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‘I Have My Issues With Jesus’—Kanye West Calls Out God for Not Answering Prayers While Labeling Himself a ‘God’

Kanye West Ye
Screengrab via YouTube @BigBoyTV

Kanye West, who now goes by Ye, recently sat down with radio host Kurt Alexander, better known as Big Boy, to discuss his new album “Vultures” and the controversies that have followed him.

The 46-year-old Ye turned heads in 2019 when he announced that he had committed his life to Jesus. Ye told pastor Adam Tyson, “I’ve been radically saved. I believe [the gospel] message and I want to get that message out to the world.”

And Ye did just that, holding gospel music events, which he called “Sunday Service.” At the events, choirs sang worship and preachers told people about Jesus. Some of those preachers included Joel OsteenRich Wilkerson, and Jamal Bryant.

RELATED: Kanye West Declares Himself ‘The New Jesus’ on Latest Album, Seemingly Celebrates Sexual Violence

On Oct. 25, 2019, Ye released his first Christian themed album, titled “Jesus Is King.” The album went on to break multiple Billboard charts records and won the Billboard Music Awards for the Top Christian Album and Top Gospel Album in 2020. It also received a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album in 2021.

Two years later, Ye released his second Christian album, titled “Donda,” which featured a number of secular artists, including Jay-Z, the Weeknd, Ty Dolla $ign, Pop Smoke, Travis Scott, and Marilyn Manson. “Donda” won a Grammy Award for Best Rap Song and Best Melodic Rap Performance in 2022.

Since then, Ye’s has gone through a divorce, courted controversy with antisemitic remarks, raised eyebrows by sharing photos of his new wife in which she is scantily clad, and returned to degrading women in the lyrics of his music.

Now, Ye is referring to himself as a god.

When the 24-time Grammy Award winner was asked if he still considered himself a man of God in spite of his return to the style of his pre-Christian days, Ye said, “I have my issues with Jesus.”

RELATED: Kanye West Named Billboard’s Top Gospel Artist, Immediately Returns To Explicit Lyrics In New Song

“There’s a lot of stuff I went through that I prayed [about] and I didn’t see Jesus show up,” Ye said, adding that he had to take the challenges of his personal and professional life into “my own hands.”

Ye then voiced his displeasure with Christianity. “Christians will depend on Jesus so much that we won’t put the word in ourselves,” Ye said, “and the main thing that really I don’t rock with [is Christians saying], ‘I’m going to pray for you.’”

“Water From the Rock:” Unraveling Numbers 20

numbers 20
Lightstock #467112

Numbers 20, found within the Hebrew Bible and Christian Old Testament, is a chapter of significant transitions, challenges, and spiritual lessons. It is a narrative that intertwines the Israelites’ desert journey with pivotal moments that shape their spiritual journey. This chapter not only details physical hardships but also highlights profound lessons on faith, leadership, and divine will. Let’s look into into the events of Numbers 20 and uncover the rich layers of meaning embedded within.

What Happened in Numbers 20?

The chapter sets its scene in the Desert of Zin, where the Israelites face acute water scarcity, stirring discontent and rebellion against Moses and Aaron. The narrative escalates as Moses, following God’s command with a crucial deviation, strikes a rock to produce water instead of speaking to it. This act of disobedience carries heavy consequences for Moses and marks a significant moment of failure and divine judgment.

Moreover, Numbers 20 narrates the Israelites’ encounter with Edom. As they seek passage through Edomite territory, their request is denied, compounding their desert trials and forcing them to reroute. This chapter thus encapsulates a series of critical events: a miraculous provision of water, a pivotal leadership misstep, and a denied passage that symbolizes the Israelites’ ongoing struggles.

In the midst of these turbulent events, the chapter also details the poignant conclusion of Aaron’s journey. As the first High Priest and Moses’ brother, Aaron’s role had been central to the Israelite community. Yet, atop Mount Hor, God commands that Aaron be gathered to his people, signaling his death. This transition, marked by the transfer of priestly duties to his son Eleazar, is a moment of significant change for the Israelite leadership and spiritual lineage.

Aaron’s death is not just a personal loss but a communal one, deeply felt by the entire assembly. It symbolizes the end of an era and a reminder of the mortality and fallibility of even the most revered leaders. Aaron’s passing in Numbers 20 serves as a poignant reminder of the human elements within divine missions.

Russell Brand Asks Followers Where He Should Go to Church, Says He Is Moving Toward Baptism

russell brand
Screenshots from Facebook / @Russell Brand

Russell Brand asked his followers for their opinions on where he should go to church, wondering if the different denominations matter and expressing his interest in baptism. In a reel posted to his social media the morning of Wednesday, March 20, Brand said if he doesn’t get “clear guidance,” then he’ll make a random decision.

RELATED: ‘It’s Amazing’—Hulk Hogan Praises God for the Response His Baptism Video Has Received

“I’ve been going to church, a church where they do Alpha courses,” said Brand, “I guess that’s sort of Church of England. I’ve been to a Catholic church, and I’m considering going to a Eastern Orthodox church. Do you think the different denominations and distinctions are important?”

In the caption of his video, Brand wrote, “HEY! help! Do I get baptized? What church shall I join?” 

 

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Russell Brand Has Questions About Church

Russell Brand is an influencer, stand-up comedian, actor and former radio host who now hosts several podcasts, including one focused on spirituality and meditation. He is also a controversial figure who has been accused of spreading conspiracy theories and recently received several allegations of rape and sexual assault. Brand has denied the allegations.

RELATED: Actor Russell Brand Links Amazon’s Palm-Payment System to Mark of the Beast

Brand has been posting numerous videos to social media processing his thoughts on spirituality and Christianity. In December, he revealed he was reading the Bible and “The Problem of Pain” by C.S. Lewis. 

In January, Brand said the reason he wears a cross is that Christianity and Jesus are becoming more important to him. The actor said he used to see religion as archaic and irrelevant but is now coming to realize “I need a personal relationship with God.”

In his Wednesday video, during which he progressively pulled the petals off a rose, Brand speculated on the existence of various church denominations along with people’s attempt to “look at God and the figure of Christ from as best as one might claim, a universal perspective.” 

He wondered if it’s possible to “be universal on a subject like kindness or service or surrender or gratitude or overcoming the self or understanding that what you’re experiencing in the moment, even if it’s suffering, is God’s will?” 

Ryan Phillippe ‘Craving’ Relationship With God After Starring in Missionary Movie

Ryan Phillippe
Screengrab via YouTube / @Vertical

After starring in dozens of movies—including “Cruel Intentions”—Ryan Phillippe is back on the big screen. In the movie “Prey,” Phillippe portrays a missionary fighting for his life while lost in Africa. The content of the film and his own spiritual journey have led him to “craving” a deeper relationship with God.

“I wanted to have a relationship and understanding with God, and I was craving that,” Phillippe recently told Fox News Digital. “Since I started that journey, I have not been more at peace.”

Ryan Phillippe Finds Himself on His Own Thrill Ride ‘Craving’ More of God

Ryan Phillippe opened up about his life and how starring in “Prey” has impacted him deeply. In the movie, he plays the leading role, a Christian missionary in Africa. Phillippe had a religious upbringing and has been aware of his own faith. “And it grows even more, every day,” said Phillippe.

Phillippe continues to learn more about God and his own spirituality. “I spent a lot of time in prayer and studying things of that nature I find very fulfilling,” he said. “I feel like it’s the most important thing that you could spend your time thinking about or learning about or trying to understand. So it’s become a very, very important part of my life.”

As his work on “Prey” ended, Phillippe became more intent on focusing on his own faith. He embarked on a spiritual journey.

“It’s interesting because I was kind of in a darker place when we filmed this, and it was right after filming it where I went on this spiritual journey where I started going really deep inside,” he shared.

Phillippe shared how he’s centered on what’s most important. “I got back into reading the Bible and various other religious tomes, but I found myself drawn to this notion of spirituality,” he said. “You get to a point in life, a certain age, and the things that you thought would bring you pleasure or make you feel satisfied—these would be success or money—and it doesn’t. It doesn’t.”

“And I’ve got to tell you, since I started that journey, I have not been more at peace. My depression is gone,” Phillippe added. “I shedded addictions, so I’m a big proponent for people going inward and trying to understand those aspects of life.”

7 Ways I Attempt To Gain Influence with a Team

influence
Adobestock #315860625

John Maxwell says leadership is influence. If that’s true, then how does a leader gain influence with the people he or she leads?

