This Sunday we will be going back to our 4 service schedule. We gave all of our staff and volunteers an 8 week break for summer.
People ask me all the time, how do you preach 4 times in one day? Don't you get tired? Well, the answer is, sometimes you just do what you've got to do. When we started Foothills we said that we would do whatever it took to reach people for Christ in this area. God has blessed us and our building kept getting filled up, so we kept adding services, so for this season we will continue to do 4 services. but the answer to the second question is YES, I do get tired. This may not make sense unless you are a Pastor that speaks every week, but delivering a message drains you physically, and emotionally more than anything I know of. I must admit though, the most difficult service I speak at is the 6:00pm service. Mainly because I have already spoken three times that day. I get home at 1:30 or 2:00pm, grab some lunch and then I just kind of hang out and wait for 4:45 so I can head back to the church. It is during that couple of hours that I am home that I really start to feel it.
I am definitely looking forward to getting in the new building so that we can get back to something a little more doable, like 2 or 3 services on Sunday.
In the meantime, if you are currently attending the 9:45 or 11:15 service and you can switch to the 8:30am or 6:00pm service that would really help free up more seats during those prime times. We are still in summer and last week both the 9:45am and 11:15am were at 85% capacity. It's a fact that guests feel uncomfortable when they feel too cramped for space.
Friday, August 03, 2007
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
Creative team retreat
This week we had a mini-retreat for our creative team. It was great getting together and spending time with them. There is so much that goes into trying to create engaging services. When I left the meeting, I was drained.
In this meeting we were able to finalize sermon series ideas for the next 6 months. There are a few details that we will still need to nail down, but overall it was very productive. It feels so good to get ahead.
Let me try to explain why these meetings are so important. First of all, it gives the entire service a theme. I have been to church services that seemed obvious that there was no communication between the person leading the worship and the person delivering the message. The stage didn't reflect any particular theme, nor did the bulletins. Basically it was left up to the person sitting in the congregation to try to connect the pieces. I'm sure most people would leave the service with more questions than answers.
By spending the time to sit down with a team of people and hashing out creative elements to the service, it helps take the person in the congreagtaion on a journey that has some common thread. This allows them to stay engaged during the whole service.
I can't wait to share these new series, but I can't let the cat out of the bag. Just make sure you don't miss a Sunday!
In this meeting we were able to finalize sermon series ideas for the next 6 months. There are a few details that we will still need to nail down, but overall it was very productive. It feels so good to get ahead.
Let me try to explain why these meetings are so important. First of all, it gives the entire service a theme. I have been to church services that seemed obvious that there was no communication between the person leading the worship and the person delivering the message. The stage didn't reflect any particular theme, nor did the bulletins. Basically it was left up to the person sitting in the congregation to try to connect the pieces. I'm sure most people would leave the service with more questions than answers.
By spending the time to sit down with a team of people and hashing out creative elements to the service, it helps take the person in the congreagtaion on a journey that has some common thread. This allows them to stay engaged during the whole service.
I can't wait to share these new series, but I can't let the cat out of the bag. Just make sure you don't miss a Sunday!
Monday, July 30, 2007
Students
One of the things that I am really impressed with here at Foothills is our student ministry. We have a great leader in Scott Chatfield, we have great adult volunteers, but I must say, we have the greatest bunch of teenagers I have ever been around!
Many of those teens just got back from Bigstuf camp in Panama City. They had an incredible time. God touched many of their lives, in fact 17 of them were baptized in the ocean in Panama City! (That means we have baptized over 170 people since April!!!!) A couple of them came up to me and shared with me that they had been baptized. They were so excited. And I am excited and proud of them.
They also won the Ultimate Frisbee and the Volleyball competitions. Way to go!
If you think about it, pray for all of our students as the head back to school in a couple of weeks.
Many of those teens just got back from Bigstuf camp in Panama City. They had an incredible time. God touched many of their lives, in fact 17 of them were baptized in the ocean in Panama City! (That means we have baptized over 170 people since April!!!!) A couple of them came up to me and shared with me that they had been baptized. They were so excited. And I am excited and proud of them.
They also won the Ultimate Frisbee and the Volleyball competitions. Way to go!
If you think about it, pray for all of our students as the head back to school in a couple of weeks.
Friday, July 27, 2007
finally!
Most of you know that we have had a major struggle with the permitting of our new facility. There have been delays that were totally unforseen. I suppose that is the nature of constructing a large facility.
I've got good news! It seems that everything has been ironed out and we are moving forward once again. Yesterday we had concrete trucks pour the pads for the perimeter supports for the new building, which means it won't be long before we see things moving vertically.
It can't come to soon. Our attendance through the summer has been amazing! There have been Sundays at the 11:15 am service that we have had to bring in metal folding chairs so everyone could get a seat.
I wanted to remind you that on August 5th we will resume our 6:00pm service, so there will be 4 different service times to choose from (8:30am, 9:45am, 11:15am, and 6:00pm)
Buckle up your seatbelts because when school gets back in it is going to be crazy!!
I've got good news! It seems that everything has been ironed out and we are moving forward once again. Yesterday we had concrete trucks pour the pads for the perimeter supports for the new building, which means it won't be long before we see things moving vertically.
It can't come to soon. Our attendance through the summer has been amazing! There have been Sundays at the 11:15 am service that we have had to bring in metal folding chairs so everyone could get a seat.
I wanted to remind you that on August 5th we will resume our 6:00pm service, so there will be 4 different service times to choose from (8:30am, 9:45am, 11:15am, and 6:00pm)
Buckle up your seatbelts because when school gets back in it is going to be crazy!!
Thursday, July 26, 2007
words of wisdom -- part 3
Another thing I tell new church planters to make sure of, is taking your time when it comes to choosing who will be in leadership positions.
New churches have a way of attracting people who are looking to become a big fish in a small pond.
You must take time to get to know people before you invite them to become leaders. They must walk with God on a daily basis. They must share the values of your church. They must love you and have your back. They must be totally unselfish. They must be servants.
When I have people who come in and want me to fast-track them into a leadership position, I generally say something like, "would you be available to help sweep a floor or clean a bathroom?" If they look at me with that "you must be kidding. How could you expect someone as talented as myself to do something so menial?" look, I won't consider them for leadership.
Don't be in a rush to annoint someone as a leader. Take your time, and God will bring the right people.
New churches have a way of attracting people who are looking to become a big fish in a small pond.
You must take time to get to know people before you invite them to become leaders. They must walk with God on a daily basis. They must share the values of your church. They must love you and have your back. They must be totally unselfish. They must be servants.
When I have people who come in and want me to fast-track them into a leadership position, I generally say something like, "would you be available to help sweep a floor or clean a bathroom?" If they look at me with that "you must be kidding. How could you expect someone as talented as myself to do something so menial?" look, I won't consider them for leadership.
Don't be in a rush to annoint someone as a leader. Take your time, and God will bring the right people.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
words of wisdom --part 2
I'm often asked what I would do differently if I were starting Foothills over again. My first answer is always, "I would start with a larger core group." I think I would try to build a core of at least 50 people before launching.
Statistically speaking I have read that churches that have core groups of less than 50 people will rarely ever make it to the 200 level.
I remember 9 years ago when we started with our core group of 17, and held our first service. It was great 70 people showed up! We were ecstatic. The problem was that the next week we had 38, and then 32 , and one Sunday after about 4 or 5 weeks our attendance was about 25 people.
I was discouraged personally, but what I was really worried about were the people in that core group. I was afraid that they would be ready to bail out. I remember after that service, gathering everyone together and giving the best motivational speech I have ever given. I told them that God was at work, that next week there would be more people, that this was really going to work. That we just needed to trust God.
I'll never forget all of them looking at me and saying, "Hey, you don't have to worry about us, we're not going anywhere. You can save your speech"
After that Sunday we began to grow. Literally week after week, we would set attendance records. That was definitely our turning point.
Thinking back on those early days, I'm not sure how we ever retained any of our first-time guests. It must have been extremely intimidating for guests to walk into a service where there were 30 people. Had we built a larger core we would have been able to have critical mass, even when there were very few guests.
Another reason that it's good to have a larger group is for logistical reasons. You need people to serve. You need people to set up and tear down every week, serve in the children's areas, greet, play in the band, sing, hand out bulletins, follow-up with guests, etc.
Then there's the financial side of the equation. It's very expensive to start a new church. There are a lot of expenditures that you have to make for the first time. like letterhead, envelopes, logos, bulletins. There is a ton of expensive sound equipment, and trailers to haul it, and a million other little things that you don't think of.
Yes, Foothills has defied the odds. I was forttunate to have people who surrounded me in that core group who had tremendous faith, and were willing to do whatever it took to reach people.
But if you are thinking about starting a new church, do yourself a favor, spend the time to build a bigger core group.
Statistically speaking I have read that churches that have core groups of less than 50 people will rarely ever make it to the 200 level.
I remember 9 years ago when we started with our core group of 17, and held our first service. It was great 70 people showed up! We were ecstatic. The problem was that the next week we had 38, and then 32 , and one Sunday after about 4 or 5 weeks our attendance was about 25 people.
I was discouraged personally, but what I was really worried about were the people in that core group. I was afraid that they would be ready to bail out. I remember after that service, gathering everyone together and giving the best motivational speech I have ever given. I told them that God was at work, that next week there would be more people, that this was really going to work. That we just needed to trust God.
I'll never forget all of them looking at me and saying, "Hey, you don't have to worry about us, we're not going anywhere. You can save your speech"
After that Sunday we began to grow. Literally week after week, we would set attendance records. That was definitely our turning point.
Thinking back on those early days, I'm not sure how we ever retained any of our first-time guests. It must have been extremely intimidating for guests to walk into a service where there were 30 people. Had we built a larger core we would have been able to have critical mass, even when there were very few guests.
Another reason that it's good to have a larger group is for logistical reasons. You need people to serve. You need people to set up and tear down every week, serve in the children's areas, greet, play in the band, sing, hand out bulletins, follow-up with guests, etc.
Then there's the financial side of the equation. It's very expensive to start a new church. There are a lot of expenditures that you have to make for the first time. like letterhead, envelopes, logos, bulletins. There is a ton of expensive sound equipment, and trailers to haul it, and a million other little things that you don't think of.
Yes, Foothills has defied the odds. I was forttunate to have people who surrounded me in that core group who had tremendous faith, and were willing to do whatever it took to reach people.
But if you are thinking about starting a new church, do yourself a favor, spend the time to build a bigger core group.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
church planting words of wisdom
Many times I meet with church planters, and soon to be church planters. It is a great joy to be able to pass along some of what I have learned over the last 9 years.
Actually my first exposure to church planting came in about 1993. At that time I was a member of a great church that was reaching many people for Christ. This church was very special to me because I was saved there, baptized there and married there. I was actively involved, serving in many capacities. (I was not on staff. I was still in business at this point.) This church was about a 30 minute drive from where I lived. One day the Pastor approached me and asked if me and my wife would be interested in helping begin a new church in our community (Jupiter Farms)
Our first response was "no", but we agreed to pray about it.
After wrestling with God about it, we reluctantly agreed. Our first meeting was in our living room with a very small core group. We eventually "officially" began and started meeting in an elementary school. Keep in mind, I was not on staff, but nonetheless got an up close and personal picture of church planting. I learned aot about what to do and even more about what NOT to do! I am proud to see how God is using that church (Church in the Farms) to impact the Jupiter Florida area. If you would like to know more about that church you can click here.
When we moved to Seneca, South Carolina in the summer of 1996 we didn't think we would ever be involved in beginning a new church again. We actually moved here to start a new business, which we did, but after 6 months I felt God's call to ministry, so I began to take some seminary classes. It was obvious to me that with my background of starting businesses and being involved in the church plant in Florida, that church planting was in my DNA.
I won't bore you with the details, but we launched Foothills Community Church in April of 1998. It has been such an incredible journey!
As I mentioned in the beginning of this blog, I meet many church planters who want to know what to expect, so I thought that i would devote a couple of days to pass along a little bit of what I've learned along the way, as well as some things that I would do differently if I was starting over.
Today I want to leave you with one thing.---- Church Planting Is The Hardest Thing You Wll Ever Do!
