tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316624042011-12-20T14:08:06.226+11:00"If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me."Johnnoreply@blogger.comBlogger1291100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-67966639733557698472011-12-20T14:08:00.000+11:002011-12-20T14:08:06.250+11:00

I want to thank my special friends from Mount View California for your interest in my postings over the years! As you would be aware, the past few years have not been without their various and ongoing trials! It has given me heart, to know that someone I have never even met, has been following my life's journey across many different mediums on the web. I would like to invite you to contact me

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-55789480513276740472009-07-20T16:10:00.003+10:002009-07-20T16:17:02.133+10:00

The following plea from David Wilkinson (the founder of Teen Challenge - 1958) really convicted me towards concerted action birthed out of passionate, determined prayer. The video speaks for itself ... I know what I heard and the ramifications for me ... but I wonder what this (God) message might say to you!?

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-29315986051408865492009-07-17T17:39:00.000+10:002009-07-17T17:39:00.081+10:00

Tithing is an interesting subject, and often one of controversy. While tithing is certainly a biblical concept, some churches teach that it is commanded of Christians, and some teach that it isn't. What does the Bible teach regarding tithing under the New Covenant?In order to understand how tithing fits (or doesn't fit) into the life of a Christian, we must first examine tithing as it was

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-80978406579884037412009-07-16T23:59:00.000+10:002009-07-16T13:21:38.267+10:00

A timeless reminder of the 'centrality of the cross' - from one of last centuries great advocates for Christ. A damning indictment on a Cross-less Christianity today ... God help us!Excerpted from the above book - A. W. Tozer.'The cross of Christ is the most revolutionary thing ever to appear among men'.The cross of the Roman times knew no compromise; it never made concessions. It won all its

Johnnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-92196239592451824212009-07-16T23:00:00.001+10:002009-07-16T14:49:39.425+10:00

Today I begin a series on the topic of Tithing where I ask the question: "IS Tithing for today?" Old Testament Giving While many people think the Old Testament required believers to give ten percent of their income to the Lord's work, this is not true. Old Testament saints were required to give far more!Israelites were expected to give the Lord’s Tithe (Leviticus 27:30), the Festival Tithe (

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-79675650620453238372009-07-16T17:03:00.000+10:002009-07-16T13:17:44.970+10:00

I find it constantly amazing (and a little amusing) on this ‘post-institutional church’ journey, that so much of what I thought I knew by way of interpreting scripture has been wrong! (Ouch!) Often, my understanding of a particular passage has proven to be the exact opposite of that which culture or tradition has led me to believe!Perhaps not so surprising I suppose; when you consider that we are

Johnnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-31582273773522678392009-07-16T15:53:00.000+10:002009-07-16T13:18:44.023+10:00

I find it constantly amazing (and a little amusing) on this ‘post-institutional church’ journey, that so much of what I thought I knew by way of interpreting scripture has been wrong! (Ouch!) Often, my understanding of a particular passage has proven to be the exact opposite of that which culture or tradition has led me to believe!Perhaps not so surprising I suppose; when you consider that we are

Johnnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-61944283552282985102008-03-02T12:30:00.005+11:002008-03-02T12:59:59.685+11:00

Before concluding this investigation into the worship practices observed in both the Old and New Testament, it would be instructive to consider more closely the practices of the early church.Although temple worship had reached its conclusion, several ordinary elements of worship continue in the NT. These are practices of piety which always were found beyond the precincts of the temple in private

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-13919942390251274472008-02-25T21:07:00.006+11:002008-02-25T21:23:17.909+11:00

Let's begin to 'draw the strings together'...Christ describes the essence of true worship during his conversation with the woman at the well (John 4:17). After the Saviour declares the woman's immorality, she perceives that he is a prophet. Therefore, she propounds to him the prominent religious controversy which existed between the Jews and the Samaritans.Specifically, the dispute was over where

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-25326885845928725092008-02-14T06:46:00.010+11:002008-02-16T09:55:40.405+11:00

Some more 'food for thought' - before we start to pull the strings together.Worship: Emphasis of the Old TestamentIt is instructive to observe the activities which were part of Old Testament worship. In the Psalms: "I will worship towards thy holy hill," (Psalm 5:7); "let us bow down and worship Him," (Psalm 95:6); "worship at His holy hill," (Psalm 99:9); "I will worship towards thy holy temple,

Johnnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-31068751024792801902008-02-13T20:17:00.002+11:002008-02-13T20:25:20.913+11:00

The next 'offering' in our investigation of Christian worship, also comes from the pen of Stan Firth. An extract from his wonderful booklet 'Custom or Command' follows:In spite of what has already been argued, I'm sure that many of you, who are reading this, still have an uncomfortable niggle at the back of your minds with regard to these "unstructured" people and the Worship side of the

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-79122079873797637952008-02-12T17:32:00.001+11:002008-02-12T20:36:02.094+11:00

Before we begin to draw any conclusions in regard to 'worship practises' in the church today, I would like to offer the following as food for thought. This post is the first in a four part series originally discussed here about a year ago. Since that time, I have gained some new insights into the topic of 'Christian worship practises' and wish to both share and invite others to do so; your

Johnnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-66273756263839072102008-02-11T20:22:00.001+11:002008-02-11T21:40:00.069+11:00

At this juncture, I would like to re-visit an older post in regard to 'worship practises' in the church today. Many of our regular readers have (I hope) been persuaded, that our times of gathering together, would ideally reflect certain New Testament characteristics - such characteristics would include:(1) Christ as the central focus and reason for gathering - not worship as is predominantly the

Johnnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-500690266747927732008-02-05T16:42:00.000+11:002008-02-10T10:35:06.435+11:00

Lately, I have been giving much thought and prayer to the theme of Worship. In my research, I came across the following article which I felt would serve to kick start our investigation into Christian Worship.Have you attended any modern evangelical worship services lately? (Question: Is "Evangelical Worship" an oxymoron?) No? Well, let's walk through one, shall we?"Good Morning!" bellows the

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-25378948720746280482008-02-04T18:22:00.000+11:002008-02-04T18:38:19.761+11:00

For those of you, who like me; appreciate the work of one of Australia's best ever Christian singer/songwriters; I have embedded an 'audio player' at the foot of the page. There are a number of Geoff''s most beloved works (mostly rewritten) as well as some new compostions; contained on the extensive song list.Also a radio interview which Geoff gave a while back, is included for those who want to

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-29587331234333973812008-01-21T16:58:00.001+11:002009-02-23T11:32:40.527+11:00

The Gifts of Christ and Unity - A SummaryWe have seen, that the passage under review, focuses not so much on the existence of the 'ascension gifts' as such; but rather on the contribution that those who are 'gifted' by Christ [inclusive of 'the saints', not just the 'ascension gifts'] make toward strengthening the ties between all believers in the community towards 'true' Christian unity thus

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-44090766035503154712007-12-21T10:52:00.000+11:002007-12-28T13:21:02.715+11:00

In this post we will begin to examine the 'gifts' of Ephesians 4:11 in greater detail. Verse 1111 And truly He gave some to be apostles, and some to be prophets, and some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers,'He gave ... ' Note: 'He', is emphatic. It is 'He' that gave. Compare Ephesians 4:7. Note also, the word 'some'. 'Some' (churches or places), need one gift, i.e. an

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-61045168766063894052007-12-04T21:16:00.000+11:002007-12-09T16:06:30.212+11:00

In our last post, we undertook a further examination of Ephesians 4:1-16. On that occasion we continued to explore the concept of 'unity'; [the primary theme or 'focus' of the passage] in more detail.In this post, I want to consider the term: 'Ascension Gifts' and its [many] implications. For example:(1) If the term implies that the gifts which Christ bestowed upon the Church only occured at the

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-42520367291954880652007-11-28T16:50:00.000+11:002007-12-09T09:36:22.861+11:00

Ascension GiftsIn our last post, we undertook a preliminary examination of Ephesians 4:1-16. In this post, I intend to continue to explore the concept of 'unity', in order to understand the full intent of the passage under review. Most contemporary bible scholars would agree that the main emphasis of verses 1-6 is that of Unity. However, when considering verses 7-16, most then seem to focus

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-5193199379314619042007-11-21T17:26:00.000+11:002007-11-30T15:01:24.307+11:00

Before considering the 'ascension gifts' of verse 11, we will begin by examining the context in which they are found; i.e. verses 1-16. I suspect, that in doing so we will be want to 'de-emphasise' the 'ascension gifts', as we come to understand the main thrust of this passage. Ephesians 4:1-161 I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beseech you that you walk worthy of the calling with which you

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-61696316447982604672007-05-06T10:45:00.000+10:002007-11-10T10:11:18.774+11:00

Over recent weeks we have looked at the reasons why we gather as the Lord’s Ekklesia, and contrasted those with the activity of the first Church as seen in the pages of the New Testament.There were indeed some surprises; firstly the term ‘Worship Services’ as used in today’s vernacular; we discovered was misleading. The early Church did not gather together to worship; rather they gathered

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-51396381587141886472007-05-02T19:51:00.000+10:002007-05-03T21:49:22.587+10:00

Are there ever justified exceptions to following New Testament patterns? Yes. In qualifying these exceptions, London pastor Beresford Job comments:“We must make sure that we don't let biblically permitted deviations from the norm, done because of extenuating circumstances, actually become the norm. Let me illustrate this from baptism. Biblical baptism, like apostolic tradition for the way a

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-81667030486404888742007-04-29T18:39:00.000+10:002007-05-03T21:49:10.529+10:00

In our last post, we began considering the term: 'apostolic practice or custom' by asking the following question: “Apostolic tradition, also called apostolic custom, apostolic patterns, New Testament patterns, or New Testament practice, means imitating the practices of the apostles. When scripture does not specifically command us to imitate a certain practice of the apostles, should we still

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-50278733673788041382007-04-28T13:02:00.000+10:002007-05-03T21:48:56.208+10:00

Chip Brogden has penned a very timely article over at The School of Christ. In his article, Chip explores the theme: 'Called to Ministry'. He looks at various ways that such a call might impact a person.Of particular interest, to me personally, is the 'reluctance' most often shown by those who are genuinely called; as distinct from the 'keen-ness' shown by many who are NOT called (at least not by

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-82679638990396243052007-04-28T10:28:00.000+10:002007-04-29T19:10:27.149+10:00

In our last two posts, we have been considering the nature and purpose of the Church’s gathering together; I also (briefly) introduced the term: 'apostolic practice or custom'. In returning now to examine this term, I would like to begin by tackling the following question: “Apostolic tradition, also called apostolic custom, apostolic patterns, New Testament patterns, or New Testament practice,

