BLOG Polity & Practice

#1 - January 4, 2010

Happy New Year

This is the first of what I have planned as 52 posts at this site. To get us off to a good start I am posting this material with the intent that it serve as credible guidelines for our deliberations. It is my thesis that there is far too much polemic discussion and not enough exegesis. For example, what is a credible and accurate resolution for these two passages of Scripture:

And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. (Mark 11:25) ESV.

Pay attention to yourselves! If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him, and if he sins against you seven times in the day, and turns to you seven times, saying, 'I repent,' you must forgive him (Luke 17:3-4) ESV.

These two passages APPEAR to say that forgiveness is unconditional (Mark 11:25) and conditional (Luke 17:3-4). Which is it? The way we resolves such issues is a powerful commentary about our spiritual maturity and faith. I propose the following as one profile for resolution. This is the kind of exegetical protocol I believe we MUST bring to the table if we are to be credible, honorable, effective theologians and servants of the LORD Christ. I pray that we will apply this method through the course of our deliberation here in 2010. There are a multitude of ratty and thorny issues we need to address. Should be challenging, beneficial and just plain fun. Engage the Truth - honor Christ. For additional challenges in this realm follow this link http://www.crosswalk.com/spirituallife/11536806/

Anyone who engages theological discourse in any Public Forum has been excoriated, abused or just plain trashed. Who perpetrates this abuse? The minions of Satan? The atheist that abound? The 'lunatic fringe'? None of the above.

Tragically it is often other professed believers who would also wish to be considered capable Christian Scholars. How sad. I address this topic with the motive and purpose of launching a MOVEMENT.

What will this require? Nothing more or less than 'Life in Community'.

Accountability is - - each one helping the other keep the commitments they have made to GOD on the basis of loving relationships.

Believers have a commitment to the NEW COVENANT. That covenant contains a very explicit communication protocol. When I write something that violates this covenant, you, ALL of you, bring that to my attention with precision and a call to repentance. You cite the error (sin) that I am guilty of and call me to confess and repent. It is a violation of our union with Christ to merely shrug and say - - "Oh, that is just Tom". Not acceptable. People who engage in ad-hominem attacks, shoddy scholarship and just plain ineptitude do so because the 'body' remains silent. This kind of abusive communication is the "Funny Uncle" in our living room. No more! Expose him and shine the light of Truth on his abominable abusive behavior.

Here are some characteristics I propose. These are the bare minimum that must shape acceptable communication that honors Christ and promotes open and honest consideration of the text of Scripture and the application of that text to life - Applied Theology.

1. Logical non-contradiction. (God is not schizophrenic and neither is His revelation of Himself).

2. Empirical Adequacy (exegetical substance/accuracy that supports the thesis I am promoting).

3. Existential Viability (what we are deliberating really matters in the real world).

4. Humility (if it is demonstrated that I am in error, I submit graciously to the Truth and modify my position to harmonize with Truth).

5. Civility (if we cannot agree on a position that is clearly preferable to others, we accept the impass and do not engage in immature and unkind exchanges).

6. Contact with the Principal (I address the issue with the primary participants, not through a circuitous collection of others to whom I disparage the other Principal in that exchange).

7. Collaborative Consultation (Both parties are receptive to the larger Christian Community and are willing to consider their contribution to the issue being deliberated).

8. Historic Orthodoxy (I acknowledge the historic perspective embraced through the centuries of church and draw effectively on the fruit of that history).

9. Exegesis not Polemics (Most exchanges are heavy on polemics and light on exegetical substance. The issue is 'what does the text say?').

I am praying earnestly that this profile becomes an operative and beneficial addition to understanding and applying Truth to life - - A MOVEMENT. Join this effort. Hold one another accountable. Remember Joshua & Caleb (Num. 14:36-38). They were true Leaders. The other ten were impostors. Together we can do this. God is honored by this endeavor and He will bring it to pass!

I close this post with the exhortation of Paul to Timothy. These words capture the heart of this process. If applied, Truth will reign supreme, God will be honored and we as His servants will benefit.

Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, and they may escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will. (2 Tim. 2:23-26; ESV).

Resources:

Exegetical Fallacies, D. A. Carson

Integrative Theology, Gordon R. Lewis & Bruce A. Demarest

The Unexamined BLOG

I’m sure you’ve read this quote before: “The unexamined life is not worth living.” Socrates said that at his trial for heresy. He was on trial for encouraging his students to challenge the accepted beliefs of the time and think for themselves. The sentence was death but Socrates had the option of suggesting an alternative punishment. He could have chosen life in prison or exile, and would likely have avoided death.

But Socrates believed that these alternatives would rob him of the only thing that made life useful: Examining the world around him and discussing how to make the world a better place. Without his “examined life” there was no point in living. So he suggested that Athens reward him for his service to society. The result, of course, is that they had no alternative and were forced to vote for a punishment of death.

There are a few investments that always pay significant dividends. One of those for me has been to utilize the last week of the year for evaluation. What did I do that was fruitful and effective? What did I do that was a bust? Where should I invest my time and energies in the new year? This BLOG is one area that I believe has significant potential.

Let me be quick to add that I do not believe my reward will be death as it was for Socrates. Some may desire that I die, but, they do not exercise fiat autonomy to execute that sentence so I will press on!

My life focus has been and is the Reformation & Renewal of the Evangelical Church in America. My focus will be toward accomplishing that objective. Only God can do this. However, He has chosen to use means. He has graciously permitted sinful mortals to participate in this glorious reality called "The Church". She is the Bride of Christ. He blesses efforts to adorn and beautify this Bride. I consider this a holy and honorable focus in which one may invest life's resources. So, we will do just that.

