Moderate Minds :: Spirituality and Culture

Your Secret Name invites you to I KNOW WHO I AM - private chat via phone or skype (Feb 15, 2012)

2012-01-26T16:03:00.001-08:00

You are invited to the following event:

I KNOW WHO I AM - private chat via phone or skype

Wednesday, February 15, 2012 from 9:00 PM to 10:00 PM (ET)

Your Choice - Phone Call or Skype Chat

When you know who you are and whose you are the world becomes an exciting place. You feel confident, centered, fearless, and free. On this special evening we'll spend 6o minutes live with Kary Oberbrunner, author of Your Secret Name, as he teaches...
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Cheers,
Your Secret Name

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Reminder: Kary Oberbrunner invited you to join Facebook...

2011-10-27T17:14:00.001-07:00

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Grace Church invites you to VENEER - living deeply in a surface society (Nov 11, 2011)

2011-10-12T23:15:00.001-07:00

You are invited to the following event:

VENEER - living deeply in a surface society

Event to be held at the following time, date, and location:

Nov 11, 2011
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Grace Church
7600 N. Liberty Rd.
Powell, OH 43065

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VENEER: LIVING DEEPLY IN A SURFACE SOCIETY Our lives are full of scars, quirks and insecurities we have learned to hide in favor of a more glamorous veneer we hope the world finds more acceptable. This is the modern tragedy. We have forgotten...
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Grace Church

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Reminder: Kary Oberbrunner invited you to join Facebook...

2011-10-10T17:21:00.001-07:00

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Hi,

Kary wants to be your friend on Facebook. No matter how far away you are from friends and family, Facebook can help you stay connected.

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Kary Oberbrunner invites you to Free Leadership Mastermind Group (Weekly Event)

2011-07-20T20:48:00.001-07:00

You are invited to the following event:

Free Leadership Mastermind Group

Event to be held at the following time, date, and location:

Weekly Event - Every Wednesday: 9:00 PM to 10:00 PM (ET)

Conference Call via Landline, Cell, or Skype

The toughest person to lead is yourself. Most of us want to be better leaders at work, home, and life, but we don't know how. As a result we're stuck. Maybe we're even stuck in a good place, but we know it's not the best place. We're meant to be...
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I hope you can make it!

Blessings,

Kary Oberbrunner

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Check out Kary Oberbrunner

2011-05-18T19:27:00.001-07:00

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Hi,

Kary Oberbrunner is inviting you to join Facebook.

Once you join, you'll be able to connect with the Kary Oberbrunner Page, along with people you care about and other things that interest you.

Thanks,
Kary Oberbrunner

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10 reasons why we want to spend July 30th with you

2011-04-25T09:36:00.001-07:00

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When you experience something transcendent, something truly unique and life-changing, you want to share it with those you know and love.

145 people attended the 1st YOUR SECRET NAME conference on March 5th. Many of them asked us to do another conference. Here's what they told us about their experience:

ENGAGING = It was engaging from beginning to end; and there was a great balance of teaching, media, music, participation/personal exploration, testimony and "paper" material. - Rebecca
FREEING = The conference provided me a path to freedom from the enemy's snares that I often miss - Greg
CONTAGIOUS = I talked for 2 hours with my girlfriend about all the sparks God stirred in my soul through this conference. – Joel
EPIC = There were several I had invited (8 others) who wanted to come but had an unavoidable conflict. And there are at least 5 more who, now that I have a visual of how the day "rolled out", I would definitely invite to come to the next one. -Jo
JOYOUS = One word from the movie Braveheart kept resounding through my mind and heart yesterday: "FREEDOM"!!! Hallelujah!!! I want to shout it from the roof tops to tell everyone what an amazing God we have!! I want to tell you yesterday was one of the most joyous times I have ever had since becoming a Christian!! I shed buckets of tears-sad tears to hear the hurts but then joyful tears to hear the rejoicing of free people!! It was such a joy to watch people throw off the lies of the enemy and embrace God's Truth about Himself and themselves!! I heard chain after chain fall to the floor yesterday as each person became free in Christ!! – Deb
VALUABLE = Just want to take a minute to thank you for all you did (along with your team) to put together an awesome conference. The prayer-saturated event was well worth the investment of time, at least for me! God helped me to take a huge step forward in realizing His love for me with my heart and not just with my head. -Brian
REVEALING = My Given Name sheet was covered with all kinds of names – some old and never gone, some recent hurts – I took the test prior to coming and thought my Given Name was Childless – but at your WONDERFUL session March 5th, I heard God tell me that although I am childless – that is a symptom of another Given Name. I have yet to read the book – but the information at the conference really helped me break through some bonds I held for almost my entire life! Thank you!! -Penny
RELEVANT = I am in a valley right now at this seminar – 36 hours earlier I lost my job and a week before that received news from the company physician that I have some "issues" that need to be checked out sooner than later – I have never been sick a day in my life. Then in this conference "Your Secret Name" – call me crazy but it was a God moment; no other way to explain it. As we went through the exercises, I did not hear my Name right away. Later that day I did hear my Name – it is capable and not incapable as the Enemy wanted me to believe. -Thomas
POWERFUL = I have heard nothing but positive and heartfelt thankfulness, including myself from the few that I have talked with. On Tuesday I gave the last book I have of Your Secret Name to someone who is in so much need to find a New name for herself. The conference was amazing…so much love and prayer and the presence and guidance of the Holy Spirit; so much of God's grace being poured over those those who need to know the Names of the Enemy are broken by who God says we are. -Kim
LIFE-CHANGING = I am very grateful that God placed this conference on your heart. I am so FREE! I had to shout it out loud outside with my hands lifted God Loves Me!! God Loves Me!! How freeing. I am sharing this conference with many and I am sitting down with my Pastor next Wednesday to share this conference and how it has forever changed my life and understanding of who I am in Christ. -Deborah

We are trusting God that this conference will again fill up so please make sure to register early. If you have any questions just email us. We hope to spend July 30th with you.

More about YOUR SECRET NAME book

You are invited to the following event:
Your Secret Name Conference - Participant Track

Date:
Saturday, July 30, 2011 from 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM (ET)

Location:
Grace Church
7600 Liberty Rd.
Powell, OH 43065

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Your Secret Name invites you to Your Secret Name Conference - Participant Track (Mar 05, 2011)

2011-02-25T06:30:00.001-08:00

Hi!

You are invited to the following event:

Your Secret Name Conference - Participant Track

Saturday, March 05, 2011 from 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM (ET)

Grace Church
7600 Liberty Rd.
Powell, OH 43065

View Map

Event Details: Why not spend 1 day of your life focused on discovering Who God created you to be? Most of us don't know who we are and the cost is killing us. It's why we suffer from: addictions, broken relationships, blindspots, and just plain mediocre lives. ...Read more

Share this event on Facebook and Twitter.

