Rescue- podcast

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It's a rescue operation...When the mission goals of your local church match mission goals for congregations from your mainline Lutheran denomination...Well, there then- based on Acts 4:23-31

His Truth is Marching On- podcast

To ignore, ridicule, compartmentalize or punish those who share the good of news of Jesus just seems to get the truth out even more. How do you stop that? Truth happens.

Right Side Up- podcast

Sermon Jluly 03 2011 by Pastor Dana Listen on Posterous

The Ways of Jesus turn our lives right side up. The Ways of Jesus turn the world right side up. Why wouldn't you want this to happen?

Bringing Fire to the Frontier- podcast

Sermon June 26 2011 by Pastor Dana Listen on Posterous

A sermon based on Acts 3. Kudos to Mike Breen for concept.

This is what I've got...the name of Jesus!- podcast

Under His authority and in His name, the power of Jesus is available. How do we receive it?

Sermon_June_19_2011_-_Having_the_Right_Stuff.mp3 Listen on Posterous

Temple and Home: Building Community-pocast

Sermon June 12 2011 by Pastor Dana Listen on Posterous

What we learn from the rhythm of life of the first Christians.

The Wait is Over...He's Here!- podcast

Sermon May 29 2011 by Pastor Dana Listen on Posterous

The Holy Spirit continues the work of Jesus on earth.

Explaining the Trinity podcast

Sermon May 8 2011 by Pastor Dana Listen on Posterous

The Holy Spirit doesn't take the back seat to God the Father or Jesus. Far from it.

The Trinity Explained- podcast

How is God three persons in one and how do you

Sermon_May_8_2011.mp3 Listen on Posterous

explain the Trinity? Enter in the Holy Spirit and you're on your way. A simple (not simplistic) way to begin.

 

When the Holy Spirit shows up for good- podcast

We have access to the power of the heavens with the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. What does this mean for the first Christians and what does it mean for us?

Sermon_May_22_2011.mp3 Listen on Posterous

"The Book of Acts"= "Jesus: Part Two" - podcast

Sermon May 15 2011 by Pastor Dana Listen on Posterous

"The Book of Acts", or "The Acts of the Apostles", as it is known, is really, "The Acts and Teachings of Jesus as He Works through His Spirit through His Followers"..."Acts" it is!

Acts 1:

The very best book written about heaven is....

There have been so many books written about heaven, the afterlife, what's it going to be like after I die? and everything in between. In the fiction and non-fiction categories. Heaven Is For Real, The Shack, Love Wins, you name it; I have read most of them.

But, I'll bet you haven't. At least I will guess most of you have not read by far the best book I have read so far on the topic of "what's heaven like?" It is a fictional account about a father grieving after the death of his best friend, his daughter, and his mother; all within two years.

I could continue with a deep insightful review, but before you spend another dime on another "heaven" book- Read this!

Room of Marvels, by James Bryan Smith

what does "gospel" mean?

The word "gospel" comes from the Old English, god+spell, or "good" "word" (think of the word, "spelling"). Now you know where they got the title for the 70's musical, "Godspell."

There are many different ways of expressing the good news. The four main books that record the story of Jesus in the Bible, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, are all called "Gospels," as in "The Gospel according to ..." What each of these Gsopel writers say about the "gospel" is helpful.

Matthew

Matthew doesn't specifically say what he is writing. He starts his book off with a geneology to show the legitimate connection between "Jesus the Messiah," Abraham and King David. Jesus is the one of whom the Jewish people are waiting.

Mark

Mark starts his gospel by specifically stating it is a gospel, or "good words (news)."

"Here begins the Good News about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God." (New Living Translation)

Luke

Luke is probably writing to a benefactor and/or friend, "Theophilus" ("Lover of God"). Luke gives his reason for writing at the beginning.

"Most honorable Theophilus:

Many people have written accounts about the events that took place among us. They used as their source material the reports circulating among us from the early disciples and other eyewitnesses of what God has done in fullfillment of his promises. Having carefully investigated all of these accounts from the beginning, I have decided to write a careful summmary for you, to reassure you of the truth of all you were taught." (NLT)

John

With John, what is most interesting is how he ends his gospel. 

"This is that disciple who saw these events and recorded them here. And we all know that his account of these things is accurate. And I suppose that if all the other things Jesus did were written down, the whole world could not contain the books." (NLT)

what does "evangelism" mean?

"Evangelism" comes from the Greek word, euangelion (εὐαγγέλιον),  which translates, "good message," or "good news." In the Christian faith, we speak of the good news as the message of Jesus that is recorded in the Bible. We say this is a message sent from God. You can see a clue to this meaning in the very word, "evangelism."

EVANGELISM...

Get it?

Sometime's, it's all about the question...

"Are you saved?"

"Do you have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ?"

"Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior?"

"Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?"

Now, which of these questions is actually in the Bible?

Only the last question, from Acts 19:2.

Interesting that the other three questions have been commonly used in various "Evangelism" training resources.

"Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?" Not so common.

Why is this? 

 

 

Begin Again: Creation and Easter- podcast

Sermon May 1 2011 by Pastor Dana Listen on Posterous

 

It's a whole new world, beginning with the first day of the new creation.

