222mission

The Prodigal

2010-06-10T12:44:00.000-07:00

In my previous post I recommended a book & sermon series on the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32). Below is another "version" of the same parable, this time in the form of a song and visual. This video was featured at the recent NEXT 2010 conference.

The Prodigal
By Meghan Baird and Ryan Baird
As recorded on Sons & Daughters

You held out Your arms, I walked away
Insolent, I spurned Your face
Squandering the gifts You gave to me
Holding close forbidden things
Destitute, a rebel still, a fool in all my pride
The world I once enjoyed is death to me
No joy, no hope, no life

Where now are the friends that I had bought
Gone with every penny lost
What hope could there be for such as I
Sold out to a world of lies
Oh to see Your face again, it seems so distant now
Could it be that You would take me back
A servant in Your house

You held out Your arms, I see them still
You never left, You never will
Running to embrace me, now I know
Your cords of love will always hold
Mercy’s robe, a ring of grace
Such favor undeserved
You sing over me and celebrate
The rebel now Your child

© 2009 Sovereign Grace Worship (ASCAP)

Summer Kick Off Recap

2010-06-03T20:16:00.000-07:00

We had a good turnout for the summer kick-off last night. It was good to see several new highschool grads join us! We enjoyed burgers & fellowship and I shared a brief introduction to the summer study on parables. As a way to continue the parable theme, I gave away a copy of John MacArthur's book "A Tale of Two Sons," which is about one of the most well-known parables in our Bible - the prodigal son. Drew Savary was our winner!
For the rest of you, I want to commend Pastor MacArthur's sermon series on this parable (from which the book is derived). You can listen or download the 3-part series here for free. I can assure you that this will be one of those sermon series that you'll always remember. Consider MacArthur's description of the parable:

Of all Jesus’ parables, this one is the most richly detailed, powerfully dramatic, and intensely personal. It’s full of emotion—ranging from sadness, to triumph, to a sense of shock, and finally to an unsettling wish for more closure. The characters are familiar, so it’s easy for people to identify with the prodigal, to feel the father’s grief, and yet still (in some degree) sympathize with the elder brother—all at the same time. The story is memorable on many levels, not the least of which is the gritty imagery Jesus invokes. The description of the prodigal as so desperately hungry he was willing to eat husks scavenged from swine food, for instance, graphically depicts his youthful dissolution in a way that was unspeakably revolting to His Jewish audience.
Read more here.

I'll be posting more links, quotes & articles related to the parables & other helpful topics all summer, so come back often. In fact, the best way to keep up with the blog is to subscribe by email. It's easy, spam free and you'll only get emails when the blog is updated. Click here to subscribe.

NEXT 2010 Conference Audio

2010-06-02T07:11:00.000-07:00

I just downloaded all 7 sessions from the recent NEXT conference hosted by Sovereign Grace Ministries. I'm almost done listening to Josh Harris' opening message entitled, "What are You Built On?" In this message, Josh reminds us of the importance of sound doctrine (keep in mind that this conference is focusing on the primary doctrines of the Christian faith: the doctrines of God, Scripture, Sanctification, Church, etc.) but also challenges us to be sure that our doctrine is not an end in itself, but rather the means by which we get to Christ. Doctrine is a pointer. The Point is Christ.

"You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me..." John 5:39

The other reason I'm highlighting this message is because Josh is preaching from one of Jesus' parables (the wise and foolish builders in Luke 6:46-49). By now you should know that the parables will be our focus this summer during 222, so let me commend these messages to you and especially Josh's opening message from this well-known parable.

Lastly - while poking around on the NEXT website I discovered their monthly webzine. Looks like some great articles & resources here - not to mention the incredible graphics!!

2010 Summer Study | PARABLES

2010-05-19T19:59:00.000-07:00

This Thursday, June 3rd, we'll kick off our summer study with a cook out at the home of Michael & Naomi Hamline. Please RSVP with the survey in the sidebar or visit our 222 Facebook event page. All you need to bring is your appetite! We'll have hamburgers, chips, dip, etc. You'll also want to try Aaron's "Special Sauce" on your burger. Good stuff.
Our summer study will begin the following Thursday, June 10th at 6:30pm.

Click image to enlarge.
Email for directions & more info.

Win Free Registration to the NEXT 2010 Conference (Formerly Na)

2010-05-03T06:59:00.000-07:00

This is for registration only, you'd still have to buy your own plane ticket. :)

Click here for details.

2.22 will resume in June

2010-04-16T13:31:00.000-07:00

2.22 Will take a temporary hiatus until the end of May.
We will have a summer kick-off fellowship at the end of May and then begin our summer Bible study on Thursday, June 3rd.

Please watch this blog for further details.

God's Word on Our Work

2010-02-04T20:30:00.000-08:00

From our study tonight about God's Word on Our Work, here are a list of helpful passages that give us instruction on how to conduct ourselves while under employment.

Ecclesiastes 9:10
Ephesians 4:28
Ephesians 5:15-17
Ephesians 6:5-7
Colossians 3:17
Colossians 3:22-23
1 Thessalonians 4:9-1
2 Thessalonians 3:8-12
1 Timothy 5:8
1 Timothy 6:1-2, 6-10
Titus 2:9-10
1 Peter 2:13-25

How Many Wills of God?

2009-09-24T12:50:00.000-07:00

Here's the John Piper article referenced in our study on Decision Making and the Will of God. Below is a short snippet.

The most compelling example of God's willing for sin to come to pass while at the same time disapproving the sin is his willing the death of his perfect, divine Son. The betrayal of Jesus by Judas was a morally evil act inspired immediately by Satan (Luke 22:3). Yet in Acts 2:23 Luke says, "This Jesus [was] delivered up according to the definite plan (boule) and foreknowledge of God." The betrayal was sin, and it involved the instrumentality of Satan; but it was part of God's ordained plan. That is, there is a sense in which God willed the delivering up of his Son, even though the act was sin.

Fall Book Study

2009-09-14T09:25:00.001-07:00

This fall we will be going through Gary Friesen's book, Decision Making and the Will of God. You can find out more about the author and sample the first two chapters of this book at his website, gfriesen.net.

It'd be ideal to secure your own copy of this book for our study, but even if you don't, you'll still benefit greatly from the weekly teaching.

Also, remember that the first Thursday of each month will be a special, off-site fellowship night. We'll announce the location each month.

Who are You to Judge?

2009-07-09T10:06:00.000-07:00

On July 2nd we looked at Paul's command to stop judging one another found in Romans 14. From this chapter we considered five principles to keep us from sinfully judging:

Welcome the Weak
Make Up Your Mind
Build Up the Believers
Firm Up Your Faith
Glorify God

Listen to the message on judging:

RIGHT CLICK to Download

Part 2 on this subject of judging was taught on July 16 from 1 Corinthians 4. Listen to "Who are You to Judge (Pt 2)" below. (lest you get confused, the opening illustration for Part 2 is the same one used in Part 1)

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Internal Power for Lasting Patience in External Pressure

2009-06-26T09:17:00.000-07:00

Jason Vaden was our guest speaker Thursday night and took us through Ephesians 4:1-3 as we considered how to bear with one another.

His message, entitled, "Internal Power for Lasting Patience in External Pressure" had three basic points:

1. Enduring Patience in External Pressure
2. Internal Power for Enduring Patience
3. The Eternal Person of Internal Power

Jason spoke some challenging words as he showed us how humility is the internal power for enduring patience.

Listen to Jason's message

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Resovled Conference :: FREE Live Stream

2009-06-12T09:18:00.000-07:00

California is a long way to go for this year's Resolved Conference. But now you can watch LIVE for FREE! You must register first, but that's free too.

Admonish One Another

2009-06-12T08:50:00.000-07:00

Continuing in our "One Another" series, here is "Admonish One Another" from Romans 15:14 as well as a list of other "admonish" verses found in the New Testament.

Romans 15:14
Acts 20:31
1 Corinthians 4:14
Colossians 1:28
Colossians 3:16
1 Thessalonians 5:12
1 Thessalonians 5:14
2 Thessalonians 3:13-15

We learned that "admonish" is in the Greek as "noutheteo", meaning "to set in one's mind" and carries the idea of addressing another believer with the Word of God. Though often coupled with teaching, admonition always implies a problem or something that is wrong in the life of the one being confronted.

Jay Adams is probably best known for coining the term "Nouthetic Counseling" and has a good summary of this here.

Listen to "Admonish One Another"

Or RIGHT CLICK to Download

One Another Passages

2009-06-05T11:48:00.000-07:00

Here is a pretty exhaustive list of all the New Testament "one another" passages that we quickly looked at Thursday night. As we take a closer look at a dozen of these this summer at 2.22, perhaps you can use this as a supplemental personal study.

Be of the same mind	Romans 12:16; 15:5
Build up	Romans 14:19; 1 Thess 5:11
Be at peace	Romans 14:19
Receive/accept	Romans 15:7
Admonish/comfort	Romans 15:14; 1 Thess 4:18; 5:11
Greet	Romans 16:16; 1 Cor 16:20; 2 Cor 13:12; 1 Peter 5:14
Care	1 Cor 12:25
Serve	Galatians 5:13
Bear burdens	Gal 6:2
Forbear, be patient	Eph 4:2; Col 3:13
Be kind	Eph 4:32
Submit	Eph 5:21
Esteem highly	Phil 2:3
Forgive	Col 3:13
Seek the good	1 Thess 5:15
Stimulat	Heb 10:24
Confess sins	James 5:16
Pray for	James 5:16
Be hospitable	1 Peter 4:9
Be humble	1 Peter 5:5
Fellowship in the light	1 John 1:7
Do not owe anything but love	Romans 13:8
Do not Judge	Romans 14:13
Do not devour/consume	Gal 5:15
Do not provoke/challenge	Gal 5:26
Do not envy	Gal 5:26
Do not lie	Col 3:9
Do not hate	Titus 3:3
Do not speak against/complain	James 4:11; 5:9

This list was taken from Richard Mayhue's book, 1 and 2 Thessalonians (Focus on the Bible Commentaries).

One Another: Love One Another

2009-06-05T08:58:00.000-07:00

Listen to the introduction and first message of our summer series, "One Another."

Or RIGHT CLICK to download

Summer Teaching Series

2009-06-01T09:14:00.001-07:00

Please join us beginning this Thursday at 6:30pm as we embark on a summer study of the "one another" passages in the New Testament. Aaron will kick off the study in John 13 with Jesus' high calling of mutual love.

Family behavior in the body of Christ starts with ‘Love one another’. Our Lord told the disciples, By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another (John 13:35).
The epistles refer to this overarching principle more than ten times (Rom 12:10; 13:8: 1 Thess 3:12; 4:9; 2 Thess 1:3; 1 Pet 1:22; 1 John 3:11, 23; 4:7, 11; 2 John 5).
From this general statement, the epistles then specifically explain the various features of ‘one another’ ministry in the church. They are numerous and, in general, self explanatory.
~Richard Mayhue, 1 & 2 Thessalonians, Triumphs and Trials of a Consecrated Church; Christian Focus, 2003

We'll be meeting in the student ministries room at the Bible Church of Little Rock for fellowship at 6:30, then our worship thru singing & preaching will begain promptly at 7:00pm. We look forward to seeing you there!

