christianwebsite4's Space http://christianwebsite4.posterous.com Most recent posts at christianwebsite4's Space posterous.com Thu, 04 Oct 2012 05:48:00 -0700 Does Government Rule Churches http://christianwebsite4.posterous.com/does-government-rule-churches http://christianwebsite4.posterous.com/does-government-rule-churches


James 2:3
And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool:

Does Government Rule What Churches Preach?
By Sylvie Hache

The often sited Thomas Jefferson quote, from his 1802 letter to the Danbury Baptists states:

"I contemplate with sovereign reverence that act of the whole American people which declared that their legislature should 'make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof,' thus building a wall of separation between Church & State."

As stated, Jefferson's position is that legislature should make no law prohibiting the free exercise of religion, as a result building a wall of separation between church and state. Yet sadly, I discovered this is exactly what is happening in many of our churches today.

There are so many gay-friendly churches 'coming out,' it appears churches are finally accepting what the gay community has been fighting for years to achieve. I was one of those within the congregation of a gay-friendly church, seeking truth before beginning my journey into a life of homosexuality. In this church, I thought I finally had found the loop-hole - the one that shared what all other churches didn't dare share. The one finally willing to admit God doesn't make mistakes; He loves us all equally and being gay was the way I was created to be. What resulted was a confidence that God approved of my homosexual lifestyle. However, to my dismay, thirteen-years later, I discovered and experienced so many negative effects and consequences intertwined throughout my life that were so devastating, I had to dig deeper to find out why my life had become a hellish merry-go-round.

Please know it is not my position or intent to suggest how anyone should live. Even God will not tell us what type of life to live - that is our free-will choice. However I am compelled to share what I discovered.

I discovered many of these gay-friendly churches are coming out, but unfortunately, not for the reason you may think. I learned legislature was creating laws prohibiting the free exercise of what some churches can do and preach. How are they doing this? They're doing this by initiating fear of closure due to lack of funding. In other words, punish the behavior you don't want and reward the one you do. This is especially prevalent as it relates to teachings regarding homosexuality; which is highly unfortunate for everyone involved - the churches, government, congregation, even the non-straight (LGBTQ) community.

What I found is the government is being led by the LGBTQ community to legally force churches to support and perform same-sex marriages; otherwise, they potentially stand to lose their non-profit charitable donation status. As such, several churches are now following suit simply to ensure they do not lose funding and be forced to close down. How can you find truth when it's not allowed to be spoken?

I believe we all deserve to know the truth - especially if we seek it. I wanted to know the truth all those years ago, prior to entering into a non-straight lifestyle (that's why I went to church), but instead received mistruth from a church apparently afraid of losing their charitable donation status. I believe it is our God-given right as citizens to receive the information we seek. I consider it deplorable to be refused this information, by fear imposed by government rule - especially while in a church.

If you are reading this and are struggling with your sexual orientation, looking for answers to questions and trying to figure out the truth, I encourage you to read Insight In Sight - Was I Born Like This? It was written to help you by providing answers to the tough questions and so your life does not become a devastating experience. I also encourage churches to obtain and read this book. While being the author this may look self-serving, I ask any church who desires a copy of this book to contact me and I will forward a free copy. And I encourage passing it around. It is a quick and easy read. So get your questions answered, get all the information and weigh what you've learned without any agenda, so that you can make the proper unbiased decision. And, whatever you choose let it be based on truth. After all, aren't you worth it?

Author of Insight In Sight: Was I Born Like This? A straight gone gay gone straight lady, who shares the journey and how she did it. http://www.sylviehache.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sylvie_Hache
http://EzineArticles.com/?Does-Government-Rule-What-Churches-Preach?&id=7172856


Sanctus Real - Forgiven w/ Lyrics
What else to read? Well you could try this: http://www.websites4christians.com/our-blog/157-christian-websites.html or christianwebsite4.jimdo.com or better still the rest of this site.

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Wed, 03 Oct 2012 06:39:00 -0700 How to Build Effective Christian Business http://christianwebsite4.posterous.com/how-to-build-effective-christian-business-82188 http://christianwebsite4.posterous.com/how-to-build-effective-christian-business-82188


Hebrews 2:9
But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.

How to Build Effective Christian Business Websites
By Thomas Freers

Every business that operates online would require a good website. With online marketing you will need to have a good website that would be able to attract more visitors, get more prospective customers and provide you with more profits. A good quality website can provide you a lot of benefits. Even for those who are running a Christian business or are thinking about starting one, Christian business websites are very necessary. A lot of people today are starting affiliate marketing businesses. However, the main problem with affiliate marketing is that most of these businesses come with replicated websites that most people use.

Why Replicated Websites are Not Good

Before you use replicated Christian business websites you should know that these will not always be attractive. Some of these websites are quite flashy and have hyped up marketing pages, loud music and animated banners which turn off customers. Also, most of these websites do not offer customers what they are actually looking for- quality information and content. Quite a lot of these websites also do not have a form for capturing the contact information of the visitors. It is very important that any website you use for your business should provide you full control so that you can offer something extra to your prospective customers.

