Stories of Redemption

Man Up, Husbands!

2010-05-21T23:35:00.000-04:00

In Ephesians 5:25-33 husbands are commanded to love their wives as God loves them. This command can only be accomplished as men place themselves under the control of the Holy Spirit. Realizing this, I have come to conclude that most women never experience true love from their husbands. Why? Not from a lack of trying, but because most believing husbands are not filled with the Holy Spirit. Until men turn their will over to God and give control to the Holy Spirit their marriage will lack true love.

-Mark

The Marriage Mess

2010-05-14T19:55:00.000-04:00

In our study this Sunday, May 16th, we are learning how to have the marriage God intended. As I studied the Bible passages concerning marriage I was struck with how fast the family unit fell into decline after the sin in Eden. In Genesis 3:16-19 we see God pronounce His judgment upon Adam and Eve for their sin. The relationship, which had been one of equal partners, was now one where the wife would always attempt to rule over the husband, and the husband would always attempt to dominate the wife. From that point on, the family fell under attack.
Not too many years after God's judgment, murder, polygamy, perverse sex, adultery, rape and incest attacked the family unit. Now thousands of years later we are still under attack. Families are struggling. Husbands and wives do not know how to communicate. Children are not being taught. Sunday, Mary 16th, we will learn how to return to what God intended with marriage and family. Please join us if you are able, and learn how to put your house back in order.

-Mark

How to get God to do whatever you want

2010-05-05T11:21:00.001-04:00

Sunday the men studied the act of confession in prayer. It was a good discussion with a great deal of interchange. The typical verses were considered; like 1 John 1:9. And the typical conclusions reached; like the idea that sin hinders our relationship with God.

One part of the discussion involved the idea that when we sin we tend to do a number of spiritual activities short of confession. (Read the Bible more, go to church more often....) We seemed to agree that these can become works if they are not accompanied by a sincere act of confession. Then Bruce offered up this idea, "Even confession can become a work." I think his comment caught some of the men off guard. Why? Because some looked upon the words of confession as some sort of magical prayer; pray these words and all will be well.

Without a doubt, sometimes believers use spiritual activities - prayer, Bible reading, church attendance - as an incantation, mantra, or talisman, as a means of protection or blessing from God. Back in 2000, Bruce Wilkinson wrote The Prayer of Jabez: Breaking Through to the Blessed Life. Now 10 years later I still hear believers offer up that prayer expecting God to bless them. They feel that if they say these words, with or without sincerity, God will meet the need. Could it be that we have come to the same place with 1 John 1:9? Possibly we go through day confessing in word but not in heart our sins with full expectation that God will forgive once again.

If that is our attitude and we feel certain that it will always work, why not add some other prayers to our daily mantra? In 2001, Sandy Simpson pulled together a list of Bible prayers that will enable the prayer to get everything they want out of God. Click here and enjoy. Also let me know if any work.

-Mark

Your View of God

2010-04-27T13:09:00.000-04:00

This past Sunday our small groups started a study on the subject of prayer. The groups separated male and female. I led the men and Doris led the women. I am unsure what the women covered, but the men studied our view of God and its impact on our prayer life.

Often we have a poor view of God. To us He is a vending machine for our many prayer requests. Request goes in and Answer comes out. This is a wrong view of God. Rather, we need to use Scripture, God's creation, and God's Son to give us a greater view of God. We will pray much differently when we understand who God is and what He has done for us.

-Mark

Judgment, Mercy, or Both

2010-03-24T09:31:00.001-04:00

There is an awareness that can come upon one who is waiting on God. As you wait, you should become increasingly aware of God's holiness and increasingly aware of your sin. Murray points out in day 19 of his devotional that God is both the God of mercy and the God of judgment.

So if awareness of God's holiness leads us to see our sin, then this awareness should lead us to a greater understanding of God's salvation. Truly God is good, because of His great love He is able to save someone as sinful as me! I hope you too have come to the same understanding - That a perfectly holy God loves you and has provided a way, Jesus, to pay for your sin.

-Mark

Waiting as a Church

2010-03-23T12:43:00.000-04:00

Murray used Isaiah 25:9 in his devotional titled, "To Reveal Himself." It is a beautiful verse that gives the reader a glimpse into the hearts of those waiting. It speaks of that moment when God delivers those waiting. And what is their response? "Look, here is our God!....Let us rejoice and be glad in His salvation!" Finally, those waiting upon God see Him revealed and come to celebrate their salvation and deliverance from their dark circumstances.

Murray focused his discussion on a congregation that is waiting on God. I wondered as I read it, how many churches are waiting on God? Or are they marching on to their own drumbeat, oblivious to God's desires for them? Hmmm?

You can read Murray's devotional by clicking here.

-Mark

Waiting for Others

2010-03-22T19:59:00.000-04:00

Sometimes it is not for self that we seek God's face, but for others. Murray addressed this on day 17, using Isaiah 8:17. However, Murray takes it in an unexpected direction. He notes that many do not wait because there is no life in their faith. They are spiritually dead.

"You worship with a certain congregation. Possibly there is not the spiritual life or joy either in the preaching or in the fellowship that you could desire. You belong to a Church, with its many congregations. There is so much of error or worldliness, of seeking after human wisdom and culture, or trust in ordinances and observances, that you do not wonder that God hides His face, in many cases, and that there is but little power for conversion or true edification."

So Murray focused on those who claim Christ but are spiritually dead. And they are dead to the point that God has turned His face from them. It is for those that we are to wait. And as we wait, we must believe that God can and will deliver them.

-Mark

God's Counsel in Your Time of Need

2010-03-19T11:14:00.000-04:00

In Murray's devotional, on day 15, I learned that believers often fail to get God's counsel in their time of need. I feel that this happens at both extremes. When we come out of a dark place and stand on the mountain top, God's counsel is not considered. Why? Because life is good. Or, when we are in the dark place we do not seek God's counsel? Why? Because we only want deliverance not feedback.

We all know where to find the whole counsel of God - the Bible. But, it seems to me that whether in good or bad the Bible is not considered. We stand and celebrate deliverance, then go forth in ignorance, or we cry out in darkness for deliverance, but only open the Bible to where it brings comfort; never to where it is pointed.

Look to the whole counsel of God in your times of trouble and in your times of joy.

-Mark

Life in the Tunnel - "Oh God Where is the Light!?"

2010-03-18T11:56:00.000-04:00

I think that today's devotional from Murray's Waiting on God is my favorite. It is Day 14 and is titled "The Way to The New Song." If you find that you are living life in a dark tunnel looking for the end and the light, then I suggest that you go and read in full what Murray has to say.

Murray speaks from personal experience when he shares that patience and suffering are firmly linked both in language and in biblical teaching. However, Murray then notes that it is God who gives His children the strength to wait, to practice patience, to suffer as we look to God for deliverance. He shares, "Have you ever noticed what proof we have that patience is a grace for which very special grace is given, in these words of Paul: 'Strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, unto all' - what? 'patience and long-suffering with joyfulness.' Yes, we need to be strengthened with all God’s might, and that according to the measure of His glorious power, if we are to wait on God in all patience. It is God revealing Himself in us as our life and strength that will enable us with perfect patience to leave all in His hands."

I am thinking of many that even now are in the dark tunnel of life. To them it seems that there is no end in sight. They long to round the bend and see the promised light. But still they press on. And still there is only darkness. Murray's words give hope and a promise - that there is an end and at that at that end God will give all those who endure a new song. So my friends start humming and warming up the vocal chords; for soon you will be singing anew.

Murray's devotional is posted here. Go down to day 14 and read his insights.

-Mark

Keeping His Ways When Your World Comes Crashing Down

2010-03-17T17:03:00.002-04:00

I had to take Saturday-Tuesday off from posting because of weekend responsibilities and a funeral on Tuesday. However, now we will resume the subject of waiting on God. I have been reading through Andrew Murray's devotional, Waiting on God, and commenting on it. Normally after skipping a weekend, I resume on track. However, I cannot let Day 12 pass without comment.

Murray uses Psalm 37:34 and Isaiah 64:5 to stress the importance of keeping God's ways during your time of waiting on Him. This devotional addresses a subject common among those that are waiting on God - the difficulty of godly living when your world does not make sense, when your life is crashing down around you.

There are several areas of difficulty for those who wait on God. Murray notes that it is important that the believer's outer life be in harmony with his inner life. He writes, "How close the connection between the two parts of the injunction, 'Wait on the Lord,' - that has to do with worship and disposition; 'and keep His ways,' - that deals with walk and work. The outer life must be in harmony with the inner; the inner must be the inspiration and the strength for the outer." On our own strength, I would say "Easier said than done, Mr. Murray." However, on God's strength, all things are possible.

It seems to me that there are at least three reactions during a time of waiting. One is faith in His righteousness. Another is to turn away from God. Finally, and Murray addresses this, calling out God on the unfairness of life. "Life is not fair" or "Why do the unrighteous prosper and the righteous suffer?" Take time and read Murray's thoughts on this. Also see Psalm 73. Asaph almost slipped into this problem.

Hopefully, I can keep up now that the dust has settled. You can read Murray's devotional by clicking here.

-Mark

Patience and Real Life

2010-03-12T08:37:00.000-05:00

I am unsure if impatience is technically a sin. Probably the idea of it is not, but the behavior associated with it is. Regardless, Murray speaks to this subject in his day 11 devotional. Using Psalm 37:7,9 he teaches that patience is an important part of Christian character.

It is interesting to think back on some of my mentors. Most, but not all, men in ministry have been patient. Most, but not all, leaders in my military career were impatient. Why the difference? Because there are expectations of behavior in both cultures; and in the ministry time is a greater luxury. Also, in ministry we are dealing with real life; where patience is needed and dependence upon God a necessity. The military is not necessarily real life, but only the mission at hand; and dependence upon each other is the expectation; not dependence upon God.

I do like Murray's words where he writes, "All the exercises of the spiritual life, our reading and praying, our willing and doing, have their very great value. But they can go no farther than this, that they point the way and prepare us in humility to look to and to depend alone upon God Himself, and in patience to wait His good time and mercy. The waiting is to teach us our absolute dependence upon God’s mighty working, and to make us in perfect patience place ourselves at His disposal. They that wait on the Lord shall inherit the land; the promised land and its blessing. The heirs must wait; they can afford to wait."

In other fields, like that of the military, we do not seek to be dependent upon God. But in real life we ultimately have only that. Real life is too big for us to fully depend on each other. We need a savior, and that savior is The Lord. And, since we have such a savior, then it a blessing to wait patiently on Him, because when He provides it will be worth the wait.

You can read Murray's devotional by clicking here.

-Mark

Great Words of Hope and Comfort

2010-03-11T06:41:00.000-05:00

Psalm 33:18-22 is our passage today. In it we find great words of hope and comfort for those that believe on the Lord. In your time of need, when you are looking up to God for help, He is looking at you. And for what purpose is God looking? He is looking to deliver you from your struggles, from your misfortune.

In day 10 of Murray's devotional he comments on this, "And now, think of the God on whom we wait. 'The eye of the Lord is on them that fear Him, on them that hope in His mercy; to deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine.' Not to prevent the danger of death and famine –– this is often needed to stir the waiting on Him –– but to deliver and to keep alive. For the dangers are often very real and dark; the situation, whether in the temporal or spiritual life, may appear to be utterly hopeless. There is always one hope: God’s eye is on them."

Just think, at your time of greatest need, as you cast your face towards God, calling out for help, He is looking right at you. He is reaching down to deliver you. Let these words be great words of hope and comfort as you wait on Him.

-Mark

Oh, Lord, I just don't understand

2010-03-10T08:02:00.001-05:00

Often the things in life that make us wait upon God are beyond our comprehension and power. We just do not understand why nor do we have the ability to change it. Within our time of waiting a common prayer is to say to God, "I don't understand. Why is this happening?" Murray addresses this in day nine of his devotional.

Using both Psalm 31:24 and Proverbs 3:5, Murray sorts a person's inner man into two sections - the mind, which is the area of reason, and the heart, which is man's area to connect with God. I do not take his position. Rather I sort people based on body, soul, and spirit. However, I do agree that people tend to either follow their heart or their mind. They follow their heart to the exclusion of doctrine (logic). Others are so heavy on doctrine that there is no heart in their faith.

Unfortunately the second paragraph has strayed away from Murray's intent to help us learn to wait when we do not understand. So let's return to that. Murray writes, "This is now the blessedness of waiting upon God, that I confess the impotence of all my thoughts and efforts, and set myself still to bow my heart before Him in holy silence, and to trust Him to renew and strengthen His own work in me. And this is just the lesson of our text, "Let your heart take courage, all ye that wait on the Lord." Remember the difference between knowing with the mind and believing with the heart. Beware of the temptation of leaning upon your understanding, with its clear strong thoughts. They only help you to know what the heart must get from God: in themselves they are only images and shadows."

So in our times when life does not make sense, wait on God. Why? Because all our thougts and efforts are impotent, powerless. But God can strengthen, God can restore, God can renew, God can heal, God can.....

I'll try and catch up late this evening. If not, I'll see you tomorrow.

-Mark

How Do The Unbelievers Do It?

2010-03-08T10:01:00.000-05:00

Reading Murray's devotional for day eight I am reminded of an unanswered question that I have often pondered. "How do the unbelievers do it?" How do they survive in times of struggle? How do they deal with the grave illness of a loved one, the death of a child, the loss of a job? How do they do it?

Murray used Psalm 27:14. The believer is encouraged to be strong and to take courage. He points out that the believer, as he waits on God, is still surrounded by what caused him to wait - the loved one is still ill, the child still dead, the job no more. But still God tells us to wait and be strong. Why? Because in Him is our only hope. Murray writes, "The one lesson our text teaches us is this, that when we set ourselves to wait on God we ought beforehand to resolve that it shall be with the most confident expectation of God’s meeting and blessing us. We ought to make up our minds to this, that nothing was ever so sure, as that waiting on God will bring us untold and unexpected blessing."

How do the unbelievers do it? They wait on their own strength, on the government, on family & friends, on neighbors....all of which will ultimately fail or disappoint. But not God. He never fails. Wait on Him with expectation that when He moves you will receive untold and unexpected blessings.

-Mark

Thinking of Others in Your Time of Need

2010-03-06T10:30:00.000-05:00

Psalm 25:3 reads, "Let none that wait on Thee be ashamed." Murray uses this statement to encourage those hurting, those waiting upon God, to lift up others in prayer. This idea has much merit. During your dark times, as you seek the face of God, it is important that you lift up the needs of others.

Recently, I started reading Francis Chan's book Crazy Love. I'm not far enough along to give an opinion; however, I did enjoy his illustration about how we think we are the stars in this movie of life. Whereas truthfully, God is the focus. We think as we wait on God, that we only have problems. However, if we take that time to lift up others, it takes the focus off of us and puts the focus back where it belongs on God.

So as you seek God's direction in life, lift up others in prayer and change your focus from self to God.

I will not post tomorrow, because it is Sunday, so I will see you again Monday. If you would like to read Andrew Murray's devotional you can click here.

-Mark

Now that I'm Waiting, What Now?

2010-03-05T07:11:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, we addressed the need for all those in a season of hurt to wait upon God. When life has knocked you down, take that as an opportunity to bow before God and wait on Him. But what do we do, if we do anything, while we wait? I think the primary activity of one waiting is not praying, as we learned yesterday, but spending time in His Word.

Murray used Psalm 25:4-5 to teach that often when we wait we are waiting on instructions. The instructions of God always come from His Word, the Bible. Much of the hardships of life are too complicated for us to truly solve. Life can be overwhelming. Only God, our creator, can give sound teaching on how to deal with these issues. Sometimes these instructions are words of wisdom, such as those found in Proverbs. Other times they are the promises of God scattered throughout the Bible. In all of God's Word we must have faith; faith in His righteousness, faith in His ways, faith in His promises.