Son Power- Easter podcast

Sermon April 24 2011 - Easter by Pastor Dana Listen on Posterous

The resurrection of Jesus, the first day of the new creation, and the power that follows- Alleluia

Why Did Jesus Have to Die?- podcast

Sermon April 17 2011 by Pastor Dana Listen on Posterous

Can't get any clearer than this...

Begin Again: Creation and Easter- podcast

Sermon May 1 2011 by Pastor Dana Listen on Posterous

It's a whole new world, beginning with the first day of the new creation.

Son Power- Easter podcast

Sermon April 24 2011 - Easter by Pastor Dana Listen on Posterous

The resurrection of Jesus, the first day of the new creation, and the power that follows- Alleluia

Why Did Jesus Have to Die?- podcast

Sermon April 17 2011 by Pastor Dana Listen on Posterous

Can't get any clearer than this...

There is no confusion about this in Christianity or "What you will never hear from an American President..."

Let me understand...

Last night, President Obama said this. "...we must also reaffirm that the United States is not –- and never will be -– at war with Islam.  I’ve made clear, just as President Bush did shortly after 9/11, that our war is not against Islam. Bin Laden was not a Muslim leader; he was a mass murderer of Muslims."

O.K.

Check.

I got it. This is not an Islamic thing.

Then I read this. "After bin Laden was killed in a raid by U.S. forces in Pakistan, senior administration officials said the body would be handled according to Islamic practice and tradition."

All right, now I am confused. I know Osama bin Laden is not a Muslim leader. We've been told this about a million times. Trouble is, no one told him that. For example, here is how he bookends just one of his "talks" to the American people.

"Praise be to Allah who created the creation for his worship and commanded them to be just and permitted the wronged one to retaliate against the oppressor in kind...And Allah is our Guardian and Helper, while you have no Guardian or Helper. All peace be upon he who follows the Guidance."

So, I guess he is a Muslim leader, after all, or at least a leader who is a Muslim. Or at least he thought so. This is confusing.

This kind of confusion can't happen for someone who follows Jesus. A Christian doesn't have any support if he is calling himself a "Christian" and he is using his faith as a blanket criteria to strike out violently against his enemy. Jesus talked about "forgiving your enemy," "praying for your enemy," "turn the other cheek," and all the rest.

Nothing about "retaliating against the oppressor."

Those who followed Jesus followed his lead, and didn't strike out violently against some of the worst oppression the world has ever known: First century Roman Imperialism. In fact, one of the top leaders in the early Christian community, Jesus' right hand man said this, "Honor the emperor." (1 Peter 2:17) (!!)

The fact is, you may call yourself a "Christian" and use violence in the name of your faith, but you don't have any support to do so. Jesus wouldn't claim you as one of his own because the teachings and model of Jesus and the Church he designed forbid using violence in the name of your faith. There is no confusion about this.

(This is not about Christians serving in the armed forces and such. That is another topic. One's faith obviously informs the decisions one makes in life, including being a soldier. But, this is not a criteria of any "Christian" governing system)

That's why it is impossible for there to ever be a Christian nation, or a Christian army, or any such thing. Jesus, and the New Testament Church that followed, didn't leave us with any system of government. In fact, there is no Christian ideology which can be used to rule as governing law.

Now, let me be clear, individual Christians have a system to guide our lives. Its called, "Following Jesus." Sometimes we might even refer to it as law. It is called the "Law of love," based on this teaching of Jesus.

You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.’ And, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” (Luke 10:27)

There is no confusion about the Christian faith on this topic.

That's why you are never going these words coming from an American President. 

'...we must also reaffirm that the United States is not –- and never will be -– at war with Christianity.'

Think about this deeply.

 

 

How so many "evangelism," "post-modern," "next generation," etc., "experts"- completely miss the obvious...

Yesterday I talked about why 20+ year olds are scarce in churches. The number one reason they aren't in our worshipping communities at its most basic:

"They don't want to hang out with us."

But, why?

Here are the usual suspects given for why "post-modern" young person aren't connected to your churches. There are hundreds of books and thousands of conferences that are basically rehashing most of these "reasons" most of the time.

• Christians are too judgmental
• "Church" is irrelavent
• "Church" is boring
• "Church" is old-fashioned
• "Church" is filled with hypocrites
• Next generation young people are relativistic ('there is no truth"), and so they don't see why they need the exclusive Christian gospel
• Next generation young people don't "join" anything anymore

 

You could add to this list, but you get the picture. We can make observations about every one of these "reasons," (and who knows, maybe we will...) but they all miss two obvious points.

First, no matter what you do as a congregation, young people are probably not going to show up to your worship services (let alone on your church campus). They don't wake up on a Sunday morning (or Saturday night, for that matter) and suddenly say, "I think I need to go to church."

We do a disservice to the people of our church communities if our "evangelism strategy" solely consists of, "Invite someone to church." We set people up for failure from the beginning, if success means, the people they invite show up.

Now, that's not saying someone will never respond, "OK, I think I will," and then come.

I'm not saying don't invite.

I am saying we live in an age where going to church is not on too many people's radar, let alone people in their 20's! If this hasn't become obvious to you where you live, it's "coming soon to a theatre near you."

No matter how awesome-

the church buildings/ campuses/ worship services/ preachers/ programs/ bands/ dance troupes/ high wire acts/ espresso machines/ manicures and pedicures/ miniature golf courses on campus

are...

no matter how annointed, and how they are the epitome of excellence-

 everything you do "in house" is, by default, not going to be very condusive to connecting with potential followers of Jesus.

