What are your church's views on same-sex relationships?

I received an email from someone who attended one of the weddings I officiated this past weekend. This person asked, "What are your church's views on same-sex relationships?" Here is my response. Comments?
----
Dear ________, I'm glad you asked. We believe God loves and values all people. Isn't that awesome? :) It's too bad that he gets such a bad rap in our culture sometimes. He made and created each person to be loved by him and to know him.
The Bible says that all people have been made in his image and with a purpose to be loved by him and to love and serve him (through which like I said
yesterday he reveals this all through the Bible-which by the way is such a great book. What's your history with it?). So based on these truths we then also view relationships by God's design revealed through the Bible. So, to answer your question about same-sex relationships we believe that people are most satisfied and fulfilled in relationships by following God's design which he created between one man and one woman. But we welcome gay people to be a part of our church family. Our church welcomes all people to belong with us as we seek God together. God desires that all people understand his invitation is unconditional to be loved by him and be a part of his family. We love all people in same-sexed relationships. Something that's important to this discussion is that we don't expect anyone to share these same relational beliefs if they don't have a commitment to follow the ways of Jesus, nor do we condemn anyone who doesn't. We are more concerned 1st that people understand God's personal love for them and his desire to restore the world with hope and peace! It's not our desire to bash, harm, or make anyone feel less than. I assume that when you are asking this question it's a personal matter for you or someone you love. This is a personal issue for me in general as my wife and I have close family members and friends in same-sex relationships. We desire to love and accept. I don't know your background with God or his people (the church) but I hope in some way you'll simply hear through these words that God is a loving God, you are loved, and all of humanity is loved by our creator God, and that he has a special design for each person to be loved by him. Email isn't the best venue to discuss these issues, for sure, since it's very easy for misunderstandings. But I would be MORE :) than happy to meet and talk with you or anyone else that is questioning these views. What do you think?

In grace and peace,
Tony

Same suit different tie

2 weddings in 24 hours. One on Saturday and one exactly 20 hours later on Sunday. Now, I now only own one functional suit (that's not a costume). So my one cool suit got some good use this weekend. I just changed my shirt and tie.
Here we are (me and Prego Wife Wendy-isn't she cute? Her bump kinda blends in the black) with our Friends (and owners of fave cafe La Tartine) Huy (Andrew) and Monique, who wed in Palo Alto at the Garden Court Hotel.
They gave away biscotti, a fancy tea bag and cool espresso cups.
It was so funny, because they both already had the same last name. No, they weren't related, but Nguyen (new-winn) is the Vietnamese equivalent of Smith. Convenient for the Bride when it comes to name change.

Angelo and Christina got married in PCC's worship Center. They are becoming a blended family. It was very emotional to witness and a great crowd of their neighbors, friends, family, and co-workers showed up that got to hear about God's love and design for marriage. This was a special ceremony because Christina came to Christ about a year ago and has been changed in some great ways.

Of course I got my groove on.

I love doing weddings. I love being able to bless a couple and speak the truth of God unashamedly!

Preparing for Christmas

Even though Thanksgiving is next week, it's not too early to start talking and preparing for Christmas. I'm so ready for some major change this Christmas. I'm really way over buying and getting gifts. If we don't change simply because we are Christians maybe the economy will be a good enough reason to be different this year.

I love this video challenge, (besides the fact that is says, "go to church." GRRRR). It reminded me that I just really want to be with my family, hang out, eat, see the lights, and possibly even serve together. The exchange of words (and maybe some coffee) would be so much more meaningful that lots of gifts that might not fit--or lets be honest... that we might not like. Besides, it hardly seems right to spend so much money on ourselves with millions of children without parents, clean water, and simple health necessities.

Vlog Episode 5, 11-21-2008 TRT 7:39

Fencing lessons 101

1 Timothy 2:15: Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.
The only weapon God encourages us to wield is the sharped sword of his word. How are you doing in your fencing lessons? It's sad that most of us can quote sports stats, historic dates, and lines from movies more than we can verses in the Bible.
Remember how Frodo had no idea how to defend himself. As a Hobbit, he wasn't trained how to use a sword so he was at the mercy of his enemies. And we know how he spent much of his time running from those who were after him. This is true of many followers of Christ. We end up weak against worldly pressures, with out integrity, void of God's power, and defeated by our enemy. It's our privilege and responsibility to read, study, memorize, apply, and share God's word. How are you doing in this area?

My wife has spiral bound index cards next to our bed.
A few weeks ago she pulled them out and challenged my knowledge of scripture. She uses each card to write a verse that speaks truth in her life, reminds her of her identity, and points her to God's love and purposes. This little spiral thing now acts as training in the sword to combat lies. Now, I am doing it and I also passed out 30 of these spiral guys to those who attended our fall retreat. My small group is using it as a way to memorize the word, find truths that apply to specific situations, and keep accountable. I encourage you to be proactive and accountable about learning and applying God's word. Too many of us are believing and living lies when we have full access to God's truth at our finger tips to right our mind.
If you have other ways of memorizing God's word please share.

Thanksgiving lunch

A week and a half away from Thanksgiving 2008.
Would you like to participate? Do you know someone who would?

