Center Church: Chapters 1 & 2

Center Church

By: Timothy Keller     

Introduction: Theological Vision

    The purpose of this book can be understood by reading its introduction. Tim Keller depicts how churches often miss out on ministering to their communities for lack of good theological vision. What is theological vision? Its the middle place between Doctrine (teachings about God) and Ministry (the service of a community) in many ways theological vision will determine whether a particular Churches Doctrine can be understood by a people group, or whether that Churches ministry will be received by the culture they are seeking to serve. Theological vision is not simple to develop, it requires hard work, and a particular patience for listening and learning on behalf of the Church. But it is undervalued by most churches and is likely "THE" reason many churches fail to relate to, serve well, love affectionately, know intimately, and share in, the culture and community of the people they are supposed to be serving. Good Christian Theological Vision will include Doctrine derived from the Bible, reflection on the current culture of one's community, a godly understanding of reason, and constant consideration of where and how a particular culture can and should be challenged and or affirmed.

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Center Church

By: Timothy Keller     

Part 1: Gospel Theology

Chapter 1: Gospel

     The Gospel is not everything. Its not a moral code, or ethical teaching, it is not a pragmatic logic or method of accomplishing something. Rather the Gospel is a message of salvation. It is "the good news" and is to be shared as a result of its goodness. Since the fall of man Genesis 3:17-19 sin has brought God's curse on the entire created order. Because of this we are physically, socially, and psychologically alienated from God and our selves at birth. The hope brought by the Gospel is that Jesus Christ being God (John 1:1-14) died on the cross for all sins (John 1:29; 5:21; 10:28 Hebrews 9:15). Now any and all who will receive him are forgiven of their sin (John 3:16; Romans 10:9-10). This is the only promise ever delivered to man for the salvation of sin and the restoration of right relationship with God and our selves (Ephesians 1:13,14,18; ). The Gospel must never be mistaken as a way for us to get to God, it is and will always be about God coming down to earth, taking the weight of sin, abolishing it, and delivering that freedom of abolished sin to those who will receive him. Since this is true of the Gospel, no religion can bring about the salvation that Christianity offers, because no religion offers salvation the way Christ offers salvation. There is no mono theistic religion (belief in one God) in which a "personal God" comes down from heaven to save his people or suffer the consequences of there unholiness. This is the distinction that is Jesus Christ, this is why the Gospel is good news

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Center Church

By: Timothy Keller     

Part 1: Gospel Theology

Chapter 2: The Gospel is not a Simple Thing

Introduction:

     This chapter is extremely doctrinal. I can't help but feel a bit disabled in my present knowledge of the information being shared in this chapter. In order to reflect everything that Tim Keller is teaching. In addition to my thoughts and reflections on this chapter I felt it every bit of necessary to provided a summary and outline explaining the chapters key points. I was weary about sharing this information as a part of my original post, because my goal in writing these chapter summaries, is not to rewrite the chapter but to communicate with as few words as possible what was taught in them. But in the case of ths information it's not a great idea to reword to much of what is being said. Simply put "don't go fixin what ain't broke."

Thoughts & Reflections:

     Man, I both enjoyed and disliked this chapter. There was a lot being said and I knew that for the purposes of writing this blog I wouldn't be able to fit all of the information being communicated into my post. Center Church is a very deep and rich book aimed at equipping its readers with every detail necessary to understand the inter workings of the Gospel, this world, culture, history, God, and much more. Being such, the understanding articulated in these pages leaves one feeling less than adequate to readily comprehend it. I have reviewed this chapter a total of six times now three in audio and three in print. This is no complaint I have already read this book all the way through and thoroughly enjoyed it. But the mental stamina necessary for enjoying this work of truth, is not equivalent to that necessary for sharing this truth as accurately as Keller does. I am particularly encouraged by this thought, it is to me a sure sign that The Lord is not only shaping my heart but my mind!

 

Summary:

   The Gospel is not simple. It can be communicated simply and understood simply (Romans 10:9). But to fully know all that the Gospel is, is in it self very complicated. Through out the Bible both harmony and variance in the ways the Gospel message is portrayed are found. In the Gospel of Matthew the emphasis is on the coming Kingdom of God, the new socioeconomic order of this kingdom, and other things concerning the nature of God's heavenly Kingdom both in heaven and on earth. John on the other hand gives emphasis to the eternal life, a relationship with the Lord, and cultivating/experiencing His love daily. Paul's letters and epistles, present different aspects that neither of these Gospels clearly reveal. In them we find a familiar theme, that justification through salvation by faith alone will expose one to the redemption of Jesus' blood shed on the cross. Each of these differences are equally important to the essence of the Gospel message, but they are not mere interchangeable truths. The Kingdom of God is not a reference to eternal life in Christ, and justification through salvation by faith alone is not the same thing as having eternal Life.

Here is an excerpt from the text. "In Galatians 1:8 Paul condemns anyone who preaches a Gospel other than the one we preached to you. In 1 Corinthians 15:11 he takes pains to show that the Gospel he declares is the same as that preached by Peter, John, and the others." "Whether then it was I or they, this is what we preached, and this is what you believed (1Corinthians 15:11)" "It would be impossible for Paul to condemn a false Gospel and affirm the preaching of Peter as the Gospel without assuming a consensus body of Gospel content."