Again, you may get Christians from other churches to come to yours (even highly devoted young people in their 20's), but real Kingdom expansion?

Not likely. 

So, the first obvious point is this:

The "church" goes out to the people.

I mean, if Ariel can figure it out from "Little Mermaid," 

"I wanna be where the people are..."

so must we.

I've got lots more to say about this, and can even witness to what this might look like in your community, but not yet. 

The second obvious point? Let's get personal. It's all about you. It's all about me.

Ask yourself this question,

"Am I the kind of person someone wants to hang around with?"

Now, a tougher question,

"Am I the kind of person a non-Christian potential follower of Jesus wants to hang around with?"

Now, even tougher,

"Am I the kind of person a non-Christian potential follower of Jesus in their 20's, wants to hang around with?"

It starts with you, personally. It starts with me.

Unless you are the kind of person someone actually likes, I don't care what you say or do, most people aren't going to spend much time with you.

And because the "church" consists of a bunch of "you's"-  that is a challenge.

The reverse is also true.

If someone authentically likes you, if you are someone they actually want to spend time with, that's a huge Kingdom step.

So, how obvious can this be, huh? And how rare anyone actually starts right here at the source.

So, here is tremendous nugget I can give you that has the potential of being an influence for eternity on someone else, even in their 20's:

 

"Go out to where the people are and be the kind of person someone wants to hang with."

Unless we start with ourselves personally, and unless we get out more, nothing else is really going to matter much in the long run.

Now, give me your $500 evangelism conference fee.

Or, maybe I' ll just give you this for free.

And I've got more...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

the number one reason you don't see 20 year olds in church...

Most of us have seen the statistics of involvement in church communities from a generational standpoint. Something like 4% of all 20-30 year olds attend church on an average weekend across America. 4%. 

If you happen to have lots of 20 year olds involved, praise God. Whether they are highly motivated Christian kids who came from other churches and choose to connect with yours instead (that doesn't increase the Kingdom, but at least they are involved), or if the young people in your church were not Christians but have been reached through your community, even better. Yet, the fact is, you can have the most dynamic ministries for the younger generations in the world, and the percentage of those actviely involved still remains the same, 4%.

Why?

Is it about the style of worship services? 

Is it the music?

Is it the preaching?

Is it the look of the campus?

Maybe it's all of those reasons. Or, maybe it's none of them. 

If we use an "Occam's Razor" approach, where "one should not increase, beyond what is necessary, the number of entities required to explain anything," in other words, "look for the simplest answer," then here goes:

For whatever reason, 20 year olds don't want to hang out with you. At least not hang out with you at worship.

And if you are in your 20's and your church community has lots of 20 year olds, I don't want to ruin the party, but they don't want to hang out with you at worship, either. If they did, it wouldn't be 4%!

So, where do we begin?

Let's check in tomorrow... 

 

 

the number one reason you don't see 20 year old's in church...

Most of us have seen the statistics of involvement in church communities from a generational standpoint. Something like 4% of all 20-30 year olds attend church on an average weekend across America. 4%. 

If you happen to have lots of 20 year olds involved, praise God. Whether they are highly motivated Christian kids who came from other churches and choose to connect with yours instead (that doesn't increase the Kingdom, but at least they are involved), or if the young people in your church were not Christians but have been reached through your community, even better. Yet, the fact is, you can have the most dynamic ministries for the younger generations in the world, and the percentage of those actviely involved still remains the same, 4%.

Why?

Is it about the style of worship services? 

Is it the music?

Is it the preaching?

Is it the look of the campus?

Maybe it's all of those reasons. Or, maybe it's none of them. 

If we use an "Occam's Razor" approach, where "one should not increase, beyond what is necessary, the number of entities required to explain anything," in other words, "look for the simplest answer," then here goes:

For whatever reason, 20 year olds don't want to hang out with you. At least not hang out with you at worship.

And if you are in your 20's and your church community has lots of 20 year olds, I don't want to ruin the party, but they don't want to hang out with you at worship, either. If they did, it wouldn't be 4%!

So, where do we begin?

Let's check in tomorrow... 

 

A Message for Every Pastor after Easter...

Who was the worship band at the largest Christian worship service ever? I have no idea.

What was the theme of the sermon that day? Don't know. 

What was the offering? Why?

What is worship? By definition, "Ascribing worth." Claiming worthiness."  

The worthiness of whom? The church? The pastor? The band? the choir? 

Worship is about ascribing worth to God. 

That's it.

Good to remember for those of you who were disappointed because you didn't see the crowds you wish there would have been this Holy Week and Easter. Your sanctuary wasn't overflowing. I don't take this lightly as some of you are my dear friends. You may not even mention it.

Or, as happened at LIFEhouse, it's good to remember that worship is about Jesus, not how many people show up, when your attendance this last week was bigger than you can remember. More guests than ever. I don't take this lightly because some of those guests were invited by our community, and some sent by God. But, when we talk, I probably won't mention it.

Because, really, for all of us, only two things matter.

1. God is praised. 

2. Someone starts a journey to a new life rather than choosing the death of life without God. I'll guarantee that happened everywhere you proclaimed the risen Lord.

So, if  you had 10 people in worship or 10,000, Christ is still risen; And that is still a big deal.

