I got word today from my pastor, Charles Swilling, that Nevill's Chapel MBC of Mt. Pleasant, Texas, has joined the team of Mission: Brownwood supporters. Nevill's Chapel is the sending church for Bro. Rusty Teer, missionary to Thailand, and holds a Faith Promise Missions Conference every winter, which I was blessed to be a part of this year.
From hosting state meetings, to missions conferences, they do all things well, as unto the Lord.
Thank you, Nevill's Chapel, for supporting Mission: Brownwood.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Planning
I have begun planning my preaching for Grace Pointe MBC in Brownwood, TX.
We will open with a 12-part series entitled "New Beginnings," where I will preach a sermon on creation, Adam and Eve's sin, and various character profiles in Genesis, Exodus and Joshua aimed at cultivating a spirit of worship, service and obedience toward God in the new congregation.
That sermon series will be flanked by a 12-week series on Wednesday nights titled, "The ministry of Jesus Christ." That series will show how Christ fulfilled the character attributes in the Sunday morning series. For example, Sunday morning's sermon is on creation (not reconstruction) from Genesis 1. The following Wednesday, we'll study how "He was in the world, and the world was made by Him, and the world knew Him not."
There will also be a Bible study in my home for potential church leaders. The purpose of this study will be to train and equip those who will become small-group leaders, Sunday School teachers, associate pastors and even missionaries. The first 12 weeks of this study will be in Romans.
Following the first 12 weeks, I plan to lead the church through "The Jerusalem Priority," before beginning a study in the book of Acts.
We will open with a 12-part series entitled "New Beginnings," where I will preach a sermon on creation, Adam and Eve's sin, and various character profiles in Genesis, Exodus and Joshua aimed at cultivating a spirit of worship, service and obedience toward God in the new congregation.
That sermon series will be flanked by a 12-week series on Wednesday nights titled, "The ministry of Jesus Christ." That series will show how Christ fulfilled the character attributes in the Sunday morning series. For example, Sunday morning's sermon is on creation (not reconstruction) from Genesis 1. The following Wednesday, we'll study how "He was in the world, and the world was made by Him, and the world knew Him not."
There will also be a Bible study in my home for potential church leaders. The purpose of this study will be to train and equip those who will become small-group leaders, Sunday School teachers, associate pastors and even missionaries. The first 12 weeks of this study will be in Romans.
Following the first 12 weeks, I plan to lead the church through "The Jerusalem Priority," before beginning a study in the book of Acts.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Things are getting exciting
Spoke to the sales manager and my new supervisor at KPSM radio in Brownwood. The crew there seems to be really excited that I am joining the staff.
I am also waiting on the documentation of employment so we can close on the house. This deal still has not been finalized, but I feel that it will and I am really excited at the possibilities.
In September 2007, there was no movement toward a new church going into Brownwood, yet today, it seems as if it will be a real possibility very soon. God is opening so many doors, and while he has not paved my way with golden bricks, I know that the road follows his will over the hills on the horizon. It is just amazing to watch everything fall into place.
As soon as we get closed on the house, we'll begin moving in. Once those plans have been finalized, we will begin meeting with our prospect families and looking for meeting facilities.
Jessica and I have located a wonderful meeting facility, which I will share the details with you later. If this facility is to be used to launch the new church, we will need God's help through you to make it a reality. Jessica and I are going to pray about it more, then we'll try to involve you.
I can't wait. Let's get it started!
I am also waiting on the documentation of employment so we can close on the house. This deal still has not been finalized, but I feel that it will and I am really excited at the possibilities.
In September 2007, there was no movement toward a new church going into Brownwood, yet today, it seems as if it will be a real possibility very soon. God is opening so many doors, and while he has not paved my way with golden bricks, I know that the road follows his will over the hills on the horizon. It is just amazing to watch everything fall into place.
As soon as we get closed on the house, we'll begin moving in. Once those plans have been finalized, we will begin meeting with our prospect families and looking for meeting facilities.
Jessica and I have located a wonderful meeting facility, which I will share the details with you later. If this facility is to be used to launch the new church, we will need God's help through you to make it a reality. Jessica and I are going to pray about it more, then we'll try to involve you.
I can't wait. Let's get it started!