Also. In honor of you and your divine destiny Zondervan is also offering (for a limited time) buy 1 copy of Your Secret Name and get unlimited copies for 50% off. AND FREE SHIPPING!

Here is the link.

Here are the instuctions: At the bottom of your cart, where it says Source/Discount Code, enter RB3W44 and click Apply Changes. Then proceed to enter your billing and shipping info.

YOUR SECRET NAME - Free Christmas Gift Code and 50 day Read-Along group

2010-11-30T21:34:00.001-08:00

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Ready to Fulfill your New Year's resolution for real this year?

Get closer to God and your Divine Destiny.

Click on the pic below for more info.

You are invited to the following event:
YOUR SECRET NAME - Free Christmas Gift Code and 50 day Read-Along Group

Date:
Tuesday, December 28, 2010 at 9:00 AM
- to -
Tuesday, February 22, 2011 at 10:00 PM (ET)

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10 extra chances for the $500 giveaway at Monday's SECRET NAME party

2010-08-26T18:32:00.001-07:00

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Your Secret Name releases on Monday!

We're celebrating by giving you the gifts.

Every copy of YOUR SECRET NAME that you order on Amazon, now until August 30th, get 10 extra chances to win from the prize list.

Once you place your order just forward your Amazon receipt in an email (info@yoursecretname.com) with the subject line "Book Order."

We're actually letting you stuff the ballot box.

Besides we want all your friends to discover their Secret Names too.

Check out the prize list below:

$500 Amazon Gift Card from Pray Dream Go
1 Catalyst Ticket (in Atlanta, Georgia) from Catalyst
3 Copies of Picking Dandelions from Sarah Cunningham
3 Copies of Faithbook of Jesus from Renee Johnson
3 Copies of Wasabi Gospel from Shawn Wood
3 Copies of The Church of Facebook from Jesse Rice

Stop in at the online party for 5 minutes or 5 hours. Make sure to RSVP (see below).

You are invited to the following event:
YOUR SECRET NAME free online book release party

Date:
Monday, August 30, 2010 from 6:00 PM - 11:55 PM (ET)

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For more information click here

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2010-07-27T05:54:00.001-07:00

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Kary (karyoberbrunner) has recommended you check out a Ustream show.

2010-07-22T18:08:00.001-07:00

Kary (karyoberbrunner) has recommended you check out this Ustream show: Your Secret Name Live

Click here to check out the show: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/your-secret-name-live

"Come see us live now at http://www.yoursecretname.com/live Also, we're giving away free pizzas, delivered to your door!"

============================================================
Ustream.TV
http://www.ustream.tv

Kary (karyoberbrunner) has recommended you check out a Ustream show.

2010-07-22T18:04:00.001-07:00

Kary (karyoberbrunner) has recommended you check out this Ustream show: Your Secret Name Live

Click here to check out the show: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/your-secret-name-live

"Come see us live now at http://www.yoursecretname.com/live Also, we're giving away free pizzas, delivered to your door!"

============================================================
Ustream.TV
http://www.ustream.tv

Kary (karyoberbrunner) has recommended you check out a Ustream show.

2010-07-22T18:02:00.005-07:00

Kary (karyoberbrunner) has recommended you check out this Ustream show: Your Secret Name Live

Click here to check out the show: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/your-secret-name-live

"Come see us live now at http://www.yoursecretname.com/live Also, we're giving away free pizzas, delivered to your door!"

============================================================
Ustream.TV
http://www.ustream.tv

Kary (karyoberbrunner) has recommended you check out a Ustream show.

2010-07-22T18:02:00.003-07:00

Kary (karyoberbrunner) has recommended you check out this Ustream show: Your Secret Name Live

Click here to check out the show: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/your-secret-name-live

"Come see us live now at http://www.yoursecretname.com/live Also, we're giving away free pizzas, delivered to your door!"

============================================================
Ustream.TV
http://www.ustream.tv

Kary (karyoberbrunner) has recommended you check out a Ustream show.

2010-07-22T18:02:00.001-07:00

Kary (karyoberbrunner) has recommended you check out this Ustream show: Your Secret Name Live

Click here to check out the show: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/your-secret-name-live

"Come see us live now at http://www.yoursecretname.com/live Also, we're giving away free pizzas, delivered to your door!"

============================================================
Ustream.TV
http://www.ustream.tv

Kary (karyoberbrunner) has recommended you check out a Ustream show.

2010-07-22T17:59:00.001-07:00

Kary (karyoberbrunner) has recommended you check out this Ustream show: Your Secret Name Live

Click here to check out the show: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/your-secret-name-live

"Come see us live now at http://www.yoursecretname.com/live Also, we're giving away free pizzas, delivered to your door!"

============================================================
Ustream.TV
http://www.ustream.tv

Kary (karyoberbrunner) has recommended you check out a Ustream show.

2010-06-17T17:49:00.001-07:00

Kary (karyoberbrunner) has recommended you check out this Ustream show: Your Secret Name Live

Click here to check out the show: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/your-secret-name-live

"Go to our SNL (Secret Name Live) page at 9 PM EST tonight for a power packed show filled with: -A Domino's Pizza delivered to your door (one lucky winner. US States only). -One Honking Huge Announcement -Guest appearances from Digital Disciple Gabe Taviano (creator of GodsMac, husband of author Marla Taviano) & Throw Mountain's own Devotional Diva Renee Johnson, Faithbook of Jesus author. -A Copy of Your Secret Name (Published by Zondervan) given to 5 lucky winners Your Secret Name Secret Updates -Lots of laughs from Mike Hammer and much much more."

============================================================
Ustream.TV
http://www.ustream.tv

Kary Oberbrunner invites you to YOUR SECRET NAME - Online Launch Party

2010-02-16T23:25:00.001-08:00

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You are invited to the following event:
YOUR SECRET NAME - Online Launch Party

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Kary Oberbrunner invites you to YOUR SECRET NAME - Online Launch Party

2010-02-16T13:08:00.001-08:00

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You are invited to the following event:
YOUR SECRET NAME - Online Launch Party

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Kary Oberbrunner invites you to YOUR SECRET NAME - Online Launch Party

2010-02-10T20:04:00.001-08:00

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YOUR SECRET NAME - Online Launch Party

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Washing Dinosaurs?

2007-07-12T12:09:00.000-07:00

RECOVERING PHARISEE

July 12, 2007

In This Issue

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GI

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Prepare to Believe

It's been a busy summer. It's nearly halfway over. In this issue, find out about the new creation museum, orphans in Asia, the ICRS in Atlanta, and the Great Debate.

