This post is part of a series on my personal reasons for not becoming involved in social drinking. These are my beliefs to which I arrived after studying the subject and examining the effects of alcohol. This is not to be an exhaustive series, but a short series to challenge your mind.

Before reading this post, I would encourage you to read Part #1 and Part #2.

Considered to be the 8th best advertising campaign in history¹, The battle raged in the early 90’s “Tasted great! . . . Less filling!” I am not sure about wine and other alcoholic beverages, but I do know the beer commercials have a tendency to become part of American culture. If you are in disbelief, consider the Clydesdales, the “best” Super Bowl commercials and the famous phrase, “It doesn’t get any better than this.” The media of alcohol fills our culture.

As Christians, we are affected by culture. Even though Paul states that Christians are to be the living sacrifices of the world (Romans 12.1,2). Paul further expresses his thoughts concerning what is termed as “Christian living” in Ephesians 5.17-21,

“Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.”

Paul uses a very interesting phrase that many over look; the phrase is short and simple, but the context of Paul’s writing is huge. Here is the statement, “And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit…” What is filling your life?

Are our lives filled with the Spirit or do we cloud them with other things? I prefer to be sure my life is filled with the Spirit and it does not become clouded with the influence of alcohol.

Additional Points:

Others have researched the words behind Ephesians 5.17-21 and have a point I believe is worth a look. Many people believe the word drunk is the process of arriving at a state of drunkenness that begins at the first drink. Here is a quick bullet list of the thoughts which are related to the definition of the words:

• The word “drunkenness” in Ephesians 5:18 means more that what many people realize.
• Vine’s Dictionary – “To make drunk, or to grow drunk, marking the process of the state expressed, to become intoxicated.”
• Young and Haynes – “To begin to be softened.”
• E.W. Bullinger – “To grow drunk.”
• Thayer – “To get drunk, to become intoxicated.”

I hope my thoughts challenged you in your life. I see my purpose is to challenge others out of their comfort zone and to challenge them to search their beliefs more often.

Just my thoughts,

Earlier this week, I began writing my personal beliefs on why I do not drink. If you have not read “Why I Do Not Drink – Part #1” I encourage you to read it before continuing.

Having fought the battle over alcohol as a beverage before I see that is causes great emotional stress to others. For some reason, the personal choice to drink weighs heavily on people shoulders as they determine what course to take in life.

When one appeals to social drinking the phrase, “A little won’t hurt” usually appears in the discussion. I wonder if those words are spoken out of study or out of personal preference?  I do not hesitate to say the majority speak out of personal preference of finding a way to justify their actions. To further justify actions one will say , “The Bible does not say that I can’t; so a little won‘t hurt.” Can one participate in pornography because “a little won’t hurt?” The Bible does not specifically speak against pornography, so can one view it a “little bit” and not be harmed?

(By the way, the Bible speaks of principles and morality which leads one to find pornography as a sin even though the Bible no where says, “Thou shalt not view pornography.”)

Many people tell me their drinking does not bring a buzz, but it is a social thing. I wonder when the actual buzz occurs. In the 1960’s during am American Medical Association meeting a phrase in the minutes stands out regarding the effects (buzz) of alcohol,

“There is no minimum blood alcohol concentration which can be set at which there will be absolutely no effect.”

Furthermore, how does one tell the point where they get a buzz?

The early philosophers of the day have some interesting words regarding ancient wine. To understand the words used, we must determine the meaning by definition, language, context and culture. Culture does not make something right, but it assist in understanding the words. Here are some words from people of times past:

Early Words:

• “…though called wine, it has not the effect of wine, for it does not taste like wine and not intoxicate like ordinary wine.” (Aristotle, 384-322 BC)
• "For all sick, wine is most useful when its forces have been broken by strainer.” [“Protropos” is] "must  which flows spontaneously from grapes.” (Pliny, 24 – 79 AD)
• Regarding first century wine, “you can drink 100 glasses without fear of intoxication.” (Horace)

Just my thoughts,

This subject is not an easy one because of the personal emotions, personal actions and background will be a part of the discussion. Even the Bible brings this subject to light by proclaiming it a blessing (Psalm 104.15) and condemnation Proverbs 4.17. An examination of the words of the Bible as well as a few points in the background provide for an interesting discussion.

