connexionchurch dot tv

Wait on the Lord

2009-10-23T12:32:00.001-04:00

McDonald's, Wendy's, Burger King, Taco Bell . . . the list goes on. The internet, ESPN, Fox News, CNN . . . all have contributed to the way our society views the days we live in. We live in a "now" world. We want what we want now, the art of waiting is all but forgotten in our society. However, this mode of thinking is contrary to scripture. I'm convinced our "now" thinking is very detrimental to growing in Christ. It causes us to look beyond what God is doing in the present, and makes us want tomorrow - today. Credit cards are a case in point, credit cards gives us now what we should wait for. This mode of operation has contributed greatly to the economic troubles we face today. We simply don't want to wait for anything. Isaiah 40:29-31 says,

He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who wait on the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

If you find yourself in despair, if you have lost hope, if life seems to put more weight on you than you can bear, begin to survey your life, and ask, "Are you overlooking today in anticipation of tomorrow?" Perhaps God has placed you in this phase of life for Him to teach you to wait on Him. There are promises attached to the scripture; if you need strength, wait on God. If life seems to be in a free-fall, wait on God. If you desire to live for Him and not grow weary, wait on God. God wants to do something great in the now moments of your life . . . just wait on Him.

Be watching next week for Part 2 of this devotion.

Get Out of the Rut

2009-07-08T16:33:00.001-04:00

Many times in the lives of Christ-followers, we get into a spiritual rut. Many things create these ruts: a new chapter in life, a significant event, a lost dream, or great disappointment. Perhaps, however, one of the greatest causes of spiritual ruts is simply lazy or careless Christians. People who become complacent in their spiritual journey. If we're honest, everyone of us have been there at some point. It's a dangerous, extremely dangerous place to find ourselves in our spiritual journey. A. W. Tozer says, "There is not much that can be said in favor of lazy or careless Christians. God never told anyone to do anything that he or she could not do." In Matthew 12 there is a story where Jesus passes by a man with a withered, deformed hand. Some say it was paralyzed. Jesus looks at the man and says, "Stretch out your hand." The man believed that Jesus was the Christ, stretched out his hand and instantly God healed him. Perhaps the very fact that he stretched out his hand was a miracle. But, Jesus knowing His power asked the man to do the unlikely so that Jesus could show His strength. As Tozer says, "God has never asked anyone yet to do anything that He was not enabling the person to do."

What is God asking you to do? What impossible thing is He asking you to do? Remember, if it's up to you, you can't do it, but God can. Are you in a spiritual rut today, begin trusting God to do the impossible. The only thing He is asking of you is obedience. Begin to live the incredible life of a Christ-follower, step out and I know God will lift you out of your spiritual rut.

Rut, Rot or Revival. Tozer, A. W., Christian Publications, Camp Hill, PA, 1992.

ConnexionKidz Bowling :: Super Father's Day

2009-06-10T20:56:00.000-04:00

The In Crowd

2009-06-10T15:47:00.002-04:00

Grace is invaluable to a Christ follower. Without grace we recognize our demise and realize all of our shortcomings. Grace is critical - it is the free and unmerited favor of God that is extended to all who will receive. That's huge! We don't deserve His grace and we don't qualify for His grace . . . it is free and we are not entitled to it. As Christ followers we write about grace, sing about grace, talk about grace, we say 'grace' before meals, we thank God for His grace, but often we fall short of extending His grace.

I, for some weird reason, like the movie 'The Devil Wears Prada.' It's the story of a young magazine columnist, Andy, who is a determined lady who knows her values and her stance on societal issues - until she becomes entrenched in the society she always stood against. Little by little her values began to change when she was pressured by the other side . . . soon she was a part of the 'in crowd' and never realized she had change.

Acts 20.24 says, 'However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me - the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace.' We have a task - it's not to just talk, sing and thank God for His grace - it's to testify of His grace. Testify means to serve as evidence or proof of something's existence . . . it means to be an example of something.

The way I see it Christ followers [myself included] can begin thinking we are a part of the 'in crowd' and forget that we still can't merit God's grace . . . it is free and unmerited and only comes through Jesus Christ. No matter how long we know Him - we still need His grace. We're not on the inside looking out - we are an extension of Jesus Christ on earth and we need to make every effort to testify of the gospel of God's grace. I'm not suggesting we need to let everything pass by and accept 'whatever', but too often Christ followers can play judge rather than testify of grace. Our task it not to judge - it's to testify.