My profile will be to publish a weekly article on the Evangelical Church. Each article will feature an issue that I believe needs modification and/or correction for the church to be healthy and effective. In that same post I will include an antidote for that issue. My desire is that this BLOG not become a simple rant, always citing what is wrong but never offering any solutions. However, it is also true that if the issues are not defined and addressed, the slide into the abyss will continue. That statement is not hyperbole. Consult the work of David Olson www.theamericanchurch.org for a wealth of data that substantiates this thesis - - we are in a tailspin.

Finally, I quote from the work of Gary Johnson and Reginald Gleason, Reforming or Conforming:

The first priority of the church is not mission but confession. Any emphasis on being missional that is not already clear on what it means to be confessional will misrepresent the person and work of Christ and hinder the work of the church (p.235)

I plan to post this data each Monday. My prayer is that as you read these fifty-two posts on the church in 2010 that the insights offered are beneficial, exalt Christ and equip Shepherds (Andy Stanley not withstanding) to lead courageously and effectively. “ecclesia reformata, semper reformanda.” The church reformed and always reforming.

In Grace,
tcf
IgniteUS, Inc.
www.igniteus.net
info@igniteus.net
803 776 5282

Exegesis and Polemics

Recently the Evangelical world was rocked by the publication of the Manhattan Declaration http://manhattandeclaration.org/. The responses ranged from white hot affirmation to "what a crock". In recent years there also appeared a similar document titled The Evangelical Manifesto. The response to that publication was similar.

The focus of this post is not the examination of either of these documents. It is my purpose to address the methodology of such endeavors. We have become 'giants' in the realm of Polemics and 'midgets' in the realm of Exegesis. The former depends on eloquence and well crafted argumentation to achieve 'victory'. The latter depends on the accurate and precise exegesis of the special revelation God has graciously given and preserved for our well-being and walk of obedience. The former is transitory and fleeting. The latter is eternal and lasting.

The first and primary evidentiary case in Polemics is "Who signed it?" If a significant collection of "Evangelical Luminaries" have signed on, then it must be orthodox, accurate and binding upon the conscience and conduct of all Evangelicals. Right? WRONG!

The first and primary evidentiary case in Exegesis is,'does my conclusion(s) constitute agreement with the text of Scripture'? If it does, then it matters not whether the "Luminaries" agree.

I am well aware that exegesis is tedious, time consuming and difficult. This task cannot be engaged by the casual Apologist. It is for those who have invested years of preparation and study. It is for the diligent. It is for the plodder not the 'flash in the pan' participant.

The Reformation was birthed and continues to exist on the labors of serious exegetes. The fruit of that historical movement continues to this very day. My appeal is that we return to this profile. It matters not who signed on. It matters for all eternity whether or not my postulates and conclusions are "rooted and grounded" (Col. 1:23) in the words and their relationships in the text which give meaning to language and to our theology. This alone is the plumb line of orthodoxy and orthopraxsis.

Join me in this quest. It really does matter!

Those Who Did Not Believe

Though you already know this, I want to remind you that the Lord delivered his people out of Egypt, but later destroyed those who did not believe (Jude 5).

Who are these people today? Who are 'those who do not believe?' Scripture is timeless in its application. Jude had reference to specific people when he wrote. There are those today that would be identified as 'not believing' just as those in that first century.

The church has lost the capacity to discern and to act in the midst of such tragedy. She is not able to identify the culprits. When there is an identification, there is utterly no will to act and discipline such people. Worse, and repeatedly, the Leader with discernment who has the integrity and courage to identify those who have 'taken the way of Cain' (Jude 11) are maligned and labeled as rabble. They are set aside and denied any role in leadership of that assembly. How sad.

Truth is:

1. Revealed

2. Absolute

3. Transcendent

4. Propositional

5. Incarnate

What about the church in which you worship. Is there discernment? Is there the capacity to act with wisdom, compassion and according to sound exegesis of the text? If so, rejoice! If not, take immediate steps to begin a process of correction to this malaise. Secure a copy of Alexander Strauch's Biblical Eldership. Implement the identification, selection and affirmation of men qualified to serve in this role. Pray for them. Encourage them. Ask God to restore integrity to His church through this process.

Ultimate Authority and "Hate Crimes"

A Biblical & Exegetical Response to “Hate Crimes Legislation”

Purpose: This document is by design a statement of Covenant Obedience. Orthodox Christian Theism regards Scripture, The Bible (66 Books), as the Supreme Authority. This Authority is transcendent and universal, applying in every geographic locale and every culture (Ps. 47). The Bible is the final arbiter of faith and conduct (1 Tim. 3:16; Heb. 4:12); cf. the Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy, 1978, http://www.bible-researcher.com/chicago1.html . When there is conflict between Civil authority and the clear expressions of Scripture, Christians will honor Christ and obey Him (Acts 4:18-20). This posture has been the testimony of believers throughout history (Stephen, Acts 7; Paul, 2 Cor. 6; various unnamed saints, Heb. 11:35-38).

Context: Recent legislative initiatives in Washington D.C. (H.B. 1913) and at the United Nations have identified the clear declarations of Scripture as “Hate Speech”. Jesus Christ stated without ambiguity or apology that he came to ‘testify to the Truth’ (John 18:37). In that statement he also states that all who embrace this Truth ‘listen’ (πᾶς ὁ ὢν ἐκ τῆς ἀληθείας ἀκούει μου τῆς φωνῆς.) to him.