Having friends outside of church who invite us to parties and other neighbor events usually brings a discussion of things. Some find out I am a minister and immediately tell me the last time they read the Bible. Others will say. "That’s nice." and proceed to the other side of the room.  Others will continue to discuss religion and problems of the world. The best part for me is when someone offers me a beer and I respectfully turn it down and see the look on their face; that is when the questions usually start.

It is also like my heart doctor, who told me that because of my medical condition I should have a glass of wine a day, then followed with, “You are young. Get out and drink and get close to God when you are old.”

One of the frustrations I have experienced as a minister is to hear Christians bragging over drinking alcohol. It drives my head spinning because I have seen the drastic and traumatic effects of alcohol in people lives.  I have seen families destroyed, marriages broken and lives lost. This is not to say that others areas of life have brought dramatic effects, but drinking, in my experience, has brought more of those events, more long lasting effects and is less likely to be thought of as the problem.

When making a decision to drink I would ask you consider the others in your life. Recently, in a discussion with someone who has not religious leanings, the topic of alcohol came up. The individual mentioned going to a denominational minister’s house only to be stunned when the minister was serving beer at a "church function." The individual recounted how weird it was to see someone who, especially being a minister, was serving alcohol at a "church event." This individual went on to explain to me how inconsistent that seemed with the beliefs of a Christian. Is consistency as issue when it comes to drinking?

For me, it is a question of wisdom. The words of Solomon ring in my ears when I see others, especially Christians drinking, "Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise." (Proverbs 20.1; ESV) Those words are from the pen of one of the wisest men to walk the Earth and he shares his wisdom with his readers.

Solomon continues his thoughts on drinking alcohol in Proverbs:

“Do not look at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup and goes down smoothly. In the end it bites like a serpent and stings like an adder. Your eyes will see strange things, and your heart utter perverse things. You will be like one who lies down in the midst of the sea, like one who lies on the top of a mast. ‘They struck me,’ you will say, ‘but I was not hurt; they beat me, but I did not feel it. When shall I awake? I must have another drink.’"

 

(Proverbs 23.31-35; ESV)

Tomorrow brings “Why I Do Not Drink – Part #2.”

Just some thoughts for today,

When Thomas Jefferson penned his reply to the Dansbury Baptist Association of Danbury, I do not think even ever considered the depth to which his words would be used.  The phrase “separation of church and state” sat in the text of the letter for years before it was used to divide religion from the founding principles of the Republic.

In Separation of Church and State: What the Founders Meant, David Barton examines Jefferson’s text in the context which the letter was written as well as the context of the words used during the period the letter was written. Mr. Barton’s in-depth analysis of the culture as well as the background of the text gives new understanding to Jefferson’s words.

From an examination of the First Amendment’s “Establishment Clause and the “Free Exercise Clause”, David Barton examines what the founders meant in the writings of the beginning documents of our country; bringing to light such words as religion, denomination and church in their 18th century context.

David Barton expounds on the decision in the courts as to the wording of Jefferson and how the courts spoke from the phrase “Church and State” and not the context of the writing as well as redefining the words according to their decision. (see page 14 regarding the 1962 Decision Engel v. Vitale)

Following his writing in other works, David Barton quotes from the Founding Father as well as the court decisions to make a valid point in his examination of the phrase, “separation of Church and State.”

Personal Note:

• Education in Jefferson’s phrase “separation of Church and State” should be examined in context. It should also be examined by your own mind instead of taking for granted what is continually mentioned on television, radio and other media.
• This post contains link to the Preacher’s pen Amazon affiliate link. A small percentage (4% – 6%) of your purchase goes back to the work of the Preacher’s Pen.

Just my thoughts,

I have considered whether or not to share this list with you, but I find it relevant to each congregation. Some points will hit a nerve and I imagine I will get some interesting emails as a result but my responsibility is to challenge you out of your comfort zone and make you move.

I believe congregations will face some challenges in 2012 they have not faced before. Small congregations will face the same challenge as larger ones, but the effects and consequences will be felt differently.

The list of “6 Things the Church Must Respond To” is my list, no one else’s. I feel the challenges in the future of the church are going to weigh heavy on the shoulders  of those leading, serving, preaching and loving. The effects will be seen not only in the current generation, but future generations.

Future generations could face unprecedented challenges and turmoil as a result of our inaction. I am asking you to consider your actions for yourself, but also for the generations beyond our own. We must act, we must respond and we must do so now.