Friday, April 18, 2008
Job offered
KPSM offered me an advertising sales position. They offered an above average commission with no base salary. Basically, if I sell well, then I'll be better off. If I don't sell, I have no safety net.
Still, I think this will be a great position for me. Now it's all a matter of getting the housing deal done.
Still, I think this will be a great position for me. Now it's all a matter of getting the housing deal done.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
To work, or not to work
I interviewed with a Christian station in Brownwood, who said they could use me in advertising sales. We discussed what I could bring to the organization, and they even had me fill out a W4 and several other employment papers.
Still, I have not been able to solidify a position yet. I am praying that God resolves this with His best option by Monday.
Still, I have not been able to solidify a position yet. I am praying that God resolves this with His best option by Monday.
Monday, April 14, 2008
What did Eve do?
Is it Eve's fault man got kicked out of the Garden of Eden, or was it Adams?
What saith the scriptures?
Romans 5:12 - Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin, and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.
Romans 5:14 - Nevertheless, death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similtude of Adam's transgression, who was the figure of him that was to come.
1 Timothy 2:14 - For Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression.
(And just for reference)
Genesis 3:6b - She took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also to her husband with her, and he did eat.
Conclusion:
These scriptures teach that Adam willfully sinned by eating the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, thus bringing about the penalty of death, which passed upon him and all men. Eve's role in this is that she was deceived in the presence of her husband. She was in the transgression, but Adam committed the original sin because God directly told him not to eat, he stood by while Eve was being deceived, then he ate the fruit himself. Eve didn't return home to feed the fruit to an unsuspecting Adam. The Bible does not say Adam was deceived, it says the woman, being deceived, was in the transgression. Adam could have put a stop to the situation at anytime, but he didn't. Now, we live in a world of sin, death and hurt as a result.
Now let that be a lesson to you!
What saith the scriptures?
Romans 5:12 - Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin, and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.
Romans 5:14 - Nevertheless, death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similtude of Adam's transgression, who was the figure of him that was to come.
1 Timothy 2:14 - For Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression.
(And just for reference)
Genesis 3:6b - She took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also to her husband with her, and he did eat.
Conclusion:
These scriptures teach that Adam willfully sinned by eating the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, thus bringing about the penalty of death, which passed upon him and all men. Eve's role in this is that she was deceived in the presence of her husband. She was in the transgression, but Adam committed the original sin because God directly told him not to eat, he stood by while Eve was being deceived, then he ate the fruit himself. Eve didn't return home to feed the fruit to an unsuspecting Adam. The Bible does not say Adam was deceived, it says the woman, being deceived, was in the transgression. Adam could have put a stop to the situation at anytime, but he didn't. Now, we live in a world of sin, death and hurt as a result.
Now let that be a lesson to you!
GAP on the brain
Did you know that between Genesis 1:1 and Genesis 1:2 that God created a perfect world which was totally wrecked by Satan when he fell from Heaven? It's there. I mean, you won't read about it in Genesis 1, but it happened. How do I know? Because so many ABA preachers have made it a point to advocate the theory known as the Gap Theory.
The theory works like this.
God is not the author of confusion, and we have to find a way to explain the dinosaur fossils that are buried deep within the earth's surface.
So, we have the recorded account of Lucifer (aka Satan, aka the devil) falling from Heaven in Isaiah 14. We have the earth being without form and void in Genesis 1:2. So what must have happened, is that God created a perfect world in Genesis 1:1. Then Satan fell from Heaven between Genesis 1:1 and Genesis 1:2, meaning God had to reconstruct the world throughout the rest of Genesis 1.
Here are my thoughts on the gap theory.
#1. Why is the gap theory being preached as Gospel truth? Seriously, I have heard it preached as if it were as much a part of the Gospel as the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ for our sins according to the scriptures.
#2. How can the gap theory be true when Romans 5:12 says "Wherefore as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin, and so death passed upon all men for all have sinned?" It seems Romans 5:12 blames the death and destruction of this world on sin, not the fall of Lucifer from Heaven. Granted, it was Satan who led man to sin, but he was not the one who brought death. (Which refutes other teachings on Adam and Eve that I will share at a time that I am so inclined.).
