Tuesday, September 30, 2008

CHURCH, LIES AND VIDEOTAPE


Dangerous Church - 8
Acts 5
This Sunday, October 5, 5:30 pm
Location: Invernvess Vineyard Church
4733 Valleydale Road

Fraud. Deceit. Lies. Cover-ups. Hypocrisy. Sound familiar? Nothing new to God... Nothing new to church... Acts 5 contains one of the most "difficult" passages in the New Testament. While the first century church was dynamic, it wasn't perfect. From the outset, God sent some strong messages about what cuts it with a Holy God, and what ends up editing room floor...

This will be one of the most important messages we've given in the short history of a2 and will culminate with an opportunity to worship through Holy Communion...

Make certain you read Acts 5 before our Sunday PM worship service. This chapter puts the "dangerous" in DANGEROUS CHURCH. I'm really praying through this text and believe that God is providing some insight about how this applies to you and me...

Can't wait until Sunday.

Monday, September 29, 2008

GOD'S GONNA CUT YOU DOWN



This was the title of one of Johnny Cash's last recorded songs... It is CLASSIC CASH... It showed up on American V: A Hundred Highways. It's a song about judgment and eternity... Subjects we don't hear about too often anymore...

The video for the song is somewhat odd. It features cameo appearances by celebrities like Iggy Pop, Kanye West, Chris Martin, Kris Kristofferson, Flea, Chris Rock, Justin Timberlake, Kate Moss, Sheryl Crow, Dennis Hopper, Woody Harrelson, Tommy Lee, the Dixie Chicks, Sharon Stone, Bono, Anthony Kiedis, Lisa Marie Presley, Kid Rock, Jay-Z, Keith Richards, Johnny Depp, Brian Wilson, Rick Rubin, Owen Wilson and others often lip syncing the lyrics of this song. Lyrics I'm not certain they fully understand...

As I read the text for this coming Sunday, the lyrics of this song came to mind. Here's the text.

Acts 5:1-10 (NLT), But there was a certain man named Ananias who, with his wife, Sapphira, sold some property. 2 He brought part of the money to the apostles, claiming it was the full amount. With his wife’s consent, he kept the rest.
3 Then Peter said, “Ananias, why have you let Satan fill your heart? You lied to the Holy Spirit, and you kept some of the money for yourself. 4 The property was yours to sell or not sell, as you wished. And after selling it, the money was also yours to give away. How could you do a thing like this? You weren’t lying to us but to God!”
5 As soon as Ananias heard these words, he fell to the floor and died. Everyone who heard about it was terrified. 6 Then some young men got up, wrapped him in a sheet, and took him out and buried him.
7 About three hours later his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. 8 Peter asked her, “Was this the price you and your husband received for your land?”
“Yes,” she replied, “that was the price.”
9 And Peter said, “How could the two of you even think of conspiring to test the Spirit of the Lord like this? The young men who buried your husband are just outside the door, and they will carry you out, too.”
10 Instantly, she fell to the floor and died. When the young men came in and saw that she was dead, they carried her out and buried her beside her husband. 11 Great fear gripped the entire church and everyone else who heard what had happened.


This passage causes the series title "DANGEROUS CHURCH" to take on a new meaning all together.

It's one of the most difficult passages in the entire New Testament... It is a passage that has provoked tons of questions, and a passage that has me scratching my head as I consider what God wants to say to us this Sunday.

While I'm not certain that the celebrities who made guest appearances to honor the late Johnny Cash understood the depth of the lyrics of "God's Gonna Cut You Down," Ananias and Sapphira lived it.

When you read this passage what does God say to you?

Any ideas about how you would communicate this passage?

Finally, how about partnering with me in prayer that God will anoint this weekend's message and use us to communicate a truth that most people don't really want to think about?

In a way this passage reminds me of why what we're doing is so important. Why this weekend is so important. CASH was right! "Sooner or later God'll cut you down..."

If we really believe what God's word says about eternity and judgment, that's all the motivation we should need to get out there and SHARE.

See you this weekend...

Sunday, September 28, 2008

SUNDAY EVENING IN REVIEW

We just finished our sixth consecutive Sunday PM worship service at a2... Here are a few reflections of where we're at...

1. All in all, we're off to a SLOW, but steady start... It feels like we're having a difficult time building momentum at the temporary worship site (Invernesss Vineyard Church)... Why? I'm not quite sure, but here are a few thoughts...

* Schedule. Sunday PM is difficult for families with small children... Also, even "unchurched" people are conditioned to be more open to attending on Sunday AM.

* Location. While the Inverness Vineyard Church has been more than accommodating, it still doesn't quite "feel" like home...

* Focus. It's difficult to focus on evangelism and outreach, while you're also focusing on construction, permits, equipment and fund-raising...

* Unclear Communication. Evidently, some people are looking at the Grand Opening at our future worship site on October 26 as the "official launch date" of a2... I've been amazed at the number of people I've interacted with over the last few days that have this idea. I've met more than a few who consider the Sunday PM gatherings at the Inverness Vineyard Church to be "launch team meetings" and not "official" or "actual" worship services. I can only assume that this is a failure of communication on my part...

2. Here are some of the areas where we've seen growth and progress.

* Children's Ministry. Bill Robbins and his team are off to a solid start with a2 kids.

* Worship. I'm excited about the musicians and vocalists who are participating in our corporate worship experiences. It feels like we're getting off to a solid start in this area. Hats off to my wife who is doing a great job in building a team from the ground up. I'm looking forward to the future...

* Technical. I'm really pumped about the tech team God is bringing together at a2 in sound, lighting and video... In the coming days and weeks, we've got the potential to do some really creative things technically...

3. Finally, here are some areas where we must see improvement.

* Teaching. I would give the teaching a B-, maybe even a C. The content is solid, but the creativity, life application and delivery have room for a lot of improvement. In some ways, it's like we haven't yet gotten into a "rhythm" with the weekend messages. Plans? Spend more time in preparation with an eye towards application, creativity and delivery.

* Hospitality and Guest Services. I really believe once we land at our future worship site, this area will greatly improve as we add coffee and refreshments to our weekend gatherings. We've got some great greeters, but could use some additional volunteers int his area. Nathan Holladay is our team leader and is doing a great job. Again, I really look for this area to take off at the future worship site.

* Creativity. I know I've already mentioned this, but I've really felt "tweaked" about this over the past few days... In the past, creativity was something we were known for... It's interesting how life has a way of sort of "beating" this out of you and conditioning you to "color within the lines." It's time to break out of the box and get back to doing what God has called us to do...

* Prayer. Today I really sensed the need to "up the ante" in regards to pray and intercession. Today I was reminded of this truth from the Old Testament. It's, "not by might, not by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord."


Well, that's probably enough to chew on for the moment...

I really believe God has a plan and purpose for a2... It's our responsibility to pursue it with all of our heart.

I hope we can live up the description Paul gave of a guy named Stephanas in 1 Corinthians 16:15 (KJV): "...they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints."