This will be our 6th consecutive year!
Thursday November 27th. 11:30am-2pm @ PCC

Would you like to be involved? Here are our needs! Many of these are great 1st SERVE OPPORTUNITIES to invite people to join you. REMINDER: This is not just an “outreach” lunch. It is a family gathering for our whole church and community. A time to be together. Please simply call it: THANKSGIVING LUNCH In fact, if you just want to come and eat with your friends and family, THAT’S GREAT, TOO! Please pass this on to anyone in your ministries and distribution groups!

If you would like to be involved reply back with what area you would like to serve in.

1-Driving/picking up our guests (using your own car or PCC vans people from Street Church and other local areas):

2-Greeting and welcoming people (hosts/docents on the day of to greet and make people feel comfortable)

3-Decorating: (Create a beautiful atmosphere in the fellowship center for our lunch--which starts Wednesday night)

4-Live Music :( Acoustic, Piano, singing, anything to spice up the air with sound).

5-Clean up Crew: (We must leave our facility better than when we walked in-and we need a whole different crew to relieve those who are cooking/setting up).

6-Donating/Cooking food-We need tons of food: pre-cooked and delivered to our PCC kitchen. We also need chefs and those gifted in hospitality.-Led by Cheri Hurst.

7-“Coat Room”: Each year we the fireside room is filled with coats and other clothes for people in need. We need set up and items arranged and monitored.

8-Kids’ coordinator: Each year we have many children join our lunch and we would love to have someone coordinate a craft or activity.

9-Community Promotions/Reservations Coordinator-We are looking to bless our community and need someone gifted in “public relations” that can get the word out and connect with shelters, and other facilities that house people who may need a good lunch and a ride on Thanksgiving Day.

If there is some way you would like to serve but don’t see it on here, just let me know. All coordinating will be done by email and then we will have a meeting on November 23rd, at 12:30pm the Sunday before Thanksgiving, to firm up final details!

Fall Retreat Video, 2008

From last week's retreat in Twain Harte. Can anyone help me? Why is the video so fuzzy--and other youtube videos seem perfect?

Dallas LeadNow Day 3

The final day of the conference.
God knew what I needed. I need time to hear from him. It's obvious that my life (busyness, practicality, ministry) can often crowd out God's voice and plan for my life. My eyes are puffy from tears, my mind is overwhelmed with truth, my heart is full of emotion, my body is tired... but I feel refreshed. He removed me from my normal life/responsibilities and spoke over and over truths that I know that I need to work and act upon. Is it any surprise that 1-God yearns for alone time with us to shower his love and 2-God wants to use us to bless and restore the world? NO! We know these things, right? Why aren't we taking more action? I could not get away from God's wooing of me and I can't avoid his call on my life. Part of that being to care for orphans. I will be actively praying and seeking ways to act on God's mandate to care for children. We (the Gapastiones) and WE (the Church) need to take action on this. Please pray as I seek God's direction and the resources of his people.

God loves a cheerful (hilarious) giver. -2 Corinthians 9:7.

If you are a part of PCC's young adult community, you'll hear the stories of God's working these past three days. When truth is spoken, and his people are receptive, change is inevitable. I'm really excited to see what God does in this group who came and how they grow into God's leaders within our community!

It was great to see, hang, and pray with Matt, too. He got some pics that I didn't. Check it.

I also found a new song I liked (used in one of the conference videos) by the Killers. It's called Human which has an interesting explanation here.

Dallas LeadNow Day 2

Let's see. Day 2. God is speaking to me. My journal is filling. I'm overwhelmed, amazingly encouraged, tired, ready, scared, raw, and loving my savior more. Getting voice mails from my wife and daughter don't help keep my eyes dry, either. I can't believe my little 19 month old can say, "Hi Daddy, I love you."

So, I've been in sessions, meals, and concerts for 14 hours today. I don't have much but I know I must get a few thoughts out. Here are some quotes:
Washington D.C. isn't going to change the world, the Church is.-Erwin McManus
If we truly read the word of God, and lived it out, what kind of Church would we be?-Francis Chan.
The Bible isn't a book of "How to's" it's a book of "Why's."--Donald Miller
Above is Erwin Mcmanus, who seriously looks a lot like Lou Diamond Phillips,
reminded us that faith is NOT safe. We must dream dreams that we are passionate about and that will also benefit and bless the world (not just merely ourselves). This takes discipline to do something risky, that might fail, but that completely depends on God. Francis Chan than challenged us to live by the Spirit and not minimize his power to events/messages/movements that depend on human accomplishments. And Donald Miller confronted us with living in God's story and exhorted us to live a GOOD story: significant, purposeful-with the expectation of conflict, that will draw others in and bless the world.

God change us.

Dallas LeadNow Day 1

I'm blogging from a hotel in Dallas after day one of LeadNow.
We arrived late last night in Dallas, with a sad goodbye to my wife and daughter-- who I already miss greatly. After two short flights we found ourselves eating pizza at midnight (TX time). It was a great start to our 1/2 week together. 8 of us quickly got real and shared stories prompted by questions while mowing some ZA and taking in the Texas air. We started the morning with a Starbucks run before connecting up with my best bud (and former PCC pastor) Matt Nightingale and his new bud and co-pastor Ted from Houston.

