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Letters to the Editor - January to March 2006

To send us a Letter to the Editor, click here. (Full instructions are at the bottom of this page.) 

RESPONSE TO MARCH 26 ISSUE

Deeper Relationships Are Vital
(posted 3-24-06)
I appreciated Paul Williams’s column for March 22, “I’m Outta Here.” Developing deep relationships with other pastors truly is vital to longevity in the ministry. I know; I left the ministry five years ago. Perhaps if I had maintained close relationships with fellow preachers in my area I might have found what I needed in order to continue. May this be a warning to the rest of you out there. Don’t try to go it alone. The ministry is no place for “Lone Rangers”.
—Jerry Langley
Danville, Virginia

RESPONSE TO MARCH 12 ISSUE

Better Knowledge of Elders Work Needed
(posted 3-21-06)
Your article on “The Truth About Elders and Ministers” in the March 12 issue brought to my mind the problem I have seen with both, and it is the lack of knowledge on the work of elders. I once had a preacher say to me, “What is the work of the elder?”

 Few see the work of the elder as developers of Christian lives in the body. Most concern themselves with buildings, budgets, business, and bossing. This is not said in a tone of judgment, but one of sadness. If elders and ministers were working together to develop believers, these believers would be growing up unto the Head, who is Christ, and not be blown away by every wind of doctrine that comes along.

 I hope this isn’t seen as ranting, because it is not meant that way. I hope it is in tune with my article on the work of the elder you published a few years ago.

 (A little about myself: I was a minister for more than 30 years, and an elder for more than 15.)
—Larry Walden
Rio Rancho, New Mexico

RESPONSE TO MARCH 5 ISSUE

Better to Warn About Than Recommend
(posted 3-15-06)
Something was missing in Paul Williams’ “Life Is Difficult” article. Mr. Williams mentioned some of the moral shortcomings of M. Scott Peck, but he described Peck’s books as if they are edifying, enriching compositions written by a fellow Christian.

However, at www.equip.org/free/DP102.htm an essay by Dr. H. Wayne House demonstrates, with an abundance of citations of Peck’s writings, that Peck was no friend of biblical Christianity. Dr. House points out various false teachings in Peck’s books.

It is hard to write a book on self-improvement and get everything completely wrong. I am sure that Peck did occasionally, as Mr. Williams observed, “articulate truths others glossed over.” Nevertheless, all things considered, Christian leaders ought to warn the flock against the pernicious errors in Peck’s books rather than approve them as beneficial and illuminating. Inviting people to read Peck’s books to find spiritual guidance is like inviting mice to find nutrition by eating the cheese in a mousetrap.

CHRISTIAN STANDARD should warn and inform its readers more thoroughly about the anit-Christian nature of the teachings in Peck’s books.
—James Snapp Jr.
Elwood, Indiana

Three Irritations
(posted 3-10-06)
Arron Chambers’s “Thinking Outside the Box” (March 5) is both interesting and irritating. My irritations are three.

 First, “In reality a church building is just a very attractive, functional, but expensive box.” Is “box” the most important reality of it? More important to me, it’s a facility, an intentional place to gather, worship, teach, minister, etc. Also, less practical but significant, a church building is an expression of a congregation’s love of God and idea of God.

 Second, the author cites two examples of current megachurches, and quotes their leaders: Cho’s Yoido Full Gospel Church in South Korea, and Warren’s Saddleback Valley Community Church in California. Yoido began in a tent in 1958, and built a revival center in 1962. I don’t know what its facilities are today. Saddleback, begun as a home Bible study at the end of 1979, today has several buildings on an extensive campus. Both began without owning or building a “box,” but shortly acquired or built one. I don’t believe we should focus on their beginnings as an argument against “boxes.”

 Third, “The first Christians did well without church buildings.” (I believe the author refers to the church building at Dura-Europos, ca AD 200-250, as the oldest recovered.) Many among the first century Christians expected the Lord’s return any day. Why build or remodel buildings? (I don’t believe the Adventists laid any cornerstones in 1843-44.) After the Roman government’s persecutions began, it was illegal to build churches. (How many church buildings were built in the Soviet Union, 1917-91?) After Christianity was legalized—AD 313—church buildings sprang up all over the empire.

 Beyond these details, I have a more fundamental question. What was the objective of this article? Encourage Christians to worship in church buildings, if they can afford them, but not to worship the buildings, and to be willing to adapt to circumstances? Something else? Could the objective have been accomplished by a less anti-box presentation?
—Don Etz
Dayton, Ohio

RESPONSE TO FEBRUARY 26 ISSUE

Two Observations About Church Plants Chart
(posted 3-10-06)
Thank you for the article on church planting in the February 26 CHRISTIAN STANDARD.

In reviewing the information contained in the church plants chart, I had two significant observations that would be critical for anyone to prayerfully consider when approaching a new church work.

32 of 61 churches planted by church planting organizations or evangelistic associations had a December 2005 attendance equal to or lower than their starting month’s attendance. On the other hand, 13 of 14 churches planted by a mother church (with or without help form organizations/associations) had a December 2005 attendance greater than their starting month’s attendance.

Of course, these numbers only include churches that had adequate information on the chart for comparison, and I have already read a posting updating some of the church sponsorship information. Nevertheless, there seems to be a substantial benefit for new church plants to have the support or blessing from a mother church.

Thanks again for posting this information.
—Jay Julian
Colorado Springs, Colorado

Lower-Cost Church-Planting Model Should Be Considered
(posted 3-1-06)
I read the articles on church planting in the February 26 CHRISTIAN STANDARD with mixed emotions. I, of course, rejoice at what has been accomplished by the new churches that were reported. The average attendance for December 2005 is just under 115, probably significantly higher than a similar group of churches 30 or 40 years ago. I was also pleased with Robert Kitchen’s emphasis on the need for new churches. My only complaint concerning his article is that I don’t think he went far enough. For example, just in the metropolitan Indianapolis area, which is more churched than many cities, adding another 1,000 churches would probably not be enough to reach every reachable person in the area.

However, what especially bothered me was huge (an understatement) difference between what we are doing and what I believe we could and should be doing. What should we be doing? I believe we need and could have a church planting movement—a rapid multiplication of churches planting churches. Such a movement would see us planting at least 1,000 churches a year. Historians say the Restoration Movement was planting this many a year at the beginning of the 20th century.

