This is the song we will be working on for our next youth service. Listen to it a couple of times to familiarize yourself with it!
My Hope is Jesus - Ron Hamilton
Book Summary
Through Gates of Splendor
Through Gates of Splendor is an amazing book about the life of five missionaries that gave all for the cause of Christ. Nate Saint, Roger Youderian, Ed McCully, Pete Fleming, Jim Elliot and their wives are fantastic illustrations of Christians who saw past the temporal and saw the eternal. This book is a great picture of what selfless Christianity looks like.
Through Gates of Splendor tells the story of a group of individuals who teamed up to reach Indians in South America. The beginning of the book gives us a glimpse into the lives of these men. The interesting thing about these individuals is that they could have been “successful” in many earthly ambitions. All five of the men involved in the mission to the Aucas were gifted individuals. These men chose to use their talents and abilities for more than just wealth or popularity. The book describes how each one of them dedicated their lives to bring honor and glory to God.
Another intriguing thing that is noted in the book, is how these men had a burden to share the gospel with unreached people. They pursued people groups that most people would have deemed unreachable or unnecessarily difficult. They had to learn unwritten languages and share the gospel with people who had never heard the name of Jesus. These men worked hard to figure out ways to communicate the love of Christ in anyway possible. As the book unfolds and you read of how these men figured out ways to communicate with the Aucas, Nate Saint, the pilot, worked on amazing ways to use his plane to distribute gifts and communicate with the people around him. These men and their wives gave their lives to sitting by radios, making meals, clearing trees, and flying planes in order to reach savage Indians. Sometimes we think of missionary life as 24/7 preaching and soul-winning, but we learn through the pages of this book that these missionaries lives were consumed by doing practical tasks for the purpose of reaching the South American Indians for Christ. It’s amazing to see all the hard work and daily dedication of winning indians to Christ. There is no greater display of this burden than in Nate Saints own writing.“May we who know Christ hear the cry of the damned as they hurtle headlong into the Christless night without ever a chance. May we be moved with compassion as our Lord was. May we shed tears of repentance for these we have failed to bring out of darkness. Beyond the smiling scenes of Bethlehem may we see the crushing agony of Golgotha. May God give us a new vision of His will concerning the lost and our responsibility.”
The conclusion of the book is probably the most familiar part of the story. Most people know of how these five inspiring missionaries were killed. The part that jumps off the pages though is the grace of God exhibited in their lives and their deaths. As you read through, you can feel their excitement as they make contact with the Aucas, but even through that excitement you can sense the caution in their writings. As the news came in about the murders of the men on the missionary team, you can see the peace of God that passeth all understanding in the behavior of the missionary wives. These women lost their family members but still made huge strides to reach the Aucas.
I would recommend this book to any Christian desiring to see an illustration of selfless Christianity. These families demonstrate a love for God and a dedication for his service that is not usually seen in modern Christianity.
Character Sketch
Jim Elliot
Jim Elliot is a very intriguing individual. He and his fellow missionaries highlight the necessity for living with eternity in mind. Colossians 3:2 asserts “Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.” Every Christian is challenged by the Word of God to live a life that is focused on eternity. This is a trait that most of us lack. As I read this book, I was confronted by my lack of eternal vision. One of my favorite quotes by Jim Elliot in this book is in his response to those who would compel him to stay in America. Jim Elliot said, “I dare not stay home while Quichuas perish. What if the well-filled church in the homeland needs stirring? They have the Scriptures, Moses, and the prophets, and a whole lot more. Their condemnation is written on their bank books and in the dust on their Bible covers.” I think his observation of modern Christianity is very true. We fail to see the eternal needs while we chase the things of the world. I am guilty of this many times myself. Our hearts should echo the sentiments of Nate Saint. "When life's flight is over, and we unload our cargo at the other end, the fellow who got rid of unnecessary weight will have the most valuable cargo to present to the Lord.” “Through Gates of Splendor” leaves us with an example of imperfect people that have given themselves wholly to the eternal work of God. From an earthly standpoint the loss of five talented men seems like a waste, but as we look at the eternal we see five men who have laid up there treasures in heaven. After reading this book, I fully believe these men would accept the challenge again, even if they knew it would cost them their lives. This is how I would like my life to be characterized.
Five Practical Thoughts on Self Control
Last night in youth group, we discussed the issue of temperance, or self control. This is definitely not something our culture is supporting us in, so how do we win the battle for self control? Here are five tips on establishing self control.