So far, it's been great. The building (the facility where the church meets) is great. Colorful, modern, extra-technical, and fully equipped with a cafe. Great speakers, including a favorite: Marcus Buckingham, who emphasizes leading in the areas we are good at and passionate.

Let me recap how God has moved in me (numerous times to tears).
I've been journaling like crazy!

He's touched me and affirmed me in these areas:
*He speaks repetitively: I love you, follow me, take care of my people, & surrender.
*Leaders lead themselves (develop their inner life) before attempting to lead others.
* I am who I am, accept my abilities, lead from my specific strengths, manage my weaknesses- & team with those who are strong where I'm weak.
*Adoption and foster parenting is in our future.
*Leadership must be bold & beneficial, but expect to be misunderstood & possibly not liked when the truth is spoken--in love.
*He uses times of wilderness and pain to increase our dependence on Him.
*God's people are a people of many colors and we must seek to connect with them all.
And that's just day 1!

Reflecting love to my wife on our anniversary!

Four years today! I love marriage and wholeheartedly recommend it. Although it requires work, sacrifice, humility, and much forgiveness, there is nothing like sharing life with your best friend, life-love, and parenting partner! This picture is from our bathroom mirror. Last week I wrote to her about how she models the character of the woman in Proverbs 31. Wendy is a gift to me and I want her to know it. I love using dry erase markers in this way. It's part of the way we work in our marriage to show each other love. It's something I try to encourage all couples to utilize as it's been a great tool for us. Try it. It's a simple way to be creative (with words or pictures) by showing your love for your spouse, roommate, or even yourself (write scripture to remind your of God's truth and how much you are loved by Him). I plan to use this as my kids grow up, too.

Fall Retreat 2008

Here are almost 200 pictures. No joke. They aren't all mine but I shared a USB cable with two other cameras (see if you can guess whose) to expand the selection!

A video will come soon. 

I'm tired. It was good. It was really good. 

Loved being with our community. Loved being able to have my family with me. Loved having other couples join us. Loved being in the word. It was good. 

Btw, Crazy Hats won for the theme.

Put your thinking caps on...

I love retreats. In about 48 hours we'll be nestling in to Brown Bear Cabin, fireplace and all, in Twain Harte California. We eat, laugh, sing, pray, rest and have crazy fun. Included is a sort of "theme night" to give us any reason to dress up.  Last year we sported argyles and folded sweaters for  "Preppy Bowling,"  So I'm doing a poll here on my blog for this year's theme, so far fun hats/head wear is in the lead by 41%, but I'd love some suggestions. Any ideas? What are some fun/easy dress up themes that could work for a night out of bowling? Please share, if anything for just the fun of it and future possibilities. 

If you don't trust, just pray and repent

Remember that old 1989 Prince song, "Trust?" No? Well, that's not such a bad thing-it was on some old Batman movie soundtrack (that I can't find) and it pops in my head when I think about the word trust. We all have been let down in some way, shape or form which has contributed to our "trust issues." Trusting God, trusting friends, and trusting presidents is a challenge, but the votes are in and my prayer and support will be to our President Elect Barack Obama--while my allegiance and worship still belongs to God the Father through Jesus Christ. (McCain would have had my prayer and support, too, as this is not about endorsing political parties. I still have an aversion to claiming a party affiliation. I just want to follow Jesus and wisely engage in politics and culture from an independent viewpoint. As I've stated before neither candidate is the messiah and in my opinion shouldn't take so much of our focus).

So, with that, for my second political post I want to encourage you to read Marc Driscoll's recent blog posted before the election returns. It was insightful and I pray it can remind us to keep putting our focus on God and our need to humble ourselves and rethink what we believe and CHANGE the way we live! I read Romans 13 tonight and was reminded to continue to support and respect those in leadership. Go God, please use Obama. Amen!

Dear Mr. Future President.....

What a wild time for our country right now. I can feel the political tension and excitement rising. It's history in the making. So for my first political post, I wanted to (in a completely NON-partisan way) recommend a book (or two). To all those making hard decisions on this election's ballot, and to all who are fighting for one party or the other, for all who are wondering where your tax dollars really go, and for all who stick one sign or the other proposing whatever proposition in your yard you are proposing: I hope I can sway you to consider reading the story of Wilky. My daughter loves the library and books of all kinds. During our visit to the new library in Redwood Shores, this book caught my attention. I seriously read through the whole thing during the story time. I just smiled and laughed. God used a kid's story about a cockroach to speak to me. In the midst of name-calling, heated debates and a time when (party) pride is prevalent, don't we all just need to loosen up a bit? Shouldn't we all practice a little gentleness and do away with anxiety? I suggest reading this (or any) kids' book so we don't take ourselves to seriously and to remember life isn't always so figured out as we adults think it is. (For an slightly more grown up book I recommend this one). Don't get me wrong, I believe we need to take our country's (and state's) political issues very seriously! But with this who's right, who's wrong, media frenzied election, let's not worry. God is our father and Jesus is our king. There's hope America and his name is not McCain OR Obama. His name is Jesus the Messiah, the Christ, the King, our Savior. So please by all means vote, please pray, please propose, and please remember who's really Commander in Chief.

