In talking with missionaries and those who deal with missionaries, there is a trend that I see being established beginning with deputation. That of running. Running from the responsibility and crucible of trials that mold us to be what we should. I am meeting more and more missionaries who want to go to the field before their support is raised. They do this under the umbrella of being spiritual but in reality they may be beginning the life of a runner.
Support has gone stagnant, meetings are not being scheduled, the body is weary, the family stressed out, etc... Could it be we want to go to the field to get a ministry started when at home we have a ministry that is not completed. Deputation is your ministry. Will you fulfill that ministry before you start the one on your "field". Have you grown lazy? Are you making phone calls? Setting up meetings? Doing your devotions? Preparing fresh messages?
Many good men have gone to the field prematurely. They complain of not having enough money, can not leave the field, losing support, etc... If they had finished the course, they may not be in the condition they are in.
Will you be a runner that will finish or run from your course? Raise your support and then go to the field. If your support is stagnant and meetings are slow, you may have grown slothful in your work. See this ministry to the end because your next one will depend upon it!
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Advice
This came from a brother who is finishing up deputation. On the monthly praise report ALL of you are to be sending in, this is what he wrote. It is good.
Advice you would like to share with others on Deputation:
BE DILIGENT - He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand; but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.
WORK IN THE OFF SEASON - He that gathereth in summer is a wise son; but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame. Proverbs 10:4,5
PREPARE - He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread Prov. 12:11
Advice you would like to share with others on Deputation:
BE DILIGENT - He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand; but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.
WORK IN THE OFF SEASON - He that gathereth in summer is a wise son; but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame. Proverbs 10:4,5
PREPARE - He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread Prov. 12:11
Questionnaires
This question came from a brother not with Macedonia but is doing a great job as he prepares to get to Africa. (you will also notice that he is a smart-alec!)
As I was reading this deputation manual I have a question that I would like to ask you and your prestigious colleagues!!! How do I refuse to fill out a questionnaire? do I just not send it back or is there some general way to do this? I don't know so could you please help me. I do not mind filling out questionnaires that ask questions that are not personal, but when they ask about my sexual relationship I believe that is where I would draw the line. I have even had one ask me how many souls won , and how many I have personally led down the isle for baptism.... What do I do. I'm in one day and out the next.
If you receive a questionnaire from a church that asks questions that you think are not appropriate, throw it away. There are some questionnaires from churches that are fine and some are just looking for a way not to support you. Answer them honestly.
With the ones that ask about souls you have won, walked down the aisle, etc. Let them know your schedule and a testimonies of you witnessing on the road. Let them know that when you can you are visiting with the churches. Give them a two week schedule of driving time, meetings, church requirements, etc. I do not want you to make excuses just show them you lifestyle. Many pastors just do not know.
While you are on the road, hand out tracts and talk to people about the Lord. This is not what we do as missionaries but children of God. I never received many questionnaires. Of the ones I did receive I may have filled out three that I thought were worth the time. All in all you should not be spending much time with questionnaires.
Hope this helps.
As I was reading this deputation manual I have a question that I would like to ask you and your prestigious colleagues!!! How do I refuse to fill out a questionnaire? do I just not send it back or is there some general way to do this? I don't know so could you please help me. I do not mind filling out questionnaires that ask questions that are not personal, but when they ask about my sexual relationship I believe that is where I would draw the line. I have even had one ask me how many souls won , and how many I have personally led down the isle for baptism.... What do I do. I'm in one day and out the next.
If you receive a questionnaire from a church that asks questions that you think are not appropriate, throw it away. There are some questionnaires from churches that are fine and some are just looking for a way not to support you. Answer them honestly.
With the ones that ask about souls you have won, walked down the aisle, etc. Let them know your schedule and a testimonies of you witnessing on the road. Let them know that when you can you are visiting with the churches. Give them a two week schedule of driving time, meetings, church requirements, etc. I do not want you to make excuses just show them you lifestyle. Many pastors just do not know.
While you are on the road, hand out tracts and talk to people about the Lord. This is not what we do as missionaries but children of God. I never received many questionnaires. Of the ones I did receive I may have filled out three that I thought were worth the time. All in all you should not be spending much time with questionnaires.
Hope this helps.
Troubling
You wonder why I am so strong in my training that you go into a church right and leave right. The following true story from a missionary with Macedonia reminds us once again of the responsibility we have. After you read the story, there are some comments I would like to make.