That's it. It's hard! That's why so few actually make it.
To those who have never done it, it looks easy. It looks glamorous.---It's not.
It is fun. it's exhilirating. It's the greatest adventure you will ever have. But it's not easy!
Many guys want to plant a church for all the wrong reasons (that's another topic for another day) They read about churches like Northpoint, NewSpring, Elevation or even Foothills, and think "man that's a great job. Just prepare a message and stand up in front of thousands of people and deliver it."
What you don't see is all of the blood, sweat and tears that have gone into laying the foundation of that church. When everyone else leaves for the day, the one who carries the burden of that church is that Lead Pastor. No one, no matter how committed, carries the responsibility like that Lead Pastor. If that church closed down tomorrow, everyone else would find a new church, but for that Pastor he would grieve as if he lost a loved one.
So if you are an aspiring church planter, that's cool, but just be ready to pour yourself into that role. It is not a job. It is an absolute calling! Go for it!
Actually my first exposure to church planting came in about 1993. At that time I was a member of a great church that was reaching many people for Christ. This church was very special to me because I was saved there, baptized there and married there. I was actively involved, serving in many capacities. (I was not on staff. I was still in business at this point.) This church was about a 30 minute drive from where I lived. One day the Pastor approached me and asked if me and my wife would be interested in helping begin a new church in our community (Jupiter Farms)
Our first response was "no", but we agreed to pray about it.
After wrestling with God about it, we reluctantly agreed. Our first meeting was in our living room with a very small core group. We eventually "officially" began and started meeting in an elementary school. Keep in mind, I was not on staff, but nonetheless got an up close and personal picture of church planting. I learned aot about what to do and even more about what NOT to do! I am proud to see how God is using that church (Church in the Farms) to impact the Jupiter Florida area. If you would like to know more about that church you can click here.
When we moved to Seneca, South Carolina in the summer of 1996 we didn't think we would ever be involved in beginning a new church again. We actually moved here to start a new business, which we did, but after 6 months I felt God's call to ministry, so I began to take some seminary classes. It was obvious to me that with my background of starting businesses and being involved in the church plant in Florida, that church planting was in my DNA.
I won't bore you with the details, but we launched Foothills Community Church in April of 1998. It has been such an incredible journey!
As I mentioned in the beginning of this blog, I meet many church planters who want to know what to expect, so I thought that i would devote a couple of days to pass along a little bit of what I've learned along the way, as well as some things that I would do differently if I was starting over.
Today I want to leave you with one thing.---- Church Planting Is The Hardest Thing You Wll Ever Do!
That's it. It's hard! That's why so few actually make it.
To those who have never done it, it looks easy. It looks glamorous.---It's not.
It is fun. it's exhilirating. It's the greatest adventure you will ever have. But it's not easy!
Many guys want to plant a church for all the wrong reasons (that's another topic for another day) They read about churches like Northpoint, NewSpring, Elevation or even Foothills, and think "man that's a great job. Just prepare a message and stand up in front of thousands of people and deliver it."
What you don't see is all of the blood, sweat and tears that have gone into laying the foundation of that church. When everyone else leaves for the day, the one who carries the burden of that church is that Lead Pastor. No one, no matter how committed, carries the responsibility like that Lead Pastor. If that church closed down tomorrow, everyone else would find a new church, but for that Pastor he would grieve as if he lost a loved one.
So if you are an aspiring church planter, that's cool, but just be ready to pour yourself into that role. It is not a job. It is an absolute calling! Go for it!
Monday, July 23, 2007
summer attendance
We were discussing in our staff meeting this morning how this summer's attendance is doing incredible. We are slightly lower than before summer's numbers, but we have an enormous amount of first-time guests. What that means is that when school gets back in and everyone is back from their vacations we are going to see another major jump in average attendance!
Seats in the 2 prime times (9:45am and 11:00am) are going to be at a premium.
Here's what I'm asking you to consider. Consider attending either the 8:30am or 6:00pm services.
I realize that not everyone can make that shift, but if you can, it would free up some seats for guests at our 2 prime times.
Our new building should be ready for us to occupy in March, so it would be a temporary shift.
We are experiencing some amazing momentum this summer, so make sure you don't miss out on what God is doing.
Seats in the 2 prime times (9:45am and 11:00am) are going to be at a premium.
Here's what I'm asking you to consider. Consider attending either the 8:30am or 6:00pm services.
I realize that not everyone can make that shift, but if you can, it would free up some seats for guests at our 2 prime times.
Our new building should be ready for us to occupy in March, so it would be a temporary shift.
We are experiencing some amazing momentum this summer, so make sure you don't miss out on what God is doing.
Sunday, July 22, 2007
An incredible day!
Today was a phenomenal Sunday at Foothills for many reasons.
First it was fun to bring the message after two weeks off. The second reason is that I believe that the Lord did an amazing work in so many lives. I could sense the Holy Spirit at work bringing freedom for so many people today. In case you missed it, we are in a message series called "Livin on a Prayer". We're looking at some famous prayers in the Bible. Today I talked about David's prayer. Just 3 simple words, but so profound.... "I have sinned" David after a year of misery and trying to cover up his sin, gets confronted by Nathan the prophet and admits, I have sinned. Those 3 little words don't sound earth shattering, but they set David free from his gulit, shame and bondage. Those same 3 words are just as powerful today! There are so many people who are enslaved because of their past mistakes, but God stands and waits for us to just come to him and confess and receive His freedom.
No matter what you may have done. No matter how much you may have blown it, there is forgiveness at the cross of Christ.
One more thing, don't forget to pray for our teenagers who left for Bigstuf camp in Panama City (pray for the adult volunteers too!)
First it was fun to bring the message after two weeks off. The second reason is that I believe that the Lord did an amazing work in so many lives. I could sense the Holy Spirit at work bringing freedom for so many people today. In case you missed it, we are in a message series called "Livin on a Prayer". We're looking at some famous prayers in the Bible. Today I talked about David's prayer. Just 3 simple words, but so profound.... "I have sinned" David after a year of misery and trying to cover up his sin, gets confronted by Nathan the prophet and admits, I have sinned. Those 3 little words don't sound earth shattering, but they set David free from his gulit, shame and bondage. Those same 3 words are just as powerful today! There are so many people who are enslaved because of their past mistakes, but God stands and waits for us to just come to him and confess and receive His freedom.
No matter what you may have done. No matter how much you may have blown it, there is forgiveness at the cross of Christ.
One more thing, don't forget to pray for our teenagers who left for Bigstuf camp in Panama City (pray for the adult volunteers too!)
Friday, July 20, 2007
Inspired
I was totally inspired while I was on vacation. I was inspired by how orderly my Dad's garage was. Everything had a specific place, everything was put up where it was supposed to be. So yesterday I stopped by Home Depot and bought some shelving units, and some plastic storage containers and starting wading through the accumulation of junk in my garage. I threw away some things. I moved some things to new places. I got rid of some cobwebs. And now my garage has order! I feel so much better.
Spiritually speaking that's what we need to do every so often; take a close look at our lives, and start getting rid of some junk and get things in order. It feels so much better than allowing spirtual junk to accumulate in our lives.
What are some things that are in your life that you need to throw out?
Spiritually speaking that's what we need to do every so often; take a close look at our lives, and start getting rid of some junk and get things in order. It feels so much better than allowing spirtual junk to accumulate in our lives.
What are some things that are in your life that you need to throw out?
Thursday, July 19, 2007
What I did on my summer vacation--part 2
As promised, here are some pictures of some of the fish I caught down in Florida.
The snook were caught in Sebastian Inlet (3 of us caught between 15-20), and the little shark was caught off the beach in Jensen Beach.
One of the things I miss the most about Florida is the great fishing. There are so many options. You can fish in freshwater, the intracoastal, off the beach, or go offshore.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
What I did on my summer vacation
This past Sunday we got a chance to visit Life Church's Wellington, Florida campus.
They are in a series called "At the Movies." I was very impressed with how creative the Wellington Campus presented the movie theme. This particular campus chose the Pirates of the Caribbean theme. They had volunteers in costume. They gave out their bulletins at a ticket booth. They gave away popcorn, candy, hot dogs cokes, etc
The band did a nice job, and the people were friendly. They were having some lighting problems, but other than that it was smooth.
The message was via video but it wasn't distracting. It would take some getting used to, but apparently it wasn't deterring growth because they had a decent crowd (we were at the 9:30am service. I was told that the 11:00am was better attended)
I spoke briefly to the campus Pastor who gave me a little of the church's history before hooking up with Life Church.
They did a very good job of branding the Life Church name. Although they were meeting in a High School, they did an amazing job of decorating.
Overall a great experience.
As we move toward the future here at Foothills Community Church we are looking at some possible locations for a second site.
They are in a series called "At the Movies." I was very impressed with how creative the Wellington Campus presented the movie theme. This particular campus chose the Pirates of the Caribbean theme. They had volunteers in costume. They gave out their bulletins at a ticket booth. They gave away popcorn, candy, hot dogs cokes, etc
The band did a nice job, and the people were friendly. They were having some lighting problems, but other than that it was smooth.
The message was via video but it wasn't distracting. It would take some getting used to, but apparently it wasn't deterring growth because they had a decent crowd (we were at the 9:30am service. I was told that the 11:00am was better attended)
I spoke briefly to the campus Pastor who gave me a little of the church's history before hooking up with Life Church.
They did a very good job of branding the Life Church name. Although they were meeting in a High School, they did an amazing job of decorating.
Overall a great experience.
As we move toward the future here at Foothills Community Church we are looking at some possible locations for a second site.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Back to reality
Well, I'm back at the office this morning after being gone for 2 weeks. So far this morning I have been trying to play Catch-up. It is a tribute to the staff you have, when you can come back from vacation and things have not missed a beat. If anything, they are going better.
This past Sunday our Pastor of Connections, Brian Marshall spoke on the prayer of Nehemiah. We had 7 first time salvations and several recommitments! Our attendance has been extremely strong and there are lots of new people every week.
We had a blast on vacation. Got to spend time with my parents and nephews, as well as my wife and kids. We fished, golfed, hung out at the beach, fished some more, ate way too much, swam in the pool, and fished some more (I'll try to post a couple of pics this week.) I feel so refreshed.
There are many great things that we have planned for the weeks ahead. So make sure you don't miss out!
This past Sunday our Pastor of Connections, Brian Marshall spoke on the prayer of Nehemiah. We had 7 first time salvations and several recommitments! Our attendance has been extremely strong and there are lots of new people every week.
We had a blast on vacation. Got to spend time with my parents and nephews, as well as my wife and kids. We fished, golfed, hung out at the beach, fished some more, ate way too much, swam in the pool, and fished some more (I'll try to post a couple of pics this week.) I feel so refreshed.
There are many great things that we have planned for the weeks ahead. So make sure you don't miss out!
Sunday, July 08, 2007
A few thoughts
We went to Christ Fellowship Church last night. They always put together such a great service. When we're in Florida many times we will attend church on Saturday evening instead of Sunday morning.
Even though this is the area of the country that I grew up in, and spent most of my life in, it is still amazing to see how unchurched this region is. (unless you have lived in an area like this, it's hard to understand) There is such a huge need for more church plants to begin to reach this area. I understand that Christ Fellowship will be launching their fourth site in the Palm City/ Stuart area. Very cool!
I have been praying for Scott Chatfield this week. He will kick off a new series called "Livin on a Prayer." Scott fills in for me many times when I'm out of town. I am fortunate to have the right staff around me so that when I'm away, I don't have any worries. Not just on Sunday mornings, but throughout the week. (I only called in to check on things once this week!)
I always get so refreshed when I get away. I can hardly wait to get back! I have so much to share with you!
Even though this is the area of the country that I grew up in, and spent most of my life in, it is still amazing to see how unchurched this region is. (unless you have lived in an area like this, it's hard to understand) There is such a huge need for more church plants to begin to reach this area. I understand that Christ Fellowship will be launching their fourth site in the Palm City/ Stuart area. Very cool!