Where are you on the grace spectrum? Have you received God's grace? Are you showing [testifying of ] God's grace? What ways do you play judge, and what ways do you testify? Do your actions ever indicate you are an 'in crowd' thinker? Please share.

Your worst days are never so bad that you're beyond the reach of His grace. And your best days are never so good that you're beyond the need of His grace. Everyday should be a day of relating to God on the basis of His grace alone. -Jerry Bridges

2009-06-04T16:27:00.001-04:00

This Week at ConnexionChurch.tv from Joe Francisco on Vimeo.

Adequate or Inadequate?

2009-06-03T15:07:00.001-04:00

Life presents us with huge challenges . . . and when challenges come our way we often measure ourselves against the standard of "adequacy or inadequacy." In other words, we take on challenges we feel adequate for. When we don't feel adequate we take a different direction. Sometimes a facade goes up; we say, "That's not my calling." or "I don't feel led to do that." At times those statements are true, but many times we keep challenges or opportunities at bay because we don't feel adequate to meet the challenge.

Feelings of inadequacy are a very sharp, two-edged sword. When we feel inadequate about something it can keep us from stepping out in faith. Our fear of failure or disappointment, because of a sense of inadequacy can paralyze us to the point we let incredible opportunities pass by. When we only pursuit things that we feel we are adequate to accomplish, it often negates God from showing His strength and power to do the impossible . . . we stay contained in the world of 'lesser' . . . less of God and more of us.

That's the opposite of how Jesus told us to be, John said, "I must decrease and He [Christ] must increase." The other edge of inadequacy is God's reality. When we feel inadequate to do what God has asked us to do we are actually in a great position. Its a place of humility and reality, a place of recognizing our limitations and faith-ing that God can do the impossible. Its a place where we begin to recognize God's awesome strength and limitless power . . . its the recognition that nothing is impossible with Him.

Today, God may be asking you to step out in faith, and you may feel inadequate to accomplish the task. Truth is, you probably are inadequate . . . adequacy doesn't require faith. But just as my friend Thom reminded me of a few days ago, Moses felt inadequate, but God chose him anyway . . . and He's choosing you. Your sense of inadequacy will either paralyze you spiritual or it will cause you to trust Him more. Afterall, isn't that where He wants us to be . . . fully devoted to Him. Step out today, let your sense of inadequacy push you toward God and watch what He can accomplish through you.

Application ::

- Are you battling with a sense of inadequacy?

- Which way is it pushing you?

- Have you asked God for the strength to trust Him in those situations?

- How has your faith grown through inadequacy?

Would like to hear how God is working in your life, please share.

Just Another Thought

2009-05-29T11:55:00.001-04:00

I mentioned in the last blog that we often become discouraged and even disillusioned in our walk with Christ when we base how well, or not well, things are going based on our personal expectations. When our expectations aren't met we often think God is not working. We become frustrated and our decisions and thoughts can take a turn that God is not in. God has never asked me if my expectations are being met - He has asked me to stay the course, follow Him and trust Him.

Here's something else about expectations. Sometimes we try to live by the expectations others have for us. It's another dangerous place to be. When we do that we no longer ask God what He wants - instead we make decisions based on what others expect of us. We begin to live our life based on people, not God. We even begin to doubt ourselves thinking we can never live up to the expectations others place on us. We literally paralyze ourselves in accomplishing God's plan for us when we live by expectations. Again, I encourage you today quit living in your Expectations or the Expectations of others - begin living Expecting God to work in you first and then through you.

Peter is a great example. He expected to live true to Jesus no matter the cost. Jesus told Peter that before the day ended he [Peter] would deny Him. Peter said no way, I'l never do that . . . until after it happened and the words of Jesus rang out in his memory. Peter tried to live in his own power, and in his expectations. Jesus showed him how important it is to live 'In Christ' and not our expectations.

