Sojourn Travelogue

Glueless in Greensboro

2012-01-07T12:48:00.000-08:00

Sojourn, as you prepare for worship tomorrow, spend a few moments and read the following verses from the book of Acts. Acts 2:42; 17:34 and 20:37. Below is the outline for the message tomorrow which will be given by Pastor Glenn.

I. The Phenomena of the "Glueless" Christian - Acts 2:42-46

Acts 2:42-46 - "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts,…"

Marks of "Gluelessness"

#1 Lack of concern for the apostle's teaching

#2 Lack of concern for the other members

#3 Lack of concern for the work of God - v. 42c

#4 Lack of concern for prayer - v. 42d

II. Selfish Motivations to Remain "Glueless"

A. "Gluelessness" avoids accountability.

B. "Gluelessness" avoids responsibility.

C. "Gluelessness" makes it easy to leave.

Acts 20:36-38 - "When he had said this, he knelt down with all of them and prayed. They all wept as they embraced him and kissed him. What grieved them most was his statement that they would never see his face again. Then they accompanied him to the ship."

D. "Gluelessness" appears to be emotionally safer.

III. A Strategy for Gluing

Heb. 10:23-25 - "Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching."

Making it Count

2012-01-07T12:11:00.000-08:00

As we put the holidays behind us and dig out from underneath all of the wrapping paper many of us turn to the upcoming New Year’s celebration to engage in a ritual that would confuse any visiting alien. We call it New Year’s resolutions. For reasons I don’t fully understand, it is this single point in time each year that we try and make major changes in our life. The more popular resolutions are Starting to exercise, eating better, getting more education or a better job Get a better job, getting out of debt, spend more time on relationship, or to give up something like cigarettes or alcohol. According to one recent survey, almost 92 percent of individuals fail in their attempts at these changes. Why? Because our intentions don’t determine where we end up. Our direction does. Direction trumps every time.

In 2012—you can intend with great determination to certain destinations in your relationships, in your profession, in you time management, financially or spiritually. But that really doesn’t matter because you will end up right where the path you are on leads.

As you might imagine, the bible weighs in on resolutions this whole idea of intending to do change. If you were to take the whole of the Old and New Testament’s teaching in this area, you might summarize the principles this way. Don’t trust yourself and follow God’s ways regardless of what your heart is telling you. Proverb’s 3 says it this way; Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him,  and he will make straight your paths.  Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away.

So with one eye on scripture and another on the year ahead, let me offer this challenge. Rather then making a list of resolutions that you won’t keep, ask yourself a few questions.

Are their disconnects in my life between where I really want to be and the path I am on?

Where is there misalignment between my intentions and my direction?

Then ask God to help you with four things. First, for the courage to take responsibility for any misalignment rather then blame circumstances or others. (Heb. 4:12) Second, for forgiveness where you have deviated from his direction (I John 1:9). Third, to show you the right direction (II Peter 1:3). Finally, for wisdom in plotting a new course (James 1:5). And, next year at this time when you are overwhelmed by the freedom and peace this gives, smile and give God the credit. Here’s to making it count.

Digging Deeper in the David Series

2011-09-24T10:50:00.000-07:00

Sojourn Small Group Study

Message Series: David: Lessons from the Life of a Renegade King

Session: # 1

Title: The Nobody Nobody Noticed

INTRODUCTION

The life of King David is a remarkable study. David is a central character of the Old Testament. One scholar said if he had to name a single Renaissance man in human history, somebody with extraordinary capacities on multiple fronts, David would be at the top of the list for all of humanity. One of the reasons God gave us dedicated so many chapters of the bible to this one man, is to show us the inner workings of our soul and our creator. Think about it--66 chapters devoted to the life of David in the Bible!

BACKGROUND

The best backdrop to the life of David is to read the first 15 Chapters of First Samuel. In the first 7 Chapters, you will meet the last Judge, Samuel, who becomes known as a "King Maker" because he anoints both Saul and David. You will also meet the “Peoples Choice” for King, Saul, in Chapters 8-15. David, mentioned by name for the very first time in I Sam. 16:13, is then followed through the remaining chapters of I Samuel and II Samuel.

UNDERSTANDING THE WORD

With Chapters 1-15 of I Samuel as background, read I Sam. 16:1-3 and answer the following questions.

1. Why is Samuel so fearful of going?

2. Why would the people be nervous about the presence of Samuel?

Now read the next 10 versus of I Samuel 16 (through verse 13) and discuss these questions.

1. What do you think God is specifically looking for in a King of his choice? Compare this with the people's choice of Saul in I Sam. 9:1-2.

2. Why does God make Samuel go through this long drawn out process of 7 “nos” before he reveals his choice?

3. Why do you think David was not asked to be at the “Parade of Sons” (I Sam. 16: 6-11)?

4. Read I Sam. 1:13 again. Now that David is anointed King, what predicament is he (and perhaps all of Israel) now in?

BRINGING IT HOME

1. Can you think of any examples where external qualifications are more important than a persons heart? What impact does television have on shaping our view of what is most important in life?

2. Is God calling you to something and you're asking "how?" How would you apply I Sam. 16:2-3 in your specific situation?

3. If you’re a parent, take a few moments and ask your son or daughter what are the three most important characteristics in a godly man or a godly woman. What major influences do you see shaping their thinking?

4. What other lessons or applications can you take away from I Sam. 16:1-13?

PRAYER TIME

Spend some time praying with your group. Spend part of your prayer time in “kingdom centered” prayer. Kingdom center prayer focuses on God’s work among the lost and marginalized of Greensboro, other parts of the world, and the work of our local church community. In other words, prayer that goes beyond our own needs. As you pray, try and imagine how God sees our world.

MEMORY VERSE

Psalm 119:11 says to "hide the word of the Lord in your heart". In other words, encouraging us to commit scripture to memory.

For this week, try and memorize this verse and think about it throughout your week.

For the Lord sees, not as the man sees; man looks at the outword appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” I Sam. 16: 7 (ESV)

Remember that you can listen to this message series online by going to the podcast at www.sojourncommunity.org.

The Life of King David

2011-09-24T09:21:00.000-07:00

This Sunday, September 25th, we begin a series on the life of David. David is a central character in the Old Testament. One scholar said if he had to name a single Renaissance man in human history, somebody with extraordinary capacities on multiple fronts, David, would be at the top of the list for all of humanity. .

I believe that God gave us this living biography to show us the inner workings of our soul with that of our creator. I am reminded again as I study David’s life, that I too am broken and in need of a Savior. That realization drives me to daily dependents upon Jesus who offers healing for our souls and the hope of a remarkable future.

A great way to prepare for this study is to read the opening Chapters of First Samuel (chapters 1-15). This will give you a great backdrop as you meet Samuel, the kingmaker and the very first king, Saul. Saul was the people's choice. Now God is looking for a man after his heart. What characteristics make a godly man or woman?

Praying for your time in His word,

Pastor Jeff

Grace and Freedom

2011-08-03T09:19:00.000-07:00

Nothing invokes passion like the images and sounds of freedom. From William Wallaces's cry, to the visceral reaction of cheering throngs today as Egypt’s ousted president, Hosni Mubarak, appeared this morning in court. The bible talks a lot about freedom. One of the hallmarks of the Spirit’s movement is freedom. It’s a mark of God at work. 2 Corinthians says that “[t]he Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”

Just north of my summer quarters, a group of Moroccan protesters will be brought to justice for "incitement to break the fast in public" during Ramadan. As most of you know, during the month of Ramadan, Muslim’s are supposed to abstain from drinking, eating, smoking and sex from sunrise to sunset.

This is the first time in Morocco that a group of "non-fasters" appears in public to protest against the current law and call for the right not to practice Ramadan in public, observers note. They want to get rid of a law that "punishes every Muslim openly breaking the fast of Ramadan, before the “iftar” meal which marks the end of daylight.

The local branch of the Moroccan Council of Ulema (Muslim theologians), denounced the protests describing them as "agitators". Saying it was an"abhorrent act that defies the teachings of God” and deserving of “serious sanction."

The oppression of Islam and the desperation of masses of humanity searching for the true and living God is especially evident during Ramadan which began August 1. Millions about millions not even allowed to swallow their own Saliva as they try to please a god who offers no grace or promise of salvation.

Precept Ministries - Charlotte, NC Training Workshop

2011-03-19T11:42:00.000-07:00

Precept Ministries - Charlotte, NC Training Workshop

Praying for an Impossible Calling

2011-03-05T18:52:00.000-08:00

May I remind you of the incredible opportunity that lies before us? You are part of a community that God is gathering called Sojourn. He has placed us in the midst of one of the most exciting seasons in all of redemptive history, setting us in the midst of the nations. Greensboro? In the midst of the nations? Consider this: there are approximately 100 native languages represented in the Guilford County schools. The other evening I stopped in at one of our Sojourner’s homes hosting a dinner for International students. Their home was filled with students from all over the world including countries completely closed to the gospel.   This morning we are focusing on just one language group—our friends who speak the beautiful language of Spanish.

Hispanics are growing 6 times the rate of the U.S. population as a whole. They will add the largest number of people to the population through the year 2050. America now has the 3rd largest Hispanic population in the world. The birth rate is expected to more than double by 2050 at which time one in three births in this country will be Hispanic. Hispanic immigration will be the largest contributor to the US population so that by 2050 it is projected that four out of every ten added to this country will be Hispanic. The explosive growth of the Hispanic community poses an enormous opportunity. As Latinos become part of our Sojourn family, we will be enriched by the sharing of culture, gifts and a shared passion for service. This ministry not only reflects the heritage of this country, but the heart of God.

I continue to pray that God will set before us an impossible calling. One that only He could accomplish—one that only he could get credit for. What will the early days of Sojourn best be remembered for?   Establishing a nice comfortable church or a community that risked everything for the once in a lifetime opportunity to be used by God to do something that will last for all eternity?

~ Pastor Jeff

Jesus vs. Religion: This Sunday at Sojourn Gathered

2011-02-26T15:00:00.000-08:00

As we look this Morning at the last section of Colossians two (vs. 16-23), Paul warns us of a most sinister type of enemy that can rob us of the deep joy and peace that is ours in Christ. Rather then enemies that are inherently bad, these enemies of our faith act like a spiritual vaccine, inoculating the heart. These enemies are insidious, giving us a false sense that all is well, like the warmth felt by a man freezing to death. Rather then a sign of life, it is illusion, designed to blind the heart and fool the mind. The good news? The same victorious theme woven throughout the versus of Colossians---Jesus. I encourage you to read Colossians daily during this series and dwell on the truth that our peace and joy in life is directly proportionate to the extent our faith can grasp the full measure of God’s grace through Jesus.

Come Celebrate God with Us!!

2011-02-03T16:10:00.000-08:00

If years were Chapters in a book, this week the Sojourn Community will celebrate the end of Chapter two! The story of Sojourn is about Jesus and a community of people from all walks of life seeking to adjust their lives around His teachings. We welcome you as you are---there are no prerequisites to being a part of our community. So learn at your own pace. Ask questions. Seek. We believe you will find what you are looking for. And the amazing thing, as we learn to relate to God, we will change.