I have been praying for Scott Chatfield this week. He will kick off a new series called "Livin on a Prayer." Scott fills in for me many times when I'm out of town. I am fortunate to have the right staff around me so that when I'm away, I don't have any worries. Not just on Sunday mornings, but throughout the week. (I only called in to check on things once this week!)
I always get so refreshed when I get away. I can hardly wait to get back! I have so much to share with you!
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
back in FL
Well, we are back in Florida again. It's always alot of fun.
Today we went to the beach and fished. We caught a ton of fish and then came home and had a fish fry. My Mom makes the best fried fish I have ever eaten!
There is something very cool about taking some time for R&R. I highly recommend it.
Last Sunday our services went really good. Our attendance has been very strong even in the dead of summer. We also had lots of Spiritual decisions!
Oh, one more thing. I understand that we should start seeing more progress on our construction real soon. Hopefully they will be pouring some concrete in the next week or so.
Today we went to the beach and fished. We caught a ton of fish and then came home and had a fish fry. My Mom makes the best fried fish I have ever eaten!
There is something very cool about taking some time for R&R. I highly recommend it.
Last Sunday our services went really good. Our attendance has been very strong even in the dead of summer. We also had lots of Spiritual decisions!
Oh, one more thing. I understand that we should start seeing more progress on our construction real soon. Hopefully they will be pouring some concrete in the next week or so.
Thursday, June 28, 2007
You just never know
Although I didn't watch her on Larry King, I read some of what Paris Hilton said in her interview.
First, although she didn't feel like she should have been incarcerated, she said that she believed that God had a reason for putting her there.
When asked how she spent her days, she said she meditated, read letters from fans, talked to other prisoners through the vents, wrote in her journal and read the Bible.
Have you ever noticed that God loves us so much that He will allow us to be put in situations where we have no place else to look but up.
I am not a Paris Hilton fan. in fact, she could be one of the most overrated people in the world, but I do pray that she would reach out to Christ. Not just in a jail cell, but now that she's out.
Are you going through some sort of difficulty? Turn to the One who gives comfort.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
I miss my wife
I miss my wife. She is out of town at Children's camp, as a chaperone.
I definitely outkicked my coverage when I married my wife Liz. She is THE most godly person that I know. She loves Christ with every ounce of her being.
She is also on staff here at Foothills. I can honestly say (very unbiasedly I might add) that she is the best Children's Ministry Director anywhere---Period!
She is also the most patient person I know----she puts up with me (nuff said)
She is also very beautiful (On the outside, and on the inside).
But best of all she is my wife, and I love her.
I definitely outkicked my coverage when I married my wife Liz. She is THE most godly person that I know. She loves Christ with every ounce of her being.
She is also on staff here at Foothills. I can honestly say (very unbiasedly I might add) that she is the best Children's Ministry Director anywhere---Period!
She is also the most patient person I know----she puts up with me (nuff said)
She is also very beautiful (On the outside, and on the inside).
But best of all she is my wife, and I love her.
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
A little crazy
I've been laying a little low lately when it comes to blogging. Mostly because my life has been very hectic for the last few days. I won't go into all the details, but they say sometimes in life you feel like the dog, and other times you feel like the fire hydrant. Right now it's the fire hydrant!
One thing for sure that helps me is to know that the Lord is still in control. He is at work behind the scenes and working things out.
I am very excited about is this weekends message, 'The Ticket Booth"
Make sure you bring your friends. Oh yeah, you may want to arrive a ilttle early because lately we have been having some big crowds (Isn't that cool---packed out in the middle of summer!)
One thing for sure that helps me is to know that the Lord is still in control. He is at work behind the scenes and working things out.
I am very excited about is this weekends message, 'The Ticket Booth"
Make sure you bring your friends. Oh yeah, you may want to arrive a ilttle early because lately we have been having some big crowds (Isn't that cool---packed out in the middle of summer!)
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Why?
There are a lot of things that make me want to ask, why?
A couple of weeks ago I decided to buy a new Bible, because my old one had seen better days. So I went to the bookstore and found a New Living Translation (N.L.T.), which has been my main preference for several years. Because it is the translation that I preach from, many people at Foothills have also purchased one to be able to follow me when I read. It seems that in the last year or so there has been an update done which basically means that there are 2 versions of the same version. Confusing huh?
My initial reaction is to ask, "why?" I mean why name it the New Living Translation? Why not name it the New New Living Translation? Or the New and Improved Living Translation or the Very New Living Translation? Come on Tyndale Publishing, help a brother out!
What do they expect me to do, say to everyone each time I get up to preach, "Now today I will be reading from the New New living Translation, not the Old New Living Translation.
Is it just me, or doesn't that make you ask, Why?
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
War, What is it good for?
I have been studying the book of 1 Kings, and today one of the things that jumped out at me was a statement that Solomon made about his father David in Chapter 5. He says that David was not able to build the Temple of the Lord because of the many wars waged againgst him.
As I thought about that statement I thought about the local church these days. If statistics are accurate, around 80% of churches are not growing. One of the reasons is that there is too much fighting going on inside the church to build it. There are a lot of Pastors out there that have a great vision from the Lord to reach the community and thus "build the church", but many congregations will wage war against the Pastor to prevent him from building it.
This comes in various forms, usually it has something to do with Change. Maybe the Pastor tries to change the music style, or read from a different translation of the Bible, or move the pulpit or sell the organ or cancel a dying sacred cow program, or change the structure to allow for more growth or add another staff...... whatever. The backlash from these things can be WAR against the Pastor.
Churches do not grow when there is internal turmoil. I have been in churches that when you enter the doors you can "feel" the disunity. It's nearly tangible. Generally a congregation that is in the "battle mode" will have very little laughter, joy and enthusiasm. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that when a guest walks in, they probably will feel that vibe and decide to never come back.
I am so thankful for Foothills Community Church! There is such a spirit of love and unity. The excitement and energy when you walk through the doors is tangible. People look forward to coming together to worship corporately. There are no wars raging, no internal battles. The result is growth!! God is building HIS Church and the gates of Helll cannot prevail against it!!
As I thought about that statement I thought about the local church these days. If statistics are accurate, around 80% of churches are not growing. One of the reasons is that there is too much fighting going on inside the church to build it. There are a lot of Pastors out there that have a great vision from the Lord to reach the community and thus "build the church", but many congregations will wage war against the Pastor to prevent him from building it.
This comes in various forms, usually it has something to do with Change. Maybe the Pastor tries to change the music style, or read from a different translation of the Bible, or move the pulpit or sell the organ or cancel a dying sacred cow program, or change the structure to allow for more growth or add another staff...... whatever. The backlash from these things can be WAR against the Pastor.
Churches do not grow when there is internal turmoil. I have been in churches that when you enter the doors you can "feel" the disunity. It's nearly tangible. Generally a congregation that is in the "battle mode" will have very little laughter, joy and enthusiasm. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that when a guest walks in, they probably will feel that vibe and decide to never come back.
I am so thankful for Foothills Community Church! There is such a spirit of love and unity. The excitement and energy when you walk through the doors is tangible. People look forward to coming together to worship corporately. There are no wars raging, no internal battles. The result is growth!! God is building HIS Church and the gates of Helll cannot prevail against it!!
Monday, June 18, 2007
Monday meetings
Every Monday around here is meeting Monday. Sometimes it feels like "Death by meeting", but I honestly believe that one of the things that builds team, and challenges us to take it to the next level are our meetings. They are not always fun, they are probably too long, I probably talk too much, but I thoroughly enjoy hanging out with our staff-team. As our staff grows, I am trying to restructure our meetings, because not everybody needs to be at every meeting.
A typical Monday meeting generally contains evaluations from Sunday's services, time to hear the success stories of transformed lives, shoring up any areas that need attention, and a lot of laughter. Once a month as a staff, we study and discuss a book that stretches us. Right now we are going through "The Starbucks Experience."
One of my last meetings of the day is our Creative Team meeting. These are a lot of fun. Some days we laugh more than we work. People ask us all the time, how we plan for upcoming messages and series and the creative elements; Well, this is where that takes place. We spend a lot of time brainstorming and usually the ideas begin to flow. One of the keys to a great service is in the planning. (Some people may ask, "doesn't all the planning prevent the Holy Spirit from working? Actually, NO. I believe the Holy Spirit is at work in our advance planning. There is nothing spiritual about not having a clue what you are going to do until you show up on Sunday---actually, that's pretty stupid!) We discuss message ideas, songs, video ideas, etc. and then finalize who is responsible for certain items and pray that it all comes together!!
Of course I am simplifying it, but you get the idea!
A typical Monday meeting generally contains evaluations from Sunday's services, time to hear the success stories of transformed lives, shoring up any areas that need attention, and a lot of laughter. Once a month as a staff, we study and discuss a book that stretches us. Right now we are going through "The Starbucks Experience."
One of my last meetings of the day is our Creative Team meeting. These are a lot of fun. Some days we laugh more than we work. People ask us all the time, how we plan for upcoming messages and series and the creative elements; Well, this is where that takes place. We spend a lot of time brainstorming and usually the ideas begin to flow. One of the keys to a great service is in the planning. (Some people may ask, "doesn't all the planning prevent the Holy Spirit from working? Actually, NO. I believe the Holy Spirit is at work in our advance planning. There is nothing spiritual about not having a clue what you are going to do until you show up on Sunday---actually, that's pretty stupid!) We discuss message ideas, songs, video ideas, etc. and then finalize who is responsible for certain items and pray that it all comes together!!
Of course I am simplifying it, but you get the idea!
Thursday, June 14, 2007
What is a real man?
Ask that question to ten men, and you'll get ten different answers.
In 1 Kings 2, King David in his last moments of his life called his son Solomon to his bedside and shares with him what it means to be a real man. "Take courage and be a man. Observe the requirements of the lord your God, and follow all his ways. Keep the decrees, commands, regulations, and all laws written written in the Law of Moses so that you will be successful in all you do and wherever you go."
According to David, to be a real man---a successful man, follow God. It almost sounds too simple doesn't it? And yet that's what we need to do.
As we approach Father's Day this Sunday, let's model real manhood to our families.
And don't forget to be at church Sunday, because we're going to unwrap this principle a little more!
In 1 Kings 2, King David in his last moments of his life called his son Solomon to his bedside and shares with him what it means to be a real man. "Take courage and be a man. Observe the requirements of the lord your God, and follow all his ways. Keep the decrees, commands, regulations, and all laws written written in the Law of Moses so that you will be successful in all you do and wherever you go."
According to David, to be a real man---a successful man, follow God. It almost sounds too simple doesn't it? And yet that's what we need to do.
As we approach Father's Day this Sunday, let's model real manhood to our families.
And don't forget to be at church Sunday, because we're going to unwrap this principle a little more!
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
You can't please all the people all the time
On any given Sunday we probably have at least 30 1st time guests at Foothills. Some have just moved here from somewhere and are searching for a church. Some come because they are seeking answers to life. From time to time we have people who visit Foothills that come from another church in the area because they hear the buzz about Foothills in the community.
Some of the 1st time guests don't enjoy their experience, but most do.
One of the things that never ceases to amaze me are the people who come from another church that LOVE what we are doing for a while. Then something happens. After a while they will say things like, "I really love Foothills, but I really think it would be better if we had Sunday school, or Awanas, or a choir or a little less volume, or.... (you can fill in the blank), like my old church."
My first thought is, If you really liked your old church so much, why did you leave?
As Foothills has grown we are being more focused about the vision God has given us. We have made a strategic decision to try to do what we do better, and to not try to be everything for everybody.
The reason Chik-fil-a makes such good chicken sandwiches is because they know who they are. They won't sell you a taco, or pizza, or a burger. They made a decision to do what they do better than anyone else, make chicken sandwiches. My guess is that if they tried to offer everything for everyone----they wouldn't do any of it very well.
There is nothing wrong with Sunday school, Awanas, choirs or whatever, but in order to be who God has called us to be, we will stay a little more focused. Will some people leave because we don't have those things? Yeah, but that's OK ---but I believe more will stay because of that decision
Some of the 1st time guests don't enjoy their experience, but most do.
One of the things that never ceases to amaze me are the people who come from another church that LOVE what we are doing for a while. Then something happens. After a while they will say things like, "I really love Foothills, but I really think it would be better if we had Sunday school, or Awanas, or a choir or a little less volume, or.... (you can fill in the blank), like my old church."