Influence is never gained simply by holding a position. (That’s myth number one in my book The Mythical Leader.)

I’ll never forget the first week in a new position. We had a large staff and it seemed everyone was on edge around me. It was awkward. I’m a pretty easy-going guy. I can appear intense at times, because I’m very driven, but I genuinely like people. My door is always open, but it was tense. Eerily tense in fact. The church had experienced a couple difficult years and they were obviously resistant to give immediate trust. I knew I would have to earn it.

I also knew I had to gain influence with my team. You can’t lead people if you can’t influence them.

Influence is always based on trust. So, ultimately, that’s what we are discussing in this post. Building trust that gains influence.

7 Ways I Attempt To Gain Influence With a Team:

Treat People With Respect.

I expect to be respected as a leader. Most leaders have that expectation. I know, however, I can’t demand or even expect respect without displaying it. Mutual respect is absolutely necessary on a healthy team and its a clear biblical principle. If I disrespect people it doesn’t build influence. It fosters control.

People need to know they are valued members on the team and they will be treated fairly, professionally and with grace and truth.

Take Risks on People and Give Opportunities To Fail or Succeed.

I place tremendous faith in people. In fact, I could even be accused of being naive about it. I’ve been burned many times and putting faith in people can be messy, but it’s one of the best ways to gain influence with people.

If a team member comes to me with a dream, I’ll try to help them attain it. The risk is almost always worth the return. People need to know they are free to explore even if it’s into unknown territory. More importantly, they need to know you’ll back them up if it doesn’t work. Team members need to be able to learn from mistakes and success and continue to grow and develop.

Recognize and Reward Efforts.

I’m not afraid to single out exceptional work for individual recognition. Yes, you may miss someone—and I try to discipline myself to look broadly for areas to applaud, but individuals need recognition just as the collective team does. What I’ve learned is a culture which recognizes achievements of others is contagious. As you do, so will the team.

This said, I’ve also learned the longer you do something well the less recognition you receive for it.

Allow the Team To Know Me Personally.

This is huge. I’m very transparent. I try to be clear about my weaknesses and own my mistakes. I’m also not afraid to be the brunt of the jokes.

SoCal Pastor Arrested for Allegedly Hiring Hitmen To Murder His Daughter’s Boyfriend

Samuel Pasillas
Screengrab via KABC

A Southern California pastor has been arrested for allegedly hiring hitmen to murder his daughter’s boyfriend. Samuel Pasillas, 47, who police say is the pastor of a Spanish-speaking church in Victorville, is accused of paying $40,000 to have the victim killed. 

The attempt on the victim’s life was not successful. 

Juan Manuel Cebreros of Long Beach has also been arrested. Cebreros, 55, is believed to be one of the triggermen. 

The attempted murder occurred on Oct. 21, 2023, in the Orangecrest neighborhood of Riverside. The victim was in his car when two gunmen pulled up alongside him and began firing into the vehicle. 

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Although he was struck several times, the victim survived the attack after driving himself to the hospital.  

Police said their investigation uncovered that the attack was a murder-for-hire shooting.

“During their investigation, detectives uncovered evidence the father met with the men he hired and provided them information about the victim, including his location the evening of the shooting,” police said in a statement. “Detectives also determined these men were paid almost $40,000 by the father and had conducted surveillance on the victim in the weeks leading up to when they shot him.”

Pasillas’ apparent motive was his disapproval of his daughter dating the victim, but police have yet to uncover why Pasillas was driven to the point of attempting to have the victim murdered. 

Riverside Police Officer Ryan Railsback told KABC, “There is nothing to suggest that this victim did anything or had anything in their background that would elicit his girlfriend’s father to even think of doing something like this.”

RELATED: Bishop Accused of Setting His Church on Fire Faces Decades in Prison

“For all we know, and everything we’ve uncovered about the victim, he is just generally a nice guy that you would probably want dating your daughter,” Railsback added. 

The Power of Personal Invitations: 10 Tips for Inviting People to Church

Inviting People
Adobe Stock #678447185

In a world dominated by social media, churches are wise to create systems that enable them to meet their community in digital spaces. Nevertheless, when it comes to evangelism, nothing will ever replace the power of personally inviting people to church. In fact, far more people are open to the idea of taking the first step of attending a church service than we tend to realize. All it takes is for a friend or acquaintance to invite them. 

Be that as it may, inviting people to church can sometimes feel like a daunting task. So here are 10 tips as you seek to love your neighbors by inviting them into a community centered around Jesus. 

1. Authenticity Is Key

When extending a personal invitation to church, authenticity is vital. People can often sense sincerity, and it builds trust. Share your personal experiences, why your faith matters to you, and how your church community has positively impacted your life. 

Authenticity breeds genuine curiosity and interest, making your invitation more compelling.

2. Understand Your Audience

Different people have different conceptions of the Christian faith. They also have different felt-needs. 

Before extending an invitation, take the time to understand the spiritual background, desires, and concerns of the person you’re inviting. Tailor your invitation to highlight aspects of your church experience that may personally resonate with them, whether it’s community outreach, relevant sermons, or engaging youth programs.

3. Build Relationships First

Effective invitations are built on the foundation of relationships. Before inviting someone to church, invest time in building a genuine connection. Get to know them, understand their background, and show genuine interest in their life. 

People are more likely to accept an invitation from someone they trust and feel comfortable around.

RELATED: Evangelism: What the Fastest Growing Churches Know

4. Be a Living Example

Your actions often speak louder than your words. So live out your faith in a way that inspires others. Show kindness, compassion, and generosity in your daily life. 

When people see the positive impact of your faith in Jesus, they may be more inclined to explore it themselves. Your life can be a powerful testament to the transformative power of Jesus being expressed through your church community.

5. Invite With Purpose

When extending an invitation, be clear about why you think the experience will be beneficial for the person you’re inviting. Whether it is the experience of a supportive community, a sense of belonging, or spiritual guidance, communicate the specific value they can gain from attending your church. 

Providing a purpose for an invitation makes it more compelling and relevant to the individual.

Jim and Heather Sells: How Churches Can Make a ‘Tremendous’ Difference in Alleviating Our ‘Mental Health Crisis’

Jim Sells
Image courtesy of Jim and Heather Sells

Dr. Jim Sells is the Rosemary S. Hughes Professor of Christian Thought and Mental Health and co-director of the Charis Institute at Regent University. He is a licensed psychologist and author of several books.

Heather Sells is managing editor for CBN News. She has previously worked for several outlets in print journalism and television news as a reporter, assignment editor, and producer.

Jim and Heather‘s new book, co-authored with Amy Trout, is “Beyond the Clinical Hour: How Counselors Can Partner with the Church to Address the Mental Health Crisis.”

“The Stetzer ChurchLeaders Podcast” is part of the ChurchLeaders Podcast Network.

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Transcript of Jim and Heather Sells Interview 

Jim and Heather Sells on The Stetzer ChurchLeaders Podcast.mp3: Audio automatically transcribed by Sonix

Jim and Heather Sells on The Stetzer ChurchLeaders Podcast.mp3: this mp3 audio file was automatically transcribed by Sonix with the best speech-to-text algorithms. This transcript may contain errors.

Ed Stetzer:
The sets are. Church Leaders Podcast is part of the Church Leaders Podcast Network, which is dedicated to resourcing church leaders in order to help them face the complexities of ministry. Today, the Church Leaders Podcast Network supports pastors and ministry leaders by challenging assumptions, by providing insights and offering practical advice and solutions and steps that will help church leaders navigate the variety of cultures and contexts that we’re serving and learn more at Church leaders.com/podcast network.

Voice Over:
Welcome to the Stetzer Church Leaders Podcast, conversations with today’s top ministry leaders to help you lead better every day. And now, here are your hosts, Ed Stetzer and Daniel Yang.

Ed Stetzer:
Welcome to the Sister Church Leaders Podcast.

Daniel Yang:
Where we helping Christian leaders navigate and lead through the cultural issues of our day. My name is Daniel Yang, national director of Churches of Welcome at World Relief. And today we’re talking with Jim and Heather sells. Jim’s the Rosemary S Hughes Professor of Christian Thought in Mental Health and co-director of the Keras Institute at Regent University. He’s a licensed psychologist and author of several books. Heather is the managing editor for CBN news. She’s previously worked for several outlets in print journalism and television news as a reporter, assignment editor, and producer. Jim and Heather’s new book, co-authored with Amy Trout, is Beyond the Clinical Hour How Counselors can Partner with the church to Address the Mental Health Crisis. Now let’s go to Ed Stetzer, editor in chief of Outreach magazine and the dean of the Talbot School of Theology. Well, it’s.