Jeff's Announcement

2009-05-07T08:20:00.000-07:00

Greetings 2.22,

If you weren't there on Sunday, Judy and I announced that I have just received and accepted the call to be the senior pastor of Anchorage Grace Church. That's right Anchorage, Alaska. We believe the Lord has directed this decision and given us the desires of our hearts (Ps. 37:4). We just didn't know Alaska was our heart's desire until God opened this opportunity up for us!

Allow me to express my deep gratitude for the part you played at 2.22 and in our lives. It has been our humble and unique privilege to minister the Word to you through teaching and personal discipleship. The Lord has taught us valuable lessons through 2.22 - lessons that will carry over to Anchorage Grace Church. I count your impact on our lives as what in large measure is launching us on this new adventure. So thank you!

As you know, Aaron and Anita have been the glue and gasoline for 2.22 for a long time! So, it is my joy to report that Aaron will take the lead for 2.22 this summer. Here's the plan, Lord willing: There will be no regular Thursday night meetings in May, but there will still be a couple of opportunities for fellowship, including a movie night at Elizabeth Howell's home. Then in June, Aaron will be leading a study during the summer months - with the help of a few "guest" speakers - that I trust will be a blessing to you all. There will also be the monthly fellowship opportunities.

The May events, summer study and fellowship opportunities will all be announced via email & the blog very soon.

We love you and will miss you. Grace and peace,

Jeff

Free Stuff Fridays

2009-05-06T08:48:00.000-07:00

Every Friday at Challies.com.

Welcome Owen Charles Crotts

2009-03-06T12:38:00.001-08:00

Join me in giving thanks to God for the newest addition to the Crotts family...

...Owen Charles Crotts
See more pics at the Crotts' Blog

Sale at Sovereign Grace Books & Music

2009-02-05T14:19:00.000-08:00

Check it out.

Pastor Jeff - Bible Conference Audio

2009-01-29T15:24:00.000-08:00

Last weekend Pastor Jeff Crotts had the privilege of preaching at a Bible Conference in El Paso, Texas on the topic of Holy Spirit Illumination. The conference was hosted by Grace Bible Fellowship and his long-time friend, Bill Cross, who's the associate pastor. Many of you have heard Jeff talk about Bill Cross in his many childhood stories. Jeff & Bill came to know the Lord around the same time and have remained friends for many years.

Below are the mp3 links to all four of Jeff's messages, including a Q & A session. Just click on any link to open or download to your PC.

Enjoy!

Illumination pt. 1

Illumination pt. 2

Illumination pt. 3

Illumination Q and A

Immediate Action - TOR17

2009-01-09T07:48:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the new year of 2009! With the beginning of a new year is the beginning of a few new changes for 2.22. We had our first fellowship of the year on our new Thursday night venue. We're still meeting at 6:30pm with a 30 minute meal/fellowship time, however we will no longer have planned meals each week. You may still bring something on your own and use this time to eat & visit with others. We're now meeting up in the Student Ministries room.

Pastor Jeff jumped back into our ongoing study of the book of Acts entitled "The Original Revolution" (TOR) and looked at the immediate actions of Paul & the church after his radical conversion. We were challenged to pursue Christ with the same passion many of us had immediately after our own conversions.

Below you'll find Jeff's outline and the mp3 audio from his message. You can find all the previous TOR messages here.

“Immediate Action” (Acts 9:19-31)

In these verses we'll see 4 immediate actions of the early church, triggered by the Gospel. Is the Gospel triggering action in your walk?

1. Paul immediately preached in Damascus (vv. 20-25)

2. Paul was immediately protected by the disciples (vv. 23-25)

3. Paul was immediately promoted by Barnabas (vv. 26-27)

4. Paul immediately preached in Jerusalem (vv. 28-31)

Take-Home Points:

1. Why preach – when and where?
2. Why does our Gospel fire cool in our hearts so quickly?
3. Are you being strategic with your life?
4. Are you being controlled by fear?

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Jude: The Believer's Hope

2008-11-12T08:10:00.000-08:00

Michael Hamline concluded our 5 week study through Jude by preaching the last two doxological verses - 24 and 25.

Believers are shown 2 marvelous realities about God that must lead them to exalt Him.

I. The Reality of God's Graciousness (v. 24)

A.He Guards Our Way

B.He Completes Our Salvation

1.It results in total sinlessness
2.It results in overflowing gladness

II. The Reality of God's Greatness (v. 25)

A.It is Manifested in God's Uniqueness

B.It is Manifested in God's Attributes

1.Of Glory
2.Of Majesty
3.Of DominionOf Authority

TAKE HOME POINTS:

1) Our trust and confidence should be in God to keep us. If we are trusting in anything else then our confidence is empty.
2) As believers our hearts should be at rest knowing that it is God who is guarding/keeping us. We shouldn't fear losing our salvation.
3) Rejoice that we can trust in the promises of God to keep us safe until Christ's return.
4) Must inspect ourselves to make sure we are not stumbling and/or straying into sin. Keep a close watch on our own heart.
5) Thank God for the perfecting work he is bringing about in our lives.
6) Celebrate and overflow with joy realizing that you get to be in the very presence of God. Ask yourself if you have joy at meeting with God presently? Do you enjoy the fellowship you have with God through prayer and Scripture reading?
7) Recognize God's priority to cleanse us from all sin and take time now to flee from the sin in our own lives and put it to death.
8) What is competing for God's unique place in our live? What is crowding Him out?
9) We should acknowledge on a daily basis the attributes of God that belong to Him.
10) Are your thoughts, words, and actions bearing testimony to the fact that God is in control and is over all things?

Listen to the sermon:

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Jude: The Enemy Defeated

2008-11-12T08:00:00.000-08:00

Michael Hamline brought us Part 4 of our 5 week study through Jude and he showed us the ultimate defeat of the enemy we've been reading about, as well as the believer's response to such enemys.

Believers are given 3 reminders on how to contend for the faith against false teachers:

I. Reminder of the Judgment Against False Teachers (v. 14-16)

II. Reminder of the Presence of False Teachers (v. 17-19)

III. Reminder of the Response to False Teachers (v. 20-23)

A. Respond With God Honoring Lives (v. 20-21)
B. Respond With Christlike Love (v. 22-23)

Listen to the sermon:

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Pastor Jeff's Sabbatical

2008-11-05T11:10:00.000-08:00

Jeff is continuing to live it up while on his sabbatical at the beach.

Jude: The Enemy Described

2008-10-31T10:31:00.000-07:00

We reached Part 3 of our 5 week study through Jude and looked at his description of the false teachers in verses 8-13.

Jude describes the actions of the enemy with three directional approaches:

I. Looking Inward into the Heart to Classify their Actions

A. They were immoral
B. They were insubordinate
C. They were irreverent

II. Looking Backward into History to Curse their Actions

A. Faithless Cain
B. Greedy Balaam
C. Prideful Korah

III. Looking Outward into Nature to Compare their Actions

A. Hidden reefs
B. Waterless clouds
C. Fruitless trees
D. Wild waves
E. Wandering stars

TAKE HOME POINTS:

Do you rely more on your dreams/instincts or on God’s Word?
What are you involved in that is immoral, insubordinate or irreverent?
Think of the life of Cain. Are you guilty of presenting an unsatisfactory offering?
Think of Balaam. Do you manipulate God’s people for gain?
Think of Korah. How has pride led you to resent God’s placement of you in ministry?
Do you come to church to give/serve or to get/be served? Are you guilty of “shepherding yourself”?
Are you all promise and no performance, pretending to be something that you’re not?
What do your waves leave scattered on the shore?
Are you trustworthy? Can people follow where you lead them?

Listen to the sermon:

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Jude: The Enemy Warned

2008-10-22T08:49:00.000-07:00

We continued our 5 week study through the short but powerful letter from Jude and considered the warning from Jude in verses 5-7.

Jude gives us 3 reminders of God’s judgment & destruction toward those who pursue sin rather than obedience.

The Jews of Israel v. 5
The Angels of Heaven v.6
The Gentiles of Sodom and Gomorrah v. 7

TAKE HOME POINTS:

1.Don’t pass over these warnings too quickly. Most apostates were just like us once.
2.What sins in your life are contributing to your weak faith? (cf. Hebrews) Are you repenting of them?
3.How is pride polluting your faith?
4.How is lust luring you away from the Lord?
5.Are you aware of the responsibility you have to God & His Word that is increased by being recipients of sound teaching?

Listen to the sermon:

RIGHT CLICK to download

The Letter of Jude: The Enemy Within

2008-10-15T08:48:00.001-07:00

Tuesday night began our 5 week study through the short but powerful letter from Jude. Aaron began our time with a brief introduction and a look at the opening 4 verses of Jude's letter.

You can listen to the sermon below:

RIGHT CLICK to download

The Letter of Jude: The Enemy Within

The Humble Author of this Letter (Vs 1a)
The Beloved Audience of this Letter (Vs 1b)
The Gracious Greeting of this Letter (Vs 2)
The Original Intent of this Letter (Vs 3a)
The Necessary Appeal of this Letter (Vs 3b)
The Urgent Context of this Letter (Vs 4)
A. 3 dangerous descriptions of the false teachers
1) Devious
2) Destined
3) Depraved
B. 2 dark descriptions of their false teaching
1) They abuse God’s grace
2) They deny Christ’s rule

“Ungodly men are the great enemies of the faith of Christ and the peace of the church… This has been the plague of the church in all past ages, and I am afraid no age is, or will be, wholly free from such men and such practices as long as time shall last. Nothing cuts us off from the church but that which cuts us off from Christ; namely, reigning infidelity and ungodliness.”

-Matthew Henry

New Series: Jude

2008-10-13T17:42:00.000-07:00

Jude sets out to write a letter to believers to promote their common salvation. Instead, he finds it necessary to write to them a warning - a warning to protect this salvation. What causes this concern? We'll find out over the next five weeks at 2.22. Join us on Tuesday nights at 6:30 for a meal and a study of the short epistle of Jude.