While the churches we are planting today are stronger than those of 30 or 40 years ago, the data I have indicates that 40 years ago we were planting more churches in a year than are listed* for the past three years—about 100 a year in the mid-1960s. I think a big part of the problem is what seems to be our favorite church-planting strategy. We have heard that church planting is the most effective way to evangelize and have asked, “How can we best plant churches?” At first glance that would seem like a very good question. I think there is a much better question, “What church planting strategy will produce the greatest impact?”

The data I have seen would indicate that while the quality of our church plants is important, the quantity is even more important. The working together that Tom Jones advocates is very good but there are other ways of working together that could produce a lot more church plants. Bob Logan would say that our current strategy of a network of churches planting one church at a time compacts (reduces) the vision and consequently the number of church plants.

Also, do we really need to spend anywhere close to Tom Jones’s figure of "$200,000 to start a healthy, dynamic new church? A lot of our churches couldn’t provide even 10 percent of that over a three-year period. They consequently feel that there is no way they could plant a church.

That is the reason that for a long time I have felt our ideal church-planting model with its large cost was a significant hindrance to planting very many churches. Is it possible to effectively plant churches for a lot less? In the early 1990s Charles L. Chaney, the head of U.S. church planting for the Southern Baptists, in Church Planting at the End of the Twentieth Century, wrote about a Baptist church in the Boston area that had 20 daughters and granddaughters by the time it was 25 years old. The mother church never reached 100 in average attendance during that time.

More recently Dave Jacobs in an article in Cutting Edge, the Vineyard church-planting magazine, wrote that all three of the churches he started sent out teams to plant new churches when his church had about 100 adult members.

A couple of years ago Steve Sjogren, who planted four churches and has coached many other church plants wrote, “We have planted lots of churches with very few resources. . . I am coaching a half dozen churches into existence with the average plant receiving around $10,000 in start-up support. Based on our track record, most of these plants will succeed and even thrive to become sizable churches.” Later he writes, “We hear statements frequently in church planting circles these days such as, ‘It takes $100,000 to $150,000 [or $200,000] to start a church.’ Sentiments such as this concern us because we know they are not true, . . . We can point to a couple of dozen examples that we have been directly involved with where between $5,000-$10,000 was invested to plant a successful church.” If they can do it, why can’t we do it?**

I would wholeheartedly agree with Tom Jones when he says, "Every member of the team is important and should be able to play." The problem right now is that most of our team members (churches) are sitting in the stands and don’t see any possibility that they can get in the game. We need to change that.

Bob Logan has another model of networking to plant churches that has proved effective (a denominational district that used it doubled its average attendance in eight years with not all of the churches in the district participating). The idea is for three to six or seven churches to come together to share non-financial resources, ideas, and encouragement while each church has its own daughter(s) (at least one church in such a network had twins).

*The list is probably incomplete but probably not missing very many church plants. Even if we planted two or three times the number listed, what I am saying is still largely true.

**If the average investment in the 91 church plants reported in Christian Standard was $100,000 (half Tom Jones’s figure) that would equal $9.1 million. If those same dollars were invested in church plants at an average of $10,000 per plant (Steve Sjogren’s figure) that would result in more than 900 new churches. If only half survived at an average attendance of just 25 per plant it would result in nearly 1,000 people more being in church on a typical Sunday than 91 times the average attendance reported. (If we use a survival rate of 80 percent and an average attendance of 50—probably more realistic—then we would have 25,000 more in church.) If we were to use what we have learned over the last few years about church planter assessment and coaching, I have reason to believe, based on other information I have seen, that the survival rate would likely be above 80 percent and the average attendance far above 25.

A couple of questions that seem obvious are where to we get that many planters and coaches. First, the reduced dollar amount significantly increases the pool of potential church planters. If you are spending $100,000 or more on a church plant, only those in the top tier of potential church planters are likely to be considered. However, if you are only spending $10,000 on a church plant, while you want to get the best person possible, you are much more willing to consider second- and perhaps even third-tier church planters. I also think that there are church planters who would fail in a high-dollar plant but would do reasonably well in a low-dollar plant. When it comes to coaching, a coach with church-planting experience will usually be the best coach for a church planter. However, with the coaching and church-planting tools available today, I believe that many other people could provide 80 to 90 percent of the coaching value of someone with church-planting experience.
--Bruce Webster

Some Partnership Errors
(posted 2-22-06)
I would like to thank you for the article on church planting in the February 26 CHRISTIAN STANDARD. It is great to see this information spotlighting the kingdom work going on with Christian churches/churches of Christ. In reviewing the chart listing the church plants I noticed some errors in the partnerships that planted some of the churches. Here is more accurate information:

The Point Church, Arlington, WA—partnership includes Christian Evangelistic Association, Northshore Christian Church, and East 91st Christian Church.

Ethnos Church, Portland, OR—partnership includes Northwest Christian Evangelistic Association, Our Place Christian Church, Beaverton Christian Church, and East 91st Street Christian Church.

Soteria, Everett, WA—partnership includes Northshore Christian Church, East 91st Street Christian Church, and Christian Evangelistic Association.

Pathways Church, Mill Creek, WA—partnership includes Central Christian Church of the East Valley (Mesa, AZ), East 91st Street Christian Church, Christian Evangelistic Association.

I have this information from being involved with the East 91st church planting ministry team, the CEA, and Pathways Church. I hope this is helpful. Again, thank you for the article and spotlighting church planting in your publication.
—Andy Smith

RESPONSE TO FEBRUARY 19 ISSUE

Enlightening Insights About Missions
(posted 2-23-06)
I want to sincerely thank you for the article by Dale Meade—“The Making of a Missionary”—in the February 19 CHRISTIAN STANDARD.

Mr. Meade hit the target with his insight into the real meaning of a missionary, thus taking a heavy burden from missions committees who struggle with who and how much to fund. The questions Mr. Meade asked were so enlightening that our missions team has started the process of evaluating our missionary’s education, all the while looking at our attitude of just where our “treasure lies.” The subject of complementary ministries is so new it jumped right off the page. Thank you for a great issue. 
—Ruth Anne Shattuck
Indianapolis, Indiana

'Touched My Heart'
(posted 2-17-06)
I am writing regarding Dave Smith’s article, “Confessions of a Reluctant Servant,” in the February 19 issue of CHRISTIAN STANDARD.