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Halloween Rant

So, I really have no problem with dressing up in costumes, trick or treating, carving pumpkins, and having a pumpkin pie and/or candy corn stomach-ache. I've done all of the above. I just desire to do so with reasonable discernment and read a lot of stuff that's helped me do so. 

This year my wife and I dressed like Zoo Keepers and took our little Monkey around the town with some friends.
We walked around enjoying a really beautiful RWC Fall night (with only some light rain sprinkling here and there). Isella was a blast, looking cute and saying, "Trick or Treat," and "Halloooo-weeeen." We all just watched our friend's kid get the candy and at each house he made sure to get one for Isella, too. (We just didn't get candy cause my daughters still too young, in our opinion, for chocolate and sweets). 

Now for the rant: One obstacle to our enjoyment of night was seriously the amount of scary images, scary people, and down right scary sounds-in the name of "decorations." Honestly it just seems to me glorification of evil and horror. It was quite the experience in  a short 45 minute jaunt around a local neighborhood with our friends. We were greeted by  a scary woman in a scary-goth-nun costume with a swinging skull head (screaming murderously, non-stop) outside her door, hanging ghosts and goblins from windows and trees and other stuff that scares kids, little kids especially.  This acceptable part of society is really unacceptable to me. It made me feel uncomfortable. I found myself many times trying to shelter Isella's eyes. We wonder why children have nightmares. Thankfully, she's too young to really know what's going on, I hope. I know it's only one month a year, but I think we'll really have to deal with this in greater detail at some point in the future. As we drove home I wondered about maybe starting a safe, non-scary event,  held on our Church's campus. We'll see. When you know God and his goodness...When you know God and the values of his Kingdom, we must be different. I was reminded tonight that we are not of this world. The word of God speaks to us, and we must respond. I'm not trying to be self-righteous or too holy-but on the other hand, if we could do it, humbly, wouldn't we want to be more holy? Food for thought. End of Rant. Now I'm off to eat some pumpkin pie. 

Valeri Lopez

Have you heard of Val Lopez? She was a huge hit when she joined us on our summer retreat, and she will also tag along with us next weekend to Twain Harte. If you are a PCC young adult are you going? Have you signed up? (November 7-9).

I love this song of hers. It's a great song for marriage but also a great song in relationship to God. Listen and see what you think. She will also probably be playing at La Tartine on Sunday night, 11/9, too. She sings some Italian in this song, too. Cool.

God can use CHEESE

In this case I don't mean Gouda or mozzarella (which believe me I know God can use). In this case of the word Cheesy: I mean a word use to describe something that is funny but isn't meant to be, takes itself too seriously and is really not believable, is badly done, silly, and possibly deserves the big bang of the Gong.
It can be used to describe anything really. Clothing, catch phrases, music, message (sermon) illustrations, cars, music, and movies. In this case I am talking about FIREPROOF a movie recently released,

starring every one's favorite 90's actor Kirk Cameron. Before you send me Christian hate mail, I SAW the movie. I supported these Christians who are trying to make a difference, and I laughed and I cried, and was encouraged to love my life more. Seriously. (I'm looking forward to getting the Love Dare book).
But I want to be honest. It just lacked in so many ways. The story lacked the real umph to draw me fully in. The action, if they had a bigger budget, needed a major upgrade. The dialog seemed cardboard, perhaps the non-professional, non-paid actors are to blame, as some of the acting was just not believable. I've seen better acting on our PCC stage in a 10 minute sketch. I admit I have a high standard, but I'm thinking that if we are going to make an impact in the arts we've got to compete with movies that big studios are doing. And maybe that's not the goal: to compete. But I think we need to be careful as Christians not to just promote something as the best movie ever just because it lays out the gospel, has people praying, and mentions Jesus. With that still, I suggest you see it. Especially married people, if you can look past some of the cheese! Wendy and I laughed and rolled our eyes numerous times as some of the silliness, but afterward we prayed, hugged, and made out passionately. :) TMI? So it had a positive affect, gave us some fodder for conversation, and gave me a rant for a blog.

Kirk was actually OK. I'd recast the doctor and the wife. And even though it's a little cheesy, God is using it. People's lives are being impacted. Read stories about it here. I totally appreciate the hearts of those behind the movie (who say they are ministers before they are movie makers) who want to bring God's truths to the big screen and send a positive, Godly message about marriage to the world. I just wonder how many people in the world will see it.

Oh btw, The soundtrack is really good, though. I have it on repeat.

Potty Talk, take 2

Maybe this is true potty talk? No joke, my daughter's Cabbage Patch Kid (note: it was the boy one,) was found like this in her "potty."

 Did this CPK eat one these?

Reflection on Hallowed: art, film, music: Justice

Last night’s Hallowed was inspiring.
Short films, photography, and music all focused on taking action on compassion. Here are some images from the night.




I found myself praying that the church would rise up more in the arts. Why aren’t there more artists in the church serving in this way? The back wall of the space had a clothesline of photography. Beautiful. 