A Good Website will Need Good Quality Content

If you want to bring in more customers for your business then you will need good quality Christian business websites. Any good quality website would require good quality content. If you are thinking about starting a new business then you will have to research a little to find out what type of content is popular with prospective customers. You will have to provide information on your website that would be informative, interesting, simple to understand and attractively put together. Quality content is what the search engines are looking for to. Your visitors will have plenty of questions or will have specific needs and with your website content you can provide answers for all of these questions. This would be one of the best ways to build a loyal customer base that you can rely on in the future.

Simple Navigation

Any good website should also provide simple navigation. There are several websites that tend to be too complicated with too many pages. A lot of visitors would leave these sites without actually signing up for anything simply because they do not easily find the information that they had been looking for. Ensure that your Christian business websites offer a good site plan and easy navigation to your pages.

If you keep all of these points in mind you will be able to build effective Christian business websites that will bring in more prospective customers for you.

Learn more about Christian business websites.Thomas Freers is Christian and has been serving the body of Christ for over two decades. He teaches Biblical Principles on a balance life and is an Online Marketing Coach for what is arguably the World's Largest Internet Marketing School available today. He specializes in Article Marketing, Social Media networking and various other marketing strategies and works with small and large companies to help them customize their marketing campaigns. With over 50 different marketing strategies available today you must learn which one suits your personality. To learn more about Thomas Freers and to see more effective principles to explode your Internet business to create big profits and get results go to http://christianworkathomeblog.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Freers
http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Build-Effective-Christian-Business-Websites&id=5779243

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Mon, 01 Oct 2012 02:43:00 -0700 Spreading The Good News http://christianwebsite4.posterous.com/spreading-the-good-news http://christianwebsite4.posterous.com/spreading-the-good-news


Genesis 6:12
And God looked upon the earth, and, behold, it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted his way upon the earth.

Spreading The Good News Through Christian Newspapers
By Marcy Watson

Christian News is a world apart from the usual news that comes out through the various media. What makes it different is the underlying message of Christianity. But it is not just for Christians and the news items or articles are not all about Christianity and the Bible. The articles are meant for the world audience and are about a wide variety of topics ranging from every day living to international politics. Christian News paper serves the purpose of upholding the values that Christ taught us with his life and making people realize the need for making a difference in this greed ridden world by living a life of service to all mankind.

For example, an article in a News website focused on the welfare program for the Haiti earthquake victims. The program is planned as a long term venture to provide material and spiritual support for the poor people. Another news item in an online Christian-News paper talks about the efforts of the Jews in Israel to protect the Christians in the land against oppression from Muslim terrorists. There also have been articles related to the issues and laws of gay marriages. So the articles and news items include regional and international affairs and messages based on Christian themes.

Christian websites are also a venue for people to seek guidance and counseling for various life issues. The Christian missionaries and experts in different fields will be very much ready to help you out from the teething problems that you face in daily life. Christian communities can keep in constant contact through these sites. The great experiences that you have had while living a fruitful life can be shared with others through News so that they can also avail of similar blessings in their own lives.

Christian News paper is one way to constantly open people's eyes to the issues that the world is facing today. You can join hands with any Christian organization engaged in welfare activities through the websites. You can also give your views on any topic that you feel others should know about by submitting your articles, blog posts, or comments. Since a chief aim of News is to fight against the growing international tensions and social evils, most of the articles opine about the same. Overall, the core theme of loving thy neighbor like thyself is what drives Christian News paper forward, to make people feel the importance of transforming this world into a heavenly home.

For more information on Christian News and Christian News paper, please visit our website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marcy_Watson
http://EzineArticles.com/?Spreading-The-Good-News-Through-Christian-Newspapers&id=5781987

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Sun, 30 Sep 2012 02:14:00 -0700 Responsible Christian Websites http://christianwebsite4.posterous.com/responsible-christian-websites http://christianwebsite4.posterous.com/responsible-christian-websites


Philippians 3:12
Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.

Responsible Christian Websites Must Teach on Obedience to Christ
By Robert R Fenn

Jesus said why you call me Lord, Lord when you do not do the things I tell you to. He was just asking a simple question to people who hear him say many things, but do not respond in obedience. What is obedience? Obedience is nothing but responding to a call.

When I say to my daughter come here, and she does not come. What do you call that, ignorance, or you did not hear or did not understand or plain arrogance or disobedience? It is that simple. You either obey or disobey. Christian Websites should teach clearly on this.

When you obey it is positive and when you disobey it is negative. Negative response has consequences. However, Jesus was asking us why? He wants to know why we do not respond positively.

The question is why you call me Lord. Lord means master, guru, chief, and boss. In the world, the word Lord has no meaning. The only word I can relate to being Boss. If you do not respond to your boss you lose your job. You lose your security the paycheck. Christian Websites should not try to make but teach people to receive blessings from God.

If you make a habit of it, you may end up losing your job everywhere. Lord is your creator, your all and the source of your very life and blessing. The key is only in obedience can you receive any benefit from God.

Jesus is astounded when he meets disobedience from his own people. Do not they want any blessing from me? Do not you understand that only in obedience can you receive all that you need here on the earth and the next life?

He also added that you not only do not respond positively in obedience but also claim to know me. He said you will come t me in the last days and claim you know, and you have done many remarkable things in my name.

The funny thing is he does not know you... He says I do not know you. What are you talking about, I do not know you? Why do you keep saying you have done all these things I did not ask you do? I asked you obey me. Christian Websites teach more Jesus's teaching directly.