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

HAMMER, NAILS, ACTION... CONSTRUCTION BEGINS AT a2!!!

After weeks of planning and prayer, several meetings with architects and inspectors, a couple of days of demo, removing more than 30 tons of debris, a Variance Board Meeting with the city of Vestavia, more planning and additional meetings with inspectors, construction on the future worship site of a2 Church has actually began. Whoo Hoo!!!

Here are a few pics.




Tuesday, September 23, 2008

HOW TO PRAY...When The Pressure Is ON, The Stakes Are HUGE, and The Enemy Is Talking SMACK

DANGEROUS CHURCH – Part 6
September 21, 2008 * Chris Goins

Okay, aside from the longest message title in the history of titles, this is an important message. The content is crucial, especially for times like these. So, without further introduction, here are the notes from this past Sunday evening.


The Big Idea: Fear is one of the primary obstacles that keeps us from sharing our faith. The reality is: God is sovereign and we’ve been invited to be a “player” in what He is up to in our world. Being a part of the “big adventure” requires a big faith that asks God for the courage to speak up and share the greatest message ever given.


For Background: See Acts 3

Acts 4:4 (ESV), But many of those who had heard the word believed, and the number of the men came to about five thousand.


Acts 4:12 (NIV), “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.”


Acts 4:13 (ESV), Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus.


Acts 4:18-20 (MSG), They called them back and warned them that they were on no account ever again to speak or teach in the name of Jesus. 19But Peter and John spoke right back, “Whether it’s right in God’s eyes to listen to you rather than to God, you decide. 20As for us, there’s no question—we can’t keep quiet about what we’ve seen and heard.”


Acts 4:23-26 (NIV), On their release, Peter and John went back to their own people and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said to them. 24When they heard this, they raised their voices together in prayer to God. “Sovereign Lord,” they said, “you made the heaven and the earth and the sea, and everything in them. 25 You spoke by the Holy Spirit through the mouth of your servant, our father David: “‘Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? 26 The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together against the Lord and against his Anointed One.’” (Cf. Psalm 2:1-2)

Acts 4:27-31 (NIV), “Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. 28 They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. 29 Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. 30 Stretch out your hand to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.”
31 After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.



Four Realities:

1. An Awareness of the Power and Sovereignty of God Inspires Us To Pray For and Act with “Boldness.”

2. Boldness is not Reckless Impulsiveness. It is simply “Speaking Up” when the Opportunity “Pops Up.” It‘s the Courage To Press Through Your Fears and Do What You Know To Be Right.

3. For Reasons Only Known To Himself, God Has Invited Us To Be “Players” In The Most Important Activity In The Universe.

4. The Holy Spirit Ignites and Inspires Courage Even In The Face of Opposition.


Homework: Pray daily that God will “…enable you to speak His word with boldness…” (Acts 4:29)


Two By-Products of Praying for “Boldness”:

• You will become more aware of opportunities to share your faith.

• You will be forced to face your fears with courage.


Acknowledgement: Significant portions of this message were inspired by Andy Stanley’s message Fish Guts from his series Go Fish.

Thursday, September 18, 2008

Breakthroughs and Miracles at a2 Church

The future home of a2 Church is a GO! That's right! This evening the Variance Board of Vestavia approved our request for a variance that will enable a2 to meet the code requirements for parking at our future worship site in the Vestavia City Center.

What does this mean?

It means that we are ready to "rock and roll" when it comes to construction.

Here's the plan: Saturday, September 20 we'll do another a2 Work Day, mostly involving some serious clean up in preparation for construction. We are going to need YOUR HELP. But, more about that later...

Monday, September 22 we'll begin construction. Watch the website and blog for upcoming workdays and opportunities to save a2 $$$. We're estimating an occupancy date of Sunday, October 19! That means the GRAND OPENING of a2 Church will take place on Sunday, October 19 sy 10:00 a.m. Mark that date. There will only be one GRAND OPENING. You don't want to miss it.

Did I mention breakthroughs and miracles?

Let me mention a few...

We've been blessed with a great Project Manager on our construction project. Andy Lange is "the man." Through Andy's involvement and continued negotiation with our Realty Company; AIG has agreed to complete an ADA Compliant Restroom as required by code, provide all interior doors for the project, provide a new Fire Alarm Plan and System as required by code, and provide additional exterior doors to the facility. These are major breakthrough and will save a2 $$$$! Can anybody say, "Yeah, God!"

AIG will also add an additional 12 tons of HVAC to our future worship site. Again, this is HUGE!!! In addition, a2's own Bubba Robbins is jumping in to add some new spiral duct work to complete the system in the worship center. This is a major blessing!

a2's own Deborah Wiggins is leading our Interior Design Team and made considerable progress in the decor and "look" for a2. Again, another major blessing!

Finally, last week we got a call from our friends at Daystar Church in Cullman, Alabama. Ben Murray is the worship pastor there and Jerry Lawson is the pastor. This is a great church doing amazing things for God. They just moved into a brand new worship center this past weekend and called to donate a "killer" 40-Channel Allen and Heath Mixing Console to a2. Again, this will save the church major league $$$$. Can anybody say it one more time: "Yeah, God!"

I could go on... God has done some amazing things.

Over the last several days leading up to tonight's Variance Board Meeting, I have really prayed for God's purpose and plan to be accomplished - that if a2 was NOT to occupy the space at Vestavia City Center he would shut the project down completely. He didn't! Instead, it seems God keeps doing "exceedingly and abundantly more than we can think or ask."

So, where do we go from here?

As far as I'm concerned, it's GAME ON! In light of God's incredible faithfulness and miraculous intervention, it's time for us to ROLL UP OUR SLEEVES and GET TO WORK! God has a plan. We get to be in on it.

I'm game! Are you?

See you this Sunday.

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

A LIFE OF DESPERATION

Psalm 84 was staring me in the face this morning as I continued my annual journey through the Bible...

A friend of mine emailed me Psalm 84 during the last week of my Dad's life... He felt it represented the passion and heartbeat of my Dad. He was right... I read it several times during that week and found it a source of incredible strength.

This morning I read these words again and was challenged to pray that I might live my life with this kind of desperate longing for God...

Psalm 84 (NLT)
"I long, yes, I faint with longing to enter the courts of the LORD. With my whole being, body and soul, I will shout joyfully to the living God. Even the sparrow finds a home there, and the swallow builds her nest and raises her young at a place near your altar, O LORD Almighty, my King and my God! How happy are those who can live in your house, always singing your praises. Interlude.
Happy are those who are strong in the LORD, who set their minds on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. When they walk through the Valley of Weeping, it will become a place of refreshing springs, where pools of blessing collect after the rains! They will continue to grow stronger, and each of them will appear before God in Jerusalem. O LORD God Almighty, hear my prayer. Listen, O God of Israel. Interlude.
O God, look with favor upon the king, our protector! Have mercy on the one you have anointed. A single day in your courts is better than a thousand anywhere else! I would rather be a gatekeeper in the house of my God than live the good life in the homes of the wicked. For the LORD God is our light and protector. He gives us grace and glory. No good thing will the LORD withhold from those who do what is right. O LORD Almighty, happy are those who trust in you."