Team Hoyt is another expample, have you ever heard of them? It's a father/son duo running team. They have completed hundreds of marathons, 10K's, Ironman competitions and other running exploits. They have even run across the US. The kicker is only one of them can run. Dick the dad runs, while Rick the son is confined to a wheelchair. Dick is the strength and Rick is the heart. Rick sustained life threatening injuries during childbirth and has never been able to run or walk. No one gave him hope to accomplish anything in life - but he decided he would not live up to Expectations, he's lived well beyond the Expectations people have had for him. He graduated from High School and college and Team Hoyt began running and they haven't stopped since. What an incredible illustration for us, if we will dream Expecting God to do great things and rely on His - Jesus - strength, no Expectation will stop us when God is in control.

Application

1. Are you living confined by Expectations - let them go and Expect God to do great things!

2. Do you feel discouraged or frustrated because things haven't gone like you expected? If so, God has brought you to this point to show you that you can't accomplish His plan - give God the helm of your life again.

3. List what you are Expecting God for and begin to pray for them. In the meantime, trust Him, enjoy the journey, make yourself completely available to Him and watch the favor of God at work in your life.

just a thought . . .

2009-05-27T11:17:00.001-04:00

I've been thinking a lot lately about expectations. Last week we talked about discouragement, and I've discovered in life that there is one sure way to bring discouragement to our life . . . to base our thoughts, and decision making, on our expectations. Expectations are good, but we trek on risky ground when we make decisions based on our expectations. Often our expectations are full of self . . . looking out for what we want and not what God wants. It takes faith for a person to look candidly at their expectations and say, "God, what are You up to . . . what are You trying to teach me?"

Here's the twist, if you are walking through life based on your expectations, I challenge you to begin asking to God to remove your Expectations and exchange it for an attitude of Expecting . . . we'll call it 'Expecting God.' When we do this it takes all the weight off of us and places it on Him which is what He tells us to do, "Cast all your care on me . . ." Expecting God means we are walking in faith that He is faithful regardless of what circumstances or situations tell us. Expecting God causes us to come to Him with joy and peace because we realize we can't make things happen, it's all up to God. Expecting God helps us to hear God's Word and say Holy Spirit work Your Word in my life. Expecting God brings hope to hopeless situations. When we walk through life with our pre-conceived expectations, discouragement, frustration, disillusionment and disappointment set in . . . we make bad decisions based on selfish motives and keep God from showing us His power. When we walk through life Expecting then we can't wait to see what happens next, we realize our insufficiency and we witness God in all His grandeur.

Today, are you walking through life with expectations that never seem to be met - or are you walking through life expecting God to do what you can never do, expecting Him to move in the most hopeless situations, expecting Him to be where He doesn't appear to be? Who thought God would be in a bush, yet He set it on fire and things were never the same. Elizabeth Barrett Browning says, "Earth's crammed with heaven, and every common bush afire with God. But only those who sees takes of his shoes, the rest just sit around and pick blueberries." I want to see God at work in the lives of people and it rarely looks like my expectations. God is calling you to a life of 'Expecting God' to work incredibly in our lives, in our church - what stops Him most of the time is when He doesn't meet our expectations. Exchange your expectations for Expecting God and see what a difference it makes. I'll follow up tomorrow with a cool story about letting go of our expectations and Expecting God to do awesome things. Keep watching . . . until then:

- Make the exchange - let go of your expectations and exchange it for a faith of Expecting God.

- What are your expectations? Are they being met?

-Wouldn't it be nice to know that God doesn't always work through our expectations, we just need to Expect God!

Life is either a daring adventure, or nothing at all. - Helen Keller

this week at ConnexionChurch

2009-05-22T08:34:00.001-04:00

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Keep Pedaling!

2009-05-21T11:05:00.000-04:00

It's amazing how God works in life. The right words, at just the right time seems to me to be how God works most of the time. I've been thinking a lot lately about surrender and how that is what God asks of His followers - a constant surrender to Jesus. This morning I received this dvo from David Jeremiah, it spoke to me and I wanted to share it with you. God bless and as you'll read below . . . keep pedaling!

The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD.
Psalm 37:23

What A Day . . .