     The second part of this chapter explains how these themes are discovered. When studying the Bible. Scholars must take into account the language in which all 66 books were originally written. There are two ways this can be done. The first is a synchronic approach also called the Systematic Theological Method or STM, this method focuses on the structure of a language at a particular time in history. Through the synchronic method we find a story less order. Mainly comprised of the topics a given text includes i.e. the gospel narratives can be read as God, sin, Christ and faith. The synchronic approach falls short By failing to provide narrative or context by which to apply the topics observed. We know that the Bible can be read synchronically because it has a single author, God. The second is a diachronic approach also called the Redemptive Historical Method or RHM, this method reveals the way in which a language and its meaning change as a result of life experiences. Through the diachronic method we find what the bible says as a whole by stages in history, the plotline of a story, or the narative overview of the bible itself. Diachronically we see the Gospel message presented through out all of scripture: God's creation, the fall of man, and God's reentry into history to create a new people for Himself, and eventually about a new creation that emerges out of a marred and broken world through Christ. the "We believe we can read the Bible this way because God used human beings to reveal his revelation - and because as hope-based creatures we respond to the beauty of narative." 

There is no one standard outline found in the Bible to describe the Gospel. When we compare John, The Synoptics (Matthew, Mark, and Luke), with Paul we find variance in the descriptions of the Gospel message, but also find that the essence of the Gospel remains the same. That is that Christ offers redemption through substitution for our sins. 

• Compare Matthew 25:31-46 (Kingdom) and John 10:17-31 (Eternal Life)
• With John 3:16, 17
• See that these words Kingdom and Eternal Life are not synonyms. These terms convey different aspects of God's salvation.
• Matthew along with the other synoptic Gospels (Mark and Luke) use the word Kingdom in reference to God's salvation because the writers were concerned with the future of new life in Christ. 
• The synoptics give a "more external and corporate emphasis", revealing the actual "social and behavioral changes that the gospel brings."
• "Money is not made and Idol" - Mark 10:17-31
• "The hungry, naked, and homeless are cared for" - Matthew 25:31-46
• John on the other had puts great emphasis on the individual and inward parts of living in the Kingdom of God! 
• The Kingdom of God is not an earthly sociopolitical order - John 18:36
• Together John and the Synoptic writers show complementary parts of a whole that is the Gospel.
•  Paul uses both Kingdom, and Eternal Life, but spends more time focussing on the concept of justification. This is not a different Gospel, but again another part of the whole.
• "Jesus takes the curse of the Law (legal penalty for sin), so that we can receive the blessing of Christ obedience" - Galatians 3:13-14
• Simon Gathercole reveals that the variations between The Synoptics, John, and Paul are not contradicting. At the heart of all of these descriptions of the Gospel the message remains "redemption through substitution." This is the Gospel.
• "In Jesus God substitutes himself for us, and on our behalf pays the debt."
• Mark the disciple- Mark 10:45
• John the disciple - John 12:20-36
• Paul the apostle - 1 Timothy 2:6 
• "Defeats the evil powers"
• Paul the apostle - Colossians 2:15
• John the disciple - 1 John 3:8
• "Bears the curse and divine wrath"
• Matthew the disciple- Matthew 27:35
• Paul the apostle - Galatians 3:13
• John the disciple - 1 John 2:2, 4:10
• "Secures for us Salvation by grace, not by our works."
• Paul the apostle - Ephesians 2:8-9
• Paul the apostle - 2 Timothy 1:9
• "Becomes for us an exemplar."
• Paul the apostle - 1 Timothy 1:16
• Unknown - Hebrews 12:2
• Peter the disciple - 1 Peter 2:21

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Conflicting modification on October 28, 2013 at 1:19:00 PM:

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Center Church

By: Timothy Keller     

Introduction: Theological Vision

    The purpose of this book can be understood by reading its introduction. Tim Keller depicts how churches often miss out on ministering to their communities for lack of good theological vision. What is theological vision? Its the middle place between Doctrine (teachings about God) and Ministry (the service of a community) in many ways theological vision will determine whether a particular Churches Doctrine can be understood by a people group, or whether that Churches ministry will be received by the culture they are seeking to serve. Theological vision is not simple to develop, it requires hard work, and a particular patience for listening and learning on behalf of the Church. But it is undervalued by most churches and is likely "THE" reason many churches fail to relate to, serve well, love affectionately, know intimately, and share in, the culture and community of the people they are supposed to be serving. Good Christian Theological Vision will include Doctrine derived from the Bible, reflection on the current culture of one's community, a godly understanding of reason, and constant consideration of where and how a particular culture can and should be challenged and or affirmed.

---

Center Church

By: Timothy Keller     

Part 1: Gospel Theology

Chapter 1: Gospel

     The Gospel is not everything. Its not a moral code, or ethical teaching, it is not a pragmatic logic or method of accomplishing something. Rather the Gospel is a message of salvation. It is "the good news" and is to be shared as a result of its goodness. Since the fall of man Genesis 3:17-19 sin has brought God's curse on the entire created order. Because of this we are physically, socially, and psychologically alienated from God and our selves at birth. The hope brought by the Gospel is that Jesus Christ being God (John 1:1-14) died on the cross for all sins (John 1:29; 5:21; 10:28 Hebrews 9:15). Now any and all who will receive him are forgiven of their sin (John 3:16; Romans 10:9-10). This is the only promise ever delivered to man for the salvation of sin and the restoration of right relationship with God and our selves (Ephesians 1:13,14,18; ). The Gospel must never be mistaken as a way for us to get to God, it is and will always be about God coming down to earth, taking the weight of sin, abolishing it, and delivering that freedom of abolished sin to those who will receive him. Since this is true of the Gospel, no religion can bring about the salvation that Christianity offers, because no religion offers salvation the way Christ offers salvation. There is no mono theistic religion (belief in one God) in which a "personal God" comes down from heaven to save his people or suffer the consequences of there unholiness. This is the distinction that is Jesus Christ, this is why the Gospel is good news.

