Following "Together On A Mission" at Brighton, England I traveled up to Bedford, England for a weekend of ministry with Kings Arms Church. Monday found us flying back to the US for a a few days at home and then an early morning flight on Friday to Boston. It was great to be met by Ian Ashby and to discuss the schedule for "Celebration Northeast" while traveling to Gordon College. Gordon College is a beautiful campus which has hosted "Celebration Northeast" for the past few years. Upon arrival we met up with David and Scila Devenish who, along with Ian Ashby, would be sharing the speaking for this years "Celebration." Over the years David and Scila have stayed in our home and we in theirs, even enjoying a brief holiday together at Lake of the Ozarks one year. David has spoken at several of our events in the past and has always brought powerful and timely words. Later in the week Sam Poe flew in to join with David for our first "New England Cross-Cultural Training Weekend".
Ian Ashby kicked off the Friday night meeting with an excellent preach from Nehemiah with special emphasis on being about a great work and resisting the attempts of the enemy which would distract us. Both David and I dealt with the themes of building the house of God. It is always wonderful to see the continuity of themes building upon each other throughout a conference like this. There were times of powerful worship led by Tommy Stanley, as well as excellent times of ministry and testimonies of healing.
Sunday morning is always the time we receive an offering for the work we are involved in together. We were all amazed when Ian concluded the morning with the announcement that this years offering was the largest ever for "Celebration Northeast." The offering was just over $100,000.00 which far exceeded previous offerings. Praise God for this evidence of commitment to our mission to see churches planted, leaders trained, and the kingdom extended.
Having arrived back where "ONEBLAZE in St. Louis" is in full swing I look forward to speaking to these wonderful teens on Saturday evening. It seems like a long time with all the summer travel since I've spoken at Jubilee. So it is a joy to speak at Jubilee Church on Sunday morning continuing our current summer preaching series through the book of Acts.
I look forward to traveling in August to Oregon for "Celebration Northwest" hosted by Silver Creek Fellowship. I will join with Terry and Wendy Virgo sharing the speaking duties at this greatly anticipated conference for our Newfrontiers churches in the Pacific Northwest.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Friday, July 18, 2008
REGARDING DRISCOLL'S PROPHETIC WORD TO TERRY AND NEWFRONTIERS
Following Mark Driscoll's remarkable message I approached him and told him, "You have spoken boldly and obediently with much grace and we are all grateful." He seemed to greatly appreciate how we had embraced him. It was evident that he had been drained of all energy as a result of his obedience in giving such an earth shaking prophetic word to us.
As is our custom following the conclusion of the Brighton conference, the apostolic forum, which is comprised of the apostolic leaders representing the nations in which we serve, gathered for fellowship and prayer. We had dinner on Friday together, and around the various tables we were eagerly attempting to determine in our conversations the meaning of what Mark had shared. On Saturday morning we meet for a few hours to pray and to embrace prophetic gifts. Terry opened our time by stating that he knew that what had transpired was from God. We began to pray for some of the cities we are moving into across Europe. During this time of prayer I shared a prophetic picture that had come to me at the last session of the Brighton conference. Time had not allowed me to share it with the conference. However, Terry encouraged me to share this prophetic word with the apostolic forum on the Saturday. Prophecies are not often impacting when put in print. However, at the forum a powerful presence of God was in the room as I shared the following.
I had seen a picture of a relay race with the stands filled with eager spectators. I saw the crucial point of transition when the baton was being passed to another runner. The hand-off of the baton is the most crucial point in a relay race, the race is won or lost at the time of the handoff. There is a moment when both runners have a hold of the baton and are running together. The runner receiving the baton must begin running and get up to speed so that at the crucial point of transfer both runners are running together. Their is that moment when both runners are running full out at the same speed and the transfer is made as the now new lead runner receives the baton.
As I watched this picture a most unusual thing occurred, the spectators in the stands stood up and begin to move down the aisles of the stadium toward the track. Soon the track was filled with the entire stadium emptied of spectators as all were running.
I felt that we were at a must crucial season as a movement when a transfer was going to take place. If there was ever a time we need to be praying for all of us who are leaders of Newfrontiers it is at this time.
When the spectators emptied the stadium and started to run on the track I felt God told me this is what was happening at the Brighton conference when all the attendees spontaneously stood to their feet and began to applaud. It was a prophetic moment that induced a spontaneous response.
We were not applauding Mark Driscoll, but responding to something much deeper. This Brighton conference was a time of commissioning an army to run together, this was a time of a future of amazing expansion of leaders and workers in the mission. This was a time when people were no longer observing the few run the race but that all could embrace a future that included all of them.
Following this prophetic picture an amazing weight of God's glory seemed to be present. Others in the forum began to pray out an acknowledgment that God was speaking. The many conversations and confusion as to Driscoll's remarkable prophetic word to us was made clear. Faith and energy seemed to punctuate our prayer with continual reference to this picture.
I would encourage those of you in the Newfrontiers family to respond to the above. While we are at a very crucial time in our movement, God is leading us and God is commissioning us. Let's respond and move to the track, their are churches to be planted, disciples to be made, money to be given, and leaders to be trained. It is a time for those younger men in our ranks to consider seriously the call of God and the opportunity to participate. It is a time to refuse to be spectators. While we rejoice in God's gracious love expressed to us I implore you to pray much for Terry and those of us who are involved in apostolic leadership.
As is our custom following the conclusion of the Brighton conference, the apostolic forum, which is comprised of the apostolic leaders representing the nations in which we serve, gathered for fellowship and prayer. We had dinner on Friday together, and around the various tables we were eagerly attempting to determine in our conversations the meaning of what Mark had shared. On Saturday morning we meet for a few hours to pray and to embrace prophetic gifts. Terry opened our time by stating that he knew that what had transpired was from God. We began to pray for some of the cities we are moving into across Europe. During this time of prayer I shared a prophetic picture that had come to me at the last session of the Brighton conference. Time had not allowed me to share it with the conference. However, Terry encouraged me to share this prophetic word with the apostolic forum on the Saturday. Prophecies are not often impacting when put in print. However, at the forum a powerful presence of God was in the room as I shared the following.