We are so thank to you, our friends, who put wind in our sails and cheer us on! Any ministry "success" we might enjoy is simply the grace of God working in the midst of imperfect and ordinary people serving a very extraordinary God!

www.sojourncommunity.org

The Church Inside/Out

2011-01-14T12:16:00.001-08:00

Sojourners and Friends:

In a few weeks, Sojourn will celebrate its second year anniversary as a church! For this reason, we are going to stop and pause for a few weeks to be reminded again, exactly what the church is and how we believe God is leading Sojourn to make a unique kingdom contribution. I encourage you to read through the book of Acts and re-live the birth of the New Testament Church. The local church is always defined by that which it is committed.

Here at Sojourn we are committed to being the incarnational presence of Jesus to the world around us. Our guide is the bible. Our center is Jesus. Our ministers are you. Our goal is to be the revolutionary church that God intended. What seems radical must become normal. Our desire is to raise our sails and catch the wind of the Holy Spirit that will allow us to become everything God dreams for us. We want to make God famous in our city and our world! There are lots of ways to change the world---pick one!

Pastor Jeff

Astronomical Grace: A Unique Worship this Week (Jan. 2nd) at Sojourn!

2010-12-29T09:30:00.000-08:00

We are given glances into God's grandeur when we stare out into the universe. Stars and nebulas and pulsars and galaxies all beautifully and intricately created by Him. However, contemplating the vastness of God can make it harder to wrap our minds around His grace. How can it be that a God this big, this creative, this imaginative, would stoop down, take the form of a man, and die a humiliating death on a cross? Could the One who made the stars also offer me grace?

Join us this Sunday as we experience a videocast of Indescribable tour of Louie Giglio taking us on an image-rich journey through the Cosmos, allowing us to peer into God’s Universe to discover the amazing magnitude of His greatness and grace.

Kids 3^rd grade and up will join us for worship! Sojourn Gathered @ Kernodle. For Directions click here to go to our website.

Sojourn's old fashion Christmas Eve at Flint Rock Farms!

2010-12-24T08:53:00.000-08:00

Join us! Sojourn's old fashion Christmas Eve at Flint Rock farms! Stay toasty warm inside by the wood-burning stove with some hot cider and lots of homemade goodies. Or, bundle up for Hay rides, pony rides for kids, tour the leather shop or gift shop. Starts at 3 PM. At 5:15 we will gather as the kids reenact a live Nativity, Lynn Goodwin leads us in Carols by candlelight, and we read the Christmas story. Come relax in the warmth of fire and friends. Leave for home at 6! Bring your friends and family--all welcome!! For directions click here!

ANSWERS TO CHRISTMAS QUESTIONS!

2010-12-24T08:45:00.000-08:00

ANSWERS TO CHRISTMAS QUESTIONS! KEEP UP WITH THE SOJOURN COMMUNITY AT WWW.SOJOURNCOMMUNITY.ORG! AND THE SOJOURN FACEBOOK PAGE!

1 Santa Claus

2 Uncle Billy

3 His heart was two sizes too small

4 Suzy Snowflake

5 "White Christmas"

6 Ebenezer

7 On the Stairs

8 Yukon Cornelius

9 Tiny Tim

10 "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen"

11 What was the matter

12 Dasher, Donder, Dancer

13 Her medication

14 Six geese a-laying

15 New York

16 He jumped into the river first

17 The ox and the lamb

18 By the chimney

19 Clara

20 The Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come

21 Green

22 Eleven

23 Tim Allen

24 Could not play in reindeer games

25 Pigpen

26. It's a Wonderful Life

27 Bert and Ernie

28 A button

29 Italy (Romans)

30 Angel

1. Isaiah

Matthew 1:23 / Isaiah 7:14 - part of a difficult passage of prophecy written

some 700 years before the birth of Jesus.

2. God with us

Immanuel (OT) or Emmanuel (NT) appears 3 times in the Bible and means "God

with us".

3. He would be born in Bethlehem

Micah 5:2 - Bethlehem Ephratah, to distinguish it from another Bethlehem,

which was in the tribe of Zebulun.

4. Sixth

Luke 1:26 - while she was pregnant with John the Baptist.

5. Gabriel

Luke 1:26 - Gabriel, who also announced the birth of John the Baptist and

was presumably the same Gabriel who appeared to Daniel 500 years earlier.

6. Mary

Luke 1:46 - the scene of two happy mothers-to-be.

7. Jacob

Luke 1:32-33 - Jesus would be given the throne of David and reign over the

house of Jacob.

8. Anna

Luke 2:36 - daughter of Phanuel.

9. Augustus

Luke 2:1 - originally named Caius Octavius Caepias, born in 63 BC, the

grand-nephew of Julius Caesar.

10. Simeon

Luke 2:32 - though you have to look back to v25 to see who is speaking.

11. Went quickly to Bethlehem

Luke 2:15 - likewise we should seek out our Saviour without delay.

12. Quietly divorce her

Matthew 1:19 - the option of divorce was available under the Law of Moses,

Deut 24:1. Normally the circumstances would have to be made public and

required witnesses to testify, hence Joseph wanted to do it "privately".

13. Hosea

Matthew 2:15 / Hosea 11:1 - waiting in Egypt until Herod had died.

14. Angel of the Lord

Matthew 1:20-21 - this was to be Jesus' great work, to save people from

their sins.

15. Wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger

Luke 2:12 - there might have been many other babies around, but none in

swaddling clothes and in a manger. Without the direction from the angels

they may never have thought to look in such a place.

17. How long did Jesus remain in Egypt?

Until the death of Herod

Matthew 2:15 - Heord died in the 37th year of his reign.

16. There is no 16.

18. Two turtledoves or pigeons

Luke 2:22-24 - among the Jews, a mother would remain at home for about 40

days after the birth of a boy and about 80 days for a girl because she was

considered unclean. After this she presented him as "holy to the Lord" and

offered the sacrifice as according to the law.

19. John

Luke 1:36 - John the Baptist, the forerunner of Christ, by six months.

MARRY CHRISTMAS TO THE SOJOURNERS AND FRIENDS FOR AN AWESOME YEAR OF SERVING AND COMMUNITY!!

Answers to Chritmas Trivia Questions

2010-12-23T07:17:00.000-08:00

The questions to the Christmas trivia questions will be posted on Christmas Eve Morning! Stay tuned!

FOR UNTO US A CHILD IS BORN

2010-12-15T20:19:00.000-08:00

Incarnational Living

2010-12-11T16:44:00.000-08:00

The incarnation was God’s radical act of humility and love in which he took on human flesh in order to enter the chaos and pain of our world. It was this remarkable act by which all other acts of God in our world would be defined. Divine love now had a face and locality in a quiet Nazarene neighborhood. The New Testament letter to the Philippians tells us that it was not despite the fact he was God that he took on human flesh, but precisely because he was God.

While the incarnation is in many respects a mystery, it shows the great lengths our heavenly father will go in order to rescue us from our bondage and reconcile us to Himself. God has made your heart in such a way that you will never be content until your thirst for an infinite God is satisfied by the glorious redemption he offers through the finished work of Jesus’ death and resurrection. The simple act of receiving forgiveness and new life through Christ is as easy as receiving any other gift during this season. It’s yours for the asking—no strings attached.

~ Pastor Jeff

SOJOURN ON MISSION

2010-12-08T18:27:00.000-08:00

Over 100 Sojourners and friends are volunteering to help with Sunday's Downtown Dinner for the homeless. That is simply incredible! So, in advance, we say THANK YOU!

Pray with us that God's presence would be felt through this week of planning and logistics, and that He would be preparing our hearts and the hearts of our friends who arrive Sunday for a warm meal.

If you will be joining us as a volunteer on Sunday, please plan on attending a 10-minute orientation immediately after worship Sunday morning. Steven Still, Kathy Speight and Chris Scalici will be providing information about the evening.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2010-11-24T11:52:00.000-08:00

Blue's Brothers Theology

2010-11-20T14:31:00.000-08:00

Missio Dei can be translated as the "sending of God." Remember the Blue’s Brothers? The story of a paroled convict Jake Blues and his brother Elwood as they decide to reform their blues band in order to raise funds to save a Catholic orphanage where they grew up. Their claim? “We’re on a a mission from God.” While I don’t often look to Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi for theological insight, it seems they at least had a handle on the notion that God is a sending God. I used to think of “Missions” as a program or a committee or something the church did. Come to find out, it’s who God is. Mission is an attribute of God, not a program of the church. It wasn’t until the church got off mission that it began to form “Missions committees.” The Sojourn Community exists because there is a mission, not the other way around.

A Stake in the Ground

2010-11-13T13:33:00.000-08:00

This Sunday we will be looking at the next 6 versus in our Journey through Colossians. There we will find the Gospel as the central theme. Did you know this is the central theme of Sojourn as well? Check out our website and you will find where we have driven some stakes in the ground. In other words, the stuff we won’t compromise. One of those stakes is our intent to be what we call Gospel Driven. So what exactly does that mean? It means that we believe to our core that the gospel is the good news that through Jesus the power of God's kingdom has entered history to renew the whole world. And that when rely on Jesus' work and record (rather than ours) for our relationship to God, that kingdom power comes upon us and begins to work through us. SO when we dream, we love to imagine what it might look like in Greensboro and the Triad to have God’s kingdom become visible. Nothing moves Christ-followers to humbly serve, live with, and love all the diverse people of the city like the gospel does.

Evening Prayer for Sojourners

2010-11-04T17:23:00.000-07:00

Heavenly Father, give me a heart like the heart of Jesus, a heart more ready to minister than to be ministered to, a heart moved by compassion towards the weak and the oppressed, a heart set upon the coming of Your Kingdom in the world.

I pray tonight, for all those sorts and conditions of men to whom Jesus gave special thought and care;

For those lacking food or drink or raiment (clothing),

For the sick and all who are wasted by disease,

For the blind,

For the maimed and lame,

For lepers,

For prisoners,

For those oppressed by an injustice,

For the lost sheep of our human society,

For fallen women,

For all lonely strangers within our gates,

For the worried and anxious,

For those who are living faithful lives in obscurity,

For those who are fighting bravely in unpopular causes,

For all whoa re laboring diligently in Your vineyard.

Grant, O Father, that Your loving kindness in causing my own lines to fall in pleasant places may not make me less sensitive to the needs of others less privileged, but rather more incline me to lay their burdens upon my own heart. And if any adversity should befall myself, then let me not brood upon my own sorrows, as if I alone in the world were suffering, but rather let me busy myself in the compassionate service of all who need my help. Thus let the power of my Lord Christ be strong within me and His peace invade my spirit. Amen

By John Baillie

COMMUNITY DRAMA SUNDAY NOVEMBER 7TH

2010-11-04T14:29:00.001-07:00

Join us for a live presentation of "Kate and Luther"

2010-11-02T13:59:00.000-07:00

I am writing to share a special event taking place during our regular Sunday gathering on November 7th. On that Sunday, we will be led by peculiar people. So what’s different about that? ☺ These Peculiar People (Charlie and Ruth Jones) are the international drama team that will be doing a live special presentation called Kate & Luther for Sojourn and their friends and neighbors. It’s a live and entertaining drama about Luther (as seen through the eyes of his wife) and how God used an ordinary man to remind all of us of what a loving and gracious God we have. This is the presentation they do in Germany and when we ask them if they would do it here at Sojourn—they said “yes”! Invite some friends and join us at 10:00 at Kernodle Middle School!

