METRO PRAISE BLOG

Lesson on Humility (Redit from "Disciples" book-2012)

2012-01-13T10:57:00.002-06:00

LESSON 4

Disciples are Humble

The Kenosis

Though Jesus was fully God and equal to the Father in all ways as the Second Person in the Trinity, He lowered Himself and became man. Thus, Jesus became the God-Man, 100% divine and 100% man.

The term that is used to describe the lowering and humbling of our great Lord and Savior is the Greek word “kenosis,” which means, “to make of no reputation or to empty one’s self.”

Therefore, Jesus left His glory and place in heaven and came down to earth in the form of a man to become the Savior of the world. Take a moment to read and study Paul’s description of this great and powerful event in the life of Jesus known as the “kenosis.”

Philippians 2:5-11,

5 Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, 7 but made himself nothing (kenosis), taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.

8 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death— even death on a cross!

9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

If Jesus, the Second Person of the God nature, the Bright and Morning Star, the Alpha and the Omega, would make Himself nothing and become a man that could die for the sins of the world, how much more should we His disciples learn to humble ourselves and make life not about our selfish needs and desires.

Jesus gave the greatest example of a servant when He left the worship of the angels in heaven and became a man on earth to die on the cross for the sins of the world. He displayed the highest degree of humility by becoming a man subject to the natural laws of the human condition such as hunger, fatigue, and even death.

During His earthly ministry Jesus never made people feel that He was too good for them. He loved to serve people and be there for them in their times of need. Jesus showed great humility in His relationship with the twelve disciples. He was always patient and forgiving towards them, even when they betrayed Him. Jesus was a great leader by being a great servant.

Luke 22:24-27,

24 Also a dispute arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest. 25 Jesus said to them, "The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors.

26 But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves. 27 For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? But I am among you as one who serves.

Who’s the Boss?

Today in the church many people have a difficult time submitting and serving the pastor and the leadership God has placed over them. Over my 15 years of ministry I have seen people come into the church and get saved and within a couple of months try to teach the pastor how to run the church- Lord have mercy!

One of the hardest lessons I find that people have to learn is humility. I know for me it took awhile as well. I had to learn the hard way in Bible College. When I first came to college I felt like I was the “best of the best.” I loved to pray, preach, witness, and study my Bible. I thought I was the perfect Bible school student and I felt it should be their honor to have me in their school.

So much so that I felt it was my job to teach the professors who had been in ministry over 25 years how to do their job. Well, after one day when I had corrected my professor who was in charge of the jail ministry, they brought me before the dean of boys for correction and discipline. In that meeting they told me that if I did not repent and accept their discipline then I would be expelled from the school.

So I dropped out. I went down to my dorm, packed up all my clothes, got in my car and left to go back home. The only problem was my Mother, who had led me to the Lord nine months early, said I couldn’t come back home because she wasn’t going to let me live there.

So there at the gas station with my car all packed and nowhere to go, I finally stopped and listened to the Lord speak to my heart. I believe He had been trying to talk to me for sometime, but now I was finally ready to listen. The Lord basically told me that He was the one who had brought me to the school and the leader’s discipline was a part of His plan.

Therefore, I went back to the school, called up the dean of boys, and I repented and begged him to let me come back to school. Thankfully they took me back and gave me another chance. Now today, the dean of boys, Reverend Anthony Freeman, has been a spiritual father and mentor to me. He is on the board of our church and I contact him all the time seeking his advice and counsel.

Paul said in 1 Corinthians 4:15, “Even though you have ten thousand guardians in Christ, you do not have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel.” Today I have a loving spiritual father and great leader in my family’s life because I could humble myself. For everyone reading this book- you need to do the same!

I look back on that day now even with tears in my eyes and I thank God for the people that loved me enough to tell me I was wrong and needed to change. My punishment in the school was to clean the toilets everyday until they said I had changed my attitude. I have never been the same since.

Today as a pastor I see people leave one church and go to the next, just like I tried that day and they don’t take time to listen to see if God is the one who is actually correcting them. I ask that you would read the following verses and then pray for God to make you humble.

Helpful Hint: If you think you are already “humble” enough- that is evidence you really need to read this and pray!

1 Peter 5:5-6,

5 Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble."

6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.

Prayer for Humility:

Father, I come to You today and I ask that You would make me humble like Your Son Jesus. Father, I pray that You will teach me how to listen to others and follow the leadership that You have placed in my life. Take away my pride and make me a leader that serves. Transform my life by Your power in Jesus name.

Therefore, show me the areas I have become unteachable in, lazy to serve, and unwilling to change. By your grace mold me and shape me into the servant you want me to be. Help me not to be like the Pharisees who thought everyone else needed you except them. Teach me to be the first to recognize my need for You, godly leadership, and discipline. I trust you.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Ten Lessons in Humility

I would like to give you a list of verses that teach different aspects of humility and then comment on one of them so that you can get a better understanding of how to walk in humility as a disciple of Jesus Christ.

Exodus 10:3,

“So Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and said to him, "This is what the LORD, the God of the Hebrews, says: 'How long will you refuse to humble yourself before me? Let my people go, so that they may worship me.”

Lesson 1: Listen to godly advice. This verse teaches the importance of listening to others that have a Word from the Lord for us. Pharaoh could have been spared if he would have listened to Moses, but since he was prideful he lost his life, his first-born son, and much of his army and Egypt’s wealth. Sin and pride will cost you more than you will ever want pay.

2. Deuteronomy 8:2,

“Remember how the LORD your God led you all the way in the desert these forty years, to humble you and to test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands.”

Lesson 2: Do not quit when things do not go your way. Sometimes God will allow trials and tests to come into our lives to humble us. Many times you may face difficult times and think the best way out is to run away, but God wants us to be humble and learn how to serve Him and keep His commands even when times are tough.

3. 2 Chronicles 7:14,

“if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”

Lesson 3: Come to God in brokenness not pride. The first thing we must learn to do to receive answers to our prayers is to humble ourselves before God. We need to take off the “masks” that we put on and admit to God that without Him we are nothing. Also, before we can truly repent of sin, we have to be willing to admit we have sinned.

4. 2 Chronicles 34:27,

“Because your heart was responsive and you humbled yourself before God when you heard what he spoke against this place and its people, and because you humbled yourself before me and tore your robes and wept in my presence, I have heard you, declares the LORD.”

Lesson 4: Always obey the Word of God. When King Josiah found the laws of God, he humbled himself and did all that he could to make Judah pleasing to God. Therefore, the Lord blessed Him and the nation of Judah. We must humble ourselves, hear the Word of God, and respond with passion and obedience.

5. Proverbs 29:23,

“A man's pride brings him low, but a man of lowly spirit gains honor.”

Lesson 5: Seek humility and honor will follow. This verse declares that pride will bring people low and it eventually will bring total destruction, but the humble will gain honor. The best way to gain honor in the church and at your work place is to learn how to be humble and not to walk in pride. Pastors and employers love to honor people that can listen and follow directions.

6. Isaiah 57:15,

“For this is what the high and lofty One says— he who lives forever, whose name is holy: "I live in a high and holy place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite.”

Lesson 6: If you want to hang around God, stay humble. God says He will live with those who have a humble and lowly attitude. He also promises to bring life and strength to their spirits. What an awesome promise to the humble!

7. Matthew 18:4,

“Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”

Lesson 7: Greatness is given to humble people. Here Jesus teaches His disciples that to be great in the kingdom of God they must be humble like a child. Children can more easily admit they don’t know everything, they are willing to be guided and helped, plus, children love to learn new things. Today humble yourself like a child and learn to rely on God as Your Father and be willing to learn from others in authority.

8. Matthew 23:12,

“For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”

Lesson 8: Go down in humility to go up in God’s kingdom. Jesus teaches that in His Kingdom it is the opposite of the world’s system. In His kingdom the way “up” is “down” and the way “down” is “up.” Meaning, when people try to do things their way, God will bring them down to nothing, but those who are willing to humble themselves and learn from God and others in authority they will be lifted up and exalted.

9. Hebrews 13:17,

“Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you.”

Lesson 9: Obey your leaders, it is worth it. Here we learn that God has placed leaders in the church to be our teachers and mentors. Everyone is to submit to them so that they can enjoy their work unto God. Wherever God has placed you in the church make sure you have a “spiritual covering” and submit to the leadership in place.

10. James 4:6,

“But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble."

Lesson 10: Grace always abounds in the life of the humble. Here the Bible teaches us that God will give grace and favor to those that humble themselves, but to those that are proud He will not bless, rather He will oppose them. If God opposes you, there is no one to rescue you, therefore live life with humility.

Five Practical Ways to Live Humble

As a disciple you must learn to walk in humility in all areas of your life. Maybe you will have a boss who mistreats you; you must choose to be humble even when your patience is being tested. One day at church you may feel you can do things better, but you must choose to be humble and submit to the authority God has placed over you.

You might feel in life you’re too good to help the poor, clean the churches’ toilets, listen to your husband or wife’s advice, remember to humble yourself like a child and be willing to do anything that pleases God.

Man is not at the center of the universe, God is. Life is not about you; life is first about God and then it is about others. Humility is learning to make life about God even when it does not “feel good.”

Humility means serving others even when it hurts. It didn’t “feel good” when Jesus went to the cross. It didn’t “feel good” when David was being chased by Saul. It didn’t “feel good” when Moses served the Israelites for forty years and they complained. However, each one was blessed and rewarded when they served God and people with true humility.

Five Practical Ways to Live in Humility

(1) Submit to God’s Word: Always read the Word of God with the heart that says, “God teach me Your ways and change anything in me that doesn’t line up with You” (2 Timothy 3:16).

(2) Be Under Authority in the Church: No matter who you are God wants you to be under Biblical authority. Find a pastor or leader that can train you in the things of God. Someone that is willing to tell you when your wrong and be willing to listen no matter the cost and stick with them the rest of their life (Hebrews 13:17).

(3) Have an Accountability Partner: Find a peer that you can talk about your life to and be open to their suggestions and advice, try to listen more than you talk (James 5:16).

(4) Follow the Guidelines for the Christian Family: Learn the way God wants the family to operate and find your place being right where God wants you to be and do it without compromise or excuse (See Lesson 5).

(5) Follow the Rules of Society: Obey the laws of the government, the rules on your job and the social values of your culture so that you can be an example of a real Christian and a true disciple to the world around you (Romans 13:4).

Questions:

1. What is the “kenosis?”

2. Explain how you are to be humble like Jesus?

3. What times in your life did you lack humility? Explain two situations.

4. List three verses that teach humility and the lessons you can learn from them.

5. Name and describe some consequences you could suffer if you live in pride.

6. Give three examples of how you can walk humbly in the church, on the job, and in the home.

7. Memorize James 4:6.

Disciples That Make Disciples, "Introduction" (2012-Edit)

2012-01-12T19:14:00.000-06:00

Introduction

It’s Time to Change the World!

Now is the Time

Welcome to the revolution! Here is where we make our stand and now is the time we fight for the spiritual freedom of our nation and the nations of the world!

This book is meant to be a manual to teach you how to be a true follower and disciple of Jesus Christ. It is designed to teach you how to give your whole life to Jesus Christ so that you will be able to say with all your heart both now and forever, “Here I am Lord, use me! Whether in life or in death, I will glorify you!” Do not wait or hesitate, now is the time!

Enough is Enough

Today in America we are watching the armies of darkness attempt to bring death to the Christian church and destroy the validity of the Bible and the truths it presents. We have watched prayer be taken out of our schools and be replaced with metal detectors. We have watched the result of godless pride bring death to literally millions of unborn children in abortion clinics.

We have seen the mass media present fundamental Christianity as a promoter of hate speech and intolerance, while the “wisdom of this age” has resulted in more depression, more suicide, more violence, and more broken lives and families than ever known to our country. Sins that used to be hidden in the closet are now in the open while the church has been forced into the closet.

We need God to change our communities, our cities, and our nation. God’s method of change is to use people, people like you and me who will rise up and be His disciples and go out into the world and preach His message. Therefore, true discipleship is the only hope for this wicked generation (Acts 2:40-41).

Be a Disciple

Being a disciple means, “to be a committed follower of Jesus Christ.” It is not enough to just “believe” in Jesus, you must live like Jesus. The Bible says that even the demons believe in God and they tremble! Therefore, demons are smarter than some Christians, because they not only believe but also fear God (James 2:19).

The word “Christian” is only mentioned 3x in the Bible. The word “believer” around 26x, but the word “disciple” is found over 250x. Thus, it is clear who Jesus wants us to identify ourselves as, he wants us to be His disciples!

From the very start of Jesus’ ministry He set out to make twelve disciples who would live like Him and follow all of His teachings. After three years of intensive training He then told them to do the very same thing for others that He did with them. Therefore, Jesus taught His disciples to go out and make new disciples.

Matthew 28:16-20,

16 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted.

18 Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.

19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them inthe name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

Jesus, God in the flesh, perfect in knowledge, obedient to the Father, could have chosen a million different methods to change the world, however, He only choose one- discipleship. He spent His entire three years of ministry 100% focused on it. Today making disciples should be the only clear choice for churches to change the world.

Consumers vs. Disciples

Jesus did not say, “go and make church members” or “go and make believers,” He said, “go and make disciples.” Consider this, when we are saved by grace through faith we are rightly called, “believers.” When we identify our system of beliefs with the teachings of Christ (the Anointed One) we are then rightly called “Christians.” However, we are only rightly called Jesus’ “disciples” when we live like Jesus and become His students.

Today, many in the church have become “make believers” and “casual consumers of comfortable Christianity.” Consumer Christians just want the best deal at the best price. They pick churches that tickle their ears, suit their selfish desires the best, and leave when things get tough (2 Timothy 4:3). Disciples, however, are in the Kingdom of God for the long haul. They are willing to do whatever it takes to see the Kingdom of heaven invade the kingdoms of earth.

Here are some helpful comparisons that I believe will teach you the difference between just being a “consumer” in the church to being a “disciple” of Christ.

· Consumers give their free time to sports and entertainment, while disciples give their days to ministry and nights to prayer.

· Consumers want the American dream, while disciples want the power of God to change the world.

· Consumers desire comfort in life, while disciples live in constant conflict and opposition.

· Consumers want to be taken in and accepted by the world, while disciples are put out and rejected by it.

· Consumers want to be thought of as reasonable and considerate with those who differ with them, while disciples are called “extremists,” “intolerant,” and “trouble makers.”

· Consumers live for the praise of people, while disciples live only for the praise of God the Father.

· Consumers will only give to Jesus when it is most convenient and stop when it hurts or brings any discomfort, but disciples give their whole life in sacrifice and selfless dedication.

· Consumers are only consumed with their wants, their needs, their families, their desires, and their dreams, while disciples are all-consumed with God’s wants, God desires, God’s family, and look to other’s hurts, other’s needs, and solve other’s problems.

· Consumers wish to save their lives, while disciples choose to lose their lives.

· Is it any wonder we fail to make the kind of difference that Jesus and the first disciples made with a church full of consumers?

The Stats Don’t Lie

George Barna, a well-known Christian researcher, has spent years studying the decay of the modern church. Some of his research was published in his book, “Think Like Jesus,” Barna. Here is just some of his shocking research:

· Only 2% of young adults in the church have a “Christian Worldview,” (Believe the Bible concerning six main Christian doctrines, “Jesus is God, the Trinity, etc…”)

· Only 14% of all Christians believe the Bible teaches absolute moral truth and is relevant to their everyday lives

· Only 23% of US church goers attend small groups or any other kind of bible class during the week

· Only 29% of Christians volunteer one hour outside of the church service a week

· Only 30% of church goers believe there is a major difference between the Quran, the Book of Mormon, and the Bible

· Over 30% of all adult Christians either smoke cigarettes or cigars, 37% for those outside church

· Over 53% of all Christians do not believe homosexuality is a sin

· Over 60% of all Christians believe as long as a person does good things in life they can go to heaven

· Over 78% of all Christians do not believe the devil is a real person, he is just a “force”

· The rate of divorce outside the church is 33%, inside the church it is 32%

The data may be shocking, but it is also verified by the headlines in contemporary Christian leadership. Therefore, the head is sick and so is the whole body. Here is just a short list of headlines in the past five years:

· “Pastor caught doing drugs and paying for sex with a homosexual prostitute”

· “Pastor found dead in hotel from suspected drug overdose”

· “Bishop’s wife files for divorce after sex scandal involving three young men in the church”

· “Bible college president forced to resign after allegations of stealing money”

· “Bishop comes out of the closet with the support of his wife and congregation”

· “Church declares bankruptcy after federal investigations, causes lead pastors to divorce… former pastor caught in DWI after losing church and marriage”

Only One Way To Serve God

Today I challenge you to read this book and become a true disciple of Jesus Christ. I challenge you to stop making excuses, to stop comparing yourself with others, and start talking, acting, and living like Jesus.

When Jesus walked the earth He did not give two different options to follow Him- easy and hard. Jesus: “Well guys, there is “Option 1,” that is for the lukewarm and Sunday morning only follower. Then, for those who wish to go deeper there is “Option 2,” for those who really want to obey all I commanded.”