Defending Orphans

Yesterday, 25 Grace Institute students took John Mccollum's challenge seriously. Founder of Element a Columbus design firm, John also serves on the board of Asia's Hope. John opened our eyes to God's heart for the poor and orphaned in Cambodia. GI students made verbal commitments about what they will do in order to increase awareness (Videos of World Changers). Then they washed cars raising over $200 for orphans.

Fact or Fiction?

A couple weeks ago I visited the Creation Museum in KY. It was an inspirational time as I saw the pages of Scripture come to life. Of course, much of the media is not too happy. Articles range in dissent from "minor" in The New York Times to "major" in a blog by the self-proclaimed "godless liberal" Pharyngula.

My advice: examine the evidence yourself. Many leading scientists, past and present, have found the biblical account of creation completely compatible with science. The 27 million dollar, 60,000 sq. ft. Creation Museum is founded in conjunction with Answers in Genesis. Visit this site for much more research.

The Great Debate

On Wednesday, July 18th Grace Institute students will debate several atheists on issues such as Truth, Life, and God. The atheists have prepared now for two months.

Many of their ideas originate from Richard Dawkins' best selling book, The God Delusion.

Book Signing

I flew to Atlanta on Tuesday for the ICRS. I signed books, met publishers, and learned more about the industry. The show incorporates more than 125,000 net sq ft of exhibit space, 425 exhibits, and nearly 100 meeting rooms. The show brings together more than 10,000 attendees & exhibitors from across the United States and more than 50 other countries. Thanks BMH.

Keep Loving God and Loving People.

Sincerely,

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DRIVEN and EQUIPPED

2007-06-17T15:50:00.001-07:00

RECOVERING PHARISEE

June 18, 2007

In This Issue

Free DVD

DRIVEN and EQUIPPED

2nd Year and Going Strong

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GI

The Pace of Summer

I'll admit, I'm a sucker for a cool glass of lemonade on a hot summer day. Summer brings a bunch of sweet things...like a change of pace for starters. In this issue, learn about some upcoming events that will stimulate your spiritual life, get a free STARVED DVD, and follow 30 teens enrolled in the second year of Grace Institute.

Free Starved DVD with book purchase

For a limited time only, purchase a copy of either book (CALLED or Journey Toward Relevance) and receive a copy of STARVED absolutely free (a $15 value). NO hidden charges.

STARVED was filmed at a buffet restaurant. Through story-telling Kary reveals our desperate need to be fed with the Bread of Life every day of the week, not just on Sundays. This DVD comes with discussion questions and is a great tool for Bible Studies and small groups.


Called Book                                    JTR Book +

+ Free DVD                                      Free DVD

   $9.99                                             $9.99

DRIVEN and EQUIPPED

Over the next few weeks I have the opportunity to speak at a couple conferences. DRIVEN, an event for young adults, is at Kenyon College, June 21-24. My Friday evening session is titled: WANTED - Dead AND Alive.

I jumped at the invitation to teach with three brillant men: Dr. Paul Klawitter (top left), Dr. Tom Julien (top right) and Dr. Matt Harmon (bottom left). We are facilitating a course at EQUIP called:

Guiding Principles for the People of God in a Postmodern World. Below is a short description of our course:

Postmodernity is shaping our culture. Some churches, attempting to be relevant to their culture, are assimilating emergent postmodern philosophies. Other churches, attempting to be faithful to Scripture, are freezing their forms. The ecclesiological conversation is often confusing and heated, yet the Spirit of God desires to guide local churches through the fog into fruitfulness. Drs. Paul Klawitter, Kary Oberbrunner, Matt Harmon and Tom Julien, will facilitate dialogue around salient issues facing local churches. These men, representing three different generations, will share guiding principles for learning leaders who desire to be biblically faithful and culturally relevant as they navigate both inherited and emergent churches through today's fluid postmodern culture.

Second Year of Grace Institute Underway

Having trained over 350 lay leaders in its inaugural year, Grace Institute broke into its second year with a very strong pace. This summer we are offering many opportunities, thus fulfilling our vision to: Equip and empower current and emerging leaders to grow as authentic followers of Jesus Christ.

In May, we finished the Scripture and Interpretation course which partnered with Grace College in order to offer students college credit.

Last Wednesday thirty teens began the Summer Teen Track, which utilizes the four measurements and components of discipleship presented in CALLED. Students sign a covenant and commit to 10 hours a week in order to undergo this intense training.

Lastly, teens and adults are given 14 different choices for Grace Institute electives. These courses range from physical fitness, to spiritual gifts, to eschatology, to balancing life.

I hope your summer allows for a different change of pace. May you be able to laugh and enjoy life with family and friends. For some spiritual stimulation, feel free to download the latest episodes of the Recovering Pharisee Podcast. It's great food for thought while on the beach or mowing the lawn. And lastly, may you continue to REDEEM THE DAY (Eph. 5:16).

Sincerely,

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TV World

2007-05-10T19:26:00.001-07:00

RECOVERING PHARISEE

May 11, 2007

In This Issue

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GI

What awaits you...?

It's been a busy month for me...I'm sure for you as well. In this issue watch my recent TV interview, be one of 10 people to get a free CALLED workbook, learn more about the DRIVEN conference and pray for our upcoming fun day for families with special needs.

TV Interview

I have a new compassion for those of you in the TV industry. Once they started putting make-up on me, I knew I was out of my element. Click HERE to watch the recent TV interview regarding my new book CALLED.

STARVED DVD makes the Big Time

DRAW Productions and I partnered on the recent DVD project...STARVED. In honor of us getting picked up by Worship House Media, one of the largest resources for church media, we want to give you a gift. Really? Yep. It's super easy. The first 10 people who order the DVD from Worship House Media will get a free CALLED workbook shipped to their address, absolutely free. Click HERE to watch the full DVD. If you like it, then order it from Worship House Media and forward me a copy of your receipt (my email is at the bottom of this e-newsletter. I'll send you a workbook faster then you can say Millennial Kingdom (Ok...that was lame). Don't forget to include your address in the email.

Family Fun Day...

We're teaming up with Echoing Hills Village to sponsor Camp In-Motion Family Fun Day on May 19th from 10:00am-3:00pm. The purpose of this camp is to create a day where individuals with disabilities can come and experience Christ and grow spiritually, emotionally, physically and socially. This FREE event will be at Grace Church, 7600 Liberty Rd., Powell, OH 43065. Everyone is welcome. There will be go carts, a bounce house, music, crafts, and games. Click HERE for more info.

Young Adult Conference Coming...

DRIVEN is in its third year. What's DRIVEN? It's a conference that exists to gather a generation to become catalysts for Christ within church and culture. Click HERE to find out more info. Click HERE to listen to the DRIVEN Podcast.

Thanks for reading. May you REDEEM THE DAY (Eph. 5:16).

