Well, this was day five of teaching and a Saturday on top of it all. After finishing up a few matters from the first course, we began the preaching course. After lunch, the group was looking rather tired and after about an hour I saw more than a few heads land on the table. I thought either I am boring or they are tired - I went for option two and called an early break. After en extended break, we continued but the eye lids kept dropping so we called it an early day, stopping at 4:00.
Tonight I was able to take Jeff, Shauna and their daughter Kaylee out for a meal (they are the family that is hosting me and have been very kind, hospitable and helpful). We went to a restaurant called the Byanburd, and Shauna and I had some amazing chicken - the first time since leaving Canada. Jeff had this bowl of rice, some cucumbers and other various matters at the bottom.
Tomorrow I have the opportunity to preach at the "ger" church in BKH and afterwards meet with the leaders. We are also going to have a lunch with something boiled in milk - I forget exactly how Jeff explained it but I do remember him say, "oh, you have never had it - you are in for a treat." I will definitely keep you posted!
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Friday, May 14, 2010
Camel Time on Mongolia!!
Today was another busy day of teaching and this time with lots of discussion from the students. We looked at perseverance of the people of God, the church, baptism, Lord's Supper and church discipline - each carrying a lot of practical discussion on how to apply God's Word in their various churches. Does baptism save? What if you do not have enough water in the Gobi Desert to immerse? What do you do if someone is caught in sin but is repentant? It is always encouraging to hear their questions as it lets me know what they are thinking and what the church is struggling with in their ministries.
After the teaching, Jeff took me out into the countryside with a few others and we had the opportunity to ride a camel. Mongolian camels have two humps and because it was such a harsh winter, one of the humps on the camel was "limpy" (you will see the "limpy" humps in some of the Mongolian art work). It was a great experience and as I rode I looked out over the Northern Gobi thanking the Lord for the beauty of His creation and the opportunity to be sharing God' Word. I will say the dismount from a camel can be a little awkward - front knees first and then settling down on his hind legs. Every time the camel had to bend, he would let out this groan as if to say, "Oh man, not again."
It was a good day and I look forward to the opportunity to begin to teach homiletics tomorrow for four days. Sunday I am preaching in the large "ger" church in town, looking forward to worshiping with them. Now, as you are in the middle of your day, I think I will head to bed!
After the teaching, Jeff took me out into the countryside with a few others and we had the opportunity to ride a camel. Mongolian camels have two humps and because it was such a harsh winter, one of the humps on the camel was "limpy" (you will see the "limpy" humps in some of the Mongolian art work). It was a great experience and as I rode I looked out over the Northern Gobi thanking the Lord for the beauty of His creation and the opportunity to be sharing God' Word. I will say the dismount from a camel can be a little awkward - front knees first and then settling down on his hind legs. Every time the camel had to bend, he would let out this groan as if to say, "Oh man, not again."
It was a good day and I look forward to the opportunity to begin to teach homiletics tomorrow for four days. Sunday I am preaching in the large "ger" church in town, looking forward to worshiping with them. Now, as you are in the middle of your day, I think I will head to bed!
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Thursday In Mongolia
It was another beautiful day in Mongolia. The sun is warm with a cool breeze, the Mongolians enjoying the first signs of spring. Jeff and I traveled to the church where we are doing the teaching and from 9-5 we are together learning God's Word. For many of the students, this is the first time they are hearing from Scripture an explanation of the Trinity, God's sovereignty in salvation, special revelation and other teachings from Scripture. So they are thankful for the opportunity to train and hear the teaching of God's Word. It is amazing to see their enthusiasm and patience as they sit for a very long day.
After teaching, Jeff took me to the large hill in the middle of the city. I was able to see the mountains surrounding the city, the mountains further back still having snow on the tops. The city of BKH is large, filled with gers surrounded by fences in a neat, orderly fashion. While we were up on the large hill, a group of 10-15 grade 5 boys and girls began to talk with us and wanted us to take their pictures. And that is how it began - we would take some pictures and they would look at themselves, then they wanted to take pictures and look at them and then they wanted to run with my camera down the hill to take pictures of their friends... and look at them. It was amazing to see their joy and their laughter at the "tourist". We finally recouped our cameras and drove down the hill, with one guy hanging on the back tire for about 10-20 feet.
After teaching, Jeff took me to the large hill in the middle of the city. I was able to see the mountains surrounding the city, the mountains further back still having snow on the tops. The city of BKH is large, filled with gers surrounded by fences in a neat, orderly fashion. While we were up on the large hill, a group of 10-15 grade 5 boys and girls began to talk with us and wanted us to take their pictures. And that is how it began - we would take some pictures and they would look at themselves, then they wanted to take pictures and look at them and then they wanted to run with my camera down the hill to take pictures of their friends... and look at them. It was amazing to see their joy and their laughter at the "tourist". We finally recouped our cameras and drove down the hill, with one guy hanging on the back tire for about 10-20 feet.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
First Day of Teaching in BKH
I landed in BKH yesterday morning at around 8:00 and was able to settle into the house of Jeff an Shauna, have a coffee, study my material, meet some of the men and then hit the bed at 7:30. That's right, I hit the sleep wall and fell right into bed. Slept for almost 12 hours.
Today I began teaching Systematics. I was thankful for all the pastors that attended and we had a good day studying God's Word. We not only covered the material prepared but got into many practical ministry questions. It was good to be able to talk together with them.
This is a short blog, with just a quick update as I have to run. Please do continue to pray. Jeff asked some of the pastors if they had ever heard some of the teaching and they said no - so I am thankful to be sharing God's Word with them.
Today I began teaching Systematics. I was thankful for all the pastors that attended and we had a good day studying God's Word. We not only covered the material prepared but got into many practical ministry questions. It was good to be able to talk together with them.