Also, Jesus didn’t come to “barter” with us like a person shopping in an outdoor market. Jesus: “Well, I’ll give you a good life if you give me everything you have. Consumer: “Wow, that’s a bit much to ask Jesus. Plus, I really don’t need all those extra things in the Bible anyway. So how about I give you half of everything I have and you give me a descent life and some rewards in heaven?”

Please take a few moments to read some of Jesus’ teachings on discipleship:

Luke 14:25-27, “Jesus is Number One”

25 Large crowds were traveling with Jesus, and turning to them he said: 26 “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters—yes, even his own life—he cannot be my disciple.

27 And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.

Matthew 16:24-27, “Lose Your Life”

24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 25 For whoever wants to save his lifewill lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it.

26 What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?

27 For the Son of Man is going to come in his Father’s glory with his angels, and then he will reward each person according to what he has done.

Mark 10:21-28, “Sell Everything”

21 Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”

22 At this the man’s face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth. 23 Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!”

24 The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said again, “Children, how hard it isto enter the kingdom of God! 25 It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” 26 The disciples were even more amazed, and said to each other, “Who then can be saved?”

27 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.” 28 Peter said to him, “We have left everything to follow you!”

Luke 9:57-62, “Forsake All”

57 As they were walking along the road, a man said to him, “I will follow you wherever you go.” 58 Jesus replied, “Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.”

59 He said to another man, “Follow me.” But the man replied, “Lord, first let me go and bury my father.” 60 Jesus said to him, “Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and proclaim the kingdom of God.”

61 Still another said, “I will follow you, Lord; but first let me go back and say good-by to my family.” 62 Jesus replied, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.”

The Choice is Yours

Decide right now that you will let God take over your life and make you the disciple He wants you to be. Remove the line you may have placed between going to church and being the church. Take away the idea that only a few will preach or only the “super Christians” will witness or just the first disciples could do miracles, and start believing what Jesus said you can do and start being who Jesus said you can be!

You have been chosen just like the first disciples Jesus picked 2,000 years ago. They were not any different than you. They could not do it by themselves, they needed to totally rely on the power of God and so will you. Sure you may make mistakes, so did Peter, James and John, but you will learn like they did, that Jesus has both the power of redemption and transformation.

Remember, you are saved by God’s power, made a disciple by His power, and you live your life with purpose by His power. It is all about trusting and believing that God knows what He is doing and will do what He said He would do (Philippians 4:13).

I believe in you and I know when you pray and ask God to use your life, He will. You will experience the power of God in ways you never thought possible. You will see others changed by the same power of God that is working in you. Get ready to launch out of your “natural” and into His “supernatural!”

How to Use this Book

The book is written in three main sections: Section 1, “Disciples Are,” this teaches what should be found in every disciple’s spiritual life. Section 2, “Disciples Have,” teaches what things should be done in a disciple’s every day life. Section 3, “Disciples Do,” teaches the things that a disciple should do in their life for God’s Kingdom.

The best way to use this book is to go one lesson at a time with your Bible and read all the Scriptures mentioned in the brackets ( ). Answer all the questions honestly and allow God to show you your strengths and weaknesses. Try to keep a prayer journal as well and write out your prayers and testimonies so that you will be able to see your progress and God’s power working in your life.

Try to make time each day to pray an hour and to seek God’s face. Worship Him for who He is and fall in love with Him over and over again. Also, find an accountability partner that you can meet with each week to discuss (a) your walk with God in holiness, (b) pray to overcome weakness, and (c) share testimonies to encourage one another.

Make a commitment to watch less TV, avoid all secular music, and rated “R” movies. Also, keep track of what your doing in your free time to see if you can make more time for God. Plus, memorize a verse per lesson and recite it to others. I believe you will only be able to “get out of this book” what you “put into this experience.”

Check List:

· NIV Bible

· Notebook to answer questions in

· Prayer Journal (do weekly)

· Accountability Partner (meet once a week)

· Free-Time tracking Sheet (track all free time for the first month- see where you can free up more time to be with God)

· Scripture memorization cards (do one a week)

· Weekly Outreach (find a place to share your faith for one hour 1x a week)

· Avoid all secular music, rated “R” movies, and ungodly entertainment

· Aim to pray one hour a day

Also, before you start please ask yourself the following questions:

Do you desire God to change you from the inside out?

Are you willing to grow, even if it gets uncomfortable and costs you everything not of God?

Will you stop all excuses making, complaining, and simply go to God in prayer if you feel burdened?

Are you committed to finishing what you start?

Will you give God more than you have ever given to a job, workout plan, family- will you surrender everything to him?

Have you counted the cost to be a disciple of Christ?

Pray this out loud:

Father, I come in the name of Jesus thanking you for the cross and for changing my life. I now pray that the same power that raised Jesus from the dead would give me power to live and die for You! I ask that You will take away all my compromise, sin, and fleshly comfort. I plead with You to set my life on fire.

I do not want to be the same; I want to be like Jesus. Start right now and right here in my life, transform every part of me. I dedicate my life to being Your disciple. Teach me to preach Your Gospel, to function in the anointing, to tear down strongholds, and to build the Kingdom of God. I praise You and thank You for choosing me.

By Your strength I declare I will see this world changed. I will not give up, back down, or compromise- like Peter, I have nowhere else to go but with You. I proclaim for all to hear, “I am your disciple!”

In Jesus’ name, amen.

Hebrews 12:1-2, “Run Your Race”

1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.

2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

A Disciple Making Disciples,

Joe Wyrostek

Founder of Metro Praise Church

Chicago

2011 End of the Year Report- GOD IS GOOD!!

2012-01-09T14:35:00.006-06:00

Contributors Letter:

Dear History Makers,

God is great and greatly to be praised! Thank you so much for all your support this past year in 2011! Through your generous, sacrificial, and continued support we were able to have another record-breaking year for the 6^th year in a row! We increased in our total giving by more than $33,000!

Here is just a “short” list of what we were able to do in 2011 because of your giving:

- Set a record of 94 current disciples in Chicago!

- Spend two weeks traveling overseas in India and Nepal building the churches and supporting the pastors!

- Overseeing over 100 pastors in four nations (India, Pakistan, Nigeria, & Nepal) with over 200 Metro Praise Churches. Plus, over 2,000 people attending weekly services in the local Metro churches!

- Establish and start a second Metro Praise campus in Wicker Park, 1635 W. Ashland, with Sundays at 5pm, Tuesday at 7pm, and Elevate Youth at 7:30pm!

Nancy and I, along with all the elders and deacons of Metro Praise, want to say a huge, “Thank you!” God used you to help make Jesus’ vision come true- to disciple the nations! I personally pray that you will continue to support us as God blesses you and your family in 2012. Your prayers and faithful giving is what makes the Kingdom of God grow both here in Chicago and around the world!

Thank you so much and may God richly bless you this year!

<><

Joe Wyrostek

Metro Praise Chicago

Apostolic Elder & Founder

____________________________________

Power Point Slides:

New 2012 Sermon Series & Times for Irving Park:

New 2012 Sermon Series & Times for Wicker Park:

2012 Giving Campaign for Irving Park - Click Picture to Give!

2012 Giving Campaign for Wicker Park - Click Picture to Give!

WWW.METROPRAISE.ORG

p.s. Here is the 2011 Mission Video from Southeast Asia : )

A Look at the New Wicker Park Campus!

2012-01-01T09:44:00.005-06:00

Here are some pictures of the new Metro Praise Wicker Park Campus at 1635 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago, IL. 60622 (Click for directions)!

Beautiful Sign on Ashland Ave.

Main Meeting Place

Fellowship Cafe'

Info & Book Table

"The Living Room," used for Children/Youth (Back)

"The Living Room," (Front)

Come by and see how this new Spirit-filled, non-denominational, Wicker Park church is making a difference!

Sundays at 5pm - Main Service

Tuesdays at 7pm - Life Group & Bible Study

Fridays at 7:30pm - Elevate Youth Group (Ages 11-18yrs)

Ahhhhhh, Finally- Our New Wicker Park Campus is Here!!!

2011-12-21T18:00:00.002-06:00

Praise the Lord!! Home, sweet home!!! Two things I have learned while trying to secure a new location for our Wicker Park Campus, (1) The Devil is a Liar, (2) God is Fathful! : )

We just signed a 15 month lease on a very warm and hip location at 1635 N. Ashland! It is the perfect size, location, and the price we needed. The landlord gave us a great "3 month head start" so we could focus on promoting and getting the word out. We are already working on the paint, building it out, and putting the "Metro Praise" touch on it!

Here is going to be our new schedule in the new location starting Jan. 1, 2012:

///// SUNDAYS at 5pm ///// Main Family Service with Childcare ///// Joe n' Nancy Wyrostek Leading

///// TUESDAYS at 7pm ///// Life Group with Childcare ///// Chris n' Vanessa Vitale Leading

///// FRIDAYS at 7:30pm ///// Elevate Youth Group (Ages 11-18yrs) ///// Eli n' Leilani Leading

_________

Here is the main area, "as is," we're gonna make this place look soooo cool!

This is going to be the "chill/kids" room!!

Click here for the map!

Wicker Park for JESUS!! More to come...

Metro Winter 2011-12 Events!

2011-11-29T08:38:00.001-06:00

Here are the upcoming events at the Metro!

Please note that we will be having just one combined service for Christmas at 10am. It will be a powerful one hour service geared towards reaching your loved ones with the Gospel!

All are invited, please do not let monies hold you or your family back, we will help support all those who desire to come. This is one of the most powerful weekends of our church! We also will have a special "Night of Power" planned for the Sunday night service- Jan. 22nd! Join us!

For all upcoming events and directions, visit us at, www.metropraise.org/Events.html

Just Turned 16yrs Old in the Lord- Three Lessons I have Learned!"

2011-11-09T12:13:00.009-06:00

November 5th, 2011 marked my 16th spiritual anniversary in the Lord. I will never forget what it felt like the day I first met Jesus on 11/5/95 at my Mother's kitchen table. I was 18 years old, a high school dropout, with drugs in my pocket, living with a girl I wasn't married to, and a past history of being arrested 8x. Just moments prior I was cursing God and mocking the power of the cross. However, within seconds I was repenting of my sins and receiving the everlasting gift of salvation. Praise God, I have never been the same since, I was born again!

I thought now after 16years of following Jesus, being 34yrs old with a beautiful family, having earned a Master's Degree in Religion, with three church plants, and over 13 years of full-time ministry service I would share some things I have learned along the way. I hope you enjoy them and they encourage you today!

1. Living for Jesus is Not a Sprint, but Rather a Marathon: Hebrews 12:1-3 talks about "running the race set before us with perseverance," therefore, we cannot give up or just stick it out for a season but we must start and finish strong. I have seen so many people throughout the past years start following Jesus strong and run fast, but overtime lose steam, get tired, and quit. They all leave the race for different reasons, (a) felt the standards were too high, (b) were hurt by the church, or (c) let doubts takeover- however, the reasons do not matter much. The bottom line, they quit on Jesus.

Lesson 1: The race is not won based on who is the fastest, but who endures to the end.
__________________

2. Life is Not Fair: The books of Job and Ecclesiastes do a great job of explaining this. Many times "fairness" and "justice" do not come in this life. I have seen babies come to those who never wanted them and they get abortions, while godly parents have lost their children in miscarriages and infant death. I have seen the wicked live long prosperous lives, while some of the most righteous people I know live in constant trials and financial tests. I have seen pastors work a lifetime and lose their ministries because of what sinful staff members have done and at the same time I have watched churches grow overnight on a foundation of sand.

I have watched people fast and pray for years for their family's salvation and they never saw it, while I have witnessed new believers come to church and within weeks "they and their whole household are saved." I have watched some of my favorite "healing preachers" die of horrible illnesses well before their time, while those who never taught "Word of Faith" live into their 90's. I have seen people leave churches wrongly, split churches, destroy churches, and still prosper in life- while dedicated disciples, who have served faithfully at the Lord's feet have lost their jobs, homes, and faced terrible times in life.

I have seen the uneducated being interviewed to speak for a Christian nation to millions of people, while those who have spent their whole life in study of God's Word only speak to dozens. I have watched many church planters close their churches because they held uncompromising to the Word of God- but lacked "shine and public appeal," while those who rejected the Word and chose a path of compromise became the conference leaders of "church growth." I have seen marriages end in divorce for ungodly reasons, the people remarry in sin and their life seems to prosper, however, I have watched godly couples stay committed to God and they suffer loss in this life.

Why? Life isn't fair.

Lesson 2: When life isn't fair, trust God anyways. He sees all and one day will tip the scales for righteousness and justice sake.

__________________

3. Jesus is The Only Thing That Lasts Forever: In Philippians 3:7 Paul states that He considers everything a "loss" compared to "having Christ." After these many years I agree with this truth more than ever before. The joys of family are temporary, the successes of life all pass, the talents of men fade, but those who love the Lord abide forever. Even our greatest earthly treasures will pass away one day. The child will say goodbye to their parents at death's door and then the child who is grown will have their children say goodbye to them when their time has come. The only thing that lasts in this life is Jesus. Therefore, Jesus is worth it all.

Lesson 3: Always remember to love God with all your heart and place His kingdom first, for it is He who gives and takes away.

Why Elders and Deacons are So Important

2011-10-01T13:54:00.001-05:00

As we are getting ready to graduate and ordain 10+ deacons tomorrow at Metro Praise Irving Park, I was in awe of what God is doing. Not only will this be our largest graduating class, but they are also serving in more Life Groups with more new disciples than ever before!

Plus, I wanted to share why Metro Praise believes it is so important to have a strong church built on the two main church offices (elders/deacons) and the five-fold ministry gifts (apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor, & teacher).

Please read the section below from our website page, "Leadership Structure." (Also, found in our 201 book, "Disciples that Make Disciples," Joe Wyrostek.)

Metro Praise believes in restoring the biblical form of government back to the modern church, namely the offices of Elders and Deacons. Since today in many churches people confuse the "gifts" with the "offices" I will take the next few paragraphs to explain the difference between the two. The five-fold ministry gifts found in Ephesians 4:11 are (1) Apostles (2) Prophets (3) Evangelists (4) Pastors, and (5) Teachers. The two offices found in 1 Timothy 3 are (1) Elders and (2) Deacons.

Therefore, we simply believe that the "gifts" are given to those who fulfill the requirements of the two offices, Elders and Deacons. As a result we believe that the gifts are given by God and the offices are earned by walking worthy of a true minister.

Gifts vs. Offices

1Timothy 3:1& 10 (KJV), 1 This is a true saying, if a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work.

10 And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless.

Here are some simple points to better understand the biblical way of viewing leadership as Elders/Deacons verses the all encompassing title "pastor." First, none of the leaders in the church used their office or gift before their name. You never find the phrase the "Apostle Paul" in the Bible; it is always, "Paul, the Apostle" (Gal. 1:1, Eph. 1:1, Col. 1:1, & 1 Tim. 1:1). Also, the idea to call everyone in the church "Pastor" has been a tradition that is not found in the Bible. (For example, to call someone in the church "Pastor Bob.")

Second, the word "Pastor" is only translated as such 1x in the New Testament and that is when it is listed in the Five-fold ministry. However, the word is translated 15x as the word, "shepherd." Therefore, if the title was to be used properly it would be "Shepherd Bob" not "Pastor Bob."

Thirdly, everyone in the ministry was either an Elder or a Deacon and then they operated in their ministerial gifts. For example, we know that Peter was called to be an Apostle by Jesus and that was his ministry gift from God out of the Five-fold ministry. However, he referred to his office as an Elder and he commanded all the Elders to be good shepherds, so it is clear that Elders pastored or shepherd. Therefore, the office of Elder or Deacon is the "noun" or "title" and the gifts, such as Pastor, are the "verbs" or the "actions" the Elders or Deacons perform in their office.

Please read Peter describe how he thought of himself as an Elder in his office:

1 Peter 5:1-4, "1 To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ's sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away."

Therefore, Elders who are gifted as Teachers, teach. Elders, who are gifted as Evangelists, evangelize. Elders, who are gifted as Prophets, prophesy. Elders, who are gifted as Apostles, are sent out. And Elders, who are gifted as Pastors, pastor (or shepherd). Therefore, we not only see that Elders are used in the Five-Fold ministry, but so are Deacons. Take for example, Philip who was appointed by the twelve apostles to be the first of seven Deacons and also was called an Evangelist.

Acts 6:2-6& 21:8, " So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, "It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait (This is the first time the Greek word for Deacon is used, "diakoneo") on tables. Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word."This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.

21:8, "Leaving the next day, we reached Caesarea and stayed at the house of Philip the evangelist, one of the Seven."

Therefore, at Metro Praise we use the government system of "Elders and Deacons." Our goal is to make every believer a disciple and ordain every disciple as an Elder or Deacon. We believe everyone in the church should do the work of the ministry for the building up of the body of Christ.

