The God of Jacob Mystifies

January 5, 2014 by 1 Comment

 

God of Jacob and Jacob Wrestle

God of Jacob and Jacob Wrestle

 

The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our stronghold (Psalm 46:10).

I am intrigued by the God of Jacob. Just Who is this God of Jacob? How is He different from the God of Moses or the God of David? Of course, He is the same One True God, but there must be some variation.  The mystery of the God of Jacob fascinates me.

God Loved Jacob

To unravel the mystery of the God of Jacob, let’s focus first on the fact that God loved Jacob (Psalm 47:4; Mal 1:2; Rom 9:13). Repeated three times in Scripture, we find an emphatic statement: God really loved Jacob!

But Jacob was a rat! His name means “heel-grabber,” “trickster,” or “supplanter.” He stole, yes stole his brother’s birthright and gained the coveted blessing of the first-born by fraud, lying, and deceit. He was not a nice fellow to be around.

Still, God loved Jacob! That’s the alluring part of the mystery. This always give me hope. If God can love a guy like Jacob, He can love you and me!

God Showed Jacob Favor

Further, God’s love for Jacob was no hidden love affair. God showed special favor on this cheater time after time and in remarkable ways.

The God of Jacob chose the little fellow in the womb to be stronger than his brother and to be lord and leader of his brother. This title shows God as the God of Sovereign Election. God elected Jacob and He has elected to bless us as well. His sovereign choice is to bless His people.

The God of Jacob did not discipline Jacob when we think He should have. Jacob tricked his father, stole his brother’s birthright, and got away with it. Then God blessed him! It doesn’t seem right. How could this be? What does this show about the God of Jacob?

(Hint: God’s choice not to discipline Jacob at this time shows His nature. He is both patient and resolute. Seven years would pass before God would feed Jacob some of his own medicine. Through a phony marriage, the Lord chose to severely discipline and train Jacob the deceiver through an even greater deceiver, his father-in-law, Laban.

God appeared to the fugitive runaway as he fled Esau’s threats. God promised inheritance, blessings on the world (!), prosperity, and protection. He conferred the blessing of Abraham on this scoundrel. Wow! When we mess up, “The God of Jacob is our refuge” (Psalm 46:10). Count on it! We too are in the covenant line of Abraham.

The God of Jacob gave him Rachel, a wife he genuinely loved.

He blessed him with many children.

The God of Jacob greatly increased his sheep business and made him exceedingly prosperous (Gen 30:43).

The God of Jacob directed him with personal dreams. Can we expect Him to do the same for us?

God protected him by giving Jacob’s adversary a dream. In the dream God  told his adversary to “shut up” about Jacob and “Don’t tell him anything bad” (Gen 31:24).

The God of Jacob wrestled with him, but chose not to prevail!

The God of Jacob let him see His face without taking his life (Gen 32:30).

God graciously changed Jacob’s name and nature from a taker to a giver.

The God of Jacob gave him favor with his former enemy Esau.

God went with him wherever he went (Gen 35:3).

The list could continue as God gave Jacob a long and blessed life preserving him from famine and allowing him to see his grandchildren.

The Significance of the God of Jacob for us

What the God of Jacob did for this man He will do also for us. We too, as people of faith, are in the covenant of Abraham. We can expect the God of Jacob to bless us even when we blow it! What he did for Jacob, He will do for us. Who He was to Jacob, He is for us!

At the end of his life, perhaps just hours before he died, Jacob  coined the phrase “the Mighty One of Jacob” under the inspiration of the Spirit. The  Bible emphasizes this title by using it about fourteen times. God had appeared to him as El-Shaddai (the Mighty One). Now Jacob claims the name for himself. How personal, how significant!

We can do the same. I’ve been thinking about the God of Jacob and how He favored this man. I am claiming the use of this title for myself.  I am beginning to call the God of Jacob “the Mighty One of . . . Mark!”

Can you put in your own name? The God of Jacob has become “the Mighty One of _______________!

Filed Under: Asides, Ministry

False Apostles and True–What’s the Difference?

December 31, 2013 by 7 Comments

 

 

False apostles

False apostles

With the advent of modern day apostles and prophets, many are asking “What is a true apostle?” and “What are the signs of false apostles?” “How can we tell the difference?”

I have worked with apostles for over fifty years. I’ve seen the bona fides, and I’m sorry to say, I’ve also seen some wannabes whose claims of apostleship are questionable or fallacious.

As an aid to identify true apostles, let’s examine four types of false apostles.

False Apostles Pressure Donors

If any minister tries to pressure a person to give him money, stay a hundred yards away. Overt or subtle pressure to give money signals greed and is a sure sign of rottenness at the core. One veteran missionary told me, “Don’t give to any minister unless you personally know him or know someone who does know and approve him. It’s just too easy to exaggerate from the mission field when there is no one there to hold him accountable.”

Of course, it’s legitimate to request funds or take offerings. The pressure is the problem.

How a minister handles money reveals a lot about himself. Jesus noted, He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much; and he who is unrighteous in a very little thing is unrighteous also in much (Luke 16:10).

Improper use of money is a flag flying high to reveal to churches and prospective donors the hidden nature of false apostles.

