I will place a link on this blog site for the church sign information. I had placed the following on my church sign recently "sex is not the problem lust is" and it caused a lot of questions to be asked by local "school kids" to bus drivers and to others. So I am taking a suggestion from someone and making information available that would explain from God's Word what the sign means. This will take a little time but it will be up and running next week.
Blessings on Ya!
Pastor Kitner
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Thursday, January 31, 2008
Middle East Update click here for full article.
Middle East Update – January 2008
by Lance Lambert
Jerusalem, Israel
This is Lance Lambert speaking and this is my Middle East Update for January 2008. Once again I had a very difficult and complex task to make this tape. I would like to read some Scriptures. First of all:
Psalm 60: “Oh God thou hast cast us off, thou hast broken us down. Thou hast been angry, Oh restore us again. Thou hast made the Land to tremble. Thou hast rent it. Heal the breaches thereof for it shaketh. Thou hast shown Thy people hard things. Thou hast made us to drink the wine of staggering. Thou hast given a banner to them that fear thee that it may be displayed because of the truth. The day the beloved may be delivered, save with thy right hand and answer us. God hast spoken in His Holiness. I will exalt, I will divide Shechem and mete out the valley of Succot. Gilead is mine and Manasseh is mine. Ephraim also is the defense of my hand. Judah is my scepter. Moab is my wash pot. Upon Edom will I cast my shoe. Philistia shout thou because of Me. Who will bring me into the strong city. Who hast led me unto Edom? Hast not thou O God cast us off and thou goest not forth O God with our hosts. Give us help against the adversary for vain is the help of man. Through God we shall do valiantly for it is He that will tread down our adversaries.”
It is a wonderful Psalm especially “thou hast given a banner that fear thee that it may be displayed because of the truth.” And all these names here cover the whole area of the Promised Land. Especially Ephraim which is Samaria and Judah which is of course, Judea. I think it is a great Psalm at the time of crisis. It was written probably at a point when things did not look good for the people of God. Then I want to read a part of another Psalm.
Psalm 110:1 “The Lord saith unto My Lord, sit thou at My right hand until I make thine enemies thy footstool. The Lord will send forth the rod of thy strength out of Zion. Rule thou in the midst of thine enemies.”
Vision Part 4 of 4
Vision Part IV -- Downward Vision
This part of the vision series dosen't come from the Isaiah portion of scripture. This part of vision comes from something that the founder of the Salvation Army said. General William Booth said "if he could do it he would have finalized the training of his soldiers with 24 hours of hanging over hell." It is only as they knew the fury of hell could they know the value of salvation.
we too must realize from what each soul is being saved. It would probally add a new dimension to our prayer life.
Outer darkness, wailing and gnashing of teeth, a burning lake of fire, the place where the worm dies not, a place of heat and torment forever, a place of unquenchable thirst, A place where you can see the good things enjoyed but can never go there because there is a great gulf of seperation fixed and finally hell is the place wher the love of God touching you can never be sensed in any way ever....Hell is the place that was created for the devil and his angels and not man so it is not a pleasant place to spend eternity in.
Luke 12:4 And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do.
Luke 12:5 But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.
Luke 16:23 And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.
Luke 16:24 And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.
Luke 16:25 But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.
Luke 16:26 And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.
Blessings on Ya!
Pastor Kitner
This part of the vision series dosen't come from the Isaiah portion of scripture. This part of vision comes from something that the founder of the Salvation Army said. General William Booth said "if he could do it he would have finalized the training of his soldiers with 24 hours of hanging over hell." It is only as they knew the fury of hell could they know the value of salvation.
we too must realize from what each soul is being saved. It would probally add a new dimension to our prayer life.
Outer darkness, wailing and gnashing of teeth, a burning lake of fire, the place where the worm dies not, a place of heat and torment forever, a place of unquenchable thirst, A place where you can see the good things enjoyed but can never go there because there is a great gulf of seperation fixed and finally hell is the place wher the love of God touching you can never be sensed in any way ever....Hell is the place that was created for the devil and his angels and not man so it is not a pleasant place to spend eternity in.
Luke 12:4 And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do.
Luke 12:5 But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.
Luke 16:23 And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.
Luke 16:24 And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.
Luke 16:25 But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.
Luke 16:26 And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.
Blessings on Ya!
Pastor Kitner
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Vision Part 3 of 4
Vision Part III -- An Outward Vision
Isa 6:8 Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.
Isa 6:9 And he said, Go, and tell this people, Hear ye indeed, but understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not.
Isa 6:10 Make the heart of this people fat, and make their ears heavy, and shut their eyes; lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and convert, and be healed.
Isa 6:11 Then said I, Lord, how long? And he answered, Until the cities be wasted without inhabitant, and the houses without man, and the land be utterly desolate,
Isa 6:12 And the LORD have removed men far away, and there be a great forsaking in the midst of the land.
Isa 6:13 But yet in it shall be a tenth, and it shall return, and shall be eaten: as a teil tree, and as an oak, whose substance is in them, when they cast their leaves: so the holy seed shall be the substance thereof.
We must see the harvest that is ready, all who have not believed on the Lord Jesus Christ as Saviour. We must see them as already under the wrath of God and in dire need of the Saviour.
They are walking dead men, Dead unto God and dead in sin.
John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
John 3:17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
John 3:18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
John 3:19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
John 3:20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.
John 3:21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
When we have the outward vision that Jesus had then we are able to see the lost with a heart of compassion and with a desire to help.
Mat 9:36 But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.
Mat 9:37 Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;
Mat 9:38 Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.
Our hearts must be filled with the GO YE into all the world and preach the Gospel of the kingdom.
We must not only look at the wickedness of this world but we must see the vast harvest that is ripe unto harvest NOW! See John 4:35-38.
As Isaiah had the coal from off the altar of God touch his mouth he was immeadiately able to hear the conversion by the Father. the Son and the Holy Spirit saying Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Isaiah said, Here am I; send me and with the proper outward Vision we can join in with him.
Where there is no vision people perish.
Blessings on Ya!
Pastor Kitner
Isa 6:8 Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.
Isa 6:9 And he said, Go, and tell this people, Hear ye indeed, but understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not.
Isa 6:10 Make the heart of this people fat, and make their ears heavy, and shut their eyes; lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and convert, and be healed.
Isa 6:11 Then said I, Lord, how long? And he answered, Until the cities be wasted without inhabitant, and the houses without man, and the land be utterly desolate,
Isa 6:12 And the LORD have removed men far away, and there be a great forsaking in the midst of the land.
Isa 6:13 But yet in it shall be a tenth, and it shall return, and shall be eaten: as a teil tree, and as an oak, whose substance is in them, when they cast their leaves: so the holy seed shall be the substance thereof.
We must see the harvest that is ready, all who have not believed on the Lord Jesus Christ as Saviour. We must see them as already under the wrath of God and in dire need of the Saviour.
They are walking dead men, Dead unto God and dead in sin.
John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
John 3:17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
John 3:18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
John 3:19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
John 3:20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.
John 3:21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
When we have the outward vision that Jesus had then we are able to see the lost with a heart of compassion and with a desire to help.
Mat 9:36 But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.
Mat 9:37 Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;
Mat 9:38 Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.
Our hearts must be filled with the GO YE into all the world and preach the Gospel of the kingdom.
We must not only look at the wickedness of this world but we must see the vast harvest that is ripe unto harvest NOW! See John 4:35-38.
As Isaiah had the coal from off the altar of God touch his mouth he was immeadiately able to hear the conversion by the Father. the Son and the Holy Spirit saying Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Isaiah said, Here am I; send me and with the proper outward Vision we can join in with him.