Lord, Change My Attitude About That Person” TOR16

2008-10-08T07:51:00.000-07:00

“Lord, Change My Attitude About That Person” (Acts 9:10–19)
Prop: 3 regularly-repeated phases which call for Attitude Change

1. A difficult God given Directive (vv. 10–12)

2. A conflicting soul-born Dilemma (vv. 13–16)

A. Ananias expresses his fears over Saul (vv. 13–14)
B. The Lord authoritatively overrides Ananias’s fears (vv. 15–16)

3. A Spirit-born soft-hearted Decision (vv. 17 – 19)

A. Ananias obeyed functionally (v. 17a)
B. Ananias obeyed relationally (v. 17b.)

Take-Home Points:

Being a Christian can make your life seem dangerous
Being a Christian insists that you to love people you wouldn’t usually love
Being a Christian means that circumstances don’t have to make sense for them to be God’s will
Being a Christian comes down to being God’s instrument
Being a Christian means to suffer is your privilege
Being a Christian insists that you welcome all other Christians as family
Being a Christian means you have a whole new outlook on life

RIGHT CLICK to Download

Saul: Conversion by Sovereign Grace

2008-10-01T06:49:00.000-07:00

Saul: Conversion by Sovereign Grace
Acts 9:1-9
We view Saul’s conversion through 4 windows of Sovereign Grace

1.Total Depravity
(Acts 9:1-2, 13-14; 22:4-5, 19-20); 26:10-11; Gal. 1:13-14; Phil. 3:6; 1 Tim. 1:13, 15)

2.Unconditional Election
(Acts 9:3-4, 7, 15-16; 22:6, 9, 14; 26:13, Gal. 1:13-16; Phil. 3:8-9; 1 Tim. 1:12-13)

3.Irresistible Grace
(Acts 9:3-6; 22:6-8, 10, 14; 26:13-18; Gal. 1:12, 16; Phil. 3:9; 1 Tim. 1:13)

4.Perseverance of the Saints
(Acts 9:7-9, 11, 15-16, 19-22; 22:10, 15-21; 26:19-22, 24-25; Gal. 1:16-18; Phil. 1:8-15; 1 Tim. 1:18-20)

Take-Home Points

The Doctrines of Grace contrary to their ivory tower stigma are pulsating with life
These doctrines shout what’s obvious: God saved you – you did not save you
Realize. Saul’s conversion is your conversion – his testimony is your testimony
Taking a look at how abhorrent you once were toward God is a healthy exercise
Grasping your total depravity unlocks the other Doctrines of Grace, and rightly applied should cause gratitude and worship
By definition the doctrine of eternal security makes persevering automatic – “Once saved always saved” means “Once saved will persevere”

Listen to "Saul: Conversion by Sovereign Grace"

RIGHT CLICK to download

The Spirit Then. The Spirit Now. TOR14

2008-09-24T07:58:00.000-07:00

The Spirit Then. The Spirit Now.
Acts 8:26-40

Lets take a spiritual diagnostic. From Acts 8:26-40, we see 4 comparisons between how the Spirit led Philip and how the Spirit leads today.

I. Philip receiving direct revelation compared to you indirectly discerning God’s will (vv. 26 – 29)

a. The Spirit led Philip through direct revelation
b. The Spirit again led Philip through direct revelation

II. Philip’s ministering the Word compared to you ministering the Word (vv. 30 – 35)

a. Philip providentially heard the eunuch reading Isaiah (our same Isaiah) (v. 30)
b. Philip taught the eunuch through redemptive history – connecting the dots that culminate with “the good news about Jesus” (v. 35)

III. The Spirit regenerating the eunuch compared to the Spirit regenerating people today (vv. 36 – 38)

a. The eunuch’s new heart spontaneously desired to obey (vv. 36 – 37)
b. The eunuch was baptized (v. 39)
c. The eunuch “went on his way rejoicing” (v. 39)

IV. The Spirit’s transportation service then compared to now (vv. 39 - 40)

a. “the Spirit…carried Philip away” (v. 39)
b. “the eunuch saw him no more” (v. 39)
c. Philip passed through towns and preached the gospel (v. 40)

Take-Home Questions:

1. Do you assume that the Holy Spirit is leading you? (Rom. 8:14)
2. Do you assume being led by direct revelation takes less faith then being led by personal discernment?
3. Do you assume the Lord speaking by direct revelation meant He was more involved in early church ministry?
4. Do you assume the Spirit’s leadership is as precise as it was in the early church?
5. Do you assume the Spirit places people in your path for you to sow, water, and reap with the Gospel?
6. Do you assume Word of God can bring radical transformation when someone understands it?
7. Do you assume you are a person who can explain the Word of God to others and that the Spirit will lead you to do so?
8. Do you assume that people with regenerate hearts will spontaneously obey?
9. Do you assume you know the Spirit’s plan for your life – going to a Samaria – the desert – Azotus?

Listen to the message "The Spirit Then. The Spirit Now".

RIGHT CLICK to Download

The Joy and Pain of Authentic Gospel Ministry

2008-09-17T08:52:00.000-07:00

Last night Pastor Jeff picked up with the revolution in Acts chapter 8 and the apparent conversion of Simon the magician.

The Joy and Pain of Authentic Gospel Ministry

I. The seed of the martyr is sown (Acts 8:1-3)

II. The message is spread through Samaria (Acts 8:4-8)

a. Spiritual opposition (Acts 8:9-11)
b. Genuine belief (Acts 8:12)
c. Alleged belief (Acts 8:13)

III. The harvest is affirmed by Apostles (Acts 8:14-17)

IV. The apostate is rebuked by Apostles (Acts 8:18-25)

Hear the message "The Joy and Pain of Authentic Gospel Ministry".

Right Click to Download

Door of Hope Concert

2008-09-16T09:38:00.000-07:00

Join us for a free night of music and missions.

Bible Church of Little Rock

19111 Cantrell Road, LR AR 72223

for more information visit

www.dohministries.org or www.acrossthevalley.com

New College Equipping Hour Class

2008-09-14T14:14:00.000-07:00

If you are between the ages of 18-22 consider joining our new College-Aged class. We are meeting during equipping hour (9am) every Lord’s Day in room A-208, and are launching a new study on Colossians called Christ Preeminent - Christ in you.

Whether you are a local university or college student, a young professional, or a rising senior we want to warmly welcome you to this class. Our purpose is to build relationships, worship together, to be challenged by the truth and to more intimately know the Lord.

Light Contrasting Darkness - TOR12

2008-09-03T09:00:00.000-07:00

Last night we ended chapter 7 of Acts and once again someone died. This time it's not because someone lied to God, it's because someone lived for God. Have you ever wondered why Jesus stood up for Stephen as he was being stoned to death? Pastor Jeff addressed this intriguing question and took us into the incredible true story of the martyrdom of Stephen.

Light Contrasting Darkness Acts 7:54-60

I. A Dark Response (v. 54)
II. An Illumined Perspective (v. 55)
III. An Illumined Testimony (v. 56)
IV. A Dark Attack (vv. 57-58)
V. Illumined Prayers (vv. 59-60)

Take-home points:

It is dangerous to your soul to let anger fester
Witnessing should first be about God before its about people
When your witness is rejected, people are rejecting first God before you
Try not to lose hope over lost people – God saves a murderer
The ultimate end of unrepentant anger is murder
Even if you’re not a Martyr, die praying like Jesus prayed

Hear the message "Light Contrasting Darkness".

Right Click to Download

The Church Growth Movement

2008-08-05T21:10:00.000-07:00

Our focus last night was in Acts 5:12-42 as Jeff taught about the ORIGINAL church growth strategy and it's results.

The Church Growth Movement
The cause and effect of the living church

I. A Church Growth Movement (vv. 12-16)

a. Many signs and wonders were done (v. 12)
b. Many feared joining the church (v. 13)
c. Many believers did join the church (v. 14)
d. Many were healed (vv. 15-16)

II. A Church Warfare Movement (vv. 17-42)

a. First attempt to stop preaching - Caging the preachers (vv. 17-26)
i. The religious leaders got jealous of the Apostles (v. 17)
ii. The religious leaders imprisoned the Apostles (v. 18)
iii. An angel delivered the Apostles and commanded them to preach (vv. 19-21)
iv. The religious leaders discovered the Apostles were out preaching (vv. 21b-25)
v. The religious leaders “brought them, but not by force” to reiterate for them not to preach (v. 26)

b. Second attempt to stop preaching – Lecturing the preachers (vv. 27-33)
i. The Apostles said we need to obey God not man (v. 29)
ii. The Apostles preached the Gospel to the religious leaders (vv.30-32)
iii. The religious leaders “were enraged” (v. 33)

c. Third attempt to stop preaching – Beating the preachers (vv. 34-42)
i. Gamaliel provides good counsel (vv. 34-39)
ii. The religious leaders beat the Apostles (v. 40)
iii. The Apostles rejoiced, were deeply moved, and kept preaching and teaching like mad men (vv. 41-42)

Take-home points:

1. God’s power is attractive to believers and unattractive to unbelievers
a. God’s power has been regarded as foolish, fake, and unimpressive
b. God’s power has been regarded as satanic
c. God’s power in this case was regarded as scary
d. God’s power in this case also was provoked jealously (and rage cf. v. 33)

2. God’s power was more than a sign - meeting physical needs

3. Spiritual warfare centered around teaching the preaching the Gospel – the miraculous taking a back seat
a. Yes, the angle of the Lord performed a miracle but the goal comes back to speaking the words of Life
b. The concern of the high priest was to gag the Apostles

4. Sometimes Christians are physically protected and sometimes not
a. The officers’ fear of being stoned kept them from harming the Apostles at one point
b. Later, the officers beat the Apostles

5. There are principles of obedience where the Christian must not compromise
a. God’s law supersedes man’s law
b. Disobeying the law of the land becomes your integrity and testimony
c. Discerning when this applies is not always easy to do

6. Gamaliel’s passive defense of the Apostles is a window into God’s providential involvement through unbelievers

7. We must be willing to “suffer dishonor for Christ”
a. This willingness is active when you’re joyful when wronged
b. This willingness is active when you’re humbly grateful to be shamed for Christ

8. You’re goal as a Christian is to declaratively clarify to others that Jesus is the only way – the only Savior from sin

Hear the message "The Church Growth Movement".

Right Click to Download

2.22 Links

2008-08-04T17:35:00.000-07:00

Ok - I've faced reality and will no longer call these "Week Links", since I can't seem to post them weekly. We'll just call them, "2.22 Links":

New Book: Nathan Busenitz from Pulpit Magazine has a new book dealing with science, faith and our Creator.

New Music: From Sovereign Grace Music: Psalms

New Movie: Pixar's next one. (HT: Challies)

New Blog: For all you Greek scholars and wanna-be's, Zondervan starts blogging. Contributors include the likes of Mounce, Waltke, Longman, Bock, Kaiser & others.

They Lied. They Died. - TOR8

2008-07-29T20:19:00.000-07:00

Last night Aaron Wilson preached through the account of Ananias & Sapphira being struck dead by God after lying about an free-will offering.

He mentioned a sermon by C.J. Mahaney that helped him prepare for this message and encouraged everyone to take time to listen. You can find the sermon here.

Also note the iPod image in the sidebar. Click on this image to visit a new mp3 sermon collection by preachers such as Mahaney, MacArthur, Piper, Carson and many more.

Aaron's message - the 8th in our current series "The Original Revolution" - is available below.

They Lied. They Died.

Acts 4:32-5:11 - A Shocking Contrast of 2 Worshipers:

I. The Context – The Unity of Community (4:32-35)
A. Unified living
B. Selfless giving
C. Sacrificial giving
D. Voluntary giving

II. The Positive Example of the Devoted Worshiper (4:36-37)
A. The “son of encouragement”
B. The simple example

III. The Negative Example of the Deceptive Worshiper (5:1-11)
A. The people
B. The problem
C. The result

Take Home Points:

1. Remember, the church is not perfect.
2. God does not want sin in His church.
3. The church is only as effective as her people are pure.
4. If we want power – we must have purity.
5. Are you guilty of lying to God the Holy Spirit?
6. Do you understand the danger of lying?
7. Do material possessions keep you from fully devoted worship?
8. Do you find it difficult to accept such swift & sudden judgment from God?

Right Click to Download

Praying "Sovereign Lord" - TOR7

2008-07-23T08:00:00.000-07:00

We continued in our study in the book of Acts entitled "The Original Revolution". Last night's message looked at the apostles prayer and God's response as the sovereign Lord.about.