 

Oh, and by he way, American Idol had almost 50 million in attendance last week.  

Aw, they probably had better music... 

The largest refugee camp in the world...

The largest refugee camp in the world just turned 20. It is near Dadaab, Kenya, and populated by over 330,000 refugees from the civil war in Somalia. Well, the war is still going on and so the refugees remain. A child born in the camp in the beginning, is now an adult who has never really had a country.

There are millions of refugees in camps all around the world. Why single this one out? The only reason I am singling out this one is because I didn't know it was there. Now I do.

Lord have mercy.

 

Is Jesus the Messiah?- podcast

Jesus turns the world upside down, but it's not as if we're compl

Sermon_April_10_2011.mp3 Listen on Posterous

etely in the dark to see this coming...

Living in the Present with His Presence- Podcast

Being a follower of Jesus is not about intellectually acknowledging that he is Lord. It is about the life we live. As a follower, our lives are led by the Holy Spirit, based on the teachings and model of Jesus. How we live is a strong witness to the One we follow.

What message is your life teaching others?

Sermon_April_3_2011_-_Living_in_the_Present_with_His_Presence.mp3 Listen on Posterous

A Major Essay on Following Jesus in the Public Square Using the Example of Events in Wisconsin...

"Wisconsin." Only two months ago, this word would probably conger up images of people with foam wedges of chedder cheese on their heads, celebrating the glorious run to victory of the World Champion Green Bay Packers. Now, only a short time later, the word, "Wisconsin," evokes a different image. People screaming, looks of rage and hatred on their faces. These aren't Packer fans at a Bear's game, these are teachers and other protestors in Madison, enranged by legislation being considered and enacted, directly related to a shift in political power from Democratics to Republicans in the last election. 

The specifics of issues such as a massive budget crisis, public employee unions, collective bargaining and all the rest, are quite complex. Like most key legislation issues, with close examination of what is being debated, you can make a persuasive case from many different perspectives. And though this is about many different public employees, what is happeing in Wisconsin is centered on teachers.

Looking at all the details, you hear about issues of fairness, contracts being broken, budget cuts, layoffs, union dues, state public employee unions that are not represented at the federal level, and such. In the bigger picture view a simple explanation suffices. There has recently been a substantial shift of power from one party (Democratic) to the other (Republican) on the Wisconsin political landscape. This has resulted in legislation that addresses these important issues in a very different way, from the way legislation was enacted by people of the other party when they held the political advantage.

As usual, a reasonable person can make a case for the legislation that is being enacted, and a reasonable person can make a case against it. Such is almost always the way in our system of government. I am not going to focus on the merits of what is being debated. however, but rather wish to focus on the specific acts of protest themselves. A protest that we had seen daily on the national news. I will comment on protest, the bahavior of those protesting, and how this relates to being a follower of Jesus in the public square.

What does all of have to do with following Jesus? This blog deals with many different topics on being a follower of Jesus and living out your faith, in particular in the public square. I could talk about protests in general in other places by other people, but I am not. I'm talking about this particular situation.

You see, 85% of the people of Wisconsin identify themselves as, "Christian", and so, naturally, I am assuming that most of the protestors would identify as "Christans". Considering that less than 1% of Wisconsinites (yes, that's the proper name for it) have any other religious affiliation, I assume the protestors vastly identify as "Christans" with some secular people sprinkled in. As a Christian Bible teacher, I am interested in these events from that perspective. After all, this is the subtext of my blog, How To Be A Christian Without Being A Jerk. It's all about how we can best live as followers of Jesus in the public square. Also, I will admit, my interests are personal. I have substantial experience at many levels that form my thinking on these events..What follows are the filters through which I am looking. 

Obviously I am looking at this from the standpoint of being a Christian. Interesting that 55% of the 85% of the people of Wisconsin who identify as "Christian," come from "Protestant" churches. This very label seems to indicate that "we" (I come out of the "Lutheran" tribe of "Protestants") are not unaware of the use of protest. 

I resonate to what is going on for another reason. I am from Wisconsin. Racine, specifically, born and raised, I also happen to be a credentialed teacher (one of my undergrad majors is Secondary Education and I was credentialed in Wisconsin, lapsed, I am sure, after over 30 years!). Over the years, I have been involved both in teaching and administration of a private Christan school, preschool-8th grade. More recently, Nancy and I have been involved in public school work at the high school our children attended. I am married to a school teacher for almost 25 years, and we are the parents of a soon-to-be school teacher, who will get her credential and Masters in Mathematics, a couple of years from now.

So, here's a disclaimer: I have an internal bias toward teachers being treated fairly (yes, I know, like everyone else). I have seen how most teachers work their tails off (yes, I know, like many other professions who work their tails off), giving way more of their lives than simply 8-4, or whatever the on-campus requirement. And, yes, I know,  like many other jobs, I  don't think the renumeration for teachers reflects adequetely the output so many of them have, as positive influencers in society.

I even have some insider insight into Wisconsin politics over the years, as my best friend back there, is the former chairman of the Democratic Party. With all of this in mind, let's get to the core of the matter.

I think the behavior of many of my brothers and sisters in Christ in this present situation is not a helpful witness for the life lifted up in the New Testament.

I think there are many teachers who aren't thinking through how crucial "imitation" is as a learning tool, along with "information."

What lesson are students learning about working out conflict and how to behave with those with whom you strongly disagree?