We all know what God requires from us as believers. There is no question about God's requirement in the Bible. The problem we have is to give excuses and avoid his direct instructions. We also put up a wall and claim we do not understand what means.

We need many books to be written about it and explain to us what it means. How many books do you need to explain the meaning of do not steal or do not commit adultery'? Christian Websites should be careful to emphasis obedience.

Robert Fenn is a pastor, preacher, mentor and bible teacher for over 40 years. His writings reflect his personal daily walk, struggles, victories and failures. He loves to share God's unfailing love, protection and guidance to others throughout his life.

Christian Websites [http://www.christianwebsites.biz/]

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_R_Fenn
http://EzineArticles.com/?Responsible-Christian-Websites-Must-Teach-on-Obedience-to-Christ&id=3730517

Are you still searching for more? Well if my site can't give you it why not try http://www.websites4christians.com/our-blog/120-christian-website.html or christianwebsite4.webs.com instead.

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Fri, 28 Sep 2012 03:57:00 -0700 Alternative Halloween Celebrations http://christianwebsite4.posterous.com/alternative-halloween-celebrations http://christianwebsite4.posterous.com/alternative-halloween-celebrations


2 Timothy 3:1
This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.

Alternative Halloween Celebrations for Churches: Outdoor Movies
By Paul B Murray

Parents all over are experiencing increasing fears about the safety of trick or treating and other traditional Halloween activities. Adults worry about children being out after dark, especially unsupervised, and are concerned about the risks of consuming treats from strangers. Trusted community organizations like churches, youth groups, schools and daycare centers have begun filling the need for safe and fun alternative activities for children. Planning a unique event filled with fun fall activities will help both parents and children have an enjoyable and worry free Halloween evening.

Churches looking for a unique and non-secular way to help families in the community celebrate Halloween and the fall season should consider a Halloween or fall themed outdoor movie event on a giant inflatable movie screen right at their facility. An open air cinema event will appeal to both children and parents as an alternative to potentially dangerous trick or treating or other unsupervised Halloween activities. Fun games and activities and a wholesome family movie are the keys to a successful alternative Halloween event.

The church can start the evening by offering some fun activities like "Trunk n treat", bobbing for apples, fall carnival games, children's crafts, tractor rides and face painting. Volunteers can help run the booths and, if desired and possible, prizes like candy or other small favors can be given out to participating children. Offer a picnic dinner or warm snack food such as popcorn, hot cider, or s'mores during the evening's event.
A movie like "It's The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown", "Scooby Doo", or any other family friendly movie, shown on a large movie screen with portable cinema equipment will be the perfect ending to the event. After time spent with friends and family enjoying games and other activities; children and adults will enjoy relaxing and enjoying a movie together on blankets and lawn chairs.

A safe fall event like this is perfect for families concerned about Halloween safety, or those who simply want to stay away from the stresses of trick or treating and enjoy a fun evening with friends and family. An outdoor movie event is easy to organize through the help of professional outdoor movie event companies who can turn your venue into an outdoor movie theater is only a few hours. A family movie night showing at church adds a unique element that will make the event stand out in the community and will encourage more families to attend.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_B_Murray
http://EzineArticles.com/?Alternative-Halloween-Celebrations-for-Churches:-Outdoor-Movies&id=6678293


Matthew West - Save A Place For Me (Official Music Video)
Want to read some more on this will try something like this, http://www.websites4christians.com/our-blog/121-christian-website-pt2.html or christianwebsite4.jimdo.com which is a place that I personally look.

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Thu, 27 Sep 2012 12:48:00 -0700 How to Build Effective Christian Business http://christianwebsite4.posterous.com/how-to-build-effective-christian-business http://christianwebsite4.posterous.com/how-to-build-effective-christian-business


Revelation 16:18
And there were voices, and thunders, and lightnings; and there was a great earthquake, such as was not since men were upon the earth, so mighty an earthquake, and so great.

How to Build Effective Christian Business Websites
By Thomas Freers

Every business that operates online would require a good website. With online marketing you will need to have a good website that would be able to attract more visitors, get more prospective customers and provide you with more profits. A good quality website can provide you a lot of benefits. Even for those who are running a Christian business or are thinking about starting one, Christian business websites are very necessary. A lot of people today are starting affiliate marketing businesses. However, the main problem with affiliate marketing is that most of these businesses come with replicated websites that most people use.

Why Replicated Websites are Not Good

Before you use replicated Christian business websites you should know that these will not always be attractive. Some of these websites are quite flashy and have hyped up marketing pages, loud music and animated banners which turn off customers. Also, most of these websites do not offer customers what they are actually looking for- quality information and content. Quite a lot of these websites also do not have a form for capturing the contact information of the visitors. It is very important that any website you use for your business should provide you full control so that you can offer something extra to your prospective customers.

A Good Website will Need Good Quality Content

If you want to bring in more customers for your business then you will need good quality Christian business websites. Any good quality website would require good quality content. If you are thinking about starting a new business then you will have to research a little to find out what type of content is popular with prospective customers. You will have to provide information on your website that would be informative, interesting, simple to understand and attractively put together. Quality content is what the search engines are looking for to. Your visitors will have plenty of questions or will have specific needs and with your website content you can provide answers for all of these questions. This would be one of the best ways to build a loyal customer base that you can rely on in the future.