My first thought is, If you really liked your old church so much, why did you leave?
As Foothills has grown we are being more focused about the vision God has given us. We have made a strategic decision to try to do what we do better, and to not try to be everything for everybody.
The reason Chik-fil-a makes such good chicken sandwiches is because they know who they are. They won't sell you a taco, or pizza, or a burger. They made a decision to do what they do better than anyone else, make chicken sandwiches. My guess is that if they tried to offer everything for everyone----they wouldn't do any of it very well.
There is nothing wrong with Sunday school, Awanas, choirs or whatever, but in order to be who God has called us to be, we will stay a little more focused. Will some people leave because we don't have those things? Yeah, but that's OK ---but I believe more will stay because of that decision
Monday, June 11, 2007
I'm back!
We just got back from a week down visiting family in South Florida.
We celebrated my in-laws 50th wedding anniversary. It was kind of like a family reunion, which can be pretty wierd when you haven't seen people for 10 or 15 years and you can't even recognize them.
It is a long drive down there. We made record time coming back. We made it in 10 1/2 hours.
I heard that it was an incredible Sunday at Foothills! Scott Chatfield spoke in my absence and I hear he did a phenomenal job. Then Sunday afternoon we had a baptism party on Lake Keowee and baptized 44 more people!! (that's 156 baptisms already this year!!) I hate that I missed it, but it's good to know that things keep on rolling even when I'm out of town.
I need to finish unpacking, so I'll fill in some more details later.
We celebrated my in-laws 50th wedding anniversary. It was kind of like a family reunion, which can be pretty wierd when you haven't seen people for 10 or 15 years and you can't even recognize them.
It is a long drive down there. We made record time coming back. We made it in 10 1/2 hours.
I heard that it was an incredible Sunday at Foothills! Scott Chatfield spoke in my absence and I hear he did a phenomenal job. Then Sunday afternoon we had a baptism party on Lake Keowee and baptized 44 more people!! (that's 156 baptisms already this year!!) I hate that I missed it, but it's good to know that things keep on rolling even when I'm out of town.
I need to finish unpacking, so I'll fill in some more details later.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
I love Summer
Summer is definitely one of my favorite times of year. I love warm weather. I love taking vacations. I love the laid-back feel of Summer.
One thing I told my staff this past Tuesday was, "we are not going to go on vacation as a church." What I meant by that was, sure everyone at church including the staff needs to get rested up, take a vacation, etc. but we are still going to put our best foot forward every week.
Every Sunday will be someone's first time at Foothills, and we are going to do our part to make their experience the best hour of their week.
Having said that, we understand that there are certain straegic times during the year when you have attendance spikes, so we program stronger during those times. Like Easter, Christmas, the start of the school year and after the New Year.
If you attend Foothills, why not make it a point when you're in town this Summer to be at church, to continue giving regularly, and to find a place where you can volunteer.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Summer Schedule
We made an executive decision in our staff meeting to go to a summer service schedule.
To give our Staff and volunteers a little break for summer we decided to temporarily cancel our 6:00pm service.
Beginning June 17th we will be offering 3 services instead of 4. The times will be 8:30am, 9:45am and 11:15am.
We will resume the 6:00pm service on August 5th.
If you are one of the people who comes to the 6:00pm service we apologize for any inconvenience, but when we began the 6:00pm service last September we knew that it was going to have a lot of wear and tear on staff and volunteers. People have stepped up to the plate and have served faithfully without any complaints. So we wanted to say thank you, by giving everyone a few weeks to catch their breath. Until then plan to catch one of the other 3 services!
To give our Staff and volunteers a little break for summer we decided to temporarily cancel our 6:00pm service.
Beginning June 17th we will be offering 3 services instead of 4. The times will be 8:30am, 9:45am and 11:15am.
We will resume the 6:00pm service on August 5th.
If you are one of the people who comes to the 6:00pm service we apologize for any inconvenience, but when we began the 6:00pm service last September we knew that it was going to have a lot of wear and tear on staff and volunteers. People have stepped up to the plate and have served faithfully without any complaints. So we wanted to say thank you, by giving everyone a few weeks to catch their breath. Until then plan to catch one of the other 3 services!
Monday, May 28, 2007
Happy Memorial Day
We live in the greatest Country in the World! We have freedoms people in other Countries only dream of. I am grateful for all of the men and women who have laid down their lives to protect our freedoms.
I am doing some relaxing today. Just spending some time with my family. Actually this whole weekend has been relaxing. Yesterday our Pastor of Student Ministry, Scott Chatfield did a great job giving the message. I was on a crazy schedule because it was the first Sunday of 2007 I was not speaking. I try to speak about 40-42 Sundays a year, so I will be taking more Sundays off.
When I am on an extended speaking schedule of more than 10 weeks in a row, I feel creatively challenged and need to step back and catch my breath. My friend Perry Noble told me that he heard that the adrenaline rush of speaking one time on Sunday takes about 8 hours to come down off (multiply that by 4 times because of our service schedule and you kind of get what I'm talking about.) If you've ever been driving your car and had someone suddenly pull out in front of you, and you barely missed getting in an accident----that's the same kind of adrenaline rush. It takes hours for you to settle down.
But, I am feeling rested up and am so excited about this weekend's message I'm doing called, "The Tunnel of Love." It will be alot of fun, sharing with couples about how to put a little romance back in their marriages! The feature song is going to be great. Don't miss it!!
I am doing some relaxing today. Just spending some time with my family. Actually this whole weekend has been relaxing. Yesterday our Pastor of Student Ministry, Scott Chatfield did a great job giving the message. I was on a crazy schedule because it was the first Sunday of 2007 I was not speaking. I try to speak about 40-42 Sundays a year, so I will be taking more Sundays off.
When I am on an extended speaking schedule of more than 10 weeks in a row, I feel creatively challenged and need to step back and catch my breath. My friend Perry Noble told me that he heard that the adrenaline rush of speaking one time on Sunday takes about 8 hours to come down off (multiply that by 4 times because of our service schedule and you kind of get what I'm talking about.) If you've ever been driving your car and had someone suddenly pull out in front of you, and you barely missed getting in an accident----that's the same kind of adrenaline rush. It takes hours for you to settle down.
But, I am feeling rested up and am so excited about this weekend's message I'm doing called, "The Tunnel of Love." It will be alot of fun, sharing with couples about how to put a little romance back in their marriages! The feature song is going to be great. Don't miss it!!
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Great time
I just got home from a Pastor's Roundtable with a group of about 10 Pastors at Newspring Church in Anderson. We had dinner together last night, then spent all day today hanging out and learning from one another. It was a great time. I met a lot of new friends and got to see some old friends.
There is such a benefit to me personally to rub shoulders with guys who are committed to reaching their communities for Christ. I left inspired, challenged, and grateful that I was able to be there.
Thanks Perry, and Newspring for making it happen!
There is such a benefit to me personally to rub shoulders with guys who are committed to reaching their communities for Christ. I left inspired, challenged, and grateful that I was able to be there.
Thanks Perry, and Newspring for making it happen!
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
The eyes have it
I read a quote this morning in a devotional that I have really been thinking about. The writer said "When something concerns us, what's our perspective? It's not WHAT we see, but HOW we see it that reveals our attitudes."
Have you ever noticed how two people can look at the same thing, but see two different things? It's not a vision thing it's an ATTITUDE thing.
One person sees the obstacle, while the other sees the opportunity. One person sees danger while the other person sees adventure.
Think about David facing Goliath. Everyone else saw a giant that would surely whip their behinds, but David saw an obnoxious guy that actually looked pretty small in comparison to God.
The Nation of Israel saw the walls of Jericho as an impenetrable impossibility, but Joshua saw them as God-sized probability.
Many times we face obstacles or things that scare us to death. If we will learn to see things from God's perspective rather than our own, we'll be a lot better off!
What is something you have been looking at through your human perspective that looks pretty impossible? Maybe a financial obstacle, or a relationship obstacle, maybe you're a Pastor and you are struggling with seeing your church grow or you are having battles with people who won't let you lead. In your human eyes, from your perspective it looks impossible. Let me give you one word of encouragement---- PERSEVERE!
Monday, May 21, 2007
Yesterday was intense
Yesterday's message was one of the most difficult ones I've done in quite some time. I spoke on the topic of Adultery. It must have struck a nerve, beacause we sold out of the CD's by the end of the second service!
When you address a topic like that, no matter how you word it, it's still very intense. I approached it from the angle of how to avoid an affair. I felt like what people needed was not more knowledge or information on adultery. For that matter people don't really need more convincing as to whether it's right or wrong. What we really need to hear is, HOW do I keep from ending up in an affair?
If you missed it, you can hear the message at our website.
Foothills Community Church is committed to helping families. For that reason there are many times that we have to discuss topics that are uncomfortable. If a message like yesterday, can prevent one person from committing an act of infidelity against their spouse, than it's worth it.
If you are in the early stages of an affair; You're getting emotionally attached to someone from the opposite sex that is not your spouse, wake up! You are headed toward disaster.
If you are in the middle of a full-blown affair; Run away as fast as possible. Get counseling with your spouse. Keep distance from that other person. Change jobs, change zip codes, do whatever is necessary to save your marriage.
If you are the victim of a spouse that has committed adultery with someone else; Get some counseling. Allow God to heal your wounds.
If you are the one that has committed adultery, and you are living with the guilt; Seek the Lord's grace, forgiveness and healing.
Let me end with some good news---- there are many couples who work throught the pain and betrayal and have wonderful marriages.
When you address a topic like that, no matter how you word it, it's still very intense. I approached it from the angle of how to avoid an affair. I felt like what people needed was not more knowledge or information on adultery. For that matter people don't really need more convincing as to whether it's right or wrong. What we really need to hear is, HOW do I keep from ending up in an affair?
If you missed it, you can hear the message at our website.
Foothills Community Church is committed to helping families. For that reason there are many times that we have to discuss topics that are uncomfortable. If a message like yesterday, can prevent one person from committing an act of infidelity against their spouse, than it's worth it.
If you are in the early stages of an affair; You're getting emotionally attached to someone from the opposite sex that is not your spouse, wake up! You are headed toward disaster.
If you are in the middle of a full-blown affair; Run away as fast as possible. Get counseling with your spouse. Keep distance from that other person. Change jobs, change zip codes, do whatever is necessary to save your marriage.
If you are the victim of a spouse that has committed adultery with someone else; Get some counseling. Allow God to heal your wounds.
If you are the one that has committed adultery, and you are living with the guilt; Seek the Lord's grace, forgiveness and healing.
Let me end with some good news---- there are many couples who work throught the pain and betrayal and have wonderful marriages.
Thursday, May 17, 2007
My Bible
I am getting to the point where it's time to get a new Bible. Mine is falling apart. I have glued and re-glued it back together as many times as I can. This Bible is not even that old, but it's seen better days. I wish I could still use a really small one, but my eyes won't let me.
Speaking of old Bibles; There is just something special about all of my Bibles. I picked up a Bible off the bookshelf the other day that I have been using in my quiet time this week. It was the first Bible I ever owned. My wife gave it to me many moons ago. I wish I could tell you how many moons ago, but the cover is missing, and the beautiful inscription my wife wrote to me with the date was on the inside of the cover.
As I have been thumbing through the pages of that old Bible, I have read some of the notes in the margin that I wrote. I have seen many underlined or highlighted verses that God was speaking to me at that time about. I remember how back then I devoured God's Word with intensity. I couldn't get enough of it. And then I was convicted. I was convicted because although my new Bible is worn out too. It is worn out for different reasons. It is worn out because of Sermon preparation. It is worn out because I use it many times in a more academic way these days. I used to read my Bible with desperation for God to speak to me---many times now, I read my Bible with desperation for a sermon.
Last Sunday I spoke about priorities. I am going to once again make God's Word one of my top priorities.
Here is one of those underlined passages from my old Bible that speaks to this:
"How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word. With my whole heart I have sought you; Oh, let me not wander from your commandments! Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin againgst You."
