true faith celebrates before the miracle happens, as if the miracle has already happened, because you know that you know that God is going to deliver on His promise."

"God isn't offended by big dreams; He's offended by anything less."

"I do know that 100 percent of the prayers I don't pray won't get answered."

"I don't know if this will be encouraging or discouraging, but the will of God doesn't get easier. The will of God gets harder. Here's why: the harder it gets, the harder you have to pray."

What I’ve been reading…Real Marriage by Mark and Grace Driscoll

Well…whew…this book…well…it was good. Mark Driscoll is known for not pulling any punches, or being afraid to say it like it is. In this book, he does just that. I think the way in which he and his wife Grace interweave their marriage issues with Biblical truth is done well. I'm not sure I agree with everything said in this book, but it did make me think long and hard about my own marriage…which was worth the price of the book!

A couple of favorite quotes:

"Marriage is about friendship. All the talk about spending time and doing life together, making memories, being a good listener, growing old and taking care of each other, being honest, having the long view of things, repenting and forgiving can be summed up in one word – friendship." Page 23

"…three kinds of marriages – back to back, shoulder to shoulder, and face to face." Page 32

"What if God designed marriage to make us holy more than to make us happy?" Page 40

"Marriage is for our holiness before our happiness. Your spouse is the most sanctifying, and often most frustrating, relationship you will have." Page 159

What I’ve been reading…The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom with Elizabeth and John Sherrill

I've known I should read this book since first hearing about it as a kid, but I never did until this past fall. The story of how the Lord used Corrie and her family to save countless lives during WWII is amazing. I look forward to visiting the hiding place in Holland soon!

Favorite Quotes:

Father held the baby close, his white beard brushed its cheek, looking into the little face with eyes as blue and innocent as the baby's own. At last he looked up at the pastor. "You say we could lose our lives for this child. I would consider that the greatest honor that could come to my family." Page 115

"Perhaps only when human effort had done its best and failed, would God's power alone be free to work." Page 138

Corrie's very physically sick sister Betsie speaking while they were in a work camp – "…must tell people what we have learned here. We must tell them that there is no pit so deep that He is not deeper still. They will listen to us, Corrie, because we have been here." Page 227

"There Corrie learned that her own release had been part of a clerical error; one week later all women her age were taken to the gas chamber." Page 250

What I’ve Been Reading…The Reagan Wit by Bill Adler and Bill Adler Jr.

I think Megan got this book from her dad's bookshelves the last time we were over there. Ronald Reagan was a simple, but extraordinary leader. He was the greatest president of my life time. This book is full of little humorous anecdotes and thoughts from the Gipper. Everything from continual jabs at the Democrats, to the funny things he said during the whole ordeal of being shot. Nice diversion in the middle of a busy season of life and ministry!

What I’ve been Reading…Heaven is for Real by Todd Burpo

This book is an interesting account of a young boy who spent time in Heaven. His descriptions are beyond coincidental (including the fact that he met the little sister that his mom miscarried…a piece of information that his parents never shared with him due to his age). It is a quick read, and an easy read. I think you'll probably find you can't put it down (I actually listened to it on the way down and back to Indy this past week).

As with any book written about someone's experience like this - we have to be careful not to build our doctrine around someone else's experience, but around the teaching of the Bible! Having said that, I'm not sure I heard anything from this boys experience that didn't line up with what you read in the Bible!

What I’ve been reading…Fear No Evil by Brady Boyd

Brady Boyd took over leadership of New Life Church after Ted Haggard had a moral failure. If that wasn't enough of a challenge, just months after going to New Life, a gunman opened fire in the foyer of the church, killing 2 young ladies. In this book, Brady shares candidly about the process of leading the church through this. Very insightful and faith building!

What I’ve been reading…Weird by Craig Groeschel

Great book about staying balanced in life, even if it means going against the flow of culture. Culture says that it's ok to be running all the time, go go go - God's plan is otherwise. Culture says it's ok to be financially strapped, besides, my family and I deserve this – God's plan is good stewardship of our resources. What Craig Groeschel calls weird is really the life every Christ follower ought to want!

What I’ve been reading…Love Wins by Rob Bell

Let me start by saying I am not on a witch hunt. I did not purchase this book (with one click of a button which caused it then to be downloaded immediately via wifi on my Kindle of which I would encourage anyone to purchase b/c it is an amazing piece of equipment), I repeat, I did not purchase this book to try to start a debate on the teachings of Rob Bell. I got the book for one reason, and one reason alone…I'm concerned for our church. I know this may sound too Biblical, but I take it as my 'job' to guard this flock called Pathway from any false or incorrect doctrine/teaching. I know that many, LIKE MYSELF, have been encouraged by NOOMA video's over the past few years, and they are used in our Life Groups from time to time. So, it was with an open heart that I jumped into this latest book by Rob Bell.

Well…I'm 89% finished with the book…my thoughts in just a few words…WHAT IN THE NAME OF ALL THAT'S RIGHTEOUS AND HOLY ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT ROB BELL?