Ed Stetzer:
Good to have this conversation. And you’re I think we’re going to find it helpful. And for pastors and church leaders, we sort of like have this assumption that, you know, well, we know what we shouldn’t do. Maybe now, maybe we should refer people and more. But I’m really excited because this book and I wrote the foreword to this book, by the way, I should add. But this book goes deeper. And this conversation, I think, will go deeper to talk about that partnership that I think is helpful and really essential for us moving forward. So so again, I’m starting at the front by saying and that’s, you know, the title. Oh, I just complained about the ridiculously long title. But anyway, beyond the clinical hour, how counselors can partner with the church to address the mental health crisis. But it’s one of those things where the subtitle really gets at what we need to get to. So let’s jump into our conversation. Super glad to have you both on. Um, we are I mean, I think by now everyone sort of sees that we’re on a, uh, we use the words escalating crisis. We’re seeing, you know, recent statistics from the CDC about suicidal ideation. We’re seeing we’re seeing unsustainable realities in these in the mental health crisis, escalating crisis. Jim, let’s start with you, uh, and kind of unpack a little bit what what’s going on? What are you seeing with this escalating crisis?

Jim Sells:
It is an escalating crisis, and it is not a Covid produced crisis. It’s a Covid accelerated crisis. It preexisted. And for the past 15 years, in the psychopathology research prevalence data, we’ve continued to see, uh, continual, uh, increase in literally every category of mental health need. And this is something that is a bit of a bafflement. Um, Ed Higgins, a, uh, psychiatrist at the University of South Carolina, writes that in in every category of health care, we’re winning, uh, except in every aspect of mental health care. So cancer, we are we are reducing the death rate of cancer. Uh, statins are incredible for heart disease. Like, we we are, uh, we are we are declining the slope of diabetes like we are. Really. Advancing rapidly in every aspect of health care, except when it comes to the behavioral health care and the capacity of people to live well. So there’s that that’s that prevalence of literature. The prevalence in the literature says, oh my goodness, we’re losing on every front. And and we’ve been losing it on every front for the past 20 years now, uh, this thing really kicked off in my mind when I realized, as folks would call me and I’d be full and I would have no place to refer anybody because they’re full and, and, uh, a parent who needs their child to see a psychiatrist for, for an ADHD med check or assessment.

Jim Sells:
Well, that’s let’s wait for six months. So there is no way that this can can this problem as it in the current status current structure is going to improve. Uh, lest we have a different system and the system that we have, think about the clinical hour that that the title of this is, I see folks for 50 minutes and a full time therapist is going to see about 200 different people a year, and we have a line out the door of 20 million. So at 200 a pop, it’s going to take a long time for that line to ever be extinguished, so that the idea of we can not meet the mental health need with the current structure of professional care. Enter the church. Uh, the place where there’s eight churches in every zip code with hundreds of people that have been affected by mental health care, mental health need that have a capacity to render, uh, some level of intervention. And that’s really where we are. Yeah.

Ed Stetzer:
But here’s the thing, Jim. And you know this. We have been taught to, um, refer in many cases, like, like that’s almost the only tool in our toolbox. And I, I told people, matter of fact, I think Heather and I did an even an interview about this back in the day. Um, the because because pastors and police tend to be the first responders. It’s it’s just statistically that police officers respond to mental health crises and pastors, religious clergy are responding to mental health crises. And then what we’re what we’re taught to do is to and I think importantly, that we I’m very pro partnerships that are here. Right. I think it’s good I think that Christians and have really struggled sometimes to to engage the mental health community. And in part you go back a few decades, there was there was hostility. That hostility is not so much a prevalence issue as much now. But but so there’s something between the the crisis moment and then our referral because not everyone I mean there’s different ways to refer. So talk to us about what it looks like to create an ecosystem for some of the and this is a big part of what the book talks about. It’s my language where my word ecosystem. But but talk to us about what it looks like to do that. And then if you don’t mind, Jim, share a little about that. And then Heather, after he has an opportunity to share, I want you to share some of the places you’ve seen that take place as well. So, Jim, and then so the idea.

Jim Sells:
That we want to communicate to the broader culture is, uh, a paradigm shift, a way of rethinking the way we deliver care. And let’s start with. You can start with the clinical side or start with the pastoral side. Either way, think about, uh, if if the church were responsible or clinicians were responsible for the mental health care, the, the, the provision, the hospice care, if you would, to to use a great, uh, biblical terme of 10,000 people, uh, not 200 that come in and, and pay pay me my, uh, in my insurance, uh, driven, uh, in session. But I’m, I’m responsible for the community of 10,000. What would mental health care look like? Well, it would be triaged in which I am trained to treat the more severe. But the community I can oversee to address the the daily human need that comes from from that can be addressed in just good relational presence where where me and you and under the the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the wisdom of Scripture can figure things out together. And that can be achieved with a level of of me helping you in the church, maybe, maybe 50 people in a large church or ten people in a small church be able to to render immediate care for the folks that that are not in psychological crisis. But there is significant pain occurring and and the church can have a presence whenever there is pain. Uh, and, and that’s the, the revision of the way we think about mental health care delivery and forget about maybe mental health care. Just call it helping. Uh, the helping of the church. Uh, to render, uh, more effective, this huge need that is out there. What have you seen?

Heather Sells:
Yeah, well, we, uh, we were meeting with some mental health leaders over the weekend, and we were talking about, uh, a metaphor of people are literally bleeding out in the church, if you will. And, uh, pastors are saying I’ll refer you, but these referrals are so low. And so people are the equivalent, if you will, of bleeding out. And what’s exciting for me, though, is to see that a lot of churches and organizations and faith based leaders are already, uh, doing work in this space. It’s more at the organic, bubbling up level. It’s not on a national scale, but it is happening. Uh, some of what we’re seeing is we’re seeing, uh, peer groups, uh, starting in churches, and that can be people who are dealing with a mental illness themselves or their caregivers. And of course, keeping in mind that some mental health illnesses are so debilitating and will last for a lifetime. And so that puts caregivers under tremendous strain. So we’re seeing groups like fresh Hope, Grace Alliance, uh, Anchor International, uh, based in Colorado. They are developing curriculum and peer group models that churches can implement. And it can really be a powerful place for people to have their needs met for to to live out their faith journey. And it can be a win for the church on multiple levels. Uh, also want to say that we are really aware of the issue of pastor burnout. Uh, pastors feeling overwhelmed. So our our thought process behind a lot of these interventions, and I think behind what we are seeing already take place is pastors. We don’t want to add to your plate. We want to relieve your burdens as well. Uh, so we are just beginning to see some of the, uh, interventions take place, some of the creativity. But it’s happening. Uh, and it can also just happen around a simple consult where, um, a pastor talks with a therapist about someone in their congregation. They give them a few ideas, and the pastor is able to effectively deliver some care. Uh, so a lot of different ideas are being tried out right now when we talk about that in the book.

Daniel Yang:
Heather, let me follow up on that. Um, from your perspective, do you see, um, is there a gap of both knowledge between what the health care profession is understanding and discovering around mental health and then what pastors understand? Um, because there seems to be in my mind a, an acceleration of how the health care industry is actually understanding how humans behave and what’s causing mental health issues. But maybe a delay in the education of church leaders. So I’d love to get your thoughts around that. And then maybe, Jim, I’d love for you to just help us to understand, like, where are you seeing the the gaps right now, where we need to ramp up both the education but also the training of pastors?

Heather Sells:
Well, I’ll say something briefly, and then I’m really going to hand the question over to Jim. But we have talked about how pastors have been trained, if you will, to, hey, stay out of the mental health lane and just refer out. So that is definitely a thing. And what we are more exploring and advocating for in this book is, hey, churches can be helpers. And we’re not just talking about staff, we’re talking about laypeople. Uh, there’s tremendous things that laypeople can do that can make a difference, uh, with a small amount of training. And so, uh, again, it’s a paradigm shift. It’s a hey, church, we’ve really encouraged you to refer out, but now we want you to think about how can you play a role in this space. And I’ll let Jim amplify on that. Sure.