Thesis: Applying the assumptions stated above, it is not ‘hate’, but the purest form of love and compassion, to declare with uncompromised consistency the propositional statements of Scripture. This applies to all moral and social issues as addressed by the text of Scripture. God, not civil magistrates, determines what is sin. History is populated by humble and courageous people who understood and lived according to this proposition.

Therefore, when conduct and lifestyles are characterized as sinful by Scripture, Christians are obligated by their Covenant relationship to Jesus Christ as LORD to declare this with compassion and in love to those persons practicing such aberrant and sinful behavior. This is not done out of hate, but love. The consequences of such behavior are horrific and eternal (Rom. 1:26-32; 1 Cor. 6:9-10; Rev. 21:6-8).

Conclusion: Persons who have surrendered to the Lordship of Jesus Christ are obligated by that Covenant relationship to honor Him above all other authorities. Christians desire to live peacefully and strive to be good citizens of whatever country in which they may reside. However, when civil authority adopts legislation, postulates or laws, that are in conflict with God’s Law, we must obey God. We rely upon our God as the Sovereign of the universe to accomplish his purpose through our obedience.

We say with Martin Luther at the Diet of Worms, “We cannot do otherwise. Here we stand. God help us! Amen”


(The following links take the reader to data on the Hate Crimes Initiatives.)

http://caymanpei.blogspot.com/2009/10/un-resolution-to-outlaw-hate-speech.html

http://www.religioustolerance.org/hom_hat37.htm

Truth - Trends & Tenacity

I recently participated in a poll posted by CT. The question being addressed focused on reaching a particular segment of society. What should be done to reach the people in that cultural category (Young Adults)? The option that received the greatest affirmation (62%) was:

The same way you reach out to others: teach the gospel faithfully!

I have long been troubled by all the adjectival designations for church; Equestrian church (if you do not have a horse, don't bother to participate; Biker church (if you don't ride a motorcycle, don't bother to participate; Gen X church; (if you are over 21/25(?) years of age, dont' bother to participate).

Read the book of Acts, the Magna Charta of The Church. The text and historical records indicate that people from every social strata, gender, age and economic condition were embraced as they came together daily. People were received as sinners redeemed by the grace of God. They were all recognized as equal at the foot of the cross. There was no such thing as segregating the body into special interest groups.

The "Homogenous" principle is applied in the church in America because it works, pragmatism. "Aviaries of similar plumage congregate"! Applying principles of attraction that are effective is wise and prudent leadership. Building an entire ministry on the basis of segmented social groups is a defective model and a denial of the oneness God's people inherently enjoy in Chirst.

Publishers have ceased publishing titles on the Emerging Church. Why? Because it is/was a fad, a blip on the panoramic continuum of church history. Also, many of the theological foundations of that movement (Generous Orthodoxy (sic)) are hertical if not utterly apostate. The recent publication of Deep Church by Jim Belcher provides a candid look into the poverty of the major tenets of that movement. He was part of that movement for a time so he writes 'from the inside'. He proposes what he labels a Third Way. (This is not an endorsement, simply noting this work).

Another example is the House Church movement promoted by Barna & Viola. Tim Keller recently offered a helpful grid for reviewing this attempt to classify some of these movements. He identified three groups; Willow, Reconstructionist and Traditionalist. Without question there is much that has become carved in stone that needs to be jettisoned. It is traditionalism not just tradition. Compare the recent fiasco at Coral Ridge, castigating the Pastor because he does not wear a robe or give altar calls! That is wholesome and legitimate tradition gone to seed (read my earlier post titled Polluted Polity on this battle)!

I titled this post Truth - Trends & Tenacity. It is my thesis that the most essential dynamic in the church of Jesus Christ is the exegetically accurate, passionate, compassionate and powerful declaration of the Truth. This is identified in the text as Preaching. I want to be quick to say I do not understand this to be a suited stodgy overweight and bellicose messenger shouting louder when his substance and exegesis is lacking!

I do mean the careful, accurate, sensitive in context unfolding and declaration of the Special Revelation God has graciously provided in the Bible. This tells us who he is, what he is doing, who we are and what he requires of us as his subjects. Rightly understood it is telic. We know what he is doing and that there is a glorious climax in history punctuated by the return of Jesus Christ to occupy the Throne of David for all eternity. The Word of God is authoritative, clear, necessary and sufficient. The systematic integration of this message into our lives puts us in good standing to receive His blessing and to accomplish His purpose.

If you read this and find affinity with what I have proposed, go to the link that follows and digest the substance of that article titled "Does Preaching Have A Future?" It is my settled conviction that the answer is a resounding YES. Preach the Word with tenacity.

http://www.beginningwithmoses.org/bigger/preachdj.htm

Resource:

Rest

Today is typically the "Sabbath" for Pastors. For Type A Leaders, rest is an issue that requires intentional and relentless effort. The call to "be still & know" is sadly a foreign exercise. I uderstand Sabbath to require:

1. Rest - a complete change of routine.
2. Recreation - engage those activities or not that refresh you in every conceivable manner.
3. Worship - Focused & intentional delight in the presence & person of our God.
4. Reflection - an honest and unhurried examination of all relationships; horizontal & vertical.

I do not wear a watch on Saturday. I sometimes do not even get 'dressed'. I enjoy dining on those culinary delights that I do not normally consume. I enjoy simple conversation with my wife on a whole variety of topics. I pray. I read the Bible (now on my Blackberry in multiple translations). I call friends that I can laugh with. I watch a squirrel try to drink from our pool without falling in.