#3. The destruction described in Isaiah 14:17 does not describe what Lucifer did to the world between Genesis 1:1 and Genesis 1:2. Man had not been created, therefore there were no cities to destroy. Man could not have died, because sin had not entered the world (By Adam, sin entered into the world, and death by sin, remember?) No, Isaiah 14:17 are the words of the people who will see Satan face his final judgment in the end. They are describing what Satan did throughout human history and more notably the Great Tribulation, not what he did in the beginning.
#4. Don't hang the gap theory on the nail of Hebrew translation. Many great false doctrines and cults have been started as a result of "alternate" translations of the original language.
I could go on, but I will stop.
I do not make the gap a point of fellowship, but I grow tired of those who subscribe to the gap theory accepting it and pushing it as a Bible doctrine as solid and clear as salvation by grace through faith, wages of sin being death, the atonement of Jesus Christ on the cross, and love for each other being our supreme witness for the fact that we are children of God... and quit referring to Genesis 1 as "the reconstruction."
The theory works like this.
God is not the author of confusion, and we have to find a way to explain the dinosaur fossils that are buried deep within the earth's surface.
So, we have the recorded account of Lucifer (aka Satan, aka the devil) falling from Heaven in Isaiah 14. We have the earth being without form and void in Genesis 1:2. So what must have happened, is that God created a perfect world in Genesis 1:1. Then Satan fell from Heaven between Genesis 1:1 and Genesis 1:2, meaning God had to reconstruct the world throughout the rest of Genesis 1.
Here are my thoughts on the gap theory.
#1. Why is the gap theory being preached as Gospel truth? Seriously, I have heard it preached as if it were as much a part of the Gospel as the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ for our sins according to the scriptures.
#2. How can the gap theory be true when Romans 5:12 says "Wherefore as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin, and so death passed upon all men for all have sinned?" It seems Romans 5:12 blames the death and destruction of this world on sin, not the fall of Lucifer from Heaven. Granted, it was Satan who led man to sin, but he was not the one who brought death. (Which refutes other teachings on Adam and Eve that I will share at a time that I am so inclined.).
#3. The destruction described in Isaiah 14:17 does not describe what Lucifer did to the world between Genesis 1:1 and Genesis 1:2. Man had not been created, therefore there were no cities to destroy. Man could not have died, because sin had not entered the world (By Adam, sin entered into the world, and death by sin, remember?) No, Isaiah 14:17 are the words of the people who will see Satan face his final judgment in the end. They are describing what Satan did throughout human history and more notably the Great Tribulation, not what he did in the beginning.
#4. Don't hang the gap theory on the nail of Hebrew translation. Many great false doctrines and cults have been started as a result of "alternate" translations of the original language.
I could go on, but I will stop.
I do not make the gap a point of fellowship, but I grow tired of those who subscribe to the gap theory accepting it and pushing it as a Bible doctrine as solid and clear as salvation by grace through faith, wages of sin being death, the atonement of Jesus Christ on the cross, and love for each other being our supreme witness for the fact that we are children of God... and quit referring to Genesis 1 as "the reconstruction."
At least I remembered...
...what the Gospel was!
I spent Sunday morning with Vanderbilt Baptist Church (mission status sponsored by Bethel MBC of New Waverly), as it was their homecoming services. As some of you know, I started their Discovery program for the youth, and it is still going strong. While I was there, Bro. Marvin Gardner asked me to come back next Sunday evening and present the Mission: Brownwood work.
Yesterday evening, I presented the work to Bethel MBC of Tatum, TX, as part of their missions revival. It was a real honor to be able to speak to Bethel. I presented my sermon, "Spreading the Gospel" from Romans 1:14-17. Bro. James Williams, pastor, told me that they would report to Bro. Brooks that I can still present the Gospel (How Christ died for our sins, according to the scriptures, that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day, according to the scriptures.)
I'll be at Vanderbilt next Sunday evening, and I'll visit with Memorial MBC of Rusk, TX, the evening of May 4. Memorial is pastored by Bro. Odis Bryan.
I spent Sunday morning with Vanderbilt Baptist Church (mission status sponsored by Bethel MBC of New Waverly), as it was their homecoming services. As some of you know, I started their Discovery program for the youth, and it is still going strong. While I was there, Bro. Marvin Gardner asked me to come back next Sunday evening and present the Mission: Brownwood work.