Where there is no vision people perish.
Blessings on Ya!
Pastor Kitner
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Vision Part 2 of 4
Isa 6:1 In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple.
Isa 6:2 Above it stood the seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly.
Isa 6:3 And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory.
Isa 6:4 And the posts of the door moved at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with smoke.
Isa 6:5 Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.
Isa 6:6 Then flew one of the seraphims unto me, having a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with the tongs from off the altar:
Isa 6:7 And he laid it upon my mouth, and said, Lo, this hath touched thy lips; and thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin purged.
Vision Part II of IV
The first part of vision was an upward vision. The second part of vision is an inward vision. We must see the need that we have in the light of His holiness and the declaration of the angelic beings. We are people with needs that only God can meet. We must see that need and receive the help that only God can give to us to satisfy that inward need. Woe is me I am undone said Isaiah - I see the purity of God and the impurity of my heart and I am undone.
The angel brought the live coal from off the altar of God and touched the lips of the prophet in a way that brought cleanness to him. It is not by what we are able to do that we are saved and stand uprightly before God but by what He has done - is doing - and will do.
Psa 139:23 Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:
Psa 139:24 And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
In what I see I must submitt to the Lord and allow Him to transform me. I must receive from off of God's altar what I have need of before I can walk in the light of God's Word having my mind renewed by the washing of the water of the Word. I must see my need to come out from among them and be seperated unto the Lord walking in the light as He is in the light.
A pure heart
A cleansed conscience
A new speech
With open ears to hear God speaking from the heavenlies
Part III to come An outward vision.
Blessings on Ya!
Pastor Kitner
Isa 6:2 Above it stood the seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly.
Isa 6:3 And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory.
Isa 6:4 And the posts of the door moved at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with smoke.
Isa 6:5 Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.
Isa 6:6 Then flew one of the seraphims unto me, having a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with the tongs from off the altar:
Isa 6:7 And he laid it upon my mouth, and said, Lo, this hath touched thy lips; and thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin purged.
Vision Part II of IV
The first part of vision was an upward vision. The second part of vision is an inward vision. We must see the need that we have in the light of His holiness and the declaration of the angelic beings. We are people with needs that only God can meet. We must see that need and receive the help that only God can give to us to satisfy that inward need. Woe is me I am undone said Isaiah - I see the purity of God and the impurity of my heart and I am undone.
The angel brought the live coal from off the altar of God and touched the lips of the prophet in a way that brought cleanness to him. It is not by what we are able to do that we are saved and stand uprightly before God but by what He has done - is doing - and will do.
Psa 139:23 Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:
Psa 139:24 And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
In what I see I must submitt to the Lord and allow Him to transform me. I must receive from off of God's altar what I have need of before I can walk in the light of God's Word having my mind renewed by the washing of the water of the Word. I must see my need to come out from among them and be seperated unto the Lord walking in the light as He is in the light.
A pure heart
A cleansed conscience
A new speech
With open ears to hear God speaking from the heavenlies
Part III to come An outward vision.
Blessings on Ya!
Pastor Kitner
Resources for Marriage Difficulties
Marriage certainly has it's trials and difficulties and the church is not immune to them. The believers should have a mindset to work every possible angle to keep things on track, without the quick fix of divorce always on their mind "if things don't work out". Perhaps something from the following link could be of some help to you or someone that you know.
Resources for Marriage Difficulties
Blessings on Ya!
Pastor Kitner
Resources for Marriage Difficulties
Blessings on Ya!
Pastor Kitner
Monday, January 28, 2008
Vision Part I of 4
We must have Vision:
Isa 6:1 In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple.
Isa 6:2 Above it stood the seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly.
Isa 6:3 And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory.
Isa 6:4 And the posts of the door moved at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with smoke.
In Isaiah 6 there is a lot to see regarding vision. Vision that is necessary so that people don't perish. Vision that allows for the Word of God to be open in the lives of people and vision that causes us to see beyond ourselves to the will of God being done on the earth as it is in Heaven.
Vision Part I
Our vision must first be an upward vision.
1. We must see the Lord, the Lord of glory.
2. We must see Him as the exalted Lord and Saviour
3. We must see Him as the Supreme Ruler of all, the King of kings.
4. We must see him as greater than the physical temple.
5. We must see Him as Worthy of our Worship as the angels do.
6. We must see Him as Holy.
7. We must see Him as greater than the angels that worship and serve Him.
8. We must see Him as glorious and full of glory.
9. We must see Him as the one to set our affections on as He is seated at the right hand of God the Father. see Col III vss 1-4
10. We must see Him as the supreme ruler with ALL power or authority in Heaven and in the earth and even under the earth.
11. We must see Him as our provider in all things.
12. We must see Him as the one who sends us in conjunction with the Father and the Holy Spirit.
13. We must see ourselves as in the world and not of it as a result of seeing Him and His glory.
This is part I of IV on vision we must have so that the desire of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit is accomplished in the earth. We must have an open vision.
Part II to follow:
Blessings on Ya!
Pastor Kitner
Isa 6:1 In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple.
Isa 6:2 Above it stood the seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly.
Isa 6:3 And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory.
Isa 6:4 And the posts of the door moved at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with smoke.
In Isaiah 6 there is a lot to see regarding vision. Vision that is necessary so that people don't perish. Vision that allows for the Word of God to be open in the lives of people and vision that causes us to see beyond ourselves to the will of God being done on the earth as it is in Heaven.
Vision Part I
Our vision must first be an upward vision.
1. We must see the Lord, the Lord of glory.
2. We must see Him as the exalted Lord and Saviour
3. We must see Him as the Supreme Ruler of all, the King of kings.
4. We must see him as greater than the physical temple.
5. We must see Him as Worthy of our Worship as the angels do.
6. We must see Him as Holy.
7. We must see Him as greater than the angels that worship and serve Him.
8. We must see Him as glorious and full of glory.
9. We must see Him as the one to set our affections on as He is seated at the right hand of God the Father. see Col III vss 1-4
10. We must see Him as the supreme ruler with ALL power or authority in Heaven and in the earth and even under the earth.
11. We must see Him as our provider in all things.
12. We must see Him as the one who sends us in conjunction with the Father and the Holy Spirit.
13. We must see ourselves as in the world and not of it as a result of seeing Him and His glory.
This is part I of IV on vision we must have so that the desire of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit is accomplished in the earth. We must have an open vision.
Part II to follow:
Blessings on Ya!
Pastor Kitner
Friday, January 25, 2008
A Sign for the Times
I have a church sign and from time to time I put messages on it that are designed to get the attention of the community. I thank God for this opportunity. My current sign is causing a real stir in the community among the school age children. The sign reads as follows: "Sex is not the problem lust is." I have had comments from school bus drivers saying that it gives opportunity to talk to the children on the bus becuase they ask questions as to the difference between the two. Another highschool teacher has suggested that I put a web site address across the bottom of the sign and she said that the students would go and look up information that was there concerning the sign. I think that it is a great idea and will make a special web blog to deal with the special topics of my signs. Please pray for this extra ministry opportunity that can touch people that would never come to church on their own and that I might not ever meet in person.
Maybe you can do the same as well in your community.
Pastor Charles Kitner
sonforu@verizon.net or
first_assembly@verizon.net
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Just for Today
Today's choices affect and effect tomorrows outcomes in so very much of our lives.