Sabbath Rest. Fasting. Silence. Solitude. These are just a few of the Spiritual Disciplines that for me require focused intentional effort. So, how are YOU measuring up on this delightful piece of wisdom our God calls us to?

Now for my green recliner and a good nap. Now that is one fine exercise!!

Polluted Polity

Introduction

Unless you are marooned on a desert island or exercising a media boycott, you have encountered the news of the attempted coup at Coral Ridge Church in Florida. A group of members opposed to the continued Pastoral Leadership of Tullian Tchividjian sought his removal. They brought in some Denominational personnel to referee the fight (let’s be honest, that is exactly what this was). They conducted this fiasco diplomatically. Each 'side' (cf. 1 Cor. 1:10-17, 3:1-4) had ten spokespersons who defended 'their' perspective. Better this than some other scenarios I have encountered.

There were a multitude of errors committed by a host of people involved in this scenario. I simply list a few. 1) Church mergers are seldom harmonious and effective initiatives - they almost always fail. 2) One of the most crucial aspects of calling a Pastor is 'fit' - - does the man fit the congregation and the congregation fit the man. That this is not the case here is obvious to the Blind Man in John 9! TT is 38, a majority of the CR Congregation is 60+. 3) Change is a process not an event. Those members with long standing participation saw their traditions being quickly jettisoned in favor of structures they absolutely oppose. Once emotional opposition is established, and it most certainly was in this case, forget rational or even exegetical solutions. It became an "us" verses "them" cat fight. There are many more issues, but this brief list reveals the struggle that almost had to ensue given the multiple failures on both sides of the equation.

Thesis

It should not be possible for a congregation to rise up and depose the Pastor simply because they are unhappy with peripheral issues (he does not wear a robe, he does not conduct 'altar calls' at the close of the service, etc.). This is nothing more than a popularity contest and it denigrates the office of Pastor, The Church and most tragically the LORD. (In a CT interview TT was asked - If you were an un-churched person reading about dissident church members trying to oust their pastor, how open would you be to seeing Christianity as the answer for your life? His response = Not very open. Francis Schaeffer once said that division inside the church gives the world the justification they're looking for not to believe.) ABSOLUTELY TRUE and how many people in South FL did not hear about this circus? There is not a single thread of exegetical substantiation for this kind of insanity. The process of democratic governance is drawn from culture not the text of Scripture.

The question then becomes - - Why is this permitted as standard practice in the majority of Evangelical churches? The answer is clear. Churches are not governed by Special Revelation. They are governed by The Constitution, The By-Laws or worse, Roberts Rules of Order! Research conducted by FOTF and H.B. London revealed that 25% of Evangelical Pastors reported that they have been 'fired' or chose to leave rather than being fired at least once (Chuck Swindoll is among this elite group of Shepherds).

Proposed Solution

1. When considering a Pastoral Position, thoroughly and with laser like precision clarify this issue and secure an absolute binding commitment codified in a document by all parties to this principle – all polity and ministry issues will be governed by the clear and precise exegesis of the text of Scripture. If the proposed action or initiative does not have support from the text of Scripture it is not carried out. If any existing documents differ with this premise they are modified to harmonize with Scripture or discarded in favor of the Word of God.

2. Determine the issue of “Fit”. Is the position you are considering a genuine Christ honoring alliance of Pastor & People, or, will you be the latest in a long line of discarded Shepherds? Unapologetic honesty on the part of all concerned is crucial in this process.

3. There is a clear and unambiguous written statement that the principle set forth in #1 above is the final arbiter in all matters. There is a well defined decision making process that is applied in all matters without apology or exception. Approval is never granted to decisions or initiatives that are in conflict with God’s Word. Votes are never taken on any matter that is clear in God’s Word.

4. Leadership is not an issue of ‘democracy’, but rather, one of gentle, courageous and prudent direction taken from the Word of God and communicated to His people; communication is clear, frequent and abundant. Affirmation is expressed by God’s people having been apprised of the mind of God on specific issues. When there is ambiguity or questions, those matters are addressed with the person or persons having the questions, not as a ‘floor fight’ which merely provides a venue for the malcontents to champion their cause.

Much more can be written on this topic but I would appreciate your response and thoughts on this vital issue of Church Polity.

Homeless

What does the term "homeless" mean to you? Do you have any idea of the daily routine of people who are homeless? No privacy. No hygene. No sense of belonging with significance. In many cases, no relationships that are shaped by trust and mutual respect. A profound absence or lack of purpose.

Today I had lunch with about 75 homeless people - both genders. One man who sat in fornt of me had his blanket folded up and he used it for a chair cushion. I imagine tonight it will protect him from the damp and chill of the night air. It is probably the closest thing he has to "a home". Another man carried an extra pair of shoes.

They received an offering. Those who chose to participate came up and put their mammon in a red bucket. No gold plated plates here. Not even any ushers to 'pass the plate". Just simple sacrifice.

Now the contrast. Yesterday I was notified of my acceptance into an area Club. This grants my wife and I privileges at area Country Clubs, Golf Courses and other fine Clubs around the country and the world when I am traveling. I come "home". I did not eat lunch today ( Mac & Cheese, Baked Chicken, Green Beans and a LARGE piece of cake). I just observed and prayed.

The difference between me and those surrounding me today is largely an issue of God's Sovereign rule and reign among the nations of the earth. I am surely not deserving. I am as wretched a sinner as those I was seated with. Home is truly a blessed place. Warmth. Stability. Space. Control.