This is a short blog, with just a quick update as I have to run. Please do continue to pray. Jeff asked some of the pastors if they had ever heard some of the teaching and they said no - so I am thankful to be sharing God's Word with them.
Sunday, May 09, 2010
Sunday in Mongolia
Well, I finally landed in Mongolia at 6:15 this morning to a bright, sunny and rather chilly morning.
I am thankful to be hear because if I took my usual route, it would have been much more than a 9 hour delay. During my last three trips into Mongolia I have flown with Korean Air from Korea to Mongolia. This time was different as I was booked to fly with Miat, the Mongolian airline. This was considerably more inconvenient as I had to go through customs, collect my luggage and re-enter rather than just do a transfer as I had done my previous times. But the Lord was gracious because while Miat flew out 9 hours late, the next Korean Air flight landing in Mongolia would not be until Monday night! If I was on that flight, I would have missed my flight to BKH tomorrow morning at 6:15 a.m. and probably would have had to take a 12 hour van ride, not arriving until Wednesday. So I am thankful to God for His provisions and feel a little rebuked for the earlier grumbling about the inconvenience.
Presently I am staying in an apartment with a couple who have been very kind to me. We went to church after I slept for 3 hours and spent an enjoyable afternoon getting to know one another and more about the ministry in Mongolia. I also talked to Jeff from BKH and he has said everything is ready for the conference and the leaders are looking forward to the time. I continue to pray for God's good grace to shine.
I am thankful to be hear because if I took my usual route, it would have been much more than a 9 hour delay. During my last three trips into Mongolia I have flown with Korean Air from Korea to Mongolia. This time was different as I was booked to fly with Miat, the Mongolian airline. This was considerably more inconvenient as I had to go through customs, collect my luggage and re-enter rather than just do a transfer as I had done my previous times. But the Lord was gracious because while Miat flew out 9 hours late, the next Korean Air flight landing in Mongolia would not be until Monday night! If I was on that flight, I would have missed my flight to BKH tomorrow morning at 6:15 a.m. and probably would have had to take a 12 hour van ride, not arriving until Wednesday. So I am thankful to God for His provisions and feel a little rebuked for the earlier grumbling about the inconvenience.
Presently I am staying in an apartment with a couple who have been very kind to me. We went to church after I slept for 3 hours and spent an enjoyable afternoon getting to know one another and more about the ministry in Mongolia. I also talked to Jeff from BKH and he has said everything is ready for the conference and the leaders are looking forward to the time. I continue to pray for God's good grace to shine.
Saturday, May 08, 2010
Sitting In Seoul
Well, it is 9:28 a.m. Cambridge time and 10:28 p.m. Seoul time on a Saturday night and I am still sitting in the airport in Korea. Apparently there was a lot of sand flying around Mongolia today so instead of a 6:00 departure, it will take place at 3:30 this morning.
God has been gracious in terms of travelling mercies. I am still absolutely amazed at how such a large plane carrying everyone's kitchen sink can stay in the air for so long. I do look forward to arriving in Mongolia and meeting up with the family I will be staying with for the night. They will then drop me off Monday morning and I will fly to Outer Mongolia, hopefully meeting with the pastors, Lord willing.
I could write more but I am not sure you want me to regale you with stories about how tough it is to chose between Robins Donuts and Bean and Tea place. It just may not capture the imagination of the masses. Anyway, I do appreciate your prayers for my safety and for the Mongolian people - I have had some time to focus on/pray about the opportunities of teaching and ministering to these men. I do pray, as we read in John 15, for abiding fruit that will build up God's people and spread God's glory.
God has been gracious in terms of travelling mercies. I am still absolutely amazed at how such a large plane carrying everyone's kitchen sink can stay in the air for so long. I do look forward to arriving in Mongolia and meeting up with the family I will be staying with for the night. They will then drop me off Monday morning and I will fly to Outer Mongolia, hopefully meeting with the pastors, Lord willing.
I could write more but I am not sure you want me to regale you with stories about how tough it is to chose between Robins Donuts and Bean and Tea place. It just may not capture the imagination of the masses. Anyway, I do appreciate your prayers for my safety and for the Mongolian people - I have had some time to focus on/pray about the opportunities of teaching and ministering to these men. I do pray, as we read in John 15, for abiding fruit that will build up God's people and spread God's glory.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
I Don't Feel Like Forgiving
How do we forgive when we don't feel like forgiving? 2 Chronicles 7 is helpful as God responds to Solomon's prayer from chapter 6. God will speak about forgiveness but before he does, he sets out the foundation of forgiveness.
2 Chronicles 7.12-13 read: the Lord appeared to him at night and said: I have heard your prayer and have chosen this place for myself as a temple for sacrifices. When I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or command locusts to devour the land or send a plague among my people, ...
Why did God not simply begin with the words, "I will forgive when you humble yourself before me"? Because God is teaching his people that before forgiveness takes place, one must understand grace. God speaks to Solomon expressing that He will hear but it is an ear given to sinners who deserve punishment. God knows that the people of Israel will sin but he rsponds with grace as he will hear and forgive.
So, what happens when you don't feel like forgiving? God does not simply say "forgive". Instead, he teaches about grace and found in the realm of grace is the strength to forgive.
Forgiveness is not based on feeling or strictly speaking, raw obedience. It is built upon the foundation of knowing the amazing and abounding grace of God in our lives.
2 Chronicles 7.12-13 read: the Lord appeared to him at night and said: I have heard your prayer and have chosen this place for myself as a temple for sacrifices. When I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or command locusts to devour the land or send a plague among my people, ...
Why did God not simply begin with the words, "I will forgive when you humble yourself before me"? Because God is teaching his people that before forgiveness takes place, one must understand grace. God speaks to Solomon expressing that He will hear but it is an ear given to sinners who deserve punishment. God knows that the people of Israel will sin but he rsponds with grace as he will hear and forgive.