Sincerely,

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Impoverished Gospel? (Special Late-Breaking Excerpt)

2006-12-13T14:56:00.000-08:00

Recovering Pharisee contains articles, resources, tools, and updates related to the Church, methodologies & philosophies of ministry, and culture. Confirm your interest in order to continue receiving Recovering Pharisee. To no longer receive our emails, click to unsubscribe.

RECOVERING PHARISEE

December 12, 2006

In This Issue
	- Impoverished Gospel

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Late-breaking Excerpt

I thought there would be no more issues for December, but one thing changed. I just heard from Ministry Today that they released a short excerpt from CALLED to over 11,000 subscribers, via e-newsletter. This same excerpt is also featured in The Ministry Report. The excerpt addresses authentic discipleship and why Christian leaders are partly to blame for the watered-down faith prevalent today. A portion from The Ministry Report is below. Feel free to comment on the excerpt by posting on The Ministry Report. I would love to read your thoughts, insights, and critiques.

- Impoverished Gospel

*Christian leaders are partly to blame for watered-down faith prevalent today.* How have so many of us gotten it so wrong? How have we reduced salvation to only mean escaping an eternity in Hell? Ill admit it. Throughout my years in the ministry Ive been guilty of it too. Now when I hear other Christian leaders propagate it, I squirm uncomfortably in my chair. The sad truth is that Webster defines salvation better than some preachers. READ THE FULL EXCERPT...

Have a great Christmas. Enjoy food, friends, family, and faith. Without Jesus I would be in a world of hurt. All I need to do in order to remind myself is simply to look in the mirror and reflect upon my week. I will leave you with a verse. I look forward to this next year and more issues of Recovering Pharisee. "He came to His own, and those who were His own did not receive Him. But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name." Jn. 1:11-12

Sincerely,

email: kary@karyoberbrunner.com

web: http://www.karyoberbrunner.com

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Part 2 of 2 - EMERGING Worship Trends (Previously Unreleased)

2006-12-06T18:12:00.000-08:00

Dec. 7, 2006

RECOVERING PHARISEE

This issue is the conclusion of EMERGING worship trends (part 2 of 2). Part 1 contained a recent feature I wrote for the Nov/Dec issue of Ministry Today. Part 2 includes an unreleased, extended section that defines prayer labyrinths, lectio divina, and yoga and then gives reasons why some Christians accept these practices and why others reject them.

This is also the last issue for December. If you're like me, you never know what to tell people to get you for a gift when they ask. The latter part of this issue might help you with some ideas. Look below for some brand new products.

- Doors to Deception?

Should Christians use Prayer Labyrinths, Lectio Divina, and Yoga in their worship?

Click here to read the published version of the article as printed in Ministry Today. The original article, previosuly unreleased, contained additional information, definitions, and rationale regarding Emerging Worship Trends. This previosuly unreleased portion is included below for your spiritual stimulation.

Prayer Labyrinths - What are they? The labyrinth is not a maze. There are no tricks to it and no dead ends. It has a single circuitous path that winds into the center. The person walking it uses the same path to return thus, the entrance then becomes the exit. The path is in full view, which allows a person to be quiet and focus internally. Generally there are three stages to the walk: releasing on the way in, receiving in the center and returning; that is, taking back out into the world that which you have received (from About Labyrinths" by Lauren Artress, gracecathedral.org).

Read on...

-Lifebox Project Opens Doors 2nd Year in a Row

Our church (GBC POWELL) was blessed tremendously last year by partnering with another church (THE QUEST) in reaching an inner-city school at Christmas. The project is called Lifebox. The concept is simple. Pack things in a box that will cheer up a child. There is no catch although we pray for the children and offer them information about Jesus if they want some. Our goal is to create a safe trusting relationship and bless others. Some things in the boxes are practical (band-aids, toothbrushes, etc.) while other things are fun (like Hot Wheels cars).

What was the impact? Mike Jentes, Pastor of the Quest, received some follow-up letters from the kids last year: Dear Mr. Mike, Thank You for that pink purse with my lotion in it. how did you no that Pink is my favorite color. Hey, maybe I can make you sumthing speshol (special). I wish you can be my dad can you do that next year? - Love, Shanique

EMERGING Worship Trends

2006-11-13T19:37:00.000-08:00

Nov. 14, 2006

RECOVERING PHARISEE

As you probably know, conversation regarding the Emerging Church has created some significant waves within Evangelicalism in recent days. Conversations can be slippery because there are so many voices speaking. It's not like a neat, packaged denomination with official creeds or authority structures.

The ECM is getting praised and pummeled at the same time. In the words of Tony Jones, National Coordinator of the Emergent Village, regarding the ECM and 2007, "Lots of people are watchingsome with high hopes that EV (Emergent Village) might be part of a re-birth of Christian faith, a revolution in what it means to follow Jesus. (Others, of course, are plotting our demise)."

I've had some people ask my position regarding the ECM. My first response is to ask them to define the ECM. By my question, I'm not trying to be coy. I'm simply grasping for clarity, since so many people, both inside and outside the ECM, have so many different perceptions. There are parts of the Emerging Church that I strongly resonate with. There are other parts I find very disturbing. Thus, is common with conversations, to agree with some aspects and disagree with others. In this newsletter, I've included a recent feature I wrote for the Nov/Dec issue of Ministry Today regarding recent Emerging Worship Trends. (For more on my thoughts regarding the ECM visit my blog regularly).

- Doorways to Deception?

Should Christians use Yoga, Prayer Labyrinths, and Lectio Divina in their worship?

This article was published in the latest issue of Ministry Today. The original article contained some additional information regarding Emerging Worship Trends, but was cut because of length. The edited part explained the rationale why some people accept these trends and why others reject them. I will include this edited part in the next issue of Recovering Pharisee. But for now, here is the feature article as it appears in the magazine.

To put it simply, I've decided my favorite colors are black and white. I prefer it when issues are clear, easy and not confusing. For many evangelical churches, there's a whole lot of gray when it comes to conversing about emerging ministry trends that many feel knock on the door of New Age ideology. For instance, Minneapolis pastor Doug Pagitt's book Reimagining Spiritual Formation showcases a few of these trends, including yoga, energy workers, massage therapy and gifts of intuition and premonition.

Evangelicalism is becoming less and less your grandmother's faith characterized by hymnals, potlucks and Wednesday-night prayer meetings. In light of these new "worship" expressions exploding in popularity, what's a church leader to do? Discern or consume? Boycott or bless? Accept or reject?

Read on...

CALLED Pre-release Sale

Some of you have been asking about the status of CALLED. It will be released next month. We are nearing the finish line as the publisher sent the manuscript to the typesetter this week. Read below to find out more about CALLED and the pre- sale going on now.