Pray for those who are in the grip of this plight. Sure, many or most of them made choices along the way that put them in this situation. My God cares about them as I do. I will dine with them again. I will try to grasp the heart of a man whose 'home' is his blanket. Pray with me. What canwe do that matters for time and for eternity?

The Song of Moses & Continuity

Moses addressed the nation of Israel 1400 BC as they prepared to enter the land. The nation, not Moses. He DQ'd back at The Rock - - smiting it rather than speaking to it. Joshua is command to 'go with this people'. What an assignment. He knew them well. Rebels. Hard-hearted. Idol worshippers.

In Deut. 32 is recorded the Song of Moses. This morning I spoke on Deut. 32. We closed our service with an 8 minute rendition of The Song of Moses from Rev. 15. This was sung by the Brooklyn Metropolitan Tabernacle Choir. Great & Mighty is our God! Indeed.

3,400 years from Moses until today. that Hymn will also be sung in eternity. Continuity par excellance! Sing it again!! Wonderful.

PS You can go to YouTube and do a search - enter The Song of Moses. It is magnificent. It lifts the listener to lofty heights in worshipping the Sovereign of The Ages. Enjoy.

Truth - Technology - Time

We are creatures of habit. We establish routines that consume our days like a ravenous beast with an insatiable appetite. We dislike change or interruptions. Then, in His Great Mercy & Grace, God sends us what we need verses our rigid routines.

My Lap Top failed to start. I took it to a very reliable vendor who does my repair work. Dropped it off Monday morning with a promise to have it back by Tuesday noon. Would you believe Thursday about 4:30 PM? (There is more to this story - - I have to take it back next week).

During the hiatus I did some very enjoyable reading - - and thinking. Ponederous thinking. Hours with a pot of STARBUCKS and solitude. I worked in my office at home. No interruptions. No phone calls. No "I just dropped in to say - - - !

The quality and benefit of the time I invested those 4 days was quite different than the norm. I do not wish PC trouble on anyone. But, just take your Lap Top, put it in your brief case and spend two or three days reading, praying and jubilating in the magnificent presence of the One whose Face we seek. You will discover the sheer joy of finding Him there. No words are adequate but I highly recommend the endeavor. Blessings as you ponder.

PM Omniscience

This is a Short Drama (very short) 3 Acts

Act 1 - Moreen Dowd would deny with a vengance the premise that through sound exegesis an interpreter can know with certainty the meaning of a given Biblical Text. She would belch the typical Post Modern Screed that we simply cannot know authorial intent, what a given author meant when he wrote. This posture is maintained even though there is a solid corpus of interpretive princinple tested over time and affirmed by a multitude of Biblical Scholars.

Act 2 - Congressman Joe Wilson speaks two words "you lie". Suddenly MD knows what he really meant; even though all he said was "you lie". Apparently she knows this because she posssess some sort of "Fringe Media" (to quote Glenn Beck) omniscience. The Congressman is a 'racist' even though there is not a shred of evidential data to support such a claim.

Act 3 - Anyone who diagrees with MD is also a racist.

Consistency thou art a gem! For some serious scholarship on the topic of meaning and authorial intent I recommend the reader consume and apply the works of Kevin Van Hoozer; Trinity Seminary, Deerfield IL.

Is There a Meaning in This Text?

God, Scripture & Hermeneutics - First Theology

The Drama of Doctrine

Everyday Theology - How to Read Cultural Texts and Interpret Trends

Have We Lost Our Appetite?

Historical Overview - Israel had languished in Egypt for 400 years. Pharaoh had increased an already weighty burden on them. More bricks - no straw. They witnessed the miracles of the ten plagues. The last of those plagues was the death of the First Born. the "Death Angel" silently roared through the land and the first born died. Not a dog barked. There was absolutley no question as to the source of this sweeping plague of death. It was the True & Living God. He showed Himself to be God ALONE!

Exodus - Free at last. 400 years of bondage and now we are FREE! The chains of bondage are broken. We are free to worship this Great God who preserved us in and delivered us from the unrelenting grief of Egypt. The blood on the door post and lintels marked us as the people of Jehovah (cf. Ministry Magazine, www.ministrymagazine.com , Covered with blood: A better understanding of Exodus 12:7 by L. S. Baker for an interesting historical and archeological insight into the blood on the doorpost.). The Death Angel passed over us. What mercy. What Grace.

Rebellious & Thankless - In Numbers 11 Moses and Aaron face a murmuring band of rebels. The text refers to them as "rabble"; probably to gracious. They are free, Jehovah is their Cloud & Pillar. They have witnessed the destruction of the Egyptian army. They passed over on dry ground. Their complaint? No meat. They express disdain for mana and long for the fish, cucumbers, garlic, melons and onions of Egypt - - and you do not get that without a return to BONDAGE!! Stunning, absolutely stunning. They have the very Presence & Provision of Jehovah God and all they can do is whine and complain. They want the familiarity of the past (even though that includes life as slaves) rather than the liberty and joy of Jehovah's Provision & Presence.

Application - Sound familiar. The church has the Promise & Presence of the LORD - - I AM WITH YOU ALWAYS. They prefer to feast on the husks of the bankrupt culture of post-modernism. No Truth. No certainty. No Redemption. No Hope. These folks are, as the text says - rabble! Cover them with prayer. Perhaps, as the text says, (2Tim. 2:22-26) some will come to their senses.

Prayer - LORD forgive us. Cleanse us. Open our eyes that we see you High & Lifted up! Restore our appetite for Mana, the Mana of the Word of God. Make it, as Job said, more precious than our daily portion, more essential than Cheerios and Starbucks! Make it Applied Theology. Integrate Truth into the fiber of our being so that we and all we touch is Transformed for the Glory of Jesus Who is LORD!