Mondays Reflection

2010-11-01T12:46:00.000-07:00

For me, this week at Sojourn seemed to be a series of promptings. Not all weeks are like that. Promptings are those internal nudges that cause me to wonder (even aloud at times) if this is from God----to question if what I am sensing carries indicators of divine source. Or, do I just need a nap? Despite uncertainty at times, they remain one of those consistent things in my life that cause me to pause and reflect. These whispers seem to come most often in the form of discontent—dissatisfaction with the way things are.

This week I found myself with a growing uneasiness that we are settling for far too little. Strange as it is, compromise often creeps in through the process we call planning. Oh, I know, planning ahead is good. But it carries with it the presumption that we can and should. It has a way of dulling my anticipation of God’s daily surprises hung like post-it notes amidst my daily routine. Reminding me that there is a God and, I am not him. So I am often torn between strategy and faith. Is one the enemy of the other or are we simply called to balance the two—to live in the tension? When it comes to the question of what right balance of ingredients allows a local church to flourish, I believe Ephesians 4:11 is worth considering.

In Ephesians 4:11, we find reference to the 5-fold ministry, namely the five gifts given to the church by our Lord Himself. These include the Apostolic and Prophetic gifts along with those of Evangelism, Shepherding and Teaching. The problem has long been the retooling of these gifts in order to fit the confines of theological systems that can restrict rather then expand who God is. Has Ephesians 4:11 become diluted to the point it has lost its potency in the Western church? Many have dispensed with the apostolic and prophetic gifts in the confusion over office and gift, relegated evangelism to a program and restricted the gifts of Pastoring and Teaching to a hierarchal formula that divides the body of Christ into camps of “lay” and “clergy”. So, with three-fifths of the church’s leaders MIA and the other two-fifths out of reach of the ordinary Christ-follower, is it any wonder we have drifted from faith in action to reliance on a strategic planning model?

When the leadership of a local church recognizes and invites a full compliment of gifts around its table, it can gift birth to movement rather then organization. It allows the body of Christ, in the words of Habakkuk, to “live by faith”. It is precisely at this point that the church has the right leadership ethos to move forward without reservation, understanding more fully the power of the Gospel to reweave the fabric of the culture around it.

Pastor Jeff

Extreme Freedom: A Journey through Colossians

2010-10-12T17:44:00.000-07:00

Begins October 24th at Sojourn!

Come join us as we journey through the book of Colossians. More than any other New Testament book, Colossians unfolds the dramatic impact Jesus is meant to have on our life. Through four gripping chapters, Colossians brings us face to face with Jesus---His supremacy, His sufficiency and the extreme freedom that can be found only in Him.

You Have a Friend Request!

2010-09-17T11:53:00.000-07:00

Join us September 12th through October 3rd as we look at Jesus last teaching on earth concerning the core of Christianity--who are we in Christ. If God means for us to life the abundant life, why are so many Christ-followers living in defeat? Come look at this amazing section of Scripture as we better understand our core identity. John Willett of Search Ministries will bring the third in this series of messages on Sunday, the 26th of September--"What's Up with the World?"

I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. John 15:15

The Elephant in the Pew

2010-07-27T09:53:00.000-07:00

Hey Sojourners!! Don't forget to submit any questions for the upcoming You Asked for It message series in August. Just reply to this email or send me a note at jeff@sojourncommunity.org. This is for topics or issues you would like to see addressed in a message at Sojourn on Sunday Mornings.

Missional Church Multiplication

2010-07-27T07:36:00.000-07:00

The following article by Ed Stetzer and Warren Bird is well insightful and well worth the read.
Several significant hurdles remain before missional multiplication takes off in the United States. Following are some thoughts of what has started to happen, but must continue at a higher and more widespread level.

1. Driving DNA Passion for Church Planting
People will need to consider church planting as one of their ministry’s core values. Church planting cannot be an afterthought, someone else’s ministry or a department. Churches will live, eat and breathe it. The widespread expectation that people will be sent out must become normal rather than exceptional.

First-time planters need to assume and plan for the sending away of people. Movement leaders need to engender this attitude into the greater life of the church today. Pastors of established churches need to embrace it as a personal measure of their ministries. Church multiplication will become inherent in the DNA of our churches only as far as it is inherent in the DNA of our leaders.

2. New Measures of Success
Churches will always have a scorecard. A change of measures changes the current peer pressure and also creates positive peer pressure toward accomplishing the goal. As in all instances, scorecards can either press toward the goal or become a source of pride or depression. The chest-thumping meetings where we compared our Sunday attendances with one another are beneath the calling to ministry.

With our emphasis on a multiplication movement, a new scorecard will lend itself toward opening relationships and dialogue between church leaders. Let’s cross the proverbial aisles to help those in varying denominations, networks and methodologies celebrate how God is multiplying churches. Then our members will do the same. We replicate what we celebrate.

3. More Roots in Historic Biblical Discipleship
Too often a church can’t multiply its leaders because it has too few robust disciples. Instead it has lots of dependent believers who take a consumeristic approach to their faith and ultimately are shallow in character development. Multiplying churches are going to do a better job of disciple making. This is due to their determination to emphasize the transformation occurring in small communities and to simpler church structures that give more time to personal formation.

4. Less Facility-Driven
Future churches will be less tied to the construction of buildings. The multi-site movement is helping our culture accept the idea of “de-building” large church facilities.

The average megachurch seating capacity is only 1,400 (median). The average for all Protestant churches is 240. We think the small facility will get smaller. But more important, people’s minds will more completely detach “facility” from “church.” That shouldn’t be too hard, because it’s not in the Bible.

Churches will not cease from having facilities. But we can drop the hyperbolic reliance on the “if you build it, they will come” mentality. Multiplication movements are built on the principle of easily reproducible models, and facilities must follow suit.

5. Non-Anglo Leadership
Churches in the United States have heard that the growth hub of our faith is both south and east of us—such as South America, Africa and Asia. Now that North American Christians are understanding the reality of God’s movement in other churches around the world, however, it is time to for us to assume a position of learning from the global Christian community. We can learn much, for example, from the worldwide church planting movements.

Here in the United States, the majority of church growth continues to come from immigrant and non-Anglo congregations. They may take a leadership role in this country’s church multiplication movement, because their congregations may be willing to multiply sooner and faster than others.

6. Less Permanency
To many of us, the idea of churches forming, flourishing and then going away, all somewhat quickly, seems to be a bad thing. We need to get a sense that God’s people will last for eternity, but our facilities can be far less permanent. In fact, lots of churches died 30 years ago, but no one turned out the lights.

Saints persevere, but their institutions and facilities are temporary. As new congregations are formed in the multiplying movements, we will view church facilities as kingdom assets. Church buildings are like an inheritance to pass along rather than a living trust to keep.

7. Multiple Pacesetters
“Historically all movements have begun because of the charismatic efforts of one lone individual who touched a nerve among a host of people. Who will step up to be that person?” asks Bill Easum, a prolific writer and co-author of Ten Most Common Mistakes Made by New Church Starts.

We think we’re seeing multiple people step up, all sharing the same stage. Lots of good things are happening—but for a church multiplication movement to happen, the small stream has to become an unstoppable rushing river. If more people can decide to learn what God is up to in church planting movements, then we may be blessed to see them populate the continent in the next decade.

We hope you will learn to do small well, to create cultures of permission-giving for God’s people, and to multiply everything. Then we’ll move from church starting (a broad category that includes church splits) to church planting (focused on reaching lost people) to church multiplication (people self-initiating to go out into the harvest, and then passing to them a heart for multiplication).

If so, then a church planting movement might be closer than we think. And the kingdom of God will take root into more lives than we could have ever dreamt or imagined.

= =
Adapted by permission of the publisher, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., from Viral Churches: Helping Church Planters Become Movement Makers (Jossey-Bass) by Ed Stetzer and Warren Bird. Copyright © 2010 by Ed Stetzer and Warren Bird. This article may not be reprinted or redistributed in any form.

DAY THIRTEEN (John 13)

2010-07-15T18:58:00.001-07:00

Radical discipleship.

In John 13, Jesus tells his disciples that he is giving them a new commandment—that they should love one another. What is new about this commandment? After all, isn’t the instruction to love our neighbor included in the Old Testament teaching? In fact, love for God and others was the whole summary of the law (see Mark 12). The newness Jesus was eluding to is the radical nature of how we are to love. What was new were the words; just as I have loved you. These 6 words are my constant struggle. My notions of what it means to love others and to forgive and to serve and to show compassion seem both reasonable and doable until I am faced with the call to follow Jesus example. His is a radical discipleship. His love is rooted in a redemptive love that requires something beyond myself. His forgiveness is an immeasurable grace demonstrated in the cross all of which is so foreign to my way of thinking.

Reread the contrast of Jesus prediction of the betrayal of Judas and the denial of Peter. Neither sin was beyond the grace of God, but the response of Judas and Peter following their sin turned on the application of God’s grace and love upon their own life. Only to the extent we experience the unconditional love of God in our own life, are we able to love others in this new way. Only to the depth we have known the forgiveness of God in our own life are we enabled to forgive others that same way.

Extensions of God's love and forgiveness to others can only come from a heart where the truth and experience of his grace have been knit together. It was W. H. Auden who said “In the deserts of the heart, let the healing fountain start.” Only as we allow God’s love and grace to permeate our own life are we then able to love and forgive and serve in this new way; just as I have.

DAY 12 (John 12)

2010-07-12T04:57:00.000-07:00

Jesus upside-down Kingdom.

In Chapter 12 of John’s Gospel, Jesus shares with us the true meaning of discipleship in the Kingdom of God. He describes the disciple as a seed that falls into the ground and dies. Jesus radical notion of discipleship is that we are to die to ourselves and not get caught up in the glitter of the world around us. Strangely he tells us in the gospels is this is the way to happiness and meaning. Where are you personally looking for meaning and purpose in life today? What would it take for you to be truly happy? As you think about our own times in which we live, think how counter-cultural Jesus call on our life really is.

The world tells us to believe in yourself—Jesus says deny yourself and follow me.

The world says try hard to be #1. Jesus tells us the first shall be last.

We are taught to get ahead at all costs. Jesus teaches us how to give yourself away.

Today we stand up for rights. Jesus says lay down your life.

The American dream says the one with the most toys wins. Jesus says if you gain the whole world and lose your soul you have lost everything.

As we read Jesus view of the world around him, it’s as if he has gone into the window display of life and switched all the price tags. Mankind has turned happiness into pleasure, position and possessions. The world tells us in a thousand different ways that things satisfy. Where are you finding your ultimate satisfaction? If you lost every material thing today, would you have a self left?

There were basically two kinds of people described in the book of John that followed Jesus. It was those who ultimately saw who they were before God and the sufficiency of Jesus to make them whole that found the true joy of beginning to live. I pray that God would grant you today, that same kind of heart.