Just for Today
Daily Practices to Guarantee Tomorrow's Success
from John Maxwell's book entitled Today Matters
1. Just for Today -- I will choose and display the right attitudes.
2. Just for Today -- I will determine and act on important priorities.
3. Just for Today -- I will know and follow healthy guidelines.
4. Just for Today -- I will communicate with and care for my family.
5. Just for Today -- I will practice and develop good thinking.
6. Just for Today -- I will make and keep proper commitments.
7. Just for Today -- I will earn and properly manage finances.
8. Just for Today -- I will deepen and live out my faith.
9. Just for Today -- I will initiate and invest in solid relationships.
10. Just for Today -- I will plan for and model generosity.
11. Just for Today -- I will embrace and practice good values.
12. Just for Today -- I will seek and experience improvement.
13. Just for Today -- I will act on these decisions and practice these disciplines and
14 Then one Day -- I will see the compounding results of a day lived well.
Just for Today
Daily Practices to Guarantee Tomorrow's Success
from John Maxwell's book entitled Today Matters
1. Just for Today -- I will choose and display the right attitudes.
2. Just for Today -- I will determine and act on important priorities.
3. Just for Today -- I will know and follow healthy guidelines.
4. Just for Today -- I will communicate with and care for my family.
5. Just for Today -- I will practice and develop good thinking.
6. Just for Today -- I will make and keep proper commitments.
7. Just for Today -- I will earn and properly manage finances.
8. Just for Today -- I will deepen and live out my faith.
9. Just for Today -- I will initiate and invest in solid relationships.
10. Just for Today -- I will plan for and model generosity.
11. Just for Today -- I will embrace and practice good values.
12. Just for Today -- I will seek and experience improvement.
13. Just for Today -- I will act on these decisions and practice these disciplines and
14 Then one Day -- I will see the compounding results of a day lived well.
Where Is The Church?
Where Is The Church?
by Rubel Shelly
It seems to me that more people who claim to be Christ-followers in this world are caught up in doing church over being church. But church isn’t a place. It isn’t a set of rituals. It isn’t the performance abilities of teachers or musicians. Church is the life of Jesus on display through his people – with Jesus functioning as head and all his people as various parts of his body in the world.
Jerry Cook tells a story about Richard Halverson that illustrates the contrast between “doing” and “being” as the people who confess Christ.
Dr. Halverson was chaplain of the United States Senate for several years. He would occasionally visit the seminary where Cook was a student. After one of those visits to speak to students, he joined a group of them for coffee and made himself available for informal conversation.
“Dr. Halverson,” began one of the seminarians, “where is your church?” The student was asking about the street location of the Presbyterian Church Halverson served, but he got a deeper and more insightful answer.
“Well, its three o'clock in Washington, D.C. The church I pastor is all over the city right now. It’s driving buses, serving meals in restaurants, sitting in board meetings, having discussions in the Pentagon, deliberating in Congress.” He proceeded with a long list of roles and responsibilities where his church was functioning that day. “And periodically we get together at a building on Fourth Street,” he added, “but we don’t spend a lot of our time there.”
The pastor-chaplain was not naive with his answer. He was brilliant. And he had the clear intent to challenge a young would-be pastor to raise his sights above the Sunday event of church as an assembly. Or even church as programs and budgets and organization. The church was never intended to be isolated from the world but to penetrate it as salt does food. Jesus wants his people to be “in the world” but not “of the world” – functioning as light to dark places.
Where will you be today? In meetings? On the phone? Calling on clients? Teaching algebra? Cleaning house? Delivering product? Delivering speeches? Delivering babies? Wherever you will be and whatever you are doing there, you will be part of the spread-out, scattered-over-the-world church. Your role is to be a stand-in for Jesus to make the world a better, less-threatening place.
“Whatever you do or say, let it be as a representative of the Lord Jesus, all the while giving thanks through him to God the Father” (Colossians 3:17 NLT).
Rubel Shelly is a Preaching Minister at the Woodmont Hills Church of Christ. This article is from the November 5, 2007 issue of “The FAX of Life,” his weekly message, found at http://www.rubelshelly.com.
by Rubel Shelly
It seems to me that more people who claim to be Christ-followers in this world are caught up in doing church over being church. But church isn’t a place. It isn’t a set of rituals. It isn’t the performance abilities of teachers or musicians. Church is the life of Jesus on display through his people – with Jesus functioning as head and all his people as various parts of his body in the world.
Jerry Cook tells a story about Richard Halverson that illustrates the contrast between “doing” and “being” as the people who confess Christ.
Dr. Halverson was chaplain of the United States Senate for several years. He would occasionally visit the seminary where Cook was a student. After one of those visits to speak to students, he joined a group of them for coffee and made himself available for informal conversation.
“Dr. Halverson,” began one of the seminarians, “where is your church?” The student was asking about the street location of the Presbyterian Church Halverson served, but he got a deeper and more insightful answer.
“Well, its three o'clock in Washington, D.C. The church I pastor is all over the city right now. It’s driving buses, serving meals in restaurants, sitting in board meetings, having discussions in the Pentagon, deliberating in Congress.” He proceeded with a long list of roles and responsibilities where his church was functioning that day. “And periodically we get together at a building on Fourth Street,” he added, “but we don’t spend a lot of our time there.”
The pastor-chaplain was not naive with his answer. He was brilliant. And he had the clear intent to challenge a young would-be pastor to raise his sights above the Sunday event of church as an assembly. Or even church as programs and budgets and organization. The church was never intended to be isolated from the world but to penetrate it as salt does food. Jesus wants his people to be “in the world” but not “of the world” – functioning as light to dark places.
Where will you be today? In meetings? On the phone? Calling on clients? Teaching algebra? Cleaning house? Delivering product? Delivering speeches? Delivering babies? Wherever you will be and whatever you are doing there, you will be part of the spread-out, scattered-over-the-world church. Your role is to be a stand-in for Jesus to make the world a better, less-threatening place.
“Whatever you do or say, let it be as a representative of the Lord Jesus, all the while giving thanks through him to God the Father” (Colossians 3:17 NLT).
Rubel Shelly is a Preaching Minister at the Woodmont Hills Church of Christ. This article is from the November 5, 2007 issue of “The FAX of Life,” his weekly message, found at http://www.rubelshelly.com.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Sanders Says
Have a post-shower writing session
If you are looking for the perfect time to write something, anything, do it right after you get out of the shower.
Whether you are a blogger, author, sales person or just a casual writer, finding inspiration is half the battle. Over the last year or so, I've developed a simple system to generate it chemically (and naturally).
Right before you take your shower, think about something you want to write or a subject you'd like to write about. As you shower, just let the idea roll around in your head. A hot shower naturally helps your body produce DHEA, so you'll find that your brain/mind makes synapse connections in this environment.
When an idea comes to you, say it out loud. Repeat it several times to find an anchor statement of inspiration. Right after you get out, find a handheld recorder or notepad and write for a few minutes. Let it flow, and don't try and edit.
If you do this everyday, you'll find that you will come up with great ideas, great phrases and your natural writing voice. Always think of shower time as creative time, instead of it being a chore.
I'm not the only author that does/did this. I've read that Kurt V, Jim Morrison and even Hunter S. Thompson all received divine inspiration in the shower. The question for you is, are you going to write yours down?
By Tim Sanders -- check out his BLOG
As I read this I thought that it is a great idea for sermon seeds to be written down as well. Even keep something to write down your thoughts on by your bed for the times when your thoughts seem to keep coming to mind. Write them down so that they don't escape your mind afterward. Giant oaks all come from those small accorns that are kept and planted.
