Here's a fascinating resource to check out the nationalities, languages, and people groups who live in different cities:
PeopleGroups.Info
You will probably be surprised at how God has settled people so that the Gospel message can be shared. This is a great jumping-off point for a small group or Sunday School discussion, or just your family at the dinner table.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Looking for Systematic Framework Guide to the Bible?
Galyn Weimers has made available an incredibly valuable framework for Bible study -- at no cost! If you're looking for a systematic guide to understanding the Bible and Christian faith, tailor made for producing lessons for youth or adults, check this out immediately. The PDF of the book is available free online.
If you prefer, you can order a physical copy of the book (with companion CD) for $20 plus shipping.
Outstanding resource!
If you prefer, you can order a physical copy of the book (with companion CD) for $20 plus shipping.
Outstanding resource!
Saturday, April 25, 2009
SermonCloud -- find sermons quickly
Looking for a sermon on a specific topic or theme? Try searching SermonCloud. Very interesting interface, and new material being added all the time.
Reading, Speaking, and Writing
"Reading makes a full man, speaking a quick man, and writing an exact man." -- Francis Bacon
Teaching well requires you to be well-prepared, both in your specific lesson, and broadly. So I strongly encourage you to read deeply and widely, to practice speaking with others about issues of consequence, and to practice writing (letters, journals, short devotions, blogs). These will deepen you and enrich you; you'll become a greater blessing to others as you sharpen your abilities.
Teaching well requires you to be well-prepared, both in your specific lesson, and broadly. So I strongly encourage you to read deeply and widely, to practice speaking with others about issues of consequence, and to practice writing (letters, journals, short devotions, blogs). These will deepen you and enrich you; you'll become a greater blessing to others as you sharpen your abilities.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Diagnosing Your Problems When You Hit A Plateau in Teaching
Bible teaching is a craft. By that I mean, great Bible teaching is a combination of knowledge, practices, skills, and art – and we are always in learning mode on our craft.
Initially many teachers are lacking information and the “how-to” of practices which are effective. But going forward, progress requires discipline and persistent determination to improve. Consider these quotes:
“Discipline is the refining fire by which talent becomes ability.” - Roy Smith
“Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful people with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent.” – Calvin Coolidge
If you’ve hit a plateau in your Bible teaching, it could be a lack of knowledge problem. It could be an issue with your passion. It’s very likely, however, that it’s an issue with your discipline and persistent determination.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Don't Give Them the Answer
When someone asks you a question, don't give them the answer.
"Whoa, Glenn, what are you saying?!"
Let me back up. When we as teachers are asked a question, we're often too quick to give them the answer. What do I mean by this? First, we're proud beings, so we thoroughly enjoy being perceived as smart and wise and full of knowledge. So we get asked a question about X theological issue, and Wham! we whip back our wise and knowledgeable answer.
Second, our answers are usually summary points -- because we're wise and knowledgeable and want to help people out.
The problem with this is that we're not training people to learn from the Bible for themselves. We're training them to be dependent upon us, the "wise and knowledgeable" ones.
There's a better approach that we need to master. We need to point people to Scriptures, and (as appropriate) help them discern for themselves what God is saying. This is particularly true for believers, because they too have the Holy Spirit!
Jesus modeled it for us. Let's look at a couple of passages to illustrate this:
In Mark 10:2-3 we have the account of Pharisees asking Jesus a question (in this case, as a test):
"Some Pharisees came and tested him by asking, "Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?"
"What did Moses command you?" he replied."
Notice that Jesus steered them back to the Torah. Then He continued the teaching from there.
Later in that same chapter we have the account of the young man asking about eternal life:
"As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. "Good teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?"
"Why do you call me good?" Jesus answered. "No one is good—except God alone. You know the commandments: 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honor your father and mother.'" (Matt 10:17-19)
Here Jesus reminds the man of the commandments he has already been given; again, He is pointing people back to the existing Word of God. There are several other examples of this pattern in the Gospel accounts.
Could Jesus have given them a theologically sound summary answer? Yes, but He didn't. The fact that He responded to their question by steering them to Scripture is meaningful. Let's pay attention!
Now how does this work for you as a teacher? What does your response look like?
You can ask them "What Scripture passages might be relevant here?"
You can say, "Here's a passage of Scripture that's been helpful to me on this question."
From both of these starting points, you have a great opportunity to help them understand the meaning of the Word. You can dialogue back and forth, look at related Scriptures, etc. But don't just spoon-feed an answer to them -- especially for people who have been believers a long time.
If the person you're working with is not-yet a believer, or a very new believer, you will need to help them more.
One of the primary benefits of this approach is that you're training people to go to God's Word for answers to their questions.
Another benefit is that our teacher "pride" issues are kept in check. We're not feeding that dog!
By the way, your students will not think less of you as a teacher when you teach this way. On the contrary, they'll be more engaged and want to interact with you more.
Let me close by saying that I have a long way to go with this practice. I've made far too many people dependent on me as a teacher. I'm not writing this as one who has "arrived" and always gets this right, but as a fellow learner with you. To God be all the glory!
"Whoa, Glenn, what are you saying?!"
Let me back up. When we as teachers are asked a question, we're often too quick to give them the answer. What do I mean by this? First, we're proud beings, so we thoroughly enjoy being perceived as smart and wise and full of knowledge. So we get asked a question about X theological issue, and Wham! we whip back our wise and knowledgeable answer.
Second, our answers are usually summary points -- because we're wise and knowledgeable and want to help people out.
The problem with this is that we're not training people to learn from the Bible for themselves. We're training them to be dependent upon us, the "wise and knowledgeable" ones.
There's a better approach that we need to master. We need to point people to Scriptures, and (as appropriate) help them discern for themselves what God is saying. This is particularly true for believers, because they too have the Holy Spirit!
Jesus modeled it for us. Let's look at a couple of passages to illustrate this:
In Mark 10:2-3 we have the account of Pharisees asking Jesus a question (in this case, as a test):
"Some Pharisees came and tested him by asking, "Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?"
"What did Moses command you?" he replied."
Notice that Jesus steered them back to the Torah. Then He continued the teaching from there.
Later in that same chapter we have the account of the young man asking about eternal life:
"As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. "Good teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?"
"Why do you call me good?" Jesus answered. "No one is good—except God alone. You know the commandments: 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honor your father and mother.'" (Matt 10:17-19)
Here Jesus reminds the man of the commandments he has already been given; again, He is pointing people back to the existing Word of God. There are several other examples of this pattern in the Gospel accounts.
Could Jesus have given them a theologically sound summary answer? Yes, but He didn't. The fact that He responded to their question by steering them to Scripture is meaningful. Let's pay attention!
Now how does this work for you as a teacher? What does your response look like?
You can ask them "What Scripture passages might be relevant here?"
You can say, "Here's a passage of Scripture that's been helpful to me on this question."
From both of these starting points, you have a great opportunity to help them understand the meaning of the Word. You can dialogue back and forth, look at related Scriptures, etc. But don't just spoon-feed an answer to them -- especially for people who have been believers a long time.
If the person you're working with is not-yet a believer, or a very new believer, you will need to help them more.
One of the primary benefits of this approach is that you're training people to go to God's Word for answers to their questions.
Another benefit is that our teacher "pride" issues are kept in check. We're not feeding that dog!
By the way, your students will not think less of you as a teacher when you teach this way. On the contrary, they'll be more engaged and want to interact with you more.
Let me close by saying that I have a long way to go with this practice. I've made far too many people dependent on me as a teacher. I'm not writing this as one who has "arrived" and always gets this right, but as a fellow learner with you. To God be all the glory!
Be Wary of Quiet Time "Performance"
Tim Challies warns us against quiet time "performance," a legalistic response to the command that we study God's Word and pray. Excellent! He concludes:
"So do not allow quiet time to become performance. View it as a chance to grow in grace. Begin with an expression of your dependency upon God’s grace, and end with an affirmation of His grace. Acknowledge that you have no right to approach God directly, but can approach Him only through the work of His Son. Focus on the gospel as the message of grace that both saves and sustains. And allow quiet time to become a gift of worship you present to God, and a gift of grace you receive from Him."
Read the whole blog post.
"So do not allow quiet time to become performance. View it as a chance to grow in grace. Begin with an expression of your dependency upon God’s grace, and end with an affirmation of His grace. Acknowledge that you have no right to approach God directly, but can approach Him only through the work of His Son. Focus on the gospel as the message of grace that both saves and sustains. And allow quiet time to become a gift of worship you present to God, and a gift of grace you receive from Him."
Read the whole blog post.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Looking for Challenging Christian Reading
If you're looking for no-fluff, challenging Christian reading, then check out this list. I've read about 1/2 of these. This is lean meat and hearty potatoes reading, not cheese puffs.
An Illustration on Sin
A common misconception is that God judges us on the overall balance of good and evil works. (You'll find this in your children, too, if you pay attention.) You can assume it's an assumption that many of your students will have, perhaps without being aware of it.
Even one sin condemns us, apart from the saving work of Jesus Christ.
Ray Ortlund uses the story of Benedict Arnold to illustrate our need for Christ.
This is a good illustration for some audiences who know Benedict Arnold. Worldwide, you may need to think of over examples of men or women who did a lot of good things but are remembered for singular evil deeds.
Even one sin condemns us, apart from the saving work of Jesus Christ.
Ray Ortlund uses the story of Benedict Arnold to illustrate our need for Christ.
This is a good illustration for some audiences who know Benedict Arnold. Worldwide, you may need to think of over examples of men or women who did a lot of good things but are remembered for singular evil deeds.
Base Hits
There is insiduous pressure on pastors and Bible teachers to make the next sermon or lesson better, more spectacular, more powerful, more sensational, more memorable, more exciting.
To use a baseball analogy, we begin thinking that only towering home runs are helpful.
Not true! If you're in a position of regular teaching, then a steady pattern of base hits will win games. Take each lesson for itself, and stop comparing one lesson to another.
This is different than working to improve your teaching craft over time! You should seek to improve your craft over time.
Work hard for your students, work steadily, but do not fall into the traps of thinking everything must be spectacular. If you begin thinking and operating this way, you will manipulate people, become motivated more by pride than love, and find you have walked away from the Holy Spirit.
Check out this article to think more about this concept.
To use a baseball analogy, we begin thinking that only towering home runs are helpful.
Not true! If you're in a position of regular teaching, then a steady pattern of base hits will win games. Take each lesson for itself, and stop comparing one lesson to another.
This is different than working to improve your teaching craft over time! You should seek to improve your craft over time.
Work hard for your students, work steadily, but do not fall into the traps of thinking everything must be spectacular. If you begin thinking and operating this way, you will manipulate people, become motivated more by pride than love, and find you have walked away from the Holy Spirit.
Check out this article to think more about this concept.
Counsel for Unity on Church Leadership Teams
John Piper provides wise counsel for church leaders, to preserve unity:
Six Biblical Guidelines for Loving Each Other Amid Differences
1. Let’s avoid gossiping.The New Testament warns against gossiping.
2. Let’s identify evidences of grace in each other and speak them to each other and about each other.
3. Let’s speak criticism directly to each other if we feel the need to speak to others about it.
4. Let’s look for, and assume, the best motive in the other’s viewpoint, especially when we disagree.
5. Think often of the magnificent things we hold in common.
6. Let’s be more amazed that we are forgiven than that we are right. And in that way, let’s shape our relationships by the gospel.
Read the whole article, it's excellent.
Six Biblical Guidelines for Loving Each Other Amid Differences
1. Let’s avoid gossiping.The New Testament warns against gossiping.
2. Let’s identify evidences of grace in each other and speak them to each other and about each other.
3. Let’s speak criticism directly to each other if we feel the need to speak to others about it.
4. Let’s look for, and assume, the best motive in the other’s viewpoint, especially when we disagree.
5. Think often of the magnificent things we hold in common.
6. Let’s be more amazed that we are forgiven than that we are right. And in that way, let’s shape our relationships by the gospel.
Read the whole article, it's excellent.
Friday, April 17, 2009
You Should Be Learning from Josh Hunt
I strongly recommend you sign up for Josh Hunt's [free] newsletter and check out his training materials. They're excellent.
My heart just sang out when I read this in part 7 of his series on "Creating Spiritually Vibrant People":
"The object is Christian teaching is not to make smarter sinners. It is not to create people who can quote the facts of the Bible but live like the devil. It is to create people who act like saints."
(The whole article is great, with practical suggestions about practical teaching approaches. Print it off, read it through 3 times, and commit to implementing something practical this week.)
My heart just sang out when I read this in part 7 of his series on "Creating Spiritually Vibrant People":
"The object is Christian teaching is not to make smarter sinners. It is not to create people who can quote the facts of the Bible but live like the devil. It is to create people who act like saints."
(The whole article is great, with practical suggestions about practical teaching approaches. Print it off, read it through 3 times, and commit to implementing something practical this week.)
Creating a "Blank Bible" for Personal Study
I'm a big fan of my wide-margin Bible, but it's still too small a space for all the note-taking and writing that I'd like to do. The two primary problems with loose-leaf Bibles are bulk and the awkwardness of writing near the 3 ring binder holder.