2 Corinthians 5:20 says we are ambassadors for Christ. I know I am far from an expert on deputation, but I sincerely want to help all my fellow laborers. I returned a pastors phone call this evening to hear those dreaded words " the meeting has been cancelled" , this is a disappointment. The pastors reason was a missionary had just dropped in for a meeting and really hurt the Church. What he described sounded like a hostile take over. He was not a Macedonia missionary! None the less it has caused me to loose a meeting for now. I am not bitter, The Lord is in control of all things, and some way this will work together for good. Brethren let us esteem other better than ourselves (Philippians 2:3,4). The Lord forbid me to hinder a Brother's ministry by not caring what happens after I am gone. We have been taught this over and over, but this was a reminder to me.
Notice the areas that this missionary damaged:
1. His own ability to get to the field by raising support. (also his relationship with his own family)
2. Other missionaries who need to get to the field.
3. A pastor who has more problems than He can handle.
4. Those without Christ. How many fields has this one man affected? How many missionaries were told their meeting was cancelled because of him?
5. God. The name of our Lord was reproached. That has got to hurt all of us deeply.
Those are but a few. Be careful when you enter churches. If you do not have a copy of the Deputation Manual, please get it. Let me know and I will help you. God bless you as you minister today in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
2 Corinthians 5:20 says we are ambassadors for Christ. I know I am far from an expert on deputation, but I sincerely want to help all my fellow laborers. I returned a pastors phone call this evening to hear those dreaded words " the meeting has been cancelled" , this is a disappointment. The pastors reason was a missionary had just dropped in for a meeting and really hurt the Church. What he described sounded like a hostile take over. He was not a Macedonia missionary! None the less it has caused me to loose a meeting for now. I am not bitter, The Lord is in control of all things, and some way this will work together for good. Brethren let us esteem other better than ourselves (Philippians 2:3,4). The Lord forbid me to hinder a Brother's ministry by not caring what happens after I am gone. We have been taught this over and over, but this was a reminder to me.
Notice the areas that this missionary damaged:
1. His own ability to get to the field by raising support. (also his relationship with his own family)
2. Other missionaries who need to get to the field.
3. A pastor who has more problems than He can handle.
4. Those without Christ. How many fields has this one man affected? How many missionaries were told their meeting was cancelled because of him?
5. God. The name of our Lord was reproached. That has got to hurt all of us deeply.
Those are but a few. Be careful when you enter churches. If you do not have a copy of the Deputation Manual, please get it. Let me know and I will help you. God bless you as you minister today in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
What To Do When Your Pastor Resigns
This question came in from a new viewer of the blog. I thought it quite good.
Any advice for a person on deputation and their current Pastor resigns. Our Pastor resigned on Sunday in order to start full time deputation to go to the Mission Field in Sudan. He will be the Pastor until January 1, 2008.
There are many reasons a pastor leaves a church. For yours to go to the mission field is one that is positive. It will be a little unnerving for you with a new pastor coming in until you get to know him and he gets to know you. Be sure to stay informed of the pastoral situation and meet the new pastor when he comes. To change right now would be unwise and in my opinion not Biblically based. Take your thoughts captive and do not let the devil control them. Pray for the leaders of your church and those inviting preachers to candidate. Ask God to guide them and give them great wisdom. Be sure with a new pastor to communicate well with him. He probably will not know you or your ministry. Let him be apart. Love and respect him and over time you will probably experience a wonderful friendship.
Keep me informed on how this goes or if you would like me to comment further.
Have a great day.
Any advice for a person on deputation and their current Pastor resigns. Our Pastor resigned on Sunday in order to start full time deputation to go to the Mission Field in Sudan. He will be the Pastor until January 1, 2008.
There are many reasons a pastor leaves a church. For yours to go to the mission field is one that is positive. It will be a little unnerving for you with a new pastor coming in until you get to know him and he gets to know you. Be sure to stay informed of the pastoral situation and meet the new pastor when he comes. To change right now would be unwise and in my opinion not Biblically based. Take your thoughts captive and do not let the devil control them. Pray for the leaders of your church and those inviting preachers to candidate. Ask God to guide them and give them great wisdom. Be sure with a new pastor to communicate well with him. He probably will not know you or your ministry. Let him be apart. Love and respect him and over time you will probably experience a wonderful friendship.
Keep me informed on how this goes or if you would like me to comment further.
Have a great day.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Insigth From Fred Kindhart
The following in in response to today's blog by a good friend of mine, Fred Kindhart. Bro. Fred is the Director for Mexico at Macedonia World Baptist Mission. He is also deeply involved with the internet highway and pastors. What he has to say is worth taking note of.
Hello Bro. Tony and I wanted to write you a note and let you know how much I enjoy the “deputation tips.” There is always so much good information in there. I try to encourage ALL our missionaries to glean from it. You do a great job and we love you.