I pray that a "passion for God's house" and God's presence will always consume me. For it's only God's presence that take a situation wrought with pain and somehow turn it into a source of refreshment and strength...

How desperate are you for God?

Monday, September 15, 2008

A PLACE WHERE HEALING HAPPENS

A Place Where Healing Happens
DANGEROUS CHURCH – 5
September 14, 2008 • Chris Goins

Here are some "extensive notes" from last evening's message at a2 Church.

The Big Idea: Is there a place where the lonely can find acceptance? Where the broken get a second chance and a glimpse of hope? Where the hurting can find healing?

The first century church was that kind of church. The church began with a group of misfits and rejects. When it was at its BEST, its heart was HUGE for the lonely, hurting, beat up, bruised and broken. It's our prayer that God will make a2 that kind of church… Regardless of the hang-ups, hurts, pain and baggage you’ve experienced in life, we want a2 to be a place where we belong and A PLACE WHERE HEALING HAPPENS.


Four Simple Practices
That Can Make a2 “A Place Where Healing Happens”:


1. Open Your Eyes. Be Perceptive.

Acts 3:1-5 (NIV), One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer—at three in the afternoon.

Acts 3:2-3 (NIV), Now a man crippled from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. 3 When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money.


Ken Blanchard is a best selling business author who also happens to be a Christian. Blanchard believes that over time too many leaders begin to see the people in their organization as interruptions. Everyone coming to them has a question, a problem, a need that will demand time and attention… And far too often, leaders go into “people avoidance” mode… People are interruptions and savvy leaders take steps to avoid the “time drain” created by people…

But Blanchard challenges that thinking by saying, “Take a look at the life of Jesus. If it weren't for INTERUPTIONS, Jesus Christ wouldn't have had a ministry.”

He's right. Jesus was constantly being stopped or interrupted everywhere he went… Sometimes he was asked a tough theological question… Sometimes someone desperately needed healing… Sometimes his family had a problem they wanted him to fix… Sometimes one of his followers needed encouragement or correction… But if you look through the life of Jesus, he was constantly being interrupted and constantly viewing those interruptions as an OPPORTUNITY sent from God to get involved in somebody’s life.


QUESTION: How do you view the interruptions life brings your way? Do you view them as nuisances that need to be avoided, or opportunities for God’s grace to be revealed?


Acts 3:4 (NIV), Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, “Look at us!”

I can guarantee you that wasn’t the NORM… Most people looked away…

Underline the phrase Peter "…looked straight at him…" It means they "fixed their gaze or focused their attention on this crippled man."


This is where COMMUNICATION begins… It begins with the EYES

Pete and John didn’t look “through” this guy… They didn’t look “over” this guy… They “…looked straight at him…” Why? Because looking at someone indicates that you RESPECT and VALUE them.


2. Give What You’ve Got. Be Responsive.


Four Aspects About This Miracles:

(1) It Was Completely Unexpected.

Acts 3:4-5 (NIV), Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, “Look at us!” 5 So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them.

Acts 3:6 (NLT), But Peter said, “I don’t have any money for you. But I’ll give you what I have. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk!”


The man asked for money, because it’s usually easier to ask people for money than to ask them for clothing, housing, food or friendship…

But this is one of those occasions when you ask EXPECTING one thing, and God blows you away by exceeding your expectations… Peter didn’t give this guy what he WANTED, but he gave him what he NEEDED…


(2) It Was Supernatural! It Was Done “In The Name of Jesus Christ”!

“In [Jewish] thought, a name doesn’t just identify or distinguish a person; it expresses the very nature of [that person’s] being. Hence the power of the person is present and available in the name of the person.” ~ Longnecker quoted in Holman New Testament Commentary


To pray “in the name of Jesus” literally means, to pray “by virtue of Jesus’ character, authority and power.”

To do anything in “the name of Jesus Christ” means to “…act consistent with His will; to do what He would do if He were here, to act in His authority and with His delegated power.”


John 14:13-14 (NIV), And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. 14 You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.

John 14:13-14 (AMP), And I will do - I Myself will grant - whatever you may ask in My name [presenting all I AM]. 14Yes, I will grant - will do for you - whatever you ask in MY name [presenting all I AM].


(3) It Was Instant.

Acts 3:7 (NIV), Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong.


(4) It Was Complete.

Acts 3:8 (NIV), He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God.

Acts 3:8 (MSG), He jumped to his feet and walked. The man went into the Temple with them, walking back and forth, dancing and praising God.


3. Instead of “Pointing A Finger,” Why Not Lend A Hand? Be Accepting.

Acts 3:7 (NLT), Then Peter took the lame man by the right hand and helped him up.

I really believe that acceptance opens the door to influence…

I wonder whether or not this guy would have continued to “sit” for another forty years had Peter not “…took the lame man by the right hand and helped him up…”


4. Always Point People To Jesus. Stay Missional.

Acts 3:9-16 (NLT), All the people saw him walking and heard him praising God. 10 When they realized he was the lame beggar they had seen so often at the Beautiful Gate, they were absolutely astounded! 11 They all rushed out to Solomon’s Colonnade, where he was holding tightly to Peter and John. Everyone stood there in awe of the wonderful thing that had happened.
12 Peter saw his opportunity and addressed the crowd. “People of Israel,” he said, “what is so astounding about this? And why look at us as though we had made this man walk by our own power and godliness? 13 For it is the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, the God of Jacob, the God of all our ancestors who has brought glory to his servant Jesus by doing this. This is the same Jesus whom you handed over and rejected before Pilate, despite Pilate’s decision to release him. 14 You rejected this holy, righteous one and instead demanded the release of a murderer. 15 You killed the author of life, but God raised him to life. And we are witnesses of this fact!
16 “The name of Jesus has healed this man—and you know how lame he was before. Faith in Jesus’ name has caused this healing before your very eyes.


Peter basically looked at the crowd and said, “It’s all about Jesus…” He presented the gospel and after his message, approximately 5,000 were converted.

Thursday, September 11, 2008

A PLACE WHERE HEALING HAPPENS

THIS SUNDAY AT a2
Sunday, September 14, 5:30 PM
Inverness Vineyard Church
4733 Valleydale Road

Is there a place where the lonely find acceptance? The broken get a second chance? And the hurting experience healing?

The first century church was that kind of church! The church began with a group of misfits and rejects. When it was at its BEST, it's heart was HUGE for the lonely, hurting, beat up, bruised and broken. It's our prayer that God will make a2 that kind of church. We want a2 to be "a safe place where people hear a dangerous message."

This Sunday we'll discover that regardless of our hang ups, hurts and pain, there is a place where we belong and A PLACE WHERE HEALING HAPPENS.