Blessings on Ya!
Pastor Kitner
If you are looking for the perfect time to write something, anything, do it right after you get out of the shower.
Whether you are a blogger, author, sales person or just a casual writer, finding inspiration is half the battle. Over the last year or so, I've developed a simple system to generate it chemically (and naturally).
Right before you take your shower, think about something you want to write or a subject you'd like to write about. As you shower, just let the idea roll around in your head. A hot shower naturally helps your body produce DHEA, so you'll find that your brain/mind makes synapse connections in this environment.
When an idea comes to you, say it out loud. Repeat it several times to find an anchor statement of inspiration. Right after you get out, find a handheld recorder or notepad and write for a few minutes. Let it flow, and don't try and edit.
If you do this everyday, you'll find that you will come up with great ideas, great phrases and your natural writing voice. Always think of shower time as creative time, instead of it being a chore.
I'm not the only author that does/did this. I've read that Kurt V, Jim Morrison and even Hunter S. Thompson all received divine inspiration in the shower. The question for you is, are you going to write yours down?
By Tim Sanders -- check out his BLOG
As I read this I thought that it is a great idea for sermon seeds to be written down as well. Even keep something to write down your thoughts on by your bed for the times when your thoughts seem to keep coming to mind. Write them down so that they don't escape your mind afterward. Giant oaks all come from those small accorns that are kept and planted.
Blessings on Ya!
Pastor Kitner
entry for 8/1/2011 3:09 PM
Have a post-shower writing session
If you are looking for the perfect time to write something, anything, do it right after you get out of the shower.
Whether you are a blogger, author, sales person or just a casual writer, finding inspiration is half the battle. Over the last year or so, I've developed a simple system to generate it chemically (and naturally).
Right before you take your shower, think about something you want to write or a subject you'd like to write about. As you shower, just let the idea roll around in your head. A hot shower naturally helps your body produce DHEA, so you'll find that your brain/mind makes synapse connections in this environment.
When an idea comes to you, say it out loud. Repeat it several times to find an anchor statement of inspiration. Right after you get out, find a handheld recorder or notepad and write for a few minutes. Let it flow, and don't try and edit.
If you do this everyday, you'll find that you will come up with great ideas, great phrases and your natural writing voice. Always think of shower time as creative time, instead of it being a chore.
I'm not the only author that does/did this. I've read that Kurt V, Jim Morrison and even Hunter S. Thompson all received divine inspiration in the shower. The question for you is, are you going to write yours down?
By Tim Sanders
As I read this I thought that it is a great idea for sermon seeds to be written down as well.
Monday, January 21, 2008
America for Sale!
Check out this story "Overseas Investors Buy Aggressively in U.S." They are buying up companies in America at what are called wholesale prices. Could this interesting trend be a key to understanding America's future?
Foreign companies buying up America
Foreign companies buying up America
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Wist ye not that I must be about my Father's Business?
Wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?
Luke 2:49 And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?
We like Jesus must be about our Father's business in this darkened world bring light to it any way that it is possible. A pastor that I know was telling God of his parking problem and how he just didn't have the land to make it bigger and the person, who had unused land next to them, wouldn't sell it. He was telling God that he had a problem, that he wanted God to solve. He said he was surprised to hear from God that God had a problem. He inquired as to what that might be. God said that there were people that He wanted to reach but there was no one to go to them. After much God said if you help me with my problem I will help you with yours...well long story short -- the pastor did and God did also. What's my point? The point is this: We come to God with the expectations that we have but with no concern for what He wants of us other than what we seemingly focus on in "our imediate ministry". God is trying to get the attention of the church and bring the focus back to the Father's business.
Isa 1:19 If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land:Isa 1:20 But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.
Rev 3:18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.Rev 3:19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.Rev 3:20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.
Here is the Father's Business in a nutshell.Mat 24:14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.
When this becomes the priority of the church then there will come the fresh wind of the Holy Spirit to set a blazing fire on the earth for God.
As far as God is concerned, there are only believers, not denominations, there is only one true church and that is the one that Jesus Christ himself is building. Church as we know it today is a stentch in the nostrils of God.
Psa 133:1 A Song of degrees of David. Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!Psa 133:2 It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments;Psa 133:3 As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the LORD commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.Psa 134:1 A Song of degrees. Behold, bless ye the LORD, all ye servants of the LORD, which by night stand in the house of the LORD.
Blessings on Ya!
Pastor Kitner
Just a thought for today!
Luke 2:49 And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?
We like Jesus must be about our Father's business in this darkened world bring light to it any way that it is possible. A pastor that I know was telling God of his parking problem and how he just didn't have the land to make it bigger and the person, who had unused land next to them, wouldn't sell it. He was telling God that he had a problem, that he wanted God to solve. He said he was surprised to hear from God that God had a problem. He inquired as to what that might be. God said that there were people that He wanted to reach but there was no one to go to them. After much God said if you help me with my problem I will help you with yours...well long story short -- the pastor did and God did also. What's my point? The point is this: We come to God with the expectations that we have but with no concern for what He wants of us other than what we seemingly focus on in "our imediate ministry". God is trying to get the attention of the church and bring the focus back to the Father's business.
Isa 1:19 If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land:Isa 1:20 But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.
Rev 3:18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.Rev 3:19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.Rev 3:20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.
Here is the Father's Business in a nutshell.Mat 24:14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.
When this becomes the priority of the church then there will come the fresh wind of the Holy Spirit to set a blazing fire on the earth for God.
As far as God is concerned, there are only believers, not denominations, there is only one true church and that is the one that Jesus Christ himself is building. Church as we know it today is a stentch in the nostrils of God.
Psa 133:1 A Song of degrees of David. Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!Psa 133:2 It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments;Psa 133:3 As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the LORD commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.Psa 134:1 A Song of degrees. Behold, bless ye the LORD, all ye servants of the LORD, which by night stand in the house of the LORD.
Blessings on Ya!
Pastor Kitner
Just a thought for today!
Friday, January 18, 2008
Jesus is the Messiah
I borrowed this fron Rev Paul Grabill's blog site (which I have listed on this site as a link) check out the full story -- thanks Paul for finding these articles and posting them.
Pastor Kitner
A few months before he died, one of the Israel’s most prominent ultra-orthodox rabbis, Yitzhak Kaduri, supposedly wrote the name of the Messiah on a small note which he requested would remain sealed until now. When the note was unsealed, it revealed what many have known for centuries: Yehoshua, or Yeshua (Jesus), is the Messiah.
He claimed he met Jesus personally, and that Jesus said He was coming very soon.
Read it all here.
Pastor Kitner
A few months before he died, one of the Israel’s most prominent ultra-orthodox rabbis, Yitzhak Kaduri, supposedly wrote the name of the Messiah on a small note which he requested would remain sealed until now. When the note was unsealed, it revealed what many have known for centuries: Yehoshua, or Yeshua (Jesus), is the Messiah.
He claimed he met Jesus personally, and that Jesus said He was coming very soon.
Read it all here.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Planned Parenthood is at it again.
by Tony Perkins
The infamous San Francisco branch of Planned Parenthood is at it again. In recent history, they have used taxpayer dollars to produce television ads which mock Christianity and belittle families. These ads demonstrate which side is guilty of judging others and demonizing their opponents.