DAY 11 (John 11)

2010-07-11T18:21:00.000-07:00

Where is God when we need him? In John 11, Jesus gets a message from friends that he is needed immediately at the bedside of a dear friend who is near death. Upon hearing that request, the text tells us a rather odd thing---that Jesus decided to wait. I think how many times I have asked God to show up in some way or respond quickly because I was facing some crisis or challenge. I needed to hear from God. And then, God seemed to be silent. Where was God when I needed him most? If he really loved me, why was he so distant?

While Mary and Martha are left suspended in the unknown, the text does a remarkable thing. It allows us to hear what’s going through the mind of Jesus. We learn that Jesus had the bigger picture—we find out that he not only had a plan but that he also knew the precise timing that would bring about the greatest glory to his Father. The problem was that Lazarus’s sisters were not privy to what God was thinking. I hate when that happens!

Think about how different this story would have been had Jesus arrived on the sister’s schedule. Or, how much easier it would have been if the sisters just knew what God was thinking. That’s the point of the story. The days between their request and Jesus response felt like silence to them. But, in fact, these were the days when God was doing his greatest work. It’s in these “in-between days” that God allows us to face our doubts and stretches our faith. We are not born with great amounts of faith, it has to be developed.

We have the advantage of being able to look at the end of the story. We know that in the case of Lazarus, God had a plan and a purpose and because Mary and Martha continued to trust Jesus despite their doubts, God worked all things together for good as he promised in Romans 8:28. While I love what God did in this story, I really don’t get as excited when I find myself in that in-between time. Ever been there? Perhaps you are there right now. God feels distant. You Need God to show up now but he seems strangely silent.

John reminds us in this beautiful chapter that it is in this time, that God is doing his greatest work in you. I love John’s comment that Jesus waited “although he loved Mary and Martha.” Like these sisters, God loves you deeply—he really does. He has a plan and a purpose for what you are going through right now. Continue to listen, follow and trust him. And like the sisters in this story, do your part. And then, watch and see God continue to unfold his creative work in you that weaves all of the circumstances of life together (yes the joy and the pain) in a way that cares for you and brings glory to himself.

DAY TEN (John 10)

2010-07-09T10:54:00.000-07:00

In Chapter 10 of John’s Gospel, we find Jesus' words polarizing the people. In no uncertain terms, Jesus is claiming to be the one way to God. How true is this today? My experience is that Christianity’s claim of exclusivity—that is the teaching that Jesus is the only way to God-- is the biggest objection people have with the claims of Christ. Regardless of whether or not you accept that teaching, it is clearly what Jesus taught and what the Bible claims. Despite a growing movement that looks for the common ground among such religions as Judaism, Islam and Christianity, the claims of each are simply incompatible with one another.

It’s interesting that the interfaith movement that holds their view of God is superior and their insistence that the difference among the various religions is unimportant is, itself an exclusive claim. All religions can be wrong, but they cannot all be right. That is an untenable position. It makes no more sense then saying this Jesus who John quotes and writes about was simply a “good teacher”. If he is not God in flesh, (see John 1:14) his claims to be so, either make him a lair or a very self-diluted man. Either of these conclusions stands in stark contrast to a good teacher.

After Jesus spells out who he really is and the purpose for which he came to earth, He says in verse 27-- My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. That leaves us with the same pointed question that caused such great division in Jesus’ day; who is this Jesus to you?

As you close your time, look ahead to John 20:31 and recall the purpose of John in writing this Gospel. Is that any different then our purpose during these few moments we call life? Think about our times and culture and this recession that we have been navigating through. Ever person around you today has the same longing you and I have---for hope, to be truly loved and for purpose. I am finding these days such a renewed interest in spiritual conversations no matter where people are with Jesus.

Ask God to make you a good listener as he points you to people today that might be more open then ever to this Jesus who calls himself the sacrifice and the only way to the Father. His only agenda is to love people into the kingdom of God so he can be with them. Listen to His voice, continue to get to know him and follow Him. That’s what his sheep do.

DAY NINE (John 9)

2010-07-08T17:10:00.000-07:00

Blindness is defined by Webster as the inability to see due to physiological or neurological factors. There is another kind of blindness—that of the heart. This blindness is an inability or unwillingness to perceive or understand. Sometimes we say things like “a person is blind to their lover’s faults” or that “teenagers seemed to be blind to the consequence of their actions”. Likewise, Chapter 9 of John describes a spiritual blindness. II Corinthians 4 says that Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don't believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don't understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God. Never forget that was our condition before we met Jesus!

As John writes about the healing of the blind man, did you notice how he makes a point of telling us that this man was well known to the community because he had been blind from birth? Why do you think that detail is important? My hunch is that John is setting the stage to show us just how antagonistic these leaders really were towards Jesus. They refused to accept the obvious fact that this man had been blind and could now see. So they call his parents to testify. When the facts are confirmed, they decide to call a technical because Jesus healed him on the Sabbath (the day of rest).

Do you remember the cries of these religious leaders from Chapter 8 demanding of Jesus “Who are you?” These leaders could see physically but refused to acknowledge who Jesus really was. Despite the overwhelmingly set of facts pointing to Jesus divinity, many in Jesus day refused to accept His claims. Do you think things are much different today? If Jesus came down to our city today and performed miracles and healings, do you think people would accept Him any more readily then they did in His day? What does this tell you about the role of prayer when sharing who Jesus claims to be? What’s the remedy for spiritual blindness?

I love the responses the blind man gives to those investigating Jesus miracle! He tells these sophisticated theologians that there is a lot he does not know. Uneducated, unskilled at argument, the man could only utter the difference Jesus had made in his life. Have you ever thought you couldn’t share your faith because you’re not equipped, or trained or you don’t have all the answers? I have! That’s why this story is such a great encouragement for people like you and me. It reminds us that a changed heart is one of the most powerful statements you can offer about who God is. If you are a Christ-follower, you have a story to tell. That story is the difference Jesus is making in your life. Crafty arguments and slick presentations really don’t convince people of who Jesus is. In fact, often it is not truth that offends, it’s our arrogance. We are, as C.S. Lewis liked to say, “just one beggar telling another where there’s food.” Our responsibility is simply to share who Jesus is and then pray that through the power of the Holy Spirit, their eyes would be opened. We don’t change people’s hearts, God does!

Spend some time today specifically praying for God to use you in sharing your story and, by name, pray for the Holy Spirit to begin working in the life of each person He brings to mind. Friends that you would love to find a true saving relationship with Jesus.

I close with a Hymn I wrote sometime back during one of my own struggles. May you feel God’s presence today as you walk with Him and observe where He is at work in and through you!

Oh Word of Light

Oh word of light cast down on me
That I might see anew
The true self that your light reveals
My idols never few

Come clear these eyes my folly see
Heart’s idols now constrain
And set me free to learn your grace
Your praise, my lips refrain

Wash clean the stains rebellion makes
My life ambitions stayed
And teach me how to follow God
Abandoning my way

With rays of grace, awaken me
Come shine in secret thought
That I might find my rest in Thee
Made safe from what I’ve sought

My Christ my Savior and my God
Make now my passions new
And let me show in moments here
A heart made free by you
Jeff Weber
2009

Day Eight (John 8)

2010-07-08T14:01:00.000-07:00

Chapter 8 of John’s Gospel offers us one of the most compelling glimpses into the forgiving nature of Jesus’ heart. And, it is here that Jesus utters three words that may be the single biggest stumbling block to experiencing true freedom in Christ; Neither do I. God’s forgiveness toward us is a treasure few completely unwrap. If we are not convinced of the depth of God’s grace towards us, we, in turn, will struggle with extending that grace to others. Someone once said that "God’s forgiveness towards me and my forgiveness toward another are like a voice and eco”.

Do you still still carry the baggage or weight of past sins? Is there a whisper at times that you are not good enough or you just don’t quite measure up? Let Jesus remind you again through these words—Neither do I and, as He did for the prostitute in John's account, let him chase the accusers away.

Remember that receiving God’s forgiveness and forgiving those who hurt us is ultimately a demonstration of our faith in God. Faith that God can handle what has worn us out for years. Let the reminder of God’s forgiveness flow over you today and then hear the words of John again; If the Son sets you free, you are free indeed.

DAY SEVEN (John 7)

2010-07-04T16:32:00.000-07:00

The Crowds Thin. As you have been continuing your journey through John, have you noticed that Jesus is getting increasingly controversial? Why do you think that is? Have you also noticed the crowds getting increasingly hostile? The crowds are thinning and the true followers of Jesus are becoming fewer.

It’s interesting to see all the different reasons why Jesus captured people’s attention. The vast majority of Jesus-followers loved Him for what He could do for them---feeding and healing them. John tells us the crowds were captivated by the signs and wonders and clamored for more. Like many today, they missed the point of what Jesus was all about. Their fascination with the miraculous eventually led to disappointment. As soon as Jesus began to call them to a deeper level of discipleship, John says that many of his disciples turned away and deserted him. Jesus said that only an evil, adulterous generation would demand a miraculous sign.

Think About It. What is it that you really want from Jesus? Like the crowds in John, I have a tendency sometimes to think of God in terms of what he can do for me. Even my prayers can reflect that---ending up in such shallow categories of “requests” and “praises”. I pray when I need something from God and praise him when I get what I asked for. I seem to be driven to me knees in crisis but pray less when things are going well. Today, spend some time in prayer just talking to God like you would a friend. In fact, in not too many chapters we will hear Jesus utter these words to his true followers: I call you friends. Think of it—a personal friendship with the creator of the universe!

DAY SIX (John 6)

2010-07-03T16:57:00.000-07:00

John 6 records the feeding of the 5,000. The theme of this story is one that is repeated again and again in the bible. It is the theme of a big problem solved by a big God. God seems to love the moments of dilemma—the places where we find ourselves between a rock and a hard place. Why? Because it's in those times that a problem or issue in life looms so large that its impossibility is easily recognized. It’s God’s way of getting us to look up. Are there any things in your life right now that apart from God, there really is no good solution? If so, then you have an opportunity to watch God do what he does best.

Whenever we face a seemingly impossible situation or problem we also face a great choice. We can either choose to be consumed by the problem or hand it over to God and ask him to take the reigns. God asks only two things. One, that you contribute whatever it is you can as a step of faith and, two, that you trust God completely. God loves to use whatever we offer, no matter how meager or small. It’s never the substance of our contribution that matters; it’s the faith that clings to God as we turn over whatever it is we have. And remember, He never requires more then we can give but never blesses less. God wants us “all in”.

I love Andrew’s dilemma. He says “I have something to give, but what good is it really?” In Andrew’s hands---it counts for nothing. In God’s hands, it becomes an unlimited resource. Notice the turning point in the story? It was Jesus taking the loaves and fish. Do the things you have to offer sometimes feel like they’re worth so little—that in the face of a world of such great need or in light of a particular problem, it feels like anything you might do or offer is just a drop in the bucket? Let Jesus take them and then step back and watch him multiply it.

DAY FIVE (John 5)

2010-07-02T11:22:00.000-07:00

The Big Question. John 5—what an incredible Chapter of this Gospel. It begins with the story of Jesus healing the lame man. Did you notice where Jesus begins with this man? The same place he always begins—He wants to know if we are at the end of our own solutions and way of doing things and our desire to be well is greater then our addictions and sin. In Jesus first pubic message the very first thing he told his disciples on the Sermon on the Mount was “You’re blessed when you are at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and his rule. Your blessed when you feel you’ve lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you.” (Matthew 5:1-2).