This weekend's service will feature great music, life-related message, and a special opportunity for prayer. Don't miss this special weekend at a2. Invite a friend to join you.

Monday, September 8, 2008

Ladies and Gentlemen...


Here are extensive notes from last night's message...

Ladies and Gentleman…
DANGEROUS CHURCH – Part 4

September 7, 2008 • Chris Goins

This past Wednesday night almost 40 (37.2) million Americans tuned in to watch a virtual “unknown” deliver her first speech on a “national stage” to the Republican National Convention.

This speech pulled in more viewers than the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics, this year’s American Idol final and the Oscars.

Experts indicated that the political future of Sarah Palin was riding on that speech. If she blew it, her running mate and presidential hopeful, John McCain, would probably suffer and irreparable blow. If she nailed it, then maybe the race for the White House might get a little more interesting…

This was a night of political “high drama” as only the second woman to run on a major U.S. party ticket delivered a 40-minute acceptance speech to the RNC.

Many believe that the former mayor of Wasilla and the current governor of Alaska had one shot to deliver “the speech of a lifetime” and that the political future of her party was riding on that speech…

How did she do?
Even most of her critics, as well rivals, Joe Biden and Barak Obama, indicated that she delivered a great speech.

Rewind 2,000 years…

It’s 50 days (almost 2 months) after Jesus’ crucifixion…
47 days after Jesus’ resurrection…
10 days after Jesus’ ascension…

120 believers are gathered in a small upper room – PRAYING… They feel overwhelmed, exhausted, inadequate and incompetent… They’ve been given a huge assignment, but still lack the “know how” as to how to pull it off…

All of a sudden their lives were interrupted! First, there’s a “hurricane howl” that sounds like its gong to blow the roof off… It’s the sound like the “roaring of a mighty windstorm.” Then there’s the appearance of “flames or tongues of fire” that come and sit upon the heads of everyone present…

Then all 120 believers are miraculously “filled with the Holy Spirit” and begin to speak in languages they’ve never studied or known… At least fifteen different languages were spoken by this group of uneducated, incompetent, inadequate and overwhelmed group of Christ-followers...

These guys and gals immediately pour out on to the streets of Jerusalem where a huge crowd has gathered for the celebration of a Jewish feast day called Pentecost… The streets are jammed packed. The moment this group of 120 Spirit-filled evangelists hit the streets they are loud and clear in their declaration of the “wonderful works of God”

Talk about “high drama.”

Some people in the crowd are “amazed and perplexed.” These guys were scratching their heads wanting to know more…

Some people in the crowd were cynical… They began to mock what they couldn’t understand… They looked at this group of radical Christ-followers and said, “It’s just breakfast beer… That’s all! These guys and gals are just all jacked up. They’re high…”

That’s when a totally unknown, completely uneducated, certainly not properly “vetted” fisherman takes center stage…

Almost two months ago this same guy had stood before a similar group of people and copped out… He had denied even knowing Jesus, not once, but three times…

Flanking him are eleven other guys who, when the chips were down, just seven weeks earlier, had ran like a scared group of kids, just to save their own skin…

Peter stands up and shouts for the crowd’s attention… All eyes are fastened on this thirty-year old former fisherman… The future – not of some political party – but the future of the church rests on what will happen next… If Pete blows it, Christianity will have had a very short run…

This is “high drama” with “huge stakes.”

Peter looks over this crowd and begins… “Ladies and gentlemen… Fellow Jews and all of you living in Jerusalem! Make no mistake about this… You’ve got to get this story straight! These people aren’t drunk like some of you suspect… Are you kidding me? It’s only nine o’clock in the morning, for heaven’s sake! It’s pretty tough to get drunk before breakfast…” (Acts 2:14-15a)

Peter went on to deliver one of the most simple, straightforward, Scriptural, Jesus-centered, no holds barred messages in the entire New Testament…

The result?

It revolutionized the lives of three thousand people.


THOUGHT: Here’s why this message is so important. At some point, one of your friends is going to come to you with a marriage that's gone south in a big way... At some point, your next-door neighbor is going to ask you a question about life after death... At some point, the guy or gal in the next cubicle at work will confide in you that they have this nagging feeling that something's just not right...

What will you say?


What To Say When You May Only Have One Chance To Say What Really Matters:

1. You Can Depend On God’s Word (Joel 2:28-32; Psalm 16:8-11; 110:1).

Peter’s message is jammed with quotations from the Word of God. Pete quotes Joel (2:28-32). He quotes David (Psalm 16 and 110).

Peter intuitively knows that “God’s word will not return to Him empty or void. It will accomplish what He desires. It will achieve the purpose for which He sent it.” (Isaiah 55:11)

So Peter looks at a primarily Jewish audience and he points them back to their own sacred texts… He points them back to God’s Word.

Acts 2:15-21 (NIV), These men are not drunk, as you suppose. It’s only nine in the morning! 16 No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 “‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people.”


This is crucial. At the outset of Peter’s message, he says, “The last days are here… They just began…”

Acts 2:17-21 (NIV), “‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. 18 Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy. 19 I will show wonders in the heaven above and signs on the earth below, blood and fire and billows of smoke. 20 The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and glorious day of the Lord.
21 And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’”
(See Joel 2:28-32)


Here’s the gist of Peter’s introduction: “The last days are here! This is the age of the Spirit, expect miracles!”

• Expect the outpouring of the Holy Spirit to impact everyone (vs. 17-18a)!

Men and women…
Young and old…
Rich and poor…
Educated and uneducated…

In one fell swoop God erased EVERY BARRIER that had kept men and women from the fullness of the Spirit for centuries.

Expect completely ordinary people to do totally extraordinary stuff (vs. 17-18).

Acts 2:17-18 (NIV), Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. 18 Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy.

• Expect awesome occurrences in the sky and on the earth (vs. 19-20).

• Expect salvation available to EVERYONE (v. 21).

Salvation would no longer be just the national hope of a select group of people…

Acts 2:21 (NIV), “‘And EVERYONE who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’”


“Because the Holy Spirit has been poured out upon all mankind, the merest cry from the sinner to God is enough.” ~ Watchman Nee


2. Remember The BIG IDEA: It’s All About Jesus!


Peter’s Bio of Jesus:

• He was “publicly endorsed” by God (v. 22).

Acts 2:22 (NIV), “Men of Israel, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know.”


• He was destined to die on the cross (v. 23).

Acts 2:23 (NIV), “This man was handed over to you by God’s set purpose and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross.”

Peter says, “Guys, the cross wasn’t an accident… The cross was always part of the PLAN OF GOD…”


“The thought of Acts safeguards us from two serious errors in our thinking about the death of Jesus. (a) The cross is not a kind of emergency measure flung out by God when everything else has failed. (b) We must never think that anything Jesus did changed the attitude of God to men. It was by God Jesus was sent. We may put it this way – the cross was a window in time allowing us to see the suffering love which is eternally in the heart of God." ~ William Barclay, Acts, 26-27


The Gospel (PURE and SIMPLE):

1) God is loving (1 John 4:16).