So I was amazed to read about how several people creating "blank Bibles" similar to what Jonathan Edwards did (see this very cool video explaining Edwards' approach) . They remove the cover from a Bible, cut off the glue on the binding side, then insert blank sheets of paper between the pages of Scripture, and hold everything together with a spiral binding so it lays flat when open. Amazing!
Check out the detailed instructions here and here, with lots of pictures. Here's one approach using just the Gospel of Matthew and a Moleskine notebook.
I'm timid to try it, but might overcome my fear, because it looks so useful and practical! Anyone tried to create a blank Bible for their own use?
So I was amazed to read about how several people creating "blank Bibles" similar to what Jonathan Edwards did (see this very cool video explaining Edwards' approach) . They remove the cover from a Bible, cut off the glue on the binding side, then insert blank sheets of paper between the pages of Scripture, and hold everything together with a spiral binding so it lays flat when open. Amazing!
Check out the detailed instructions here and here, with lots of pictures. Here's one approach using just the Gospel of Matthew and a Moleskine notebook.
I'm timid to try it, but might overcome my fear, because it looks so useful and practical! Anyone tried to create a blank Bible for their own use?
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Luther on the Scriptures
"In truth you cannot read too much in Scriptures;
and what you read you cannot read too carefully,
and what you read carefully you cannot understand too well,
and what you understand well you cannot teach too well,
and what you teach well you cannot live too well."
-- Martin Luther
What a great reminder for us to devote ourselves to the Word and Prayer!
HT: Between Two Worlds
and what you read you cannot read too carefully,
and what you read carefully you cannot understand too well,
and what you understand well you cannot teach too well,
and what you teach well you cannot live too well."
-- Martin Luther
What a great reminder for us to devote ourselves to the Word and Prayer!
HT: Between Two Worlds
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
400,000 New Bible Teachers by 2021
"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all weask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen."(Ephesians 3:20-21)
These are exciting days for the Gospel. One of the greatest needs we have worldwide is for more Bible teachers. And not just a few!
By 2021 there will be another billion people on this planet, should our Lord tarry. I estimate that it will take a minimum of 400,000 Bible teachers to reach this billion people. We can't meet this goal depending on seminaries, Bible study lesson guides, or waiting until someone has been a Jesus follower for 20 years before they begin teaching. The Internet does not reach everywhere, but it reaches the beachheads. Praise God that the HolySpirit is not limited!
So beginning this year, we're launching our 400KTeachers initiative. All the content will be free of charge. There will be coaching materials to develop your teaching skills, and helps so that each teacher can mentor three more teachers over 3 years. If we begin in 2009 with several thousand teachers, and they mentor more teachers, then by 2021 this multiplication process can result in over 400,000 new Bible teachers.
Initially all the materials will be in English, but we'llbe looking for help to produce them in other languages (initially we hope for Spanish and Chinese).
I'm very excited about this effort! (I told my pastor, "I don't think Satan suggests these things to us.") I'll be talking much more about this in the coming months, and hope that many of you will help spread the word.
More announcements coming!
These are exciting days for the Gospel. One of the greatest needs we have worldwide is for more Bible teachers. And not just a few!
By 2021 there will be another billion people on this planet, should our Lord tarry. I estimate that it will take a minimum of 400,000 Bible teachers to reach this billion people. We can't meet this goal depending on seminaries, Bible study lesson guides, or waiting until someone has been a Jesus follower for 20 years before they begin teaching. The Internet does not reach everywhere, but it reaches the beachheads. Praise God that the HolySpirit is not limited!
So beginning this year, we're launching our 400KTeachers initiative. All the content will be free of charge. There will be coaching materials to develop your teaching skills, and helps so that each teacher can mentor three more teachers over 3 years. If we begin in 2009 with several thousand teachers, and they mentor more teachers, then by 2021 this multiplication process can result in over 400,000 new Bible teachers.
Initially all the materials will be in English, but we'llbe looking for help to produce them in other languages (initially we hope for Spanish and Chinese).
I'm very excited about this effort! (I told my pastor, "I don't think Satan suggests these things to us.") I'll be talking much more about this in the coming months, and hope that many of you will help spread the word.
More announcements coming!
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Saturday, April 11, 2009
No Other Discipline Is More Important
Mark Batterson reminds us that the kings of Israel were commanded to make a personal copy of the law and study it daily.
"No other spiritual discipline is more vital to your spiritual growth that daily Bible study. Period. It has to be a daily routine."
"No other spiritual discipline is more vital to your spiritual growth that daily Bible study. Period. It has to be a daily routine."
Friday, April 10, 2009
How Much Can One Letter Teach Us?
Many of you know I've been teaching a series from Colossians, and have spent many hours meditating in that letter. It's astounding how deep is the well of Scripture, how inexhaustible.
Ray Ortlund has been studying Philippians, and asks a great question: What if Philippians were our only Bible?
Check out his response. Be strengthened and encouraged!
Thursday, April 09, 2009
But Dust -- humor
We Are But Dust....
A visiting minister waxed eloquent during the offertory prayer. "Dear Lord," he began with arms extended and a rapturous look on his upturned face, "without you we are but dust..."
He would have continued but at that moment my very obedient daughter (who was listening carefully for a change!) leaned over to me and asked quite audibly in her shrill little girl voice, "Mom, what is butt dust?"
A visiting minister waxed eloquent during the offertory prayer. "Dear Lord," he began with arms extended and a rapturous look on his upturned face, "without you we are but dust..."
He would have continued but at that moment my very obedient daughter (who was listening carefully for a change!) leaned over to me and asked quite audibly in her shrill little girl voice, "Mom, what is butt dust?"
Prayer Postures
Being both flesh and spirit, our bodily posture during prayer influences our prayer. Tim Challies has a nice review of the Scriptural descriptions of prayer postures -- bowing, kneeling, lying prostrate, standing, raising hands.
This would make an interesting lesson for a group!
This would make an interesting lesson for a group!
Reaching Out to Muslims
Albert Mohler gives some helpful perspective in his recent column, "The Challenge of Islam -- A Christian Perspective." While some will instantly jump to "he's just criticizing the President's comments", I recommend you consider his points on:
* the different approaches of the US Constitution towards religion and the Muslim mosque-and-state fusion (even in "moderate" Turkey)
* the reality that Islam is politically/economically an opposition force against most of our Western civilization values
* the primary challenge being a spiritual challenge for souls
It's important also to recognize the different ethical spheres of operation at work here. What we as Christians (individuals, but connected in the Spirit as the Body of Christ, His Bride, the Church) do is different than how nations/states operate. I do not think it's inconsistent for the US government to act in the best interests of citizens and position in the world, if that's different than how a church would act. For example, choosing to turn the other cheek is rarely good diplomacy between nations. My grandfather used to remind me that the Marshall Plan for Europe came after we crushed the Nazi war machine.
If you'd like to learn more about reaching out to Muslims, www.4truth.net has many excellent articles and resources. Here, for example, is a list of the references to Jesus (Isa) in the Koran.
* the different approaches of the US Constitution towards religion and the Muslim mosque-and-state fusion (even in "moderate" Turkey)
* the reality that Islam is politically/economically an opposition force against most of our Western civilization values
* the primary challenge being a spiritual challenge for souls
It's important also to recognize the different ethical spheres of operation at work here. What we as Christians (individuals, but connected in the Spirit as the Body of Christ, His Bride, the Church) do is different than how nations/states operate. I do not think it's inconsistent for the US government to act in the best interests of citizens and position in the world, if that's different than how a church would act. For example, choosing to turn the other cheek is rarely good diplomacy between nations. My grandfather used to remind me that the Marshall Plan for Europe came after we crushed the Nazi war machine.
If you'd like to learn more about reaching out to Muslims, www.4truth.net has many excellent articles and resources. Here, for example, is a list of the references to Jesus (Isa) in the Koran.
Wednesday, April 08, 2009
Christ-Consciousness
We cannot make too much of Jesus Christ. John Piper reminds us to be Christ-conscious. Perfect for Easter week!
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Getting Unstuck
Every teacher I know gets "stuck" sometimes. It feels like you've run out of ideas, insights, even your desire for studying God's Word falls away. You're sure you don't want to feel like this, but you also can't quite figure out what to do. Your brain fuzzes over. Temptations are stronger.
There are two avenues to getting unstuck. Both are important.
The first is to refocus on God. This is "Be still, and know that I am God." Restore Him to the focal point of your thoughts.
The second is to start moving, even if you're yet sure of direction. Put your confidence in the Lord, who will steer you. So if you're stuck staring at a blank page, start writing. If you aren't sure what to teach, pick something and begin working on a lesson outline.
There are two avenues to getting unstuck. Both are important.
The first is to refocus on God. This is "Be still, and know that I am God." Restore Him to the focal point of your thoughts.
The second is to start moving, even if you're yet sure of direction. Put your confidence in the Lord, who will steer you. So if you're stuck staring at a blank page, start writing. If you aren't sure what to teach, pick something and begin working on a lesson outline.
Saturday, April 04, 2009
Fighting the Fight for Faith
Paul's instruction to Timothy is helpful for teachers: Fight for Faith.
"11But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. 12Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses." -- 1 Timothy 6:11-12
We are in a war. Every day.
Everyone you are teaching is in a war, battling to hold on to eternal life, taking actions to be a disciple of Jesus, every day.
I believe in eternal security. I don't believe in presumption of eternal security. What matters is our discipleship today.
Let us, as teachers of God's Word, build this into our teaching. Eternal matters of the soul hang in the balance here. Don't presume everyone you teach is truly saved (Spurgeon thought perhaps half his congregation was), and remember that everyone is fighting the fight of faith.
"11But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. 12Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses." -- 1 Timothy 6:11-12
We are in a war. Every day.
Everyone you are teaching is in a war, battling to hold on to eternal life, taking actions to be a disciple of Jesus, every day.
I believe in eternal security. I don't believe in presumption of eternal security. What matters is our discipleship today.
Let us, as teachers of God's Word, build this into our teaching. Eternal matters of the soul hang in the balance here. Don't presume everyone you teach is truly saved (Spurgeon thought perhaps half his congregation was), and remember that everyone is fighting the fight of faith.
Friday, April 03, 2009
Checklist for Strong Delivery
Once you get what to teach, then how you teach becomes a critical factor in your effectiveness. I highly recommend you review Peter Mead's checklist "Delivery Diagnostics" for ideas on improvements.
I'm going to pay more attention to what I'm doing with my hands and also on slowing down during transitions.
What will you work on?
I'm going to pay more attention to what I'm doing with my hands and also on slowing down during transitions.
What will you work on?
Thursday, April 02, 2009
"I cannot. Not without you."
John Piper writes about slaying the dragon of our flesh, in this excerpt from a sermon:
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Picture your flesh—that old ego with the mentality of merit and craving for power and reputation and self-reliance—picture it as a dragon living in some cave of your soul. Then you hear the gospel, and in it Jesus Christ comes to you and says, "I will make you mine and take possession of the cave and slay the dragon. Will you yield to my possession? It will mean a whole new way of thinking and feeling and acting." You say: "But that dragon is me. I will die." He says, "And you will rise to newness of life, for I will take its plan; I will make my mind and my will and my heart your own." You say, "What must I do?" He answers, "Trust me and do as I say. As long as you trust me, we cannot lose." Overcome by the beauty and power of Christ you bow and swear eternal loyalty and trust. And as you rise, he puts a great sword in your hand and says, "Follow me." He leads you to the mouth of the cave and says, "Go in, slay the dragon." But you look at him bewildered, "I cannot. Not without you." He smiles. "Well said. You learn quickly. Never forget: my commands for you to do something are never commands to do it alone." Then you enter the cave together. A horrible battle follows and you feel Christ's hand on yours. At last the dragon lies limp. You ask, "Is it dead?" His answer is this: "I have come to give you new life. This you received when you yielded to my possession and swore faith and loyalty to me. And now with my sword and my hand you have felled the dragon of the flesh. It is a mortal wound. It will die. That is certain. But it has not yet bled to death, and it may yet revive with violent convulsions and do much harm. So you must treat it as dead and seal the cave as a tomb. The Lord of darkness may cause earthquakes in your soul to shake the stones loose, but you build them up again. And have this confidence: with my sword and my hand on yours this dragon's doom is sure, he is finished, and your new life is secure."I think that is the meaning of verse 24, "Those who belong to Christ have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires." Christ has taken possession of our soul. Our old self has been dealt a mortal wound and stripped of its power to have dominion. The Christian life, the fruit of the Spirit, is a constant reckoning of the flesh as dead (piling stones on its tomb) and a constant relying on the present Spirit of Christ to produce love, joy, and peace within. The difference between the Christian life and popular American morality is that Christians will not take one step unless the hand of Christ holds the hand that wields the sword of righteousness.
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This is a wonderful use of story and imagination to help people comprehend and apply biblical truth.