What is the lesson students are learning when they see the actions of so many of the protestors? Especially the lesson that is the answer to this question:

"What do you do when you don't get your way?"

It's not about their cause, which I think in many ways is, indeed, compelling, it's about their pubic witness. When I watch the protests, when I listen to what is being said, and I realize that many of those involved are my brothers and sisters in Christ, I am saddened by what I recognize as a radical disconnect with the life of a follower of Jesus. 

Try this. Think of the protestors, many of them not only teachers, but Christians, and then ask yourself these questions, only from the perspective of someone who knows nothing of the ways of Jesus.

• How does a follower of Jesus act when they strongly disagree with someone else?
• How does a follower of Jesus act when they think they are being treated unfairly?
• How does a follower of Jesus act when they don't get their way?

Look at what is going on in Wisconsin, and then compare it to the life described below, in Paul's Letter to the Romans..

Romans 12:9-21 (New Living Translation)

 9 Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. 10 Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. 11 Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. 12 Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. 13 When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality.

 14 Bless those who persecute you. Don’t curse them; pray that God will bless them. 15 Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. 16 Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all!

 17 Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. 18 Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.

19 Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say,

   “I will take revenge;

      I will pay them back,”

      says the Lord

 20 Instead,

  “If your enemies are hungry, feed them.

      If they are thirsty, give them something to drink.

   In doing this, you will heap

      burning coals of shame on their heads.”

 21 Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.

Now, consider this. The most common strategies used today by unions, community organizers, both political parties, etc, are greatly influenced by the writings of Saul Alinsky, in particular, Rules for Radicals. That's life according to"Saul," not "Saul," later known as, "Paul." You may not have heard of Saul Alinsky, but you will definitely recognize his "game plan" being worked out. Tell me if these examples sound familiar, and then look at the following Jesus alternative, from above.

RULE 5: "Ridicule is man's most potent weapon." There is no defense. It's irrational. It's infuriating. It also works as a key pressure point to force the enemy into concessions.

(Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.  Romans 12:10)

RULE 12: "Pick the target, freeze it, personalize it, and polarize it." Cut off the support network and isolate the target from sympathy. Go after people and not institutions; people hurt faster than institutions.

(Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. Romans 12:18)

Does all of this mean, you can't take a stand in society, protesting what you consider injustice? Does this mean there is no room for dissent? "No," and "No." 

It's not about protest, it's about how you protest.

Is being rageful, lashing out against those with whom you disagree, and casting those you consider your enemy in the most disparaging light possible, is this ever lifegiving behavior for a follower of Jesus?

Never.

So then, is all of this Jesus stuff just a naiive fairly tale way of living, completely irrelevant to the "real" world? Hardly. 

Consider, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

His leadership was influential in bringing about radical change in America, as well as other places around the world. Dr. King specifically called much of "White America" to repentance, calling those who identified as "Christians," back to Jesus. Dr. King did this in such a way that the emphasis was on the good that will come about working together. He did it in a way that focused on the benefit for everyone. 

Read some of his writings. About as gracious as you can get concerning those who oppose him. While he would strongly disagree, you see how he treated even the most hate-filled people, with dignity.. 

Listen to some of his speeches and watch film clips of some of his protests. Overwhelmingly inspiring, rather than confrontational and demeaning of those who bitterly oppose him. Listen to the tone of his voice and look at the expressions on his face. You see determination. You see respect.You see peace. What you don't see is a hint of rage, hatred, or contempt.

All and all, Dr. King's strategy, born out of the New Testament community, appears to work...And why wouldn't it work?

Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Romans 12:17

Even if your opponent isn't honorable.

Even if you think you will just die if you don't get your way.

 

How did Jesus win by losing?- podcast

Unlike the first temptation of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, the temptation of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane ushers in the new way. Jesus refuses to give in to Satan's temptation and walk away from the cross. Jesus will not stray, clearing the way back to God, again. It's about winning by losing.[[posterous-content:pid___0]]

How did Jesus win by losing?- podcast

Unlike the first temptation of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, the temptation of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane ushers in the new way. Jesus refuses to give in to Satan's temptation and walk away from the cross. Jesus will not stray, clearing the way back to God, again. It's about winning by losing.

Winning_by_Losing.m4a Listen on Posterous

Someone else's job

I was driving from a funeral, back to the family's home today.

My friend Ken died after a long battle with cancer. He lost that battle, but he won the war because he is free of sickness and suffering. He is with the Lord, and in God's dimension, a new man.

Ken was a hardworking carpet guy.

I have no idea how many miles of carpet he laid in his lifetime, but I do know it is about as tough of a job physically as there is. Back, knees, fingers, joints in general, you name it, carpet takes its toll.

And Ken was good at what he did. I watched him a few times over the years and he was an artist. "Had an eye for what he was doing," you might say. He never complained but,

it was hard work. 

Ken isn't laying carpet anymore. He is resting in the arms of Jesus. And wouldn't you know it, that message was made quite clear today. You see, driving back, I found myself following a truck. Look at what the truck is hauling.

You've got to be kidding.

A truck full of carpet padding!

That's someone else's job, now, Ken. You take a break... 

New Life Is Here!- podcast

Jesus announces direct relationship with God is made possible through him. A declaration of freedom from all that separates us is made in Holy Communion. 