False Apostles Lack Christ-like Character

If any man fails to honor his marriage vows or he sinks into immorality, it’s time to jump ship. Character, not just charisma, is a sign of true apostleship.

But let’s be gracious in this matter of character. Just because a person makes some minor mistakes does not mean he is a fraud. We are speaking of repeated mistakes without repentance. We are speaking of conscious decisions that are contrary to Scripture.

False Apostles Preach False Doctrine

Paul identifies those who preach a gospel contrary to what we have preached to you (Gal 1:8) as worthy of being cursed.

False Apostles Exhibit Self-Serving Leadership

If any man claims to serve as an apostle, yet “lords it over” or dominates those he works with, watch out. All ministers are called to get underneath as servants to build up, not to dominate or tear down. Spiritual dictators dominate; true apostles build others up.

Self-serving leadership is an example of a character deficiency. It’s so egregious, however, that I have given it a separate category in order to highlight the problem. I have seen a man with a genuine apostolic calling ridicule and abase fellow pastors and turn them into virtual slaves. By so doing he has disqualified himself as a genuine apostle.

We’ve seen gifted men betray their apostolic calling by failing in one or more of these areas.

It’s imperative to remember while considering true and false apostles that gifts alone do not make ministers either true or false apostles. A calling from God of itself does not determine which are true or false apostles. Miracles and supernatural works of power do not determine either true or false apostles. Character alone does not determine true or false apostles. Doctrine by itself does not show who are true or false apostles. It is the combination of all the above we are looking for to determine who are true and who are false apostles.

Among false apostles and prophets in Scripture, Balaam stands out. He’s mentioned by name 61 times in the New American Standard Bible, three times in the New Testaments.

Then God came to Balaam and said . . . (Num 22:9)  Surprisingly, God appeared to Balaam. False apostles can hear God speak.

God met Balaam” (Num 23:4) God even meets with false apostles!

When Balaam saw that it pleased the LORD . . . (Num 24:1) Balaam was perceptive; he could see what pleased and displeased God. Some false apostles have great gifts and perception; that does not mean they are true apostles.

And Balaam lifted up his eyes and saw Israel camping tribe by tribe; and the Spirit of God came upon him. (Num 24:2) Yes, the Holy Spirit can anoint even false apostles and prophets.

The following verses show Balaam was financially corrupt.  Forsaking the right way, they have gone astray, having followed the way of Balaam, the son of Beor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness. (2 Pet 2:15)

Woe to them! For they have gone the way of Cain, and for pay they have rushed headlong into the error of Balaam . . . (Jude 1:11)

False apostles often mix true doctrine with false teachings. Balaam counseled Midian to seduce Israelite men into sexual immorality. His seduction worked. False apostles can eventually get carried away into immorality.

But I have a few things against you, because you have there some who hold the teaching of Balaam, who kept teaching Balak to put a stumbling block before the sons of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols and to commit acts of immorality. (Rev 2:14)

Even though Balaam gave true prophecies and God spoke glorious oracles through him, he was corrupt. He was financially corrupt, demonstrated self-serving character, and taught false doctrine.

Local Churches Global Apostles is my research-based book that answers many questions about true and false apostles. Get it from Amazon.

Filed Under: Local Churches Global Apostles, Ministry

“See the Lord”? Required to be a True Apostle?

December 17, 2013 by 1 Comment

 

See the Lord

Must a Man See the Lord to be a True Apostle?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Must Someone “See the Lord” in order to be a True Apostle?

This “requirement” has long been held as necessary to be an apostle. But in the light of the modern day New Apostolic Revolution, let’s revisit the question:  Must Someone “See the Lord” in order to be a True Apostle?

No, I don’t Think so. Here’s Why.

First of all, many of the 25 apostles mentioned in the Bible did not see the Lord in the flesh. Timothy, Titus, and Apollos were not in Judea or Galilee during Jesus’ ministry. Certainly, these men and other apostles named in the Bible could not see the Lord Jesus in the flesh as the original twelve saw Him.

Timothy was probably not even born by the time Christ was crucified. Paul connected with the young Timothy in Galatia (a part of modern day Turkey) about 51 AD and Christ was crucified in Jerusalem around 30 AD. That’s a span of about 21 years; it’s generally accepted that Timothy was a very young man when he began with Paul. Realistically, due to age and geography, there is no way Timothy could see the Lord.

Does “see the Lord in the Spirit” qualify? Paul first encountered Jesus on the Damascus Roadway. The three reports of this encounter state Christ’s “appearance” was a blinding light coupled with Jesus’ voice. Paul testifies that he did not prove disobedient to the heavenly vision [emphasis added] (Acts 26:19).  Does a vision meet the standard that some require to “see the Lord” in order to be a true apostle?

If so, many could quality as modern day apostles because many men and women see the Lord in vision form.

What about the Other Appearances of Christ to Paul?

Could any of Christ’s other appearances qualify as to a time where he could say, “I see the Lord?” Christ appeared to Paul in various forms four recorded times in the Scriptures.