Titus 1:5, "The reason I left you in Crete was that you might straighten out what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you.

Elders & Deacons

Elders and Deacons are the offices in the church that God uses to rule and govern the Body of Believers. Everyone can desire or set their heart on being an Elder or Deacon, but only God can give each person their gift of ministry. Therefore, every believer should live up to the standards of the office of Elder and Deacon and seek God for their own personal calling and gifting. Then at the right time God will give each person an anointing and an appointing into ministry. I truly believe that God will give each person who desires to be used in the ministry one or many of the Five-Fold Ministries!

Therefore, set your heart on God and the noble task of being a leader and let the Holy Spirit set your life on FIRE! Here are the requirements for a disciple to be an Elder or Deacon.

Elder

1 Timothy 3:1-13, Here is a trustworthy saying: If anyone sets his hearton being an overseer, he desires a noble task. Now the overseer must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him with proper respect. (If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God's church?) He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil. He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil's trap.

Deacon

Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons. In the same way, their wives are to be women worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything. A deacon must be the husband of but one wife and must manage his children and his household well. Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.

At Metro Praise we believe the qualifications of the Elder and the Deacon are one in the same, and thus we as a church determine, with the leading of the Holy Ghost, what each person should be appointed and ordained as. Here is the complete list of requirements with definitions and examples so that you may have a clear and sound understanding of how you ought to live if you want to used by God as a Elder or Deacon.

Elders and Deacons Must Be:

1. Above reproach: Elders and Deacons must always be in good standing with the church and nothing seen in the Bible can prove them of sin or err.

2. Husband of One Wife: Elders and Deacons cannot be polygamists, or have an unbiblical divorce.

3. Temperate: Elders and Deacons must have their emotions under control, they cannot be easily angered, depressed or full of pride, they must have a balanced emotional life.

4. Self-Controlled: Elders and Deacons can not be addicted to anything in this world; not to sports, food, perversion, or the like.

5. Respectable: Elders and Deacons must live their lives worthy of respect in the areas of finances, integrity, speech, time management and overall lifestyle in the community, church and home.

6. Hospitable: Elders and Deacons must have a home and heart that is always open to fellowship, discipleship, and comfort for the people they minister to.

7. Able to Teach: Elders and Deacons must be able to teach the sound doctrine of the Apostles, passionate worship for God, the true Gospel of repentance, and instruct new believers in the way of true discipleship and devotion to Jesus and His commands.

8. Not Given To Drunkenness: Elders and Deacons must not be addicted to alcohol or the like (cigarettes, drugs, etc).

9. Not Violent, But Gentle: Elders and Deacons must be kind and loving to the world that opposes them and patient with those they are disciplining.

10. Not Quarrelsome: Elders and Deacons must be able to learn under submission of the other Elders and they must teach with humility, not with an attitude of pride and dissension.

11. Not a Lover of Money: Elders and Deacons must be tithers, generous givers, and not indebted to the lusts of this world; they must be an example of a wise steward of God's financial blessings and not pursue dishonest gain in any way.

12. Manage Their Home Well: Elders and Deacons must keep their home in order. The children should serve God and must be submitted to them as their parents. This also includes the marriage as seen in 1 Timothy 3:11, both the husband and wife must live equally godly lives and the wives must not be slanderers, but rather trustworthy.

13. Not a recent convert: Elders and Deacons must be thoroughly trained and proved faithful before they are given their appointment. Therefore, they must be tested and approved before they are appointed.

14. Must Have a Good Reputation: Elders and Deacons must have a good name in their community, on their job, and with their extended family. There can be no evil thing said about them, as seen in the Bible, whether in their character or conduct by non- Christians.

Our church does not withhold the office of Deacon or Elder from women because we believe that women are able to lead in the church according to Scripture. We see that women in the New Testament were given the same baptism of the Holy Spirit, the Five-fold ministry gifts, and were used in the offices. Here are some verses that show the equality of men and women in the ministry.

Acts 2:17-18, " In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy."

Acts 16:7, "Greet Andronicus and Junias (Name of the wife), my relatives whohave been in prison with me. They are outstanding among the apostles, and they were in Christ before I was."

Acts 16:1 (NLT), "I commend to you our sister Phoebe, who is a deacon in the church in Cenchrea. However, we do insist that a married couple be in agreement and both be ordained to the same position, meaning we do not agree with a man being an Elder and his wife being a Deacon, or the wife being a deacon and the believing husband is not in ministry. We believe that for all believing families that both husband and wife must be appointed to the same office of either Elder or Deacon. Read some of the examples of husbands and wives working together as a team."

Acts 16:7, "Greet Andronicus and Junias, my relatives who have been in prison with me. They are outstanding among the apostles, and they were in Christ before I was."

Acts 18:24-26, " Meanwhile a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was a learned man, with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. He had been instructed in the way of the Lord, and he spoke with great fervor and taught about Jesus accurately, though he knew only the baptism of John. He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately."

If a believer is married to an unbeliever we do not forbid the believing spouse to have a position in the church as long as they are not hindered from serving by the unbelieving spouse and or brought into reproach on Biblical grounds by the unbelieving spouse. So if the believing spouse is truly serving God with all their might, we will not withhold any good thing from them in the ministry.

How the Church Works

I will now take a few moments to explain how Metro Praise governs itself with the system of Elders and Deacons. First, we have three different categories of Elders because we see that in the New Testament even though Peter was an Elder like the Elders he was writing to, he had a greater authority than them and was over them. So with the desire to stay as close to the New Testament example and the early church form of government we have made three types of Elders.

Which are:

1. Apostolic Elders: these are the Elders that oversee the Pastoral Elders and kept them accountable, this would be like Peter overseeing the churches he was writing to, or like Paul to Timothy.

2. Pastoral Elders: these are Elders that shepherd and watch over the whole church and implement the God given vision for the church, this would be like Timothy and the church he oversaw at Ephesus.

3. Governing Elders: these are the Elders that lead different ministers and services, these would be like the Elders that Timothy and Titus both appointed in their cities and churches to manage the church's affairs.

4. Deacons: They work and assist the Elders in the various ministries. Deacons are the servants and helpers of the ministry that make it possible for the Elders to do their job. Just like when the original Apostles (Elders) needed help, they appointed seven servants (Deacons) to wait on tables and take care of the needs of the people so they could focus on the study of God's Word and prayer (Acts 6:1-7).

_______________

I hoped you enjoyed reading about why Elders and Deacons are so important. May God build His church on disciples in the order of godly leadership!

Review of the Wicker Park Campus Grand Opening

2011-09-15T12:13:00.003-05:00

Tons of laughs. Great conversations. New friendships. Delicious rice crispy treats. Encouraging feedback. Intimate acoustic worship. Powerful talk. Life changing prayers.

We had a great turnout and were very happy with the positive reaction and reception of the people. I would like to thank all who came out to support us. I hope that you come back and spread the word.

We are a church for those who are bored with church as usual!

Here is a video highlight of the message, "Loving God, Loving People;"

One of my favorite stories is from a young lady named Jennifer who just moved to Wicker Park. She was praying and looking for a new church when she found our flier on the ground by her car. She was so excited she came with three of her friends and even brought the flier! Here is the pic of us with her and her friends,

We have a great series for the next four weeks on the subject, "Who is Jesus?" Here is the promo video,

All the hard work for the last three months was well worth it. Thank you to the team of nine that worked long hours and served with joy. I now look forward to all the great things God will do in this beautiful church.

Wicker Park for JESUS!!
____________

Metro Praise has started a new campus at Wicker Park meeting every Tuesday at 7pm. Located at the world famous Chopin Theatre on 1543 W. Division. We are a relevant, Spirit-filled, non-denominational church with a great love for God and people. For for information visit us at www.metropraise.org

Five Things Metro Praise Brings to Wicker Park

2011-09-09T11:50:00.001-05:00

Just thought I would write a short list of what makes Metro Praise special as a non-denominational church.

Plus, describe how Wicker Park, Bucktown, Rodger Park and the surrounding areas can be blessed by our new church in their neighborhood.

1. Evangelism: Already every Tuesday from 5-7pm in front of the Chopin Theatre we hand out free water bottles and talk to all the people about our church and Jesus. This is unique to the area, having not seen any public witnessing on such a regular basis. This will continue weekly, year round, all 52 weeks a year! To hear some great messages on evangelism, visit here.

2. Discipleship: We take the command of Jesus to go and make disciples very serious. Starting with our "connect" phase which is done "one-on-one." I believe many will see we care for them individually and wish to invest our lives into them. For a complete view of our discipleship process, visit here.

3. Biblical Depth: The talks and messages from the "pulpit" will come with not only biblical depth and whole passage reading, but it will also come with today's best scholarship and defense. To read some of our treatment of such subjects as biblical infallibility please see, "Can the New Testament be Trusted?" Visit here.

4. Demonstration of the Spirit: We are unashamedly Spirit-filled and people of esoteric experiences. We believe in the gifts of the Spirit being visible- whether through speaking in unknown spiritual languages, prophesy and foretelling, or healings and exorcisms. Really! We are definitely not, "church as usual!" To learn more about our belief in spiritual gifts, visit here.

5. Love for God and People: I hope and pray that our love for both God and people will be such a breath of fresh air that all will know we are the "real deal." We desire to love God will all of heart, soul, mind, and strength- and to love our neighbor as ourselves. This is more than our motto, its a way of life! To see our work around the world in over 200 churches, click here.
_______

Metro Praise is launching a new campus in Wicker Park Tuesday Sept. 13th at 7pm. Located at the world famous Chopin Theatre on 1543 W. Division. We are a relevant, Spirit-filled, non-denominational church with a great love for God and people. For for information visit us at www.metropraise.org

Tuesdays Become the New Sundays in Wicker Park!

2011-09-08T12:49:00.004-05:00

Here is the Metro Praise "press release" for the new Wicker Park Campus.

Tuesdays at the Chopin Theatre are the new Sundays for Wicker Park church goers! Starting on Tuesday, Sept. 13th at 7pm at the world famous "Chopin Theatre" Metro Praise will be bringing a fresh look at faith and spirituality.

Joe Wyrostek, the 34 year old pastor, has been working in the city for over six years at their first campus on Irving and Pulaski. He states, "Metro Praise is a church for those who hate church as usual. And where perfect people are not allowed, but everyone else fits in perfectly!"

Joe believes most churches have failed young adults and hopes with free Rice Krispy Treats, coffee, vibrant live music and thought-provoking messages he can bring them back to faith in God.

With over 200 churches in four different nations- India, Nepal, Nigeria, and Pakistan and outreaches to Chicago's troubled Westside. One thing is for sure, "Wicker Park has never seen a church with such biblical relevance and passion like Metro Praise!"

Visit www.metropraise.org for more info.

Metro Praise is launching a new campus in Wicker Park Tuesday Sept. 13th at 7pm. Located at the world famous Chopin Theatre on 1543 W. Division. We are a relevant, Spirit-filled, non-denominational church with a great love for God and people. For for information visit us at www.metropraise.org

Chicago Neighborhoods Get Ready for a New Church!

2011-08-26T14:45:00.002-05:00

Wicker Park, Logan Square, Bucktown, and the Loop are just some of the places we hope our new non-denominational church will reach! Metro Praise was established in 2005 with the hope of building a great church for the city of Chicago. We set a goal at the very beginning to reach 100,000 disciples with 50 churches in the area.

Starting our new campus at the iconic "Chopin Theatre" in the heart of Wicker Park is just the beginning of the revolution! On Tuesday, September 13th at 7pm we will be making Metro Praise history and hopefully Chicago church history. We hope that with our "five loaves and two fishes" God will start a church planting revolution in Chicagoland. We pray that this new location will be the spring board to greater things in the future. Reaching children, families, youth, and even the homeless and hurting!

We will continue to be faithful in our ministry to reach Old Irving Park, Portage Park, Humboldt Park, and Riis Park from our current campus at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd. However, we believe that as we rely on God's grace we can see every Chicago neighborhood changed for the glory of God!

Let me know what Chicago neighborhood you would like to see the next Metro Praise church in?

Please pray for us and consider joining us for a life-changing service! Our website is, www.metropraise.org

Here is our new promo video for Wicker Park,

Metro Praise is launching a new campus in Wicker Park Tuesday Sept. 13th at 7pm. Located at the world famous Chopin Theatre on 1543 W. Division. We are a relevant, Spirit-filled, non-denominational church with a great love for God and people. For for information visit us at www.metropraise.org

Steve Jobs Resigns and What We Can Learn from Him

2011-08-24T21:13:00.006-05:00

Wow, hard to believe such an icon as Steve Jobs would have to resign because he is sick. I am definitly an Apple fan. You know the saying, "Once you go Mac, you never go back!" The picture to the side shows "almost" all the Apple products I own, note "almost."

Here is a full list (including for our church) 4 macbooks, 2 imacs, 2 ipads, 2 iphones, and apple tv. I love the do-dittles too, wireless keyboard and track pad. Don't judge me, some people collect "precious moments," others "coke products," me... its apple products. Well, atleast they can be used for ministry!

Here is a short list of what we can learn about Steve Jobs:

1. Second chances are never too late to take: He took back the failing Apple company and made it the best company in its field.

2. Never stop being you: Steve Jobs always wore the same kind of shirt, pants, and shoes that he liked. He didn't care about the current trends, he was just himself. We all should be more like that.

3. Creativity is based on many creative minds: He brought the best people in together in their own field of experitse and let them dream. That is why Pixar became so great and why Apple could invent something new every three years- great minds can invent great things.

4. Bad things happen even to the uber smart and rich: Basically, I pray he finds Jesus and joins a great church. He needs to find the real meaning of life- Jesus Christ. I hope he might stop by our new Wicker Park church, find a group of young people who love his products and learn how to worship Jesus and be at peace with God.

What do you think about Steve Jobs, Apple, and the eternal soul?

Metro Praise is launching a new campus in Wicker Park Tuesday Sept. 13th at 7pm. Located at the world famous Chopin Theatre on 1543 W. Division. We are a relevant, Spirit-filled, non-denominational church with a great love for God and people. For for information visit us at www.metropraise.org

Get Past Your Past!

2011-08-23T12:29:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to post this awesome message from last Sunday. Some in the service said it was their "all time favorite." The message in based on the storm in Jonah's life and touches on the issues why we run away from God, but how God is always willing to give us second and third chances!

Do not let failures stop you from running after God!

Enjoy!

"Chicago for Jesus!"

2011-08-23T12:14:00.000-05:00

If you haven't heard, we at Metro Praise have started a website to join together soul winners in the city to help better our efforts in reaching Chicago! The website is called, "Chicago for Jesus!" Please watch the video and then visit our new website, www.chicagoforjesus.org

We are offering the following:

1. Churches and leaders to post up their events and outreaches!

2. Disciples from all over the city to join large events like "The Taste of Chicago" and work together to win a city!

3. To get trained for free to start new outreaches in new local areas and help spread the word!

Thoughts About the Debate with Nadir Ahmed (Muslim)

2011-08-23T12:06:00.001-05:00

I debated Nadir Ahmed last Sunday, Aug. 21st 2011, on the subject, "Who is Jesus?" I will not go in depth to the debate and the points. I feel the video can do that best. However, I would like to take sometime to describe some of my thoughts:

1. Muslims claim over 20 prophets to be legit, but offer not proof for any of their work other than the Quran. Literally, nothing. Thus, it is really Mohammed versus over 40 writers of the Bible.

2. Though the Bible, both Old and New Testaments, give the best historic proof for the prophets accepted by Islam (Abraham, Noah, Moses, etc), they reject it because the Bible contradicts their Quran.

3. Yet, in the the debate when I was asked to give support for the accuracy of the Bible I gave the history of the companions (followers) of the Bible, contemporary non-Christian historians, manuscript evidence, and best of modern scholars (Richard Bachman, E. P. Sander, and even Bart Ehrman). And this was rejected because it was contradictory towards the Quran.

4. Thus, the Muslim is asking the Jew/Christian to reject the best sources of the prophets and accept the Quran which was written over 600 years from the life of Jesus and over 1,000 from the OT prophets. Simply because Mohammed, who didn't read or write, was given a "vision" from Gabriel. Really? That was exactly what Paul warned about in Galatians 1, not to receive "another gospel."

5. In conclusion, the only thing Muslims like Nadir try to do to prove the superiority of the Quran is by the prophecies- yet they are extremely vague, are not as great in number as the Bible, and are actually forbidden by Mohammed and Moses to be used as proofs. Books and messages are to be judged by doctrine, not miracles or prophecies.

Well, those are my "after thoughts," let me know what you think about the debate, here it is:

If you like this debate, you will love the ones on this website, www.answeringmuslims.com! THE NATIONS FOR JESUS!!

Six Types of "Christians" to Avoid

2011-08-23T11:22:00.001-05:00

Many people think we as Christians should never say to someone, "You should not come to church." However, Paul in 1 Corinthians 5 actually teaches us when we should say to people, "you are not welcome." Please read the passage and then check the post out:

1 Corinthians 5:11-12, "But now I am writing to you that you must not associate with anyone who claims to be a brother or sisterbut is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or slanderer, a drunkard or swindler. Do not even eat with such people. What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked person from among you.”