“6 Things the Church Must Respond To”

• Laziness – Call it slothfulness, call it inactivity, but call it what it is – laziness! In writing his letter, James makes it pretty clear, “Be doers of the words, not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.”  (James 1.22) Notice James is writing to all his readers, not a select group. It is the responsibility of all Christians to grow. The Hebrews writer take a different approach than most in his challenge to his readers in Hebrews 5.11-14 by showing them what happened when they did not grow.

• Entitlement – At the end of this life, not everyone gets trophy. This is not like my daughter’s soccer team where everyone gets a trophy no matter whether they worked hard or they never showed up for a practice, they still get a trophy. The “Participant Theory” of handing out trophies even for those who had the opportunity but decided to do not work, will reek havoc in the church.

• Leadership – John Maxwell says, “Everything rises and falls on leadership.” I happen to believe he is exactly right. Leaders need to be grown on our congregations not chosen at the last moment or during a eldership sermon. Leaders should be leading every day.  The church needs leaders to be shepherds of action and those actions go beyond paying the bills, they involve working among the flock. I believe we need leaders who lead the flock, not lead a stack of bills.

• Youth Group Priority – OK, this is where many people will get upset, but realize the facts. The majority of parents I talk to today want “something for their children.” Instead of searching for the priority of the Father, I believe many are making their children the priority.  I understand the views of others, but I believe they are wrong. For example: various people have visited our congregation and said ,”We love it here, but we need something for our children.” After hearing those words I know they are leaving for a larger congregation. What does the future generation see? They see parents unwilling to work and create a group, instead they see parents running to a larger congregation to sit and watch. Be a worker, not a participant. (By the way, I see this other places as well. If everyone who said this would have stayed at our congregation we would have over 15 youth)

• Babysitting – Stop babysitting the members and work towards saving the lost. There is a difference in evangelism and babysitting the members. I often talk with preachers who hear “you need to visit our members more” and I have heard those words myself. But the greater question is, “Shouldn’t we be making the majority of our contact with those outside of Christ?” We need Shepherds to visit the flock and evangelists to reach the lost. This is a leadership issue and many times a action issue. (See the first point)

•  Selfishness – This is the #1 issue to which the church must respond. From the moment we have the ability to learn, we are taught of “our” achievements and “you” can do it. While self-preservation is a powerful tool, we also need to realize that our actions are not just for ourselves, but they are for others. Our opinions are just that, opinions. The truth is for everyone, time to share it for their best interest, not ours. Stop being selfish!

Just my thoughts,

First, notice I did not say this is “6 Reason I Do Not Comment On Your Blog,” it is “6 Reasons I Do Not Read Your Blog.” There is a difference.  There are many blogs I read each week, but rarely do I comment. Just because I do not comment is not meant to say it was not a good article, my thoughts would not have added anything significant to the article itself.

There are several blogs I read from time to time and greatly enjoy. They challenge me and cause me to think about what I believe. To them, I graciously say thank you and keep writing. To the others, here are “6 Reasons I Do Not Read Your Blog.”

• I did not know you had a blog – There are millions of blogs out there, but I need to know why I should read yours. Give me a reason to read what you write; state your purpose and write it as well as live it. Promote it! Use Facebook, Twitter, Google+, email or another way and tell others why they need to be inspired you.
• You write the status quo – I am not interested in the status quo, I want material that is relevant and challenging, not the typical words every one knows, but words from your heart. Stop holding back from making people upset and challenge their minds so they can begin living better. Remember, Jesus was not the status quo.
• I am not challenged – While your writing is good, I find no challenge to go out and live better. It is a page of words, but just words. Give me some inspiration to live better and share the message with others. Challenge me, break me, upset me and most of all keep me on track.
• Tell me about you, not what you know – I want to hear the practicality. I want to hear how you are making knowledge work in your life, your ministry and your family. Having knowledge is extremely important, but I also want to hear how you are using your knowledge. Tell me about it.
• Back up your claims – If you make claims, give me a source. I want evidence which makes sense, not facts that are misrepresented.
• Show compassion – You might show compassion for the homeless, the poor and the fatherless, but are you showing compassion for your enemies. Stop bashing them and begin praying for them before you write. In fact, give me the facts about them and let me see what you mean.

So, why aren’t you reading my blog?

Just a thought,

The word “blog” bugs me. It sounds like some weird disease. Anyway, thanks for stopping by.