Simple Navigation

Any good website should also provide simple navigation. There are several websites that tend to be too complicated with too many pages. A lot of visitors would leave these sites without actually signing up for anything simply because they do not easily find the information that they had been looking for. Ensure that your Christian business websites offer a good site plan and easy navigation to your pages.

If you keep all of these points in mind you will be able to build effective Christian business websites that will bring in more prospective customers for you.

Learn more about Christian business websites.Thomas Freers is Christian and has been serving the body of Christ for over two decades. He teaches Biblical Principles on a balance life and is an Online Marketing Coach for what is arguably the World's Largest Internet Marketing School available today. He specializes in Article Marketing, Social Media networking and various other marketing strategies and works with small and large companies to help them customize their marketing campaigns. With over 50 different marketing strategies available today you must learn which one suits your personality. To learn more about Thomas Freers and to see more effective principles to explode your Internet business to create big profits and get results go to http://christianworkathomeblog.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Freers
http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Build-Effective-Christian-Business-Websites&id=5779243


Enough by David Crowder Band
What else to read? Well you could try this: http://www.websites4christians.com/our-blog/157-christian-websites.html or christianwebsite4.webs.com or better still the rest of this site.

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Wed, 26 Sep 2012 10:07:00 -0700 Church Candles Play an Important Role http://christianwebsite4.posterous.com/church-candles-play-an-important-role http://christianwebsite4.posterous.com/church-candles-play-an-important-role


2 Kings 5:1
Now Naaman, captain of the host of the king of Syria, was a great man with his master, and honourable, because by him the LORD had given deliverance unto Syria: he was also a mighty man in valour, but he was a leper.

How to Create a Church Strategy
By Anthony Obey

A successful and dynamic church will only be achieved with the right strategy. Although one strategy may not be applicable to all churches, there are common approaches that make for a healthy growing church.

Before thinking of strategies, it is wise to be reminded of basic truths about church and church management. First, only people can attract other people. Programs can only be supports but the warmth of the fellowship of caring people makes the church attractive. The next element is order. The right strategy can bring about order in the church. Order does not mean a strict structure and extreme legalism but a clear and transparent system. In addition, the church should have a clear mission and vision. These will guide the church to the right direction. Moreover, a growing church will lead other people to grow. There should be spiritual transformation not only membership or attendance growth.

Churches need strategy in order to activate its mission and vision. The more focused the church is, the better it becomes. In this way, the principle of less is more is most applicable. The more focused the programs, the less clutter there will be. Avoid doing all things or activities at the same time. The Bible admonishes to do all things decently and in order.

It is often neglected that most people are hindered from getting involved in the church because they do not know how and that nobody invited them to join the ministry or program.

How then can one create church strategy? The following are suggestions from experts and scholars in church planting and organization. These are: rediscover your purpose; start new ministries; develop evangelism; praise God for successes and strengths; create new groups and classes; and make people get involved.

Rediscover your purpose

A wise church will always take time for retreats and revival meetings. In this way, the people are reminded of the basic truth that Jesus came to seek and save the lost. It is always proper to be reminded that the church and its members have a purpose to fill and that is to take part in the expansion of God's kingdom on earth.

Start new ministries

A second step to take is to avoid monotony and complacency. By starting new ministries, there will be renewed excitement and motivation. It can come as a form of a second service instead of the usual one service per Sunday activity. Outreaches can also be way of challenging the members to get involved.

Develop evangelism

The Greatest Commission should be the center stage of the church's programs. Lay leaders and mature members should be trained to help in the evangelization of the church. Since it is everybody's responsibility to share the gospel to other people, then there is no excuse for anyone not to do evangelism. The church can be creative in its evangelism approach since people have differing views about being invited to church and being part of a local church.

Praise God for successes and strengths

The sense of confidence is often anchored on past victories. Take time to conduct praise and worship and thanksgiving services regularly. This will lead the people to look at the positive side of life and their strengths rather than on their weaknesses and failures. This positive attitude will surely bring growth and health to the church.

Create new groups and classes

The main reason why people go to church is that they need belongingness and acceptance. Once a church grows to be bigger, the church goers will tend to be detached from each other. There would be a lack of intimacy and personal significance. Once this happens, it is time to create smaller groups and classes so that the atmosphere of belongingness and acceptance will be maintained.

Make people get involved

Finally, as much as possible, get people especially the new ones involved in the church activities, programs and structure. This is one of the ways that make newcomers return the next Sunday and eventually become a regular member of the church. Let the newcomers discover their gifts and talents and use them for the glory of God.

Are you looking for more information regarding church strategy? Visit http://www.trinitylivingtoday.com/Church-Growth-Course.html today!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anthony_Obey
http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Create-a-Church-Strategy&id=5733345


Falling Up - Broken Heart
I use this site for many of my articles so if you're finished here why not try http://www.websites4christians.com/our-blog/161-a-christian-website.html or christianwebsite4.weebly.com whichis somewhere I go looking for new material.

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Wed, 26 Sep 2012 08:16:00 -0700 Church Strategy http://christianwebsite4.posterous.com/church-strategy http://christianwebsite4.posterous.com/church-strategy

How to Create a Church Strategy
By Anthony Obey

A successful and dynamic church will only be achieved with the right strategy. Although one strategy may not be applicable to all churches, there are common approaches that make for a healthy growing church.