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-84411654185333191582007-04-27T19:30:00.000+10:002007-04-27T20:08:59.087+10:00

In our previous post: "Worship at All Times, But Meet Primarily to Edify"; we began to look at the strong emphasis that the biblical record places upon 'edification' as a primary purpose for which the Church is to gather. "But", one might conceivably ask: "how do we accomplish this"?While attempting to answer this question, I feel constrained to first of all offer a more detailed analysis of the

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-1883623151862301722007-04-25T10:56:00.000+10:002008-02-05T13:44:05.679+11:00

At this juncture, I would hope that many of our regular readers have been persuaded, that our times of gathering together, would ideally reflect certain New Testament characteristics - which some refer to 'apostolic practice or custom' [something we will look at in more detail soon] such characteristics would include:(1) Christ as the central focus and reason for gathering - not worship as is

Johnnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-82168836007393897872007-04-24T18:09:00.000+10:002007-04-24T18:40:42.164+10:00

Having discussed the Early Church and its 'worship' and 'gathering' practises, we then began to look at other certain 'practices' of the early Church including the two predominant teaching methods. The following excerpt from "Custom and Command" deals with the question: 'What happens AFTER the Teaching'?In everyday life, people expect that your education will be followed by a job. In one sense,

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-13907280430858287692007-04-23T21:30:00.001+10:002007-04-23T21:48:04.323+10:00

Over at 'New Testament Restoration Foundation', Steve Atkerson has recorded a two part message on: 'how to lead an inter-active Bible study' (the method Jesus used with small groups).Given our recent study on the topic of teaching, "Other Church Activities from the Bible's Viewpoint" it would be quite useful for our readers to listen to Steve's teaching as part of our collective search for the

Johnnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-31284035541592876512007-04-22T12:36:00.000+10:002007-04-22T12:47:32.788+10:00

We have recently been discussing the Early Church and its 'worship' and 'gathering' practises. The following is a further excerpt from Stan Firth's excellent book entitled "Custom and Command." In this excerpt Stan firstly recaps on ‘worship’ practices and then introduces, a similar line of reasoning and research, regarding other ‘practices’ or ‘customs’ of the early Church ... please read on.I

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-8688929028692274642007-04-20T20:55:00.000+10:002007-04-20T21:14:47.181+10:00

Recapping on the last several posts excerpted from ‘Custom and Command’ we can begin to draw some (tentative) conclusions.Firstly, we note that the practice of attending meetings on a regular basis at the local Synagogue (in both the OT and the NT) was NOT something that was instituted by God – but was rather a ‘tradition instituted and maintained, by man’.We also noted, that even though the

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-41095474164917811572007-04-18T17:21:00.000+10:002007-04-18T17:41:46.866+10:00

We have recently been discussing the Early Church and its 'worship' and 'gathering' practises. The following is a further excerpt from Stan Firth's excellent book entitled "Custom and Command." In this excerpt Stan introduces the concept which he refers to as 'Custom' or 'Command' ... please read on.At this juncture I want to introduce a way of putting things which I find helpful. I call it "

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-92211356490071120832007-04-14T22:05:00.000+10:002008-02-05T20:11:48.875+11:00

What follows is an excerpt from the book: 'The Dwelling Place of God' written by A.W. Tozer. It is a timely reminder, that those used most of God, are often the least understood, and invariably the most lonely of His followers.MOST OF THE WORLD'S GREAT SOULS have been lonely. Loneliness seems to be one price the saint must pay for his saintliness.In the morning of the world (or should we say, in

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-32744609635399898402007-04-12T20:16:00.000+10:002007-04-12T20:45:33.359+10:00

The following is a further excerpt from Stan Firth's excellent book entitled "Custom and Command." This excerpt follows on from our previous discussions about the the Early Church and its 'worship' and 'gathering' practises. You can obtain a free download of this book as a 'pdf' file here: CrossWay - free downloads.In spite of what has already been argued, I'm sure that many of you, who are

Johnnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-44230288969712689212007-04-11T17:26:00.000+10:002007-04-11T19:36:52.037+10:00

The following is another excerpt from Stan Firth's excellent book entitled "Custom and Command." This excerpt follows on from our previous discussions about the the Early Church and its 'worship' and 'gathering' practises. We would do well to consider the points Stan raises both carefully and prayerfully. I look forward to our readers comments. Incidently, you can obtain a free download of this

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-13104806796388964832007-04-10T21:41:00.000+10:002007-04-10T21:43:16.684+10:00

“Oh what a wretched man am I; who will free me from this body of death”?Oh … how that scripture resonates within me at the present moment!! I feel like shouting out loud: “YES, Paul …YES; I ‘know’ where you’re coming from! But that wouldn’t help … or would it?Now in my case, this ‘body of death’ experience seems to coincide with prolonged seasons of intense personal struggles often while waiting

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-62134491577235745492007-04-09T11:27:00.001+10:002009-02-10T10:46:43.463+11:00

The following is an excerpt from Stan Firth's excellent book entitled "Custom and Command." We would do well to consider the points Stan raises both carefully and prayerfully. I look forward to our readers comments. Incidently, you can obtain a free download of this book as a 'pdf' file here: CrossWay - free downloads.When I began to study the Word of God in earnest about this particular matter,

Johnnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-5717892438066072992007-04-08T21:31:00.000+10:002008-02-05T13:46:03.083+11:00