So, what happens when you don't feel like forgiving? God does not simply say "forgive". Instead, he teaches about grace and found in the realm of grace is the strength to forgive.
Forgiveness is not based on feeling or strictly speaking, raw obedience. It is built upon the foundation of knowing the amazing and abounding grace of God in our lives.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Why Those Who Sin Have Hope
Earlier I wrote a few paragraphs entitled Why Guys Who Watch Porn Will Never Get Married. The title was admittedly inaccurate and was used to grab the attention of the reader. The purpose of the post was to expose what is often hidden behind all the supposed glamour of porn and how porn negatively impacts relationships. But the post was incomplete as it left no hope for the one who struggles and may have conveyed that they are trapped in this sin.
So we ask, why do those who sin have hope(and not just with porn but a host of heart sins which affect relationship - words, lack of forgiveness, envy, greed, etc)? Where do they find encouragement? We want to look at just two places from Scripture.
First, in 1 Corinthians 6.9-11 Paul lists a number of sins, among them sexually immorality, greed, drunkenness and slander. Is the believer ever trapped? Paul writes: And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.
There is hope which begins with our standing before God. We are a changed people in His sight - we are washed (cleansed), sanctified (set apart, made holy), justified (given a righteous standing before God because of Jesus). It would seem strange that someone who struggles with sexual immorality would never be able to grow in holiness and therefore, never grow more and more conformed to their standing before God. This gives the believer great hope because the change will not ultimately come because we change ourselves but simply and profoundly, because God will change us. God within us through His Spirit will grow us in holiness. This change is often gradual and therefore the believer must continually come back to the cross, being reminded of God's work in us. God will mercifully and graciously discipline us so we become more like our Father in heaven.
Second, Romans 6 tells us that we are no longer slaves to sin but slaves to righteousness. The good news here is not only is God working on our behalf, but humanly speaking, God gives us means to strengthen our resolve to walk in holiness. We are not powerless and the grip of sin is never stronger than the grip of God. And so the person struggling with porn, words, envy, greed or anger is able to bow before a sovereign God pleading mercy and then rise, using God-given resources to battle unrighteousness.
And so, is there hope? Absolutely. It is an amazing paradox that in the glamour of porn we find death and in the horror of Christ's death we find life.
So we ask, why do those who sin have hope(and not just with porn but a host of heart sins which affect relationship - words, lack of forgiveness, envy, greed, etc)? Where do they find encouragement? We want to look at just two places from Scripture.
First, in 1 Corinthians 6.9-11 Paul lists a number of sins, among them sexually immorality, greed, drunkenness and slander. Is the believer ever trapped? Paul writes: And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.
There is hope which begins with our standing before God. We are a changed people in His sight - we are washed (cleansed), sanctified (set apart, made holy), justified (given a righteous standing before God because of Jesus). It would seem strange that someone who struggles with sexual immorality would never be able to grow in holiness and therefore, never grow more and more conformed to their standing before God. This gives the believer great hope because the change will not ultimately come because we change ourselves but simply and profoundly, because God will change us. God within us through His Spirit will grow us in holiness. This change is often gradual and therefore the believer must continually come back to the cross, being reminded of God's work in us. God will mercifully and graciously discipline us so we become more like our Father in heaven.
Second, Romans 6 tells us that we are no longer slaves to sin but slaves to righteousness. The good news here is not only is God working on our behalf, but humanly speaking, God gives us means to strengthen our resolve to walk in holiness. We are not powerless and the grip of sin is never stronger than the grip of God. And so the person struggling with porn, words, envy, greed or anger is able to bow before a sovereign God pleading mercy and then rise, using God-given resources to battle unrighteousness.
And so, is there hope? Absolutely. It is an amazing paradox that in the glamour of porn we find death and in the horror of Christ's death we find life.
Tuesday, February 02, 2010
Christians As Icebergs
What do you mean "Christians as icebergs"? Sounds harsh doesn't it? Do you mean that they are usually cold and unwelcoming? Well, no. Generally I have found believers in Jesus to be the exact opposite - warm and welcoming.
However, I have heard that when you see an iceberg you are really only see 10% while the remaining 90% is submerged from view. It is only when you come closer do you realize what lies underneath.
I expressed to the people at church recently that when I look out from the pulpit, I view them as icebergs - what I see is the 10%, with another 90% underneath. This is not a paranoid pastor speaking, nor is it trying to find issues when there are none to be found. Instead, it is to be honest with the circumstances of life. We are taught to wear a happy face as worship for worship is really only for those ready to praise God and give their all to Him. But what about those found in Psalm 55.1-5: Listen to my prayer O God, do not ignore my plea; hear me and answer me. My thoughts trouble me and I am distraught ... my heart is in anguish within me ... fear and trembling have beset me; horror has overwhelmed. me.?
That is the hidden 90% the "iceberg" brings into the church as she quietly sits in the back row - trapped in a sin, filled with guilt and desperate. However, recognizing the hidden spiritual struggles allows us to minister God's powerful, personal Word AND deal honestly with people's lives - the 90%. It is here we will see God revealed in the Psalm and conclude God is the only place to cast all our cares. Suddenly the 90% finds hope.
How do you view those coming into church? How do we get past the superficial? How about beginning to view believers as icebergs - it will impact preaching for the pastor and fellowship for all, creating a deeper level of true ministry.
However, I have heard that when you see an iceberg you are really only see 10% while the remaining 90% is submerged from view. It is only when you come closer do you realize what lies underneath.
I expressed to the people at church recently that when I look out from the pulpit, I view them as icebergs - what I see is the 10%, with another 90% underneath. This is not a paranoid pastor speaking, nor is it trying to find issues when there are none to be found. Instead, it is to be honest with the circumstances of life. We are taught to wear a happy face as worship for worship is really only for those ready to praise God and give their all to Him. But what about those found in Psalm 55.1-5: Listen to my prayer O God, do not ignore my plea; hear me and answer me. My thoughts trouble me and I am distraught ... my heart is in anguish within me ... fear and trembling have beset me; horror has overwhelmed. me.?