Before thinking of strategies, it is wise to be reminded of basic truths about church and church management. First, only people can attract other people. Programs can only be supports but the warmth of the fellowship of caring people makes the church attractive. The next element is order. The right strategy can bring about order in the church. Order does not mean a strict structure and extreme legalism but a clear and transparent system. In addition, the church should have a clear mission and vision. These will guide the church to the right direction. Moreover, a growing church will lead other people to grow. There should be spiritual transformation not only membership or attendance growth.

Churches need strategy in order to activate its mission and vision. The more focused the church is, the better it becomes. In this way, the principle of less is more is most applicable. The more focused the programs, the less clutter there will be. Avoid doing all things or activities at the same time. The Bible admonishes to do all things decently and in order.

It is often neglected that most people are hindered from getting involved in the church because they do not know how and that nobody invited them to join the ministry or program.

How then can one create church strategy? The following are suggestions from experts and scholars in church planting and organization. These are: rediscover your purpose; start new ministries; develop evangelism; praise God for successes and strengths; create new groups and classes; and make people get involved.

Rediscover your purpose

A wise church will always take time for retreats and revival meetings. In this way, the people are reminded of the basic truth that Jesus came to seek and save the lost. It is always proper to be reminded that the church and its members have a purpose to fill and that is to take part in the expansion of God's kingdom on earth.

Start new ministries

A second step to take is to avoid monotony and complacency. By starting new ministries, there will be renewed excitement and motivation. It can come as a form of a second service instead of the usual one service per Sunday activity. Outreaches can also be way of challenging the members to get involved.

Develop evangelism

The Greatest Commission should be the center stage of the church's programs. Lay leaders and mature members should be trained to help in the evangelization of the church. Since it is everybody's responsibility to share the gospel to other people, then there is no excuse for anyone not to do evangelism. The church can be creative in its evangelism approach since people have differing views about being invited to church and being part of a local church.

Praise God for successes and strengths

The sense of confidence is often anchored on past victories. Take time to conduct praise and worship and thanksgiving services regularly. This will lead the people to look at the positive side of life and their strengths rather than on their weaknesses and failures. This positive attitude will surely bring growth and health to the church.

Create new groups and classes

The main reason why people go to church is that they need belongingness and acceptance. Once a church grows to be bigger, the church goers will tend to be detached from each other. There would be a lack of intimacy and personal significance. Once this happens, it is time to create smaller groups and classes so that the atmosphere of belongingness and acceptance will be maintained.

Make people get involved

Finally, as much as possible, get people especially the new ones involved in the church activities, programs and structure. This is one of the ways that make newcomers return the next Sunday and eventually become a regular member of the church. Let the newcomers discover their gifts and talents and use them for the glory of God.

Are you looking for more information regarding church strategy? Visit http://www.trinitylivingtoday.com/Church-Growth-Course.html today!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anthony_Obey
http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Create-a-Church-Strategy&id=5733345

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Wed, 26 Sep 2012 08:02:00 -0700 Untitled http://christianwebsite4.posterous.com/163389520 http://christianwebsite4.posterous.com/163389520

hello world

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Wed, 26 Sep 2012 05:29:00 -0700 Untitled http://christianwebsite4.posterous.com/163369657 http://christianwebsite4.posterous.com/163369657

Pilate's Washing of Hands
By Oliver Harding

As we continue to reflect on the sacred Lenten Season in the history of the church when Christians observe a period of praying and fasting, it must be borne in mind that the objective is to draw us closer to God. In Matt 27:24 we are told that "When Pilate saw that he was getting nowhere, but that instead an uproar was starting, he took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd. "I am innocent of this man's blood", he said, "It is your responsibility". 25 All the people answered, "Let his blood be on us and on our children". History really tells us that His blood was indeed on them.

But what is the meaning of this symbolic washing of hands before the crowd. Was Pilate guilty? The traditional Christian view is that Pilate was responsible for the death of Jesus. There are several historic confessions of faith and probably the most popular is the The Apostles Creed which was crafted in the early days of the Church. It categorically affirms that Jesus 'suffered under Pontius Pilate'. Let us briefly examine some revelations from Scripture.

1. Pilate's desire was to satisfy the crowd and not God

Mark 15:15 clearly tells us that "wanting to satisfy the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them. He had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified". John tells us that Pilate tried to free Jesus but the Jews kept shouting, "if you let this man go, you are no friend of Caesar. Anyone who claims to be a king opposes Caesar" (John 19:12). When Pilate heard this, he brought Jesus out and said "here is your king" John 19:14... Finally Pilate handed him over to them to be crucified. What did the Bible tell us about friendship with the world? Luke tells us that Herod and Pilate became friends on that day.

2. Pilate did not ultimately listen to advise

Like most men, Pilate did not listen to wise counsel. Okonkwo's friend, Obierika, warned him 'this boy calls you father; have no hand in his death'. Okonkwo never listened and was actively involved in the killing of Ikemefuna. Julius Caesar's wife advised him not to go to the capitol but the arrogant husband replied "Caesar shall go forth; the things that threatened me ne'er look but on my back; when they shall see the face of Caesar, they are vanished'. Caesar refused to listen to Calpurnia and it was catastrophic. Matthew 19:19 tells us that "While Pilate was sitting on the judge's seat, his wife sent him this message; 'Don't have anything to do with that innocent man, for I have suffered a great deal today in a dream because of him". Pilate did not eventually listen.