I had seen a picture of a relay race with the stands filled with eager spectators. I saw the crucial point of transition when the baton was being passed to another runner. The hand-off of the baton is the most crucial point in a relay race, the race is won or lost at the time of the handoff. There is a moment when both runners have a hold of the baton and are running together. The runner receiving the baton must begin running and get up to speed so that at the crucial point of transfer both runners are running together. Their is that moment when both runners are running full out at the same speed and the transfer is made as the now new lead runner receives the baton.
As I watched this picture a most unusual thing occurred, the spectators in the stands stood up and begin to move down the aisles of the stadium toward the track. Soon the track was filled with the entire stadium emptied of spectators as all were running.
I felt that we were at a must crucial season as a movement when a transfer was going to take place. If there was ever a time we need to be praying for all of us who are leaders of Newfrontiers it is at this time.
When the spectators emptied the stadium and started to run on the track I felt God told me this is what was happening at the Brighton conference when all the attendees spontaneously stood to their feet and began to applaud. It was a prophetic moment that induced a spontaneous response.
We were not applauding Mark Driscoll, but responding to something much deeper. This Brighton conference was a time of commissioning an army to run together, this was a time of a future of amazing expansion of leaders and workers in the mission. This was a time when people were no longer observing the few run the race but that all could embrace a future that included all of them.
Following this prophetic picture an amazing weight of God's glory seemed to be present. Others in the forum began to pray out an acknowledgment that God was speaking. The many conversations and confusion as to Driscoll's remarkable prophetic word to us was made clear. Faith and energy seemed to punctuate our prayer with continual reference to this picture.
I would encourage those of you in the Newfrontiers family to respond to the above. While we are at a very crucial time in our movement, God is leading us and God is commissioning us. Let's respond and move to the track, their are churches to be planted, disciples to be made, money to be given, and leaders to be trained. It is a time for those younger men in our ranks to consider seriously the call of God and the opportunity to participate. It is a time to refuse to be spectators. While we rejoice in God's gracious love expressed to us I implore you to pray much for Terry and those of us who are involved in apostolic leadership.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
MARK DRISCOLL DROPS A BOMBSHELL part 3
Mark Driscoll had been most gracious and helpful in his previous sessions and would on his final main session drop a bombshell. It would seem the phrase that really caught our attention was "And now I will hurt you..." This talk would end in a very personal way to the family of Newfrontiers churches.
APOSTLES
Mark addressed the issue of the progression of movements and it would soon be evident that his observations would be most direct as it relates to Newfrontiers as a movement. He began by challenging the UK Newfrontiers churches to think beyond the goal of 1000 churches and that we should be growing much more quickly than we presently are. He addressed his view of apostles today with a statement that he did not believe in apostles today with a capital "A" as the original Apostles wrote scripture. However, I would point out that it is important to note than not all the Apostles wrote scripture and the apostle Paul who was not one of the original twelve wrote much of the New Testament. Of course, we in Newfrontiers would agree with Driscoll and also see that the original Apostles stand in a different category from present day apostolic ministry. Driscoll stated his belief in present day apostles who lead movements and plant churches. He was clear that Terry Virgo was apostolic and noted the five thousand leaders present was good evidence of that fact.
THE IMPORTANCE OF CITIES
Mark then made a strong case for reaching the major cities by seeing Paul as an example of this strategy. Mark challenged us that a strategy for the city was crucial as their are more people there and culture is made and flows from the city. He used the illustration of a river in that cities are upstream and therefore everything flows downstream into the rural areas from the city. If we want to transform culture we must start at the headwaters of the river which is the city. He determined that it is the type of people found in the city, those who have influence, the arts, the music, publications, the universities, the politicians, the academics, the students, and therefore reaching cities is vital to the transformation of culture in rural areas. Newfrontiers in the USA has a goal of planting one hundred reproducing churches in the top one hundred cities in the United States, with this view that these churches would multiply and be an instrument in affecting our nation and beyond.
HOW MOVEMENTS BEGIN
Movements begin simply with a few "friends who club together." Then God raises up a leader who becomes the visible face that God has called to lead them. This then becomes the beginning of a movement. In this primitive state growth takes place, their is much zeal, a clear sense of purpose and mission which leads to even more growth. Soon their is a clarification of doctrine, practice and values that express a mutual vision.
INSTITUTIONALIZE
A movement then experiences pressure to institutionalize. The Founder and his friends will occupy all the senior leadership positions. Ultimately those who are emerging young leaders may feel their is very little room for them and therefore the danger that those who feel marginalized may begin to leave the movement. It is at this stage that those in senior leadership positions must address whether they will make room for emerging young leaders.
Another danger is that the movement may close ranks and refuse to listen to others outside of the movement. A movement will have it's own style, publications, familiar and tested leaders and then attempt to guard what they have become secure in. Making room for other less mature, less tested and younger leaders will assist in avoiding the almost irresistible pull toward institutionalism. Actually, while those original founders and tested leaders of the movement are in place provides the best opportunity to father, coach and make room for those who now want a seat at the table. Driscoll commended Newfrontiers for their willingness to take risk and receive those outside Newfrontiers to speak into and receive seriously the input of those form the outside which is a key to avoiding institutionalism.
BECOMING A MUSEUM
Following from institutionalism will result in becoming a museum. Now the emphasis is on history and conveying the story. Driscoll pointed out that this transition from institution to museum can happen in one generation.
HOW MOVEMENTS LOSE THEIR WAY
1. Theologically
A drift that leads to compromising ecclesiology. Their is a ditch that derails on both sides of the road and therefore a movement can move to the left and become to loose or liberal. They can also move to the right and become far to tight and conservative. It is vital to never debate the primary sound doctrines of scripture but be very open to debate issues of a lesser importance. The difficulty comes when secondary issues become primary issues and therefore there is no room for debate and adjustment. However, the primary doctrines of the historic Christian faith are not to be tampered with.