First, in the vision on the Damascus Road which we just examined. Next, at his first visit to Jerusalem shortly after his conversion. During this experience, Paul was “in a trance” (Acts 22:17) and did not see the Lord in the flesh.  The third appearance occurred in Corinth when the Lord spoke to Paul in the night “by a vision” (Acts 18:9-10). Christ’s last recorded appearance to Paul occurred in Jerusalem when “the Lord stood by his side” (Acts 23:11), but this took place about 59 AD or approximately eight years following the writing of I Corinthians 9:1 where Paul claims to have “seen the Lord.” Therefore, this last appearance could not be what Paul was referring to as a time where he could say, “I see the Lord.”

What does the Scripture say?

“Have I not seen Jesus our Lord?” (I Cor 9:1). Here Paul asks a question. It is not a statement of who is an apostle and who is not. Can a question be turned into a qualification? Certainly, to “see the Lord” can add credibility to life. But to use a question to make a definite requirement that one must see the Lord in order to be an authentic apostle is not solid exegesis.

My Conclusions

Others may disagree, and Jesus will straighten us all out when we get to heaven, but here are my conclusions.

First, one questionable verse in the Bible can not and should not be used to determine the doctrine or definition of apostleship. It’s neither hermeneutically nor exegetically sound. Go to What is an apostle? to examine the definition of a true apostle.

Second, Paul himself states Christ’s appearance to him on the Damascus Road was a vision. If a vision qualifies, the basis for apostleship is rather low. In the days of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, many–even children, will prophecy and see visions (Acts 2:17).

Third, about half the apostles mentioned in Scripture could not have seen the Lord Jesus in the flesh. They are named apostles, yet did not see the lord; therefore the “requirement” which some maintain is necessary to be a true apostle is no requirement at all. Rather, Paul’s use of the phrase “see the Lord” is a rhetorical question meant to bolster his standing in the eyes of his hearers.

I have written a report many find fascinating. It’s entitled “How Many Apostles are Mentioned in the NT–Twelve or Twenty-five?” Get your copy by signing up on the sidebar for weekly goodies in your inbox every Wednesday morning.

If you’re really wanting to go into depth, here’s an eye-opening book about apostles. Check out Local Churches Global Apostles.

In this book you will find more info about ancient and modern day apostles and the Biblical patterns for church and apostle relations. Included are case studies of every church in the New Testament. Many ministers have written positive endorsements. Here are a couple.

This is a book written by a seasoned, wise, surrendered follower and minister of Christ.  It not only broadens our understanding and appreciation of apostolic ministry, it presents a powerful encouragement to grow and develop current and future apostolic ministers who will serve and relate to the church in ways that help care for and build Her His way.   Ben Goodman, Lewiston Idaho


A remarkable and refreshing view of New Testament apostles and their relationships with churches of their time.  A valuable resource book.

Ivan Sagal
Church planter, missionary and intercessor

I also recommend the book by C. Peter Wagner entitled Spheres of  Authority which is sold on Amazon.com.

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Filed Under: Local Churches Global Apostles, Ministry

B Mark Anderson, My Hero, My Dad

December 3, 2013 by Leave a Comment
B Mark Anderson

B Mark Anderson, M. Div

 

“B Mark Anderson, My Hero, My Dad” is a guest post submitted by John Erik Anderson. John Erik Anderson is an officer in the U.S. Army and a veteran of the Afghan war.

 

For as long as I can remember, my family has had the Thanksgiving tradition that each of us dress up as a mysterious character to act out while we sit down for our evening feast.

 

A lot of thought goes into to the characters we choose, ranging from historical or fictitious figures to the purely abstract. One memorable year comes to mind when my mother portrayed Agatha Christie’s Hercules Periot, while my sister Sarah played Lt. Col. George Custer, dressed as a cavalry officer with a music stand. She had to explain the prop as her “last stand” before we finally guessed who she was.

Who I’m Most Thankful for: My Father, B Mark Anderson

But this year when I come home after three years of serving in Germany and Afghanistan, choosing my character is easy. I’m going to be the man I’m most thankful for: My father, B Mark Anderson of Muscatine.

B Mark Anderson: No Stranger to Near-Death Experiences

Over his 70 plus years of vibrant life, Dad has been no stranger to near-death experiences and truly embodies the meaning of the word “survivor.” This is why when he told me last October that he was diagnosed with a severe form of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (a cancer of the lymph tissue), that he was going to fight to survive just like every other time in his life.

With a biography that reads like a character out of a Wes Anderson film, by the age of two my dad had survived hernia surgery, a severe fall from a barn, and was nearly trampled to death by a loose team of horses. As a senior in high school, he contracted blood poisoning and still has the scars to prove it. As a track star at Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Wash., he survived a serious bout of Typhoid fever that nearly killed him.

While working on bridge construction over the turbulent Clackamas River in northwestern Oregon, he was nearly drowned by summer rapids. After college, Dad volunteered as a missionary in Mexico where he miraculously walked away unscathed from a violent plane crash.

Upon moving to Muscatine and having seven children with my mom Kari, calamity still followed him. The infamous floods of 1993 very nearly destroyed our home that he had built near the Mississippi, and was forced to move. A few years later a violent tornado ripped through our farm and damaged much of the house.

B Mark Anderson Fights Cancer

Then in October 2012 he was diagnosed with cancer, yet never once gave up his will to fight and survive. Despite this crippling illness, my dad is a man that takes every breath of fresh air from God as a gift, and makes the most of it. He remains as active as he can, speaking and writing whenever possible and even publishing his own book on early Christian churches and apostles. (Grab a copy of Local Churches Global Apostles. It’s an inspirational read and tells you (almost) everything you ever wanted to know about churches and apostles–both early Christian and modern day.)