If you find yourself in a time of waiting, be quiet before God and listen to and read His Word.

I will see you tomorrow. Murray's devotional can be found here.

For All Those Hurting

2010-03-04T10:21:00.000-05:00

Day four of the devotional was wonderful, for it made me think of all those hurting people. Of late, we at Wakefield Valley Bible Church have endured much heartache - disease, death, and the uncertainties of life. (How am I going to pay my bills? What's going on in my marriage?) Today though, God speaks to all those that are enduring such.

The passage for today is Psalm 145:14-15. In these simple lines are some beautiful words for all that hurt, "The Lord upholdeth all that fall, And raiseth up all those that be bowed down. The eyes of all wait upon Thee." Do you feel knocked down? Well just stay down there but turn and bow before God's throne, and wait. Do you feel like you cannot go on? Bow down before God and then raise your eyes toward Him and wait.

When we wait, we do not pray, but we wait. There is a difference, and Murray addresses this. He writes, "If the question be asked, whether this be anything different from what we do when we pray, the answer is, that there may be much praying with but very little waiting on God. In praying we are often occupied with ourselves, with our own needs, and our own efforts in the presentation of them. In waiting upon God, the first thought is of the God upon whom we wait. We enter His presence, and feel we need just to be quiet, so that He, as God, can overshadow us with Himself. God longs to reveal Himself, to fill us with Himself. Waiting on God gives Him time in His own way and divine power to come to us."

So for all those hurting, all those in doubt, all those longing, go before God, bow down, and wait. And as you wait, look up to Him, because in His time He will reveal Himself and overshadow you with Himself.

I'll see you tomorrow. You can read Andrew Murray's devotional by clicking here.

-Mark

The Value of God - Day Three

2010-03-03T08:01:00.000-05:00

On day three of the devotional, Murray looks at Psalm 104:27-28. In this passage the psalmist considers the creation and its dependence on God. In the psalm God is portrayed as the great creator God, clothed in splendor; and through His word mountains rise and valleys sink to the their appointed place.

God is not only the creator but also the provider. He provides the needs of His creation. The creation looks up to God to provide. And it on this idea that Murray lingers and it is this idea that Murray links to man; our needs are provided by God, so wait on Him. "And just as this is the very place and nature of God, to be unceasingly the supplier of every want in the creature, so the very place and nature of the creature is nothing but this - to wait upon God and receive from Him what He alone can give, what He delights to give."

This idea should shape and change our worship. When we find our dependence in Him, then our love and passion for Him should increase and thus be reflected back to Him. The very word worship means to show worth. If we are totally dependent upon God then His worth cannot be measured. God's worth far exceeds even our imagination. Therefore our worship back up to Him should note that. "Let us resolve at once that it shall be the one characteristic of our life and worship, a continual, humble, truthful waiting upon God. We may rest assured that He who made us for Himself, that He might give Himself to us and in us, that He will never disappoint us. In waiting on Him we shall find rest and joy and strength, and the supply of every need."

See you tomorrow. You can read an online version of Waiting on God by clicking here.

-Mark

The Creator Working in Us

2010-03-02T09:29:00.000-05:00

Last Sunday night in small groups we were studying Philippians 2:12-30. One of the members, Doris, pointed out the wonder - that God, who created the stars, is doing a work in her! It is this same idea that Andrew Murray shares in day two of his devotional titled Waiting On God. In day two Mr. Murray uses Genesis 49:18 to teach that, "...there is no salvation but God’s salvation... ." Later he says, "What He asks of us, in the way of surrender, and obedience, and desire, and trust, is all comprised in this one word: waiting on Him, waiting for His salvation."

These are the ideas he links to the Genesis passage. However, it was Doris' observation concerning Philippians 2:12-15 that came together for me in the Murray reading. God is working in me. This same God, the only God, the Creator of all, is doing that work in me! Murray picks up on this idea when he states, "Again, I say, let us meditate on the divine glory of the salvation God purposes working out in us, until we know the truths it implies. Our heart is the scene of a divine operation more wonderful than Creation."

Now that's a thought! But how is it that we daily forget this fact, the fact of the Creator God working in us? It is because we have boiled our existence down to the daily routine - family, work, eat, sleep - and have forgotten God. Or at best, we have shunted God off to Sundays and then ignore Him Monday-Saturday. I need to live daily aware of God working in me. I need to live daily waiting on God.

See you tomorrow. You can read an online version of Murray's devotional by clicking here.

-Mark

Man, I hate to wait!

2010-03-01T11:11:00.000-05:00

So here I sit waiting on a man form the city water department to come and repair our water meter. When the appointment was set, it was made for 8 AM to noon. I assumed that this meant it would take four hours to repair the device. Well what it really meant was that sometime during these four hours he would show up and make the repair. So here I sit - waiting.

When I set an appointment for my doctor, I never have to wait, but I am quickly taken to the little room and he soon appears. My dentist is even more efficient. I sit down in the waiting room and before I can finish the People magazine article on Tiger Woods, she calls be back. Even my plumber arrives when he says he will arrive. Why then do I have to wait for this service?

While I am waiting I thought that I would consider what it means to wait upon God. I began to look at verses and search the internet for articles on this subject. While on the internet I came across Andrew Murray's book Waiting on God. Murray was a Dutch Reformed pastor that served in South Africa. From my understanding he wrote devotional literature. Waiting on God is such a book. It takes the subject and divides it up into 31 days. So I thought I would take the 31 day challenge, read his thoughts and comment on them.

Day One
Murray starts with Psalm 62:1 and titles the first day "The God of Our Salvation." (I wish that he had included Psalm 62:2 and 62:5-6 in this first day, for they flesh out the idea of waiting.) God is the God of my salvation! And He is my rock, my defense, and I know that because of Him, along with salvation, or victory over sin, I shall not be moved! Thus I depend on Him for salvation and defense. Because of Him alone, I can stand. It is in that place, dependence upon God, that believers need to wait. Murray says, "All that the Church and its members need for the manifestation of the mighty power of God in the world, is the return to our true place, the place that belongs to us, both in creation and redemption, the place of absolute and unceasing dependence upon God."

Why then do I, and probably you, hate to wait? Even on God we show this impatience. Because we either do not understand our dependence upon Him or we would rather attempt it on our own. The latter idea, attempting on our own, is part of our fallen nature. So the old man calls us to abandon God and return to doing things like we used to do. Also, I think it is because we do not know or understand Psalm 62:5-6, "...for my expectation is from Him." My hope is found in and only in God. Take a moment and think upon your hopes and dreams. Are they the hopes and dreams God has for you or are they void of Him? Murray says it this way, "It is, then, because Christians do not know their relation to God of absolute poverty and helplessness, that they have no sense of the need of absolute and unceasing dependence, or the unspeakable blessedness of continual waiting on God."

For me to learn to wait I must realize my absolute poverty and then turn to Christ and find my hopes in Him, my victory in Him, and my salvation in Him.

See you tomorrow. You can read an online version Murray's book Waiting on God here. There's the doorbell. I think the repair man has finally arrived!

-Mark

Frank Caliendo & God

2010-02-26T08:38:00.000-05:00

Ephesians 5:1 calls all believers to follow or imitate God. The Greek word behind follow or imitate is mimetes. It is the word from which our English word mimic is derived. To me a mimic is someone like Frank Caliendo, or for us older folks, Rich Little. These men mimic the voices and mannerisms of famous people. However, their mimicry is in part, for they only mimic the outward acts - the voice and recognized movements of the person. God calls us to mimic Him both in action and in attitude. Here are two examples from the passage.

In Ephesians 4:32 we are told to mimic God in the action and attitude of forgiveness. Like God, we are to forgive those who sin against us, and we are to forgive them fully and completely as He forgave us. A great passage, a parable of Christ that teaches this is found in Matthew 18:23-35. Read this passage and think of those who have wronged you. Have you fully forgiven them or are you like the wicked servant?

The second example of how we are to mimic God is found in Ephesians 5:2. We are told to walk in love, to live our lives out in love. And of course the example given is that of Jesus, who walked in love all the way to the cross. Other verses that speak to this are Romans 5:8 and Hebrews 12:2. Jesus loved us and loves us even when we are unlovable. We then are to mimic God in this way. We are to fully live our self-sacrificial love to all others, even when they are unlovable.

So where do we begin? A day does not go by when we are not in the presence of people, people that we must love sacrificially, people that often are unlovable. They might be your spouse, your boss, your neighbor, your child. Along with this love, forgiveness must be granted. Why should we love and forgive? Because God did so for us and because He has told us to mimic Him in this way.

-Mark

Pondering Dementia

2010-02-24T10:04:00.001-05:00

There is a form of philosophy which teaches that people are a sum of their memories. I don't know much about philosophy, but this idea - sum of memories - has begun to make me ponder how it may fit into biblical fact.

1 Thessalonians 5:23 teaches that man is made up of three parts. The body is the outer shell of a person. The spirit was born dead because of sin, but for those who receive Christ it is made alive and communes with God (Romans 8:16). The soul, then, seems to be that which defines a person. Many would say that the soul is comprised of our mind, emotions, and will.
If I am correct in my above understanding, then how does dementia, the destruction of memories, fit biblical teaching? Dementia is a desease that attacks the mind, like cancer may attack the lungs. In a sense, dementia effects the soul of a person. A person with dementia seems to lose in bits and pieces their personality, the who of who they are. They lose connection with the past and stare blankly ahead. We might say the soul of the person seems to be fading away. However, for those who are in Christ, they can be assured that God will restore them upon death. Not only will they receive a new body, but the mind, too, will be restored.
I might be all wet. Some of the above ideas may not square. But as I watch two parents battle with the onslaught of dementia I look for understanding from the only true source, Scripture, and I seek hope for the future.

-Mark

A Word in Times of Trouble.

2010-02-17T11:56:00.008-05:00

This week has been a tough time for some. Illnesses have returned and loved ones have been lost to death. Reading John 16:13 today for devotions I realized that we have in our hands "all truth," the Bible. Since we hold truth, then it is only fitting that this truth will provide comfort in our times of trouble. Below are some Bible passages that will comfort you during tough times.

Psalm 9:9; 18:2; 22:24; 23:1-6; 27:4-5; 30:5; 34:18; 37:39; 46:1-2; 48:14; 55:22; 71:20-21; 73:26; 138:7
Proverbs 14:32
Isaiah 25:8; 40:18-31; 49:14-16; 51:3; 54:10; 66:12-14
Lamentations 3:31-33
Hosea 13:14
Nahum 1:7
Matthew 5:4; 6:19-34; 11:25-30
John 6:39-40; 14:1-4; 14:27

There are even more that I will include in another post.

Overwhelmed with Life

2010-02-08T11:28:00.004-05:00

As a believer in Christ it can be frustrating when I fail, when I sin. Because of that failure, and the frustration that comes with it, life can be overwhelming. To complicate matters I know that this response, allowing life to overwhelm, is in itself not right. There must be a better way to respond.

Last night Wakefield started their new small groups. Over the next 8 weeks we are using the Discipleship Explored curriculum. This material takes the group through a study of Philippians. Our first session focused on Philippians 1:6, the great promise that God will complete in you the good work He began upon salvation. We learned in Philippians 1:10-11 that this will be complete when Christ returns for the church and ultimately we will be filled with the fruits of Christ righteousness!

How then should this fact of perfect completion change my day-to-day existence? It should fill me with joy, relief, and of course confidence. I should understand that even in failure God is still working in me to complete His intended work in my life. I hope this week when you stumble and fall that you will allow Philippians 1:1-11 to pick you up and fill you with the confidence that God is still working in your life and bringing it to completion.

Another note, small groups started last night and we had a very good turn out. We had two strong groups in spite of the blizzard. Feel free next Sunday evening to join us and become a part of a group. We would love to have you.
-Mark

Life in Balance

2010-01-27T21:02:00.004-05:00

In Ephesians 4:1 Paul exhorts us to walk worthy of our calling. What is meant by such an exhortation? For the past three chapters, Paul has spoken about this calling. For instance, Ephesians 1:1-5, blessed, chosen, holy, and predestined, are all a part of this calling. Later in Ephesians 1:13-14, we find that we are sealed with the Holy Spirit as a down payment for eternal inheritance. Wow!

Now in 4:1 God asks us to walk worthy of this calling. The word "worthy" means equal weight. Hmm? That says to me that our walk should balance that of our calling. And we are to walk it as Christ walked, with lowliness, meekness, longsuffering, and forbearing one another in love.
How can I do such a thing? Only through and in Christ can I achieve such a balance.
So this week, take time and reread the first three chapters of Ephesians. Look closely at your calling. Then ask God to show you where you may need to work on your balance.

-Mark

Another Chance at Life

2010-01-13T11:19:00.003-05:00

Last Friday night, I received a call that my mom was on life support and would soon die! The doctors removed the life support and a local priest gave her a last rites ceremony. Minutes later she began to respond and now, days later, is sitting up and looks healthier than she has in months?! When I finally arrived at the hospital and got the chance to talk with my mom, I told her that God had given her another chance at life.

Another chance at life?! Do you realize that every morning when you wake up, God has given you another chance at life. All of us are given this opportunity, like that of my mom, but we receive this chance everyday.

If, everyday, we are given another chance what should we do with it? Matthew 22:37 sets a bar of which we all fall short. However, what an opportunity, to devote each day to loving God with your whole heart.

Matthew 22:39 takes it another direction, to love your neighbor as yourself. This bar we possibly make and even surpass. (However, those that do so probably account for a small percentage of human.) What would your community look like if every believer in Christ put others to the same level of care and love of that of self?

Another chance at life? My mother has been given a gift. You, too, everyday receive a similar gift. Don't let it slip away. Wake up tomorrow and live a life loving God and loving others.

-Mark

2010 Requests

2010-01-05T09:33:00.003-05:00

This past Sunday evening, a number of church members offered up prayer request for Wakefield during the 2010 year. They are as follows:
1. Greater love one for the other
2. The leadership continue to seek and follow Jesus' leading
3. A passion for the unsaved
4. Closer individual relationship with Jesus
5. An increased focus on discipleship
6. That Jesus would be the focus of our ministry
What if God answered yes to all of the above prayer requests? I believe the impact upon the church and the community would be profound. Therefore join us in the above prayer requests.
-Mark

Catching Up

2009-12-23T08:25:00.003-05:00

Because of Christmas and computer problems, I am running behind in my posting. And that is part of the problem, Christmas, as we know it, is far from the true reason of the holiday. Check out Born to Set Us Free in the message window and follow along in Galatians 4:1-7.

God's Work in Benin

2009-12-07T16:48:00.003-05:00

We were blessed this past Sunday to have Bill and Julie Harrison share of their ministry to the people of Benin, Africa. You can read about Benin at the Joshua Project. Also, I would encourage you to visit the Fellowship International Mission website for more information on the work that God has called Bill and Julie to perform.

Over the past two years the work of God has been dramatic in Benin. Well over 100 have trusted in Christ and many new churches have been planted. Bill has begun a Bible Institute, where he is training new pastors. You can check out Bill's message to Wakefield, titled Grace, Never Works.

-Mark

God Calls On the Believer to have Courage

2009-11-30T12:59:00.003-05:00

One thing really spoke to me in our study of Isaiah 7 - the idea of courage. In Isaiah 7:4, God says to King Ahaz, "...neither be fainthearted..." Another way to understand this statement is, "have courage."

They say that courage comes in two forms, physical and moral. Soldiers serving in combat often employ physical courage. They push their minds and bodies to do what is contrary to their will. God has wired us to flee when we are confronted by something frightening. This is called the "Fight or Flight Response." When someone is confronted by something frightening, their first response is to run away, or at the very least defend themselves. A soldier must learn to overcome this feeling and go into danger. This takes great courage.