I want you to know, Mr. Smith, how very much your article touched my heart.

I take care of my mother, father, and my brother, who suffered a massive stroke three years ago at age 53. I’m 55, twice divorced, and a Christian only five years now.

I’ve never done anything before in my life that reveals my sin to me as much as caretaking does. Every moment I’m called to patience, compassion, mercy, joy, love, peace, kindness, and I fail every day.

If there’s any good thing that comes from anything I do, it’s by the grace of God alone. My failures are my own.

My only hope each day, each hour, is reliance on prayer and the Word of God. I just don’t know what people do in similar situations if they don’t know the Lord.

Thank you, Mr. Smith, for an article that spoke to me in terms I very much understand.
—Valerie Silk
Seminole, Florida

RESPONSE TO FEBRUARY 12 ISSUE

An Invitation to Evangelize Africa
(posted 7-12-06)
I am writing from Kampala, Uganda, East Africa.

I read W. Ray Kelley’s article (February 12), “African-American Evangelism: Where Are We and Where Are We Going?” with joy! In the letter, Kelley discusses the lack of minorities in your local congregations which, to me, expresses your unconditional love for your brothers and sisters.

He outlined clearly eight possible solutions to this challenge, among them evangelistic efforts to include African-American families.

Allow me to congratulate you on these efforts and also invite you extend the evangelism to Africa. African men, women, children, and youth would love to be linked to their African-American brothers and sisters.

There is also a lack of African-American congregations in our local congregations. Africa is for you, we love you and you are always welcome to share that love with us.
—Pr. Tumuhirwe Ezra
Christian Healing Centre
Kampala, Uganda

Integration Still Is Needed
(posted 3-6-06)
It has been a few years since I've written to the CHRISTIAN STANDARD. The last letter I wrote was in response to a feature you did about military chaplains called "Where There Is No Chaplain." In this case, I think this letter is 29 years overdue. I have been reading publications by Restoration Movement churches for that long and this is the first time I have seen one by the CHRISTIAN STANDARD devoted to Black History Month and the problems of racism and African-American evangelism. I applaud you for your February 12 issue and commend you for challenging us as Christians in the Restoration Movement to "aid our established African-American churches with volunteer workers or finances."

But I have a few questions.

1. Why did you wait so long to feature articles dealing with African-American evangelism? For the last five years, since I have been a member of the Church of Christ at Manor Woods in Rockville, Maryland, I have wondered why there is never a picture of an African-American, Chinese-American, or even a Filipino-American being ordained into ministry.

2. How is it that Christianity has become "a white man's religion" when the Bible clearly states that on the Day of Pentecost, devout men from all nations were gathered in Jerusalem (Acts 2:5)?  Included among these men were the Elamites, whom history tells us were people of dark or black skin.

3. How is it that we forget that one the most well-known converts to Christ was also of African decent? The Ethiopian eunuch!

4. Why is Sunday, the Lord's Day, still one of the most segregated days of the week? My 23-year military career took me many places. I had the opportunity to preach my first sermon on the island of Maui as part of a flying ministry. I worshiped in Scotland, Japan, the Virgin Islands, and the Bahamas. Yet here in the mainland—Georgia, South Carolina, and even Maryland—we have separate churches for people of color.

Twenty-nine years ago, when I was led to a saving faith in Christ by a "white" brother, it never occurred to me that two years later I would be told that I could not stay at another Christian's home because of the color of my skin. But my faith in Christ led me to believe that I needed to stay in the Restoration Movement because things are going to change soon.

I don't see many integrated church staffs and I wonder, why? Where are our African-American preachers, deacons, and elders? Why aren't we planting new churches that attract African-Americans? Are we using the right ingredients? Where are our African-American Christian college professors? Where are the African-Americans represented at the CHRISTIAN STANDARD?

W. Ray Kelly wrote that in 2003, he "researched and wrote an article for the Encyclopedia of the Stone-Campbell Movement entitled ‘African-American in the 20th Century Christian Church/Churches of Christ.’”  He says that "we did not aggressively seize the opportunities and we lost innumerable chances to integrate or plant congregations." As an African-American I have to share the blame of not being more proactive and stepping up to the plate to offer my help in planting congregations in predominantly African-American communities.

Well, I could probably ask a million more questions about this issue, but when I think of one, I end up pointing fingers at myself. Maybe, I could be of help to you by researching and writing articles about our African-American congregations for a feature issue next year during Black History Month. Maybe we could both tell the stories of our African-American brothers and sisters who helped to shape the Restoration Movement, men like Marshall Keble and Andrew Marshall.
—Arthur D. Glover
Silver Spring, Maryland

'The Inner City is a Mission Field'
(posted 2-21-06)
Observations in response to February 12 CHRISTIAN STANDARD articles on benevolence (Carl B. Bridges) and African-American evangelism (W. Ray Kelley):

My husband Don and I have built a large storehouse of memories and experiences here in Memphis, Tennessee, at MICO (Memphis InnerCity Outreach). In 1989 we were moved to initiate a homeless ministry here in which we made and distributed sandwiches and hot drinks, and collected and distributed clothing and blankets. Most of the recipients were black. We did it about a year, working toward establishing an inner-city church.

The decision was made to start a church in the area of what was then Lauderdale Courts, a large public housing project (well-known because Elvis once lived there) that had approximately 2,500 residents. We were able to rent a warehouse directly across the street and built a church body with an emphasis on homeless people and doing what we could for them; and also families, with an emphasis on the many children.

1989—2006 is too much of a history to recount here. However, to fast-forward to just a few years ago, we were able to purchase land down the street, construct a building, and eventually another building. Obviously, we were in it for the “long haul.”

I came into the ministry with more optimism than realism, probably. For instance, if the church does its job, not only will Christians result, but also better citizens. I still believe that, but it is a slow process getting the results. It’s a matter of give, give, and give more, and seemingly no progress is made—financially. Programs that teach fiscal responsibility are so important because there is a wide gap between social classes, even in our country. Here in Memphis the underclass is predominantly black. Other areas of the country are undoubtedly different.

The values have been greatly affected by the federal government’s entitlement programs of the last 40 years that, though meant to help, in many areas actually hindered real progress.