Our Price: $12.79 USD

ID/SKU: Called Book

S & H: $2.79

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email: kary@karyoberbrunner.com

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Don't Give Up On God...Or The Church

2006-10-31T19:02:00.000-08:00

RECOVERING PHARISEE

Nov. 1, 2006 - Vol 2, Issue 1

In This Issue
	- Being progressive in a stagnant church - Concerning Mark Palmer -The Inner Circle

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- Be the change you wish to see

An older pastor friend of mine once told me that the famous last words of a church are, "That's not the way we've always done it." We might chuckle, but for many of us the situation in our churches is not a laughing manner. We wonder, "If change is such a natural part of life, why does it seem that change is so often absent from Christendom?" I spoke with yet another twentysomething this week *whose answer for his angst was simply to give-up on the Church* altogether. I don't think this is the answer. Thankfully, although the church I serve at is not certainly perfect, we are experiencing exciting spiritual renewal. In this issue we will look at how to be the change we wish to see in our churches. We will look at *10 practical solutions* instead of simply complaining or leaving.

- Being progressive in a stagnant church

This article was written for RELEVANT magazine. Change is happening. Actually three weeks from today is the due date for my first son. Because I was a good student in the childbirth class, I know that he could come any day. My cell phone is always on ready to receive the call. Our bags are packed. His name is picked. The room is ready. We are embracing this wonderful change about to happen in our lives. Click here and then scroll down to read the full article...

- Concerning Mark Palmer

As you might know Chapter 10 of my first book, The Journey Towards Relevance, contains a story very dear to my heart. It spoke of my friends Mark and Jennifer Palmer and how they embodied the transformist life, the paradigm presented in the book. Many readers were touched by Mark, Jennifer, and Micah's story. Many commented about their faith being stretched as they witnessed Mark's courage despite losing his wife Jennifer to cancer in 2003. In 2004 Mark married Amy. It was a beautiful wedding ordained by God. Tragically, the happiness was short lived as the doctors found out that Mark's body was being ravaged by cancer. On March 27, 2006, Mark passed into the next life leaving Amy and Micah alone. The funeral was sorrowful, but strangely filled with hope. I was touched by testimony after testimony about Mark. Four weeks ago I sat down with Amy over coffee and listened to her story. When I asked her, she told me that Mark would want the story of his final days to be told. I am currently working on this project. God is still at work in the Palmer family as Amy got a call from the hospital on October 6th. The last of Mark's original $600,000 in medical bills were forgiven. More will be coming about Mark's life and legacy. Click here to read Amy Palmer's blog...

-The Inner Circle

*With the upcoming release of CALLED* next month, a number of you have asked me how you can help. If this is you then feel free to read on. If not, then please don't. Believe it or not there are some significant ways that you can help, by just investing a few minutes here or there. Thus, we have created the Inner Circle. Of course, we will hook you up for your time** because everyone likes free stuff. But more importantly, your effort will go to further on the vision of Redeem the Day Ministries. Our vision is: To equip and empower current and emerging leaders to grow as authentic followers of Jesus Christ. Click here to learn more about the Inner Circle...

I trust this issue was an encouragement to you. I hope it depicted the power of persevering. Let me leave you with one of my favorite verses Psalm 34:18. The LORD is near to the brokenhearted, And saves those who are crushed in spirit.

Sincerely,

email: kary@karyoberbrunner.com

web: http://www.karyoberbrunner.com

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Your Position in Christ

2006-09-24T18:06:00.000-07:00

RECOVERING PHARISEE

Sept. 24, 2006 - Vol 1, Issue 2

In This Issue
	- Becoming who I already am - Special sale ends this Wednesday at 11:59 PM -The ABC's of your Position

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It's all about Position

I don't know about you, but it's easy to believe the Enemy's lies. We all have this False Self that plays negative thoughts over and over again in our heads, kind of like a CD player on repeat. "I'm not good enough. God is angry with me. I'm stupid. I'll never be successful. I'm ugly and fat." The Apostle John warns that we have an accuser who accuses us day and night (Rev.12:10). In this issue we learn the secret to Holiness (and it's not by putting on a mask). It has to do with embracing our identity in Christ.

- Becoming who I already am

This article was written for RELEVANT magazine. Have you ever been addicted to something? I dont care if its a substance, a relationship, a habit, or a hobby? Part of being human is the tendency to be mastered by something or someone. Sin is not a popular term these days, but lets take off the mask. Click here and then scroll down to read the full article...

- Special sale ends this Wednesday at 11:59 PM

With our new website launch we want to give you a gift. *We are offering The Journey Towards Relevance* at its lowest price ever. The price will never be this low again. Single purchasers can buy it for 37% off of the retail price. Bulk purchasers can buy it for up to 71% off of the retail price. This sale is a limited time offer and will end September 27 at 11:59 PM Read sample chapter. JTR DESCRIPTION- How do you live "in the world, but not of it"? Many Christians seem to gravitate towards one of two extremes. They either entirely separate from the culture around them or they completely conform to the world in an attempt to be relevant. Fuzzy thinking has dominated the paradox between the black and white, and more and more Christians are confused on how to live an effective, culturally relevant life. Transformation is needed.** Journey Towards Relevance invites you to begin a journey towards that transformation towards relevance. Click here to visit our store...

-The ABC's of your Position

This article is based on Chapter 8 of The Journey Towards Relevance. You've heard it said "knowledge is power." This is especially true when it comes to understanding our position in Christ. Sadly, most of us don't know our position, much less live in light of it. What's the answer? It all starts with your ABC's. Try these on for starters: Accepted in the Beloved - Romans 15:7 Bought with a Price - 1 Corinthians 6:20 Crucified with Christ - Galatians 2:20 Click here to learn the rest of your ABC's...

I hope this issue was a breath of fresh air. I believe we live life 99% of the time in light of our condition (how we are), not in light of our position (who we are). I love sharing these truths with others because others have shared them with me. I leave you with Paul's prayer to the saints in Ephesus. "I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe" (Eph.1:18-19a).

Sincerely,

email: kary@karyoberbrunner.com

web: http://www.karyoberbrunner.com

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Official Newsletter Launch (Take Two)

2006-09-14T19:01:00.000-07:00

RECOVERING PHARISEE

Sept. 16, 2006 - Vol 1, Issue 1

In This Issue
	- Called resonates with leaders across the country - Unpacking postmodernism - Hebraic way of learning takes shape

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Welcome.

Your time is precious and so I wont waste it. Heres the deal. My guess is that youre are a fellow traveler figuring out this thing called following Jesus. Im on that journey myself. Somewhere along the way our paths have crossed. Maybe youre a colleague, a friend, a ministry leader, or simply a sojourner. Regardless, I hope we can stay connected. Let me know how I can serve you.