2009-05-19T20:23:00.000-04:00

I'm sure your familiar with the old saying, "God is good all the time, and all the time God is good!" I don't hear that as much as I used to, but I know it's still true. Another thing I know is, God is always in control and is always watching over us. I've was looking in Psalms a few days ago and ran across Psalm 33.13-14, "The Lord looks down from heaven and sees the whole human race. From His throne He observes all who live on the earth." In 34.17 it says, "The Lord hears His people when they call to Him for help." It's awesome to know that God is that close to us. He knows our concerns, our struggles our worries. He cares about our hurts, trials and discouragements. I was talking to a friend today and he reminded me of James 1.2-4, "Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles [insert your trouble here] come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed you will be perfect and complete needing nothing." Often we want perfection and completion without the endurance, but that's not what the Bible says will happen. Our completion [needing nothing] will come from endurance, and endurance can only be built in the trials, struggles and discouragements of life . . . the testing of our faith.

Today you may be going through a tough time . . . whether its at work, home, family, church, or wherever it may be. Just know God is close and He's looking down on you. He hears you when you call for help. He's not far away. He's concerned about your life. He knows your concerns. Just don't back-out, give up or quit before the He builds in you the endurance you need. When you allow that struggle to fully work itself for God's glory, then, and only then, will you begin to be complete in your pursuit of Him.

- Are you going through a test of faith?

- Are you giving it to God or trying to work it out yourself?

- Are the lack of answers causing you to doubt God?

- Please share, I would like to hear from you.

21 Days of Prayer & Fasting

2009-01-14T17:54:00.001-05:00

Prayer enlarges our vision.

Isaiah 54.2-3

"Enlarge your house; build an addition. Spread out your home, and spare no expense! 3 For your descendants will occupy other nations and resettle the ruined cities.

21 Days of Prayer & Fasting

2009-01-14T10:07:00.003-05:00

God loves people! Many people view God as being distant and not caring about what happens to us, but that is not an accurate view of God. God has done everything necessary through Jesus Christ to reach out to mankind. His hope is that we will reach out to Him. God wants to hear from His people - His desire is to help us, protect us, guide us and care for us. If you view God as waiting to pounce on every mistake you make, know He loves you and that is not His nature. My prayer is that during this time of prayer and fasting. He will change your mind and help you see Him as a caring Father. If you are dealing with something that needs God's protection, carry it to God in prayer. Nothing is too great or small that He will not care for you. Have a great day knowing God cares for you.

Ezra 8.23

So we fasted and earnestly prayed that our God would take care of us, and He heard our prayer.

21 Days of Prayer & Fasting - January 11-31, 2009

2009-01-13T15:00:00.002-05:00

We're partnering with over 300 churches in 21 Days of Prayer & Fasting. This is an exciting time in the life of ConnexionChurch. Over the next 3 weeks I'll update this blog daily with and encouraging word and scripture. If you have been unsure about participating and would like to, know that you can begin at anytime, even if its one day each week. Participating in the entire 21 days is encouraged, but start where you can and see what God does in your life and the life of ConnexionChurch.

If you would like to visit the Awakening blog you can do that at awake21.org. God Bless and we're praying for you.

_______________________

Prayer Prepares Our Future

Philippians 3.13-14

No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.

The Power of Relationships

2009-01-06T18:06:00.002-05:00

It's always hard to see fellow ministers fall. Not only the person that failed and the struggle they and their families go through, but the body of Christ suffers, too. One such pastor that inspired me and my desire to see a church grow in relationships is Ted Haggard, former Pastor of New Life Church in Colorado Springs, CO. Its unfortunate what he has put himself through, but none-the-less, his insight into the power of relationships is life-changing. Here's an excerpt from his book Dog Training, Fly-Fishing and Sharing Christ in the 21st Century:

"It has always interested me that all of the Old Testament prophets were unable to fully communicate the truth about God, so He had to come in person to demonstrate what He was like. He showed us His character through relationships with a few fisherman, a couple of tax collectors, some Pharisees, a harlot, and a thief on a cross. The revelation of the divine by means of His incarnation in the form of a man is an incredible concept, and I think it continues today as the principal role of the body of Christ. We can’t merely teach godliness; we have to embody godliness. I believe God so insists on this idea that He won’t allow His character to be ingrained into our lives without it being imparted and refined through relationships."

Never underestimate what God wants to do through you! He created you with passion, and abilities so that you can impact the life of someone else. Never underestimate where you are in life, if Jesus could use the disciples He can use any of us. Through relationships we will grow, alone we will always be who we are right now. I want to grow . . . let's grow together.

