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Culture

25 Gifts From God That Will Transform Your Holiday Season

by Frank Powell December 3, 2015
written by Frank Powell

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I put together a FREE Advent Devotional to guide your Christmas season. The guide includes: one truth each day (several from this post are included), Scriptures related to the day’s truth, a reflection, a question or two to guide your day and a prayer. Don’t allow stress to consume “the most wonderful time of the year.”

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CLICK HERE!

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Can I be real with you? Christmas season is stressful. Don’t get me wrong, I love this season. But it is exhausting. Most of my life runs in fifth gear, but during this season, I find myself punching the gas pedal begging my body for more juice.

Maybe you understand the feeling.

The unrealistic weight of expectations, combined with the constant demands for time and a materialistic anticipation for a moment that seems to disappoint, leaves me longing for “the most wonderful time of the year” to end.

But what if Christmas didn’t have to be this way? What if the Christmas season was a time to take our relationship with God deeper? What if this time of year was a season of renewal and not stress? What if (and this might be way out in left field) anticipation for the Christmas season reach unparalleled heights…and there was never a let down when the season ended?

It is absolutely possible. How? Here’s the answer…open more gifts. 

That’s right, more gifts. You see, behind the Christmas trees, decorations, and parties is a baby. But not just any baby…a Savior. And when baby Jesus stooped down to this earth and took his place in a manger, he also opened a divine warehouse of gifts.

These gifts could forever change how we approach this season.

So, here are 25 game-changing gifts from God that will transform Christmas forever.

1.) God always, always keeps his promises.

This truth screams through the birth of Jesus. When God makes a promise, it will happen. And this truth is easy to forget because broken promises weave through the fabric of our lives. Our word to someone means less than the trash we throw in the dumpster.

But the baby in a manger is a reminder God is different. Every promise he makes is true. Rest in the promises of God.

2.) God can be trusted.

The list of people I trust with my feelings, emotions, and heart is really small. I can count them on two hands. Why? Life teaches us not to trust people. We can’t trust the motives of everyone. We can’t give our heart to everyone.

But God has never lied. All of his motives are pure. We can trust our entire self to God. God will not disappoint us. He will not betray us.

3.) Hope is real and alive.

Hope is the catalyst for faith. Without hope, reaching the finished line is impossible. Followers of Jesus must set their eyes on the living hope we have through Jesus Christ. Our hope is real.

4.) God is a responder, not a reactor.

The story of Jesus doesn’t begin in Matthew 1…it begins in Genesis 3. When sin entered the world, God knew Jesus was the only answer. And this is where I start scratching my head. If God knew the answer to sin was Jesus, why in the world did he wait hundreds of years to send him?

We can draw our own conclusions, but this truth can’t be ignored…God doesn’t react to situations. He responds. He doesn’t freak out. He doesn’t lose his cool. Reactors allow emotions to drive actions. Responders are driven by logic. Praise God he is a responder, not a reactor. Otherwise, we would all be in serious trouble.

[tweet_box design=”default”]Reactors allow emotions to drive actions. Responders are driven by logic.[/tweet_box]

5.) The promises of God come through patience.

God always keeps his promises. But obtaining the promises of God requires patience (Hebrews 6:12). God’s promises rarely come overnight. They are inherited through seasons of waiting and perseverance.

In a 4G, super-fast DSL world, God shows us good things aren’t microwaved. They take time.

6.) We should live everyday expectantly.

In Matthew 2, the Magi come to praise Jesus after being prompted by a star. Yes, the Magi were astute astrologists. But the Magi saw something different when this star appeared. And they saw something different because they were expectant. Their eyes were open.

How many days do we wake up expecting to see God? It is possible to miss out on amazing works of God simply because we aren’t expectant. Seeing God’s work requires a different focus and posture.

7.) God never forgets his people.

One generation passes. Then another. Egypt. The Promised Land. Judges. Kings. Captivity. Still no Savior.

I think it is fair to say some Israelites wondered if the Savior would ever come. They were human. There are times in my life when I wonder if God has forgotten about me.

Jesus’s arrival reminds us God never forgets about his people. He is present. He is working. Never lose hope. No matter how hopeless or helpless our situation, God never abandons us.

8.) Sometimes answers come in unlikely places.

“Alright, God. Here’s the gameplan. Let’s raise up a king greater than David. Far greater. At the height of his reign, we will send Jesus to be his first born son. He will become king, take over the world, and save us from our sins. It’s foolproof.”

“Wait…what? You’re sending Jesus through a poor carpenter and his fiancee…and he will be born in a bed of straw? I am not sure that game plan will work, God. Do we have a plan B?”

In typical God fashion, he flips human logic and reasoning on its head. No one would have expected the Savior of the world to make his grand entrance in a manger. But God’s answers come in unlikely places. They come in unlikely circumstances. God doesn’t need position titles, followings, bright lights, or stages to change the world.

God needs…God. He can and will show himself in the most unlikely of circumstances.

[tweet_box design=”default”]God doesn’t need position titles, followings, brights lights, or stages to change the world.[/tweet_box]

9.) God fulfills his purposes through broken, ordinary people.

Remember the time God used a perfect person to do something great? Me neither. It doesn’t happen. Repeatedly, God looks at the most lowly, least talented guy or girl in the line…and picks them. Mary and Joseph were righteous people. But they were poor. They had 9-5 jobs. Not rock stars. Not kings or queens. Just normal people.

And God rattled the foundations of the world through two ordinary people. Never buy the lie that God can’t use you.

10.) God is active in the world.

God is active. He is working. Right now, God is molding hearts. He is shaping lives. He is drawing people to himself.

Every action and circumstance, good and bad, prepared the way for Jesus. When we believe God is absent, it is not because God is taking a break. God is always working. We must open our eyes.

11.) God’s promises do not come without struggle and tragedy.

This is a common thread in God’s plan. On the heels of baby Jesus’s arrival comes one of the most tragic events in the Bible. King Herod, out of fear and anger, orders every child two and under to be killed (Matthew 2:16-17).

Tragedy is a core trait of this broken world. Our lives are filled with tragedy and difficulty. But allow the birth of Jesus to remind you struggle and tragedy are often the catalyst for great things.

12.) The gospel is for everyone.

Don’t miss this. One of the first groups notified of the Savior’s arrival were the Magi. Not the religious leaders. Not even a Jew. The Magi were Gentiles.

God is setting a new precedent with baby Jesus…salvation is for everyone. God’s people are not marked by an ethnicity. They are marked by a cross. The gospel is not an American product. And we need to spread the gospel to every human on earth.

[tweet_box design=”default”]God’s people are not marked by an ethnicity. They are marked by a cross.[/tweet_box]

13.) Nothing can destroy the plans of God.

From Genesis 3 to Matthew 1, powerful men and bleak circumstances threaten God’s plans. But when God initiates plans, they happen. No person can destroy God’s plans. No circumstance can erase them. God has great plans for our lives, and nothing will destroy those either.

14.) God loves us more than we could ever imagine.

God rescued us. And the depth to which he came to do this reveals the magnitude of his love. There are few things I would give my life to save. My closest family. Maybe a few more people I love like family. But certainly not every person. And absolutely not those who don’t like me.

Now consider the creator of the universe loving us so much he was willing to put on human skin…and be killed by men he created. Never lose sight of the love God shows us through the birth of Jesus.

15.) The same Holy Spirit that made the birth of Jesus a reality empowers Christians today.

Mary became pregnant through the Holy Spirit (Matt. 1:18). This same Spirit is the one that empowers us today. He guarantees our inheritance (Eph. 1:13-14). He breathes life into our wounded, sinful hearts. He gives us strength when we are weak.

16.) Our righteousness does not determine how God sees us.

The birth of Jesus reminds us God had to send a sacrifice. Without Jesus’s arrival, it might be reasonable to assume our righteousness determines our standing before God. But the Savior’s descension to earth should cause us to take a deep breath and remove the weight of morality and personal righteousness.

We could not earn it. Jesus did earn it. He lived the life we could not. It is his righteousness that gives us new life and salvation.

17.) Seeing God means leaving everything behind.   

The shepherds in Luke 2 were told of Jesus’s birth, and immediately they went to see him. Now, catch this. Shepherds tended sheep, and it was a full-time job. Sheep are weak, vulnerable animals. These shepherds knew leaving their sheep meant leaving their livelihood.

But they didn’t spend hours debating between livelihood and God. Seeing God was far more important. And the same is true for us. When anything takes precedent over God, it hinders us from seeing God. We will not experience the fullness of God until we allow God to be THE option instead of AN option.

Is there something you need to leave behind to see God?

18.) Nothing is impossible to God.

Imagine an angel of God explaining the Savior’s entrance into the world. And to top it off, that plan includes you becoming pregnant…through the Holy Spirit. Think you would be skeptical? I would have a few questions. Mary did as well. In Luke 1:37, the angel proclaims a great truth about God. NOTHING is impossible with him.

The Christmas narrative reminds us God isn’t confined to our limitations and doubts. He can and will show his infinite power to the world through finite humans…for his glory.

19.) God’s plans are different from our plans.

Mary and Joseph had to pack up last minute to take a census in their hometown. They couldn’t find a bed for Mary to deliver Jesus. I would guess Mary and Joseph did not draw up the birth of Jesus this way. But God’s plans do not always match up with our plans. Trust God’s plans. Even if they seem crazy or ridiculous. He knows best.

20.) The greatest promises come in the most humble of situations.

There is a message here for everyone. In a culture of celebrities and popularity contests with Twitter followers or Instagram likes as metrics, God’s son makes his debut in a manger. No lights. No immediate anointing as king from men. No applause from thousands.

This is how God works. So, change the dirty diapers. Do the right thing when no one is around. Schedule lunch with someone that needs encouragement. God works in mighty ways through meaningless, mundane situations.

21.) God doesn’t need us, but he allows us to participate in his plans.

I have two boys, and I love them to help me around the house. Do I need them? Absolutely not. They actually hinder my productiveness and efficiency. But I want my boys to be part of the work I am doing. The same is true with God. And much more because God’s plans are eternal. It is a comforting truth that God allows imperfect people to fulfill perfect plans.

22.) God is our father, and we are his children.

Yes, we should recognize God as holy. Yes, we should have a healthy fear of God. After all, he created planets with his breath. But the birth of Jesus reminds us God is also our father. And he is a perfect father. He is always for us. He wants us to succeed. He loves us infinitely. He never leaves us. He is always good. He is our dad.

23.) This world is not our home.

Jesus did not come to earth and take permanent residence. He came down with a mission. He came down to fulfill promises. And once Jesus completed his mission, he went back home.

Jesus lays down a model for us. And Christmas season in America can pull us away from this model. Presents. Events and parties. Family gatherings. None of these are inherently bad.

But presents, events, and family gatherings become dangerous when they blur the model Jesus left for us. We are foreigners. This world is not home.

24.) God knows and understands our temptations and struggles.

Hebrews 2:18. Rest in this truth. It separates our Savior from every other god. He took on flesh, and he experienced every temptation and struggle. Is this not mind-blowing? The God of the universe knows my temptations. He knows my struggles. He can empathize with my suffering. Wow!

25.) Jesus will return again.