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Ultimate
I look forward to Tuesday evenings. Tuesday evening is our weekly Ultimate game. If you've never played, you are missing out on some great fun and exercise. Basically Ultimate is kind of like soccer, only you use a disc (frisbee). It is non-stop running and throwing and catching.
The only down side to it, is that I'm usually the oldest guy out there (unless Pastor Brian shows up!) The average age excluding me is probably 20. So needless to say, I have my work cut out keeping up with the young pups.
It is supposed to be a non-contact game, but last week one of the guys caught an elbow to the eyebrow and I believe ended up getting a few stitches. Last year we had a guy break his foot.
The most frustrating part of playing is realizing I have lost a step in the speed department, and a couple of inches in the vertical leap department over the years. I am sort of in denial about it though. It's all good!
If you are free at 6:00pm on Tuesdays, come by the church and give it a shot.
Monday, May 14, 2007
Is God your #1 priority?
Well, when you got your day started did you remember to consciously remind yourself and acknowledge to God that He is #1?
If you weren't at Foothills yesterday, that was the challenge; to make sure that God was our #1 priority. There are alot of things that will try to bump God further down our priority lists. Urgent things---good things, but only one thing can be #1.
The benefit to this is that our lives will be a lot less stressed out. There will be order instead of chaos. Jesus promised in Matt 6:33, that if we will seek first His kingdom, and His righteousness all these other things will be given to us as well.
Why not pause right now, and tell Him that He's #1
By the way, our services were really great yesterday. We had our Parent Child dedication service at our 8:30 am service. There were around 30 kids and their Parents all lined up across the stage (on the stage and in front of the stage---it was so cool!) Way to go Parents! Thanks for your commitment to raise your children in a home that elevates the name of Jesus!
If you weren't at Foothills yesterday, that was the challenge; to make sure that God was our #1 priority. There are alot of things that will try to bump God further down our priority lists. Urgent things---good things, but only one thing can be #1.
The benefit to this is that our lives will be a lot less stressed out. There will be order instead of chaos. Jesus promised in Matt 6:33, that if we will seek first His kingdom, and His righteousness all these other things will be given to us as well.
Why not pause right now, and tell Him that He's #1
By the way, our services were really great yesterday. We had our Parent Child dedication service at our 8:30 am service. There were around 30 kids and their Parents all lined up across the stage (on the stage and in front of the stage---it was so cool!) Way to go Parents! Thanks for your commitment to raise your children in a home that elevates the name of Jesus!
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Another great story
I love to hear stories of life change. I don't think I could ever get tired of them.
I received an amazing story from a young lady about our spontaneous Baptism service on April 15th. Do yourself a favor and read it. I'm sure you will be inspired. I know I was!!
In case you missed it, we baptized 111 people that day!! You can view the video here.
I received an amazing story from a young lady about our spontaneous Baptism service on April 15th. Do yourself a favor and read it. I'm sure you will be inspired. I know I was!!
In case you missed it, we baptized 111 people that day!! You can view the video here.
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
The "Call" to ministry
We hear the phrase, "I was called into ministry", but what does it really mean?, and how do you know if you have really been "called"?
First of all the term, "Call" is pretty mysterious sounding. It is not something audible to the ear, but it is more audible to the heart. It's probably more of a "sense."
Basically what someone is saying when they use that phrase is that they believe that God has actually prepared them and set them apart for some ministry opportunity.
Here's where a lot of people get in trouble. They say, "God has called me to become a Pastor."
But in many cases it wasn't a call from God, it was a desire on their part that they confused for a call.
Here is a couple of scriptures to show a call versus a person's own desire.
Jer. 20:9 But if I say, "I will not mention Him or speak anymore in His name," His word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in, indeed, I cannot.
1 Cor 9:16 Yet when I preach the gospel, I cannot boast, for I am compelled to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!
Here are 4 ways to know if you are being "Called":
1. You can't NOT do it. (see scriptures above)
2. You will make whatever sacrifice necessary to follow
3. You will have a passion to do whatever it is you're being called to do that will cause you to constantly think about it. You will wake up in the middle of the night thinking about it. You will wake up in the morning thinking about it. You will go to sleep thinking about it. You will dream about it.
4. The passion will only increase with time (If it fades out, it was probably just your desire, not a true calling)
First of all the term, "Call" is pretty mysterious sounding. It is not something audible to the ear, but it is more audible to the heart. It's probably more of a "sense."
Basically what someone is saying when they use that phrase is that they believe that God has actually prepared them and set them apart for some ministry opportunity.
Here's where a lot of people get in trouble. They say, "God has called me to become a Pastor."
But in many cases it wasn't a call from God, it was a desire on their part that they confused for a call.
Here is a couple of scriptures to show a call versus a person's own desire.
Jer. 20:9 But if I say, "I will not mention Him or speak anymore in His name," His word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in, indeed, I cannot.
1 Cor 9:16 Yet when I preach the gospel, I cannot boast, for I am compelled to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!
Here are 4 ways to know if you are being "Called":
1. You can't NOT do it. (see scriptures above)
2. You will make whatever sacrifice necessary to follow
3. You will have a passion to do whatever it is you're being called to do that will cause you to constantly think about it. You will wake up in the middle of the night thinking about it. You will wake up in the morning thinking about it. You will go to sleep thinking about it. You will dream about it.
4. The passion will only increase with time (If it fades out, it was probably just your desire, not a true calling)
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
Moving some dirt
Since yesterday all I have been hearing around here is BEEP--BEEP--BEEP. It's that awful sound of tractors backing up. And yet it is music to our ears!!
In case you haven't driven by here in a couple of days, they are moving a lot of dirt in preparation for our new facility. We definitely need more seats. But as exciting as it is going to be having a new bulding to meet in, building buildings is not our mission!!!! Building PEOPLE is!!!
Another thing to remember, is that we are constructing a building, not a Church. The church is not bricks and mortar (or in our, case steel and screws) The church is the people.
I think that distinction needs to be made, because I hear people in the community say, "so you all are building a new "Church". I sometimes say, "no we're the same church, we're just building a new building."
A lot of churches have emphasized their buildings so much, once they finish constructing it, the people feel like they have arrived---that they have achieved their mission.
Our mission is to reach people for Christ, and until every person knows Christ personally, our mission is not over!!
Monday, May 07, 2007
Hard to imagine sometimes
It is mind boggling to think about what God is doing here in smalltown USA!
Seneca, SC is no booming metropolis. It is not really near any large city. It has a population of less than 8,000 in a county with around 70,000. Oconee County is about 75% rural. There are probably 200 hundred churches in the county.
It is probably one of the least likely places people would think of when it came to a major movement of God---and yet that's what is happening here at Foothills Community Church!!!
I can't explain it. I can't take credit for it. All I know, is that I want God to keep on doing what He's doing.
On any given Sunday we will have 2% of Oconee County at one of our services. We are seeing people becoming followers of Christ every week. We are seeing lives change literally before our eyes. We are seeing people who have not darkened the doors of a church in decades become fully engaged Christ-followers. We are seeing people come to the reality that their time, talents, and treasures are really not theirs, and offering them to Christ.
There are many weeks that all I can do is shake my head in amazement as to what He is doing. And yet with all of that I truly believe that the best is yet to come!!
If you are a person that calls Foothills your church home I want to encourage you to continue to build relationships with people who are far from God, and point them to the savior. Continue to invite your friends to Church. Continue to live out your faith.
If you've never come to Foothills yet---what are you waiting for?
Seneca, SC is no booming metropolis. It is not really near any large city. It has a population of less than 8,000 in a county with around 70,000. Oconee County is about 75% rural. There are probably 200 hundred churches in the county.
It is probably one of the least likely places people would think of when it came to a major movement of God---and yet that's what is happening here at Foothills Community Church!!!
I can't explain it. I can't take credit for it. All I know, is that I want God to keep on doing what He's doing.
On any given Sunday we will have 2% of Oconee County at one of our services. We are seeing people becoming followers of Christ every week. We are seeing lives change literally before our eyes. We are seeing people who have not darkened the doors of a church in decades become fully engaged Christ-followers. We are seeing people come to the reality that their time, talents, and treasures are really not theirs, and offering them to Christ.
There are many weeks that all I can do is shake my head in amazement as to what He is doing. And yet with all of that I truly believe that the best is yet to come!!
If you are a person that calls Foothills your church home I want to encourage you to continue to build relationships with people who are far from God, and point them to the savior. Continue to invite your friends to Church. Continue to live out your faith.
If you've never come to Foothills yet---what are you waiting for?
Saturday, May 05, 2007
Honored
I was honored to be invited by my friend Perry Noble, to be a part of a Pastors Round Table group that will be meeting later this month. I can't wait! I must say, when I saw the list of the guys who are coming, it was a little intimidating. These are among the most influential churches in America. Some of these guys I have admired from a distance, and now I will get to hang out with them----how cool is that?!
I hope I don't say anything embarassing! (That's been known to happen on occasion)
It is so refreshing to hear what the Lord is doing across this Nation. I look forward to sharing the story of what is happening at Foothills Community Church.
I love this church!
I hope I don't say anything embarassing! (That's been known to happen on occasion)
It is so refreshing to hear what the Lord is doing across this Nation. I look forward to sharing the story of what is happening at Foothills Community Church.
I love this church!
Thursday, May 03, 2007
no more Games
That's right---no more Games. The message series, that is. This Sunday we are wrapping up the series called, "Games".
This week we'll be talking about the game Sorry. We will be relating the game of Sorry, to Peter's denial of Christ. If you've ever royally messed-up and have struggled with believing you can be forgiven, make sure you are at Foothills this Sunday!!
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
It's not the size of the dog
It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog. That is a very true statement. I just read an incredible story of a Jack Russell Terrier that fought off 2 Pit Bulls to save five children. Unfortunately for George (the Jack Russell), the Pit Bulls got the best of him and he had to be put down by a vet, but man, you talk about laying down your life for a friend!
George had heart. Heart is another one of those intangibles that is hard to factor in, but when someone's really got it -- all bets are off. Heart makes the impossible possible. It shifts the odds. Heart changes everything! R.I.P. George!
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
The power of friendship
I just got back from lunch with one of my best friends in ministry, Eddie Cox. Eddie is the Lead Pastor of Marathon Community Church in Easley, SC. I have known Eddie for about 10 years. I met him about 4 or 5 months after he planted the church. Under Eddie's leadership they have grown to about 2,800 in attendance.
We don't get to spend alot of time together, but when we do get together we just pick up where we left off the last time. Eddie and Marathon have been a huge encouragement to me as we planted Foothills. In fact, just last week, Sean, Marathon's lighting Director came over and helped us for several hours. (He wouldn't even let us pay him)
Ministry can be lonely at times. And believe it or not, sometimes the only guys who really understand the unique pressures of being a Lead Pastor are other Lead Pastors.
If you are a Pastor and you don't have friends in ministry----then make some!
We don't get to spend alot of time together, but when we do get together we just pick up where we left off the last time. Eddie and Marathon have been a huge encouragement to me as we planted Foothills. In fact, just last week, Sean, Marathon's lighting Director came over and helped us for several hours. (He wouldn't even let us pay him)
Ministry can be lonely at times. And believe it or not, sometimes the only guys who really understand the unique pressures of being a Lead Pastor are other Lead Pastors.
If you are a Pastor and you don't have friends in ministry----then make some!
Monday, April 30, 2007
Competitive
My family likes to play games. Backgammon, Monopoly, Texas Hold-em, Rummy, Uno.... You name it, we probaly have the game. I have a confession to make. I don't like to lose. Actually, I Hate to lose! ( I want to clarify--I am not a sore loser. I just don't like to lose. If you beat me---I'll shake your hand. And then challenge you to play again!)
I have always been super-competitive. I can make a competition out of anything. I even compete against myself. Can I mow the lawn faster this week, than I did last week? Can I catch more fish today, than ever before? Stuff like that.
If I ever play a team type sport, I will be the guy that ALWAYS knows the score.
If I am playing some team sport, and I have teammates that aren't giving their all----or even worse, don't care if we win or lose, I can't handle that.
You probably are thinking that I should get therapy. (I probably should) But I have tried to take my competitive nature and leverage it for the good.