Let me start by saying that I never did finish 'Velvet Elvis.' While everyone was ranting and raving about how cool it was, I couldn't get past the first few chapters as his writing/questioning style drives me nuts. What I found in Love Wins is a lot of teaching and Biblical interpretation that is out of the mainstream of traditional/evangelical/Billy Graham/Chuck Swindoll/Charles Stanley like teaching at best, and at worst just plain silly/and incorrect doctrine.

To suggest that there is no door to Heaven or Hell is odd (using a misinterpretation of Rev. 21:25 to suggest such). To infer that if the rich man who asked poor man Lazarus to get him a drink b/c he was being tormented by the flames of Hell, could actually leave Hell and get into Heaven if he were to change his heart is odd. Rob would suggest that this story is more about the heart of the rich man still being tainted, proof being that even in Hell, he demanded the poor servants of the world to serve him (aka Lazurus), than the guy actually being physically thirsty. If this rich man were to change his heart, he could pick up, and move on up to heaven, b/c the door is always open. What? Are you serious?

There is a feeling throughout the whole book of Hell not being fair. I understand what Rob is saying, and I agree that it doesn't seem fair that a dear lady who was beat, molested, raped, left to raise her 4 children, etc. (which seems to be his favorite illustration throughout the book), wouldn't somehow be close to the heart of God, and therefore, it would seem horrible to think that she might spend all of eternity in the same experience she had here on earth, Hell, if she dies without Christ. I agree that it is problematic as to the tribe of some African nation who has yet to hear the name of Jesus, but people die regularly there, so they are left to have a Christless eternity (which I think I may have a further thought on, but I don't care to go into it now). But what about free will? How does this fit into all of this?

Yes, it would be horrible if at the age of 15 I was forced to live without the 2 most meaningful people ever to live in my life (short of now Megan and the girls) b/c a blooming idiot drank and drove…walk through all of the pain and hurt connected with that…allow that to be the defining moment of my life…turn to everything but God…live Hell on earth, only to live Hell in eternity as well! That would be unfair! But, Jesus! At the risk of sounding too Biblical…sorry about that…BUT JESUS! But Jesus reached deep into my heart and took this tragedy and redeemed it! The Bible is clear, from the OT to the NT, everything points to salvation not being through a tragic event, or any other event, but putting your faith in Christ and receiving His grace.

For Rob to suggest that the rich young man could have actually been saved if he would have sold all he had and given it to the poor, is wrong. For him to suggest that this event could have 'saved' him is not only odd, but not at all what the story was saying. These earthly things were getting in the way of the rich young man putting his faith in Christ. He needed to get past this in order to put his faith in Christ. This act of selling it all was not the thing that would have saved him, it would have been the thing that needed to happen for that dude to truly find faith. Rob shares several examples like this that suggest perhaps we can find faith/Jesus in other ways. Never necessarily saying that Jesus isn't the only way, but suggesting there might be other ways to find Him.

I could say a whole lot more, but let me just suggest you be careful not to jump to judgments about Rob Bell, or anyone else for that matter, until you hear it or read it yourself. The main focus on my blog is really the church that I lead, Pathway. I'm sharing my thoughts to inform and lead our congregation correctly, not so much to add to all that's already been said in the blogosphere.

Even in sharing my thoughts on this book and teaching, I encourage you to read Rob Bell's book…read whoever else's stuff…don't be afraid to tackle someone's stuff even if going in to it you are pretty sure you don't agree b/c of what you've heard others say. Come to your own conclusions as you read it, and fight the 'good little Christian' temptations to jump on a sound bite that someone else said about someone. Read it yourself and then make your conclusions. (that's just my thoughts)

I'm not a deep thinker. I'm someone who believes following Christ is a lot easier to understand than we make it sometimes. I'm not a great debater. I invite you to share your thoughts on this post, but know that I'm really not too much for debate.

On this book, and the direction of Rob Bell, my thought is this: Rob is a great communicator. He has the ability to be a great gift to the Christ following community of the world, but I am more than concerned that he has walked away from correct doctrine. I would strongly suggest at this point you thoroughly question every doctrine/scriptural teaching you ever hear from Rob Bell, and any Nooma video you may watch. Just b/c something sounds unique, interesting, 'I've never thought of it that way before,' doesn't' mean it's truth and worth believing. Don't let anyone's natural speaking gift fool you into believing something that is not in line with Scripture. There may be further direction given to our LG leaders at some point, but at this point I strongly encourage you to be diligent in lining anything you watch from Rob Bell up with Scripture and what you know to be correct doctrine.

I conclude with this paragraph from the book that seems to summarize Rob's thoughts nicely:

A staggering number of people have been taught that a select few Christians will spend forever in a peaceful, joyous place called heaven, while the rest of humanity spends forever in torment and punishment in hell with no chance for anything better. It's been clearly communicated to many that this belief is a central truth of the Christian faith and to reject it is, in essence, to reject Jesus. This is misguided and toxic and ultimately subverts the contagious spread of Jesus's message of love, peace, forgiveness, and joy that our world desperately needs to hear.