Center Church

By: Timothy Keller     

Part 1: Gospel Theology

Chapter 2: The Gospel is not a Simple Thing

Introduction:

     This chapter is extremely doctrinal. I can't help but feel a bit disabled in my present knowledge of the information being shared in this chapter. In order to reflect everything that Tim Keller is teaching. In addition to my thoughts and reflections on this chapter I felt it every bit of necessary to provided a summary and outline explaining the chapters key points. I was weary about sharing this information as a part of my original post, because my goal in writing these chapter summaries, is not to rewrite the chapter but to communicate with as few words as possible what was taught in them. But in the case of ths information it's not a great idea to reword to much of what is being said. Simply put "don't go fixin what ain't broke."

Thoughts & Reflections:

     Man, I both enjoyed and disliked this chapter. There was a lot being said and I knew that for the purposes of writing this blog I wouldn't be able to fit all of the information being communicated into my post. Center Church is a very deep and rich book aimed at equipping its readers with every detail necessary to understand the inter workings of the Gospel, this world, culture, history, God, and much more. Being such, the understanding articulated in these pages leaves one feeling less than adequate to readily comprehend it. I have reviewed this chapter a total of six times now three in audio and three in print. This is no complaint I have already read this book all the way through and thoroughly enjoyed it. But the mental stamina necessary for enjoying this work of truth, is not equivalent to that necessary for sharing this truth as accurately as Keller does. I am particularly encouraged by this thought, it is to me a sure sign that The Lord is not only shaping my heart but my mind!

 

Summary:

   The Gospel is not simple. It can be communicated simply and understood simply (Romans 10:9). But to fully know all that the Gospel is, is in it self very complicated. Through out the Bible both harmony and variance in the ways the Gospel message is portrayed are found. In the Gospel of Matthew the emphasis is on the coming Kingdom of God, the new socioeconomic order of this kingdom, and other things concerning the nature of God's heavenly Kingdom both in heaven and on earth. John on the other hand gives emphasis to the eternal life, a relationship with the Lord, and cultivating/experiencing His love daily. Paul's letters and epistles, present different aspects that neither of these Gospels clearly reveal. In them we find a familiar theme, that justification through salvation by faith alone will expose one to the redemption of Jesus' blood shed on the cross. Each of these differences are equally important to the essence of the Gospel message, but they are not mere interchangeable truths. The Kingdom of God is not a reference to eternal life in Christ, and justification through salvation by faith alone is not the same thing as having eternal Life.

     Here is an excerpt from the text. "In Galatians 1:8 Paul condemns anyone who preaches a Gospel other than the one we preached to you. In 1 Corinthians 15:11 he takes pains to show that the Gospel he declares is the same as that preached by Peter, John, and the others." "Whether then it was I or they, this is what we preached, and this is what you believed (1Corinthians 15:11)" "It would be impossible for Paul to condemn a false Gospel and affirm the preaching of Peter as the Gospel without assuming a consensus body of Gospel content."

     The second part of this chapter explains how these themes are discovered. When studying the Bible. Scholars must take into account the language in which all 66 books were originally written. There are two ways this can be done. The first is a synchronic approach also called the Systematic Theological Method or STM, this method focuses on the structure of a language at a particular time in history. Through the synchronic method we find a story less order. Mainly comprised of the topics a given text includes i.e. the gospel narratives can be read as God, sin, Christ and faith. The synchronic approach falls short By failing to provide narrative or context by which to apply the topics observed. We know that the Bible can be read synchronically because it has a single author, God. The second is a diachronic approach also called the Redemptive Historical Method or RHM, this method reveals the way in which a language and its meaning change as a result of life experiences. Through the diachronic method we find what the bible says as a whole by stages in history, the plotline of a story, or the narative overview of the bible itself. Diachronically we see the Gospel message presented through out all of scripture: God's creation, the fall of man, and God's reentry into history to create a new people for Himself, and eventually about a new creation that emerges out of a marred and broken world through Christ. the "We believe we can read the Bible this way because God used human beings to reveal his revelation - and because as hope-based creatures we respond to the beauty of narative." 

There is no one standard outline found in the Bible to describe the Gospel. When we compare John, The Synoptics (Matthew, Mark, and Luke), with Paul we find variance in the descriptions of the Gospel message, but also find that the essence of the Gospel remains the same. That is that Christ offers redemption through substitution for our sins. 

• Compare Matthew 25:31-46 (Kingdom) and John 10:17-31 (Eternal Life)
• With John 3:16, 17
• See that these words Kingdom and Eternal Life are not synonyms. These terms convey different aspects of God's salvation.
• Matthew along with the other synoptic Gospels (Mark and Luke) use the word Kingdom in reference to God's salvation because the writers were concerned with the future of new life in Christ. 
• The synoptics give a "more external and corporate emphasis", revealing the actual "social and behavioral changes that the gospel brings."
• "Money is not made and Idol" - Mark 10:17-31
• "The hungry, naked, and homeless are cared for" - Matthew 25:31-46
• John on the other had puts great emphasis on the individual and inward parts of living in the Kingdom of God! 
• The Kingdom of God is not an earthly sociopolitical order - John 18:36
• Together John and the Synoptic writers show complementary parts of a whole that is the Gospel.
•  Paul uses both Kingdom, and Eternal Life, but spends more time focussing on the concept of justification. This is not a different Gospel, but again another part of the whole.
• "Jesus takes the curse of the Law (legal penalty for sin), so that we can receive the blessing of Christ obedience" - Galatians 3:13-14
• Simon Gathercole reveals that the variations between The Synoptics, John, and Paul are not contradicting. At the heart of all of these descriptions of the Gospel the message remains "redemption through substitution." This is the Gospel.
• "In Jesus God substitutes himself for us, and on our behalf pays the debt."
• Mark the disciple- Mark 10:45
• John the disciple - John 12:20-36
• Paul the apostle - 1 Timothy 2:6 
• "Defeats the evil powers"
• Paul the apostle - Colossians 2:15
• John the disciple - 1 John 3:8
• "Bears the curse and divine wrath"
• Matthew the disciple- Matthew 27:35
• Paul the apostle - Galatians 3:13
• John the disciple - 1 John 2:2, 4:10
• "Secures for us Salvation by grace, not by our works."
• Paul the apostle - Ephesians 2:8-9
• Paul the apostle - 2 Timothy 1:9
• "Becomes for us an exemplar."
• Paul the apostle - 1 Timothy 1:16
• Unknown - Hebrews 12:2
• Peter the disciple - 1 Peter 2:21