B Mark Anderson, My Hero and My Dad, Never Buckles

When so many others choose to give up, my dad stays in the fight. Be it blood poisoning, a natural disaster, plane crash, or even the painful destruction of cancer, Dad has stood firm. Never buckling, never taking the easy road, and never forgetting those less fortunate.

Despite the terrible ravages of chemical therapy that twists one beyond recognition, nothing will ever change my vision of Dad as a fighter, tall and lanky with sharp eyes and perfect silvery hair out chopping firewood in the rain.

He will always be my hero, and for that I am thankful. Learn more about my Dad–go to Who is this B Mark Anderson anyway?

This guest post first appeared in the Muscatine Journal.

Filed Under: Local Churches Global Apostles, Ministry

What’s an Apostle? Jim McCracken Interview

November 26, 2013 by 1 Comment
What is an Apostle?

What is an Apostle? B Mark Anderson Interviews Jim McCracken

What’s an apostle?

What’a an Apostle? Jim McCracken is a Modern Day Example

Since there is so much confusion about the subject, I decided to interview Jim McCracken, leader of True Bridge–a Family of Churches. Jim is recognized by many as a true modern day apostle.

I have known Jim since he was a senior in high school. At that time he impressed me with his knowledge, his maturity, his sincere dedication to Christ, and his leadership ability. He was and is remarkable fellow.

Today Jim shows the qualities of a genuine apostle. He is a soft-spoken,  gentle man yet clear and uncompromising in this convictions. He is thoughtful and considers his words before he speaks. Jim is a peacemaker, yet ready to lead with a strong hand when needed. Obviously, he’s an excellent leader for the True Bridge family of churches.

Jim and his wife Mary live in the Minneapolis area.

Why Ask “What is an Apostle?

To participate in the full blessings of God we need to be clear about what is an apostle. Apostles open up new vistas for believers. They can release a person into new ministry, and they act as catalysts and funnels for Christ and His works. The apostle Paul chose to continue living in order to bring “progress and joy in the faith” to people (Phil 1:25).

Some honest seekers are still wondering if there can by such a thing as an apostle in the twenty-first century. The question, “What is an apostle? is a sincere quest for these folks. Some have been taught that all apostles died with Peter and Paul. Others see no need for apostles today.  Yet this is one of the 5 fold ministry gifts given by Christ after He ascended into heaven.

What is an Apostle? A Definition

“An apostle is a Christian leader called and supernaturally gifted by God to open new spiritual and geographical territory for the gospel, lay foundations, equip believers, and serve as catalyst and coordinator for churches and ministries.”

What is an apostle?

You can learn more by going to www.churchesandapostles.com and grabbing a copy of my book.  See what others are saying about Local Churches Global Apostles: How Churches Related to Apostles in the New Testament Era and Why It Matters Now.

Local Churches Global Apostles

Local Churches Global Apostles

“Anderson connects with leaders everywhere by taking us from his personal hurt in a critical relationship to a focused and thorough search of the N.T. Good things are afoot. Anderson has put an important piece of the puzzle on the table for us. Easy to access.”

“Anderson has served the kingdom well by his remarkably thorough examination of the biblical data regarding churches and apostles.” — Jerry Daley. (Daley is a church planter who many recognize as a modern-day apostle.)

To keep abreast of some of the fascinating developments regarding apostles and “chicken evangelism” subscribe to BMarkAnderson.com. You will receive goodies in your inbox every Wednesday morning at 7 AM.

Filed Under: Local Churches Global Apostles, Ministry

What is an Apostle?

November 19, 2013 by 7 Comments
What is an Apostle?

What is an Apostle?

What is an Apostle?

What is an apostle? This post offers and discusses several definitions. It also addresses the all-important issue of character as it relates to the gift and calling of apostolic service. By reading this you will come away with a greater understanding and appreciation of the God-given apostolic ministry.

How do we find a definition of what is an apostle? The Scriptures are the only way. With the emergence of modern day apostles there’s a lot of confusion in some peoples minds. Some well-meaning Christians don’t recognize any apostles except the twelve originals in the Bible. However, there may be as many as 25 apostles mentioned in the Bible.

What is an Apostle?

In a generic sense, an apostle is a “sent one” or “one sent on a mission.” The Greek word is apostolos. In a generic sense all Christians are “sent out on a mission”. In that sense we are all apostles!

In a technical sense the term refers to the person who functions in the five fold ministry or office of apostle. That’s what we are talking about here.

A common approach is to define apostle as “a pastor to pastors”. Since we all know what a pastor is, this simple definition is helpful. Sneak a peek at our 55 second video interview with Sonny Mizar, a modern day apostle, as he responds to the question, “What is an apostle?”

I’ve both studied the Scriptures and worked with apostles for over fifty years. Here’s my definition:

“An apostle is a Christian leader called and supernaturally gifted by God to open new spiritual or geographical territory for the gospel, lay foundations, equip believers, and serve as catalyst and coordinator for churches and ministries.”