Sermon_Mar_13_2011_-_The_Last_Supper.mp3 Listen on Posterous

 

Why you don't want to follow your heart - podcast

How do people find meaning and purpose in their lives? The difference between following the model of Jesus and his teachings and any other source is the difference between living life as He designed it or living life on our own based on systems or thinking He didn't design. Not a difficult choice.   

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my own worst enemy- what can I do?- podcast

If I am my own worst enemy and the Enemy is always ready to take advantage of that, then what hope do I have?

None, without Jesus

Sermon_Feb_27_2011.mp3 Listen on Posterous

my own worst enemy- what can I do?- podcast

If I am my own worst enemy and the Enemy is always ready to take advantage of that, then what hope do I have?

None, without Jesus

Sermon_Feb_27_2011.mp3 Listen on Posterous

Destiny: Our purpose in God's plan from the beginning-podcast

Sermon Feb 20 2011 - Destiny by Pastor Dana  
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Sermon Feb 20 2011 - Destiny.mp3 (4913 KB)

Understanding the Bible is all about our relationship with God and our responsibility toward God. From the beginning...

Destiny: Our purpose in God's plan from the beginning-podcast

Sermon Feb 20 2011 - Destiny by Pastor Dana  
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Sermon Feb 20 2011 - Destiny.mp3 (4913 KB)

Understanding the Bible is all about our relationship with God and our responsibility toward God. From the beginning...

Covenant and Kingdom Week Six: Jesus, Paul and the Church- podcast

  
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Jesus and Paul.m4a (12536 KB)

LIFEhouse, we are a Covenant community given the mission of extending the Kingdom of our Father.

 

People will experience the future that is heaven in us today.

That is what it means to be the church.

You've got to be kidding!

Nancy and I went to several high school basketball games this year watching Notre Dame of Sherman Oaks. One of our "kids," Cole Kievit, plays for ND and finished the season on a real upswing.Then disaster struck!

It seems the CIF still uses fax machines for official correspondence. There was a snafu last week when all the pages for application for postseason tournament play weren't received. A screw up in the fax. Even made ABC news. Granted, Notre Dame didn't follow up to make sure the whole fax was received and the CIF doesn't keep track of who's who in possible qualifying teams. What a fiasco all the way around.

Well, I know Cole will survive. Like other seniors, I'm sure it is a huge disappointment (haven't talked to him, yet), but also, like other seniors, he's probably thinking about college applications, and such. With graduation just around the corner, there are lots of things to think about. Keep your head up, Cole, you had a great year!

IMPACT! 8TH GRADE GIRLS' MISSION PROJECT- WATER BOTTLES

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ServiceProjWater.mp4 (1389 KB)

Covenant and Kingdom Week Six: Jesus and the Cross- podcast

Sermon Feb 4 2010 - Jesus And The Cross by Pastor Dana  
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Sermon Feb 4 2011 - Jesus and the Cross.mp3 (9666 KB)

The pinnacle of Covenant and Kingdom- Victim and Victory of Jesus

At the Lutherans Looking Forward Breakfast

LSS Community Care Centers is the top recipient of LIFEhouse benevolence support. In this photo, Jan Maseda, Area Director, shows us how much food can be purchased for $10 by LSS, with a program they paticipate in.

At the Lutherans Looking Forward Breakfast

LSS Community Care Centers is the top recipient of LIFEhouse benevolence support. In this photo, Jan Maseda, Area Director, shows us how much food can be purchased for $10 by LSS, with a program they paticipate in.

Covenant and Kingdom Week Four: Temptations of Jesus- podcast

The Devil attacks Jesus at His Identity. "If you are the Son of God..." There is no "if's" about it. Jesus knows who he is. So do we. Sons and Daughters of the King. The Tempter has nothing on us...

Sermon Jan 30 2010 - Jesus by Pastor Dana  
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Sermon Jan 30 2010 - Jesus.mp3 (10844 KB)

IMPACT! 8TH GRADE GIRLS MISSION PROJECT- TOOTHBRUSHES AND TOOTHPASTE

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Toothbrush-desktop.m4v (4766 KB)

The 8th Grade girls IMPACT! group is collecting items for gift baskets to be handed out to those in need. This week they are gathering...TOOTHBRUSHES AND TOOTHPASTE!

Covenant and Kingdom Week Four: Temptations of Jesus- podcast

The Devil attacks Jesus at His Identity. "If you are the Son of God..." There is no "if's" about it. Jesus knows who he is. So do we. Sons and Daughters of the King. The Tempter has nothing on us...

Sermon Jan 30 2010 - Jesus by Pastor Dana  
Download now or listen on posterous

Sermon Jan 30 2010 - Jesus.mp3 (10844 KB)

Covenant and Kingdom Week Three: Moses- podcast

Sermon Jan 23 2011 - Moses by Pastor Dana  
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Sermon Jan 23 2011 - Moses.mp3 (8403 KB)

 

God and Man as Kingdom partners. Working together to expand God's rule.

circumcision or no circumcision, that is the question...

I'm reading Acts 16 where Paul meets Timothy for the first time. Paul decides Timothy has great leadership potential and so invites him to be his disciple. Timothy agrees. Paul then circumcises Timothy and they leave to bring a message to Christian communities in other cities.

The message is simple.

"If you are not Jewish and you believe in Jesus, you don't have to identify with being Jewish by getting circumcised before you can follow Jesus."