God is a promise keeper. And we can rest assured of this…Jesus will return. And when he does, it won’t be in the form of a little baby. It will be in the form of a mighty warrior. And his second coming will be the final one. No more sin. No more suffering. No more hurting. Eternal rest with God.

I pray for Jesus’s return every day. I hope you do as well. It is coming.

But until it does, we wait. And as we wait, we are expectant. We are hopeful. We are confident. The God who sent Jesus is able. And the struggles of this life will be eternally mutilated by the return of our Savior.

_________________________

Meditate on these truths. Think about them. Regardless, my prayer is you see something different this Christmas.

I love this season. I love to see my boys open presents. I love to see my family. But these things mean nothing compared to the love I have for my Savior. His faithful promises are waiting under the tree for us to open.

I love you all. To God be the glory forever! Amen.

December 3, 2015
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Culture

Christians, The Golden Rule Applies To Syrian Refugees Too

by Frank Powell November 18, 2015
written by Frank Powell

I’m going to be honest. Today, my heart breaks. Yes, my heart is broken for the families and victims in Paris. Yes, my heart hurts for the thousands of Syrian refugees displaced around the world. But the weight pressing heavily on me is the attitude of many American Christians.

Since terrorists attacked Paris, several states have closed their doors to Syrian refugees. Ironically (or not) most of these states are in the Bible Belt.

While I do not support the actions of these states, I’m also not writing to them. Governments operate under a particular set of parameters. Among those is the safety of their people. If government officials believe accepting Syrian refugees puts their particular state at risk, that’s their decision. Do I agree? No. Does it influence my response? No.

I’m also not talking to atheists, agnostics, animists, or any other “ist.” If you don’t know and love Jesus Christ, I’m not talking to you. It’s not that I don’t care about you. It’s just that I understand. If you don’t claim Jesus as lord, I see where you would applaud governments for protecting your safety. If you post articles to help others see why accepting Syrian refugees is, in essence, pulling the metaphorical trigger for ISIS, I get it. I don’t agree with you. But I totally get it.

Today, I am talking specifically to Christians. Since the Paris attacks, I have read statements ranging from logical to completely ludicrous. So, let’s start by assuming the worst.

If America open its borders to Syrian refugees, some of those entering might be bad guys. And not just any bad guys. Brain-washed, American-hating, bad guys. Like Joker in The Dark Knight on steroids. They will now be walking on American soil, plotting to wipe out massive amounts of people. This would certainly be the beginning of the end for America. Do we really want to accept a few refugees at the expense of everything we know and love?”

To me, this is a far-fetched scenario. Others might disagree. It doesn’t matter. Even if this scenario were true, the rules of the game wouldn’t change. Christians don’t make decisions using the world’s ideals. Our worldview is shaped by a man named Jesus.

And I believe Jesus has a simple word for Christians when it comes to Syrian refugees.

Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets. -Matthew 7:12

This one statement from Jesus summarizes everything. And this statement applies no matter how many hypothetical, “take down America” scenarios we conjure up. The foundational response for “How do we, as Christians, respond to the Syrian refugee crisis?” is “Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you.”

What if followers of Jesus responded to every person through the filter of Matthew 7:12? What if we removed the red, white, and blue lense, and put on the Matthew 7:12 lense? Here’s what I believe would happen.

We would stop labeling people in ways that release us from helping them. 

A Matthew 7:12 lense would see Syrian refugees as men and women created in God’s image. They would be people desperate to feel the tangible love of God. We wouldn’t label them as potential terrorists but as helpless, homeless, displaced people desperate for healing and hope.

Labeling is an ancient sin. One of Satan’s oldest tricks to isolate and dehumanize. One he used to convince a crowd of Jews to crucify a sinless man. The Syrian refugees aren’t terrorists. They’re men and women created in the image of God. Any attempt to see them outside of this reality is from Satan.

We would stop allowing security and comfort to override compassion and grace. 

A Matthew 7:12 lense would default to love and compassion. If you were a Syrian refugee, displaced from your homeland, without a permanent place to lay your head, having left loved ones to die, how would you want others to respond? You would beg them to drop their walls and build bridges. You would ask them to look past the potential of allowing some bad guys in. You would beg anyone who claims to follow Jesus to fall down on their knees and beg God to heal their land.

So, maybe we can’t house Syrian refugees. But a heart driven by compassion doesn’t look at the situation and say, “Well, our state has closed its doors. Nothing I can do.” A heart filled with God’s spirit would turn to prayer.

Have you prayed for the Syrian refugees?

We would stop choosing the logical, sensical approach (fear) over the right approach (love).

Fear makes more sense than love. It’s a natural response to evil. But it’s not the right approach. At least, it’s not if you are a Christian. You see, fear is powerful. It drowns out love. You can live with fear or love, but not both.

When it comes to ISIS, in particular, and evil, in general, we don’t need more courage. Courage doesn’t drive out fear. Suicide bombers are courageous. And they’re also driven by fear.

[tweet_box design=”default”]You can live with fear or love, but not with both.[/tweet_box]

As Christians our call isn’t to conjure up more bravery and courage. The only response to fear is love. The apostle John said,”Perfect love drives out fear.” It’s the only thing powerful enough to break the chains of darkness. It’s the only thing compelling enough to drive the son of God to the cross.

This love crosses boundaries, destroys walls, and accepts enemies. Welcoming refugees makes no sense. It jeopardizes our safety. It makes us vulnerable to attack. But we don’t allow logic to drive the train. God’s love doesn’t make sense. And because of this love, Christians have eternal life.

We would stop throwing money at crises as a means to clear our conscious. 

 

Accepting Syrian refugees is dangerous, you say. But let’s not stop helping them. Let’s send them supplies and funds. Let’s hold them at arm’s length and use our pocketbooks to clear our conscious. It’s the Christian American way.

But it’s not the Jesus way.

A Matthew 7:12 lense would see money as a shallow excuse for receiving real people with real pain. As Christians, we should open our arms to the world’s suffering. In the process, we might also expose ourselves to the world’s pain. But this is the model of Jesus, who exposed himself to our pain on the cross.

Giving money to help refugees or orphans is great. But Jesus would never throw money at someone to protect his safety and maintain his lifestyle. Christians shouldn’t either.

[tweet_box design=”default”]Jesus would never throw money at someone to protect his safety.[/tweet_box]

We would stop adding stipulations to the commands of Jesus to keep us from loving our enemies. 

Jesus said a lot of radical things. He told a parable that challenged Pharisees to love wretched Samaritans. He said lust was equivalent to adultery. But the most radical statement from Jesus was his command to love our enemies (Matt. 5:43-48).

A Matthew 7:12 lense would not say Jesus would retract his command to love our enemies if he were alive today. “I mean, Frank. Do you believe think Jesus wants us to love ISIS?”

I think Jesus told us to love our enemies and pray for them. In doing this, we become true children of heaven. I’m not saying we allow ISIS a free pass into America. But we MUST pray for them.

This isn’t optional.

[tweet_box design=”default”]Praying for your enemies isn’t optional if you love Jesus.[/tweet_box]

We would stop blaming political figures as a way to deflect our responsibility to feed orphans, homeless, and widows. 

A Matthew 7:12 lense wouldn’t deflect Christians’ responsibility onto the President, Congress, or anyone in between. In Matthew 25, Jesus instructed us to receive anyone who is hungry, thirsty, or lost. And doing this makes us righteous before God.

That’s real.

Homeless refugees shouldn’t be a catalyst for our political agenda. It’s not Obama’s fault. Even if he were catering to Muslims, the responsibility of Christians doesn’t change.

Look, I suck at living like Jesus most days. I try, but I’m not great at it. Like most Christians, I love to get side-tracked on real issues affecting real people by turning them into political or theological debates.

A Matthew 7:12 lense would challenge us to stop arguing over issues and start seeing real people. Hungry, thirsty, lost people. And, rather than blaming political figures, we should pray about and discuss ways to be Jesus to thousands of refugees.

______________

Christians, the fear mongering needs to stop. Governments will make their decisions. Those outside of Jesus will do the same. But we play the game with different rules. We don’t believe the lie that says more weapons, taller walls, or stronger militaries will overcome the evil in this world. Unapologetically, we fight with love. We believe the selfless, sacrificial love Jesus exemplified will destroy the evil and darkness in our world.

Love conquers evil and drowns out fear. Matthew 7:12 gives us the vision to see it.

I love you all. To God be the glory forever. Amen!

November 18, 2015
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Culture

What Would Jesus Post? 6 Ways Jesus Would Engage Social Media

by Frank Powell November 11, 2015
written by Frank Powell

It’s a hot, dry afternoon in Jerusalem. Jesus strolls through a busy marketplace. All of sudden, he reaches under his robe, grabs his phone, and snaps a pic of the crowd. #beautifulday. A few minutes later, Jesus tweets where he will speak next. The moment he posts, a Pharisee comments, calling Jesus a heretic. Jesus favorites the Pharisee’s comment.

As crowds gather on a hillside, Peter opens his camera app. He shows a few disciples a video where Jesus casts a demon out of a man. Andrew responds. “Dude, you have to put that on YouTube. It will have a million views tonight.”

Thomas looks at Andrew and says, “I’ll believe it when I see it.”

This scenario sounds crazy, right? But have you ever considered how Jesus would respond to social media? How would the son of God interact with platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram? Would he SnapChat his disciples? Would he upload all of his sermons to YouTube?

In short, I believe Jesus would engage on social media. Jesus valued spaces where people of all backgrounds gathered. For Jesus, that space was the marketplace. Of his 132 public appearances, 122 had a marketplace context. The four gospel record Jesus telling 52 parables, 45 had a marketplace context.

Social media is the modern-day marketplace. People from all backgrounds are on social media. Lives are shared. Important theological and social issues are discussed. Culture is shaped. News is broken.

So, if Jesus valued spaces where people gathered, why aren’t more Christians on social media?

Here are a few responses I receive. “I just don’t see the point. Every time I get on Facebook or Twitter, some un-informed idiot posts a stupid remark, and I get mad.”

If you’re a Christian, I want to challenge you to consider how you use social media and why you use it. Millions of people spend time on some social media platform. Christians need to be there.

We don’t need to be there picking fights or ranting about the latest decision from the government. We don’t need to be there comparing our lives to others. We need to be there with intentionality. We need to engage social media like Jesus would.

Here are 6 ways Jesus would engage social media.

1.) Jesus would engage social media with a purpose, not as a means to pass the time.

You can disagree with me on whether Jesus would be on social media. But here’s what you can’t disagree with. If Jesus were on social media, he would have a purpose. He wouldn’t troll around Facebook or Twitter. He wouldn’t use social media to pass the time. He wouldn’t inject his thoughts on the President or the state of the church.

When Jesus opened Facebook, Twitter, or SnapChat, he would have one goal: to point people to God.

“But Frank. I’m too old to keep up with all the new technology. Frank, I don’t have anything to add.”

To be honest, those excuses aren’t good enough. Social media shapes culture, ignites movements, and informs millions of people.

The world is on social media. Christians should be there. With a purpose.

[tweet_box design=”default”]The world is on social media. Christians should be there too.[/tweet_box]

Send someone an encouraging message. Tweet a Bible verse. Tell someone you are praying for them. Post a resource that helps others.