As I read your blog today I realize that right in the middle of the greatest “communication generation” we have ever known, there is very possible less true communicating than ever before. It’s hard to believe that back when it took weeks to get hand written letters back and forth from the mission field, they often communicated better than we do now with all the emails and blogs zipping around the world.
It made me realize that if I really want to communicate something, I can’t rely on the “email” to do it for me. We can of course use the email, and believe me I use it a lot, but we must remember it is our responsibility to communicate in that email. I see so many people saying, “well I emailed them,” as if that means I did all I could. I recently got a call from a Pastor who asked me why a missionary didn’t make it to his meeting that he was scheduled to be at the night before. After apologizing and doing “the twist, the tap dance and then the slow dance” with the pastor over the phone, I called the missionary. He said, “well I sent them an email to say I couldn’t be there!” (Now that I’m writing this I realize this has happened twice in the last month.) I know things like this happen, I’m just saying that sometimes my emails are like a few words out of the side of my mouth. Somehow we need to realize that even in an email, people can often see our heart.
Anyway, that’s my two cents worth about email today.
Fred
Hello Bro. Tony and I wanted to write you a note and let you know how much I enjoy the “deputation tips.” There is always so much good information in there. I try to encourage ALL our missionaries to glean from it. You do a great job and we love you.
As I read your blog today I realize that right in the middle of the greatest “communication generation” we have ever known, there is very possible less true communicating than ever before. It’s hard to believe that back when it took weeks to get hand written letters back and forth from the mission field, they often communicated better than we do now with all the emails and blogs zipping around the world.
It made me realize that if I really want to communicate something, I can’t rely on the “email” to do it for me. We can of course use the email, and believe me I use it a lot, but we must remember it is our responsibility to communicate in that email. I see so many people saying, “well I emailed them,” as if that means I did all I could. I recently got a call from a Pastor who asked me why a missionary didn’t make it to his meeting that he was scheduled to be at the night before. After apologizing and doing “the twist, the tap dance and then the slow dance” with the pastor over the phone, I called the missionary. He said, “well I sent them an email to say I couldn’t be there!” (Now that I’m writing this I realize this has happened twice in the last month.) I know things like this happen, I’m just saying that sometimes my emails are like a few words out of the side of my mouth. Somehow we need to realize that even in an email, people can often see our heart.
Anyway, that’s my two cents worth about email today.
Fred
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Pastor / Missionary Relationship
I truly enjoy the questions you send. This next one is of utmost importance.
What are some key components to good communication between your sending Pastor and the Missionary while on deputation or on the field?
This is one area that a book needs to be written and by someone more qualified than myself.
A few key words to remember:
Communication - Both the missionary and pastor should stay in touch with one another. While on deputation, let your pastor know where you will be so that he can pray for you. Be accountable to him out of love. Pastor, the missionary is still part of your church. A pastor's greatest concern should not be whether the missionary is going to tithe or give to faith promise (though they should) it is how the church can still make them feel like a member of the church. They are like soldiers abroad. Stay in touch with them.
Respect - The pastor is to be respected by the missionary. Do not let what other missionaries say change your view. Respect what the pastor does and the load that he carries. Pastor, the missionary is a man of God also. Whereas you have one church, some missionaries have the oversight of multiple churches. It is not that one is better than another. All in the ministry have important roles. We are (should be) working for the same Lord to build His Kingdom and to see His name glorified in all the earth. As you both recoginize that you are men of God and children of God, it will help your communication. Be careful that it is not one sided.
Information - Missionary be informed as to what your pastor does and carries. His is a great load. If you have not been learning all your pastor goes through and does I do not know why we are sending you to the field. Pastor learn about deputation. What is his schedule like. How is family life like? what is it like to be on the field. Learn and be informed about the roles of a pastor and missionary.
There is much more that could be written. I have only given you a few things. Please let me know if you would like more. Have a great day.
What are some key components to good communication between your sending Pastor and the Missionary while on deputation or on the field?
This is one area that a book needs to be written and by someone more qualified than myself.
A few key words to remember:
Communication - Both the missionary and pastor should stay in touch with one another. While on deputation, let your pastor know where you will be so that he can pray for you. Be accountable to him out of love. Pastor, the missionary is still part of your church. A pastor's greatest concern should not be whether the missionary is going to tithe or give to faith promise (though they should) it is how the church can still make them feel like a member of the church. They are like soldiers abroad. Stay in touch with them.
Respect - The pastor is to be respected by the missionary. Do not let what other missionaries say change your view. Respect what the pastor does and the load that he carries. Pastor, the missionary is a man of God also. Whereas you have one church, some missionaries have the oversight of multiple churches. It is not that one is better than another. All in the ministry have important roles. We are (should be) working for the same Lord to build His Kingdom and to see His name glorified in all the earth. As you both recoginize that you are men of God and children of God, it will help your communication. Be careful that it is not one sided.
