Who Is Being Naive?

     I was channel surfing the other night when I caught an interesting story on one of the "science" channels. The show was a "documentary" explaining how planet Earth was formed. Over the course of an hour, scientists and astronomers described all the "luck" (that was their term, not mine) that transpired to form earth and the world as we know and experience it.

     It related how "lucky" we are that the sun formed, the mass we call Earth was captured in its orbit, how another massive piece of inter-stellar mass collided with what would be our Earth creating the moon, how multiple millions of years transpired with multiple millions of asteroids and comets containing water crashed into Earth, how the atmosphere  formed and how small microscopic life-forms begin to develop and eventually evolved into all that we see including humanity.

     The longer I watched, the more amazed I was that these learned academics actually believed that all that exists was a catastrophic phenomenon of chance. From where I sit, the notion that everything just happened seems more and more like fool's talk. Now, I am viewed as naive because I believe God, the Intelligent Designer, created it all. I ask you, who is being naive?

     My larger problem is that this secular and atheist mindset which attributes all we see to "luck" totally dominates our world's major universities and academic communities. How did this happen? I am reminded of Psalms which states, "The fool has said in his heart, there is no God."

     I ask you, does it really make sense to believe that nothing plus time plus chance formed the universe with all of its complexity? Yet, belief in this nonsense seems to be the union card into our modern world of academia. Sad.

My Recommended Winter Reading

Last week, Fern and I spent four days in Baltimore where I attended the yearly gathering of the Evangelical Theological Society. On Wednesday afternoon, I presented a paper comparing Spurgeon's Down Grade Controversy and the precipitating events of the Southern Baptists' Conservative Resurgence. Besides sitting in on a variety of lectures and walking through the bookstore (best prices on books all year long), we were able to catch up with peers in other schools as well as former students. Four  questions are common to these catching up encounters:  "What are you writing these days? What are you reading? Where are you now and what are you doing?" I would like to take a few paragraphs and highlight the second question. 

In the last month or so, I have read three books of note and am half way through the fourth. The first two are by Daniel Pink, a business guru who takes sociological research, digests it, and applies it to business, educational, and institutional communities. The first book I read was Drive. This is a study of motivation and especially how people are motivated in their work environments. He argues that culture has gone through three phases which he identifies as Motivation 1, 2, and 3. Motivation one lasted up until approximately the year 1800. People as a whole were motivated simply to survive. The next phase, which was in effect up until 1980 or so is what I summarize as essentially the "carrot and the stick" mindset. It assumes that people want to do as little as possible. Therefore, their superiors motivate them with rewards (carrots) or threats (sticks). Since 1980, the model which has been growing in implementation is "purpose-driven." It assumes that workers want to do well, want to have meaning in what they do, and want to make a difference through their work. According to Pink, this applies to almost all institutions. Those stuck in a Motivation 2 Model will find themselves increasingly out of touch and unable to retain the services of their best employees.

Pink's newer book is entitled To Sell is Human. It is an interesting study of how almost all workers today find themselves in the position of needing to sell, even in jobs which require "non-selling sales." His point? No matter what you do, you will need to sell yourself and persuade people. So, why not do it well? This volume is packed with suggestions on how to be an effective communicator.

A third book I recently read is Bryan Litfin's Getting to Know the Church Fathers. This volume provides chapter snapshots of a select number of Patristic Fathers and Mothers.

Anyone who wants a nice concise review (or introduction) to Patristic leaders will find this volume informative and relevant. Litfin works hard to make these early Christian leaders come alive.

A final book, one that I am still reading, is John Fea's Why Study History? A more accurate title might be What is an Historian, What is History, and Why Is It  Worth the Trouble to Study? It is in fact a very sound introduction to the discipline of historiography. It is filled with discussable insights that will help any student grasp an understanding of the benefits of studying history. I thought one particularly important point was that any new history is "revisionist." It is the essence of incorporating new facts, insights, and interpretations to old events and their perception. For the record, some revisions are sound and other revisions are poor. Not all revisions are worth the paper they’re printed on.

I can readily recommend any of these volumes as tools to help you gain new insights from old subjects, or fresh understanding to new subjects.

What have you been reading lately? 