A statement made by Joanie Grimm about mission work she does provided a reality check for us: “Do what you do for Jesus, not for the people.” That makes the sometimes ingratitude or apparent greed easier to handle.

Our roles in the day-to-day/weekly activities at InnerCity Church (ICC) have been reduced. Don is on the road raising funds most weekends, and we do have a black minister. one who’s come up through the ranks—homelessness, addiction, etc.—and he’s leading and growing at the same time, under Don’s tutelage.  

We have some fine supporters—people who see the need for inner-city ministry, and also people Don has met through his 40-plus years of traveling. Without their support, where would we be? We’ve been humbled by people who are moved to actually sacrifice so they can give.

However, as of late as we’re facing the realities of our retirement (reduced income/reduced giving), Don has made a concerted effort to raise funds to pay our building off in a year! That’s admittedly a large undertaking. But as we hear in the South, at least: “God ain’t poor and he ain’t broke!” God expects us to step out on faith, not just once, but continually. And we are.

The disappointment lately has been that there seems to be a prejudice against helping/evangelizing the inner city because of things that I’ve mentioned here, and more. We have often said our inner-city ministry has been our most rewarding experience, but also our most frustrating. Frustrating in the inner city at the local level, but also raising money for it.

If there’s anyone anywhere that needs Jesus, isn’t it the inner-city person—of any age? How can the government possibly be the answer? Don’t we say Jesus is the answer? Either he is or he isn’t!

Recently a packet was sent to 3,000 plus Christian churches in 10 states nearby asking for a commitment to help relieve us of the building obligation. The response has been what I’d say is appalling. Along with the packet a video was produced (by Good News Productions International), eight minutes in length, to acquaint others with our needs and our work. (It’s available for the asking.*) It has also been mailed to several hundred people and/or groups. We’ve had several admit that they haven’t yet watched it.

MICO is greatly dependent on outside donations—probably 75 percent. Having the building paid will make it much easier to maintain the ministry through donations that we presently receive.

The inner city is a mission field. Early on I didn’t like it being called “the mission,” but that’s what it is. There are certain dynamics here at this time that make it a mission. I don’t know the number of missionaries that Bible colleges and churches are sending to the “mission field,” and Matthew 28:18 certainly applies worldwide. But if you want to put value to us as a country of mission fields, I think the inner city ranks right up there with Key Communications and others who minister to Muslims.

The South may still have its old attitudes to a greater degree than other parts of the country. But lately we’ve seen it elsewhere in coments such as “Why don’t they just get a job?” “They’ve made their own problems.” “I have no compassion for inner-city people.” Not exactly the attitude of Christ.

No doubt many are turned off by negative images shown in situations such as the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The constant reporting of the bad behavior of some may cause us to stereotype all others. Isn’t this what we preach against?

Just as in any society, inner-city poor are mostly people needing love and fellowship from people who care to make a difference.

The said, the DVD is available upon request at either dstmico@aol.com or Don Todd, P.O. Box 221041, Memphis, TN 38122-1041.

Thank you for your consideration. 
—Sally Workman Todd (Mrs. Don Todd)
Memphis, Tennessee

Time to Integrate?
(posted 2-14-06)
The article by Robert Hull Jr. (“The Hidden Wound and the Healing Table,” February 12) was great. I have African-American friends and we have taught our children that the color of a person’s skin doesn’t matter. It’s what’s inside them that counts.

Maybe it’s time to integrate the church.
—Linda Hansen

"We Are All of the Human Race!"
(posted 2-13-06)
Racism is a negative term—it emphasizes the “ism” idea, showing where we differ from one another.

We are all of the human race! We are all more alike than we are different from one another. We are all Americans. Jesus’ love draws Christians to oneness in him. This must be the Restoration Movement—to restore us to Christ the Lord.

Clinging to our “history” is very futile. Where can it lead? Only to more “isms.” Why can’t American Christians look to a future of oneness and not backwards from where we are not benefited?

To be forced to celebrate “Race Day” would of necessity have to include one for each day of the year. The more we divide ourselves, the worse things will get. I am a human—therefore celebrate “Humanity Day” every day and forget about black, brown, yellow, red or white day or month. Of course there is history, but most of it is difficult to wade through without digging up things nobody is proud of.

Brotherhood is what makes us all the same in God’s eyes, which we are supposed to be looking through.

Let’s restore ourselves to the “human race” through God’s Good News about how he is our Heavenly Father. This has to be included in the “Restoration Movement.”
—Dan Brossman
Lander, Wyoming

RESPONSE TO FEBRUARY 5 ISSUE

No Mention of Disciples
(posted 2-13-06)
Mark Taylor makes many good and interesting points in his editorial (“A Place in the History Books”) in the February 5 issue. Indeed the winds of change are blowing and unity is (or should be) a strong desire among all Christians. I doubt, however, that Christian churches and churches of Christ are the only churches, especially of the Restoration Movement, that are interested or eligible for discussions of unity. I know that the Disciples of Christ follow Stone’s “unity is our polar star” slogan, yet there is no mention of that group.

I do appreciate your articles and look forward each week to receiving Christian Standard. May God continue to bless you in your ministry as well.
—Jim Robinson

RESPONSE TO JANUARY 29 ISSUE

Introverts Often Misunderstood
(posted 8-7-06)
"The ‘IN’ Crowd: Ministering With Introverts In Mind" by Mandy Smith (January 29) is one of the more understanding articles I've read concerning this subject.

I am an introvert. It seems that introverted people accept the extroverted personality a little easier than the other way around. Introverted people often make extroverts feel uncomfortable because introverts do not express thoughts, feelings, and emotions very frequently, and extroverts do not know how to process that quietness.

A quiet person can be very joyful and happy … but she's probably not going to be extremely external in her display of it. It saddens me to know that introverts can be thought of as "problems" or inconveniences. They should be recognized as an important part of God's family; together, all the different people beautifully make up the body. We need each other.

The introvert and her close relationship with God can do much good when she goes to be alone for a little while on behalf of others; in turn, she herself is strengthened. God can powerfully use the naturally quiet person who has a heart for him, just as much as the highly energized and more verbal person.