Information - Missionary be informed as to what your pastor does and carries. His is a great load. If you have not been learning all your pastor goes through and does I do not know why we are sending you to the field. Pastor learn about deputation. What is his schedule like. How is family life like? what is it like to be on the field. Learn and be informed about the roles of a pastor and missionary.
There is much more that could be written. I have only given you a few things. Please let me know if you would like more. Have a great day.
Thanks!
I thought this was encouraging. If you do not have one of the deputation manuals, and would like one, let me know. Have a great day.
Hey Brother Tony, This deputation manual is the best tool, for us missionaries on deputation. It covers everything from A-Z. What a wonderful book thanks so much for suggesting it... Praying for you and your family.... We Love you
Bro. Kenneth Ralph
Hey Brother Tony, This deputation manual is the best tool, for us missionaries on deputation. It covers everything from A-Z. What a wonderful book thanks so much for suggesting it... Praying for you and your family.... We Love you
Bro. Kenneth Ralph
Monday, October 8, 2007
Devotion From Russ Pruitt
Here is another devotion by Russ Pruitt. He is doing a fine job. I love getting these so if you have one send it my way. If you do not want it on the blog, just tell me. Have a great day.
II Chro. 34:14-33
Finding out what the Word of God will do!
I) The Word will always surface up: v. 14-18
You can not hide it. Col. 1:26; I Cor. 4:5; 3:13
II) The Word will slay you: v. 18-19
It will kill our flesh. Heb. 4:12; Rom. 12:2
III) The Word will make you want to spread it: v. 20-21
You can’t hold it in of what God’s done for you.
Rom. 1:14-16
IV) The Word will sentence you: v. 22-28
Even after repenting the judgment still was coming.
John 12:48
V) The Word will bring you to submission: v. 29-32
v. 32 “stand to it”: submit, continue, abide
James 4:7
VI) The Word will make you sweep out the evil: v. 33a
“took away all abominations out”
John 15:3; Eph. 5:26; Jam. 4:8
VII) The Word will instructed us to serve: v. 33b
“and made all that were present in Israel to serve,”
VIII) The Word will cause us to stay in fellowship w/God:
v. 33c “they departed not from following the LORD,”
II Chro. 34:14-33
Finding out what the Word of God will do!
I) The Word will always surface up: v. 14-18
You can not hide it. Col. 1:26; I Cor. 4:5; 3:13
II) The Word will slay you: v. 18-19
It will kill our flesh. Heb. 4:12; Rom. 12:2
III) The Word will make you want to spread it: v. 20-21
You can’t hold it in of what God’s done for you.
Rom. 1:14-16
IV) The Word will sentence you: v. 22-28
Even after repenting the judgment still was coming.
John 12:48
V) The Word will bring you to submission: v. 29-32
v. 32 “stand to it”: submit, continue, abide
James 4:7
VI) The Word will make you sweep out the evil: v. 33a
“took away all abominations out”
John 15:3; Eph. 5:26; Jam. 4:8
VII) The Word will instructed us to serve: v. 33b
“and made all that were present in Israel to serve,”
VIII) The Word will cause us to stay in fellowship w/God:
v. 33c “they departed not from following the LORD,”
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Live A Disciplined Life!
This is from a tremendous blog that you need to get. It is by Austin Gardner. Bro. Gardner was a missionary in South America for 20 years. He has trained scores of missionaries and knows what he is talking about. (Dont tell anyone but he sat down and trained me before I started deputation. Boy I wish I could take credit for what I know!!) Click here to read the blog
As a missionary it is crucial that you live a disciplined life. You set your own schedule. You decide if you work or not. It is easy to get lazy and begin to take advantage of God’s people by not earning your keep.
Get up and go to work in the morning. Let your schedule be your boss. You may not have to report to anyone but you must report to God, yourself and your wife. It is very easy for your wife to begin to expect you not to work. You can easily develop habits that will embarrass you as soon as someone sees what you are doing.
If you are on deputation. Get up, take your shower, get on the phone, write letters, get meetings, study but at least put in 8 to 10 hours before you take time off for yourself. If you are on the field do not let little things distract you from your job. You may not go off to the office or the factory but you must be careful to go to work and stay at work.
Know that you are earning your keep. Never have to think to yourself or justify yourself for the reasons that you do not work like you should.
Confess your sin. Get up and get at it. Accomplish something every day. Have something to show for your time at work. Know that you are doing what you ought to be doing so that you can be ready to give an account of your service.
The fact that we are in the ministry does not give us an excuse to work less or to play more. It does not give us an excuse to take off during the day or to rename extracurricular activities as work to get by.