Therefore, here is a list of "Six Types of Christians to Avoid." Note: "Christian" is placed in "" because they claim to be a Christian, but really are not.

1. A "Christian" that is sexually immoral: This is someone who lives in unrepentant open sexual immorality- this could be sex before marriage, pornography, homosexuality, or any kind of perversion.

2. A "Christian" that is greedy: Someone who loves money, loves to have money, to boast about what they have and buy, and to not help the poor or hurting.

3. A "Christian" that is an idolator: Someone who puts false gods before Jesus- their job, their cars, their hobbies, their selfish ambitions, or their false gods.

4. A "Christian" that is a slanderer: They spreads lies, half truths, harmful secrets about others to make themselves look good and never make it right.

5. A "Christian" that is a drunkard: Someone who over indulges in alcohol, gets drunk at parties & alone, and allows alcohol to change their behavior and moods.

6. A "Christian" who is a swindler: Someone who lies, lives a dishonest life, breaks the law, rips people off, and has a hidden agenda behind their business dealings.

_____________

What should you do if you are this person:

1. Repent of your sin

2. Stop making excuses

3. Ask for help to change

4. Become accountable to a leader

5. Ask God to transform your life

6. Live in repentance if you should fall again and do not indulge in sin

What should you do if you see someone claim to be a Christian and do these things:

1. Pray for them

2. Confront them and ask them to repent to God

3. If they do not, let them know you can hang out with them

4. Let godly leadership know so they can help

5. Help disciple and teach them to live free their sin

What about the "non-Christians" who live this way:

1. Love them

2. Ask them to repent and accept Jesus

3. Be their friends but not support their behavior (they reason why Paul says you cannot be around the Christian who lives like this, is because your friendship is a sign of support for their sin- but we can be friends with the world who does this because we have to reach out because they do not know anybetter)

4. If they accept Jesus teach them the same principles of holiness, so they will be willing to leave their old life behind

Three Marks of a Prideful Church/Group of Disciples

2011-08-23T10:51:00.007-05:00

I have been motivated lately by my own personal tests in ministry to sincerely read the Scriptures and let them speak to me. Thus, in my study of 1 Corinthians 4 I have been deeply impacted by how Paul viewed the church he had planted. And how the disciples turned away from his leadership and were being led by spiritually immature leaders who thought they were "super-apostles" (1 Cor. 3:1).

Here are the three things I believe he points out to show their rebellion and pride:

1. The Corinthian church claimed to be "wiser, richer, more popular, honored, and more powerful than Paul": They actually thought that because they had more friends, more money, and more honor among the people than Paul that they were more spiritual than Paul.

⁸ Already you have all you want! Already you have become rich! You have begun to reign—and that without us! How I wish that you really had begun to reign so that we also might reign with you! ⁹ For it seems to me that God has put us apostles on display at the end of the procession, like those condemned to die in the arena. We have been made a spectacle to the whole universe, to angels as well as to human beings. ¹⁰ We are fools for Christ, but you are so wise in Christ! We are weak, but you are strong! You are honored, we are dishonored! ¹¹ To this very hour we go hungry and thirsty, we are in rags, we are brutally treated, we are homeless. ¹² We work hard with our own hands. When we are cursed, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it; ¹³ when we are slandered, we answer kindly. We have become the scum of the earth, the garbage of the world—right up to this moment.

2. They boasted that they had "10,000 instructors" and thus didn't need their "spiritual father": They believed that because they "church hopped" around and read all the books of other teachers and got the messages of the other "preachers" they did not need the leadership of Paul, who was the one who led them to the Lord and was their God-given leader. (Note in 1 Cor., 1:1-3, "Paul was called by God to be their Apostle.")

¹⁴ I am writing this not to shame you but to warn you as my dear children. ¹⁵ Even if you had ten thousand guardians in Christ, you do not have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel. ¹⁶ Therefore I urge you to imitate me.

3. The church was so arrogant that they believed if Paul never came back, they could win over the whole church by their "words": As Paul was traveling and now living in Ephesus they were convinced that if he never came back they could persuade the whole church to follow them. Even though Paul was sending them Timothy, his "son," they were still going to rebel.

¹⁷ For this reason I have sent to you Timothy, my son whom I love, who is faithful in the Lord. He will remind you of my way of life in Christ Jesus, which agrees with what I teach everywhere in every church.

¹⁸ Some of you have become arrogant, as if I were not coming to you. ¹⁹ But I will come to you very soon, if the Lord is willing, and then I will find out not only how these arrogant people are talking, but what power they have. ²⁰ For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power. ²¹ What do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a rod of discipline, or shall I come in love and with a gentle spirit?

_________

I pray for those reading this that they will see how churches and their members can treat the leadership of God. To actually mock and ridicule them and claim to be more wise. I do not write this blog from a place of going through this now, though I have in times past. However, I write this blog to warn those who may consider doing such things or have done them and feel God has forgotten.

Also, I write this blog to encourage other pastors and leaders that may feel at times that they are facing trials and tests with the people God has given them and think it strange- it is not, even the great Apostle Paul suffered these things from His people.

Therefore, here is a short list of what to do in times like this:

Church Member/Disciple

1. Submit to the leadership God has placed over your life
2. Reject intrusive and harmful leadership/counsel, i.e., "those who lead you away from your God-given leader."
3. Pray for your leader to remain faithful to their call so they do not grow weary in doing good
4. Grow in maturity in your own spiritual walk, most intrusive/harmful leadership takes advantage of weak-willed, sinful, and compromising believers.

Church Leader/Pastor

1. Openly correct those who are causing the divisions among you
2. Remove the sin from the congregation
3. Bless those who curse you and pray for those who use you
4. Use spiritual sons/daughters to help restore order
5. Ask your church to pray for you so you do not grow weary in well doing

12 Signs That You Are Running From God

2011-08-12T18:27:00.015-05:00

I have been wanting to write something along these lines for awhile, but just have not had the chance lately. I know some in my life may think I am speaking directly to them, however, the list of people I have seen run from God started within the first week of me being saved and has continued until this day. Though the reasons and excuses are always different, that fact remains- "people run away from God!"

I saw a close friend choose not to go to Bible college to stay with his friends, a pastor divorce his wife because he was unable to humble himself, a former boss who refused to cut the bad relationships out of his life and always lived with one foot in and one foot out, a fellow on-fire minister cool off and started making small compromises- until he lost his passion, and all this happened just in the first 9 months of me being saved! However, even though it was over 15yrs ago, I remember their stories so vividly like it was yesterday.

Therefore, I write this list to help those who may have started to stray in hopes they will avoid these signs. And for those who have already run away, that they will stop lying to themselves and come back to God. So if you know any to send this to, please do so in prayer. And for those who have received this message, it is because you are greatly loved!

Definitions: I would like to clarify my terms before starting so people understand the full meaning of what I am saying. (1) Running Away from God: This means the person could still be saved but is growing cold or that they have fully lost their salvation. (2) Backslidden: They either are lost and have been saved, or are saved and know what good things to do, but are not willing.

Therefore, when someone says, "I still love God, I am going to heaven. Everything is great." That may be true for them, but the real question is what does God say! Thus, it is good to ask them questions like this, "Are you still on fire?" "Are you accountable?" "Are you the closest to God you have ever been?" "Are you doing all the good you know God has command you to do?"

Sure the pastor who divorced his wife thought he was fine, he even had some friends support his decision. However, God was not "fine" with it. Of course, the young man I knew who dropped out of Bible college after a semester to stay in Ft. Wayne had tons of "good things" happen in his life. But it didn't matter- he was running from God!

Therefore, we are not to be "okay" with people's "Christianese" answers that allow them to hide from what is right. We are to help "spur" our brothers and sisters to good works and reprove their deeds of darkness. Christianity and discipleship was never defined as, "Going to church, singing in the choir, posting verses on facebook, and reading your Bible." If that was the case, then everyone in the south is saved!

Here is a quote I have in our discipleship book that I believe says it best,

<> We give our free time to sports and entertainment, while Jesus gave His days to ministry and nights to prayer.

<> We want the American dream, while Jesus wanted the power of God to change the world.
<>We want comfort in life, while Jesus lived in constant conflict.

<> We want to be taken in and accepted by the world, when Jesus was put out and rejected by it.

<> We want to be thought of as reasonable and considerate with those who differ with us, when the Jewish leaders called Jesus demon possessed, crazy, and confrontational.

<> We live for the praise of people, while Jesus lived only for the praise of God His Father.

<> We will give to Jesus when it is most convenient and stop when it hurts or brings discomfort, but Jesus gave to us His entire life and in a gruesome bloody crucifixion He died for us all.

<>We are consumed with our wants, our needs, our families, our desires, and our dreams, while Jesus was consumed with God’s wants, God desires, and looked to others hurts, others needs and solved others problems.

<> We wish to save our lives, Jesus came to lose His.

<> Is it any wonder we fail to make the kind of difference Jesus made?

Here is the list:

1. You Cannot Stand to Be Around the Leadership That Either Won You to the Lord or Brought You to the Closest Places You Had Ever Gone - Hebrews 13:10.

2. You Make Excuses and Compare Yourself to Others in Your Group Instead of Comparing Yourself to Jesus and His Apostles - 2 Corinthians 10:12.

3. You Love to Point Out the "Speck" in Your Brother's Eye, While You Have the Plank In Yours - Luke 6:42.

4. You Expect People To Support Your Decisions but You No Longer Can Support Your Decisions by the Word of God - 2 Timothy 3:16.

5. You Say to Yourself You Are Not That Bad and Say Things Could be Worse - Revelation 2:4.

6. You Redefine What You Call "Christianity" and Being a "Disciple" So It Makes You Look Good - Luke 14:26.

7. You Are Easily Offended When Others Who Used to Lead You Question What You Do, Because You Feel You Owe Them No Explanation - 2 Timothy 4:10.

8. You Pick Friends and Churches that Make You Feel Good With Your Compromise - Jonah on the boat.

9. You Justify Your Actions By Your Actions, "If I Was Wrong, Then Bad Things Would Happen," You Forget That Sinners Can Live "Good Lives" Too - Psalms 73.

10. You Say if You Go Back to God, People Will Judge You and You Will Be Too Embarrassed - Luke 17:11-18.

11. You Try to Make Grace an Excuse to Live in Sin and Compromise - 1 John 3:9.

12. You Say You Are More Mature than Others Who Still Serve Jesus and the Church Humbly - 2 Corinthians 11:3.

If you find yourself struggling with any of these signs, here is my advice. Not "mine," but rather Jesus,'

Revelation 2:18-20, “These are the words of the Son of God, whose eyes are like blazing fire and whose feet are like burnished bronze. I know your deeds, your love and faith, your service and perseverance, and that you are now doing more than you did at first. Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place."

Note: For those who feel this blog reminds them of something they read before, you are very right. I believe it is a modern version of Charles Finney's list of a backslider, for his list in the late 1800's click here.

What The Stocks Falling Can Teach Us

2011-08-12T02:31:00.004-05:00

"Not again!" I could not believe what I saw for the second day in a row, the plummeting of our cherished economy. I am not an economist or a financial guy, but I thought I would weigh in on the state of the US economy in recent days and what it can teach us as Americans and Christians.

1. Not to Trust in Money: In the 1950's America placed on the dollar bill "In God We Trust," but we still trust more in money than God. I hope we can learn to start trusting in God before the dollar bill has nothing left to trust in.

2. Jobs Need to Come to America: Literally, Steve Jobs needs to bring some of the 32 billion dollar a year profits to America. Just this week for the first time Apple Co. out profited the oil companies! Jobs needs to bring the factory jobs of Apple to the US!

3. Political Leaders Must Work With America's Top CEOs: We need to stop having "community planners" run our country in White House and get some savvy business men to rebuild our nation. Really! Has anyone talked to the founders of "Google," "HP," or even "Bill Gates?" All these companies got their break here in the land of the brave, they need to be brought in to help us get out the mess.

4. Churches Should Set the Example of Success: Christians need to rally behind good causes, help their neighbors, turn from greed, invest for the future, and pay off debt. If the people in the US who claim to be Christians would first be faithful to God in giving and then second, set their priorities, we could display the traits of a good consumer in America again. Remember, the consumption of the 50's wasn't with debt, but rather with hard earned and saved cash!

5. We Need to Pray for Our Country and Leaders: Paul commanded Timothy in the Bible to pray first of all for leaders and those in authority so that we could live peaceable and safe lives. Watching the stocks fall simply reminded me to pray again, "God bless America!"

Psalm 127:1-3, "Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain. In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat— for he grants sleep to those he loves."

Why Amy Winehouse Matters to Wicker Park

2011-07-31T20:54:00.009-05:00

While I do not want to claim to be an expert on Winehouse or the current "fancies" of Wicker Park. I do believe I have a pulse on the young adults out there and why people like Amy matter. Check out my points and let me know what you think!

1. Amy Winehouse Represents a Generation of Extremes: Lets face it, for most in their 20's the "normal" 9-5 life is too boring. So young adults try sky diving, snowboarding, rock climbing, and clubbing. Sad but true, drugs and alcohol begin to follow this sense of extreme living because when the show is over or the weekend at the lake has passed- how do you "keep the high?" Drugs and alcohol.

2. Amy Winehouse Represents Super Talented and Creative People: Listening to a few songs by Winehouse it is very easy to see how talented and gifted she was. She had a unique sound, pushed the limits of her music, and was creative in her look. Just like so many I meet in Wicker Park- super gifted people whether in business or the arts and they have the world in their hands. The only problem is they lack the wisdom and maturity to find balance in life and make time for what matters most- "faith and family."

3. Amy Winehouse Represents Failed Expectations: Wasn't she supposed to change the world through music, be the next "it thing?" Now, it is all over. Sure she will be remembered for her short life, but probably her death will overshadow the real reason why she famous anyway. Really, has anyone listened to a Janis Joplin song lately? So true for young adults today- aren't they supposed to find a cure for aids, end world hunger, and make the world a better place to live?

What happened to all the "MTV" kids who grew up believing they would help change the world? Well, maybe they have gotten so let down by failed attempts at making real change, they just started the slow process of blending in and following the crowd. I wonder what would happen if all the gifted people actually followed a cause worth dying for and that has already changed the world? I can only imagine what would happen if this generation was sparked with a "Jesus Revolution!"

Hope you enjoyed the thoughts and weren't too disappointed I jumped on the "Amy Winehouse Media Frenzy," but maybe you thought of something different because of this blog.

Matthew 16:25-27

²⁵ For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it. ²⁶ What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?

Metro Praise is launching a new campus in Wicker Park Tuesday Sept. 13th at 7pm. Located at the world famous Chopin Theatre on 1543 W. Division. For for information visit us at www.metropraise.org

Why the New iPhone 5 and iPad 3 Will Not Change Wicker Park

2011-07-30T12:55:00.008-05:00

I know as some of you are looking at the "sneak peak" picture of the iphone 5 you are starting to drool- I have to admit I kinda am too. I found this picture today as I was reminded of how slow and over stocked my iphone 4 is. Thus, I wondered when the new iphone 5 is coming out and what it will be like- what new things will it bring into my life.

This time I will actually get the 32g- the one bigger than the 16g because my music collection is getting too big. Plus, I will hopefully find more people to ichat with and not have to be on wifi to do it!

However, as I was considering all the cool "do-dittles" the new iphone 5 may have and all the cool apps that will go with it- I became aware of how little it will actually change for the good the community that I am falling madly in love with. So I thought I would make a short list of things the iphone 5 and ipad 3 wont change about Wicker Park. (Note: I just bought the ipad 2 and I really don't want to even talk about a possible ipad 3 in November- that just wouldn't be fair!)

1. Wicker Park Will Still Have Lonely People: Ya, I know the new phone and ipad could really help lots of people do social networking better- but lets face it- 99.99% of those people on facebook and the new google+ aren't real friends anyways. Sad thing is, many people feel alone in clubs, lounges, and cafes all the time. New techy things wont change that.

2. Wicker Park Will Still Have Broken Relationships: I am amazed at how so many young adults today repeat the same mistake over and over again. Isn't there a "Chinese proverb" about that? Really, I hear the same sad story all the time. A young woman says, "I really love this guy... he is so different than all the rest... and ya, were moving into together... I know its a bit rushed and I said I wouldn't move in with a guy so fast again like last time... but this is really different- we are so made for each other!"

Need I say more? We all know how it ends. Six to nine months later its a different story, the girl now says, "I am so hurt now... I wish I never let him convince me he was serious... I am so over guys right now... I am taking a break... and if I even think about a relationship with another guy like him- just slap me!" Of course, new phones don't fix broken hearts.