Yesterday evening, I presented the work to Bethel MBC of Tatum, TX, as part of their missions revival. It was a real honor to be able to speak to Bethel. I presented my sermon, "Spreading the Gospel" from Romans 1:14-17. Bro. James Williams, pastor, told me that they would report to Bro. Brooks that I can still present the Gospel (How Christ died for our sins, according to the scriptures, that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day, according to the scriptures.)
I'll be at Vanderbilt next Sunday evening, and I'll visit with Memorial MBC of Rusk, TX, the evening of May 4. Memorial is pastored by Bro. Odis Bryan.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Planting Fast Growing Churches review
Earlier, I told you about a book Bro. Marion Reed sent me, titled "Planting Fast Growing Churches" by Stephen Gray.
I found the book to be helpful in reminding us that mission work is a high calling of God, and we are to approach it seriously, remembering why we are there and working hard to reach as many people as possible.
The book gave valuable pointers, such as recommending that missionaries be trained, well funded, not over-funded, and be able to serve on the field full-time.
While I reject the notion that a church must launch with 100 members in order to be a viable fast-growing church, I do believe a lot of planning and effort needs to go into the first services for a church, and those services need to be flanked by ministries that meet the needs of the community.
I have already been working toward the direction mentioned in the book, but will consider adjusting my plan to allow for a better-planned launch service. Prayerfully, God will bless these efforts.
I found the book to be helpful in reminding us that mission work is a high calling of God, and we are to approach it seriously, remembering why we are there and working hard to reach as many people as possible.
The book gave valuable pointers, such as recommending that missionaries be trained, well funded, not over-funded, and be able to serve on the field full-time.
While I reject the notion that a church must launch with 100 members in order to be a viable fast-growing church, I do believe a lot of planning and effort needs to go into the first services for a church, and those services need to be flanked by ministries that meet the needs of the community.
I have already been working toward the direction mentioned in the book, but will consider adjusting my plan to allow for a better-planned launch service. Prayerfully, God will bless these efforts.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Welcome Hickory Grove MBC
I just got word that Hickory Grove MBC in Newport, Ark., will soon begin supporting Mission: Brownwood. This is an awesome blessing as I have never met this church family. They must be a great church.
Mission Brownwood March 08 Report
March 2008 Report
God is continuing to open doors in Brownwood, Texas
Progress continues to be made toward getting onto the field in Brownwood, Texas. As it stands now, Jessica and I placed a down payment on a four bedroom, two bath home just one block away from Brownwood High School, a Class 4A school located in Brownwood’s “Southside” neighborhood, the largest residential area in Brownwood. The fourth bedroom opens to the outside with double doors and is suitable for holding services for a small group.
Employment developments are also happening, as the editor of the local newspaper still expresses an interest in hiring me. I followed up with some of the local radio stations, one group said I could consider myself hired, the local Christian station will interview me next week. For those who are reading these reports for the first time, I have an extended resume in newspaper and radio communications, including news reporting, editing, on-air work and advertising sales.
Response continues to be enthusiastic from the local community about the prospect of a new church launching in the area.
Deputation report
Deputation continues through May, as I will relocate to the field as soon as school lets out. My goal is to get the work started June 1. I will not be available for deputation after June 1. In the early days of a new work, I believe consistency is key, which can not be attained if I am continually absent for deputation appointments. If you are interested in having me present Mission: Brownwood to your church, call me at (903) 625-1005.
During March, we visited with Texas Avenue MBC of Abilene, TX, and Memory Lane MBC of Palestine, TX. We enjoyed great fellowship with both churches. Visiting the churches of our association continues to be a source of encouragement for me.
Financials
Bassett Road Baptist Church (Palestine, TX) - $1,000 (for facility rental)
Denson Springs MBC (Grapeland, TX) $50
58th Ave. MBC (Amarillo, TX) $69.72
Rocky Springs MBC (Jacksonville, TX) $150
East Side BC (Jacksonville, TX) $100
Muse MBC (Grapeland, TX) $200
Texas Ave. MBC (Abilene, TX) $200
Memory Lane MBC (Palestine, TX) $200
Expenditures:
Gasoline $170
Vehicle Maintenance $375
Postage $15.58
Housing $5,000
Thank you for your prayers and support.