Well now that you are mad at me at least consider and think about this post.
As a missionary it is crucial that you live a disciplined life. You set your own schedule. You decide if you work or not. It is easy to get lazy and begin to take advantage of God’s people by not earning your keep.
Get up and go to work in the morning. Let your schedule be your boss. You may not have to report to anyone but you must report to God, yourself and your wife. It is very easy for your wife to begin to expect you not to work. You can easily develop habits that will embarrass you as soon as someone sees what you are doing.
If you are on deputation. Get up, take your shower, get on the phone, write letters, get meetings, study but at least put in 8 to 10 hours before you take time off for yourself. If you are on the field do not let little things distract you from your job. You may not go off to the office or the factory but you must be careful to go to work and stay at work.
Know that you are earning your keep. Never have to think to yourself or justify yourself for the reasons that you do not work like you should.
Confess your sin. Get up and get at it. Accomplish something every day. Have something to show for your time at work. Know that you are doing what you ought to be doing so that you can be ready to give an account of your service.
The fact that we are in the ministry does not give us an excuse to work less or to play more. It does not give us an excuse to take off during the day or to rename extracurricular activities as work to get by.
Well now that you are mad at me at least consider and think about this post.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Bloggers Comment
The following is a comment made about the homeschooling blog. I thought I would pass it on.
When we were on the road, many times if we were only going to be short trips the kids would double up on their lessons a couple of days and then we wouldn't have to worry about it for a few days. Sometimes we would look for areas or points of interest close to where our meetings were and would use that for the lessons that day. I am all about continual teaching and learning and don't like to use a set curriculum all of the time.
When we were on the road, many times if we were only going to be short trips the kids would double up on their lessons a couple of days and then we wouldn't have to worry about it for a few days. Sometimes we would look for areas or points of interest close to where our meetings were and would use that for the lessons that day. I am all about continual teaching and learning and don't like to use a set curriculum all of the time.
To Play or Not To Play?
I received the following question and wanted to share it with you. I have replaced the name.
You encourage us to spend time with the pastor as in go eat with them, or fellowship after service. My question is, what about sports? I was recently at a church that plays volleyball after Sunday night service. Yes they asked me to come play. I to, as you are, am very competitive. Is it wrong to stuff the preacher's wife at the net? I'm still playing to win. Jokes were made about not getting support now, but all in all I think it went well. Different pastor at a different Church, probably not so well. This did make me think. Do we play games after service? And if so what are the limits? You know how hard it is to tone down the desire to win, right? Thanks for all the help. God Bless you and your family.
I do encourage you to fellowship and be around the people as much as possible. This will help them to get to know you better. The competitive thing is not about support, but character. We want to be very gracious showing temperance. I stepped away from a lot of sports from a lack of self control in wanting to win. Losing bothered me too much. In my life, it was a reflection on me. Key word, me. When I died to my pride, I became more at ease with myself. When that happened other people became more at ease with me during sporting activities. Recently I was in Mississippi preaching a Missions Conference. One night after the service, they had a softball game and I played in it. It was the first time I played in years. What did I do? I popped up! I laughed, they laughed, we had fun. I still try hard!
This is just me. You may not have the same inward battles and insecurities. Have fun when you are around others. Play with temperance,grace and sportsmanship. Do not dominate the ladies, especially if she is the pastor's wife! Sometimes I let people win. It removes me from being a threat to them and as a missionary there are many things I want to be but a threat is not one of them. Jesus humbled himself and there are times we must do the same. Do not know if this will help. If you want to discuss this more, just email me at howeth@mwbm.org
Have a great day.
You encourage us to spend time with the pastor as in go eat with them, or fellowship after service. My question is, what about sports? I was recently at a church that plays volleyball after Sunday night service. Yes they asked me to come play. I to, as you are, am very competitive. Is it wrong to stuff the preacher's wife at the net? I'm still playing to win. Jokes were made about not getting support now, but all in all I think it went well. Different pastor at a different Church, probably not so well. This did make me think. Do we play games after service? And if so what are the limits? You know how hard it is to tone down the desire to win, right? Thanks for all the help. God Bless you and your family.
I do encourage you to fellowship and be around the people as much as possible. This will help them to get to know you better. The competitive thing is not about support, but character. We want to be very gracious showing temperance. I stepped away from a lot of sports from a lack of self control in wanting to win. Losing bothered me too much. In my life, it was a reflection on me. Key word, me. When I died to my pride, I became more at ease with myself. When that happened other people became more at ease with me during sporting activities. Recently I was in Mississippi preaching a Missions Conference. One night after the service, they had a softball game and I played in it. It was the first time I played in years. What did I do? I popped up! I laughed, they laughed, we had fun. I still try hard!