HT: Between Two Worlds
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Picture your flesh—that old ego with the mentality of merit and craving for power and reputation and self-reliance—picture it as a dragon living in some cave of your soul. Then you hear the gospel, and in it Jesus Christ comes to you and says, "I will make you mine and take possession of the cave and slay the dragon. Will you yield to my possession? It will mean a whole new way of thinking and feeling and acting." You say: "But that dragon is me. I will die." He says, "And you will rise to newness of life, for I will take its plan; I will make my mind and my will and my heart your own." You say, "What must I do?" He answers, "Trust me and do as I say. As long as you trust me, we cannot lose." Overcome by the beauty and power of Christ you bow and swear eternal loyalty and trust. And as you rise, he puts a great sword in your hand and says, "Follow me." He leads you to the mouth of the cave and says, "Go in, slay the dragon." But you look at him bewildered, "I cannot. Not without you." He smiles. "Well said. You learn quickly. Never forget: my commands for you to do something are never commands to do it alone." Then you enter the cave together. A horrible battle follows and you feel Christ's hand on yours. At last the dragon lies limp. You ask, "Is it dead?" His answer is this: "I have come to give you new life. This you received when you yielded to my possession and swore faith and loyalty to me. And now with my sword and my hand you have felled the dragon of the flesh. It is a mortal wound. It will die. That is certain. But it has not yet bled to death, and it may yet revive with violent convulsions and do much harm. So you must treat it as dead and seal the cave as a tomb. The Lord of darkness may cause earthquakes in your soul to shake the stones loose, but you build them up again. And have this confidence: with my sword and my hand on yours this dragon's doom is sure, he is finished, and your new life is secure."I think that is the meaning of verse 24, "Those who belong to Christ have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires." Christ has taken possession of our soul. Our old self has been dealt a mortal wound and stripped of its power to have dominion. The Christian life, the fruit of the Spirit, is a constant reckoning of the flesh as dead (piling stones on its tomb) and a constant relying on the present Spirit of Christ to produce love, joy, and peace within. The difference between the Christian life and popular American morality is that Christians will not take one step unless the hand of Christ holds the hand that wields the sword of righteousness.
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
This is a wonderful use of story and imagination to help people comprehend and apply biblical truth.
HT: Between Two Worlds
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
How a Weird Subject Line Encourages People
If you get an email from someone that just says “Bzzzzzzzz!” in the subject line, and nothing else, it’s because they’re praying for you. This quick shorthand way to communicating “Hey, I’m praying for you!” is spreading rapidly around the world.
Someone suggested I explain the history of Bzzzzzzzz! messages and promote the idea further.
Go here for all the details:
http://www.teachtochangelives.com/BzzzzzStory.htm
I'll be curious to see your responses in the comments!
Surfacing Their Needs
I like Peter Mead's advice to preachers about surfacing the needs of listeners, then working from that to the rest of the sermon.
"So I suggest we don’t start disconnected (“ok, enough irrelevant humor, let’s have a reading” or even “last week we were in Lamentations 3, please turn to Lamentations 4.”) Nor should we start with “felt needs” (“alright, you’re all asking me on facebook how to make life more comfortable and still be able to afford entertainment during the economic downturn, let’s turn to Judges chapter . . .”) I strongly suggest trying to start by “surfacing the need” addressed by the text. In your study it begins with the text. Then in your message you start by highlighting the need in the listeners life so they are thirsty for the passage and the message."
The same principles are important in any Bible teaching situation.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Is An Evangelical Collapse Imminent?
I'm delighted that Michael Spenser published his 3 part blog series on "The Coming Evangelical Collapse." I believe much of his diagnosis is correct, and I appreciate his authentic sharing of concerns. His willingness to frankly share his observations and thinking has provoked an excellent discussion in the blogosphere about what matters, and this is always a healthy process.
Several of you asked me to articulate my views. I started to sketch out my thoughts, and then came across Melinda's wonderful post on Stand to Reason.
She says everything that I wanted to say about it.
God's Church will stand. Seasons and movements of the Spirit change over time, but always forward in God's great sovereign purpose. The world at large may add labels and misintepret what is going on.
Several of you asked me to articulate my views. I started to sketch out my thoughts, and then came across Melinda's wonderful post on Stand to Reason.
She says everything that I wanted to say about it.
God's Church will stand. Seasons and movements of the Spirit change over time, but always forward in God's great sovereign purpose. The world at large may add labels and misintepret what is going on.
John Calvin -- Missions and Church Planting
Mark Driscoll gives a nice introduction to John Calvin's sustained efforts to train and launch missionaries, and sponsor church planting in the mid-1500's.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Why Do We Need to Learn Faster?
This popular video is studded with facts about the exponentially fast technological changes we're living in.
Our fundamental problems are spiritual, not technical, political, or economic. But in order to continue to be effective, we need to keep learning faster.
Our fundamental problems are spiritual, not technical, political, or economic. But in order to continue to be effective, we need to keep learning faster.
Characteristics of a Good Sunday School Teacher
Our friends at the excellent Sunday School Revolutionary site have posted a 3-part article on the Characteristics of a Good Sunday School Teacher. Recommended!
I encourage you to review these characteristics, give yourself a rating, and prayerfully look for areas where you could improve in the next 2 months.
I encourage you to review these characteristics, give yourself a rating, and prayerfully look for areas where you could improve in the next 2 months.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
"Keys to Accelerated Learning" Now Available
Thanks for your patience while I got everything ready to deliver!
The "Keys to Accelerated Learning" course is ready foryou.
http://www.teachtochangelives.com/LearnFaster
I'm confident this coaching will truly transform your ability to learn faster, better, and retain more, with even less stress.
The "Keys to Accelerated Learning" course is ready foryou.
http://www.teachtochangelives.com/LearnFaster
I'm confident this coaching will truly transform your ability to learn faster, better, and retain more, with even less stress.
Monday, March 23, 2009
My Great Books list
After my recent post discussing my reading habits, a number of you asked me for a reading list.
I don't recommend every book I've read to others. And I read widely, across a number of disciplines. But I thought it was worth the time to list out 75 explicitly Christian books which have greatly influenced me.
These are the books that I return to, gladly, again and again, knowing that I can learn still more from them. The authors have been used by God to help disciple me.
I'll be interested to hear your comments and feedback.
Gauging When to Trim Conversation
A number of the classes I teach are large, sometimes 100+ people. I often use the strategy of a rhythm of teaching a little, then asking them to work on a question or issue as small groups for 3-4 minutes, then coming back together as a large group to talk it through. Then repeat.
There are a couple of keys which help this process work better:
1. Have a handout with the relevent Scriptures and the question you want them to work on together. This makes it easier for people to be "on the same page."
2. Use good questions that open up discussion in the group. I prefer "window" questions rather than "pin" questions which have one right, definite answer, in these settings.
The other helpful practice is to gauge when to cut off conversation. You can look for cues that people are done talking in their group, for example, or are now talking about something else.
My counsel is to call the groups together again before they're all out of discussion. Leave 'em hungry for more, instead of burned out and bored with one another.
In this model you can only teach a few key things that you want them to get. So teach less, but teach it very well. Really hone in on your questions.
There are a couple of keys which help this process work better:
1. Have a handout with the relevent Scriptures and the question you want them to work on together. This makes it easier for people to be "on the same page."
2. Use good questions that open up discussion in the group. I prefer "window" questions rather than "pin" questions which have one right, definite answer, in these settings.
The other helpful practice is to gauge when to cut off conversation. You can look for cues that people are done talking in their group, for example, or are now talking about something else.
My counsel is to call the groups together again before they're all out of discussion. Leave 'em hungry for more, instead of burned out and bored with one another.
In this model you can only teach a few key things that you want them to get. So teach less, but teach it very well. Really hone in on your questions.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
The Question
I’m sure my friend and mentor didn’t understand the explosive power of the bomb he dropped on me.
His simple question transformed the way I have thought about sin, temptation, and the Christian life.
I met weekly with my friend for encouragement and mutual accountability in agreed-upon areas of weakness. For three weeks running I had to confess failings in one particular area. “I hate that I’m saying it,” I said quietly, “but… I did it again.”
“Here comes the lecture,” I thought, knowing I deserved it.
My friend paused, then asked me this simple, profound, and powerful question:
“That’s not consistent with Christ in you, is it?”
In that moment God catalyzed something wonderful in my mind. Following Jesus is not about making my heart and mind better through external “righteousness.” Following Jesus means my thinking, acting, and living should flow out of the glorious reality that I am a new creature in Christ.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Corinthians 5:17) The reality of this new creation is the primary source of all wisdom, godliness, and righteous living (see Galatians 6:15).
Use this question to help frame your decisions. When you’re faced with a choice, you can ask “Lord, what’s most consistent with Christ in me?”
Use this question to resist besetting sins. When you are tempted, it helps enormously to ask “Is this consistent with Christ in me?”
Use this question when you are fearful, or weak, to remind yourself of the character of Christ in you. “Is this consistent with Christ in me?”
Let us be grateful people, confident in “Christ in us, the hope of glory.” (Colossians 1:27)
His simple question transformed the way I have thought about sin, temptation, and the Christian life.
I met weekly with my friend for encouragement and mutual accountability in agreed-upon areas of weakness. For three weeks running I had to confess failings in one particular area. “I hate that I’m saying it,” I said quietly, “but… I did it again.”
“Here comes the lecture,” I thought, knowing I deserved it.
My friend paused, then asked me this simple, profound, and powerful question:
“That’s not consistent with Christ in you, is it?”
In that moment God catalyzed something wonderful in my mind. Following Jesus is not about making my heart and mind better through external “righteousness.” Following Jesus means my thinking, acting, and living should flow out of the glorious reality that I am a new creature in Christ.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Corinthians 5:17) The reality of this new creation is the primary source of all wisdom, godliness, and righteous living (see Galatians 6:15).
Use this question to help frame your decisions. When you’re faced with a choice, you can ask “Lord, what’s most consistent with Christ in me?”
Use this question to resist besetting sins. When you are tempted, it helps enormously to ask “Is this consistent with Christ in me?”
Use this question when you are fearful, or weak, to remind yourself of the character of Christ in you. “Is this consistent with Christ in me?”
Let us be grateful people, confident in “Christ in us, the hope of glory.” (Colossians 1:27)
Friday, March 20, 2009
Answering Questions about Learning Faster
I've gotten some interesting email about my messages
challenging teachers, pastors, and church leaders to be
better learners.
Let me address some of the questions and statements that
might be of more general interest.
"I have a master's degree from seminary and read a lot.
I'm sure some people on your mailing list could use your
help, but I don't." -- Pastor A.W.
Great learners are simply people who know they have a lot
more to learn, and remain excited about learning. If you
don't think I could help you learn faster and better (with
less stress, too), then you're exactly right. If your mind
is closed to improvement, I won't be able to teach you, any
more than Jesus could open the minds of some of the
Pharisees. May our Lord bless your pastoral ministry.
"Can you help me? I have trouble reading the newspaper
sometimes. I want to be better, so I can be a better
teacher." -- B.P.
The Lord will, I'm sure, bless your ministry in His Name.
I do believe that everyone can see improvements in their
ability to learn and retain useful information for teaching
and pastoral ministry work.
You see, it's not important whether you can read 100 books
in a year. It is important that you get better by learning
to learn faster. If you read 2 or 3 books a year, you can
readily push yourself to read 5 to 10 books (with less
stress, I might add!) and retain the information better.
"Is this just about memorization? I use the Navigator's
method and it works for me." -- S.W.
I actually won't cover memorization explicitly in this
coaching. Enormous feats of memorization are possible (and
indeed have been routine -- young Jewish boys memorized the
Torah). What I'll explain doesn't depend upon memorization
to be successful.
"Does this require special software? I don't have a fancy
computer or any money to buy tools." -- W.A.
A lot of what I'll show you can be done without any special
tools at all. (Our ancestors had less than you do!) I will
tell you about optional software tools that can help, and
nearly all of them are free.
"I'd like to read more, but I don't have time." -- J.J.
If you practice a little bit of what I'll show you, you can
read 2 to 4 times faster. And retain more. I'm completely
serious. Over the remaining years the Lord gives you,
wouldn't you like to be able to read more, remember it
better, and retain the valuable parts longer? This will be
a huge benefit you'll enjoy with just a little bit of effort
on your part.
"Speed reading courses don't work for me." -- A.S.
I'm cynical about speed-reading courses myself. I read an
ad for one course and realized that if their claims were
true, I could read "Gone with the Wind" in 26 minutes.
Bleh.
What I'm going to be teaching you is a lot more than speed
reading. It's about *learning* -- which is not just
reading, listening, or watching, but understanding the
material and making connections in your mind. Faster
reading is possible and desirable, but it's an incomplete
picture of what you need.
"Are you suggesting that the way I learned to study was
wrong? I went good schools." -- D.F.
My observation is that very few adults, even those who have
been to good schools, learned how to learn. They rarely
were encouraged to figure out their personal strengths and
leverage them to the fullest. And far too few people were
encouraged to remain curious throughout their who lives.