2. Relationships
While Driscoll commended Newfrontiers on the above issues as being very healthy he noted that the issue of relationships was a concern. Relationships can become an end rather than a means to an end. We get derailed in the area of mission and maintaining our friendships becomes the mission. Mission as our primary function must not be sacrificed on the altar of friendship. I have had to face this issue with the tremendous friendships I have enjoyed on my own leadership team. Would I be willing to break up our team in order to send my friends to other places for the sake of the Great Commission? Of course, the Newfrontiers churches in the US are fully aware that we have been willing to do this for the sake of our mission. It is a very real joy to see these same friends flourish in the distant places of our nation and beyond into other nations as well as to note the progress of the gospel. Therefore it is paramount that local churches and our movement avoid the danger of relational resistance to the primary mission of planting churches and going into all the world to make disciples.
3. Organizational structure and systems.
While movements begin through relationships and personal verbal communication there comes a time when we must embrace systems and structures as a vehicle for communication. This would include publications, papers and written forms of defining values, practices, and policies as a way to define us. It is not the abandonment of relationships but the addition of infrastructure that more greatly facilitates our mission.
4. Pride and elitism
Only reading our own publications, singing songs that have only come from us, and a refusal to listen and embrace those outside the movement is an issue of pride. Their will be times when it is necessary to receive the wisdom of those outside Newfrontiers. Their are limits to the wisdom and giftedness of the movements leaders therefore in order to be healthy we need to embrace the deposit God has placed in others outside our family of churches. It is crucial that we not see our uniqueness as superior to what is happening outside of Newfrontiers. Nor should we so honor our founders that we are unable to receive gifted leaders outside our stream. Mark commended us for our willingness to receive outside leaders such as himself.
5. The need to focus on our primary calling.
Movements lose their way when they when they begin to run toward areas that are not their primary calling. He then illustrated one movement that began as a church planting movement but shifted to more of a renewal movement and have now lost their way. They then ceased to plant churches being dissipated by to many other emphasis. Newfrontiers is a church planting movement. However, Driscoll felt that we ought to be planting more churches than we presently are and therefore he questioned if their were other non-essential areas in which we are spending our energy.
6. Movements flatten for lack of publications
He challenged us in this area of needing to publish more. Publish our doctrines, values, practices, I.e. doctrine of the Holy Spirit, Church planting, etc. Next comes the Mark Driscoll bombshell.
BOMBSHELL
7. Movements lose their way because they fail to simultaneously Honor the Founder and the Future.
One danger is that a movement has so much love and honor of their founder (and who doesn't love Terry Virgo) that they will risk their future. However, the opposite is also true in that a movement can be so eager to move into the future that they fail to honor their founder. Mark believes that this is the most crucial issue facing Newfrontiers. He then had us vote as to which danger we were most prone to and a vast majority raised their hands stating that we would be most prone to so honor our founder that we failed to move into the future. At this point the entire conference were absolutely fixed in rapt attention. Mark was in perfect agreement that this was an issue for us. However, he was quick to state that we should honor our founder but challenged us as to the best way we could honor Terry by remaining a movement that honors Terry's passion by building upon the foundation Terry has laid.
At this stage Driscoll announced that God had spoken to him and he had a prophetic word for our movement and Terry. He really had our attention. Mark looked directly at Terry and began his prophecy. He told Terry that "Newfrontiers was like a daughter to you. You have birthed it, held it, guarded it, cared for it, tended to it, prayed for it, loved it. You have been an amazing father to them." Mark said that while at Terry's home he had noticed all the family pictures. In particular he had noticed a picture of the wedding of Terry's daughter and a picture of Terry walking Anna down the aisle to give her away. He felt that God said, while not in the immediate future, "there will come a day when you will need to walk Newfrontiers down the aisle and marry her to a great man so she will have children."
Mark then urged the Newfrontiers leaders to begin to pray for Terry as he prepares to make this transition. He stated that God would tell him and we should be ready for it when it comes. He admonished us to begin now to pray daily for Terry that he would have absolute certainty when it is time to walk Newfrontiers down the aisle, that Terry would have a certainty when it is time to walk down the aisle, an absolute certainty about which man or men he should entrust her to.
Mark then addressed the delegates at the conference "You think of it a lot, but speak of it very little, because you love Terry. And you don't want to dishonor him."
He then urged us not to move to aggressively towards being all about the future. However, this is central to whether we will continue to be healthy or die. Again Driscoll urged us to pray for Terry, to pray daily that God would reveal to him when and how and who so that Newfrontiers will remain a movement. He mentioned that London is full of museums and we don't need another one. We don't need to be just telling the stories in thirty years. We want praises to Jesus to still be sung.
Driscoll then reviewed Rick Warren speaking about movements.
Following Driscoll's message it was evident he was deeply moved. The entire conference was in tears but spontaneously stood on its feet and began to applaud. At which time Terry came to address the conference. Terry was visibly moved as he stood at the microphone. He stated that there had been a few times in our movement that were historic. He mentioned Kreingsak and Simon Petit who gave us an apostolic mandate to care for the poor. Terry said that he knew God had spoken to him to invite Mark Driscoll, but that he had no idea he would feel so taken apart by him. Terry prayed and thanked God for His care of newfrontiers. He thanked God for Mark Driscoll and stated that Mark was one of God's most remarkable servants. He prayed thanks for the high privilege of having Mark Driscoll on the Brighton platform and of how we are really a family on a journey with a God who is continually expressing his love for us.
Of course, the question will be on everyones mind as to the speed and pace for such a transition. Mark and Terry have spoken about this and we believe this issue will be evident during the course of the next five years.
In my next blog to follow I want to address you in a personal way.
APOSTLES
Mark addressed the issue of the progression of movements and it would soon be evident that his observations would be most direct as it relates to Newfrontiers as a movement. He began by challenging the UK Newfrontiers churches to think beyond the goal of 1000 churches and that we should be growing much more quickly than we presently are. He addressed his view of apostles today with a statement that he did not believe in apostles today with a capital "A" as the original Apostles wrote scripture. However, I would point out that it is important to note than not all the Apostles wrote scripture and the apostle Paul who was not one of the original twelve wrote much of the New Testament. Of course, we in Newfrontiers would agree with Driscoll and also see that the original Apostles stand in a different category from present day apostolic ministry. Driscoll stated his belief in present day apostles who lead movements and plant churches. He was clear that Terry Virgo was apostolic and noted the five thousand leaders present was good evidence of that fact.