My good friend Jack Gray from New Zealand, wrote the following penetrating article some time ago. I humbly suggest that all who call on the name of the Lord, need to weigh these words carefully and prayerfully."There will not be left here one stone standing upon another." Mark 13:1-2.Recorded in all three of the synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark & Luke), this is a prophecy of the destruction of

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-63366764714210697862007-04-05T20:42:00.000+10:002007-04-05T21:22:48.278+10:00

Who Controls Finances?Mary and I are convinced believers in the words of the godly missionary statesman, Hudson Taylor: "God's work done in God's way never lacks God's supply." We can testify from years of experience to the truth of his statement.We have proved that God is absolutely trustworthy. We have been able to trust Him for the provision for any lack that we may have. This includes

Johnnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-33110621839040383932007-04-05T09:58:00.001+10:002009-02-23T11:12:42.854+11:00

A funny thing happened, (to me) while on my 5km walk today. I almost went to Church! It happened like this:As I was walking past a row of shops; not far from my intended destination; I was suddenly aware that the sun was no longer adding directly to the increase in my core body temperature. Rather, I was now sheltered by the awnings over-hanging the nearby local shops.I only became consciously

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-79097392937799119232007-04-03T22:08:00.000+10:002007-11-25T20:03:07.925+11:00

John Drane is Head of Practical Theology in the Department of Divinity at the University of Aberdeen. He is the author of What is the New Age Still Saying to the Church? and Biblical Faith and Cultural Change.A quote from the above book sets the tone for our post:"A theology which comes pre-packaged, and in which there are no loose ends, is not true to life nor can it adequately reflect the

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-69025905395384056282007-04-03T21:02:00.000+10:002007-04-03T21:15:31.567+10:00

The Question of EvangelismThere is value in answering sincere questions, yet a danger as well. If care isn't taken, the entire process can simply further our customary reliance on intellectual understanding and agreement. Every one of us needs to hear God for himself.An ounce of revelation carries more weight in the Kingdom of God than a ton of explanation! Therefore, as further questions are

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-77957990754647769392007-04-02T12:30:00.001+10:002009-02-23T12:11:32.727+11:00

John Drane is Head of Practical Theology in the Department of Divinity at the University of Aberdeen. He is the author of What is the New Age Still Saying to the Church? and Biblical Faith and Cultural Change.A quote from the above book sets the tone for our post:"A theology which comes pre-packaged, and in which there are no loose ends, is not true to life nor can it adequately reflect the

Johnnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-44488447509393999242007-03-31T23:47:00.000+10:002008-02-05T13:47:41.197+11:00

Another great article from my friend Jack Gray [Pilgim Path] is well worth considering at this juncture in our journey...The New Testament PerspectiveI have recently been stimulated to look into the original New Testament meaning of the word "Fellowship". The stimulus came from various sources. Firstly it came from the question that is so often asked when Christians meet one another, "Where do

Johnnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-47603448651531947552007-03-30T22:49:00.000+10:002007-03-30T23:08:42.090+10:00

Prophets in the New LandThere is great interest in the ministry of prophets these days. Many questions are being asked concerning the whole realm of prophetic revelation.One of my foremost desires in recent years has been that God would sovereignly raise up prophets in every part of the world who would fearlessly declare the word of the Lord with unmistakable clarity, rugged honesty, pristine

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-89042123014845636682007-03-29T17:04:00.000+10:002007-03-29T17:10:36.272+10:00

“Let me ask you a simple question: ‘is there life after church’? Whoops … catch you off guard”? I mean … why the look”!“OK … perhaps I could start with an easier (for me) question. Is there life after death”? “Easier … are you kidding”?“No, I’m not; I know categorically that there is DEFINITELY life after death”!“How you ask? Easy … well maybe not easy … but suffice to say I’ve been there and

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-70884347953325027992007-03-28T15:43:00.000+10:002007-03-28T15:53:20.240+10:00

What Place Has God-Given Leadership?Can you tell me why it is usually leaders who ask this question? It is a valid concern, of course, and I am delighted to respond to the enquiry.The election, appointment or ordination of men to official positions is extremely difficult to justify using the New Testament, though clear reference is made to special leadership functions. Since I have expounded on

Johnnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-50119724140918570662007-03-27T10:35:00.000+10:002007-03-27T10:50:09.329+10:00

Following on from my recent posts, I would like to address a little further; some of the struggles that we as a group are experiencing on our post-institutional church journey.Although the intimacy of relationship afforded (between each other and the Lord) in our current gatherings (private homes) is truly uplifting - there’s something missing. True to His word: “…when two or three are gathered

Johnnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-77532163631295042902007-03-26T11:18:00.000+10:002007-03-26T18:12:18.930+10:00

Today, I found a new 'friend' over at 'A Company of Friends' - Tomas Perez is an ex IC Pastor who finds himself exploring: 'being' rather than 'doing Church. His honesty and humility are refreshing and at times (for some I'm sure) quite disarming.To me however, this is like a breath of fresh air - thanks Tomas. A sample of Tomas' writing follows ... please visit his site and be encouraged. NOTE:

Johnnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-82785633634864530942007-03-24T10:31:00.000+11:002007-03-24T11:00:30.002+11:00

Who Is Forsaking Assembling? Returning now, to our journey through John Beaumont's book: 'Revelatory Adventure'. Today we will be looking at Chapter 10. Imagine my delight, after reviewing the chapter, as I realised that the topic John was discussing, was a very timely (in light of recent posts) look at the reasons why we gather together.On a number of occasions people who have read The Church of