Making Ministry a Movement

Pre-Reformation - John Wycliff

Pre- Reformation - John Huss http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GNwR6-S76ec

When the chain was put about him at the stake, he said, with a smiling countenance, "My Lord Jesus Christ was bound with a harder chain than this for my sake, and why then should I be ashamed of this rusty one?"

When the fagots were piled up to his very neck, the duke of Bavaria was so officious as to desire him to abjure. "No, (said Huss;) I never preached any doctrine of an evil tendency; and what I taught with my lips I now seal with my blood." He then said to the executioner, "You are now going to burn a goose, (Huss signifying goose in the Bohemian language:) but in a century you will have a swan which you can neither roast nor boil." If he were prophetic, he must have meant Martin Luther, who shone about a hundred years after, and who had a swan for his arms.

The Reformation - Martin Luther, John Calvin.

William Tyndale - (The house in Delft where the Bible was first translated into the language of the people is now a "Subway Sandwich Shop" with only a small plaque to signify the historical significance of that place)

Methodist - John Wesley.

George Whitfield - The Great Awakening in America

One straight forward question for my readers to consider and answer.

What are the transferable and reproducable essential factors that produced a movement of global dimensions through these leaders?

There are scores of very credible Christ honoring ministries in the USA. Their stated objectives are solid. Their doctrinal convictions parallel many or most of those individuals listed above. There are resources dedicated to their efforts. All that said, we still witness a pittance of the total impact desired and urgently needed.

I DO NOT have the answer to my own question. However, as long as I have breath and life I will pursue the equation necessary to see this MOVEMENT become a REALITY! God is God - then and now. HE alone is fully capable of doing now what he did then. Join me in praying and laboring to that end. I plead with other Leaders to give momentum to this noble and Christ honoring goal!

Divide & Conquer

9Marks, Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals, Founders Ministries, T4G, IgniteUS and a host of other very credible ministries. They all have one common denominator - they believe in the Authority of Scripture, the priority of local church and the Doctrines of Grace, Reformed Theology that is passionate about evangelism and the Great Commission. So, what is the problem? We are divided not by philosophical or theological nuance but simply a lack of focused endeavor.

Example - I attended a conference here in Columbia hosted by First Presbyterian, Pastor Sinclair Ferguson. Expository Preaching. Wonderful venue. Alistair Begg, Ligon Duncan and other very capable dedicated Christian Leaders. To a man, every person I spoke with attending this event was already persuaded of the issues being proclaimed. There did not appear to be any 'conversions' taking place, men moving away from the post-modern market driven approach to church. I corresponded with Dr. David Wells (Gordon Conwell) and author of five titles addressing this very topic. My appeal was to broaden the scope of our influence. David responded by saying that he is doing all he can. I accept his judgement but I do not see our tent being enlarged.

We do NOT need yet another organization. This is not my appeal. My appeal is that we invest serious energy and resources through the existing entities so that we DO make some 'converts', men who embrace the definition, purpose and methods of Intentional Disciple-making that produce genuine Transformation and penetrates our ragged post-modern culture to reach people currently oblivious to Truth Absolute.

We MUST petition our Great God to bring a fresh tsunami of the Authority of Scripture and Integrated or Applied Theology. People actually live 24/7 what we claim to believe concerning God's revelation of Himself.

I invite my readers to contact me on this endeavor. A cloud the size of a mans hand may become a category 5 storm that brings Grace & Truth to America! AMEN & AMEN!

Gnats & Camels

On my way to the office this morning I heard Inez Tennenbaum (Consumer Products Safety Commission) expressing an urgent appeal to remove the draw strings from hooded sweat shirts because a youngster in the state of Washington choked to death when the draw string became entangled in playground equipment. How many millions of children have worn hooded sweat shirts in the past 50 years? Do the math comparatively. Tragic to be sure. I hope we grieve at the loss of ANY life. That said, think with me here.

Since 1973 in America we have permitted the murder, the slaughter of innocents via abortion of 50 million children. Not only is there no government outcry, but, there is an attack, vicious and unrelenting, against anyone who would dare to raise their voice in opposition to this pillage of those unable to defend themselves. I weep for our land. I weep for the church that has been complicit by her silence and inactivity. We have raised a real stink about health care but we have slept through this carnage of unimaginable proportions. Shame!

I come repeatedly to Ezekeil 7. Through the Prophet the Sovereign LORD says: THE END! God had reached the outer limits of His great mercy and long-suffering with His Covenant people. I wake each morning with a fresh fire in my belly to confront the apathy and indolence in the American Church. I also wonder as I pray when God will say - THE END! Perhaps He already has and I am just not able or willing to recognize that fact.

I pray not. THANK YOU LORD for another new day. Change the way America does church before we get to THE END!! Amen!

Mis-Understood or Clearly Understood?

The ravages of post-modernism upon meaning. We live in a culture and the principles operative in that culture have a profound impact on all segments of that culture. There has been an onslaught against Absolute Truth for decades in America. The issue of 'meaning' was attacked by such academics as Wittgenstein at Ohio State (Logical Positivism) and Derrida in Europe. Their thesis was and is - - there is no such thing as knowing authorial intent, what a writer or speaker intended when they wrote or spoke. Kevin Van Hoozer tackles this thorny issue in his wonderful work titled Is There a Meaning in This Text?