I have found after talking to tons of church planters, that a competitive nature may be one of the #1 qualities for success. And it is by far the least talked about. The people who are competitive will rarely quit. They will hang in there and keep swinging long after everyone else has given up and gone home. This may not sound super-spritual, but competitiveness can be a curse OR a Blessing! God can use everything about us. He created us the way we are. Don't apologize for it. Anyone up for a game of Rummy?
I have always been super-competitive. I can make a competition out of anything. I even compete against myself. Can I mow the lawn faster this week, than I did last week? Can I catch more fish today, than ever before? Stuff like that.
If I ever play a team type sport, I will be the guy that ALWAYS knows the score.
If I am playing some team sport, and I have teammates that aren't giving their all----or even worse, don't care if we win or lose, I can't handle that.
You probably are thinking that I should get therapy. (I probably should) But I have tried to take my competitive nature and leverage it for the good.
I have found after talking to tons of church planters, that a competitive nature may be one of the #1 qualities for success. And it is by far the least talked about. The people who are competitive will rarely quit. They will hang in there and keep swinging long after everyone else has given up and gone home. This may not sound super-spritual, but competitiveness can be a curse OR a Blessing! God can use everything about us. He created us the way we are. Don't apologize for it. Anyone up for a game of Rummy?
Thursday, April 26, 2007
It's a small world after all
Had a great time with Jay Hardwick at lunch today. It seems that me and Jay have traveled in some similar circles at different times. As it turns out, Jay spent some time with our Pastor of First Impressions, Brian Marshall 10 years ago! I am really excited about how the Lord is using Jay and his team at Catalyst Church.
Jay shared something that someone told him once, he said we can either leave an Impression on someone or have an Impact on someone. I like that. Why settle for an impression when we can have impact!
Jay shared something that someone told him once, he said we can either leave an Impression on someone or have an Impact on someone. I like that. Why settle for an impression when we can have impact!
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Had a great time this weekend meeting Steve Stewart who pastors Church in the Farms, in Jupiter Florida. Steve came to a couple of our services on Sunday (while he was here we asked him to be our secret shopper, and he made lots of notes) Then he stuck around on Monday and came to our staff meetings and our creative meetings.
Church in the Farms is very near and dear to my heart, because it began in my living room in 1994. Steve has been there 2 years and is doing a great job. It was my first time meeting him, and we really enjoyed having him.
I love spending time with fellow pastors. There is kind of a band of brothers type feeling. You just understand each other.
I'm looking forward to having lunch with another Pastor, Jay Hardwick from Catalyst Church, this Thursday. They are getting it done in Greenville, SC.
Church in the Farms is very near and dear to my heart, because it began in my living room in 1994. Steve has been there 2 years and is doing a great job. It was my first time meeting him, and we really enjoyed having him.
I love spending time with fellow pastors. There is kind of a band of brothers type feeling. You just understand each other.
I'm looking forward to having lunch with another Pastor, Jay Hardwick from Catalyst Church, this Thursday. They are getting it done in Greenville, SC.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
2 Big Questions
This past Sunday I challenged people to ask themselves 2 critical questions every day of their lives. Question 1: Will I make time for God to use my life today? Question 2: Who will be in control of my life today?
The whole premise of the message was, that if we will be available, and allow Christ to have control of our lives, He will give us divine opportunities to touch people's lives.
My wife was talking to a friend and she was so excited, because she had an incredible divine appointment on Sunday after church. She said that she normally would have missed it, but she was paying attention spiritually. She was riding down the road and she saw an elderly woman in her 80's walking down the sidewalk. As she drove past, she sensed that she needed to turn around and offer her a ride. The lady was walking to the grocery store, so she drove her there, and then she gave the woman her phone number and told her that if she needed a ride sometime to give her a call.
God used her life because she was available---- are you?
There is nothing more fun than being in a situation where you know without a doubt, that God has soveriegnly arranged it.
Have you been asking yourself those 2 questions this week?
The whole premise of the message was, that if we will be available, and allow Christ to have control of our lives, He will give us divine opportunities to touch people's lives.
My wife was talking to a friend and she was so excited, because she had an incredible divine appointment on Sunday after church. She said that she normally would have missed it, but she was paying attention spiritually. She was riding down the road and she saw an elderly woman in her 80's walking down the sidewalk. As she drove past, she sensed that she needed to turn around and offer her a ride. The lady was walking to the grocery store, so she drove her there, and then she gave the woman her phone number and told her that if she needed a ride sometime to give her a call.
God used her life because she was available---- are you?
There is nothing more fun than being in a situation where you know without a doubt, that God has soveriegnly arranged it.
Have you been asking yourself those 2 questions this week?
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Men's retreat
I got a chance to go to our Spring Training Men's Retreat this Friday and Saturday. We had a great turnout. Our Men's ministry leader, Bobby King and his team did an incredible job! We had all kinds of guy stuff to do---Skeet shooting, paintball, ATV riding, Horseback riding, a Texas Hold-em tournament and plenty of food. It was nice to spend some time with my youngest (14 years old) son, Cole. They grow up way too fast.
Also, a big thank you to Clemson Tigers Head Coach Tommy Bowden for coming out on Saturday evening, and bringing a couple of players, Willy Korn and Xavier Dye. Then on Saturday, 3 more guys from the team came and hung out with us.
Also, a big thank you to Clemson Tigers Head Coach Tommy Bowden for coming out on Saturday evening, and bringing a couple of players, Willy Korn and Xavier Dye. Then on Saturday, 3 more guys from the team came and hung out with us.
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Finally!
Well he's finally gone. If you have tuned into American Idol this year, you know that this has been a big joke. I'm not sure which was worse, his hair-do's or his voice. Anyway, he's off the show! All I can say is goodbya Sanjaya!
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Good News travels fast
We are hearing so many cool stories about what happened at Foothills Community Church this past Sunday! (110 people baptized) One person told me that he had 6 people leave messages on his phone Sunday after the morning services telling him he better make sure he gets to the 6:00pm service --because God was doing something incredible.
There have been emails of people celebrating a loved one's salvation (that they have been praying for years about) and then their obedience to follow in baptism.
I have heard stories of the buzz in the community of conversations around the water cooler that were about what was going on at Foothills.
The list goes on and on, so what we are going to be doing (hopefully by the end of the week) is having a link on our website (www.foothillscc.org) to a place where you can leave your story about your experience last Sunday.
All honor to God!!
There have been emails of people celebrating a loved one's salvation (that they have been praying for years about) and then their obedience to follow in baptism.
I have heard stories of the buzz in the community of conversations around the water cooler that were about what was going on at Foothills.
The list goes on and on, so what we are going to be doing (hopefully by the end of the week) is having a link on our website (www.foothillscc.org) to a place where you can leave your story about your experience last Sunday.
All honor to God!!
Pray
By now I'm sure everyone has heard about the tragedy at Virginia Tech. A gunman kills 32 people, then himself. Another 15 people injured. They say it's the worst mass killing in our history.
Senseless. That's the only way to describe these type of things.
My neice is a student at Va. Tech. Fortunately she was not one of the victims. But there are a lot of people that are grieving big-time today. Parents, brothers, sisters, cousins, aunts, uncles, grandparents, and friends.
I have two thoughts about this tragedy. First, PRAY. Pray for all of the people that will have to deal with this tragedy first-hand. God is still on the throne. This did not take Him by surprise. And although God did not cause this tragedy, He can and will be there bringing comfort and peace. Psalm 34:18 says: The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; He rescues them those who are crushed in Spirit.
Second, Tell your kids that you love them today!
Senseless. That's the only way to describe these type of things.
My neice is a student at Va. Tech. Fortunately she was not one of the victims. But there are a lot of people that are grieving big-time today. Parents, brothers, sisters, cousins, aunts, uncles, grandparents, and friends.
I have two thoughts about this tragedy. First, PRAY. Pray for all of the people that will have to deal with this tragedy first-hand. God is still on the throne. This did not take Him by surprise. And although God did not cause this tragedy, He can and will be there bringing comfort and peace. Psalm 34:18 says: The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; He rescues them those who are crushed in Spirit.
Second, Tell your kids that you love them today!
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Unbelievable!
There are no words to describe what we experienced at all 4 of our services today. The only way to describe it would be to say that God showed up and did what only He could do----touch people's hearts.
We have been telling everyone to be prepared, because we were going to be doing something we have never done at Foothills. What was the great mystery? A spontaneous Baptism service!
When the dust settled we baptized 110 people!!! Let that sink in for a minute. 110 people publicly declaring their faith in Christ.
I have never been in a service that was more moving. And the cool thing was, that God moved in every one of the services. I have never seen so many people in tears as they watched person after person going under the baptism waters. I am in awe of God.
We also set another non-Easter attendance record. I believe we had 1,623 people show up today!
Probably the coolest thing was at the 8:30 am service (which by far is our most conservative service), I hadn't even given the invitation when a man ran down the aisle and literally cannonballed into the pool. He couldn't wait. Everyone thought that he was a plant--but he wasn't!
Foothills family, all I can say is, hang on!!
We have been telling everyone to be prepared, because we were going to be doing something we have never done at Foothills. What was the great mystery? A spontaneous Baptism service!
When the dust settled we baptized 110 people!!! Let that sink in for a minute. 110 people publicly declaring their faith in Christ.
I have never been in a service that was more moving. And the cool thing was, that God moved in every one of the services. I have never seen so many people in tears as they watched person after person going under the baptism waters. I am in awe of God.
We also set another non-Easter attendance record. I believe we had 1,623 people show up today!
Probably the coolest thing was at the 8:30 am service (which by far is our most conservative service), I hadn't even given the invitation when a man ran down the aisle and literally cannonballed into the pool. He couldn't wait. Everyone thought that he was a plant--but he wasn't!
Foothills family, all I can say is, hang on!!
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Excitement in the air
We are putting the final touches on the service for this weekend. I have been telling everyone to put on their seatbelts because we are going to be doing something at Foothills that we've never done before. There is something very exhilirating about doing something that if God doesn't show up, we're in big trouble.
It's been really funny watching people trying to figure out what it is that we are going to do.
Anyway, mark your calendars for April 15th. You Do Not Want To Miss It!
It's been really funny watching people trying to figure out what it is that we are going to do.
Anyway, mark your calendars for April 15th. You Do Not Want To Miss It!
Monday, April 09, 2007
Easter Update
So here are the official numbers from Easter. Attendance--2,000 on the button! More importantly we had the biggest spiritual response we have ever had, we had 18 people receive Christ, and we had 106 people make recommitments! That is amazing. 124 significant spiritual decisions. Now comes the hard work---follow-up.
Whew!
What a day we had yesterday! We're still tallying up everything. but it looks like we had 2,000 people yesterday at our services. It was really amazing.
I can't say enough about our staff and volunteers. There were probably a couple of hundred people serving. Some actually volunteered at all 5 services.
It's hard to believe that yesterday was also our 9th birthday as a church. What an amazing journey we are on. On our first Sunday 9 years ago we had 70 people show up. Yesterday, 2,000!!--ONLY GOD!!
Our new building is going to be so helpful for us to be able to keep reaching people as space is becoming an issue.
I can't say enough about our staff and volunteers. There were probably a couple of hundred people serving. Some actually volunteered at all 5 services.
It's hard to believe that yesterday was also our 9th birthday as a church. What an amazing journey we are on. On our first Sunday 9 years ago we had 70 people show up. Yesterday, 2,000!!--ONLY GOD!!
Our new building is going to be so helpful for us to be able to keep reaching people as space is becoming an issue.
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
This is hilarious!
Over the years there has been alot of mis-information about Foothills Community Church. Things like, "they don't teach from the Bible", or "they don't talk about sin or Hell", you know, just the normal stuff that people make up because they are a little insecure or jealous.
But I heard about a rumor that someone heard about Foothills Community Church. This person heard that if you join Foothills, you have to take a vow to never drink any Pepsi products again!!!!!
Are you kidding me?? Someone actually believes this?? Just for the record---I drink 2 diet cherry Pepsi's everyday.
Can you imagine the membership covenant: I willl protect the unity of my church, I will participate in the ministry of my church, I will only drink Coca-Cola products!!