Merry Christmas from ConnexionChurch.tv

2008-12-23T11:32:00.003-05:00

Weekend Reflection

2008-12-15T11:14:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was an awesome day. The band was on yesterday and we had a great service. The afternoon was busy and the evening was great! We got to hang out with a little over 30 people from ConnexionChurch who went Christmas Caroling at Springmoor and then to our house for appetizers and a lot of fun. We had a blast!

God is awesome and I can't wait to see what He has in store for 2009. In January we begin ConnexionGroups, 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting, our next Series "Now What?" and I can't wait. Help us pray as together we lead people to become fully devoted followers of Christ!

I Corinthians 2.9 says | No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him.

Christmas Cheer

2008-12-10T11:46:00.001-05:00

Connexion Christmas Caroling

Date | 14 December 2008

Time | 5:00P

Location | Springmoor LifeCare Center | Creedmoor at Sawmill

For more information visit www.connexionchurch.tv

What I'm Reading

2008-11-26T16:40:00.002-05:00

I've been reading it | How Churches and Leaders Can Get it and Keep it | by Craig Groeschel, Pastor of LifeChurch in Oklahoma City. It's very good book talking about, what I consider, the anointing of God. If our goal is to lead people to become fully devoted followers of Christ, we can't do it by ourselves. The Holy Spirit must be active within us and our minds, and hearts, must be focused on Christ and what He wants.

In the first section of the book, Pastor Craig give what he calls the best description of what it is and the qualities an it church has:

- A Passion for His Presence

- A Deep Craving to Reach the Lost

- Sincere Intregrity

- Spirit Filled Faith

- Down to Earth Humility

- Brokeness

We'll talk about this more in future blogs, but let me ask a couple of questions:

- Are these qualities alive in you?

- Is there an obvious quality that is neglected in your life and needs nurturing?

- What will you do differently to see these qualities come to life in you?

Let's be life-giving, let's pursuit the heart of God and with complete devotion, let's impact Raleigh with good news - the message of Christ!

2008-11-04T21:50:00.004-05:00

Join us for our latest series :: The Pursuit of Joy

Every Sunday at 10.30AM

Lynn Road Elementary School

visit www.connexionchurch.tv for more info and directions.

ConnexionChurch.tv Launches

2008-10-06T13:23:00.002-04:00

ConnexionChurch.tv is now three weeks old. We had a great Launch Sunday and God is blessing. We've had new people visit the church each week and it's been a blessing meeting them and getting to know them. Keep ConnexionChurch in your prayers. We want to be life-giving and lead people to become fully devoted followers of Christ. The more I read and study churches, the more I hear that phrase . . . it sums up, in the most simple terms, what God's desire is for everyone. The journey of growing in God brings both joy and pain; but it's all good for those who love God and are living out His purpose. Becoming a fully devoted follower of Christ is never an over-night process, it rarely happens at a single event, or in one service; it's a process that God carries us through. God's awesome!

Launch Sunday

2008-09-16T23:08:00.004-04:00

Mark Batterson's New Book :: Wild Goose Chase

2008-08-26T10:44:00.004-04:00

Most of us have no idea where we're going most of the time. Perfect.

"Celtic Christians had a name for the Holy Spirit - An Geadh-Glas, or 'the Wild Goose.' The name hints at mystery. Much like a wild goose, the Spirit of god cannot be tracked or tamed. An element of danger, an air of unpredictability surround Him. And while the name may sound a little sacrilegious, I cannot think of a better description of what it's like to follow the Spirit through life. I think the Celtic Christians were on to something . . .

Most of us will have no idea where we are going most of the time. And I know that is unsettling. but circumstantial uncertainty also goes by another name: Adventure." --from the introduction.

About Mark Batterson

Mark is the lead pastor of Washington, DC's National Community Church, widely recognized as one of America's most innovative churches. NCC meets in move theaters at metro stops throughout the city, as well as in a church-owned coffee house near Union Station. More than seventy percent of NCC'ers are single twenty-somethings who live or work on Capitol Hill. Mark is the author of the best-selling In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day and a widely read blogger (www.markbatterson.com). He lives on Capitol Hill with his wife, Lora and their three children.

Wild Goose Chase can be purchased at www.amazon.com.