The other form of courage is moral. The idea here is to do the right thing. What caught my mind after preaching the Sunday message is the fact that like the Fight or Flight Response, humans have a natural moral response. Unfortunately, it is not to flee but to join in. Because of man's depravity, when he is confronted by something immoral it is not his inclination to flee from it, but to join in. It is only because of the Holy Spirit that we can have courage and do the right thing.

So my friend, when you are confronted by the question, "Should I do the right thing?" Call upon God to give you courage.

-Mark

One, Two, and Three

2009-11-17T09:24:00.005-05:00

Often preachers use Scripture to beat down members of the congregation. They hope that because of the weight of their words conviction will fall upon the listeners and change will be wrought. No doubt there is a time for such a message. However, I am convinced that the good news of God's message can have the same impact.
Last Sunday we looked at Ephesians 1:18-19. In this passage Paul is praying that believers would have their understanding opened to see three things God has already accomplished in their lives. Paul is not praying that they will gain these three items. Why? Because all believers already posses them. Rather, he longed that they know them and that they live up to them.

The first item in verse 18 is, "...that you may know what is the hope of His calling..." The fact that God chose us makes us special, unique, set apart from the many. Most people long to be special. They assert their personality to gain attention; they attend schools to set themselves apart; they even dress to draw people toward them. So the desire to be special is understood. For some reason believers are unaware, or dimly aware, that God chose them; and they are unaware of how special that makes them. In Sunday's message we learned that God did this for His own purpose (Romans 8:28); He did it to conform us into the image of His Son (Romans 8:29); and that He will never take away this choice (Romans 11:29), making the believer eternally special.

Next we see that God desires that we fully understand that we are His heirs, "..what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints.." To be an heir of God is to be eternally secure because you are a child of the King - and not just any king, but God. In Ephesians 1:5 we learned that because of this choice we were adopted into God's family. This relationship is eternal and it contains the eternal benefit of security. The fact that we are a child of the King should cause us to live differently. Let me quickly add that I stand against the perverse teaching known as the prosperity gospel. The hymn writer once penned, "A tent or a cottage, why should I care? They're building a palace for me over there..." Being a child of the King does not mean we must buy the $40,000 BMW or the $5,000 suit. It means that we are forever secure in this eternal relationship.

The final point to understand is the knowledge that God has given us His power to overcome life and sin. 2 Peter 1:3-4 teaches this as well. If you look closely at the passage you will see that God has given us the power over life. Sometime life stinks. I'm not talking about sin, although that does affect life. Rather, I'm talking about everyday life, the hard decisions we must make. This power also addresses the godly life to which we are called. Living like a child of the King can seem difficult. However, God has empowered us to live up to that standard. Finally, in 2 Peter 1:4, we find that we have the power over sin. It says "partakers of the divine nature." This does not mean we will create our own planets and live like a god. Rather, Peter points out that like God we will have power over sin, "having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust."

So believer be encouraged. God has made you eternally special. He has made you His child. And, He has given you His power to live a life unhindered. Hold your head up. And when you are confronted by what seems overwhelming, say, "I am a child of the King and God has given me the power to see even this through."

-Mark

Looking Ahead and Looking Back

2009-11-03T15:10:00.002-05:00

Of the Trinity, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, the Holy Spirit must be the least preached member. That could be due to John 16:13-14, where we learn that the Holy Spirit will not speak of Himself but of Christ. Nonetheless, there are verses that teach of the Holy Spirit. This Sunday we will examine one, Ephesians 1:13-14.
In preparation for this message I was drawn back to my notes for Dr. Mook's class on Pneumatology/Ecclesiology. This was probably my most favorite class in seminary; not so much for the ecclesiology but for the pneumatology. Wonder fills a person when he reads the Scripture with the intent of understanding the Holy Spirit.
Sunday we will examine just one ministry of the Holy Spirit, sealing. What a great promise we find when we understand this ministry. First, this seal is a guarantee "of the believer in Christ until the day when the Lord Jesus returns to rapture His church our of the world." (Dr. Mook's notes)
Over the next few posts I will share more in the ministry of the Holy Spirit. But for now, just think upon this promise or guarantee. There are times I do not feel like I'm in Christ. There are times when Jesus cannot come back soon enough. But I know from Ephesians 1:13-14 that my future is secure. It is guaranteed.

-Mark

The Church of the Living Dead

2009-11-02T10:01:00.003-05:00

Somewhere in the past, the fundamental church learned that it was improper to show emotion. Probably, this was a response to our charismatic brethren. The unfortunate result was that the church became the church of the living dead. Over time however, we became aware that something was lacking. So we tried to regain emotion in worship in all the wrong ways.

One mistake is to assume that music and the musicians that play it will recover our joy. This rarely makes a long term difference. Another is to blame the preaching. There is probably more to this than the music reason. If the people are starving for God's Word, their joy will diminish. I could go on, but I think you get the idea.

What then can restore a church's joy? I think it begins with each individual in the church. As they seek to return to what they had when they first found Jesus, or better said, when Jesus first found them. When you were first redeemed you were in joy overload. You were keenly aware that a moment before you had been an unsaved sinner. Now a moment later Christ has redeemed you and God has adopted you; and joy filled your soul.

I must repeat what I have put in previous posts. Believers must bring to mind what they had when they first met Christ. If individual believers will remember that, repent of the sin of apathy, and return, the passion will flood the church and the church of the living dead will return to life.

-Mark

Inside Looking Up, Not Outside Looking In

2009-10-31T14:57:00.004-04:00

Over the past several weeks the church has been looking for its lost passion. The hope is that we will somehow recover it before it is too late. This search has taken us to Revelation 2:1-7 and then to the book of Ephesians. Last week we started our study in Ephesians with the idea - God chose you for His glory. Therefore you should respond to Him in wonder and heartfelt worship. This idea developed out of our study of Ephesians 1:3-6. Tomorrow, we will continue the study by examining Ephesians 1:7-12. In this passage we learn - In Christ you are accepted, redeemed, completed, and eternally secure.

Sometimes I am asked, "How should I respond to such a message?" "I've heard all this before. But what I want to know is how should I apply such a thing to life?" Passion is not something you put on like a new coat. Passion, especially in worship and service to Christ, is a response to an understanding. Our passion for our lover - boyfriend, girlfriend, spouse - is a response to the knowledge that they love us. Likewise, passion in worship or service to Jesus is a similar response. I find that in Him I am all the things mentioned above, and more. That knowledge should fill me with a myriad of positive emotions. If I understand that I am outside of Him, then I will respond in many negative ways - guilt, shame, regret, rebellion...

The message will be posted sometime after November 1st. Give it a listen and let me know how you understand the text. In a few days I will share more on the subject.

-Mark

Here I am

2009-10-31T14:24:00.003-04:00

Welcome again to Stories of Redemption. Many months back I created this blog with the hope of creating something different from the Wakefield blog that I also write. However, that never materialized. Now it makes more sense to close the Wakefield blog and post in just one location. I hope this does not cause confusion.

-Mark

The Wonder and ZZZ of Doctrine

2009-10-22T10:51:00.001-04:00

A problem has arisen as I prepare for this Sunday's message - How do I honorably preach the doctrine of Ephesians 1:3-6 without making it an academic exercise? Bible churches in the Maryland/Pennsylvania area have a culture centered around the expository preaching of God's Word - line by line, verse, by verse, word by word. I agree with this, but have found that if poorly preached it accomplishes the same as that of poorly preached topical messages. It becomes an academic message, a seminary lesson, that soars above the average listener. The sad result is that the doctrine of say Ephesians 1:3-6 becomes tedious and boring. The listener can find no reason to listen. Their minds wander and little is accomplished. (Now I understand that I am not including in these thoughts the role of the Holy Spirit and His use of God's Word.)

That said, when I read this passage I am filled with wonder and joy. God chose me before the foundation of the world! He adopted me as a son! And He did all this, and more, to the praise of His glory! If this fills me with wonder and joy, why does it not so move the average listener? Because it is poorly communicated. We take this profound truth and boil it down the war between Calvin and Arminius; and the response is ZZZZZZZZZZZZZ!

Pray for me this week as I try and find the way to best present this wonderful verse without killing the wonder and joy.

-Mark

Please visit our church at www.wakefieldbible.org

Remember, Repent, and Return

2009-10-21T10:49:00.001-04:00

Revelation 2:1-7 records the first of seven letters to seven churches. In each letter, Jesus addresses the pastors of the church, called "angel" or "messenger" in each letter, and holds them accountable. The church at Ephesus was commended for many things: their labor, patience, stance against evil, and their ability to expose false apostles. However, Jesus pointed out one glaring weakness, their lack of heart.

Of the seven churches addressed in Revelation, Ephesus would be the most prominent. Ephesus was a key city in the Roman empire and a thriving port city. Jesus, though, was willing to remove that church if they did not bring the heart back into the work. It was not enough for Christ that they were getting it done; no He demanded that they balance that with passion. He does give a remedy for this problem. In Revelation 2:5 He tells them to 1) Remember from where they had fallen; 2) to Repent; and 3) to Return ("to the first works return").

This past Sunday we went to the early days of the church in Ephesus found in Acts 19:17-21. There we examined three things that this new church was doing and applied these three actions to the above instruction "to remember." First the church magnified the name of Jesus. That simply means they made Jesus number one in all they did. His name took the preeminence. Sadly, there is much that can be accomplished in a church without magnifying the name of Jesus. Second they confessed their sins and testified to God's deliverance. In short, they were transparent one with another. Imagine the dynamic that would be created if all church members were just honest with each other. And finally, they put away all sins that were causing them to stumble and stray from a godly life. This reminds me of Hebrews 12:1.

It is my prayer that the members of Wakefield will begin to do the actions the early Ephesians: magnify Christ, become transparent one with another, and put away our sinful behavior. I feel that by just focusing on these three actions we can begin to recapture the passion that Christ demands for His church.

Please visit our church at www.wakefieldbible.org

Restoring Passion

2009-10-20T17:08:00.001-04:00

It has been months since I have had the time to post. This has been due to the many trips I have needed to make to visit and to care for family. Hopefully now I can return to regular posting since much has been accomplished.

At Wakefield Valley Bible Church we have begun to study passion. Not passion as it relates to lovers, but passion as it relates to church. This study began with an examination on how God loves. Then it moved to the idea of love, or passion, as a part of faith. From there we moved to Revelation 2:1-7, where the letter to the church of Ephesus is recorded. That message, titled Remember, Repent, & Return, positioned us to begin a study in the book of Ephesians.

Ephesians, like many of Paul's letters, begin with doctrine and then transition to the practical application of this doctrine. Often what happens, is that preachers get bogged down in the doctrine, turning an exciting subject matter to one that bores the listener. I believe it was Dr. Howard Hendricks who I first heard say "It is a sin to bore people with the Bible." (I'm certain that I have committed this sin on a number of occasions.) With this upcoming study on passion, it is my goal to take the doctrine of Ephesians and have it awaken in us this missing passion.

So check back over the weeks to follow this study. All the messages will be under the series heading of Keeping the Candle Lit.

-Mark

Please visit our church at www.wakefieldbible.org

The Passions of Youth

2009-08-13T12:53:00.001-04:00

Last evening, Elise Hundertmark spoke to us about her mission trip to Recife, Brasil. It was a great evening. Much of what made it great was her confidence and delivery. In spite of some technical difficulties, she gave an outstanding talk. However, what truly struck me was the passion for Christ that came through in the presentation.
Often young people (Elise is college-age) wear their passions on their sleeves. And not only that, they often live them outwardly, expressing them in their behavior. We often see this demonstrated in dangerous, or what we would term as immature behavior. However, with Elise, this was not the case. Rather, she demonstrated her passion for Christ and her desire to serve Him. Take time and listen to her presentation. I know you will be blessed and I hope that you will catch her passion for the Christ.

Please visit our church at www.wakefieldbible.org

Putting the Joy back into Formality

2009-07-28T16:45:00.001-04:00

The Internet has been abuzz with the wedding video of Jill Peterson and Kevin Heinz. In just one week, their dancing wedding processional has gone viral, with over 9 million hits on the YouTube. What is it about this processional that has sparked such fascination? I think that it is the joy evidenced in the dance, the joy celebrating the moment when two young people are united in marriage.

Ceremonies, such as a wedding, develop over many generations with little change. That is not a bad thing, because there is a sense of security and continuity in doing what our parents and grandparents did. Unfortunately over time, the original joy of the ceremony is replaced with too much formalism. When that happens, things go stale. Weddings should be a celebration of love and joy. The Peterson/Heinz wedding brought this back into the traditional ceremony. It will be interesting to see if this sets a trend. I hope so.

You can watch the wedding processional at this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4-94JhLEiN0

-Mark

Please visit our church at http://wakefieldbible.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40157

Would-ah, Could-ah, Should-ah

2009-07-20T10:28:00.001-04:00

For the rest of his days, Tom Watson will remember with regret the eight-foot putt that cost him The Open Championship. Along with that miss, he will think of the bogey here and a missed approach there that factored in. And many will not let him forget because they will lament, "What could've been?!"

Often we attempt to treat life like that of a sporting event - you either win or lose. However for many reasons, life is not that way. Although life has its limits, there are far more opportunities than 72 holes, nine innings, or four quarters. There are many opportunities to turn it around, to make a change and to finish as God would have you finish.

Yesterday, we looked at Lois and Eunice found in 2 Timothy 1:5. Specifically we studied what I called Parenting with Purpose not Guilt. Like Tom Watson, I have regrets - moments I could have handled differently, words I should have used as opposed to the words I did use, lessons I should have taught.....on and on and on. However, I still have a chance to parent, and I hope someday, grandparent with godly purpose.

Parenting with purpose can be summarized in the two actions these women took in the raising of Timothy: 1) They lived out their faith without hypocrisy. 2) They taught Timothy the Scriptures.

But what about the guilt often associated with falling short? What about the regrets? Should I live with regret and guilt at having missed parenting opportunities. Maybe. Maybe I did not live out with sincerity the faith that I expected of my kids. You were one person at church and another person at home. Maybe I did not take every opportunity to teach the Scripture and point my children toward Christ. There is much that competes with our teaching. However, I think that long-term guilt should not be a part of parenting because all people are held accountable for their own actions. Therefore if your kids did not grow up to make the right choices, they will be held accountable, not you.

Ultimately kids will grow up and become what they are going to become. They will do what they decide to do. And they will be held accountable for their actions, not your parenting. The book of Proverbs gives general truths on parenting. These Proverbs are not absolute promises. For instance Proverbs 22:6 is not guaranteed. Rather, it is generally true. Godly parents often raise godly kids. But sometimes they raise wicked ones and wicked parents raise godly. Thus the maxims found in Proverbs are just that, generally true.

One Proverb I would like to share in light of this discussion is Proverbs 1:30-33. Here we find that children who reject the training of the parent will be held accountable for their actions. Their decisions are on them, not on you the parent.

So parents and grandparents, aunts and uncles, there is still time to parent with purpose. Sincerely live out your faith and teach your children the Scripture; always pointing to Jesus. And remember to leave your regrets on the playing field; for ultimately the child will be held accountable for their own actions; not your misses.

-Mark
Please visit our church at http://wakefieldbible.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40157

Two Lessons on Samson

2009-07-06T00:01:00.001-04:00

This coming Sunday we will look at the life of Samson. After reading the story a few times I have decided that there are a few reasons for God to include it. Samson's life provides for us a some lessons worth considering. But which lesson is the primary for us to learn? Let's look at the first two.