Where do people come up with this stuff?? Hilarious!!
Monday, April 02, 2007
The steel has started to arrive!
We just had 3 semi truckloads of steel delivered for our new facility. I have no clue how many more truckloads they are going to bring. The only problem is that they haven't started the grading and earthwork yet. Oh well, at least we won't have to wait for the steel to be delivered.
This is starting to get really exciting!
This is starting to get really exciting!
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Easter is coming
Easter is just around the corner. We will be starting a new message series called "Games."
You don't want to miss it----and don't forget to invite your friends! We expect to have over 2,000 people attending one of our 5 Services on Easter Sunday (April 8th)!
Then the following week (April 15th) will be something we've never done at Foothills---NEVER.
By the way we will also be celebrating our 9th birthday as a church. Time really does fly when you're having fun.
You don't want to miss it----and don't forget to invite your friends! We expect to have over 2,000 people attending one of our 5 Services on Easter Sunday (April 8th)!
Then the following week (April 15th) will be something we've never done at Foothills---NEVER.
By the way we will also be celebrating our 9th birthday as a church. Time really does fly when you're having fun.
Monday, March 26, 2007
What a great day
Yesterday was incredible! Our services were off the charts, and then last night we had our "Only One Life" fellowship banquet. Let me explain this as best as I can. From Jan 2006 thru March 2006 we did a building/spiritual growth campaign called "Only One Life". It was designed to raise the funds to construct Phase 2 of our facility. It ws a huge success. We had over 2 million dollars pledged. But since last year we have grown a lot, so we decided to do a one night banquet to let the newer people know how they could be involve. We had dinner catered which was served by some of the students in our youth ministry (way to go all of the people who volunteered to serve the meals, watch kids and set up tables, etc!!) after that we watched the video of the new building and cast the vision of Foothills, and why we are building this new facility. We did not ask people to give anything last night. You read that right, we did not ask anyone to give anything last night! We asked them to give-----but ONLY after they went home and prayed about it and then had a family conference. We set April 15th as the date for the new pledges to be turned in. I have no idea what will be given, but I am trusting God to do beyond whatever I would dare to ask or hope (Eph 3:20)
By the way, we hope to see some construction started in the next 30 days.
By the way, we hope to see some construction started in the next 30 days.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
2 Huge dates to remember
Make sure you mark your calendars for 2 big dates. The first one is April 8th. That's Easter Sunday. It will be the biggest day ever at Foothills. I will begin a new message series that day called, "Games". You do not want to miss this service. Bring someone with you to the service that does not know Christ. Get them there no matter what it takes. Bribe them if you have to!
The second important date is April 15th. It's not only important because of your taxes, but that day we will be doing something at Foothills that we have Never Done! I'm not going to tell you what it is right now, but trust me you won't want to miss that service either.
Also props to the Clemson Tigers basketball team for getting a trip to Madison Square Gardens for the N.I.T. (I know, it's not the NCAA tourney, but maybe next year.) Several of our staff went to the game, Clemson was up by like 18 points and somehow let Syracuse back in the game. It was a little scary at the end, but they pulled it out.
The second important date is April 15th. It's not only important because of your taxes, but that day we will be doing something at Foothills that we have Never Done! I'm not going to tell you what it is right now, but trust me you won't want to miss that service either.
Also props to the Clemson Tigers basketball team for getting a trip to Madison Square Gardens for the N.I.T. (I know, it's not the NCAA tourney, but maybe next year.) Several of our staff went to the game, Clemson was up by like 18 points and somehow let Syracuse back in the game. It was a little scary at the end, but they pulled it out.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
New stuff
Thanks to our IT guru Paul Nalley and video techie extraordinaire Ray Smith, we now have videos available of our weekly messages online!
It's amazing how many people currently listen to the messages online, but with the ability to watch the messages it should gain even more momentum.
Get the word out to everyone you know. The messages are available at Foothill's website.
You will also be able to download the message outlines and make notes, and you can even download questions for your weekly LIFE group. It's very cool.
It's amazing how many people currently listen to the messages online, but with the ability to watch the messages it should gain even more momentum.
Get the word out to everyone you know. The messages are available at Foothill's website.
You will also be able to download the message outlines and make notes, and you can even download questions for your weekly LIFE group. It's very cool.
Monday, March 19, 2007
You To Be
Well, I finally finished the series "You To Be". ( 9 weeks on the Fruit of the Holy Spirit.)
I think it was the longest series I've ever done, but I totally enjoyed it. God stretched me big-time.
I've got a long, long way to go when it comes to having this Christ-follower thing figured out, that's for sure! (Many of you have shared that this has been one of your favorite series ever.)
Make sure you come this Sunday, because I will be beginning a mini-series on fear called "Frozen In Fear." This week I'll be talking about Fear vs. Faith, and then the next week we'll talk about most people's #1 fear---Death! (and why you don't have to fear it)
And then the following week (April 8th) we'll celebrate Easter and start another series. (I'll give you the details later) Make sure you start inviting your friends---They WILL come to church with you on Easter!
I think it was the longest series I've ever done, but I totally enjoyed it. God stretched me big-time.
I've got a long, long way to go when it comes to having this Christ-follower thing figured out, that's for sure! (Many of you have shared that this has been one of your favorite series ever.)
Make sure you come this Sunday, because I will be beginning a mini-series on fear called "Frozen In Fear." This week I'll be talking about Fear vs. Faith, and then the next week we'll talk about most people's #1 fear---Death! (and why you don't have to fear it)
And then the following week (April 8th) we'll celebrate Easter and start another series. (I'll give you the details later) Make sure you start inviting your friends---They WILL come to church with you on Easter!
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Unleash takeaways
Our staff got a chance to go to the Unleash Conference at Newspring today. For me it was one of the best conferences I have been to in a long time.
Everybody on the Newspring staff that I have met (and all of the volunteers) have always been some of the greatest people around. They will bend over backwards to help other churches. I have known Perry and the gang for a couple of years, and that's the way they have always operated.
What I really enjoyed about the conference is Perry's authenticity, and his passion. He not only is a great communicator, but he also is one of the funniest people I know.
Tony did a great summary of the sessions.
Another thing that was outstanding was getting to worship with the Newspring worship team (way to go Lee!)
I will definitely be there next year.
Everybody on the Newspring staff that I have met (and all of the volunteers) have always been some of the greatest people around. They will bend over backwards to help other churches. I have known Perry and the gang for a couple of years, and that's the way they have always operated.
What I really enjoyed about the conference is Perry's authenticity, and his passion. He not only is a great communicator, but he also is one of the funniest people I know.
Tony did a great summary of the sessions.
Another thing that was outstanding was getting to worship with the Newspring worship team (way to go Lee!)
I will definitely be there next year.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Wide angle or Zoom lens?
Wide angle or Zoom lens?
That was basically what I asked each of us to consider this past Sunday. Everyone of us goes through life wearing one of these two lenses.
Let me explain; Some people wear the zoom lens. The zoom lens is designed to zoom in on one single object. When we have the zoom lens life, WE are the object that we focus on. The zoom lens life is self-absorbed and selfish.
Other people go through life with a Wide angle lens perspective. The wide angle lens has a wider field of vision. The wide angle lens life is what we are called to as Christ-followers. When I have wide angle living, I see that there are lots of people in the picture besides me.
If you missed Sunday, I challenged everyone to 30 days of Kindness. For the next 30 days, look for opportunities to meet a Physical need, encourage someone emotionally, and reach out to people Spiritually.
Easter Sunday is only a month away. I'm asking everyone to invite at least 5 people to come to church with you.
Remember, we will be doing 5 services on Easter. 7:15am, 8:30am, 9:45am, 11:15am and 6:00pm
That was basically what I asked each of us to consider this past Sunday. Everyone of us goes through life wearing one of these two lenses.
Let me explain; Some people wear the zoom lens. The zoom lens is designed to zoom in on one single object. When we have the zoom lens life, WE are the object that we focus on. The zoom lens life is self-absorbed and selfish.
Other people go through life with a Wide angle lens perspective. The wide angle lens has a wider field of vision. The wide angle lens life is what we are called to as Christ-followers. When I have wide angle living, I see that there are lots of people in the picture besides me.
If you missed Sunday, I challenged everyone to 30 days of Kindness. For the next 30 days, look for opportunities to meet a Physical need, encourage someone emotionally, and reach out to people Spiritually.
Easter Sunday is only a month away. I'm asking everyone to invite at least 5 people to come to church with you.
Remember, we will be doing 5 services on Easter. 7:15am, 8:30am, 9:45am, 11:15am and 6:00pm
Thursday, March 08, 2007
IGNITE Weekend
Things around here are getting pretty exciting. This weekend is IGNITE weekend! This is one of our 2 huge events of the year for our Student Ministry. Scott Chatfield along with his wife Amy and lots of other volunteers have been praying and preparing for this weekend since last year.
I just walked into our auditorium and they built a new stage set, added a bunch of lighting and plasma screens. It looks very cool.
Scott tells me that he's expecting between 300 and 400 teenagers to show up! The theme this year is "Heroes".
We believe in providing the very best ministries possible for our Students (and children as well) Proportionately from a budget standpoint we also put our money where our mouth is. We feel like it is an investment. I also want to thank all of the adults volunteers that are going to be sacrificing their weekend for the sake of these great kids ---way to go guys and gals!!
If you're a student, its NOT TOO LATE to be a part of IGNITE. You can still register at the doors. For more info, here's a link to IGNITE
If you think about it, say a prayer for these kids this weekend.
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Be careful what you preach on
I have figured out something; whatever the topic you choose to preach on, you will usually get a chance to experience it first-hand (I will be doing a message on death in a couple of weeks---uh oh!)
Sunday, we were talking about the fruit of the Holy Spirit known as Peace. The whole message was basically about not being anxious, but trusting in Christ to give us that peace that passes all human understanding. Wouldn't you know it, several members of our Worship and Tech teams were sick, so we were short handed. Then on top of that I had a sore throat. It was the kind that the more you speak, the sorer it gets. By the time the 4th service was done it was really hurting.
The other thing that was kind of strange was, that I couldn't seem to get "peace" about my message. All week long it just seemed like it wasn't clicking. On Sunday morning, a couple of verses popped into my mind that I knew I needed to share about. I still was able to use my main outline, but I eliminated a few things, and added some others. You have to understand something. I believe that the Holy Spirit works through the planning and preparation stages a lot more than He does spontaneously. It is not more spiritual for a Pastor to walk on stage and not be prepared and then blame the Holy Spirit for his lousy message. I usually spend 20-25 hours in message prep each week.
Anyway, despite all of the chaos of the morning God showed up big-time. We had another record attendance (the 3rd record in the last 5 weeks!) We had more people saved and more people become members.
Sunday, we were talking about the fruit of the Holy Spirit known as Peace. The whole message was basically about not being anxious, but trusting in Christ to give us that peace that passes all human understanding. Wouldn't you know it, several members of our Worship and Tech teams were sick, so we were short handed. Then on top of that I had a sore throat. It was the kind that the more you speak, the sorer it gets. By the time the 4th service was done it was really hurting.
The other thing that was kind of strange was, that I couldn't seem to get "peace" about my message. All week long it just seemed like it wasn't clicking. On Sunday morning, a couple of verses popped into my mind that I knew I needed to share about. I still was able to use my main outline, but I eliminated a few things, and added some others. You have to understand something. I believe that the Holy Spirit works through the planning and preparation stages a lot more than He does spontaneously. It is not more spiritual for a Pastor to walk on stage and not be prepared and then blame the Holy Spirit for his lousy message. I usually spend 20-25 hours in message prep each week.
Anyway, despite all of the chaos of the morning God showed up big-time. We had another record attendance (the 3rd record in the last 5 weeks!) We had more people saved and more people become members.
Thursday, March 01, 2007
Conference take-aways
We brought some of our team the the Church Planters conference at Mountain Lake Church on Monday and Tuesday. They did a great job of putting that thing together. Their volunteers were helpful; the speakers were engaging; the music was rocking, and the atmosphere was high-energy.