My definition includes the phrase “open new spiritual or geographical territory.” I’m not aware of any other definition like it. I include it because I see it both in the Bible and in modern day apostles. Paul and his crew of Timothy, Silvanus, and other men were first to preach in Macedonia, Achaia (southern Greece), and beyond. Peter opened the gospel to Cornelius and through him to the all Gentiles.

I’m not saying my definition is perfect or complete. If you can improve it, go ahead. Please write out your definition of  “What is an  apostle?” and send it to me. (Maybe I can include it here.) My words are not written in marble; rather, I’m attempting to identify the essential elements of a Biblical and modern day apostle.

Must an Apostle “See the Lord?”

In times past, many have bought into the idea that one must see the Lord in order to be recognized as a genuine apostle. Is this idea valid? I maintain Paul is not an apostle because he saw the Lord, rather he saw the Lord, and he was also an apostle. Click here to find a fuller discussion of the question.

Today I found a website from Australia that teaches the same as I in regard to the question “Must an apostle see the Lord? Although I do not know John Alley, the apostle and founder of Peace Ministries, the ministry seems sound to me at this point in time.

What is an Apostle? According to Dr. C. Peter Wagner

I highly recommend Dr. C. Peter Wagner and his 2002 book Spheres of Authority: Apostles in Today’s Church. The book is well written and easy to understand. He uses plain English and eliminates technical theological jargon. You can order on Amazon.   He is certainly a forward thinker and prolific author regarding apostles. In Spheres of Authority Wagner offers the following definition:

“An apostle is a Christian leader, gifted, taught, commissioned and sent by God with the authority to establish the foundational government of the church within an assigned sphere of ministry by hearing what the Spirit is saying to the churches and by setting things in order accordingly for the growth and maturity of the church.”

Wagner’s definition is thorough although somewhat cumbersome. He emphasizes “spheres of authority” (some “spheres” in the church and some in the marketplace) and is well worth listening to.

What is an Apostle? According to David Cannistraci.

David Cannistraci offers this definition in his 1996 book Apostles and the Emerging Apostolic Movement: “An apostle is one who [is] called and sent by Christ to have the spiritual authority, character, gifts and abilities to successfully reach and establish people in Kingdom truth and order, especially through founding and overseeing local churches.”

To understand “what is an apostle?” we need to differentiate between a person’s gift (or calling) and character. Both Wagner and Cannistraci make the point that in order to sustain an effective apostolic ministry a person must have extraordinary character. I heartily agree. Yet I know men who are genuinely called and gifted as apostles but have not yet developed some important character traits such as humility and patience.

These men are truly gifted by God as apostles but lack His character. These men should not be commissioned or sent out by churches, presbyteries, or peer groups until character flaws are corrected. Again, they have the gifting but not the character. It’s the same for pastors; some have the calling, yet lack certain character qualities. But that doesn’t mean they are not pastors. It only means they are not very good pastors!

Wagner writes on page 37 of Spheres of Authority, “Above all other signs, character is the sine qui non of apostolic ministry.” In the same section, Dr. Wagner asserts, “A person cannot be a true apostle without extraordinary character.”

I know a man in Africa who plants churches, coordinates ministries, opens new territory for the gospel and does all the work of an apostle. But he tends to be a dictator and lords it over co-workers. He needs to be accountable to other men in the five fold ministry to remedy his character flaw, to develop healthy churches, and to sustain a God-pleasing ministry.

What is an apostle? You can learn more by going to www.churchesandapostles.com and grabbing a copy of my book.  Here’s what others are saying about Local Churches Global Apostles: How Churches Related to Apostles in the New Testament Era and Why It Matters Now.

“Anderson connects with leaders everywhere by taking us from his personal hurt in a critical relationship to a focused and thorough search of the N.T. Good things are afoot. Anderson has put an important piece of the puzzle on the table for us. Easy to access.”

“Anderson has served the kingdom well by his remarkably thorough examination of the biblical data regarding churches and apostles.” — Jerry Daley. (Daley is a church planter who many recognize as a modern-day apostle.)

I couldn’t put the book down when I got started so stayed up late last night to finish it.   I . . . thoroughly enjoyed it. Very well researched relationships between the apostolic and the New Testament Churches.  Bernie Wing, pastor

 

Local Churches Global Apostles

Local Churches Global Apostles

 

You can also order at Amazon.com.

 

 

Filed Under: Local Churches Global Apostles, Ministry

Chicken Evangelism Makes Disciples

November 12, 2013 by 13 Comments
Chicken Evangelism Makes Disciples

Chicken Evangelism Makes Disciples

 

Chicken Evangelism Makes disciples

Chicken Evangelism makes disciples. It’s an adventure. It’s fun. It’s personal evangelism that crushes fear by “sharing Christ before you chicken out!”

What is Chicken Evangelism and Why Does It Work?

Chicken Evangelism (Share Christ before You Chicken Out) is based on Jesus’ words to His disciples in John 4:35, “Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look on the fields, that they are white for harvest.” Christ maintains some folks are ready to receive Him as Savior right now. They just need to be shown how.

Chicken Evangelism—Get a Vision for the Lost

I have taken Christ at His word. He has helped me ask a crucial question of people, often on our first encounter. “Have you received Jesus Christ into your life?” The responses have amazed me and many others. Here’s the story of how a college age man received Christ as Savior a few minutes after we met.  Gas station attendant receives Christ.