By the way, my new favorite song is POWER OF YOUR NAME by Lincoln Brewster.

Let's move church. Let's take action.

Potty talk

In light of a recent post about manhood and the said faux (I like that word) characteristics about what truly makes a man a man (IE-farting, grunting, etc), I must digress. The content of this post is purely immature, potty humor, none of which adds to my manhood but confirms one of many challenges I have to being a man: bodily functions. ( TMI?)

Although I (and countless other men) can laugh at my dysfunction, oh, my poor wife. She asks me to light a candle, (strategically placed through out the house), daily. This is truly an issue for most guys..and all canines. We can't help but expel foul smells from every possible place. Besides genetic make-up, I tend to blame tasty, not so-good for you, "ethnic delicacies." I guess I'd rather suffer the digestive consequences (that sometimes last for hours or days) for 15 minutes of blissful meal consumption. I could make zillions of spiritual parallels here but I'll just refer back to this post.

I mean, come on! What would you expect to happen when choosing to eat a menu item named "SHRIMPS OF THE DEVIL?" Nothing less than a sort of exorcism of the bowels.

And what's with Taco Bell's newest menu item? Are you kidding me? I call this as Jim Gaffigan's next act. The Volcano Taco? Cheesy lava sauce? Who comes up with this? We know where that's gonna explode. You won't just be running for the border, that's for sure.
Do tacos need any catchy, colorful, explanatory, name whatsoever? Taco. Burrito. Enchilada. They speak for themselves and we know what to expect. But if we really need a new name that appropriately explains consequences, I have a suggestion.

MONTEZUMA'S ENCHILADA! The ultimate Explosion!

(Only 89 cents).

(BTW, I dedicate this post to my friend Derek Balavac who by far wins the Oscar in adding to the foulness of society's olfaction. His wife deserves your prayer).

Fall imix

This imix comes out of starting the Fall in September, dealing with death, and remembering my weaknesses and need for God. I found myself weeping and dancing all at the same time while listening to this mix in a coffee shop. Some of these songs are ones we sing as a church together on Sunday Nights at PCC, others are songs I've found (and had for a while) that lift me up.

Hallowed this Saturday 10/25/08

6th Annual Hallowed: an underground awakening – This Saturday, October 25th at 7 pm – Club Oasis, 200 N First St. San Jose. The theme is “Lens” which will be focused on compassion. View Short films and photography. Experience partnerships with other churches, and hear a myriad of music genres. Hear music by this band AFTER SUNDAY.



Here are videos from the past:

2007


2006



Hear music by this band AFTER SUNDAY.

Please support the arts. This is quality art, music, and film produced by Christians. We have participated in this event over the past few years and always been glad we did.

Crazy long post re: Revelation 2:8-17 notes

As a Church, we are studying Revelation and being blessed for just reading it. We are approaching this book as a tool for growing in our discipleship, for learning more about Jesus and who he is, who we are, and who the church is called to be. Revelation is about REVEALING who Jesus is. Listen to my talk here: and if you like check out my scrapbook of notes below.

Sunday I did a quick recap:
John, last listing disciple of Jesus, wrote it. He was in his 80's.
Imprisoned/exiled on the Island of Patmos
96AD (Remember some say the Disciples were teens at the time of Jesus)
This revelation came to him AS HE WAS WORSHIPPING. Jesus revealed himself and spoke to him about the churches, his kingdom, himself, and his future reign. During a time when there was much persecution of the church under the reign of a king named Domitian. I suggest listening to the previous talks by PCC's lead pastor here.

THE BOOK OF REVELATION IN GENERAL IS MORE THAN JUST PROPHECY AND APOCALYPTIC LITERATURE-in fact theologian N.T. Wright says that Revelation was more about inspiring 1st Century Christians in the truth then forecasting dates and times. IT WAS AND IS MEANT TO BE A DISCIPLESHIP TOOL both for early Christians and for us today!
In the beginning of John’s Revelation-Jesus spoke a word to seven churches. These seven churches really existed at the time (see Map above), and had real teaching, warning, praise, and correction. But in totality all 7 letters summarized are a complete word to the whole universal church. Symbolically in the Bible 7 is complete number! In Revelation 2: 8:17 Chapter 2 focused on two letters-the one to Smyrna and to Pergamum.

Quick letter recap: Each of the seven letters has the same pattern.
1-Jesus introduces/identifies himself—and in a different way each time
2-Jesus encourages the church
3-Jesus rebukes the church (if they needed it)
4-Jesus corrects the church
5-Jesus promises to the church

-Smyrna-Revelation 2:8-11
Is the modern Izmir, in Turkey. A port city. A beautiful city. Smyrna claimed -on its coins-- to being the "first city of Asia in size and beauty.” Perhaps this is why Jesus presented himself as the 1st and the last to this city took pride in it’s being “1st.” They had lots of wealth (and gold) in which to glorify themselves, but the Christians there remained separate.