THE IMPORTANCE OF CITIES
Mark then made a strong case for reaching the major cities by seeing Paul as an example of this strategy. Mark challenged us that a strategy for the city was crucial as their are more people there and culture is made and flows from the city. He used the illustration of a river in that cities are upstream and therefore everything flows downstream into the rural areas from the city. If we want to transform culture we must start at the headwaters of the river which is the city. He determined that it is the type of people found in the city, those who have influence, the arts, the music, publications, the universities, the politicians, the academics, the students, and therefore reaching cities is vital to the transformation of culture in rural areas. Newfrontiers in the USA has a goal of planting one hundred reproducing churches in the top one hundred cities in the United States, with this view that these churches would multiply and be an instrument in affecting our nation and beyond.
HOW MOVEMENTS BEGIN
Movements begin simply with a few "friends who club together." Then God raises up a leader who becomes the visible face that God has called to lead them. This then becomes the beginning of a movement. In this primitive state growth takes place, their is much zeal, a clear sense of purpose and mission which leads to even more growth. Soon their is a clarification of doctrine, practice and values that express a mutual vision.
INSTITUTIONALIZE
A movement then experiences pressure to institutionalize. The Founder and his friends will occupy all the senior leadership positions. Ultimately those who are emerging young leaders may feel their is very little room for them and therefore the danger that those who feel marginalized may begin to leave the movement. It is at this stage that those in senior leadership positions must address whether they will make room for emerging young leaders.
Another danger is that the movement may close ranks and refuse to listen to others outside of the movement. A movement will have it's own style, publications, familiar and tested leaders and then attempt to guard what they have become secure in. Making room for other less mature, less tested and younger leaders will assist in avoiding the almost irresistible pull toward institutionalism. Actually, while those original founders and tested leaders of the movement are in place provides the best opportunity to father, coach and make room for those who now want a seat at the table. Driscoll commended Newfrontiers for their willingness to take risk and receive those outside Newfrontiers to speak into and receive seriously the input of those form the outside which is a key to avoiding institutionalism.
BECOMING A MUSEUM
Following from institutionalism will result in becoming a museum. Now the emphasis is on history and conveying the story. Driscoll pointed out that this transition from institution to museum can happen in one generation.
HOW MOVEMENTS LOSE THEIR WAY
1. Theologically
A drift that leads to compromising ecclesiology. Their is a ditch that derails on both sides of the road and therefore a movement can move to the left and become to loose or liberal. They can also move to the right and become far to tight and conservative. It is vital to never debate the primary sound doctrines of scripture but be very open to debate issues of a lesser importance. The difficulty comes when secondary issues become primary issues and therefore there is no room for debate and adjustment. However, the primary doctrines of the historic Christian faith are not to be tampered with.
2. Relationships
While Driscoll commended Newfrontiers on the above issues as being very healthy he noted that the issue of relationships was a concern. Relationships can become an end rather than a means to an end. We get derailed in the area of mission and maintaining our friendships becomes the mission. Mission as our primary function must not be sacrificed on the altar of friendship. I have had to face this issue with the tremendous friendships I have enjoyed on my own leadership team. Would I be willing to break up our team in order to send my friends to other places for the sake of the Great Commission? Of course, the Newfrontiers churches in the US are fully aware that we have been willing to do this for the sake of our mission. It is a very real joy to see these same friends flourish in the distant places of our nation and beyond into other nations as well as to note the progress of the gospel. Therefore it is paramount that local churches and our movement avoid the danger of relational resistance to the primary mission of planting churches and going into all the world to make disciples.
3. Organizational structure and systems.
While movements begin through relationships and personal verbal communication there comes a time when we must embrace systems and structures as a vehicle for communication. This would include publications, papers and written forms of defining values, practices, and policies as a way to define us. It is not the abandonment of relationships but the addition of infrastructure that more greatly facilitates our mission.
4. Pride and elitism
Only reading our own publications, singing songs that have only come from us, and a refusal to listen and embrace those outside the movement is an issue of pride. Their will be times when it is necessary to receive the wisdom of those outside Newfrontiers. Their are limits to the wisdom and giftedness of the movements leaders therefore in order to be healthy we need to embrace the deposit God has placed in others outside our family of churches. It is crucial that we not see our uniqueness as superior to what is happening outside of Newfrontiers. Nor should we so honor our founders that we are unable to receive gifted leaders outside our stream. Mark commended us for our willingness to receive outside leaders such as himself.
5. The need to focus on our primary calling.
Movements lose their way when they when they begin to run toward areas that are not their primary calling. He then illustrated one movement that began as a church planting movement but shifted to more of a renewal movement and have now lost their way. They then ceased to plant churches being dissipated by to many other emphasis. Newfrontiers is a church planting movement. However, Driscoll felt that we ought to be planting more churches than we presently are and therefore he questioned if their were other non-essential areas in which we are spending our energy.
6. Movements flatten for lack of publications
He challenged us in this area of needing to publish more. Publish our doctrines, values, practices, I.e. doctrine of the Holy Spirit, Church planting, etc. Next comes the Mark Driscoll bombshell.
BOMBSHELL
7. Movements lose their way because they fail to simultaneously Honor the Founder and the Future.
One danger is that a movement has so much love and honor of their founder (and who doesn't love Terry Virgo) that they will risk their future. However, the opposite is also true in that a movement can be so eager to move into the future that they fail to honor their founder. Mark believes that this is the most crucial issue facing Newfrontiers. He then had us vote as to which danger we were most prone to and a vast majority raised their hands stating that we would be most prone to so honor our founder that we failed to move into the future. At this point the entire conference were absolutely fixed in rapt attention. Mark was in perfect agreement that this was an issue for us. However, he was quick to state that we should honor our founder but challenged us as to the best way we could honor Terry by remaining a movement that honors Terry's passion by building upon the foundation Terry has laid.