Introverts probably serve more behind the scenes, but God gives her sufficient grace for whatever and wherever he places her. When the unique introvert is serving God, it speaks just as loudly to him as the unique extrovert who serves him. The introvert might even wish she were more "strong" like the extroverted person so that she could "feel" like she fits in more, but she needs to realize that she fits perfectly into God's plan for her and is a vital part of his church, and as she leans on and trusts in him, God’s strength is made perfect in her.
—Name Withheld

Interested in Introverts
(posted 3-6-06)
I am interested in the topic of introverts. What I search for in vain is scriptural proof of being an introvert and extrovert. It appears Paul and Barnabas were different "temperaments" (another word not in the Scripture). It also appears they had different spiritual gifts.

The reason it is of such interest to me is because I am an introvert and the pastor of a small church. And it seems the extroverts—type A men—either gravitate to the bigger churches or take small churches and build them into bigger churches. And us introverts mostly have the smaller churches. (I know I am overgeneralizing.) So if this is mostly true, then this might be why we struggle to build our churches.

I was going to the conference to hear the man from Tyro, Kansas, who has a 700-member church in a town of 250 until I heard he was a Type A extrovert who draws people from a 15,000-person town nearby. So much for hearing how an introvert in a small rural town "built a big church."

I know it is not all about just building a bigger church. But the ability/willingness to meet and interact with people has a tendency to facilitate both salvations and subsequent discipleship training. And if introverts are quickly drained by people interaction as opposed to being energized by people, then the connection is immediately apparent.
—Bill Bays
Pastor, Tamalco Christian Church.

Kudos for Introvert Article
(posted 2-7-06)
Kudos to Mandy Smith for the January 29 article, “Minister With Introverts In Mind.” Although I don’t classify myself as an introvert since I ministered to three churches and taught at Ozark Christian College for 37 years, I am very uneasy about all the “feely-touchy” nonsense that goes on in the name of “worship service” in our churches today. That, in addition to “rock” bands in worship has just about prodded me to try to find a more “reserved” and “’50s traditional” congregation. . . .

I want to attend a worship service that is quiet, dignified, hymnal, and yet biblical in preaching and teaching. I don’t have to be constantly badgered about “ministry” since I do most of that apart from the “services” of the church—out where the unchurched are. Please keep printing articles along Mandy’s forte!
—Paul T. Butler
Joplin, Missouri

Introvert Article Hit Home
(posted 2-3-06)
I just wanted you to know I appreciated your article “The ‘In’ Crowd” in the January 29 issue. I am a “straight across the board” introvert and this article really hit home. I have been an active Christian and church attender for many years and generally have no big problems with most things, but this did make me feel better about myself and the way I worship and serve the Lord. For years I have felt misunderstood, and didn’t really understand myself, but this has helped me to see that I’m not “bad” or “weird.” I hope that people in general and church leaders in particular will be enlightened by this and know better how to relate to introverts. God makes us all different and we need to know how to have relationships with each other, how to appreciate each other, and how to work together in God’s kingdom. A hearty “Amen!” to your article and thank you very much!
—Patty Reed
Cincinnati, Ohio

A Revealing Article About Introverts
(posted 1-18-06)
Thank you for the thoughful article about introverts in your January 29 issue (“The ‘In’ Crowd” by Mandy Smith). As a preacher who also is an introvert, it is good to be reminded that the church needs more than just extroverts to lead her. It was also revealing to learn that being drained by people is not a sign of weakness but a trait of the introvert. I like people but I need my quiet time to recharge.

By the way, it is interesting to note the traits of an introvert that Jesus displayed. How many times did he withdraw to a quiet place or leave the crowds during his ministry?
—John McArthur

RESPONSE TO JANUARY 22 ISSUE

Several Disturbing Things
(posted 3-23-06)
I was deeply disturbed by several things I read in the January 22 issue of CHRISTIAN STANDARD.

First, I am concerned that so many writers, like John Wakefield, are referring to our movement as “The Stone-Campbell Movement.” At least six times in his article, “The More We Change” he used the term “Stone-Campbell.” He spoke of “Stone-Campbell worship,” “Stone-Campbell churches,” “Stone-Campbell adherents,” and “the Stone-Campbell Movement.” If Barton W. Stone and Alexander Campbell were alive today they would be shocked to see those who follow their emphasis upon restoring New Testament Christianity calling themselves by their names. Both men wanted us to be known simply as “Christians” or “disciples.” Where are we any different from the Lutherans or the Wesleyans when we choose to wear the name of a human being rather than the name of Christ?

Second, I was disturbed to read that “the Rev. Mark Miller” officiated at the funeral service for Floyd K. Miller. It has become increasingly popular in recent years for preachers of our movement to call themselves “pastors.” The preacher may be “a pastor” but there is no scriptural justification that I can find for speaking of the preacher as “the pastor.” We don’t want to be known as being different from our denominational neighbors. Are we now quietly moving towards using the denominational title “Rev.” to describe our preachers? God forbid that we should be any different than the preachers of the denominations!

Third, I was deeply disturbed by the article by Brad Dupray, “You See It in Their Eyes.” He speaks of the elders at Crossroads Christian Church inviting people to come to the front to receive prayer and anointing with oil. My Bible says nothing about the elders calling for people to come to them for prayer and anointing but says that the sick person should “call for the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil.” Mr. Dupray says, “Dor each person who comes forward the elder takes a drop of oil and makes the ‘sign of the cross’ on his or her forehead, saying, ‘I anoint you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.’” He then says, “That’s when you see it in their eyes. A point of spiritual connection is made.”

It seems to me that the argument for this practice is based on the prevailing philosophy of our times that if an act touches us emotionally it must be good. Now I ask, what scriptural authority do we have for such a practice? Where do you read that we are to make the sign of the cross on the forehead and say, “I anoint you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit?”

Dupray concludes his article by saying, “The challenge for church leaders is to break away from ‘the way we’ve always done things,’ matching the deep spiritual nature of Christianity with a world that craves such depth.” Guess I have been wrong all this time. I thought our job was to endeavor to get people to conform their lives to the teachings of the Word of God.