Tip #1 Pray for Self Control
I know at first this sounds cliche´, but it’s probably one of the most important steps you can take. In 2 Chronicles 16:11, David challenges us to “Seek the Lord and his strength, seek his face continually.” We must continually seek God, because we do not have the strength to establish self control in our lives.
Tip #2 Read God’s Word
I know what you’re thinking, heres another one of those “pastor answers,” but stay with me here. Have you ever read through the book of Proverbs? Do you know how many self control issues are covered in just this one book? Pride and humility are mentioned in Proverbs 16:19. Gossip is discouraged in Proverbs 16:28. The angry temper is addressed in Proverbs 16:32. The dangers of lust are articulated in Proverbs 6:23-26. Laziness is even tackled in Proverbs 26:14. The Word of God is filled with help in the area of temperance. We just have to be hearers and doers!
Tip #3 Set Goals
If you have read Philippians 3, it’s not hard to pick up on the objective of the apostle Paul. What are we pursuing? Are you pursuing a Christ-centered life? Establish goals to help you get there! Make those goals specific. Maybe your goal can be something as simple as going to bed at a decent hour so you can wake up to spend time in God’s Word. Or maybe your goal is something bigger that you need to accomplish. Either way, establish goals in your life and pursue them so that you can bring honor and glory to Christ in your life.
Tip #4 Seek Accountability
Another key to help with the development of temperance is to get someone else involved. Find someone you have a relationship with and who is following Christ and request for them to keep you accountable. Proverbs 27:17 says “Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.” Allow a godly friend or mentor to encourage you in the goals you have set to be more like Christ.
Tip #5 Protect Yourself
One of the most important tips for temperance is to protect yourself from yourself. Romans 13:13-14 puts it this way, “Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.” Many of our failures in self control can be brought back to the simple fact that we put ourselves in the position to fail. Usually, if you're on a diet, you don’t make up a plate of snacks and desserts and place them in an easily reached location. You stay away from those types of things so you are not tempted. This same principle is true whether you are dealing with lust, anger, gossip, or any other fleshly struggle. Don’t set yourself up for failure.
“Trustfulness is based on confidence in God whose ways I do not understand; if I did, there would be no need for trust”
Yesterday in our Bible study, we observed the patience of David to wait for God’s timing to become king. During our discussion, we brought up how patiently waiting for God required a trust in God, even when we don’t understand His plan or His timing. The question to ponder is “Do we really trust God?” We read yesterday of the great verse of how Abraham followed God. “And he said, Blessed be the Lord God of my master Abraham, who hath not left destitute my master of his mercy and his truth: I being in the way, the Lord led me to the house of my master's brethren.” (Genesis 24:27) We are familiar with Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” We quote this passage genuinely, sincerely desiring to trust God with our lives, but we quickly find ourselves relying on our own wisdom. We support our conclusions to move ahead of God’s will by looking through our limited scope of knowledge. Abraham was guilty of this too! In Genesis 16, Abraham, one of the great examples of faith, and Sarah decided to “help” God, because from their limited wisdom, there was no way that God could keep His Word. This episode of lack of trust led to numerous difficulties in the life of Abraham and even generations afterwards. A couple of weeks ago, I was putting together some furniture in our living room. Shilyn asked if she could help, and Tavian volunteered to hinder progress. I explained to Shilyn what needed to be done and explained how she would have to really be listening to my instructions. At 5 years of age, she had a decent idea of what I desired to accomplish. I could ask her to hold this, or screw in this, and she would. Every once in awhile she would jump ahead in the building process, and I would have to bring her back to the step I was on, but she was genuinely trying to be helpful. Tavian, on the other hand, was a tornado of mayhem to our project. At a year and half, he did not comprehend what we desired to accomplish. He watched us use the screwdriver, and determined in his small scope of understanding that this screwdriver was the tool for everything. He tried to use it on the screen of the television, on the video game consoles, and even in his own ears. I’m sure Tavian desired to help and maybe even thought he was helping, but since he did not understand the big picture, he slowed down progress. God desires to build our lives for His glory. We don’t always understand every detail, but if we are patient and trusting, we have His promise that He will direct our paths.
