Church - Cross-Cultural vs. Non-denominational

Dear Fam,

The other day I was talking to a student about how a non-denominational is different from an inter-denominational church.

Non-denominational leaves the impression that there is no sound doctrine (of theology) that they follow which would result to a highly liberal church (often questionable by biblical scholars). So a Christian never knows if the church is legit and is also not trustworthy of the non-denominational Christian's faith. Is their faith built on the Rock? or on Sand?

Inter-denominational, on the other hand, implies that the church is made up of Christians who hold to different theologies (i.e. sound doctrine). So a baptist Christian and a presbyterian Christian could be in the same Inter-denominational church. A great example of an inter-denominational organization would be the para-church ministries like Campus Crusade for Christ and InterVarsity.

Both of these (non- and inter-denominational) can cause issues with spiritually growing strong though especially when it's time to move onto another church (because of a job transfer or other life changes).

But after finishing this conversation with the student and walking on home, I began to think about this new trend with churches (i.e. church plants) doing something similar to earlier church plants. Today's church plants seem to proclaim that they are cross-cultural (or aspire to) whereas yesterday's church plants proclaimed being non-denominational. If my observation is spot on, then what is causing this new church trend and what does cross-cultural mean? Is it realistic to be a cross-cultural church?

Often people will say that a non-denominational church is a denomination of itself. Does this also mean that a cross-cultural church is a culture of itself? Most likely to be true, if you ask me.

Having been raised in multiple cultures including German, American, Black, military, and non-military, I don't believe in "cross-culture" or "non-denomination". A person has a culture, whether it's made up of a few into a new one or only a single one. Similarly, a person has a denomination (structure, understanding of Scripture, doctrine supporting beliefs, etc.).

It almost sounds like cross-dressing. =p Yikes, we need to just focus on "identity" and understanding how the Lord created each of us to be unique while as a people with common needs. Ever wonder about how if we just respect each other the way God created each of us then we wouldn't have to make up new labels to emphasize the importance of valuing each other?

Anyhow, I'll have to continue thinking about this though before I can finish my thoughts on this topic. There are greater topics to talk about for now...

Hope - what we must keep and teach

I'm an army brat. My story is of the few who broke out of the cycle where many men and women join the army not out of choice.

I grew up my entire life where my Dad and Mom would tell about my choices and limitations. They would tell me that I couldn't do that or do this. My Mom in particular would tell me "why" with rationalization of the situation or circumstance or background like a typical German. I remember I wanted to stop playing the trumpet in high school. I wanted to play sports and especially basketball because that was the popular sport. And my Dad would say "no, I got into college on a music scholarship and so will you." I was only 5'6". So I had to stay in band classes. My Mom would say "son, that's good because it's important to stay active but Germans don't really play basketball well and we're (our family) not an athletic nor big people." But, I kept playing basketball and I became great at defense at the end of my 8th grade. This help me to be a respected player in 9th grade and then my coach gave me a chance and taught me all about form. In 10th grade to everyone's surprise, I grew 6 inches in one year. I towered over my family. From there, I became a pretty good basketball player and to this day I swear if I had all my years in a State-side high school, I would have gotten a football scholarship (not basketball because I'm more talented at soccer and football, and I'm smart enough to know that).

My parents, and even my family, were discouragers. They were hope-killers. It's what they were taught growing up and naturally it's what they were teaching. I, myself, am guilty of it until my wife educated me. Yet, when I read about the lives of these leaders in the Civil Rights era and even in the Bible of the greatest characters, they NEVER lowered their expectations. They never lost hope.

They already had faith in God. For some, it was how they grew up. They already knew about the importance of love. For some, the struggle was more so on who to love because people are people.

I could easily spin out a couple verses, but that's not what this is about. It's about being like Jesus. And he never gave up hope. And he never killed someone else's either. Some won't see it (envision it). Some won't understand (the why or the how). But I thank God for the slaves who fought for their freedom in this country - all because they held onto their hope.

I pray that you, too, will keep your eyes on the prize and stay hopeful.

Fear: why do we fear?

Fam,

As I prepare today for the first meeting with the Impact student leaders, I feel fear. But why? I was electrified over this entire summer and waiting for the students to return so we can make an impact at Howard's campus. I sat down with the three ladies who returned and were in the Impact Leadership team last spring semester. One agreed to be a leader, another still does not know yet, and one said something striking. She said that she doesn't know why she wouldn't, but she does feel "fear". Some of us know the verse from 2 Timothy 1:7 - "For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, of love and of a sound mind."