Leland Acker
Missionary to Brownwood, TX
(903) 625-1005
God is continuing to open doors in Brownwood, Texas
Progress continues to be made toward getting onto the field in Brownwood, Texas. As it stands now, Jessica and I placed a down payment on a four bedroom, two bath home just one block away from Brownwood High School, a Class 4A school located in Brownwood’s “Southside” neighborhood, the largest residential area in Brownwood. The fourth bedroom opens to the outside with double doors and is suitable for holding services for a small group.
Employment developments are also happening, as the editor of the local newspaper still expresses an interest in hiring me. I followed up with some of the local radio stations, one group said I could consider myself hired, the local Christian station will interview me next week. For those who are reading these reports for the first time, I have an extended resume in newspaper and radio communications, including news reporting, editing, on-air work and advertising sales.
Response continues to be enthusiastic from the local community about the prospect of a new church launching in the area.
Deputation report
Deputation continues through May, as I will relocate to the field as soon as school lets out. My goal is to get the work started June 1. I will not be available for deputation after June 1. In the early days of a new work, I believe consistency is key, which can not be attained if I am continually absent for deputation appointments. If you are interested in having me present Mission: Brownwood to your church, call me at (903) 625-1005.
During March, we visited with Texas Avenue MBC of Abilene, TX, and Memory Lane MBC of Palestine, TX. We enjoyed great fellowship with both churches. Visiting the churches of our association continues to be a source of encouragement for me.
Financials
Bassett Road Baptist Church (Palestine, TX) - $1,000 (for facility rental)
Denson Springs MBC (Grapeland, TX) $50
58th Ave. MBC (Amarillo, TX) $69.72
Rocky Springs MBC (Jacksonville, TX) $150
East Side BC (Jacksonville, TX) $100
Muse MBC (Grapeland, TX) $200
Texas Ave. MBC (Abilene, TX) $200
Memory Lane MBC (Palestine, TX) $200
Expenditures:
Gasoline $170
Vehicle Maintenance $375
Postage $15.58
Housing $5,000
Thank you for your prayers and support.
Leland Acker
Missionary to Brownwood, TX
(903) 625-1005
Mission: Brownwood breaking news
I received a call today from KPSM, the local Christian station in Brownwood. I have a job interview for Wednesday, April 16. I would really love the opportunity to work in Christian radio.
Another holding pattern
As I typically do, I have completed the front page and jump page of the Cherokeean Herald hours ahead of deadline, except for one detail. I have to take a picture at noon of a blue-ribbon child abuse awareness rally, then place that picture on the jump page. When that is accomplished, we're ready for press.
In the meantime, I thought I'd share some developments with you concerning Mission: Brownwood and my weekend activities. The house looks like it will be financed, the company we're working with continues to assure us of that. I would like you to be in prayer for our sales rep, though, as she lost her husband to cancer last week.
Wendlee Broadcasting has told me that I have a job there, but we haven't settled on salary or duties yet. I'll follow up with them later this week.
Sunday evening, I will preach at the Missions Revival at Bethel MBC in Tatum. I am working on a sermon based on the events of Judges 7 where Gideon had raised an army, but then God told him to send the troops home, so Israel would know God delivered them, and not their army. More on that later. I have to get back to work.
In the meantime, I thought I'd share some developments with you concerning Mission: Brownwood and my weekend activities. The house looks like it will be financed, the company we're working with continues to assure us of that. I would like you to be in prayer for our sales rep, though, as she lost her husband to cancer last week.
Wendlee Broadcasting has told me that I have a job there, but we haven't settled on salary or duties yet. I'll follow up with them later this week.
Sunday evening, I will preach at the Missions Revival at Bethel MBC in Tatum. I am working on a sermon based on the events of Judges 7 where Gideon had raised an army, but then God told him to send the troops home, so Israel would know God delivered them, and not their army. More on that later. I have to get back to work.
Saturday, April 5, 2008
The best kept secrets about missions
Since surrendering to state missions in September, I have discovered some things about missions that I really wish I knew back when I pastored Denson Springs. (For that matter, I've learned about the internet, too! You know, blogging, MySpace, ABA News, etc.)