What I’ve been reading…Out of Deception by Nathan Miller

Manass and Wilma Hochstetler had shared bits and pieces of their 'story' with me over the past few years that they've attended Pathway, but I never understood it fully until after reading this book. The author of this book, Nathan Miller, spent many hours interviewing Manass' brother, Wilbur Hochstetler (and others), about the experience that their family went through involving a cult.

The book lays out in detail how the Hochstetler family, while still in the Amish church, left the Amish to become a part of this horrible group. It really stemmed from a hunger for truth, but led them into a web of deceit and awfulness.

Of course, the best part of the book is the ending. The story of how some of the family (including Manass, Wilma, and Wilbur) have found what they were looking for in the Truth of Scripture. How God has redeemed their lives and helped to heal their past.

Nathan Miller did a good job of keeping things moving as he tells this amazing story!

What I’ve been Reading…The Power of a Whisper by Bill Hybels

Whether you are a fan of Hybels or not, the fact is, most everything he's written is well done, and makes you think! Axiom, Too Busy Not to Pray, Just Walk across the Room, Holy Discontent…all of them…amazing books that have each effected my life in some way after reading them. So, what about "The Power of a Whisper" book? I liked it. Instead of being a book that I couldn't put down, it was more certain chapters that I had to read and re-read (like chapter 7 and 8). Really like, and will use Hybels thoughts on discerning if something is a whisper from God, or just the Taco Bell I had for lunch:

Filter #1:    Is the Prompting Truly from God? – Before you go any further, pray. Ask God to confirm if it's from Him or not.

Filter #2:    Is it Scriptural? – Could you imagine Jesus (the Word incarnate) doing whatever it is you feel prompted to do?

Filter #3:    Is it Wise? – God rarely goes against wisdom and common sense.

Filter #4:    Is it in Tune With Your Own Character? – It's not that God won't radically cause a 180 degree turn in your life, but if he does, it usually is confirmed by several trusted sources who can help discern if this lines up with who you are.

Filter #5:    What Do the People You Most Trust Think about it? – Subject every prompting to the godly counsel test.

Side note – We have a 4 session Life Group series built around this book (included study guide and DVD)…see Jason if you'd like to look it over…

What I’ve been reading: The Mentor Leader by Tony Dungy

Just finished Tony Dungy's latest book, on mentor leadership. Pleasantly surprised by this book! Really a great, easy read, full of powerful teaching on how to become a mentor leader. A timely book for where I'm at at this point in my life!

Here's the question he throws out that sums up the book – "What can I do to make other people better, to make them all that God created them to be?"

Good stuff!

What I’m reading…The Reward of Worship by Jack Hayford

Reading a book right now by Jack Hayford called The Reward of Worship (it's for a class I'm teaching in Indy in August)…let me share one thought he points out – "God is waiting in the wings – and worship is the invitation to which He responds."

I used to love performing on stage when I was in High School. I was in multiple musical and drama productions and absolutely ate them up! But there was always a sign for when it was time for me to come on stage. Maybe it was a stage hand who was on the headset with the director, telling me to go out in the dark and then they'd bring the lights up. Or maybe it was me noticing the lights, then walking out on stage to blab my first line of the evening. Whatever it was, there was always this sense of waiting for something to happen before I could come on.

That's the picture of God we have in our services, and in our lives. He is waiting there, behind the curtain if you will, for us to invite Him in. As you are a part of the Sunday morning music/worship time this week, realize it's more than just singing/playing! It's inviting the presence of Almighty God into our lives, church, and service!

Don't wait until Sunday to invite Him in! Worship is the invitation to which He responds!

What I’ve been reading…

I know you are all sitting around wondering what I've been reading over the past few months…never fear…the update is here! You can see all you need to see on the left side of this blog…

If I can get some spare time, I might share some of my favorite parts from these books…

What I’m reading…The Unlikely Disciple

Just started reading this book called The Unlikely Disciple by Kevin Roose. Kevin went 'undercover' at Liberty University (the late Jerry Falwell's Baptist university), posing as a follower of Christ, wanting to learn more about a Christian culture that he knew very little about. Thus far, he keeps to his word that this research assignment is not an attempt to make fun at Evangelicals, but to understand them better. Really an interesting take from someone who is completely outside of a walk with Christ…at least…that's where he is at this point in the book.  Book trailer video below...

(got the book through the Middlebury library's inter-library loan program...learning to save money by borrowing as opposed to buying!)