There were a couple of God moments that I am still processing. Both Shawn Lovejoy's and Perry Noble's sessions reminded me to protect the vision that God has given us for Foothills.
Dave Furgeson reignited my entrepreneurial spirit. Matt Carter's message stirred my heart, and Ed Stetzer's message challenged my thinking.
I didn't attend, Gary Lamb's breakout session, but a couple of our team did, and they said that Gary was bouncing off the walls!! (What's new?)
One of the absolute best parts of these conferences, is the time our team had to spend together. We commuted back and forth both days, so there was a lot of great conversation during the drive time.
The only down-side to the conference is that I'm a little behind this week on some work.
I'm looking forward to next year!
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
If at first you don't succeed
Last week a friend gave me 2 tickets to last Wednesday's Clemson Baseball game. I was pumped! My beautiful wife Liz and I were going to be able to spend a couple of hours together at the old ball park. It doesn't get much better than that. Unfortunately the weather turned bad. We waited for an hour or so for the rain delay, but it didn't look like it was going to let up, so we left. (They actually played the game after a 3 hour rain delay) Needless to say I was disappointed.
Well, this afternoon we are going to get a second chance. That same friend blessed us with 2 more tickets. It's supposed to be 65 degrees and sunny. We're going to give it another shot.
Life is like that many times. Our plans and dreams sometimes don't work out like we thought they would. It's pretty discouraging. It's at these times that we have to choose whether or not we will risk it again. Some people never do. How sad.
By the way, why is it that everything is so expensive at sporting events? I'm all for people making a little profit, but come on. I bought a bag of sunflower seeds. In a convenience store they cost about 50 cents ---at a Clemson game they charge 2 bucks!
One more random thought about sunflower seeds. Sunflower seeds are good, but you have to be careful where you spit the shells. Just ask the guy that was sitting in front of me during the rain delay!
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Here's what I've learned---so far
A couple of weeks ago I mentioned that one of the goals I have set for 2007 is to talk to more leaders that are ahead of us developmentally as a church.
I began to email Pastors of churches that i am hearing great things about. I contacted 12 so far, and have heard back from 8. That's not a bad ratio!
Today I thought that I would give the list of the 8, and then in seperate postings, share my findings.
1. Flamingo Road Church -- South Florida -- Pastor Troy Gramling
2. Westside family Church -- Kansas City --- Pastor Dave Cox
3. Radiant Church -- Arizona -- Pastor Lee Mcfarland
4. New Life Church -- Arkansas -- Pastor Rick Bezet
5. River Pointe Church -- Texas -- Pastor Patrick Kelly
6. Cornerstone Chandler -- Arizona -- Pastor Linn Winters
7. Friendswood Church-- Texas -- Pastor Rick Baldwin
8. Northway Fellowship -- New York -- Pastor Buddy Creamens
My heartfelt thanks to all of these men for taking time out of their busy schedules to speak to me.
I began to email Pastors of churches that i am hearing great things about. I contacted 12 so far, and have heard back from 8. That's not a bad ratio!
Today I thought that I would give the list of the 8, and then in seperate postings, share my findings.
1. Flamingo Road Church -- South Florida -- Pastor Troy Gramling
2. Westside family Church -- Kansas City --- Pastor Dave Cox
3. Radiant Church -- Arizona -- Pastor Lee Mcfarland
4. New Life Church -- Arkansas -- Pastor Rick Bezet
5. River Pointe Church -- Texas -- Pastor Patrick Kelly
6. Cornerstone Chandler -- Arizona -- Pastor Linn Winters
7. Friendswood Church-- Texas -- Pastor Rick Baldwin
8. Northway Fellowship -- New York -- Pastor Buddy Creamens
My heartfelt thanks to all of these men for taking time out of their busy schedules to speak to me.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Southern Blasphemy
Last Sunday was the closest I have ever come to getting tarred and feathered at church for something I said. What was the shocking statement that I made? Was it some blasphemous comment about the deity of Christ? Was it a sacreligious theological statement? Did I say something about someone's Momma?
No it was worse! I said that Nascar was a dumb sport!!! (In retrospect it's not the kind of statement you want to make in the South, to win friends and influence people)
When I got home from Church on Sunday, I figured I would tune into the Daytona 500 to see what the big deal was. All I can say is, I have seen the error of my ways. I actually started to get into it. I ended up watching the first half of the race. If I hadn't had to go back to church that evening for our fourth service, I might have watched the whole thing! To all my Nascar good old boy buddies, I sincerely apologize. I have seen the light! Be sure to be at church on Sunday for my Nascar coming out party.
No it was worse! I said that Nascar was a dumb sport!!! (In retrospect it's not the kind of statement you want to make in the South, to win friends and influence people)
When I got home from Church on Sunday, I figured I would tune into the Daytona 500 to see what the big deal was. All I can say is, I have seen the error of my ways. I actually started to get into it. I ended up watching the first half of the race. If I hadn't had to go back to church that evening for our fourth service, I might have watched the whole thing! To all my Nascar good old boy buddies, I sincerely apologize. I have seen the light! Be sure to be at church on Sunday for my Nascar coming out party.
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Pass it on
As I mentioned in yesterday's post, I have had meetings with several Pastors in the last few days. One thing that I'm always reminded of, is that I usually get more out of those meetings than anyone else.
First, I get the benefit of seeing things from someone else's perspective. This always keeps me from getting too myopic.
Second, I get the benefit of sharing our story and vision. Every time I tell our story, it has a way of keeping things fresh.
Third, I get the benefit of meeting new people; and not just any people, but people who have laid it all down for the sake of a call. These men are pioneers---they are visionaries---they are men of great dreams and great faith. That inspires me!
Fourth, I get the benefit of learning. I always walk away from those meetings with more knowledge and greater understanding.
Before becoming a Pastor, I was in business. In business, there is a tendency to view everyone as a competitor. People in business are very careful NOT to tell others much information so as not to give them a a competetive edge. What I love about church is that we are all on the same team. If anything we have done, can benefit others---that's great!
I realize that God has blessed Foothills Community Church, and me as a leader. It is my responsibility to share what He has taught me with others.
If you are a church planter or pastor, and we can be of assistance, let me know. You can shoot me an email at greg@foothillscc.org
First, I get the benefit of seeing things from someone else's perspective. This always keeps me from getting too myopic.
Second, I get the benefit of sharing our story and vision. Every time I tell our story, it has a way of keeping things fresh.
Third, I get the benefit of meeting new people; and not just any people, but people who have laid it all down for the sake of a call. These men are pioneers---they are visionaries---they are men of great dreams and great faith. That inspires me!
Fourth, I get the benefit of learning. I always walk away from those meetings with more knowledge and greater understanding.
Before becoming a Pastor, I was in business. In business, there is a tendency to view everyone as a competitor. People in business are very careful NOT to tell others much information so as not to give them a a competetive edge. What I love about church is that we are all on the same team. If anything we have done, can benefit others---that's great!
I realize that God has blessed Foothills Community Church, and me as a leader. It is my responsibility to share what He has taught me with others.
If you are a church planter or pastor, and we can be of assistance, let me know. You can shoot me an email at greg@foothillscc.org
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Talking Shop
For a church planter, there is nothing quite as fun as talking church. Over the last few days I have met with a few pastors and it has been great.
Yesterday evening I had a chance to talk to Gary Lamb. He stopped by for a couple of hours on his whirlwind tour of the I-85 corridor. I had met Gary briefly a couple of months ago, but this was the first time we actually got to sit down and talk church. Gary is one of those guys that takes some flak because he's not afraid to speak his mind, but he's got a genuine passion to reach the lost with the Good News. I really like Gary. He is a thinker, and he's not afraid to ask questions.
Gary and his church, Ridgestone Church, are way ahead of where we were at two years old. They are blowing the doors off of his part of the world.They are not only growing larger, but they are seeing lives changed by the hundreds!
It sounds like Canton Ga. is alot like Seneca, SC in many ways.
I have no doubt that Ridgestone will continue to grow, and reach people for Christ! Keep it up Gary.
Yesterday evening I had a chance to talk to Gary Lamb. He stopped by for a couple of hours on his whirlwind tour of the I-85 corridor. I had met Gary briefly a couple of months ago, but this was the first time we actually got to sit down and talk church. Gary is one of those guys that takes some flak because he's not afraid to speak his mind, but he's got a genuine passion to reach the lost with the Good News. I really like Gary. He is a thinker, and he's not afraid to ask questions.
Gary and his church, Ridgestone Church, are way ahead of where we were at two years old. They are blowing the doors off of his part of the world.They are not only growing larger, but they are seeing lives changed by the hundreds!
It sounds like Canton Ga. is alot like Seneca, SC in many ways.
I have no doubt that Ridgestone will continue to grow, and reach people for Christ! Keep it up Gary.
Monday, February 12, 2007
Another record
For two weeks in a row we have set attendance records. Yesterday we had 1,400 people! The place was packed for both the 9:45am and 11:15am services. If you attend Foothills at either of these services, you may want to consider moving to the 8:30am or 6:00pm service.
I know it would be a sacrifice, but for the next 10 months or so until our new facility is built, it would free up some seats for our guests at those two prime times.
There is nothing quite as exciting as seeing God move. There is so much energy in our services it is nearly tangible. Keep inviting your friends!
I know it would be a sacrifice, but for the next 10 months or so until our new facility is built, it would free up some seats for our guests at those two prime times.
There is nothing quite as exciting as seeing God move. There is so much energy in our services it is nearly tangible. Keep inviting your friends!
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
Change
One of the things that I have noticed is that great churches are not afraid of change---in fact in a lot of ways they thrive on it. You can bet though that even within those churches that embrace change there are those people who oppose it. The leaders responsibility is to lead the people to change, and then through the change and finally not to get too comfortable because there is going to be more change!
I actually enjoy change. At Foothills we change a lot of things. We are in the process of changing things from a physical appearance standpoint. our lobby is being reconfigured for more room. We have changed the entrance areas to our Chidren's area (they now have a seperate entrance to expedite the check-in process). We are about to tweak that again. We create different stage designs on a regular basis, etc.
I have found that if change does not become part of the culture from the get-go, chances are that when you finally do want to change things, there will be resistance. We have all heard the horror stories about the Pastor that was fired because he moved the pulpit----how ridiculous!
It is easy to become too predictable. If people become conditioned to the point that they already know what you're going to do before you do it----it's time for change.
We are going to be messing with the order of service. We have become WAY too predictable. We want people to expect the unexpected.
I actually enjoy change. At Foothills we change a lot of things. We are in the process of changing things from a physical appearance standpoint. our lobby is being reconfigured for more room. We have changed the entrance areas to our Chidren's area (they now have a seperate entrance to expedite the check-in process). We are about to tweak that again. We create different stage designs on a regular basis, etc.
I have found that if change does not become part of the culture from the get-go, chances are that when you finally do want to change things, there will be resistance. We have all heard the horror stories about the Pastor that was fired because he moved the pulpit----how ridiculous!
It is easy to become too predictable. If people become conditioned to the point that they already know what you're going to do before you do it----it's time for change.
We are going to be messing with the order of service. We have become WAY too predictable. We want people to expect the unexpected.
Monday, February 05, 2007
Another big day
Big Mo is really rolling. Yesterday was incredible. We had another record attendance for a non-holiday Sunday. We also introduced our new worship leader, Eric Peter's. He did a great job in spite of nearly having laryngitis.
Our 11:15am service was packed to the gills. We ran out of chairs and had to bring out the uncomfortable metal chairs. If you are a Foothills person and you would like a little more elbow room, consider the 8:30am or 6:00pm services! By doing this you will also free up some seats for 1st time guests.
Our series: "You To be" has been phenomemal. Yesterday we talked about the fruit of Patience. I really hate those messages that smack me right between the eyes. I definitely need to work on that one!
Our 11:15am service was packed to the gills. We ran out of chairs and had to bring out the uncomfortable metal chairs. If you are a Foothills person and you would like a little more elbow room, consider the 8:30am or 6:00pm services! By doing this you will also free up some seats for 1st time guests.
Our series: "You To be" has been phenomemal. Yesterday we talked about the fruit of Patience. I really hate those messages that smack me right between the eyes. I definitely need to work on that one!
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