That is the hidden 90% the "iceberg" brings into the church as she quietly sits in the back row - trapped in a sin, filled with guilt and desperate. However, recognizing the hidden spiritual struggles allows us to minister God's powerful, personal Word AND deal honestly with people's lives - the 90%. It is here we will see God revealed in the Psalm and conclude God is the only place to cast all our cares. Suddenly the 90% finds hope.
How do you view those coming into church? How do we get past the superficial? How about beginning to view believers as icebergs - it will impact preaching for the pastor and fellowship for all, creating a deeper level of true ministry.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Got the Grumbles?
The Israelites had just been delivered from slavery when they began to grumble against Moses and Aaron: If only we had died by the Lord's hand in Egypt! There we sat around pots of meat and ate all the food we wanted, but you have brought us out into this desert to starve this assembly to death.
There are two lies that are believed when we begin to grumble.
The first lie is God is not wise. The Israelites really believed they knew better than God as He had made a mistake bringing them into the desert. If God really knew what He was doing, He would have left them in Egypt where slavery was so much better! Really? Remember the bricks? Here is the truth about the person of God - He is all wise, even when we do not understand His ways. We become convinced that God does not need to work on us any more and really, if we are happy, he should leave us alone. But God is interested in change and grumbling resists change. A thankful heart knows that in God's great wisdom, trusting that He is bringing us to a better place.
The second lie is God has abandoned His people. Would God really leave His people to die in the desert? Did He not make a covenant with them? Did He not just deliver them from a powerful army? Did He not declare "I am the Lord"? We have so many assurances God is leading us and will never abandon His people. Grumbling forgets the promises and person of God.
Grumbling is a matter of the heart, resulting in a sinful view of God. Knowing God and holding onto His promises will produce a thankful heart as we know all that is given is far more than we have ever deserved.
There are two lies that are believed when we begin to grumble.
The first lie is God is not wise. The Israelites really believed they knew better than God as He had made a mistake bringing them into the desert. If God really knew what He was doing, He would have left them in Egypt where slavery was so much better! Really? Remember the bricks? Here is the truth about the person of God - He is all wise, even when we do not understand His ways. We become convinced that God does not need to work on us any more and really, if we are happy, he should leave us alone. But God is interested in change and grumbling resists change. A thankful heart knows that in God's great wisdom, trusting that He is bringing us to a better place.
The second lie is God has abandoned His people. Would God really leave His people to die in the desert? Did He not make a covenant with them? Did He not just deliver them from a powerful army? Did He not declare "I am the Lord"? We have so many assurances God is leading us and will never abandon His people. Grumbling forgets the promises and person of God.
Grumbling is a matter of the heart, resulting in a sinful view of God. Knowing God and holding onto His promises will produce a thankful heart as we know all that is given is far more than we have ever deserved.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Expecting Trials
John 10.28 is a verse not only of great comfort but one that teaches us to live life with a certain expectation. We read I give them (my sheep) eternal life and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand.
The great comfort is easy to spot - the promise of eternal life and never perish. What a great God! But before we meet our Father in glory, the believer must live the Christian life knowing that he or she is on Satan's hit list. They are a target as Satan and his demonic forces come to visit you, your family, your life, seeking to "snatch" you from the Father's hand.
Jesus is teaching His disciples to live a balanced life - one which has the believer's feet firmly planted in the promises of God and at the same time aware of the vicious, subtle attacks. Do you know you are under attack? That when you repented and put your faith in Jesus, you were put on Satan's hit list? This awareness will spur us on to rely on God's great promises as well as live with great boldness. Satan may attack but God will prevail as the victory has been won for God's people.
The great comfort is easy to spot - the promise of eternal life and never perish. What a great God! But before we meet our Father in glory, the believer must live the Christian life knowing that he or she is on Satan's hit list. They are a target as Satan and his demonic forces come to visit you, your family, your life, seeking to "snatch" you from the Father's hand.
Jesus is teaching His disciples to live a balanced life - one which has the believer's feet firmly planted in the promises of God and at the same time aware of the vicious, subtle attacks. Do you know you are under attack? That when you repented and put your faith in Jesus, you were put on Satan's hit list? This awareness will spur us on to rely on God's great promises as well as live with great boldness. Satan may attack but God will prevail as the victory has been won for God's people.
Tuesday, January 05, 2010
An Essential Question for Holiness
Moses had two choices - life surrounded by all the riches of Egypt as adopted son of Pharaoh or life among mistreated slaves serving God. Seems like a no brainer, correct? Moses thought so as we read in Hebrews 11.26: He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a short time. He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of far greater valuethan the treasures of Egypt because he was looking ahead to his reward.
For Moses, he chose life among God's people even when he was surrounded with all the pleasures of Egypt. How did Moses come to this conclusion? How did he resolve to battle sin and momentary pleasures filled with self love?
He asked one simple question which is brought out again and again in the entire sermon to the Hebrews: what is better? Are the momentary treasures of Egypt better than the everlasting treasures of God? Are the sinful self filled moments better than the self-sacrificial calling of the believer? Moses answered - Christ and His path have much greater value and his life showed his answer to this simple truth.
When you are tempted, begin with this one question: what is better? What is of greater value? And as Hebrews says, Christ is better - a better sacrifice, a better covenant, better blood and better promises. Moses was right - this is a no-brainer.
For Moses, he chose life among God's people even when he was surrounded with all the pleasures of Egypt. How did Moses come to this conclusion? How did he resolve to battle sin and momentary pleasures filled with self love?