Anyway, here are some things I have learned over the past few months. Now I will disclaimer my way through this by saying that I am still scratching the surface of mission work and I am bound to learn more as I go on
1. Sponsoring a missionary/mission work will energize your church.
Actually, this is something I did know. I saw it employed at Denson Springs. Okay. I have heard it said that if you want to grow a church, send more money to missions. This logic does not work. I can name two churches off the top of my head that almost bankrupted themselves by giving too much to missions. Mission support is great, but the church has to pay the light bill, and hopefully, a small salary to the pastor.
However, if your church lines up behind a missionary, either through sponsorship or by partnering with the sponsoring church, you will find that your members become energized by playing a part in God's work on the front lines of the great commission. Your church finds new purpose, and gets excited to be a part of something special. This can spill over into the church's approach to local outreach as well, which results in numeric growth.
2. Si se puede (Yes, you can).
"My church is not ready to be a sponsoring church," is a phrase I often hear from pastors. In fact, if you were to line up five pastors, I would bet you a grilled stuffed burrito (fajita steak or chicken) from Taco Bell that at least four would tell you that.
While there are legitimate reason to believe your church may not be a suitable sponsoring church (i.e. it is about to close, or has some serious spiritual maturity issues you are still working to resolve), my belief is that most pastors are reluctant to lead their church to sponsor a missionary because the church does not have many financial resources. This is no reason to refrain from carrying out the Great Commission.
First, very few sponsoring churches actually pay their missionaries a full salary. Usually (In my experience), a sponsoring church pays its missionary $150-300 per month. How does the missionary live? He raises the rest of his salary through deputation. Should he fail to raise a full salary on deputation, the American Baptist Association and the Missionary Baptist Association of Texas have resources to help with salary. Both bodies require that a sending (sponsoring) church send 20% of the missionary's salary to the secretary-treasurer of missions. For a full salary of $3,300-$3,600 per month, this can add up to approximately $600-700 per month.
"Are you crazy?" you ask. "We can't afford to spend another $600-700 per month."
Maybe not, but the funds raised by the missionary on deputation can go toward raising that 20%. For example, a missionary goes on deputation and raises $800/month from committed monthly supporting churches, that $800 can be sent in to the association so the missionary can receive a full salary.
Also, in Texas, the state association does not require churches to provide the 20% if the missionary seeks half-salary, which is barely more than $1,820. That's about what your average working-class adult makes in Texas.
What I am saying is just as Jesus fed 5,000 with a few biscuits and sardenes, so can He provide for a missionary with just a few hundred dollars. Finances should not prevent a church from getting actively engaged in the Great Commission.
3. Missionaries' time is very valuable.
Good missionaries set a departure date when they announce their mission-calling. Usually, it should be less than 18-months from when they announce their calling (though there may be extenuating circumstances, like language school for foreign missionaries, etc).
Once that departure date is set, the clock starts ticking. The missionary has a limited time to share the work with sister churches and raise support. Knowing this, let me share a couple of thoughts with you.
First, missionaries on deputation want deputation appointments. When a month passes, and no church has allowed the missionary to present the work, it can be a very discouraging time. Deputation appointments keep the missionary encouraged.
Secondly, it's not all about the money. I have been cautioned when visiting a church, "Our missions budget is over-extended (hallelujah!), we probably won't be much financial help." The good news is the same pastor told me, "Please send us your reports, we want to know what is happening with you and pray for you." While the goal of deputation is to raise financial support, I always like meeting new churches, making new friends, finding new prayer-partners and knowing that someone else is behind me. To be honest, I'd feel awkward about a church inviting me because "We have all this mission money, but don't know who to send it to." Those churches who have full and/or overextended missions budgets are the ones passionate about missions, and those are the ones I want to talk to.
Thirdly, and I only speak for myself on this one, I would be happy to visit your church, even if my visit is being used to expose the church to state missions. I used to do this at Denson Springs. I'd invite a missionary to our church, most of the time we were unable to add them to our monthly missions budget. However, I invited them out so that Denson Springs could get a look at state, interstate and foreign missions. (Of course, we always helped with travel expenses.) Most missionaries knew we weren't about to start writing large checks. I don't know how other missionaries feel about that, but I know that I wouldn't mind being used in such a way as I have seen how it can benefit a congregation.