What is coming next in congregations of those who simply want to be Christians? Backward collars for our “clergy”? Holy Water? Infant baptism?
—Robert J. Tinsky

Concerns About Prayer Ministry
(posted 2-23-06)
My comments refer to the article entitled “You See It in Their Eyes” (January 22) by Brad Dupray of Crossroads Christian Church in Corona, California. The article stated that their minister, Barry McMurtrie, took James 5:14 seriously, that if anyone is sick, they should call on the elders to pray over them. The church then instituted what the author called a prayer ministry during the Communion service. Anyone desiring prayer during the service could meet one of the elders or “shepherds” and receive prayer. They eventually included the anointing of oil on the forehead by making “the sign of the cross” and stating “I anoint you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit” during certain services. Some were asking for prayer for specific reasons, but others admittedly were simply looking for what the author described as a “spiritual connection.”

Ideas that stimulate prayer in our Christian lives today are good, for prayer is an important and necessary aspect of every Christian’s life. My current congregation has practiced the admonition of James 5:14 in the past and probably will in the future. As a deacon I’ve seen some who have, upon request, received this act of prayer and anointing by the elders. Why should we even question this? It seems to me that James made it plain.

But I was concerned with the description of how Crossroads Christian Church was implementing its ministry, and therefore I have questions. Why practice this service during the Communion service? Isn’t this the time of our service when we gather together to remember the death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ? We should remember the sacrifice of his body and blood for our salvation. According to the apostle Paul we should examine ourselves and partake of the loaf and the cup, (1 Corinthians 11:28). It’s clear in the New Testament one of the main reasons the church came together on the first day of the week was to “break bread” (Acts 2:42; 1 Corinthians 11). It would concern me if my congregational leaders would insert other events during this service that could in any way be a distraction from the real reason that we meet around the Lord’s table. There are plenty of other times and ways the church could insert this practice without distracting from the remembrance of our Lord.

Why make the “sign of the cross” during the anointing? Where did this practice come from? This sign certainly isn’t biblical in any way and invites human tradition rather than sound doctrine to infect our worship. This sounds like an introduction of a Catholic practice rather than something biblical. . . .

I personally would be concerned if my minister and elders began a prayer ministry or anything else during the Communion service as described in this article. I’m concerned when Christians don’t seem to feel a “spiritual connection” when meeting around the Lord’s table. For some our practices need constant changing, it seems, to keep their interest. Doesn’t every Christian receive the gift of the Holy Spirit as described by Peter in Acts 2:38? Shouldn’t we all be growing in Christ as we gather together to worship God, praise him in song, pray together, learn from his Word, and meet around his table to remember him? Is the church today gathering as a group of Christians to worship God and remember the sacrifice our Lord made for us, or are we gathering to find ways to attract and entertain those outside of Christ so they will help fill our seats? I’m glad when visitors and those who haven’t accepted Jesus come to our services, but should our services be designed for their worship experience or for Christian worship?

I’m all for praying for one another as James 5:14-16 states, but we should apply every biblical practice within its context. I believe we should encourage prayer ministries, for all of us need to develop effective prayer lives. We need to be praying for each other, but let’s be careful how we implement each aspect of our worship, so it’s not distracting to the very reasons the church meets together!
—Jim Grove
Humphrey, Arkansas

Interview Provided Encouragement
(posted 2-13-06; this letter was not posted in a timely manner due to an editorial oversight)
I really enjoyed the January 22 CHRISTIAN STANDARD Interview with Debbie Roeger. I am currently employed as an electrical engineer. On February 3, 2002, I gave my life to Christ in Christian baptism at Parkway Church of Christ in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Since then God has worked in miraculous ways to reveal his calling for me into Christian ministry. Therefore on July 14 I will resign my position and six-figure salary to purse a BA in Bible/preaching at Johnson Bible College; I am 38 years old, married, and have three children. Needless to say the interview with Roeger provided encouragement and a common bond because I also feel very blessed with the opportunity to serve our great God full-time.
—Joe Heins
Allentown, Pennsylvania

Worship Articles Informative, Refreshing
(posted 1-30-06)
After reading Joe Wilson’s letter to the editor (“Worship Articles Are Polarizing Leaders” [see below]) I went back and read all the articles from the January 22 CHRISTIAN STANDARD. I found the articles very informative and filled with history I have often wondered about myself. I found it refreshing to hear someone write about how choirs can be effective in the life of the church and refer to the choir as a small group. I also loved the commitment to excellence and the important role it plays in the life of the church.

I did not see them as polarizing articles written with a divisive spirit. The habit of people calling something divisive when it does not agree with them is getting old. There are so many people in the Restoration Movement who look for places they disagree, rather than looking at another perspective and growing in wisdom. We hold on to things that are taught as biblical mandates, when the Bible does not speak of the hows and whens. We have become much like the religious leaders of Jesus’ time in that we focus so much on the hows and whens, we miss the whys.

Jesus spent a lot of time teaching the religous leaders of his day to look at why we do something without getting caught up in the mechanics of it. It is time the church stops being so rigid in things that do not matter and focuses on what is most important. 
—Scott Baker
Tallmadge, Ohio

'Are Our Churches Really So Fragile . . .?'
(posted 1-27-06)
I found Joe Wilson’s letter to the editor about the polarizing effect of the CHRISTIAN STANDARD to be, well, quite polarizing (“Worship Articles Are Polarizing Leaders” [see below]).

In my opinion, the articles in the CHRISTIAN STANDARD are typically well-balanced and mild. In addition I would note that even Jesus and Paul could not state the truth so tactfully as to avoid polarization. The ink was barely dry on Paul’s letters before the faithful were arguing over what they meant and how they should be applied.

I love to read the CHRISTIAN STANDARD each week to compare and contrast the different views presented in its pages and thereby sharpen my own thinking. It’s one way that we can draw ever closer to an accurate understanding of the truth. Are our churches really so fragile as to need protection from a periodical presenting articles from differing perspectives?

For the last 140 years the articles in the CHRISTIAN STANDARD have been providing fodder for church water-cooler talk. That’s a strength of our movement . . . not a weakness or a threat.
—Steve Jones 
Oviedo, Florida

Worship Articles Are Polarizing Leaders
(posted 1-25-06)
This is my second letter in a brief period of time—both concerning worship articles published in the last few months.

The January 22 issue continues a trend I see in the CHRISTIAN STANDARD to polarize readers and separate leaders in an already fragmented group of churches. Starting with the editorial by Mark Taylor (quoting an article by Ken Read—whose comments were based on anecdotal evidence at best) and continuing with articles by John Wakefield and Becky Ahlberg, the writers pit “contemporary” and “traditional” church leaders against each other.