He asked one simple question which is brought out again and again in the entire sermon to the Hebrews: what is better? Are the momentary treasures of Egypt better than the everlasting treasures of God? Are the sinful self filled moments better than the self-sacrificial calling of the believer? Moses answered - Christ and His path have much greater value and his life showed his answer to this simple truth.
When you are tempted, begin with this one question: what is better? What is of greater value? And as Hebrews says, Christ is better - a better sacrifice, a better covenant, better blood and better promises. Moses was right - this is a no-brainer.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Can God Use You To Serve Him?
Sadly, there seems to be a group in the church which falls under the "too bad you messed up that bad in your earlier life and therefore cannot have full joy in Christ nor the freedom to serve in the church anymore" category. This group really, really messed up in the past - you know, the serious sins like divorce or premarital sex or homosexuality or thieves or greedy or drunkards or swindlers - the sins found listed in 1 Corinthians 6... and who were part of the church! Bottom line - all in the church have really, really messed up.
In John 8 we read a woman caught in the act of adultery. The sensitive religious leaders of the day haul her before a crowd of people, using her as a test case to trap Jesus. She had, after all, sinned a biggie and she was caught red-handed! After the religious dance takes place, Jesus is found alone with the woman uttering these words: Neither do I condemn you; go and from now on sin no more.
Jesus shows the church how to deal with the "biggies" - there is no condemnation- NONE - because Jesus bore our wrath. But Jesus also shows those who fall under the "I've messed up" category that there is a lot of room for joy and service. The "go and sin no more" is not just negatively, leave adultery but positively, serve Christ in the fullness of joy. In fact, Jesus is adamant that she GO - get active in serving Him. Jesus did not add "but you cannot serve in this area or this area"! He simply said "from now on sin no more". There is freedom in Christian service as God gives strength and wisdom.
The church needs to work hard precisely at this point: do not ask saved people to do lifelong penance with an evangelical twist. You know, the penance of the divorced who cannot enjoy a Christian marriage (once having followed Biblical directive) or in time, potentially serve as an elder if qualified. Or the one who had a child out of wedlock, never to enjoy a godly husband or a blessed family life. The message to them is simple and unbiblical - you sinned BIG so you cannot have the fullness of joy in the Christian life. If this standard were held before a holy God, then none would serve Him in ministry. Isaiah was a man with unclean lips, but spoke some of the most glorious truths found in Scripture.
What about the following: Abraham, an idol worshipper, became the father of the nation of Israel; Moses, a murderer, became the under-shepherd of Israel; David - the adulterer and murderer - continued to serve God as king and write as the poet; Matthew, the tax collector, became a disciple; and Saul, the persecutor of God's people, became the "least of all" the apostles.
Can God use you in the church to serve Him? Based on the life, death and resurrection of Jesus, he does not condemn you and says simply: GO - and sin no more. Go and live in the freedom of the gospel, the joy of Christ and the active service among God's people.
In John 8 we read a woman caught in the act of adultery. The sensitive religious leaders of the day haul her before a crowd of people, using her as a test case to trap Jesus. She had, after all, sinned a biggie and she was caught red-handed! After the religious dance takes place, Jesus is found alone with the woman uttering these words: Neither do I condemn you; go and from now on sin no more.
Jesus shows the church how to deal with the "biggies" - there is no condemnation- NONE - because Jesus bore our wrath. But Jesus also shows those who fall under the "I've messed up" category that there is a lot of room for joy and service. The "go and sin no more" is not just negatively, leave adultery but positively, serve Christ in the fullness of joy. In fact, Jesus is adamant that she GO - get active in serving Him. Jesus did not add "but you cannot serve in this area or this area"! He simply said "from now on sin no more". There is freedom in Christian service as God gives strength and wisdom.
The church needs to work hard precisely at this point: do not ask saved people to do lifelong penance with an evangelical twist. You know, the penance of the divorced who cannot enjoy a Christian marriage (once having followed Biblical directive) or in time, potentially serve as an elder if qualified. Or the one who had a child out of wedlock, never to enjoy a godly husband or a blessed family life. The message to them is simple and unbiblical - you sinned BIG so you cannot have the fullness of joy in the Christian life. If this standard were held before a holy God, then none would serve Him in ministry. Isaiah was a man with unclean lips, but spoke some of the most glorious truths found in Scripture.
What about the following: Abraham, an idol worshipper, became the father of the nation of Israel; Moses, a murderer, became the under-shepherd of Israel; David - the adulterer and murderer - continued to serve God as king and write as the poet; Matthew, the tax collector, became a disciple; and Saul, the persecutor of God's people, became the "least of all" the apostles.
Can God use you in the church to serve Him? Based on the life, death and resurrection of Jesus, he does not condemn you and says simply: GO - and sin no more. Go and live in the freedom of the gospel, the joy of Christ and the active service among God's people.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Returning Home
Today was the last day of class. The students wrote their final test on Homiletics III after another week of studying how to present God's Word. The last few days we focused on Christ Centered preaching in the flow of the text and context. It was interesting watching them write their final test as they were asked to write an outline and theme for a certain passage. I have not been able to read what they have written but it was good to see them putting what was learned into practice.
This evening at 5 we all met at a Mongolian Grill type restaurant to share a meal and also present a Carey School of Theology certificate to one student who completed all his tests. It was good to be able to thank the Lord for His labours and entrust him into God's care. Also, because of a kind donation, I was able to present the students with a Bible Dictionary - all were very excited!! None of them possessed a Bible Dictionary and all were extremely happy to receive them. One person said that they appreciated the gift very much as they could never afford this helpful tool in the study of God's Word. They also presented me with a traditional Mongolian "vest", a picture and a very warm pair of slippers.