September 21 Is On The Way

2008-08-24T19:47:00.004-04:00

Today was our third Sunday at Lynn Road Elementary School. It has been going very well. We have our set-up time to around 30 minutes and tear-down is about 25 minutes. Our team is the best! We couldn't ask for a better group of people to work with. Please be in prayer for us, there are a few ministry areas we need to fill, but now worries we're doing our part and I know God will do His.

We just finished a TellStart campaign, thousands of people in Raleigh heard about the church plant. We had 117 families that responded to the message and are planning to join us. If you need direct marketing go to www.tellstart.com, they do a great job!

Our first series is True Life . . . that's the message we want people to hear. God is good and people need Him. Help us pray that we will lead people into a growing relationship with Him.

Thanks for your prayer and tell everyone you know about ConnexionChurch, we begin September 21.

Weekend Update

2008-07-29T11:17:00.004-04:00

We had a great weekend, here it goes . . .

1. Our ConnexionGroups are awesome...we had a great one Friday night - there was no more space in our living room and we were missing quite a few.

2. Travis brought by our ConnexionGroup sign, it looks awesome. The car magnets are awesome too. Thanks Travis for all your help (and Pam for working it out).

3. iConnect was incredible. Not as many guests as we had hoped, but the team worked together and we had a lot of fun. Lessons were learned that we need to grow on.

4. This Sunday was our last day at The Capital. Many of the launch team members were there for a commissioning prayer from The Capital. It was a great day!

5. Thanks Capital for all you have done - keep us in prayer and know that what God has begun in you we want to continue in North Raleigh . . . leading people to become fully devoted followers of Christ!

God is Good!

2008-07-23T09:26:00.003-04:00

1 Samuel 16.7
But the Lord said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart."

Yesterday I began thinking of two key words . . . Impress and Exhibit and this verse came to mind. We often think that church only deals with our spiritual side, but I'm not sure that's the case. In the context of this verse, we see that Samuel looked at Eliab and thought he was of God. However, God made it clear that Eliab was not "the guy" and explained to Samuel that people look at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart.

It seems that many believers try to play God's role by looking at the outer and judging the heart. This verse doesn't ask us to do that . . . and we shouldn't try. This verse simply states the facts that we [people] gather information from what we see. God in his infinite wisdom, however, knows the deepest intents, motives and desires our hearts. So, where does Impress and Exhibit come into play. I'm glad you asked!

Consider this, as ConnexionChurch launches we need to keep in mind that God works through relationships. If what people see attracts them, that's great. Let's try to do everything we can to give a Great Impression, after all, people look at those things. Impressing doesn't change peoples hearts, but it does keep them coming back. We also need to Exhibit. More than likely people will not see Jesus in His flesh come and worship with us on Launch Sunday. However, if we are fully devoted to Jesus they will see Him in us. As the song says, we become His hands and feet. It is vitally important we show the love, mercy, grace and hope that we know in Jesus. Its only when people see Christ in us that ConnexionChurch can make a difference. Seeing Christ deals with our attitudes, motives, putting others first, faith in Christ and the list goes on.

Impression is important . . . it keeps people coming back. Exhibiting Christ is important . . . it will lead people to salvation. We need both!

Do you make it a priority to exhibit Christ? Have you ever been guilty of judging the heart because of the exterior? Make it your prayer to Exhibit Christ and let the Holy Spirit do the heart-work.

Just a Week Away

2008-07-17T14:49:00.001-04:00

Random Thoughts

2008-07-17T06:37:00.000-04:00

- God is good, all the time . . . all the time, God is good!

- We have an awesome launch team . . . they are the best!

- We have an awesome "mother church" The Capital Church, Garner, NC . . . whose vision 40 years ago when they planted was to plant another church. The wisdom and diligence God has given them has made ConnexionChurch possible today.

- Our launch is only 6 weeks away

- Revival is seeing people come to know Christ . . . I'm ready for revival!

- Relationships, Relationships, Relationships

- God never fails, He is always faithful . . . He has shown His faithfulness every step of this church launch

- Never forget our goal . . . to lead people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ.

- Excellence is not perfection . . . its giving your best.

- Pray, pray, pray for the team, the people we are ministering to, for wisdom, courage and strength.

What are your random thoughts, please share.