Praying "Sovereign Lord" Acts 4:23-31

The early church climbed 3 steps toward God in prayer:

1. They Extolled God’s Character

He’s Creator
He’s Spoken

2. They Affirmed Fulfilled Prophecy of the Cross

Man’s sin against Christ
God’s detailed plan

3. They Requested Enablement

They didn’t ask for persecution to end.
They asked for enablement to obey

Here are the implications/applications

1. The greatest comfort for the believer is the Sovereignty of God

2. Community strengthens faith

Praying, singing, hearing the Word corporately is designed to do this
You shouldn’t feel guilty that your spiritual life is stronger in community

3. Pray Scripture

The Word makes sense of what’s happening to you
The Word gives you material to pray

4. Don’t assume it’s supposed to get easier

5. Watch for God’s affirmations

Right Click to Download

Books on Sovereignty, Evangelism & Evil in the World

2008-07-17T10:57:00.001-07:00

Tuesday night we heard a great message on the Sovereignty of God from our teaching pastor Lance Quinn. You can go here to listen*. It's part 3 of the "Truth for Life - Loved By God" series. After the message, Pastor Lance answered a question dealing with the issues of God's sovereignty, evangelism and the origin of evil in the world. He recommended several resources that address these issues and we've linked them below

Evangelism and the Sovereignty of God, J.I. Packer
The Difficult Doctrine of the Love of God, D.A. Carson
How Long, O Lord? , D.A. Carson
The Grand Demonstration, Jay Adams
If God Already Knows, Why Pray? Douglas Kelley

*The Sermon audio may not be up until later in the week.

Whom Will You Serve? TOR6

2008-07-09T07:51:00.000-07:00

Michael Hamline continued carrying us through our study in the book of Acts entitled "The Original Revolution". His thorough understanding of the text (Acts 4:1-22) and excellent application left us with much to think about.

Whom Will You Serve?

Agents Through Which God is Pleased to Work

I. The Penetrating Word of God (v. 1-4)

A. Opposing the Word of God (v. 1-3)
B. Trusting the Word of God (v.4)

II. The Saving Name of Jesus (v.5-12)

A. An Arrogant Question (v.5-7)

Deuteronomy 13:1-5

B. A Confident Answer (v. 8-12)

Luke 12:11,12; 21:14,15
1. Jesus is the Source (v.9-10)

2. Jesus is the Stone (v. 11)

Ps. 118:22; Mk 12:1-12 (also cf. Mt. 21: 33-46; Luke 20:9-20; Eph. 2:20; I Pe. 2:4-7)
3. Jesus is the Way of Salvation (v. 12)

John 14:6 "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."

III. The Persevering Witness of God's Saints (v. 13-22)

A. It is Bold (v.13-14)

John 7:14,15
B. It is Christ-centered (v.15-19)
C. It is Unafraid (v. 20-22)

References as Concerns the Sanhedrin's persecution of the early church:

Acts 5:25, 33, 40-- arrested the apostles, wanted to kill them, beat them
Acts 6:12-15; 7:1; 58-60-- dragged Stephen before the Sanhedrin; questioned by the council and then stoned by sanction of the council
Acts 8:1-3--Saul persecuting the church and dragging believers off to prison
Acts 9:1-2--Saul going abroad to Damascus to arrest believers and bring them back to Jerusalem.

Here are the implications/applications

1) As Christians, we will face opposition and persecution from unbelievers, those opposed to the truth.

2) It is through God's Word that change is brought about in the human heart (Acts 4:4).

3) God's plan can't be thwarted by men. He will accomplish what he has purposed.

4) We must proclaim salvation in Christ alone. No other name or person can save, but Jesus. This is not popular but it is true and we must be faithful to proclaim it without reservation or shame.

5) We must confront people with their sin and we should realize this is the most loving thing we can do. The results are up to God.

6) Study our Old Testament and see how it points to Jesus.

7) Fear God and not man. Realize we must obey God over human authority if the government is calling on us to disobey God.

8) Praise God for the way He transforms our lives through the work of the Spirit

Right Click to Download

Here's Your Sign: Jesus - TOR5

2008-07-02T07:40:00.000-07:00

We're continuing in our series in Acts called "The Original Revolution". Below are Pastor Jeff's outline for Acts chapter 3 as well as his "Take Home Points" for your own personal application.

The Original Revolution: Part 5

Here's Your Sign: JESUS

Acts 3:1-26

I. An Unmistakable Sign (vv. 1-10)

A routine hour to pray (v. 1)
A reasonable request (vv. 2-3)
An unexpected reply (vv. 4-6)
A comprehensive miracle (vv. 7-8 cf. v. 16)
An unmistakable Sign (vv. 9-10)

II. A Guilt Laying – Guilt Lifting Sermon (vv. 11-26)

A wow factor (vv. 10b-11)
A focus shift (vv. 12-13)
A guilt laying word (vv. 14-16)
A guilt lifting word (vv. 17-26)

Take-home points:

The Holy Spirit primarily works within routine
The Gospel is designed to meet both moral and situational evil (categories taken from Power Encounters by David Powlison)
Miraculous healing in the Bible is always a sign and always comprehensive
It is a fight to value spiritual healing above physical healing
Elevating man undoes the glory of God
The real Jesus comes from real redemptive history
Understanding Jesus was murdered unlocks the guilt of the cross
Ignorance of our sin and God’s holiness is grace
Genuine repentance will transform your shame to joy

Listen to the message

The Church is Born - TOR4

2008-06-25T07:31:00.000-07:00

So what was it like back during the birth of the New Testament church? Should our church today look like the one in Acts?
Tuesday night we finished part 4 in our study of Acts called The Original Revolution. Jeff preached through Acts 2:14-47 and gave us much to consider regarding how we are to share the message of Christ and how we are to relate to one another within the body.

Below are the "take home points" from Jeff's message.

1. Not looking for Jesus throughout the Bible is not reading the Bible as a Christian should.

It’s more than okay to look for Jesus in all 66 books of the Bible
You shouldn’t be able to have sweet fellowship with a Jewish Rabbi over an OT Bible study – something should be missing
Probably your main struggle with the OT is that you’re not searching for Jesus in it

2. Read the Gospels regularly

You should have a working knowledge of the Gospels
Read John with themes in mind
Look up OT quotes found in Gospels and NT

3. The reason people leave Jesus out of the OT or NT is their religion is Moralism or Legalism

Jesus was and is not a legalist
Obedience for Jesus is always from the heart
Jesus taught the Law of Love

4. You need to work at talking about Jesus more

Our sin competes against loving him
Talking about Jesus takes faith
It is easy not to talk about Jesus – It’s easy to change the subject

5. Talking TO Jesus jumpstarts talking ABOUT Him

6. Talking about Jesus with others will change lives

7. It can be the most loving action to call someone to repent and the most unloving action not to

8. Your commitment to your church body [like to Christ] must be All or Nothing

A lacking blasé commitment to your church community will hurt you – breeding consumerism and/or cynicism
Half-hearted swimming ultimately causes you to drown
A fiery whole-hearted sacrificial commitment makes it REAL - spawning joy and devotion to others and to Jesus

9. Expect God to add people to his church

For some the Gospel will be very attractive
For some whole-hearted community will be very attractive

Listen to the message

Are You Guilty of "Greeting Card Worship"?

2008-06-25T04:36:00.000-07:00

Have you been watching the Feature Feed in the sidebar? Michael Hamline has & brought this article to my attention. We thought it deserved it's own post here at 222mission. Thanks for the tip Michael!

Have you ever stopped to consider what it must be like to work for Hallmark or another of the companies that create greeting cards? Imagine spending your whole day attempting to come up with wonderful statements of deep feeling—love, remorse, sympathy—yet without feeling any of the associated emotions. Imagine having to write words that express sympathy, yet not feeling any sympathy yourself. Or imagine having to write words that can express the deep, passionate love a man has for his wife as they celebrate fifty years of marriage, but without having ever experienced that sort of love yourself. It must be very odd to spend the whole day writing words of love and passion from a husband to a wife but then return alone to an empty home and a life lived alone.

I fear that all too often I, as a Christian, can worship God in just this way.

Read the entire article.

Reality TV: Just Watching People Work

2008-06-23T20:09:00.000-07:00

I guess all Reality TV has one thing in common: everybody’s working. Whether people are racing, surviving, building stuff, designing rooms, cutting business deals, singing, flirting, losing weight, parenting, or whatever…they’re working. It’s been said that people love to watch Reality TV so much because people love to watch other people work. There must be something relaxing to watching people do what they themselves have been doing all day. I have to admit that it is.

Recently I surveyed the phrase “under the sun” from Ecclesiastes and found that it’s repeated 27 times in the 12 chapters. Solomon’s phrase (though scribed several millennia ago) describes all dimensions of today’s hurried, fast paced, active, Starbucks -drinking, cyclical rat race that we call life.

4 times Solomon plays the pessimist about life “under the sun.” 2 times life is an injustice, 6 times its evil, 5 times its either bad, good, or blasé and 3 times he says you should suck all the joy out of life you can. Translation: get Starbucks with friends when possible because there are no guarantees.

What was curious is that 7 times (the most of any category) it refers to working (“toil” in ESV). For Solomon the monotony of work can be a big bummer unless you get outside yourself or can look above the sun. I can’t argue that watching people work isn’t fascinating. But I’d guess Solomon - even watching work all dressed up on TV - would say its pretty empty (Ecclesiastes 2).

Hope to see you this Lord's day at 9am as we continue our study in Ecclesiastes, From Vanity to Sanity: Fear, Judgment, Obedience.

Speaking the language: Interpreting Tongues from Acts

2008-06-18T12:35:00.000-07:00

Last night from our study on Pentecost (Download message here) I told you how important it is for you to let Acts 2 govern your understanding of the spiritual gift of speaking in tongues. I primarily got my points from John Stott (The Message of ACTS). I said you’ve got to start with Acts 2:1-13. If you don’t, you set yourself up to read your experiences back into the Bible instead of vise versa. What I mean is that it could be easy to go to a charismatic church (or watch a service on TV) and assume what you see is biblical because they call what they’re doing speaking in tongues. It can become easy to rationalize to yourself, "I don’t see this in my church, so they must be afraid of the Holy Spirit" or you think they're ignoring passages like Acts 2 and 1 Corinthians 13-14.

Don’t do this. Instead just begin with Acts 2 where the Bible actually portrays what speaking in tongues looks like and use that as a grid for understanding the other New Testament references. Stott makes a big deal over the fact that the Greek words for “Tongue” and “Interpret” are the same throughout the New Testament. So though there are some functional differences between Pentecost and 1 Corinthians 13-14, we’re really talking about the same gift. A New Testament tongue is always either the organ/body part or a known language and the word for “interpret” is always in concert with known languages (Stott).

I’m not saying that by first reading Acts 2 and then reading Paul in 1 Corinthians 13-14 that these debates magically disappear. But at least Acts gives you some sure footing. You choose - do you want to start with TBN, Benney Hinn, Kenneth Copeland or Joyce Meyers? Do you want to start with personal anecdotes like the late night spooky stories you swapped with dorm buddies around microwave popcorn by a desk lamp? Or with the Lord’s inspired story from Acts? I choose Acts.