What I’ve read…Forgotten God by Francis Chan

I heard Francis Chan share on this subject last April at a church planting conference…it was a really powerful talk. The main challenge of the book is that the "Evangelical Church" (for a lack of a better definition) has neglected the person of the Holy Spirit. I think he is dead on…

Quotes and Thoughts from the book:

• 2 Obstacles to connecting with the Holy Spirit…
  • Comfort (Maybe your life is too safe) – "I have felt closest to God when nearness to Him was a necessity." (p. 106)
  • Volume (Maybe your life is too loud) – "It takes tremendous effort to find a quiet place. It takes time to quiet your mind and your heart before the Lord. It means turning off the music, the television, or your cell phone. It might mean going outside to your favorite spot. …it is a spiritual discipline to be still, to listen, and to cut out the distraction and din of our world." (p. 109)
• Concerning Elijah and the Prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18) – "My favorite part of that story comes when it is all over and the prophets of Baal are saying, The Lord – he is God! The Lord – he is God! (18:39 NIV) They didn't say, "Elijah is a great speaker" or "Elijah sure knows how to connect with God!" They were stunned by God. They were in awe of His power. They knew that what they experienced could not have been manipulated by Elijah. They experienced the power of God." (p. 144)
• James 5:17 Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed fervently. "Let's stop looking at the godly men and women in Scripture as though their prayer lives are unattainable!" (p. 149)

The only thing I would take a step further on than Chan is the thought of how we get the Holy Spirit. Scripture says the Holy Spirit is in you at salvation…completely agree with that. But I see a more defined, second work of the Holy Spirit in the book of Acts. The Baptism/infilling/Gift of the Holy Spirit is a definitive second work in a person's life. Maybe Chan would agree? I don't necessarily see that in his book. I see Chan describing a continual progression of receiving more of the Holy Spirit as you seek him…which…I think I would agree with also! (at the same time, seeing a baptism in the Holy Spirit and it's fullness as well)

Great book…

What I’ve been reading…Divine Order – Leading the Public Use of Spiritual Gifts

The main thing wrong with this book is that it wasn't published until the year 2009. Those in the Charismatic/Pentecostal circles have needed a book like this for a long time! Very interesting to read about how different churches deal with particularly the speaking gifts in their regular services. There are thoughts in this book that I thought I was the only one that thought (and felt these thoughts were rather blasphemous as well)!

Maybe the structure in which I grew up seeing the speaking gifts used in services is not the only structure ordained by God? Could the Holy Spirit accomplish the same thing with a different structure, without a person being branded as one who is "quenching the spirit?"

The only place I know to get the book is here…but I would highly recommend it for anyone interested in thinking outside of the box in the area of Spiritual Gifts.

What I’ve read…God Owns My Business by Stanley Tam

Stanley Tam started what's now United States Plastic Corporation in Lima, Ohio, many many years ago. The thing that differentiates Mr. Tam from other business owners is that soon after he started this business, he turned a majority share of ownership over to the Lord. A few years after that, he turned 100% ownership over to the Lord. This book explains exactly how he did that!

I realize that God is not calling every business owner to do what Mr. Tam did, but it would be worth your time to read this if you own or are thinking of owning your own business.

It's about taking the wealth God gives you and investing it into His Kingdom…Good stuff…

What I’ve been reading…Pistol – The Life of Pete Maravich

As with most vacations, I chose a biography to dig into. Wasn't sure I'd finish it given the busyness with Hayden, but I made it.

I never really knew who 'Pistol Pete' Maravich was until after he died (he passed away in 1988). I was more interested in being "like Mike" when I was a kid.

I can't say there is anything really profound that I took from these 323 pages. It was interesting to hear the story of not only Pete, but his father Press. Really is a sad story, with a tragic ending but for the decision of Pete to follow Christ for the last few years of his life.

Not my favorite biography, but interesting none the less.

What I’ve been reading…Living in the Spirit by George Wood

Just finished reading a book entitled Living in the Spirit by George Wood. Thoughts:

• Interesting to read his personal experience with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.
• P. 24 He talks about the 4^th stage of Jesus' disciples – revelation to argument to arrogance to exclusionism. When the disciples couldn't cast out the demon, they wanted other people who were casting out demons to stop. They thought they had the exclusive franchise on Jesus' ministry. I admit to falling into this trap (and being led into this trap) all the way through college, and into our first ministry assignment. When we started Pathway, God really started dealing with me on this. God is bigger than the charismatic/Pentecostal circles I am/was in.
• P. 80 Early Pentecostals did not try to argue people into the baptism in the Spirit. They lived and preached in such a way that people wanted what they had. Good stuff…
• P. 151 In discussion of spiritual gifts, and the need for correction at times - The acid test of spirituality is whether or not a person can receive correction.
• P. 151-152 Test of all spiritual gifts:
  • Does it glorify Jesus Christ?
  • Does it edify believers (the Saints)?
  • Is it a good witness to nonbelievers?

Last thought - there are a couple of interesting video spots sparked from this book on this website…

7 Baby Steps to Financial Peace

In my non-taking-care-of Megan or Hayden time this week, I've been re-reading Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace book. 7 Baby Steps to follow…where are you?