No doubt, this helps your evangelism campaign if you tell a bunch of guys interested in following Jesus,

"We're not going to make you go through with an initiation rite where you have your foreskin cut off with a stone knife if you want to follow Jesus."

It's not like you're going to hear a lot of protest-

"O, come on, can't I get my foreskin cut off, too?"

I don't think so.

So what's with Timothy?

Timothy has a Jewish mother who has become a follower of Jesus and a Gentile father who hasn't. Even though Timothy was earlier raised in Judaism by his mom, and now as a Christian, he doesn't get circumcised and so is not able to practice his Jewish faith fully. Can't go into synagogues and such. My guess is his dad says to his mom, "You can teach him all you want, I just don't want him identifying with being a Jew." And if this means he can't be circumcised, I'm sure a young Timothy didn't give much of an argument.

"What do mean I can't have my foreskin cut off? Come on, mom, please..."

I don't think so.

So, Paul goes to Timothy's hometown and takes Timothy on as a disciple. They will travel to other Christian communities in other cities delivering the message that you don't have to be circumcised first before you can become a Christian. But, before they leave, Paul circumcises Timothy?

Come on, what gives?

What gives is being willing to go all out to follow Jesus.

Paul is not done sharing the gospel message with Jews. His standard practice is still to go into town and teach in the Jewish synagogue first. Paul is delivering the "no circumcision" message to the Christian communities, but they don't meet in the synagogues. If you want to teach in the synagogue you still must be a Jew. So, in order for Timothy to go into the synagogues with Paul, he had to be circumcised, first.

And that's the story.

Except, I still have one question. How do the folks in the synagogue know if you are circumcised or not?

I guess, being scanned at the airport isn't such a bad thing after all...

Covenant and Kingdom- Week Two/ Joseph- podcast

Sermon Jan 16 2010 - Joseph by Pastor Dana  
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Sermon Jan 16 2011 - Joseph-1.mp3 (7178 KB)

The key reality of one who follows Jesus:

As we move from the center of our own little universe to the edge, then Jesus can rule on the throne of our hearts. From there, our hearts become a window to heaven for those around us.

Covenant and KIngdom- Week One/ Abraham and Sarah- podcast

What does it mean to, "Walk as children of God?"

Week One in the series, Covenant and Kingdom, based on the book, Covenant and Kingdom, by Mike Breen.

Readings:

Covenant and Kingdom: Creation through Abraham―pages 3–38.
Bible Reading: Genesis 15, 17, 22.

  
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Covenant_and_Kingdom_Week_One-Abraham_and_Sarah.mp3 (6614 KB)

The miracle of what is happening within you

In 2 Corinthians 6:4-10, Paul gives evidence of God's presence in his serving. Now, you would think the same guy who has such miraculous things happen around him, would have a fairly amazing list of miracles. Like when people take the "sweatbands" he uses at work and use them to touch people who are sick and they get healed (Acts 18:12)!

Nope. Instead Paul lists 28 characteristics of how he responds to challenges in his life. God's power is seen in the transformation he is going through as he responds to God's call. E. Stanley Jones says this:

"He did see miracles happening around him, but he knew that the central miracle was happening within him."

As you surrender your will to God, follow His ways, and begin to see His power at work through you, you will experience the "supernatural." After all, Jesus said it is possible for us to do, "even greater things" (John 14:12) than He did in His time on earth. Yet, it continues to be the changes that happen within you that will most often be used to build your confidence in the growing potency of the Holy Spirit working through you.

Bollywood afternoon...

It was time to go Hindi again. My son Greg and I went to a Bollywood movie last year and I thought it was time to go again. We have watched a couple more from Netflix, but these movies are made for the big screen. And there is nothing like watching a movie in Hindi on a Monday afternoon to remind you that father/son relationships have of wide variety of bonding possibilities.

We like Indian movies. They are so happy. So many smiles. So much color. You just wait for the next dance sequence waiting around the corner, usually having nothing whatsoever to do with the plot.

The other thing to like about Bollywood is the characters themselves are so self-absorbed, rather than the actor or director as in American film. They get they are making a film and not making a great political statement (always with a couple of gratuitous sex scenes thrown in).

If you want to try it out for yourself, perhaps you can find the movie, Tees Maar Khan, playing at your local art house theater. Relax and enjoy. Might be the dumbest movie you ever saw. Or maybe you leave with a grin that stays around for awhile.

 

To Receive...

December is a month to remember. Remember once again the audacious love of a God who would choose to reveal himself in as intimate a way as to become one of us.

Jesus is God, and yet (who would make this one up?), he becomes plain, ordinary- you. Yes, a human being. Not superman, but a common man.

Think about. You have undoubtedly traveled more than Jesus. The farthest trip he ever took was as a baby in exile to Egypt. A bit over 100 miles.

You are probably richer than he was. He made a good living as a carpenter/ contractor, but he didn't even own a house.

You are probably more educated than he was. He had a very solid grasp on biblical studies and other supplemental Jewish thelogical studies, yet, mathematics and the sciences weren't in his curriculum.

Jesus is a plain, ordinary common man.

So like us.

Well then, why is he called Lord, King, the most brilliant, most amazing person who ever lived who changed the world for good?