Smyrna was one of the only two churches in which Jesus does not rebuke for sinful behavior. Jesus commended his church for not worshipping the glitz of the city or bowing down to the emperor and pagan idol worship. In fact, Jesus commends them for being rich (in faith, integrity—eternal treasure) which was reflected in their perseverance through tribulation. It was said that these Christians were rejected and boycotted by the city because they wouldn’t conform to the culture (of idol worship,etc) and their businesses and livelihood were affected—literally impoverishing them. But what was more important was their heart and posture of worship and God-honoring living. Jesus blesses them—and doesn’t say he’ll take the persecution away—in fact-- the message to Smyrna promises that the congregation will soon face a more persecution, linked to a synagogue of Satan (v. 9) ---composed of those who say they are Jews and are not. Like the "false apostles" who had come to Ephesus, these “said” Jews are liars claiming to be something other than what they are. Most commentators identify this group as actual ethnic Jews in Smyrna who refused to accept Jesus as Messiah (See Paul's distinction between "outwardly" and "inwardly) –And history says these Jews were even responsible for reporting their refusal to worship to Rome and it’s said that these Jews could even have participated in the martyring of faithful Christians.

What stands out here in the commendation is connected to what James 1 says.

Jesus closes his 2nd letter with a promise to those who “overcome.” This is again reference to the affliction in vs. 9, and the testing in 10. Both of these refer strictly to persecution (Greek word thlipsis means "being pressed upon from an outside source." Although God wants us to cast our “other” cares on him and overcome our personal struggles such as debt issues, relational woes, health issues, etc—this particular passage strictly deals with overcoming the persecution of our faith. So how does this apply to us here in America? Much like we talked about when we studied Daniel chapter 3 during the summer, a majority of our persecution in the US here won’t be like that of 1st century Christians-or that 21st century war stricken/extreme Muslim controlled territory. But we do have "idol worship" here (comfort, culture, money, sex, things, etc) and we will face possible rejection from our friends/families, co-workers, teachers/professors, neighbors etc., when we don't bow down to it. —we may be labeled intolerant, stereotyped and misunderstood for taking particular stands. Now remember this does not give us license to be rude, condemning, cold, argumentative, condescending, or snobbish.

The Christians in Smyrna were being rejected for the bold stands-so much that their businesses were going under—losing homes, etc. Today, the stands that we might take for God i.e.-for integrity in your business practices, you might not be in a relationship because of your purity standards, you definitely won't be POPULAR on your high school an college campuses. You might not be the most sought after story-teller in the locker room, but what you will have is God's affirmation on you as you stand firm. Jesus says to his disciples in Mark, 13:13 that people will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm until will be saved. So what do we do with real life issues and conversations around the water cooler, coffee shop, cafeteria, park, and neighborhood or wherever you find yourself.

Two topics currently come to mind that might bring a "persecution." For example totally relevant right now is current political issues in the election like life and propositions on definition of marriage. Or even Halloween (Purchase an E-book here). Glorifying murder and evil acts, entertainment by fear. We need to be informed. If the Bible is our authority we will take stands that make us different from the world.


How do we handle these things?
With grace and patience. We must not argue, we must not fight or condescend .
Are we willing to be labeled? Intolerant, misunderstood, prude, and unpopular? Are we as Christians in business with honest practices, willing to "become poor" in order to honor God?

1 peter 3 But do this with gentleness and respect, 16keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. 17It is better, if it is God's will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. 1

Jesus was commending the church in Smyrna for holding their faith and integrity—and weren’t willing to give it up for financial security, popularity, nothing..

The heart of Jesus’ message was to continue be faithful to the end—to be free from the 2nd death (hell/lake of fire, eternal separation from God. -rev 13 & 14 foreshadow the need for the saints to be patient and have endurance.

-Pergamum-Revelation 2:12-17

To Pergamum,16 miles inland, Jesus presented himself as the one who hold the
Double-edged sword: which represents the word of God (Hebrews 4:12). Jesus presents himself in this way because 1st—the church met in city that had huge thrones for idol worship-Zeus being one of them (So much that Jesus calls it the place where Satan lives.—some say Satan actually could have been dwelling there at the time, since he is not omnipresent or that this reference was to one of temple gods Asklepius.

thought to be a healer who healed with snakes-hence the parallel Satan. Interesting though, that the AMA uses the symbol for this Greco-Roman medicine god, today. (I am not saying that modern medicine is evil, no, just interesting that it's a part of our culture today and not many of us know that).


Do you recognize this symbol? It is used today. Does this mean that all medicine is evil? No, I am not saying that, just goes to show that there are many influences in our culture that come from the Greco-Roman pagan culture.



Some Christians in Pergamum were lost in waves of theological confusion because of the Nicolatians—who believed that there was a separation between what we did with our body and our Spirit—encouraged people to do whatever they wanted with their bodies-which brought Sexual immorality from within the church. IT wasn’t about their being influenced from without, but from within-they might not have been worshipping pagan Gods—but they were just a little off in their theology which affected how they acted.