This week in our Sunday Morning Bible Study we observed David’s diligence. We defined diligence as a constant and earnest effort to accomplish what is undertaken. We humorously discussed the lack of diligence in the modern workplace. We’ve all observed, or maybe even experienced, the poor customer service by people that lack diligence. But many of us overlook the lack of diligence in our own lives. As I search the Word of God, I find great truths about being persistent and earnest in accomplishing what God has called me to do. Proverbs 12:24 says, “The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.” Solomon wisely states that diligence is a key element in leadership. We may look at the phrase “bear rule” and think, I don’t have a desire to “bear rule” over anyone. Solomon is simply teaching a truth about leadership. I hope that you desire to be a godly leader even as a teenager. Our culture needs young people who are leaders that are passionately accomplishing goals that glorify our Savior. Here is one more example, Proverbs 22:29 says, “Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean (of little importance) men.” I know you’re thinking, I don’t have a business! The word “business” here basically means his or her work. So, the Word of God practically explains to us that diligence is a cornerstone of a successful life. Do you desire to be successful? Remember our quote from Sunday, “There are no small or unimportant jobs to God.” Being faithful as a shepherd was just as important as being faithful as a king (Memory Verse: Psalm 78:70-71.) I have two challenges for you! First, take some time this week and search your Bible (or Bible app) for the word “diligent” and see for yourself what the Bibe says about it. Secondly, I challenge you to be diligent this week. This week “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might.” (Ecclesiastes 9:10)
In our study of the Life of David on Sunday, we were looking at how David learned to know God. It was exciting to hear the observations that you all made as we looked at Psalm 100. It still amazes me how many things we are told about God in just those five verses! My prayer would be that you as young people will learn to know God personally. Our culture has given us a perception of our God that is not even close to truth. If I were to ask you, “How do you get to know God?” Your answer would probably have something to do with prayer and/or Bible reading. And it should! Are you taking time to meditate on God’s Word and talk with Him in prayer? Don’t just take others opinions about God. Learn to know God yourself, like David did. As we saw on Sunday, it was one of the keys for David’s preparation for what God desired him to do in life.
A few years ago, my wife shared an interesting study with me. It was a study by one of the ladies from the Wilds Christian Camp. The study was entitled “What Do I Know About My God?” I want to challenge you to take a look at it. Here is a link to the PDF. I believe if we start to think this way, it will transform our Christian walk!
Our series can be summed up like this:
Let no man despise (disregard; think against) thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word (something said; communication), in conversation (external appearances or actions; behavior), in charity (a choice to show sacrificial compassion and kindness to others), in spirit (an attitude that spreads throughout feelings or actions; state of mind regarding something), in faith (the agreement of my heart to the truth of what is declared by God, resting on His authority and integrity, without other evidence), in purity (freedom from guilt or defilement of sin).
1 Timothy 4:12
Missions Conference - Give the Gospel
Why is a missions conference so important in the life of a young person?
I'm excited about this years missions conference. I know it changes our routines just a little bit, but I think we have a tremendous opportunity before us. The questions is are you taking advantage of this opportunity? How does missions conference fit into the life of a Christian teenager or young adult? Allow me to challenge you with some thoughts for missions conference.
Missions Conference expands our vision past ourselves.
Sometimes as Americans we forget about how blessed we really are. We are unhappy because we don't have a "new" outfit to wear to our special occasions or our iPod is "only a third generation." We get upset because our basketball socks don't have logos, or because our instagram posts only have two likes. (Don't think I'm just picking on young people, I struggle with the same carnal feelings.) Missions conference reminds me that there are people around the world with real struggles! These young people don't have food, clothing, or sometimes even families! This changes the perspective on my first world problems. The greatest tragedy is that some of the people in the missionary presentations have never heard the gospel. There are people in this world who have never heard of Jesus and do not have a copy of God's Word, and we don't even bother to read our Bibles or even bring them to church. As you sit through missions conference, remind yourself that God has truly blessed you! Remember there is a world outside of yours. So the next time you get despondent because you don't have or can't do, remember there are people in this world that don't have anything.
Missions Conference establishes that the gospel still works.
As we move through our weekly routines of youth group, school, and sometimes work, we must be challenged often that sharing the gospel is important! There are moments when we start to convince ourselves that the gospel is not as powerful as it was "back in the good old days." Paul said in Romans 1:16 "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek." I love sitting in missions conference and hearing the amazing stories of people being brought to a knowledge of the Savior. It's thrilling to hear of people in other cultures where lives are being changed because someone cared enough to bring them the gospel. The gospel still works! Every now and then, we have to be reminded of this. Missions conference brings me back to the importance of the gospel!
Missions Conference enables an opportunity to give.