This is just me. You may not have the same inward battles and insecurities. Have fun when you are around others. Play with temperance,grace and sportsmanship. Do not dominate the ladies, especially if she is the pastor's wife! Sometimes I let people win. It removes me from being a threat to them and as a missionary there are many things I want to be but a threat is not one of them. Jesus humbled himself and there are times we must do the same. Do not know if this will help. If you want to discuss this more, just email me at howeth@mwbm.org
Have a great day.
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Wonderful Winter Retreat!
Coming up December 27-29, 2007 there will be a retreat in Gatlinburg, Tn called the Our Generation Summit. This retreat is for the whole church family. It is for missionaries, pastors, sunday school teachers, children, teens, parents, singles and silver saints! Take a look at the following link and get signed up!
http://www.skyalbum.com/album/tolsonmw/4703a9ba2a9/OGSUMMIT2007.swf
I will post more about this special event later. We will have a wonderful time.
http://www.skyalbum.com/album/tolsonmw/4703a9ba2a9/OGSUMMIT2007.swf
I will post more about this special event later. We will have a wonderful time.
Funny but Painful!
The following I received from a friend. Though some of the points about preachers are funny, they still carry a little sting. May we purpose in our hearts to be well studied, prepared and anointed every time we enter the pulpit. Giggle....then cry. Love you guys.
1. You consider studying for sermons something that lib’rals do instead of soul winning.
2. You prepare your sermons on the way to church, which explains why you recently preached against tan lines, energy drinks, and men wearing pink shirts.
3. You actually make fun of preachers who use Greek and Hebrew in their sermons.
4. You consider volume a fine substitute for substance.
5. To you, “exegete the Greek” is a funny rhyme.
6. You decide on what sins to preach against based on who’s in the congregation.
7. You consider a pulpit more of a punching bag rather than a place to rest your Bible.
8. You have 35 sermon outlines prepared and ready to preach – as soon as you find verses for them.
9. In a 117 minute sermon, you spent 53 minutes telling stories from your childhood, 47 minutes telling stories from your early ministerial days, 15 minutes denigrating men who wear pleated pants, and 2 minutes explaining your text verse.
10. You have actually spent an entire sermon preaching against the evils of Barney the purple dinosaur.
11. Your favorite illustrations are Darwin’s deathbed conversion, the “microphone in hell” bit, and Spurgeon giving up his cigars. (all untrue by the way if you're still wondering!)
12. You quote John Gill as supporting your position against Calvinism.
13. You think people who know what “supralapsarianism” means need to get saved.
14. You think its okay to preach a verse out of context, as long as you tell your people that you’re doing it on purpose.
15. You love to apply Messianic prophecies to yourself.
16. When you preach, you can’t help but say “evangelical” effeminately.
17. You think “expositional” is someone who doesn’t take a position on anything.
18. You’re not sure what TULIP stands for, but you know you’re against it.
1. You consider studying for sermons something that lib’rals do instead of soul winning.
2. You prepare your sermons on the way to church, which explains why you recently preached against tan lines, energy drinks, and men wearing pink shirts.
3. You actually make fun of preachers who use Greek and Hebrew in their sermons.
4. You consider volume a fine substitute for substance.
5. To you, “exegete the Greek” is a funny rhyme.
6. You decide on what sins to preach against based on who’s in the congregation.
7. You consider a pulpit more of a punching bag rather than a place to rest your Bible.
8. You have 35 sermon outlines prepared and ready to preach – as soon as you find verses for them.
9. In a 117 minute sermon, you spent 53 minutes telling stories from your childhood, 47 minutes telling stories from your early ministerial days, 15 minutes denigrating men who wear pleated pants, and 2 minutes explaining your text verse.
10. You have actually spent an entire sermon preaching against the evils of Barney the purple dinosaur.
11. Your favorite illustrations are Darwin’s deathbed conversion, the “microphone in hell” bit, and Spurgeon giving up his cigars. (all untrue by the way if you're still wondering!)
12. You quote John Gill as supporting your position against Calvinism.
13. You think people who know what “supralapsarianism” means need to get saved.
14. You think its okay to preach a verse out of context, as long as you tell your people that you’re doing it on purpose.
15. You love to apply Messianic prophecies to yourself.
16. When you preach, you can’t help but say “evangelical” effeminately.
17. You think “expositional” is someone who doesn’t take a position on anything.
18. You’re not sure what TULIP stands for, but you know you’re against it.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
School and Deputation
One of the ladies wrote in asking how to juggle homeschooling and deputation at the same time. To say the least, it is not easy! Some things to think about:
1. Does the material I am using for my children go well with travelling? Some material may work better than others. A Becka material can be gotten on DVD and the children can listen to it as they go down the road. PACE material can be used in traveling. Find the material that works best for you and for your children. Different children respond different ways in a home school environment.