Lesson one could be titled "What Could Have Been." God had a great purpose for Samson, but because of his sin, he failed to reach it. There are elements of this in the story. Samson was ordained prior to conception to accomplish a task for God. God gave his parents details concerning his upbringing and what he was expected to accomplish. Judges 13:1-5

Another lesson is related to the first - "Sin Destroys." Again this is true. Samson seems to be a man driven by his passions, especially for the opposite sex. These desires ultimately lead to his downfall. His great physical strength is taken away and he is blinded by his captures. Interestingly, he often "saw" his desire. Thus, the removal of his eyes is a telling punishment.

So which is it - lesson number one or lesson number two? Neither. I think the Bible is teaching an entirely different message with Samson. What then is that? Come back next week. I am up at Camp Tohiglo, where it is impossible to get a connection. Next Sunday I will teach on Samson and post the better understanding of this man's life. In the mean time let's follow the two lesser lessons - live up to your potential and don't sin. Good luck!

-Mark

Please visit our church at http://www.wakefieldbible.org/

Turn from Michael and Look to Jesus

2009-06-29T09:50:00.001-04:00

If the news is any indication, we are obsessed with the lives and deaths of others. Michael Jackson, Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett, David Carradine, and now the pitch man Billy Mays - the TV flashes with a constant stream of information on their last years and even minutes. The shame of this obsession is that it takes our focus off of the one that matters - Jesus Christ.

At Wakefield we are in the midst of a series of character studies. We have looked at Peter, Andrew, Esther, and Rahab. Each character, each life, has given us valuable information on how and how not to live. However, even in this series, to focus on these four and the others yet to come, would be a distraction. Rather, the intent of each study is to quickly shift the focus back toward Christ. For it is only Christ that saves us and changes us.

An example of all this is in our most recent study of Rahab. The only thing in her character that seems to have merit is her faith in God. Now of all the character traits to have, faith in God is the most important. Faith is the only character trait that without it is impossible to please God. Hebrews 11:6 And who is the author and finisher of our faith? Jesus Christ. (Hebrews 12:1-2) So instead of looking long at Rahab, we must quickly turn our attention to Jesus.

So reader, shift your focus from others to the one that saves - Jesus Christ.

-Mark

Please visit our church at http://wakefieldbible.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40157

To Shirk or Not To Shirk

2009-06-08T09:06:00.001-04:00

I recently developed a plumbing problem. Last night while I was away at church my outside faucet began to run. My neighbors, Roland and Mike, heard it and came to the rescue, but try as they might, they could not turn it off. Only after I returned home was I able to cut the water off from the inside. Now I am faced with a plumbing problem.

This morning I looked up the local plumber's phone number. But before calling, I decided to look at the problem. I found that with a short trip to Home Depot, I could easily fix the problem and save hundreds of dollars. However, if I know anything about myself, it is never as easy as it looks, it always takes more time than anticipated, and it always costs more than I assume. On top of all that, I am busy with other matters. So if my time is valuable, is it not better to call in the professional and have them do it quickly and efficiently?

This seems to be the approach of many in the church to the Great Commission. Matthew 28:19-20 commands all believers to take the Gospel out and make disciples. However, in our church world of layman and professional, we all try to shirk this responsibility and pass it on to those called and often paid to perform. Of course we should financially and prayerfully support worldwide missions. We should appoint, send, and oversee missionaries throughout the world. However, what about Matter 28:19-20? It does not limit the scope to the professional. All of the church is within the "go" statement. Therefore we too have responsibilities in this ministry of disciple making.

There is much that can be accomplished locally. How many, I wonder, of the local church ever share their faith in the community? Without looking at any stats, I will assume the number is "few and far between." What about you reader, when have you last shared your testimony and the good news that is available to all? Quit calling in the professionals to do all of your work. Quit shirking your responsibility in the ministry of disciple making. Step up and share what God has done for you. Now I'm off to Home Depot. Wish me well.

-Mark

Please visit our church at http://www.wakefieldbible.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40157

Putting Focus to Your Prayer Time

2009-06-05T00:01:00.001-04:00

I've always struggled with maintaining a disciplined prayer life. I do pray, however, I often lack focus, praying only what comes to mind. This leads to wool gathering; and much that should have been put before the Lord is forgotten.

Recently I purchased a tool that I hope will help cure this lack of discipline. It is The 29:59 Plan. Although I have only used it for not quite one week, it has helped immensely. Peter Lord and Daniel Henderson, the creators of this tool, help you divide your prayer time up into manageable chunks and help you direct your prayers with focus and purpose. The tool is flexible. You don't just pray what they want you to pray. But, you take the tool and make it fit your prayer needs.

If you are struggling with discipline in your prayer life or just want to freshen up - add some change to your devotion time - then consider The 29:59 Plan. You can purchase it at http://www.pray2959.com/ I'll let you know how I am doing with it in the weeks to come.

-Mark

Please visit our church at http://www.wakefieldbible.org/

From Instability to Stability - The Life of Peter

2009-06-01T09:41:00.001-04:00

This past Sunday we began a series of Character Studies. The first character studied was Peter. With Peter there is so much information that as a preacher I had to throw much out. (In fact, looking back over the message, I was probably one point too many.) Because of the wealth of material some great things were not shared. I would like to point you to one section of Scripture that I could not include, but is a blessing to me.

2 Peter 1:3-11 is a wonderful section that moves my heart when I read it. This morning I used a prayer tool to study this passage. I'll share more about this tool in a later post this week. So if you struggle in your prayer and devotional life, check back later this week to learn of a great resource that will help.

Let's take 2 Peter 1:3-11 and ask some basic questions: 1) Who is God in this passage? He is the giver of life and godliness, the giver of exceedingly great and precious promises, the giver of His divine nature. He is the one who has rescued us from the corruption of this world. 2) How shall I respond? With diligence. We are to strive to add one thing upon another. Those items are listed in 2 Peter 1:5-7. 3) So what should I pray about? For me it is "God increase my faith ... add to my faith virtue..and so forth through the list. Why pray for it if I am to strive for it? Because on my own I am unable to do such a work, but with the Holy Spirit I am able. 4) Finally, where do I go from here? Well the above acts of diligence will ultimately lead to a fruitful life; to a life where one has a clear vision of from whence he came and where he is going, and for complete understanding of one's calling and election.

Our character Peter came to such an understanding after Christ's ascension. The words he offers in his two epistles are not the words of the unstable man so demonstrated throughout the Gospels. Rather these are the words of one who has moved on from instability to that of stability because of the work God was doing in his life. If you long to move from a life of instability to stability take Peter's example. Use 2 Peter 1:3-11 as a starting place. If you have already trusted in Christ then understand all that God has already given you. Then build one thing upon the next with, of course, the Holy Spirit's help.

However, if you have not trusted in Christ then you must begin there. Your life will always be unstable because sin rules you. Christ died for this sin. You need to turn from it and turn to Christ, acknowledging that He is God and that He died for that very sin. Put your trust in Him and what He did to save you, not on your own strength.

Next week we will have a guest speaker at Wakefield. The following week we will return with our next character study, this time a female, Hadassah.

-Mark

Please visit our church at www.wakefieldbible.org

Get Your Marriage in Gear

2009-05-29T09:34:00.001-04:00

Pastor Steve Cornell, of Millersville Bible Church, has put together a marriage resource packet and made it available on the church website. The packet contains seven links, or resources, that can be of great help. Maybe you are considering divorce? There is a link in this packet that addresses the myths of divorce, especially its effect on children. Maybe your marriage just needs a boost? Then take the enrichment exercise.

Here is the link. I would encourage you to go to the website and take advantage of these resources. Marriage Packet

Also, please visit our church at http://www.wakefieldbible.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40157

Urgency, Necessity, and Obligation

2009-05-23T07:46:00.001-04:00

I was away this past week at the Moody Bible Institute Pastors' Conference. It was a fabulous week. I attended classes on transformational preaching taught by Erwin Lutzer, John Piper, Crawford Loritts, and John MacArthur Jr.

It will take me a few weeks to digest all that I learned. However, for now I am stimulated by the urgency of the Word. This urgency comes from idea that salvation and the Word have a direct relationship. Consider Romans 10:17. The gospel of Jesus Christ is essential to salvation.

So then, urgency really takes on the idea of necessity. If necessary, then pastors have an obligation to preach the Bible; a mandate to faithfully communicate God's Word. As I sat and listened to these men teach and relay their convictions on preaching, I was reminded of a sermon I sat under some four years back. The pastor preached 45 minutes and never opened the Bible. Not only did he not open it, but did not quote from it or even project it on the screen. The Bible was nowhere to be found in a 45 minute talk. This, of course, was not preaching, but a speech. They were words without power to transform.

It is time for pastors to preach God's Word or shut up. Better that these men, who elect to not use the text, to step down and give the pulpit over to one called to preach. Preaching that opens and explains the Bible is the only preaching with the power to change a person from a life of death to a life of faith.

-Mark

Please visit our church at http://www.wakefieldbible.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40157

Are You Comfortable?

2009-05-11T11:07:00.001-04:00

The book of Isaiah closes with the idea that God provides comfort like that of a mother - Isaiah 66:13. Last night we pursued this idea, the idea of God the comforter, in our evening lesson. It took us to 2 Corinthians. Here we find a greater understanding of God the comforter, what it means, its purpose, and the lesson it teaches us.

In 2 Corinthians 1:3 we find that God comforts us in all our troubles. I don't need to tell you what trouble means. The moment you read the verse and your eyes land upon "troubles" you think of your situation, your troubles. However, let's not linger there long. Rather let's grab the message that God provides comfort during these times.

What is comfort? When I think of comfort I think of the ez-chair, the recliner down in the family room. However, that is not the original idea of the word. It truly means "greater support." Split the word in half and you find "fort" for strength and "com" for extreme. So God provides support in your time of trouble not the ez-chair.

There is a purpose to your troubles and the comfort gained. It can be found in 2 Corinthians 1:4. The purpose is to comfort others, especially those in similar circumstances. At Wakefield, we have seen God put us in this ministry. Many in our body have been called by God to share their hurts and to comfort others in need.

There is a great lesson that comes with troubles and comfort - the lesson of reliance. Look at 2 Corinthians 1:9-10. You go through these things to learn to rely on God not on self and to come to understand that the God who delivered you in the past will deliver you in the future. Set your hope on Him...on the God of comfort.

-Mark

Please visit our church at http://www.wakefieldbible.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40157

The Big Fall

2009-05-04T22:48:00.001-04:00

The back end of Habakkuk 2:4 reads, "the just shall live by his faith." Seven simple words, quoted two times by Paul in his epistles, stirred the heart of Martin Luther and provoked a change in him and ultimately in Christendom. What is it about this simple verse that gripped Luther?

A simple understanding of the passage is that those who have confidence, or faith, in God will be spared the unfortunate things in life and will live a life of joy. However, Paul took the verse to the next level. He used it to teach that those who have faith in the Gospel will be saved from their sin. Both are wonderful promises but the latter has eternal possibilities. Imagine the awakening Martin Luther experienced when he realized that his salvation had nothing to do with any work on his part. He understood how it radically changed his walk of faith and also how it would affect all those that followed Christ.

Back when we were studying the Gospel of John, we learned that faith had the idea of "falling upon." Those that put their faith in Christ, then, fall upon Him. This means that there is truly nothing we do other than trust in Him.

I don't know that Habakkuk went this direction with his understanding of faith, but he had to understand that God was more than sufficient to see him through. Where are you in your faith walk? Are you trying to please God with your actions, expecting your good to out weigh your bad? If that is your journey, then you are off course. Correct your walk by falling. Only He is able to see you through your current circumstances and only He is able to save you.

-Mark

Please visit our church at http://wakefieldbible.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40157

Swine Flu Boo!

2009-04-27T12:32:00.001-04:00

It is quite possible that the swine flu will become the feared pandemic - or not. However, if bodies do not start piling up, the nightly news will lose interest and we ourselves will move on to the next possible agent of destruction. What is it that causes us both to panic and then within a day forget all about it only to replace this pandemic with the next threat? I have no idea, but I'll make a guess.

What I do know is that even if the worst possible scenario plays out - millions die, our republic crumbles, my retirement disappears, whatever...God is still my savior. In Habakkuk 3, the prophet sings of God, the wrathful warrior. The prophet acknowledges the certainty of destruction, but then concludes with this thought - Habakkuk 3:17-19.

Is it possible that the reason people panic is that they have no faith in God, that they cannot make the claim that God is the God of their salvation? Rather they put self at center and then come to realize that self cannot stop the approaching pandemic.

If you have trusted in Jesus Christ, then you can be certain that He will never leave you nor forsake you. God is the God of your salvation. Buy a medical mask. Get your flu shot. No harm in being prepared. But never forget that God is the God of your salvation. If you have not trusted in Christ, then you are on your own. That might serve you well for a little while, but, ultimately your strength will fail. At the very least, when it is time to account, you will not be able to claim God as the God of your Salvation. If you need help in this decision contact us through the church website - http://wakefieldbible.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40157.

-Mark

Please visit our church at http://wakefieldbible.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40157

Susan Boyle or God

2009-04-20T10:20:00.001-04:00

Who would've thought that Andy Warhol's words on 15 minutes of fame would continue to prove true and even grow in validity with each passing generation. He could not have foreseen the internet or youtube; but these vehicles propel the unknown into worldwide fame. In an instant the world seeks to glorify Susan Boyle only to replace her with someone else 15 minutes later.

As the fame of man continues to grow, the fame of God is diminished. This has always been the battle. Man seeks to glorify self and God seeks to be glorified. In the end God will be glorified by all (Philippians 2:9-11).

The next few weeks at Wakefield we will study Habakkuk. The first message of this series was posted on April 19th. You can listen or download it at our website. Every morning we awake to trouble and worry - divorce, adultery, drugs, crime, terrorism, the economy... Habakkuk, too, was confronted by this and more. In the end God's character changed Habakkuk. What does this have to do with Susan Boyle and her 15 minutes? Habakkuk made the decision to glorify God. As he did so, God demonstrated His character to Habakkuk.

When we cease to glorify self and begin to glorify God, we are confronted by God's character. His character changes our point of view and fills us with hope, even in our times of trouble.

-Mark

Please visit our church at http://wakefieldbible.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40157

Jesus Wants the Rose - Matt Chandler

2009-04-18T07:54:00.004-04:00

I thought I would share a powerful video portion of Matt Chandler - Jesus wants the Rose. I know you will be blessed by it.

Growing Pains

2009-04-12T18:56:00.001-04:00

God continues to drive new families and young people to our church, and thus the inevitable growing pains are beginning to appear. What are growing pains? For some churches it is the need for more parking or seating. That yet is not the case at Wakefield. What then are these pains? I believe it is the adjustment that the long term members and attendees make to new ways of ministry and the new people this attracts.

I looked up Growing Pains on the medical websites. They document that these pains come upon children at night and in the leg area. However, they all state that the cause of the pain is a mystery, because it should not hurt to grow.

Why then does it hurt to grow in a church? One is the attitude of "We've never done it that way before." When church people hold onto methodology and even elevate that to dogma, then the pain appears. Another is when the culture of one group conflicts with that of another. Church should be always in flux as a younger generation moves up to assume places of leadership and as the community around it changes.

My parents moved into their current home about 38 years ago. At that time the neighborhood was packed with kids and the community had a young feel. Then things changed. Kids grew up and moved out, and the neighborhood aged. Now, many years later the older people are moving out to retirement communities and young families are moving in to replace them. The public schools that had to close will probably reopen and businesses that served older people are adjusting to a younger client.

Why do I tell you all of this? Because churches go through similar transitions. However, churches should not wait 38 years to reinvent itself. We should be looking for new ways to tell the same story and to worship the same God. There is dogma that should never change and methodology that can change as the need arises. Pray for Wakefield as we adjust to the world around us without compromising on the absolutes of the faith.