Yes, you read that correctly! Missions conference gives you, as a young person, a chance to give. It's humorous, how sometimes we don't expect a teenager or young adult to give to the proclamation of the gospel. A teenage guy can brag about spending $20+ at McDonalds for food, but we can't give $5 to missions? On a youth group trip, a teenager will walk out of a convenience store with enough snacks to feed a small African village, but somehow we don't have the funds to give to foreign missions. Don't worry, I'm not trying to take all of your small amount of expendable income, but I do want us to be challenged to invest in what is eternal. Jesus issued the same challenge in Matthew 6:19-20, "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal." Young person allow God to use you, no one is expecting you to give a million dollars. Missions Conference helps develop a heart that desires to invest in eternity.
So when you come into a service at missions conference, remember that this is not just extra weekly services, or a chance to watch videos in church. These will be the services that God will challenge you to focus on the eternal more than the temporal. I pray that God will use this missions conference in your lives as we seek to follow Him.
Great slow motion moments captured at Harvest Fest.
Paul writes Timothy and tells him to not let those around him despise his youth. The word "despise" means to disesteem or to hold in low regard. Looking down on or having a low view of young people is nothing new. A couple hundred years ago, William Shakespeare said "I would there were no age between ten and three-and-twenty, or that youth would sleep out the rest..." Sadly, that is some people's view of youth. But Paul demands more of Timothy. He compels him not just to make sure people don't look down on his youthfulness, but be an example of the believer. The word "example" is defined as a pattern or model, as of something to be imitated. Paul challenged Timothy to be a model of believers for others to observe. In a culture where teenagers have little or no responsibility for their conduct, a young person who has believed on Christ is called to a great responsibility, and that is to model true Christianity. The great thing about this is the Word of God shows us exactly how we are to do it. For the next few weeks we will be examining six areas we are to exemplify a believer. As we look at these things I hope that you will accept the challenge to live above the culture and model Christianity.
Almost everyone knows that I enjoy technology. (sometimes even a little too much) But today, we're going "old school" with five non-techie items you can use to help you study the Word of God.
1. A Bible
I know this sounds pretty obvious, but I think it needs to be discussed. I enjoy reading and studying the Bible on my iPad and myriad of other electronic devices, but I do believe it is important to have a physical copy of the Word of God. It amazes me how many young people do not own a Bible. Young person please invest in a good Bible. We spend a lot of money on clothing, shoes, video games, and other personal interests. Why not invest money in a quality study Bible. If you don't know which one, ask your parents or another spiritual leader what they would recommend.
2. A Pen and Paper
I told you this list was old school. A pen (unless you prefer a pencil) and paper are great tools for Bible Study, because they are versatile. Pen and paper can be used to take notes, keep a journal, or even create a prayer list. As you study the Word of God (which hopefully you do regularly), make notes of things that come up as you read. Write down things that encourage you, questions that come up, or even things that convict you (that may take up a lot of paper). Sometimes just writing things down impacts what we remember.
3. A Highlighter
Highlighters are an awesome way to make verses stand out in your Bible. Every now and then I will flip through my old Bibles and read verses that I have highlighted. It can be pretty encouraging to be reminded of Biblical truth. There are plenty of things you can highlight. Highlight the Romans Road, the promises of God, or even verses that challenge you to be a better Christian. Don't make your Bible look like someone spilled Kool-Aid on it, but feel free to highlight things that are helpful to you.
4. A Dictionary
One of the big excuses people make about studying the Bible is that they do not understand it. Some things would be easier to understand with a simple tool like a dictionary. When you read and study the Word of God, don't skip over the words you do not understand and assume that you do understand. Grab a dictionary and put it to good use.
5. A Parent
Yep, they are not technological! They run on coffee and not batteries. Godly parents are huge assets in your Bible study! God has given your parents the responsibility to instruct you in the Word of God. (Deuteronomy 6:7; Proverbs 22:6; Ephesians 6:4) If God has blessed you with parents that love the Lord, approach them about what you are studying in the Word of God. Your parents have a special insight into your life that no other spiritual leader has. Let them help you! Sadly, in the world we live in there are many young people who do not have such parents. If you do not have godly parents, find a pastor or godly adult that has Biblical wisdom.
Bible study is essential in the life of a young person! It is awesome that we live in an age where we have great technological advances that help us study the Bible. Sometimes though, it is the simple things that help us accomplish great things. Hopefully these things can help you as you seek to study God's Word.