This forms a couple of presuppositions. First of all, I understand that the gift of tongues for the early church was a revelatory gift. A gift designed by God to communicate truth to his church during the Apostalic age as the Bible was being written. In this way, it makes sense for me to read 1 Corinthians 13:8-13 to say that this gift was going to fade out when the Apostles did. When 1 Corinthians 13:8 says, “they will cease” (literally “[tongues] will cease themselves”), I conclude they did, and that they did before the “perfect” comes (1 Cor. 13:10). This is how it seems to play out in the storyline of Acts and why this gift is found only in one of Paul’s letters which happens to be the earliest epistle written in the New Testament.

So, not only do I see that it “ceased” with the Apostolic age but I also believe the gift served a distinct purpose for that distinct period. It was a significant a sign. Every time this gift happened, it was a sign of cursing on Israel for rejecting Jesus and of blessing to the church for accepting Jesus. Paul makes this very clear when he cites Isaiah 28:11-12 in his argument in 1 Corinthians 14:19-22. Pentecost marks a dramatic shift in God’s kingdom program – the church was now born! God’s glory was manifested as a pillar of fire for Israel and now was manifested as “tongues of fire” hovering over his new people. The church - a multi-language, multi-nation, multi-culture people - was suddenly seeing, experiencing, and speaking “the mighty works of God” (Acts 2:11). One last challenge for understanding tongues from 1 Corinthians 13-14 is to remember that Paul’s main point was not to coach the early church to speak in tongues. He was rebuking Corinth for not being a loving church (1 Cor. 13:1-13). Paul was telling them to stop showing off which was turning believers and unbelievers away from truth. Understanding Paul’s intent puts many of his sarcastic and instructive points from chapter 14 in context.

Now that I’ve got that off my chest let me say I’m no expert on the spiritual gifts. I recognize that there is a spectrum for where you can fall in terms of being a cessationist and/or a continuationist. You obviously can believe revelatory gifts are for today and be theologically strong (i.e. Wayne Grudem for one). In fact I recommend Grudem's "4 Views" book where Dr. Robert Saucy takes a “cautious but open” position. I may actually find myself more in his camp when all is said and done. For a quick and clear Bible study on these issues I also recommend the notes from Acts 2 and 1 Corinthians 13-14 from The MacArthur Study Bible. For a more detailed recitation from John MacArthur go to his book Charismatic Chaos.

The Power of the Gospel

2008-06-17T13:05:00.000-07:00

How has the Gospel changed your life?

2.22 Week Links

2008-06-15T21:13:00.001-07:00

Another heapin' helpin' from the world wide web:

Politics: Pulpit Magazine is posting a series on the Gospel and Politics.

Study Bibles: In case you weren't aware, Crossway is releasing the ESV Study Bible in October. Justin Taylor announces a "pre-release" sample: Introduction to the Book of Revelation. Download it here.

Summer Reading: Al's list - Part One & Two. CJ's list.

Car Crash: Josh Harris & kids weren't hurt - praise the Lord - but he totaled his friend's car on Father's day.

A Generous Critique of "A Generous Orthodoxy"

2008-06-11T13:05:00.000-07:00

Now that we have our podcast up & running, I'm in the process of uploading many of the past sermons from 2.22. One of the first "retro" messages we're making available is Jeff's book review of "A Generous Orthodoxy", by Brian McLaren. You can stream the audio from our mp3 player in the sidebar, or download the file (33 MB) below. This message was given back in 2006 at our Church Emergentcy conference.

Download this sermon (right click and save)

Also, Jeff has made available the printed form of this message. Here's a snippet:

So what’s the big deal about McLaren?

McLaren though it’s unfair to call him the sole spokesperson for the emerging church (or even who all in the emergent church would want to identify with), by writing ‘a Generous Orthodoxy’ has documented a personal confession or “’manifesto’ of the emerging church conversation. In other words, he’s a patriarch or founding father that’s actually articulated postmodern theology/thinking on paper. And I assume his influence isn’t going away.

Download the entire review here.

Though the book is several years old now, there are still a few other reviews available online:

Al Mohler

Tim Challies

John Frame

Feature Feed: Tim Challies

2008-06-03T10:38:00.000-07:00

If you haven't heard the name Tim Challies by now, you're probably still using dial-up or you just don't travel the cyberworld that much. Tim has established himself (unintentionally) over the past few years as "The World's Most Famous Christian Blogger" (at least according to the Pyros). He is in high demand all over the country to be the official "Live Blogger" of a who's who list of evangelical conferences. And, his name is virtually synonymous with DISCERNMENT... in fact he actually wrote the book on it... really.

Titled "The Discipline of Spiritual Discernment", Tim's book has gained much attention and would be a great read for anyone. We've heard our own pastor Lance commend & quote from this book as he concluded a Romans sermon on discerning false teachers, it's even being considered as a book study for the men of our church in the fall.

Tim has a sound mind & level head about him that makes him wise as well as winsome. Nancy Leigh DeMoss has just concluded recording a series on discernment prompted by her reading Tim's book and has often commented of how fond she is of Tim & his biblical perspective on many issues.

Tim's blog is devoted primarily to doing book reviews - the guy must be some kind of bionic speed reader for all the reviews he cranks out! (Be sure to check out his review of the best selling book, "The Shack") He also has a feature called "A-La-Carte" from which I modeled our own "2.22 Week Links." Tim has his thumb on the evangelical internet pulse. He's also a web designer by trade.

So pick up the book here, or at least watch the blog feed in the sidebar and familiarize yourself with Tim Challies.

Na Tunes

2008-05-29T11:40:00.000-07:00

For those of you interested in the music from Na, Bob Kauflin has posted an exhaustive list of all the songs we sang at the conference, complete with either chords, lyrics or mp3's when available.

Several of the songs are also featured on a new CD recorded by the Na band called "Looked Upon". You can listen & purchase the CD here.

We'll try to learn some of these this summer at 2.22.

Na Pics... all 160 of them!

2008-05-29T11:03:00.000-07:00

The photos from the New Attitude conference are now on Facebook! You can view them (even if you don't have a Facebook account) at the links below and please feel free to comment and tag any of them:

If you went with us and have posted some of your own pics, let us know in the comments section here, on Facebook or send me an email with a link.

Also, if you didn't get to go, you can listen to the messages and view other resources here. I'll bet if you look at the pictures while you listen to the sermon audio, it'll be like you were right there with us!

New College Equipping Hour

2008-05-21T09:25:00.000-07:00

click to enlarge

New College Equipping Hour – Sunday mornings at 9am beginning on June 1 we will introduce an equipping hour class specifically designed for College students (18-22 years of age). We are going to take 12 weeks to study the 12 chapters of Ecclesiastes. Our series is called From Vanity to Sanity: Fear. Obedience. Judgment. We want to especially invite and encourage those returning home from college and those attending college in Central Arkansas to join us Sunday mornings during these summer months.

Relationship Series:Complete & Uploaded

2008-05-14T10:23:00.001-07:00

On January 8, 2008 we launched a series of messages on the subject of Relationships based on the book by Tim Lane and Paul Tripp. This week, May 13, we concluded our series. If you missed any of the messages, they are all (except for one I think) uploaded and available via mp3.

In the mp3 player over on the sidebar, the messages are all labled by date, title, then speaker. However, you'll notice that in the menu, they are not listed in chronological order. They are listed in the order that I uploaded them and I can't figure out how to change that order.

(This is a shameless plea to any of you web techs out there to help me on this!)

To help clear any confusion, I've listed the entire series of messages below in order for you to listen by using the embedded players, or click on the title to download.

01:08:08: Relationships Introduction

01:22:08: Sin

01:29:08: Agendas

02:12:08: Worship

02:19:08: Talk

03:04:08: Conflict

03:11:08: Forgiveness

03:25:08: Burdens

04:01:08: Mercy

04:08:08: An Indestructable Relationship

04:15:08: Time & Money

04:22:08: Spirit-Filled Relationships

05:06:08: Viewing God as Good

05:13:08: The Influence of Salt & Light

Influence

2008-05-12T20:18:00.000-07:00

In preparation for Tuesday's last message in the Relationship series, I came across this sermon by Cornelius Tyree called "THE MORAL POWER OF A PIOUS LIFE" or known also as "The Living Epistle". It's long - so you probably won't read it all in one sitting, but you might take a few small bites at a time.

As we talk about being salt and light (Matthew 5:13-16) in the relationships we have, this is just one excerpt that should help us see the importance of letting others see our "good works" that they might "give glory to God."

How can the attention of men be most effectually drawn to the great subject of Christianity? If there can be no sound conversion to God without thought and investigation—then how can men be induced to entertain the gospel proposition? The most effectual way to enlist general attention to the religion of Christ—is for its professors to display it in their tempers and conduct.

The best commentary on the Bible that the world has ever seen--is a holy life of growing likeness to Christ. The most eloquent sermon in behalf of the gospel that the world has ever heard--is a uniform, active life of piety. The best version of the Bible that has ever been made--is a consistent pious example. The Christian whose light thus shines, not only correctly renders--but beautifies the sacred text. His life and conduct are a sort of second edition of the written Scriptures--a living epistle which all can read, all understand, and that convinces and convicts all.

How are others reading your life?

2.22 Week Links

2008-05-09T20:33:00.000-07:00

Maybe this should be called "WEAK Links" since my attempt at being weekly is rather weakly. Oh well - here's the latest blog fodder for you:

Music: Hymns or Choruses? The dialogue continues.

Message: If you can't afford fifty bucks to hear Max McLean read the ESV Bible on mp3 CD's, AMG Publishers have a more affordable reading by Stephen Johnston for $16.99. Find out more here.

Manifesto: Heard about the new Evangelical Manifesto? Catch up on it here and here.

Mullet: Once an Arkansan, always an Arkansan.

This post has been brought to you by the letter M.

Concert of Prayer

2008-05-07T11:59:00.000-07:00

Be sure and join us Tuesday night at 2.22 on May 20th when we'll have a special night of prayer, worship, scripture reading and testimonies of God's goodness. We'll be praying specifically for our upcoming high school graduates, the summer schedule for 2.22, and more.

We look forward to seeing you at 6:30 on Tuesday for this concert of prayer.

The Original Revolution

2008-05-03T21:14:00.000-07:00

Tuesday evenings beginning June 3rd we will introduce our summer series: The Original Revolution: A study in Acts 1-7. These first seven chapters highlight how God initiated a revolution two millennia ago that is ongoing in our world today. This revolution is what Christ called His church. The Bible chronicles this movement to document the Christian’s heritage and inspire believers to risk and sacrifice for God’s mission and glory. Plan to join 2.22 this summer - Tuesday's at 6:30pm - to be challenged by this Word.

Together for the Gospel

2008-04-30T11:34:00.000-07:00

Jeff has mentioned to several of us how much he and the other BCLR pastors were encouraged by their time at the T4G conference. He has made a special reference to Pastor John Piper's message and encouraged us to listen.

Here is the link to the FREE mp3's from all 8 sessions, including not only Piper, but CJ Mahaney, John MacArthur, Al Mohler and others. Also, if you haven't seen their blog yet, check it out.

Worship Matters

2008-04-21T19:54:00.000-07:00

"The Great God values not the service of men, if the heart be not in it: The Lord sees and judges the heart; He has no regard to outward forms of worship, if there be no inward adoration, if no devout affection be employed therein. it is therefore a matter of inifinte importance, to have the whole heart engaged steadfastly for God."