I'm less interested in criticizing schools or teachers --
and more interested in helping everyone become a superior
learner. Wherever you are now with your learning skills,
I'm confident you can be much better.
"I prefer to listen to audios and watch videos instead of
reading. Will your approach help me, or is it only about
reading?" -- U.G.
Most of what I will cover applies to any medium -- reading
text, listening to audios, or watching videos.
"Where did you learn what you're going to teach in this
course?" -- A.S.
I've been working on improving my learning skills since I
was in high school. I've searched out many people who
clearly were effective learners and tapped into their ideas
about what helps them. I've studied the neurobiology of the
learning process, as little as we understand it, and read
through many reports of psychological experiments on
comprehension and retention of information. Plus I've
tried many personal experiments to practice and adapt and
improve myself. It's an ongoing process for me.
Until now I have shared my learning with only a handful of
people who have asked for help. Recently it's become plain
to me that the information could help many, many people in
the church.
"I read the Bible and nothing else. Why would I?" -- C.K.
I don't advocate reading other information instead of the
Bible, and I certainly think we should generally be
investing more time with the Word of God than less. But we
belong to the historic community of believers through the
centuries now, and can learn a lot from the writings of
those who have gone before us. And we should also be
students of the best of the world around us, in order to
develop our skills and understanding, and be able to reach
that world effectively with the Gospel. I fervently
believe that all truth is God's truth, and worth studying.
We develop discernment and wisdom as we learn.
So I do think you as a teacher should study and learn from
more information sources than the Bible, and evaluate
everything through the power of the HolySpirit. The
challenge then becomes how to learn effectively and
efficiently from the astounding amount of information
available to us!
Did I cover your concern area? If I didn't, let me know in the comments.
The "Keys to Accelerated Learning" materials is almost
ready. Watch for an announcement soon!
challenging teachers, pastors, and church leaders to be
better learners.
Let me address some of the questions and statements that
might be of more general interest.
"I have a master's degree from seminary and read a lot.
I'm sure some people on your mailing list could use your
help, but I don't." -- Pastor A.W.
Great learners are simply people who know they have a lot
more to learn, and remain excited about learning. If you
don't think I could help you learn faster and better (with
less stress, too), then you're exactly right. If your mind
is closed to improvement, I won't be able to teach you, any
more than Jesus could open the minds of some of the
Pharisees. May our Lord bless your pastoral ministry.
"Can you help me? I have trouble reading the newspaper
sometimes. I want to be better, so I can be a better
teacher." -- B.P.
The Lord will, I'm sure, bless your ministry in His Name.
I do believe that everyone can see improvements in their
ability to learn and retain useful information for teaching
and pastoral ministry work.
You see, it's not important whether you can read 100 books
in a year. It is important that you get better by learning
to learn faster. If you read 2 or 3 books a year, you can
readily push yourself to read 5 to 10 books (with less
stress, I might add!) and retain the information better.
"Is this just about memorization? I use the Navigator's
method and it works for me." -- S.W.
I actually won't cover memorization explicitly in this
coaching. Enormous feats of memorization are possible (and
indeed have been routine -- young Jewish boys memorized the
Torah). What I'll explain doesn't depend upon memorization
to be successful.
"Does this require special software? I don't have a fancy
computer or any money to buy tools." -- W.A.
A lot of what I'll show you can be done without any special
tools at all. (Our ancestors had less than you do!) I will
tell you about optional software tools that can help, and
nearly all of them are free.
"I'd like to read more, but I don't have time." -- J.J.
If you practice a little bit of what I'll show you, you can
read 2 to 4 times faster. And retain more. I'm completely
serious. Over the remaining years the Lord gives you,
wouldn't you like to be able to read more, remember it
better, and retain the valuable parts longer? This will be
a huge benefit you'll enjoy with just a little bit of effort
on your part.
"Speed reading courses don't work for me." -- A.S.
I'm cynical about speed-reading courses myself. I read an
ad for one course and realized that if their claims were
true, I could read "Gone with the Wind" in 26 minutes.
Bleh.
What I'm going to be teaching you is a lot more than speed
reading. It's about *learning* -- which is not just
reading, listening, or watching, but understanding the
material and making connections in your mind. Faster
reading is possible and desirable, but it's an incomplete
picture of what you need.
"Are you suggesting that the way I learned to study was
wrong? I went good schools." -- D.F.
My observation is that very few adults, even those who have
been to good schools, learned how to learn. They rarely
were encouraged to figure out their personal strengths and
leverage them to the fullest. And far too few people were
encouraged to remain curious throughout their who lives.
I'm less interested in criticizing schools or teachers --
and more interested in helping everyone become a superior
learner. Wherever you are now with your learning skills,
I'm confident you can be much better.
"I prefer to listen to audios and watch videos instead of
reading. Will your approach help me, or is it only about
reading?" -- U.G.
Most of what I will cover applies to any medium -- reading
text, listening to audios, or watching videos.
"Where did you learn what you're going to teach in this
course?" -- A.S.
I've been working on improving my learning skills since I
was in high school. I've searched out many people who
clearly were effective learners and tapped into their ideas
about what helps them. I've studied the neurobiology of the
learning process, as little as we understand it, and read
through many reports of psychological experiments on
comprehension and retention of information. Plus I've
tried many personal experiments to practice and adapt and
improve myself. It's an ongoing process for me.
Until now I have shared my learning with only a handful of
people who have asked for help. Recently it's become plain
to me that the information could help many, many people in
the church.
"I read the Bible and nothing else. Why would I?" -- C.K.
I don't advocate reading other information instead of the
Bible, and I certainly think we should generally be
investing more time with the Word of God than less. But we
belong to the historic community of believers through the
centuries now, and can learn a lot from the writings of
those who have gone before us. And we should also be
students of the best of the world around us, in order to
develop our skills and understanding, and be able to reach
that world effectively with the Gospel. I fervently
believe that all truth is God's truth, and worth studying.
We develop discernment and wisdom as we learn.
So I do think you as a teacher should study and learn from
more information sources than the Bible, and evaluate
everything through the power of the HolySpirit. The
challenge then becomes how to learn effectively and
efficiently from the astounding amount of information
available to us!
Did I cover your concern area? If I didn't, let me know in the comments.
The "Keys to Accelerated Learning" materials is almost
ready. Watch for an announcement soon!
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Learning to Learn Faster -- Overview Lesson Available Now
I wrote the other day about my concerns that teachers, pastors, and church leaders aren't learning fast enough or well enough. If the people working in the Kingdom of God aren't the best learners, we'll fall far short of our God-given potential.
People routinely far underestimate what they are capable of learning. If you learned 7 facts per second, 24 hours a day, you could go over 200 years before you would run out of neurons to store the information. Our Lord has made you with a practically infinite capability to learn.
You and I will tap only a fraction of our potential, but we should become much better learners than we are today. We should always be striving to improve our capabilities, because the needs of the Kingdom demand us to be our best -- and better every year.
Here's what I'm going to make available soon: Audio lessons coaching you -- yes YOU -- to learn faster, better, and retain what you need from it all. I'm confident that the practical advice will give you an enormous edge.
You'll learn:
* What learning *really* is
* The key elements of your learning mindset
* Practical counsel on all the elements of the learning process: preparation, input, thinking, and review
* Specific tactics to help you read and listen 200-400% faster than you do today. (No typo there -- 2x to 4x faster.)
* My recommended "tool" list
If this interests you, then please sign up here to learn more. (I don't want to burden anyone who isn't particularly interested!)
http://www.teachtochangelives.com/LearnFasterSignUp
When you sign up, you'll get a 15 minute overview lesson that covers all the key ideas at a high level.
The full course materials will have a lot more detail and practical helps, but my hope is that you'll be able to start putting some of these ideas into practice right away.
I'm praying that God will raise up a more effective generation of teachers, pastors, and church leaders, by sharpening their ability to learn.
Again, sign up to get started learn faster:
http://www.teachtochangelives.com/LearnFasterSignUp
People routinely far underestimate what they are capable of learning. If you learned 7 facts per second, 24 hours a day, you could go over 200 years before you would run out of neurons to store the information. Our Lord has made you with a practically infinite capability to learn.
You and I will tap only a fraction of our potential, but we should become much better learners than we are today. We should always be striving to improve our capabilities, because the needs of the Kingdom demand us to be our best -- and better every year.
Here's what I'm going to make available soon: Audio lessons coaching you -- yes YOU -- to learn faster, better, and retain what you need from it all. I'm confident that the practical advice will give you an enormous edge.
You'll learn:
* What learning *really* is
* The key elements of your learning mindset
* Practical counsel on all the elements of the learning process: preparation, input, thinking, and review
* Specific tactics to help you read and listen 200-400% faster than you do today. (No typo there -- 2x to 4x faster.)
* My recommended "tool" list
If this interests you, then please sign up here to learn more. (I don't want to burden anyone who isn't particularly interested!)
http://www.teachtochangelives.com/LearnFasterSignUp
When you sign up, you'll get a 15 minute overview lesson that covers all the key ideas at a high level.
The full course materials will have a lot more detail and practical helps, but my hope is that you'll be able to start putting some of these ideas into practice right away.
I'm praying that God will raise up a more effective generation of teachers, pastors, and church leaders, by sharpening their ability to learn.
Again, sign up to get started learn faster:
http://www.teachtochangelives.com/LearnFasterSignUp
Let the Gospel Grow In Your Life
John Piper exhorts us to never let the Gospel get smaller in our lives. Short, helpful.
Faith by Hearing
I tend to favor reading over listening, but there are tremendously good sermons and talks and podcasts available. I love the tagline on the Faith By Hearing blog: "Seize Your Commute." This is an outstanding starting point if you'd like to load up your ipod or car with great material to bless you and your family.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Follow Me on Twitter
I'm inviting you to follow me on Twitter.
I don't have a wall on Facebook or a MySpace page, and I routinely reject the three invitations I get each week to join the "latest" social networking site. I endure comments from "youngsters" that if I don't Facebook, I don't exist.
But I'm committed to providing regular Twitter updates in addition to the blogs I manage. You'll get to see more about what I'm doing and learning about. It's a free service, too.
Go here if you'd like to follow me on Twitter:http://www.twitter.com/Glenn_Brooke
I don't have a wall on Facebook or a MySpace page, and I routinely reject the three invitations I get each week to join the "latest" social networking site. I endure comments from "youngsters" that if I don't Facebook, I don't exist.
But I'm committed to providing regular Twitter updates in addition to the blogs I manage. You'll get to see more about what I'm doing and learning about. It's a free service, too.
Go here if you'd like to follow me on Twitter:http://www.twitter.com/Glenn_Brooke
Monday, March 16, 2009
You've Got a Lot of Synapses to Work With
I love reading about our brains and how our minds work. Our brain is a whole lot more than "3.5 pounds of blood-soaked sponge," as Vonnegut opined. Mark Batterson helps us understand the astounding number of sensors and synapses we have.
Truly, we are fearfully and wonderfully made!
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Learning Faster -- the Great Need
A significant challenge for Bible teachers and church leaders today is keeping up with what's going on.
Of course, just keeping up today isn't good enough.
In addition to regular, deep time in the Word of God, teachers, pastors, and leaders need to be students of life.
I believe one of the reasons why the Church is not leading the way today as it could and should is that the leaders are poor learners.
If you study who takes the lead in the culture, in businesses, in civic organizations, and even in governments, there is a strong correlation with the people who are the fastest and best learners.
Now I strongly believe that Christians should be the best learners and thinkers on the planet -- we have the Mind of Christ! But it is often not so.
My own reputation is that I'm a terrific learner. In addition to my full-time job (not in a church), family and church leadership responsibilities, and running Brooke Associates, I'm constantly in learning mode.
For example, I will read through the whole Bible 4 times this year, as I did last year. I read 131 books last year and plan to finish over 110 this year. I'm consistently reading sixteen magazines and trade publications, plus following the text, audio, and video content on 72 blogs. My friends, fellow church leaders, and students will tell you that I can remember a huge amount. "Being around you, Glenn, is like sipping from a fire hose of knowledge and insight," says one.
Am I superman, or the bionic man? No. Do I sleep and exercise and eat? Yes. Do I have some super-high IQ that lets me do this? I'm a reasonably smart guy, but know plenty of people much smarter than me. Are these extraordinary, superhuman accomplishments? Absolutely not! They are well within the range of most adults.
What sets great teachers, pastors, and leaders apart on the learning scale is
* they know what they need to learn, and why
* they understand what learning really is, and have mastered the practices of learning
* they apply what they learn (because the point of learning is not knowing, it's doing)
In a few days I'll write again about this issue, because I think it's extremely important.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Ministry Goals
I liked this list of ministry goals from Derek Prime and Alistair Begg, in their book Being a Pastor:
1. Feed the flock - John 21:15-17
2. Proclaim the whole will of God - Acts 20:27
3. Present everyone perfect in Christ - Colossians 1:28-29
4. Prepare God’s people for works of service - Ephesians 4:12
5. Equip God’s people to be fisher’s of men - 2 Timothy 4:5
6. Keep watch over oneself until the task is complete - 1 Timothy 4:16
HT: Peter Mead
1. Feed the flock - John 21:15-17
2. Proclaim the whole will of God - Acts 20:27
3. Present everyone perfect in Christ - Colossians 1:28-29
4. Prepare God’s people for works of service - Ephesians 4:12
5. Equip God’s people to be fisher’s of men - 2 Timothy 4:5
6. Keep watch over oneself until the task is complete - 1 Timothy 4:16
HT: Peter Mead
Friday, March 13, 2009
How Prayer Changed New York
I have a good friend who lived in New York city years back, and so I sent him this interesting analysis of the changes in the city.