People who aren’t Christians need to know where the story begins… The story begins with the fact that God loved the whole world…

1 John 4:16b, “…God is love...”

John 3:16, “For God so loved the world…”

I love the way C.S. Lewis described it.

God, who needs nothing, loves into existence wholly superfluous creatures in order that He may love and perfect them… ~ C. S. Lewis

2) God is holy and completely sinless (Leviticus 19:2; Isaiah 6:3; 1 John 1:5).

By "holy" I mean "absolutely pure." “Holy” means that God is completely separate from everything that is impure. He is without sin and altogether good. In fact, the holiness of God is the most frequently mentioned attribute of God in all the Bible.

3) God is just.

This means that God is a good and perfect judge. Not only does God's HOLINESS expose and reject anything impure or sinful, but His JUSTICE has to deal with it.

4) God created us good, holy and without sin, but we became sinful (Psalm 53:3; Isaiah 64:6; Romans 3:23; 1 John 1:8).

Despite the fact that God made us sinless and good, everyone but Jesus is a sinner by nature and by choice.

Romans 3:23, For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.

Our sin includes our words, deeds, thoughts, and motives. Our sin also includes OMISSION (not doing what God commands) and COMMISSION (doing what God forbids).

I don’t know of a rational, thinking person who doesn’t agree with this statement, “We are sinful…”

5) We deserve death, both spiritual and physical (Genesis 2:16-17; Romans 6:23; Hebrews 9:22; Ephesians 2:1; Colossians 2:13).

At its core, sin is us separating ourselves from God. Because God is the living God and the source of all life, sin results in DEATH – both physical and spiritual.

Romans 6:23, For the wages of sin is death…

When my iPod remains unplugged from its power source for an extended period of time, it continues to exist, but it’s functionally dead.

In the same way, we might be physically alive, but until we come into contact and relationship with the source of life, we are SPIRITUALLY DEAD (Ephesians 2).

Furthermore, the debt we owe God requires payment, and that payment is our DEATH. This death is not just physical, it is also spiritual. It is separation from God for all eternity in a place the Bible refers to as hell.

6) We are helpless and morally bankrupt (Isaiah 64:6; Ephesians 2:8-9).

Isaiah 64:6, All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags . . .

7) Jesus is sinless, but became sin for us (John 8:46; Hebrews 4:15, 7:26; 1 Peter 2:22; Isaiah 53:6; 2 Corinthians 5:21).

Isaiah 53:6, All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned – every one – to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.

2 Corinthians 5:21 (NAS), He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

On the cross, as our substitute, Jesus was made to be the worst of what we are. He never sinned, but he “became sin for us.”

While hanging on the cross, Jesus cried out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” In that moment, Jesus became the most ugly, wicked, defiled, evil, corrupt, rebellious, hideous thing in all creation.

IMPORTANT THOUGHT: In that moment, Jesus became an alcoholic, addict, thief, pervert, adulterer, pedophile, homosexual, idol worshiper, whore, glutton, thief, coveter and self-righteous jerk.

The theologian Martin Luther called this truth, “the great exchange.”

On the cross, Jesus exchanged his perfection for our imperfection. He exchanged his obedience for our disobedience. He exchanged his intimacy with the Father for our distance and separation from God. He exchanged his blessing for our curse. His life for our death.

8) Jesus died for us (Isaiah 53:5, 12; Romans 4:25, 5:8; 1 Corinthians 15:3; 1 Peter 3:18; 1 John 2:2; Galatians 3:13).

The idea is called “penal substitutionary atonement.” In other words, Jesus took the penalty for our sins in our place so would never have to suffer the “just penalty” ourselves.

Isaiah 53:5 (NIV), But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.

Isaiah 53:12b (NLT), He bore the sins of many and interceded for sinners.

Romans 4:25 (NIV), He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.

Romans 5:8 (NIV), But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

1 John 2:2 (NAS), He Himself is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for those of the whole world.

Galatians 3:13 (NLT), But Christ has rescued us from the curse pronounced by the law. When he was hung on the cross, he took upon himself the curse for our wrongdoing.


• He was miraculously raised from the dead (vs. 24-32).

Acts 2:24 (NIV), “But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.” (See Acts 2:25-32; Psalm 16:8-11; 1 Corinthians 15:3-6)


• He rules and reigns as Sovereign, King and Lord (v. 33a, 34-36)!

Acts 2:33 (NAS), “Therefore having been exalted to the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, He has poured forth this which you both see and hear.” (See Philippians 2:9-11; Psalm 110:1)


• He “pours out” the gift of the Holy Spirit (v. 33).


3. Your Life Can Change.

Our dilemma is the same as Humpty Dumpty’s. Do you remember the Nursery Rhyme.

Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall,
Humpty Dumpty had a great fall.
All the king's horses and all the king's men
Couldn't put Humpty together again.

That Nursery Rhyme is “downer”, but it's the truth about mankind's predicament, unless you bring in the story of redemption.

According to those who know about such things, Humpty Dumpty isn’t a recent nursery rhyme. In fact, it’s a relic that is thousands of years old. Versions of it have appeared in eight different European languages. The story of our brokenness goes back to the beginning of time.

When our first daughter, Chelsea, was born, our home church gave us a book filled with “Christian paraphrases” of the popular Mother Goose Nursery Rhymes. I love the way Humpty Dumpty reads in that book:

Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall,
Humpty Dumpty had a great fall.
Humpty Dumpty shouted "AMEN!"
God can put me back together again!


The message of the gospel is that God has made a way for broken people to be put back together again!


That’s exactly what Peter says in Acts 2. Check out Verse 37.

Acts 2:37 (NIV), When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?”

Acts 2:38 (NLT), Peter replied, “Each of you must turn from your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”


Repent. Do a 180 with your life!“…turn from your sins and turn to God…”

• Go Public“…be baptized…”

• Receive the Holy Spirit “…receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”


Acts 2:38 (NIV), “The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”

Acts 2:40-41 (NIV), With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.” 41 Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.


Sources:
Vintage Jesus, Mark Driscoll
Acts, James Montgomery Boice
The Book of Acts, Robert Girard and Larry Richards
Acts, R. Kent Hughes

Friday, September 5, 2008

LEAVING A LEGACY THAT LASTS - PART 4


PRINCIPLE FOUR: Never Lose Focus On What’s Ahead.

One of my Dad’s favorite verses was Romans 8:18. I read this passage to him a few times during the last week of his life.

“For I reckon that the sufferings of the present aren’t worth comparing to the glory that shall be revealed.”

Dad loved this verse. He especially loved this translation because of ONE WORD in the verse: “For I reckon...” Dad loved the word "reckon." He thought it sounded like a great Southern word.