3. Wicker Park Will Still Need Jesus: I know it sounds "cliche," but its true. My generation- 20-30 somethings keep thinking that the new car, great house, fun job, and new toys will satisfy... but they never do. Simple answer to man's rat race for happiness- Jesus. Try a new life, being born again, you will never be the same! Yes, you can still have the phone too, but Jesus will do things an app can never do and you don't have to get a new one every year! See John 3

Take it or leave it, but you know its true- new techy toys wont change Wicker Park community for the good. Don't wait till the iphone 12 to find that out!

For more info on the iphone 5 and all the hype, check out this cool website- click here.

Metro Praise is launching a new campus in Wicker Park Tuesday Sept. 13th at 7pm. Located at the world famous Chopin Theatre on 1543 W. Division. For for information visit us at www.metropraise.org

Why Start a Church in Wicker Park?

2011-07-29T13:53:00.008-05:00

I thought I would share the reasons why we at Metro Praise are starting a new church in the Wicker Park community.

1. Wicker Park is Mostly Unchurched: Though I cannot get an exact number on this, however, from being out there for 6+ years on the streets it is obvious most do not go to church. So where do cable salesman try to sell cable... uhhh, "Where those who don't have cable!" Thus, Wicker Park is perfect for us!

2. Wicker Park is Full of Young Adults: Being 34 myself, I have always attracted younger people in my church. The average age in our Irving Park Campus is around 25-28. The average age in Wicker Park is 29. So the age is spot-on!

3. Wicker Park is Very Educated: I love learning! Having received a Master's in Religious Education from Liberty Baptist Seminary I am pumped to meet other college grads and discuss life's most important questions!

4. Wicker Park is Mostly Single: I love single people! Why? They have tons of free time, great hobbies, and motivation to make one's self better. I spent most of my life single, I didn't get married until I was 28. So I feel I can relate to all the single folks and help them find true love and start a family when the time is right. In the last six years I have averaged 2-3 weddings a year just from within the church! And all the single people said, "Heeeey!"

5. Wicker Park is Beautiful: Wicker Park is so "cool" with great architecture, diverse people, and tons of great activities! I just like hanging out in the parks and on the streets meeting people!

So there you have it, five reasons why we are going to Wicker Park. However, the best is the one not mentioned, but obvious to most, "Because God said, 'Go!'" However, to avoid sounding shallow or just "super-spiritual," I felt led to give the above reasons. At the same time, I believe God said for us to do it because He knew it would be a perfect fit for us!

Acts 16:9, "During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.”

Click here for exact demographics of Wicker Park!

Metro Praise is launching a new campus in Wicker Park Tuesday Sept. 13th at 7pm. Located at the world famous Chopin Theatre on 1543 W. Division. For for information visit us at www.metropraise.org

Maybe Wicker Park is For You!

2011-07-27T21:28:00.010-05:00

As I have been getting so excited about starting the new campus of Metro Praise at Wicker Park I have been spurred to invite others to come and help! So if you are out of state, live in the city, or maybe in another country and you feel called to reach 20-30 somethings in Chicago's hip swank neighborhood- then come on down!

Here are some things to consider before coming:

1. Pray: Seek God and discover if you are called to come be apart of Metro Praise. Read our website under "Revolution" (Click Here) and see if you feel a connection to our passion. The Lord knows how to lead His people. Psalm 23.

2. Seek Permission/Blessing from Your Pastor: If you are already in a good church please seek his or her advice and guidance. We do not want to remove anyone from their church wrongfully. Therefore, do it right and in order. We prefer those not in churches, but on certain occasions we have seen this work well.

3. Call Me Up: Ya, pick up the "telly" and hit me up on the "celly!" Nancy and I would love to talk and meet with you and see if you joining us is a fersure "God thing!" So don't be shy, make some time to call us and share your heart! My phone number is 773.870.9860 and if you feel better with email it is jwyrostek@metropraise.org

Here is what we are looking for:

1. Those who are out of church and looking for a place to belong: Our "Type A" person would be someone in between churches and looking to reconnect with God and you feel this is your time.

2. Disciples feeling led to start something new and fresh: Someone who has been raised up and is feeling released from where they are to a new season.

3. Talented and trained leaders who have a call to Chicago: Great leaders who are either in Bible College or just finishing up and your looking for a great place to serve!

Check out our current team in this cool video and let us know what God says! Chicago for Jesus!

"5 Things I Once Was..."

2011-07-25T22:20:00.012-05:00

Today, as I was enjoying some good Chicago pizza with an ole' friend downtown- some things jumped into my mind. During our talk I was reminded of who I was when I first started ministry. I know it is easy for us as Christians to confess our past before Christ, but sometimes we give the impression that since being saved we have been perfect and have not really needed to change.

However, during this conversation I made some confessions to this friend on the things I am not anymore and I thought you might enjoy them. Some of you reading this might remember who I was 10+ years ago, but please be nice because I also remember who you were!

1. I used to judge people on things not found directly in the Bible- but from tradition: For example: I judged people if they watched movies, listened to non-Christian music, or even celebrated Christmas! Now, can I still make a good case for things not to be listened to or watched? Or even how far to go in celebrating things not commanded in the Bible? Sure, but I now would much rather teach the more important things and let trained disciples make their own personal decisions (i.e., Mathew 5-7).

2. I used to boast in prayer and fasting: Wow, that was hard even to write, but yes it is true! I would be so harsh in comparing my prayer and fasting life to others- to the point if you did not pray 2 hours a day and fast once a week- I thought you were luke warm! Now, I still love to spend hours alone with God in daily prayer, however, I like to keep it personal. I still teach disciples that they should aim to pray a minimum of an hour a day- but not in a judgment way, but in an encouraging way for spiritual growth.

3. I looked down on anyone who did not have a regular life of street witnessing: I remember a time when I wanted to go street preaching on a Sunday night and my good friend said he wanted to go to the evening service and I said proudly back to him, "You can go to church, but I am going to be the church!" Funny how back then I was so quick to judge! Now, I love to teach evangelism and share the love of street preaching, but I will not condemn those who do not. Therefore, I still believe it is very important, but it is better to help people witness- not condemn them for not witnessing! (Note: God has sent more people into my life in this season to help than ever before!)

4. I believed ministry failure was a direct result of a person's own lack of discipline: Ouch! I actually remember talking to struggling pastors and leaders and just laying into them with some serious rebukes because they were not seeing the same things I was. God forgive me! Today, I believe God expects the best out of His people, but I do not let goodhearted disciples blame themselves and sit in guilt just because things go wrong in ministry. The thing that helped me learn this lesson the best was having to close down my first church! It is something how personal failure helps you give more grace to others in their failures!

5. I really thought I needed my friends approval to be considered great by God: Even to this day it is hard to admit it, but in the early years of my ministry I was such a manpleaser. I would bend over backwards just to have friends and try to get people to like me. Now, I still love to be loved but I have a holy confidence that gives me a peace regardless of what others think. I remember when Nancy and I had to start Metro Praise in Chicago. So many people were against it, didn't understand it, and or just ignored us. However, God worked in our lives and did so many great things. Sure, I am happy to have friends in the ministry now, but I can truly say I am just being myself! (Note: I followed godly leadership- do not mistake your "friends" for your "leader!")

I hope you can relate to my short list of things I have changed over the last 16 years and can also look back on your Christian walk and see how you have grown!

2 Peter 3:18, "... grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen."

Why Google+ is Better Than Facebook for Pastors/Christians!

2011-07-14T13:54:00.009-05:00

I know it sounds "weird" that I would say a technology on the interent is better for "Pastors and Christians," but I have some good reasons. Check em' out and let me know what you think!

1a. Facebook has Become a "Information Overload": Because of the all the "friends" a person has that are not really friends, you end up hiding almost everyone- just to get to the feeds you want. Also, you get offended by their content, they get the wrong idea with yours, and you feel like the peps you really want to connect with are avoiding your posts, but really they never see it in the midst of all their clutter.

1b: Google has Circles: So you can still have all those peps in your social world, but you don't have to "hide" their feeds to stay current with your peps. For example: You can make a "circle" for your church members, small group peps, etc. And you can send them updates, chats, and posts that only they see. Much easier to stay current, its like a huge data base! Thus, when you want to know what church peps are up to- just check the circle. When you want to know what your leadership is up to- just check the circle--- simple!

2a. Facebook Chat is Lame: The facebook chat option is an annoyance you get from peps you do not have time for, thus you may be like me and always have it "off." Sorry for those who like it, but you know thats true for 99% of the peps out there- that why you always chat with the same folks!

2b. Google has Video Chat With "Hangouts": Thus, that disciple you've been trying to hang with or that missionary to India can only see when your "in the hangout area" and totally call you up and not feel like they are intruding- its like Tokbox, super easy and totally like real life.

Well, I've only been on Google+ for a couple of days, but thats my thoughts, don't take it too harsh if you still love facebook. However, you might not see me there as much anymore... so google here I come!

p.s. Consider this... How did you feel when you were on myspace and first heard about "facebook?" Ahhhhhh, maybe thats how you feel now!! We were right about facebook, trust "us" were right about google, you'll love it!!! : )

The Cost of Discipleship

2011-06-30T07:59:00.009-05:00

I just got back from our Southeast Asian Mission Trip. We were in northern and southern India and in Nepal. Plus, we had our leader from Pakistan join us in Nepal. After our meetings and training times we have reported over 200 churches and 110 pastors in these areas. This was the most fruitful 14 days of ministry I have ever witnessed- God is faithful!

While traveling through this part of the world one thing came up continually- the cost of following Jesus. The pastors in India had suffered persecution and the Nepal church is still underground, with many leaders being placed in jail and beaten severely on many occasions. I talked to the leader in Pakistan and he recounted the times he was beaten, disciples who were shot, and the times he saw shootings in the church and bomb blast!

The words of Jesus came to light so much clearer while over there. For example Luke 14:27, "And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple" - this passage now has a much deeper meaning. These disciples have to be willing to die just to go to church! However, during one of my talks about suffering with the leader of Nepal, he began to share how every disciple must suffer. At first I was reluctant to receive this, I said, "Ya, but not like you!" However, as I was praying today I was reminded that he was right!

Suffering happens in every disciple's life and the devil comes to try to get the suffering disciple to quit. I was reminded of how many times in Chicago I saw people quit on the process of discipleship and either backslide or simply compromise and choose to live a lukewarm life.

Therefore, here are some things I have suffered to follow Christ (I still believe my sufferings are not worthy to be compared to my fellow disciples):

1. Loss of Friends: When I first was saved there was a group of friends I would hang out with after church. However, when I took a stand for holiness and radical discipleship they asked me to "simmer down" or they would not hang out with me anymore. RESULT: I made new friends with senior citizens in a local church that still loved holiness.

2. Loss of Leadership: I used to go to prayer meetings where a pastor was so much fun to be around, however, he left his wife and had an affair with the secretary. Others wanted to follow him and still affirm his leadership, but I knew he was wrong. RESULT: I started Bible studies/prayer meetings on my own and left for Bible college.

3. Loss of Ministry Partners: When I was in Bible college I had fellow pastors work with me in the ministry. However, some dropped out of school, made bad decisions and were kicked out, or just turned lukewarm. RESULT: I started a church in my house by myself.

4. Loss of Denominations: I remember being in a denominational meeting speaking to all the leaders of the state saying, "I just want to be discipled, will someone here please take sometime teach me the ways of Christ?!" One older man stood and said, "Young man, it is not our job to disciple you, that is what Bible college was for... just do your job!" RESULT: I became non-denominational.

5. Loss of Church Givers: As a church planter I have noticed that many times those who give the most usually have trouble being a disciple. They believe if they help the church with their money they can "buy their way into heaven." I remember a man once saying to me, "If you require me to do discipleship with my family we will not come." RESULT: We have lost tens of thousands of dollars.

6. Loss of Church Attendees: I cannot count how many times people leave our church because of our standard of discipleship. The story always sounds the same, "Pastor, thanks for the help, but I feel called somewhere else." "Pastor, I just feel led somewhere different, we will try to find another good church." RESULT: We lose 10-20% of all the people we win to the Lord.

Though I have suffered both personally and as a pastor, I am reminded of the words of Jesus, Matthew 19:28-30, "Jesus said to them, 'Truly I tell you, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first."

Therefore, here is what I have received from the "suffering":

1. Loss of Friends- NEW GODLY FRIENDS: Over the last 15yrs I have had the chance to make some great friends. Many of whom I met in Bible college. Plus, these friends shared the same experiences I had and thus we are closer than brothers.

2. Loss of Leadership- SPIRITUAL FATHER: Very few people can say they have had the same pastor in their life for 15yrs, however, because of God's faithfulness He brought me true leadership that has been in my life ever since I started ministry! Plus, I have had the chance to be close to many great men of God with over 25 years ministry experience!

3. Loss of Ministry Partners- APOSTLES TO THE NATIONS: I could never had imagined that by the time I was 33 I would be working with leaders from all over the world. Some of these men oversee 70 churches! Wow, God does save the best for last!

4. Loss of Denominations- A REVOLUTION: The Metro Praise Revolution now has over 200 churches with over 110 pastors over the world in just 3 years! I would not trade what God has done with just a few for all the denominations in the world!

5. Loss of Church Givers- INCREASED GIVING EVERY YEAR: Despite losing people every year and their support, we have gained more monies every year! Thus, God always makes it happen, the church is a testimony to God's ability to provide! We not only make up the loss, but also bring in increase! We have raised over $4,000 in just one week for missions!

6. Loss of Church Attendees- INCREASED DISCIPLES EVERY YEAR: We have doubled just in 3 months and soon we will be starting a new campus! Plus, we have more disciples than ever before. Thus, despite who gets off the bus, God keeps bringing new people to get on the bus! Just like He promised!

I pray this blog encourages the suffering to remain faithful. Do not give up during the times of suffering! You may feel like your doing something wrong or that the "grass is greener" on the other side. However, remember there are places where all Christians suffer. However, here in America it is the disciple that suffers. Jesus promised that all disciples would have to "carry a cross." Therefore, do not quit!

Luke 14:25-33,

²⁵ Large crowds were traveling with Jesus, and turning to them he said: ²⁶ “If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple. ²⁷ And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.

²⁸ “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it? ²⁹ For if you lay the foundation and are not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule you, ³⁰ saying, ‘This person began to build and wasn’t able to finish.’

³¹ “Or suppose a king is about to go to war against another king. Won’t he first sit down and consider whether he is able with ten thousand men to oppose the one coming against him with twenty thousand? ³² If he is not able, he will send a delegation while the other is still a long way off and will ask for terms of peace. ³³ In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.

"Five Things Leadership Books/Blogs Wont Do For You!"

2011-06-09T12:35:00.013-05:00

I have spent the last four years earning a Master's Degree in Religious Studies from Liberty "Cemetery," excuse me... I mean, "Seminary." During this time I was introduced to leadership books, blogs, and the like. I must say that coming from a Pentecostal "the Holy Ghost will lead background," I have been blessed by many of the strategies and wisdom given by the "leadership" group.

However, during this time of subscribing to the blogs, twitters, facebooks, and reading the books I have found the following five things they do not do:

1. Teach How to Cast out Devils: I just like the sound of that phrase and I love the action as well. I have found that leadership books and blogs leave out what I like to call, "the sheka-boom-ba work of God." If there ever was a time we needed the Holy Ghost it is now!

2. Inspire Prayer and Dependence on God's Power and Presence: The leadership movement can do just the opposite, as a matter of fact, I have been the most successful in the ministry with the least amount of prayer because marketing and the like works. We saw over a 100% increase in attendance in just the last 9 months in our church- more than double! However, I believe success is empty without God's power and presence and this only comes through prayer. No short cuts in the eternal things of God.

3. Encourage Suffering: Everything is seen as "win & loss" and "problem & solution," too many times leadership books forget suffering can be godly and God ordained- not because it "works towards outward success" but because it "works towards dying to self- inward success." I still love to hear about Paul's struggles and say to myself, "It hasn't got that bad... yet!"

4. Celebrate Failure: One day I would like to write a book (please hold me accountable to this) on leadership called, "How to Die a 1,000 Deaths: Welcome to Your First Week of Ministry." I love to ask my friends who are starting new churches for the first time, "How many times have you died on the inside since starting?" After they answer 10x, 15x, etc... I say, "Sounds like your doing great!"

I want the world of future ministers to know how many outreaches God lead me to do and they failed to reach my expectations. The times I heard God to make a disciple and they quit. I would like to spend just a whole chapter on how God told me to merge my first church plant and start over again. I so wish leadership books talked about failure more. Not because God makes us fail to hurt us, but how He allows failures to change us!

5. Remind that Success Isn't What it is Cracked Up to Be: I know we all want to reach a world for Jesus. However, the blogs do not remind us enough on how numbers, buildings, and ministry fame isn't really "all that." Success doesn't make your children more godly, help ease your temptations, remove your insecurities, or even satisfy. As a matter of fact, it is actually lonelier, harder, and more stressful to be more successful. Your friends judge you, your kids cry out for your time, people are more hurt and let down, more people leave you, and every decision effects tons of people for bad or good. Thus, greatness is not where you are, but who you are. Success is not "over there," but rather how your living "right here."