Here is my Bio for the Blue Ridge Community Church web page

     Hello, my name is Elliott Knoch. I've lived in NC my whole life, and still love it. Growing up I was certain that I had no idea who I was, and I couldn't grasp how anyone else my age could be so certain as to who they were. Like most children I understood myself according to what others said of me, and what I could see of myself. Having had such a hard time distinguishing who I was I began to ask the questions who is Elliott Knoch, and what does Elliott like? I felt incapable of answering these questions for myself. In reality this feeling of inability was simple naivety. I had not experienced enough of my life to know who I was, or what I was asking of myself in order to know it. By instinct I'm quite curious, in fact as a boy I remember identifying with the children's book character Curious George. As such my life has been riddled with questions, some of which, by pure exhaustion, I have stopped asking. Since an early age I have seen that my quality in the art of curiosity is an ironic one, it seems that often enough I do not quite know what it is I'm looking for. What I mean is, to a degree, I am keenly aware of what I have yet to learn, and this since of something yet learned inspires me. In the case of discovering my identity this quest for knowing myself was permanently redefined the day that I became a Christian.

     At ages 4 and 5 I began playing soccer and golf, I often wondered off in my head during soccer games, leaving me vulnerable to attack. This was always me, I've never cared very much about winning in sports, it seemed pointless, I didn't identify with why winning a game mattered. I liked playing these sports but never felt like I belonged in them, because of this. I always considered myself as a "mediocre player." I continued playing all the way through high school in addition to running cross country, which I also enjoyed but failed to excel at. As it turns out, I have never become very competitive in view of sports. From ages 5 to 18 I experienced almost every aspect of boy scouts that a boy could. I was taught to think strategically, plan well, take action, face challenges, and cultivate virtuous character. I learned how to care for my self, and others. Scouting was a crucial influence in my life. And my mom is to thank for that. She is the one who made me go and the one who found good scout troops for me despite moving several times. Eventually I graduated with my Eagle Scout rank, which is the highest honor any scout can receive. This was perhaps the best I had felt about my identity, but I knew that I often failed my own standards of measure, and the standards of measure that others had for me. Through out elementary and middle school I sang in the NC Boys Choir and eventually the Tar River Children's Chorus. Despite my thorough involvement in these vocal programs I never wanted to be in them. I mostly just had to go, this resulted in me not caring very much about learning the music. If my musical instructors had asked me to recite the words of any of our songs, I don't think I could have sang even one of them by memory. I mostly listened to what the others were singing and faked it.  I didn't like that I sang. I would not have called it girly then, but somewhere inside thats exactly the way it felt. Eventually my musical life lead me to playing the guitar and the harmonica, but away from vocals. During high school I was both accepted into and kicked out of the National Honors Society due to my grades. My senior year of high school was 2007-2008 and it was filled with weed, other random drugs (but not many), confusion, loneliness, abuse, and sadness. Three people stick out in my mind as having mattered most to me during this hard time. The first two; were my best friends John Hughes and Charles Tolan. The third was my soon to be pastor Peter Gilliland.

Because I found my identity in the things I did, it was common for me to act differently dependent on what I was doing. I often changed my diction, tone, slang use, and more, in order to fit the mold of any given moment. I did this not out of deception, but out of a desire to be someone who "fit in." Now I regret not having been a stronger more defined person, especially as a teenager. I knew that I didn't like my identity very much, but I wasn't so sure why, and I definitely had no clue how to change it. Thankfully God was preparing to reveal Himself to me, and in doing so would reveal to me my true identity. 

     That spring (2008) of my senior year, and around the time I was receiving my Eagle Scout rank I was accepted to Western Carolina University. Peter had shared with me the Gospel. Shortly after this, under a star lit night sky I received salvation through Jesus Christ. I cried, because I was afraid of what God must think of me. Up until then I thought He didn't exist. But in that moment He was for no apparent reason more real than I could have ever imagined. I know that from the moment I feared Him, I believed in Him (Pro 1:7). This belief was not my salvation, but it was the nudge I needed from Him to receive salvation through Christ. That night through my tears I spoke with a broken voice, "I will receive your son Jesus Christ as My God, and for the forgiveness of my sins. But I need You to show me that you are real, that I'm not some how imagining you. I need you to make it so obvious to me, that I would not be able to ignore you." He answered my prayer from that night in two very powerful ways the first of which I will not share here, the second is this: that over the next 5 years of my life He has sovereignly made me, to know Him, and to know myself according to his plans for me (Matt 6:33). 