At this stage Driscoll announced that God had spoken to him and he had a prophetic word for our movement and Terry. He really had our attention. Mark looked directly at Terry and began his prophecy. He told Terry that "Newfrontiers was like a daughter to you. You have birthed it, held it, guarded it, cared for it, tended to it, prayed for it, loved it. You have been an amazing father to them." Mark said that while at Terry's home he had noticed all the family pictures. In particular he had noticed a picture of the wedding of Terry's daughter and a picture of Terry walking Anna down the aisle to give her away. He felt that God said, while not in the immediate future, "there will come a day when you will need to walk Newfrontiers down the aisle and marry her to a great man so she will have children."
Mark then urged the Newfrontiers leaders to begin to pray for Terry as he prepares to make this transition. He stated that God would tell him and we should be ready for it when it comes. He admonished us to begin now to pray daily for Terry that he would have absolute certainty when it is time to walk Newfrontiers down the aisle, that Terry would have a certainty when it is time to walk down the aisle, an absolute certainty about which man or men he should entrust her to.
Mark then addressed the delegates at the conference "You think of it a lot, but speak of it very little, because you love Terry. And you don't want to dishonor him."
He then urged us not to move to aggressively towards being all about the future. However, this is central to whether we will continue to be healthy or die. Again Driscoll urged us to pray for Terry, to pray daily that God would reveal to him when and how and who so that Newfrontiers will remain a movement. He mentioned that London is full of museums and we don't need another one. We don't need to be just telling the stories in thirty years. We want praises to Jesus to still be sung.
Driscoll then reviewed Rick Warren speaking about movements.
Following Driscoll's message it was evident he was deeply moved. The entire conference was in tears but spontaneously stood on its feet and began to applaud. At which time Terry came to address the conference. Terry was visibly moved as he stood at the microphone. He stated that there had been a few times in our movement that were historic. He mentioned Kreingsak and Simon Petit who gave us an apostolic mandate to care for the poor. Terry said that he knew God had spoken to him to invite Mark Driscoll, but that he had no idea he would feel so taken apart by him. Terry prayed and thanked God for His care of newfrontiers. He thanked God for Mark Driscoll and stated that Mark was one of God's most remarkable servants. He prayed thanks for the high privilege of having Mark Driscoll on the Brighton platform and of how we are really a family on a journey with a God who is continually expressing his love for us.
Of course, the question will be on everyones mind as to the speed and pace for such a transition. Mark and Terry have spoken about this and we believe this issue will be evident during the course of the next five years.
In my next blog to follow I want to address you in a personal way.
MARK DRISCOLL AT BRIGHTON part 2
One of the major issues facing us today is the issue of being clear on our Ecclesiology. I am greatly encouraged by the emphasis we are seeing on being missional however the great danger is a missiology without a clear ecclesiology. Mark Driscoll helpfully began his second main session with the Newfrontiers leaders by giving us eight defining marks of what constitutes a church. It is evident that Driscoll has a very clear understanding of ecclesiology along with being very missional. He presented eight points that he believes clearly defines church as follows:
1. A regenerated church membership
2. Called and gifted church leadership
3.. A regular gathering of believers for the preaching of the Word and Worship
4. A church is a place where the Sacraments are rightly administered.
5. A unity and love which is the evidenced work of the Holy Spirit among His people
6. A place where people experience church discipline in order to walk uprightly
7. A place where people practice the Great Commandment to love one another and our neighbors
8. A place where people actively obey the Great Commission to make disciples
Driscoll then proceeded to outline various views and practices of the way people see the church.
1. Some would see the church as a bomb-shelter and rather than engaging culture preach against it.
2. Some would see the church like a mirror and mirror the values and practices of the culture. Rather than affecting and converting culture the church is in fact converted by culture.
3. Some would see the church as a parasite. They take from culture rather than giving to it. I.e. not serving the poor, not doing good to benefit the city.
4. Some see the church with the biblical view of a city on a hill and thus become a city within a city. This church loves the Bible, is grace filled, and expresses the power and presence of God to the city.
Driscoll after carefully presenting his ecclesiology then moved on to the church as a missional community by identifying twelve aspects of a missional church.
1. A missional church sees itself as an outpost with a view to expand and add disciples of Jesus. A missional church should not be defined by the number of people in a room on a Sunday but rather as the number of people on mission together.
2. A missional church sees every believer in that church as a missionary. A people eager to reach the unbelieving. A church that shares the gospel at each gathering making it easy for people to bring unbelieving friends to the gathered church meetings. Equipping people to live in such a way as to be able to find opportunity to share the life of Jesus.
3. A missional church is aware of and engaging its local culture. Aware of media program's, music, movies, local issues, print media, all in order to be educated and prepared to engage culture.
4. A missional church contends and contexualizes the gospel, giving itself by all means to save as many people as possible.
Mark spent a great deal of time on point three and four and therefore did not complete all twelve aspects of a missional church. I recommend again that you go to the Newfrontiers international website for the free download of this message.
I was very pleased that Mark had set out a strong case for what constitutes the church before engaging the issue of being missional. There is much to appreciate about this man and I must say very exciting to hear someone who has such significant influence tracking the way he is. We have so very much in concert with Driscoll in Newfrontiers. I found him very provocative, bold and yet gracious. He said things to the five thousand leaders gathered from more than fifty nations representing Newfrontiers that we need to hear and digest. In particular in this talk he addressed the issue of multiple meetings and multiple campuses which has not been the norm for many of our churches. After this talk many leaders made their way to the various restaurants in Brighton to discuss this preach. It was my impression that the entire place was really buzzing.
1. A regenerated church membership
2. Called and gifted church leadership
3.. A regular gathering of believers for the preaching of the Word and Worship
4. A church is a place where the Sacraments are rightly administered.
5. A unity and love which is the evidenced work of the Holy Spirit among His people
6. A place where people experience church discipline in order to walk uprightly
7. A place where people practice the Great Commandment to love one another and our neighbors
8. A place where people actively obey the Great Commission to make disciples
Driscoll then proceeded to outline various views and practices of the way people see the church.
1. Some would see the church as a bomb-shelter and rather than engaging culture preach against it.
2. Some would see the church like a mirror and mirror the values and practices of the culture. Rather than affecting and converting culture the church is in fact converted by culture.