I really enjoyed his response:
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Glenn,Thanks for the article. I lived in NYC in the late 80s and early 90s. He is right; it was a very bad place. Crack vials piled up along gutters like leaves in autumn. My neighborhood had the highest homicide rate in the city; it was a fearful place. Olasky left out what I believe is the single biggest reason that NYC changed...prayer. In 1989, the city had Calvary Baptist (anchor of evangelicals) and Gordon MacDonald and Tim Keller. Those churches began praying for the city. [My wife and I] would get up early on Friday morning and travel to mid-town to a small prayer meeting of leaders at Redeemer where we experienced the most delicious group prayer times that I have ever had. We prayed for the usual Aunt with a bad hip and friend with a dying dog, but mostly we prayed that God's kingdom would be realized in the city; we affirmed that God loved NYC and wanted to change it; we implored Him to do so. We prayed for social justice and for individual hearts; we prayed for revival in the Jonathan Edwards sense of word. We didn't pray for church programs; we prayed for the chaotic outpouring of the Holy Spirit. As Harvey Conn says, "prayer is rebellion against the status quo" that is what we did.
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This helps get me fired up to pray for revival in my area!
I really enjoyed his response:
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Glenn,Thanks for the article. I lived in NYC in the late 80s and early 90s. He is right; it was a very bad place. Crack vials piled up along gutters like leaves in autumn. My neighborhood had the highest homicide rate in the city; it was a fearful place. Olasky left out what I believe is the single biggest reason that NYC changed...prayer. In 1989, the city had Calvary Baptist (anchor of evangelicals) and Gordon MacDonald and Tim Keller. Those churches began praying for the city. [My wife and I] would get up early on Friday morning and travel to mid-town to a small prayer meeting of leaders at Redeemer where we experienced the most delicious group prayer times that I have ever had. We prayed for the usual Aunt with a bad hip and friend with a dying dog, but mostly we prayed that God's kingdom would be realized in the city; we affirmed that God loved NYC and wanted to change it; we implored Him to do so. We prayed for social justice and for individual hearts; we prayed for revival in the Jonathan Edwards sense of word. We didn't pray for church programs; we prayed for the chaotic outpouring of the Holy Spirit. As Harvey Conn says, "prayer is rebellion against the status quo" that is what we did.
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This helps get me fired up to pray for revival in my area!
To Whom Has God “Chained” You?
You probably know that Paul wrote a number of New Testament epistles to the churches while he was imprisoned in Rome. You may not know that he was chained to a rotating schedule of Roman soldiers, day and night, the entire time.
And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. (Colossians 4:3-6)
Imagine what it was like to be one of the Roman soldiers chained to Paul. Each man would have seen Paul visit with others, encouraging and challenging them. These soldiers were present while Paul prayed and interceded for the new Christian churches, and watched him write out the letters to the Galatians, Philippians, Ephesians, and Colossians. Each one would have heard the story of Jesus Christ, crucified as a their sins, raised from the dead, and Lord of Lords.
They didn’t have any choice but to hear and see, because they were chained to God’s man for hours every day. That’s why Paul asked the Colossians and Ephesians to pray for him, so that he would proclaim the Gospel clearly.
We can only speculate how God may have used this influence on these guards for good, through many generations. How many were gloriously converted? How many family members and fellow soldiers heard about Jesus this way – and about living an abundant life of love in the Holy Spirit?
I’m looking forward to hearing more of these stories when we get to heaven.
But what about your situation? Are there people who are chained to you?
Oh, I don’t mean chains of iron. I’m talking about forced relationships that you didn’t happily “volunteer” for. (I doubt Paul volunteered to be a prisoner in Rome for years.) Perhaps you have neighbors, co-workers, even extended family relationships that strain you. You don’t naturally gravitate to these people because you want to spend more time with them, but God in His sovereignty has set up the arrangement so you must be with them.
Now you can fight and resist and be resentful (though it won’t help.) Or you can recognize that God has arranged circumstances so that they come into His sphere of influence through you! You are His ambassador in “chains,” my friend!
Let us follow Paul’s example and pray that we will be good ambassadors for Jesus, especially in these situations:
“Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.” (Ephesians 6:19-20)
In God’s grace, we look forward to future days when we see how God has used us to influence many, many people – even those He had to chain to us to arrange for the Gospel to go forward.
And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. (Colossians 4:3-6)
Imagine what it was like to be one of the Roman soldiers chained to Paul. Each man would have seen Paul visit with others, encouraging and challenging them. These soldiers were present while Paul prayed and interceded for the new Christian churches, and watched him write out the letters to the Galatians, Philippians, Ephesians, and Colossians. Each one would have heard the story of Jesus Christ, crucified as a their sins, raised from the dead, and Lord of Lords.
They didn’t have any choice but to hear and see, because they were chained to God’s man for hours every day. That’s why Paul asked the Colossians and Ephesians to pray for him, so that he would proclaim the Gospel clearly.
We can only speculate how God may have used this influence on these guards for good, through many generations. How many were gloriously converted? How many family members and fellow soldiers heard about Jesus this way – and about living an abundant life of love in the Holy Spirit?
I’m looking forward to hearing more of these stories when we get to heaven.
But what about your situation? Are there people who are chained to you?
Oh, I don’t mean chains of iron. I’m talking about forced relationships that you didn’t happily “volunteer” for. (I doubt Paul volunteered to be a prisoner in Rome for years.) Perhaps you have neighbors, co-workers, even extended family relationships that strain you. You don’t naturally gravitate to these people because you want to spend more time with them, but God in His sovereignty has set up the arrangement so you must be with them.
Now you can fight and resist and be resentful (though it won’t help.) Or you can recognize that God has arranged circumstances so that they come into His sphere of influence through you! You are His ambassador in “chains,” my friend!
Let us follow Paul’s example and pray that we will be good ambassadors for Jesus, especially in these situations:
“Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.” (Ephesians 6:19-20)
In God’s grace, we look forward to future days when we see how God has used us to influence many, many people – even those He had to chain to us to arrange for the Gospel to go forward.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Starved for the Glory of God
Observation: we are serving people who are starved for the glory of God. "Feed my sheep," Jesus commanded Peter.
Let this image help you become a more effective teacher.
Let this image help you become a more effective teacher.
Two Quotes About Opinions
"Opinions are like rear ends -- everyone has one and MOST of them are incredibly large and stinky." -- Perry Noble
"You have a belly button, so you're entitled to your opinion. That's about all you're entitled to."
-- my grandfather 'Mac' MacWilliams
"You have a belly button, so you're entitled to your opinion. That's about all you're entitled to."
-- my grandfather 'Mac' MacWilliams
This Bifocaled Teacher Likes This Idea
A teaching friend has switched to a large print Bible when he is teaching. It's bigger to hold, but he says he doesn't lose his place nearly as often when he is reading.
Since I know he uses different colors of highlighters to mark up his Bible, I teased him that he'll spend more in highlighters now. Takes more ink to color the larger print!
Seriously, if you have poorer eyesight, or teach regularly in dim lighting conditions, you might consider a large-print Bible.
Since I know he uses different colors of highlighters to mark up his Bible, I teased him that he'll spend more in highlighters now. Takes more ink to color the larger print!
Seriously, if you have poorer eyesight, or teach regularly in dim lighting conditions, you might consider a large-print Bible.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Become a Better Story Teller
Ira Glass gives some excellent tips about story telling in these four short videos -- which is critically important for good Bible teaching.
He covers the building blocks of stories, how to find interesting stories, and common pitfalls in sharing stories.
Highly recommended!
Of course we are part of the greatest story in the history of the world! See why I believe it's necessary and possible to teach as Jesus did, using questions, story, and dialogue.
He covers the building blocks of stories, how to find interesting stories, and common pitfalls in sharing stories.
Highly recommended!
Of course we are part of the greatest story in the history of the world! See why I believe it's necessary and possible to teach as Jesus did, using questions, story, and dialogue.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Reading Leviticus Is Like...
Being an Iowa resident for almost 16 years now, I got a nice chuckle from Mark Batterson's comparison of reading Leviticus like driving across Iowa.
I'm referring you there not for the humor, but for the suggestions on how to study and teach Leviticus. Be sure you check the comments, there are some good leads there.
(I also agree with Pastor Batterson: I haven't met an Iowan I didn't like.)
I'm referring you there not for the humor, but for the suggestions on how to study and teach Leviticus. Be sure you check the comments, there are some good leads there.
(I also agree with Pastor Batterson: I haven't met an Iowan I didn't like.)
Sunday, March 08, 2009
Renew Your Mind With Your Identity in Christ
Why do you keep telling me about my identity in Christ? I get it!” That’s what the newly married man asked me, with more than a little irritation. “I need to learn how to love Karen* better, and you keep trying to tell me about who I am in Jesus.”
There is a consistent pattern in the Bible. First, we’re told who God is. Then we’re told who we are. And only then are we given instruction in how to live.
For example, the Ten Commandments in Exodus 20 begin with “I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.” He is the Lord who rescued the people from slavery – and they are his people, no longer slaves.
This pattern is strongly evident in Paul’s letters to the Ephesians, Colossians, Galatians, and Philippians. The first third to half the letters are theology – describing the character of God, and we as new creations in Christ – before giving practical instructions in how to live with one another, and as ambassadors of Jesus in the world.
Study the patterns of human behavior: our perception of the world and events, our responses, and our corresponding successes and failures directly flow from our self-image. By our self-image I mean, our deep understanding of whom we are (and Whose we are).
You can diagram it this way:
Please notice that it is a feedback loop. The wrong kind of self-image – from thinking incorrectly about ourselves – not only limits our successes but reinforces the cycle. We dare not succumb to the world’s idea of a replacement trinity (My Thoughts, My Needs, My Feelings), but stay connected in Christ to the exalted glorious Trinity of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit!
As a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, His disciple, you are in Him and He is in you. He has given you a new heart. You have been set free from slavery to sin! As we continue to renew our minds by thinking about whom God is and who He has made us, we set ourselves in a positive feedback loop. This is discipleship!
This newly married man will be able to love his new wife more deeply when he strengthens his understanding of who he is in Christ. (Please note: not who he will be someday, but who he is today, now!) Why? Because his perceptions of himself, his wife, and events will be interpreted correctly, and his responses will be more godly.
That’s why we need to remind one another, every day, of the reality of Christ in us, the hope of glory (ref).
Reviewing Romans 6:1-14 is a good place begin:
“What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.
For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his. We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. For one who has died has been set free from sin. Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. We know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. For the death he died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God. So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.
Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, to make you obey its passions. Do not present your members to sin as instruments for unrighteousness, but present yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life, and your members to God as instruments for righteousness. For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace.”
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*Not her real name
There is a consistent pattern in the Bible. First, we’re told who God is. Then we’re told who we are. And only then are we given instruction in how to live.
For example, the Ten Commandments in Exodus 20 begin with “I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.” He is the Lord who rescued the people from slavery – and they are his people, no longer slaves.
This pattern is strongly evident in Paul’s letters to the Ephesians, Colossians, Galatians, and Philippians. The first third to half the letters are theology – describing the character of God, and we as new creations in Christ – before giving practical instructions in how to live with one another, and as ambassadors of Jesus in the world.
Study the patterns of human behavior: our perception of the world and events, our responses, and our corresponding successes and failures directly flow from our self-image. By our self-image I mean, our deep understanding of whom we are (and Whose we are).
You can diagram it this way:
Please notice that it is a feedback loop. The wrong kind of self-image – from thinking incorrectly about ourselves – not only limits our successes but reinforces the cycle. We dare not succumb to the world’s idea of a replacement trinity (My Thoughts, My Needs, My Feelings), but stay connected in Christ to the exalted glorious Trinity of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit!
As a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, His disciple, you are in Him and He is in you. He has given you a new heart. You have been set free from slavery to sin! As we continue to renew our minds by thinking about whom God is and who He has made us, we set ourselves in a positive feedback loop. This is discipleship!
This newly married man will be able to love his new wife more deeply when he strengthens his understanding of who he is in Christ. (Please note: not who he will be someday, but who he is today, now!) Why? Because his perceptions of himself, his wife, and events will be interpreted correctly, and his responses will be more godly.
That’s why we need to remind one another, every day, of the reality of Christ in us, the hope of glory (ref).
Reviewing Romans 6:1-14 is a good place begin:
“What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.