2. Keep as strict a scedule as you possibly can. That very well may mean you will not be able to go to meetings during the week in the morning. Very graciously have your husband speak with the pastor and make sure he (the pastor) does not mind. I do not know of a pastor that would not understand your situation though I am sure there is at least one out there. Be organized and plan your schooling out. Doing it the night before will kill you and your family.
3. Understand your children. To say that all our children learn the same way and respond to situations the same is ridiculous. I have two children that could home school themselves and i have two children that homeschooling is quite difficult. The same type curriculum may not work for all your children.
4. Stay at it. This is one area that if you let up, you are a gonner. A day missed turns into a week, etc... You must be disciplined, organized and understanding for home schooling to work during deputation.
I would love some feedback that may help other ladies. Please send it to my email address howeth@mwbm.org I will try to post it for others to glean from. Thank you for your interest and questions.
1. Does the material I am using for my children go well with travelling? Some material may work better than others. A Becka material can be gotten on DVD and the children can listen to it as they go down the road. PACE material can be used in traveling. Find the material that works best for you and for your children. Different children respond different ways in a home school environment.
2. Keep as strict a scedule as you possibly can. That very well may mean you will not be able to go to meetings during the week in the morning. Very graciously have your husband speak with the pastor and make sure he (the pastor) does not mind. I do not know of a pastor that would not understand your situation though I am sure there is at least one out there. Be organized and plan your schooling out. Doing it the night before will kill you and your family.
3. Understand your children. To say that all our children learn the same way and respond to situations the same is ridiculous. I have two children that could home school themselves and i have two children that homeschooling is quite difficult. The same type curriculum may not work for all your children.
4. Stay at it. This is one area that if you let up, you are a gonner. A day missed turns into a week, etc... You must be disciplined, organized and understanding for home schooling to work during deputation.
I would love some feedback that may help other ladies. Please send it to my email address howeth@mwbm.org I will try to post it for others to glean from. Thank you for your interest and questions.
The Power of God
Having the Power of God
This was also sent to me by Bro. Russ Pruitt. May we each truly have the power of God resting on our lives as we go into different churches sharing our burden. Have a great day.
Endued: means sinking into a garment, cover with or put on.
Jesus is telling the disciples that He is going to send the promise of the Father upon them, which is the Holy Spirit. John 14:16-31.
Then He is telling them to wait until the power endued them from on high.
O’ that we would wait in that place God tells us to get to for the endued power from on high. In John 14:12 Jesus is saying that greater works that we can do because He go to the Father, and then the Father will give us another Comforter that they may abide, manifest, and abode in us. John 14:16, 21, 23 So that we can do greater things but its got to come with the Power of God.
II Kings 2:1-14
How can we have this Power of God?
I) By having Patience: v. 1-6
(It’s a vital part of God’s teaching to wait on Him.)
Elisha waited patiently even though Elijah told him to stay at these cities. v. 1-6
Just as the disciples did in Acts 1:4.
Isa. 40:31; Lam. 3:25
We need to learn from these men by waiting on the Lord instead of going with our on power.
II) By having a Purpose: v. 8-9
Elisha wanted a double portion of the spirit of Elijah not for his on consuming, but that
God may get the glory. He wanted God to use him for His will.
How many times do we ask for something for our on consuming, or selfishness?
Jam. 4:3
Our purpose of having the power of God is that Christ be magnified, glorified, and exalted.
III) By having a Prayer life: v. 9-11a
If you look at Elijah as a picture of God and Elisha as a child of God look at what they are doing. They are talking with one another and asking for things from one another.
That’s the same way God wants us to be with Him.
Matt. 6:6, 21:22; Luke 6:12; Acts 6:4 I could go on and on.
IV) By Putting off self righteousness: v. 12
Mantle is a picture of power.
He had to put off, rent his old clothes before ever receiving the power from God.
Eph. 4:22
V) By Putting on the righteousness of God: v. 13
(It’s up to us to put it on)
Elisha after he put off his garment he than put on the mantle of Elijah’s.
He ha a choice to make either put it on or not.
Rom. 6:13, 16-19; Eph. 4:24-25
VI) By Proving it: v. 14
Elisha after putting on the mantle of Elijah he went to the waters and proved it. He tested
it with faith and believing by asking “Where is the LORD God of Elijah?”
The Power of God will come when God wants it to come not when we want it to.
