Chapter 9; The Crux of the Matter

     Chapter 9 takes the book's title, letting the reader know that this is what it's all about.  The authors begin by looking at a "fictional" scenario in which two groups in a congregation are pulling for different, and intrinsically opposed, worship programs.  One side doesn't like where things are headed with devotional songs and praise teams, and the other feels as if things aren't moving "forward" fast enough, hoping for a more contemporary and relevant service.  Next the book looks at the early Corinthian church and the struggles it faced, namely power and wisdom.  Power, because there was infighting as to what spiritual gift was greatest, and wisdom, because they were proud of their educational emphasis and no too impressed with Paul.  The church didn't feel comfortable with the idea that God came to earth as a man and was humiliated and embarrassed on the cross, so they tended not to preach Christ crucified.  In no short order, Paul sets things straight and tells them that the greatest gift is love (charity) and that Christ crucified IS the gospel, end of story.  Paul goes on to address other specific issues in the church at Corinth, like disruptions in the worship service and the less-than-virtuous activity of sexual relations with your in-laws (seriously, did they really need someone to point that out?!).  The authors spend most of their time on what they call "the Crux," which is this:
      "The cross of Christ ought to make a difference in how you live, how you teat one another, how you restrain your freedoms and subdue your desires in order that others may be served.  It ought to affect the choices you make, the words you use, the sacrifices you offer.  The concerns of Christ should be reflected in everything you do." (p. 210)
      On Sunday morning our table discussed the interesting idea that sometimes the most simple idea can be the most significant.  As Christians, by definition,  we all believe in the deity and resurrection of Christ.  But do we understand why his death was and is so significant?  Beyond being the "act" of salvation, why is it so amazing, so earth-shattering, so transformative?  The answer: Because he didn't have to.  He was Yahweh, Jehovah, Elohim, Adonai.  This was the Lord of Lords and the King of Kings on the cross.  If you think Elijah set it off on Baal, just imagine what God the Creator could have done at Golgatha.  But he didn't.  He restrained all His power, all His freedom for our good, so that His sacrifice might have meaning and power greater than any event before or after.  If the Lord Almighty can sacrifice everything, do we have any place to put our interests before other's?  Can you honestly say, that when you meet God face to face, pierced hand to hand, punctured side to side, that you want to explain why you were justified in promoting your interests at the expense of a relationship with your brother or sister?  That is the Crux.
     So what does a life transformed by the cross look like?

Chapter 8

This week's chapter is about understanding Healthy Doctrine.  The authors draw a distinction between our desire for "sound doctrine" and a more scriptural "healthy doctrine."  They emphasize that a desire for "sound doctrine" focuses on getting it all right, while healthy doctrine is a broader concept.  Healthy doctrine incorporates and understanding of the coure of God's entire story in scripture, reading from this core or center, and allowing our ministry in Christ to shape our understanding.  While trying to "get it right" has its place, it is not the end of the matter.  As we look through the lens of God's story, and walk that story out in our lives, our understanding of doctrine deepens and we see that there is even a place for Grace in our understanding.  Come to class tonight, 7pm in the upstairs library, and we will dig a little deeper into "The Crux" of the matter.

Thoughts on Chapter 7, Facilitating an Understanding

Thoughts on Chapter 7 of the Crux.  Is there a better way to read scripture?  How do we do that?  Does that mean we can all come to the same understanding?

Chapter Six, Our Identity (The Crux of the Matter)

Let's try this again... sorry for the Ben Stein-esque monotone, but I just wanted to get something going...

The past made present...

Marcus Cicero once said:
     "Not to know what has been transacted in former times is to always be a child.  If no use is made of the labors of past ages, the world must remain always in the infancy of knowledge."