I've heard him preach or exhort from this verse several times. I can almost hear him quoting it: “For I reckon that the sufferings of the present aren’t worth comparing to the glory that shall be revealed.”

I believe this is what Dad was banking on during the last few months of his life. He was banking on God's promise that despite what lay ahead, it couldn't compare to what God had in store.


I arrived in Tennessee on Saturday, August 23 after our first "work day" at the future worship site of a2 Church. Dad was sitting in his recliner, surrounded by family and friends, but it was obvious he was struggling.

Later that evening I helped him to bed. That would be the last time he would move about the house. I had arrived in Tennessee with the intention of driving back to Birmingham Sunday afternoon to worship with a2. After spending a few hours with Dad, I knew that it was important for me to stay. Over the next four days Dad's condition would deteriorate.

Wednesday evening was one of those evenings you wouldn’t wish on your worst enemy…

The Hospice Nurse arrived just before mid-week service and indicated that they would begin giving Dad “morphine” to ease his pain…

Somehow I knew this would be the final opportunity I would have to speak with my Dad. I walked over to his bedside, looked into his eyes one more time just to tell him that I loved him and that it was alright if he wanted to go on home…

That evening family lingered at Dad and Mom's house well into the evening. I believe everyone could sense that we might be nearing what some would consider to be "the end."

Sometime after midnight Dad had a seizure. He had another one some time around 4 AM. After the second seizure, His breathing seemed to be very labored. But he also seemed to be at peace…

After being up all night, Crystal Conely, one of Dad’s church members and a close family friend, prepared breakfast… While Mom grabbed a quick cup of coffee, I sat near Dad’s bed reading Scripture, praying, listening to him breath…

Crystal walked in to to give me just a few moments to grab a bite to eat… After downing a bacon and egg sandwich, when I walked back into Dad’s room, I knew it wouldn't be long…

Dad's breathing had changed… It wasn’t as labored… Each breath seemed to be shorter… He was still at peace…

Crystal looked at me and said, “I’ve just been singing to him…”

As she left to get a bite to eat, I sat down and decided that was a good course of action… I began to sing… My singing soon became mixed with tears...

A couple of hymns came immediately to mind. So I began to sing...

Great is Thy faithfulness
O God my Father
There is no shadow of turning with Thee...

When peace like a river, attendeth my way
When sorrows like sea billows roll
Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say
It is well, It is well with my soul...


As I continued to sing, the lyrics of a song I originally heard back in the early nineties flooded my mind. The song was written by one of my favorite song writers, Mark Heard.

The lyrics of this song have always moved me because of their longing for redemption, for God to set everything right...

As tears streamed down my face, I sang these words over my dad...

I see you now and then in dreams
Your voice sounds like it used to
I know you better than I knew you then
All I can say is, “I love you.”
I thought our days were commonplace
Thought they’d number in the millions
Now there’s only the aftertaste
Of circumstance that can’t pass this way again.

Treasure of the broken land
Parched earth, give up your captive ones
Waiting winds of Gabriel
Blow soon upon these hollow bones…


Before finishing the words of the chorus, Dad had went home.

Here are the rest of Mark's lyrics:

I saw the city at its tortured worst
And you were outside the walls there
You were relieved of a lifelong thirst
I was dry at the fountain
I knew that you could see my shame
But you were eyeless and sparing
I awoke when you called my name
I felt the curtain tearing

Treasure of the broken land
Parched earth, give up your captive ones
Waiting winds of Gabriel
Blow soon upon these hollow bones…

I can melt the clock hands down
But only in my memory
Nobody gets the second chance
To be the friend that they meant to be
I see you now and then in dreams
Your voice sounds just like it used to
I believe I will hear it again
God how I love you.

- Treasures of the Broken Land, Mark Heard

The last week has been one of the most difficult in memory.

I felt Dad's absence keenly on Monday night as the Tennessee Volunteers played their first game of the season. Dad loved college football, and every time UT took the field was an opportunity for us to talk on the phone and discuss the game... Calls would go back and forth throughout the course of the game... I thought about this ritual Monday evening and missed being able to pick up the phone and call him...

I also thought about the last time we "did this dance." While Dad wasn't a huge pro-football fan, during the last Super Bowl we called each other several times... Both of us wanted to see the Pats go down and the Giants win...

This week I thought about how much I miss him... How much I miss his wisdom... His laugh... His sarcasm... His simplicity... His humility... His voice...

This week I thought about how much I long for heaven...

I love Paul's words in 2 Timothy 4:6 to his "son in the faith," Timothy.

2 Timothy 4:6-8 (MSG), You take over. I’m about to die, my life an offering on God’s altar. This is the only race worth running. I’ve run hard right to the finish, believed all the way. All that’s left now is the shouting—God’s applause! Depend on it, he’s an honest judge. He’ll do right not only by me, but by everyone eager for his coming.

Dad believed in this. He longed for it. He lived for it.

My goal? To finish strong and to never lose focus on what's ahead. One day the "parched earth will give up it's captive ones" and the "waiting winds of Gabriel will blow upon these hollow bones." Until then, I must believe "for to me to live is Christ..."

I thank God for the legacy He gave me in the life of my Dad. I look forward to our reunion.

"Therefore encourage each other with these words." 1 Thessalonians 4:18

Thursday, September 4, 2008

LEAVING A LEGACY THAT LASTS - PART 3


PRINCIPLE THREE: Live What You Believe!

One of my favorite verses in 2 Timothy is Chapter 4, Verse 7 where Paul makes this statement.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."

Paul uses some powerful metaphors to describe character qualities like loyalty, perseverance, grit, guts, faithfulness and determination that are "required equipment" for people who want to leave a legacy that lasts.


I have fought the good fight

The word fight literally means struggle or agony. Paul is basically saying, “Timothy… You need to know that everything hell could possibly throw at me – it has thrown at me, but I’m still in the game. I’ve not thrown in the towel. I haven’t given up! My colors are still flying high.”

The last year was a tough year for Dad physically. Almost a year ago, he experienced the first problems with his kidneys. Then, in January 2008 we learned about the brain tumor…

Nothing prepares you for hearing the doctor use the word "cancer" and "brain" in the same sentence.

After brain surgery, recovery, a series of Rytuxin treatments, followed up by radiation treatments, followed up another MRI, Dr. Slaybock, Dad's cancer doc, met with Dad and Mom. It wasn’t the meeting we were all hoping for…

Dr. Slaybock looked at Dad and Mom and said, “Ken, I know you have your spiritual house in order, it’s time to set the rest of your house in order… This will not be a lengthy battle… The treatments haven’t worked… You have an aggressive form of lymphoma… I’m not God, but I want to make you aware of what we know…”

How do you deal with that kind of news?

Most people, including and especially myself, would fall apart, get angry, hurl questions at God, or drift into depression. Not Dad.

Dad and Mom got in the car. Dad looked at Mom and said, “Well, that wasn’t the news I wanted to hear… What will I tell my boys?”