This is a stewardship issue. Yes, I believe God will hold us accountable for how we use this huge platform.

Are you stewarding your time on social media well? Are you using it for selfish reasons? Are you building your platform or using your platform to point people to God? Are you a social media glutton, scrolling through feeds but never adding anything?

Jesus would engage social media with a purpose. You should too.

2.) Jesus would follow, share, and retweet a lot of people who aren’t Christians.

Jesus ate dinner with prostitutes and tax collectors. He was intentional about extending his circle beyond his twelve disciples. He came to call the sinners, not the righteous.

So, if Jesus were on social media, he would like, share, and retweet comments that would leave many “righteous” Christians shaking their heads in disgust.

“Can you believe Jesus shared Barack Obama’s post? I thought all Christians were Republican?”

“Did you see where Jesus liked that gay couple’s post?”

“OMG?! Jill, come here. Jesus just retweeted…Rob Bell!! How can he be the son of God?”

I love Rob Bell, just for the record.

Here’s the deal. In my conversations with Christians about social media, many of them talk about “un-friending” someone who curses or drinks. Unfortunately, the perspective of many Christians on social media is strikingly similar to the one they have towards the world. If it’s evil or nasty, get it away.

Jesus came to affirm all people, not stroke the egos of the religious elite. He came to engage darkness, not run from it. How will Christians impact those who don’t know about Jesus if we “unfriend” someone every time they don’t act like a “churchy” Christian?

Maybe it’s time to reconsider who we engage on social media and why. I think Jesus would.

3.) Jesus would intentionally disengage from social media to engage with his Father. 

Jesus spent nights alone. He woke up early in the morning to engage with his Father. Let’s not assume Jesus would be any different with social media. He wouldn’t feel obligated to respond to every post or comment “promptly.” He wouldn’t allow his presence online to distract him from the presence of God.

You see, where you spend your time shapes how you respond to the world. Why did Jesus allow the Pharisees to spit in his face when he could have turned them into salt? He didn’t have anything to prove to them. His goal was to draw the world to himself, not show the Pharisees who their daddy was (literally). What you allow into your heart determines who you become.

If you’re more eager to check a social media status than spend time alone with God, there is a problem. If your first instinct is to reach for your phone after the alarm clock sounds, a red flag should go up. I will admit. This is an issue for me. And I plan to be more intentional about disengaging from social media.

Jesus wouldn’t allow social media to control him. He wouldn’t compare his life to others. You shouldn’t either.

4.) Jesus would use social media to complement personal relationships, not replace them.

Jesus would not allow social media to replace the messiness of face-to-face relationships. Jesus knew his mission depended on other people. The mission was huge. It required courage and faith. To prepare these men, he needed to be with them. He needed to build their trust. He had to develop intimacy with them. These are difficult to nurture online.

Social media presents a dangerous temptation, especially to a younger generation. The temptation is to believe a bunch of shallow relationships are more important than a few deep, meaningful ones.

Remember. Jesus didn’t rely on large crowds to spread his message. He relied on twelve men.

Are intimate relationships hard work? Is it easier to build friends online? Yes and yes. But God didn’t create you for shallow relationships. He created you to go deep with people. He designed you to share the burdens of other people.

[tweet_box design=”default”]God created you for meaningful relationships, not shallow ones.[/tweet_box]

I love my online community. They encourage me. They challenge me. But my online community will never replace my real life community. My local community cries with me. I cry with them. They know my heart.

You need people in your life who know the real you. You can have a huge social media following, but your life will feel empty if you don’t have people in your life who know your heart.

5.) Jesus would fill his social media profiles with more than Bible verses.

Would Jesus post Bible verses? Sure. But Jesus wouldn’t limit his social media profiles to Scripture alone. Jesus would use his platform to show the world a complete picture of God. Jesus would post pics of wedding celebrations, funny moments, and thought-provoking questions.

It’s unfortunate that most Christians paint a picture of God that is narrow and incomplete. Most Christians paint God with a suit-and-tie, grey hair (with a slightly receding hairline), and someone who makes it his goal to single-handedly squash out anything that looks like fun.

Here’s the truth about God. He has a sense of humor. He used a donkey’s rear-end to get a man’s attention…That’s hilarious. God celebrates. He parties. Jesus performed his first miracle at a party, turning water into wine…that’s the kind of dude I want to party with.

If you’re a Christian, by all means, post Bible verses. But don’t be lame. Show the world a bigger picture of God. Post pics of you having fun with friends. When you celebrate a milestone, let the world know. #celebratingwithmyboy.

6.) Jesus would NOT post his most intimate moments on social media. 

Jesus might use social media to inform people about his next stop. He might post pics with his disciples. But you would not find his most intimate moments on social media. I can imagine Jesus instructing his disciples to leave their iPhones at the door as they prepared to take the Passover. When Jesus washed his disciples’ feet, that moment wouldn’t be for the world.

Social media is slowly destroying the mystery and privacy of our lives. And this is important because intimacy dies as privacy and mystery die. God is mysterious. And, being created in his image, there is a layer of mystery and privacy required to maintain a healthy relationship with ourselves, God, and others.

[tweet_box design=”default”]God created you to enjoy life, not capture it through a camera lense.[/tweet_box]

We are so busy capturing life on a camera or in 140 characters that we don’t enjoy it. Considering the direction of our country, maybe it’s time to ask some hard questions.

Would your family be healthier if you lived in that special moment with your children rather than reaching for your phone to capture it?

Would your marriage benefit from fewer #datenight pics on Instagram and more date nights with the phone at home?

Would society be less cynical and more hopeful if you didn’t use social media as a personal sounding board for life’s frustrations?

Decide for yourself, but, for me, the answer to these questions is YES.

___________

Social media is an enormous tool to point people to Jesus. It’s not a tool to troll our friends, rant about the President, or waste massive amounts of time.

To engage social media like Jesus requires intentionality. It requires a firm understanding of our identity in God. I know I have a lot of work to do. But if every Christian decided to take one step towards intentionality, the impact would be enormous.

What do you think? How would Jesus engage social media if he were alive today? Leave a comment below.

I love you all. To God be the glory forever. Amen!

November 11, 2015
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Culture

15 Books Every Christian Should Read Before Turning 30

by Frank Powell October 29, 2015
written by Frank Powell

Two months ago, I hit a milestone…my 30th birthday. It’s probably the last birthday I will actually look forward to celebrating. That’s only partially true. I have learned a lot in the last 10 years. And if you asked me the greatest factors contributing to my growth, I would give you two things: the relationships I built and the books I read.

I can’t underestimate the importance of reading. It might be the most important factor separating great lives from mediocre ones. But, in a world where information is more readily accessible than ever before, how do you known which books to read? This question is important. Here’s why. It’s not just about reading books (although reading something is better than nothing). It’s about reading books that challenge your thinking, ignite your passion, restore your hope, and convict you to change something about your life. The more of these books you read, the more you will separate yourself from those around you.

So, before I give you 15 books you need to read before turning 30, I want to provide a few filters for choosing books that will maximize your growth.

1.) Ask people with a position you desire to share a list of books that shaped them.

Great leaders don’t just happen. It requires intentionality. Something or someone shaped them. Whether it’s a preacher you respect, a business leader you trust, or a writer you admire, send them an e-mail and ask them for recommendations.

2.) You don’t have to agree with everything in a book to take something from it.

On more than one occasion, someone asked me for a book recommendation, and, after giving them one, the response was, “Well, I don’t agree with some of the things they believe.”

And?…

You know how many books I’ve read where I agreed with everything the author wrote? None (other than the Bible, of course). If you don’t agree with something, that’s fine. But don’t throw out the baby with the water. Your primary goal is not to affirm your beliefs. Your primary goal is to expand your mind.

3.) Highlight. Take notes as you read. Read for transformation, not information.

Highlighters. Pens. Writing in the margin. Every book I read, I mark it up. And, at the conclusion of every book, I write a review. If you don’t do this, you’re reading for information. The best leaders I know never read for reading’s sake. They always read for transformation. You must have a desire to learn. Otherwise, you’re checking something off your list. And that’s dumb.

4.) Don’t feel the pressure to finish every book you start. If it sucks, put it down.

There was a time when I thought finishing every book was as important as growing from every book. I no longer believe that. I usually give a book 2-3 chapters. After that, if I’m not being challenged, I put it down and find a new one.

5.) Be intentional about investing in yourself.

Personal growth is just like any other discipline, it requires intentionality. Many days, you won’t feel like opening a book. Welcome to the world of intentional disciplines. What separates average from great is how you respond on those days when you don’t feel like reading. Make personal growth a daily habit. Maybe it’s 20 minutes a day. Maybe it’s 15. Whatever it is, set time aside to invest in yourself.

Those are a few pointers for maximizing your reading. I would love to hear from you.

What tips do you have for getting the most out of the books you read? Leave a comment below.

Now I want to introduce you to 15 books every Christian should reading before turning 30. These books have shaped my faith, given me hope, and challenged me to lead more effectively (as a father, husband, and minister). Here we go.

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#15. An Unhurried Life (Alan Fadling)

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Why read it: Learn to slow down in a fast-paced culture.

What it’s about: Entering the world of full-time jobs out of college is much like jumping on a treadmill that’s already on. But make no mistake, those who maintain their passion, drive, and motivation to make a difference are the ones who learn to slow down. Don’t wait until you’re burnt out to realize this important truth. You must find a balance between hustling and resting. The “unhurried life” is the life of Jesus. Jesus never allowed the demands of others to impact the decisions he made. Jesus hustled. He completed his mission in a few short years. But he never hurried. How was Jesus able to be so productive while staying under control and remaining close to God? This book will show you how.

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#14. Redeeming Love (Francine Rivers)

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Why read it: Grasp God’s consistent love for you in a season of constant change.

What it’s about: Pastors tend to “stretch the truth” at times, but I’m being serious when I say this: I have yet to find someone who finished this book without saying, “Wow!” Questions related to identity and purpose will spring up often before you turn 30. While there are many amazing books that will help you answer questions related to those huge topics, few books remind you of the immense love God has for you. This book is the gospel in narrative form. It’s a powerful reminder that no matter how bad your life gets, God’s love will never leave you. His forgiveness doesn’t have an expiration. At some point, you will need that reminder. I promise.

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#13. The Next Christians (Gabe Lyons)

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Why read it: Learn how to engage a complex culture as a follower of Jesus.

What it’s about: The culture is complex. It changes more than a 13-year-old girl’s choice of lipstick. And, as a Christian jumping into the workforce, it’s important to understand the challenges of engaging an increasingly post-Christian America. What disciplines and attitudes are important to reach the culture? How can the church remain relevant? Is there hope for the church? This book answers all of these questions. 

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#12. David and Goliath (Malcolm Gladwell)

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Why read it: Expand your understanding of strength, weakness, and getting ahead

What it’s about: There are literally a hundred angles through which you could look at this book. Here is what’s important (and what, I believe, Malcolm Gladwell wants his readers to see): don’t get trapped into thinking success only comes one way. Your 20s are a time when you lay a foundation for the rest of your life. If you believe the only way to be successful is by acquiring power, avoiding failure, and hiding your weaknesses, you’re mistaken. And worse, you might lay a poor foundation. This book will change your perspective on strength, weakness, and how to get ahead. 