The latest ads from Planned Parenthood Golden Gate are no different. One ad features an extremely effete and ostensibly homosexual man prancing up and down the aisles of an airplane making sure that the passengers have all the condoms and contraceptives they need, 'cause we're all about choices.' Planned Parenthood receives millions of taxpayer dollars every year to advance an agenda that is anathema to social conservatives and this is how they decide to spend your money! We need to stop publicly subsidizing such partisan and ludicrous advertisements.
Thankfully, Rep. Mike Pence (R-Ind.) is standing up for the American taxpaying family. Rep. Pence has introduced H.R. 4133, which will prohibit any organization that promotes or practices abortions from receiving federal funds, including Planned Parenthood.
(Tony Perkins is the president of the Family Research Council in Washington, D.C.)
The infamous San Francisco branch of Planned Parenthood is at it again. In recent history, they have used taxpayer dollars to produce television ads which mock Christianity and belittle families. These ads demonstrate which side is guilty of judging others and demonizing their opponents.
The latest ads from Planned Parenthood Golden Gate are no different. One ad features an extremely effete and ostensibly homosexual man prancing up and down the aisles of an airplane making sure that the passengers have all the condoms and contraceptives they need, 'cause we're all about choices.' Planned Parenthood receives millions of taxpayer dollars every year to advance an agenda that is anathema to social conservatives and this is how they decide to spend your money! We need to stop publicly subsidizing such partisan and ludicrous advertisements.
Thankfully, Rep. Mike Pence (R-Ind.) is standing up for the American taxpaying family. Rep. Pence has introduced H.R. 4133, which will prohibit any organization that promotes or practices abortions from receiving federal funds, including Planned Parenthood.
(Tony Perkins is the president of the Family Research Council in Washington, D.C.)
God has Expectations!
In the week prior to this one we had a time of prayer and fasting for the entire church to participate in for God's direction, for individuals and the corporate body for 2008. I will ask this week via the bulletin for people to give me feed back on their time spent with the Lord. To find out what God is speaking to the people about.
As the pastor of First Assembly of God here in Blairsville Pa., I have been impressed of the Lord to search the scriptures in the coming year for the expectations of God for the believer. At times when we approach God we bring our list of directives for Him and then go on our merry way with our expectations of Him but the question comes to my mind -- Do we bother to find out what God's expectations are from or for me? For instance in the following scripture we see that we can eat the best of the land and desire that...however there are some expectations from God to us to get to the promise and we must not forget that.
Isaiah 1:19 - 20 (NIV) 19 If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the best from the land; 20 but if you resist and rebel, you will be devoured by the sword.” For the mouth of the LORD has spoken.
We find that the blessing comes from being willing and obedient -- that is what God expects.
If we resist and rebel we should not expect the blessing from God.
As the pastor of First Assembly of God here in Blairsville Pa., I have been impressed of the Lord to search the scriptures in the coming year for the expectations of God for the believer. At times when we approach God we bring our list of directives for Him and then go on our merry way with our expectations of Him but the question comes to my mind -- Do we bother to find out what God's expectations are from or for me? For instance in the following scripture we see that we can eat the best of the land and desire that...however there are some expectations from God to us to get to the promise and we must not forget that.
Isaiah 1:19 - 20 (NIV) 19 If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the best from the land; 20 but if you resist and rebel, you will be devoured by the sword.” For the mouth of the LORD has spoken.
We find that the blessing comes from being willing and obedient -- that is what God expects.
If we resist and rebel we should not expect the blessing from God.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Nothing Doubting
Heb 11:5 By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.Heb 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
James 1:5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.James 1:6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.James 1:7 For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.James 1:8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.
I want to encourage you to be steadfast in your faith unmovable and doubting nothing. From the above scriptures we can see that God expects us to come with expectation to Him. Even in those thing we don't understand that come to try our faith.
In the middle of those things we need to ask God for wisdom. Especially in the trying of our faith. Then do not doubt that God will give it to you. We are called believers not doubters in the Lord Jesus Christ.
God shows us that in the time of our testing, that works patience, that where we lack understanding He will give us understanding if we will seek His wisdom. God, it says, will give it to us liberally or bountifly. God also will not like some humans I know, make you feel like a dummy for asking. That being said a lot of Christians don't know it when the wisdom of God comes to them and I hear it all the time. So how are we to understand when God's wisdom comes? Look at James 3:17-18 and also search out the Proverbs for some other insight into wisdom that comes from above. James says: James 3:17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.James 3:18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.
God is not double minded or double tounged. Jesus says it this way.
Mark 11:22 And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God.Mark 11:23 For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.Mark 11:24 Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.
What I am sensing in the begining of this year is that God is calling His church to a higher level of faith and I know that He wants the church to trust Him more than it has been doing.There is an awesome work to be accomplished for the kingdom of God in this coming year but it can only be accomplished as we believe God - nothing doubting. The harvest is ripe unto harvest - pray ye therefore the Lord of the Harvest to send laborers into this already whitened harvest field.
Blessings on Ya!
Pastor Kitner
James 1:5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.James 1:6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.James 1:7 For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.James 1:8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.
I want to encourage you to be steadfast in your faith unmovable and doubting nothing. From the above scriptures we can see that God expects us to come with expectation to Him. Even in those thing we don't understand that come to try our faith.
In the middle of those things we need to ask God for wisdom. Especially in the trying of our faith. Then do not doubt that God will give it to you. We are called believers not doubters in the Lord Jesus Christ.
God shows us that in the time of our testing, that works patience, that where we lack understanding He will give us understanding if we will seek His wisdom. God, it says, will give it to us liberally or bountifly. God also will not like some humans I know, make you feel like a dummy for asking. That being said a lot of Christians don't know it when the wisdom of God comes to them and I hear it all the time. So how are we to understand when God's wisdom comes? Look at James 3:17-18 and also search out the Proverbs for some other insight into wisdom that comes from above. James says: James 3:17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.James 3:18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.
God is not double minded or double tounged. Jesus says it this way.
Mark 11:22 And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God.Mark 11:23 For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.Mark 11:24 Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.
What I am sensing in the begining of this year is that God is calling His church to a higher level of faith and I know that He wants the church to trust Him more than it has been doing.There is an awesome work to be accomplished for the kingdom of God in this coming year but it can only be accomplished as we believe God - nothing doubting. The harvest is ripe unto harvest - pray ye therefore the Lord of the Harvest to send laborers into this already whitened harvest field.
Blessings on Ya!
Pastor Kitner
IT WAS JUST A SIMPLE INVITATION to PRAY
IT WAS JUST a SIMPLE INVITATION to PRAY
It was just a simple invitation to pray that led a small group of people in 1898 to meet on Saturday evenings from 9 to 10 for prayer. They met at the Moody Bible Institute in Chicago to cry out for an awakening. Within a short time, the group grew to 300 passionate intercessors. A few members remained to agonizeand intercede into the early hours one Sunday morning. R. A. Torrey joined this small group to pray for a worldwide revival. During that intense intercession, Torrey asked God to send him around the world. Within a week of the close of the prayer meeting, two strangers approached Torrey and asked him to come to Melbourne, Australia to preach. These two men had left Australia months before in search of a man that they believed God would use to bring revival to their nation. Upon meeting Torrey, they felt they had found God's man. The result of that Chicago prayer meeting was an invitation for Torrey to come to Australia. Torrey arrived in Australia in 1902. 15,000 tried to pack themselves into the meeting hall. It is estimated that Torrey and his partner Alexander led over 100,000 souls into the Kingdom of God. All this had its beginning in Chicago with a small group of people praying, "Revive thy work, Oh Lord!" May God raise up such prayer warriors in our day who will daily cry out, " REVIVE THY WORK, OH LORD!"