     I believe this is really what the authors of the Crux are trying to say in Chapter 4 (Yes, I know we skipped chapter 3, but to summarize: certain of us fall into different groups and we see life with different perspectives which translate into how we approach scripture.  End of summary).  For those of us who have grown up in the Church of Christ tradition, it was a real eye-opener.  We found out that our roots are closely tied to many groups: Lutherans, Calvinists, Anabaptists, Presbyterians.  Moreover we discovered that each of these groups added something to the way we practice our faith today.  It helped me to realize that when I struggle or have questions about our tradition or our practices, I might be able to find the foundations of those practices in more modern times.  With this knowledge, I can look to recent history and possibly discover the reasoning and understand the culture in which these practices or beliefs were established.  I realized that we as a tradition are the culmination of centuries of shaping and forming that happened far after the church in Acts and continues right up until today.  Some of our greatest traditions, while perhaps based in the "early church," were actually formed and formulated in the last 200-300 years.  To Martin Luther we owe our understanding of the "priesthood of all believers;" to Ulrich Zwingli our view of scripture as the ultimate authority; to the Anabaptists our commitment to full immersion baptism of adults; to John Calvin the idea that God is "ultimately, completely, and solely in charge of everything;" to Alexander Stone and the Presbyterians our commitment to autonomous congregations led by elders... and the list goes on.  Each group subsequently working and shaping the tradition we honor today.  Some practices or beliefs were of great benefit and scripturally based, others less so, but they are all part of the history of our faith.  Chapter 4 really brought home that the story continues to be formed and with it our tradition and our faith.     What will our contribution be?

     In class on Sunday morning a pertinent question was asked that went something like this: "If honest, intelligent, hardworking people study the scriptures faithfully, will they all come to the truth? Will that truth be the same for each person?  What are the implications of your answer?"
This question brought on much discussion both in class in some subsequent small groups.  Would everyone come to the SAME truth?  Would we all arrive at the SAME understanding?  Our group found it hard to accept that EVERYONE would come to the SAME truth.  While we might agree on some things, we would surely not agree on EVERYTHING.  So what are the implications?

The Crux, Chapter 2: Too smart for our own good?

     This week we'll be discussing chapter 2 in The Crux.  The chapter talks about how we got "here" and where things seem to be headed, along with a look at the diversity that's developing in our society as a whole, and our church in particular.  The first part of the chapter talks about the evolution from pre-modern to modern philosophy.  The point is made that in the "dark-ages," knowledge and religion and therefore power was really centralized in the elite.  This included nobility and the clergy, making up mostly the educated, governing bodies in society.  The nobility owned the land and the clergy owned God's word.  This is illustrated by the fact that most Catholic masses were performed entirely in latin, a language not understood by the lay people.  This elitism was not limited to the Catholic tradition and parishioners of most churches believed that only the clergy were capable of interpreting God's word.  However, over many centuries as scientific knowledge grew and the world became more understandable, so too did the word of God.  Inspired by a shift in culture, church members began to believe that they could have a personal relationship with God and began searching the scriptures themselves.  No longer did the clergy hold the keys but each individual need only open his or her Bible to find God's truths.  As the modern era issued in a new level of understanding of our natural world through science, Christians, especially in our tradition, began to be convinced that the Bible too could be proven through the scientific process.  The modern mindset was responsible in no small part for taking out the mystery and providing the Everyman with a means of understanding and accessing his God.  This is a tremendous blessing for every follower of faith, but is there a flip side?  As we begin to believe that we can explain everything, that we can figure it all out, that the scientific method is the method by which truth is found... is there a danger?  

The Crux, Chapter 1

This week we looked at the first chapter in the Crux.  The main focus of this chapter was to introduce some of the "where we've been and where we might be going" in the Church of Christ.  Most faith traditions today are facing difficulties in identity and dealing with an ever-growing diversity within the body.  Our tradition is no different.  The authors also introduced a couple of paths that members might be inclined to take and that seem to be occurring around the country: 1) members leaving to find another congregation or another tradition that meets their needs; 2) others are becoming entrenched, exclusive even, and rejecting any new views or ideas as apostasy.  However, the authors suggest we look at a "third way," and this is the set up for the rest of the story.  Take a look at pages 12-15 and see what we're talking about.

The Crux...

This week we started a new class on Sunday morning and it's one I'm really excited about.  For those of you who weren't there, we're reading "The Crux Of The Matter," by  Childers, Foster and Reese.  It's an excellent book put out by ACU press.  The books are just $11 and can be purchased in the office.

Yesterday's lesson was an introduction to the material.  We focused on gaining an understanding of postmodernism and modernism.  In the broadest sense, postmodernism in theology is a mindset that rejects the absolute, puts greater emphasis on relationships and spirituality, and is more likely to "judge" a person's faith by their actions than their words.  Modernism puts a greater emphasis on "the truth," approaching theology in a more scientific way, with a desire to discern absolute understanding and less concern for emotional spirituality.  [These are MAJOR generalities and as I write them I already see their weaknesses.  See pages 26-37]  Although often associated with age, these mindsets can be found in people of all ages, and they are not just a construct of faith, but a world view.