I didn't feel fear then which was a few days ago. But, then I talked to my wife yesterday who asked me about the plans for this semester and I gave her my vision and everything. Then she asked me what did the student leaders want. I didn't have an answer. She told me that I sounded like I had my own agenda and not listening to the students. Oh no! And fear hit me. I didn't know what the students wanted and did I even ask? Did I ask and they told me, yet I didn't listen?

Fear is gripping my heart right now. But, thank God, this is not my first time feeling fear. Fear is nothing new. What is new is the measure of strength I receive from the Lord when I depend on Him throughout my circumstances that are uncertain, throughout my moments of fear, and throughout my ignorance and awareness that I have blindspots even though I don't know what they are. I depend on Jesus Christ and the Spirit. He will guide me like he did Israel during the Great Exodus. He is my God.

So, I will stay encouraged and not pay any attention to my fear. I am thankful that I feel it, and acknowledge it, but will let my faith control it. May the Lord bless my student leaders this year and have them faithful.

"So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, who has saved us and called us to a holy life - not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace (of Christ Jesus)."
- 2 Timothy 1:8-9

Phileo Love,
G2

Bible Study: Called in Pairs, Sent in Pairs

Dear Lord,

Today, I am reading The Book of Matthew 4:18-22.

I'm learning about your calling of your first disciples. You called two brothers, first. Next, you called two more brothers. You called them both almost at the same time, back to back.

You called them in PAIRS.

Interestingly, you also sent your disciples out in PAIRS. (This is from my reading in Matthew 10:1-2, Mark 6:7, and Luke 10.)

In the beginning, you created us in PAIRS. You created the pair to be heterosexual to give them the ability to obey your first commandments - to be fruitful and multiply. (This is from my reading in The Book of Genesis 1:27-28.)

There is also the on-boarding of Noah's family and the animals in pairs. (This is from my reading in The Book of Genesis 6:18-20.)

There is something about calling us in pairs with your Spirit.

I will meditate on this message from You. Thank you, Lord Jesus.

Loving the Word,
G2

Philosophy: American Freedom over the "American Dream"

Fam,

I read a couple online articles which served as a reminder to me. We shouldn't be caught up in chasing the "American Dream", but in chasing what our original founders of this nation fought for - freedom. We need to focus on achieving the real American Dream - that American Freedom. To achieve that, we need to achieve financial freedom and to continue gaining knowledge on how to improve the life of freedom in America.

Online Articles:
http://money.cnn.com/2015/04/22/news/economy/stiglitz-american-dream/index.html
http://money.cnn.com/2015/04/21/pf/work-life-balance/index.html

God bless ya,
G2

The Need for Strong Men - Proactively

Men,

As we witness the horrific situation occurring in Baltimore, nothing is more offensive to me than seeing the lack of men standing firm together in Baltimore against all the bad kids and thugs causing such enormous criminal acts and instilling fear in the neighborhoods of Baltimore. For us men to react in such delay and not help our law enforcement protect our cities is a disgrace. Moments like these call for men and not only police officers and fire fighters.

A kid, one of many, rioting against Baltimore police.

Baltimore gang members taking advantage of the protest and causing the riot.

Angry Baltimore citizens expressing themselves on part of the mass emotions rocking America because of its injustice.

A big shout out and appreciation to Vietnam Veteran Robert Valentine for standing up and defending our civil liberties and pressing for a proper systematic change to justice.

I, personally, have some extended family and good friends living there. Hence, the reason why I'm getting really personal.

I will not stand by to wait for matters to worsen in the neighborhoods of Northeast DC. I will be proactive in engaging the neighbors in Brookland along with other surrounding neighborhoods that our church is called to serve. Many of you live in that area now and I hope you feel the same passion as I do. We must protect our neighborhoods from violence and proactively pray for peace in our neighborhoods. This is how we ultimately protect our families as well.

As an army brat, I know the pride that comes with defending this great nation. Many days I wonder why I didn't join the service. However, I use these thoughts to motivate my passion to serve as much as I can on a positive front with my local church. Much more can be accomplished by the orders of the Spirit of God as opposed to simple orders of men. And I recognize that my life is no more important than the life of my neighbors.

I challenge you to step up over this summer and engage your neighbors. I challenge you to know your local police officers. I challenge you to take our monthly service to our neighborhoods more serious and more sincere. And I pray that you are asking God to make you into one of his soldiers. I pray that God is making you into one of His soldiers along with myself.