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#11. The Cost Of Discipleship (Dietrich Bonhoeffer)

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Why read it: Embrace the radical call of following Jesus.

What it’s about: The decision to follow Jesus is a radical call of lifelong discipleship. Every day, you must make a decision. Will you embrace the ways of the world, pursuing earthly gain? Or…Will you practice self-denial, focusing your eyes on your future destination? This book will challenge you to really consider the weight of following Jesus. You can’t follow Jesus unless you deny yourself and join a local church. Jesus’s teaching weren’t meant to be studied. They were meant to be lived out. 

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#10. The Ragamuffin Gospel (Brennan Manning)

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Why read it: God doesn’t measure performance using our culture’s standards. 

What it’s about: One of the greatest threats to living for Jesus is pride. It is the opposite of God. What is the essence of God? Humility. Until you understand that the gospel is for “ragamuffins” you will never experience its power. Jesus came for the lowest of the low. No one is too sinful or too low on society’s scale to experience the transformative power of Jesus Christ. This book will challenge you to re-think any framework for the gospel that isn’t dirty or messy enough to reach everyone.

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#9. Crazy Love (Francis Chan)

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Why read it: There’s nothing mediocre about your relationship with God. Go all in.

What it’s about: Many of you grade your faith on a curve. I do it often. Your relationship with God isn’t measured by Scripture. It’s measured by the faith of those around you. But this is not the way it’s supposed to be. God calls you to go all in. He calls you to give everything to him. He calls you to be bold, take risks, and love scandalously. Average faith is no faith at all. This book will challenge you to re-imagine your relationship with God. And it will convict you to live boldly in a culture of mediocrity.

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#8. Blue Like Jazz (Donald Miller)

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Why read it: The journey to discovering God is a long road. Embrace it.

What it’s about: Finding God and understanding his character isn’t a lightbulb moment. It’s a journey. Embrace it. Don’t be afraid to fail. Don’t be scared to ask hard questions. Don’t accept cultural norms. Surround yourself with people who love God. And learn the importance of authenticity. This book challenged a generation to do these things several years ago. It will challenge you to do the same today.

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#7. The Circle Maker (Mark Batterson)

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Why read it: Never underestimate the power of a single prayer.

What it’s about: Go. Go. Go. Make it happen. If you want something done, you must do it. These mantras are pervasive in America. But the answer to “changing the world” isn’t to do more, it’s to pray more. This book will rattle your perspective on prayer. It will challenge you to think big and pray hard. If there’s a more practical, convicting book on prayer, I haven’t read it.  

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#6. Surprised By Hope (N.T. Wright)

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Why read it: Everything you do matters. Do it with excellence.

What it’s about: “Some glad morning when this life is o’er, I’ll fly away.” I sang these lyrics dozens of times growing up. While the song is beautiful, the lyrics are faulty. Heaven isn’t some far away land. It’s a reality that you live out everyday. This changes how you work. It changes how you interact with brokenness in the world. Why? Because if heaven starts now, every action moves beyond the realm of time into the realm of eternity. If you’re a follower of Jesus, regardless of how awful (or awesome) your job is, do it with excellence. 

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#5. The Go-Giver (Bob Burg and John David Mann)

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Why read it: Give others what they want, and you will get what you want.

What it’s about: The greatest truths in life are wrapped in paradoxes. For example. Here do you climb the ladder? Get yours, right? Wrong. To climb the ladder, you must give more. But that’s not the only incredibly important paradox in this book. How do you increase your value? How do you become a leader others want to follow? This book answers these questions, and more. Whether you’re hustling inside a cubicle, grinding in medical school, or getting your hands dirty on a construction site, the truths in this book will force you to become a giver. 

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#4. The Rhythm Of Life (Matthew Kelly)

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Why read it: Discover your passion and purpose.

What it’s about: Passion and purpose. Two buzz words in your 20s. Almost weekly, I thought about them. But here’s what I didn’t understand until this year. Discovering your passion and purpose isn’t about following a series of steps. It’s about embracing a holistic, healthy life. Everything is a choice. Stop blaming others. You have legitimate needs and secondary needs. Living with passion and purpose means focusing on your legitimate needs. Celebrate your unique self. Do everything with excellence. Implement a regular Sabbath. Live with courage. This book is holistic. It will help you improve almost every area of your life. 

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#3. Thoughts For Young Men (J.C. Ryle)

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Why read it: Avoid the traps Satan sets particularly for young people. 

What it’s about: “You may be careless about your souls. But he (Satan) is not…You are the grand object of his attack.” These are words I wish I heard earlier in life. As a young man, I believe Satan understands the importance of the next generation. He attacks with particular strategies. Pride, thoughtlessness, and love of pleasure, to name a few. And here’s the big lie Satan wants young people to believe: your actions today won’t affect your life tomorrow. It’s the oldest (and most destructive) lie in the world. This book will challenge you to consider the habits you form today. It will convict you to consider the way you live. It will re-direct your eyes towards the cross. 

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#2. Man’s Search For Meaning (Victor Frankl)

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Why read it: Unlock the answers to a meaningful life.

What it’s about: Discovering the meaning of life seems as realistic as finding a unicorn…walking on a rainbow. Few people ever discover why they really exist. Even fewer make sense of suffering and love. This book will help you find the meaning of life through insane suffering. Victor Frankl, the author, writes about his experience in Auschwitz, a Nazi concentration camp. Through an unimaginable season of suffering, Frankl discovers the meaning to life. In the process, he provides extremely important reflections on suffering, love, hope, and community. 

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#1. Mere Christianity (C.S. Lewis)

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Why read it: Discover timeless truths for Christian living

What it’s about: Aside from the Bible, I believe this is the important book you will read as a Christian. It will challenge you to think deeper about the core components of the Christian faith. It will give you a strong foundation for Jesus as the son of God. This book changed the trajectory of my faith. It was the first book I ever read that rattled my core beliefs. It was the first book that helped me see the reasons behind my beliefs (and why many of them were faulty). This book is one of the few that can convict Christians and atheists. 

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I want to close with this. All of the books above can transform your life, but the Bible is by far the most important book you will ever read. I assumed most people understood this. But, in case, you’re wondering, please understand…NO BOOK is more important than the Bible. None.

What books shaped your faith? Leave a comment below and let me know. 

I love you all. To God be the glory forever. Amen!

October 29, 2015
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Heaven Is A Present Reality Not A Future Destination And 5 Reasons this changes how you live today
Culture

Heaven Is A Present Reality Not A Future Destination And 5 Reasons This Changes How You Live Today

by Josh Ross and Jonathan Storment July 28, 2015
written by Josh Ross and Jonathan Storment

Our two sons attend Snowden Elementary, a public school about one mile from our home in Memphis, TN. So, every school day, like other families who don’t live within walking distance, we park our car two blocks from the school and proceed to cross a six-lane road. It’s a busy intersection that requires two crossing guards and a police officer to ensure children’s safety and regulate awful driving.

I have grown to love crossing guards. Rain, shine, humidity, and freezing temperatures, crossing guards are there. They always show up. And crossing guards don’t sit in a lawn chair, waiting until the area is safe, wishing children the best as they cross busy intersections.

“Good luck as you cross the street, guys. Hope you make it to the other side.”

Instead, they hold stop signs, blow whistles, and walk with children through the road.

Now, as an author and pastor, I know every metaphor breaks down at some point. But I think the image of a crossing guard teaches us something about the heart, character, and mission of Jesus.

You see, Jesus doesn’t sit on one side of eternity waving us across to Him. And He doesn’t join us on our side, only to pat us on the back and wish us good luck as we venture through the crossroads of life. Instead, He moves with us through the intersections of life. It is the heartbeat of John 1:14, “The Word became flesh, and moved into the neighborhood.” Could it be that these words are intended to be the heartbeat of the church as well? I believe so.

The ascension of Jesus has a lot to teach us about what Jesus is up to today. If we are not careful, Jesus’s ascension into the heavens after His death will come to mean that His work was finished, and that One day He will reappear when He comes to judge the world and to set all things right.

“Good luck as you cross the street of life, guys. Hope you make it to the other side.”

Not exactly.

Here’s what Paul writes in Ephesians 4:10, “He who descended is the same one who ascended far above all the heavens, so that He might fill all things.” In other words, the ascension of Jesus isn’t a way for Him to escape this world, leaving us to navigate the intersections of life alone. It’s a declaration that he stands in the middle of the road, much like a crossing guard.

And this is important. When Heaven is a future reality, something that seems “way over there,” we are much more likely to hang out on the sidewalk. After all, who wants to cross a six-lane road without help?

Not me.

But if Heaven is a present reality, one where Jesus stands in the road directing traffic and walking beside us, we move off the sidewalk and into road with confidence. We step into the intersections of life because Jesus is there.

Here are 5 ways embracing heaven as a present reality changes how we live today.

1.) The gospel becomes more than a series of steps.

Unfortunately, in many Christian circles, the gospel is reduced to: 1) trust in Jesus, 2) have our sins forgiven, 3) arrive in heaven after we die. Even though Jonathan Storment and I embrace these truths, we wrote Bringing Heaven to Earth because we believe the gospel is larger than a few simple steps.

Much larger.

Following Jesus isn’t about crossing our fingers, hanging on tight, and waiting for eternity. It is an invitation to cross the road, to embrace a covenant relationship with the Creator. God gives us the opportunity to join him in all of the ways His mercy and goodness flow through the world.

When this reality sinks into our hearts, it changes how we see the world.

2.) God, with All his power, walks with you today. He is a God of the Present, not just a God of the past and the future.

In Exodus 3, God tells Moses He is “The Great I Am.” This becomes the most sacred name for God. It echoes throughout the pages of Scripture. But it also echoes throughout the pages of our lives. At least, it should.

This is huge: at no point in history does God become “The Great I Was” or “The Great I Will Be Again One Day.” He is “The Great I Am.” The same God today as he was the day He spoke the words to Moses.

If God is confined to the past or future tense, how will we raise up a generation to follow God in the present? Here’s the reality. The same God who parted the waters for the Israelites and promises to restore all things is the same God who walks with us into the street today. His power, grace, love, and desire to redeem the world are with us.

3.) Salvation isn’t primarily a moment in time. It is a movement in the world.

Throughout the New Testament, and especially in the book of Acts, conversions were a central theme. People regularly surrendered to Jesus, confessed Him as Lord, and were baptized into His name.

Don’t misunderstand me. We believe in conversions, and we celebrate them. Places like Luke 15 show us Heaven celebrates when a soul unites with Jesus in His death and resurrection.

The gospel says we’re invited into a conversion MOVEMENT, not a conversion MOMENT.

The message of the gospel, however, is not that we are invited into a conversion moment, but into a conversion movement. Conversion isn’t a life insurance plan, securing our future in heaven. Conversion launches us into the street where we join God’s movement of restoration and redemption. The prayer Jesus taught us to pray, “Your Kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven,” is more than a prayer. It is the life we are called to live. It is a life in the street where things are dangerous and unknown.

But it is also a life where Jesus meets us because the mission of Jesus is in the street.

4.) You partner with God to make heaven a present reality.