-Mark

Please visit our church at www.wakefieldbible.org

Take a Life - Save a Life

2009-04-11T08:24:00.003-04:00

While I slowly read Sense & Sensibility I thought I would mention a wonderful movie, Bella, that would fall under the heading of a redemptive story. It tells the story of Jose and Nina; he is a former professional soccer player, she is a pregnant single woman. Neither is living the life they would have planned. The movie focuses primarily on one day in which their lives are brought together, and on the events and decisions that change a life.

There are many reasons to recommend this movie. One is that the film contains no foul language or sexual behavior. Also the acting is wonderful. Look for this DVD in the store or pick it up at Netflix. Also, the movie has been turned into a book that I hope to read it in the near future.

-Mark

Reaching 6,000 per Week

2009-04-06T14:01:00.001-04:00

Last evening we shut down our small groups and assembled at the church for a mission presentation. Maria Gusmao, from BCM International, gave a fascinating talk on her work with the street kids of Brasil. What an amazing evening! It started with Maria giving a monologue, playing the role of a little boy living in an abusive situation and his utlimate conversion to Christ. Then she gave a presentation of the ministry.

Currently, Maria and her staff are allowed to teach Bible clubs in the public schools. These clubs, and the clubs they run in the slums of Recife reach 6,000 kids per week! Also, she takes about 150 street kids to camp every summer. There they learn of Christ, make decisions for Him, and also learn that they are loved by Maria and the counselors.

Take time to explore the BCM website, http://www.bcmintl.org/. Also join us in prayer for Maria and these children. Also one other prayer request - I would love to see Wakefield put together a team to assist Maria at her camp. I am certain they could use the help, but more importantly it would be a life changing two weeks for us.

-Mark

Please visit our church at http://wakefieldbible.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40157

Spiritual Walking

2009-03-29T21:39:00.001-04:00

This past Sunday, we studied the idea of walking in the Spirit. Romans 8:1 tells us that the believer is one who is without condemnation and one who walks in the Spirit. Galatians 5:16-17 also addresses walking in the Spirit. What then does it mean to walk in the Spirit? For me, it means going to where the Holy Spirit is working and join Him in His present ministry. It is there that He will have an immediate and transforming impact on your life.

Where can you find the Holy Spirit at work? There are many places, some of which involve the moment of salvation or life in general. However for our study I want to find places where He ministers directly to the believer. Look first at John 14:26 and Ephesians 3:16-18. Here we find that the Holy Spirit teaches and gives understanding to the Bible. I have always felt that the John passage is more Apostle-specific, but I do not so limit the Ephesians passage. Here we see the Holy Spirit giving comprehension to the infinite dimensions of God. This comprehension comes primarily through the reading and understanding of the Word.

Some other places where we find the Holy Spirit working is in our prayer life and in our worship. I link these together because prayer is an important aspect of worship. The Holy Spirit empowers our prayers. Jude 20 and Romans 8:26-27 teach this fact. Philippians 3:3 and John 4:23 tell us that the Holy Spirit gives meaning to our worship. If we could get on a plane and fly to a tribal community and there meet with a group of believers, we would find their church to be most primitive. Where we have padded pews and stained glass windows, they sit on crude wooden benches placed out in the open. Where we have grand instruments, like the piano or organ, they may have an out-of-tune guitar. However, our grandeur does not give meaning to worship. What does? It is the Holy Spirit. For that reason, believers can worship in any setting and find that the worship is full and complete because of the presence and ministry of the Holy Spirit.

Two additional areas where we find the ministry of the Holy Spirit is in witnessing and in the use of our spiritual gifts. Acts 1:8 and 1 Peter 4:10 teach this. Without the Holy Spirit we would not have the ability, the burden, nor the direction for our witnessing. To see the local church and the worldwide body of Christ grow, it is essential that we use the gifts given to us by God.

Finally, walking in the Spirit involves a transformation that begins on the inside and resonates outwardly for all to see. Galatians 4:19 says, "My little children, for whom I labor in birth again until Christ is formed in you...". The Greek word for "formed" is morpho-o. It carries with it the idea of an outward transformation realized by an inward change. God desires that our character be Christ-like. For this to be, we must meet the Holy Spirit where He is working and submit to Him in faith. Then He will begin to transform us into the likeness of Christ. Of course if we elect to not do those things - read the Bible, pray, worship, witness, serve - then we should not expect God to change us.

So lace up your walking shoes. Go to where we find the Holy Spirit at work and join Him in His ministry. Then you will begin to see God change you into the likeness of His Son.

-Mark

Please visit our church at http://wakefieldbible.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40157

Rescue & Reward

2009-03-26T10:48:00.003-04:00

Here is a wonderful story that aired this morning on the Today Show. It tells a powerful story of rescue and reward - the reward of seeing a life lived well.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Making Sense of Sense & Sensibility

2009-03-26T10:22:00.001-04:00

I have often enjoyed watching the various Jane Austin novels that have been made into movies or T.V. dramas. Some would say that I am responding to my inner chick. Maybe they are correct.

So my next book to review will be Sense & Sensibility. I'll begin reading it soon, and will give my opinion and overview in the weeks to come. Until then, feel free to comment about S&S or any other Jane Austin work.

-Mark

XXX Church Porn

2009-03-22T22:26:00.001-04:00

There is a illness, a virus, a pandemic that is attacking families, communities, and even churches. What is this illness? It is the illness of pornography. Porn wrecks relationships, marriages, families, and even harms the body of Christ. 47% of all Christians interviewed say that pornography is a major problem in their home.

There are many reasons to fear pornography. I'll only share one. Porn often starts as a secret sin. However over time, porn desensitizes the viewer. Therefore for the viewer to get the same thrill, as previously realized, the viewer must go into more extreme forms of pornography. However, this rarely satisfies for long. So the viewer must manifest their inner thoughts into outward behavior - attend strip clubs, frequent prostitutes, or take on multiple lovers. Now the sin is no longer secret and the harm is even more widespread.

Since this is a problem with such devastating results, I want to share with you some resources that you can begin to use.

http://xxxchurch.com/ is a unique site that has discussion boards, articles, videos, and other resources to help you with the porn illness. The xxxchurch ministry is far from traditional in how it approaches its work, especially its outreach into the sex industry, but for many it is helpful.

The American Family Association has a helpful section on pornography, www.afa.net/pornography/. The AFA site has many articles on internet porn, sexual addiction, and even how to confront a sexually-oriented business in your community.

There are many sites devoted to counseling for porn addiction. One is http://www.purelifeministries.org/index.cfm. At purelife you can download podcasts, subsribe to an E-newsletter, or take advantage of their counseling. They have counseling tracks for both men and women. If their stats are correct, 20% of all christian women struggle with pornography.

I hope this helps you confront the illness of porn. Later in the year Iwill revisit this problem in even greater detail.

-Mark

Please visit our church at http://wakefieldbible.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40157

Exospection Leads to Introspection

2009-03-18T08:27:00.001-04:00

I came across a wonderful article by Kevin Roose, published in the Brown Alumni magazine. He tells of his semester at Liberty University. Kevin, a graduate of Brown, chose to enroll in LU for one semester in order to experience what life would be like in a conservative Christian university. I might quickly add that LU is not considered conservative in conservative circles. Had Kevin attended Pensacola Christian College, Hyles-Anderson, or Bob Jones University, he would have experienced a true "conservative" college. However, he would not have survived one semester. He would have been kicked out for some indescretion, or they would have smelled a rat. Liberty, though, did give him a good view of life on a Christian evangelical college.

That said, you should read Kevin's article, because his words force us to look at ourselves. Introspection is an important activity that should be taken frequently. Jesus' words and actions, in the Gospels, prompts such by both believers and unbelievers. If we are honest with our handling of all Scripture, then we are constantly forced to view ourselves in light of our Heavenly Father.

-Mark

Kevin Roose's article

Please visit our church at http://wakefieldbible.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40157

Macbeth And The Sin From Whence We Are Redeemed

2009-03-16T11:51:00.005-04:00

I should probably start a blog, titled Stories of Redemption, with a work that is a bit more uplifting, with a work that speaks of redemption. However, I chose Macbeth. There is a reason for this choice. It is my hope that Macbeth will give an opportunity for discussion on the subject from whence is man redeemed. If there is a need for redemption, where does man initially find himself that forces a need for redemption and a redeemer. That place is sin, and Macbeth does a wonderful job in its portrayal of such.

For me, Macbeth speaks more of sin and less of sins. Many artistic works speak of and often celebrate sins, the evil behaviors of mankind. But what makes Macbeth unique is its understanding of sin, that nature, which is in every man, and for which Christ ultimately died. We are given a look into the dark heart of Macbeth just minutes after his first meeting with the three witches. Upon hearing that he would soon be Thane of Cawdor and eventually King, Macbeth mutters,
"This supernatural soliciting cannot be ill, cannot be good. If ill, why hath it given me earnest of success, commencing in a truth? I am Thane of Cawdor. If good, why do I yield to that suggestion whose horrid image doth unfix my hair and make my seated heart knock at my ribs against the use of nature? Present fears are less than horrible imaginings. My thought, whose murder yet is fantastical, shakes so my single state of man that function is smothered in surmise and nothing is but what is not....If chance will have me King, why chance may crown me."
So Macbeth begins immediately to wrestle with his inner nature, his dark heart. And this is the power and the purpose of the play, to show the viewer the inner thoughts of a man, the thoughts of which only God is fully aware.
If you take the time to read Macbeth, I would recommend you rent the 1979 video version of the play, starring Ian McKellen and Judi Dench. This is a difficult version to watch, not because it is poorly made or acted - just the opposite. Philp Cason and Trevor Nunn, who direct and conceive this version, take a minimalistic approach. There is no scenery, little to no props, limited costuming, and often only one single spotlight. The intent is to focus the audience on the faces and thus the words of the script. You cannot look away, you cannot escape understanding the man Macbeth and the sin to which he responds.

-Mark

The Mac Daddies on Discipleship

2009-03-16T08:17:00.001-04:00

Lately, there has been a discussion here at Wakefield over the question of discipleship. "What is discipleship?" and "What makes one a disciple of Jesus Christ?" are two of the questions kicked around. We know that Matthew 28:19 tells us to go and make disciples. Does that mean that the term "disciple" is the same as "believer"? Let's try in just a few paragraphs to develop an answer.

First, to be a disciple it is absolutely essential to be a believer. One cannot be a disciple of Christ without first putting their trust in Christ. Are there those who follow the principles of the christian life without first believing? No doubt. However, to live the disciple's life does require something that only a believer posseses, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. For the life of a disciple is a supernatural life, a life that can only be lived with the power of God, not the power of self.

William MacDonald, a Plymouth Brethren writer, lists seven terms for discipleship:
1. A supreme love for Jesus Christ - Luke 14:26
2. A denial of self - Matthew 16:24
3. A deliberate choosing of the cross - Matthew 16:24
4. A life spent following Christ - Matthew 16:24; Galatians 5:22-23; John 15:8
5. A fervent love for all who belong to Christ - John 13:35; 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
6. An unswerving continuance in His Word - John 8:31
7. A forsaking of all to follow Him - Luke 14:33

I'll put a link to MacDonald's article below and you can go to it and read the greater detail. Feel free to voice you comments here concerning the article.

We can simplify MacDonald's many words by using a statement from John MacArthur Jr. Commenting on Matthew 7:24-27 in his commentary on Matthew 1-7, MacArthur says, "The mark of true discipleship is not simply hearing and believing, but believing and doing." The two men in the passage build similar homes, but with one major difference - the foundation. The passage speaks of a believer building a life based on obedience to God's Word as opposed to someone, unbeliever or believer, who builds his life on something other than God's Word. The first is a disciple, the second not.

If our understanding of Matthew 7:24-27 is correct, then churches contain many believers, but few disciples. Discipleship begins with faith, but does not end there. Discipleship is a life lived in obedience to Christ and to His Word. God help us in our effort to obey and in our effort to bring others into the the place of discipleship.

-Mark

MacDonald's article

Please visit our church at http://wakefieldbible.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40157

Celebrating the Harvest

2009-03-09T09:16:00.001-04:00

This past Saturday I attended the Christian Farmers Outreach luncheon. This ministry shares the story of Jesus Christ at fairs, sports shows and farm shows around the country. They share this story using a walking stick and colored beads. According to their website, 10, 273 people saved in 2008!

Mr. Wilson Lippy, the president of CFO, officiated the day. The keynote speaker at the luncheon was Ed Herr, the president of Herr Foods. His talk was centered around his personal testimony and his relationship with Jesus Christ. Also, Dr. Ben Carson gave a short address to the crowd of over 600.

How can a simple ministry, with sticks and beads, lead so many into salvation? Is it the beads or the leadership? We could give some credit in that direction. However, I must say that the success comes from the Holy Spirit driving the unsaved into the booths and the fact that many work the harvest. It makes me wonder - If local churches took evangelism seriously, if we put workers into the field to share the simple story of Jesus, would we not also see thousands saved?

Thinking of the thousands reached through this ministry, I am reminded of the pressing need for Christ. This, of course, is nothing new. However, you and I live now. So the time of urgency and response is now. We need to take every opportunity to share Jesus Christ with our friends, relatives, associates, and neighbors. Keep tilling the soil, planting the seed, watering, and harvesting souls.

-Mark

Please visit our church at http://www.wakefieldbible.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40157

Touching the Untouchables

2009-03-02T08:12:00.001-05:00

I remember that near the end of my first wife's life, Margaret desired human touch, but because of the cancer that was throughout her body, touch was something that brought pain and discomfort. However, the need for human contact outweighed the pain that was caused by it. She needed to be hugged. I recalled that memory, now 17 years old, because of what I observed in church this past Sunday. I watched as some of the broken people made their way into our church. Although they did not know anyone, and I'm sure attending was in many respects uncomfortable for them, their desire for human contact outweighed their fear of pain.

A few weeks back we examined fellowship, A Shared Life in Jesus. Last week we looked at the broken people who have recently made contact with our church. Now this past Sunday, as I stood in front of the congregation I noticed one of these broken in attendance. I also began to see that there are others just as broken. Why were they at Wakefield? Was it to worship? Possibly. Was it to learn of God? Possibly. However, I must think that their desire for human contact played an important part.

In Matthew 8:1-4 we find a leper asking Jesus to heal him. "Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean." Leprosy is a terrible disease, even more so in the time of Christ. People were isolated from society and considered unclean. This is important to remember as we watch Jesus heal the man. Notice the action Jesus took as He healed. "He stretched out His hand and touched him saying, 'I am willing. Be clean!'" Jesus could have healed him with only a word. But Jesus made a point of touching the untouchable.

Lynn Hall and Kari West wrote in their article, The Power of Touch, "Touch acknowledges both a shared humanness and our individual worth. It amplifies our sense of safety and security. Touch heals not only physically, but also psychologically, by affirming our need for belonging and acceptance." So, Jesus not only healed the leper, but He also affirmed the man's need for belonging and acceptance. He also provided something the leper had deeply longed for - human touch.

Look around your community. Whether that community is a neighborhood or a church, there are people who ache for human contact. Human contact for some may cause discomfort, even pain, but I am certain that their desire to be touched will overcome this. Reach out and touch the untouchables.

-Mark

Please visit our church at www.wakefieldbible.org

The Broken On Our Doorstep

2009-02-25T16:51:00.001-05:00

Since Saturday, just five days back, we have watched God bring two broken people to us for help and healing. One we found during door-to-door visitation and the other God prompted to find us. Listening to their stories can be overwhelming. There is no easy answer for all that has befallen them. Health, family, and loneliness, are just at the top of a long list. And as they talk of their hurts you hear how God is far away, how He seems not to answer their prayers, how He appears to have abandoned them at their time of greatest need. Truly these people are broken, lost, and alone.