Is there something in your life right now that you’re hanging on to? Is there something you can’t or won’t let go of, yet you know you should? We have to get to the point where we say; “I can’t but God can--that left up to me, I am incapable of getting this ship upright." Only then are you, like the lame man in our story, ready for healing. Ask the Holy Spirit to identify anything that stands between you and God. Then, turn it over to Him as the first step in being made whole. Brokenness is always the first step toward Jesus.

It’s All About Jesus. As you read a little further in this Chapter, isn’t it interesting that Jesus tells the religious people of His day that the Bible had become a hurdle to seeing Jesus for who He really was? (see verses 39-40). These were not people just familiar with the bible, they were students of the “the book”. Jesus is saying that if, in the end, He doesn’t end up front and center reflected in a radically changed life, bible study is not only a fruitless activity but can create an arrogance that can actually make your heart grow cold toward the things of God. In verse 41, Jesus tells those who claimed to follow Him and name the name of Jesus, that unless their lives demonstrated the radical nature of God’s love, their allegiance meant nothing to Him.

The idea of making Jesus Lord in every arena of your life lies at the epicenter of true biblical faith. Jesus is either Lord of every area of our life or we're missing the point. Are there areas in your life that are not under the lordship of Jesus? Are you willing to take that first step today and answer the question Jesus posed to the lame man; “what is it that you really want?”

DAY FOUR (John 4)

2010-07-01T15:43:00.000-07:00

Breaking Down Barriers. As you read the account of Jesus and the Woman at the well in Chapter 4, notice how Jesus relates to this Samaritan. Jesus was Jewish and this woman knew that Jews looked down on Samaritans. How does Jesus break through that cultural prejudice and reach into the heart of this woman? Re-read verse 7. Here is the Creator of the universe asking for help. It was a legitimate need as the text tells us that Jesus was weary from His travels. He was God, but also true man! Do you think it takes more humility to serve or ask for help? For some reason, it’s really hard for me sometimes to ask for or accept help. Probably because I am too prideful. One of the best ways to reach into the heart of another person and break down barriers is either to serve them in some way or give them an opportunity to help you in some way. Then, it is so cool the way that Jesus takes this conversation to the next level. Did you notice how he takes an ordinary conversation and turns it towards this woman’s deeper eternal needs? How hard is it for you take everyday small talk with people you know to that "next level"--to talk about things that really matter? Ask God to make you sensitive today to His promptings as you carry on your conversations.

Temporary versus Eternal. Notice the beautiful comparison Jesus makes between temporary satisfaction and those things that will last for eternity. As you contemplate the Living Waters that Jesus talks about, think about your own life right now. Is the majority of your time, treasure and talent being used for temporary or eternal things? Take a moment and ask the Holy Spirit to bring any imbalance in your life to your attention. Then, remember that God is the God of the fresh start! He loves to wipe past mistakes clean and offer us a new day to begin rearranging our priorities so they reflect the priorities of our Father. Remember, there are only two things that will last forever—the souls of people and the Word of God. God’s very best for your life is always just one decision away!

Connecting the Dots. As you finish up this chapter with the reading of the story of Jesus healing the government official’s son, check out verse 53! One of the most exciting aspects of our daily walk with God is connecting the dots between things that happen in our life and our prayers. When I am flying through life, I have a tendency to miss the places that God is showing up. The official asked Jesus for something and then, we see him in verse 53 put two and two together. Think about starting a prayer journal and as you look back on your conversations with God, have fun connecting the dots!

DAY THREE (John 3)

2010-06-29T19:02:00.000-07:00

Chapter 3 aught to come with a warning; "proceed with caution." While John 3 contains some of the most often quoted versus in all of the Bible, it remains one of the most controversial. Chapter 3 gives us the heart of the Gospel, telling the readers that God's central passion is for fallen mankind and that to know God, you must be born from above.

The controversy stems from the teaching of this chapter that Jesus is not just "a way" to God, but the only way. John then goes on to say that few believe in Jesus for who he truly is and that those who reject Jesus as God's Son will not receive eternal life. The Bible says that the way is very narrow (Mt. 7:13-14) and that there is only one mediator that can reconcile God and man and that is the person of Jesus (I Tim. 2:5). It's easy to think about God loving the world but how hard is it for you to think about a God who judges those who do not beleive in His only Son? How do you reconcile a God who loves mankind with such a passion and yet says that those who are not born again remain under God's angry judgment? Is it hard to see God as both loving and just?

As you have been reading John, have you noticed the crowds gathering around Jesus in these first 3 chapters? The Gospel writers (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) often pan the crowds and tell us the various reasons why people followed Jesus. Some were fascinated, some wanted to see miraculous signs, some wanted political freedom from Rome and some thought is was the "in" thing to do. Notice back in chapter 2:24 that even though people began following Him, Jesus did not entrust Himself to them because He knew their hearts. In the words Jesus asked Peter; who do you say that Jesus really is?

As you contemplate this incredible chapter, what difference does the truth of the passage make in the way you view your freindships and those God brings in your life? If what John says is true, for every single person you meet or come to know, there really is only one question that really matters. What is their relationship with Jesus? Are we too comfortable with simply helping people--raising money for good causes that are temporal--helping people to become good citizens--feeding and clothing the poor? These are all great things and things that Jesus encouraged and modeled. But, if ultimately, we don't share the truth of salvation, have we really loved our neighbor?

Today, are you willing to step out of your comfort zone and share with those you know the single truth that will make the difference between an eternity with Christ and one without Him? Perhaps you might start with jotting down a list of names that God brings to mind and begin praying for them today. Ask God to let you see the world through His eyes. Remember that none of us deserve God's grace. God's offer of salvation through Jesus is simple and free. Why be shy about sharing the best thing that ever happened in your life? If you won the lottery today, would you keep that news to yourself or begin calling your friends? Go for it and watch God use you to make an eternal difference in someone's life!

DAY TWO (John 2)

2010-06-28T20:05:00.000-07:00

John chapter two records Jesus' first Miracle. I love the fact Jesus' first miracle is done at a party with friends!

Notice how clearly John distinguishes Jesus' role and the role of Mary and the servants. Mary had a problem and what did she do? She recognized it and then immediately turned it over to God. And then with complete trust in Him, she tells the servants to do whatever Jesus says! Mary could rest knowing God was now in charge of the problem.

I think John is helping us understand that there are certain things we can do and there are certain things only God can do. When I start trying to do or control those things that only God can do, fear can quickly take over and I start feeling overwelmed. How often do you try and carry the burden of what only God can do? What things today do you need to just turn over to God and tell him that you cannot handle them but you know he can. Then, our job is simply to follow Jesus and trust Him with the results.

Did you notice Jesus' statement to His Mom that His "time has not yet come "? In other words, God’s plan had a perfect divine timing despite the fact the hosts of this party probably were starting to freak out. Do you know that God’s timing is perfect in every challenge you face today or in the weeks ahead? If you have turned over the problems you can not handle and are trusting God, he will be on time—not early, not late—just perfectly “on time.”

What is the end result of facing life's challenges Jesus way? John tell us that the end result is that God is glorified (verse 11) and his followers believed. God is using the things you are going through right now--taking you out of your comfort zone-- to strengthen your faith. Can you trust this day to God to handle what is weighing you down? Turn it over to him---you can't but God can. Remember His track record is perfect!

Tis so Sweet to Trust in Jesus is an old hymn, but the words still hit home with me.

’Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,  Just to take Him at His Word;  Just to rest upon His promise, And to know, “Thus saith the Lord!”
Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him!  How I’ve proved Him o’er and o’er; Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!  Oh, for grace to trust Him more!

DAY ONE (John 1)

2010-06-28T05:39:00.000-07:00

The Gospel of John is a favorite of many--including me! If you are new to your bible, it's a great place to start. The author is John. He was called a "son of thunder" and "the disciple that Jesus loved". John's Dad Zebedee (like John) was a fisherman. His Mom was Salome and may have been the sister of Mary, the Mother of Jesus.

The theme of the Gospel of John is the deity of Jesus. As you read through the first 18 versus of this Gospel, what do you see as a theme or purpose of the book? Take a look at John 20:31 as well concerning John's purpose.

Look at John 1:14. Think about the creator taking on human form. Why do you think Jesus became just like us and lived, played, worked and served our world? What does that say about how he wants to relate to you?

As we find Jesus calling his disciples in this chapter (John 1:35), how much does he tell these guys in terms of his future plans for them? What is the one thing he asks of them? What does that teach you about the way God wants to guide you?

Ask the Holy Spirit to show you any specific things in this chapter he would like you to apply to your life. Be a good listener and enjoy the journey today!

21 days with Jesus

2010-06-28T05:11:00.000-07:00

This last Sunday I closed my message with this question: how are we arranging our days in such a way that allows us to hear from God? That is my own challenge. I simply cannot hear the voice of God over the noise of the world. In light of that reality, I invited each person to spend the next 21 days with Jesus in a rather simple way. Why 21? Because that is the number of chapters in the Gospel of John. We passed out bookmarks with three reflection questions to start your day and three to review your day. So, along with readying a Chapter of John, we are taking a few moments to start and end our day in order to experience the wonder and peace that comes from drawing close to Jesus (James 4:8). Each day, beginning today, I will post a few thoughts or questions around that day's chapter from John. All in all, it will take about 30 minutes. Feel free to post a comment or note on this blog as God challenges you, gives you insight and speaks to you through our friend John. And remember, the close the walk, the clearer the plan!

Pastor Jeff

Sojourn on Mission!

2010-06-21T14:49:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the Sojourners who helped us set up and serve our community at the Mosaic Festival. I am continually amazed at your hearts and sacrifice! What a great privilege we have of serving a city with over 100 languages from many countries around the world!

“I, the Lord, have called you to demonstrate my righteousness. And you will be a light to guide the nations. You will open the eyes of the blind. You will free the captives from prison, releasing those who sit in dark dungeons." Is. 42

When Life Overwhelms Us

2010-06-19T10:22:00.000-07:00

When Life overwhelms us its time to step back and rediscover God's purpose for us. Join us this Sunday as we begin two weeks on discovering God's purpose in our life as we continue our study in the amazing book of James. This Sunday: Navigating Our Tomorrows. Kirsten Vogel will also bring us news from her recent trip to Uganda during our Sojourn on Mission segment. 10:00AM @ Sojourn!

MOSAIC FESTIVAL - Saturday, June 19th

2010-06-19T09:59:00.000-07:00

This Saturday from 5-8pm, Sojourn Community Church will be "on location" at the Mosaic Festival in downtown Greensboro.

The Mosaic Festival is a celebration of the many cultures that make up our community. Art, music, food and dancing will be plentiful at this family event. Sojourn is happy to be a sponsor for the festival, offering several volunteers for the event and a craft table for the children who attend.
Come enjoy an evening out with your family in downtown Greensboro this Saturday!

SOJOURN ON MISSION--JUNE 6!

2010-06-04T08:30:00.000-07:00

Dear Sojourners and friends of Sojourn:

I want to take just a moment to encourage you to be with us this Sunday, June 6th if at all possible. During the morning message, I will be sharing with you where the leadership senses God is leading us in year two of our ministry. It will be one of the most informative Sundays of the year and one you don't want to miss.