God could do whatever He desires by Himself. He doesn’t need us. But from the beginning God engages in a working relationship with human beings. God is eager to use who God saves.

God is eager to use who God saves. Allow God to use you.

He doesn’t save people to increase heaven’s future population. He saves people to increase heaven’s present population. God delegates. He gives responsibility. He empowers His people. He equips them with everything they need to live an adventurous life. A life that declares the future of heaven is pressing into our present world.

That’s a message worth spreading.

5.) Perfect love drives out fear.

As I write this, chaos is rampant all over the world. Violence is everywhere. Tension is high. And reasons to be fearful abound. Yet, the Bible declares hundreds of times, “Do not be afraid.” Now, I understand fear isn’t always unhealthy. But when fear paralyzes the soul, stunts spiritual development, and hinders the church from loving a world God desperately loves, something is wrong. If we are not careful, fear will drive out love, instead of perfect love driving out fear.

Hearts that trust Jesus are not called to shrink into a shell. They are called to press into the city. The response in the New Testament when people surrendered their lives to Jesus was not to play it safe. The response was to risk their lives for the sake of the gospel.

The earliest Christians knew the church was at its best when it gave up home field advantage to meet people where they were in life.

____________________

We wrote our book, Bringing Heaven to Earth, because we believe the good news of Jesus is just that: good news. We believe this good news doesn’t prepare us to die well, but to live well.

The good news doesn’t prepare us to die well, but to live well.

We believe Jesus loves this world more than we could ever imagine, and He wants His church to live as if they deeply love this world too.

It’s your turn. How does heaven as a present reality change how you live today?

July 28, 2015
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Culture

Thoughts About The Supreme Court Decision On Gay Marriage And How Christians Respond To The LBGT Community

by Frank Powell June 30, 2015
written by Frank Powell

On Friday, the Supreme Court struck down the ban on gay marriage in this country. Make no mistake. This was a landmark day and a pivotal moment in American history.

And shortly after hearing the news, in my curiosity, I decided to open Facebook.

I wish I hadn’t.

Maybe I should have expected the response. But I didn’t. What I saw was social media at its worst. Post after post. Tweet after tweet. Some even using Bible verses and statements referencing God as stones to throw at a community of people who has suffered immensely at the hands of Christians.

In a moment where the whole world was watching, when Christians had an opportunity to show everyone something different, what I witnessed was more of the same tired approach. An approach that has led to the dehumanization of a community of men and women created in the image of God.

Yes, I am frustrated. Maybe I am guilty of youthful immaturity. But I can’t imagine a scenario where Jesus is pleased with the Christian community’s response to the ruling of the Supreme Court.

And, yes, I get it. For many, this decision is representative of a larger issue in our country. But this decision is also representative of a larger issue in the Christian community’s theology.

Here are some thoughts I have about the Supreme Court decision, social media, and the Christian community’s response to the LBGT community.

1.) God saw this decision coming, and it didn’t shock him. 

“I affirm God’s design for marriage.”

“God’s word is truth.”

“Marriage = one man + one woman.”

These are just a few of the posts I saw. The feeling of panic and fear was almost tangible as I slid my finger further down my timeline.

And it’s disheartening because Christians trust a God who never freaks out. Never.

When the decision came down from the Supreme Court, God didn’t call an emergency meeting with the Trinity. He saw this coming. And it didn’t shock him. It shouldn’t shock Christians either. If your eyes are fixed on God, you will never allow something on earth to force you into panic mode. God’s got this.

[tweet_box design=”default”]If your eyes are fixed on God, you will not fall into panic mode.[/tweet_box]

He was in control when Jesus took his last breath and it appeared to his followers as though everything was over. He was in control when Christians endured severe persecution in the early days of the church. He is still in control. Even if America falls, God’s plan will not fall. He will ultimately prevail.

The world needs to see a different response. Freaking out is the way of the world. But peace in the midst of a storm is weird and puzzling. Just puzzling enough for others to become curious. Just weird enough to open the door for God to show himself through you.

2.) Our government is not the Savior. 

The government is not always going to adhere to Christian values. Just think about it. Government is responsible for the death of Jesus, most of the apostles, and Paul.

Jesus had an opportunity to usher in his kingdom through the government. Most everyone during his ministry thought this was the way of the Messiah. But it wasn’t the way. So when our government makes a decision that doesn’t line up with Christian values, why are we shocked? Our government is not the Savior. Jesus is. In fact, historically, Christianity has grown in environments where followers were oppressed, mostly at the hands of the government.

So, pray for our government and our officials. Respect them. But don’t place your allegiance there. That belongs to God.

3.) Lives aren’t transformed by words. They are transformed by actions.

Social media is a great tool for information, communication, and even teaching. But it’s not a great tool to address and resolve issues as complex as homosexuality. This issue will only be solved through human interaction, which is messy. Hard work. An investment of time. And many aren’t willing to make those sacrifices.

But doing nothing feels wrong. So, rather than taking the time to show the love of Christ to others through their actions, many Christians choose write a few words about God to no one in particular. Then they carry on with their day.

I think the Christian community has written enough. I would be willing to bet almost everyone knows where Christians stand on the issue of gay marriage. It’s time to put down the phone and start the messy process of building relationships.

4.) God loves the LBGT community, and you should too. 

Make no mistake. Every person on the face of the earth is loved by God. This includes me. A sinner. A terrible sinner. This also includes homosexuals.

Christians should love everyone as well. Not just those you agree with. Not just those who love you. Everyone. This separates Christians from the rest of the world. This love is transformative. It changes the world.

So, before you post something on social media or make a derogatory statement, ask yourself if the words are coming from a foundation of love. Is your desire to honestly see lives changed? If not, you will only add fuel to Satan’s fire, further widening the gap between the Christian and LBGT communities.

5.) An “I’m right, you’re wrong” attitude destroys the bridge between the world and God. 

Christians have played this game for too long. Rather than show love, Christians fight for their views and doctrines. We tell the world their sins from the mountaintop. We care more about winning an argument than rescuing a life. We use hateful, anger-saturated comments in an attempt to shame others, especially those in the LBGT community. And we somehow hope that in their shame, they will repent.

[tweet_box design=”default”]Shame has NEVER led a person to Christ.[/tweet_box]

But shame has NEVER led a person to Christ. Shame ostracizes, belittles, and dehumanizes. And the only remedy for shame is vulnerability and authenticity. This is where the Christian community finds themselves. We created the gap, and the only way to bridge the gap is to come down from our high horse, admit our faults, and listen.

Are you willing to sit across the table from someone in the LBGT community and apologize? Are you willing to lose an argument if it means winning the war? And the war is not against the LBGT community. It is against the evil one. The one who has been deceiving, shaming, and dividing from the beginning. Satan.

6.) Homosexuality is just one layer of sexuality.

Carey Neiuwhof’s recent comments on this point are excellent. He sums it up with this statement, “If you believe gay sex is sinful, it’s really no morally different than straight sex outside of marriage.”

Homosexuality is just one layer of the larger issue of sexuality. And, in my experience, the Christian community has not handled sexuality well. Recently, I was talking with a couple at our church, and I asked them what percentage of teenagers the believe have engaged (or currently engage) in sexual activity. This person said, “Maybe…25%?”

Uh, no.

The answer is closer to 100%. Lust. Masturbation. Porn. Sex outside of marriage. All of these are issues of sexuality. And almost all unmarried people (and many who are married) are involved in sexual activities that are against God’s design.

So, if you address homosexuality as a sinful activity, don’t elevate it above other layers of sexuality. And if you haven’t addressed issues of sexuality in your personal life, or if your church has a “don’t ask, don’t tell” approach to heterosexual issues related to sex outside of marriage, you might do well to address those issues before you tackle homosexuality.

7.) Create a culture of engagement, not withdrawal. 

I have listened to many church leaders tell the world via social media what they won’t do. “I will never perform a gay marriage. Our church will never allow gay couples to marry in this building,” and various other similar statements.

And, while I understand and respect their convictions, I am tired of hearing church leaders tell the world what they WON’T do. The Christian community’s attitude of withdrawal is doing little to solve the problem at hand. I am ready to hear what Christians WILL do in response to the Supreme Court’s decision.

[tweet_box design=”default”]Christians must engage the culture to impact it.[/tweet_box]

Christians must engage the culture to impact it. And we have always believed this on a cognitive level. But the principle hasn’t moved from our head to our hands.

The gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) record 52 parables of Jesus. Of those, 45 have a marketplace context. The marketplace was a place of diversity. It was common ground for everyone. Jesus not only engaged people who weren’t righteous, he spent a large majority of his ministry in their contexts. He embraced all people.

So, instead of telling the world what you WON’T do, why not sit down with your community of friends and find things you WILL do?

________________

Change is never easy. And America is certainly in a season of transition. But never forget you serve a God who never changes (Heb. 13:8). He doesn’t shift back and forth. He isn’t swayed by human reasoning or Supreme Court decisions. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

Don’t lose hope. Christians are people of hope, always trusting the future is better than the present because the future brings us one step closer to perfect, eternal shalom with God. As your church wrestles with the implications of the Supreme Court decision, pray for God’s wisdom and discernment. Pray for the government. Pray for those in your community…and those outside of it.

I am wrestling with the decision just like everyone else. These are simply my thoughts. You might not agree with me. That’s fine.

My goal isn’t for people to agree with my worldview or theology. My goal is to be an instrument for God. That’s all I can do. I don’t have it all figured out. But I believe with every ounce of my being that God is the path to joy and peace. I pray your eyes will be opened to God. He has totally transformed my life. He can do the same for you.

How do you believe Christians should respond to the LBGT community? Please respond thoughtfully and let your words be seasoned with grace and love. I reserve the right to delete any comment that doesn’t contribute to the conversation.

I love you all. To God be the glory forever. Amen!

June 30, 2015
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Caitlyn Jenner
Culture

God Loves Caitlyn Jenner, This I Know. The Bible Tells Me So.

by Frank Powell June 3, 2015
written by Frank Powell

If you live under a rock and decided to come out like right now, then you need to know Bruce Jenner is now a woman. And her name is Caitlyn. Maybe you need to take a minute to process that piece of information. Go right ahead.

So, now you want answers right? You want to know how to respond to your children. You want to know what you should say when your friends bring it up in conversation.

As I process what I know about Bruce Jenner (which is not much), I end up in the same place. Confused. I know what American Christian culture tells me say. “Bruce Jenner is not a woman and transgenderism is a sin. Period. Tell your readers, Frank. Tell them.”

And here lies a problem with being a minister and church leader. I feel the weight of making the politically correct statement. And the weight is heavy. At times, it’s too much to bear. There are severe penalties for not saying the “right” thing. It ultimately cost Jesus his life.

The Pharisees wanted Jesus to conform to their image of him. They wanted Him to be the ultimate Pharisee. The all-star of all-stars. But Jesus refused. It wasn’t that He was rebelling against the Pharisees. That would be quite childish of someone who created the universe.

Jesus was fighting. He was pushing back against the schemes of the evil one. He always has been. You see, Jesus understood something the Pharisees (and most everyone) did not. The war God’s people fight is not against flesh and blood. Paul would say this explicitly in Ephesians 6 several years after Jesus’s departure. But Paul only put into words what Jesus modeled.