1. Pay minimum on everything until you get $1000 in savings. (rainy day fund)
2. Debt snowball – pay off all personal debt except your home.
3. Create 3-6 month nest egg of your monthly expenses.
4. Save 15% of your gross household income in retirement plans.
5. Start college funds for kids.
6. Take all the extra you can scrape together to pay your house off early.
7. Spend time giving it all away.

The only step I'm not so sure I agree with my friend Dave about is step number 7. I've seen and experienced that the quicker you start to give significant finances away, the quicker God replaces it and brings more blessing. I would hate to think that I have to wait until the seventh step until I start giving extravagantly to my local church and God's kingdom! What do you think?

What I’ve read…Servolution by Dino Rizzo

Great book. Very easy and quick read. For those of you from Pathway – Servolution = Serve Here Serve There. I completely see everything Dino says in this book about how his church has impacted their city, and the world, through serving. Dino and Healing Place Church are where I pray Pathway is in a few years! This book is a great blue print on how to get there!

Churches all over are learning how something as simple as serving can be the very key to reaching your city! From Chad McAtee in North Manchester, IN, to Dino Rizzo in Baton Rouge, LA, it's happening all over!

Matthew 20:28 ²⁸just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."

What I’ve been reading…Leading on Empty by Wayne Cordeiro

I've been reading Wayne Cordeiro's book, Leading on Empty. If I were a pastor, and only read 5 books this year (which would be sad if there really were a pastor who read only 5 books a year, but that's another story), I would include this in my books to read. In this book, Wayne talks about how he hit the wall b/c of his lack of Sabbath and rest.

Here's one thought he had…

One of the greatest lessons I'm learning (and yes, I am still learning it) is that rest is not sin. Taking a break doesn't mean you're lazy or that you're not as valuable. Catching your breath now and then doesn't mean you're not carrying your load, or that you are somehow less than committed to your church, your company, or your calling. (p. 124)

Good stuff…might be a great book for anyone in leadership…

What I’ve read…Hellfire: The Jerry Lee Lewis Story by Nick Tosches

About 6 years ago, I was at a conference sponsored by Granger Community Church, and their Sr. Pastor Mark Beeson, said something that I still remember today. Speaking to a room full of pastors, he said, "get a stranglehold on what renews you!" Meaning, find something, anything, that will refill your emotional tank (b/c you will be drained by ministry).

One thing that I've found that renews me is a good biography. It doesn't even need to be a great biography, just a good one. I am interested in not only the public persona, but the back story. What made them the person they are?

Though I have never been a fan of Jerry Lee Lewis, I've been intrigued by his life for a while now. Partially b/c of the fact that both his cousin's Jimmy Lee Swaggart and Mickey Gilley, as well as himself, grew up in an A/G church like I did.

It's not a bad book…rather interesting…but more importantly, it's my diversion…it's getting my mind off of the everyday, and onto something else. What emotionally renews you? Have you pinpointed it yet? What are you waiting for?

What I’ve read…Johnny Cash: The Life of an American Icon by Stephen Miller

Enjoyed this book a load better than what I thought I would. I think it may have turned me into a Johnny Cash fan.

Jason Brooks shared a message a week or two ago at Pathway about Staying in the Battle. Johnny Cash fought the battle until the day he died! The battle of a spiritual man who wanted to please God always, and a carnal man that wanted to "fulfill the lust of the flesh." At times, his spirit man won…at other times, his flesh won.

Really challenged my way of thinking about God's grace. You absolutely cannot take advantage of God's grace (I'll sin now b/c God will always forgive me). But I think there is security in God's grace (I don't lose my salvation at the drop of a hat…though I wouldn't go as far as eternal security).

He was an amazing man, with amazing God given talent, who was saved by an amazing Jesus!

What I’m Reading…Peace to War by Paul Alexander…Part 2

Okay…if you haven't read my previous post upon starting this book, you can read it here. I've finished the book. Various thoughts after reading it:

• The author does a pretty thorough job of laying out the early peace stance of the Assemblies of God. Seems to blame the change (from peace, to following our own convictions) on our desire to be a part of the larger context of the evangelical church.
• Maybe I'm just missing something here, but the overall feel I get from the book is that we need to build our conflict resolution completely on Jesus' command to turn the other cheek. This brings us to the question of whether there ever is a time to take up arms?
• I think the author portrays the US as an evil nation, who's main goal is to expand ourselves economically and militarily (p. 348). This is perhaps one of my biggest beefs with my friends, and fellow followers of Jesus, in the peace ranks…let me state the question…IS IT POSSIBLE TO LOVE YOUR IMPERFECT, BUT YET OVERALL GREAT, COUNTRY AND STILL BE FOR PEACE? I know I am probably painting with too wide of a paint brush here, but it seems most who hold a peace stance also hold some sort of "I hate America" (or close to it) stance as well. Anyone who holds to this peace stance, please prove me wrong on this…
• It seems like the author suggests that 9/11 occurred b/c America was reaping what they've sown (p. 348). Of any of the points made in this book, I will go on record as CLEARLY as possible in stating that I think this is…well…(deep breath…relax…) let me leave it at this – it is an incorrect assumption.
• My initial assumption when starting to read the book was that the authors main desire was to bring the A/G back to its peace roots. I think for the most part, that's a true assumption. Though, I think his convictions go much deeper than the A/G, and he would desire all believers to hold to this stance.
• Did it sway my opinion? No. Did it give me more input on the thought process of those who hold to the peace stance? Not really. Let me just ask now – any of you who hold to the "peace stance" (meaning – never taking another person's life), point me to a book/website that would most succinctly lay out the Biblical basis of your peace stance.