Thoughts for Back to School
It's that time again! The end of summer is approaching. No more sleeping in till after noon. It's time to say hello to study and homework again! As you prepare for the new school year, here are some thoughts that hopefully will help you. We'll call them the "ABCs of Back to School".
Appreciate Authority
The word "authority" seldom brings a smile to any young person's face. (Unless that authority is given over a younger sibling.) But authority is critical in the life of every individual. The Bible commands us to obey the authorities placed in our lives. (Hebrews 13:17, Romans 13:1-7) As the school year begins, determine to appreciate authority. Remember the teachers, the principal, and the administration have been placed in your life for your benefit. No, they are not perfect, but neither are you. Decide now to respect and obey the authority God has placed in your life this year.
Build Relationships
We all know the main reason we go to school is to receive a quality education that will prepare us for life. But it is also a great place to build relationships. And when I say relationships, I'm not talking about dating relationships, because in junior high and high school "ain't nobody got time for that." Establish working relationships with teachers and godly adults who will give you a godly perspective. Cultivate relationships with peers whether in classes or in other extracurricular activities. As you build those relationships remember "He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed." (Proverbs 13:20) Make sure as you build relationships at school, that they are also helping build your spiritual relationship.
Challenge Yourself
Every year of school brings new challenges. There are new teachers, new classes, and a new set of pressures. Accept the challenge! if you play sports, be willing to rise to the next level. If you play an instrument, be willing to stretch yourself. If you have a subject you struggle in, pray about it and strive to work harder. This school year make Colossians 3:23-24 your goal. "And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ."
I hope you'll consider these thoughts as you begin you're new school year!
Three thoughts to help you as you prepare for camp:
Pack
I know you probably haven't even started thinking about this part yet, but it might make your camp week smoother if you pack. (Don't start now, finish reading this first.) Make sure you pack everything you need in the smallest suitcase possible! Okay, maybe not the smallest suitcase, but remember there is limited luggage space in the van. Wondering what you need to pack? Click here for the "What to Pack List."
Pray
This may be one of the most neglected steps in teen camp preparation. Jeremiah 33:3 says Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not. I desire to see God do great and mighty things next week! Whether you are going to teen camp this week or not could you spend time in prayer for three things.
- The Speaker - Evangelist John Goetsch
- Your Church - Trinity Baptist Church
- Yourself - A young person in need of spiritual revival
Take time to pray this weekend and ask God to work in your heart and life next week.
Purpose
Next week at camp, some things may happen that you do not care for. You may have _____________________________________ (fill in your own terrible tragedy that could befall you next week.) I want to encourage you not to let those incidents keep you from having fun and/or growing spiritually. Everyone at camp is not like you (we know that if they were, the world would be a better place!) and every rule at camp is not because they dislike you. Purpose in your heart to let God work in your life next week. (Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ... -Philippians 3:8)
One day you'll look back on your teen years and laugh too!
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. -2 Timothy 2:15
The summer is a great time for some rest and relaxation. But, it is also a great opportunity to dive a little deeper into the Word of God. Here are three free mobile applications to assist you.
1. Bible.is
Bible.is is a great app for reading the Bible, but it's killer feature is that it is an amazing audio Bible. Bible.is has a standard audio Bible, and a dramatic audio Bible. The dramatic audio is one of my favorite features. The dramatic audio uses voice actors, sound effects, and music to make the Scriptures come alive. So, whether your working, play, or just chilling, Bible.is will help you meditate on God's Word. (Note: Bible.is does not default to KJV, so you must select it from the menu.)
2. Blue Letter Bible
Blue Letter Bible (BLB) is a great free resource. BLB has commentaries, dictionaries, and other study materials in one small mobile application. Back in the day, these books would cover an entire bookshelf, but now we can access it all for free from our tablet or mobile device.
3. Olive Tree Bible+
Olive Tree Bible is an outstanding way to keep your Bible reading fresh. One of my favorite features is the reading plans. They have a 90 day Bible reading plan, a Chronological reading plan, and many other helpful ideas for scheduled Bible reading. Another nifty thing is that as you read, if you desire, you can share the verses or passages to your social networks to encourage others. Olive Tree Bible does have many Bible Study resources, but some of them are paid downloads. (Note: Olive Tree Bible does not default to KJV, but it can be easily changed under the libraries tab.)
Disclaimer: God's Word is the only thing we can put our full faith and trust in. These resources are to help us study it more effectively. Some of these resources may contain man's opinions or thoughts that would differ from a proper study of Scripture. In these cases, God's Word alone is the authority for faith and practice!