Jim Sells:
Related to what you just said, Heather, probably the significant gap is the concept that me as a psychologist, as a counselor, um, I am the best person to to carry the full weight of someone’s mental health need. Like, as a system psychologist, one who’s been trained in family and couple therapy, looking at groups of people, how they interact now the community is is the has the greatest capacity for that kind of help. I help a lot in terms of redirecting, but I’m only one hour a week at best. And and what do people do for the 23 and six days? Uh, well, they’re in their community. They’re in their homes, they’re with their friends. They’re engaging in in good or bad strategies that have an ongoing accountability. And it is in that ongoing accountability that the church exists in, in its strongest form, call it discipleship. Uh, that’s that’s where mental health we think about disease, but let’s just call it really good living and the acceptance of disease with the responsibility of how we will live well with this disease. Uh, some things will not change. Uh, there are aspects of psychopathology that that are not going to get better. But we can live well with this. And that’s where the church can come in and provide a tremendous level of support that then allows me to see someone once a month, instead of every other week, or every week, or 2 or 3 times a week.

Jim Sells:
So the church takes on a massive role potentially in in being going back to what its original calling was to offer hospitality. And we’ve I’ve seen that word grow in the literature within church leadership and theological publications like hospitality is in the process of being rediscovered, not as the one that the the person that makes a really good pie, but one that can sit well with people that they love and people who love them. And that’s the that’s the thing that I cannot do as a psychologist. I can’t love someone. Well, I can help them with an empirically validated intervention. But it’s not really loving them. It’s not really standing in the midst of their pain ongoing. Uh, it’s it’s creating an external tool and and helping them. Helping them learn it like a teacher would learn it. But the teacher never goes home with the person. Uh, so that’s where I see the biggest gap in even changing the way that professionals are trained to think about mental health care. Not as the provider, but the overseer as as the one who creates a community psychology, a community intervention that uses churches as its primary tool.

Ed Stetzer:
So it’s it’s a bit of a, you know, it’s a bit of a journey that and it’s sometimes you use the phrase paradigm shift. I think that’s a it is a paradigm shift. But it’s also I mean, I remember after the death of, uh, Rick and Kay Warren’s son, he died by suicide, that we, um, you know, I wrote some articles, we did some research. I wrote an article on CNN that got a lot of traction and conversation, and partly in that in those places in the research, I was saying no, Christians need the mental health community. And because there has been maybe historically, a bit of an anti mental health, uh, not, not maybe there has been it’s been there have been an anti mental health. It’s like those, those don’t, don’t do that. And then and then there’s always some people and again I probably they’re probably not listening to the podcast anyway. But there are some people who say you don’t need you know, you don’t need psychology or mental health intervention. You know, it just, uh, you know, there’s counsel by the scriptures and that’s all you need. And I and I would and I would say, as one who really believes that the scriptures are true and for us and yet, yet at the same time, I also recognize that, as you mentioned, physical health earlier, Jim, that sometimes I might refer to someone from mental health.

Ed Stetzer:
So it seemed like maybe 15 years ago, we were trying to persuade pastors and church leaders to refer and have a partnership. And maybe, maybe there’s a pendulum swing that’s there. I want the I think the paradigm shift is there. I wrote in an earlier piece years ago that, you know, we kind of want to be a friendly church. I think that’s good. And then we want to be a caring church. I think that’s great. But Galatians six two tells us to carry one another’s burdens. We’re supposed to be a carrying church. We’re supposed to carry one another’s burdens. And in some sense, that’s what you’re calling to. However, and this is the longest question ever. My apologies, Jim. However, this this is scary to pastors because because it can be overwhelming when you start leaning in on some of the mental health issues and questions that are there as well. So talk to us about some of what this would actually look like. Um, what needs does the mental health care world have that the church can meet and how would they meet them?

Jim Sells:
I’m a trained psychologist, I love psychology, I love the profession. It has done a great thing for the culture, for society and for the, uh, for the Christian church. Period like so I’m not I’m not advocating the the church. Take this back completely. I’m advocating for a good dentistry, when in years past, you could have just gone to a barber and had your teeth pulled. Like, no, there’s a there’s a science here that can allow you to save your teeth, not just rip them out of your mouth. Uh, and so utilizing the science is just a really, really good dental care, and it’s really, really good human care. Now, enter the church. I don’t think that two people from, uh, Smith Center, Kansas, at First Christian Church in small town, USA, uh, should be addressing major depressive disorder. No, I know how to do that. But I do think there’s a lot of people in Smith Center, Kansas. Um, that are sad, that are discouraged, that are stressed. And so that carrying piece that you identify and that’s really 85% of, of mental health need who shows up to providers when the church can be that that carrying with me as, as the triage person, me standing at my church and saying, you know, with a brief assessment, I can help the church decide whether this person is good for Marge and and Ralph to see as, as two couples, as a couple that loves to work with others and who who should be the should they be referred to someone with clinical training with greater expertise in the nuances of severity? So, uh, I can make that call working within my church, and but I don’t need to see all those people.

Jim Sells:
I need to prepare a group within that church to effectively manage them. And what we’re trying to do, we’re working on a project right now, a grant from the National Christian Foundation to develop protocols around, for example, a five limit curriculum for individual care. And then we transitioned them into the church’s small group ministry, who have also transitioned from previous five session individual care. So we have a community that we’re growing around, mental health slash human caring needs. And and it is done in conjunction with professionals like, okay, the the person that suffers from bipolar one. No, that’s not a really good, uh, person to give to to one who’s not prepared for the for the complexities. So someone making that assessment in the church and someone like, not yet. Before you go to this individual or small group ministry, let’s let’s stabilize you with, with a professional in our community, in our circle. So we are collaborating together, the church and the profession, uh, triaging and and supporting one another is respective needs.

Daniel Yang:
I’d like to brainstorm something with the both of you. Um, and maybe we can hear from you. Heather. First, um, you know, may historically, in the US, uh, mental awareness, um, month and a lot of churches will either, uh, highlight the issues of mental, um, illness, uh, and they might even belt out, like, uh, a sermon series. Um, what are some healthy ways that you think, uh, pastors and church leaders can take practical next steps to, number one, raise awareness, uh, in their congregations. And then two, how do they collaborate with practitioners, with clinicians? Bring in that voice, uh, to make it, uh, very practical for their church members to see that the two can work together. So what are your thoughts from on that?

Heather Sells:
Well, I’ll just start briefly. Uh, we’ve seen, uh, that when pastors and we write about this in the book, pastors like Jack Graham, uh, pastors like Bishop Walker at Mount Zion in Nashville, when they talk about mental health from the pulpit, it is indeed powerful. And it, uh, we’ve we’ve seen a lot of the stigma go away, but it’s still an issue. And so definitely speaking to it from the pulpit is huge and it encourages all the conversations. Uh, so that can be really helpful. And then for another next step for church leaders is really working on those relationships with Christian, uh, mental health professionals in your community and seeing if you have a shared vision or can create a shared vision and start to create some synergies. Yeah, I.

Ed Stetzer:
Think it’s key that, um, sermons break stigmas and talking about these things and I’ve even, I’ve even, like tweaked, you know, where I, what I, when I’ve preached what I, when I would have preached Philippians four, you know, be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with just a sentence or two I can speak to and invite people to. But if you find yourself stuck in this in a pattern of anxiety you can’t get out of, and then we have people in our church that can help. Make some of those connections. So I think I think but part of the challenge is there’s an intentionality. This is back to your your paradigm shift thing because we we lose some things when churches and mental health practitioners remain siloed. So what does it look like? And I like to hear from both of you, Jim. You first. But what does it look like when they’re not siloed? What does it look like when they’re working together? You mentioned triage. You mentioned your church. So come with me to first Assemblies of God down in, you know, wherever Texas. And what does it look like for first assembly of God to have a plan? Explain it to us.

Jim Sells:
Multiple plans exist. And, um, we’re we’re trying to develop a, a description of all the models that that are emerging, uh, because this is such a way, new ideas are coming, kind of if we’re in such a high change mode. But let me just give you an ideal format. An individual contacts the pastor. My my adolescent daughter is cutting an and the pastor, uh, calls, contacts, their mental health professional liaison within the church community. And they might have two, three, 4 or 5 people that fit in this role. And they make an initial assessment, what should be done here. And two things will likely happen in that case one, stabilization and two, the formation of community. And three, care for the parents. Uh, because there’s a tendency in this case for, for parents to over control, like, I’m, I want to make sure there’s nothing sharp in your, in, in your backpack. And I know that’s a pencil. So you could hurt yourself with that pencil, so I will I’ll give you chalk or know you could eat chalk so I, you know, it’s the tendency for parents then to over control. They’re going to need the same level of support and help, uh, that that the adolescent is really crying out for. So being able to, to advocate for a the best clinical practice and be the best community support and the community support is going to exist withinside the church. So then then that community support within the presence of others that that have experienced very, very similar life journeys along with the best medication coming from a psychiatrist, the best, uh, uh, empirically validated treatments coming from an LPC, uh, marriage and family social worker or psychologist and the continued presence of the church as, as the place to go for care.