Chicken Evangelism—Make Disciples

Chicken evangelism (Bring up Christ before you chicken out) is sometimes criticized by those who’ve never tried it for “making decisions, not disciples.” All I can say is, “Pardon me, your slip is showing!” Let’s examine this criticism under the microscope.

While it is true that chicken evangelism does not always lead to discipleship (and the same can be said of any form of evangelism), consider the case of Dave Kerr. The first or second time I met Dave I asked him, “Have you received Christ Jesus into your life?” He answered that he had a different way of looking at things. Yet as time progressed, Dave changed. He became the leader of our  group for men and served faithfully for many years.

Or consider Flynn Collier. When I first approached Flynn with the question, “Have you received Jesus Christ into your life?” He didn’t  want to talk and said so in no uncertain terms. But God used the question to stir his mind. Two weeks later Flynn showed up at church uninvited. He has rarely missed a Sunday since! He connected with Christ through the apostles creed, “I believe in Jesus Christ His only Son, our Lord.” Now Flynn hears God’s voice and is an example of obedience to God for all to see. We call him Flynn “Fantastic” Collier.

Then there’s the lady in our church who asked a sales clerk “Do you have Jesus in your heart?” She challenged him to receive Christ on the spot, but he didn’t want to pray on the job. Yet her question left an impact. He was stirred. Immediately after work he went out to his car and prayed a prayer of salvation. As soon as he got home he told his daughter what he had done and encouraged her to do the same. She prayed a prayer of salvation and received Jesus that same night. The following week she went out and enrolled in confirmation classes at the Lutheran Church. This is discipleship at its finest. Don’t tell me chicken evangelism doesn’t make disciples!

Chicken Evangelism  “As You’re Going”

Matthew 28:19 is often written, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations,” but is perhaps best translated, “as you are going make disciples.” Or as a footnote for the NASB  translates, “Having gone (into the world).” The thought in Jesus Great Commission is that we have already gone into the world where we live, work, and do our daily activities. The beauty of Chicken Evangelism is no one has to go out of his way to share good news. Rather, as we are going shopping, buying gas, paying bills, we meet people along the way. Some of these are ready to receive Christ. Consider the cell phone sales lady.

Chicken Evangelism—Get Filled with the Holy Spirit

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth” (Acts 1:8). Although people understand this verse in various ways, we can all agree with Jesus that the fullness of he Holy Spirit is intended to help us share our faith.

Chicken Evangelism—The Bible Way to Pray for the Lost

Here’s a radical idea, and it’s altogether Biblical. Instead of praying for the lost, pray that God will open the mouths of Christians to make the gospel clear.  Paul knew this secret and often asked people to pray for him to enable him to share the gospel (Eph 6:19 and 20). “And pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in proclaiming it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.”

Chicken Evangelism—Ask the God Question Before You Chicken Out!

When some people hear about chicken evangelism, they think I am bold, but I am not. Nor am I an evangelist. I overcome fear by asking the God question early. Here’s the story of a Texas State student who received Christ. I find I have about a five minute window when I meet a new person. If I don’t ask the question within the window, I chicken out! I’m for all forms of evangelism. I support relationship evangelism, friendship evangelism, and every form of outreach. Relationship evangelism may be the best form of all. The problem is I rarely see it happening.

Chicken Evangelism–Make the Gospel Clear

This is a crucial key! 1 Cor 15:1-6  has helped me so much because it makes the gospel clear. “Now I make known to you, brethren, the gospel: Jesus Christ died for our sins. Jesus Christ rose from the dead.” We must make the good news glorious and clear. Salvation is a free gift based on Jesus death and resurrection. As soon as I started making the gospel clear, people started getting saved! Without the gospel people don’t get saved.

Chicken Evangelism–Let the Holy Spirit Lead about Follow Up

I have always taught workers to follow up on people. Yet, study the Scriptures with me. Outside of the twelve and Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, how many times did Jesus follow up on those he ministered to? The answer may surprise you. Follow up is something that must be led by the Holy Spirit.

I Invite You  . . .

This post explains what Chicken Evangelism is (bring up Christ before you chicken out!) and adds a few aspects that make it work. Go ahead, try it out–you may be surprised at how many are ready to receive Christ! And if you want to talk about it, contact me.

Filed Under: Chicken Evangelism, Ministry

Receive Christ as Savior–This Tower Worker Just Accepted Salvation

November 6, 2013 by 2 Comments

 

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Receive Christ As Savior–This Cell Tower Worker was Ready

Another man has been added to the Kingdom. To God be the glory!

Are you ready to receive Christ as Savior? Here’s more about How to do it.

The cell phone tower worker was sitting in his company owned pickup with the motor running. He was busying himself with his computer as he checked out the status of the AT&T tower. The window was open so he was easily approached.

 

“Do you ever climb these towers?” I began.

“No, and I never want to,” he explained.

 

We talked about the tower for a minute or two until I asked my “Chicken Evangelist” question.

 

“Have you ever—and this is a personal question—asked Jesus Christ into your life?”

 

The man smiled. “Oh, sometimes . . .” he answered. “Sometimes . . . ” He said it as if he were thinking about it for the distant future. (I really wanted him to be able to receive Christ as Savior. I don’t want to see anyone suffer in hell.)