Is it part of the mission statement of the CHRISTIAN STANDARD to “create controversy and divide people.” Why must there be a right and wrong? Why can’t churches decide for themselves where they want to put Communion in the worship service and whether or not they want a choir—or how often. And how can anyone presuppose to tell another church what they should do in their context? Where is the chapter and verse support of contemporary or traditional music? Are not people gifted differently in different places? Are not cultures different from state to state and nation to nation? Should we expect . . . do we really want uniformity among our churches?

I serve in a church where we don’t face the controversies of worship style and order of worship. We’re doing the best we can to be a unified church, using the gifts and talents of our people in the best way that we can. And I am wondering now as a church leader how responsible it is to have a multiple copy subscription to the STANDARD. Why should we introduce controversies to our church members through this periodical that we don’t face without it?

I don’t get it.

If someone wants to write an article about choirs—great. Why make it argumentative? (“I sometimes think it’s the bleeding edge—in order to keep up with the Southeasts and Saddlebacks and Willow Creeks.” Ahlberg) If someone else wants to write about contemporary, post-modern, approaches—wonderful. Must we assume that others who serve with different methodologies are wrong? (Is Rick Chromey reading?)

I am weary of this fight. I sometimes wonder when I read the articles in this and other Restoration Movement periodicals, if I want to be associated with such a divisive group of churches. I am often ashamed and wonder if I fit in. We fight about doctrine . . . and methodology . . . and sometimes a combination of the two.

Would the CHRISTIAN STANDARD please consider publishing articles that can stir your thinking without the undercurrent of attack? I realize that these are all volunteer writers, but perhaps more editorial direction ought to be taken. We can spur each other to new thinking without tearing each other down . . . can’t we?

In my thinking, the CHRISTIAN STANDARD has a unique position in this period of our history as a “movement” to be a uniting force. If something doesn’t change, these arguments over methodology will be our undoing.
—Joe Wilson
Baltimore, Maryland

Worship Articles "Open and Clear"
(posted 1-23-06)
I am the minister of music and worship at Gethsemane Church of Christ in Mechanicsville, Virginia. I just finished reading the articles on worship in the January 22 issue of CHRISTIAN STANDARD. Thank you for being so open and clear in where we are as music and worship ministers. John Wakefield challenged me to know the heritage from which we minister. Becky Ahlberg touched my heart and renewed my vigor and passion to equip the saints to declare God’s worth in their lives. We get so busy at “doing” church we forget to “be” the church.
—Don Crane
Mechanicsville, Virginia

RESPONSE TO JANUARY 15 ISSUE

Strong Reaction to Quote
(posted 1-20-06)
Seeing this highlighted quote in Mark Taylor’s January 15 editorial—“Once we know him we can’t walk away from him”—prompted me to respond out loud, “Yes, we can!”

Sounds an awful lot like “Once saved, always saved” to me!
—Jo Clayton
Florida and Michigan

RESPONSE TO JANUARY 8 ISSUE

'Benign, Gentle, and Misleading'
(posted 2-21-06)
“What About Islam?” by Mike Faust in the January 8 CHRISTIAN STANDARD was a benign, gentle, and misleading look at Islam. I know that it was not meant to be a detailed article, but it certainly seemed soft on one of the greatest historical threats to Christianity and democracy.

There was no clear refutation of the faith that denies the divinity of Jesus and qualifies as one of the false Christs that Jesus warned about. There was no mention of the increasingly radicalized Islamists and their hatred of Jews, Christians, and the West. I know that not all Muslims subscribe to that, but the problem is in the very Quran itself. Muhammad led a violent life and included 109 verses that encourage violence against infidels. That does not qualify as respect for Jesus and other people. Thank goodness the article does point out that we worship a different God. The timing of the article would seem to merit some mention of the fact that we are at war with Muslim countries that have shut out Christian evangelism for centuries.

Besides the violence problem, other articles have pointed out that Muslims enslave women, promise false hope to martyrs, and want to return the world to their seventh-century version of culture. Can we afford such a benign look at those who are trying to destroy our way of life? I would recommend the book Unveiling Islam to those who would like to witness to Muslims. It was written by two brothers who grew up in Islam and are now Christian professors, Ergun and Emil Caner.
—Mark Barbee
Lancaster, Ohio

RESPONSE TO JANUARY 1 ISSUE

'Edified and Challenged'
(posted 1-11-06)
I applaud the excellent writing found in Kevin Demmitt’s piece on family life in the face of our market economy (“Four Perspecives for the Church” by Kevin Demmitt in the January 1 CHRISTIAN STANDARD). As a father and husband who both works part-time and stays at home part-time, I found myself both edified and challenged by his writing about sharing domestic tasks and childrearing, and the difficulties and joys associated with balancing dual vocations. What an excellent point about men who “help” their wives around the house!

I did want to say in response, though, that perhaps our attitude towards “women’s work” and “men’s work” at home is influenced, at least in our own churches, by our attitude towards “women’s work” and “men’s work” at church. As we break down gender distinctions at home and in the workplace, should we not also explore how women might contribute to “men’s work” on the board of elders (and encourage more men to care for small children in the nursery)?
—Micah Weedman
Indianapolis, Indiana

Amen and Amen
(posted 1-9-06)
In regard to Knofel Staton’s article “Whatever Happened to Stillness and Silence?” (January 1), may I say “Amen and Amen!” I sincerely pray that many of our “worship leaders” will take his words to heart and make some changes. Our assemblies have a great deal of “food, fun, and fellowship,” but are sometimes sadly lacking in reverence.

One of my favorite hymns is “Blessed Quietness.”

Blessed quietness, holy quietness,
What assurance in my soul!
On the stormy sea He speaks peace to me—
How the billows cease to roll.