3 Stages to Redeeming Your Time: Solve problems, Make Decisions, Plan Effectively.

Work consists of three primary activities: problem solving, decision making, and planning. In his book 30 Days to Confident Leadership Bob Biehl shares a method of time management built around these three aspects of work. I use Biehls' method when I teach my PhD students how to more effectively manage their time. Today I'm sharing with you the important steps to take and questions to ask to ensure that you are making the most of your time at all three stages.

1. Problem solving. This is past oriented. What went wrong? A problem is something that went contrary to expectations. It is often manifested in what I like to call "the law of unintended consequences." Dr. Phil often puts it this way, "how's that working for you?" Point: it's not.

When Solving Problems:

• Learn to ask questions.
• Ask, in one sentence, "what is the problem?"
• What are the facts related to this problem?
• Why does the problem exist?
• Who can help me solve this problem?
• What resources can I bring to bear on this problem?
• Of all the potential solutions, which has the greatest potential to be right?
• What policy would keep this problem from recurring?

2. Decision making. This is oriented toward the present. It determines what we do right now. I think of this in terms of forms. Moral decisions are between right and wrong. Wisdom decisions are between wise and foolish actions or words. Priority decisions are choices between that which is good, better, or best. Of course decisions are all predicated on what you want to be, accomplish, or avoid.

When Making Decisions:

• Pray for wisdom.
• Gather your facts.
• Ask, "what are my alternative decisions?"
• Ask, "what are the consequences of each decision?"
• Ask, "who will be affected?"
• Ask objective third parties for feedback.
• Ask, "am I setting a precedent?" or "am I following a precedent?"
• Ask the "what, why, who, where, when and how much" questions.
• Ask, "what if no decision is made?"

3. Planning. This is future oriented. It determines what you want to accomplish. It is a predetermined course of action directed toward a desired result. It manifests itself in goals. We see this often in "to do" lists.

When Planning:

• Pray and ask God, "What do you want me to accomplish?
•  Write out what you would like to see accomplished.
• Be specific.
• Write the goal so that results can be measured.
• Seek appropriate help.
• Ask, "am I willing to pay the price?"
• Ask yourself, "why do I want to reach these goals?"
• Ask, "what will happen if I do not achieve these goals?" What is at stake?

Which aspect of time management is the most challenging for you? Do you ever skip one of these steps? 

5 Insights On Writing from “Bird By Bird”

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Anyone who knows me knows that I am a student of writing. I have four published books and numerous articles to my credit. Yet, I still feel very much like a novice as I continue to learn. Several weeks ago I was given a copy of Anne Lamott's book, Bird By Bird, which is the distilled essence of her writer's workshop. In this blog I would like to wrap up my thoughts on her book as I examine some of her insights concerning the discipline of writing.

1. She sees writing as a frontline force in the politically incorrect arena of the culture wars. Lamott writes, "The society to which we belong seems to be dying or is already dead. I don't mean to sound dramatic, but clearly the dark side is rising" (234). Then, she counters by stating, "And who knows? Maybe what you have written will help others, will be a small part of the solution" (235). She previously had commented that, "writing is about learning to pay attention and to communicate what is going on" (97). As we pay attention and realize what is unfolding, perhaps we writers can be part of the solution to bring light to the darkness.

2. She also addresses the self-held convictions of the writer. She explains, "But you have to believe in your position, or nothing will be driving your work. If you don't believe in what you are saying, there is no point in your saying it...this belief will keep you going as you struggle to get your work done" (106-7). Lamott continues this thought sequence by observing, "to be a good writer, you not only have to write a great deal but you have to care...But a writer always tries, I think, to be part of the solution, to understand a little about life and pass this on" (107). Understanding, caring, and passing on insights and convictions--that is a sound insight about the nature and value of writing.

3. Lamott also gives attention to what she identifies as the "moral position." She explains, "So a moral position is not a message. A moral position is a passionate caring inside of you...and there is no point in gathering an audience and demanding its attention unless you have something to say that is important and constructive" (108). So, what is it inside of you that is important? And what can you write that is constructive?

4. Lamott also speaks to those who have succumbed to the intimidation of public opinion and self-doubt. She gives this advice: "so you have gotten into the habit of doubting the voice that was telling you quite clearly what was really going on. It is essential that you get it back!" She explains, "you get your confidence and your intuition back by trusting yourself, by being militantly on your own side" (111-112). From a Christian perspective this infers being prayed up and biblically sound, then boldly taking a righteous stand. It is not enough to be sincere because many people are sincere, but sincerely wrong.