FOR THE RECORD – I hate war. I hate the taking of another person's life. I am not pro-war at all…BUT…I do believe there is a time, Biblically, when it is right to take up arms to defend yourself.

What I’m Reading…Peace to War by Paul Alexander

About a year ago, one of my Anabaptist friends (the Mennonites and Church of the Brethren are a part of that group) chided me on how the fellowship I'm a part of (the Assemblies of God – A/G) used to have a "peace stance," but ended it officially in 1967. A "peace stance" would mean that we, as a fellowship, were against any kind of taking of another person's life, including War. (and maybe "chided" is too strong of a word…"challenged" might be a better word)

Well, it intrigued me enough to purchase Paul Alexander's new book laying out the supposed history of the A/G and the "peace stance." Since moving back to Middlebury, I have learned to hold dear (and I don't say that lightly) my friendships with my Mennonite and COB friends…but it really is hard for me to see where they are coming from on this issue. Maybe this book might shed some light on it? (that is not a further invitation to those in the peace stance arena to give me every book you have on the subject… "well, if that book doesn't do it, here's 5 others that will!" ...hah!)

Why is this issue such a nonnegotiable for so many of my Anabaptist friends? And possibly even for the early leaders in the A/G?

I'm honestly not really reading this to try to sway my opinion on the matter as much as to understand their opinion. If this were a major issue at the founding of our movement…and we did sway from it…I'm not somehow going to run back to it just b/c "we've got to get back to our roots." (which is probably a very biased opinion of what I perceive from Paul Alexander at this point, before reading the whole book)

If somehow, you are reading this Paul, thanks for adding fuel to the fire for my Anabaptist friends my brother! I owe you one…hah!

One more random thought – in the 5^th grade, while interviewing my Mennonite (closet charismatic I believe) grandfather (who was a founding member at East Goshen Mennonite church in Goshen, IN) about his life in the depression, he shared one of his few regrets in life – that he never fought for his country.

Does reading a book on this topic, while taking time off to rest, mean that I am a geek or something? What did you do on your vacation – "oh, I read about the early peace stance of the Assemblies of God."

What I’ve read…It: How Churches and Leaders Can Get IT and Keep IT

I actually finished this book a while ago. One word after reading this book – REFRESHING! It's been some time since I've read a book from someone on the 'conference circuit' that was so centered on having the Holy Spirit leading you. Further thoughts that connected with me -

5 Questions to stir your vision (page 44-45):

1. Why does your organization exist?
2. What can your organization be the best in the world at?
3. If you could do only one thing, what would it be?
4. If you left your organization tomorrow, what would you hope would continue forever?
5. What breaks your heart, keeps you awake at night, wrecks you?

The 5 things they do at LifeChurch.tv (really close to the same list we do at Pathway…page 63):

1. Weekend experiences
2. Missions
3. Small Groups
4. Kids
5. Students

Miscellaneous Quotes:

• …ministries that have it tend to be focused on a limited set of targets. (page 54)
• If your gospel isn't touching others, it hasn't touched you. – Curry R. Blake (page 127)
• On outreach - When was the last time you've had a lost person in your home? How many meaningful conversations did you have with non-Christians this week? Who are the nonbelievers you prayed for today?…most Christians don't wake up one morning and declare, "I've decided not to care about the lost anymore." (page 132-133)
• We have to remember, we do our part, others do their part, and God does his. Outreach is a team event. You may be just one of the four. (page 135)

What I’ve read…Beyond the Soiled Curtain

I just finished the book, Beyond the Soiled Curtain, by David and Beth Grant (Assemblies of God Missionaries). In 1997, moved by what they saw happening in the sex trade industry of India, they helped to start a ministry called Project Rescue. Project Rescue helps those girls and women caught up in the sex trade industry of India and Nepal find freedom and hope in Christ. I spoke with one of our own Pathway missionaries who are on the ground in India, and they said Project Rescue is the real deal.

Ugh. I feel as if something has hit me in the gut. I cried as I read story after story of how girls, many the same age as my own daughters, are forced into this horrible industry.

When I read things like this, I get this overwhelming feeling of "I've got to do something." What that something is, I don't know.

But I've got to do something.

The Shack

I've been so busy the past two weeks, I've had a hard time disconnecting and relaxing! Usually that means I need to dive into a good biography or something…something to get my mind off of everyday things.