     Since knowing God I know much more about who I am than I ever have before. This is because I know Him who created me, and He delights in revealing to me His creation, which in this case is myself. To date I have learned through knowing Him that I am His, and no one can change that! My image is forever in Christ's likeness. And God's sovereignty will forever reign over my life, not absent from my thoughts and actions, but present through them. Jesus died for this truth, and I live daily to know it. He has made me for Christian ministry, and that doesn't mean that I have to be a pastor. I graduated from WCU with a degree in Parks and Recreation Management, and wonder how God will use this for His Glory. On a personality and preference level, I can't wait to be married, I look forward to this every day of my life as I prepare my self for it, and wait for Him with patience and hopefulness. I love the pursuit and attainment of fitness, for me the ability to move is an inspirational metaphor representing life with God. I often prefer to worship the Lord through a work out rather than music; but I seek both with diligence! I enjoy details that explain almost any answer, the things that make great questions great, and that moment when you understand something for the first time. I have found few things to be as valuable as the loyalty of good friends, for they are not easily replaced. And yes as you may have noticed I am gifted at complicating the simplest of things. This was supposed to be a short bio for the church website. I have managed to make it my life story!  Much of the details that others tend to regard as annoying or confusing, is for me the clarification and closure that needed in order to gain a wholistic understanding. This often causes people to misunderstand me or what I mean to communicate. I dislike this and am working very hard to improve the way I communicate, so that this doesn't happen. However I trust that there is a skill which with time and practice can be developed. A skill to explain very deep and complex ideas to people in a way that is simple and easily shared. In contrast and complement to this, I like that I'm weird and confusing. I see it as a constant reminder that I was uniquely made by God. And that my depth of thought will serve a significant purpose in His Kingdom on this earth. 

   

     I hope that these details may serve you as an an authentic attempt to provide a glimpse of myself; who I am, what I am, and why. I'd like to close by saying what an honor it is to be serving this body of Christ at BRCC. I am tremendously blessed to be working in ministry, and pouring into this church community all the love and effort that has been poured so deeply into myself. In the Great Commission (Matt 20:18-20) Jesus clearly states that we are to "go out and make disciples" (Matt 20:18). Knowing my identity in Christ, and who God made Elliott to be, is a result of living out my salvation according to God's plan. You see, I didn't simply discover all of these things about myself. I am a disciple of Jesus Christ through Darryl Handy's discipling of me, because of BRCC's presence in this community. It was through this discipleship that the Lord has grown in me so much. Darryl has had this opportunity because of his role in BRCC. Truly, I would know God and myself much less than I do today with out having become a part of this church. Thank you so much Pastor Darryl Handy for all that you have poured into me. Your discipling of my life, has been God's hand in my heart! 

Recently, it has occurred to me through the help of a friend that the total amount of my budget $41,450.40 will be challenging for some to condone when considering whether or not to support me. If this is you, or if you are in question as to why I have chosen to place what is included on my budget; on by budget. I would like to offer you a short explanation,

This in no way exhausts my thoughts on finances and the practicalities of ministry but it is an attempt to share some of them.

Neither I nor BRCC believe in a prosperity gospel as being God's word. Jesus never preached comfort and wealth as being a result of salvation. But he did preach diligence, wisdom, and the value of preparation. Paul, during his ministry, had times of abundance and times of great need, times of working to support himself and times of being supported by the church.

With my budget I have been very honest about my needs and desires, some of which are more expensive than others. But as you read through it should become clear that I am not purchasing many things for myself in the way of luxury, or selfish living. The money raised which funds my internship can be summed up in this statement. "I intend to do and am currently doing the very best with what i have financially. However after careful consideration I have concluded that the best I could possibly do would cost $41,450.40." I know its a lot!

I currently support myself and have had many financial challenges over the course of my life. You may be surprised to learn that I never owned a car until last march, so a highly endowed lifestyle isn't my goal, nor has it been my reality. Thankfully, I currently have most of the things are needed to live. In my case, it was always costly for others to sacrifice their time, money, and schedule in order to give me a ride. I was literally hitching a ride to a 40 hr/wk job this time last year, and my schedule was built completely on when others could pick me up and drop me off. This was a case in which my ill equipping financially left me to be taken care of by those kind enough to do so. If possible I would like to avoid experiences like this in the future, by wisely handling my finances. In other words this has instilled in me a value for planning. It is my responsibility to provide for myself and my future household. I simply want good things financially, but not apart from righteousness.  

Below is a short list of thoughts/items that you may struggle to find on my budget

Ipad: It isn't necessary, but my computer is 6 years old and very outdated. There are several feature on it that no longer work. Instead of venturing to buy a new one I've settled for a tablet, its half the price and I can do almost everything I will need to do for my internship on it as well.

Savings and Tithe: I consider saving in an IRA wise (Pr 13:22, and 21:20), as I do tithing. Both are a current part of my monthly expenses even with my very limited income. Almost anyone who fundraises for their primary income will teach the importance of saving. It is widely accepted amongst these who fundraise that not saving for the future is a great mistake. 

Ministry Expenses: Being a pastoral assistant is my job for the next year of my life, and I can't tell you how much it means to me to be working in ministry at age 23. Like any other job, the things you do costs money. For most jobs these things are provided by the business they work for. For my internship, this is not the case. By large whatever I do/need must be raised by myself.

Working Part-time: I have a part time job, but only make about $6.00/hr after taxes. I do not mind working elsewhere to support myself, but I do mind that it subtracts from my ability to give to this ministry. For now I work 6-7 hrs a day 5 days a week and then transition to about 6-7 more for my internship in the afternoon/evening. In many ways this commute is a great joy, because their is joy in working hard. Consequently the 14 hour work day does not bother me much. What does bother me is that I know more could be given on my part if I could serve God's people, eat, live, buy gas, etc... without working part time 5 days a week.