Dangerous Church

2008-07-02T13:52:00.001-04:00

Over the past few days, I've been thinking about what church is and is not all about. It seems that we've made church safe . . . comfortable, no hick-ups and no real expectations. Read through Acts . . . particularly Paul's events. Now he played it safe . . . imprisoned, beat up, snake bit, shipwrecked, mobs, riots, assassination attempts on him . . . and he still wanted to stay on earth because people needed someone to tell them about Jesus.

Paul knew that safety was not the concern . . . unless its the safety of a soul in eternity. He had a message - Jesus Christ. He had a passion - sharing with people. He had a mission - to see people come to know Christ. Everything else was secondary. I think we have to ask ourselves . . . Are we true to the message? Are we passionate about people? Are we focused on our mission? Many believers struggle with this, but we don't have to. Go back and read Acts . . . not for the manifestations that occurred . . . but for the attitude of "Whatever it takes I will share Christ!" Let God stir in you a passion to see people changed through the message of Jesus Christ.

Church has been safe too long - let's be a New Testament church . . . let's be dangerous!

Has church become safe and comfortable for you? Are you willing to be a dangerous church? What do you think is more important - safety or reaching people with a life-giving message?

I would like to hear from you.

The Nature of ConnexionChurch | pt 4

2008-06-25T11:04:00.000-04:00

The Church is a Flock (perhaps Jesus' favorite description of the Church)

John 10.1-30; Matthew 26.31; Matthew 25.33

John10.9-10

Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures. The thief's purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.

Therefore it is cared for and led by SHEPHERDS.

Several terms are used in the New Testament to refer to the same church leader:

- "Poimen" ; pastor/shepherd

- "Presbuteros"; elder

-"Episcopos"; overseer and bishop

1 Peter 5.1-2

To the elders I say . . . Be shepherds of God's flock, serving as overseers.

Acts 20.17-18, 28

Paul sent to Ephesus for the elders of the church. When they arrived he said to them . . . Guard yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made your overseers. Be pastors of the church of God . . ."

see also Titus 1.5-7; 1 Timothy 5.17; 1 Peter 2.25

Summary of the Nature of ConnexionChurch:

1- We are a Fellowship

2- We are a Family

3- We are a Body

4- We are a Flock

The Growth Spectrum

2008-06-24T09:08:00.000-04:00

I must confess . . . God is reminding me what's important. Do you ever feel like you've had a "butt-whipping" from God. I feel like that today. It started yesterday afternoon talking with my coach from ARC (www.relatedchurches.com). Then it continued last night reading Acts 14, then again this morning as I was reading Acts 14 again. So here it is . . . we must remember that with all their is to do in planting a church (starting a new job, beginning a new life-stage, getting married, where-ever it is you may be in your spiritual journey) we can't forget what we are here to do.

For us all the things we have to do include:

- secure a location

- set-up the children's ministry

- recruit a worship team

- form a 'first touch' team

- develop the sermon series

- buy equipment

- get a trailer

- etc., etc., etc.

But, what we are here to do is . . . to lead people to become fully devoted followers of Christ! In order to do that we have to grow in our relationship with Christ - the fruit of your growth and my growth is that we will be used by God to lead other people to grow in their relationship with Christ. God's plan for reaching people is through you and me . . . all of us are ministers. So how 'bout it . . . where are you in the growth spectrum? Are you growing? Is your life affecting someone else? Is your faith stronger today than yesterday? If for whatever reason you feel that your relationship with God is weaker today than it has been, then I encourage you to stop what you are doing, take time to focus on God, ask Him for renewed strength, and make Him number 1 again! A couple of things are certain . . . God hasn't gone anywhere and He wants a close relationship with you!

Isaiah 40.31

But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength . . .

What do you do to protect your relationship with God? What helps you grow stronger in Christ? Where are you in the 'Growth Spectrum'? I would like to hear from you.

Relationships versus Rules

2008-06-23T11:18:00.000-04:00

I'm pretty competitive when it comes to games. I like to know what the rules are . . . and if it's a board game the rules sheet is always nearby and I often refer to it (needless to say, I like when they work to my advantage). Rules are good, they keep order, hopefully they keep you focused, they make things run smoothly, our streets are chaotic without them. But . . . how do rules affect our relationships.