If I may, let me remind you that God did not give us a spirit of fear. He gave us a spirit of power, love, and discipline. (2 Timothy 1:7) 

I am not advocating a defense with violent means or use of guns and knives. I am advocating for a strong defense with our prayer hands united with the Holy Spirit. (2 Corinthians 10: 4, Romans 14:19)

I hope you hear this email as a calling and not as a command. And I look forward to serving with you over this summer.

Your brother,

Gordon

P.S. Much appreciation to the 300 men of Baltimore and fellow residents reclaiming the winning hand for their communities and setting such an incredible, positive example to all. May we all replicate the "love line" in times of protest.

 

Movie: Frankie & Alice

I really like this movie, Frankie & Alice. In some ways, it reminds me of a mild Sybil. It's a movie on a woman with multiple personality disorder and shows how fragile our minds can be. The tragedies in one's life, especially in early age, can really have devastating effects. Luckily, Frankie has a "head doctor" who is interested in helping her. Sure, like most doctors, this also helps him with gaining on-hands experience with a patient having such an illness like Frankie. But, that's why a doctor should become a doctor - to care and learn.

Frankie is a stripper with a past that has caused her to lose a lot of self-value. Over time, her repressed memory gives her a record of trouble and makes an apparent attractiveness to Dr. Oz to take her on as a patient. At first, Frankie is very resistant. But, after ending up in jail and fearing her sentence behind bars, she decides to accept her sentence in a "nut house" under the care of Dr. Oz. From there, they develop a beautiful bond of friendship and a life long of counseling.

My rating: 5 *****

Enjoy,
Your brother G2

TheTruth: Position vs Impact

When you enter the workforce, we often assume that a position defines how much we impact  (or shape) the world. Thus, naturally we are always reaching for a higher position  (or "a bigger chair"). However, it's always about how much impact you have that determines your position; not about your position determining your impact.

Biblical Studies: Essentially, ONLY GOD is testing me

Hello Fam!

That's right, only God can ultimately test me. Nobody else. Not the devil nor demons. Sure, I'm tempted by all and especially myself, but the test is given by our Father. Everyone can claim to "judge" me, but their evaluations or grading system is still filled with error. Only God has the perfect grading scale and can evaluate me without imperfection or mistake. God is the Teacher.

Before I reference the Bible, let me provide clarity on the difference between "tested" and "tempted". A "test" is given to us with good intentions and by one who hopes we will pass (i.e. apply the knowledge taught with righteous purpose) to live a better life. A "temptation" is given to us with evil intentions, whether we realize the negative effect instantly or over a long period of time, and by one who either does not care about us or wants us to fail in our faith and obedience to God which degrades our life and living. This is why in James 1:14-15, I see that temptation can lead to death (i.e. the ultimate failure in life where there is no more room for degradation).

In 1 John 4, the Bible lets me know that even if people are used (or other animals with a spirit), I still need to understand that they are not the ones testing me but God is.

"Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God...".

In Genesis 12, God first test to Abram (i.e. Abraham) is to leave his home and go to a new place that will become his new home. In addition, God gives him a clear incentive for taking this test and passing it (by dwelling in his new land).

In Genesis 22, I see one of the greatest tests in the Bible and perhaps the greatest assigned to Abraham. God tests Abraham's faith in Him (in God himself) by asking Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac.

In Job, I see another one of the greatest tests in the Bible. God is testing Job. Although the devil is given permission to put Job through trials and tribulations, God is the one who gave the devil this permission. Thus, God is testing Job and concludes this in the end of the Book of Job.

"And the Lord said to Satan, 'Behold, all that he has is in your hand. Only against him do not stretch out your hand.' So Satan went out from the presence of the Lord."

But here's where the beginning of all tests lie and is a great reminder that only our Father tests us, whether we realize it or not. And note, God is testing our faith in Him and our obedience to Him whether we are tempted or not.

In Genesis 2:16-17, there is no one around except for God and Adam. And of those two, only one gives a command which shows who the "tester" is. God  commands Adam that he is free to do - anything, except to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. In addition, God gives an incentive (or actually the opposite which is warning) that Adam will die if he chooses to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Think about that. I know I have and still do. And isn't it interesting that books are made from trees? (Hint: Tree of Life => Book of Life => Bible)

If I replace the tree with any other material of this world - a chair, a house, or even a person - and I disobey God by sitting in the chair, or throne, of 'the knowledge of good and evil', or I disobey God by living in a house, or place, of 'the knowledge of good and evil', or I disobey God by being with a person, or spouse, filled with 'the knowledge of good and evil', then I will die. And guess what? I did. I died. We live in a world of 'the knowledge of good and evil' ever since Adam bit the fruit from this tree. See, I already failed the ultimate test.