-SOURCE: Michael Edds.
It was just a simple invitation to pray that led a small group of people in 1898 to meet on Saturday evenings from 9 to 10 for prayer. They met at the Moody Bible Institute in Chicago to cry out for an awakening. Within a short time, the group grew to 300 passionate intercessors. A few members remained to agonizeand intercede into the early hours one Sunday morning. R. A. Torrey joined this small group to pray for a worldwide revival. During that intense intercession, Torrey asked God to send him around the world. Within a week of the close of the prayer meeting, two strangers approached Torrey and asked him to come to Melbourne, Australia to preach. These two men had left Australia months before in search of a man that they believed God would use to bring revival to their nation. Upon meeting Torrey, they felt they had found God's man. The result of that Chicago prayer meeting was an invitation for Torrey to come to Australia. Torrey arrived in Australia in 1902. 15,000 tried to pack themselves into the meeting hall. It is estimated that Torrey and his partner Alexander led over 100,000 souls into the Kingdom of God. All this had its beginning in Chicago with a small group of people praying, "Revive thy work, Oh Lord!" May God raise up such prayer warriors in our day who will daily cry out, " REVIVE THY WORK, OH LORD!"
-SOURCE: Michael Edds.
Here is a website for you to check out. I found it interesting. What do you think?
http://www.revivalschool.com/
http://www.revivalschool.com/
Friday, January 11, 2008
It's a Way of Life, Not a Service to Attend
It's a Way of Life, Not a Service to Attend
I often say that we need to get the focus off of the structure of our church gatherings or who our leaders are or what movement we are part of and onto the lifestyle that we, who are organically connected to the Vine-Jesus, are meant and empowered to live.
Our church-gatherings are meant to support believers who are fully released into the life of intimacy with Jesus, listening to Jesus, following the adventurous Jesus, and laying down their lives for His life and purposes. When these types of believers gather, wherever and however, life will happen. When these types of believers go, life will be imparted.
I love the way Tom Wymore speaks of this dynamic lifestyle and reminds us of Jesus’ tendency to be a "sinner magnet."
I was headed to Luke 15, the story of the Lost Son, because Papa had been speaking to me about how to avoid becoming like the older brother. I was arrested by the Holy Spirit, however, as I read the first two verses of the chapter. I have always known that Jesus was called "the friend of sinners" and was truly a "sinner" magnet, but somehow the contrast between Him and how Christians are perceived by pre-Christians today became more real today than ever before.
Luke 15:1-2 says, "Now the tax collectors and "sinners" were all gathering around to hear him. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, "This man welcomes sinners and eats with them." (NIV) As I read these two lines this morning I was struck by how completely different Christians have generally become from Jesus! When was the last time we heard of "sinners" constantly gathering around a Christian to listen to him/her? I live in Colorado Springs, a city so badly divided between churched and unchurched people that it's best not to pray over a meal in a restaurant with your head bowed and where some of the more popular bumper sticker is "Focus on your own d_ _ _ family!" or a fish symbol with "sushi" for the letters, etc. How ironic that the city with the highest percentage of churched people in Colorado is also the city known among unbelievers as a bad place to live!
So what happened? I find myself often asking Jesus, "How did those whom you love so much, over whom you and your angels rejoice when they return to you more than over us, become my enemy? The answer, of course, lies somewhere in the terrible definition that the "church" has given to what it means to be a Christ follower. If being a follower of Jesus means that we merely join a club and take sides, then of course there are those who are "in" and those who are "out." But if to follow Jesus means that we are joined in intimacy with Him and His heart, then we will also become sinner magnets, exuding His love, presence and power so consistently and powerfully that people who don't know Him will want to hang around us.
Blessings on Ya! Pastor Kitner
I often say that we need to get the focus off of the structure of our church gatherings or who our leaders are or what movement we are part of and onto the lifestyle that we, who are organically connected to the Vine-Jesus, are meant and empowered to live.
Our church-gatherings are meant to support believers who are fully released into the life of intimacy with Jesus, listening to Jesus, following the adventurous Jesus, and laying down their lives for His life and purposes. When these types of believers gather, wherever and however, life will happen. When these types of believers go, life will be imparted.
I love the way Tom Wymore speaks of this dynamic lifestyle and reminds us of Jesus’ tendency to be a "sinner magnet."
I was headed to Luke 15, the story of the Lost Son, because Papa had been speaking to me about how to avoid becoming like the older brother. I was arrested by the Holy Spirit, however, as I read the first two verses of the chapter. I have always known that Jesus was called "the friend of sinners" and was truly a "sinner" magnet, but somehow the contrast between Him and how Christians are perceived by pre-Christians today became more real today than ever before.
Luke 15:1-2 says, "Now the tax collectors and "sinners" were all gathering around to hear him. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, "This man welcomes sinners and eats with them." (NIV) As I read these two lines this morning I was struck by how completely different Christians have generally become from Jesus! When was the last time we heard of "sinners" constantly gathering around a Christian to listen to him/her? I live in Colorado Springs, a city so badly divided between churched and unchurched people that it's best not to pray over a meal in a restaurant with your head bowed and where some of the more popular bumper sticker is "Focus on your own d_ _ _ family!" or a fish symbol with "sushi" for the letters, etc. How ironic that the city with the highest percentage of churched people in Colorado is also the city known among unbelievers as a bad place to live!
So what happened? I find myself often asking Jesus, "How did those whom you love so much, over whom you and your angels rejoice when they return to you more than over us, become my enemy? The answer, of course, lies somewhere in the terrible definition that the "church" has given to what it means to be a Christ follower. If being a follower of Jesus means that we merely join a club and take sides, then of course there are those who are "in" and those who are "out." But if to follow Jesus means that we are joined in intimacy with Him and His heart, then we will also become sinner magnets, exuding His love, presence and power so consistently and powerfully that people who don't know Him will want to hang around us.
Blessings on Ya! Pastor Kitner
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Voice of the Martyrs offer
Request a complimentary copy of Tortured for Christ for your friends.
To view this offer online, click here.
It was the book that shocked the nation. After surviving 14 years in communist prisons, Pastor Richard Wurmbrand came to America to proclaim the trials and testimonies of our persecuted brothers and sisters.
In Tortured for Christ, Wurmbrand tells of his imprisonment for his work with the underground church and introduces the work of The Voice of the Martyrs. Forty years later, The Voice of the Martyrs remains true to its calling to be a voice for persecuted Christians, to serve with them in their time of need and to assist them in their efforts to proclaim the gospel.
We would like to extend this special opportunity for you to request a complimentary copy of Tortured for Christ for your Christian friends and family members. Help spread the message of today's persecuted church. Simply follow the link below.
» I would like to request a complimentary copy of Tortured for Christ for my friend(s).
If you would like to view a list of resources on the persecuted church and online specials from VOM, please visit www.VOMBooks.com.
This online offer is being presented by The Voice of the Martyrs. For additional information, you may contact us by clicking here or calling our order line at 800-747-0085. To view our privacy policy, click here.
To view this offer online, click here.
It was the book that shocked the nation. After surviving 14 years in communist prisons, Pastor Richard Wurmbrand came to America to proclaim the trials and testimonies of our persecuted brothers and sisters.
In Tortured for Christ, Wurmbrand tells of his imprisonment for his work with the underground church and introduces the work of The Voice of the Martyrs. Forty years later, The Voice of the Martyrs remains true to its calling to be a voice for persecuted Christians, to serve with them in their time of need and to assist them in their efforts to proclaim the gospel.