Three things-

1. He is full of the Holy Spirit.

2. He learns directly from God the Father.

3. He passes this down to those who follow Him.

As a result:

1. You can be full of the Holy Spirit.

2. You can learn directly from God the Father.

3. You can keep passing it down.

That's it.

Everything He has available is available to you.

Everything.

It is only a matter of receiving.

A LIFEhouse Christmas...

The Real Jesus...Everything- podcast

When the widow gives all that she has to God, what would we hold back from Him?

  
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Sermon_Dec_5_2010_-_The_Real_Jesus_-_Everything.mp3 (6590 KB)

Impact Christmas Tomorrow Night!

IMPACT ROCKS!!

The Real Jesus...Everything- podcast

When the widow gives all that she has to God, what would we hold back from Him?

  
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Sermon_Dec_5_2010_-_The_Real_Jesus_-_Everything.mp3 (6590 KB)

LIFEhouse gets endorsements from Presidents Obama and Bush!

This just in...

The Real Jesus...I am Second- podcast

Semon Nov 28 2010 - The Real Jesus - God's Second by Pastor Dana  
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Sermon Nov 28 2010 - The Real Jesus - I'm Second.mp3 (6415 KB)

What does life look like when Jesus is first in our lives?

The Real Jesus..."My Dad's the King!!"- podcast

Where do we receive our identity? From the loving Father? Yes!

"You are my beloved son/daughter and with you I am well pleased!"

As with Jesus so with us...

Homophobia and Islamophobia?- podcast

When it comes to hotbed issues, correcting illogical thinking is a good place to start.

my "evangelism" interview on KBRT 740am- podcast

I was a guest on the "Talk from the Heart," radio show on KBRT 740am here in LA on Monday, November 1. Guest host, David Housholder, interviewed me on the topic of "evangelism."

Improving the Effectiveness of Prayer- podcast

When I communicate with people I am in relationship with, are there ways I can make that experience more effective? Of course. Prayer is communicating with God, with whom I have a personal relationship. Can I make that experience more effective?

God is a lot Closer Than You Think- podcast

What is heaven? Where is the Kingdom of God? Closer than you think...

It's Who You Know That Counts...-podcast

Make friends with God and watch what happens! Thanks to Robert Gagnon for insight into this story.

Just What is Jesus Saing? Prodigal Son Revisited-podcast

The Prodigal Son? More like the Prodigal Father or The Lost Sons...
Telling the story the way Jesus tells it.

God leads the way- podcast

How do you connect with people who don't know you and don't follow your God? Go where God is.

Take this with a grain of salt- podcast

In just two verses, Jesus connects us to wisdom that can guide our whole lives.

Raising Kid's God's Way- podcast

A dad's talk about what following Jesus has to do with raising kids.

Being and Doing- podcast

A sense of who we are makes all the difference in what we do and what we don't do.

What are you looking for?- Easter podcast

Now, Jesus wants to bring new life through you...

What, me worry?- podcast

Anxiety and worry do not come from God. Jesus has the antidote.

Do you have enough?- podcast

What does it mean to have enough? What do you really treasure?

An inside out life- podcast

What is coming out of a person's heart is not a secret. Jesus tells us how to avoid focusing on the wrong things.

It's not rocket science- podcast

God wants to bless the world through us. God wants to shine through us. Here's how...

Repentance is't always about sin- podcast

To "repent" is to "change your mind." Turning your mind to God's ways from sin, of course. "Repentance" can also be a change that is not about sin, but it is about living a healthier life.

Full of Jesus- podcast

How do we keep focused on Jesus and not let the Evil One be of influence?

God is available for everyone- podcast

Jesus speaks on how much God wants to bless us.

What Does It Look Like to Love LIke Jesus?- podcast

In his encounter with Martha and Mary at dinner, Jesus speaks about love in action in the strongest way.

Loving your Neighbor: Good Samaritan-podcast

"Loving your neighbors" means enhancing their lives even if they are a challenge for you.

Loving God With Everything He Has Given You- podcast

"Love the LORD your God with your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind..."
How?

Obi Wan, Gandalf, Rembrandt, Simeon, and Christmas?- podcast

When Simeon gives his prophecy and blessing at the Jerusalem Temple, this is no insignificant event in human history...

Putting Yourself in the Christmas Story- podcast

Why would you want someone else to hear the good news of Jesus? It is about life now.

The number one hit song in the Bible that no one has heard

What do Roy Orbison and The Beatles have to do with Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist, and Mary, the mother of Jesus?
Listen...

Introverts, Extroverts, and Faith- podcast

How we are wired plays an important role in our faith life which is real life, after all.

victory over evil- podcast

Our lives connected with Jesus, hidden in him, we are the ones with power, not Satan.

confidence in God- podcast

Confidence in God always wins out over fear. Whose side are you on?

Jesus, thank you for your gospel- podcast

The simple truth of the gospel makes for the best Thanksgiving.

we are family- podcast

We face all of life a family when we are in the family of God.

post modern relational evangelism- person of peace podcast

Jesus gives the framework for how we best connect others to him- what Mike Breen calls, "the person of peace."

his way...not my way

following Jesus means, "following," and not trying to take things into your own hands

who is really great?...podcast

to be great is to be a servant...and other ways Jesus turns the world upside down.

being a disciple...simple and the hardest thing ever...

We are called to give all of who we are to Jesus and be used in the "greatest cause in the galaxies" (thanks KC)

if this does not energize you....must already be dead