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-10520531535766370362007-03-23T15:39:00.000+11:002008-02-05T13:49:46.708+11:00

I’m sure, that if you have been following my recent posts, you have wanted to ask that question! Whilst I have been at pains to point out (I believe correctly) that we don’t DO Church, but rather BE Church; I’m sure some of you are asking: "Yeah, but doesn’t that beg the question”? “How do we go about ‘being’ the Church”?Firstly, in an attempt to answer that (very good) question; let me make

Johnnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-14557322697711963052007-03-22T14:42:00.000+11:002007-03-23T23:47:29.960+11:00

I’m sometimes asked: “Wouldn’t it be much easier to simply go back to doing church the way we used to …”? (Such questions are always, in context, referring to the denominational church systems)? My response usually is: “Yes and NO”! Let me try to explain.While I acknowledge, that I owe much to the ‘organised’ form of church, where-in I was discipled, taught, and (at times) cared for, and

Johnnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-183455968373471022007-03-21T22:04:00.000+11:002007-03-23T23:46:52.795+11:00

Yesterday we addressed the question: “Where to Now”? Today, I want to discuss some of the dynamics, which can arise, as a group of individual’s, journey together towards Christ-likeness; against a backdrop of a rapidly changing post-modern age.One of the greatest benefits to gathering together in smaller, more intimate numbers, to seek the Lord and learn of Him and each other; is that the smaller

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-75628088234043342282007-03-21T15:17:00.000+11:002007-03-23T23:46:41.025+11:00

Where Is It Happening?A brother in England commented to me that unless I can show a place where what is described in 'The Church of My Dreams' is actually happening, he would have to consider me a godly man with an impossible dream.No God-given dream is impossible, of course; but it can understandably seem to be so unless the Holy Spirit witnesses within an individual that what has been revealed,

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-44272852813037266072007-03-20T10:49:00.000+11:002007-03-23T23:46:19.831+11:00

Regular readers of this blog might well be wondering just how we (at CrossWay) are faring on our journey. With that in mind, I thought I would reflect on our discoveries to date and try to articulate what we have learned thus far; and in doing so present some thoughts on how and why our journey has changed us.As a preface to what I’m about to relate, let me first make the point that life is not

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-25397635151561226422007-03-20T08:31:00.000+11:002007-03-23T23:46:03.450+11:00

One of my good friends was deeply moved by yesterday's post - 'Inspirational Leadership' - and afterwards decided to visit the 'Watchman' site (see recommended sites below left) only to be gob-smacked by Chip's latest offering there! And so, I have decided to reproduce that article here. I trust that others will find this post particularly helpful."After they had eaten, Jesus asked Simon Peter, '

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-79161972084320737692007-03-18T10:23:00.000+11:002007-03-19T13:08:38.380+11:00

My friend, Jack Gray, ('Pilgim Path') offers the following insights on the question of leadership from the life and example of Caleb.CalebReadings: Numbers, Chapters 13 & 14; Deuteronomy 1:34-36 and Joshua 14:6-15.Of the many thousands of adult men who departed from Egypt only two finally entered the land promised by God to His people. One was Caleb; the other, Joshua. Over a period of some weeks

Johnnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-86200648606585769412007-03-16T17:22:00.000+11:002007-03-16T17:39:57.778+11:00

What the Early Church Didn't HaveIn our search for the promised land of a fully God-glorifying experience and lifestyle, we need to look at the early Church, not only to be thrilled by the special blessings and privileges they enjoyed, but also to gain a clear and unambiguous, honest and radical understanding of what has been added over the centuries.Why not endeavor to peel away from our current

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-18056077743089232052007-03-15T10:29:00.001+11:002009-02-23T12:02:19.909+11:00

Yesterday we commenced Part One, of a two part article (from my friend Jack Gray) in which we continued to look at the issue of leadership in the Church (both contemporary and historical). For more inspirational and challenging articles, you are encouraged to visit the 'Pilgim Path'.Part Two follows:The major message of the first article on this subject was to call for a radical reappraisal of

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-91571734966405979682007-03-14T21:50:00.000+11:002007-03-14T22:07:13.498+11:00

Today we commence Part One, of a two part article (from my friend Jack Gray) which continues our look at leadership in the Church. For more inspirational and challenging articles, you are encouraged to visit the 'Pilgim Path'.Any consideration of the subject of Church leadership, and any endeavour to establish guidelines for today, has to begin with a clear recognition of the fact that the

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-34877255761828431542007-03-13T17:00:00.000+11:002007-03-14T11:03:36.055+11:00

What the Early Church Was Born WithSometimes there is wisdom in reviewing the things we were born with when we became spiritually alive in the Lord Jesus Christ. There are some marvelous, valuable ingredients of the new birth that are the result of the ministry of the Holy Spirit to us.There are other things that we tend to link with our conversion that are actually merely human ad-ditives which

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-4302710241326085552007-03-12T11:18:00.000+11:002007-03-13T23:32:00.435+11:00

Over at the School of Christ, Chip Brogden has penned an excellent and timely Reminder ... "For I determined to not know anything among you, save Jesus Christ, and Him crucified (1 Corinthians 2:2)."Though Paul had quite a bit of knowledge and many things to say and teach the Corinthians, he determined to become a man of one subject: Jesus Christ, and Him crucified. We must become foolish in

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-34696831501694135832007-03-11T03:54:00.000+11:002007-03-11T20:47:32.964+11:00