Scripture teachs us about "the love of money" (1 Tim 6:10) being "the root of all kinds of evil." I don't love money, nor do I want to waste my supporters money so I chose to be very open regarding my intentions. Yes I regularly tithe 10%, I saw no reason to change that, I have no insurance I saw no reason why I shouldn't, I regularly save (though it is little), I plan to go to Seminary, send my kids to College, give gifts at Christmas, accompany my church on a Spring Break mission trip etc... Some of these are normal things, Some uncommon, and a couple are unusual for men our age to concern themselves with. 

A basic break down of my budget will reveal the following. Out of $41,450.40 a total of $10,328 (fundraising, and ministry expenses) are not being spent on pleasure, but on enhancing my ability to impact and serve BRCC and Cullowhee, in addition to growing during this internship. Taxes account for $6,923. Tithing is $4,145, really thats my choice, but its because I want to support BRCC financially. In fact many missions organizations require their missionaries tithe a percentage of their raised support. My savings $13,796 aren't really being spent on myself at the moment, and some never will be. As you saw a portion will go to my future children, some to a retirement account, I have even diligently decided to prepare for a time when I have no income (emergency expenses). I know that this is not foolishness, and that it is wise to seek provision both for oneself and one's family. I am living off of $12,944 + $2,827 needed for health and car insurance, together this totals $15,771 that I literally plan to spend on myself this year. I don't think that is extreme, and I could have left my budget at that amount. In fact some would have chose to. I did not, because I do not regard my work in this ministry to be worth so little that I could not afford to save, or tithe, or bring money to my internship in order that God and his work in BRCC and on this campus might be more abundantly blessed.

In conclusion please know that I spent a lot of time considering the very best internship I could foresee. I asked myself and God what it would cost, and what was really worth pursuing financially? Then I added it together and ended up with $41,450.40. It does not include dumb luxuries like a big TV or a jungle gym. If you are willing please look back at my budget and consider this.  That for me to take such diligent efforts in preparing a functional financially secure budget, raise it, and bring it with me into my internship is a great blessing to everyone I serve. I would have plenty to share in the way of time and money. Money is money, and really its not fun :) but we have to have it in order to live. 

Thanks, I hope this helped with some of your concerns. 

Hey everyone, over the course of my internship I will be reading several books for personal growth. These books are not of my choosing, but are an intentional part of my internship, they are assigned to me by Pastor Darryl Handy. Since a portion of this internship is geared towards my personal growth, Darryl has composed a reading list on various topics that he believes will be of particular benefit to me. I will be composing short summaries of each chapter as I read them. I hope this will be encouraging to you a part of my ministry to you. Thank you for your financial and prayerful support of my internship. Thank you. 

Unleashing The Word

By Max McLean

Abstract: 

     Unleashing the word is about the public reading of scripture. In 1 Timothy 4:13 we find that the public reading of scripture is held with equal importance as Paul commands Timothy to devote himself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching, and to teaching. McLean neatly lays out the various components of reading scripture in todays church. McLean prioritizes helping his readers to discover whether they should pursue this role in the Church, and if so, how to go about preparing oneself to fulfill it in a way that brings honor to God's word. 

     A short note on my exposure to this book. I had already selected this text for my summer reading list in order to expose myself to a strength which I do not find myself naturally exhibiting, that strength being dramatic vocalization. I was happy to find it on my reading list and have chosen to kick start my book reports for this internship with this one. I hope to learn from this book and apply the techniques offered in it to the public reading of Scripture in Blue Ridge Community Church. 

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Unleashing The Word

By Max McLean

Part 1: My Story

Chapter 1: How I Got Started Reading Scripture Aloud

     

     McLean begins by diving deep into his past. As a young man he describes himself as having "had a strong desire to express himself." Seeing the dramatic arts as a means to this end he pursued acting in college. Shortly after graduating he became a Christian. Upon conversion he more than ever was excited for his future in the dramatical arts. After completing his post graduate degree in theater he moved to New Your where he met and married his wife. Newly married and preforming in a region theater he began seriously considering his life as an actor. Contemplating his career and its unfulfilling role in his life he quit acting. McLean recalls "While I was struggling through this dissatisfaction with my work, God was calling me to experience more of him. He was teaching me that "no one can serve two masters" (Matthew 6:24). Leaving the theater was hard for him and it left a void in his life, after all, actin was his passion. He began to get more involved with his church exposing him to many excellent and convicting speakers. At this time Mclean was still a new Christian and the Lord was planting in his heart a taste for dramatic vocal expressions such as the public read of Scripture. Eventually he was invited to read a short passage 2 Peter 3:10-15. Since Max wanted to do well with the reading he rehearsed it carefully, meditating on it in order to hear what the Lord was saying to him. He felt that it was a great honor to have been asked to read this passage. During this reading Max noticed an unusual attentiveness amongst the congregation. After the service he was approached by many who expressed their gratitude for his reading. It was this gratitude that sparked a fire in Max to seriously pursue speaking Gods Word's with the training he had received in the dramatic arts. Max's work since then as a voice actor has led him to produce many recordings ranging from multiple Bible translations to literature written by theological giants. At the time that this book was written, he had most recently produced a stage adaptation to C. S. Lewis's "The Screwtape Letters."