Jesus fought the same war Christians fight today. But he didn’t fight people. He fought Satan. And Jesus didn’t fight with knowledge or correct doctrines. He fought with love. This is where many Christians get it wrong. Starting with me. We fight against people. And here’s the thing. If that person is on our team, we defend them (i.e. Josh Duggar). If not, we fiercely fight back against them (i.e. Bruce Jenner).

But Jesus didn’t draw lines in the sand based on beliefs, knowledge, and doctrines.

Jesus did, however, draw lines in the sand. In John 8, the Pharisees were ready to fight. This time a woman caught in adultery was the enemy. And Jesus found himself in the middle…drawing lines in the sand. Ironic? I think not.

[tweet_box design=”default”]The war isn’t fought with words and doctrines. It is fought with love.[/tweet_box]

We, Christians, tend to think the war can be won with stones, words, and correct application of Scripture. We believe everyone must pick a side on every issue. So, we ask questions and interrogate until everyone has a team.

“Are you supporting Bruce Jenner? Would you really have a cup of coffee with him? Well, we know what team you are on.”

Jesus, meanwhile, stood in the middle. He refused to take a side. The only perfect one. The only person worthy of throwing a stone stood in the middle. What a powerful contrast between the heart of man and the heart of God!

Back to the story in John 8. Jesus, instead of standing beside the Pharisees and pelting this adulteress woman with stones (as the law says she deserves), he delivered the Pharisees a different kind of stone.

“Let any of you who is without sin throw the first stone at her.” (John 8:7)

What the what? Jesus didn’t stop there. He then turned his attention to the adulteress woman. The one who was guilty.

“Woman, has no one condemned you?…Then neither do I condemn you. Go and sin no more.” (John 8:10-11)

Jesus, you are supposed to condemn her? You are supposed to give her your two cents. And your two cents will actually be the right advice. You are the son of God. C’mon man. Tell her she is an adulteress and her sin is repulsive to God. Tell her, Jesus.

“I do not condemn her.”

Wait. That’s it? You are minimizing the law, Jesus. You are abusing grace. This woman deserves punishment. You can’t just let her off the hook.

“I do not condemn her.”

You will have to answer to God for this, Jesus. And I wouldn’t want to be known as the guy who refused to carry out the commands of the law.

What did you say, Jesus? You are God?…Yeah, you’re right.

The reality is Jesus didn’t come into the world to condemn the world. He said so himself. John 3:17. So, if Jesus’s arrival on earth wasn’t motivated by condemnation and judgment, what was it motivated by?

Love. Godly love. John 3:16.

Satan is the Accuser. The Condemner. And you fight condemnation with…wait for it…love.

Love tells an adulteress woman she is free to leave. Love frustrates religious fundamentalists. Love welcomes prostitutes.

Love angers the elite and puzzles the marginalized. It is scandalous. It doesn’t have boundaries. And yes, love rebukes. It even turns over tables. But love never throws stones. Never.

[tweet_box design=”default”]Love frustrates the elite and puzzles the marginalized. But it never throws stones. Never.[/tweet_box]

Jesus’s life was characterized by love because he knew the war could only be won with love. The war wasn’t against flesh and blood. It never has been.

So, what is a Christian to do with Bruce (or Caitlyn) Jenner? Transgenderism, homosexuality, and sex before marriage aren’t issues that are going away.

We put down our stones.

And, I know, you don’t like my response. You want something more definitive, more “Scripturally correct.”

But I won’t go there. You can find someone else who will, if that’s your real desire. Plenty of voices who will affirm your way of seeing the world.

Instead, I want to ask: What does love require?

You can condemn. You can get angry and blame the President or the culture or whatever.

But I do know this…God loves Bruce (or Caitlyn) Jenner. The Bible tells me so.

And if God loves Bruce (or Caitlyn) Jenner, so do I.

I am putting down my stone. Maybe you should too. Love does a lot of things. But it never throws stones. Because the war God’s people fight is not against flesh and blood.

What do you think? Leave a comment below. Please keep the conversation seasoned with grace and free of stones.

I love you all. To God be the glory forever. Amen!

June 3, 2015
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CultureTop 10

Before You Post On Social Media, Ask These 6 Questions

by Frank Powell May 4, 2015
written by Frank Powell

I am old enough to remember life before social media. In fact, I still remember a conversation with my college roommate where he tried to explain Facebook to me. It seemed ridiculous.

Yet I write this today, less than a decade after that conversation in my dorm room, and it is hard to comprehend our world without Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat. Companies even hire firms like NGP Integrated Marketing Communications to help manage their social media and help their business grow! That’s how much of an influence social media has. Find the full article on this issue here.

The game has changed. And the state of our culture today forces us to get in the game. But there is a problem.

Social media is a world without guidelines. And where guidelines are absent, chaos is inevitable.

Almost daily, news comes out that a high-ranking official or a social media marketer for a large corporation has been fired due to an insensitive post or tweet. Type in “fired over a tweet” and google search pops out 30 million results. This doesn’t even include the millions who apply for a job and are never considered because of insensitive words plastered on their social media wall.

It’s time to admit we need some boundaries when it comes to social media. Look, I get it. The idea of a boundary-less world is enticing. We all want to be free. But the irony is freedom never rests outside of boundaries. A boundary-less world only leads to chaos.

So, I want to propose some guidelines. I am not the official social media guidelines guy. That would be weird. And this list is certainly not exhaustive. That would be impossible. But, hopefully, the following questions will help you consider when and how to use social media.

Here are 6 questions to ask before posting on social media.

1.) Am I struggling with my identity?

Social media is a dangerous drug for those who struggle with identity and validation. Make no mistake. Something or someone validates you every second of every day. God wired you this way. So, if God doesn’t fill the void, something else must.

Social media is so addictive because it gives you instant affirmation. Just post your best picture or most insightful comment. Click one button. Boom. Sit back and wait for the likes. As they come, you feel validated. But eventually the likes stop. When they do, you go back to the well. Another photo or comment. Post. More likes. Temporary validation. The cycle continues.

Here’s the real problem. As you rely more on likes for affirmation and validation, the desire for more likes grows stronger. Over time, the pictures become more provocative. The comments become more accusatory. And bridges are burnt because likes tell you there’s only one place at the top of the mountain.

But if (and when) you arrive at the top of the mountain, you will quickly realize the mountaintop is a lonely place, and you sacrificed your reputation and dignity to get there. Two things that are incredibly difficult to restore once they are lost.

So, if social media impacts your mood, worth, or value, you need to step back and ask some deeper questions. Don’t continue to drink from a well that won’t quench your thirst.

2.) Would I say it to someone face-to-face?

I am going to be real. This needs to be said. One of the great tragedies of social media is that it has given power to a lot of cowards. And cowards with power are dangerous.

Social media allows many people to take cover behind a computer screen and throw harsh or demeaning bombs to any person crossing their path. It has given rise to a new, more destructive form of bullying and manipulation. The kind that never has to deal with the ramifications of harsh words. At least in the days before social media, bullies had to look their victims in the eyes. But no longer. Today, the world has a new kind of coward thanks to social media.

And, sadly, Christians aren’t absent from this discussion. On more than one occasion, I have witnessed Christians use social media to bully people into believing their theology or stance on an issue.

So, what’s the solution?

Never post a comment you wouldn’t say to that individual face-to-face. Even if you strongly disagree. Social media is not a place to handle conflict or tell the world how you really feel. That’s what cowards do. And if you are a follower of Jesus, there is no place for cowardly behavior. If you are in doubt, don’t post it. If you are unsure whether or not someone will be upset by your words, let it go.

It could be that the most important decision you make today is choosing to delete the post. Don’t be a coward. The world has enough of those. Show the world something different. If you have a concern or disagreement with someone, close Facebook or Twitter and schedule lunch or make a phone call.

3.) Am I posting about something when I should be taking action?

Social media is a breeding ground for people with great intentions. But great intentions don’t change lives. Action does.

I love to write. I hope my content challenges and encourages people to draw closer to God. But at the end of the day, I must remember I am not writing to virtual people in a virtual world. Behind every computer screen and phone is a man or woman created in the image of God, just like me. Behind every issue or injustice is a face or a group of faces. Real people. With real problems.

And, if I am being real, there are times when I post to social media about an issue or injustice when I should be doing something to correct it instead. There are times I comment on an issue when I have no real desire to act on it. This is a danger of social media. It lulls you into believing that talking about an issue and acting on it are equals.

Let’s not be people who huddle in our virtual world to talk about the corruption in our cities, the injustices in our country, and the brokenness in our world, but never close the computer to act on them.

Before you post, ask if your time would be better spent acting on the words instead of writing them?

4.) Am I allowing social media to create (or amplify) frustration?

Growing up, I had a bad temper. Yes, I fit the redhead stereotype. And, in many ways, I am so thankful social media wasn’t around in my high school and early college years. No telling how many anger bombs I would have thrown at the world.

But there are hotheads and people filled with discontent who must deal with the reality I never had to. With the click of a button, you could post something that forever changes your life or the life of someone else.

So, here’s a general rule: stay away from social media if you are discontent, frustrated, or upset. Social media only amplifies these problems. And, to be honest, social media often creates them. There have been occasions when a great day became a sucky one because I saw a cynical comment or an uninformed rant. Social media can be a great tool, but it is not a tool for cultivating gratitude and contentment.

If life has you feeling discontent or upset for any reason, put the phone down. Get alone with God. Let the creator of gratitude (and all good things) renew your spirit.

5.) Will this post add something to the conversation?

Do you have a right to comment on every post? Absolutely. This is “‘Merica.” Should you comment on every post? The Apostle Paul gives us the answer.

All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up. -1 Corinthians 10:23

So, before you post that comment or picture for the world, ask yourself, “Is this beneficial?” Or more specifically, “Will this glorify God?”

How radically different would the social media landscape look if only beneficial posts were allowed? What if every submit or tweet button was followed by a screen asking you to confirm that the post you are about to publish is beneficial? How different might our culture look? How many reputations would still be intact? How many arguments would be avoided?

Before you post, ask yourself this question: “Is this beneficial?” If you can’t answer yes, it’s probably best to scrap the post.

6.) Will this post glorify God?

This is the trump card. Or question. As Christians, we have a higher standard. We are set apart. So, before you post something to social media, ask yourself honestly, Will this post glorify God?

Will my words reflect my Savior? Will this picture point people to God? Is this truth?

And the final question is most important. Let’s be real. Not everything you post on social media is explicitly about God. Nor does it have to be. Should we post Bible verses and direct references to God? Absolutely. But anything that reflects truth, love, and purity can reflect God. A picture with some friends isn’t explicitly about God, but it reflects a truth about God’s character…he values relationships and community. On the other hand, a rant about Obama’s foreign policies or competence as President doesn’t reflect much truth.

Everything we say and do must bring glory to God, including our posts on social media.

_________________

Social media has changed the game. And even though we must get in the game, let’s not enter the game without guidelines. Games without guidelines create chaos. And someone usually ends up getting hurt.

With a few guidelines, however, social media can be an incredibly useful tool for everything from growing your relationships to enhancing your business.

Let’s litter social media with words and pictures that make the world a better place and show others the glory of God.