Isaac Watts, Discourses on the Love of God. Taken from Bob Kauflin, Worship Matters.

2.22 Logo

2008-04-20T20:39:00.000-07:00

I've been after Aaron Malyk for quite some time now to design a new logo for 2.22. He has accomplished his assignment and done well, IMHO. You'll be seeing this new logo incorporated into blog headers (hit "F5" to refresh this page and watch a different header image appear), flyers, etc. (bumper stickers?). Below are some excerpts from an email he sent me explaining the elements of the logo. I thought that it would help you understand the artistic expression behind what we stand for.

With the name of the group being 2:22, I felt the most important basis for the 'branding' was to find a typeface with a good '2' numeral (see BBC Two branding links below.) After searching and searching and not being able to find what I was looking for, I ended up designing a custom '2' numeral based around circles and complementary geometrics, to try and achieve the most perfect '2' ever designed. This might sound completely crazy to you, but I really couldn't find a '2' which looked good enough. I wanted perfectly rounded ends, a good heavy weight and clean straight lines.

I've used the 2 numeral I designed, with a subset colon. I felt it was better to go with a colon than a period, since that's how scripture references are usually presented and without it you lose the meaning entirely. But subsetting the colon provides an aesthetically-pleasing deviation from the norm and makes the logo distinctive and memorable. The subset colon gives the text and identity, and creates a logo.

I've also paired the 2:22 logo with a brush-strokes icon which I really like. The idea with the brush strokes was to, very loosely, tie in the logo with the scripture on which it is based. The scripture commands us, in summary, to flee passions on the one hand, and pursue virtues on the other. So the brush strokes icon gives a sense of movement from (left to right) disorder and passion to more order and solidity. I think together with the clean 2:22 type on top there is a distinctive icon which makes for a logo with 100s of applications...

Be sure to thank Aaron for his hard & creative work!

I've Wasted It

2008-04-13T17:12:00.000-07:00

For me as a boy, one of the most gripping illustrations my fiery father used was the story of a man converted in old age. The
church had prayed for this man for decades. He was hard and resistant. But this time, for some reason, he showed up when my father was preaching. At the end of the service, during a hymn, to everyone’s amazement he came and took my father’s hand.
They sat down together on the front pew of the church as the
people were dismissed. God opened his heart to the Gospel of Christ, and he was saved from his sins and given eternal life. But that did not stop him from sobbing and saying, as the tears ran down his wrinkled face—and what an impact it made on me to hear my father say this through his own tears—“I’ve wasted it! I’ve wasted it!”
~Don't Waste Your Life, John Piper

Does your life seem like a blur? Do you feel like you're not making the most out of the resources God has given you? This Tuesday night we'll be addressing the topics of time & money in our study on relationships. How does your use of time & money reflect your relationship with God? With others? In preparation for our study, you might want to be ready 2 Corinthians 8 & 9 and Ephesians 5:15-21.

To encourage you to think about these two areas in our lives that we most often steward poorly, we want to invite you out Tuesday at 6:30. As a supplement to your study, we'll be giving away 3 CD copies of an interview that John Piper did on FamilyLife several years ago. These interviews are based on the topic of Piper's book, Don't Waste Your Life. Many of you have already read this book, but if you haven't, you can read the book online here. Did you know that Desiring God also has a DWYL podcast? Listen and/or read the DWYL blog here.

Hope to see you Tuesday.

2.22 Sunday Lunch w/ Jeff & Judy

2008-04-11T15:29:00.000-07:00

There's nothing like Sunday lunch. If you were raised in a family that treasured the time around the table after a morning of Lord's Day worship, then you know what I mean.

As part of our 2.22 Summer 2008 activities, Jeff & Judy want to invite you into their home once a month for Sunday lunch (in the house!). We'll gather there immediately following the morning worship service for a meal (on the house!) and hopefully good conversation as we discuss the morning message.

We'll begin these lunches in June (to allow for the Crotts' to recover from their May vacation!) and on the dates below. If you're on Facebook, you'll also receive an invite for which you may RSVP.

2.22 Sunday Lunch with Jeff & Judy

June 8
July 13
August 10

2.22 Saturday Night Fellowship

2008-04-11T15:17:00.000-07:00

Pastor Jeff & the leadership of 2.22 are wanting to give you plenty of opportunities for mutual encourage and koinonia this summer. Here is just one of those opportunities:

For the next four months of May, June, July & August, 2.22 will be having a Saturday night fellowship at the home of Aaron & Anita Wilson. We'll grill some burgers & enjoy outdoor games/activities. The dates are listed below as well as in the sidebar and we'll always begin around 5pm.

You'll want to be sure and bring a lawn chair & if we need you to bring any food items, we'll let you know before the date. If you're on Facebook, you'll also receive an event invitation for which you can RSVP.

If you have any game or activity ideas or just need directions, please email us!

2.22 Saturday Night Fellowship

May 31
June 28
July 26
August 23

NEW 2.22 Facebook Profile

2008-04-09T09:33:00.000-07:00

I've created a new Facebook profile for 2.22. We currently have a 2.22 "Group", which doesn't allow me to add photo or podcast apps like you can on a main profile page. Most of you should be getting invitations, but if you don't, you can go directly to the new page and submit a friend request.

And yes - I'll admit... I'm starting to like Facebook.

An Indestructible Relationship

2008-04-08T20:13:00.000-07:00

If you weren't at 2.22 Tuesday night you missed a great message from the first two chapters of Job. Pastor Jeff showed us how Job’s indestructible relationship with God manifested itself in two faith-filled expressions, found in Job 1:20-22 & Job 2:9-10.

As part of his message, he quoted from John Piper's poem "The Misery of Job and the Mercy of God". This poem - published also in a book is available as a free online pdf file.

The Desiring God website says this of the book:

Job lost everything: his wealth, his health, and his ten children. All swept away in one satanic storm. Reduced to a heap of flesh, ashes, and tears—rebuked by friends and jeered by strangers—righteous Job wrestled over the purpose and presence of God in the midst of unbearable pain.
In this book, John Piper recounts the story of Job in beautiful, compassionate poetry and revels in God's sovereign and surprisingly joyful purposes in allowing exquisite suffering in the lives of his saints. A deeply moving book, especially for those experiencing great suffering and loss.

Piper is as much a poet as he is a preacher, so you're bound to enjoy this work - which was recently reviewed here (ht:Abraham Piper). We'll have Jeff's sermon audio available on our podcast later today.

New Feature Feed: Josh Harris

2008-04-07T11:22:00.000-07:00

Having featured New Attitude's blog for about a month now, we'll narrow it down a bit and feature Na's "founder" and conference speaker, Josh Harris. You'll find on his blog everything from his sermon series to Sovereign Grace goings on to news about his popular twin brothers.

You'll find the Josh Harris Feature Feed in the sidebar. Enjoy!

PLOW Patrol

2008-04-05T12:51:00.000-07:00

April 5th marked the re-launching of "PLOW Patrol". PLOW Patrol is an opportunity for 2.22 to serve others in our church body or community. We recently served Jim & Billy Gaye Viner while Jim was still recovering from a recent surgery. In just a few hours, we were able to rake their entire yard & gather a nice collection of curbside baggage (see a few photos in the sidebar).

We will continue this through the summer months - always on the first Saturday morning of each month. The next PLOW Patrol will be on May 3rd. This is the annual BCLR churchwide workday, so we'll be joining in with the rest of the body to do some spring cleaning in and around our own church.

Please mark on your calendars the following dates & join us for a great time of serving.

May 3rd - BCLR Workday at the church

June 7 - Location TBA

July 5 - Location TBA

August 2 - Location TBA

Mercy

2008-04-01T21:15:00.000-07:00

Tuesday night, April 1st, we considered the topic of mercy as we continued our study on relationships. I just finished reading & wanted to recommend a book to you that I think exemplifies true mercy.

When Invisible Children Sing is a true story of Dr. Chi Huang & his short time with the street children of Bolivia. After four years of Harvard Med School, Chi - a Christian - only needed a few classes to graduate. Instead, he asked & was granted a one year sabbatical. For the first half of that year, he studied the Old & New Testaments. Then, he wanted to serve - anywhere - as long as it was in a poor & pitiful place. The street children in Bolivia were a perfect fit for Chi's desires. Ninety percent of street children in Bolivia are drug addicts and the sexual activity among them leads to disease, abortion and further poverty.

Chi walked - literally - among these children for months treating their diseases, bandaging their wounds, medicating their illnesses - but most importantly - he was there to be there, for the kids. Kids who daily solicit for drugs, sex or money simply wanted from Chi his attention. And he gave it.

Telling the stories of five individual children and mentioning many more, Chi Huang presents his life experiences in manageable bits of story, written cleverly and jumping steadily from one night on the street to another days later. At times he takes the reader back to his own childhood and his experiences being a smart and unpopular student, a highly talented tennis player, and a typical bratty brother to his younger sister until her untimely death from Leukemia when he was a teenager.

Chi's mission of mercy is one to be admired. Serving the poorest of the poor - the weakest of the weak - in the streets and sewers of a poverty stricken city, should give us all a renewed desire to show mercy to all. This is an easy yet compelling read & I highly recommend securing a copy for yourself. Or, you can borrow mine!

You can buy the book at amazon and read more about the ongoing ministry started by Dr. Chi here.

Last night's message will be available as a podcast soon - but in the meantime, you can download the 21.5 MB file by clicking here.

2.22 Week Links

2008-03-23T19:59:00.000-07:00

Survey Says: Read Al Mohler's observations on a recent survey on what America thinks about sin.

Quotes: The author of one of my favorite books has his own blog & almost daily posts some great quotes.

Facebook: I knew this would get your attention. What do Josh Harris & Facebook have in common? Here and here.

Funny: What if worship were like an NBA Game? Watch this.

Pastor Chris Williams Speaks to 2.22

2008-03-14T07:20:00.000-07:00

On February 26 of this year, the 222 group had the privilege of meeting together and praying for our brother Chris Williams, the chairman of Grace to India and pastor of Disciples Community Church. Chris was our speaker for this year's mission conference, we received a huge blessing by having Mr. Williams in one of our student's homes, praying over him for specific situations and people in his life back in India and how we as a group can support him in any way we can.

We want to continue to pray for our brother as he travels to Myanmar and to Thailand as he visits local churches to encourage and to train pastors.

For the Retired Military Police group in Thailand, as Chris has seen men come to Christ and has seen many of them bear fruit, pray that God would continue to be glorified through these men.

We also would like to pray for Vichalle, a young man in Chris's life who just recently has received assurance of his Salvation, there are many ways that Vichalle can be and wants to be used in India, pray that he would continue to grow in the Grace and knowledge of our God and that God would use Him mightily.

Also for Chris's son, Stephen who we believe is about to graduate from seminary, pray for wisdom and guidance that it would be made clear to Him as to where God wants him to be now that he has completed his studies. For Chris's family, as they miss him very much as he travels, that God would comfort and strengthen His wife during this time.

Pray for a school group in India that Chris is involved in. Children are abandoned by their parents and brought to this school. They are raised there and the Word is taught, but recently Chris has seen that when children are grown up and move on that no fruit is seen and they then become part of the world and neglect what they have been taught. Please pray that the children would be doers of the word as they move out.