How about some fiction…Anyone else reading The Shack by William P. Young? (Why do people include their middle initials when they get famous?...I used to include my middle initial, D, on everything I did in memory of my father – David…don't do it much anymore for some reason) I've had the book for months (The Shack), but just now picked it up.

Just read the first 2 chapters. Apparently, something horrible is getting ready to happen to Missy. If you've read it, what do you think of it? Complete nonsense, and heretical? Or, wow, the most powerful thing I've read in a while? (I've heard both of these reactions from friends)

What I’ve read…Sinatra the Life by Anthony Summers and Robbyn Swan

The time was 1930's and 1940's, and Old Blue Eyes, Frank Sinatra, was coming on the scene. Last year I read a book about Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis (Dean and Me), so I decided to jump into this book about Sinatra.

Mr. Sinatra was an interesting fellow. For some reason I have this thought in my mind of this generation as being a moral generation…loving God and country. Well, they may have loved the God they created (part from the Bible and part from their own desires) and country, but morality was as much in despair as it is in today's Hollywood.

It is from this book that I found the most disappointing quote of the 15-20 books I've read over the summer…

He had decided never to write his autobiography, he had said, "because I'm not proud of too many things I've done." (P. 389)

That was one of the last sentences in the book. I could comment on it, but I'll let you think on it. God help me if that's one of the final quote's in a book on my life.

Well written, and full of snapshots into this pre-rock and roll generation…the good and the bad! I love a good biography/autobiography…

What I’ve Read…Breaking Intimidation

I finally got my hands on John Bevere's book entitled Breaking Intimidation (Megan's been hogging it all summer).

Great book! Every pastor ought to read this book. Every person, pastor or not a pastor, who wants to break out of and get past intimidation that is holding them back from fulfilling what God has put on them ought to read this! I really like John Bevere…get the book!

What I’ve Read…Part 3

Mistaken Identity by the Van Ryn's and Cerak's w/ Mark Tabb

Wow…you might remember a horrible accident that happened in April 2006 involving a group of college students from Taylor University. Mistaken Identity is the story of the Van Ryn and Cerak family's journey through 5 weeks of pain, sorrow, confusion, and peace in the midst of it all (through Christ). The Van Ryn's thought they had been sitting at the bedside of their daughter Laura, but this all changed when 5 weeks later the girl said her name was Whitney.

I just finished this today. I should probably say I just wiped the last tear away today…cried through the whole thing. Partially b/c of the gripping story (and thinking about my own girls), and partially b/c it brought back so many memories of August 10^th, 1990, when I had the experience of hearing "your mom and dad have gone on to be with the Lord" in a horrible car accident. The book was really well written…jumping into the heart of things from the first chapter…every other chapter being written from a different family's events (Van Ryn's and Cerak's).

What I’ve Read…Part 2

Lone Survivor by Marcus Luttrell w/Patrick Robinson

Modern day Black Hawk Down story. Though interesting, the whole story of Navy Seal boot camp got a bit long. But the story is really an amazing rescue story. Interesting to hear Marcus' take on how he sensed God was with him through the whole ordeal. Also interesting to hear his straight forward talk about those in Congress who lean to the liberal side (of whom he would pretty much say played into a decision that cost his friends their lives). This book gives whole new meaning to the term "cursed like a sailor." I'll leave it at that…

What I’ve Read…Part 1

A Comedian's Guide to Theology by Thor Ramsey

- Christian comedian's take on theology. The one word I have after reading this book is – ODD. The book is odd…the author is odd...not saying I don't like him or he doesn't have any good points…just odd. In the book, he writes a lot about the "emerging church" movement (which I agree with much of what he says…it was just…well…odd).

Updated book review thing

Just an fyi that I updated some of my thoughts on the books I've been reading on Sabbatical (look to the bottom right hand side of my blog)…

Off-Road Disciplines – Earl Creps Part 2

Here are a couple more thoughts from Earl Creps that seemed to connect with me (italics are exact words from the book)…

• In talking about spiritual renewal – our spiritual renewal burned brightly in services that only church folks attended and only insiders understood. (p. 13) I think you can push this too far and get a bit anal about it (like - I'm not even going to use one Bible word today in church b/c the pre-christian's in the audience won't understand it and I'm never having another spiritual renewal service in my church!), but there still is something to be said about it (do we really need another large event for Christians to flock to? – or do we need to get the Christians out of the building, doing things that they can only do if empowered and anointed by the Holy Spirit lest they fall on their face…I realize it's probably a both/and not either/or – powerful services along with powerful service!).
• Post-Christianity is waiting for missionaries (missional leaders) who practice sacred realism: the discipline of holding the truth in one hand and faith in the other. (p. 26)

Off Road Disciplines – by Earl Creps

I'm about a quarter of the way through this book about being a missional leader, by Earl Creps. Here are a couple of his thoughts that seemed to connect with me (italics are exact words from the book) from the first few chapters…

