Saturday, January 28, 2012

The Greatness of Our God

It's been a busy week - but then, what's new about that in my life?  My tendency sometimes is to sound the retreat first.  But I'm always reminded about how big God is.  He has a plan that cannot be stopped for all of creation, and that includes me.

I heard this song sung in chapel this week at school.  I've heard it before, but I'm not sure I really focused on the text until this week.  It reminds me of the greatness of our God.  It also reminds me to spend my life to know Him more - and yes, to trust Him more.  I hope it encourages you as well.

Give me eyes to see
More of who You are
May what I behold,
Still my anxious heart.
Take what I have known
And break it all apart
For You my God, are greater still.

CHORUS
No sky contains,
No doubt restrains,
All You are,
The greatness of our God.
I spend my life to know,
And I'm far from close
To all You are,
The greatness of our God.

Give me grace to see
Beyond this moment here.
To believe that there
Is nothing left to fear.
That You alone are high above it all.
For You my God, are greater still.

No sky contains,
No doubt restrains,
All You are,
The greatness of our God.
I spend my life to know,
And I'm far from close
To all You are,
The greatness of our God.

And there is nothing
That can ever separate us.
There is nothing that can ever
Separate us from Your love.
No life, no death, of this I am convinced.
You my God, are greater still.

And no words can say, or song convey,
all You are the greatness of our God.
I spend my life to know,
And I'm far from close
to all You are,
the greatness of our God.

Pastor Randy

Saturday, January 14, 2012

Jesus Hates Religion. Or Does He?

You've probably seen the video already.  It's into the millions of hits on youtube.  So, does Jesus hate religion?  Here are my "brief" thoughts on the video and the message it's trying to communicate.

First, I applaud and appreciate what I believe is the intent behind the video, and the guy who made it.  I agree with many of the messages in it.  I also appreciate the fact that it was made in a culturally-relevant manner, which certainly appeals to a younger audience, both students and adults alike.  I also very much like the primary message of the video - it's all about a relationship with Jesus Christ.  That will always be the hope of the Gospel - that we were dead in our trespasses and sins, and God sent His Son to be our sacrifice.  Without that relationship, we will be eternally separated from Him.  Praise God for His indescribable gift!

Here are some of my concerns.

1.  While I like that the video was made in a culturally-relevant manner, I'm concerned that younger people (in terms of age and belief) are already sold out to it without completely examining the content.  The video is well made, almost in a rapping style as a poem.  It moves very fast and makes it difficult to catch all the text well.  I encourage everyone to Google the text and study it for themselves.  Don't just accept something because it sounds right and is made in a way that relates to the culture.

2.  So what's so wrong with #1 anyway?  Well, I had the chance to preach on this a few weeks ago.  The idea is that while our methods can and must change, the message never does.  Paul tells the Corinthians that he has become all things to all people, so that some might be saved.  But Paul never did anything that contradicted Scripture.  I'm all for new methods to communicate the Gospel, including ways that are relevant to today's culture.  But we must ensure that the entire counsel of Scripture is maintained in everything we do.

3.  And about the entire counsel of Scripture thing - I don't believe Jesus hates religion.  He certainly came to change what religion is all about, and He certainly came to proclaim a message that went against the thinking and actions of many religious leaders.  Jesus spoke out many times in the Bible against the motives of these leaders.  But the issue here is not religion as much as it's about man's sinfulness, pride, self-righteousness, etc.  Man is the one who tries to make religion a gateway or path to God, based entirely on what he can do.  That's clearly not what the Bible teaches.  In this sense, it is about a relationship with our Savior.  We must be careful to evaluate the messages (and videos) we fully affirm in light of all Scripture.

4.  I'm concerned that someone who watches this video will get a negative perspective, and possibly a false justification, about the church.  I know the speaker says he's for the Bible and the church.  But many in our culture associate the church with rules and regulations.  They can be quick to associate those religious leaders from the Bible with today's church and its leaders.  Now, I'm not saying that every church in the US is doing everything consistent with the Bible.  But I do not want to give any more ammunition to those looking for justification to avoid church and the ministries of it, especially regular, small group Bible study.  Oh yes, and the accountability that comes with it.  If it's really all about a relationship, then a believer should crave the chance to grow in the Word and be held accountable.  Not to mention the chance to worship with other believers of like mind.  And it's what we are commanded to do in Scripture.

5.  The true Gospel will always drive us to obedience once that relationship exists.  It's not just about getting saved and waiting for heaven.  God desires us to walk in a manner worthy of Jesus.  That means we must follow the counsel of Scripture here, with its commands and instructions.  Some may watch this video and then be left to determine which commands and instructions should be followed, and which may be, say, optional.  You can't lump everything together into "rules".  I believe in the inerrancy of God's Word.  It is without error.  It is to be followed and obeyed.  Doing so pleases God, which is the main point of that relationship anyway.