It has been extremely encouraging this year as I feel I have connected much more with the students. I was able to go out for supper with a number of them as well as develop relationships with them during class time. While language is still a barrier, 3 years of coming to Mongolian have built solid relationships. I do wish I could bring my family and GBC to come and meet these men and women so they may see their passion for the Lord and their love for God and His people. I am thankful to my home church for allowing me to serve in Mongolia and look forward to telling them of the blessing they have been to the leaders and their churches.
I leave tonight at 12:20 in the morning and am waiting in my hotel room. Lord willing, I will land in Seoul at around 4:00 in the morning and then leave once again at 5:00 in the evening to arrive at 8:00 the same night in Toronto. While God has been gracious in Mongolia, I do look forward to returning to my family and church family.
This evening at 5 we all met at a Mongolian Grill type restaurant to share a meal and also present a Carey School of Theology certificate to one student who completed all his tests. It was good to be able to thank the Lord for His labours and entrust him into God's care. Also, because of a kind donation, I was able to present the students with a Bible Dictionary - all were very excited!! None of them possessed a Bible Dictionary and all were extremely happy to receive them. One person said that they appreciated the gift very much as they could never afford this helpful tool in the study of God's Word. They also presented me with a traditional Mongolian "vest", a picture and a very warm pair of slippers.
It has been extremely encouraging this year as I feel I have connected much more with the students. I was able to go out for supper with a number of them as well as develop relationships with them during class time. While language is still a barrier, 3 years of coming to Mongolian have built solid relationships. I do wish I could bring my family and GBC to come and meet these men and women so they may see their passion for the Lord and their love for God and His people. I am thankful to my home church for allowing me to serve in Mongolia and look forward to telling them of the blessing they have been to the leaders and their churches.
I leave tonight at 12:20 in the morning and am waiting in my hotel room. Lord willing, I will land in Seoul at around 4:00 in the morning and then leave once again at 5:00 in the evening to arrive at 8:00 the same night in Toronto. While God has been gracious in Mongolia, I do look forward to returning to my family and church family.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Picked up my first English newspaper in UB ...
... and read about what the students have been talking about all week - the Democrat Party defeated the Communist Party in the election held this past Sunday. There was some tension here as last year when the elections took place, there were riots and 5 people killed because it was claimed that the election results were rigged. This year, there was much more control over how the election took place and as a result, the Democratic Party now enters power.
Today in our class, we put together a sermon from Psalm 77, looking how God gives rest to His people as they continue to seek the Lord. In the afternoon, we looked at various passages which speak of how the Word and the Sprit work together and also the need for the Spirit's work in the pastor's life as he ministers. Please pray for the students as the end of two weeks is coming close and they are getting tired.
I remember my first hear here, I visited the countryside with Andrew and Liz and saw some people just spreading a blanket with food and relaxing. I asked Andrew why people do this and he mentioned how they love the fresh air. After being in the heart of the city for almost two weeks, I can understand the need for a picnic every once and a while. There is a row of trees with their spring flowers blooming and everytime I walk by on my way to and from our classes, I try to take in the smell with a deep, lingering sniff. However, all I get is more bus exhaust than flower. They do, however, look beautiful.
Well, two more classes, a meal tomorrow night with a pastor and his wife and then a meal with the class with graduation and I will, Lord willing, be headed to Seoul and then back to Canada. Please continue to pray that God's blessings would be on the students.
Today in our class, we put together a sermon from Psalm 77, looking how God gives rest to His people as they continue to seek the Lord. In the afternoon, we looked at various passages which speak of how the Word and the Sprit work together and also the need for the Spirit's work in the pastor's life as he ministers. Please pray for the students as the end of two weeks is coming close and they are getting tired.
I remember my first hear here, I visited the countryside with Andrew and Liz and saw some people just spreading a blanket with food and relaxing. I asked Andrew why people do this and he mentioned how they love the fresh air. After being in the heart of the city for almost two weeks, I can understand the need for a picnic every once and a while. There is a row of trees with their spring flowers blooming and everytime I walk by on my way to and from our classes, I try to take in the smell with a deep, lingering sniff. However, all I get is more bus exhaust than flower. They do, however, look beautiful.
Well, two more classes, a meal tomorrow night with a pastor and his wife and then a meal with the class with graduation and I will, Lord willing, be headed to Seoul and then back to Canada. Please continue to pray that God's blessings would be on the students.
Monday, May 25, 2009
A Little Delayed
Well, it has been a while ...
My internet connection here is a litle suspect and is very sensitive so I really try to be nice to it but it still cuts out on me for extended periods of time. As well, when I did try to sign in to my blog, I got blocked under suspicion of being a spammer - imagine, me being a spammer - I barely know how to turn on a computer. How exactly does one spam? Does one create a spam or does one just spam and spam just happens to come out as spam? Anyway, my name was cleared, I was pardoned and am now allowed the full rights and privileges of blogging. So I do apologize for not being able to keep up to date.
We just finished our second Monday of classes. So far we have done a lot of work putting together sermons - capturing the flow of the text, looking for the fallen condition focus, applications, illustrations, preaching the text from the immediate context and historical redemptive context, and other aspects of sermon writing. There have been times taken up with questions unrelated - pastoral questions concerning circumstances in their churches, concerning other points of theology, and many others.
This past Thursday night I was able to have supper with Andrew and Liz and some of their family - they work with the organization that helps bring me into Mongolia. It was nice to see them once again as 2 years ago I stayed in their apartment. They are a very kind family and also very hospitable - it was good to catch up with them.
On the Sunday, I had the opportunity to preach out in the "ger" district - a place just outside of UB with about 2000 people. The pastor and his wife are very passionate for the Lord and for their community. They have asked us to pray for their people and for their outreach - a place where they seek to minister to those without showers, without schools, without police or medical aid. They would like to minister to children and families, providing a place not only for the proclamation of the gospel but also for ministries of mercy. After preaching in their service, I met with their church leaders and we had about a two and a half hour lunch where they asked plenty of questions. We also had an enjoyable time getting to know one another and how the Lord saved us.