5. She gives encouragement to do your best...all the time. Quoting Annie Dillard, she writes, "day by day you have to give the work before you all the best stuff you have, not saving up for later projects. If you give freely, there will always be more" (p.202). 

From my perspective, these are great insights from an experienced and seasoned writer. She is one more person from whom I can learn! What authors have you read lately that have provided you with great insight? 

4 Tips on the Discipline of Writing

In my last blog, I introduced Anne Lamott's autobiographical book Bird by Bird. The book records her insights about life and in turn writing. After the self-revelations related to her motives for writing, Lamott's book can be broken down into three categories: The Significance of Writing, Some Suggestions about Writing, and Some Insights Concerning Writing.

The first section deals with the significance of writing. She stridently explains that "good writing is about telling the truth" (3). Concerning the author's motivation she relates, "you hold an imaginary gun to your head and make yourself stay at the desk" (7). Obviously, this makes it quite significant, at least from the writer's perspective. Explaining the value of the end product, she notes that books "show us what community and friendship means; they show us how to live and die"(15).

The next category of thought addresses a litany of helpful suggestions about the practical disciplines of writing. 

1. Write incrementally. From the perspective of a coach she gives this advice: "write short assignments" (16). Any large product can be broken down into multiple shorter pieces. Refuse to be overwhelmed by the ultimate length of the finished product.

2. Just get it down. Lamott acknowledges that "no one is reading your first drafts" (71). So, just get it down! Of primary consideration is for the writer to "be afraid of not getting your writing done" (226). All writers, especially good ones, write lousy (she actually used a different adjective) first drafts (21). Lamott explains that "almost all good writing begins with terrible first efforts" (25). What is of critical importance is that the writer capture thoughts on paper. 

3. Let someone else read your work. Another suggestion, one about which she is adamant is, "by all means let someone else take a look at your work" (57). An extra set of eyes reviewing your work can be incredibly helpful. She explains that the nature of good writing is such that "you find out things as you go along. Then you go back and rewrite." (71). But as you write and then rewrite ("edit" if you please), then by all means have someone review your work. Every great writer with few exceptions takes this approach.

4. Write a letter. "When you don't know what else to do, when you're really stuck and filled with despair and self-loathing and boredom, but you can't just leave your work alone for a while and wait, you might try telling your history-- part of a character's history-- in the form of a letter" (172). This seems to be an interesting tactic to break through the traditional writer's block.

I’ll conclude my thoughts on Bird by Bird next time with my favorite insights on writing that I learned. Have you read a book on improving your skill or passion? Leave one bit of advice that stuck with you in the comments. 

6 Critical Steps To Take In the First 90 Days As Pastor

by Michael Watkins

A couple of years ago I read the book the First 90 Days. Michael Watkins unpacked the important considerations for a manager moving into a new leadership position. Today I'd like to offer my own suggestions for a new pastor.

With over 20 years of experience as a senior pastor and almost a decade in ministry-equipping academia, I have often reflected on the most important first considerations for a new pastor. The first great task of the Church is to fulfill God's command to take the Gospel to the world. Coupled with that is the mandate to bring those who come to faith into Christian maturity. In light of these two priorities, what are the most important first steps for a pastor to take when he begins work with a new congregation? 

1. Clarify expectations. A new pastor needs the church to be clear about what he expects from them, and clear on what they expect from him. The lack of understanding and clarity on the front end has created unnecessary difficulties for way too many churches and pastors.  

2. Encourage the church family to embrace their responsibility to invite lost and unchurched people in their spheres of influence to join them for worship. The most effective outreach for any church is the satisfied member who cares about the people inside their circle of influence.

3. Study the church and seek the Lord to know what messages need to be preached. Even as Jesus had a specific word to and for each congregation addressed in Revelation 2 and 3, He has a special Word to each congregation today.

4. Challenge each member to take seriously their role in the church. This would include encouragement to be faithful in their daily devotions, witness, character development, stewardship, and consistency. Each member is either building up or tearing down the Body of Christ (the Church) by their attitudes, actions, behaviors, participation, and words. Personal responsibility must be taken seriously!

5. Be diligent to ensure that the necessary infrastructure is in place to effectively support the ministries of the congregation. Without the supporting team, any organization can collapse under its own weight.

6. Ask yourself and the church tough questions. For each congregation, the questions must be asked: 

• What does God want us to be and to do? 