Oops, a Jericho!As they crossed the plains on their journey toward the Jordan River before they came into Canaan, the Israelites had ample time and opportunity to look, and look again, at the strongly fortressed city of Jericho.During the days they waited to be healed from the pain of circumcision, they could most probably have seen that city. It stood between them and further progress into the

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-20607164685858754222007-03-09T14:10:00.000+11:002007-03-09T14:29:14.474+11:00

What follows is an extract from Chapter 5 of A.W. Tozer’s 'Paths to Power'. The original work was published in 1911 however, the content is timeless!"To any casual observer of the religious scene today, two things will at once be evident: one, that there is very little sense of sin among the unsaved, and two, that the average professed Christian lives a life so worldly and careless that it is

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-54160220924686953542007-03-08T10:08:00.000+11:002007-03-08T10:25:29.390+11:00

We have thus far examined our post-modern world in relation to the challenges facing Christendom as well as the 'Emerging Responses' to these challenges. We have examined: 'Emerging Church'; and its academic cousin - 'Emergent Village'; also 'Micro Church' and its stable mates, 'Simple Church'; 'House Church' and 'Home Church'; all of which go some way towards answering the most pressing question

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-51790179457445323232007-03-07T14:52:00.000+11:002007-03-07T14:59:29.856+11:00

We have thus far examined our post-modern world in relation to the challenges facing Christendom as well as the 'Emerging Responses' to these challenges. We have examined: 'Emerging Church'; and its academic cousin - 'Emergent Village'; also 'Micro Church' and its stable mates, 'Simple Church'; 'House Church' and 'Home Church'; all of which go some way towards answering the most pressing question

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-80883538280272031512007-03-06T11:28:00.000+11:002007-03-06T12:47:50.059+11:00

Reproach RemovedJoshua and all Israel were miraculously brought by the Lord into Canaan. They were given the land in such a manner that all the peoples of the earth might know that the hand of the Lord is powerful and that His people might always fear the Lord their God. His mighty arm and outstretched hand were active on their behalf.In a later generation Nehemiah blessed the Lord, speaking of

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-72921751032750081532007-03-05T15:38:00.000+11:002007-03-05T15:24:23.738+11:00

The following is an excerpt from the 'Root of Righteousness', Chapter 12; and is entitled: "Faith Is a Perturbing Thing."Here, once again the prophetic warning sounds loud and clear ... and very much needs to be heeded in today's post-modern Christian maze."... something has happened to the doctrine of justification by faith as Luther taught it. What has happened is not so easily discovered. It

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-43943753396708850622007-03-04T07:59:00.000+11:002007-03-04T09:01:10.361+11:00

This is the eighth (and last)in our series of 8 audio presentations that I hope will assist our readers in understanding the challenges facing all of us today.What follows are some of the most significant teachings that Wayne Jacobsen (from LifeStream) does around the world to help people break free of the bondage of religion and embrace an affectionate and life-changing relationship with the

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-70706441265218579862007-03-03T11:38:00.000+11:002007-03-03T11:51:45.219+11:00

This is the next installment of our ‘walk’ through John Beaumont’s book Revelatory Adventure (for a free download of this book see my earlier post). Each week I’ll present a chapter in its entirety for us to consider - the chapters are quite short.CHAPTER FOURThe Way into the LandThe Israelites rested for three days before entering the land they had been promised. Joshua told the people, "

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-66365658445620271312007-03-03T10:56:00.000+11:002007-03-03T11:07:24.452+11:00

This is the seventh in our series of 8 audio presentations that I hope will assist our readers in understanding the challenges facing all of us today.What follows are some of the most significant teachings that Wayne Jacobsen (from LifeStream) does around the world to help people break free of the bondage of religion and embrace an affectionate and life-changing relationship with the Father,

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-66272001837821673052007-03-02T09:10:00.000+11:002007-03-02T09:42:17.471+11:00

This is the next installment of our ‘walk’ through John Beaumont’s book Revelatory Adventure (for a free download of this book see my earlier post). Each week I’ll present a chapter in its entirety for us to consider - the chapters are quite short.Chapter ThreeWhy the Delay?A land of freedom and blessing in which the Lord Jesus is truly central welcomes us. Why not set our hearts now to enter it,

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-86340531115654331822007-03-01T17:34:00.000+11:002007-03-01T17:45:04.632+11:00

This is the sixth in our series of 8 audio presentations that I hope will assist our readers in understanding the challenges facing all of us today.What follows are some of the most significant teachings that Wayne Jacobsen (from LifeStream) does around the world to help people break free of the bondage of religion and embrace an affectionate and life-changing relationship with the Father,

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-26669243137585482682007-02-28T13:10:00.000+11:002007-02-28T15:10:28.738+11:00

This is the fifth in our series of 8 audio presentations that I hope will assist our readers in understanding the challenges facing all of us today.What follows are some of the most significant teachings that Wayne Jacobsen (from LifeStream) does around the world to help people break free of the bondage of religion and embrace an affectionate and life-changing relationship with the Father,

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-3048435197952661802007-02-27T08:54:00.000+11:002007-02-27T09:03:38.975+11:00

This is the next installment of our ‘walk’ through John Beaumont’s book Revelatory Adventure (for a free download of this book see my earlier post). Each week I’ll present a chapter in its entirety for us to consider - the chapters are quite short.Chapter TwoThat Amazing Place.The most familiar description of the place to which God resolved to bring His people is that of a "land flowing with milk