• How can I be changed so that others will find me worth following in mission? (p. 3)
• Missional Leader – living as an inside-outsider, "not of the world any more than He (Jesus) is of the world." (p. 7)
• Talks about the health home groups (Life Groups) bring to a congregation. When he transitioned his church into a home group model, his pastoral counseling dropped to almost nothing – "it turned out they just needed friends, not me!" (p. 10)
• Pentecostals believe in religious experience the way electricians believe in electricity: without it, we have no reason to show up for work. The Spirit moves in profound and observable ways, and our heritage teaches that most everything else just takes care of itself. But our congregation's story failed to line up with what our movement's (Assemblies of God) culture taught us to expect. (p. 12) Interesting stuff! Especially the "everything else just takes care of itself" part…I've experienced the same line of teaching, and am as much of a Holy Spirit guy as the founders of our fellowship, but my experience is that it does take more than just the Holy Spirit showing up.

Book Thoughts: Save Me From Myself

I had heard that Brain "Head" Welch, former lead guitarist for the band KORN, had a "come to Jesus" experience a few years ago. Whenever I hear of something like this, I always wonder if it's genuine. I know, I know, only God knows the heart…but He tells us to examine the fruit. Thus, I picked up a copy of this book to read for myself. (As with most of my book thoughts, I will try to steer clear of the technical side of writing/flow, etc., and will stick to the content shared.)

Brian seems to be a genuinely redeemed Christ follower. At the heart of his whole life were drugs/alcohol/music. He mixed in relationships/friendships, but his life was ruled by the enemy through his substance abuse…at least until he invited Christ in. I found a couple of things very interesting about his coming to Jesus:

• In the first chapter, he talks about his friend Kevin from Jr. High. Brian loved hanging out at their house b/c of the peace he felt there (they were believers). After a while, Kevin's mom sat Brian down and just laid out the whole plan of salvation. Brain "Head" Welch prayed the sinners prayer right then and there (at the age of 14?), but of course, it didn't stick. BUT THE SEED WAS PLANTED that God would use one day later on to bring him into a full relationship with Jesus.
• Months before he made the final decision to follow Christ, he had conversation after conversation with people from his past who had made the same decision to follow. God was setting him up!
• (Warning – next comment might not be understood by the simply religious) Brian is very candid in the events of his life, being brutally honest at times. He writes about how after he got saved, God set him free from the drugs/alcohol/porn/etc. But yet there was one more drug binge…and God still confirmed his love for him. There was the time, after coming to Jesus, he hit rock bottom in a depression, and he screamed the "F" bomb at God a few times…and yet God still spoke to him in the midst of that, and loved him. These were times that most of us church folk may have written him off and suggested he's now backslidden, but not Jesus. He loved/loves us even in the midst of our sin. Not condoning it, or turning a blind eye, but loving us right through it. Powerful!
• He talks about going to church every single time he could after getting saved, but the most powerful times he had with the Lord were at his house.

Funny that he actually has a whole chapter entitled "Tongues," where he writes about his experience with the Biblical use of tongues at an A/G church. I know A/G pastors that wouldn't have included that chapter in their books b/c of the way they might now be perceived by other evangelicals.

Overall, I think Brian has established and is growing in his walk with Christ. I think, from what I read and see, it's a genuine faith that God will bless as long as he continues to submit himself to his pastor and other mentors to help guide him in the process.

One last thought - I think we may be doing a disservice to guys/gals like this when we turn their conversion into some sort of Christian freak show, and plaster them all over every magazine and Christian TV show. But at the same time, if they've had a genuine experience with Christ, the world ought to know!

Just my thoughts…(if you'd like to borrow the book, shoot me an email)

Vintage Jesus – Timely Answers to Timely Questions

I just finished reading this book by Mark Driscoll and Gerry Breshears, and thought I'd type some thoughts on it…

• I like reading/listening to Mark Driscoll b/c he makes me laugh. Not to mention he is very well thought out theologically. I don't agree with him on everything, but most of what he says is "right on" as they would say in the 70's.
• In this book, he spells out some pretty deep theological stuff about Jesus in a way that is easy to get your hands around. I like that.
• He brings in much of culture's reflections on Jesus, and then lays out truth from the Word. Interesting approach.
• He takes pot shots at some of who we would call current Christian mega-stars. Some of it warranted, but some of it possibly out of context from the totality of the persons teaching? (all the while he himself offers autographed copies of the book to those of us who would pre-order a copy…sounds a bit mega-star'ish to me…hah!)
• He pushes the limits kind of far in the use of some of his crude thoughts/illustrations. Such as suggesting/spelling out all of the bodily functions Jesus may have experienced.

I realize that some of you could care less about what I'm reading, but I blog about it none the less. I would be completely comfortable placing this book in the hands of someone who just made a decision to follow Christ, and were searching for further clarification on the life and ministry of Jesus!

FYI – I've listened to the preaching series called Vintage Jesus from Mark Driscoll through his podcast. Just noticed you can watch it here as well (or watch below).