For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his. We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. For one who has died has been set free from sin. Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. We know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. For the death he died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God. So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.
Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, to make you obey its passions. Do not present your members to sin as instruments for unrighteousness, but present yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life, and your members to God as instruments for righteousness. For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace.”
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*Not her real name
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
Free: ESV Study Bible online, in March 2009
A real treat: the ESV Study Bible online version is completely free in March.
I urge you to take a look at this if you have not already. I've been enjoying the ESV Study Bible for several months.
You can see my video reviews of this terrific study Bible here and here.
I urge you to take a look at this if you have not already. I've been enjoying the ESV Study Bible for several months.
You can see my video reviews of this terrific study Bible here and here.
Monday, March 02, 2009
Model of Herod's Temple
A man in England has devoted an enormous amount of his life to creating an accurate 1:100 scale model of Herod's temple. There are 19 pictures of the model here, which might be useful to include in lessons.
Remember that it helps your students to understand and apply if they can better visualize what the terrain or environment of the Biblical story is like.
Remember that it helps your students to understand and apply if they can better visualize what the terrain or environment of the Biblical story is like.
Penn Is Given a Bible
This is an intriguing story from Penn (of magicians Penn and Teller fame). How does this athiest respond to the gift of a Bible from an audience member?
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Consistently Generate Great Lessons and Devotions – Week after Week
Great Bible teachers consistently produce great lessons and devotions, week after week.
Sometimes we all struggle to keep going, and hit dry patches. I believe our Lord uses these dry spells to draw us back to Him, to help us focus on Christ, and to keep us from pride and error.
Here are the 10 basic practices which help me consistently generate great lessons and devotions, to edify the people God has put in my sphere of influence, and honor our Lord.
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1. Teach from what God is teaching you
It's critically important that you, as a teacher, remain well-grounded in Christ and well-connected to Him. You need to have devotional time in God's Word which has nothing to do with the lessons you are preparing. But out of those, you'll find many rich insights which you can use in your teaching ministry.
It's been said that we ask God to fill our cup, and then we minister, serve, and teach from the saucer (the overflow).
You can separate Christians into two categories: those growing, and those not. If you have an active, ongoing spiritual life with the living God, then you're in growth mode. Teach out of what you are learning from the Lord.
2. Keep an idea list going
Capture ideas - however small or vague - when the thought hits you, "Uhm…that could be useful in teaching." Or you get an idea for a topic or class. These ideas are like slippery fish. If you don't catch them now, they're gone, often irretrievably.
The experience of every teacher I know who does this is the same: "I have more ideas about what to cover than I could teach in several years!"
Then build the habit of reviewing notes like these periodically. You'll be surprised at how God answered your prayer "What should I teach next?" or "How can make this a better lesson?" well before you asked for wisdom.
3. Reflect on your life often
I cannot concur with Socrates' statement "The unexamined life is not worth living," but I think an examined life is a richer life, and one more likely to positively influence others in the Kingdom of God.
Many great teachers journal. They take notes or have conversations with others about how they see God working in their lives, and in the lives of people close to them. They do the hard work of processing thoughts and emotions into words. The fruit of this work is an increased sense of your real self - strengths and weaknesses, joys and fears, accomplishments and shortcomings.
Great teaching is reinforced by personal authenticity as a pilgrim on the discipleship way, before God. You can't fake this. And your lesson content will be all the stronger and richer because you share from your authentic view. God usually causes teachers to learn lessons before He allows them to teach them to others!
4. Teach from the heart
Many times we must fight the temptation to intellectualize the content of lessons and devotions. I'm opposed to teaching only from emotional drivers, but emotions are God-given for a reason. When you teach from the heart on a subject or passage that moves you, your students will be moved, too. Emotions help sell facts.
So ask yourself "What is God doing in my heart now?" Use this in your teaching. You can organize a short devotion based on this.
5. Answer student questions
You can't go wrong addressing the questions that come up from the people you are teaching. If you're teaching a series of lessons, take one as a "breather" and use it to answer questions that you've heard. Or give fuller answers to questions that you partly answered earlier.
It's also fun to organize a lesson along the structure of "Top 5 Things People Should Know About _____" or "Three Misunderstandings About ____ You Should Avoid."
6. Read a lot, across disciplines
Great teachers are great readers - first of the Word of God, and then everything else that is useful.
Mark Batterson has a short blog post on the importance of reading, saying that in many ways, "We are what we read."
The average American adult reads 1 book a year. If you read 1 book a month you are on the top 3% of American adults. (That's a sad statistic, by the way!)
Don't limit your reading to books - there are wonderful bloggers, magazines, and websites (Wikipedia is a good jumping-off point for practically any topic you can imagine).
I strongly encourage you to read widely, because you will find many illustrations and enrich your understanding of the world. Intentionally tackle some reading outside your normal range, to stretch yourself. This year, for example, I'm intentionally pushing myself to learn more about graphic arts and Chinese culture. Reading in multiple disciplines effectively "cross-pollinates" your brain.
One more thing: reading biographies is very powerful.
7. Write, write, write
Writing is the discipline that forces us to clarify thinking. Great teachers learn through writing.
You can write in your journal. You can run a blog. You can write emails to your students or fellow teachers. Write short devotions or helps for your church web site, newsletter, or bulletin.
This might sound like an odd thing to include in this list. "Glenn, I'm dry and I don't know what to teach this week!" Counter-intuitive advice: start writing. Something. Anything, actually.
Why? Because when we start writing, new ideas come. The process of writing seems to stimulate your mind to be open to new possibilities.
8. Take "rhythm" breaks to stay charged
Everyone benefits with a change of pace occasionally. If you're stuck on a lesson, try something completely different. Change up the format, the translation you're using, or the room setting. I'm increasingly under conviction that none of us hear the Word enough; so I'm going to be taking some class times in the future simply to read the Word and let people soak it in, listening quietly.
Use old hymns. Have the group share stories about how they saw God at work this week, or a meaningful passage from Scripture. Let someone else be the teacher for a week. (This is a great opportunity for you to mentor other teachers!)
9. Short lessons and devotions are fine!
One key idea in a 3 minute devotion can set hearts on fire for the Lord.
The most common advice I give teachers is simply this: "Teach less, well." We tend to cram too much into lessons. One the written page the proper use of whitespace improves readability. In a class, adept use of silence and shortness leaves room for great dialogue and life-transforming application of God's truth.
Stop beating yourself up by continually adding more content to lessons. Focus on delivering the BEST parts, and teaching that in an engaging way.
10. Repurpose existing lessons
"It is as important to be reminded as it is to be informed." -- Richard Halverson. Not everything in your lessons or devotions needs to be 100% original every time. It's fine to rework past lessons, pull out a section to create a short devotion, or adapt something created by another. It's likely that not all the people you are teaching now heard that lesson from 4 years ago.
Don't be afraid to go back to existing materials and rework them. You can add new or different questions, a different illustration, or a different application from the same passage.
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So that's the list: 10 basic habits and practices which will help you generate great lesson and devotion content every week!
If you have comments or additional suggestions, let us know!
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Recommended Free Leadership Resource
If you're a leader in your church, check out this blog post about a great leadership resource that you should get. It's free, it's excellent.
How to Nudge the World
"Words are sacred. They deserve respect. If you get the right ones in the right order, you can nudge the world a little..." — Tom Stoppard
Source: http://www.goodreads.com/author/quotes/293.Tom_Stoppard
Source: http://www.goodreads.com/author/quotes/293.Tom_Stoppard
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Prayer: Not Legalism, but Duty
John Piper gives us helpful instruction about the importance of prayer. This is from a sermon, but you could build a great lesson around this:
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But the hard truth is that most Christians don’t pray very much. They pray at meals—unless they’re still stuck in the adolescent stage of calling good habits legalism. They whisper prayers before tough meetings. They say something brief as they crawl into bed. But very few set aside set times to pray alone—and fewer still think it is worth it to meet with others to pray. And we wonder why our faith is weak. And our hope is feeble. And our passion for Christ is small.
The Duty of Prayer
And meanwhile the devil is whispering all over this room: “The pastor is getting legalistic now. He’s starting to use guilt now. He’s getting out the law now.” To which I say, “To hell with the devil and all of his destructive lies. Be free!” Is it true that intentional, regular, disciplined, earnest, Christ-dependent, God-glorifying, joyful prayer is a duty? Do I go to pray with many of you on Tuesday at 6:30 a.m., and Wednesday at 5:45 p.m., and Friday at 6:30 a.m., and Saturday at 4:45 p.m., and Sunday at 8:15 a.m. out of duty? Is it a discipline?
You can call it that. It’s a duty the way it’s the duty of a scuba diver to put on his air tank before he goes underwater. It’s a duty the way pilots listen to air traffic controllers. It’s a duty the way soldiers in combat clean their rifles and load their guns. It’s a duty the way hungry people eat food. It’s a duty the way thirsty people drink water. It’s a duty the way a deaf man puts in his hearing aid. It’s a duty the way a diabetic takes his insulin. It’s a duty the way Pooh Bear looks for honey. It’s a duty the way pirates look for gold.
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But the hard truth is that most Christians don’t pray very much. They pray at meals—unless they’re still stuck in the adolescent stage of calling good habits legalism. They whisper prayers before tough meetings. They say something brief as they crawl into bed. But very few set aside set times to pray alone—and fewer still think it is worth it to meet with others to pray. And we wonder why our faith is weak. And our hope is feeble. And our passion for Christ is small.
The Duty of Prayer
And meanwhile the devil is whispering all over this room: “The pastor is getting legalistic now. He’s starting to use guilt now. He’s getting out the law now.” To which I say, “To hell with the devil and all of his destructive lies. Be free!” Is it true that intentional, regular, disciplined, earnest, Christ-dependent, God-glorifying, joyful prayer is a duty? Do I go to pray with many of you on Tuesday at 6:30 a.m., and Wednesday at 5:45 p.m., and Friday at 6:30 a.m., and Saturday at 4:45 p.m., and Sunday at 8:15 a.m. out of duty? Is it a discipline?
You can call it that. It’s a duty the way it’s the duty of a scuba diver to put on his air tank before he goes underwater. It’s a duty the way pilots listen to air traffic controllers. It’s a duty the way soldiers in combat clean their rifles and load their guns. It’s a duty the way hungry people eat food. It’s a duty the way thirsty people drink water. It’s a duty the way a deaf man puts in his hearing aid. It’s a duty the way a diabetic takes his insulin. It’s a duty the way Pooh Bear looks for honey. It’s a duty the way pirates look for gold.
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Dealing with Doubt
I know many of you are working with students and adults who are struggling with doubts and unbelief. This online ebook (complete, and free), "Dealing with Doubt" might be a good resource for you.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Hollow and Deceptive Philosophies
Colossians 2:8 gives us a strong command ("See to it") to guard ourselves against worldviews and thinking patterns not grounded in Jesus Christ:
"See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ."
There is a lot of good advice and counsel available in this world. There are also many false teachers who are skilled at persuasive rhetoric.
Here is our guide, then: If the instruction does not have Christ at the center, then it as best hollow, and may well be deceptive.
Looking at financial advice for what to do with your 401K, or counsel for guiding your teenager through difficult years, or instruction about pursuing additional education? Prayerfully ask if Christ is at the center. If not, it may be still be useful, but it is hollow.
"See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ."
There is a lot of good advice and counsel available in this world. There are also many false teachers who are skilled at persuasive rhetoric.
Here is our guide, then: If the instruction does not have Christ at the center, then it as best hollow, and may well be deceptive.
Looking at financial advice for what to do with your 401K, or counsel for guiding your teenager through difficult years, or instruction about pursuing additional education? Prayerfully ask if Christ is at the center. If not, it may be still be useful, but it is hollow.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Fighting the Temptation to Be Lazy
I love Perry Noble's counsel here for leaders (applies to teachers, too!):
“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, A WORKMAN…”
One of the biggest temptations for a leader is to become lazy and the begin to expect God to do what HE has clearly commanded the leader to do.
It is my responsibility as a leader to make sure I am prepared to preach God’s Word every Sunday.
It is my responsibility as a leader to make sure that I am growing in my faith and in my leadership abilities.
It is my responsibility as a leader to work hard, to put time, effort and energy into the things God has called me to lead.
One of the most dangerous things a leader can do is put their leadership on cruise control. God didn’t call us to cruise…He called us to create…and that ONLY comes through us being willing to roll up our sleeves and WORK HARD.
“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, A WORKMAN…”
One of the biggest temptations for a leader is to become lazy and the begin to expect God to do what HE has clearly commanded the leader to do.
It is my responsibility as a leader to make sure I am prepared to preach God’s Word every Sunday.
It is my responsibility as a leader to make sure that I am growing in my faith and in my leadership abilities.
It is my responsibility as a leader to work hard, to put time, effort and energy into the things God has called me to lead.
One of the most dangerous things a leader can do is put their leadership on cruise control. God didn’t call us to cruise…He called us to create…and that ONLY comes through us being willing to roll up our sleeves and WORK HARD.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Reverse It -- A Bible Study Approach
Here's a suggestion for studying a passage that you've become familiar with:
Review it verse by verse, but in reverse order.