- Called resonates with leaders across the country

Dr. Gene A. Getz as well as faculty and staff from institutions, ministries, and publications including Grand Rapids, Ashland, Grace, & Dallas Theological Seminary, Campus Crusade, Cedarville University, Word of Life, InterVarsity, RELEVANT magazine, and Ministry Today are just a few of those who give their hearty endorsement for Kary's new revolutionary book Called. Read a sample chapter and blog about it. You might get paid 100 bucks. Don't forget to take advantage of our 12 day sale. Some items up to 71% off of retail price. Find out more...

- Unpacking postmodernism

This article was written for RELEVANT network. POP. SODA. COKE. SODA POP. Depending on where you live, claiming allegiance to one of these terms can alienate, ostracize, or even excommunicate you. Thankfully, my wife and I have agreed to disagree. She calls it one thing. I call it another. I wont comment on who is right or wrong. Terms can cause unity or division. Terms can bring clarity or confusion. Words are cheap and words are rich. They can start fights or end wars. Read on...

- Hebraic way of learning takes shape

Grace Institute is a community of life-long learners and servers devoted to leadership development. It is a holistic way of learning derived from a Hebrew mindset of education. Our students are not measured exclusively upon their knowledge or grades. Rather, they are measured in regard to their knowing, being, doing, and reproducing. We intentionally incarnate our theology and all of learning takes place within the context of experience and relationships. We do not "dumb down" theology. Rather, we strive to reproduce theologians in thought and life. We see no distinction between the sacred and the secular. Thus, we view all of life as a continuum of potential worship of our God. Our pictures tell the story. Read on...

Thanks for your time and trust. Feel free to drop me a line. I'd love to hear your thoughts. If you received a different version of this previously, I apologize. It was a software issue and it won't happen again. You will only receive one copy of each newsletter. Your satisfaction is my priority.

Sincerely,

email: kary@karyoberbrunner.com

web: http://www.karyoberbrunner.com

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A Lost Virginity: Christians and Sex

2006-05-16T19:44:00.000-07:00

Twentysomething Christians have stumbled across an arousing truth: they can have sex. Marriage does not magically unlock their sexual organs; male and female genital function properly without marital vows.

And what are twentysomething Christians doing with this knowledge? They are applying it. Virginity, it seems, was too juvenile an ideal. Abstinence, it appears, was too obsolete a contraceptive. They have graduated to lower ideals and simpler terms. Their current coursework is inter.

This is troubling.

But I speak from inexperience. Twenty-two years of it, to be exact. Twenty-two years of moderate denial. Twenty-two years of waiting. Twenty-two years of virginity. Then I got married.

I typified the Christian college model for sexual relationships. Date until it gets too sensual and then set a boundary of 14-karot gold. Make sure the boundary holds a diamond. Make sure the boundary lasts no longer than six months, and is accompanied by a matching boundary of 14-karot gold with inscription. Then do away with boundaries.

And I speak from outmoded virtues. I believe in the virtue of waiting, letting our expectations grow pregnant, not our ladies. I believe in the virtue of purity, guarding against the broken heart and diseased crotch.

Twentysomething Christians tell me the greatest virtue is freeing their hearts. They taught me an unexpected lesson in anatomy: The aorta is attached to the zipper. The Christian heart is important. Essential, according to the Bible. That it should be imprisoned is criminal. Or broken, criminal. Or betrothed to a harlot, criminal.

And I speak from narrow-minded conservativism. Biblically, only adulterous sex precedes marriage. Historically, stained bed sheets follow betrothal. I am conservative, but I am clear.

And I may be wrong, but I'd rather be clear and wrong than what appears clearly wrong. God forbid I have an opinion and you have gonorrhea. God forbid I have a boundary and you have commitment issues. God forbid I sound insensitive and you feel dirty. God forbid.

But this, indeed, is exactly what we, the twentysomething Christians, fail to believe: That God should forbid anything.

Timothy D. Sprankle

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My Savior was a Middle East Radical

2006-03-21T12:20:00.000-08:00

One of the greatest gifts of my college education was the cultural classes taught by Dr. Slaughter. Having spent over 20 years in Africa, Dr. Slaughter taught us the theoretical models of culture, and helped us examine our own values, beliefs, and assumptions. Like an iceberg, we only see the actions of those around us. But those actions are based on our values, beliefs, and assumptions about reality. These are all "under the surface," yet they inform our every decision. If you look at Western Christianity, one of the peculiarities I have recently been struck with is the whitening (or blackening) of Jesus. I desperately hope I do not have to defend the assertion that Jesus was not white...or black. And yet 99.9% of depictions I have ever seen depict Jesus as a Caucasian male, with wavy brown or blonde hair. All we see is this tip of the iceberg...but I propose underneath this visual depiction is a more dangerous assumption. We have somehow accepted that Christianity is an western religion, and Jesus was a western teacher and philosopher. I am a white, Caucasian, protestant male, and I enjoy life as such. However, I believe white privilege has subtly assimilate the teachings of Jesus into our minds as a westerner. And in so doing, we lose many of the nuances of His life and teachings. Let's face it...Jesus was a Middle East Radical! A rogue sage, crucified by the establishment for his subversive teachings. Not really the wimpy, passive, pale Jesus hanging on so many walls and churches. What do we miss? The mysticism of a miracle worker who raised people from the dead (Mark 5), and made well the sick (Matthew 8). The conversion of entire households (Cornelius in Acts 10, and Lydia in Acts 16), a concept that is difficult to understand in a society obsessed with the individual. We miss the racial and social class distinctions that Jesus defied by associating with Samaritans, tax collectors, and prostitutes. When I see depictions of Jesus from Asia where he looks Asian, it reminds me this is universal. And I do not at all assert that depictions of Jesus in one's own race are insidious in motivation. However, in a world torn across racial, national, and religious lines, I believe a respectful accuracy is important. Jesus was not a westerner, or American (sorry, he didn't speak in a British accent). He was a dynamic, powerful prophet of God who brought a message of hope to disenfranchised masses. That is a message still echoing through the halls of this world today, a message which I want to speak with as little distortion as possible. And I look forward to the day when I can look him in His beautiful eyes, and enjoy the intimacy of His peaceful presence forever. Brian Rants

Holy Spirit, You have been relieved of Your Duties

2006-03-15T14:07:00.000-08:00

I say the above title with all respect for my Lord, in hopes that the sarcasm will startle us, and cause us to pay attention.

There is a battle of philosophies within the Christian community.

Tonight's fight: The Apostle Paul vs. Jerry Falwell and some in the conservative right.

APOSTLE PAUL 1 Corinthians 5:9-13 "I have written you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral peoplenot at all meaning the people of this world who are immoral, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters. In that case you would have to leave this world. But now I am writing you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat.

What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? God will judge those outside. "Expel the wicked man from among you."

JERRY FALWELL http://msnbc.msn.com/id/11078887/site/newsweek/ "We are training debaters who can perform a salt ministry, meaning becoming the conscience of the culture...So while we have the preaching of the Gospel on the one sidecertainly a prioritywe have the confronting of the culture on moral default on the other side."