In relationships rules are needed as well, but what happens when the rules are protected more than the relationship is valued? (I'm inserting a test to see who reads the blogs, if you are reading this - please reply to this blog with a 'yes' if I don't hear from you I assume you didn't get this far. Thanks for your help.) I wander how Jesus felt when the rules of the Pharisees were more valued than His message of hope, life and salvation. Sometimes it seems that we are far more concerned about policy and our rules than we are in seeing someone grow as a follower of Christ. Perhaps it is not a matter of relationships versus rules, rather which do we value more . . . which is most important? This week, think about the balance you have between rules and relationships. Think about what matters the most . . . which do you protect the most . . . how do you allow rules to strengthen relationships, how do you allow rules to hurt relationships? Which do you value the most?

What is most important to you, I want to hear from you?

Churches Helping Churches

2008-06-23T10:15:00.001-04:00

Yesterday we had the opportunity to share the vision of ConnexionChurch with Glad Tidings Church in Morehead City. Pastor Tim Marriner (who formerly pastored The Capital Church our mother church) invited us to share what we are doing with their church. Wow!!! What an incredible spirit of life and joy they have. Thanks Pastor Tim and Glad Tidings for allowing us to come and for your support! You all are awesome. If you're ever in Morehead City, NC be sure to visit them. You can visit them on the web at www.gtcalive.com.

Let's Tweet

2008-06-19T10:05:00.000-04:00

Leadership requires constant learning. When we stop learning our leadership will sooner or later (mostly sooner) begin to make less of an impact. As leaders its important the we remain constant learners. I've always found it interesting to know how great leaders think - church leaders, business leaders, political leaders - so that it will challenge me to become a more effective leader. I found a neat webtool the other day that gives insight into this. Take a look at www.twitter.com

Its really cool to hear how other leaders use their time, what they prioritize, how they have fun and what they do to energize. If you decide to follow people, stay on guard. Be careful who you follow and always ask yourself is this helping me grow as a leader and a Christ-follower. If it doesn't then don't bother with it. So far I've found it to be useful . . . so let's tweet.

Do you tweet? How do you build the leadership potential in you? What leaders do you read, follow, listen to, etc?

The Nature of ConnexionChurch | pt 3

2008-06-18T17:42:00.000-04:00

ConnexionChurch is a BODY

Many churches operate as a business, decisions are based on what is the best interest of the church as a business. At Connexion, we strive to be a body - not a business. An organism - not an organization. Because of this, we strive to function on the basis of Spiritual Gifts.

In an organization - maintenance becomes the focus. In an organism - ministry is the focus. Our goal is to maximize ministry, minimize maintenance and see people function as ministers.

Romans 12.4-6

Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We each have different gifts according to the grace given to us.

- Joe Francisco

For earlier posts on this topic visit www.connexionchurch.tv

Time = People

2008-06-18T13:48:00.000-04:00

So, I received an email recently from a sales trainer who wants to motivate me to make more sales. Attached to the email is a chart called Time = Money. For example, if you make $100,000 per year, then one week of your time is work $1,923. One day of your time is worth $382.60. One hour of your time is worth $48.08, and one minute of your time is worth $.80. In return, an hour saved each week for one year equals $2,500 saved. This chart bring things into perspective for me as far as time management in concerned, BUT . . . think about time management this way.

Many of you will be investing a lot of your time into the launch of ConnexionChurch. I want to share with you what your time means to us and to the Kingdom of God . . .

If you invest one hour a week at Connexion and 8 people make a decision for Christ each week; you will have invested 52 hours over the course of the year and 416 people will have made a life-changing decision for Christ. I am convinced that ConnexionChurch will see more than 416 people make that decision. However, if we all consider what our time means to the Kingdom of God, we will see that one hour a week is definitely worth 8 decisions of life-change. Even if you sacrifice as much as 8 hours each week it is well worth the time invested because every hour equals 1 soul. Thank you for all your hard work, sacrifice and input. ConnexionChurch could not and would not exist without your sacrifices! And for that we say THANK YOU! You guys are awesome and I can't wait to see how God uses each of your gifts this year. Hey continue to read the blogs Joe is posting called "The Nature of ConnexionChurch," I think his writings are going to be very insightful to the heart of our launch.

Many of you will be investing a lot of your time into this launch. Just know what your time means to us and to the Kingdom of God!

- Bill Rose