There is no reason we don't have more mission work going on in our association. It is possible. Pray for God to lead you and your church to the mission field He wants you to reach, and to lead you to the missionary He wants to send there, and He'll provide the way for it.
And if you need a missionary to come to your church, I still have openings in April and May. Email me at the address to your right, and I'll respond. Once we arrive in Brownwood (in June), I'll likely be unable to visit.
Anyway, here are some things I have learned over the past few months. Now I will disclaimer my way through this by saying that I am still scratching the surface of mission work and I am bound to learn more as I go on
1. Sponsoring a missionary/mission work will energize your church.
Actually, this is something I did know. I saw it employed at Denson Springs. Okay. I have heard it said that if you want to grow a church, send more money to missions. This logic does not work. I can name two churches off the top of my head that almost bankrupted themselves by giving too much to missions. Mission support is great, but the church has to pay the light bill, and hopefully, a small salary to the pastor.
However, if your church lines up behind a missionary, either through sponsorship or by partnering with the sponsoring church, you will find that your members become energized by playing a part in God's work on the front lines of the great commission. Your church finds new purpose, and gets excited to be a part of something special. This can spill over into the church's approach to local outreach as well, which results in numeric growth.
2. Si se puede (Yes, you can).
"My church is not ready to be a sponsoring church," is a phrase I often hear from pastors. In fact, if you were to line up five pastors, I would bet you a grilled stuffed burrito (fajita steak or chicken) from Taco Bell that at least four would tell you that.
While there are legitimate reason to believe your church may not be a suitable sponsoring church (i.e. it is about to close, or has some serious spiritual maturity issues you are still working to resolve), my belief is that most pastors are reluctant to lead their church to sponsor a missionary because the church does not have many financial resources. This is no reason to refrain from carrying out the Great Commission.
First, very few sponsoring churches actually pay their missionaries a full salary. Usually (In my experience), a sponsoring church pays its missionary $150-300 per month. How does the missionary live? He raises the rest of his salary through deputation. Should he fail to raise a full salary on deputation, the American Baptist Association and the Missionary Baptist Association of Texas have resources to help with salary. Both bodies require that a sending (sponsoring) church send 20% of the missionary's salary to the secretary-treasurer of missions. For a full salary of $3,300-$3,600 per month, this can add up to approximately $600-700 per month.
"Are you crazy?" you ask. "We can't afford to spend another $600-700 per month."
Maybe not, but the funds raised by the missionary on deputation can go toward raising that 20%. For example, a missionary goes on deputation and raises $800/month from committed monthly supporting churches, that $800 can be sent in to the association so the missionary can receive a full salary.
Also, in Texas, the state association does not require churches to provide the 20% if the missionary seeks half-salary, which is barely more than $1,820. That's about what your average working-class adult makes in Texas.
What I am saying is just as Jesus fed 5,000 with a few biscuits and sardenes, so can He provide for a missionary with just a few hundred dollars. Finances should not prevent a church from getting actively engaged in the Great Commission.
3. Missionaries' time is very valuable.
Good missionaries set a departure date when they announce their mission-calling. Usually, it should be less than 18-months from when they announce their calling (though there may be extenuating circumstances, like language school for foreign missionaries, etc).
Once that departure date is set, the clock starts ticking. The missionary has a limited time to share the work with sister churches and raise support. Knowing this, let me share a couple of thoughts with you.
First, missionaries on deputation want deputation appointments. When a month passes, and no church has allowed the missionary to present the work, it can be a very discouraging time. Deputation appointments keep the missionary encouraged.
Secondly, it's not all about the money. I have been cautioned when visiting a church, "Our missions budget is over-extended (hallelujah!), we probably won't be much financial help." The good news is the same pastor told me, "Please send us your reports, we want to know what is happening with you and pray for you." While the goal of deputation is to raise financial support, I always like meeting new churches, making new friends, finding new prayer-partners and knowing that someone else is behind me. To be honest, I'd feel awkward about a church inviting me because "We have all this mission money, but don't know who to send it to." Those churches who have full and/or overextended missions budgets are the ones passionate about missions, and those are the ones I want to talk to.