We would like to extend this special opportunity for you to request a complimentary copy of Tortured for Christ for your Christian friends and family members. Help spread the message of today's persecuted church. Simply follow the link below.
» I would like to request a complimentary copy of Tortured for Christ for my friend(s).
If you would like to view a list of resources on the persecuted church and online specials from VOM, please visit www.VOMBooks.com.
This online offer is being presented by The Voice of the Martyrs. For additional information, you may contact us by clicking here or calling our order line at 800-747-0085. To view our privacy policy, click here.
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
WHAT IS THAT IN YOUR HAND?
Sometimes we need to stop and regroup our thoughts. What we see as a disadvantage for us could just be our strength in what we are involved in either spiritual or in our job or life persuits. Check out the folowing story and be encouraged today.
WHAT IS THAT IN YOUR HAND?
"Moses answered [God], 'What if they do not believe me or listen to me and say, 'The LORD did not appear to you? 'Then the LORD said to him, 'What is that in your hand?' 'A staff,' he replied. The LORD said, 'Throw it on the ground.' Moses threw it on the ground and it became a snake, and he ran from it" (Exodus 4:1-3, NIV).
I have read how "there was a 10-year-old boy, who's leftarm was damaged and subsequently amputated. He decided to learn judo. His Sensai (teacher) was an old Chinese judo expert.
"The boy learned quickly. After three months, he had learned only one move. He asked his teacher to teach him more moves. The Sensai told him that this was all he would need.
"Soon after, the boy entered a tournament, where he quickly advanced to the finals, where his opponent was bigger and more experienced. The boy seemed very outmatched. After along match, the opponent seemed to lose concentration.Quickly, the boy took advantage and pinned what seemed to be his superior opponent.
"On the ride home, the boy asked his Sensai. 'How could I win with only one move?' The Sensai replied, 'You have nearly mastered one of the most difficult moves in all of judo. And, the only defense against that move, is for your opponent to grab your left arm.'"¹
Sometimes we don't think we have much to offer in service to God. But we all have at least "one thing in our hand."If we offer that willingly to God, he will use it for His glory. And as the writer of the above story said,"Sometimes your biggest weakness can become your greatest strength."
Author Unknown From DAILY ENCOUNTER
WHAT IS THAT IN YOUR HAND?
"Moses answered [God], 'What if they do not believe me or listen to me and say, 'The LORD did not appear to you? 'Then the LORD said to him, 'What is that in your hand?' 'A staff,' he replied. The LORD said, 'Throw it on the ground.' Moses threw it on the ground and it became a snake, and he ran from it" (Exodus 4:1-3, NIV).
I have read how "there was a 10-year-old boy, who's leftarm was damaged and subsequently amputated. He decided to learn judo. His Sensai (teacher) was an old Chinese judo expert.
"The boy learned quickly. After three months, he had learned only one move. He asked his teacher to teach him more moves. The Sensai told him that this was all he would need.
"Soon after, the boy entered a tournament, where he quickly advanced to the finals, where his opponent was bigger and more experienced. The boy seemed very outmatched. After along match, the opponent seemed to lose concentration.Quickly, the boy took advantage and pinned what seemed to be his superior opponent.
"On the ride home, the boy asked his Sensai. 'How could I win with only one move?' The Sensai replied, 'You have nearly mastered one of the most difficult moves in all of judo. And, the only defense against that move, is for your opponent to grab your left arm.'"¹
Sometimes we don't think we have much to offer in service to God. But we all have at least "one thing in our hand."If we offer that willingly to God, he will use it for His glory. And as the writer of the above story said,"Sometimes your biggest weakness can become your greatest strength."
Author Unknown From DAILY ENCOUNTER
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Are You Agressive?
Gleenings from My Garden:
Mat 5:6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.
I was reminded of this verse of scripture as I sat in my garden area this summer and watched the birds. There were two baby birds with their momma and they were squaking away with their beaks wide open and their heads turned up.They were anxiously wanting fed. One was a little more boisterious than the other as the momma bird was getting pieces of bread from the pieces I had thrown down for the many birds that came each morning. Of the two babies the one was more agressive than the other and squaked louder and longer than the other baby bird did. The momma would pick up pieces of the bread and the agressive squaker with its beak wide open and squaking loudly, would stick it's face right up in the momma's mouth where the food was, anxiously waiting for the expected feeding to take place, and it did.
If the people of God would be so hungry and agressive with God, what great benefit would come to them. God is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him. If we would draw near to Him He will draw near to us. If we want what He has for us we can agressively go after it to receive it from Him. What are our expectations?
In our scripture we see that it is the ones who have an urgency about getting their hunger satisfied that will be filled. Stick your face right up in His face with expectation.
Others have the same offer given unto them and may even sit at the same table, but it is the agressive ones that get filled.
Mat 5:6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.
I was reminded of this verse of scripture as I sat in my garden area this summer and watched the birds. There were two baby birds with their momma and they were squaking away with their beaks wide open and their heads turned up.They were anxiously wanting fed. One was a little more boisterious than the other as the momma bird was getting pieces of bread from the pieces I had thrown down for the many birds that came each morning. Of the two babies the one was more agressive than the other and squaked louder and longer than the other baby bird did. The momma would pick up pieces of the bread and the agressive squaker with its beak wide open and squaking loudly, would stick it's face right up in the momma's mouth where the food was, anxiously waiting for the expected feeding to take place, and it did.
If the people of God would be so hungry and agressive with God, what great benefit would come to them. God is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him. If we would draw near to Him He will draw near to us. If we want what He has for us we can agressively go after it to receive it from Him. What are our expectations?
In our scripture we see that it is the ones who have an urgency about getting their hunger satisfied that will be filled. Stick your face right up in His face with expectation.
Others have the same offer given unto them and may even sit at the same table, but it is the agressive ones that get filled.
It's a Way of Life, Not a Service to Attend
I received this from Chuck King and thought I'd pass it along at my Blog Spot to you.
It's a Way of Life, Not a Service to Attend
I often say that we need to get the focus off of the structure of our church gatherings or who our leaders are or what movement we are part of and onto the lifestyle that we, who are organically connected to the Vine-Jesus, are meant and empowered to live.
Our church-gatherings are meant to support believers who are fully released into the life of intimacy with Jesus, listening to Jesus, following the adventurous Jesus, and laying down their lives for His life and purposes. When these types of believers gather, wherever and however, life will happen. When these types of believers go, life will be imparted.
I love the way Tom Wymore speaks of this dynamic lifestyle and reminds us of Jesus’ tendency to be a “sinner magnet.”
I was headed to Luke 15, the story of the Lost Son, because Papa had been speaking to me about how to avoid becoming like the older brother. I was arrested by the Holy Spirit, however, as I read the first two verses of the chapter. I have always known that Jesus was called "the friend of sinners" and was truly a "sinner" magnet, but somehow the contrast between Him and how Christians are perceived by pre-Christians today became more real today than ever before.
Luke 15:1-2 says, "Now the tax collectors and “sinners” were all gathering around to hear him. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” (NIV) As I read these two lines this morning I was struck by how completely different Christians have generally become from Jesus! When was the last time we heard of "sinners" constantly gathering around a Christian to listen to him/her? I live in Colorado Springs, a city so badly divided between churched and unchurched people that it's best not to pray over a meal in a restaurant with your head bowed and where some of the more popular bumper sticker is "Focus on your own d_ _ _ family!" or a fish symbol with "sushi" for the letters, etc. How ironic that the city with the highest percentage of churched people in Colorado is also the city known among unbelievers as a bad place to live!