In the aftermath of hearing that, barring a miracle from God, the expiration date on his life was just around the corner, Dad's first thoughts were not about himself, but for the people he loved…

Mom said, “You’ll tell them the truth…”

Some days are etched permanently in your memory. For me, June 20, 2008 will be one of those days. I had been praying that morning for a good report. I had been anxiously waiting for Dad's phone call.

Dad called all four of his sons personally. He was emotional, but his faith was strong.

After calling his boys, Dad called his sister, Shirley. He wanted to meet with his family - his brothers and sisters… He wanted them to hear him share the news himself. So on Friday evening, June 20, 2008 Dad met with his family…

Two days later, on June 22, 2008 he preached his last sermon to Watts Bar Church of God.

Whether talking with his boys, his family or his church, this was the basic content of all those conversations:

“I am the Lord’s… I know God heals… I know He does miracles…
But if God chooses not to do a miracle; whether I live or die, I am the Lord’s…
It’s alright… I have a sense of peace…”


If you were around Dad at all over the last few months, you saw a man who demonstrated incredible courage, faith, strength and peace

Sometimes strength doesn't come wrapped up in muscle, bone, brawn and stature. Sometimes it rests quietly in the spirit and soul of a man who knows that his strength is in God.

Regardless of what was going on in Dad's life physically, he never complained. He never questioned. He walked with a sense of grace and peace…

Even in his final days, after he became immobile and strength had left his body, whenever someone walked into his room and asked, “How are you doing?” Dad would always find a way to answer: “I’m doing good…”

The last week of Dad's life was especially brutal. Saturday, August 23 was the last day Dad would be able to get out of the bed. He barely made it back into bed.

By Wednesday morning, his strength was completely gone. My mom was the primary caregiver. Me and my brothers helped as needed.

On Wednesday morning, me and my brother, Kasey were in the room with Mom, attempting to roll Dad over on his side, hoping this would help him rest… I looked at Dad and said, “Hey Dad. We’re going to roll you over and try to make you more comfortable…”

My Dad has always had a sarcastic sense of humor. He had one of those moments… He just looked at me and started laughing… It was almost like he was saying, “More comfortable? Are you out of your mind? There’s nothing ‘comfortable’ about this.”

“I have fought the good fight…”


I have kept the faith

“Keeping faith” was a Jewish expression for loyalty, faithfulness, character or integrity…

My Dad knew how “keep the faith.”

One of the greatest gifts he gave me was his faithfulness to my mom and his wife of 44 years.

Another gift he gave me was his faithfulness to God over the last 43+ years

Another gift? 25 years of faithful service to this local church>.

I have fought the good fight…I have kept the faith…I have finished the race…


On Thursday morning, August 28 at just a few minutes before 8 Dad finished the race. Throughout his life my Dad taught by example. He lived what he believed.

Tomorrow, I'll finish up by sharing the fourth principle.

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

LEAVING A LEGACY THAT LASTS - PART 2




SECOND PRINCIPLE: Love Like Crazy

As Paul approached the end of his life, he wanted to be close to the people he loved… Pretty interesting, when you think about how tough and "hard-nosed" this guy was when we first meet him in the New Testament.

But time and GRACE had taken this once tough, hard-nosed, hard-pushing, "can-do," entrepreneurial type and softened him; making him a man who deeply and dearly loved people.

He loved the churches he was privileged to launch and lead. He loved the people he rubbed shoulders with in ministry.

One of my favorite statements from the lips of Paul is Philippians 1:6-7. Where Paul writes to perhaps his "favorite" church and says, "...I am confident that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. It is right for me to feel this way about you, seeing that I have you in my heart."

Wow! Imagine Vin Diesel looking at a group of people and saying, "I believe in you guys. I know you're going to make it. It's right for me to feel this way about you, because I have you in my heart."

That's Paul! Grace had transformed him into a man who "loved like crazy."


That pretty much describes my Dad. Here are a few more snapshots from his life.

If you knew my Dad, you know he loved people

He loved his wifeConnie Sharon Fuller Goins. Dad and Mom met at a Birthday Party for Mom’s Uncle Harry. Because Shirley (Dad's sister) had married into “the family,” Shirley was there with my Dad.

Mom said, “He was wearing one of those skimpy bathing suits…”

He also happened to be drinking a beer, which totally turned mom off.

Mom didn’t see him again for some time. The next time she saw Dad he had already experienced his “encounter with the law,” and decided to start going to church with his sister, Shirley.

Shirley introduced Dad and Mom. She said, “Connie, he plays the guitar and you play the piano, you all ought to enjoy one another.”

They did! Dad and mom were married on April 15, 1964.

My mother was the love of Dad's life. As a kid I saw it on display day in day out. Hugs and kisses were common in the Goins' household, often eliciting an, "Ugh!" from me and my brothers.

Just days before Dad's passing he had lost clarity in his thoughts. But one night around bedtime Mom stood by his side, stroking his head, telling him good night. She reached over to kiss him goodnight, like they've probably done every night for the last forty four years, and all of a sudden...clarity. Dad's lips puckered and reached up to meet my Mom's.

Yep! These two loved each other like crazy.

Dad also loved his boys… There are four of us: me, Kelly, Stephen and Kasey. The memories I have from my childhood are like the ones you read in a storybook. There was never a doubt about the way my Dad loved the four of us.

I remember "TV nights." After a long day of work, Dad was on the couch and we boys piled on top of him while mom cooked a kettle of popcorn on the kitchen stove. My favorite? Watching the television premiere of Rocky with my Dad.

I remember wrestling matches, motorcycle rides, church trips and work. I worked with my Dad from the time I was eight years old. Those were some of the best days of my life. Hanging out with Dad. Riding around town. Changing a compressor. Laughing. Sharing.

One of the greatest blessings I carry with me today is the fact that I grew up knowing I was loved.

Dad loved his family… He was born into a large family. Try this on for size: eleven brothers and sisters. Wow!

And we're not talking rich or financially "well off" people. We're talking "salt of the earth," work hard and "make a living" kind of people. But to rub shoulders with any of these brothers and sisters, you would think they grew up rich. And maybe they did, just not in the way the world measures wealth. They grew up knowing they were loved.

Dad was crazy about his Dad and Mom. Pappaw Goins was one of the heroes of his life. He was crazy about his brothers and sisters, his nieces and nephews and the extended members of the Goins clan.

Dad loved his church… Watts Bar, the words of Paul the Apostle to the church at Philippi in Philippians 1:6-7 accurately express the way my Dad felt about the church he planted and led for 25 years.

“…being confident of this that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. It is right for me to feel this way about you because I have you in my heart.”

Finally, Dad just loved people. If I love people at all today, it's because one of the most important principles my Dad taught me is that people matter. They matter to God and they ought to matter to us.

So, if you want to leave a legacy that lasts, love like crazy.