Just minutes after one departed the office, I looked into Scripture to see what advice God gave for Shepherding such. I found myself in 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, the passage concerning Paul's thorn. As I looked at verse nine, I wondered, "How does someone get to the point in their suffering where they can say 'I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.'?" I'm not sure I have the answer.

Looking elsewhere I found a table in the Life Application that listed six questions to ask when you find yourself in a time of suffering:
1. Am I being punished by God for sin?
2. Is Satan attacking me as I try to survive as a Christian?
3. Am I being prepared for a special service, learning to be compassionate to those who suffer?
4. Am I specifically selected for testing, like Job?
5. Is my suffering a result of natural consequences, for which I am not directly responsible?
6. Is my suffering due to some unknown reason?

I thought, "Well Paul must have come to a place in his life where he had an answer to those questions." To have such confidence that one can glory in his suffering and to recognize the result of such confidence is remarkable.

How long did it take? Did Paul respond in this fashion immediately or did some time pass? We see three pleadings. Maybe not long at all. What does one do while he waits upon God for such and understanding? 2 Thessalonians 1:1-6 gives some insight. During times of suffering we must exercise patience and faith.

Probably if we are faithful in our ministry to these two broken people, God will drive some more in our direction. God is always working in our area. Here is an opportunity to be a part of that work. Let us love these people and share our Savior with them. And let us teach them that as they wait upon God, and for the confidence He brings, they need to demonstrate faith and patience.

Please visit our church at www.wakefieldbible.org

A Shared Life with Jesus

2009-02-23T08:58:00.001-05:00

Back in the 1980's there was a fusion jazz group known as Koinonia. I had no idea why the picked this name and what it could even mean until a few years later someone pointed out that the word meant "fellowship." This past Sunday evening, Wakefield experienced fellowship, koinonia, not the music but the fellowship that occurs between believers in Christ. We took the night off from studying the Truth Project and focused on each other and our relationship with Jesus.

This fellowship was experienced in different ways at each home. The youth had a spaghetti dinner. One home ordered pizza. At our group we had a potluck. Of course, fellowship is more than food choice. It also involves sharing your life, one with the other. This does not need a meal. Fellowship can be had around other experiences, even that of Bible study. What is central to fellowship is not the activity, in our case eating, but the presence of Jesus.

A nice article on fellowship was written by Bob Gillam (The Importance of Fellowship in the New Testament Church). He makes several observations about fellowship, three of which, really stand out. 1) "...'fellowship' was never used to describe man’s relationship to God before the coming of the Holy Spirit to indwell the church." 2) "...'fellowship' is that it is a unique relationship with Christ. We have a relationship of being “in Christ.” 3) "...fellowship is not just doing anything together. It is only doing God’s will together."

I watched our people interact throughout the evening. All of those in attendance are saved people, except for one, the spouse of one of our members. This person, the spouse, seemed at ease and enjoyed himself as we ate and talked. However, I couldn't help but notice that when we came together for a time of worship He disappeared. Thinking about Gillam's observations, it is no wonder. Since the spouse lacks the indwelling of the Holy Spirit and has no relationship with Christ, fellowship, in the true sense, is impossible.

Next week we return to the study. I know that all enjoyed themselves this week as we shared our lives one with another. However, when we return to the "books" I hope that we will see and know that fellowship is found in our relationship with Jesus and in our time of doing His will. Also, I hope that it gives us a desire to share Him all the more so that others can experience the life that they are missing.

-Mark

Please visit our church at http://wakefieldbible.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40157

Purpose

2009-02-21T07:26:00.005-05:00

Our hope with this blog is to share our thoughts about great literature, movies, and other forms of media. Although the title of the blog is Stories of Redemption, not every story will lead to that end and not every character will be found redeemed.

We hope that you will share your thoughts about the featured works and share some stories we have not considered.

Below is a great video that is an example of such a story. Oh that all Christians were so gracious.

-Mark

Crazy Hats Point to Christ

2009-02-19T10:10:00.001-05:00

Most Wednesday mornings I go over to Taneytown Baptist Church and pray with some local pastors. One pastor is Larry Douthwaite. Larry shepherds Living Faith Evangelical church in Littlestown, PA. This week Larry has moved from a local celebrity to a national one, all because of his crazy hats.

I won't tell the story of how or why. Rather, you can read about it at the link given here. However, it does demonstrate how a little creativity can point someone to Jesus Christ. Look around your community and ask how you can get involved and share of your time and personality. As far as I know, Larry's hats were only goofy, never evangelical. However, they have had an impact, and in a strange way have pointed people toward his Savior. Maybe you, too, can creatively serve in your community and thus point to Christ.

-Mark

A Valentine From God

2009-02-16T09:38:00.001-05:00

Two great stories were told during the Sunday morning service. In one, Gordon and Ron told how they were used by God at the World Ag Expo, in Tulare, California. They were privileged to share the good news of Jesus Christ with over 3,000 people, leading to approximately 800 decisions. God has been using these men, and some others in our church, through the ministry of Christian Farmers Outreach. This outstanding ministry shares the love of God, using walking sticks and beads.

Later, Dan told how God directed his steps to share Christ with a neighbor. Dan, on two occasions this week, attempted to share Christ with his neighbor. However, God blocked his way. Then on Valentines day, Dan and his wife, Doris, visited their neighbor's wife in the hospital. There, they found their neighbor, his wife, and her sister. Eventually, the conversation turned spiritual. Dan, in time, asked each of them if they would like to put their trust in Jesus Christ. All three made individual decisions for Christ. What a Valentines Day!

God continues to use Wakefield to spread this story of love and salvation. There is no greater Valentine message that this - "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16) If, as you read this, realize that God loves you, that He gave His Son, Jesus, to die for your sins, then take the next few moments and put your trust in Jesus Christ. It is only through Jesus Christ that we can find forgiveness for our sins, and it is only through Jesus Christ that we can experience the full love of God.

-Mark

Please visit our church at http://wakefieldbible.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40157

Dancing with God

2009-02-09T08:58:00.001-05:00

In Matthew 6:24 we find these words, "No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon." One word jumps out to me, and that word is "hold." "Hold" in the text is antechomai, which means to keep one's self directly opposite to any one.

Jesus has been speaking of treasure. He has been teaching that your treasure is a direct indicator of where your heart is. Now you may be wondering where is your heart? What does your treasure indicate? Four questions given below may help you determine this.
1. What do you value the most?
2. What would you most hate to lose?
3. What do you thoughts turn to most frequently when you are free to think of what you will?
4. What brings you the most pleasure?
By answering these questions honestly, you can determine where your treasure is and what it says about your heart (inner man).

Now back to antechomai. In a sense, we hold our treasure just in front of ourselves. It is ultimately where we put our focus. This idea reminds me of ballroom dancing. You stand facing your partner, and as you move your focus is only on them. If, as you dance, you begin to focus on another, one other than your partner, then you will stumble, or get kicked in the shin! You cannot serve two masters any more than you can simultaneously dance with two partners.

Where then should our focus be? Our treasure and our heart should be focused strictly on the Lord and His kingdom. Next Sunday we will explore what it means to invest in eternity. Until then, look back at the four questions above. Ask God to show you where your treasure is and what that means in regard to your heart. It is my hope that God is front and center in your life. If not, its time to switch partners and begin to dance with God.

-Mark
Please visit our church at http://www.blogger.com/www.wakefieldbible.org

Living Life In Front of God

2009-02-01T21:22:00.001-05:00

There is a idea that we considered Sunday, and which was repeated tonight in The Truth Project, that the believer lives his life before God. "Of course" you say, "for God is omnipresent." Well we are quick to acknowledge this truth, but slow to live our lives as if we believe it.

How is it that we believe one thing but live another? Is it a purposeful choice or just forgetfulness? "Yes" would be the answer. We choose to rebel, and we live a life so consumed with self that God is often forgotten. Is there is a way to correct this, at least to keep God in the forefront of our minds?

We need to do the simple things: 1) We must make make worship a daily experience. 2) We must seek every opportunity to study God's Word. 3) We must use our spiritual gifts in service to God in the local church. 4) We need to take every opportunity to share Christ with our unsaved friends, family members, and associates.

If we do these simple things we will be reminded of who God is and keep Him in mind.

-Mark
Please visit our church at http://wakefieldbible.org/templates/System/default.asp?id=40157

Wow! What a Night!

2009-01-26T10:32:00.001-05:00

Our kick-off for The Truth Project was a wonderful success. We were overwhelmed with participants, and the discussion and fellowship after was outstanding! The total attendance for the four groups totaled to over seventy. I'll update this post in the days to come and give the actual count.

In addition to the regular church people we had two new couples participating. Wakefield is a tight group. Most have known each other for many years. Many that visit the church state that we are welcoming. However, because of our close knit fellowship, we often forget about how difficult it can be for a new person to blend into Wakefield. I believe that small groups will begin to overcome this issue. I expect that at the end of the 13 sessions we will see new connections made and our visitors will feel right at home in their new family.

-Mark

Please visit our church at http://www.blogger.com/www.wakefieldbible.org

Growing Smaller to Grow Deeper

2009-01-19T12:21:00.001-05:00

Starting this Sunday evening, Wakefield will embark in a new direction - small groups. Our first pass at small groups will be The Truth Project. The Truth Project is a biblical worldview study that has excited the leaders of Wakefield.

Months back, the elders, Ron, Quint, Dan, and I attended the Truth Project training. I was excited before the training about the possibility of this study and the possibility of small groups. The training was excellent and motivating. At the end of the day, Ron, Quint, and Dan were equally excited. We knew that this program would be a benefit to Wakefield.

There will be many adjustments to taking on a small group format. What to do with the kids?, should we take up and offering?, what about choir practice?... are some of the questions we have not fully resolved. However, I and the elders are convinced that the benefits of discipleship and fellowship will greatly outweigh the problems that will arise.

Pray for our adjustments, but more importantly, pray for transformation, the transformation that is possible when God's people come together to study His word.
-Mark
Please visit our church at http://www.blogger.com/www.wakefieldbible.org

Pondering Luis' Words

2009-01-12T11:11:00.002-05:00

I received a comment from Luis, a pastor in Peru. I would like to address two of Luis' statements. [You can see his full comment under the 1/9/2009 posting.]

Luis writes,

"During these last several weeks have been negative news to shake the United States. The material that caused the disaster Hurricane "Ike" in Texas, the collision of two trains occurred in Los Angeles where 10 people died, the financial crisis that is leading to bankruptcy for large companies like Leman Brothers and others, the crisis that still inmobibliaria endures, high inflation and mismanagement of course that President Bush has given the nation, all these things could be classed as "shock" the pride of the American people used to live in waste and wantonness. And if they join the thousands who died from the attack on the twin towers, or more than a thousand people died from Hurricane Katrina, or the moral degradation that is coming to American society. All this evidence lugubre the scenario that today the United States."

I do not doubt that God brings judgment upon people and nations. There is plenty of Scripture to validate this idea. However, as observers, we must be careful in labeling events around us as God's wrath. Weather wrecks havoc, people get hurt, some even die. Accidents, like train wrecks occur, and terrorists attack. However, that does not indicate judgment. Luke 13:1-5 and John 9:1-3 teach us to be careful in our evaluation of events. What may seem like God's judgment can be something all together different. In the end, the greater thing is for an event, such as Katrina or the Twin Towers,to glorify God. When we look at the inadequacy of mankind and the evil of the same, we should see the infinite glory of God and celebrate it.

Luis also wrote;
"The true Christian churches in this country should check the distance in a very clear and with more strength to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ to avoid being influenced by the prevailing darkness in this nation. A dark and that is affecting many countries."

I have to agree with Luis, that the church needs to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ. Whether the U.S. prospers or falls, the church has a mandate, to proclaim the gospel and to make disciples (See Luke 24:45-48 and Matthew 28:19-20). It is only the gospel that saves (Romans 1:16). And when the church loses its focus, not making the sharing of God's salvation through Jesus only, they end up fighting windmills, and accomplishing nothing of eternal value.

God bless you Luis. Keep focused on the good news of Jesus Christ. Go and make disciples and leave the wrath of God to God.

-Mark

Please visit our church at http://www.wakefieldbible.org/

The Best Christians are Dead Christians

2009-01-05T08:46:00.001-05:00

Yesterday was a wonderful day at Wakefield. In the morning we looked at Matthew 5:38-42 and examined the idea that it is impossible to live for self and for Christ at the same time. As believers, it is essential that we understand that self can only hinder the life Christ desires to live in us.

Jesus gives us a good outline in Matthew 5:38-42 on how to rid yourself of self. Verse 39-Drop the desire to retaliate; Verse 40-Don't demand your rights when you are wrong; Verse 41 - Go well beyond the required to show God's grace; and Verse 42 - Take on an attitude of stewardship not ownership.

We closed with the song Change My Heart O' God. It was a special day.
-Mark

Please visit our church at www.wakefieldbible.org

I Demand My Rights!

2008-12-30T11:52:00.001-05:00

What happens when God asks you to face yourself, to look at yourself and make an honest evaluation? In Matthew 5:38-42, He does just that. Our response? Often it is to explain it away; to come up with another understanding that makes God's Word palatable.

The above passage is very familiar with both Christians and non-Christians. Everyone can recite, "turn the other cheek." Often they understand these words to teach pacifism. However, they miss the point of Jesus' words. God gives permission to fight crime and wage war. (See Genesis 9:6 & Romans 13 as examples.) Also, self-defense is not rebuked.

What then does the passage teach? It teaches us to examine our personal rights, our responses to those that ask of us. In the United States, rights are everything, and with good reason. However, when a culture is created around personal rights, in time these rights trump all others, and any sense of humility and submission is lost. Humility and submission must be taught alongside of personal rights to keep a culture in balance.

Jesus taught these concepts and did so in a way that made the listener consider self and selfishness. He asks us to walk the second mile. A Roman soldier could rightly demand of anyone to carry his baggage for one mile. Jesus tells us to go two. Why? When we go the "extra mile" we are doing that which is not rightly demanded of us. We gain freedom from the moment by going beyond the required. The soldier then must ask us to not do so or accept our gift. The second mile becomes an act of grace. And it gives us, the one carrying the burden, freedom that we did not have during the first mile.
I'll expand this in the weeks to come.
-Mark

Calling All Scrooges

2008-12-23T16:34:00.001-05:00

This year I have been somewhat of a scrooge. I sat on the sofa and watched as Debbie decorated the tree. I did all my shopping online in about 45 minutes. So maybe it is true, possibly I am a Scrooge. What then can I do to recapture the magic of Christmas.

Last Friday, I did something that helped. I, along with Debbie and her brother Dan, went to New York City. We had a great time. We window shopped, went to FAO Schwartz, walked around Central Park, ate in Little Italy, and attended the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall. I can say now, because of Santa and the Rockettes, I have regained some of the Christmas magic.

What was it that Santa and the Rockettes did to re-ignite the magic? During their show, two dramatic numbers taught me three lessons:

1) Develop the right attitude toward gifting. Often I find that I am a competitve gifter. If someone gives me something, I feel inclined to gift them back with a gift of greater value. What I should do is find the right gift. Santa said in the spectacular, "The right gift will find you." This is liberating, because I do not need to worry about monetary value. In our relationship with God, we find that we cannot out give Him. Once we realize this, the fact that we are free from trying to impress God, then we can truly begin to understand His grace.

2) Quit filling Christmas with junk. Do we really need another coffee mug, candy we should not eat, or knick-knacks that take up space and attract dust? Focus on value, quality, not items meant for the dump or the re-gift drawer. Again in the show, Santa stressed the right gift. The boys located the perfect rag doll, with the help of the Rockettes, for their sister. In our relationship with God, He asks us to give of ourselves (Romans 12:1,2) Maybe this should be our practice in our Christmas giving.