3. Some would see the church as a parasite. They take from culture rather than giving to it. I.e. not serving the poor, not doing good to benefit the city.
4. Some see the church with the biblical view of a city on a hill and thus become a city within a city. This church loves the Bible, is grace filled, and expresses the power and presence of God to the city.
Driscoll after carefully presenting his ecclesiology then moved on to the church as a missional community by identifying twelve aspects of a missional church.
1. A missional church sees itself as an outpost with a view to expand and add disciples of Jesus. A missional church should not be defined by the number of people in a room on a Sunday but rather as the number of people on mission together.
2. A missional church sees every believer in that church as a missionary. A people eager to reach the unbelieving. A church that shares the gospel at each gathering making it easy for people to bring unbelieving friends to the gathered church meetings. Equipping people to live in such a way as to be able to find opportunity to share the life of Jesus.
3. A missional church is aware of and engaging its local culture. Aware of media program's, music, movies, local issues, print media, all in order to be educated and prepared to engage culture.
4. A missional church contends and contexualizes the gospel, giving itself by all means to save as many people as possible.
Mark spent a great deal of time on point three and four and therefore did not complete all twelve aspects of a missional church. I recommend again that you go to the Newfrontiers international website for the free download of this message.
I was very pleased that Mark had set out a strong case for what constitutes the church before engaging the issue of being missional. There is much to appreciate about this man and I must say very exciting to hear someone who has such significant influence tracking the way he is. We have so very much in concert with Driscoll in Newfrontiers. I found him very provocative, bold and yet gracious. He said things to the five thousand leaders gathered from more than fifty nations representing Newfrontiers that we need to hear and digest. In particular in this talk he addressed the issue of multiple meetings and multiple campuses which has not been the norm for many of our churches. After this talk many leaders made their way to the various restaurants in Brighton to discuss this preach. It was my impression that the entire place was really buzzing.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
MARK DRISCOLL AT BRIGHTON part 1
I want to share with you a brief summary of the three main sessions Mark Driscoll brought to Newfrontiers leaders at Brighton and then conclude with a personal summary. Today I bring you bullet points of Mark's first main session preach. It is our practice particularly at the Brighton "Together On A Mission" Leaders Conference to bring someone from outside the movement to speak to us. In past years, we have enjoyed John Wimber, John Piper, Wayne Grudem, and Rob Rufus, just to name a few.
However, it seems this year their was more buzz regarding the appearance of Mark Driscoll to our international conference than any other speaker. Most are aware of Mark's provocative style and we were all waiting to hear what he might say to us. Mark had been asked to speak at three main sessions as well as three seminars, more than any other speaker in the history of this conference. Labeled as a modern day Spurgeon, five thousand attendees could hardly wait to hear him live. Let me encourage you to download for free Driscoll's talks on the Newfrontiers international website. Following is a brief summary of the Tuesday main session.
TUESDAY
Driscoll commended us as Reformed and Charismatic who have avoided many of the Charismatic issues he sees plaguing American charismatics. He then noted some of these issues as follows:
1. Charismatics focus on the wrong person.
The focus is Jesus, the Holy Spirit leads us to the centrality of Jesus. Driscoll feels that Newfrontiers has avoided this pitfall of making more of the Holy Spirit than Jesus.
2. Charismatics focus on the wrong event.
Many charismatics focus on Pentecost, however Pentecost points to the death and resurrection of Jesus. Again, Driscoll feels we in Newfrontiers have avoided this error and that Jesus is central to us.
3.Charismatics focus on the wrong person as the definition of what it is to be Spirit-filled and spirit-led.
Too much emphasis on the person being lifted up. Driscoll commented that Terry Virgo lifts up Jesus. It is in the life of Jesus we find the example of how to be filled with the Spirit, not some gifted leader.
4. Charismatics are insufficiently missional.
If a charismatic is also reformed in theology their can be a tendency to be passive in mission. We can wait for revival instead of being pro-active in mission. Driscoll believes that we may have some issues here; committed to mission but not as energetic as we could be. We should be planting more churches and giving more money.
Driscoll then took us through Luke and Acts in order to outline the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of Jesus and the believer.
1. The Spirit fills people
2. The Spirit-filled life includes miracles
3. The Spirit-filled life includes prayer
4. The Spirit-filled life includes prophecy
5. The Holy Spirit fills us with a fire for mission
6. The Spirit leads us into hardship and testing
7. Spirit-filled ministry includes preaching the word
8. Spirit-filled ministry includes justice for the poor
9. Spirit-filled ministry includes joy in the Lord
10. The Spirit is given to us by the Father
11. The Spirit teaches us what to say
12. The Spirit-filled life results in repentance
13. The Spirit-filled ministry results in repentance
14. The Spirit-filled ministry results in devotion to one another and awe towards God.
Driscoll then begin to present the marks of the New Testament Church. He admonished us that the goal of 1000 churches were too small. Driscoll seemed to be confused as to this being the total goal of Newfrontiers in church planting when in fact this is only a goal representing the Newfrontiers churches in England. He seemed to be impressed with the biblical balance of Newfrontiers in avoiding many pitfalls commonly associated with charismatics and reformed movements while warning us of the areas we may have some danger.
However, it seems this year their was more buzz regarding the appearance of Mark Driscoll to our international conference than any other speaker. Most are aware of Mark's provocative style and we were all waiting to hear what he might say to us. Mark had been asked to speak at three main sessions as well as three seminars, more than any other speaker in the history of this conference. Labeled as a modern day Spurgeon, five thousand attendees could hardly wait to hear him live. Let me encourage you to download for free Driscoll's talks on the Newfrontiers international website. Following is a brief summary of the Tuesday main session.
TUESDAY
Driscoll commended us as Reformed and Charismatic who have avoided many of the Charismatic issues he sees plaguing American charismatics. He then noted some of these issues as follows:
1. Charismatics focus on the wrong person.
The focus is Jesus, the Holy Spirit leads us to the centrality of Jesus. Driscoll feels that Newfrontiers has avoided this pitfall of making more of the Holy Spirit than Jesus.