Let me reiterate - I like the video overall.  I appreciate the intent and message it conveys.  I am convicted by several statements made personally.  I just want us to evaluate all we see and hear in light of God's Word and under the leadership and teaching of the Holy Spirit.  By the way, I've read a number of blogs the last couple of days that speak even more to the video.  Here are some links if you're interested:

http://thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/kevindeyoung/2012/01/13/does-jesus-hate-religion-kinda-sorta-not-really/

http://gospeldrivenchurch.blogspot.com/2012/01/jesus-was-religious.html

http://www.gracefamilybaptist.net/voddie-baucham-ministries/blog/christianity-religion-2012-01/


As for our family, I am thinking we will watch the video together as a family soon.  Then we'll spend a great deal of time talking about it.  I'm planning to print out the words for everyone to read through, so we can focus on the true message here.  I'm sure we'll all grow closer to the Lord through this.  I pray you will also.

Pastor Randy

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Christmas and Those Who Suffer This Year

It's almost Christmas.  I am probably much like you, in that this is a very busy time of year.  I'm finishing up teaching and looking forward to a break.  I'm just getting past probably the busiest time of the music ministry year - musicals, special services, and more.  As usual, the stores remember me from years past as the guy who waits until the last minute to finish his Christmas shopping.  All in all, a fairly normal year.

But this year in particular, God is reminding me of a large number of people who are suffering at this time.  The holidays are not always a positive time for many, for a variety of reasons.  But my heart goes out to several families I know who are either suffering the loss of loved ones or are dealing with life-threatening illnesses right now.  Some of the family losses have occurred just in the last week, where tragedy has struck or long-term sickness and disease has claimed the life of a family member.  Plus, there are families I know who are struggling with financial concerns, job losses, family relationship stress, and much more.  My prayer for these families is that God will minister to them in a powerful way this Christmas season.  That may or may not take the form of more gifts under the tree.  It will most likely take the form of comfort, encouragement, peace and joy.

I, too, struggle at times during the holidays.  I can get too busy with all my responsibilities.  I also miss my parents who went home to be with the Lord seven years ago.  I miss being able to spend time with my brother and his family.  But God has blessed me beyond my greatest expectations.  He is providing for my needs and giving me everything I need, most importantly a relationship with Him.  The joy He gives outlasts anything else.

No matter if you're extremely happy about the holidays right now, or if you're struggling just to make it through today, the same God is on His throne and ready to encourage you.  The focus of Christmas is on Christ, our Lord and Savior who was wrapped in human flesh to pay a ransom for us.  Let the world say what it wants, but those who know Christ also know the truth.  To God be the glory for His indescribable gift!

Pastor Randy

Sunday, November 27, 2011

Your Great Name

Every now and then, as a worship leader, I like to share the lyrics of an awesome worship song.  Here are the lyrics of a great song by Natalie Grant, "Your Great Name".  It's one I hope to lead in worship at Wakefield in the near future.

What an awesome testimony of the name of Jesus.  As I reflect on these lyrics, I'm reminded of the account in Acts 3-4 about the arrest of Peter and John.  One of the key parts of the biblical text involves Peter's response when the Sanhedrin threaten the prisoners and tell them to stop speaking about Jesus.  Peter response in Acts 4:20:  "For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard."  There was something powerful about the name of Christ that was undeniable, both by the Sanhedrin and the people who observed what was happening.

Enjoy the words of this song and reflect on the power that is found in the name of Christ.

Lost are saved; find their way; at the sound of Your great name
All condemned; feel no shame, at the sound of Your great name
Every fear; has no place; at the sound of Your great name
The enemy; he has to leave; at the sound of Your great name

Jesus, worthy is the Lamb that was slain for us, Son of God and man
You are high and lifted up; and all the world will praise Your great name

All the weak; find their strength; at the sound of Your great name
Hungry souls; receive grace; at the sound of Your great name
The fatherless; they find their rest; at the sound of Your great name
Sick are healed; and the dead are raised; at the sound of Your great name

Jesus, worthy is the Lamb that was slain for us, Son of God and man
You are high and lifted up; and all the world will praise Your great name

Redeemer, My Healer, Lord Almighty
My savior, Defender, You are My King

Jesus, worthy is the Lamb that was slain for us, Son of God and man
You are high and lifted up; and all the world will praise Your great name
Pastor Randy

Thursday, November 24, 2011

Don't Forget Thanksgiving

I am not the cook in the house.  So I do the shopping, which I did the last couple of days leading up to Thanksgiving.  The crowds were out in full force this week.  Some were buying food to prepare for Thanksgiving.  But a lot also seemed to be scouting out the turf for the other pending day this week - Black Friday.  Every year, the retail world takes a little more time and focus away from Thankgiving.  Some stores will be opening as early as midnight tonight.  Plus many stores and malls put their Christmas decorations up weeks ago.  Even a few radio stations started playing Christmas music last week.

Hey, world, don't forget Thanksgiving.  Even if you don't consider yourself a "religious" person, I'm sure you can come up with an endless list of things you're thankful for.  If nothing else, most people will spend time with family for Thanksgiving.  But even if you can't be with family today, I can't believe there's nothing you can be thankful for.