Passage to Meditate On:
1 Corinthians 2:3-5, ³ I came to you in weakness with great fear and trembling. ⁴ My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, ⁵ so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God’s power.

*Disclaimer: I still love leadership books and blogs- I just have to read other books to complete my "spiritual diet!" : )

Once Was Young... but Now I'm Older!

2011-05-27T10:51:00.010-05:00

As I was getting ready this morning for a weekend of reaching youth with the Gospel and the call of full time ministry I was struck by the thought of "getting older."

I was first called to preach the Gospel in a nursing home at 18 years old and I have always had a powerful relationship with the elderly. I can remember being at the feet of my aged great aunt pleading with tears as a young man with her to accept Jesus. However, she simply patted the top of my head and said, "Joey, I'm okay... Joey, I'm okay." I remember when I heard of her passing and I wondered, did Aunty Marry make it to heaven- did she accept Jesus?

Currently, I no longer have any living Grandparents, I have watched all four of them pass away into eternity. My last Grandma had Alzheimer and could not even remember me. I cried so hard when I saw her and was deeply hurt to see her mind broken by the disease. Also, I remember being by the death bed of two of my Grandparents, just days before they passed. They were pale, breathing by machines, and the room smelled of death.

Thus, as I was thinking this morning I began to say to myself, "I only have one life to live, I have to give it all to Jesus!" Then as a minister I began to say, "I have to keep fighting for the youth of this nation, because one day I will not be able to fight anymore!" I do not want to waste my life!

Should the Lord tarry and I live to be old like my Grandparents, who all lived past their 80's, I will find a time when the following is true:

I will not be able to do outreaches,
...not be able to take mission trips,
...not be able to preach,
...not be able to work all day,
...not be able to make big plans for the future,
...not be able to teach in Bible college,
...not be able to make disciples,
and not be able to see dreams come true.

George Bernard Shaw said it best, "Youth is wasted on the young." This quote reminds me of how much of my life I wasted until I found my God given purpose. Thus, I would plead, beg, and even command all those who still have youth... "Do not waste your life, for a time will come when you may wish to do the things you can do now, but it will be too late!"

Your high school/college friends will be gone. Your neighbors, coworkers, teachers, pastors, leaders, and backyard bbq acquaintances will have passed all away. Your birthday, graduate, career, and anniversary parties will be filled with the young for your peers are gone. Your gossip crew, party friends, and business partners will leave you.

Your popularity will count for nothing, your wealth will do you no good, your ability to brag and put others down will not be heard, your beauty will be vanished, all your grand ideas of how to do things "better" will not be heard, and all your "future plans" will be past. Death will be your only next and greatest event. And as you read this now and wonder how you will cope with death, like most elderly people, your only prayer will be, "Jesus, just take me home now. I cannot go on like this anymore."*

Therefore, live for God in the days of your youth. Use your strength for God! If you fall down, get back up... never quit! Give all you have to Jesus! Go on mission trips, invite all your friends to outreaches, preach with passion, pray with power, and never loose your zeal!

Youth, young people, and all those who still have strength to serve God- give Jesus your all!

Ecclesiastes 12:1
Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come and the years approach when you will say, “I find no pleasure in them.”

* As a pastor I have had to pray for many aged and dying who asked Jesus to "take them home," for they felt their time on earth was over.

"Cross-Cultural Church Planting"

2011-05-13T20:43:00.002-05:00

INTRODUCTION: Planting the Church of Jesus Christ

Jesus said in Matthew 16:18, “I will build my church and the gates of hell will not prevail.” The word church in the Greek, “ekklesia,” means “all who are called by and to Christ in the fellowship of His salvation.”[1] Thus, Jesus was declaring upon Peter and his confession that He was going to build and develop a group of people that would literally assault the devil’s kingdom and break down his gates.

Church planting simply refers to the process of starting new local churches. The need to plant new local churches throughout the world in every age is based on the call to build the universal Church of Jesus Christ. David Hesselgrave in his book, “Planting Churches Cross-Culturally,” states this powerful quote regarding the power of church planting, “If you want to grow something to last a season- plant flowers. If you want to grow something to last a lifetime- plant trees. If you want to grow something to last through eternity- plant churches.”[2]

The “gates of hell” most likely refer to “the strength of Satan and his cohorts… the hosts of darkness.”[3] Therefore, Jesus was proclaiming to His disciples that the called out believers, i.e. “the church” was going to be a militant force with a purpose to conquer the devil’s work upon the earth. Then in Mathew 16:19 Peter is told that Jesus will give him the keys of the kingdom for binding and loosing. This binding and loosing best refers to the ability of the church to affirm on earth with authority what heaven affirms and to rebuke on earth what heaven rebukes.[4]

Lastly, in Matthew 28:18-20 Jesus gives His last charge in what is now known as “The Great Commission.” This great commission is to use the authority of Jesus to make disciples of all the nations, teaching all people to obey everything Jesus commanded and to be confident in the ever-present Jesus Christ that He will be with all those engaged in this work, even until the end of the world.

Thus, the church of Jesus Christ was founded upon the following, (1) The people who confess Jesus as Christ and Lord- Matthew 16:16-18, (2) A militant charge against Satan’s kingdom- Matthew 16:18-19, (3) All authority given by Jesus to His Church- Matthew 16:19, 28:18, (4) Discipleship based on all Jesus commanded- Matthew 38:19, and (5) The omnipresence of Jesus Christ with His Church.[5]

SUMMARY: Five Foundations for Church Planting

The main purpose of this paper is to give five foundations that are needed to fulfill The Great Commission given to the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ to successfully plant churches cross-culturally.

The five foundations presented in this paper are:

(1) Foundation One: Building the Church on Sound Doctrine

(2) Foundation Two: Building the Church on Discipleship

(3) Foundation Three: Building the Church with Effective Leadership

(4) Foundation Four: Building the Church on a Replicating Strategy

(5) Foundation Five: Building the Church with Cross-Cultural Communication

FOUNDATION ONE: Building the Church on Sound Doctrine

Jesus stated in Matthew 28:20 that disciples were to make new disciples by teaching them all that He had commanded. The teaching of sound Christian doctrine is known as, “orthodoxy.” Orthodoxy means in the Greek (“orthos”) right and (“doxa”) opinion, thus it refers to the “right opinion or doctrine” regarding the Bible’s teachings. It is opposite of false beliefs and teachings known as “heresy.”[6]

The orthodox teachings of the Church come from the Bible and are confirmed by the various councils in the Church’s early history. The main councils that helped discover and solidify the Bible’s main doctrines were the following, (1) Council of Nicaea 1 in 325 AD, (2) Council of Constantinople 1 in 381, (3) Council of Chalcedon in 451, (4) Council of Constantinople 2 in 553, (5) Council of Constantinople 3 in 680, and (6) Council of Nicaea 2 in 787.[7]

The main doctrines discovered in these historical councils that ground the Church are the following truths, (1) The Bible: Genesis to Revelation is the Word of God, (2) Trinity: There is one God revealed in three divine persons, (3) Jesus: Jesus is both full God and Man, (4) Man: Man is sinful and is in need of salvation from God, (5) Salvation: Only through Jesus’ saving work on the cross and is received by faith, (6) Jesus’ Second Coming: Jesus is coming back to judge the world one day, and (7) Heaven & Hell: There is an eternal conscious punishment for non-believers and a conscious eternal bliss for the believers.”[8]

Therefore, the disciples must build the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ on the sound doctrines of the church. The history of the Church serves as an example of how these simple, yet profound doctrines have been preserved throughout the ages. Thus, one is only a true disciple when instructed in the teachings of Jesus.[9]

FOUNDATION TWO: Building the Church on Discipleship

When Jesus used a term to describe the members of His Church He called them, “disciples.”[10] Disciple comes from the Greek word, “mathetes,” which means, “a student committed to the study and following of Jesus’ teachings.”[11] Therefore, the Church is built not just open those who have a head knowledge of the teachings of Jesus, but rather those who live by them.

George Barna in his powerful book, “Growing True Disciples,” notes the following facts about disciples, (1) Disciples are assured of their salvation by grace alone, (2) Disciples learn and understand the principles of the Christian life, (3) Disciples obey God’s laws and commands, (4) Disciples represent God in the world, (5) Disciples serve other people, and (6) Disciples reproduce themselves in Christ.[12]

Therefore, for the Church to be built true disciples must make true disciples. The process of discipleship may be different in each generation, but the end result is the same; to reproduce Christ followers to every generation. Some of the materials and techniques used along side of the Bible to make disciples in church history are the following, (1) Didache: a book containing the traditions of the apostles- 100AD,[13] (2) The Monastic Movement: founded around 330 AD by Basil the Great, monasteries were established to help make disciples and committed followers of Jesus,[14] and (3) Methodist “Rules of Bands”: Founded by John and Charles Wesley in mid 1700’s, these “rules” guided the disciples into many disciplines and a daily life of holiness and public witness.[15]

FOUNDATION THREE: Building the Church with Effective Leadership

Jesus knew that His Church could not be more effective than the effectiveness of the leaders themselves. Therefore, Jesus was a Master Builder of leadership. From the very beginning Jesus knew that simply teaching crowds was not the most effective way to reach the world. He needed to find reliable men with whom He could entrust the Gospel message to whom would be able to teach and entrust to others, until the whole world heard His message.

Jesus’ leadership method was to (1) Call those whom He wanted to be with Him in a close mentor/student relationship- Mark 3:13, (2) These disciples were to learn from Him and become His leaders- Mark 13:14-18, (3) These new leaders were to go out and find new faithful disciples to raise up new leaders- Matthew 28:18-20, and (4) To continue this process until He returns- Acts 1:8, 3:19-20.[16]

Kenneth Gangel in his book, “Team Leadership in Christian Ministry,” gives the following principles in making effective “Biblical leaders,” (1) Leaders are gifted by God, (2) Leaders need to be able to learn and work with one another, (3) Leaders must be accountable to God, the Bible, and to other leaders, (4) Leaders need time in preparation, (5) Leaders must be spiritual and sensitive to the moving of God’s Spirit,

(6) Leaders should have organizational skills, (7) Leaders are to always be followers, (8) Leaders need theological training and soundness in teaching, (9) Leaders should be responsible to preach and teach to their generation, (10) Leaders are servants, (11) Leaders are good stewards of what God has given them, (12) Leaders share their authority with other leaders, (13) Leaders love to do ministry, (14) Leaders model the vision of the local church and Christ-like behavior, (15) Leaders are always grounded in the local church.[17]

Therefore, leadership is very vital to building the Church and planting new churches that grow and reach their world. Paul demonstrates powerful principles for Christ-centered leadership in his pastoral epistles to Timothy and Titus, especially in 1 Timothy 3 & Titus 1. Paul stated the Church’s leadership motto best in 2 Timothy 2:2, “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.”

FOUNDATION FOUR: Building the Church on a Replicating Strategy

Jesus was and is a simple replicating strategist revolutionary![18] Jesus not only gave sound doctrines, discipleship structures, and tools for effective leadership but He also had very powerful strategy for replicating His church in every generation. Jesus’ strategy can be seen in the following organizational structures:[19]

1. Vision or Mission Statement: Jesus declared His mission was to fulfill the law of God (Matthew 5:17) and thus He taught, “Love God with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. And to love their neighbor as themselves” (Matthew 22:36-38).

2. Mission Strategy: Jesus demonstrated in His ministry that He followed a three-step process to fulfilling His mission to teach people how to love God and people. The three-steps were, (1) Connect: Connecting people to the Father through a born again relationship- John 3:3, (2) Mentor: Mentoring believers to be leading disciples- Mark 3:13-14, and (3) Sending trained disciples to duplicate the process of connecting and disciplining- Matthew 28:18-20.

3. Goal: Jesus had a goal or basic target in doing His mission and strategy, mainly to preach the Gospel to the whole world and win the lost- Matthew 24:14 & Luke 19:10.

Therefore, Jesus had a very sound and reproducing strategy to fulfill His vision and accomplish His Father’s goals. Thom Rainer and Eric Geiger do a great job of helping the modern day church planter in developing a “simple” strategy to reproduce disciples and healthy churches.

They give four basic steps to follow in making complex structure simple, they are, (1) Clarity: Clearly define the church’s vision and mission statement, (2) Movement: Develop an effective and easy follow process of moving people through the vision of the church, (3) Alignment: Align everything in the church to the simple vision and movement structure, and lastly (4) Focus: Say to no to everything that does not fit into the clear vision.[20]

FOUNDATION FIVE: Building the Church with Cross-Cultural Communication

When Jesus came to earth He was not “born” in the sense of “created,” but rather He was born in the sense of “manifesting in the flesh” (John 1:18). For Jesus has always been God and in a relationship with the Father and was the prime mover in all creation (John 1:1-2). Paul states in Philippians 2:1-11 that Jesus did not fight to keep hold of His glory and divine rights, but rather temporarily emptied Himself of these privileges, became flesh and was on the earth as a servant. He was even obedient unto death; therefore, Jesus is the best example of “cross-cultural” communications.

Therefore, Paul states in Philippians 2:3-5, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus.” Jesus was the best example of being a servant and communicating with people “cross-culturally.”

Hasselgrave sites Ralph Winter in his book concerning the different types of ways Gospel preachers communicate with other cultures. (1) M-1: Example, a Anglo-American preaching to another Anglo-American in English, (2) M-2: a Anglo-American preaching to a Latino-American in English, and (3) M-3: a Anglo-American preaching to a Spaniard in Spanish in Spain.[21]

Duane Elmer in his book, “Cross-Cultural Servanthood,” gives six powerful truths to help make the Gospel communicator be effective in reaching different cultures. They are as follows, (1) Openness: Welcoming others into your presence, (2) Acceptance: Communicating respect for others, (3) Trust: Building confidence in relationships, (4) Learning: Seeking information that changes you, (5) Understanding: Seeing through the other’s eyes, and (6) Serving: Becoming Like Christ to others.[22]

Thus, today’s Church should use the same humility in serving and communicating the Gospel to other’s cultures in church planting as Jesus did in planting His Church to the world.

CONCLUSION: Metro Praise Church Planting Revolution

Metro Praise is a church planting revolution that started six years ago in the home of Joe and Nancy Wyrostek on Chicago’s Northside. As of Easter 2011 Metro Praise has over 500 people consider it their church. The church does a form of discipleship for membership, plus it is a Presbytery ran church and operates as a Non-denominational Spirit-filled church.[23]

Metro Praise Chicago is a diverse congregation from over 20 different national backgrounds. From such places as Poland, Philippines, Germany, South Korea, Greece, Latin America, Brazil, African American, Italy, and many more. The main culture is from Latin America- over 40%, the next group is Anglo- around 25%, and the rest is a mix of the other cultures with Pilipino, European, and African American being the strongest percentage.[24]

Pastor Joe has self-published his own materials for church. These books include the following discipleship books- “Welcome to Your New Life: Seven Steps to Spiritual Growth” & “Disciples That Make Disciples: 12 Lessons in Christian Leadership,” a booklet on church history- “Disciples of the First Disciples,” a response to Islam- “Helping Muslims See Christ in Christianity,” and a book for young people to date like a Christian-, “Date Like a Christian: Seven Steps to a Godly Marriage.”[25]

As a result of these books, four different nations with five locations have joined the Metro Praise revolution (New Dehli, India; Vijayawada, India; Lahore, Pakistan; Katmandu, Nepal; & Owerri, Nigeria). Currently, there are over 120 churches in these nations led with the same vision, strategy, and leadership structures. From the existing 120 plus churches, almost half have been planted as a result of the oversea Apostles working with the Metro Praise revolution. Thus, Metro Praise has planted churches with a “cross-cultural” sensitivity.

Dr. K.P. Yohannan states the heart of the Metro Praise revolution very well in his book, “Revolution in World Missions.” He shares in his book that the 3^rd wave of missions in India is from the local pastors and missionaries doing the work of the ministry.[26] Therefore, it is the job of Metro Praise all Western churches to empower the local people and allow them to pastor and lead their own churches and movements.

Here is Metro Praise’s five perspectives on church planting to different cultures both in America and around the world.

1. Every Church needs to be indigenous: Self support, self-governing, and self-propagating.

2. The Church is Built Upon Discipleship: Every church should have a minimum of 50% of the church in active discipleship.

3. Change Everything That Is Sin, Leave Everything Else: Metro Praise does not desire to change anyone’s culture, however, what is of sin should be avoided.

4. The Baptism of the Holy Spirit, Evidenced with Speaking In Other Tongues is a Must: Metro Praise believes that the number one way to convert the lost is through the “power and demonstration” of the Holy Spirit.[27]

5. Love Everyone and Help All You Can: As the Good Samaritan helped the hurting man Metro Praise believes like John Wesley, one should do all the good they can do for as long as they can.

Let the revolution continue to all the nations! May Jesus’ Church be established in every nation for every tribe and people!

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Barna, George. Growing True Disciples: New Strategies for Producing Genuine Followers of Christ. Colorado Springs, CO.: WaterBrook Press, 2001.