I think I'll stick with the Apostle Paul.

Brian

Reclaiming the essence of relevance

2005-12-05T07:21:00.000-08:00

I have a friend who uses big words. I was always impressed, until one day he used a word that I had never heard before. So I decided to consult Mr. Webster to educate my poor 18 ACT soul (yes, I really did score an 18). Low and behold, my friend was not as smart as I thought he was, so over the next few weeks I began to check up on him every once in a while. Come to find out, he was constantly using words incorrectly. And in remembering and thinking about this, I have a question: might we as believers using the word relevant in the same way?

Relevance has become quite the buzz word in Christendom over the past few years. According to Dictionary.com, relevant means: “having a bearing on or connection with the matter at hand.” I believe that we have changed the definition of relevant to mean: a feeble attempt at connecting to our culture by merely mimicking it.

At church this week, I came across a poster that said, “If you like __________ (place popular secular band name here), then you will love _____________ (place not-so-popular Christian band here). Christian artists (okay, not all of them, but it feels that way sometimes) wanting to be relevant (or simply just sell more albums) mimic famous secular bands in style, look and sound, changing the words to reflect a world-view that won’t get them thrown out of Christian bookstores. We have bought the lie that in order to be relevant, we need to look, sound, smell, and taste like the world. If we do, then we are relevant and people will listen to us. This mimicry, this attempt at identification by imitation is not enough, nor is it true. It is time for us to either learn the true meaning of the word relevant or choose a different word altogether. I prefer the latter option, choosing the word innovative.

Assuming that I cannot replace the word relevant in our vocabulary with the idea of being truly innovative, let’s re-examine the meaning of relevance. Since when does being relevant require and provide us a license to give up our God-given abilities to be creative, and plagiarize the world instead; all the while thinking God is proud of us for our attempts at connection? Relevance is a matter of function, not merely form. True relationship, not just simulation and appearances. We assume that relevance has to do with the form that something takes, but I believe that true relevance has to do with the function that it provides. Relevance – and incidentally, the mark of a true, creative artist - has to do with connecting to the matter at hand.

The heart of the matter is truly the heart of man, and discovering this requires a fresh, creative approach every time. If we wish to be relevant in our world today, then we must do what all truly great artists do; ask good questions. What makes us cry? What makes us leap for joy? What keeps us as humans up at night dreaming about the future? What are the core fears that cripple each of us, regardless of the transformative work of redemption? If we wish to be relevant in the arts, in our lives, in our actions, and in our relationship and connection with the world at large, we must get at the heart of things. Stop focusing on the form that your relevance takes and seek instead to explore its function: connecting at the center of a human being, their soul.

May we as believers be the most creative people on the planet, for we know what it means to explore this center, this heart of a man. Why is it that the only creative people in the world seem to be pagans? (Okay, tangent: a gross over-statement here, but it feels that way sometimes. In fact, sometimes I think we label certain artists as Christian because they sing a line or two that connects with our theology, and it makes us feel creative... okay, tangent over.) We the redeemed, of all people, know what it means to have light expose the far corners of our fears. Or do we? Maybe here lies our problem with relevance. In order to get at the right answer of what it means to be relevant today, maybe we need to ask the right questions not only of other people, but of ourselves. It is time for us to release our creative energies, to glorify God with our creativity. “When a creative mind is given freedom to roam at will, the place where it characteristically spends its time is the human heart” (Then We Set His Hair on Fire: Phil Dusenberry, page 24). Let us not neglect to search ourselves, to respond with abandon and creativity, setting out on an adventure to truly know the hearts of others. This is true relevance, and its true display will not go unnoticed, even if it doesn’t look like a popular band. ____________

Written by E.Scott Feather, Director of “The Center for Character and Leadership Development” at Grace College in Winona Lake, IN.

2005-10-11T17:04:00.000-07:00

THE ELEMENTARY PRINCIPLES

By: Kary Oberbrunner

I was never one of those kids in the smart math class. I guess I found all those rules and theorems a little too restrictive. I never ventured into pre-calculus. In fact, I barely made it through algebra. I suppose my lack of knowledge in higher mathematics might have resulted from never getting a firm grasp on the basics. I suppose in those early days of education, my mind was more centered on play dough and recess. I was not grounded in the elementary principles and so I never could build upon my shaky foundation.

The spiritual world is not much different than the world of mathematics. In fact, I see more similarities than I care to admit. Before nightmares of fractions and formulas come creeping back into your head, hear me out for a second.

The book of Hebrews reveals the reality. The author of Hebrews is less than excited about the condition of his readers. He talks about their foundation and their comprehension of the elementary principles that are shaky at best.

For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you have need again for someone to teach you the elementary principles of the oracles of God, and you have come to need milk and not solid food. Hebrews 5:12

Did you catch it? The writer is saying that his readers do not have a firm grasp on the elementary principles of the Word. So, what is the result? They cannot be teachers. Instead, they have to relearn the basics and rebuild their foundation of the Word of God.

What are the timeless truths in this passage? I think there are two truths that our generation better give some attention to. If we fail to extract these two truths, then our hopes of having a voice in our culture will never come to fruition.

The first truth is that believers better have a firm grasp of the elementary principles themselves. Imagine a college math professor coming into 1st grade class and teaching advanced calculus. We would find this scenario both repulsive and counterproductive. The professor would lose his audience in a moment because he cannot relate advanced concepts to a class of kids that don’t even grasp the basics. Yet, this is exactly what happens every day in the spiritual world.

In many of our churches, leaders are teaching on the advanced levels of spirituality. They stand up on Sunday mornings and transfer complex Biblical truth to congregations that are just as clueless as the 1st grade math class.

Is this the fault of the pastors and church leaders? No! We need more churches that do not dumb down the Scriptures, but preach the meat of the Word. However, we the learners need to do our homework and not wait for others to teach us the basics! The proof of knowing the basics is not regurgitating concepts onto paper once every six months. The proof knowing the elementary principles is in the framework of practically applying the Word to our lives. If we reduce the basics to head knowledge then we will just crank out a whole bunch of Pharisees.

Why can our generation grasp the technical intricacies of computers, foreign languages, genetics, and philosophy? Yet when we stare into the face of the elementary principles of the oracles of God such as repentance from dead works, faith toward God, instruction about washings and laying on of hands, and the resurrection of the dead and eternal punishment (Hebrew 6:1-2), we are completely ignorant?

True we are all at different places in our spiritually journey. The problem is that some of us have been in that same place for 10 or 15 years. If someone asks me what God is doing in my life and I give them the same story about when I was five years old, then something is wrong. New Christians are not supposed to know as much as seasoned saints. I have been humbled by the example of some new believer’s appetites to consume the Word. Unfortunately, I think some of us veteran Christians can fall into a rut where we are up on everyone else’s latest view on spiritual issues, but not God’s.