Recently, Van Jones resigned as the "Green Czar" in the current administration in Wash D.C. His screed upon resignation was that "he was mis-understood". Quite the contrary, the American people DID understand exactly what he was saying and more importantly, what he meant.

Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the House of Representatives, offered the same ludicrous claim when rebuffed for some of her rants about the participation of the populace in Town Hall Meetings around the country. She called these folks "Brown Shirts". Once again, the people understand exactly what she said and what she meant.

The Bishop of the Episcopal Denomination in the USA made the claim that (let her own words make my case):

Lane Denson reminded us recently that stewards are wardens of the styes – keepers of the pigpens. We’re beginning to notice that our global garden increasingly resembles an odorous sty. But it’s not pigs who are the problem – pigs are neat and tidy if they have enough space. The problem is with their keepers, who see the pigs only as bacon and ham producing machines, rather than part of God’s good creation and therefore deserving of appropriate respect.

The crisis of this moment has several parts, and like Episcopalians, particularly ones in Mississippi, they’re all related. The overarching connection in all of these crises has to do with the great Western heresy –that we can be saved as individuals, that any of use alone can be in right relationship with God. It’s caricatured in some quarters by insisting that salvation depends on reciting a specific verbal formula about Jesus. That individualist focus is a form of idolatry, for it puts me and my words in the place that only God can occupy, at the center of existence, as the ground of all being. That heresy is one reason for the theme of this Convention.

This post is not about Politics. This post is not about the current Episcopalian skid (their National Membership is falling like a rock). This post is about words and their relationships giving meaning to language, a meaning that any clear thinking person is capable of discerning and understanding with absolute clarity.

Go to You Tube. Search for the multiple video postings there of Van Jones. Watch and listen. Based on what he says in those postings he is correctly characterized as a Leftist, a Racist, a Socialist, a Radical, and probably an out and out Communist. He is promoting the redistribution of wealth - - taking from those who have and giving to those who do not. That is brutally clear. Mr. Jones you were not mis-understood. We understand exactly what you said and exactly what you mean.

Read the quote above. There is little or no room for nuanced meanings. She said what she meant and meant what she said. Case closed.

Application - Words and their relationships give meaning to language. God said what He meant and meant (means) what He says. The Bible is clear, unambiguous and may be read and understood by those who read it, in spite of Derrida, Wittgenstein, Jones, Pelosi and Schori.

That my good friend is Good News and that is precisely what I mean to say!!

Learning to Listen

The WORD Channel, The Church Channel, BOV, This is Your Day, Changing Your World, ad- infinitum. This is a very brief list of Cable TV offerings that people watch as they surf through the channels. What do they hear? What skills have they acquired to discern Truth from Error or worse, sheer apostasy? The average American Adult watches (??) hours per week of TV. Some of it will inevitably be 'religious broadcast'.

Pastors have 30 - 45 minutes at best to shape the thinking of their people, assuming they attend each Sunday. Some percentage of their listeners will also participate in a Small Group or an Adult Bible Fellowship. At best, pastors have 3 hours per week to equip and shape the thinking of people in today's mobile and autonomous minded culture. (The matter of structure for ministry and making people ACTIVE participants in the Drama of Redemption is a topic for another post).

The simple fact is this. Unless Pastors adopt and apply a very intentional and effective process to equip their people with listening skills, they will ultimately have a congregation full of theological smorgasbord. I often call this the 'cafeteria' approach to theology. When my earthly father retired in the Rio Valley of TX, he liked to dine at Luby's Cafeteria because of the almost infinite variety of choices. When visiting, we were required to join him and at least act like we enjoyed the cuisine!! There is a one to one correlation between Luby's Cuisine and the 'variety' one encounters in listening to cable TV. Both are subject to serious question as to the 'nourishment' acquired in "dining" there.

An additional factor in this dilemma, there is no systematic and effective process to know what people are assimilating. Their Worldview is shaped by all the mish-mash they gather from the hermeneutical disasters claiming to 'preach the word'; (Numerology, Proof-texting, Prosperity 'Gospel', Eschatological Weirdos, etc. etc.)

Perhaps the most abused 'victim' in this tragedy is context. Any credible Bible School teaches in Hermeneutics 101 the importance of context. Context is King! Listen for 15 minutes and try to apply this vital principle to what you hear.

I have merely introduced the problem or challenge in this post. It is my desire to present some basic guidelines for the persons in the pew to apply while listening. Pray with me that our efforts equip the people of God with the skills and passion to hear, understand, obey and live!

Failure and Effectiveness

This morning I had a conversation with a man who stated numerous times in our conversation that "he had failed". That reference was to his Leadership role in the ministry he leads. By all other accounts, he would be regarded as a 'roaring success'. This was not false humility. This was genuine passion to see the Kingdom of God and Jesus as LORD exalted ever more and more.

The text speaks to this issue. Genuine Humility is an admirable quality in a Leader. How do you regard your contribution to the Kingdom?

Justification

GToday I listened to a one hour audio file (http://www.sbts.edu/resources/), a panel discussion at Southern Seminary. The topic is the "New Perspective on Paul" as articulated by N.T. Wright. The participants were well informed and spoke with irenic grace.

Justification, specifically the issue of imputation, is at the heart of Reformed Theology. Wright's position clearly points us back to Rome.

I urge the reader to go to the link and invest the time necessary to grapple with the issue. Read John Piper's book on The Future of Justification.

Wright has written much that is helpful. This issue is not some remote eschatological nuance that has tertiary consequence. This matter is the heart of our faith. We must show diligence and integrity in guiding God's people and our own souls on this matter.