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Unleashing The Word

By Max McLean

Part 1: My Story

Chapter 2: Recruiting Others Who Love The Game

     Here Max begins detailing the role of any public reader of Scripture, communicating that not one should not simply feel obligated to pursue this role in the church but to love doing it. He depicts great readers of Scripture as being those who have both a "love of the game" and a gift for speaking publicly. He points out that one who is reading the Scriptures publicly has a great responsibility and opportunity to bless listeners with hearing God's Word with every detail and emotion intertwined with each passage. Max goes on to communicate that one's personality and self should be poured into and out of each reading. People should be seeing you in light of God's word. His over arching point to this chapter is that it is a great mistake to simply read any passage of Scripture to a congregation, and that God's Word deserve so much more than a bland and emotionless representation. He encourages those who are considering this role to carefully evaluate their personal dedication to doing justice to the public reading of Scripture, by incorporating intentionality, diligence, and resourcefulness. 

 

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Unleashing The Word

By Max McLean

Part 1: My Story

Chapter 3: No Longer The Worst Moment

     "A normal person makes a decision about where to turn attention about 100,000 times a day. The brain is always drawn to something. This raises the question of how to make sure that when the Bible is read, that's what people are giving their attention to!" With this quote Max really hit the nail on the head. How does one as a reader do their very best to attract the undivided attention of those who are listening. In chapter 3 Max describes the pain of listening to a bland reading of the Scriptures. He comments that for many church's this is the norm, and that it matters whether or not God's word is simply stuck here or there with out much thought. Here is another excerpt from this chapter that really speaks to this issue. "John 4:23-24 tells us that the "kind of worshipers the Father seeks" are those who worship him "in spirit and truth." When I hear the Scriptures read intelligently, energetically, convincingly, and passionately, even the most familiar and shop worn texts draw me to a place where I can worship God in spirit and truth."

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Unleashing The Word

By Max McLean

Part 1: My Story

Chapter 4: The 9 Percent Isolation Factor

    

     "The Message of this Chapter can be summed up in one sentence: if 90 percent of effective Scripture reading comes from selecting gifted, trained, committed readers who "love the game" (chapters 2 and 3), another 9 percent of the unleashing process comes from isolation --- making Scripture reading a separate element of the worship experience. By isolating the moment the Scripture is read, we enhance its power." I agree with Max that this chapter is all about the need to isolate the reading of Scripture as a complete portion of the service in and of itself. His point is that in doing this you draw special attention to the reading giving it the attention that is due. This is done in part by setting aside a planned moment in each service for that reading, and by avoiding the norm of blending the public reading into other naturally emotional moments in a service such as worship. The reading of Scripture in its natural form is already both emotional and complete. 

First day on Campus

Wow, God has been moving. Today started out early 6:00 AM, as I headed to work from 7-2. My car has been leaking coolant so I've had to pay close attention to it during my commutes, I'll get it checked out tomorrow. As I left work I went by Staples on an errand for the Church, my first official one! On the way home I listened to Center Church by Timothy Keller. I had almost finished this book, but am rereading it as a requirement for my internship. Both Josh (first intern at BRCC) and I are reading it together with Darryl (our pastor). The book is primarily about culturally adapting theology, so that people can grow in one's ministry. Having read most of it already, I am very excited to officially go over it again in my internship.

Once home I grabbed a change of clothes, ironed my shirt, and headed for campus. I met my roommate Austin for a workout only to discover that we were rained out. We decided last minute to head to the old gym on campus (Reid Gym, built in the 19 somethings) where we could hang gymnastic rings and use the tumbling mats that the cheerleading team practices on. Close to the time we arrived I saw an old professor and shared that I had used her budget outline from an entrepreneurship required Parks and Rec Management. She responded with excitement, congratulated me and then invited me to come speak to her current class about my practical application of the class material. I was really honored to be invited to do this. That particular professor was very receptive to my calling into ministry once I finished my degree. Not all professors were.

By this time It was 4 o'clock, knowing that the cheerleading squad practices at 5 we started our warm up and WOD (Workout of the Day). Towards the end of the workout cheerleaders began poring into the gym . We moved our things out of their way relocating to finish. A couple of guys passing buy noticed that we were doing a crossfit (current fitness trend) styled workout. Expressing extreme intrest they asked if they could join us in the future. We were happy to meet them and exchanged numbers. I was excited about this because its a chance to meet new students and share Christ through a mutual interest. Continuing with our work out, for the second time a few guys and girls on the cheer squad noticed what we were doing (a combination of two different calisthenic movements: The burpee lateral jump and ring muscle ups). What happened next was truly unexpected.

The coach came over to me introduced her self and asked about our work out. I gave a short answer and commented that the squad would benefit from this particular type of conditioning. She responded by inviting me to come one evening and share what I knew with the squad. She said that she likes to incorporate new things into their training! I was shocked, laughing slightly I shared that I wasn't a professional nor did I have a personal training certification, but that I have spent a lot of personal time studying sports science, and familiarizing myself with up to date research. She persisted in asking if I would be willing to share with the team. I gave her my business card and told her about my internship. We agreed to talk over email and arrange a time for me to share. I have already emailed her and can't wait for a reply. Many, many times I have given my workouts to God and asked that He take my interest in fitness and be glorified with it, today was a breakthrough in the answering of that prayer. I see this as a fun opportunity to integrate myself in the lives of the students via a non spiritual arena.

After cleaning up and changing I headed to starbucks on campus where I started on my days tasks. These were mostly organizational and communication related things, but I did started off with some reading. Later I saw sitting behind me a couple of people who had also been in the gym earlier. I introduced myself and we began talking. It turns out that both of them one guy and one girl are pole vaulters for Westerns Track team. We talked about sport physiology and various approaches to training.  The guy and I hit it off pretty well. We plan to meet up and exchange knowledge about training over a workout middle of next week. Again, I see the Lord moving here in a very practical way. He is simply using me, which is very cool. Its very exciting to see Him incorporate one of my favorite things into my ministry on this campus.