Thirdly, and I only speak for myself on this one, I would be happy to visit your church, even if my visit is being used to expose the church to state missions. I used to do this at Denson Springs. I'd invite a missionary to our church, most of the time we were unable to add them to our monthly missions budget. However, I invited them out so that Denson Springs could get a look at state, interstate and foreign missions. (Of course, we always helped with travel expenses.) Most missionaries knew we weren't about to start writing large checks. I don't know how other missionaries feel about that, but I know that I wouldn't mind being used in such a way as I have seen how it can benefit a congregation.
There is no reason we don't have more mission work going on in our association. It is possible. Pray for God to lead you and your church to the mission field He wants you to reach, and to lead you to the missionary He wants to send there, and He'll provide the way for it.
And if you need a missionary to come to your church, I still have openings in April and May. Email me at the address to your right, and I'll respond. Once we arrive in Brownwood (in June), I'll likely be unable to visit.
Friday, April 4, 2008
Planting fast growing churches
This book was sent to me by Bro. Marion Reed, secretary-treasurer of the Missionary Baptist Association of Texas. I have read four chapters so far. In what I read, the author gives his testimony with his first church plant, and compares data from fast-growing church plants and stagnant church plants.
His premise is that church plants should launch with 100 members (the "Launch Team" should consist of 100 people) and if a church plant does not reach 200 attendees in three years, it never will. He did say that his data and goals applied to towns with populations of 30,000 or more, so Mission: Brownwood is off the hook. However, it is our prayer and plan to work hard so that the Lord will bless us with a fast growing church. Hopefully, I'll be able to use some of the tactics from this book to help reach that goal.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
The further adventures of Leland Acker
Wednesday, my bosses told me to take back some of the extra time I've been putting into my work. So, I jumped in the car with a folder full of resumes and canvassed Brownwood in search of gainful employment. Here's how my day went.
The Goldthwaite Eagle
The Eagle is a weekly paper published in the small town of Goldthwaite, which is approximately 30 miles east of Brownwood. (Goldthwaite is one of the areas I plan to go into after the initial Brownwood mission gets organized.) It turns out, the owners of the Eagle are friends with my current bosses. They and our late owner used to interact through the Texas Press Association and have even swapped equipment on occasion. They said they might use me for free-lance work.
KPSM 99.3
KPSM "The Rock" 99.3 FM is a contemporary christian station in Brownwood. The program director and sales manager were glad to meet me, but the person in charge of hiring was out. After a few minutes of good fellowship, I left my resume and moved on.
Wendlee Broadcasting
"Let's just say you have a job here," the owner of Wendlee (KXYL-FM, KQBZ-FM, KXYL-AM and Kix 1000) said. Still undecided, an exact salary figure and job description. They requested I send them a tape of my work, which I will do today.
KYOX-FM
KYOX "94.3 The Ox" is a Texas Music station out of Comanche, TX (another small town 30 miles away that I hope to expand Mission: Brownwood into.) KYOX has a good signal over Brownwood. The staff and management was friendly, but I'm not sure they really have an opening.
The Brownwood Bulletin is still undecided.
The Goldthwaite Eagle
The Eagle is a weekly paper published in the small town of Goldthwaite, which is approximately 30 miles east of Brownwood. (Goldthwaite is one of the areas I plan to go into after the initial Brownwood mission gets organized.) It turns out, the owners of the Eagle are friends with my current bosses. They and our late owner used to interact through the Texas Press Association and have even swapped equipment on occasion. They said they might use me for free-lance work.
KPSM 99.3
KPSM "The Rock" 99.3 FM is a contemporary christian station in Brownwood. The program director and sales manager were glad to meet me, but the person in charge of hiring was out. After a few minutes of good fellowship, I left my resume and moved on.
Wendlee Broadcasting
"Let's just say you have a job here," the owner of Wendlee (KXYL-FM, KQBZ-FM, KXYL-AM and Kix 1000) said. Still undecided, an exact salary figure and job description. They requested I send them a tape of my work, which I will do today.
KYOX-FM
KYOX "94.3 The Ox" is a Texas Music station out of Comanche, TX (another small town 30 miles away that I hope to expand Mission: Brownwood into.) KYOX has a good signal over Brownwood. The staff and management was friendly, but I'm not sure they really have an opening.
The Brownwood Bulletin is still undecided.
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