3. Pilate did not understand spiritual truth

Jesus answered Pilate in John 18:37, "you are right in saying I am a king. In fact, for this reason was I born and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me. Verse 38 tells us that Pilate asked a question. "What is truth?" It is ironic to observe that someone who acted as Chief Justice did ask this question that revealed his spiritual state. He could not even recognize truth standing in front of him.

As we meditate on the death of Jesus, it is easy to attribute it to everyone: the chief priests, Satan, the crowd, Pilate, Herod, the divine plan of God as revealed in John 3:16, the willingness of Jesus to lay down His and take it up again etc. I would however like us to reflect on the significance of Pilate's act to contemporary Christianity.

1. We're all like Barabbas since we deserved to die, but Jesus took our place. The Bible informs us that Jesus Christ laid His life for us so that we might live. His blood is crying mercy for you and for me. Today, If you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts. It is appointed unto man to die once and after that face judgement.

2. Pilate, the Roman governor, admitted that it was within his arbitrary power to release or to crucify the innocent Christ. In spite of his better judgment, he chose to condemn an innocent man in order to save his own position - a horrible politician. Our politicians must ensure that justice prevails. In the course of history, Pilate's sin has been committed again and again. Hands have been hypocritically washed before crowds.

3. Your strength as an individual is to say 'No' even when the crowd is shouting yes. Youths, don't follow the crowd. Resist peer pressure. Say no to drugs, avoid acts of violence, rape, incest etc.

4. Furthermore, don't follow Jesus in a crowd. This is a very common mistake. Jesus warns against it. Once when He asked his disciples, "Whom do men say that the Son of Man is?" He immediately followed with the question, "But who do you say that I am?" (Matt. 16: 13, 15). We must know him individually and our faith in him, our thinking about him, must be based on Scripture rather than some interpretation of it.

5. We see in this crowd another common human failing or sin. That is the inclination to judge and condemn our neighbour without just cause. How often do we listen to prejudiced reports and then condemn! Jesus cautions us: "Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned" (Luke 6:37).

Finally brethren, I join the apostle Paul in Phil 4:8 to say "whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just; whatsoever things are pure; whatsoever things are lovely; whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things".

AUTHOR SIGNATURE
Oliver L.T. Harding, who obtained his GCE O & A Levels from the Sierra Leone Grammar School and the Albert Academy respectively, is currently Senior & Acting Librarian of Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone. He is a part time lecturer at the Institute of Library, Information & Communication Studies (INSLICS), Fourah Bay College and the Extension Programme at the Evangelical College of Theology (T.E.C.T) at Hall Street, Brookfields; Vice President of the Sierra Leone Association of Archivists, Librarians & Information Scientists (SLAALIS); a member of the American Theological Library Association (ATLA) and an associate of the Chartered Institute of Library & Information Professionals (CILIP). His certificates, secular and sacred, include: a certificate and diploma from the Freetown Bible Training Centre; an upper second class B.A. Hons. Degree in Modern History (F.B.C.); a post-graduate diploma from the Institute of Library Studies (INSLIBS, F.B.C) a masters degree from the Institute of Library, Information & Communication Studies (INSLICS, F.B.C.) and a masters degree in Biblical Studies from West Africa Theological Seminary, affiliate of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he won the prize for academic excellence as the Best Graduating Student in 2005. Oliver, a writer, musician and theologian, is married (to Francess) with two children (Olivia & Francis).
Email: oltharding@yahoo.com
Mobile: 232-2233-460-330

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Melpknw
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

Principles Of Church Growth In The Early Church
By Oliver Harding

INTRODUCTION

This article presents the concept of 'church growth' alongside evangelism mainly in the book of Acts. Whereas the Old Testament depicts evangelism as people coming to God, the Lucan perspective demonstrates that God's servants will go to His people. Blauw's thesis is that "a centripetal missionary consciousness becomes in Acts a centrifugal missionary activity..." (1974, 34). In George Orwell's Animal Farm, the pigs looked from pig to man and vice versa but could not differentiate them in the very last page of the text which by extension shows what could happen if the church wants to imitate the world. One cannot replace the methods or the principles that brought church growth in the New Testament in our own era.

TYPES OF CHURCH GROWTH

1. Internal : This is the spiritual growth of Christians. Right relationship is established with God and man. Many Christians quote John 3:16 which demonstrates God's love for man without taking into consideration I John 3:16 which focuses on man's love for his fellow man.

2. Expansion: This is accomplished by the evangelization of non-Christians within the area of the operation of the church or ministry.

3. Extension: This is the growth of the church by the establishment of daughter churches within the same general homogeneous group and geographical area.

4. Bridging: This focuses on the establishment of churches in different cultural and geographical areas.

CHURCH GROWTH : WAYS TO INCREASE

1. Biological growth- children of existing members who come into the church.

2. Transfer growth- members of one church who unite with another church.

3. Conversion growth- the coming into the church of people of the world who are converted by receiving Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour.

DEFINITION OF TERMS

Evangelism: Evangelism in Acts is the communication of the good news of Jesus Christ through verbal proclamation and lifestyle witness, with the intent of leading a person or group to salvation in Christ.