As I was studying the book of James for the message this Sunday, I was reminded again that God has and continues to choose ordinary people to do extraordinary things-things that really matter-- not just in this life, but for eternity. This is our time, in our city, in this season to go and do what only God can do - to let him align our hearts and passions with his kingdom purposes so that we might create a culture of hope in a world that longs for meaning and relationship. We invite you to share and think and dream and pray with us as we seek no other agenda then the glorious privilege of being used by God.

Let me remind you of the quote I shared this last Sunday from Gregg Levoy that "Jesus promised those who follow him only three things: That they would be absurdly happy, entirely fearless, and always in trouble." Remember, if we are in our comfort zone, we are probably not on mission.

See you Sunday,

Pastor Jeff

Killing a Church Plant

2010-05-11T14:15:00.001-07:00

Screwtape's 4 Easy Ways to Kill a Church Plant

Ok, they are not from Screwtape, but they sure sound like they are.

1. Establish a "Come To" environment, instead of a "Go To" environment.

Many church-starts begin by going to a new community, but then set up a building for people "come to" in order to find God or Community or ... you fill in the blank. Going doesn't stop until we are staying in homes, transforming individuals, families and communities. See Matthew 10, Luke 9, and Luke 10.

2. Make Converts, instead of Disciples.

Most churches are concerned with convincing people to believe like they do and adopt the church's peculiar doctrine - making converts. A disciple is one who believes like Jesus does and gives his or her life to be like Jesus and help others to find Jesus and become like Him. Converts are about a brand of church or denomination. Disciples are about obediently following the Master regardless of consequences.

No one wants our religion, or our style of worship, or our doctrines. Almost everyone wants to be a follower of God, a disciple of Jesus without the crud we have added in the modern church. Yes, there are some who will come to our churches. What about the 80-90% who will never darken the door of a traditional church? They will refuse to become converts. They may respond to the becoming disciples of the Creator of the Universe.

3. Grow Churches, instead of establishing new churches.

I am frequently asked to consult with churches who are interested in starting new work. The first question I ask is, "Are you interested in growing your church, or in reaching your community for Christ?" Many people see these as the same. They are not. Growing a church is about getting more people to come to the church. The reality is that no single church appeals to even a miniscule part of society. Churches have personalities, and these personalities click with only a few. So, if you start out to simply grow a church, there is a limit to how many people can be reached, simply because most people will have zero interest in the church.

On the other hand, if you start out to reach a community, regardless of whether or not the new believers will come to any particular church, numerous churches with just the right personalities for new believers will be initiated. In the course of all these new groups being starting, the catalytic church or churches will grow.

One can't reach a community by trying to grow a church. But, if one reaches the community by all means available, the church that does this will grow.

4. Teach stuff, instead of obedience to all the commands of Christ.

One of the most misquoted and misunderstood passages of the Bible is Matthew 28:18-20. Ask people, sometime, what this passage tells us to teach. I think you will be surprised by the number of people who will not say, "to obey." Most of our churches, and most of our doctrines, are about teaching facts or knowledge about the Bible or theology or doctrine, or our own particular brand of church.

We will not see significant church planting until and unless we are willing to teach everyone to obey all the commands of Christ, our Creator and God. How does one teach obedience? By being consistently obedient in public and in private, in word and in thought. Obedience is taught by an obedient life that supports daily life decisions from the principles of God's Word regardless of the consequences. A faithful life is an obedient life in all situations and circumstances regardless of the consequences of being obedient.

The Great Commission is one commission with four parts or commands. If any one of these commands is not obeyed, then the commission is broken and will not produced the fruit that God intended - obedient Disciples and Churches.

Matthew 28:16 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18 Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (NIV)

By David L. Watson

Glenn Wagner returns to Sojourn on April 18th!

2010-04-13T16:56:00.000-07:00

Best-selling author Glenn Wagner says the path to spiritual greatness begins and ends with radical dependence on God. Glenn will bring the message at Sojourn this Sunday, April 18th, as we continue our new series in James. Below is a an article about his recent book.

   In an age of unprecedented material and spiritual resources, best-selling author Glenn Wagner asks why there isn’t a greater movement of God in America.
   Churches and ministries’ financial strength, high-tech wizardry and wealth of talent should be propelling us to greater heights of spiritual transformation and evangelism. Yet despite these tools, we are left in a state of comfort and malaise, Wagner argues in “Fire In Your Bones!”, his eighth book.  .
   Wagner, president of FutureLead, says the problem isn’t tools or talent, but our reliance upon them instead of God. He contends that the path to corporate and personal transformation is to live “down under.” Not to be confused with moving to Australia, this term refers to quieting ourselves to live under the leadership of God and looking to him alone for power and effectiveness in ministry.
   “Never seek to live and do God’s work merely from the intellect, skill or flesh,” he writes. “We get down under God when we stop depending on ourselves for effectiveness in living, working, speaking, witnessing and praying and start placing our total reliance on God.”
   Written for both lay people and pastors, “Fire In Your Bones!” was inspired by Jeremiah’s words: “But if I say, ‘I will not mention him or speak any more in his name,’ his word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot.”
   Wagner says Christians with Jeremiah’s fervor are few in the American church: “While there are still those who live and speak for Christ, for most, there is no burning within the heart. God desires a new generation of Jeremiahs – men and women who can’t keep quiet wherever they go.”
   Only believers living “down under” can consistently experience a lifestyle of supernatural power. Radical dependence on God results in transformed character and boldness in living and personal evangelism. It also leads to the most fulfilling life possible.
   Wagner offers no formula for Spirit-dependent living, but provides sound principles and benchmarks that every Christ-follower can use to become more reliant upon God. The book also offers a series of questions to help readers diagnose their true spiritual health.
    “I don’t want to be described as a ‘sub-normal’ Christ follower,” Wagner writes. “I don’t want to misrepresent the One I say I’m following! Rather, I fervently desire to live with the Word and the Spirit of God on fire within my very soul – so that everywhere I walk and talk, people see Jesus.”

Sojourn Night Watch

2010-04-13T16:33:00.000-07:00

Every third Friday of the month, a team of sojourners give their evening to care for, love and feed the homeless of Greensboro. During the March NightWatch, Jonea Mohn, one of our talented sojourners, captured the evening. Take a moment to walk in their shoes by visiting www.sojourncommunity.org and going to our new gallary.

James: Real Faith

2010-04-08T18:16:00.000-07:00

The Book of James----real, practical, surprising, life changing. James, known as the Proverbs of the New Testement has been called a practical guide to the Christian life. Join us beginning April 11 as we journey through many practical topics such as trials, temptation, decision making, conflict and money to better understand what the bible has to say about these life issues we face every day of our lives.

Easter at Sojourn

2010-03-30T15:58:00.000-07:00

It was springtime, Jesus was resurrected and yet some of his closest followers were plagued by doubt, questions and a sense of disappointment with God. We've all been there. The story of the Road to Emmaus is the story of God meeting us right where we are, offering to us a message of grace, strength and hope.

2010-03-21T14:09:00.000-07:00

Don't Forget--Sojourn at the Broach this coming Sunday, March 28th!!

LOST: Beginning March 14th @ Sojourn

2010-03-12T05:16:00.000-08:00

We are brought up in a world where we get what we work for. Yet we discover in the gospel a different economy, one in which we don't get what we deserve. Rather, we find ourselves the recipients of a kind of reckless grace lavished upon us by the love of a Father who simply will not give up on us. In Sojourn's upcoming series, LOST, we will explore the three stories found in Luke 15 taught by Jesus to help us better understand the divine heart. It is here that we discover again our greatest hope---God's unconditional and undeserved grace.

FIRST ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION!

2010-03-03T15:16:00.001-08:00

We would love for you to join us this Sunday, March 7th as Sojourn celebrates its first year in ministry! This is the celebration rescheduled due to all the snow that has been falling on Greensboro. Come be our guest and bring a few friends as we recount God’s work in our midst through story and song and take a sneak preview of what's in store!

Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen. (Eph. 3: 20-21).

Time: 10:00AM

Location: Kernodle Middle School located at 3600 Drawbridge Parkway, Greensboro, NC 27410

Living with Purpose

2010-03-03T11:20:00.000-08:00

Today I am stepping across the line. I'm tired of waffling, and I'm finished with wavering. I've made my choice; the verdict is in; and my decision is irrevocable. I'm going God's way. There's no turning back now!

I will live the rest of my life serving God's purposes with God's people on God's planet for God's glory. I will use my life to celebrate his presence, cultivate his character, participate in his family, demonstrate his love, and communicate his Word.

Since my past has been forgiven, and I have a purpose for living and a home awaiting in heaven, I refuse to waste any more time or energy on shallow living, petty thinking, trivial talking, thoughtless doing, useless regretting, hurtful resenting, or faithless worrying. Instead I will magnify God, grow to maturity, serve in ministry, and fulfill my mission in the membership of his family.
Because this life is preparation for the next, I will value worship over wealth, "we" over "me," character over comfort, service over status, and people over possessions, position, and pleasures. I know what matters most and I'll give it all I've got. I'll do the best I can with what I have for Jesus Christ today.

I won't be captivated by culture, manipulated by critics, motivated by praise, frustrated by problems, debilitated by temptation, or intimidated by the devil. I'll keep running my race with my eyes on the goal, not the sidelines or those running by me. When times get tough and I get tired, I won't back up, back off, back down, back out, or backslide. I'll just keep moving forward by God's grace. I'm

Spirit-led, purpose-driven, and mission-focused, so I cannot be bought, I will not be compromised, and I shall not quit until I finish the race.

I'm a trophy of God's amazing grace so I will be gracious to everyone, grateful for every day, and generous with everything that God entrusts to me.

To my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, I say: However, whenever, wherever, and whatever you ask me to do, my answer in advance is yes! Wherever you lead and whatever the cost, I'm ready. Anytime. Anywhere. Any way. Whatever it takes Lord; whatever it takes! I want to be used by you in such a way that on that final day I'll hear you say, "Well done, thou good and faithful one. Come on in, and let the eternal party begin!"

This article is printed from the website www.PurposeDriven.com. Copyright 2005 by Rick Warren. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Sojourn begins Lenten Season

2010-02-18T18:22:00.000-08:00

Sam Nadler, who serves as President of Word of Messiah Ministry will lead us in the celebration of the Seder followed by communion. This special worship service, marking the beginning of our Lenten season, will include a visual sermon highlighting the vivid teaching of the context for Jesus instituting the Lord's Supper. Come deepen your understanding of the gospel and the sacrament of Holy Communion.

WE ARE MEETING AT KERNODLE AT 10:00AM THIS SUNDAY FEB. 14!

2010-02-13T07:16:00.000-08:00

Sojourn will meet at its regular time (10:00AM) at Kernodle Middle School (our regular meeting place) located at 3600 Drawbridge Road in Greensboro. Join us as we begin Part I of a two-part series called "Happily Ever After." BRING A FRIEND!

2010-02-11T17:16:00.000-08:00

Thank you Sojourn Band for a great worship time Sunday!

SOJOURN AT THE BROACH THEATRE!!