After a brief discussion of the terms, we turned to a fictional scenario provided by the authors and had discussions in smaller groups.  The fictional church was facing problems relating to a clash of these mindsets in their preferences for sermon style and outreach.  We looked at some of the challenges facing congregations today as we wrestle with these ideas and world views, and also looked for ways in which our diversity can be our strength.  Many groups discussed the need to put Christ before our own preferences, to work with each other in love and humility, and to strive for unity.  It was a great kick off to what is likely to be one of the better classes we've had.

I encourage you all to get your books and make sure you show up for class next week.  There are reading schedules that you can also get in the office.  Even if you can't make class, be sure to grab a book and read along.

Thanks and Thanksgiving

Wow, what a great time we had at the Pratt's last weekend.  For all of you who were unable to attend you missed a really wonderful time, and a really HOT fire.  Many thanks to LeAnne, Mark, and the whole Pratt gang for a really nice time.

Remember that the toy drive is going on now at church.  A lot of retailers are starting their Black Friday deals early this year so be sure to get out to Target or Walmart or wherever and pick up a toy or two for the toy drive.  There are baskets in the foyer where Ms Peggy will be collecting your gifts.  Take this opportunity to show your thankfulness by sharing with a less fortunate child.

On that note, this Sunday is Thanksgiving Sunday, so be sure to invite your friends and family for a wonderful time of celebration, song, and supper!  There will be no classes this week and service will start at 10am.

Well, that's about it for this week, but stay tuned for some exciting new changes to this blog.  If you have any ideas or suggestions, please email or call me.  See you all Sunday!

Yippee!!!

Hey all, sorry I missed you Sunday but I really appreciate everyone who turned in a comment or suggestion. I just wanted to take a brief minute to remind everybody about the Hayride and BBQ that's happening this Saturday at LeAnne and Mark Pratt's.  We'll be getting together about 4pm, with a BBQ and Hayride to follow.  See the map below (basically north on 63 or Ben Maddox, RIGHT on Ave 328, Right on 144:  32603 Rd 144).  If your last name is A-M, bring a side dish and drinks; N-Z, bring dessert and drinks.  If you have any problems or get lost, just phone me: 802-0108.  Don't forget to dress warm and bring some lawn chairs!  Hope to see you all there.

Good without God...????

So the books out there, and the website is out there and now I'm going to put the question out there...is there good without God?  More appropriately, do we need God for morality or can people just decide to be good without God's involvement?  Check out this website and see what others had to say.  Now let me know what you think?


...p.s.  I will be gone this Sunday, but Mark Pratt will be taking over for me.  We're going to have a time of fellowship and Mark will share a few comments that I've asked him to make.  It's an important class, so be there or be... well, square, like me!

"Casey Vilhauer....come on down!"

So you go into church on Sunday morning and  think to yourself, "wow, there's a lot of new people here today."  In fact, there's so many new faces that you have to do a mental check to make sure it's not Christmas, or Easter.  And then, just as the service comes to a close you suddenly realize why all these people are here.  The minister gets on the mic, reaches his hand deep into a bag, and bingo, the family next to you just won $500 for coming to church.  Sound odd?  Maybe a little too gimmicky?  Well Rev. Willis of Chicago will agree, but he'll also tell you how attendance has jumped and giving has nearly doubled.  (see- It pays to go to church)  So here's a church that's stepping out into something totally different, going to extremes to get people in the pews, and it seems to be not only working, but working very well.  In tough times, people are coming to the church and getting tangible help.  In return, the church is reaching more people and receiving more support.  Can you argue with this formula?

Was it all just a Wild Falcon Chase?