Church Growth: This is the quantitative and qualitative development of the church. It is different from 'swelling' which is common and dangerous in the contemporary church. The African Church is dismissed as a mile wide and an inch deep which implies that other parameters other than numbers account for church growth. Church growth could also be seen as an application of Biblical, anthropological, and sociological principles to congregations, denominations and their communities in an effort to disciple the greatest number of people for Jesus Christ. Believing that it is God's will that His Church should grow and His lost children be found, church growth endeavors to devise strategies, develop objectives and apply tested principles of growth to individual congregations, denominations and the worldwide body of Christ.

Church Growth Eyes: This is a characteristic of Christians who have achieved an ability to see the possibilities for growth and to apply appropriate strategies to gain maximum results for Christ and His church.

Church Growth Principle: According to McGavran and Ann, this is "a universal truth which, when properly interpreted and applied, contributes significantly to the growth of churches and denominations. It is a truth of God which leads his church to spread his Good News, plant church after church, and increase his body"(1977, p.15).

PRINCIPLES

1. Prayer or Spiritual Warfare

Prayer is indispensable to church growth. John Stott comments that following Jesus' ascension, the prayers of the disciples had two characteristics which "are two essentials of true prayer, namely that they persevered, and were of one mind" (1990, 10). The principle of unified prayer, or prayer with one mind and purpose, is a thread that runs throughout Acts. Luke's initial description of the 120 (1:5) shows that they followed Christ's command to wait for the Holy Spirit by obediently praying as a group WITH ONE MIND. See also Acts 4:18 (Sanhedrin); Acts 12:5 (Herod); Acts 11:11 (Peter's rescue).

2. A clear and unique vision

In the King James Version, Proverbs 29:18 is rendered, "Where there is no vision, the people perish". Vision is God's dream of what he wants to accomplish in and through our lives and the lives of our churches. Several churches have vision statements they never use. What God blesses with success in one place is not necessarily His plan for any other. Every growing church has a sense of unique vision and purpose - a clear sense of direction. The church planter and the laity share a common vision for what God wants that church to accomplish. In most cases, the church planter and the people can clearly describe and articulate their vision. This gives the people a sense of direction. They are moving toward an objective. They are not merely existing.

3. Leadership

A vigorous growing church is catalyzed by dynamic leadership that draws the entire church into action. For the church planter to function as a good leader, s/he must have certain specific character qualities and carry out certain specific leadership responsibilities. The church planter must truly desire growth for the church and must be willing to pay the price in hard work. The leadership must lead the work to organize the mission, set goals, develop plans, and mobilize the people to accomplishment. S/he must be creative, innovative, and assertive with regard to the vision and mission God has for His work.

4. The recognition and importance of the laity

The people of the work must be equipped to discover and use their gifts. They must be ready to assume new responsibilities and willingly hand over various leadership positions to other new people as the church continues to grow or expand.

5. Strategic Planning

The idea is to develop ongoing strategies that will help achieve the mission of the church. These should move the church toward realizing the accomplishment of its vision. With specific instructions from the Saviour, the apostles established a strategy to reach Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). Nehemiah positioned his people in areas of interests. Paul went to the synagogue and then the agora which was both a market place and centre of public life (Acts 7:17). A good church website can help your church to grow. Unfortunately there is an on-going war in this technological age: Technophilia vs. Technophobia. Many Rip Van Wrinkles exist in contemporary times. Several church leaders are yet to realize potential of a website for church growth. Yet a church website, specifically designed to reach outsiders, integrated with other appropriate outreach strategies, could be a major key to drawing non-Christians to your church.

6. Life Development Groups

This could be stated as the principle of assimilation. Perhaps the most important aspect of this principle is that the church must be structured in a way that develops an organizational base for growth. The larger the base, the greater the possibilities for growth. Life development groups provide a critical function that facilitates a church's growth e.g. Sunday School groups, Youth Fellowship, Ministries (Men, Women, Youth, Children) etc.

7. Indigenization

Paul and Barnabas left the indigenous churches with leadership that would provide the direction after the apostles departed. Though the forms of church government vary in the New Testament, they appointed elders to continue their leadership roles. The elders were within the church ("in each church" Acts 14:23) completing the indigenization process.

8. Open Gospel

In the early church, some regarded Christians as Jews who have received Jesus as the promised Saviour. Consequently, any Gentile desiring to become a Christian must first become a Jew. This 'closed' gospel was a major concern for Christians like Paul. The Jerusalem Council became a pivotal point in the history of the early church. Neither circumcision nor adaptation to the Jewish community would be a requisite. Christians today should discover the same attitude to the unbelieving world. Is the gospel open today, or does it carry the baggage of cultural expectations, idolatry of tradition etc? One should not necessarily become a member of your tribe before he is a Christian.

9. Follow-Up

The mission of the church is to win souls. Therefore, evangelism is not treated as a single principle since that is the primary mission of the church. The related concept of 'follow" is crucial for young Christians. According to Acts 15:36, "some days after, Paul said unto Barnabbas, let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do." Follow-up could be regarded as a motherly instinct. It is a deliberate focus on young and new believers for the purpose of spiritual guidance and counseling.

10. Discipleship

According to John Wesley, leading souls to Christ without a discipleship programme is to beget sons for the devil. Church growth is enhanced when each member becomes a part of the body (Eph. 4:16; Rom. 12:3-8; I Cor.12:12-22 etc.) and is endangered when they do not identify with the body. What we have learned must be committed to the faithful to teach others also. The importance of Bible Study, Sunday School Classes etc. cannot be overemphasized.