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-13186281185517424052007-02-26T18:22:00.000+11:002007-02-26T18:54:38.604+11:00

This is the fourth in our series of 8 audio presentations that I hope will assist our readers in understanding the challenges facing all of us today.What follows are some of the most significant teachings that Wayne Jacobsen (from LifeStream) does around the world to help people break free of the bondage of religion and embrace an affectionate and life-changing relationship with the Father,

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-60951381762009489002007-02-25T10:15:00.000+11:002007-02-25T10:39:09.401+11:00

This is the third in our series of 8 audio presentations that I hope will assist our readers in understanding the challenges facing all of us today.What follows are some of the most significant teachings that Wayne Jacobsen (from LifeStream) does around the world to help people break free of the bondage of religion and embrace an affectionate and life-changing relationship with the Father,

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-20563283820094642232007-02-24T13:02:00.000+11:002007-02-25T10:35:40.619+11:00

Today I want to begin a ‘walk’ through John Beaumont’s book Revelatory Adventure (for a free download of this book see my earlier post). Each week I’ll present a chapter in its entirety for us to consider - the chapters are quite short.We will start our journey today with an extract from the Preface where Beaumont asks:“Is it impossible that in our day the Church of God could truly radiate with

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-53104294790616803792007-02-23T10:07:00.000+11:002007-02-24T12:18:55.097+11:00

This is the second in our series of 8 audio presentations that I hope will assist our readers in understanding the challenges facing all of us today.What follows are some of the most significant teachings that Wayne Jacobsen (from LifeStream) does around the world to help people break free of the bondage of religion and embrace an affectionate and life-changing relationship with the Father,

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-90121479715751642522007-02-21T14:44:00.000+11:002007-02-24T12:17:39.155+11:00

The JourneyMany on this journey have discussed with me the range of emotions they have endured since leaving the Institutional Church (IC) in search of a genuine expression of New Testament Christianity for today. Many of those who have chosen to: ‘seek the Lord while He may be found’; have run the whole gamut of emotions from the opposing poles of hyper-elation at ‘being free’, to the depths of

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-6963831067563633302007-02-19T12:02:00.000+11:002007-02-24T12:17:26.541+11:00

Today I want to begin a series of 8 audio presentations that I hope will assist our readers in understanding the challenges facing all of us today.What follows are some of the most significant teachings that Wayne Jacobsen (from LifeStream) does around the world to help people break free of the bondage of religion and embrace an affectionate and life-changing relationship with the Father, through

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-45015635504469037482007-02-18T11:23:00.000+11:002007-02-24T12:17:04.327+11:00

Continuing on with our examination of the 'House Church' ... I invite our readers to consider the views of one of the leading proponents in the House Church movement ... Frank Viola.The following interview of Frank Viola can be read in full at: House Church Chronicles. In what follows Viola shares from his long experience with House Churches.What is the story of your journey and how you came to

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-4143096342364550892007-02-16T09:53:00.000+11:002007-02-24T12:16:51.706+11:00

Having begun an examination of the House Church movement; lets now take a look at the most recent statistics on House Churches from the Barna Group.January 8, 2007(Ventura, CA) - With the growth of house churches across the country, a new study by The Barna Group sheds light on how these independent, non-denominational churches operate.Levels of SatisfactionPerhaps the most compelling insight

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-12706101907618577902007-02-16T09:37:00.000+11:002007-11-07T07:33:09.506+11:00

We now turn our attention to an examination of the House Church Movement. If the Institutional Church (IC) and the Emerging Church (EC) can be considered to be poles apart, then perhaps the House Church (HC) is positioned somewhere on a continuum between the two?House church is an informal term for a group of Christians gathering regularly or spontaneously in a home or on grounds not normally

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-85051409034364200642007-02-14T10:09:00.006+11:002009-02-23T11:54:55.522+11:00

Having considered the Emerging Church phenomenon over the last several posts, both from the point of view of certain proponents and critics; I'd like to offer the following article for consideration. This article from Frank Viola (who is sympathetic to the EC) calls for "serious reflection and open dialogue" on the issues facing the body of Christ in our day. An Invitation for Serious Reflection

Johnnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-29998683447475304232007-02-13T13:59:00.000+11:002007-02-12T22:17:16.963+11:00

The last in this series of understanding the Emerging/Emergent movement from Gary E. Gilley. For more articles on similar topics take a look over at: SVC. The 'concerns' raised in this article need to be taken seriously if we are not to be found guilty of allowing our 'culture' to shape our ecclesiology.The Emerging Church - Part 3(June 2006 - Volume 12, Issue 6)How those professing to be

Johnnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-64634253506704529382007-02-12T17:59:00.000+11:002007-02-12T18:02:26.783+11:00

A continuing look at the Emerging/Emergent movement from Gary E. Gilley. For more articles on similar topics take a look over at: SVC. The 'concerns' raised in this article need to be taken seriously if we are not to be found guilty of allowing the culture to shape our ecclesiology.The Emerging Church - Part 2(May 2006 - Volume 12, Issue 5)Our worldview will determine how we process information

Johnnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-9593746913936167622007-02-11T17:30:00.000+11:002007-02-11T20:43:40.222+11:00

Continuing our examination of the Emerging/Emergent movement, we will consider a critique from Gary E. Gilley. Gilley is known for his discernment articles critiquing errors in the modern church including the Emerging Church Movement. For more articles on similar topics take a look over at: SVC.The Emerging Church - Part 1April 2006 - Volume 12, Issue 4The emergent church is a rather slippery