Tomorrow I get to spend the entire day on campus, I hope He continues to use me like He did today, its extremely refreshing!

BRCC Pastoral Assistant/Intern Budget for 2013-2014

BRCC Internship Start-Up Budget		July 31, 2013 - July 31, 2013
	Cost per year	Notes
Tithe
BRCC	$4,145.04	10% yearly salary to Blue Ridge Community Church
Total	$4,145.04
Savings
Emergency funds	$6,750.00	3 months living expenses
Vehicle Repairs	$829.01	2% yearly salary
Roth IRA	$4,145.04	10% yearly salary
Siminary fund	$829.01	2% yearly salary
Children College fund	$829.01	2% yearly salary
Christmas	$414.50	1% yearly salary
Total	$13,796.57
Taxes
BRCC's Tax Servicer	$75.00	Tax Agency
Vehicle Tax on 2001 Honda Civic	$13.13	6,266 x .002097
Self-employment	$2,253.87	15.3% of $56,000.70 (total earnings before taxes)
Federal	$2,490.43	11% of $56,000.70 (total earnings before taxes) + $870
State	$1,648.87	6% of $56,000.70 (total earnings before taxes) + $765
Local	$441.94	3% of $56,000.70 (total earnings before taxes)
Total	$6,923.24
Insurance
Vehicle	$1,333.56	USAA
Health/Dental	$1,493.64	$124.47 x 12 months = $1,493.64
Total	$2,827.20
Living
Rent	$2,400.00	Housing @ $200.00 per month for 12 months
Breakfast	$416.00	$2.50 b-fast @ home 5dpw + $5.50 b-fast out 2dpw x 52 weeks
Lunch	$2,444.00	$6.00 lunchbox 5 dpw + 8.50 lunch out 2dpw x 52 weeks
Dinner	$3,068.00	$4.50 dinner @ home 2dpw + $10.00 dinner out 5dpw x 52 weeks
Snack/Coffee	$147.00	$1.00 Coffee out + $2.00 snack 7dpw x 52 weeks
Supplaments/Vitamines	$832.00	$90 vitamine 1 year + $442 protein +  $160 pre +  $140 post =
Hygene	$367.00	hair cuts, dental care, cleanlieness, soap, shampoo etc…
Household necessities	$150.00	vacum bags, clorox, cleaning suplies, paper towels etc…
Gas	$3,120.00	Obtaining life necessities and driving to work
Total	$12,944.00
Ministry Expenses
Passion 2014	$270.00	Ticket $120, Hotel &50, Food $60, Gas $40
Church Mission Trip	$2,100.00	Spring break church mission trip
Gas	$2,000.00	Asheville $15 per trip x 52 weeks = $780 and unforseen gas expenses $1,220
Campus ministries event nights	$150.00	Funds for bringing campus ministry leaders together for community
Outreach evenings	$150.00	Funds for bringing community members into my home
Apple Tablet	$749.00	Ipad $499, Apps $50, Accessories (Key board and Case) $200
Additional Resources	$2,000.00	Unforseen expenses
Total	$7,419.00
Fundraising
Doner support dinners, Spring	$120.00	Groceries for 4 support dinners 12 people each
Doner support dinners, Summer	$90.00	Groceries for 3 support dinners 12 people each
Church Donor Meetings
Waynesville Gas	$62.00	$6 per trip x 7 trips = $42 + $1 per church for 20 churches = $62
Waynesville Food	$120.00	($8 per meal x 2 meals per day x 6 days) + ($4 coffee x 6 days) = $120
Cashiers Gas	$36.00	$9 per trip x 3 trips = $27 + $1 per church for 9 churches = $36
Cashiers Food	$60.00	($8 per meal x 2 meals per day x 3 days) + ($4 coffe x 3 days) = $60
Highlands Gas	$31.50	$9.50 per trip x 3 trips = $28.50 + $1 per church for 9 churches = $37.50
Highlands Food	$60.00	($8 per meal x 2 meals per day x 3 days) + ($4 coffee x 3 days) = $60
Asheville Gas	$180.00	$12 per trip x 10 tips = $120 + $2 per church for 30 churches = $180
Asheville Food	$310.00	($9 per meal x 3 meals per day x 10 days) + ($4 coffee x 10 days) = $310
Rocky Mount Gas	$159.00	($120 per trip x 1 trip) + ($1 per church x 10 churches) + ($20 additional driving) = $159
Rocky Mount Food	$217.00	($9 per meal x 3 meals per day x 7 days) + ($4 coffee x 5 days) = $310
Villages Gas	$167.00	($107 per trip x 1 trip) + ($1 per church x 20 churches) + ($20 additional driving) = $167
Villages Food	$154.00	($9 per meal x 2 meals per day x 7 days) + ($4 coffee x 7 days) = $310
Personal Donor Mettings
Personal Donor Meeting Gas	$423.00	$3 per person x 141 people = $423
Personal Donor Meeting Food	$648.00	$9 per meal x 2 meals per day x 36 days = $648
Total	$2,837.50
Summary of Living Expenses
Insurance	$2,827.20
Living	$12,944.00
Savings	$9,651.53
Total	$15,771.20
Summary of Tax Deductions
Ministry Expenses	$8,469.00	These things are not taxed due to the fact that they are either work related expenses, giving related, or being placed in a retirement fund.
Fundraising Expenses	$2,873.50
Tithe	$3,706.73
Roth IRA	$3,706.73
Total	$18,755.96
Summary of Tax
Taxes	$6,923.24
Total	$6,923.24
Total of Expenses	$41,450.40
Taxable Income	$14,731.20