He was a large man yet he began to show a child-like heart. He obviously wasn’t sure about much of anything. I could tell he was open to talk so we exchanged names.

 The Good News–Here’s How a Man Receives Christ As Savior

“I have some really good news for you, Scooter.” I proceeded to share the gospel in as simple but complete way as I could. He listened to it all. When I got to the part about faith, he admitted, “I have trouble with faith. I’m not a faith or feeling person. I go more by facts.”

Everyone Who Receives Christ Needs the Historical, Objective Gospel Facts

“Actually, I’m a believer in Christ today because of the facts. I studied to find out if Jesus Christ really rose from the dead. I investigated to find out if the Bible were true or not. I’m a believer now because of the objective, historical evidence that Jesus rose from the dead and the that the Bible is well-attested by historical fact.

 

Scooter was interested but unmoved. I could tell he wanted to settle some things about Christ and God but seemed powerless to move ahead. He tried changing the subject.

 

“I’ve thought about these things–especially the past couple of nights.” He explained that storms had kept him awake. I perceived that God was preparing him to make a decision and I told him so.

 

He delayed. “Oh, I don’t know. I don’t know….” We talked about what faith is. I explained faith as taking a risk. We don’t need to know everything before we invite Christ into our heart. If we have to know everything before we accept Him, we’ll never go ahead and receive Him because we’ll never know everything!”

 

This made sense to Scooter and he nodded his agreement.

 

“We could go one of two ways here. You could get more and more objective information or you could take a risk and receive Christ into your life and see what He will do. I sensed this man needed to take a step of faith, that more knowledge or information would only delay him.

 

“Scooter, I think you’re ready to receive Christ into your life like a little child. I’m going to leave you alone and let you talk to God on your own. Ask Christ to forgive your sins and come into your life Are you willing to pray and ask Christ Jesus to come into your life?” He answered both verbally and with a nod of his head, “Yes, I will.”

 

“Good,” I said “and if it’s OK with you I’ll take and walk and come back in a few minutes and see what’s happened.”

 

I took off, retrieved a Campus Crusade for Christ booklet and returned. Upon return he said he had prayed a prayer of invitation to receive Christ Jesus into his life!. I prayed aloud that God would seal the work He had done. I gave Scooter the booklet and told him it had meant a lot to me.

 

We chatted briefly. Then out of the blue he said, “Things are going better for me. I’ve lost seventy-five pounds in the last 3 months!” Of course, I congratulated him on that achievement and asked how he did it. We talked some more. I invited him to church, any Bible believing church, since he lived out of town. We both shared how much we had enjoyed talking together and expressed hope to meet again in the future.

 

NOTES: It never ceases to amaze me how witnessing builds friendships. Invariably after talking with someone who receives Christ (or even talking about Christ with a stranger whether they receive Him or not), people open up and share personal things about themselves. Scooter wanted to let me know he lost 75 pounds! He trusted me with a joy of his life. Many men will share life’s woes with a stranger but men tend to share life’s joys only with a friend.

 

What do you think about the fact that God had been preparing this guy by keeping him awake through storms? “I’ve thought about these things–especially the past couple of nights.”  If we are witnessing with someone, we can be confident God has prepared them to receive.

 

Here’s another take on Chicken Evangelism (sharing Christ before you chicken out). Everyone wants to have good relationships. We think we need to build a relationship with someone before we witness our faith in Christ to them. Some folks pray for years for a friend and then try to add Christ to the relationship. That’s backwards. Share Christ first and then you’ll have a friend.

Filed Under: Chicken Evangelism, Ministry

Evangelism Undresses the Heart

October 23, 2013 by 4 Comments

evangelism undresses the heart

Evangelism is the tenderest of things. The evangelistic relationship is so personal, so fragile that many devoted Christians are afraid to try. Evangelism undresses the heart.

Yes, ‘tis true, the gospel presentation involves objective historical facts, e.g., Jesus Christ died for our sins, Jesus Christ rose from the dead. Beyond the facts, however, true evangelism uncovers the barest emotions of the heart. Evangelism is one heart speaking with another heart.

Personal evangelism is just that—very personal. The soul-winner takes the wraps off his heart in hope the next person will unveil his own.

When anyone witnesses to another he reveals himself. The Greek word for witness is martyr, e.g., one who suffers or is killed for his faith. The witness opens his life and lays it down in front of another. He is no longer protecting himself, but rather revealing his intimate relationship with the Lord Jesus to another person. He is willing to openly show who he is, what he believes, who he loves, and who he is willing to suffer or die for. He knows that he may be rejected, mocked, or ridiculed, yet he plunges ahead with the most personal element of life—his faith and love toward God.

Inherent in the gospel presentation (“Jesus did for our sins”) is the acknowledgement “I am a sinner, saved by grace.” To witness means we reveal ourselves, maybe more than we wish. To witness means to open up to another person a hidden part of ourselves that may be very private. When we say, “I’ve invited Jesus into my heart,” or “I love God” or “My sins are forgiven through the blood of Christ,” we are confessing very personal things about our lives.

Evangelism is delicate, tender and revealing. It cannot be otherwise. Soul-winning may open up old hurts and tell how we got the scars. In the recipient, it often evokes the same.