WHAT DO YOU THINK? DO YOU HAVE GUIDELINES FOR USING SOCIAL MEDIA? LEAVE A COMMENT BELOW AND LET’S CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION.

I love you all. To God be the glory forever. Amen!

May 4, 2015
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Culture

50 Shades of Truth About Sex, Love, Romance, And Passion

by Frank Powell February 12, 2015
written by Frank Powell

Fifty Shades of Grey achieved unprecedented heights in terms of popularity. The book became the fastest selling paperback novel of all time, dethroning the previous title holder, Harry Potter. One major ticket purchasing company, Fandago, reported Fifty Shades of Grey was the fastest selling rated “R” movie in the last 15 years. That’s impressive.

The book has taken over our culture. An article in the latest publication of Newsweek stated, “Fifty Shades of Grey is much more than a story; It’s a movement.” This movement has sparked a global conversation about sex and romance. And if everyone is talking about sex, I think it’s time Christians join the conversation.

Understand my goal isn’t to preach or condemn. There are enough articles out there condemning Fifty Shades of Grey. Instead, I want to present God’s side of the story. I wrote in my previous article a big frustration of mine is when Christians condemn people but never explain why those people are condemned (or when Christians condemn people at all).

Well, I want to to put some “meat on the bones.” I want to do something I wished a church leader would have done before I walked into marriage with skewed expectations and toxic perceptions…talk about God’s design for sex, love, romance, and passion. In the process, I want to highlight some cultural lies that tend to rob us of joy. Understand, though, all 50 of the points are delivered through God’s lens.

One more thing. Church, it’s time to talk about sex. Not casually. Not a “birds and bees” talk. It’s time to go deep. It’s time to get serious about teaching and discipling others about God’s design for sex. If we continue to allow passivity, fear, or awkwardness to keep us from discussing sex, Satan will gladly take the ball and run with it. If you want to see some more sex to learn more about it check out watchmygirlfriend.porn. They have some really informative content.

Don’t simply skim over these points. Think about them. Talk about them. Use them to go back to God’s word and discover a true understanding of sex and love.

Here are 50 shades of truth about sex, romance, and passion.

1.) God created sex as a powerful expression and celebration of covenant love.

2.) There is no such thing as casual or emotionless sex.

The Hebrew word for sexual intimacy is “yada“, which means “to know or be known.” God created sex with a psychological and emotional connection, not just a physical one.

3.) God did not create sex to be boring and passionless.

4.) Porn and erotica novels are toxic because they draw us out of reality into a world of fantasy.

Fantasy like Fifty Shades distorts reality. And when we run to fantasy, it is more difficult to find joy and life in reality. God didn’t create us to long for fantasy. He created us to live in reality.

[tweet_box design=”default”]The more we run to a fantasy world, the more difficult it is to find joy in reality.[/tweet_box]

5.) Satan’s primary attack against sex is to SIMPLIFY it.

This statement was made in the book Pulling Back The Shades. Good book. The idea here is Satan wants us to view sex solely as an animalistic and physical act.

6.) God’s plan for sex, romance, and passion is designed to increase life and joy, not rob us of it.

God is the greatest proponent of our life and joy. This means he never gives a gift that doesn’t increase our life and joy. Do we believe it?

7.) Until God’s people talk about God’s design for sex, divorce rates and sexual brokenness will continue to increase.

8.) Sexual desire and passion are not a sign of impurity.

Sexual passion is a gift from God. Single people should not suppress sexual desire. It is given to us by God. We need to harness it. And for married couples, no amount of passion is excessive.

9.) The reward for physical and mental purity isn’t a great spouse or a thriving marriage. The reward is deeper intimacy with God.

10.) Sex and love will never fill voids God is supposed to fill.

In other words, sex is a great gift from God, but it is a terrible idol. It can’t fill eternal longings, such as joy, peace, and significance. Only God satisfies those longings. And they are celebrated by all peoples. Like on websites like sexmature.xxx.

11.) Marriage is a portrait of God’s love and relationship with the church. Because of this truth, sex matters tremendously.

12.) Love is not primarily an emotion. It is primarily a decision.

13.) Physical attraction should never be a primary factor in compatibility. It is fleeting.

14.) Healthy relationships are the result of mutual submission to one another and ultimate submission to God.

This isn’t an attractive statement. But it is true. Fifty Shades sends an incredibly dangerous message: there is untapped life in one person having ultimate authority over another. But God explains, in Ephesians 5, that the husband and the wife must mutually submit to one another. Mutual submission to one another and submission to God yield healthy relationships.

15.) Love, romance, and marriage are dangerous outside of community.

If Anastasia had a community of quality women around her, they would have warned her about Christian’s domineering tendencies. Pursuing love outside a community of people who loves you and God is not smart.

16.) Sex and romance produce increasing joy and satisfaction inside of a covenant, not a contract.

In Fifty Shades, Anastasia is asked to sign a contract, agreeing to the acts performed to her. But sex is not designed to flourish inside a contract. It is designed to flourish inside a covenant. If the attitude is, “Fulfill your end of the deal, or else…” sex and romance will be controlled by fear and shame.

[tweet_box design=”default”]Sex isn’t designed to flourish inside a contract. It is designed to flourish inside a covenant.[/tweet_box]

17.) The greatest factor in the fight to live out God’s design for sex is passivity, not fantasies or porn.

To experience God’s plan for purity, passivity isn’t an option. Remember, Satan loves to be pro-active about spreading lies and darkness. But he is only as pro-active as we are passive. When the light invades the darkness, darkness will disappear. So, when Christians start telling the world about God’s design for sex, the lies surrounding it will slowly go away.

[tweet_box design=”default”]Satan is only as pro-active as Christians are passive.[/tweet_box]

18.) Sex outside of marriage focuses on self-gratification, “right techniques,” and comparison. Sex inside of marriage focuses on intimacy, selflessness, and security.

19.) When minds are conditioned by porn and fantasies, spouses and partners become sources of shame, anger, and frustration.

Why? When porn or fantasy consume us, we ask a spouse or partner to do something they aren’t capable of doing. This leads to anger, frustration, and shame.

20.) Passion and roughness are not the same thing.

Fifty Shades leads us to believe Christian is immensely passionate about Anastasia because he is forceful, direct, and rough. But authentic passion in love and sex is undergirded by authentic tenderness and respect.

21.) Sex is holy. It is meant to leads us towards God.

22.) Sex is fulfilling only when it is mutually enjoyable.

Fifty Shades tries to tells us one partner can experience true fulfillment by forcing the other partner into total submission. Sex is only as enjoyable for one partner as it is enjoyable for the other.

23.) Sex is a reflection of the gospel.

Jesus chose the broken version of us. He chose us despite the scars, issues, and problems. In a similar way, the beauty of marriage, in general, and sex, in particular, is the acceptance of your spouse despite the brokenness, struggles, and scars. It is a beautiful picture of the gospel. And what is better for gods children then a natural aphrodisiac to enjoy sex in the way god intended. click for more info.

24.) The problem with secret addictions is they never stay in secret.

What we do in private will eventually be revealed in public. Man people are hiding addictions to erotica novels or porn. It is our secret. But secret addictions and struggles are never private.

[tweet_box design=”default”]Addictions may be secretive, but they are never private.[/tweet_box]

They affect our marriage, distort our perception of the opposite sex, and skew God’s design for sex and marriage. Secret addictions also require energy to remain secretive. Energy that could be applied to job, marriage, God, etc. When we fight to keep addictions secretive, other areas of our life don’t get the energy and attention they deserve. Don’t buy the lie that secret addictions are private.

25.) A healthy relationship isn’t when one partner tries to change the other. It is when one partner allows the other to change them.

Some find redemptive value in Fifty Shades because (spoiler alert) Anastasia eventually changes Christian from a domineering, sex-crazed freak to a “semi-normal” partner (BTW, I haven’t read the books, just a lot of overviews). The problem is this isn’t God’s plan for relationships. We aren’t Jesus. We don’t save people. And many toxic relationships are the product of “Anastasias” entering a relationship thinking they can save the other person.

26.) Until entertainment is attached to holiness, distorted perceptions of sex, marriage, and romance will permeate our relationships.

27.) People who use power, influence, or strength to domineer over weaker partners will never experience true love and joy.

This is Christian in Fifty Shades. He wants to control Anastasia. But using power or strength to force the weaker partner into submission is not love. The only way to experience true love is to model God’s use of it.

28.) Sex is not the foundation for a good relationship.

Fifty Shades indirectly says, “Great relationships are the result of great sex.” Don’t believe the lie.

29.) It is possible to experience great sex outside of God and marriage, but it is not possible to experience the fullness of sex outside of God and marriage.

30.) The beauty of God’s design for marriage and sex is it focuses us on the desires of one man or woman, in particular, instead of society’s fleeting view of attractive men or women, in general.

Gary Thomas talks about this idea in his book, Sacred Marriage. I highly recommend the book.

31.) Using porn or erotica novels to enhance sex is dangerous because they contribute to the lie that great sex is primarily physical.

32.) When sexual passion is used correctly, it has the power to increase passion in other areas of life.

When sexual passion is stewarded well as a single person or used well in the covenant bond of marriage, that passion spills into other areas of life, such as career and calling. In this way, sexual passion used in a Godly way is valuable for a passionate life.

But if this is true, the opposite is also true.

33.) Sex has covenant-making power.

Tim Keller, in his book The Meaning of Marriage, says, “Sex connects us deeply to a person, even when used incorrectly.” This is why “marriage like” ties accompany pre-marital sex. This also explains why people remain in toxic relationships (i.e. Anastasia can’t leave Christian even after discovering his “dark side”).

Keller also says there is only one other option for pre-marital sex: numb the feelings associated with it. Tragically, this approach diminishes the covenant power of sex, making us less able to commit and trust.

34.) God didn’t design sex as a performance. This is the lie we believe when fantasy and porn invade our perception of sex.

Christian and Anastasia are actors. What you read or view isn’t real. The same is true for porn. The lie we believe when we allow these performances to fill our minds is, “If I can just perform better, sex with my partner will be more satisfying and enjoyable.” But sex isn’t a performance. Performances are fake. You aren’t an actor. Neither is your partner.

35.) Sex inside marriage has the power to expose layers of selfishness and reveal issues in a relationship.

This is the beauty of covenant sex. It is so intimate and sensitive, it can reveal selfishness, bitterness, and other layers hidden in the heart. The “temperature” of your sex life can be a microcosm of the quality of your relationship. How powerful?!

36.) Mutual respect between males and females is essential for authentic love, meaningful romance, and passionate sex.

Women are not “hoes, b——, or tricks.” Men are not animals whose only thought all day, every day is more sex. We must learn to respect one another before we can experience God’s design for sex and romance.

37.) Love doesn’t exist apart from truth.

In a world where whatever feels good is right, real love can’t exist. Real love is truth. Tim Keller says, “Love without truth supports us but keeps us in denial about our flaws.” Transformative love is one where flaws are exposed. This doesn’t exist without truth.

38.) Despite culture’s picture, it is far more exhilarating and life giving when we commit to one partner for life than when we pursue multiple partners for a season.

39.) Sex is not the search for something that’s missing. It’s the expression of something that’s been found.