Bercot, David, ed. A Dictionary of Early Christian Beliefs. Edited by David W. Bercot. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1998.

Elmer, Duane. Cross-Cultural Servanthood: Serving the World in Christlike Humility. Downers Grove, Ill.: IVP Books, 2006.

Elwell, Walter, ed. Evangelical Dictionary of Theology. Edited by Walter A. Elwell. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Baker Book House, 1990.

Gaebelein, Frank. THE EXPOSTITOR'S BIBLE COMMENTARY VOLUME 1. Grand Rapids: ZONDERVAN BIBLE PUBLISHERS, 1979.

Gangel, Kenneth. Team Leadership In Christian Ministry: Using Multiple Gifts to Build a Unified Vision. Revised ed. Chicago: Moody Publishers, 1997.

Hesselgrave, David F. Planting Churches Cross-Culturally: North America and Beyond. 2 ed. Grand Rapids, MI.: Baker Academic, 2000.

Hawthorne, Steven C & Ralph D. Winter. Perspectives on the World Christian Movement: A Reader. Pasadena, Calif.: William Carey Library Publishers, 2009.

Kittel, Gerhard, and Gerhard Friedrich, eds. Theological Dictionary of the New Testament. Abridged ed. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1985.

Latourette, Kenneth Scott. A History of Christianity: Beginnings to 1500. New York: Prince Press, 1997.

Lingenfelter, Sherwood G., and Marvin K. Mayers. Ministering Cross-Culturally: An Incarnational Model for Personal Relationships. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Baker Academic, 1986.

Richardson, Don. Eternity in Their Hearts: Startling Evidence of Belief in the One True God in Hundreds of Cultures Throughout the World. Revised ed. Ventura, CA.: Regal Books, 1984.

Searcy, Nelson, and Kerrick Thomas. Launch: Starting a New Church from Scratch. Ventura, CA.: Regal, 2007.

Yohannan, K.p. Revolution In World Missions. Carrollton, TX 75010.: GFA Books, 2004.

[1] Bromiley Geoffrey. Theological Dictionary of the New Testament, Abridged Edition. (Grand Rapids, MI.: Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1985), electronic entry found in “ekklesia.”

[2] David F. Hesselgrave, Planting Churches Cross-Culturally: North America and Beyond, 2 ed. (Grand Rapids, MI.: Baker Academic, 2000), 31.

[3] Frank E Gaabelein. Expositor’s Bible Commentary. (Grand Rapids, MI.: Zondervan, 1990), electronic entry found in “Matthew 16:18.”

[4] Ibid, electronic entry found in “Matthew 16:19.”

[5] The nature of this authority given to Peter or the argument for apostolic succession based on the supremacy of Peter’s office known as the modern day “pope” taught by Roman Catholics is false for many reasons. However, this paper cannot address these issues, thus, the work by Dr. James White, “The Roman Catholic Controversy” will suffice to answer many of the readers questions involving the claims of the Roman Church from these passages.

[6] Walter A Elwell. Evangelical Dictionary of Theology. (Grand Rapids, MI.: Baker Books, 1984), 808.

[7] Ibid, 805.

[8] Ibid, 436. “The Fundamentals.”

[9] For more detailed information on the beliefs and practices (orthopraxy) of the early church (approx. first three hundred years) see David W. Bercot’s, “A Dictionary of Early Christian Beliefs.”

[10] Disciple is the most prominent word used in the NT to describe the followers of Jesus with over 250 references.

[11] Bromiley, electronic entry found in “mathetes.”

[12] George Barna, Growing True Disciples: New Strategies for Producing Genuine Followers of Christ (Colorado Springs, CO.: WaterBrook Press, 2001), 20-23.

[13] Kenneth Scott Latourette. A History of Christianity: Vol. 1. (New York: Harper & Row Publishers, 1975), 117.

[14] Elwell, 728.

[15] Elwell, 712.

[16] These points come from a survey of Jesus’ mission

[17] Kenneth O. Gangel. Team Leadership in Christian Ministry. (Chicago, Moody Press, 1997,) 43-64.

[18] Thom S. Rainer and Eric Geiger, Simple Church: Returning to God's Process for Making Disciples (Nashville, TN.: B&H Books, 2006), 16.

[19] These are summaries that the author sees in Jesus’ life, these are not “black and white” truths, but rather opinionated insight to how Jesus’ strategy was organized.

[20] Ibid, 3.

[21] Hesselgrave, 28.

[22] Duane Elmer, Cross-Cultural Servanthood: Serving the World in Christlike Humility (Downers Grove, Ill.: IVP Books, 2006), 38.

[23] To preserve the sense of a academic paper the author will write in the 3^rd person concerning his church.

[24] Survey from the pastor as of May 2011.

[25] See the books at Metro Praise’s website here, http://metropraise.org/

[26] K.p. Yohannan, Revolution In World Missions. (Carrollton, TX 75010.: GFA Books 2004), 18.

[27] See Stuart Robinson’s book on “Mosques & Miracles.” He states that “super natural encounters- healings, miracles, and deliverances” are the number one cause for Muslims converting to Christianity (p. 263).

Easter 2011 Recap!

2011-04-24T20:12:00.007-05:00

Praise the Lord! Over 500 guests today in two packed services!! Double our average attendance and 200 more than our re-launch in Sept. 2011!! Red eye, google ads, sign and 20,000 fliers were effective, but like always family n' friends blew it up!! Most importantly over 40 decisions for Christ!! Great job Metro Praise!! Jesus is alive and moving!!

Here is the picture from the presentation, "Living Last Supper!" (Click pic for better view)

For followup we are having a "Family Fun Night" at church Wednesday April 27th at 7pm! Movie- "Prince of Egypt," big screen Wii games, and outdoor fun!

Also, we are starting a new sermon series for all of May, "Who is God?"

We hope to see you at these great events! JESUS IS RISEN!

Metro Praise is located at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Day Before Easter, "Jesus Took Our Sorrows!"

2011-04-23T23:23:00.003-05:00

Day Before Easter - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service on April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "Jesus Took Our Sorrows!"

Not only did Jesus take all of mankind’s sins and sicknesses, He also took all of our sorrows. God the Father allowed all the sorrows and emotional grief of life to be placed on Jesus’ shoulders. Jesus Himself at the time of His crucifixion was given all the hurt of the world. Jesus could feel every emotional pain that’s ever been felt and will ever be felt in life… He took it all!

Jesus was the only person that could endure such emotional pain upon His soul. In doing so,
Jesus will forever be able to relate and understand everyone’s sorrows in life. When someone comes to Jesus to find comfort in times of emotional hurt, He can truly say, “I know how you feel.”

No one else on earth can ever say that. Only Jesus can say He knows about every pain and every sorrow in every individual’s heart. And He not only knows the pain, but He also has the power to heal and comfort those hurts when we take them to the Cross (Matthew 9:36).

Are in emotional pain? Call on Jesus, He is the Healer of the brokenhearted!

Reading: Isaiah 53 & Isaiah 61

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Good Friday, "Jesus Took Our Sickness"

2011-04-22T21:26:00.002-05:00

Good Friday - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service on April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "Jesus Took Our Sickness"

When God first created Adam and Eve, they were perfect and there were no sickness, but after they sinned suffering and death entered the whole world. Deuteronomy 28 teaches that mankind was placed under a curse in his body because of this sin and this curse is manifested as illness and disease.

This does not mean that when children are born sick or when someone gets ill that they are "sinful," but rather we all as human beings suffer from imperfection in our physical bodies because of sin, thus sin in our bodies leads to sickness, and some sickness ends in death.

When Jesus was being tortured and beaten by the Roman government, God the Father was pleased. Why? Because God the Father allowed the punishment and whippings of Jesus to purchase for mankind the healing they needed from their sicknesses and diseases.

Peter said, "He himself bore our sins' in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; 'by his wounds you have been healed" (1 Peter 2:24).

Mankind may not be able to fully understand how this happened, but the Bible clearly teaches that by Jesus’ stripes we are healed from all of our sicknesses. Today, anyone who is sick can come to Jesus and ask for healing and, if they believe and do not doubt in their heart, they will be healed!

Are you sick? If so, come to Jesus and declare your healing in His name and by His stripes- He is still a healer!

Reading: Isaiah 53 & James 5:14-16

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Day 20, "Jesus Took Our Sins"

2011-04-20T15:50:00.002-05:00

Day 20 - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service on April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "Jesus Took Our Sins"

When Jesus was on the Cross, God the Father placed on Him all the sins of the world: past, present, and future. There on the Cross, Jesus took upon Himself all the evil things that have ever been done in the world; everything from Adam and Eve’s sinful rebellion to the last sin man will ever commit.

He took them all upon Himself. Because God the Father is perfect, no one can come to Him unless they first offer a sacrifice for their sins. Before Jesus’ death on the Cross, the sacrifice required was from an animal. The sacrifices had to be made often with many different animals. However, when Jesus came He became the “one-time” sacrifice for all times.

From that point on, if a sinner wants to be forgiven of their sin and accepted by God the Father, all they have to do is accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Jesus’ sacrifice on the Cross 2,000 years ago is all that’s needed to forgive their sins and allow them to have a new life. (Hebrews 9:14)

Have you been forgiven?

Reading: Isaiah 53.

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Day 17, "Jesus is the Way"

2011-04-17T20:29:00.002-05:00

Day 17 - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "Liar, Lunatic, or Lord"

Jesus said to his first disciples almost 2,000 years ago, “I am the way, the truth, and the life;
no one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). Jesus declared Himself to be the only mediator between God and man. After reading the words of Christ, one must come to one of three conclusions: Jesus was a liar, a lunatic, or Lord.

First, was Jesus a liar? Did He know He was not the only way to God, but rather chose to
deceive His disciples and receive self-centered glory? According to both history and
Christians, Jesus wasn’t a liar; He was a holy man who lived a good life helping people come to know the God of Israel.

Second, was Jesus a lunatic? Did Jesus suffer from mental illness and therefore He was filled
with self-delusion? Of course not, Jesus was a wise man. Even His enemies could recognize His authority and wisdom. Therefore, Jesus could not have been a lunatic.

Thirdly, was Jesus declaring His Lordship while on earth? Did Jesus really come to earth to
be the only way, the only truth, and the only way to God? Did He really predict and fulfill His
crucifixion and resurrection? Did He really claim to be God’s Son and the Judge of all the
earth? Yes!

The whole Bible, church history, and even many non-Christian witnesses all declare this to be
true. Therefore, the only real intelligent option left is that Jesus was really God in the flesh, the
Lord of Glory. He was sent by the Father to be the only mediator for mankind’s salvation, and
He meant exactly what He said and it is true what his disciples said about Him in the New
Testament (John 1:1-18 & John 3).

Therefore, I bid you to come and bow your knee before your Maker, believe in your heart, and confess Jesus as Lord. Turn from your wicked ways, repent of your sins, and live a life that is according to His commands- your eternal soul is at stake!

Reading: John 10 & 14.

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Day 12, "Crown of Thorns"

2011-04-12T21:05:00.004-05:00

Day 12 - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "Crown of Thorns"

I was in a pastor's office the other day and I saw a very real representation of the crown of thorns Jesus had placed on his head. I was taken back by the immense size of the thorns. Immediately I went over and placed them in my hands and felt there strength. I was in shock on how thick and sharp these thorns were. As I was looking at them the pastor shared, "Every time I look at this crown of thorns I am reminded of the great love God had for me."

I believe we can so often forget what Jesus did for us 2,000 years ago. We can get so busy trying to win our own "crowns" in life that we forget He was crowned with shame and rejection- so we could receive forgiveness and acceptance. I pray we never forget what He did for us. I pray I never forget what He did for me.

Here is the picture:

Oh, how he loves us!

Reading: John 19:1-3 & Isaiah 53:2-4.

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Day 11, "Never Give Up"

2011-04-11T20:01:00.010-05:00

Day 11 - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "Never Give Up"

When Jesus was finished praying that night on the Mount of Olives He was ready for what awaited Him. He knew there was no turning back, He was born for such a time. The angels had spoke their last words to their Master. The only friends He had supported Him as much as they could. The time was now upon Him. The sound of soldier's armor filled His ears, palms began to sweat, breaths got deeper, and a smile came upon His face looking at Judas as He called Him friend.

Within a matter of moments the Creator of the universe was in chains being led away to His death. "Punish Him" was the cry from the Jews. Punched in the face and mocked, sweat and blood was running down His face. No words could stop what was coming, so He did not defend Himself. Led away to the Romans to be tortured, Jesus hears the sound in the distance of His closet friend deny Him.

Morning comes with mockery and deep pain, everyone watches- yet no one can see what really is happening- an innocent man is dying. In front of the crowds Jesus is not chosen, rejected for a thief, He sees the hands of a king try to wash away his guilt. Shouts rattle the floor, young men trade their former plans with joy to see a crucifixion this day.

Clothes ripped off and His body is thrown to the post, cries turn to groans- groans end in silent agony. Muscle, tissue, and blood find their way to the dirt. Nerves exposed bring pain that numb the mind. The fainting is restrained by the beam placed upon the exposed back. He can't see through the tears for those who cheer. Jesus' feet do not feel the ground once walked, hands numb that once created. Dragged up the hill- the blue sky is the only reminder of this world. Someone carries what was always meant for Him.

Nails, hammers, and screams make the sun disappear. Jesus can hear mocking, laughter, but the oxygen is escaping His lungs- the heart is racing- legs burn- the crown of thorns makes blood stain his face. He slips down to rest His arms- His shoulders loose from their place- dangling between heaven and earth, Jesus said, "It is finished."

Jesus never gave up. Why? "For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart (Hebrews 12:2-3).

"Never Give Up!"

Reading: Hebrews 13 & Matthew 27.

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Day 9 & 10, "Let Your Light Shine"

2011-04-10T19:06:00.006-05:00

Day 9 & 10 - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "Let Your Light Shine"

Today, in the 21st century we as Christians live in a dark time. Abortion on demand, gross perversion, teen violence, divorce, addictions, idolatry, war, abuse, greed, evil entertainment, and false religion. Isaiah prophesied in Isaiah 5:20, "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter." God said a time would come when people would call "good" "evil" and "evil" "good." Plus, people would actually trade "darkness" for "light!" I believe we are living in those kind of days!

Paul also went on to say in 1 Timothy 3 after listing all the sins that would mark the end times, that people would be "having a form of godliness but denying its power" (1 Tim. 3:5). Therefore, we as the true disciples of Jesus Christ must stand up for what is true and what is right. We need in these dark days to shine for Jesus Christ with the light of the Gospel!

Jesus said in John 12:46, " I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness." Jesus was and still is the Light in this dark world. However, the light does not just remain with Jesus, He gave it to His disciples! Jesus said in Matthew 5:13-15, "You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house."

Thus, we need to do the following as "lights for Jesus" to "let our light shine!"

1. Avoid and Expose the Deeds of Darkness: Ephesians 5:11, "Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them!"

2. Walking in the Light: 1 John 1:7, "But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin."

3. Shine for Jesus Christ with Our Good Deeds: Mathew 5:16, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."

4. Show the World the Gospel Light: Acts 13:47, "I have made you a light for the Gentiles,
that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth."

It may be dark, but that just means the light can be seen that much brighter! Let your light shine! Be encouraged by the old Sunday school song, "This Little Light of Mine,"

This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.
This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine, let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Won't let Satan blow it out.
I'm gonna let it shine.
Won't let Satan blow it out.
I'm gonna let it shine, let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Let it shine til Jesus comes.
I'm gonna let it shine.
Let it shine til Jesus comes.
I'm gonna let it shine, let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Hide it under a bushel - NO!
I'm gonna let it shine.
Hide it under a bushel - NO!
I'm gonna let it shine, Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Let it shine over the whole wide world,
I'm gonna let it shine.
Let it shine over the whole wide world,
I'm gonna let it shine, let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Reading: 1 Timothy 3 & 1 John 1.

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Book Review of "Cross-Cultural Servanthood"

2011-04-09T14:27:00.006-05:00

Overview: True Servanthood is a Must for All Ministers

“Cross-Cultural Servanthood,” by Duane Elmer is a powerful life changing book that is a must read for all those in ministry! The book centers on the context of ministering to different cultures and most of the examples come from the foreign mission field; however, the principles that are taught are so well grounded in the Word of God that they are applicable to all. Plus, since they are practical and usable in all contexts the book can be seen more as a lesson in “ministry” than just a book about “missions.”

Elmer powerfully hits the heart of every minster when he opens his book with the subject of “Servanthood.” He leaves no room for the reader to brush off his teachings by comparing themselves to his personal servant walk because he immediately makes it known, he is not even close to where Jesus is. Thus, he is simply sharing the truth as he sees it from the Scripture and takes the posture of being the “first” learner of his own writings.

The following quote from C.S. Lewis on pride and humility is soul shaking, “If anyone would like to acquire humility, I can, I think, tell him the first step. The first step is to realize that one is proud. And a biggish step, too. At least, nothing whatever can be done before it. If you think you are not conceited, it means you are very conceited indeed” (p. 29). With this straightforward approach to addressing the pride in the heart of ministers Elmer begins serving his dose of “humility medicine” to all who dare to continue to read on!