It will come when we are total yielded to Him and filled with the fullness of God. Eph. 3:17-19 and it will come by the Spirit. Eph. 5:8-10, 18
Back in Luke 24:49 Jesus said tarry (wait) “until ye be endued with power form on high.” We need to be patience, have a purpose, have a prayer life, put off self-righteousness, put on the righteousness of God, and than prove it. Just go on with Him and believe.
Before we get up to preach, present our burden please don't do it without the power of God as we oft do.
A great book to read is “HOW TO OBTAIN FULLNESS OF POWER” by R. A. Torrey.
This was also sent to me by Bro. Russ Pruitt. May we each truly have the power of God resting on our lives as we go into different churches sharing our burden. Have a great day.
Endued: means sinking into a garment, cover with or put on.
Jesus is telling the disciples that He is going to send the promise of the Father upon them, which is the Holy Spirit. John 14:16-31.
Then He is telling them to wait until the power endued them from on high.
O’ that we would wait in that place God tells us to get to for the endued power from on high. In John 14:12 Jesus is saying that greater works that we can do because He go to the Father, and then the Father will give us another Comforter that they may abide, manifest, and abode in us. John 14:16, 21, 23 So that we can do greater things but its got to come with the Power of God.
II Kings 2:1-14
How can we have this Power of God?
I) By having Patience: v. 1-6
(It’s a vital part of God’s teaching to wait on Him.)
Elisha waited patiently even though Elijah told him to stay at these cities. v. 1-6
Just as the disciples did in Acts 1:4.
Isa. 40:31; Lam. 3:25
We need to learn from these men by waiting on the Lord instead of going with our on power.
II) By having a Purpose: v. 8-9
Elisha wanted a double portion of the spirit of Elijah not for his on consuming, but that
God may get the glory. He wanted God to use him for His will.
How many times do we ask for something for our on consuming, or selfishness?
Jam. 4:3
Our purpose of having the power of God is that Christ be magnified, glorified, and exalted.
III) By having a Prayer life: v. 9-11a
If you look at Elijah as a picture of God and Elisha as a child of God look at what they are doing. They are talking with one another and asking for things from one another.
That’s the same way God wants us to be with Him.
Matt. 6:6, 21:22; Luke 6:12; Acts 6:4 I could go on and on.
IV) By Putting off self righteousness: v. 12
Mantle is a picture of power.
He had to put off, rent his old clothes before ever receiving the power from God.
Eph. 4:22
V) By Putting on the righteousness of God: v. 13
(It’s up to us to put it on)
Elisha after he put off his garment he than put on the mantle of Elijah’s.
He ha a choice to make either put it on or not.
Rom. 6:13, 16-19; Eph. 4:24-25
VI) By Proving it: v. 14
Elisha after putting on the mantle of Elijah he went to the waters and proved it. He tested
it with faith and believing by asking “Where is the LORD God of Elijah?”
The Power of God will come when God wants it to come not when we want it to.
It will come when we are total yielded to Him and filled with the fullness of God. Eph. 3:17-19 and it will come by the Spirit. Eph. 5:8-10, 18
Back in Luke 24:49 Jesus said tarry (wait) “until ye be endued with power form on high.” We need to be patience, have a purpose, have a prayer life, put off self-righteousness, put on the righteousness of God, and than prove it. Just go on with Him and believe.
Before we get up to preach, present our burden please don't do it without the power of God as we oft do.
A great book to read is “HOW TO OBTAIN FULLNESS OF POWER” by R. A. Torrey.
Russ Pruitt
I always enjoy getting emails from your devotions and how God is speaking to you. Here is one from Russ Pruitt, missionary to Montana. God is really using Bro. Russ and I thank God for his ministry. Please keep his family in your prayers, espcially his wife Cheryl!!
Luke 24:44-53
Intro: v. 44 A) Jesus is reminding them "that all things must be fulfilled..."
1. In the Law of Moses.
2. In the prophets
3. In the psalms concerning Him.
v. 45 B) He is getting them to realize that all understanding comes from God.
1. Through His word.
2. Through His will.
3. Through His wonderful Spirit. 1 Cor. 2:12-14
v.46-47 C) He is reconfirming to them about,
1. His death, burial, and resurrection.
2. That they should preach repentance and remission of sins to all nations.
3. That they are witnesses.
Luke 24:44-53
Intro: v. 44 A) Jesus is reminding them "that all things must be fulfilled..."
1. In the Law of Moses.
2. In the prophets
3. In the psalms concerning Him.
v. 45 B) He is getting them to realize that all understanding comes from God.
1. Through His word.
2. Through His will.
3. Through His wonderful Spirit. 1 Cor. 2:12-14
v.46-47 C) He is reconfirming to them about,
1. His death, burial, and resurrection.
2. That they should preach repentance and remission of sins to all nations.
3. That they are witnesses.
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