UPDATE FOR JUNE 2008
Prayer answered. We asked you to pray for Harold as he presented his message at a Christian convention to a group that contained a few potentially hostile people. Well, folks, we all prayed and the Lord heard. His answer was a bit different from what we expected, but it was quite evident nonetheless, and so we give Him thanks.
As leadoff speaker, Harold presented A Church That Flies, a new book on restoring New Testament Christianity. Its author, Tim Woodroof, raises important questions about what it is that we must really restore, distinguishing from this what is merely cultural, human, temporary, optional, opinion, personal taste, etc. The author helps us get back on track, after many historic derailments caused by confusing opinions for the Word of God. He points to the real assignments God has called us to complete, as normative functions. The various forms for doing this are really not normative, so there can be "unity in diversity."
Some Anti "brethren from Jerusalem" (Acts 15:1,5) heard the presentation. But something happened that hampered their raising objections: the usual open discussion after the messages simply did not occur. This might prove unfortunate because a few opportunities for clarification might have allayed some concern about the thrust of the messages.
However, this turn of events gave the majority more time and tranquility to reflect on the message, without having to "take sides" immediately in open debate. We will have opportunity in June to move among these very people, to share the same message and teach further.
The other speakers brought very positive messages that challenged everyone to make a difference in the world. They pointed to concrete proposals for helping the church to grow. They spoke of the challenge and blessings of a multiracial congregation (of which we are beginning to have several).
An open discussion of the various messages was on the schedule, but, "strangely," it did not get off the ground. Greetings from the other churches practically nudged it out. Because the 15 or so congregations represented at the rally had exciting progress to report, the enthusiasm they generated changed this year's focus, and the discussion of the messages was postponed until the last afternoon. But the encouraging reports of progress were so many that a quick survey revealed that most folk really wanted to hear the good news of progress in the churches, than listen to a (potentially) sterile discussion that could lead to a dispute. This too is good news, since the majority did not want to ruin the positive spirit manifested in people's attitudes. It postponed coming to grips with the ideas involved, but some people process information slower and the postponement left everyone more time to be led of the Spirit to reflect on the concepts without demanding instant judgment and potential rejection. Instead there was room for appreciation of each other as brothers and sisters and coworkers in the Kingdom.
At last, the book has been launched and we rejoice. Let's continue to pray that these ideas about real restoration of New Testament Christianity may have a wide hearing and an even wider practice throughout the entire brotherhood ? and beyond!
Another convention is scheduled for south Italy at Torre dell'Orso (LECCE), sponsored by the Lecce Church. This is a different group of Christians gathering for instruction, fellowship and mutual encouragement. Here we are to distribute more of our Bible study books and booklets. Please pray for the Gospel presentations there too.
As leadoff speaker, Harold presented A Church That Flies, a new book on restoring New Testament Christianity. Its author, Tim Woodroof, raises important questions about what it is that we must really restore, distinguishing from this what is merely cultural, human, temporary, optional, opinion, personal taste, etc. The author helps us get back on track, after many historic derailments caused by confusing opinions for the Word of God. He points to the real assignments God has called us to complete, as normative functions. The various forms for doing this are really not normative, so there can be "unity in diversity."
Some Anti "brethren from Jerusalem" (Acts 15:1,5) heard the presentation. But something happened that hampered their raising objections: the usual open discussion after the messages simply did not occur. This might prove unfortunate because a few opportunities for clarification might have allayed some concern about the thrust of the messages.
However, this turn of events gave the majority more time and tranquility to reflect on the message, without having to "take sides" immediately in open debate. We will have opportunity in June to move among these very people, to share the same message and teach further.
The other speakers brought very positive messages that challenged everyone to make a difference in the world. They pointed to concrete proposals for helping the church to grow. They spoke of the challenge and blessings of a multiracial congregation (of which we are beginning to have several).
An open discussion of the various messages was on the schedule, but, "strangely," it did not get off the ground. Greetings from the other churches practically nudged it out. Because the 15 or so congregations represented at the rally had exciting progress to report, the enthusiasm they generated changed this year's focus, and the discussion of the messages was postponed until the last afternoon. But the encouraging reports of progress were so many that a quick survey revealed that most folk really wanted to hear the good news of progress in the churches, than listen to a (potentially) sterile discussion that could lead to a dispute. This too is good news, since the majority did not want to ruin the positive spirit manifested in people's attitudes. It postponed coming to grips with the ideas involved, but some people process information slower and the postponement left everyone more time to be led of the Spirit to reflect on the concepts without demanding instant judgment and potential rejection. Instead there was room for appreciation of each other as brothers and sisters and coworkers in the Kingdom.
At last, the book has been launched and we rejoice. Let's continue to pray that these ideas about real restoration of New Testament Christianity may have a wide hearing and an even wider practice throughout the entire brotherhood ? and beyond!
Another convention is scheduled for south Italy at Torre dell'Orso (LECCE), sponsored by the Lecce Church. This is a different group of Christians gathering for instruction, fellowship and mutual encouragement. Here we are to distribute more of our Bible study books and booklets. Please pray for the Gospel presentations there too.
posted by Harold & Enid Fowler | 9:32 AM
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