We need to spend less time giving our intellectual opinions on every cultural and societal tragedy that comes down the pipe. We need to know the message we are supposedly standing behind. Then we need to incarnate our theology into practical and thoughtful ways of loving our world. If we love people without knowing the elementary principles of God, then we are just a bunch of nice people.

The second truth we can extract from Hebrews 5 is that we need to communicate to the world on a level they can understand. We used to live in a “Christian” country. People used to grow up believing in the 10 commandments, the Bible as the Word of God, and the stories of Noah’s Ark. Today we are living in a Biblically illiterate country. They do not know the basics. So when we share our faith with others why do we start with advanced spiritual concepts?

Think about the way some present Jesus. “Let me tell you of God’s love for you, His wonderful plan for your life, and His Son Jesus who died for you.” How can people trust in someone they know nothing about? The best we can hope for from a Biblically illiterate individual is a mixing of truth with error. When people mix their own views with the Gospel, this is what we call syncretism. Paul strictly warned against such a practice (Galatians 1:6-9).

When tribal missionaries go into a new field to a people who have never heard the name of Christ, they start with the basics. We call this chronological teaching. They start with creation and teach all the way to Christ. They build a foundation with the elementary principles. Why? Because when the point of decision comes they want people to believe on the Jesus the Bible presents, not a conglomeration of truth and error.

I believe that if our generation ever hopes to fulfill the Great Commission, which is to make disciples and not converts, then we better start with the elementary principles. We better get a firm grasp on the basics ourselves. Once we prove to know the basics by living them out in the context of real life with real people, then let’s start incarnating the basics into the lives of those around.

Jesus (Luke 24:27), Philip (Acts 8:35), and Paul (Acts 26:22; 28:23) all taught advanced spirituality to their audiences. In each one of these cases, their audiences had a deep knowledge of the basics. They came from backgrounds where they were exposed to the elementary principles. It was because of their foundations that they were able to receive deeper truth.

It would be sad to see an adult who struggles with the outcome of 2+2. I don’t think any of us would want to see a 25 year-old in kindergarten sitting on a carpet square trying to tackle 3+4. Yet it seems like many seasoned saints cannot comprehend basic spiritual truths.

A wise friend of mine told me a brilliant statement. He said, “We need to lower the bar on church, and raise the bar on discipleship.” I am all about this statement. We need to make Jesus relevant to the guy on the street. We need to become like a child to see the Kingdom of God. The woman at the well had a successful evangelistic campaign just by saying, “Come see a man who told me all the things I have done, this is not the Christ, is it?”.

However, we cannot stop here. We need to press on to the meat of the Word. If the Bride of Christ is made up of only spiritual babies we are in deep trouble. I believe our generation was made for so much more. I believe there is a growing trend for young adults to live out a faith centered in deep theology. This is not a sterile collection of doctrine. Rather, it is cutting edge transformational truth that infects the entire person.

I guess there is one alternative to knowing and teaching truths beyond the elementary principles of the oracles of God. I just never thought eating play dough was too tasty.

Kary Oberbrunner, with his wife Kelly, are soon to be proud parents of a brand new baby boy. He is author of The Journey Towards Relevance (Relevant Books) and founder of Redeem the Day Ministries (www.redeemtheday.org), a gathering of sojourners on a quest to buy back time.

Gyros and Ice-Breakers

2005-09-16T15:14:00.000-07:00

The lamb meat mocked me from the plate. It mocked me as it cooled and turned rubbery, as its fresh glaze of grease turned a dull gray. Before my eyes the gyro I'd pondered for days became culinary carnage. And why? Because two Bush-hating, vegetarian agnostics wanted me to admit I was intolerant. And I thought this meal was free!

A friend of my mother recently visited Denver. She attended a conference and visited her daughter, a resident of the city for fifteen months. As an act of social obligation, they contacted me for a lunch date. As an act of social obligation, I went.

I chose a quaint, neighborhood restaurant, figuring we could sit on the porch and swap stories about Denver, siblings we hadn't seen in months, and recast one shared memory at Myrtle Beach.

They had a different conversation in mind: religion.

The first question came as a jumbled, tip-toed, but fully-loaded spiritual challenge. In five cautious sentences the mother cornered me into admitting my 'intolerant' belief that Jesus is the only way to spiritual transformation. They could ask because they knew an impersonal fact about me: I went to seminary.

It was a showdown. A meeting of minds. I was in the middle of a conversation any apologist would drool over, staring into the eyes of two individuals I should've been able to argue into rational knots, but I didn't want to respond. In fact, I was annoyed.

Sure, I believe Jesus is the only way to eternal, spiritual transformation; sure, I believe the Bible is the most authoritative witness to his life; and sure, I believe my belief is true, correct, and without rival. What good would a belief system be if I didn't hold it with extreme conviction? But regardless of my system of beliefs, are such matters ice-breaking topics?

If I were to sit down with an individual whom I knew little about, how fair would it be for me immediately to interrogate her faith? How fair would it be for me to ask her to admit her set of convictions is personally or socially offensive? How fair would it be for me to promptly lay out my Christianity as a more formidable alternative?

Answer: Not very.

And this is the exact reason I felt annoyed. As an advocate of Christianity, I would likely be demonized for imposing spirituality on a "get-to-know-you" or "let's-catch-up" conversation. But when the roles are reversed, and I, the Christian advocate, am trying to down my gyro and discuss cousin Patty's new dog--only to be barraged with religiously charged questions--then it's aparently okay.

Then again, 'fairness' shouldn't matter to me because I'm intolerant? Right?

Just remember, I'm the one who asked the vegetarians if they'd be offended by the meat. How ironic that it grew stiff, cold, and died a second death on my plate.

-Timothy D. Sprankle

An ex-Agnostic

2005-09-16T09:11:00.000-07:00

I have honed my worrying talents to the point where....it would make you sick to your stomach.

And I just got to the end of about 3 big projects with my business, with not alot on the dock to come next.

So I called in the anxiety troops and sent them into war on my nerves, my marriage, and my life.

Then, the Spirit of the living God called them out of service, and asked me to trust him.

Being a theological theist, but a practical agnostic, I decided to show my agnosticism the door and prayed with several groups of people about my desire to trust God.

Well, today I received a reimbursement check from an insurance policy (expected), a good sized check from my wife's former employer (totally unexpected), and a call from one of my client's saying he wanted to give me a large sum of money to keep working on his project (also totally unexpected).

Hmmm...maybe practical agnosticism is overrated. I mean, even if God didn't choose to answer my prayers in this way, the whole worrying thing is WAY overrated.

-- Brian Rants

Moderate Minds Begins!

2005-09-15T15:52:00.000-07:00

We are about ready to launch our new site...stay tuned!