We as the church have a responsibility to uphold God’s standards of holiness. Have you taken the spiritual life survey? This is for PCC members, —EXPECTATIONS ON LEAD PASTOR) We all share in the privilege of teaching the ways of Jesus Christ---What was happening in Pergamum happens today. 2 things standout. Within the Church I think there are two groups of people--Somehow some people just miss the complete story—the story of God’s love through Christ, and his plan for our life how it entails right doctrine, right behavior—so we need to teach people, we need to disciple, young believers on the truth. That's why Jesus introduced himself as the double edged swoard! 2nd is simply there are some within the church in outright disobedience. There are Christians who know God’s design but secretly reject it and givein to temptation,. It can come through poor boundaries, weak faith, immature convictions, and lack of self-control. Much like some teachings Paul countered in Corinth. “Everything is permissible.” Do whatever you want with your body, God forgives, and you are separate physical and spiritual. But God wants us body, mind, soul, consecrated for holiness. This was plain truth from Acts 15, 1 Cor 10:7-8. Jesus is giving them time to repent, before he himself comes against them—and FIGHTS THEM (whoa) with the sword of his mouth. Paul calls us as the church to “judge”-meaning call out right and wrong—within the body of believers .

John Macarthur says this is done poorly by the church at large. I think it’s done poorly because we expect the paid pastors to do it (hence the spiritual life survey expectations for lead pastors), or like me sometimes, I'm fearful of confrontation. It’s all of our responsibility to speak the truth in love.

Grand/Parents, are we approving and condoning sexual immorality with TV shows, magazines, books, or movies we allow in our children to watch? Are we engaging in deep, authentic conversations with our friends, brothers, and sisters in Christ? Could our children see any of our habits as characteristics as those that Jesus might be rebuking and addressing here in Revelation 2?

Singles—are you keeping your friends accountable to God-honoring living, and asking your dating friends about their purity? What's your view on couples living together? So you have scripture references to share with your friends about purity?

Lauren Winner in her book, “Real Sex,” says that within the church community—sex is everyone’s business.” That when we correctly handle the beauty of God’s design for sex—only between one man and woman in marriage—we don’t keep those conversations “private/personal”--we celebrate it and discuss it in healthy ways as means care about it for each of the church’s members. Jesus loves us too much not to point this out and hold his church to a high and holy standard. Hebrews 12:14-15. Galatians 6:1-6

Inadvertently, or unintentionally we may allow ungodly behavior to exist within our church family. How does this play out with things like: what we wear, PDA (public display of affection) joking, entertainment choices, magazines we read, facebook status updates and picture postings?
MY ENTOURAGE ISSUE, ya know I LOVE entertainment, films, etc. I was into watching DVDS of HBO's entourage because it was about this actor living in LA and all the behind the scenes stuff with agents, casting directors, etc. But what the show did was glorify one night stands and hook-ups.

I really began to feel uncomfortable watching it. I wondered, what if my wife was in the room? How would she would? I was convicted that I didn't condone this type of behavior and didn't want to spend half of each episode fast forwarding through sex scenes. Overall, this show perpetuated the idea that women were just objects to be used. I didn't need those lies swirling around in my head. I have enough battle to do with out adding to my mind's images! I stopped my viewing of this show to honor God, keep pure, and honor my wife. These are the things that God wants us to compare with his word. Are we truly purified in all that we do?


If we justify little things, we slowly erode. Little things can become big things very quickly.

Galatians 5:7-9,



I’d love to see us be a safe, trusting, grace-filled church that we can say, “Hey I noticed that your updated your facebook status yesterday-and it said you were hanging out with so and so at 11:54pm, how was that? Or I noticed the pics you posted from your Halloween party—had a lot of people holding a lot of plastic red cups. What was in those cups? Or, "Because I care about you and your relationship with God so much, I want to ask you a couple questions about what I'm observing between you and so and so!

Galatians 5, we must care 1-about God and his kingdom values 2-and care about each other enough to address these issues.

When I was in college I did some extra work as a fundraiser/telephone recruiter. It was for a Christian organization and it was really just an easy job and a lot of my friends did it, we could make our own schedules and eventually I because a student director, which meant I got a set of keys and had a few extra responsibilities. One night I went in after hours,because I had left something at the desks— all the lights were off and I took the elevator up to the third floor and walked down the hall way toward the caller cubes—when I saw a light toward the end of the hallway. That's when I saw one of my supervisors looking at pornography.
The flickering computer light and bodily images sucked him so much that he was in a trance. He didn't even see me—I backed out, frozen, and didn't say anything. Ever. More than a decade later, I wonder (with grief and sorrow in my heart for not confronting the issues)
What has happened to him? Did he have an addiction? Did he ever get help? Is he married now? Divorced? Did he ever damage anyone else in the wake of sin? I felt a tremendous sorrow for not taking action for what I might have helped prevent. I was too scared of the reaction. I didn't rely on God's Spirit for courage. I didn't care about him, God, or the community at large. I cared more about myself and how I might feel if the confrontation didn't go well.

It reminded me how Uncle Ben, PeterParker/Spiderman's adopted father, lost his life because Peter didn't stop a burglar when he had the chance.

He was too self focused to take a stand and therefore the consequence was the murder of his Uncle by this very same burglar later in the day.

Doesn't the same thing happen in the church when we aren't willing to confront sin from within?
Will you be willing to step up and help other beleivers in our church with their walk with God? Jesus is looking that his whole church be pure and holy and this means that we all have the priveledge of helping each other do so!