For the believer in Jesus Christ, there's even more to be thankful for.  His love for us, His grace that strengthens us each day, and His mercy that offered the sacrifice we needed for our sins.  The Bible says He has given us every good and perfect gift.  Even our next breath and the beat of our heart is a gift from Him.  We should be thankful, not just on Thanksgiving day, but all year long.

There's nothing terribly wrong with Black Friday - as long as it's not an idol in your life.  As long as the things you are tempted to buy aren't your god.  If we put Christ first, then everything else should balance out nicely.  Remember Matt. 22:37:  "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind."  I encourage anyone going shopping tonight or tomorrow morning to meditate on this verse first, then go with God's leadership and His peace about what you should or shouldn't do.....or buy.

I encourage us all to pause and give thanks.  For if we give thanks to the One who made us and who deserves our worship, then I believe Black Friday will be put in its proper perspective.

Pastor Randy

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Things I Think

At home today with Matt, who sure seemed sick this morning but somehow made a miraculous recovery, right after watching a little TV.  You'd think that I would have figured this out by the fourth child....oh well.

Anyway, here's the current version of "Things I Think".  Some random thoughts in the head of me.

1.  So thankful that N.C. State decided they didn't need Russell Wilson any more this year.  I realize that the situations at N.C. State and Wisconsin are not identical, and Russell probably wouldn't be a true heisman candidate here.  And I know that State has battled through a number of key injuries this year.  But it was a mistake to let Russell go.  You don't just let go of a guy who was clearly the team leader for several years.  And he made it clear in interviews that he didn't want to leave.  In light of State's performance so far this year, this will ultimately never be forgotten by State fans who don't forget anything.....not that that is a good thing, mind you.

2.  My daughter, Kelsey, just turned 18 last weekend.  I'm so thankful for her and how I see God working in her life.  She's done great things for the Lord already, and He's going to do great things through her going forward.  I love her more everyday.

3.  Referencing #2 above, Kelsey wants very much to go to UNC-CH next year.  The idea of paying my money to Carolina is more than I can bear.  Not sure what will happen in the Bridges' home when State plays Carolina......

4.  God is turning up the heat in certain areas of my life recently in a major way.  One of things I'm reminded of during this is that God know best how much we can handle.  I don't think I could have survived some of this 10 years ago.  But God has grown and matured me over that time, and now it's time for Him to put His finger squarely on certain areas of my life.  Praise be to Him!

5.  What in the world did I do before Facebook?  This application has made it so much easier to do ministry and keep in touch with people.  I know it can be dangerous on many levels if not done well, but I am thankful for it and how God has allowed me to use it.

6.  When times get difficult, and I wonder if I'm in the right place, God continues to reaffirm that He has called me and placed me right here.  Ministry can be extremely difficult, but God's grace and mercy is always consistent and on time.

7.  I love my wife, Felicia, more today than ever before.  I was reminded today of the day we got married.  I cried when I saw her enter the doors of the sanctuary.  I so want to be a godly husband to her.  Many times my pride and selfishness gets in the way.  But God gives more grace.....it's only by His strength that I can be the man Felicia needs.

Pastor Randy

Friday, September 9, 2011

9/11: Remember Where You Were?

So it seems like a lot of people are recalling exactly where they were on 9/11 this weekend.  I suppose since Sunday is the 10th anniversary of the terror attacks on our nation, it's good to reflect.  Although I would rather reflect on how God has worked in my life over the last ten years.  Nevertheless, it is a point in time that I, too, will never forget.

I was working at IBM that day.  It was early that morning, and I was participating in a PC upgrade going on within my division.  I was breaking in (not literally!) my new laptop PC and was having some problems with it doing what I thought it should do.  So I wandered down the hall to one of the conference rooms where some PC support people were held up, helping people like me with their PC problems.

When I arrived at the conference room, there was already discussion about the first plane hitting the first tower in NYC.  I think we were all in a state of shock over the events that had just taken place.  I didn't get to stand still in shock for long.  My wife, Felicia, called me on my cell phone while I was standing in the conference room.  She was staying at home with our children at this time, a blessing from the Lord that I will always praise Him for. 

She asked if I knew what had happened in New York.  She was very upset and concerned about what this meant, and more importantly, what might happen next.  She pleaded with me to come home, and I agreed.  I took my new PC back to my office, locked everything up, and went straight home.  Our family watched along with the rest of the nation that day as the events in New York, Washington, DC, and Pennsylvania took place.

My prayer then was for God to provide, protect, and deliver us.  My prayer today is much the same.  But I also pray that God will remind us to cling to Him in the same ways we did on 9/11 and the days after that.  It seems that when things look desperate, we run to God.  But after a while, when the dust settles, we return to ourselves.  May we run to God again and not return to ourselves.  If we do, not only will our own lives be changed forever, so will our nation.

Pastor Randy