This is particularly helpful with narrative passages, but can be used with any text.
I know this sounds crazy, but your mind will pick up patterns and relationships and insights that you won't see in "forward" order.
This one is easy to teach your students, even elementary age. Try reading the story of David and Goliath this way, for example.
Review it verse by verse, but in reverse order.
This is particularly helpful with narrative passages, but can be used with any text.
I know this sounds crazy, but your mind will pick up patterns and relationships and insights that you won't see in "forward" order.
This one is easy to teach your students, even elementary age. Try reading the story of David and Goliath this way, for example.
Friday, February 20, 2009
May I Answer Your Question?
May I answer your question(s) about Bible teaching?
I routinely answer 50-75 questions every month, from Bible teachers like you, almost all by email.
I'd like to create video responses as a change of format.
So here's where I'd like your help. Simply comment below with your question.
Or maybe you just want to raise a concern about the current situation you're in now, or highlight what challenge you need help with.
I'll select a bunch of them, start making short video responses and post them for everyone.
Chances are good that the answers to your question will help many of your fellow teachers.
I need your question or comment by Sunday, March 1st.
Go ahead - let me know what's on your mind.
I routinely answer 50-75 questions every month, from Bible teachers like you, almost all by email.
I'd like to create video responses as a change of format.
So here's where I'd like your help. Simply comment below with your question.
Or maybe you just want to raise a concern about the current situation you're in now, or highlight what challenge you need help with.
I'll select a bunch of them, start making short video responses and post them for everyone.
Chances are good that the answers to your question will help many of your fellow teachers.
I need your question or comment by Sunday, March 1st.
Go ahead - let me know what's on your mind.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
God Is Not Procrastinating
Have you ever considered how long God waits between the big milestone points of history? Adam and Eve sin in the Garden of Eden. Four thousand years later God sends His son Jesus. The Church has now been waiting another two thousand years for the second coming of King Jesus, looking forward to the new heaven and new earth.
In the human perspective, long delays usually mean something is hard to accomplish. And we tend to procrastinate rather than tackle hard things, don’t we?
God is not procrastinating.
We learn from the Bible that God’s timing is perfect (though we may not understand it). For example, God the Father sends His son Jesus in the “fullness of time” (see Galatians 4:4) – when the time is right.
Fixing what is wrong with the world is not going to be difficult for God. To illustrate this, read what will happen to Satan:
“And I saw an angel coming down out of heaven, having the key to the Abyss and holding in his hand a great chain. He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil, or Satan, and bound him for a thousand years. 3He threw him into the Abyss, and locked and sealed it over him…” (Revelation 20:1-3)
Note the ordinariness of this account. It’s one angel who does this – not an army, not a super-special hero angel, not even a named angel. (Let’s call him “Bob.”) There is no spectacular fight, no massive resistance, and no doubt that one angel is adequate to do the job. There is no evidence that this unnamed angel gets a medal of commendation for service “above and beyond the call of duty.”
Take encouragement from this, and enlarge your confidence that our God is able and will set everything right – in the fullness of time. This hope helps us endure all things as ministers of reconciliation and grace to people in darkness.
In the human perspective, long delays usually mean something is hard to accomplish. And we tend to procrastinate rather than tackle hard things, don’t we?
God is not procrastinating.
We learn from the Bible that God’s timing is perfect (though we may not understand it). For example, God the Father sends His son Jesus in the “fullness of time” (see Galatians 4:4) – when the time is right.
Fixing what is wrong with the world is not going to be difficult for God. To illustrate this, read what will happen to Satan:
“And I saw an angel coming down out of heaven, having the key to the Abyss and holding in his hand a great chain. He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil, or Satan, and bound him for a thousand years. 3He threw him into the Abyss, and locked and sealed it over him…” (Revelation 20:1-3)
Note the ordinariness of this account. It’s one angel who does this – not an army, not a super-special hero angel, not even a named angel. (Let’s call him “Bob.”) There is no spectacular fight, no massive resistance, and no doubt that one angel is adequate to do the job. There is no evidence that this unnamed angel gets a medal of commendation for service “above and beyond the call of duty.”
Take encouragement from this, and enlarge your confidence that our God is able and will set everything right – in the fullness of time. This hope helps us endure all things as ministers of reconciliation and grace to people in darkness.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
The Two Biggest Drivers of Human Behavior
To ponder:
"The two biggest drivers of human behavior are the desire for
significance and contribution." -- Frank Kern
"The two biggest drivers of human behavior are the desire for
significance and contribution." -- Frank Kern
Listening to The Word
Eugene Peterson advocates lectio divina, a process of listening to God's Word as poetry, allowing it to seep into our souls.
He rightly points out that we can slip into Bible study as an autopsy on a dead thing, dissecting and probing to find out how the mechanics work.
I loved this section:
"In the last class I taught at Regent, a young woman came up to me and was very irritated.
The whole interview is good. What can you do today to listen to the living Word, and help others do so also? It might mean less polish, more depth, more effectiveness.
He rightly points out that we can slip into Bible study as an autopsy on a dead thing, dissecting and probing to find out how the mechanics work.
I loved this section:
"In the last class I taught at Regent, a young woman came up to me and was very irritated.
"Dr. Peterson," she said, "three times during the lecture you did not say anything for twenty seconds. I know because I timed you. I'm from Hong Kong. In Hong Kong, teachers go: Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang! I want my money's worth."
We're going to have people like that, people who want very polished and efficient teaching. But when I see people in my congregation taking notes during the sermon, I stop and say, "Put your pencils away. I want you to listen. Listen to the Word of God. It's not something for you to figure out; it's something for you to respond to."
The whole interview is good. What can you do today to listen to the living Word, and help others do so also? It might mean less polish, more depth, more effectiveness.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Maximize These Two Parts of Your Lesson
Peter Mead reminds us that we need to maximize the impact of the introduction and close. These are the two key times that count in a presentation.
I call them hooks and launches. You want to hook a nerve up front, and you want to launch people out of the class time or small group time to go and serve the Lord.
Check out the free report I created a while back on creating powerful hooks.
I call them hooks and launches. You want to hook a nerve up front, and you want to launch people out of the class time or small group time to go and serve the Lord.
Check out the free report I created a while back on creating powerful hooks.
At Noon Today...
My pastor asked a great question -- this would be excellent for a small group or Sunday School class to work on:
"If all your prayers were answered at noon today, what would change in the world?"
"If all your prayers were answered at noon today, what would change in the world?"
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Change! Change? Change!?
I loved this 5:32 video, a "mockumentary" of a scandal that ensues when a Sunday School class teacher trys to bring in some changes:
http://www.tangle.com/view_video.php?viewkey=ed28dc028593664e416e
The same kind of pressures to protect the status quo work on small groups, youth ministry, worship music and schedule changes, etc. Worth watching for the humor -- because it opens up the ribs enough that the truth will slip in!
HT: The Sunday School Revolutionary
http://www.tangle.com/view_video.php?viewkey=ed28dc028593664e416e
The same kind of pressures to protect the status quo work on small groups, youth ministry, worship music and schedule changes, etc. Worth watching for the humor -- because it opens up the ribs enough that the truth will slip in!
HT: The Sunday School Revolutionary
Who Was St. Valentine?
Happy Valentine's Day to all! Make it special for someone!
Here's a useful article about the [sometimes confusing] history of St. Valentine and how we arrived at this traditions of this holiday.
Here's a useful article about the [sometimes confusing] history of St. Valentine and how we arrived at this traditions of this holiday.
Friday, February 13, 2009
How Far Did Jonah Walk in Whale-Vomit Clothes?
A good friend dropped me a note encouraging me to try BibleMap.org. Here's his hilarious excerpt:
"Need to know where Jesus went when He was in Gadara or how far Jonah had to walk in whale-vomit clothes when he finally went to Ninevah? This tool is better than any Bible Atlas and sure beats the heck out of the maps in the back of your Bible! And no wonder; it actually harnesses the power of Google Maps! Try it out here: http://www.biblemap.org "
It is indeed a fun and useful tool for teachers!
"Need to know where Jesus went when He was in Gadara or how far Jonah had to walk in whale-vomit clothes when he finally went to Ninevah? This tool is better than any Bible Atlas and sure beats the heck out of the maps in the back of your Bible! And no wonder; it actually harnesses the power of Google Maps! Try it out here: http://www.biblemap.org "
It is indeed a fun and useful tool for teachers!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
About "The Shack"
I'm asked about once a week for my thoughts on the controversial book, "The Shack."
I haven't read it. It's not in my reading pile. I might read it someday, but right now I'm compelled to read lots of other books and articles.
You can find pro and con reviews all over the Internet. This may be the most helpful review I've seen, so I 'm going to steer you there. I have high regard for the folks at Stand to Reason.
I haven't read it. It's not in my reading pile. I might read it someday, but right now I'm compelled to read lots of other books and articles.
You can find pro and con reviews all over the Internet. This may be the most helpful review I've seen, so I 'm going to steer you there. I have high regard for the folks at Stand to Reason.
There is No Substitute For This
I can coach you on your teaching skills and tactics. These things are learnable. You can improve with practice and feedback. You can develop stronger openings (hooks), better questions, more powerful illustrations, rhythm, handouts and breakout activities, life application, and between class follow-up. You can learn new approaches to studying the Word yourself, and leverage proven ways to help others study the Word better for themselves.
I believe you should be working on developing your skills and tactics. Great Bible teaching is a craft, and we are always working on our craft.
But there is no substitute for an authentic, passionate, deep relationship with Jesus Christ.
I firmly believe that we don't have enough great Bible teachers today. And so I am working with all His energy to help change this.
Our first and primary issue with the weakness of biblical teaching is because our teachers do not have the underlying connection with the Lord, a life of obedience to His Word, and a heart inflamed with the Spirit.
I believe you should be working on developing your skills and tactics. Great Bible teaching is a craft, and we are always working on our craft.
But there is no substitute for an authentic, passionate, deep relationship with Jesus Christ.
I firmly believe that we don't have enough great Bible teachers today. And so I am working with all His energy to help change this.
Our first and primary issue with the weakness of biblical teaching is because our teachers do not have the underlying connection with the Lord, a life of obedience to His Word, and a heart inflamed with the Spirit.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Bible in 90 Days -- challenge
I'm sold on the idea of reading large amounts of Scripture, regularly. I have coached hundreds of people now on reading the Bible in 40 days, or the NT in a month. It takes some dedication, but the results are so incredible!
I just saw an ad for this group, which has materials to help a person -- or better yet your entire church! -- to read through the whole Bible in 90 days.
http://www.biblein90days.com/
May our Lord bless this ministry! I haven't tried their materials, but I love the concept and endorse any effort to help people systematically read the Word.
I just saw an ad for this group, which has materials to help a person -- or better yet your entire church! -- to read through the whole Bible in 90 days.
http://www.biblein90days.com/
May our Lord bless this ministry! I haven't tried their materials, but I love the concept and endorse any effort to help people systematically read the Word.
Saturday, February 07, 2009
Making A Way Forward for Victory
Another insight from reading "The Victors," by Stephen Ambrose.
The Royal Winnipegs (a Canadian group, all volunteers) landed at Sword Beach on D-Day. The Germans had presighted machine gun firing lines and were pouring murderous fire on a platoon as they approached a roll of barbed wire and a strip of land mines. The strategy to get through the wire was to use a bangalore torpedo to blow a gap through the wire, and then they could run forward to attack the machine gun positions. The Royal Winnipegs had already lost many men getting to the wire; it was a death zone. The only hope of survival was to move forward off that beach.
The torpedo failed to explode. Machine gun fire continued to pour on their position. There were no other torpedos available.
One of the soldiers [Ambrose does not list his name] threw himself facedown on the wire so that others could cross on his back to safety.
There's a great illustration here for us. Jesus fell upon the cross to make a way for us, his physical body reconciling us to God. (See Colossians 1:21-22)
We are ambassadors for Christ, living for His greater purposes, putting others ahead of our own interests, extending ourselves and suffering that others might live. What barbed wire do we need to fall on so others have an escape, our very bodies creating a safe path? What obstacles and difficulties must we flatten so others can move forward out of certain death?
The Royal Winnipegs (a Canadian group, all volunteers) landed at Sword Beach on D-Day. The Germans had presighted machine gun firing lines and were pouring murderous fire on a platoon as they approached a roll of barbed wire and a strip of land mines. The strategy to get through the wire was to use a bangalore torpedo to blow a gap through the wire, and then they could run forward to attack the machine gun positions. The Royal Winnipegs had already lost many men getting to the wire; it was a death zone. The only hope of survival was to move forward off that beach.
The torpedo failed to explode. Machine gun fire continued to pour on their position. There were no other torpedos available.
One of the soldiers [Ambrose does not list his name] threw himself facedown on the wire so that others could cross on his back to safety.