If you'd like to contact Chris Williams and send him your encouragement, you can E-mail him at
chriswilliams AT vsnl DOT com.

Thank you all for welcoming him this year.

-This report submitted by Chris Kay.

Forgiveness

2008-03-12T07:36:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to Michael Hamline for teaching on the subject of forgiveness this week. He took us through the parable of the unforgiving servant found in Matthew 18:21-35 as we continued our series on Relationships.

As you continue to think about forgiveness, I want to briefly list a couple of helpful books that might interest you. I've just listed them below without any hyperlinks, but you can go to any of the trusted book suppliers listed at the bottom of the sidebar to purchase a copy.

Forgiveness, John MacArthur

Choosing Forgiveness, Nancy Leigh DeMoss

The Healing Power of Forgiveness, Ray Pritchard

From Forgiven to Forgiving, Jay Adams

You might also check out some of these online sermons & articles on forgiveness at Monergism.com.

Pastor Lance Quinn Guest on Dr. Mohler's Radio Program

2008-03-08T19:42:00.000-08:00

This past Thursday, March 6, our very own pastor, Lance Quinn was the guest on Al Mohler's daily radio program. The topic was "Biblical Counseling and the Local Church."

You can listen by going here, then you can stream it or download it for your iPod.

Another of our own - Peter Witkowski - is currently studying at The Southern Baptist Seminary, where Dr. Mohler presides as President.

Guest Blogger: Beth Riley

2008-03-07T11:15:00.000-08:00

Beth Riley has been reading the book "Relationships" along with our Tuesday night study on the same topic. She's been blogging about it on her own blog, and I asked her to share some thoughts with us.

No Options!

“We know we are less than human when we are alone.”

There are two extremes on the pendulum of relationship; isolation and immersion. The Isolationist says, “I want to be safe” and the immersionist says, “I need you in order to live (17).”
It is interesting how my views fall in the pendulum. For example, I definitely fear vulnerability with people. I cleave at times to self preservation instead of reaching out to the individual. Then, at other times, I think my life is pitiful because my dear friends from the past are not here, and I overlook the dear friendships that are being built here.

They go on to explain relationship interactions between two types of people.

-the frustrated relationship; one isolationist, who feels smothered, and one immersionist, who feels rejected.

-the emeshed relationship, two immersionist;so dependent on each other, that they can be easily hurt when the other does not meet their needs

-the isolated relationship; two isolationist;complicated because their desires for safety and independence collides with the longing for relationship.

“While relationships are not inherently dangerous, the expectations we bring to them can be (19).” In the words of Miah (from Princess Diaries) “Shut up”! I am disappointed in relationships normally because the other person does not meet the expectations I have imposed upon them. How silly, and yet I see this continually surfacing in my relationships. *hint prayer request

8 implications to enrich your community (relationships)

1. God is the only properly functioning community in the universe (21).
2. The Trinity is the only adequate model for human community (22)
3. People made in God's likeness were made for community (22).
4. God has a 2-fold purpose for human community: personal growth and witness to the world (23).
5. Sin's self-centeredness cuts us off from God and others(23).
6. True human community only arise out of communion with God (23).
7. Christ's resolve confirms the commitment made by the Father, Son, and Spirit before the creation of the world (24).
8. God will dwell in community with his people so that they can know community with one another

In conclusion, I don't want to give everything away in the chapter because there is rich truth found in the content of the above point.

Feature Feed

2008-03-07T09:31:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd try something new in the sidebar... let me know if you like it or not. I've added what I'm calling the "Feature Feed". Once per month, I will help introduce you to another helpful blog by way of "featuring" it in the sidebar.

This month, we'll feature the New Attitude blog. So, what you are seeing under the "Feature Feed" header is the latest 5 posts over at the Na blog. The idea is to acquaint you with some blogs that you might not be aware of. Most of the blogs that will be featured will already be listed in the blogroll, but this will help further your familiarity with them.

Good idea? Don't care? Lemme know.

Blog Under Construction

2008-03-06T22:52:00.000-08:00

Your patience is appreciated as I'm doing some much needed updating to the blog. All the blog posts are still available below and in the archives tab on the right. The other sidebar items will return gradually. Meanwhile, let me know what you think about the new design & what you'd like to see added.

New BCLR Blog for Missionary Prayer Requests

2008-02-12T09:52:00.000-08:00

Pat Howell has recently launched a new blog to assist us in praying for the missionaries of the Bible Church. You can keep abreast of the current praises & needs of our own missionaries now at www.bclr1530.blogspot.com.

Registration open for Na conference

2008-01-10T16:04:00.000-08:00

Christmas as a Child...

2007-12-19T20:57:00.001-08:00

As promised in an earlier email, here are the childhood pics of many of your fellow 2.22ers & leaders. Guess who?
(If you see a big black space below, keep scrolling down to see the pics. Apparently Blogger has an unresolved bug right now!)

2.22 Christmas Party - December 18th

2007-12-11T08:39:00.000-08:00

On the 18th, in lieu of our regular 2.22 meeting, we'll gather at the home of Aaron & Anita Wilson for our 3rd annual Christmas party. We'll begin at 6:30 with lots of great food - including a juicy, deep fried Turkey! If you haven't signed up for food yet, send an email to Anita & she'll suggest something for you to bring. Also, be shopping for your Dirty Santa gift ($5 - $10 range) to bring for a good round of Christian thievery and back stabbing (Hint: good books always make for some serious action).

Also - we're going to play a fun guessing game at the party - and I need your help. I need everyone to send me a picture of yourself - as a child - at Christmas. It can be a pic of you opening a gift... or in front of the tree, etc. Please can scan your pics (since there were no digital cameras in the 80's & 90's) at a good resolution (2 - 3 MB) & email them to me at 222mission@gmail.com. (send them ASAP!!) If you don't have access to a scanner, bring me the actual photo in an envelope with your name on it, and I'll scan it and get it back to you. The more that participate, the funner (funnier) it will be. The more that participate, the funner (funnier) it will be. Plus, we might even get to see a picture of Jeff Crotts opening his first Chia pet or Judy's blue, Shawn Cassidy jacket, or Anita Wilson's Easy Bake Oven... or worse!

Check your inbox for the address to our house, or just email with any questions. Also, check out pics from the last two parties over in the left side bar.

2.22 Week Links

2007-12-05T17:54:00.000-08:00

Remember these? Here's a few of the latest links in cyberworld...

Movies - Does the Golden Compass point in the right direction? Al Mohler gives an extremely helpful overview of the movie & instruction on how Christians should react.

Movies (Part 2) - The 2nd Narnia movie "Prince Caspian" has released it's trailer.

Politics '08 - A good reminder of how we should approach the upcoming presidential elections.

Christmas Gift for Others - Josh Harris has a great suggestions for a Christmas gift - journals!

Christmas Gift for You - Books make great gifts - for you! Here's a helpful OT commentary hot off the press.

New Attitude - New Video

2007-10-22T06:13:00.000-07:00

Check out this new video for Humble Orthodoxy. And don't forget these dates: May 24 - 27 - the 2008 Na Conference!!

2 Special Guests Coming to 2.22

2007-09-25T10:04:00.000-07:00

Please make a point to be at 2.22 on Tuesday, October 2nd and October 30th (well, and all the Tuesdays in between, too). On these particular dates, we will have the opportunity to hear from two men from two totally different fields, and yet both have a passion for our Lord.

John F. Redman, M.D., F.A.C.S., F.A.A.P. is well known professor in the field of pediatric urology at UAMS. After a dramatic conversion late in his life, he has become passionate about sharing the gospel with the lost. He will be giving his testimony, explaining his method for evangelism, and then giving a demonstration of how it works. We're looking forward to having Dr. Redman join us at 2.22 on October 2nd.

On October 30th, we'll have the privilege of hearing from Stephen Nichols. He'll be in town preaching at BCLR the previous Sunday, and presenting a message during Wednesday's Reformation Celebration. Here is what Tim Challies, of Discerning Reader says of Nichols:

Stephen Nichols is quite the prolific author. A professor at Lancaster Bible College and Graduate School and a graduate of Westminster Theological Seminary, Nichols has written several notable books in the past few years and it seems that he always has at least one title on the “Coming Soon” lists at Crossway or P&R Publishing. Nichols has a gift for presenting church history in a way that is interesting and in a way that appeals to those who may not otherwise know (or care) about the long, storied history of the church. He shows how church history is relevant precisely because the controversies we face today are strikingly similar to ones the church has dealt with long ages ago.

Here's what Aaron Wilson says of Nichols:

He must be cool...he's a Cash fan.

Stephen will be sharing with our group from his studies on Jonathan Edward's vision of the Christian life, featured in his book "Heaven on Earth". He'll also be sharing about Edward's view of evangelism and conversion and the Holy Spirit's role in illumination.

Both speakers will be preparing us for a Fall series by Pastor Jeff on communicating the gospel to our lost world. We'll see you there!

New Attitude News

2007-09-25T09:22:00.000-07:00

If you don't already get the Na newsletter via email, I've pasted it below. You can subscribe here at the Na blog. Remember, we will be taking a group to the '08 Na Conference, (May 24-27, 2008) so you'll want to be sure to keep up with everything that's going on.

Greetings from Na.

The conference might seem like a distant memory now, but we haven't taken a day off. We're continuing our vision for humble orthodoxy, adding new friends to help, and dancing to new music in our offices.

Our Vision

If you haven't noticed, we're pretty excited about this humble orthodoxy thing. Eric Simmons, who leads Na, laid out the vision for why Na is all about humble orthodoxy in a recent blog post. And for the past two weeks our new bloggers have talked about why they're committed to a humble orthodoxy.

New Friends

Oh yes, the new bloggers. Joining Joshua Harris, Eric Simmons, and Ricky Alcantar are Thabiti Anyabwile, Justin Taylor, Doug Hayes, Isaac Hydoski, Joe Stigora, and Justin Buzzard. They come from the east coast and west coast, from inside and outside Sovereign Grace Ministries, from different backgrounds, from differing degrees of athleticism and…well maybe you should just see for yourself. They've already tackled issues like social justice, hypocrisy, and the proper use of adjectives. Check in often. We want to make the blog a place you can stop during the week and get a dose of transforming truth, practical application, and humble orthodoxy.

Music to Dance To in Our Offices

Oh, and if you missed out on the new Nap Records album Asleep In a Storm when it sold out at the conference this year, we have good news: It's back in stock. Available in both digital and holdable versions. Forget reinvention. Embrace a humble orthodoxy.

-The Na Crew

You guys...

2007-09-10T06:30:00.000-07:00

ROCK!!!!

Sovereign Grace Free MP3 Messages

2007-08-22T11:19:00.000-07:00

Sovereign Grace Ministries is giving an invaluable gift to the body of Christ by making their store's entire collection of MP3 messages available for free download. Audios are sorted by topic, event, and speaker."

Here are some of the speakers:

The Glories Continue!

2007-08-11T08:24:00.000-07:00

We are continuing our study through the book of Revelation this summer and coming to our last two months. To help you in your own study, we're providing the passages that will be covered in the coming weeks.