This is written from the perspective of a visitor. Last year, my family and I took the entire month of February away from local ministry and travelled to various congregations, both near and far, and enjoyed some time visiting. We learned much about the attitudes of congregations towards visitors and it is reflected in the words below.

Let the words challenge you and make you uncomfortable. If they anger you, get up and do something about them. If you think they are right, get up and change the way your congregation is seen in your community.

Here they are, “6 Reasons Why I Do Not Attend Your Congregation”

• “When I visited, you asked me to full out a visitor card, talked about how much you appreciate visitors but no one spoke to me.”

• “I saw no joy in your congregation. As the church sang ‘To Canaan’s Land’ no one was smiling and they sang like a funeral. I thought Jesus was a joy not a bore.”

• “I saw a Bible, but I never saw Bibles. I thought Christians were people who studied the book not talked about studying the book.”

• “Your services talked about being lights in a dark world, but I never heard of your congregation before today. You said your church has been around for 50+ years and I grew up here and never knew of you.”

• “I felt awkward because I had to sit on the second row because all of your members sat in the back and on the aisle seat. They seemed glued to their chairs.”

• “You saw that I had children and no one helped me find a Bible class. There were no signs on the doors to help along the way.”

Just some thoughts,

The past few weeks have been silent on the Preacher’s Pen. I have posted a few times on  Top Ten Signs Your Sermon Went Well, the Voting Guide and a quick review on Andy Andrew’s new book, “How to Kill 11 Million People.”

There has been quite a lot going on outside of the Preacher’s Pen blog. Below are some things that have happened over the past two weeks.

• Research – There are several lesson series coming up that are taking some serious research time. The current series, “31 Days with Jesus,” has taken a great amount of research and the future lessons series will take some more research as well. The future series include: “Lamentations,” “The Family of the Bible,” “The Lion and the Lamb” and several other series.
• Future Planning – The future of the Preacher’s Pen looks excellent. Having started as a blog, this site is growing into a full fledged website full of resources to assist others in their ministry.
• Email – The past week has been a series of emails looking for information, discussing problems or inquiring or assistance working out a particular situation. Several calls and emails have come in from preachers struggling in ministry. It has been a sad feeling to get the call, but a joyful feeling to be trusted to encourage.
• Visiting – You could actually  call this “hide and seek". Finding visitors and members during the day can be a fun game of “hide and seek.”
• EBook Release – February 1st will be the release of a new Preacher’s Pen eBook (PDF form) of the “Cross of Christ.” As usual, this will be a free resource for you to download.
• Reading – 2012 will be the year of reading. There are many books on the reading list this year. Here is a link to my reading list – click here!

So, what have you been up too in the past few week?

 Upcoming Posts:

• 6 Reasons Why I Do Not Attend Your Congregation (Thursday, January 26th)
• 6 Reasons Why I Do Not Read Your Blog (Friday, January 27th)
• 6 Things the Church Must Respond Too (Monday, January 30th)
• Book Review: Separation of Church and State by David Barton (Tuesday, January 31st)
• “Why I Do Not Drink Alcohol” – Part #1 (Wednesday, February 1st)
• “Why I Do Not Drink Alcohol” – Part #2 (Thursday, February 2nd)
• “Why I Do Not Drink Alcohol” – Part #3 (Friday, February 3rd)
• Book Review: Losing Our Religion by S. E. Cupp (Tuesday, February 7th)
• Book Review: Pastors and Civil Government by David Barton (Tuesday, February 14th)

Expect much more in the coming months!

Just some thoughts for today,

Time for the good.

Just some thoughts,

Ministers often struggle with feedback following the message. While many ministers hear the typical, "Good sermon." followed by a handshake, they would much rather see the benefits of the message in the daily life of Christians. (i. e. – if we preach on evangelism, then see members evangelizing.)

I have decided I would come up with a top ten list of "Signs Your Sermon Went Well." Some are comedic, two are serious.

Top Ten Signs Your Sermon Went Well

1. A visitor requests you apply at their congregation.
2. No one threw a song book.
3. Instead of saying great sermon someone says "I am going to go do something with the message."
4. The elders cancel the meeting they were going to have with you after services.
5. No one offers to pay for you to do mission work in a foreign country for the rest of your life.
6. Members congratulate you for “finally doing it right.”
7. No one gives you a website where you can download sermons.
8. Your congregation stops taking applications.
9. Someone asks you if you are preaching again next week.
10. You preached the gospel of Christ.

What would you add to the list?

Just my thoughts,