2010-02-06T10:29:00.000-08:00

In light of the Guildford County School's facility closings, Sojourn
will be meeting at the Broach Theater on February 7th (10:30AM) located at 520 South Elm in downtown Greensboro!! Note the time change as we normally begin at 10:00!

So, invite your friends and come grab a cup of coffee and enjoy music and message in a very fun place in our community. This is a great way to introduce Sojourn to those who may not normally hang out at church. We will have a team of sojourners at Kernodle in the morning to re-direct any guests that may show up there.

JOURNEY Kidz will join us in worship with their families.

We look forward to seeing you at our cool downtown location!

Sojourn Staff
336.294.0880

GREAT NEWS REGARDING SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 7!!

2010-02-05T14:42:00.000-08:00

Hang on! In light of the school cancellation, we have just confirmed the Broach Theater on Elm Street for Sunday Morning. We will post more information throughout the day as we finalize the details. There will be a slight delay in the service time to 10:30AM so folks who might who up at Kernodle will have time to go down to the Broach if they show choose.

More to follow!!

LIVING HYMNS AT THE BROACH NEW DATES ANNOUNCED

2010-02-05T06:57:00.000-08:00

We just received word that the Friday and Saturday performances of LIVING HYMNS have been postponed until a later date. The NEW DATES are March 26 and 27. Sojourn's block seating is for Saturday, March 27th. If you bought tickets for the February Saturday date, they will be honored or, if for some reason you can not make the new date, refunded.

Excerpts from Psalm 39

2010-02-04T11:13:00.000-08:00

This Sunday during worship at Sojourn, we will look at the three areas Jesus wants us to focus on in this life. Loving God, Loving One Another and Loving our World. As we prepare for that time, take a few moments and reflect on a few versus from Psalm 39.

39:4 "O Lord, help me understand my mortality and the brevity of life!

Let me realize how quickly my life will pass!

39:5 Look, you make my days short-lived, and my life span is nothing from your perspective.

Surely all people, even those who seem secure, are nothing but vapor.

39:6 Surely people go through life as mere ghosts. Surely they accumulate worthless wealth without knowing who will eventually haul it away."

Thoughts from Neil Cole

2010-02-03T16:06:00.000-08:00

As the world looks at our churches, particularly in the West, it sees only what people have done or what programs they are doing. The world is not impressed. In response, we scheme and plot and plan, “What can we do to make our church more appealing to the people in our community?” This is, once again, the wrong question. It’s as if we we’re trying to boost God’s approval ratings. It is God’s name that is at risk, not ours, and we are not responsible for protecting His reputation. He can handle that, by Himself, just fine.

A better question is, “Where is Jesus seen at work in our midst?” Where do we see lives changing, and communities transforming simply by the power of the Gospel? Where do we see fathers restored to a life of holiness and responsibility? Where do we see daughters reconciling with mothers? Where do we see addicts who no longer live under the bondage of chemical dependency? Where are wealthy businessmen making restitution for past crimes that went unnoticed? These are the questions that lead people to recognize the living presence of Jesus, loving and governing people’s lives as their King. When people encounter Jesus, alive and present as King, they get a taste of God’s Kingdom on earth as it is in heaven.

SOJOURN ARTS GROUP WEATHER UPDATE

2010-02-01T05:28:00.000-08:00

Due to the amount of frozen white stuff still lingering on the Triad
roads, our meeting at Bricologue has been moved to NEXT Monday,
February 8, 7pm.

I'll be in touch with everyone about weekly events in the days ahead.

jonea mohn
jonea@mac.com
336.971.5818

A Devotional for Snow Day - Becoming the Church God Had in Mind

2010-01-31T07:16:00.000-08:00

While thinking a little deeper about the mission and ministry of Sojourn, I read a quote yesterday from Alan Hirsch. Alan is a favorite author of mine. Here’s what he said about the church: the church does not have a mission as much as God’s mission has a church!

LOOKING BACK AT LAST WEEK

Last week we defined the church and looked at the four gifts God has given His bride that allows us to be the body of Christ. First, read the definition of the church below and ask yourself this question: Why is there an emphasis throughout the New Testament on the local church (versus the few passages that refer to the church universal)?

The local church is God’s anointed community that is uniquely designed to encourage our relationship with him, to care for one another and to serve our city and world. While the church is made up of all believers everywhere, it is manifested through local bodies. Sojourn is a local body.

In addition to defining the church last week, we looked at four core gifts that God gives the church while, at the same time, leaving each local church flexible on things like strategy. The four gifts he gave each local church are (1) its mission, (2) leadership under our head, Jesus; (3) the bible as our guide and (4) the Holy Spirit to each believer.

That is why the church can impact and change a city. That is why Jesus calls it his bride and says when you function as a true biblical NT church, expect unbelievable things to happen because I am behind it and the gates of hell will not be able to stop it!

WORTH PONDERING FURTHER: How do the gifts God gave the church also serve each INDIVIDUAL Christ-follower. How about your family? Why do you think God wanted us to minister together as a community rather then as individuals, each doing our own thing? Take a look at I Cor. 12 for help on this question.

REFLECTING THIS WEEK

So we have a mission, guidance, leadership and the Holy Spirit. Now, with those gifts in hand, what things does God want us to focus on? The bible says there are three primary things he wants us to zero in on, as we become a church after the heart of Jesus. And you know what—they are pretty straightforward!

1. Love God

2. Love each other

3. Love our broken world

THINK ABOUT THIS: Why do you think we make this so complicated? Why do you think we get distracted by all sorts of other stuff that is not what God wants us to focus on? Here is even a bigger question: What do you think would happen if a church really took these three mandates seriously?

LET’S GIVE SOME THOUGHT TO THESE THREE AREAS GOD WANTS US TO LOCK IN ON:

LOVE GOD

Read Matthew 22:37 (“Jesus replied, ‘You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.').

APPLICATION: It sounds like Jesus wants 100 percent of us. How are you doing in this area? What things keep you from loving God this way?

LOVE OTHERS

Read John 13:34-35 ("A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. ³⁵By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.")

WORTH PONDERING: How do we do this? Notice that Jesus is saying, as we love one another at Sojourn, the world will connect the dots. What about the way we love each other, makes people consider who Jesus is?

Cultural barriers. (What about the American notions of independence or “making it on our own” can push against God’s design for the church?

Personal barriers

Time

The fear of intimacy

What are the risks in opening our lives and heart to others?

Remember what we said last week: God never nudges and encourages us in a direction that is not ultimately in our best interest because he loves us more then we know. Push through them and begin to experience what Jesus says will change our life and struggles and our witness in profound ways.

I like what John Ortberg said about loving each other: “This is why the experience of authentic community is so life giving. We are taking our place in fellowship with Life himself. When I am in isolation, I am lonely. When I am in community, I experience what might be called “fullness of heart”. The human heart is forever empty if it is closed in upon itself. In community—the divine community especially (taking about the church) a heart comes alive.”

Do you agree? Why or why not?

LOVE OUR WORLD

Here is the final focus point for the church. Loving our broken world. Is that hard for you or does it come easy?

Ultimately, the church is simply common men and woman with an uncommon calling.

WORTH PONDERING: Think of someone you really admire that has been used by God. What made them extraordinary? Remember that God calls the unworthy and the unqualified into His service. Chances are the person you are thinking about did not help change the world because they were different then us. They changed the world because they submitted themselves as weak and ordinary to a Potter who does extraordinary things with common, even broken, vessels.

The bible says, you are Christ’s workmanship: “For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”

APPLICATION: What plans do you think God is moving you toward? What hints is he giving you these days in terms of how he wants to use you? What scares you most about God’s plan for you? What excites you the most?

LOOKING AHEAD

Next week as we celebrate our First Anniversary as a local church, we will tell stories of the unfolding work of God in our midst around the themes of loving God, lover one another, loving our world.

QUESTIONS: How does Sojourn express these three focal points? We simply say that Sojourn exists to Encounter God, Equip people and engage our city. I hope you agree that God has given us great families and individuals that make up our local body. That makes it such a joy to serve.

Have a great day and take a few moments this coming week to invite friends to Sojourn’s First Anniversary. I look forward to celebrating with you the greatness of our God next Sunday, the 7^th of February.

Thanks for being the church!

Jeff

Phil 4: 4-7

NW Observer Article on Sojourn

2010-01-31T05:44:00.000-08:00

Sojourn's Haiti Response Team

2010-01-19T12:33:00.000-08:00

Sojourn’s Haiti response team is gathering emergency goods which will be transported by truck to St. Lucie International Airport where we have arranged a charted flight that will take these goods directly to specific contacts our team has in Haiti. We would like to invite you to make a Paypal secure donation to Haiti Response for the ground transportation or you can denote specific items that have been requested by our missionary contacts in Haiti. Thank you to all who have responded, given and are praying. For more information and to stay updated, go to www.haitiresponse.org.

Christmas Eve at FlintRock

2009-12-18T12:07:00.000-08:00

Mark your calendars for a wonderful time of caroling, mule-drawn hay rides, hot cider around the bonfire and the Christmas story shared from a life nativity. Hayrides are from 3:00-5:00 and the caroling and Christmas story will be shared at 5:00PM.

Flintro...ck Farm is the largest year round equestrian facility in North Carolina located minutes from Greensboro. From directions, see http://flintrockfarm.com/Directions.aspx.
Bring your entire family and come out and celebrate the Season with us!

Sponsored by your friends at Sojourn CommunityFor more information call 336.294.0880
www.sojourncommunity.org

Advent: arrival that has been awaited

2009-11-28T17:07:00.001-08:00

This Sunday (November 29) we light the first candle of the Advent wreath at Sojourn. This is the candle of HOPE. Most people understand hope as wishful thinking, as in "I hope something will happen." This is not what the Bible means by hope. The Biblical definition of hope is "confident expectation." Hope is a firm assurance regarding things that are unclear and unknown.

With Christians around the world, we use this light to help us prepare our hearts and minds for the coming of God’s Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. May we receive God’s light as we hear the words of the prophet Isaiah:

“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness — on them light has shined.”—The Prophet Isaiah

When God Makes Us Angry

2009-11-27T14:33:00.000-08:00

As we turn to the last Chapter of Jonah, we are met with one of the most remarkable statements by a servant of God. Furious with God for extending his grace to the Assyrians (Israel's arch enemy), Jonah finds he cannot live with the true implications of God’s grace nor can he live without grace.

In this remarkable Chapter IV, we will find God exposing the idols in Jonah’s life that keep him from experiencing the true freedom of God’s Grace. As with us, the stress brought about in Jonah’s life exposes his real self. Jonah cannot give what God has so undeservedly given him—unfailing love and compassion.

When God does not fit into Jonah’s plans, he again turns from God, this time in anger. We will see God bring yet another living illustration into the life of Jonah to take him one step further to becoming the man God destined him to be. We will also take a practical look at how to rid ourselves of idols of our own making and discover the glorious grace of the Father through Jesus.