Tuesday, September 2, 2008

LEAVING A LEGACY THAT LASTS


Give Your Life Away

2 Timothy contains the epitaph of Paul the Apostle. It's basically his "swan song." It's the last letter he would write before his death.

If you've read the letter, you know it's personal - probably Paul's most personal letter. It's vulnerable and authentic.

Paul knows he only has a short time to live and he wants to write his "son in the faith," a guy named Timothy. Paul wants to remind Timothy about what really matters, what's really important

In 2 Timothy Paul shares at least four principles that will allow anyone to leave a legacy that lasts.

Over the next few days I would like to walk some of these thoughts out... Especially in light of how I saw these principles lived out in the life of my Dad. Hopefully, by sharing you'll get a glimpse of the kind of man I was privileged to call, "Dad."


FIRST PRINCIPLE: Give Your Life Away

In 2 Timothy 4:6 Paul describes the way he viewed his life.

2 Timothy 4:6 (NIV), For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure.

Paul compared his death to “a drink offering.” In the Old Testament, a drink offering was an offering performed by pouring wine out on the ground or on the altar (Numbers 28:11-31). It was the final offering in a long list of offerings (Numbers 15:1-16).

Here's the way 2 Timothy 4:6 reads in The Message.

2 Timothy 4:6 (MSG), You take over. I’m about to die, my life an offering on God’s altar.

Paul is painting a mental portrait for Timothy. When Paul thought about his coming execution, he didn’t envision a chopping block; he viewed the EXECUTIONER’S CHAMBER as a SANCTUARY, and the chopping block as an ALTAR.

In effect, Paul was saying to Timothy, “Nero is not going to take my life. I am going to give my life as a sacrifice or offering to Jesus Christ. I’ve been a living sacrifice since I met him… Now I am going to complete that sacrifice by willingly laying down my life for him as a martyr.”


This is something my Dad believed to the core of who he was. Here's a piece of his story.

My Dad started attending church because his sister, Shirley had a transformational experience with Jesus Christ that compelled her to reach her family for Christ. She started by reaching out to her brother, the guy that would eventually become my Dad… (By the way, she would eventually reach almost the entire Goins' clan with the gospel, forever changing the dynamics of this family... Proof of God's ability to use just ONE PERSON to make a significant difference)

After a brief encounter with the law and a night in jail, like a lot of other people, my Dad decided, “Maybe church isn’t a bad idea…” Even before becoming a Christian, Dad became incredibly active in the Sale Creek Church of God… A church that would play a significant role in the spiritual formation of the Goins family.

In December 1965 (right around Christmas) my Dad stood at an altar with my mom where they presented me to the Lord in Baby Dedication… Brother W.I. Head led the ceremony. Dad has shared this story at almost every Baby Dedication he officiated at… He stood there at my Baby Dedication and made promises of faith and devotion, and the entire time he stood there he knew he didn’t have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ…

A week later our little family moved to Fort Benning, Georgia where Dad finished up his stint in the service… And for six months the Holy Spirit used that dedication service to “convict” my Dad and bring him to a place of repentance… My Dad was haunted by this question, “How can you possibly walk out all those promises you stood there and made when you haven’t even surrendered your life to Jesus Christ?”

Dad finished his stint in the service in May 1965… He and mom moved back to Sale Creek where he immediately began attending church at the Sale Creek Church of God. And in the Summer of 1965, after being irresistibly drawn by the Holy Spirit, my Dad surrendered his life to Jesus Christ.

All of my life all I’ve ever known is a Dad who had given His life to Jesus Christ… To use Paul’s words: He “…poured himself out like a drink offering to God…”

Even though Dad was involved in church before his conversion, after it, he threw himself into the ministry of the local church… Wherever he was needed, he willingly served… Whether that involved teaching a group of boys, leading the youth or doing odd jobs around the church… He gladly did it…

He and mom led the youth ministry of the Sale Creek Church of God for 17 years…

For a period of time, he was actually my Sunday School Teacher… While going through some of his things, I ran across I letter I had written when I was just a little boy. The top of the letter read, “What My Sunday School Teacher Means To Me.” In it, I had written the following...

“My Sunday School teacher is my Dad, so he’s more than a Sunday School Teacher to me…”

Dad gave his life away…

Much like Barnabas (Acts 9:27, 13) he loved to “champion,” inspire and influence young men and women to make a difference for Jesus Christ…

While I was a teenager, Dad and mom formed the group: Ken Goins and the Spiritual Explosion… He invested more money and time than I’ll probably ever know pouring his life into that little group of teenagers…

He let us sing(Even though I’ve never really been able to sing…) He let us play(Even when we played really, really loud…) He let us preach(Even when we couldn’t preach… In fact, some people still wonder whether or not I can do that now…)

My earliest and most important influence when it comes to ministry and the church was my Dad.

Why? He gave his life away…

In 1982 Brother Don Johnson, the Evangelism Director for the Churches of God in the State of Tennessee, called my Dad and asked him to consider planting a church… At first, Dad wondered whether or not that was even his calling. Brother Johnson challenged him and encouraged him. “Ken, you are a faithful man. We need faithful men to plant churches…”

Several possible sites were presented. None of them felt “right” to Dad… Then one day Brother Johnson called, “Ken, I’ve found an area that could really use a Church of God. The closest Church of God on that side of the river and in that county is several miles away. Would you think about starting a church near Watts Bar?”

Dad drove through the area and found an old abandoned storefront building. It was littered with all kinds of debris… But he came back home to Mom and announced, “I’ve found a building… Let’s start a revival and just see if God is up to something…”

I remember walking through that very building with Dad, stepping over beer cans, cigarette butts, all kinds of debris. I looked at Dad and asked, "Are you SURE God told you to do this?" Dad just sort of smiled.

We cleaned and prepared the building. The revival services started as planned. During the first revival service, Charles James, the father of one of the girls in our little singing group, gave his life to Jesus Christ. That revival lasted for two weeks…

Then it was time for Dad and Mom to “make a judgment call.” Was this just a revival or would they plant a church in Watts Bar?

Dad and Mom prayed… They asked God for a sign… They kept it to themselves, but said, “If on a Sunday morning, after all of our friends and family go back to their churches, if God will give us seven people – seven people - from ‘this side of the river,’ we’ll start a church in Watts Bar…"

Sunday rolled around… There weren’t SEVEN PEOPLE from “that side of the river” in the service; there were ELEVEN PEOPLE

Dad thought, “God has done exceedingly, abundantly more than we ever asked…”

The first services of what would become Watts Bar Church of God took place in January 1983. The church was officially established March 30, 1983… The first service on the present church property took place in November 1983.

After twenty-five years, the church is still making a difference. Why? You bet, it’s the sovereign grace of a great God and my Dad would be the first to say, “to God be all the glory.” But I also believe God used a man who was willing to "give his life away."

If you want to leave a legacy that lasts, "give your life away."

"For I am already being poured out like a drink offering..."

Tomorrow, I'll share the second principle involved in "leaving a legacy that lasts."