Heather Sells:
One of the reasons that we did, uh, name the book Beyond the Clinical Hour is because the clinical hour itself, uh, there’s something before it, during it and after it, and that can be the church. And so we’re really asking the church come alongside and, uh, I talked with some counselors who said, it is so powerful when a pastor says to someone in their church, I’m praying for your therapy appointment this week. It’s at two, right? I mean, that those kind of just changes in our culture can really go a long way. And that’s some of what we’re beginning to see. We’re hearing stories of people who are in a peer group in their church saying, I don’t see my therapist as often as I used to because I don’t need to because I have this support, uh, it is going to look different in every church. Uh, but what we are advocating for is for this to really be on the radar and for churches to really develop strong relationship with therapists and their community and just see where it all goes.

Jim Sells:
It also goes the other way, too, uh, with Gen Ripley here at Regent, uh, in our Keras Institute, we’ve just completed a Templeton grant where we, uh, developed training for marriage and family therapists in secular institutions to utilize the the religious and spiritual traditions of people that come to see them. So the profession is not used to making referral to the church. Uh, and, and in this is this idea of bracketing out those religious values so that they’re not part of therapy. And we are arguing in demonstrating the effectiveness of know you, you want to bracket in you want the person’s faith tradition to become a central part of therapy. Uh, it’s it’s like, let’s do therapy, but, but, but let’s cut out your community. Well, like, we’re going to fail. Uh, so you you would never think of, of let’s do therapy, but let’s remove your support system. Uh, or what does your faith tradition speak to this theme of anxiety, as you mentioned, Ed, how does how does your faith tradition speak to it that can be useful for you? I might not understand it as a as a secular therapist, but you understand it. So teach me about it, because it’s not trying to. Mind your mental health. It’s trying to bring support to it. So that idea, it goes both ways where the clinician, secular or faith based clinician needs to have the community of churches by which the anybody that they see is tied to someone that has depth than has, has, uh, width and breadth to be able to render support long, long beyond the clinical hour.

Daniel Yang:
Yeah. Love, love the word image there with the title of the book. And also the subtitle is how counselors can partner with the church to address the mental health crisis. Um, if I’m a pastor and this is new to me, which you can imagine that for some pastors, if their training is strictly theological and, um, and providing pastoral care, um, and then this is still sort of the therapeutic language is new to them. What are some immediate next steps that a pastor can take in order to be informed in a healthy way and not necessarily reading a bunch of pop psychology books, but what would be the best next step for a pastor who wants to get initiated into this, um, gym? And then maybe Heather, uh, any any thoughts that you’re seeing to.

Jim Sells:
Every church cannot do everything but the community of pastors in any community, there are enough resources to address every type of need. So I think if I’m if I am consulting with a pastor, uh, that that is in a suburban, urban or rural community, I’m going to ask, uh, who’s in your immediate network that that can can collaborate with you, the other pastors in the church and the other, uh, professionals within the radius of of your, your. Immediate circle of influence. So that’s that’s going to be step one. Um, step two, the abundance of resources that exist now that are doubling and tripling every year, like churches are seeing, uh, this change, I, I bring in the introduction of the book. This really this whole thing triggered in my mind this, this serendipitous experience of be driving down a country road in Anderson County, South Carolina, about, uh, not far from Clemson. I drive past a church and on the marquee said family council available. The grammar was even poor. Uh, it didn’t end in an infinity. They ran out of letters. Uh, it just said family Council available. And I thought of all the things that this country church could put on their marquee is not like choir practice on Wednesday night or, uh, church softball game on Saturday. We’ll go beat the Methodist. Uh, it was if you have a need within your family, this is where you come show up here. We can help. And that idea is just. Extending through churches because everyone has been touched by the pain of a suicide, of an eating disorder, of bipolar disease, of, of, uh, personality disorder, uh uh, such as borderline or narcissistic like we have been hit by schizophrenia and substance abuse. Someone knows a fentanyl fentanyl overdose. Uh, so this affects everybody, and everybody has a commitment to bring care to the broader community.

Heather Sells:
I think of, uh, during the Aids crisis, uh, Rick Warren had a vision for churches in Rwanda, uh, really becoming the healing centers for the HIV crisis, where you could go to get help at your local church. And I think that’s our heart is this is the mental health crisis. What if churches were to become the place where you could go to start your journey, and we’ll carry you through your journey?

Ed Stetzer:
So good, so good. I remember, um, you know, I totally is going to seem like a far out of the other field, but these financial organizations that help people to deal with their budget, um, are kind of interesting. And they really taken off in churches. You got 2 or 3 big ones and like churches are offering courses on financial freedom and all that sort of stuff. And I think that’s great because it’s answering a question that people have. But the reality is sometimes they need to get an accountant to help and sometimes need to get a lawyer to help because we’re in the worst of the situation. And for me, I mean, I read I read the book and I really found it helpful. And again, it’s beyond the clinical, our how counselors can partner with the church to address mental health crisis. But the key word to me in the rather long subtitle is the word partner, because I think maybe I’m wrong, but I think most people listen to this podcast are referring from church to counselor. But this is a call to partner. So just last last word from from either or both of you. Um, encourage the pastors and church leaders to to partner. Why should they do this?

Jim Sells:
I believe it’s central to the church’s mission to be the healing agent within their community. And I, uh, I write of in church history in, in the third century under Dionysius, uh, writing about. We stayed and we died. We we stayed in the urban centers and we ministered at the same time. The the emperor of Rome, Julian the Apostate, said like, why can’t we do it like these Galileans? And so, like the church’s presence within the culture was a caregiving presence. And I think that’s what accelerated the growth of the church far more than it accelerated first, before, uh, before the rise of Constantine, it it really took off with the presence of suffering and the church staying like here we have suffering church show up. Uh, you can do far more in your church evangelism and your outreach and your small group ministry. And like the invitation to show up at your door, uh, a recent conversation with a pastor. Small church 150 people. And he has said in the last 18 months I have logged 500 phone calls from outside my church, people calling to ask for help. Like I we don’t we we we don’t have enough referrals. We don’t know what to do with all of these folks that are coming. Um, this is a suburban church, small church, 500 in in 18 months. That’s better than one a day. Uh, so so that sense of. All right. Uh, you have a potential to be incredibly effective because the people are coming to your door wanting help.

Heather Sells:
Yeah, I agree, it’s it’s the equivalent of people bleeding out in your church. And, uh, and I think it’s also, it’s it’s one of the biggest issues of our day, and it’s, it’s the language that people speak now, they’re talking about this because it’s so prevalent. So for the church not to address it is for the church to, you know, go on a path of irrelevancy, if you will, and to and to miss the moment. So I, I think it’s incumbent on the church to take this seriously.

Daniel Yang:
We’ve been talking to Jim and Heather sells. Be sure to check out their book, co-authored with Amy Trout. Be on the Clinical Hour How Counselors Can Partner with the church to address the Mental Health Crisis. Thanks again for listening to the Sister Church Leaders Podcast. You can find more interviews, as well as other great content for ministry leaders at Church Leaders Compass. And again, if you found a conversation today helpful, we’d love for you to take a few moments. Leave us a review that’ll help other ministry leaders find and benefit from our content. Thanks for listening. We’ll see you the next episode.

Voice Over:
You’ve been listening to the Stetzer Church Leaders podcast for more great interviews as well as articles, videos, and free resources, visit our website at Church leaders.com. Thanks for listening.

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Key Questions for Jim and Heather Sells

-You use the words “escalating crisis” to describe the state of mental health in the U.S. What are you seeing? 

-What needs does the mental health care world have that the church can meet, and how would the church meet them?

-What are some healthy ways that pastors and church leaders can take practical next steps to raise awareness about mental health needs in their congregations?

-How can pastors and clinicians collaborate with one another?

Key Quotes From Jim Sells

“It is an escalating crisis, and it is not a COVID-produced crisis. It’s a COVID-accelerated crisis.”

“We are really advancing rapidly in every aspect of health care, except when it comes to behavioral health care and the capacity of people to live well.”

“We cannot meet the mental health need with the current structure of professional care. Enter the church.”