3) Finally, get the focus of the holiday back on Jesus Christ. Recently, I attempted to buy a Christmas card with Jesus on the front. Out of 200 cards, I could only find one that had a spiritual theme. Just because our culture is shifting away from the Christ of Christmas, we do not have to do the same. The final, and most dramatic scene at Radio City Music Hall was the recreation of the Nativity. Through Scripture reading, song, sets, and acting, the good news of Jesus Christ was clearly presented. It changed the entire event and was a blessing to all.

So I think I will work on making Christmas simple, the giving of self, and with a focus on Jesus.
-Mark

Please visit our church at www.wakefieldbible.org

God's Peace

2008-12-15T10:39:00.001-05:00

In Luke 2:14 the angels sang "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests." It was this text that started our study and it was the subject of peace that we studied.

In the study we covered the basics on peace. Two of the three points were 1) The Gift of Peace in a Person - John 14:27, and 2) The Gift of Peace in a Response - Romans 5:1. Instead of me taking you through the message, I would like to encourage you to personally study those verses and consider the peace that God offers.

Later that evening, Ricky, one of our members approached me and stated, "It is God's perogative to offer peace." I agree with this statement. According to His sovereignty, God gives His peace. Always, God is the one reconciling man to himself. God seeks to make peace with us. That is His nature. We never seek God out to make peace with Him. That would be against our nature. I'll offer up two verses to make my point: Colossians 1:20 and 2 Corinthians 5:18-20.

There is much more that could be said. For instance, do you lack peace due to worry or to a known sin in your life? God does not want either in your life. The verses offered above address both. If you live a life of worry, God desires that you pray and receive His peace. Read Philippians 4:6-7. If you are living in sin, either without hope because you have not received God's reconciliation, or as a believer who has broken fellowship with God because of sin, you need to call upon your savior and cast yourself upon Him (faith). I might also add for the believer that has wandered away, develop a hatred for sin. As long as you hold on to the things of the world you will not have peace in your life.

We'll talk next week.
-Mark
Please visit our website at www.wakefieldbible.org

2,800 Opportunities

2008-12-08T12:16:00.001-05:00

This week I was pleasantly surprised to learn that our website, www.wakefieldbible.org has received 2,800 visits during the past year. I am smart enough to know that 2,800 is a small number for some websites, however for Wakefield and what we are attempting to accomplish, I find the number thrilling. For me, they are 2,800 opportunities to share Christ, His grace, and Wakefield Valley Bible Church.
Now that I am aware of the 2,800 I am looking with a critical eye at our website to make sure it is accomplishing its purpose, to share Christ and the church with all who visit. So check back in the weeks to come and give me some feedback.
-Mark

An Honest Evaluation

2008-12-01T09:31:00.001-05:00

Life is often upsetting. Things do not go as planned. However, if I am honest, if I evaluate my life honestly, then I must admit that I have lived a blessed life. I believe if you would honestly count your blessings you would find that your life is truly blessed, regardless of your circumstances.
Believers often make the mistake of evaluating their circumstances in the same way as unbelievers. We point to our bank account, our home, or automobiles, and say "God has blessed me." We also may lift up family, especially those that are walking with the Lord, as evidence that God has blessed. However, I would say that the Scripture looks at life differently. It does not deny the blessings given above, but puts it all in proper perspective.
Take a moment and read through chapter one of Ephesians. Focus on verses 3-14. What are those spiritual blessings spoken of in verse 3? Well, you were chosen, predestined, and adopted. God has lavished on you His grace, His forgiveness, and His wisdom. On and on it goes until the verses conclude with this thought, "Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession—to the praise of his glory." Wow, how we are truly blessed!
In many respects my life is not how I planned it. Much of it has fallen short of my goals and expectations. But the blessings of God found in Ephesians far exceeds anything I could have planned. I think I will sit down with Ephesians and count my blessings all over again and name them one by one.
-Mark

Seeing Grace - Acts 11:23

2008-11-24T15:44:00.001-05:00

Wakefield is going through an exciting time. We are seeing new families visit. We are seeing visitors stay and join the family. But more importantly we are seeing lives transformed by the Lord Jesus Christ!
What has led up to this time? How did it happen? There are a few things that could have caused this change. 1) It is possible that the body is now comfortable with me as their pastor. Like any church going through a change in leadership, we lost a few. However, maybe those that stayed are now becoming comfortable with me. 2) We are now doing some things right. One good improvement was the introduction of our Bodybuilding class. Bodybuilding 101 & 201 have accomplished their goals. These classes have discipled a small group of people. They have also knit these people together in a small group. We have used it to both teach and create fellowship within the body. 3) People are starting to put shoe leather to their faith. Over the past number of months we have seen several trust in Christ. This is due of course to the work of the Holy Spirit. However, if I am permitted, I would like to add to that the fact that God has been using the believers of Wakefield to accomplish His will. This year a Grow Team led Melvin to Christ. He invited Kevin, who last Tuesday evening prayed to receive Christ as savior. Al took Dan to visit two family members. They put their trust in Christ after Al and Dan shared with them. Samantha has been attending Wakefield on and off for the past year. Finally, Bruce and her boyfriend shared Christ with Sam. (Steve and Samantha are in the above picture) Now we have a new sister in Christ. I could go on, talking about Cindy and Jamie, Al and Dave, and Barbara, Eta, and Jean, but I think you get the picture. People are excited about the Lord and this excitement has led them to share with others.
Two things I want to share that I believe are on the horizon. 1) I believe that The Truth Project, which begins in January, will have an even greater impact on our people. It will be a tough transition for some, the adoption of small groups. But I feel that this curriculum and the small group concept will drive us into an even deeper understanding of our God and even deeper relationships with each other. 2) I believe that strife is on the way. We will be tested as a body in the near future. Recently, I was talking to a pastor friend of mine. He said, "Every time we get to a point in the church where I think things are going to take off, something happens. Because of that we never seem to grow." I do not have an answer for my friend. I do not know his dynamics. But I can take his words as a warning. Something will soon happen that will test us. "Let us be strong, Lord Jesus, and lean on you."
-Mark

What Trumps Grace?

2008-11-17T10:27:00.001-05:00

We closed our short series on Marriage and Divorce with this verse, "The law was added so that the trespass might increase. But where sin increased, grace increased all the more." (Romans 5:20) This amazing verse teaches this amazing fact, that whatever sin you bring to Christ, regardless of how base and perverse it may be, God's grace is greater.
I know that some of our divorcees struggled with this series. Although they learned of two valid reasons for divorce, many came to their divorce by other routes. However, what was stressed in this message was the power of grace. God's grace is always greater than our sin.
-Mark

A Good, Better, Best Weekend

2008-11-10T11:30:00.001-05:00

What a great weekend! - This past Saturday we had an outstanding turnout for our first Men's Steak Night. It was a great time! 40 men attended and we were ministered to by Dr. Ralph Rice of Good, Better, Best Ministries.

The most impressive part of the evening was the teamwork. Men from within the church and without participated in the setup, the cooking, and the cleanup. I won't mention any names, because I am apt to forget one and then cause offense, but I am in the process of writing each man personally to thank them. Also, we will visit some of our guests in the weeks to come to say thanks and follow up.

Dr. Rice also spoke to the church on Sunday, for both the morning and evening service. Both events were well received, but I think Sunday evening was the best. He, and his wife Maryana, took us through a message on elevator words, words that can be used to lift up or lower others. It was a special evening.

I would like to say that things will now slow down, however with the holidays approaching that is not the case. Please pray for the church as it approaches the Thanksgiving - New Year's stretch. Also pray for the elders as we further plan our first attempt a small groups. We will start sometime in January and participate in the Truth Project.

-Mark

Rediscovering Joy

2008-11-07T18:04:00.001-05:00

I have started to read Total Truth, by Nancy Pearcey. I am only in the 1st chapter and am enjoying it. However, I do know it will be a slow read, because I have so much else that I need to read. Looking ahead in the book I noticed title for chapter 2, Rediscovering Joy. I am unsure what Dr. Pearcey will write about in that chapter, but the title did resonate with me, for I sense that the church has lost its joy.
For me the two most important passages in Scripture regarding Joy are found in 1 John 1:3-4 and Hebrews 12:2. Look at the latter, "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God." What was the joy that Christ saw as He approached the cross? Whatever it was motivated Him to take the beatings, the nails, the torture, and the death. Whatever the joy was motivated Him to endure all that for our sakes. What then was this joy? I think it was that He saw those saved, who would live with Him forever, because of their trust in Him and His finished work, death and resurrection.
Then in 1 John 1:3, 4 we read, "That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. (4) And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full." Our joy is realized when we realize that through faith in Christ we have fellowship with God and with all believers. Many walk this world seeking intimacy and purpose. They search for it in many ways: work, education, relationships, and accomplishments. However, the believer comes to know that true intimacy and purpose is found in Jesus Christ. That understanding should bring joy to all of us.
I don't think that Dr. Pearcey will approach joy from this direction, but I do look forward to reading her views. In the meantime, I hope that these two facts: the realization that Christ endured the cross because of the joy He would experience at your salvation, and the fact that our joy can be found in our fellowship with God and other believers, will encourage you.
-Mark

God is a Divorcee

2008-11-03T10:58:00.001-05:00

This past Sunday we took our second look at Marriage and Divorce. Two weeks back (we were interrupted by the Missions Conference) we examined marriage. Yesterday we looked specifically at divorce. We examined Deuteronomy 24:1-4; Matthew 5:31-32, 19:1-10, Leviticus 20:10; 1 Corinthians 6:15-16; and Jeremiah 3:6-8.

In the end these conclusions were reached:

1. Marriage was designed to be a life-long relationship between a man and a woman.

2. Sin perverted marriage

3. The Bible protects marriage

4. Jesus confirms the original design of marriage and limited the reasons for divorce.

5. Divorce for any reason other than adultery is illegitimate

6. If someone divorces for a reason other than adultery it can lead to further adultery.

7. If someone marries a divorcee that participated in an illegitimate divorce, then they too are committing adultery.

8. Although God hates divorce, He loves the divorcee. Why? Because God himself is a divorcee.

In two weeks we will continue our study on divorce. We will examine 1 Corinthians 7. This will allow us to add to the idea of legitimate divorce. Adultery allows for a legitimate divorce. 1 Corinthians 7 teaches that abandonment on the part of an unbelieving spouse is also grounds for a legitimate divorce. We will also determine what to do if you are in an illegitimate second marriage.

The above notes are greatly abbreviated and may lead you to even more questions. Feel free to ask them and I will attempt to answer. Those that have known me for a number of years realize that the above teaching is a change in my position on divorce. Coming out of seminary I held to a No Divorce, No Remarriage position. However, now that I have had time to further study the topic and have had time to develop an understanding apart from the views of others, I have changed my position.

Pray for our Family Weekend that is coming. On Saturday we will have a Men's Steak cookout. Ralph Rice will challenge the men. Ralph will be with us Sunday as we focus on family. Thanks for your prayers.

-Mark

Missions Conference

2008-10-27T11:02:00.001-04:00

On Sunday we started our Missions Conference. Our conference runs Sunday - Wednesday. Monday-Wednesday we meet in the evening at 7:00 PM. This year we have been blessed with three missionary families. They are featured below. Please take the time to read the short bio. I will add some pictures to this post in a day or two.

Greg and Chris Miller (CrossWorld)
have served for over 30 years in Brazil. Their ministries varied from Third Culture Kid education and care to theological education to leadership development. Now they are part of the Source of Light Ministries International Ministries team developing and producing quality educational and discipleship material in 23 languages and in 90 different countries. They have a website: gregandchris.org.

Chris and Joy Konop (Missionary Aviation Fellowship)
Due to the Missions Conference
this week, there is no choir practice this evening.Chris, originally from Maryland, prepared to serve the Lord at Moody Bible Institute. While training in their aviation program in Spokane, WA, he met Joy who was a nursing student at Whitworth College. They married in 2006 and plan to serve the Lord in the Congo using their aviation and nursing skills.

Thom and Carolyn Cunningham (New Tribes Mission)
served in evangelism, discipleship and church planting for 23 years in Austria, England and Scotland. Later their ministry expanded to teaching in Papua New Guinea at NTM’s Interface Program. Thom specializes in partnering with local churches through teaching seminars – “Each One REACH One – Each One TEACH One” and “Opening the Scriptures”. Their burden and passion is to assist churches in mobilizing believers to make disciples at home and to the ends of the earth. The Cunninghams now serve as NTM representatives in New England.

Obama or Not Obama? - That is not the Question

2008-10-20T09:46:00.001-04:00

Over the past number of elections, evangelical believers have increasingly become engaged in the political arena. This increase has propelled the evangelical church to a place where the media tracks its voting habits and its positions on various ballet issues. Candidates of every stripe then court this vote, emphasizing positions, and even quietly changing positions to win the evangelical endorsement. I, too, am political. I enjoy watching conventions and debates, and I strive to understand a candidate's position on a number of issues. However, in the pulpit and in my Bible teaching I maintain an apolitical stance. It matters not to me whether a person is a Democrat, a Republican, or some other stripe. What matters to me is whether a person has placed their trust in Jesus Christ.
Just prior to Matthew 5:13-16, Jesus warns His disciples that if they live the life of the Kingdom a result will be persecution. Then, before they can catch their breath and head to the hills to hide, Jesus implores them to be salt and light. Believers are to stay engaged with society. We are to make movies, write books, teach in schools (yes, even public schools), lead scout troops, coach ball teams, and of course vote and hold political office. All of this is important. Society is affected not when believers hide, but when they become engaged. That said, whether we write a bestseller or become a senator will have limited impact on our culture. What does make the difference? What activity or office will make a change for the better, a change that will last generations? None of the above. The only lasting difference that can be made is made with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
When the local church loses its way, focusing its efforts on things other than the life-changing gospel, then society is affected for the negative. Ministries lose workers, various peoples of different persuasions are offended, and those that we should have shared Christ with go without a witness. By all means, go and vote. Pull the lever for your candidate. But after you do, put an even greater energy and focus on sharing Jesus with your neighbor. Only the good news of Jesus Christ can make an eternal difference in our society.
-Mark
For a good article on this matter read John MacArthur's post on Politics, Activism, and the Gospel.

I delight in your deliverance

2008-10-13T08:52:00.001-04:00

Well we have finished chapter one of The Song of Songs. I can tell a few things as I look out at the group: They are not a group who easily understands poetry. They are uncomfortable with all this sensual language. They would like a bit more spiritual application. This week I thought I would share some of the applications that we gleaned from the first chapter of the Song.

In 1:2-4 we found that the young woman desired the man physically. This kind of raw attraction is somewhat troubling to some of us because we are aware of Christ's words in Matthew 5:27-30. From those verses we assume that all desire toward physical romance is sin. I feel this would be a wrong assumption. God has placed in us a natural desire toward the opposite sex. Our lack of discipline in the matter leads us into sin, both in the mind and in our actions. Where God-created natural instinct turns into sin is more difficult for me to determine. Where is the line we cross? I will give it some thought and comment later in a future post. However, since the Song makes no moral statements, I too will avoid in so doing.

In addition to her physical attraction, she is attracted to his good character. This can be understood in verse 3 where she praises his name. Like many a smitten person, she probably repeated his name over and over. But it is more that just the sound of his name that moved upon her. In oriental thought, the name of a person speaks of his character. She then is attracted to his character, the person he is on the inside.

Another application we arrived at is found in verses 5-17. Initially we find that the young woman is confident in her physical form. In verse five she refers to herself as "comely" or "desirable." Desirability needs more than self - or to be desirable, you need to be appealing to others. She is confident that her lover will find her physically desirable. We, the reader should be drawn to her confidence. However, this confidence begins to waver as she compares herself to the women of the court. They are probably pale and soft. She is dark and hardened. She begins to lose her confidence when she says in the end of verse 6, "my own vineyard have I not kept." For the remainder of the chapter, as she dialogues with her lover, he focuses his words on her beauty, restoring her confidence. This is a great lesson - A lover should build the other person up. A lover should focus his efforts on lifting his beloved up. The young man in the song does just that.