If you or someone you know has pornography issues, visit NOV 6th's event by PornNation in San Jose. Pass this info on.

Are you aware of anything—any attitudes or behaviors that don’t obey God’s standards--or are you waiting for someone else to deal with it?



I ask those of you who are mature Christians to step into mentoring roles and leadership roles. We have many young men and women—and new Christians who need your guidance. (PCC Student Ministries is currently lacking leaders for their small groups).

PARENTS—this is a givein—but let me remind you what PCC has been teaching for years—YOU ARE THE PRIMARY PASTOR..we get the great priveledge to raise up godly men and women that live lives that hoor God—to be a part of his bride the church..

Do you need some affirmation in your faith? Who knows you to be able to see where you are growing?

Are you fearful of stepping out in boldness for fear of persecution?
Are you aware of anything in your life, or in the life of another that needs to be gracefully pointed for repentance?
Have you overlooked something that has caused damage?

Are you running the race as if to win?

There are many interpreations to this white rock reference in Revelation 2: 17. The one I thought was especially meaningful was this the white rocks given as special invitations to victorious atheletes. In ancient times white rocks symbolized entrance to the victory celebration. Just like those of us who are invited into the celebration of enternity with a new name-a new identity given to us by Jesus in our newness after we die!





So today, celebrate someone for standing firm. Pray with and for someone who lives out their faith authentically and with perseverance.

Sex is everybody's business

I am loving preparing for my message this Sunday on Revelation 2:8-17. Thanks to the 2 (uh, what's  up the that, come on help me out) people who helped contribute digitally (one on my blog and one on facebook).

I'm especially challenged with the need for the church to actively participate in encouraging holiness! Check out Revelation 2:12-17. If we are aware of any followers of Jesus that are involved activity that compromises God's design for sex, we need to LOVE THEM  enough to point it out. It's all our business. In fact, that's what Lauren winner says in her book (I just got it) Real Sex.  She has this chapter called, "Communal Sex: Or why your neighbor has any business asking what you did last night."

Sex, in the church, is every one's business. (Listen to part 1 of her talk here). (And Part 2 Here) Since God designed for it to be celebrated between one man and one woman in marriage it's supposed to be a good thing. And ultimately keeping it like that affects everyone around. We should be encouraging Christian singles, marrieds, divorcees, widows, etc. all in the same way to keep, honor, and celebrate God's design. Which means it's OK (and we should) to ask a fellow follower of Christ, "How's your sexual purity and how's it going honoring God with your sex life?" In doing so, we honor God and bless others. If some one's not a proclaimed follower of Christ, it's NOT OK to expect that they uphold, or would want to honor, God's design. But it's great to dialog with people in grace-filled ways that

are respectful and kind. 

Also. Check out Hebrews 12:1-16, especially vs 15-16  that says many (that's us, and people you know) can be "defiled" if we don't honor God with our lives and our sin isn't held accountable. It's all our responsibility. 

Join us Sunday October 19th, 9:15am, 11am, 5:30pm

While trying to study Revelation...I checked entertainment news.

Ok, so I already confessed this a few posts back, but I've always liked Madonna's music (note I said her music). I grew up with posters of her on my wall and busted dance moves to her honor in my basement (we had those things in Illinois).  Ya, it was probably a boyhood crush, but she was, and is, an amazing, expressive artist-even though she causes much controversy. So, for whatever reasons, I've followed her, prayed for her, wondered about her, and tonight I'm sad for her. 

According to Yahoo News, Madonna is getting a divorce, for the second time. I don't share this as entertainment gossip, but as real prayer worthy news. She's a celebrity and think what you want about the glitz & glam of Hollywood culture (I have this on-going love/frustration tension with it), but  she's an icon in our culture. She influences millions. And even though I'm sure her publicist will say, "they'll remain close friends," or something that publicists often say, she's hurting and her kids are hurting. I just see her as one very public figure on a huge quest to find herself ....and the true God who made her.

Pray for her. Pray for Guy Ritchie. Especially the kids. Lourdes, Rocco, David (adopted from Malawi). Pray for her to come near to the real God and to see the truth through her (incorrect theological) practices of Kabbaalah.

As a child of divorce myself, I know the pain of broken family. So tonight, I pray for families, children, spouses, and anyone who has suffered through this kind of pain.

Studying the last letter in the book

Peninsula Covenant Church (PCC)  is studying the book of Revelation. What an undertaking. We have every Sunday slated until June to study and discuss the book. Before the great, sometimes misunderstood,  battle of the dragon and the lamb come some great theology about Jesus and the Church. The letters to the seven churches are full of amazing encouragement, warning, and correction in the beginning of John's Revelation. This week I am tackling Revelation 2, the letters to the churches that met in Smyrna and Pergamum (Rev 2:8-17). I will be speaking at PCC's worship center at 9:15am, 11am, and 5:30pm. I would love your prayer. I would also love your insight. I want to know what people think is important to include in interacting with this part of the apocalyptic scripture. 

What do you observe, from simply reading the text, that stands out?

What questions arise from this scripture that you, or others might have?

I'd love your help in shaping the message.