‘There Are Still So Many Things To Do,’ Pope Says in New Memoir Amid Resignation Rumors

Pope
Pope Francis arrives for his weekly general audience in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican, March 8, 2023. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini, File)

VATICAN CITY (RNS) — In a new memoir, Pope Francis tells his story through the historical moments that punctuated his life, from the Second World War to Sept. 11, and examines how those events ultimately impacted his pontificate.

The book, titled “Life: My Story Through History,” is being published by Harper Collins in Europe and in the United States on March 19, marking the 11th anniversary of Pope Francis’ tenure as head of the Catholic Church.

While the pope has published autobiographies before, this memoir, based on the pope’s conversations with Vatican journalist Fabio Marchese Ragona, illustrates the profound influence world events have had on Francis. From the horrors of the Holocaust to the dropping of the atomic bomb, from the injustices of McCarthyism to the fall of the Berlin Wall, historical events shaped the life of Jorge Mario Bergoglio, forging his priorities as a religious leader.

RELATED: Pope Francis Tells Ukraine That There Is ‘No Shame in Negotiating’

As the 87-year-old pope looks back on his life in the book, he also addresses his ailing health and old age. “I have never had reason to think about resigning, because that is an option to be considered, from my point of view, only in the case of serious health problems,” he said in the book.

"Life: My Story Through History" by Pope Francis. (Image courtesy HarperCollins)

“Life: My Story Through History” by Pope Francis. (Image courtesy HarperCollins)

Francis, who was elected in 2013 after his predecessor Benedict XVI made the historic decision to step down and take the title of Emeritus pope, visited the hospital in February for influenza and has struggled to stand or read publicly in recent weeks. In the memoir he states that if his health were to seriously decline he would take the role of bishop emeritus of Rome and offer confessions at the church of St. Mary Major in Rome.

“Some people may have hoped that sooner or later, perhaps after a stay in the hospital, I might make an announcement of that kind, but there is no risk of it: thanks be to God, I enjoy good health, and as I have said, there are many projects to bring to fruition, God willing,” he added.

“As far as my service is concerned, there is no shortage of plans. There are still so many things to do,” the pope told Ragona, discussing plans to visit his native Argentina, his continued commitment to the cause of migrants and refugees, his advocacy for the environment and the long road toward true ecumenism.

Central to this role is Pope Francis’ brainchild: the Synod on Synodality, a yearslong consultation of Catholics at every level of the church on how to engage with the modern world. “Even though there are those within the church, consumed by pride and egotism and prey to diabolical temptations, who would like to see it divided as if there were two groups of rival fans,” he added.

The 30-year period in Argentina known as the Dirty War (1974-1983) tested Francis’ ability to navigate complex political situations and an authoritarian rule. Through that time, he says in the memoir, he learned how to handle criticism and attempts to smear his reputation.

“There are always some who wish to put the brakes on reform, who want things always to stay as they were during the days of pope kings, who dream of superficial change that preserves the status quo, and this is certainly not good for the Church,” Francis added.

A recently published letter, signed Demos II and allegedly written by a cardinal, accused the pope of being “autocratic” and “vindictive” and laid out prerequisites for his successor. The pope’s openness toward marginalized groups, including LGBTQ faithful and women, have also led to backlash by Catholic conservatives.

On Fiducia Supplicans, a document issued by the Vatican’s Doctrinal department allowing the blessing of couples in irregular situations including same-sex couples, the pope told Ragona: “I just want to say that God loves everyone, especially sinners.”

Transexuals and homosexuals, the pope added, “must be welcomed with open arms.” But this does not challenge the church’s doctrinal belief that marriage can only be between a man and a woman. “Civil unions are another matter,” he clarified. “It is right that these people who experience the gift of love should have the same legal protections as everyone else.”

New Catholic Spanish Language Record Label Seeks To Catch up to Christian Industry

A variety of the artists signed to the new nonprofit label Via Cantus. (Screen grab)

(RNS) — Take a look at the Best Christian Album (Spanish Language) category at the Latin Grammys, and you might think the vast majority of Latino Christians in Latin America and the U.S. are evangelical Protestants. Most of the winners have been a rotating collection of evangelical pastors and praise musicians.

But that doesn’t reflect the numbers on the ground. While Catholicism has seen a steep decline among Latinos in the United States and across Latin America, in the two decades since the Latin Grammys added the category, Latino Catholics still outnumber their evangelical counterparts in the U.S. and Latin America by more than 2 to 1.

Evangelical Latino performers benefit from the more established evangelical Christian music industry.

RELATED: EXCLUSIVE: Lecrae and Andy Mineo Talk Deconstruction, Being Labeled Christian, Swearing in Music, and More With ChurchLeaders

“Christian music has an industry that we don’t have,” said Juan Delgado, the most recent Catholic winner of the award, using “Christian” as shorthand for non-Catholic Christians. Nonetheless, he said, research shows that many Christian music listeners are Catholic.

Now, Delgado and another veteran Latino Catholic musician have partnered up to create their own label with the aim of bringing new professionalism to Spanish-language contemporary Catholic music. “Our goal is to advance Catholic music as an industry,” Delgado said of Via Cantus, the new nonprofit label.

Juan Delgado. (Photo courtesy Via Cantus)

Juan Delgado. (Photo courtesy Via Cantus)

Delgado, a producer as well as a musician, won a Latin Grammy for Best Contemporary Tropical Album in 2007 for his engineering on Oscar D’León’s “Fuzionado” and took home a Spanish-language Christian Latin Grammy in 2019 for his own album, “Todo Pasa.” His co-founder, Pedro Rubalcava, a composer and music minister originally from California’s border area, was nominated for Best Mexican-American Performance for his 1989 album “Amanecer.”

Delgado and Rubalcava, who is now director of Oregon Catholic Press’ label group, had dreamed of a Spanish-language Catholic label for decades, but, inspired by Pope Francis’ call to “go out,” they officially launched Via Cantus in February 2023.

Music has been a key part of Delgado’s faith journey, which began with a severe bout of dengue fever as a teenager in Venezuela. His mother, seeking to ask God to heal him, reached out to a charismatic Catholic community. After he recovered, Delgado said he went early to pick his mother up from Mass, and as he approached the sanctuary, Delgado could see the priest lifting the Host to consecrate it as he heard 800 people sing, “Vive Jesús,” or “Jesus Lives.”

“I was in the presence of God. He let me see him. He let me feel him. And I fell to my knees, and I cried and cried and cried,” Delgado said.

“Music is the language God used to talk to me,” he said. As he moved to becoming a practicing Catholic, he found his path in music ministry.

Oregon Catholic Press, which just celebrated its 100th anniversary, has traditionally focused on creating resources for liturgical music, including hymnals and recordings. With Via Cantus, Rubalcava said that OCP is focusing on non-liturgical music as a “tool for evangelization.”

Delgado, based in Miami, and Rubalcava, based near Portland, Oregon, said Via Cantus, as a division of OCP, will be the first Spanish-language Catholic label with the level of backing that OCP can provide, including a team of music professionals spread throughout Latin America and the U.S.

Voting Out of Fear

vote
Adobestock #318574975

This is an election year. No, this isn’t a blog about who you should vote for. It is a blog about why we often vote the way we do…and shouldn’t.

Tim Alberta, in his sweeping look at the state of American evangelicals, writes of the motivation of fear, and how there are many who realize this and thus commit themselves to trying to scare Christians. Writing of one conference he attended, he noted that for three days,

…thousands of believers were told that their children were being groomed; that their communities were under invasion; that their guns were going to be confiscated; that their medical treatments were suspect; that their newspapers were lying to them; that their elected officials were diabolical; that their government was coming after them; that their faith was being banned from public life…that their nation was nearing its end.

And it works. As Cal Thomas, once a leader of the Moral Majority, noted, “You can’t raise money on a positive note. If the goal is bringing in money, you have to scare them.”

Fear doesn’t just motivate—fear clouds your judgment. If you give in to fear and develop a mentality that you are under siege you give in to an “anything goes” mentality. As Alberta concluded at the end of observing the three-day event: “Character didn’t matter. Truth didn’t matter. Honor and integrity didn’t matter. Those were means, and all that mattered was the ends: winning elections.” When fear rules, then what you fear—defeating it, avoiding it—becomes the ultimate aim.