There's a great illustration here for us. Jesus fell upon the cross to make a way for us, his physical body reconciling us to God. (See Colossians 1:21-22)
We are ambassadors for Christ, living for His greater purposes, putting others ahead of our own interests, extending ourselves and suffering that others might live. What barbed wire do we need to fall on so others have an escape, our very bodies creating a safe path? What obstacles and difficulties must we flatten so others can move forward out of certain death?
Eisenhower on Leadership
Another insight from reading "The Victors," by Stephen Ambrose.
In the weeks leading up to D-Day, Dwight D. Eisenhower wrote this to his son at West Point: "The one quality that can be developed by studious reflection and practice is the leadership of men."
Later, in the introduction to his memoirs, Eisenhower wrote: "Optimism and pessimism are infectious and they spread more rapidly from the head downward than in any other direction. The habit [of a cheerful and hopeful attitude] tends to minimize potentialities within the individual himself to become demoralized. It has the most extraordinary effect upon all with whom he comes into contact. With this clear realization, I firmly determined that my mannerisms and speech in public would always reflect the cheerful certainty of victory -- that any pessimism and discouragement I might ever feel would be reserved for my pillow. I adopted a policy of circulating through the whole force to the full limit imposed by physical considerations. I did my best to meet everyone from general to private with a smile, a pat on the back and a definite interest in his problems."
These are key lessons for leadership in our families, churches, neighborhoods, and businesses. They must be learned and put into practice! These are exactly the times which call for a cheerful and hopeful attitude -- and with our security resting in Christ Almighty, we should be cheerful and hopeful.
In the weeks leading up to D-Day, Dwight D. Eisenhower wrote this to his son at West Point: "The one quality that can be developed by studious reflection and practice is the leadership of men."
Later, in the introduction to his memoirs, Eisenhower wrote: "Optimism and pessimism are infectious and they spread more rapidly from the head downward than in any other direction. The habit [of a cheerful and hopeful attitude] tends to minimize potentialities within the individual himself to become demoralized. It has the most extraordinary effect upon all with whom he comes into contact. With this clear realization, I firmly determined that my mannerisms and speech in public would always reflect the cheerful certainty of victory -- that any pessimism and discouragement I might ever feel would be reserved for my pillow. I adopted a policy of circulating through the whole force to the full limit imposed by physical considerations. I did my best to meet everyone from general to private with a smile, a pat on the back and a definite interest in his problems."
These are key lessons for leadership in our families, churches, neighborhoods, and businesses. They must be learned and put into practice! These are exactly the times which call for a cheerful and hopeful attitude -- and with our security resting in Christ Almighty, we should be cheerful and hopeful.
Runners Are Targets
I'm rereading a terrific book about D-Day and the redemption of France from Nazi occupation, titled "The Victors," by Stephen Ambrose. He interviewed hundreds of survivors of these battles and shares their stories and perspectives. It's amazing and humbling to read what these young men accomplished.
Because radio communications were sometimes poor, or were not secure, men were assigned to carry messages to forward positions, or between forward positions. This became the most hazardous job in the infantry: every enemy soldier spotting a runner would immediately begin shooting at them. Disrupting communication was key. Runners were automatic targets and bullet magnets. (Allied forces acted the same towards German runners.)
As we carry the Gospel message in battle zones -- and make no mistake, you are in one now -- you will be a target. You're going to be shot at. Don't be surprised by this! Be confident that our Great Commander King Jesus protects us and does not abandon us.
I'll post more from this book soon.
Because radio communications were sometimes poor, or were not secure, men were assigned to carry messages to forward positions, or between forward positions. This became the most hazardous job in the infantry: every enemy soldier spotting a runner would immediately begin shooting at them. Disrupting communication was key. Runners were automatic targets and bullet magnets. (Allied forces acted the same towards German runners.)
As we carry the Gospel message in battle zones -- and make no mistake, you are in one now -- you will be a target. You're going to be shot at. Don't be surprised by this! Be confident that our Great Commander King Jesus protects us and does not abandon us.
I'll post more from this book soon.
God Will Not Be Manipulated By Magic
My heart leaped when I read Peter Gentry's insight about the plan of Solomon's Temple -- not unique in architecture from other ancient temples, but in content:
"If we consider the plan of the Tabernacle or the plan of Solomon’s Temple, there is nothing unusual or unique. Its overall plan was just like any other temple in the ancient Near East. They all had an outer courtyard, an altar of sacrifice, and a central building divided into a “Holy Place” and a “Holy of Holies.” What made the faith of Israel different from the faith of the pagan religions surrounding her? If one were to enter a pagan temple, passing through the courtyard, and the Holy Place into the Holy of Holies, what would one find there? An image representing one of the forces of nature. But that is not what one finds at the center of Israel’s worship. What was in the Holy of Holies in the Tabernacle? First of all, there was no image or statue there because God is spirit and cannot be properly represented by man-made images. All there is in the Holy of Holies is just a little box. And what is in that box? The Ten Commandments. Thus, what God is saying to the Israelites is that he cannot be manipulated by magic. If they want the good life, they must conform their lifestyle to his revealed standards of right and wrong. Ethics guarantees the good life, not manipulation of the powers that be by magic."
Excellent! This would make a great short devotional, or the foundation for a longer lesson.
HT: Between Two Worlds
"If we consider the plan of the Tabernacle or the plan of Solomon’s Temple, there is nothing unusual or unique. Its overall plan was just like any other temple in the ancient Near East. They all had an outer courtyard, an altar of sacrifice, and a central building divided into a “Holy Place” and a “Holy of Holies.” What made the faith of Israel different from the faith of the pagan religions surrounding her? If one were to enter a pagan temple, passing through the courtyard, and the Holy Place into the Holy of Holies, what would one find there? An image representing one of the forces of nature. But that is not what one finds at the center of Israel’s worship. What was in the Holy of Holies in the Tabernacle? First of all, there was no image or statue there because God is spirit and cannot be properly represented by man-made images. All there is in the Holy of Holies is just a little box. And what is in that box? The Ten Commandments. Thus, what God is saying to the Israelites is that he cannot be manipulated by magic. If they want the good life, they must conform their lifestyle to his revealed standards of right and wrong. Ethics guarantees the good life, not manipulation of the powers that be by magic."
Excellent! This would make a great short devotional, or the foundation for a longer lesson.
HT: Between Two Worlds
Friday, February 06, 2009
Discussion vs. Dialogue
Steve Roesler gives a useful comparison of discussion vs. dialogue and the three conditions required for dialogue:
1. Don't be judgmental about others' viewpoints
2. Regard one another as colleagues (I would suggest, regard one another as brothers and sisters)
3. Facilitate to hold the context
Good insights for teachers and study group leaders!
1. Don't be judgmental about others' viewpoints
2. Regard one another as colleagues (I would suggest, regard one another as brothers and sisters)
3. Facilitate to hold the context
Good insights for teachers and study group leaders!
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
The Bible is Clear
I'm amazed at how many people I've heard say, "Oh, the Bible is hard to understand and confusing."
Yes, the Bible has depth will will never exhaust. Yes, there is breadth. Yes, there are aspects of God's power, majesty, might, and ways that we barely comprehend. Yes, God's crummy enemy seeks to confuse people and blind their eyes to the truth of the Gospel message.
But the key messages of the Bible are plain, even to not-yet believers. As Mark Twain said, "It's not the things that I don't understand about the Bible that bother me."
So as a teacher you need to build confidence in the Word -- for yourself and especially for your students. Read this short blog post by Peter Mead to reinforce this in your heart and mind.
Yes, the Bible has depth will will never exhaust. Yes, there is breadth. Yes, there are aspects of God's power, majesty, might, and ways that we barely comprehend. Yes, God's crummy enemy seeks to confuse people and blind their eyes to the truth of the Gospel message.
But the key messages of the Bible are plain, even to not-yet believers. As Mark Twain said, "It's not the things that I don't understand about the Bible that bother me."
So as a teacher you need to build confidence in the Word -- for yourself and especially for your students. Read this short blog post by Peter Mead to reinforce this in your heart and mind.
Sunday, February 01, 2009
Brain Rules: Recommended book
Many of you know that I'm a student of how people learn. This was part of the basis for Teach the Jesus Way, an extensive set of coaching I developed for advanced teachers to master the use of questions, story, and dialogue in teaching -- as Jesus used them.
I also recommend this book: Brain Rules. It's written from a completely secular perspective, but has some fascinating information which will help you be a better teacher.
The basic 12 rules are:
Exercise boosts brain power
The human brain evolved, too
Every brain is wired differently
We don't pay attention to boring things
Repeat to remember
Remember to repeat
Sleep well, think well
Stressed brains don't learn the same way
Stimulate more of the senses
Vision trumps all other senses
Male and female brains are different
We are powerful and natural explorers
I think you can see why this is helpful information for Bible teachers!
Not interested in adding another book to your growing reading pile? Then go to the author's web site and watch the short videos explaining these concepts.
I also recommend this book: Brain Rules. It's written from a completely secular perspective, but has some fascinating information which will help you be a better teacher.
The basic 12 rules are:
Exercise boosts brain power
The human brain evolved, too
Every brain is wired differently
We don't pay attention to boring things
Repeat to remember
Remember to repeat
Sleep well, think well
Stressed brains don't learn the same way
Stimulate more of the senses
Vision trumps all other senses
Male and female brains are different
We are powerful and natural explorers
I think you can see why this is helpful information for Bible teachers!
Not interested in adding another book to your growing reading pile? Then go to the author's web site and watch the short videos explaining these concepts.
Even A Dim Bulb Lights Up the Darkness
“The true light that gives light to every man was coming into the world.” (John 1:9)
“You are the light of the world.” (Matthew 5:14)
Believers in Jesus Christ are (not will be, or could be, but are) the light of the world, because Jesus is the true light. The world is full of spiritual darkness. We should not be surprised at this, for the Bible tells us it has been and will be so (though not forever). We should not despair at this fact, either, but be strengthened with all God’s power (Colossians 1:29) and living intentionally to honor the Lord as we love others.
The human eye is exquisitely sensitive to light. If you were in a completely dark space, you could see a lit match 90 miles away.
Think about the night light in your hallway or child’s bedroom. A dinky 2 watt bulb is more than ample to keep you from stumbling even when half-asleep. Even a dim bulb lights up the darkness, and the darkness cannot overcome it!
“I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness.” (John 12:46)
Our Lord Jesus, the persistent rescuer reaching out to save all mankind, uses each of us to help light up dark places and let people see Him in us.
Do not be concerned if you feel your “wattage” is too small for the scope of the darkness. Do not underestimate what God can do to boost your wattage and the transforming light of Christ in you. Let us be deeply thankful that God has given us the light of Christ, and shine more brightly that everyone around us may see Jesus, and worship Him.
“You are the light of the world.” (Matthew 5:14)
Believers in Jesus Christ are (not will be, or could be, but are) the light of the world, because Jesus is the true light. The world is full of spiritual darkness. We should not be surprised at this, for the Bible tells us it has been and will be so (though not forever). We should not despair at this fact, either, but be strengthened with all God’s power (Colossians 1:29) and living intentionally to honor the Lord as we love others.
The human eye is exquisitely sensitive to light. If you were in a completely dark space, you could see a lit match 90 miles away.
Think about the night light in your hallway or child’s bedroom. A dinky 2 watt bulb is more than ample to keep you from stumbling even when half-asleep. Even a dim bulb lights up the darkness, and the darkness cannot overcome it!
“I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness.” (John 12:46)
Our Lord Jesus, the persistent rescuer reaching out to save all mankind, uses each of us to help light up dark places and let people see Him in us.
Do not be concerned if you feel your “wattage” is too small for the scope of the darkness. Do not underestimate what God can do to boost your wattage and the transforming light of Christ in you. Let us be deeply thankful that God has given us the light of Christ, and shine more brightly that everyone around us may see Jesus, and worship Him.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Saying What We Believe, and What We Don't
"In this postmodern world, we must not only say what we believe, but also must deny what we don't believe." -- attributed to Francis Schaeffer
Good point! This is a key element in dialogue about truth propositions.
Good point! This is a key element in dialogue about truth propositions.
Josh Hunt Lessons
I'm asked about 3 times a week "Do you have a lesson on that I can use?"
And my answer is usually no. My calling is to develop teachers, but not by publishing lessons I've created and encouraging others to use them.
If you are looking for a reliable, tested source of lessons, I will recommend Josh Hunt's materials. His Lesson Vault continues to expand and improve. I'm not a member, but have heard good reviews from others who are. His free example lessons certainly have good outline and great questions to help people be engaged.
Check them out.
And my answer is usually no. My calling is to develop teachers, but not by publishing lessons I've created and encouraging others to use them.
If you are looking for a reliable, tested source of lessons, I will recommend Josh Hunt's materials. His Lesson Vault continues to expand and improve. I'm not a member, but have heard good reviews from others who are. His free example lessons certainly have good outline and great questions to help people be engaged.
Check them ou
Publish Post
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Bruce Wilkinson on Unction
Though Bruce Wilkinson writes here about unction for preaching, I believe the Holy Spirit works through Bible teachers as well. Recommended.
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