You've all seen it by now, heard the discussions and read the comments.  If not, look here... Balloon Boy Video  Unfortunately I had the "luck" of seeing this family on one of the few episodes of Wipe Swap I ever watched and my honest opinion is, in short, Richard Heene is nuts.  That said, I couldn't help but think about this family and what types  of parents these people are and whether or not they deserve to keep their kids now that we have seen a little more into their lifestyle.  It also got me to thinking, what responsibilities to we have to our children?  If this was all just a hoax and this child was coached into doing this so his parents could get some attention, what should the authorities do?  Even if it wasn't just a hoax, is this a safe environment for kids?  Is there a standard that parents should be held to?  As parents, do we have the right to raise our children any way we want as long as it's within the bounds of the law?  Are children the property of their parents?  I want to know your thoughts.... and if you have trouble posting a comment, just email me and I'll post if for you... baylaw@me.com

I pledge allegiance...

to the what?  Flag?  State?  Church?  What if I said that all of these are wrong.  Could you agree with that?  What about, "I pledge allegiance to my friends, my family, my country?"  How do you feel about that?  Where should our allegiance lie... and before you answer, think about where your allegiances lie today?  Sports?  Shopping?  Television?  Politics?  Vices?   What are the implications of our allegiances?  This week I want to review a bit about what we're trying to do through this class and what changes we are (or try) making.  Consider your allegiances and decide if what you say is exemplified in how you live.  If not, why?

Service or Service?

Which, if you had to decide, is the most important: church Service or Service to others?  That's it, that's the question for Sunday, now give me your answer.

Wonder why we Wander?

This is NOT, I repeat NOT, the thought of the day for our Sunday class.  No, in fact it is a plug for tonight's small group class that meets at the building, at 7pm upstairs in the library.  Be there or be square...

So anyway, we're ready The Story and this week's chapter is about the Israelites wandering in the desert for 40 years.  Have you ever felt like that, like you're just wandering?  Sometimes it feels like we're neither moving forward or falling backward, but stuck, in a rut, wandering.  Why does God allow that to happen?  What was it about His desire for the Israelites and for us that makes wandering a good idea?  Let me hear your thoughts!

Only for the devoted...

Ok so for all of you who actually come to class, here's a post to see who actually checks in to the blog.  In preparing for this weeks lesson, I've come across a concept that I think is interesting and meaningful.  I'm calling it the Mind Body Mind Body effect or the MBMB.  Any ideas what this might mean or how it applies?

A Living Sacrifice?

Our "foundational" verse for this class is Romans 12:1-2.  In the first verse, Paul challenges us to be a "living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God."  I think most of us have an idea about the implications of sacrificing ourselves for God; giving up our own desires for God's will, seeking His kingdom first, working for his glory.  But what are the implications of BEING a sacrifice?  What I'm asking is, what was the importance of a sacrifice to people in biblical times?  What were the characteristics of a sacrifice?  Is there a connection between this idea and the idea expressed in I Corinthians 6:19-20?  I'd like to see your comments and try to kick off this weeks lesson as we ponder this idea.  What are these verses requiring of us?

Congratulations...

I'm sure most of you have heard, but I just wanted to take a quick second to congratulate Calvin Feehan on his recent baptism.  Calvin has been a longtime servant of the Lord and has impacted the Faith of many along the way.  I've really appreciated getting to know Calvin and feel blessed to call him a friend.  Calvin and Kelli are a wonderful couple and an integral part of our congregation and its future.  Congratulations Calvin, its awesome to see someone walking out their Faith with so much heart and integrity.  You are an inspiration to all of us!
May the Lord always shine His face upon you!

WDJS...

As many of you know, we won't be having class this Sunday because quite a few of us will be at the Men's Retreat.  But rather than skip a weekly post, I thought I'd share something with you anyway.  We've been talking about and reading about "The Story" on Sundays and in our small groups.  For those of you who don't know, The Story is a narrative version of the bible, told as one story from beginning to end.  Even though we're just getting started, I know many if not all of you know who is at the center of The Story: Christ.  Our tradition recognizes 66 books in the bible, 27 in the New Testament and 39 in the Old Testament.  However, Christ's life and teachings are covered in depth in only four books, the Gospels (I realize he's mentioned in others, but stick with me here).  So given that the essence of The Story, the main event, the lead character really only gets His day in four books, shouldn't we put a greater emphasis on those books?  In fact, without dismissing their value to the story, do we really even need to know the other 62 books in any depth?  Finally, what if I decided that from now on I was going to base my entire faith on only the teachings of Christ as expressed in the four Gospels?  When confronted with questions about life or theology I'm only going to refer to the Gospels for guidance and ask, "What Did Jesus Say?"  Who's with me?