Contrast that with these words from theologian John Dickson:

I’ve spent time with underground pastors in China and the amazing thing about them is how cheerful they are…I’ve been with pastors who have all been to prison—one of them three times. But they’re not afraid, they’re not paranoid. They are genuinely cheerful. Because they think, “Well, if I go to prison, there will be more people for me to preach the gospel to.”

Dickson notes that much of what drives evangelicals in America is “fear that we’re losing our country, fear that we’re losing our power.” He rightly adds, “and it’s so unhealthy.” One reason is because ultimately, those are not the things that matter most. But the primary reason is because, as Christians, we are not to be driven by fear at all. In fact, “fear not,” in one form or another, is listed nearly 365 times in the Bible which, coincidentally(?), is how many days there are in a year. For example:

Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. (Isaiah 41:10, NLT)

For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. (II Timothy 1:7, NLT)

Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced his perfect love. (I John 4:18, NLT)

Do You Have a Philosophy of Worship?

communicating with the unchurched

Does your congregation have a philosophy of worship? I recently came across a very well-written philosophy of worship from ‘The Meeting Place’ church (TMP). If you are developing your own standards for your worship ministry, this is a good place to start.

Key Values for Your Philosophy of Worship

The guiding definition of worship at TMP is: Worship is our appropriate response to God’s self-revelation. An encounter with God involves strong and real emotions and clear thinking. The following values provide a center for your philosophy of worship, and boundaries that allow innovation to occur in a context of creative confidence.

1. Invitational and Evangelistic

A TMP worship experience creates a place were people can encounter and are invited to believe in Jesus Christ. Guests and regulars alike will know that God is real and reveals his presence among us. Worship must be Christo-centric, filled with joy, portray the gospel and invite specific response.

2. Assume nothing and Explain everything (little and lots)

Our Sunday morning worship experiences are targeted for those who are “exploring Christ” and “growing in Christ.” To do this effectively, we assume a zero to minimal biblical knowledge or Christian worldview. We recognize that basic Christian vocabulary must be explained often and that people do not have familiarity with even the most basic practices of prayer or public worship. Our aim is to meet people where they are at and move them toward a thriving relationship with Jesus.

Numbers 2 – A Chapter Brimming With Symbolism

numbers 2
Lightstock #120225

The second chapter of Numbers, a sometimes overlooked book in the Old Testament, provides a detailed account of the Israelites’ arrangement and orchestration around the Tabernacle. This chapter is not merely a logistical layout but a symbolic representation that can speak volumes to believers today. The rich symbolism of Numbers 2, its narrative, and the broader biblical context reveal layers of meaning.

An Overview of Numbers 2

In Numbers 2, the Lord delivers specific instructions to Moses and Aaron regarding the arrangement of the twelve tribes of Israel around the Tabernacle – their portable sanctuary. They were to position themselves at a defined distance, surrounding the holy tent in a meticulously ordered fashion. This setup ensured order during their travels and symbolized their collective unity and sanctity around God’s dwelling place. Each tribe was assigned a specific location and standard, with the tribe of Levi and the Tabernacle in the center, signifying their unique role as priests and caretakers of the sanctuary. This arrangement reflects God’s direct involvement in the lives of the Israelites and underscores the importance of divine order and protection.

The Four Banners of the Tribes of Israel

The tribes of Israel were not only distinguished by their lineage but also by unique banners that represented their identity and heritage. These banners, or standards, held immense significance, symbolizing the four cardinal points around the Tabernacle. Each banner was associated with a leading tribe and represented a specific group of tribes. For instance, the Lion of Judah symbolized the east, the Ox of Ephraim the west, the Man of Reuben the south, and the Eagle of Dan the north. These symbols not only provided organization but also reflected the traits and destinies of the respective tribes, weaving a rich tapestry of cultural and spiritual identity that has intrigued scholars and believers alike.

Understanding Non-Denominational Christian Beliefs

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In the broad spectrum of Christianity, “non-denominational” has emerged as a term that encapsulates a diverse and growing segment of Christian faith. What are the characteristics of a non-denominational Christian, their beliefs, and how do they differ from denominational congregations?

A non-denominational Christian is an individual or a congregation that identifies with Christianity but does not align with any specific Christian denomination or religious organization. This approach to faith is characterized by a commitment to the Bible as the ultimate authority in matters of faith and practice. It is not a monolithic movement; instead, but rather represents a wide array of beliefs and practices within the larger Christian tradition. While they share core Christian doctrines, non-denominational communities may differ in their interpretations and applications of biblical teachings.

What Does It Mean to be Non-Denominational Christian?

Being non-denominational implies a deliberate choice to avoid traditional denominational affiliations. This choice often stems from a desire to focus on the essential aspects of the Christian faith without the additional doctrines, rituals, or governance structures that denominational churches might impose. Non-denominational Christians emphasize personal faith, the authority of Scripture, and the direct relationship between the individual believer and God.

Non-denominational churches generally advocate for the Bible as the foundation of their faith. However, there isn’t a singular Bible translation used in these churches. Instead, these churches might use a variety of Bible translations based on accessibility, readability, and translation philosophy. Common choices include the New International Version (NIV), English Standard Version (ESV), and the New Living Translation (NLT), among others.

Creation Games for Kids: Play This Fun Race in Sunday School

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Creation games for kids are a delight to play in Sunday school. In this outdoor summer game, kids learn about Creation while getting creative in a fun relay race.

You’ll need:

  • a copy of the instructions for each team
  • miscellaneous props, including drinking water

Creation Games for Kids

Set Up

Venture outside with kids, bringing the miscellaneous props with you. For this summertime game, form two teams and designate a goal line. Give each team a copy of the instructions below.

Next, explain that a different person in each team should perform each step. Encourage kids to be creative in finding props. For example, a hat pulled over the eyes can serve as a blindfold.

Instructions

  1. First, lead a blindfolded person to the goal line to represent night. At the goal line, have the person remove the blindfold to represent day. Then return to your starting place.
  2. Carry a small container of water to the goal line and drink it. Then run back to represent water and sky.
  3. Carry a handful of dirt to the goal line to represent the earth. Make a small hill with it and then return.
  4. Next, carry a small stick to the goal line. Draw a sun, moon, and star in the dirt to represent the lights.
  5. With two pieces of paper, make a bird to represent flying creatures. Carry the bird to the goal line, leave it, and return.
  6. Using small sticks, make a human figure to represent humankind. Carry the figure to the goal line, leave it, and return.
  7. Finally, all teammates run to the goal line and sit in a circle.

For Extra Impact

  • Ask kids: How easy or difficult was it to be creative and find the props you needed for the game? Explain. Why did God make us creative?
  • Read aloud Genesis 1:27. Then ask kids: What does it mean to be created in God’s image?

New Creation in Christ and the Meaning of New of Life

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The concept of being a “new creation in Christ” is central to the Christian faith, symbolizing a transformation that goes beyond mere behavior modification. It signifies a complete overhaul of our nature, identity, and purpose through the power of God. This transformative journey is not just about turning over a new leaf; it’s about becoming a new tree altogether. What is the meaning of “a new creation in Christ,” or the biblical basis for this miraculous change, and how we can live out this new identity in our daily lives?

Who Can Be a New Creation in Christ?

To be “in Christ” means to have a personal relationship with Him through faith. When one accepts Jesus as Lord and Savior, they are spiritually reborn, transitioning from an old, sin-bound identity to a new, redeemed one. This new creation is not a refurbished version of our old selves but a completely new being created in righteousness and true holiness (Ephesians 4:24). It signifies our spiritual union with Christ, a bond that redefines our essence and reorients our life’s trajectory.

The meaning of being made new in Christ is that the shackles of past sins, failures, and regrets no longer define us. Our old self—dominated by sinful inclinations and alienated from God—has been crucified with Christ (Galatians 2:20). In its place emerges a new self, one that is aligned with God’s will, desires, and purposes. This radical transformation impacts every aspect of our existence, ushering in a life marked by spiritual renewal, moral integrity, and a profound sense of purpose.

The Bible speaks voluminously about the transformative power of faith in Christ. For instance, 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” Similarly, Ephesians 4:22-24 urges believers to put off their old self and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God. These passages underscore the definitive and comprehensive nature of the change that occurs when we surrender our lives to Christ.

Bible Verses About Unity: Unveiling the Power and Beauty Within

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Unity is a foundational principle that not only forms the basis of societal interactions but also stands at the core of Christian teachings. The Bible, being the ultimate guide for life and faith, provides numerous insights into the importance and strength of unity among believers. Herein, we explore the depth of this concept through scripture and reflection.