2. Charismatics focus on the wrong event.
Many charismatics focus on Pentecost, however Pentecost points to the death and resurrection of Jesus. Again, Driscoll feels we in Newfrontiers have avoided this error and that Jesus is central to us.
3.Charismatics focus on the wrong person as the definition of what it is to be Spirit-filled and spirit-led.
Too much emphasis on the person being lifted up. Driscoll commented that Terry Virgo lifts up Jesus. It is in the life of Jesus we find the example of how to be filled with the Spirit, not some gifted leader.
4. Charismatics are insufficiently missional.
If a charismatic is also reformed in theology their can be a tendency to be passive in mission. We can wait for revival instead of being pro-active in mission. Driscoll believes that we may have some issues here; committed to mission but not as energetic as we could be. We should be planting more churches and giving more money.
Driscoll then took us through Luke and Acts in order to outline the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of Jesus and the believer.
1. The Spirit fills people
2. The Spirit-filled life includes miracles
3. The Spirit-filled life includes prayer
4. The Spirit-filled life includes prophecy
5. The Holy Spirit fills us with a fire for mission
6. The Spirit leads us into hardship and testing
7. Spirit-filled ministry includes preaching the word
8. Spirit-filled ministry includes justice for the poor
9. Spirit-filled ministry includes joy in the Lord
10. The Spirit is given to us by the Father
11. The Spirit teaches us what to say
12. The Spirit-filled life results in repentance
13. The Spirit-filled ministry results in repentance
14. The Spirit-filled ministry results in devotion to one another and awe towards God.
Driscoll then begin to present the marks of the New Testament Church. He admonished us that the goal of 1000 churches were too small. Driscoll seemed to be confused as to this being the total goal of Newfrontiers in church planting when in fact this is only a goal representing the Newfrontiers churches in England. He seemed to be impressed with the biblical balance of Newfrontiers in avoiding many pitfalls commonly associated with charismatics and reformed movements while warning us of the areas we may have some danger.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
England Trip #1 - Alder Road Baptist Church, Poole, England
Upon arrival back in the US from Mexico, Linda got busy with laundry and I got busy with issues pertaining to Jubilee Church in St. Louis as well as preparation for our trip to England. We had just a few days to recover and soon found our way on a plane to England for four days in the city of Poole.
Matt Hosier, formerly the leader at New Community Church in London, is now leading Alder Road Baptist Church in Poole. He arranged our early morning transport from Heathrow airport and upon arrival in Poole we enjoyed a short time of meeting our host's home. Alan and Kate made us feel so welcomed and quickly became our new friends. I then hurried off to a meeting with the elders of Alder Road Baptist Church for a time of discussion and questions about many topics of interest. I enjoyed the openness, warmth and quality of questions coming from these wonderful men.
Alan, our host and also an elder, expressed his need for healing at the conclusion of our time together. He had severe pain in the abdomen and had been unable to sleep and eat. In prayer, the pain left and throughout our stay Alan enjoyed his meals and much needed sleep. To say we were off to a good start with evident grace is an understatement.
It is evident that Alder Road Baptist Church has great affection for Matt Hosier and have received his excellent leadership. This is a church with a long history, having begun nearly 75 years ago. They are up for major change and greater connection to all that we are doing in Newfrontiers. I feel that God enabled me to be of assistance in preparation for significant steps forward in what will no doubt be a significant church in the nation.
I had several meetings during the weekend with various leaders from the church, as well as the entire church. Linda and I met in separate gatherings with young men and ladies the first evening of our arrival. We also shared together an evening with couples on the topic of marriage. It was an excellent time, much fun and laughter, and the feedback from the couples present was most gratifying. I felt that God really knit our hearts with this church and we look forward to returning, as Matt has already extended an invitation. The Sunday morning preach went well and at the conclusion their was an evident presence of God as people were deeply moved in preparation for a special offering to extend the building to better handle the growth that is taking place in the church. I look forward to hearing from Matt regarding the offering received.
Linda and I have enjoyed our years of relationship with Matt and Grace as well as New Community Church in London. It is very gratifying to now have a similar relationship with Alder Road Baptist Church in Poole.
Matt Hosier, formerly the leader at New Community Church in London, is now leading Alder Road Baptist Church in Poole. He arranged our early morning transport from Heathrow airport and upon arrival in Poole we enjoyed a short time of meeting our host's home. Alan and Kate made us feel so welcomed and quickly became our new friends. I then hurried off to a meeting with the elders of Alder Road Baptist Church for a time of discussion and questions about many topics of interest. I enjoyed the openness, warmth and quality of questions coming from these wonderful men.
Alan, our host and also an elder, expressed his need for healing at the conclusion of our time together. He had severe pain in the abdomen and had been unable to sleep and eat. In prayer, the pain left and throughout our stay Alan enjoyed his meals and much needed sleep. To say we were off to a good start with evident grace is an understatement.
It is evident that Alder Road Baptist Church has great affection for Matt Hosier and have received his excellent leadership. This is a church with a long history, having begun nearly 75 years ago. They are up for major change and greater connection to all that we are doing in Newfrontiers. I feel that God enabled me to be of assistance in preparation for significant steps forward in what will no doubt be a significant church in the nation.
I had several meetings during the weekend with various leaders from the church, as well as the entire church. Linda and I met in separate gatherings with young men and ladies the first evening of our arrival. We also shared together an evening with couples on the topic of marriage. It was an excellent time, much fun and laughter, and the feedback from the couples present was most gratifying. I felt that God really knit our hearts with this church and we look forward to returning, as Matt has already extended an invitation. The Sunday morning preach went well and at the conclusion their was an evident presence of God as people were deeply moved in preparation for a special offering to extend the building to better handle the growth that is taking place in the church. I look forward to hearing from Matt regarding the offering received.
Linda and I have enjoyed our years of relationship with Matt and Grace as well as New Community Church in London. It is very gratifying to now have a similar relationship with Alder Road Baptist Church in Poole.
Mexico
While I am still in the midst of a very demanding travel schedule this summer, I wanted to bring you an update. Upon arrival in Mexico we were met by my good friend Oscar Suarez, who leads Fuente de Vida, a growing church in one of Mexico's largest cities, Guadalajara.