In order to come back into the city, my interpreter and I had to catch a taxi - I could not believe this guy - he was the Mario Andredi of Mongolia - it did not even matter if traffic was coming the opposite direction (now I have been in my share of taxis in Mongolia so I have already experienced and somehow got used to this unique thrill - but this guy took it to a whole new level!). About 3-4 minutes earlier, we missed taking a small mini-van like taxi. Well, with Mario at the wheel, we caught up to him, passed him, and left him in our pothole dust. When I got out of the backseat (I did look for a seatbelt but they seem to hide them in the backseats or just take them out), I thanked the Lord for bringing me safely back into the city.
Tonight, after teaching I was able to have supper with a pastor, his wife and their lovely 6 year old daughter. I preached at this man's church last year and so it was good to catch up once again on how their church is doing and how they are doing as well. Last year they where concerned that their church building may be removed and apartment buildings would be raised on their land. I asked how that was going as I had been praying for them and they mentioned that they are not going to build anymore apartments in that place - thank the Lord.
It has been good to be in the Word with the pastors and also to listen to their questions. The Lord continues to do great things in this young and vibrant church. I thank the Lord for your prayers - He has been gracious with health and strength.
My internet connection here is a litle suspect and is very sensitive so I really try to be nice to it but it still cuts out on me for extended periods of time. As well, when I did try to sign in to my blog, I got blocked under suspicion of being a spammer - imagine, me being a spammer - I barely know how to turn on a computer. How exactly does one spam? Does one create a spam or does one just spam and spam just happens to come out as spam? Anyway, my name was cleared, I was pardoned and am now allowed the full rights and privileges of blogging. So I do apologize for not being able to keep up to date.
We just finished our second Monday of classes. So far we have done a lot of work putting together sermons - capturing the flow of the text, looking for the fallen condition focus, applications, illustrations, preaching the text from the immediate context and historical redemptive context, and other aspects of sermon writing. There have been times taken up with questions unrelated - pastoral questions concerning circumstances in their churches, concerning other points of theology, and many others.
This past Thursday night I was able to have supper with Andrew and Liz and some of their family - they work with the organization that helps bring me into Mongolia. It was nice to see them once again as 2 years ago I stayed in their apartment. They are a very kind family and also very hospitable - it was good to catch up with them.
On the Sunday, I had the opportunity to preach out in the "ger" district - a place just outside of UB with about 2000 people. The pastor and his wife are very passionate for the Lord and for their community. They have asked us to pray for their people and for their outreach - a place where they seek to minister to those without showers, without schools, without police or medical aid. They would like to minister to children and families, providing a place not only for the proclamation of the gospel but also for ministries of mercy. After preaching in their service, I met with their church leaders and we had about a two and a half hour lunch where they asked plenty of questions. We also had an enjoyable time getting to know one another and how the Lord saved us.
In order to come back into the city, my interpreter and I had to catch a taxi - I could not believe this guy - he was the Mario Andredi of Mongolia - it did not even matter if traffic was coming the opposite direction (now I have been in my share of taxis in Mongolia so I have already experienced and somehow got used to this unique thrill - but this guy took it to a whole new level!). About 3-4 minutes earlier, we missed taking a small mini-van like taxi. Well, with Mario at the wheel, we caught up to him, passed him, and left him in our pothole dust. When I got out of the backseat (I did look for a seatbelt but they seem to hide them in the backseats or just take them out), I thanked the Lord for bringing me safely back into the city.
Tonight, after teaching I was able to have supper with a pastor, his wife and their lovely 6 year old daughter. I preached at this man's church last year and so it was good to catch up once again on how their church is doing and how they are doing as well. Last year they where concerned that their church building may be removed and apartment buildings would be raised on their land. I asked how that was going as I had been praying for them and they mentioned that they are not going to build anymore apartments in that place - thank the Lord.
It has been good to be in the Word with the pastors and also to listen to their questions. The Lord continues to do great things in this young and vibrant church. I thank the Lord for your prayers - He has been gracious with health and strength.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Putting a Sermon Together
For the past 3 days we have been looking at how to put a sermon together. Today we began with a devotional in Jeremiah 23, speaking about how false prophets are those who speak their own words while true prophets are those who have "stood in the council of God."
It has been axciting to watch as the pastors are beginning to understand expository preaching (exposing the text). Today we looked at how to outline a passage to see the flow as it fits within the context. We looked at Ephesians 1.3-6, 2.1-3 and Luke 7 - the story of the sinful woman. We went from outlining to looking at how a sermon can flow from the text. At times there would be creases of confusion and at other times, a smile. So God has been gracious and tomorrow morning we will begin once again.
Today I also had the opportunity to visit a buddhist temple in UB. It was sad to walk through, seeing all the idols and deception - a time to spend praying for Canada and Mongolia.
It has been axciting to watch as the pastors are beginning to understand expository preaching (exposing the text). Today we looked at how to outline a passage to see the flow as it fits within the context. We looked at Ephesians 1.3-6, 2.1-3 and Luke 7 - the story of the sinful woman. We went from outlining to looking at how a sermon can flow from the text. At times there would be creases of confusion and at other times, a smile. So God has been gracious and tomorrow morning we will begin once again.
Today I also had the opportunity to visit a buddhist temple in UB. It was sad to walk through, seeing all the idols and deception - a time to spend praying for Canada and Mongolia.
Monday, May 18, 2009
1st Day at School
I was picked up at 8:40 this morning after a "time-zone adjusting" sleep and the taxi barreled through angst-driven traffic to the apartment where we held our classes. It was really good to see most of the students had returned and even though the language remains a barrier, we could sense it was good to see one another again.