Understanding Unity Through the Scripture

The Bible speaks volumes about unity, emphasizing its significance in maintaining harmony and peace within the Christian community. According to the scripture, unity is not merely a social or moral choice but a spiritual mandate. 2 Corinthians 5:17 reminds us that spreading the message of repentance and turning to God is a collective effort, not an individual crusade.

Galatians 3:26 further explains that unity is found in faith, as all who believe in Christ Jesus are free from sin, showcasing that spiritual unity transcends physical and societal differences. Similarly, Ephesians 4:1 calls for believers to live a life worthy of their calling, united by the Spirit in the bond of peace.

The Psalms on Unity

The Psalms, often referred to as the songbook of the Bible, also speak about unity. While specific verses like Psalm 4:4 don’t directly mention unity, they evoke a sense of collective yearning and dependence on God. The essence of unity in Psalms is more thematic than explicit, expressing a collective longing for God’s presence and guidance.

The Power of Unity

The Bible underscores the power of unity in several passages. For instance, Ecclesiastes 4:12 (though not listed in the initial verses) asserts that a cord of three strands is not quickly broken, symbolizing the strength found in collective support. This concept is mirrored in the New Testament by Philippians 2:2, encouraging believers to be like-minded, maintaining the same love, and being one in spirit and purpose.

RELATED: Francis Chan: Unity in the Church Is Far More Than Just ‘a Cute Idea’

Strength in Unity According to the Bible

The Bible makes it clear that there is immense strength in unity. Ephesians 4:3 emphasizes the effort required to maintain the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. This unity, according to Romans 15:5-6, allows believers to glorify God with one mind and voice, showcasing the divine strength manifested through unified worship and belief.

‘How Dare You!’—Mark Driscoll Shares the Story Behind His Most Controversial Sermon

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Mark Driscoll, the controversial pastor of The Trinity Church, located in Scottsdale, Arizona, recently shared the story behind his most “controversial sermon ever.”

The sermon Driscoll was referring to was one that he preached 15 years ago at the now defunct Mars Hill Church, titled “Marriage and Men,” from his sermon series “Trial: 8 Witnesses from 1-2 Peter.”

Driscoll co-founded Mars Hill Church in 1996 but resigned in the fall of 2014 after receiving complaints that he was an abusive leader. Mars Hill Church started as a home Bible study but had grown to a multi-campus ministry that averaged a weekly attendance of over 12,000.

On Jan. 1, 2015, Mars Hill Church dissolved. This history of the church and the allegations against Driscoll were detailed extensively in the podcast, “The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill.” In the time since Driscoll founded The Trinity Church, new allegations have emerged of him exhibiting controlling behavior.

Driscoll’s Most Controversial Sermon

During the now infamous sermon, Driscoll addressed men strongly—many say inappropriately—rebuking some of them.

“It’s just so frustrating,” Driscoll said. “Some of you guys have been coming here for years [and] you got your hands all over your girlfriend…you aren’t praying with your wife…you’re still single and having sex.”

Driscoll continued, “Some of you guys, even while I’m preaching the sermon, are sitting next to your girlfriend or your fiancée or your wife and have already given her that look [that says], ‘Don’t cry. Don’t let them know they’re talking about me. Just hold it together.’”

RELATED: Mark Driscoll Says Christians Can’t Attend Same-Sex Weddings, Comparing Them to Strip Clubs, ‘Drug Dens’

“You’ve already intimidated her right here,” he added.

“Some of you have already whispered in her ear, ‘I don’t want to hear it. We’re not talking about this in the car on the way home,’” Driscoll said. “Some of you have already whispered in her ear, ‘I’m sorry; I’ll do better. Trust me. Let’s just move on real quickly.’”

Driscoll then yelled at them, “How dare you! Who the hell do you think you are? Abusing a woman! Neglecting a woman! Being a coward! A fool! Being like your father Adam. Who do you think you are?! You’re not God! You are just a man!”

Driscoll went on to tell Christian men that there is no excuse to treat a woman in a dishonorable or disrespectful way. “You change now, little boy,” Driscoll said. “You shut up. You put your pants on. You get a job. You grow up, and maybe one day you can love a woman. [Marriage] is for men, not for little boys.”

Why Have Well-Known Worship Leaders Left Christianity? Allen Parr Explores Whether These 4 Reasons Are Valid

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Several high-profile worship leaders have announced over the past few years that they no longer believe in Christianity, rattling many evangelical Christians. Ministry leader Allen Parr believes there are four common reasons why people leave the Christian faith, and he offered his views on the validity of those reasons, as well as advice for people who are doubting. 

RELATED: ‘Be Careful’ With Worship Music From Bethel, Hillsong and Elevation, Says Ministry Leader Allen Parr

“I remember vividly just sitting and crying and asking myself, ‘God, how is it possible that these people can write such beautiful lyrics and express their worship unto you and then just give it all away and say that they just don’t believe any more?” Parr said, describing his response to certain worship leaders who are no longer Christians. 

The author and speaker said that in his video, posted to his podcast, “THE BEAT by Allen Parr,” “The question that I really want to explore…is why is this happening and what are the reasons why many people who claim to be Christian are leaving the Christian faith?”

Allen Parr: 4 Reasons Why Some Reject Christianity

Allen Parr began by mentioning several popular worship leaders who have left Christianity in recent years. The first of these was Audrey Assad. Parr said her song, “Even Unto Death,” from the album “Inheritance” is “one of my absolute favorite worship songs of all times.”

The refrain of that song says, “Lover of my soul / Even unto death / With my every breath I will love you.” The entire album is “absolutely amazing,” said Parr, and Assad has the “voice of an angel.”

But in early 2021, Assad announced she is no longer a Christian. “My heart broke,” Parr said, “because I’m sitting here thinking, ‘How can someone sing these words, and how can someone express their worship to God in one breath and then in the next breath say, ‘I don’t believe any of this. I’m not a Christian’?”

In August 2019, former Hillsong worship leader Marty Sampson, who co-wrote “O Praise the Name (Anástasis),” announced that he was losing his faith. Parr also mentioned Lisa and Michael Gungor, citing a video Michael Gungor posted where he said that the only place where people can find absolute truth is within themselves. 

RELATED: Former Worship Leader Michael Gungor Ignites Twitter With ‘Christ’ Comment; Labeled a Heretic

Naomi in the Bible: A Story of Loss, Loyalty, and Redemption

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Naomi, an Israelite woman from the Book of Ruth in the Bible, represents a journey of faith, perseverance, and ultimate restoration. Despite facing severe trials, including famine, the death of her husband, and the loss of her sons, Naomi’s story is one of profound faith and loyalty. Her life offers valuable lessons on dealing with adversity and demonstrates the power of God’s love and restoration.

What Is Naomi Famous For?

She lived during the time of the judges, a period marked by famine and hardship in Israel. Despite her sufferings, including the death of her husband, Elimelech, and her two sons, Mahlon and Chimham, she remained steadfast in her faith. Her journey from Bethlehem to Moab and back again symbolizes not only her physical travels but also her spiritual resilience. Naomi’s story is famous for showcasing the depth of her character, her ability to face adversity, and her influential role in the lineage of King David and ultimately, Jesus Christ.

The lesson of Naomi’s life centers around faith, loyalty, and the belief in God’s ability to restore and bless even in the most desperate circumstances. She moves from bitterness to joy, from emptiness to fulfillment. Her relationship with her daughter-in-law Ruth exemplifies unwavering loyalty and love, teaching us the value of sticking by each other during hard times. Additionally, her life teaches the importance of faith in God’s plan, even when it’s not immediately apparent.

Naomi was an Israelite woman who, along with her husband Elimelech and their sons, left Bethlehem for Moab due to a famine. After the death of her husband and sons, Naomi decided to return to Bethlehem, urging her Moabite daughters-in-law to stay in their homeland. However, Ruth chose to stay with Naomi, leading to a remarkable journey of love, faith, and divine provision. Back in Bethlehem, Naomi’s guidance leads Ruth to meet Boaz, a close relative and eventually her new husband. Her narrative is a poignant tale of loss, loyalty, and the redemptive power of love and faith.

What Is the Biblical Meaning of Naomi?

Her name means “pleasant” or “my delight” in Hebrew, reflecting her character and disposition. Initially, her life seems to contradict her name due to the severe hardships she faces. However, her story evolves from bitterness and sorrow back to one of joy and fulfillment, aligning once again with the meaning of her name. This transformation underscores the biblical theme of God’s ability to bring happiness and peace even from the depths of despair.

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