The First Thanksgiving Proclamation of the Continental Congress

2009-11-23T15:13:00.000-08:00

IN CONGRESS
November 1, 1777

FORASMUCH as it is the indispensable Duty of all Men to adore the superintending Providence of Almighty God; to acknowledge with Gratitude their Obligation to him for Benefits received, and to implore such farther Blessings as they stand in Need of: And it having pleased him in his abundant Mercy, not only to continue to us the innumerable Bounties of his common Providence; but also to smile upon us in the Prosecution of a just and necessary War, for the Defense and Establishment of our unalienable Rights and Liberties; particularly in that he hath been pleased, in so great a Measure, to prosper the Means used for the Support of our Troops, and to crown our Arms with most signal success:

It is therefore recommended to the legislative or executive Powers of these UNITED STATES to set apart THURSDAY, the eighteenth Day of December next, for SOLEMN THANKSGIVING and PRAISE: That at one Time and with one Voice, the good People may express the grateful Feelings of their Hearts, and consecrate themselves to the Service of their Divine Benefactor; and that, together with their sincere Acknowledgments and Offerings, they may join the penitent Confession of their manifold Sins, whereby they had forfeited every Favor; and their humble and earnest Supplication that it may please GOD through the Merits of JESUS CHRIST, mercifully to forgive and blot them out of Remembrance; That it may please him graciously to afford his Blessing on the Governments of these States respectively, and prosper the public Council of the whole: To inspire our Commanders, both by Land and Sea, and all under them, with that Wisdom and Fortitude which may render them fit Instruments, under the Providence of Almighty GOD, to secure for these United States, the greatest of all human Blessings, INDEPENDENCE and PEACE: That it may please him, to prosper the Trade and Manufactures of the People, and the Labor of the Husbandman, that our Land may yield its Increase: To take Schools and Seminaries of Education, so necessary for cultivating the Principles of true Liberty, Virtue and Piety, under his nurturing Hand; and to prosper the Means of Religion, for the promotion and enlargement of that Kingdom, which consisteth "in Righteousness, Peace and Joy in the Holy Ghost."

And it is further recommended, That servile Labor, and such Recreation, as, though at other Times innocent, may be unbecoming the Purpose of this Appointment, be omitted on so solemn an Occasion.

Abandoning the Run

2009-11-17T15:07:00.000-08:00

This coming week we will be looking at the second Chapter of Jonah. Between two narrative bookends (verses 1 and 10) these versus give us a window into the soul of Jonah. It's the anatomy of his heart as he abandons his run from God and experiences the wonder of God’s grace as never before.

Take a few moments and read the 48 verses of Jonah. As you prepare for the message Sunday Morning, pay particular attention to the development of Jonah’s progress as he moves from recognizing his brokenness to adoration of his God. Do you see any parallels from our study of the beatitudes a few months ago (Matthew 5)?

As you see Jonah running from God and God’s pursuit of him, we find the themes of sin and grace beneath the surface of this great book. As we unfold the steps in Jonah’s return this week, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any areas in your life where you are running from God and ask the Father to use the Jonah's life example set out in Chapter two to help you stop, look and listen to a God who loves you beyond measure.

Remember, where there is sin, there is always a storm cloud attached. But the story does not end there. Under the loving discipline of God, he makes ready his provision beneath the waves.

Sojourn Welcomes Glenn Wagner this Sunday (November 15th)

2009-11-12T13:10:00.000-08:00

Glenn Wagner is more than just the president and visionary of FutureLead. He’s a catalyst helping pastors and senior level executives learn to lead with purpose and passion. He is also the Executive Director of the Center for Development and Deployment. Glenn is a former pastor who specialized in helping struggling churches achieve aggressive growth and health. He was also a founding board member and vice president of Promise Keepers, where he led the national and international expansion efforts and helped the organization attain double-digit growth for six straight years.

Glenn is an author and contributor of nine books including: The Church You’ve Always Wanted, Escape From Church, Inc., The Heart of a Godly Man, and Fire In Your Bones.

He holds a D.Phil in religion and society and a D.Litt in advanced research from Oxford Graduate School. He also earned a D.Min from Northwest Graduate School.

Glenn and his wife Susan have two grown children and live near Charlotte, North Carolina.

Learning to Fly (Kierkegaard's Geese)

2009-11-11T19:16:00.000-08:00

Some of you asked for a copy of the story I shared in a recent message on Engaging our City. Here is the story written by Soren Kierkegaard.

"A certain flock of geese lived together in a barnyard with high walls around it. Because the corn was good and the barnyard was secure, these geese would never take a risk. One day a philosopher goose came among them. He was a very good philosopher and every week they listened quietly and attentively to his learned discourses. 'My fellow travellers on the way of life,' he would say, 'can you seriously imagine that this barnyard, with great high walls around it, is all there is to existence?

I tell you, there is another and a greater world outside, a world of which we are only dimly aware. Our forefathers knew of this outside world. For did they not stretch their wings and fly across the trackless wastes of desert and ocean, of green valley and wooded hill? But alas, here we remain in this barnyard, our wings folded and tucked into our sides, as we are content to puddle in the mud, never lifting our eyes to the heavens which should be our home.

The geese thought this was very fine lecturing. 'How poetical,' they thought. 'How profoundly existential. What a flawless summary of the mystery of existence.' Often the philosopher spoke of the advantages of flight, calling on the geese to be what they were. After all, they had wings, he pointed out. What were wings for, but to fly with? Often he reflected on the beauty and the wonder of life outside the barnyard, and the freedom of the skies.

And every week the geese were uplifted, inspired, moved by the philosopher's message. They hung on his every word. They devoted hours, weeks, months to a thoroughgoing analysis and critical evaluation of his doctrines. They produced learned treatises on the ethical and spiritual implications of flight. All this they did. But one thing they never did. They did not fly! For the corn was good, and the barnyard was secure!"

Søren Kierkegaard

The Sojourn Cross . . . .

2009-11-11T17:39:00.000-08:00

The following was written by Jonea Mohn, a member of the Sojourn Worship Team . . . .)

The Sojourn Cross

When I was asked to design and build the cross for Sojourn, I accepted feeling only a responsibility to serve. Neither sculpture nor woodworking has been a focus of mine, but I am always up for a challenge. My connection began when I began comparing planks of oak for tone and grain pattern.

Then the handcrafting began. My husband, Jeff, routed the crux, and turned it over to me. We laid thick blankets out to protect the planks, and I sanded the surface smooth. I chiseled and turned and chiseled some more. I hammered divots into the face, and pummeled the planks with bags of rocks. Jeff carefully painted the grain with a dark stain, and then wiped it with a contrasting stain to accentuate the texture and “wounds”. I, myself, suffered headaches from the constant “chink, chinking”, backaches from bending over for days, and a few finger injuries. It was finished with just enough time to dry for the service, and I realized how much a part of me the cross had become; how much I loved it. It was difficult for me to give it away to those who might not understand it the way I do.

This was my lesson: I know each part of that cross. I know every chisel mark. I carefully chose which would be shallow or deep, or long. At times, the tools would slip and threaten to split the grain, but I would react quickly to control the damage. I would create purpose out of what could have been disaster. I examined it front to back, side to side, and considered all angles as I put my care into my creation. When I cut into the surface, I worried over every grain pattern, knowing that if I chose the wrong angle, it could split the plank. I had no desire to ruin that wood. I winced every time the bag of rocks hit the surface, leaving indentions in the material that survived, but turned the rocks to sand. I know every grain pattern. It starts out slow and wide at the top, like a lazy river, and draws close and fast until the bottom few feet where the rapids break free into a playful tiger-oak.

The Creator carefully chooses the materials out of which we will be made, knowing our purposes and what we will have to withstand. He has a vision for our end products. He understands our grains, and loves our surfaces. As he shapes us, He takes care that anything that happens to us is used for purpose and beauty. His only desire is to protect us and hold us to Him. When we are hurt, He hurts with us, but knows that He made us from materials to withstand the pain. He holds us up before others, wounds and all, and says, “This is My creation! I made it myself!”

CATCH A GLIMPSE

2009-09-24T11:04:00.000-07:00

The Sojourn Staff recently spent 3 days praying, dreaming, strategizing and playing together at Smith Mountain Lake. Smith Mountain is a gorgeous, 40-mile long, 20,600-acre lake, with 500 miles of shoreline, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of rural southwestern Virginia. It was the perfect setting for our first staff retreat. Thanks to friends of Sojourn who gave us use of a waterfront home for 3 days. It was rough, but we managed. There were a total of 10 of us, including spouses and members of our broader advisory team from the Chicago area.

Our retreat format was built around Thom Rainer’s and Eric Geiger’s helpful text: Simple Church: Returning to God's Process for Making Disciples. Using that “grid” we wrestled our purpose to the ground in order to get crystal clear on our vision. Kathy Speight, our Director of Ministries, then led us through a session helping us better understand the way God has wired and gifted each of our staff from which we built job descriptions focusing on the key priority areas of Sojourn’s ministry.

I loved the prayer time we had together. Most memorable for me was the team gathering around each staff person to lay hands on them and pray for their role in this new mission to which God is calling us. Next, we began constructing strategies and a calendar that reflected our highest priorities. Many thanks to Dave and Rennie Garda of Cadre International for taking 3 days out of their very busy training schedule to help us lay the foundations of our growing student ministry. They are awesome leaders and great friends.

With three days of hard work in hand, we returned to Greensboro with a renewed sense that God would use us if we surrender ourselves completely to pursuing Jesus and setting aside personal agenda. Pray that God would persist in our lives to reshape our hearts and those God is calling to the Sojourn Community. Our prayer is that he would build a fire in our souls as we catch a glimpse of how he sees the world around us.

You can hear more about the mission and vision of Sojourn on Vision Sunday, October 11 starting at 10:00AM.

Serving Greensboro with you,

Pastor Jeff

Sojourn Team Member

SIX MONTHS OLD....

2009-09-23T13:26:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago Sojourn marked its sixth month as a community. I have likened church planting to assembling an airplane in the air. We are learning, praying, and working hard at keeping our focus outward and engaged with our community. This summer we celebrated a number of "firsts" for our growing mission. Our first small groups formed, our first Sunday in the Park, our first missionaries, our first professions of faith and soon we will celebrate our first baptism service.

Here are a few highlights of the summer. We welcomed Ben Weber as our new Student Ministry Intern and the student ministry has now grown to over 20 kids! Go God! As our attendance has grown each week to an average of over 100, we brought on Leah Cockerham who will be serving 10-15 hours a week as administrative support. Leah brings a complement of gifts in the arts and administration. We also had the joy of welcoming Kathy Speight as our new full-time Director of Ministries. Kathy brings a number of years experience in leadership development, community outreach and small groups. These new staff join Marc Cockerham (our Pastor of Worship & Arts) and me to set the stage for what I believe will be a very exciting fall.

While our staff team is here to serve and equip the people and mission of Sojourn, it is the growing number of front-line volunteers at Sojourn that are impacting the hearts and lives of people in our city. From the international outreach at the Seeds Center, to counseling, community projects, leading small groups, as well as serving on the "red" and "blue" teams (our serving teams), we are seeing people find their place in this new missional community we call Sojourn. What a joy!

There are many ways to change the world-just pick one!

Grace & Peace,

Pastor Jeff
Team Member

In Essential beliefs, we have unity.
In Non-essential beliefs, we have diversity.
In all of our beliefs, we promote love.

2009-07-29T05:33:00.000-07:00

February 1 - The Launch of Sojourn Community Church