Say what you want about Rob Bell, but in his book Sex God, he hits the nail on the head. We don’t run to sex because we are looking for validation and acceptance. We experience sex because we are validated in God, and through covenant sex, we know our Validator more intimately.

40.) God created us in his image as sexual beings, so any idea that sex is “dirty” or only useful for procreation is not just wrong, it is a mockery to God.

41.) The power of sex lies in its exclusivity.

When other faces, relationships, or fantasies enter our marriages, the exclusivity is destroyed. And when the exclusivity is destroyed, the power associated with sex is destroyed as well.

42.) Until we see sex and marriage as temporary, they will never accomplish the goal God intended.

This is why sex, marriage, and God are woven together. Sex and marriage were not given to us solely for our pleasure. They were given to us so we might give God glory. When we don’t give God glory for sex and marriage, we will use them as gods. When this happens, it is a virtual certainty sex and marriage will disappoint and leave us longing for more.

43.) Covenantal sex is a picture (albeit it incomplete) of heaven.

[tweet_box design=”default”]The ultimate longing we have as humans is to be fully known and fully loved.[/tweet_box]

The ultimate longing we have as humans is to be fully known and fully loved. This is why people crave sex. The problem is sex outside of the covenant bond of marriage will never provide this. Inside of marriage, however, we see a depiction of heaven. We see two people fully known to one another, yet fully loved. It is a picture of God’s relationship with us. A glimpse of what is to come.

44.) Men and women are designed in God’s image to COMPLIMENT one another, not COMPETE against one another.

God’s design for men and women is timely and relevant. In Gen. 3:23, Adam says, “This is bone of my bone and flesh of my flesh.” The Hebrew word for “bone” symbolizes strength, and “flesh” symbolizes weakness. In essence, Adam is saying, “Where I am weak, Eve is strong, and where Eve is weak, I am strong.” Powerful!

45.) Hollywood’s portrait of romantic love is crippling to God’s design for romance.

Hollywood elevates romantic love to an unachievable level. It is the noblest of pursuits. It is an intense feeling of passion. And we are incomplete unless we have this romantic love.

God wires us for romance, love, and intimacy, but these things aren’t primarily controlled by feelings. And our completeness isn’t dependent upon them. That is God’s job.

46.) The problem with lust is the more we pursue it, the more difficult it becomes to catch it. It never satisfies. And the more we pursue it, the more it takes control of our life.

47.) What we watch and view shapes how we think. And how we think eventually becomes who we are.

Matthew 6:21-23. Proverbs 4:23. Proverbs 23:7. 2 Corinthians 10:5. Movies and books that distort God’s design for sex (or anything else) are not simply entertainment. They are shaping who we become.

[tweet_box design=”default”]What we watch influences how we think. And how we think becomes who we are.[/tweet_box]

48.) Gratification, pleasure, and satisfaction are not instant. They can’t be microwaved.

In fact, anything worthy of pursuing and believing happens over time. This is the lie, however, most movies try to sell. They prey on human emotions and manipulate those searching for gratification and satisfaction to believe these things can be experienced instantly. They can’t.

49.) Culture says sexual desire is uncontrollable. It equates sex to food.

In other words, sex is something, like food, that we need to remain alive. And anytime we feel the desire (like hunger), the only logical thing to do is feed it.

The problem is this view makes humanity nothing more than animals and makes God a liar. Humans are superior to creation because we have the power to exercise restraint. We have the ability to recognize needs. And the truth is we don’t NEED sex. It’s not like food. We won’t “croak over” if we don’t have it.

But when we believe we have no control over sexual desires, we deny our humanity. We deny the very essence of what separates us from the rest of creation.

[tweet_box design=”default”]When we believe we have no control over sexual desires, we deny our humanity.[/tweet_box]

This is the message culture sends us. Be an animal. You don’t have the power to resist sexual urges. Just feed them. But God has a different message. God tells us we are not animals. We are men and women created in his image. We have the power to exercise restraint.

50.) The church, generally speaking, has failed miserably in proclaiming God’s gift of sex, love, romance, and passion to the world. And for this failure, the church needs to repent…and get busy redeeming these gifts.

__________________

I hope the words in this post show the world God has a unique design for sex, love, romance, and passion. God’s design is certainly different from the culture’s design, but it is not boring and passionless. The world needs to hear this message. Christians need to hear this message. God created sex. And he loves it. Let’s get the message out to the world.

I would love to hear from you. What perceptions of sex did you have growing up? What perceptions of sex do you currently have? Is there anything about God’s design for sex I didn’t mention? Leave a comment below, and let’s keep the conversation going.

I love you all. To God be the glory forever. Amen!

February 12, 2015
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Culture

4 Lies Christians Believe About 50 Shades of Grey

by Frank Powell February 7, 2015
written by Frank Powell

Disclaimer: this post isn’t going to read like you anticipate. Just be forewarned.

In less than a week, the most highly anticipated, highly discussed movie I can remember in years hits the big screen, Fifty Shades of Grey. And, I need to make a confession. Before last week, I didn’t read a single article or engage in a single conversation about either the book or the movie. Frankly, I didn’t care.

But slowly the articles began littering my Facebook timeline and Twitter feed. And, like a kid hovering around a candy store too long, eventually I took the bait. As sad as this sounds, right now if I were asked over/under 50 articles about Fifty Shades in the past week, I would choose over.

And here’s why I read so many. I noticed a trend that I had to explore. A trend that brought me sadness and frustration. You see, most of the articles that crossed my eye were from Christians blasting the film. And the more articles I read, the more nightmarish pictures developed. Pictures of an old preacher in a suit telling everyone they were going to hell if they didn’t repent.

But this is what Christians do. When something takes over culture, we proceed to tell the world why they are wrong and we are right.

Now, understand this. I see no value in the movie or the book. And I am certainly not against freedom of expression. But it’s the same song, different verse for Christians. We beat the world over the head with our verbal attacks, but we fail to provide any substance or foundation. We lash out at the evil world, but our refusal to explain why only leaves us looking like control freaks. Worst of all, we believe attacking a movie means we actually stand against sin.

Maybe the world bought some lies about 50 Shades, but we bought some as well. Please understand my aim here. I want the Spirit to awaken us to inconsistencies. I want us to deal with the substance behind the shadows. With that said, here are four lies Christians believe about 50 Shades of Grey.

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LIE #1: Fifty Shades of Grey is the problem.

Fifty Shades of Grey is not the problem. In fact, whether or not we watch the movie shouldn’t be the primary concern.

“What, Frank?! Have you lost it?!”

No, not at all. Cultural phenomenons like Fifty Shades of Grey give us an opportunity to show the world we are “serious” about God’s design for sex, romance, and the like. Many times, however, we are just serious about hiding under facades.

These phenomenonas allow Christians to feel good about ourselves while leaving the real issue untouched. What is the real issue? Our heart.

Instead of whether or not someone watches a movie, our concern should be the astronomically high percentage of people controlled by lust and porn. It is entirely possible to be outspokenly against the movie and be in a far worse position than many who will pay money to watch it.

If we attack the evil culture for watching Fifty Shades of Grey but we don’t attack our evil heart, we aren’t winning.

[tweet_box design=”default”]Attacking culture for viewing Fifty Shades of Grey but not attacking our heart isn’t a win.[/tweet_box]

This movie isn’t the problem…it is a shadow of the problem. The problem is our heart.

Is your heart full of lust? Does an addiction to porn or erotica novels control your life? Do you find it hard to look at others without turning them into objects? Do you know someone who struggles with these problems?

If so, stop hiding under the facade of 50 Shades and start attacking the real issue…the heart.

 LIE #2: There is nothing positive about Fifty Shades of Grey. 

You know what issues like this force Christians to do? Get our head out of the sand and acknowledge our distorted view of sex and romance is destroying our world and our young people. Christians have an opportunity right now to talk about sex. An opportunity to explain to young people, in particular, and our world, in general, the history and origins of sex through the lens of its creator, God.

For too many years, Christians played defense with sex. Like a kid attacked by a bully, we just handed sex to the world. Without a fight.

“Here, world, you take it. Just, please, please, don’t force me to talk about it. Please don’t make me explain it to my kids.”

Where in the timeline of humanity did we forget sex was designed and implemented by God? Yes, Christians, sex is a gift. One to be celebrated, cherished, and discussed. One divinely created so those who experience it would see the divine Creator.

Well, we have an opportunity to take back our candy. In the next month or so, everyone will be talking about sex. This means we need to take advantage of the moment and sit down with our teenagers/adolescent. We need to have serious conversations about God’s design for sex. Maybe it’s time to talk about the GIFT of sex with our friends or those we disciple.

Maybe nothing positive comes from the content in the movie. But something positive can come from the cultural phenomenon it has created. We have an opportunity to redeem one of the greatest gifts God has given us…sex. 

[tweet_box design=”default”]It’s time to redeem one of the greatest gifts God has given us…sex.[/tweet_box]

LIE #3: If I sign a petition, I am making a difference. 

If you want to sign a petition saying you won’t see the movie, go right ahead. But don’t believe signing a petition and making a difference are two sides of the same coin.

This is an enormous problem in most Christian circles. We would rather picket and sign petitions than actually attack issues. We care more about ideas than transformation.

So, what would make a difference? Stop signing petitions and start adding substance to your reasoning. Our failure to provide substance to our stances makes us look ignorant and hypocritical. It is the reason the next generation is leaving the church and no one in particular wants to join.

Instead of spouting off on Facebook, why don’t we grab some men and women and disciple them on the contrast between the messages from Fifty Shades and the messages from God? Instead of signing a petition or hoping the movie gets banned (which it won’t), why don’t we seek out someone planning to see the movie and have a healthy dialogue with them?

God never called Christians to sign petitions. Mostly because they are a waste of time. But he did call us to step into darkness and call out inconsistencies…with love and grace.

[tweet_box design=”default”]Until Christians value transformation more than petitions, we will be ineffective.[/tweet_box]

LIE #4: Fifty Shades is worse than other movies. 

Many won’t like this, but it needs to be said…the lies and manipulations prevalent in 50 Shades are no different than many of the lies in shows Christians watch every week.

You see, there is a problem (and the world notices) when we crucify those who watch Fifty Shades but re-arrange our schedules to watch shows like The Bachelor, Scandal, The Big Bang Theory, and How I Met Your Mother, among others.

Now, I have made it personal. But really. The same sins are celebrated (sex, drugs, money, etc.). The same lies are preached.

Here’s my point: Christians are sadly mistaken if we believe abstaining from Fifty Shades means we honor holiness and purity. There are perversions of God’s truth on sex and life in so many shows we view every week. There are movies many Christians pay way too much money to see that celebrate the same sins Fifty Shades celebrates. It’s time to stop playing the game.

Whether extremely graphic or subtle, what we watch matters. So, before we go blasting those who watch 50 Shades of Grey, we need to consider other shows or movies we watch regularly that celebrate the same sins.

________________

Let’s start attacking the real issues in our heart. Let’s stop placing more value on signing petitions than authentic transformation. Let’s teach others about God’s truth related to sex and romance. If we do this, there could be much to redeem in our culture because of this movie.

I love you all. To God be the glory forever. Amen!

February 7, 2015
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