11. Sovereignty (Supreme Authority of God)

Despite the abundance of conflicts and setbacks in the early church, Luke communicates clearly that God is the final victor. Acts, in one perspective, is a narrative of the sovereign work of God in the midst of external and internal forces that would thwart any 'normal' movement. Though we are the vehicles to communicate the Gospel, our strength and power come from God. He gives the increase after the 'planting' and 'watering', He makes every thing beautiful, not in our, but in His time. One sows, another waters but God gives the increase. The clay does not question the Potter's intent.

LIST OF REFERENCES

Blauw, J. The Missionary Nature of the Church. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1974.

McGavran Donald A. and Winfield C. Arn. Ten Steps for Church Growth. New York: Harper and Row, 1977.

Stott, John. The Spirit, the Church and the World. Downers Grove, Illinois: Inter Varsity, 1990.

Wagner, Peter C., ed. Church Growth: The State of the Art. Wheaton: Tyndale House, 1986.

AUTHOR SIGNATURE
Oliver L.T. Harding, who obtained his GCE O & A Levels from the Sierra Leone Grammar School and the Albert Academy respectively, is currently Senior & Acting Librarian of Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone. He is a part time lecturer at the Institute of Library, Information & Communication Studies (INSLICS), Fourah Bay College and the Extension Programme at the Evangelical College of Theology (T.E.C.T) at Hall Street, Brookfields; Vice President of the Sierra Leone Association of Archivists, Librarians & Information Scientists (SLAALIS); a member of the American Theological Library Association (ATLA) and an associate of the Chartered Institute of Library & Information Professionals (CILIP). His certificates, secular and sacred, include: a certificate and diploma from the Freetown Bible Training Centre; an upper second class B.A. Hons. Degree in Modern History (F.B.C.); a post-graduate diploma from the Institute of Library Studies (INSLIBS, F.B.C) a masters degree from the Institute of Library, Information & Communication Studies (INSLICS, F.B.C.) and a masters degree in Biblical Studies from West Africa Theological Seminary, affiliate of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he won the prize for academic excellence as the Best Graduating Student in 2005. Oliver, a writer, musician and theologian, is married (to Francess) with two children (Olivia & Francis).
Email: oltharding@yahoo.com
Mobile: 232-2233-460-330

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Sat, 04 Feb 2012 01:39:00 -0800 A Christian Website helps everyone the opportunity to find God http://christianwebsite4.posterous.com/a-christian-website-helps-everyone-the-opport http://christianwebsite4.posterous.com/a-christian-website-helps-everyone-the-opport

Christian website - If you happen to be responsible for your current Christian website then you’ve acquired a huge responsibility!

http://www.websites4christians.com/our-blog/139-the-church-website.html" target="_blank">Christian website - Nowadays polls in addition to online surveys keep demonstrating that folks seem to be leaving behind churches. In the british isles as an example in 2001 the government census showed that 71% of people believed in Jesus Christ or even more properly thought of them selves as Christian. From up to date census in the year 2011 this had fallen to 55%: a slide of 16% in a number of brief years.

Christian website - Possibly not surprisingly the actual census demonstrated that within the above 55 age ranges the number of 71% was still being holding up (I think it was actually 70%). Older people still believe in God and all thing Christian. Nonetheless the younger people are slipping away.

Christian website - Just how would this affect you as a Christian website site owner? Well quite simply the group which is decreasing away are the young people and it’s those people that spend their life and spare time online. You as the Christian website manager (or person in charge) are where these people are, you’re in charge of making your websites good in order that they’ll come across you and also listen to the word of God.

Christian website - Creating a great Christian website has never been very important with out doubt continues to grow in its value over the long term. Sure such things as Facebook along with other social networking type internet sites will also be needed but in due course it’s your website, the place you totally control that can make the difference.

So what type of thing have you been doing? When was the last instance you as a church met up and made a conscious effort to come to a decision what you might do to bring lots more people to your web site, get in touch with lots more people, find people in your city: what do you do?

I’ve some pointers available for you. They aren’t particularly elaborate however they’ll work and they’ll assist you move things forward.

1.Make up some cards (business card size) and place your website label and contact information on them. And then offer ten to everyone in the church and get them to hand them away over the coming few days. Don’t be persuaded to let it go greater than a 7 days: individuals will overlook to give them out.

2.Contribute something for download from the web-site that's fascinating to both Christians and non-Christians. It doesn’t need to be elaborate - a number of forms which help with time management or a review of folks thinking or similar. Add all of them as PDF’s that individuals can download and keep. Make certain you add a few on different themes.

3.Add two internet polls on different pages. Ask attention grabbing questions, such as might you head to Hell in the event you don’t have faith in God?

When you’ve added the material be sure that you’ve added in Google analytics or comparable web page tracking software so you can monitor your results. Now settle-back and wait. After 2 week analyze the results. You actually must delay seven days for the cards to be handed out then one few days for individuals to visit. Immediately after these visits will be reduced consequently don’t be concerned with late arrivals.

You should have a view about what worked well and what didn’t. Who saved the PDF’s and what polls were best. Use the outcomes to start again however this time with additional focus.

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