Elmer does a great job of explaining how the biblical writers actually invented a new Greek word to describe the kind of humility Jesus was living and teaching. The new word was, “tapeinophrosune,” which means, “a proper perspective of the Holy God we serve. proper perspective of self- defined by lowliness of mind, gentleness of spirit and meekness of attitude” (p. 29). The best illustration given of this definition of humility is seen in the attitude of Jesus as described by Paul in Philippians 2. Paul urges the people to “do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility (tapeinophrosune) of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves” (Phil. 2:3).

Central Message: True Humility and Servanthood

Therefore, with this foundation of humility built upon the true humility of Jesus the book begins to give helpful steps to take to have humility in ministry. Elmer gives a great illustration of his steps in the illustration of a circle with serving in the middle and the ways to get the true heart of humility pointing to it (p. 152).

The suggested steps to genuine humble serving are in the following specified order:

1. Openness: the ability to welcome people into your presence and make them feel safe (p. 39).

2. Acceptance: the ability to communicate value, worth and esteem to another person (p. 58).

3. Trust: the ability to build confidence in a relationship so that both parties believe the other will not intentionally hurt them but will act in their best interest, (p. 77).

4. Learning: the ability to glean relevant information about, from and with other people, (p. 93).

5. Understanding: the ability to see patterns of behavior and values that reveal the integrity of a people, (p. 125).

6. Serving (which can only be properly lived by having done first the above five steps): the ability to relate to people in such a way that their dignity as human beings is affirmed and they are more empowered to live God-glorifying lives, (p. 146).

Critique: Elmer’s Servant Leader Model

In conclusion to his book and after pages of great illustrations from the mission field solidifying the above points, Elmer disappointingly ends with a weak rebuke/encouragement to leaders. First, he tries to find issue with the term “servant leader.” Second, he takes the reader on a confusing contradicting lesson on leadership. And lastly, he admits he knew not how to write the following leadership sections, felt is was the hardest to write, and questioned to even include it- which he should not have- the book would have been great without it (p. 155).

Therefore, please note the following misunderstandings Elmer makes to leadership:

1. Lake of Biblical Precedent for True Servant Leadership: Elmer claims that “leadership” is really a modern invention (p. 156). However, he fails to note that the word and concept of leadership goes all the way back to Noah. Also, the word “leader” is actually used over 230x in the Bible! And it is used many times in the New Testament with a positive meaning, for example: Acts 1:20,15:22 & Hebrews 13:7,17,24.

2. Barnabas Over Paul: Elmer makes the same “romantic mistake” many “servant only guys” make. Meaning, instead of seeing Jesus as both a servant and a strong leader, he begins to force all leadership into a “mushy, non-confronting, always sweet as honey, type of minister,” which is very one-sided and not true to the biblical accounts. Therefore, he actually faults Paul in leadership because of Acts 13:13 in the rejection of John Mark (p. 166-7).

However, he seems to overlook the obvious affirmation of God concerning Paul’s leadership- the book of Acts and the New Testament! The book of Acts follows Paul, not Barnabas. The pastoral epistles are letters from Paul, not Barnabas. Lastly, Paul did call himself a “doulas,” a “bond servant” to Christ, however, he also believed in leadership and called himself an apostle in the very same verse (Romans 1:1)!

Personal Application: Metro Praise Servant Leader

(*Clears throat) Humbly speaking, as a church planter with a successful church plant in Chicago and over 120 churches in five different parts of the world I really loved the first two sections of the book. The first 155 pages of the book changed my life and reminded my of the times I read other great books on character like, “The Calvary Road,” by Roy Hession and “Humility” by Andrew Murray. Thus, it is from these pages I received the most insight and will apply it to my life and ministry.

Here are three things gained from Elmer:

1. Remember Humility is a Life Long Process: I really want to always be aware of C.S. Lewis’ quote and the life of Jesus as seen in Philippians 2. Thus, I never want to think I have arrived at being a servant like Jesus; I want to desire to always strive to be more humble in all I do.

2. Do All Ministry Remembering that Honor is Valuable: I do not want to insult or be “all-knowing” in ministry but rather seek to serve others as Jesus served them. I desire to honor the leaders God has placed over me and honor those God has placed under my care.

3. Be Open to Learn from Anyone at All Times: I really want to open my heart to have a “teachable” attitude wherever I go. Especially, when I do mission work- I want to learn from those God has placed in my life in the various countries and settings I serve in.

Easter Service Countdown- Day 8, "I Trust You"

2011-04-08T11:26:00.005-05:00

Day 8 - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "I Trust You"

As Jesus was on the cross in imaginable pain and torment, many people in the crowd were shouting insults at Him and mocking Him. Matthew records in chapter 27 verses 42-43 what some hurled at Him , "He saved others,' they said, 'but he can’t save himself! He’s the king of Israel! Let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. He trusts in God. Let God rescue him now if he wants him, for he said, ‘I am the Son of God."

They said, "He trusts in God. Let God rescue him now if he wants him." This insult is at the heart of Satan's attacks on every believer when they face times of suffering, "If God is really with you, then let Him rescue you!" Satan's attacks can become personal to your situation. For example you may hear, "If God is with you, then let Him give you a new job! If God is with you, then why doesn't He heal you! If God is real, why doesn't He save your lost family?" When you hear these attacks remember, "The devil is a liar and the father lies (John 8:44)."

How did Jesus respond? Shockingly, Matthew 27:46 records, "About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” (which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”)." Did Jesus lose His faith? No! Jesus knew why He had come to earth. He had come to earth to be the sacrifice for the sins of the world. He knew the wrath of God for all sins was to be poured out on Him. And that specifically for Him, even the Father at a certain point would leave Him, because He cannot look on sin (Habakkuk 1:13).

However, this was not a surprise to Jesus, He knew from eternity past what it meant to be the "Lamb Slain," and yet He still choose to come on earth and suffer for mankind's sin (Revelation 13:8). Thus, the journey of the cross for Jesus was one of total trust, that even if the Father had to pour out His wrath on Jesus and forsake Him, Jesus trusted that God would still ultimately rescue Him!

There on the cross right before Jesus died, alone and having received the full wrath and punishment of God Almighty, he confidently said in a loud voice, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit (Luke 23:46)!" What Jesus was saying in our terms was, "Father, I do not see you nor sense you at this time, I know your full judgment and wrath are against me, but I still trust you. I commit all of who I am, to all of who You are!"

Jesus knew how to place His full trust in the Father's plan. I hope to inspire you by the faith of Jesus to trust in God no matter what you feel or see. Trust in God with all your heart, even if you think He may not be with- no matter what! Trust in God, trust that He is with you because he promised, "I will never leave you nor forsake (Hebrews 13:5)!" Thus, because of Jesus remaining faithful in the most difficult situation known to man, He now can promise to you that you will never be alone!

Can you trust God? Can you say no matter the situation, "I commit all of who I am to all of who you are." I pray you walk in full faith and trust in Jesus- He will never fail you!

Reading: Proverbs 3:5 & Luke 23.

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Day 7, "Life is... Easy?"

2011-04-07T15:59:00.004-05:00

Day 7 - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "Life is... Easy?"

Have you ever heard someone say after you got hurt and disappointed in life, "No one ever said life would be easy!" I am sure you have, I have said it many times myself. However, someone did say life would be "easy." Jesus said in Matthew 11:28-30, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

But how can we have a restful easy life when many things in life lead to hurt, pain, and disappoint?

First, notice Jesus is not saying our lives will be easy and without pain, as a matter of fact He actually taught the exact opposite. In John 16:33 Jesus said, "In this world you will have trouble." Therefore, Jesus knew life wasn't easy and would be totally hard and filled with trouble at many different times.

Second, Jesus gives an option to all people, (1) Carry your own heavy-troubled-hurt life by yourself or (2) Come to Him and let Him carry your heavy-troubled-painful life and give you a light-easy load to carry, thus give your soul "rest."

Third, Jesus said in John 16:33, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Thus, Jesus is not promising a world without trouble, but a help in times of trouble!

Lastly, someone did say life could be "easy!" However, it has to get hard, painful, and troubled first so you will not want to carry your troubles by yourself anymore, then with faith you can come to Jesus.

Five Ways to Live the "Easy Life:"

1. Admit When You Are in Pain: Jesus told you to come and confess your need for Him, acting like you can make things better on your own never helps, but only makes things worse (Matthew 11:28).

2. Come to Jesus in Worship: Instead of complaining and trying to "find God," simply worship Him and the Bible says He will seek and find you (John 4:23)!

3. Confess the Word Over Your Life: Make faith declarations like David did in Psalm 23. Say to your soul, "The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want! I will not fear!"

4. Get a Prayer Partner: Jesus said that when two or more agree on an issue it is settled in heaven, do not only rely on your prayers, gain the strength of another (Matthew 18:19)!

5. Rest Your Mind: Refuse to let your mind race at 50,000 thoughts a day with negative words and imaginations. Set your mind on things above and trust your heavenly Father (Colossians 3:2)!

Consider the words of God found in Isaiah next time you face a impossible situation,

Isaiah 40:30-31, "Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

Reading: Isaiah 40 & Matthew 11.

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Day 5 & 6, "The Towel and Basin Ministry"

2011-04-06T10:20:00.003-05:00

Day 5 & 6 - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "The Towel and Basin Ministry"

At the "Last Supper" Jesus began to do something that was shocking and totally unexpected, He began to wash the disciple's feet. The normal person who washed the feet was usually the lowest servant in the house. However, Jesus took on this role of a lowly servant to show how much He loved His disciples. After spending some time in the villages of India I can begin to realize just how dirty feet can get in sandals. However, Jesus showed His great love for the disciples during that moment by cleansing their dirty feet with His own hands.

The Bible says that Jesus got a "towel and basin" to wash His disciples feet (John 13:4). The basin was the place the water was in and the towel is what was used to dry the feet. However, the primary tool used to clean the dirty feet was His very own hands. Jesus, the Creator of man in the Garden of Eden, used those same hands to wash the dirt off His followers. In a time when many Christian leaders- who themselves are God's creation, cannot wash feet, but desire to have their feet washed, I am convicted by this passage to become more like Jesus.

So often we as Christians see people's problems and wish someone else could fix it or help them, but Jesus took on the responsibility to clean His disciples' feet with His own hands. I pray that we in the church can have the "towel and basin ministry" of Jesus that is willing to be humble and loving to God's people and offer cleansing to all who need it. No excuses, no "passing of the buck," let us as Christians set the example of what it is to help others and help them get rid of the dirt in their lives.

If your reading this and you feel before you can wash another's feet you first need to be cleansed, then let me be the first to offer my services to you! I am here, like Jesus, to help wash your feet. You do not need to be ashamed of your dirt or try to hide it, simply come just as you are and let me use the water of the Spirit and the towel of God's Word to make you clean again in Jesus name!

Reading: John 13:1-17 & Isaiah 53.

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Day 4, "Break Every Chain"

2011-04-04T08:56:00.002-05:00

Day 4 - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "Break Every Chain"

I was listening to a powerful song the other day, "Break Every Chain," by Will Reagan and I was so blessed that I listened to it like a 100x in a row. Then I sent it to the worship band and they played it on Sunday and the house was filled with powerful worship. Today (Monday), I began to listen to the worship from the past Sunday and felt the power of God all over the song again. I then asked God, "Why is this song so powerful?" This was the verse God shared with me,

Luke 4:18-19, "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me, to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”

Therefore, when Jesus was on the earth and He quoted these verses from Isaiah 61 as His mission statement, I realized that Jesus' one purpose of "seeking and saving the lost" involved "setting the lost free!" Meaning, when Jesus finds that "one" lost sinner, he is a prisoner to his one sin and pain. Therefore, Jesus must "break every chain" off their life to save them and give freedom.

Jesus cares about your problems today. He wants to be involved in every area of your life. If you are not saved, Jesus wants to save you and set you free from your sinful nature and impart to you His nature of righteousness (Romans 6). If you are already saved, but still struggling in sin or sorrows- He wants to set you free (Romans 8)!

David described this work of God breaking every chain for the Israelites in the following verses,

Psalm 107:13-15, "Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress. He brought them out of darkness, the utter darkness, and broke away their chains. Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind!"

Call out to Jesus today and let Him break every chain in your life! Today is your day of freedom from sin and sorrow!

Enjoy the video:

Reading: Romans 6-8.

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Day 3, "The One"

2011-04-03T14:15:00.005-05:00

Day 3 - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "The One"

Imagine you are Zacchaeus, a really short and wealthy man that is hated by all. Now imagine, you hear about Jesus coming to your city and you really want to see him. Would you be willing to climb a tree and embarrass yourself in front of everyone who already hates you? Well, that is exactly what Zacchaeus did (Luke 19:4)!

Now, imagine you are Jesus, God in the flesh- sent to save the world (John 3:16). You have crowds of thousands following you in the city and everyone is trying to touch you. You notice a small wealthy man in a tree just looking right at you with desperation. What would you say? Jesus told Zacchaeus, "I must come over to your house from dinner today!" (Luke 19:5)

Lastly, now imagine you are the disciples eating at a stranger's house who is hated by everyone. However, as he is eating, he gets so convicted of his sin and the way he has cheated people, that he stands up in the middle of eating and says, "I am going to give away half my possessions to the poor and I will give back 4x everything I stole!" What would you say then? The Bible has no words from the disciples because they were probably speechless!

This was just an ordinary day in the life of Jesus that had extraordinarily results. Why? Jesus lived by the principle of "The One." Jesus knew that there was rejoicing in heaven over just one sheep that comes back to the shepherd (Matthew 18:14). He was on a mission from the Father. Jesus' one purpose was to "seek and save that which was lost" (Luke 19:10). And that day, it was Zacchaeus' day! It was His chance to be saved and cause a party to irrupt in heaven.

What is your "one purpose?" Are you distracted by all your kid's hobbies, your job, and family vacations? Are you purposed to go on a great summer vacation, watch all your favorite shows, and support your favorite teams- and forgot about the lost? I challenge you today to make your "one purpose" the same as Jesus- "seek and save the lost!"

Jesus went after Zacchaeus, he was His one. Who is your "one?" Go after them and fulfill your one real purpose in life- "seek and save the lost!"

Reading: Luke 1:1-9 & Matthew 18:12-14.

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Day 2, "Forgiveness"

2011-04-02T09:46:00.007-05:00

Day 2 - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "Forgiveness"

As Jesus was on the cross of Calvary with 100's of people around mocking and cheering, His words were, "Father, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing (Luke 23:34). Can you even begin to imagine what this took for Jesus to say? I know that I could have thought of a thousand different things to say and not one of them would have been "I forgive you." In my anger I might have said, "I am coming back to send you all to hell!" "Wait until judgment day, just wait!" Lastly, "Father, destroy them all!"

However, Jesus does not talk or act out of anger and revenge, but love and mercy. He pleads with the Father to "forgive them." Why? Because Jesus said, "They do not know what they are doing." Really? It sure seemed like the Jews knew what they were doing when they got Judas to secretly hand over Jesus in the night so the crowds wouldn't revolt. It sure seemed like Pontus Pilate knew how to be a politician and avoid public dislike by being a man-pleaser. And certainly the Roman guards who were professionals at punishing men for their crimes knew what they were doing in torturing Jesus with precise detail and extreme pain.

Therefore, why did Jesus say, "They did not know what they were doing?" I believe it was because they could only see their actions within their own moment and immediate context. It was impossible for them to see the "bigger picture." For example, the Jews really did not know that Jesus was the Christ- they really thought He was a false prophet. Pilate really thought Jesus was worth sacrificing to keep the peace of the ultra sensitive-oppressed-volatile Jewish people. Lastly, the Roman soldiers really believed that by the time someone made it into their hands to be tortured and killed, that they were the scum of the earth and needed to be made an example of so the society they lived in didn't fall into the hands of thieves, robbers, and murders.

On the other hand, Jesus- God in the flesh, knew everything in exact and perfect detail. He knew that they had no understanding of what they were "really" doing. Just like Adam and Eve in the Garden at the time of man's first sin. They had no idea that actually eating the fruit was going to bring the curse of evil to all mankind. Therefore, out of love and mercy Jesus has been forgiving ignorant mankind of their sins from the very beginning.

Therefore, the question remains, "Do you forgive like Jesus?" Do you offer the same kind of forgiveness that Jesus gave you? When you are hurt by someone and rejected by even your closest friends can you say, "Father, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing?" "Father, forgive my abuser they do not know what they are doing is scarring my life." "Father, forgive the parent that left me, they did not know the pain that I would face as a child." "Father, forgive the cheater, the liar, and the criminal because they do not know how this affects everyone else."

As you remember Jesus and the cross at this season, please remember forgiveness, mercy, and love. Read carefully the words of Jesus in Matthew 6:14-15, "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins."

Reading: Matthew 18:21-35, 1 John 2:1-2, & Luke 23:26-56.

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641