Craving for spiritual application we took this last idea, of the lover who purposes to build the other up, and applied it to our Savior. When we find ourselves in the presence of our God, we quickly realize that we are not as appealing as first thought. We quickly see our spiritual "figure flaws." However, our Savior is not one to attack and degrade. He does not point at our faults in order to demean and diminish. Rather He lifts us up. As we find ourselves more in His presence we find words of praise similar to the prayer in 1 Samuel 2, where Hannah praises her Lord. Like Hannah we should find our delight and purpose in the fact that God delivers us and raises us up.

-Mark

Watch Yourself

2008-10-06T09:40:00.001-04:00

The last two Sunday mornings we have taken a slight turn to the south in order to examine the sinfulness of sin. I believe it has been a productive study, for we are often unaware of the depth of our sin and the height of God's Grace. As we examined the Scripture yesterday, I asked the church to keep focused on God, His Grace, and His Love. In the end I feel we did so.
If there is one thing I thought I would share from the message in this post, it is the idea of how man was originally tempted and how today we are tempted in the same way. I must confess that this teaching comes from a former professor, Dr. Fowler. A few months back, he went to be with Christ. His enthusiasm is missed on this side of heaven.

Mankind was tempted in three areas:
1. Self-Preservation. When Eve (and Adam) looked at the fruit, she first saw that it was good for food(Genesis 3:6). Man has built into him a desire to survive. Like all desires, this can take a person beyond the norm and into sin. Although Adam and Eve had all of the garden in which to eat, they now felt that this plant was necessary for survival. Satan is a creature of habit, or one that returns to what has worked in the past. For that reason we see over in Luke 4:2-4, Satan attempting to tempt Christ in the same manner. Satan appeals to the hunger that Christ must have been suffering and the desire for survival, self-preservation. Jesus did not bite but stated that man's survival is due to every word of God, not just food. Today, we too are tempted in the same manner. You can see this taught in 1 John 2:16 where we see that the world tempts us with the lust of the flesh.
2. Self-Gratification. Returning to Genesis 3:6, Adam and Eve are next tempted with self-gratification. This is broader than self-preservation, for it speaks to the idea of satisfying your own desires, whatever they may be. Satan returned to this approach with Jesus in Luke 4:5-8 when he showed Jesus all the kingdoms of the world. In so many words, Satan was saying, "worship me and I will give you the desires of your heart." Again Christ rebukes him by using Scripture. Jesus reminds Satan that only God is worthy of worship and it is Him we should serve. Look at 1 John 2:16 and you will see the world tempting you in the same way by offering you "the lust of the eyes."
3. Self-Exaltation. Finally Adam and Eve bought into the idea that the tree would make them wise. In Genesis 3:5 Satan told Eve that the fruit of the tree would make her "like God." She fell for it. Satan in Luke 4:9-12 makes the same pass at Jesus. He wants Christ to demonstrate His deity. Again Jesus refuses and responds to Satan's temptation with Scripture. Look over at 1 John 2:16 and you will see the world following the same pattern of temptation where it says, "the pride of life."
So the world tempts us just like Adam and Eve were tempted and just like the temptation of Jesus. Now that we are aware of such, we need to daily evaluate what is placed before us. Is it appealing to my desires of self-preservation, self-gratification, and self-exaltation? If so, there is only one response, obey the Word of God. When Jesus was tempted in the same three areas he rebuked Satan (the temptation) with Scripture and obedience. Let us do the same.
-Mark

I am my beloveds, and my beloved is mine...

2008-10-03T11:15:00.001-04:00

I have enjoyed preparing for our evening series on the Song of Songs. I must admit that although I have read through the book, I never engaged my mind in the text and attempted to understand what this love poem is about. I thought in this post that I would tell you about three sources that I am using for preparation.

First, I am reading Tommy Nelson's The Book of Romance. This book does not attempt to be a line-by-line verse-by-verse analysis of the poem, however, it does develop good applications for the reader. I use Pastor Nelson's applications to help the members of the congregation move the text into their daily lives. I would recommend this book for high school or better yet adult singles. There are great insights into dating, courtship and early marriage.

The second text that I use is Solomon's Song of Love by Dr. Craig Glickman. It is like that of Nelson's, in that it works in the land of application. However, I would say its purpose is different. Whereas Nelson has great application for the adult single, Glickman appears to target the married couple that has lost the spark of romance. Married adults could use this book for devotions or joint study. (Hmmm, Maybe I should suggest such to Debbie?)

Finally I am using Song of Songs by Richard Hess. This is a part of the Baker Commentary on the Old Testament. This book dives into the language and meaning of the Song. I have truly benefited from Dr. Hess' work. It keeps the study honest.

In the weeks to come, I will give you some of my thoughts concerning the Song. However, as I close I will offer this teaser. I do not think Solomon wrote the Song. I think that it was written by a woman.

-Mark

The Power Over "I Will..."

2008-09-29T10:59:00.001-04:00

D. Martin Lloyd-Jones, in his book Studies in the Sermon on the Mount, used Matthew 5:27-30 to address the "exceeding sinfulness of sin." We too at Wakefield Valley Bible Church, have taken this opportunity to study the depth of sin. Yesterday we dived into a study on the depth of sin. This study began with the angelic origin of sin, namely the fall of Lucifer.
In that study I asked the body if they saw themselves in the person and sin of Lucifer? Many commented that they did, especially in the area of pride. A telling moment came when we looked at John 8:44. In John 8:44 Christ is talking to the Jews and the conversation has grown heated. They continue to claim, that first Abraham is their father, and then God is their father. Christ says "no" to both claims, and in verse 44 He points out who is their real father. He tells them that Satan is their father and because of this, they do what comes natural, what their father does.
This is a disturbing commentary on the state of unsaved man. Unsaved man, like his father the devil, makes the same claims found in Isaiah 14:12-14. Unsaved man moment by moment says, "I will ..."
Take some time this week and read through the "I will" statements of Lucifer. Lucifer longed to take over the highest heavenly position. He desired to rule over the angelic kingdom and over all the earth. Lucifer wanted all the glory of heaven. And finally he wanted to be like God, a lie he later told Eve in Genesis 3:5.
For unsaved man the "I will" statements are part of daily life. However, what about the believer? Next Sunday we will study the advent of sin in the human race and further understand the exceeding sinfulness of sin.
-Mark

What True Worship Isn't

2008-09-22T06:34:00.001-04:00

In Matthew 5:20 Jesus says, "For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven." We can easily understand that as believers, God has given us His righteousness (Romans 3:22) but those listening at the moment might have found this statement troubling. However Jesus quickly follows up with six illustrations to help all understand.
The first illustration is found in Matthew 5:21-26. Jesus teaches that the one that is angry is guilty of the same sin as murder and deserves the same punishment. However, what really speaks to me is the point Jesus makes in verses 23-26.
In verses 23-26 Jesus teaches that true worship cannot include disunity. When one remembers that his brother has something against him, he is to cease in his worship and find his brother and make all things right. Jesus does not point out who is at fault. It makes no difference if it is the brother or the one attempting to worship. However, Jesus does put the responsibility on the one who remembers to repair the relationship. Later using the idea of a debtor's prison, Jesus teaches that the healing of the relationship should take place immediately, before God begins to judge the situation.
All this teaches me that true worship is about unity in the body. At Wakefield we have an organ. For years it has been broken and cannot be used in worship. I, and many others, miss the organ. However, the presence of an organ will not truly enhance our worship. What will? Unity in the body. According to many, over the last 18 months Wakefield has come a long way in this area. However, I feel that this is something that we can always be working on (as well as every other church).
This week examine yourself. Ask God to show you if you harbor any anger in your heart. If God exposes such, then seek out the players in the situation and make things right. Then you can begin to experience true worship.

-Mark

Taking a Detour

2008-09-15T16:15:00.001-04:00

Once we arrived at John 6, I thought it best to study what occurred between chapters 5 and 6. John allows the synoptics to cover this peried. Therefore, we are now studying The Sermon on the Mount. This study will allow us to see and understand what Jesus was teaching during this time and to understand the full rejection addressed in John 6.
Once we finish Matthew chapter 7, we will briefly return to John, only to return to Matthew to examine Christ's parables. What is important for us, is to keep Christ in the center of our teaching, to focus our Sunday AM services around Jesus Christ.
Last week we started FAITH Evangelism training. Our first two students are Ricky and Zane. We had a great first lesson and also a great first visit. Next semester we hope to grow to 9 total team members. This will be harder to accomplish, but I am certain that God is already selecting those that He wishes to attend.

-Mark

Laying A Course to the Future

2008-04-18T15:15:00.001-04:00

Wakefield is in the midst of change. Our Missions Committee is hard at work developing our first ever missions policy. It is hard to imagine that Wakefield, with over 80 missionaries supported, has never had a policy. Soon though we will have one. I say soon, but I doubt it will be sooner than January 2009. However, after over a 100 years without, 2009 will seem soon.

Next month Oren and Gordon will go with me to Heritage Baptist Church in Lynchburg VA for training. I am certain that this training will be of value.

Please pray for the missions committee as they continue in this valuable task.

Also, the elders of Wakefield recently met to begin plotting a course for the future of our church. All agree that although many attend faithfully, Wakefield must increase its efforts in making disciples. The men all felt that we must be intentional in moving people toward greater levels of maturity and service. We just scratched the surface, but will meet again in May to move further ahead in our planning.

Please pray for God's guidance in this area. We long to see people grow in a greater love for and understanding of Jesus.

-Mark

A bowl of chili and the Tornado

2008-04-18T12:35:00.001-04:00

Over the last few months we have seen God move at Wakefield in some wonderful and even unusual ways.

On March 8th, we were setting up for our first annual Chili Cookoff when a storm struck the area. Although not officially a tornado the damage was impressive; trees were ripped up by the roots and buildings knocked down. Over at Carl & Debbie farm the damage was beyond the norm.

About an hour into the cookoff word came of the devastation at the farm. Many of our men left the cookoff to help. The women pulled together all of the leftover chili, cornbread, and desserts. This food was taken a central location where those helping could be fed. In the end, the men of Wakefield could not be of much help because the farming community had already responded. However, the food items were greatly appreciated. Since then the family have been faithfully attending Wakefield. We are very excited to have Carl and Debbie. We are also excited to know that because of chili and a storm this couple is sitting under the ministry of God's Word and worshipping Him at Wakefield.

Just prior to this event a GROW team visited and led Melvin Meadows to Christ. The team visited Melvin one evening and after chit-chat shared the good news of Jesus Christ with him. Melvin, familiar with the Gospel, chose to receive Christ as his savior. It was a special time. Melvin served as one of our chili judges just a couple of weeks later. He too has been faithfully attending Wakefield ever since.

Last Sunday, Dave, a visitor since Easter, received Christ as savior. For over a week we could see that God was moving upon Dave. He often remarked of such. But this past Sunday he made certain of his salvation and received Christ!

Please join us in prayer for the Carl & Debbie, Melvin, and Dave as they continue to grow in Christ. Also pray for us that we adequately disciple these four.

-Mark

Blending of Conferences

2008-02-09T18:37:00.001-05:00

Life has been hectic these past two weeks. In a ten-day period I attended three different men's conferences. The first was with Stauros Ministries, the second was the Men's Prayer Advance with Christ Life Ministries. The third was the Fellowship of Bible Churches Men's Retreat.

I must admit that by the time of the third conference I was in no mood to attend. However, all three, even the FBC conference, were a blessing. The Stauros retreat predominantly involved men who have struggled with either alchohol or drug addictions. The Prayer Advance was just that, a time of intensive prayer. The FBC retreat functioned more as a Prophecy Conference with speakers from Friends of Israel.

In the end I feel that I benefited from attending the combination of all three. The time hearing testimonies and getting to know the men of Stauros was great. Prayer and fellowship with the combination of Wakefield men made the Advance something special. And the exceptional Bible teaching of Dr. Renald Showers and Steve Herzig was a blessing (FBC conference).

Well now I'm home, trying to get my diet back into step with home food.

-Mark

Grace Upon Grace

2008-01-29T14:48:00.001-05:00

I'm sorry for not posting these many months. Life has been busy. However, I should be able keep up with my future postings.

While reading John 1, I was struck by one certain verse, verse 16. It reads, "And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace."

The believer then wakes up everyday to receive another wave of God's grace. The grace a believer received is replaced with even more grace. Robertson pointed out that the Greek is like that of Luke 11:11 where a serpent is given for fish and in Hebrews 12:2 where joy replaces the cross. The image that comes to my mind is that of someone standing on the beach, knee deep in the tide, with wave after wave striking his legs. God's grace is endless and the believer never lacks with what God provides.

The first part of the verse speaks of "His fullness." I looked at Ephesians 4:13. There we find that the gifted people given to the church are being used by God to lead the body to a fullness of Christ. We are becoming more like Christ each and every day!

It seems though that John 1:16 is much different from Ephesians 4:13. In Ephesians the promise is for the believer. In John, I feel that the fullness of Christ is the Incarnate God, who walked among men. The only begotten, He in His fullness, came to man; and those that believe receive His grace forever more each and every day.

-Mark

Looking upon God's Face

2007-12-11T16:40:00.001-05:00

For several months I have been preparing for the 2008 AM message series. The goal of this series can be found in Psalm 27:8, "When thou saidst, Seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee, Thy face, LORD, will I seek." For much of the prep time I have had in my mind the pattern of preaching/studying The Parables, The Sermon on the Mount, and The Gospel of John. However, now I sense that God would want me to change that order, to begin with John.

The Parables are found in the synoptic Gospels, Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Their focus is predominantly on the Kingdom of God. John on the other hand has no parables, unless you consider the shepherd & vine passages as parables. Also the focus of John is not so much on kingdom but on new life. As I have prayed and talked to some others, I now believe that we should begin with John to have a greater chance of realizing Psalm 27:8

Please join us starting January 6th as we begin to walk with Christ through John's eyes.

-Mark

Preparing Workers for the Next Harvest

2007-11-09T12:09:00.001-05:00

We recently completed our missions conference. Dave Wall, of New Tribes Mission, Linda Reynolds, of Biblical Ministries Worldwide, and Dan & Barbara Keys, of Interact were our visiting missionaries. God truly blessed us with their presence. Because of this, and my recent visit to ABWE, my mind has been centered on missions.

Wakefield has a wonderful history with missions. I believe that this is due in part to Pastor Horner's vision and love for missions. Additionally, the people of Wakefield truly love and support their missionaries, committing almost 100,000 dollars per year to missions. This coming from a church of approximately 100 on Sunday mornings.

What then could be added to such a church? I feel that to build on a such a strong foundation, Wakefield must work harder at becoming a sending church. There are some from within our congregation that are on the field. However of late, we have not focused on training the next generation of missionaries. Where are these trainees? I believe they are now approaching retirement, making themselves ready for a new career, and are in middle school and high school.

To then motivate this upcoming class of missionaries, it is essential that we do the following: 1) Constantly put missions, both local and the "uttermost" in front of the congregation. This must include our children, for according to many missionaries, they sensed God's call on their lives when only kids. 2) Provide opportunities for local evangelism. This should include purposeful outreach events and frequent training. 3) Seek to plant churches in the local area and surrounding counties. It is my understanding that many missionary candidates have never led a person to Christ and have never been involved in a church planting program. Therefore, it is essential that our people experience such.

These are three simple steps that I will expound upon in time. I pray that God will continue to use Wakefield in His missionary program. I am certain that the current congregation will lovingly and enthusiastically support missions. However, we need to begin now to train the next congregation.

-Mark