Aug. 14 – Rev. 19:17-21 (Jeff)
Aug. 21 – Rev. 20:1-10 (Jeff)
Aug. 28 – Rev. 20:11-15 (Aaron)

Sept. 4 – Rev. 21:1-8 (Jeff)
Sept. 11 – Rev. 21:9-27 (Jeff)
Sept. 18 – Rev. 22:1-10 (Jeff)
Sept. 25 – Rev. 22:11-21 (Aaron)

All John Piper Books $5.00 !!!!!!!!

2007-06-23T18:06:00.000-07:00

From Desiring God Ministries:

Every book in our store will be $5 on June 27-28, Wednesday and Thursday next week.
No limits, so spread the word.
(This sale is online only.)

Thanks to Gary for this HT.

Plow Patrol Pics

2007-06-19T07:42:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, June 16th, several 2.22ers went to Mrs. Goodson's home (she's a friend of Elijah's family) to serve her by cleaning up her yard. After many hours and lots of sweat, the work was completed and God was glorified by this ministry.
Why don't you join us next month to help serve someone else? Details coming soon.

Three Share Thoughts from Na

2007-06-14T20:39:00.001-07:00

From Beth Riley:

What are the idols in your life? Or "in the pursuit of something, do you sin to get it or sin when you don't get it"? (Todd Murray, he wasn't at the conference :)) In defining idolatry John Calvin stated that the evil in our desire usually doesn't lie in what we want but that we want it to much. Thinking through my daily pursuits I am convicted of the time I spend pursuing pleasure. Pleasure such as being "comfortable", feelings of happiness, getting my way, receiving other people's good opinion ... Whether or not these "sins" are viewed "as bad as" the world or not, the motivation is still the same, namely the pursuit, or idolatry, of SELF. We should call it the "S-word".

Mahaney gave four ways to identify idolatry:

1. through scripture

2. through the Holy Spirit

3. through the church-example: blue strip on his cargo shorts (listen to the sermon for a good laugh)

4. circumstances-what is your response if you don't attain your pursuit?

Mahaney also gave the hard reality of idols in your life, namely that they NEVER deliver. They ALWAYS disappoint. Pure joy cannot be derived from idols, or anything created but can be found only from shifting focus from created things to the Creator. Applying this is hard. I see so much sin that I have been blind to. I see just how much like the world I am in my thinking. But, I am encouraged to be able to struggle and strive to become more like Christ. This is just one of the truths from the conference. I encourage you to listen to the sermons and plan to go next year for the Word taught WILL reveal sin, encourage your heart, and build relationships between the body.

~a debtor to mercy alone

Beth Riley

From Sarah Ross:

Here are my thoughts on the conference. It was Amazing. It completely opened my eyes to so many things. My walk with Christ is so much Stronger and I was able to see sin in my life I was totally oblivious to. It was a true blessing to be able to hear Awesome sermons from such Christ like men. I was able to build friendships and add on to those I already had. I have a clearer understanding of what discernment is and means. One verse that stuck out to me is 1st Corinthians 10:13-14, "No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry."

My action point that everyone could pray for is that I need to be an imitator of God.

From Peter Witkowski:

Spiritual discernment is often something we foolishly believe we possess or it is something we do not realize we lack. Falling into the later category, I ventured into the NA conference believing that my heart would only be warmed by a fleeting emotional high, facilitated by exciting music and passionate pleas from the portable pulpit. I left 4 days later truly convicted, challenged, and encouraged by the Holy Spirit. Through the sermons of Piper, C.J. and the other speakers, I saw that my spiritual growth was being stunted by my “own affections” (2 Cor. 6:12b). I was relying upon my heart to guide my spiritual life, being one of the many who spent less than 8 minutes a day in scripture and who often saw their horizons darkened by the despair of sin. This conviction has caused me to spend more time each day reading and studying the word so that I may live more fully for Christ. I also know that God is not pleased by obedience designed as a repayment for Grace. During these past days, I have been applying the teaching I heard by checking my heart to see if my spiritual desire is being replaced by cold, methodical studies.

The music was also resonated with my soul. The songs were all scripturally based and seemed to readily express the repentance and joy that was flowing through my heart. The music presented a rare blend of superb theology and contemporary music. I left with several CD’s.

In short, I would encourage people to go next year because NA is one of the few Biblically based conferences that are designed to equip people of all ages for their life in the real world. The environment is rightfully charged with emotion, because the conference is about making much of grace and more importantly, making much of God. I encourage all to go to the New Attitude website and download the sermons for free.

Cheers,
Peter Witkowski

Guys & Gals Summer Bible Study

2007-06-13T22:02:00.001-07:00

Girl's Study - "The 10 Greatest Struggles of Your Life" by Colin Smith

Meet each week at Rachel Shaver's house at 7PM unless otherwise noted.
Contact Rachel for details at rachel.shaver@alumni.cedarville.edu or Beth Riley: bth_riley@yahoo.com
You don't need a book if this is your first time to attend.

Facebook RSVP: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=2600576001

Guy's Study - "Desiring God" by John Piper

The first meeting will be in Conway - this Thursday, June 14th at the San Fransisco Bread Factory on Hwy 64.
Email Rob Molden rhmoldeniii@yahoo.com or Peter Witkowski pawitkowski@ualr.edu for details.
They will alternate venues - Conway one week, then Little Rock the next.
You don't have to have a book for this first meeting.

Facebook RSVP: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=2413234206

2.22 Week Links - Book-O-Rama

2007-06-13T21:30:00.000-07:00

When I was a kid, during the summer my mom would take my sister and I to the Grant County Library to listen to story time. We'd also participate in the book club, where we'd commit to reading a list of books during the summer.

This week's links are all related to books - for our un-official summer reading club. Who knows, maybe we can all sit on the floor Indian style and have Pastor Jeff read us a story...

Tim Challies highlights four new books from Reformation Trust, featuring R.C. Sproul, John MacArthur & former BCLR pastor Steve Lawson. Be sure to check out the rest of Tim's incredible site for the discerning reader.

John Hendryx lists his "Top Ten Books on Piety, Sanctification, Spiritual Growth" over at Reformation Theology. (HT: Taylor)

Non-Fiction - Al Mohler makes his summer reading recommendations for your leisure reading. (HT: Challies)

Crossway Books has some compelling titles coming out this summer and fall. Here's a list - you can discern which ones are compelling!

I don't wanna read! - Before you say that, consider some thoughts from C.J. Mahaney, Al Mohler and John MacArthur.

What are you reading this summer? Leave a comment below & let us know.

The Hunter and the Quarry

2007-06-05T09:06:00.000-07:00

"We are the hunters. They are the quarry. It is for men to strike out into the forest and look. It is for women to crack the twigs and stir the leaves so we know where to find them."

This was a quote read by C.J. Mahaney at the recent Na conference, from the book "Doing Things Right in Matters of the Heart" by John Ensor. This illustrative quote caught the attention of those of us in attendance, and has since become sort of an "inside joke" among us (look for t-shirts soon!).

Well, if you're interested in finding out more about this book, Tim Challies - THE "discerning reader" has done us a service by reviewing this book on his blog. You can read his full review here.

Now, it's not just guys who've been reading this book...the girls over at Girl Talk (Carolyn Mahaney & daughters) will be reading this book in their new & upcoming Book Club.

Na 2007 Pictures and Audio

2007-05-30T20:18:00.000-07:00

UPDATE: Get the audio easier...go here and just RIGHT CLICK and SAVE to your computer - no sign in necessary!

ALSO: I apologize for the erratic page loading troubles...I'm working on reformatting the blog. If you don't see the slide show, scroll down to the bottom of the page.

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Please enjoy the pics from our trip. You can click anywhere on any of the photos and it will take you to a seperate page where you can leave your comments.

Also - all the messages from Na 07 are now available to download as mp3's FOR FREE!! Please - PLEASE - take advantage of this by going here and downloading these onto your mp3 player. You can then listen to these messages and interact with others over these important topics of discernment. You'll be asked to register in order to order these, but again, they're absolutely FREE!

I am encouraging those who went on the trip to post in the comments section some of their thoughts and "action points" that had from our God-glorifying time together. Be sure to check back and read their responses.

Thanks for praying for us, I believe that the Lord did some wonderful things over the weekend.

Singing a New Song

2007-05-29T04:15:00.000-07:00

Greetings again from Louisville...

I just found this blog entry by Josh Harris' older brother on the blog of Harris' younger brothers listing all the songs we've been singing over the weekend. The 2.22 worship team will attempt to learn some of these over the following months in order to teach you some great God-centered songs.

You can view the list here.

If you're reading this today (Tuesday), please pray for us as we will be on the road back to Little Rock beginning early this afternoon. The conference ends at 1pm, we'll grab a bite, then go visit the Louisville Slugger [Baseball bat] Museum, then get on the road. We'll probably arrive at the church after 2.22 has ended, so we'll appreciate your prayers! We can't wait to tell you about how the Lord has blessed us at Na!!

Be watching the blog for testimonies from many of the 2007 Na attendees.

UPDATE: I just found a similar list of songs on Bob Kauflin's blog, complete with hyperlinks.

I Gotta New Attitude...

2007-05-27T04:57:00.000-07:00

Greetings from Louisville, Kentucky!! We are beginning our second day (Sunday) at the New Attitude conference and are already encouraged by the ministry we've been under so far. For those who wish you could be here but couldn't, you can keep up with everything we're learning at the following links:

~ Justin Taylor's blog

~ Josh Harris's brothers --Alex and Brett--will be live-blogging the New Attitude 2007 conference. (HT: Justin Taylor)

~ And Tim Challies, as always, is here blogging live.

Christy Nockels (Watermark) in Concert

2007-05-24T09:55:00.000-07:00

Click here to order tickets.

Christ in Revelation

2007-05-22T21:04:00.000-07:00

Tuesday night, May 22nd, began a summer series in the book of Revelation on the Glories of Christ, taught by Pastor Jeff. Suffice it to say, based on the first message of this series...you need to be here!

Pastor Jeff gave us three premises as to why we need such revelations of Christ:

1. Because God gives this revelation as a gift - from the Father, to the Son, to the Angel (messenger), to John and to the church (Cf. Revelation 1:1)

2. Because seeing such a revelation will educate and inform our worship.

3. Because we need to know that God hasn't kept us in the dark - such revelation informs how we approach & interpret the Scriptures.

Some questions to consider as you determine whether this subject would benefit you:

Who/what do you worship when you pray? Sing?
How does NT revelation of Jesus Christ help you interpret the rest of your Bible?
Why does God reveal Himself through His Son?

These are just some of things we'll be addressing this summer in our teaching series, "The Glories of the Exalted Christ". You might consider reading through the book of Revelation this summer - several times, as we study selected passages. Also, for supplemental reading, you might try John Owen's book, The Glory of Christ. It's available here for free download in it's unabridged, un-modernized version.

Hope to see you at 2.22 - 6:30pm on Tuesday nights.

2.22 Week Links

2007-05-21T16:38:00.000-07:00

Another list of links from the blogosphere...

Modesty - The hot topic is back again over at Team Pyro.

Church & State - What's God got to do with politics? Larry King recently addressed this on his program - with, among others - Al Mohler.

Entertainment - Seen any good movies lately? What guidelines do you use in determining what movies to watch? Joe Thorn has some helpful thoughts. (HT: Justin Taylor)

Bibles - Ever considered taking a power tool to your Bible? You might if you want one like Jonathan Edwards.

(Image provided by http://www.bigfoto.com/)