• How are we gifted to fulfill the will of God in our locale?

• In what areas does God want us to minister and serve?

• What does God want to accomplish through us in this time and place?

• What potential does God want to birth into reality here and now?

• How can we effectively cooperate in fulfilling the Great Commission in our generation? 

• What does God want to do in our midst that will help the watching world know that God is real?

These are the six steps I think are critical for the first 90 days in the pastorate. What do you think? Do you have anything to add to the list? 

Principles of Effective Communication

Over the next few weeks I’m going to share some aspects of what I have taught in preaching classes and included in the textbook I wrote called A Primer On Biblical Preaching. If you are a Liberty Theological Seminary student, you may recognize it as the Homiletics textbook. These principles are beneficial to anyone who has to speak for a living. Of course this applies to ministers but should also prove beneficial to teachers, business leaders, and anyone else who has to stand up in front of a crowd and say something constructive.

One principle I stress repeatedly is the necessity of preparation. I do not believe anyone can be over-prepared before they speak. Besides being the antidote to fear (in speaking, the less prepared you are the greater your stress and fear), preparation is also the pathway to excellence. (I wrote some more thoughts on preparation here.) Why anyone would settle for mediocrity when they can strive for excellence escapes me.

Preparation for a preacher or public speaker comes in two packages, the macro and the micro. The macro package is how we plan for the year. I encourage my students to plan their preaching a year at a time. When I was a senior pastor, I would plan my January sermons in September or October so we knew ahead of time where we were going. Then, I would take a week some time between Thanksgiving and New Year’s to plan out the rest of the upcoming year's messages. In preparation for that planning week, I would keep a file folder of interesting articles or notes that I accumulated over the year. If it was interesting, I would save it in my file. Sometimes I would shoot or scan something of interest on my smartphone. Do not be afraid to tear out articles from magazines or newspapers. Evernote is a fantastic tool for this. I would also keep a notebook of observations and insights that I would consult. In my planning week, I would take my calendar, determine how many weeks I would have for a series, then schedule a new sermon series beginning on major breaks.

In my planning week, I would mark resources that I knew I would need in next year's preparation. For example, all New Testament sermons would have a photocopy of the Greek text, AT Robertson's Word Studies for that text, and Reinecker's commentary on the Greek text. Coupled with that were a few select commentaries and any articles I considered helpful.

I would create a file folder for each sermon I intended to preach in the upcoming year. Each would be labeled with the date, series title, sermon title, and the text. By the first of the year, I would have a complete set of files for the entire calendar year. By doing this, I would work smarter, not harder. By taking this approach, I would have better series, better sermons, and better services.

Please be reminded that it is easier to deviate from a plan than to have no plan. Even with a plan, you can be flexible when necessary.

This is a snapshot of my macro approach to preaching. If you will incorporate a model like this, you can save time and preach more effective sermons. Next week, I will address the micro package. What can you do on a week by week basis to be more effective?

My #1 Advice to Young Pastors

It was over thirty years ago. I was still teaching Evangelism at Southwestern Seminary and had just accepted the invitation to become Wedgwood Baptist Church's Senior Pastor. Taking a few minutes to browse in the school's bookstore, I ran into one of my favorite professors, Dr. Tom Nettles. At that moment I got a chance introduction to a gentleman who would subsequently heavily influence my life. Dr. Jim DeLoach, Senior Associate Pastor at Second Baptist Church in Houston was up on the "Hill" for some meetings.

Dr. DeLoach asked me if I'd like to come down and spend the day with him at Second Baptist. This began a mentoring relationship that lasted several years.

As the pastor of a growing and exciting congregation, I had many more questions than answers. So, I would spend a few months of ministry writing my questions down as they came up, then travel down to Houston. There, I would spend the day going question by question, page by page. I would write down Dr. DeLoach's wise counsel. That mentoring relationship was of incalculable value to me. The many insights and lessons he taught me are still with me to this day. No doubt, many of the things he taught me, I have passed on to others over the years.

I hope that if you are a young minister, you have someone to turn to for guidance and support. If you need help, the best thing you can do is ask for it. May the Lord bring a Dr. DeLoach into your life! On the other hand, if you have some miles of ministry under your belt, maybe you need to keep an eye out for somebody who needs you! Often God's solution to our challenges is not a "something" but a "someone."