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-1230892080584056632007-02-11T17:00:00.000+11:002007-02-11T20:43:06.048+11:00

The following article (and other titles) written by Thomas Hohstadt (a proponent of the Emerging/Emergent Church movement) can be found at "Future Church" along with many other good articles by contemporary authors.Among the clergy, is there such a thing as "ordained" spirituality? "Official" spiritual leadership? "Entitled" spiritual authority? Or--among the laity--is there such a thing as "

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-12826694486858923682007-02-11T16:41:00.000+11:002007-02-11T20:41:31.608+11:00

The following article (and other titles) written by Thomas Hohstadt (a proponent of the Emerging/Emergent Church movement) can be found at "Future Church" along with many other good articles by contemporary authors.We can no longer ignore the hidden facts. Our whole value system is shifting to suit the needs of individuals. Our entire social structure is reshaping to serve the passions of its

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-61719598998685354122007-02-10T09:23:00.000+11:002007-02-10T09:23:28.882+11:00

Interview with Justin TaylorOver at 'The Church on the Threshold' they have provided a number of very useful resouces; including the following interview with Justin Taylor.Justin Taylor being interviewed about postconservatism, the emerging church, and the book he co-edited, 'Reclaiming the Center. Issues, Etc'. - "The Emergent Church Movement" (Part 1, Part 2) - Interviews by Todd Wilken with

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-53594694778706002912007-02-09T18:45:00.000+11:002007-02-11T20:40:01.065+11:00

In an earlier post we turned our attention to the 'The Emerging Church' phenomenon, we started by first asking: 'What is the Emerging Church'? In this post we'll look at an overview of the Emerging phenomenon.Emerging ChurchThe emerging church movement is a controversial, 21st century Christian movement whose adherents seek to engage and accommodate postmodern people, especially the unchurched

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-14271383159100461692007-02-09T16:38:00.000+11:002007-02-09T11:16:22.357+11:00

In turning our attention now to 'The Emerging Church' phenomenon, we'll start by first asking: 'What is the Emerging Church'?For our purposes a broad definition from Wikipedia will suffice:'The emerging church movement (US) is a controversial, 21st century Christian movement seeking to engage people, especially the unchurched, living in post-modern or postcolonial cultures. Proponents call the

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-11631282970079460092007-02-05T11:15:00.001+11:002009-02-10T10:47:55.111+11:00

Mark of a Spirit Filled Church - Part One. (A.W. Tozer)I trust that our readers will enjoy listening to one of the 20th Century's great prophetic voices."20th-century prophet" they called him even in his lifetime. For 31 years he was pastor of Southside Alliance Church in Chicago, where his reputation as a man of God was citywide. Concurrently he became editor of Alliance Life, a responsibility

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-32015570866260649552007-02-03T21:37:00.002+11:002009-02-23T11:46:00.239+11:00

The following article by David M. Newby (from his book "THE BUBBLE WILL BURST") is well worth a read..."Sure, I’ll do anything, but don’t ask me to change"! I remember something Bill Wilson (New York Children’s Ministry) said that really stuck with me: "People change, but not much!"It would be true for most of us that we put a lot more energy into resisting change than assessing and adopting it.

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-305651226286875012007-02-03T18:25:00.000+11:002007-10-05T06:58:16.648+10:00

The following article was written by Alan Richardson and can be found at: 'Christ is All' website. I would highly recommend this to all our readers (particularly those who have been called out of the Institutional Church system) and are wondering ... what is next?There was a time once, when I used to wish that God would overnight remove every church building. Sovereignly and supernaturally. A

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-79224167028954380412007-02-01T10:26:00.000+11:002007-02-01T11:09:22.380+11:00

In December last year I suggested that our readers would benefit from reading the recently published: "So You Don't Want to go to Church Anymore" - written under the pseudonym "Jake Colsen" - the authors are actually Wayne Jacobsen and his long-time friend Dave Coleman. This particular book is receiving rave reviews around the world.In an effort to encourage those of you who perhaps have not yet

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-85761858007662568802007-01-28T16:53:00.000+11:002007-02-01T09:09:32.281+11:00

What follows is a telling testimony from an ex (professional) Pastor written some 3 years ago … but just as relevant and powerful in its honesty today as it was then.“For years, I’ve tried to put my finger on it—the reasons why I left the professional pastorate. And you know, more than anything, I think it’s this: I lost my first love". The reality is that much of what we call ministry today is

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-73031549146992701052007-01-25T12:55:00.000+11:002007-02-24T12:23:48.197+11:00

I read Wolfgang Simson's book: "Houses that Change the World" some time ago and found it both challenging and informative. Below is a summary of what Simson refers to in this work as his "15 Theses". I would highly recommend this book to our readers; particularly those transitioning between the 'Institutional Church' and some form of 'Home/House Church.' For a free download please refer to my

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31662404.post-41563455374620618762007-01-24T23:10:00.000+11:002007-01-27T19:36:08.106+11:00

What follows is a stirring challenge from one of my favourite authors: T. Austin-Sparks. Here, we are challenged to press into Him; who alone can not only sustain us, but advance us, in these most challenging of days."We realize, with intense sorrow of heart, that all is not well with that which ostensibly represents the Lord here ... and that there is a state of things widely prevailing which

Johnnoreply@blogger.com0