My wife, being sensitive to the Holy Spirit, will sometimes ask a stranger, “What could I pray for you?” This simple question has prompted ladies to open up or emotionally melt—even burst into tears.  Sometimes evangelism cries and weeps, not restraining the tears.

Of course, not every conversation releases all these emotions. The soul-winner pours out his breaking heart in intercession before he ever meets the one with whom he shares his faith. The heart of a soul-winner cries out to God like Praying John Hyde of India, “Give me souls, or I die!” Then in conversation with a hungry heart, distilled love is poured out in a cascade of truth and emotion on a receiving man or woman, boy or girl.

People need closure. To bring issues to the surface and then leave a person spiritually or emotionally dangling demonstrates immaturity or ineptness on the part of the witness. The Holy Spirit will often prompt a soul-winner to pray gently with a needy person for salvation or healing.

But that’s a topic for another day. For now, let’s humble ourselves. Let’s be willing to take off our protective layers and gently bare our souls in front of some who hurt.

 

Filed Under: Chicken Evangelism, Ministry

Apostles Open New Territory

October 16, 2013 by 4 Comments
Apostles Open Doors to New Territory

Apostles Open Doors to New Territory

 How Can Apostles Help Churches?

“An apostle is a Christian leader called and supernaturally gifted by God to open new spiritual and geographical territory for the gospel, lay foundations, equip believers, and serve as catalyst and coordinator for churches and ministries.”

Notice, apostles are those who open new spiritual . . . territory for the gospel.”  Click here to find a fuller explanation of apostle. We are speaking here of modern day apostles as well as those closer to the time of the Apostles Creed.

So how do apostles open up new territory? And what is new territory?

One example is evangelism. Evangelism is not new, of course, but almost non-existent in the lives of most Christians. Five percent or less of all church members share their faith with non-believers. Frankly, evangelism needs to become “new” to the church.

Another prime example  of new territory is the ability for believers to hear God’s voice. Many Christians still doubt that God talks to them or if He does, they don’t hear. Let’s look more closely.

The study of a matter is termed “ology.” When “ology” is coupled with a noun we often find a specific category for study or investigation. For example, the study of the church is ecclesiology, from ekklesia (the Greek word for church). The study of the Holy Spirit is pneumatology, from pneuma (the Greek word for spirit). The study of living things is zoology, from zoe (the Greek word for living things).

The Greek word for “hearing” is akouw. I propose a field of study called “akouology,” the study of hearing and following the voice of God. The Bible says, “My sheep hear My voice” (John 10:27).  God expects every believer to hear Him in some way or another.

What follows is a PROPOSED INTRODUCTION to akouolgy, the study of hearing God and doing what He says.

God speaks primarily through the Bible. Other ways God speaks are through people, prophecy, dreams, visions, trances, circumstances, finances, impressions, nature, angels, etc.

All extra-Biblical speech should be tested by Scripture; no word from God will contradict the Bible.

God talks a lot (John 16:13-17). Some people call Him a “chatterbox.” His speech often focuses on natural, small, seemingly unimportant, or mundane matters.

We can and should all learn to hear God’s voice. This requires practice and experimentation.

Hearing from God may not mean “voice” of even words; rather, feeling, motivation, “whispers”, slight impressions, strange coincidences, etc. may all be a part of God’s voice.

God has chosen to speak in symbols, parables, puzzles, etc. He wants us to seek Him for meaning and interpretation.

God gives dreams (Acts 2:17, Matt 2:12, 19, Numbers 12:6, Job 33:14-18).

Not all dreams are from God (Eccles 5:3, 7).

The initial response to dreams is generally meditation and intercession (Dan 7:2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 13).

God’s voice, i.e., dreams and visions, etc. precipitate faith (Roma 10:17) and require a faith response. His rhema words are not automatically fulfilled but depend on our faith and obedience.

Dreams, like prophecy, are only one part of a larger picture (1 Cor 13: 9)

Don’t “marry” your dream or vision. Things often turn our somewhat differently than expected (Compare Acts 16:9 with Acts 16:13).

Don’t “bury” your word from God. Some words are multi-generational in fulfillment (Gen 12:7). Some words require “death of a vision” before completion (Gen 22).

There are many different types of dreams, e.g. healing, self-help, telling the future, warning, confirming, etc.

When a word form God involves a major decision or a group of people, there should be confirmation.

God speaks to unbelievers as well as believers (Dan 4:4-5).

Speaking in tongues and personal prayer requests can precipitate God’s voice (1 Cor. 2:9ff)

To ignore God’s voice involves consequences (Heb 3:7-19).

Conclusion: Apostles Need to Open Up the Study of Akouolgy in Churches Today

What I have written is a proposed introduction to the study of hearing and acting on God’s voice. I’m calling it akouology and suggest this is an area of utmost importance for believers and the church of God in general. If the church on earth is be what God called us to be, we must learn to hear God and do what He says. This is what it means to be the church.

Apostles and prophets need to advance this study– akouology, hearing God and doing what He says–in order to liberate the churches and people they influence.

For an extensive study of how churches related to apostles in the New Testament era, get a copy of my book Local Churches Global Apostles.

 

Filed Under: Local Churches Global Apostles, Ministry