So what happened? I find myself often asking Jesus, "How did those whom you love so much, over whom you and your angels rejoice when they return to you more than over us, become my enemy? The answer, of course, lies somewhere in the terrible definition that the "church" has given to what it means to be a Christ follower. If being a follower of Jesus means that we merely join a club and take sides, then of course there are those who are "in" and those who are "out." But if to follow Jesus means that we are joined in intimacy with Him and His heart, then we will also become sinner magnets, exuding His love, presence and power so consistently and powerfully that people who don't know Him will want to hang around us.
It's a Way of Life, Not a Service to Attend
I often say that we need to get the focus off of the structure of our church gatherings or who our leaders are or what movement we are part of and onto the lifestyle that we, who are organically connected to the Vine-Jesus, are meant and empowered to live.
Our church-gatherings are meant to support believers who are fully released into the life of intimacy with Jesus, listening to Jesus, following the adventurous Jesus, and laying down their lives for His life and purposes. When these types of believers gather, wherever and however, life will happen. When these types of believers go, life will be imparted.
I love the way Tom Wymore speaks of this dynamic lifestyle and reminds us of Jesus’ tendency to be a “sinner magnet.”
I was headed to Luke 15, the story of the Lost Son, because Papa had been speaking to me about how to avoid becoming like the older brother. I was arrested by the Holy Spirit, however, as I read the first two verses of the chapter. I have always known that Jesus was called "the friend of sinners" and was truly a "sinner" magnet, but somehow the contrast between Him and how Christians are perceived by pre-Christians today became more real today than ever before.
Luke 15:1-2 says, "Now the tax collectors and “sinners” were all gathering around to hear him. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” (NIV) As I read these two lines this morning I was struck by how completely different Christians have generally become from Jesus! When was the last time we heard of "sinners" constantly gathering around a Christian to listen to him/her? I live in Colorado Springs, a city so badly divided between churched and unchurched people that it's best not to pray over a meal in a restaurant with your head bowed and where some of the more popular bumper sticker is "Focus on your own d_ _ _ family!" or a fish symbol with "sushi" for the letters, etc. How ironic that the city with the highest percentage of churched people in Colorado is also the city known among unbelievers as a bad place to live!
So what happened? I find myself often asking Jesus, "How did those whom you love so much, over whom you and your angels rejoice when they return to you more than over us, become my enemy? The answer, of course, lies somewhere in the terrible definition that the "church" has given to what it means to be a Christ follower. If being a follower of Jesus means that we merely join a club and take sides, then of course there are those who are "in" and those who are "out." But if to follow Jesus means that we are joined in intimacy with Him and His heart, then we will also become sinner magnets, exuding His love, presence and power so consistently and powerfully that people who don't know Him will want to hang around us.
Monday, January 7, 2008
Thought for Today
As we come into the begining of the new year a look at God is a must so we can stay focused on the truth that is to be conveyed all year. Here is a look at 7 things about the heart of God and His provision for us.
I. God's desire:
As we look at the God of all creation we find that He has a desire for mankind.
2 Pet 3:8 But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.2 Pet 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
God's desire for mankind is that we would come to repentence and come back to Him.
II. God's motive:
Reseach into the Word of God reveals God's motive for bringing His revelation and salvation to His creation man.
John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.John 3:17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
God's motive is LOVE. Pure love not conditioned by our love for Him or works that we have done to merit any favor with Him.
III. God's timing:
Man sometimes thinks God is uncaring and even late with a solution for the "things" of life 101. However a look at God's Word shows that God is right on time with all we have need of.
Gal 4:4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,Gal 4:5 To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.Gal 4:6 And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.God's timing is like the birthing time of a pregnant woman who is ready to deliver in the alloted days of the pregnancy....In the fulness of time....God's timing -- when everything was just right He sent forth the His only begotten Son made of a woman made under the law.
IV. God's woman
See Luke 1:26 -37 and Matthew 1:18
Isaiah 7:14 shows us that Jesus -- Emmanuel -- God with us was to be born of a virgin and so it was with Jesus as shown in the New Testament account of His birth.
Mat 1:18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.Mat 1:19 Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily.Mat 1:20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.Mat 1:21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.Mat 1:22 Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying,Mat 1:23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.Mat 1:24 Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife:Mat 1:25 And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS.
God's woman, hand picked by Him. She was willing to submit to the will of God and endure anything else that came her way, as a result of her obedience.
V. God's man
See verse 19-24
Joseph willing to endure finger pointing and whispers of idle, tongue waggers was open to and obedient to the Lord and His will in their lives. It takes God's man to endure for truths sake above all that comes his way. Joseph was obedient to the heavenly vision.
VI. God's plan
God's plan was in His desire for man that He, because of His pure love, for His special creation, would in his perfect time send forth His only begotten Son. Made of a woman -- God's woman joined together with God's man to introduce through the virgin birth, Jesus the saviour. God's great plan then is fulfilled in.....the fulness of time.
VII. God's Son
He shall save his people from their sins. He was born into this world out of God's love and through Him only can we know that Love. He was born to die so that all who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ should not perrish but have everlasting life...It is only through Jesus that we can come to God..
John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
Read John 14: 1-6
Receive God's great gift for eternity.
By Pastor Charles Kitner
I. God's desire:
As we look at the God of all creation we find that He has a desire for mankind.
2 Pet 3:8 But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.2 Pet 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
God's desire for mankind is that we would come to repentence and come back to Him.
II. God's motive:
Reseach into the Word of God reveals God's motive for bringing His revelation and salvation to His creation man.
John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.John 3:17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
God's motive is LOVE. Pure love not conditioned by our love for Him or works that we have done to merit any favor with Him.
III. God's timing:
Man sometimes thinks God is uncaring and even late with a solution for the "things" of life 101. However a look at God's Word shows that God is right on time with all we have need of.
Gal 4:4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,Gal 4:5 To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.Gal 4:6 And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.God's timing is like the birthing time of a pregnant woman who is ready to deliver in the alloted days of the pregnancy....In the fulness of time....God's timing -- when everything was just right He sent forth the His only begotten Son made of a woman made under the law.
IV. God's woman
See Luke 1:26 -37 and Matthew 1:18
Isaiah 7:14 shows us that Jesus -- Emmanuel -- God with us was to be born of a virgin and so it was with Jesus as shown in the New Testament account of His birth.
Mat 1:18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.Mat 1:19 Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily.Mat 1:20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.Mat 1:21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.Mat 1:22 Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying,Mat 1:23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.Mat 1:24 Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife:Mat 1:25 And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS.
God's woman, hand picked by Him. She was willing to submit to the will of God and endure anything else that came her way, as a result of her obedience.
V. God's man
See verse 19-24
Joseph willing to endure finger pointing and whispers of idle, tongue waggers was open to and obedient to the Lord and His will in their lives. It takes God's man to endure for truths sake above all that comes his way. Joseph was obedient to the heavenly vision.
VI. God's plan
God's plan was in His desire for man that He, because of His pure love, for His special creation, would in his perfect time send forth His only begotten Son. Made of a woman -- God's woman joined together with God's man to introduce through the virgin birth, Jesus the saviour. God's great plan then is fulfilled in.....the fulness of time.
VII. God's Son
He shall save his people from their sins. He was born into this world out of God's love and through Him only can we know that Love. He was born to die so that all who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ should not perrish but have everlasting life...It is only through Jesus that we can come to God..
John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
Read John 14: 1-6
Receive God's great gift for eternity.
By Pastor Charles Kitner
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