We began the day with thanksgiving that God had brought us all together, followed by a devotional in Psalm 29 - how God will be exalted through his "voice" (his Word) which in turn will bring strength and peace to His people. We spent today examining how the voice of God or the Word of God is both powerful and effective. In other words, before we learn how to put a sermon together, we need to be passionate about the Word of God. So from 9 until around 4 we went through Scripture looking at the powerful Word of God.
After the classes, I got dropped of at the parliament buildings or the square and from there took a tour through the Mongolian Museum of History - a very interesting look at the rise and troubles of a nation. This was followed by a meal at the Irish Khan restaurant - a natural hang out of Nick Dunne if he were to visit Mongolia. Nick, I would suggest that you do not order the Khan burger - it does not do the name of Khan very proud at all.
This was followed by an hour's walk home, a drop in to the grocery store to pick up breakfast (no, it is not Fruit Loops - and did you know that 2 apples from Korea cost approx. 8 US dollars!! I passed). I arrived home and I was so very thankful to have hot water, none of which has been found in this apartment building since I arrived.
It is good to be back in Mongolia and be with the men (and a few women) once again. They are eager to learn God's Word and eager to preach His saving work on the cross. I am thankful for what God is doing in this country - His Name is great and His glory is shining.
We began the day with thanksgiving that God had brought us all together, followed by a devotional in Psalm 29 - how God will be exalted through his "voice" (his Word) which in turn will bring strength and peace to His people. We spent today examining how the voice of God or the Word of God is both powerful and effective. In other words, before we learn how to put a sermon together, we need to be passionate about the Word of God. So from 9 until around 4 we went through Scripture looking at the powerful Word of God.
After the classes, I got dropped of at the parliament buildings or the square and from there took a tour through the Mongolian Museum of History - a very interesting look at the rise and troubles of a nation. This was followed by a meal at the Irish Khan restaurant - a natural hang out of Nick Dunne if he were to visit Mongolia. Nick, I would suggest that you do not order the Khan burger - it does not do the name of Khan very proud at all.
This was followed by an hour's walk home, a drop in to the grocery store to pick up breakfast (no, it is not Fruit Loops - and did you know that 2 apples from Korea cost approx. 8 US dollars!! I passed). I arrived home and I was so very thankful to have hot water, none of which has been found in this apartment building since I arrived.
It is good to be back in Mongolia and be with the men (and a few women) once again. They are eager to learn God's Word and eager to preach His saving work on the cross. I am thankful for what God is doing in this country - His Name is great and His glory is shining.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
A few funny (or not so funny) things
Today I was asked for directions instead of asking for directions. Amazing - a guy approached me as I exited the internet cafe this morning and asked if I knew where the black market was located? He did speak English (obviously) but it struck me as odd that I was pointing down the street giving him the location. I thought afterwards I should have added "you can't miss it" as the cherry on top of that experience.
Under the funny but may not be so funny experience: I was walking back around 2:30 to my apartment on this relatively warm day (probably 20-25 degrees) when I spotted a lady carrying a garbage bag and picking up another one from the trunk. The trunk, on this hot day was filled with all types of meat - not thinking trunks are refrigerated. Anyway, one of the bags splits open causing a huge chunk of meat to fall splat on the pavement, intestines spilling out of the meat. Curious, I watched from a distance as to what you do in a situation like that - in case it ever happened to me, say. After laughing - maybe it was a nervous laugh or an "on-no" laugh", one is to pick up the meat as quickly as possible and carry it straight into the restaurant.
I made a mental note to self not to visit the restaurant in the near future.
Under the funny but may not be so funny experience: I was walking back around 2:30 to my apartment on this relatively warm day (probably 20-25 degrees) when I spotted a lady carrying a garbage bag and picking up another one from the trunk. The trunk, on this hot day was filled with all types of meat - not thinking trunks are refrigerated. Anyway, one of the bags splits open causing a huge chunk of meat to fall splat on the pavement, intestines spilling out of the meat. Curious, I watched from a distance as to what you do in a situation like that - in case it ever happened to me, say. After laughing - maybe it was a nervous laugh or an "on-no" laugh", one is to pick up the meat as quickly as possible and carry it straight into the restaurant.
I made a mental note to self not to visit the restaurant in the near future.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Back in Mongolia
I am sitting in an internet cafe in Mongolia writing again on my blog - hard to believe. Leaving Friday morning I arrived in Ghingis Kahn Airport Sunday morning at 12:30 and the first question asked after making it through customs and luggage: Need a taxi? I declined, looking for Turuu my personal taxi. He was there and we headed to my apartment for the next 2 weeks. I arrived safe, half way around the world - our God is gracious.
Part of my flight took me into Vancouver, a place I had never been before. I sat in an aisle seat but I could see out of the plane's window a portion of the magnificent mountains and marvelled again at the majesty of God. I thought that is probably how I see God - just a porthole of his greatness. The mountains seemed so magnificent as they rose to the clouds lifting their hands in praise and I only saw a portion.
If you would pray - God would show more of His glory! We will be looking at how to prepare and preach God's Word to the people.
Please pray as the lessons in preaching begin tomorrow. Pray that the glory of God through His magnificent grace would compel his called pastors to preach the Word faithfully and with deep passion.
I thank you for your prayers - in weakness God has given strength.
Part of my flight took me into Vancouver, a place I had never been before. I sat in an aisle seat but I could see out of the plane's window a portion of the magnificent mountains and marvelled again at the majesty of God. I thought that is probably how I see God - just a porthole of his greatness. The mountains seemed so magnificent as they rose to the clouds lifting their hands in praise and I only saw a portion.
If you would pray - God would show more of His glory! We will be looking at how to prepare and preach God's Word to the people.
Please pray as the lessons in preaching begin tomorrow. Pray that the glory of God through His magnificent grace would compel his called pastors to preach the Word faithfully and with deep passion.
I thank you for your prayers - in weakness God has given strength.
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