But praise God for giving us a second chance by another test! This comes in John 3:16-21, where all I have to do is let someone else take my test and believe in my substitute. By believing in my substitute (who dies for me to revive me), I have passed the ultimate test from God. It's kind of like failing the state standardize test, but then finding out that my school was exempted because the state heard of our positive contributions to society and how we are examples for other schools already. Yes, it feels that great! Even if I was the least to contribute from my exempted school, it still feels magnificent!

So, I conclude, there is no one who can test me like God our Father. Nobody else's tests matter. I only care about other people's tests because it is another way of God testing me.

I hope to meditate and be reminded of what James already summarized:

James 1:12-16
'Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am being tempted by God," for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death. Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers.'

Biblical Studies: Matthew 2 - My Questions

Studying the Book of Matthew, Chapter 2

Verses 1-18

During my study this morning, I am left with some questions. I see there are these Magi (i.e. wise men) who somehow all managed to join each other before reaching Jerusalem by following this "star" in the sky. 

What I don't understand  is that if these men are wise and they knew about the coming of Jesus, then why did they not know Jesus would be born in Bethlehem? The first question from the Magi to King Herod is: where is He (Jesus)? King Herod asks his council of chief priests and his priests find the answer in the Book of one of the minor prophets (Micah). If these priests, who were not expecting the birth of Jesus Christ, where able to figure out where Jesus would be born, then why didn't the Magi? Why did the Magi, who expected Christ to be born, have to ask the king of Jerusalem?

I guess that even the Magi were shocked that the king and priests of Jerusalem were not seeking out the birth of Jesus Christ. I don't know. But, this story is mysterious especially since these wise men came from there own countries in the East to find Jesus while the priests  (who are supposed to be wise as well) who lived nearby where Jesus would be born didn't even seem to care enough to find Jesus. I'm also making an educated guess that the Magi (from the East) heard of Jewish faith from the times when Jews were spread out (or scattered) among nations during the Babylonian rule (like in the Book of Esther).

Verses 9-23
A few days later, I'm studying the rest of chapter 2 after meditating on the previous verses. I see Joseph is always visited by an angel of the Lord through his dreams. I wonder if this is the same as in the Old Testament, yet the Old Testament doesn't state clearly if the angels visited the prophets in dreams or not. Perhaps they were "daydreams"? I don't know, but I think this is another good question to ask JC when I see him.

As for "those who were trying to take the child's life" in verse 20, I'm guessing this is including King Herod's buddies who were wishing this prophecy was false. I wonder if King Herod lived in great fear until he died since he didn't kill JC. Hmm, so many questions and this is only the beginning of the New Testament.

It's also interesting to read "the child and his mother" when the angel speaks to Joseph. Why didn't the angel say "your child and your wife"?

But here is one of the most debatable verses I've encountered throughout my study of the Bible. Considering the Book of Matthew is published in by the Canon (i.e. the team of scholars who put the Bible together of the individual scrolls or "books"), why did Matthew state this verse and which prophets is he referencing?

23 and he went and lived in a town called Nazareth. So was fulfilled what was said through the prophets: "He will be called a Nazarene."

I've done some research on the Internet and am very vexed on what this means. After all, if one verse in the Bible is wrong or found false, then the Truth (as sometimes the Bible is referred to) can be completely wrong or altogether found false. Here are some online references that I've read which gives insight, but no clear answer:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matthew_2:23
https://carm.org/bible-difficulties/matthew-mark/did-ot-prophesy-jesus-coming-nazareth
http://christianity.stackexchange.com/questions/12265/who-said-he-would-be-called-a-nazarene

What would also be great to know is if Matthew wrote his original book in Hebrew, instead of Greek as I've assumed considering it's grouped into the New Testament where most of the books are written in Greek? Here are some more references associated to my question (and others).
http://www.catholic.com/quickquestions/was-matthews-gospel-first-written-in-aramaic-or-hebrew
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gospel_of_Matthew

Yep, lots of questions, but no clear answers. A very mysterious beginning to the New Testament and the early life of JC.