Oscar and his wife, Bibi, took us to one of those wonderful Mexican restaurants for a refreshing drink and snack in route to our hotel. These are people who are so warm and hospitable, making us instantly feel at home. Although one has to deal with issues of language, the warmth and eagerness to receive seems to transcend the language barriers. At the hotel we met up with Lee and Stacy Yarabourgh. Lee leads the Mexican apostolic team and we enjoyed a brief time of conversation with them.
That first evening included a wonderful dinner with the Newfrontiers Mexican leadership team and their wives. The following morning I had breakfast with the team and discussed the sessions I would be doing at the Mexican Leadership Conference on "developing leadership" and "leaders and wives together on a mission", as well as one session which would be a topic of my own selection. It was great to make connection with these wonderful men and to catch their heart for strengthening leaders and planting churches.
That evening was a time with the twenties age group of Fuente de Vida, for a teaching and question and answer concluding at the end with "Carne Asada," a Mexican meal. It is impossible to maintain one's weight in Mexico with the delicious food and meals that tend to follow late night meetings. However, it was wonderful and fulfilled my passion for Mexican food.
Thursday was the beginning of the Newfrontiers Mexican Leaders Conference in Chapala. It was a delight to see so many leaders and wives booking in and to note the warmth and receptive hearts to my teaching. My sessions on "Leaders Replacing Themselves" and "Increasing Leadership Capacity" were well received. Linda and I also enjoyed sharing together on the theme of "Leaders and Wives Together on a Mission." My final session included a time of ministry in which leaders throughout the building were receiving powerfully and being refreshed. I was pleased that I received prophetic insight into specific situations for various leaders, and was able to lead a time of ministry following sharing those insights.
It was a privilege to conclude our time in Mexico with Sunday at Fuente de Vida where, following the time of preaching, the front was filled with eager people wanting to respond to the message. A great deal of significant ministry followed and evident blessing could be seen on the faces of those responding.
I am thrilled with the healthy connection we have with the leaders in Mexico and am personally provoked by their obvious desire to see churches planted throughout this country and beyond into the America's. It is wonderful to note their connection in Brazil, Cuba, and Bolivia.
Many expressed appreciation for the USA churches that have continued to sponsor their trips to our USA "Equipped for Mission" leaders conference. I commend our churches for your commitment to the Mexican churches and received many statements of appreciation for the friendship we enjoy together. I do believe that in the future our relationship will translate into us planting churches together in the USA particularly among hispanic people, as well as beyond our borders. The relationship we enjoy together is most rewarding in their wonderful contribution to our churches.
Our friendship with Lee Yarabourgh continues to deepen. I look forward to Lee again joining our USA team meetings and the contribution he is making to us. Lee is now temporarily based in the USA while serving Clark Fork City Church in Missoula, MT. He is in the process of leading that church into Newfrontiers. It is also exciting to note that Lee's relationships with churches in the Northwest is having an effect, as several are now looking to Newfrontiers. I anticipate some exciting developments there as this growing region benefits from Lee's involvement with us in the USA.
Oscar and his wife, Bibi, took us to one of those wonderful Mexican restaurants for a refreshing drink and snack in route to our hotel. These are people who are so warm and hospitable, making us instantly feel at home. Although one has to deal with issues of language, the warmth and eagerness to receive seems to transcend the language barriers. At the hotel we met up with Lee and Stacy Yarabourgh. Lee leads the Mexican apostolic team and we enjoyed a brief time of conversation with them.
That first evening included a wonderful dinner with the Newfrontiers Mexican leadership team and their wives. The following morning I had breakfast with the team and discussed the sessions I would be doing at the Mexican Leadership Conference on "developing leadership" and "leaders and wives together on a mission", as well as one session which would be a topic of my own selection. It was great to make connection with these wonderful men and to catch their heart for strengthening leaders and planting churches.
That evening was a time with the twenties age group of Fuente de Vida, for a teaching and question and answer concluding at the end with "Carne Asada," a Mexican meal. It is impossible to maintain one's weight in Mexico with the delicious food and meals that tend to follow late night meetings. However, it was wonderful and fulfilled my passion for Mexican food.
Thursday was the beginning of the Newfrontiers Mexican Leaders Conference in Chapala. It was a delight to see so many leaders and wives booking in and to note the warmth and receptive hearts to my teaching. My sessions on "Leaders Replacing Themselves" and "Increasing Leadership Capacity" were well received. Linda and I also enjoyed sharing together on the theme of "Leaders and Wives Together on a Mission." My final session included a time of ministry in which leaders throughout the building were receiving powerfully and being refreshed. I was pleased that I received prophetic insight into specific situations for various leaders, and was able to lead a time of ministry following sharing those insights.
It was a privilege to conclude our time in Mexico with Sunday at Fuente de Vida where, following the time of preaching, the front was filled with eager people wanting to respond to the message. A great deal of significant ministry followed and evident blessing could be seen on the faces of those responding.
I am thrilled with the healthy connection we have with the leaders in Mexico and am personally provoked by their obvious desire to see churches planted throughout this country and beyond into the America's. It is wonderful to note their connection in Brazil, Cuba, and Bolivia.
Many expressed appreciation for the USA churches that have continued to sponsor their trips to our USA "Equipped for Mission" leaders conference. I commend our churches for your commitment to the Mexican churches and received many statements of appreciation for the friendship we enjoy together. I do believe that in the future our relationship will translate into us planting churches together in the USA particularly among hispanic people, as well as beyond our borders. The relationship we enjoy together is most rewarding in their wonderful contribution to our churches.
Our friendship with Lee Yarabourgh continues to deepen. I look forward to Lee again joining our USA team meetings and the contribution he is making to us. Lee is now temporarily based in the USA while serving Clark Fork City Church in Missoula, MT. He is in the process of leading that church into Newfrontiers. It is also exciting to note that Lee's relationships with churches in the Northwest is having an effect, as several are now looking to Newfrontiers. I anticipate some exciting developments there as this growing region benefits from Lee's involvement with us in the USA.
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