Redemption Comes From Where?

I recently had a breakfast meeting at the Capital City Club in Columbia. This facility is on the top floor of the tallest building in Columbia. My companion was testifying in a court case and he was a few minutes late (the Judge controls the Court Room). In waiting for him I had a cup of coffee and enjoyed the view (check the photo) of our State Capital Building.


Redemption is from Heaven, not, the Capital Building. "All Politics is Local!" "Politics is dirty business." "Majority rules!" Sound familiar?

For decades we have squabbled in SC over where to position the Confederate Flag. There is still a boycott in place even though there was an agreement reached as to its current placement. The issue is so much deeper and much more significant than the flag. It is the condition of man's heart.

In the regions of Heaven, the majority do not rule. Jehovah reigns! Our God is a Benevolent Despot. He is the Sovereign of the Universe - -

which he will display at the proper time--he who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone has immortality, who dwells in unapproachable light, whom no one has ever seen or can see. To him be honor and eternal dominion. Amen. (1 Tim. 6:15-16).

Speaking TRUTH in Love

Anyone who engages theological discourse in any Public Forum has been excoriated, abused or just plain trashed. Who perpetrates this abuse? The minions of Satan? The atheist that abound? The 'lunatic fringe'? None of the above.

Tragically it is often other professed believers who would also wish to be considered capable Christian Scholars. How sad. I address this topic with the motive and purpose of launching a MOVEMENT. Is this possible? We'll see. For certain we are going to try.

What will this require? Nothing more or less than 'Life in Community'.

Accountability is - -each one helping the other keep the commitments they have made to GOD on the basis of loving relationships. Believers have a commitment to the NEW COVENANT. That covenant contains a very explicit communication protocol. When I write something that violates this covenant, you, ALL of you, bring that to my attention with precision and a call to repentance. You cite the error (sin) that I am guilty of and call me to confess and repent. It is a violation of our union with Christ to merely shrug and say - - "Oh, that is just Tom". Not acceptable. People who engage in ad-hominem attacks, shoddy scholarship and just plain ineptitude do so because the 'body' remains silent. This kind of abusive communication is the "Funny Uncle" in our living room. Not any more! Expose him and shine the light of Truth on his abominable abusive behavior.

Here are some characteristics I propose. These are the bare minimum that must shape acceptable communication that honors Christ and promotes open and honest consideration of the text of Scripture and the application of that text to life - Applied Theology.

1. Logical non-contradiction. (God is not schizophrenic and neither is His revelation of Himself).

2. Empirical Adequacy (exegetical substance/accuracy that supports the thesis I am promoting).

3. Existential Viability (what we are deliberating really matters in the real world).

4. Humility (if it is demonstrated that I am in error, I submit graciously to the Truth and modify my position to harmonize with Truth).

5. Civility (if we cannot agree on a position that is clearly preferable to others, we accept the impass and do not engage in immature and unkind exchanges).

6. Contact with the Principal (I address the issue with the primary participants, not through a circuitous collection of others to whom I disparage the other Principal in that exchange).

7. Collaborative Consultation (Both parties are receptive to the larger Christian Community and are willing to consider their contribution to the issue being deliberated).

8. Historic Orthodoxy (I acknowledge the historic perspective embraced through the centuries of church and draw effectively on the fruit of that history).

9. Exegesis not Polemics (Most exchanges are heavy on polemics and light on exegetical substance. The issue is 'what does the text say?').

I am praying earnestly that this profile becomes an operative and beneficial addition to understanding and applying Truth to life - - A MOVEMENT. Join this effort. Hold one another accountable. Remember Joshua & Caleb (Num. 14:36-38). They were true Leaders. The other ten were impostors. Together we can do this. God is honored by this endeavor and He will bring it to pass!

I close this post with the exhortation of Paul to Timothy. These words capture the heart of this process. If applied, Truth will reign supreme, God will be honored and we as His servants will benefit.

Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, and they may escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will. (2 Tim. 2:23-26; ESV).

Resources:

Exegetical Fallacies, D. A. Carson

Integrative Theology, Gordon R. Lewis & Bruce A. Demarest

By What Authority

I have resisted establishing a dedicated BLOG for several years. It is time consuming, demands dedication & diligence and consumes significant and copious blocks of research and documentation if the content is to be significant and contribute to the advance of the Kingdom of God and benefit the readers.

First, I am in no way comparing my posts on this BLOG with the message or authority of Ezekiel. I personally believe there are no such Prophets today. Second, I do passionately believe that the message of God is just as real, binding and essential for the day in which we live as it was when Ezekiel spoke. Third, I am convinced that the greatest need in the church in America is the recognition of the nature, character and authority of the word of God (Heb. 4:12).

What transpired that made me change my mind? Would you believe a movie? I took my dear wife to see Julie & Julia (the true story of Julia Childs and Julie Powell, a budding New York author). The movie is quite good and other than 2 f-bombs, uttered unnecessarily, it is a gripping account of true friendships, marital joy and loyalty through good times and bad, much laughter and Julie Powell's quest to write a BLOG everyday for 365 days while cooking the recipies from Julia Childs cook book.

I am listening to the burial account of a recently deceased Senator. I am reminded of my own mortality and limited biological longevity. So, if Julie Powell can muster the diligence to write about French Cooking, I can surely do so for the proclamation of the Word of God and the great good that the Living Word brings to God's people and to Social Order.

See the movie. Read this BLOG. Respond to the posts. Contribute to the Reformation & Renewal of vibrant wholeheartedness in the Church in America. In Grace, Tom