More quiet time for meditation would be welcome to this worshiper.
—Maxine Fream Gash
Joplin, Missouri

Article Overlooked One Significant Change
(posted 12-29-05)
In response to Kevin Demmitt’s article on “Four Perspectives for the Church” in the January 1 CHRISTIAN STANDARD, Kevin’s article deals with many of the issues for working women today, but overlooks another significant change happening in our society. With more women working, there are more and more men who are staying home with their children. I have not seen any books, articles, sermons, or resources available for these men who have chosen to be the primary caregiver in their homes.
—Brian Leonard
Blacklick, Ohio

MISCELLANEOUS LETTERS

What Constitutes a Small Church? 
(posted 3-24-06)
There seems to have been the notion at STANDARD that any church with fewer than 200 in church on Sunday is a small church. When I studied church growth in the 1980s at the feet of Medford Jones, the church growth literature described a small church as a church of 100 or fewer in average Sunday worship attendance. A church of 100-200 was described as a middle-sized church. (I have often been tempted to send this note over the last 20 years or so!)

I do not know where this difference came from, unless you have a tendency to focus on larger churches that likely provide most of your subscribers. We actually receive eight copies of CS each week, if we can get the mail carrier to deliver them in a timely fashion.
--Name Withheld

Stone, Campbell 'Would Be Amazed, Appalled, Alarmed . . .' 
(posted 3-15-06)
Why the popularity of the term “Stone-Campbell Movement” for the historic reform movement of the 19th century to bring about the unity of all Christians by the restoration of the “ancient order of things,” pertaining to the church as found in the New Testament? I have not discovered the use of that terminology among Christian churches/churches of Christ literature before the late 20th century. It does not seem to be justified anyway.

Robert Richardson, Alexander Campbell’s friend and biographer, stated that the “first phase” of the movement was by Robert and James Haldane in Scotland in the 18th century. In America, early in the 19th century, Elias Smith, Abner Jones, and James O’Kelly started movements for unity based on the restoration of New Testament practices and the name Christian only. In 1804 Rice Haggard made an eloquent appeal for all followers of Christ to unite on the name Christian.

In 1809 Thomas Campbell published the Declaration and Address, stating fully the biblical principles of unity based on the New Testament as the only rule of faith and practice—No creed but Christ, no Book but the Bible, no name but the name Christian. Two mottoes of the movement were “We are not the only Christians, but Christians only” and “The Bible only makes Christians only.” The senior Campbell’s dissertation often has been marked as the beginning of the movement to restore the New Testament Church in America.

Later Alexander Campbell, Walter Scott, Barton W. Stone, and “Raccoon” John Smith became what could be called the “four horseman” of the restoration plea. Smith (and I don’t mean “Wayne”) probably won more people to Christ on this platform than Stone. Scott no doubt won more than any other evangelist in the early movement. In his writings Scott possibly had a greater impact for the promotion of the movement than anyone else.

These men had other supporters—John Rogers, John T. Johnson, William K. Pendleton, and Robert Richardson to name only a few.

So, why glorify just the younger Campbell and Stone? Campbell wasn’t even at the 1832 gathering in Lexington when the two groups had a meeting informally uniting. The speeches that day were by Stone and Smith. In Smith’s message he concluded, “Let us then, my brethren be no longer Campbellites or Stonites, New Lights or Old Lights, or any other kind of lights, but let us come to the Bible, and to the Bible alone, as the only book in the world that can give us the light we need.”

In the light of this, we are safe to say both Stone and Campbell would be amazed, appalled, alarmed, ashamed, aghast, and would consider it anathema for their work for unity on the basis of a return to the biblical pattern, to wear their names. We in the heritage of the work of all these men, rejected the derisive term Campbellites, but now are calling ourselves Campbellstones.

Maybe some professional ecclesiastical historians think it is accurate terminology. That is their privilege. Maybe some of our “scholarly” leaders. preachers, and teachers think it is legitimate to use the terminology for the movement. But, must most faithful believers in the plea to restore the New Testament church without unscriptural denominational names yield to peer pressure to accept such dubious terminology?

It gets even worse! In recent years I have seen in the CHRISTIAN STANDARD and other journals, the term used, not just as a designation of the movement but of local congregations, “Stone-Campbell churches!”1 This is outrageous! Where has there ever been a congregation with the term, “Stone-Campbell Church” over its doors, on its outside bulletin board, on its weekly printed Lord’s Day program, or monthly newsletter? Most members of a Christian church/church of Christ would not know the reasoning behind such a term. Many would not even know the names Stone and Campbell. Some of the more illiterate might even say, “Were those men apostles?”

As Paul would say, “God forbid!”2
—Donald A. Nash
Grayson, Kentucky

1 “The More We Change,” John Wakefield, CHRISTIAN STANDARD, January 22, 2006.
2 The New International Version translates this characteristic Pauline statement eight different ways, so I couldn’t use NIV.

Words Do Hurt
(posted 3-6-06)
I just wanted to say thanks to Paul Williams concerning the illustration "Words Can Hurt" (CHRISTIAN STANDARD e-newsletter, March 5). It reminded me of harsh words not only spoken but written in my high school year book by one teacher: "Hopefully you learned something this year." Those words cut me to the heart. Thankfully there was another teacher who expressed her joy for the privilege of having me as a student in her class. It's no wonder that the latter teacher enjoyed such popularity with the students.

Paul was right on and we would all be much wiser to watch our words around our children ... in fact, even around those who surround us. Thanks, Paul!
—David Terriaco
Kernersville, North Carolina

What Constitutes a 'Small' Church?
(posted 2-23-06)
I have sensed for a number of years that folk at STANDARD think a small church is a church of 200 or fewer. Having read thousands of pages of the literature of church growth, in preparation for various Medford Jones’s Church in Action forums, a small church in that definition is a church that runs less than 100 in average Sunday worship attendance. And 10 years ago, about half the 320,000 or so churches in America fit that category. A church of 100-200 is actually a middle-sized church.
—Bill Ware

eNewsletter Is Top-Notch
(posted 1-18-06)
I receive several eNewsletters each week, but there are none that I enjoy and appreciate more than the CHRISTIAN STANDARD. Thanks for the stimulating information and thought-provoking articles. Keep up the good work.
Debi Palmer
Louisville, Kentucky
(Editor's Note: You can sign up to receive the free eNewsletter on the left side of this screen.)

Web Site Is Underutilized
(posted 1-6-06)
I serve as an administrative assistant at Harvest Prayer Ministries, Terre Haute, Indiana. One of my responsibilities is to create an e-mail list of all senior ministers and missions pastors in the Christian churches and churches of Christ for HPM President Dave Butts. Dave will use this list to send an encouragement prayer newsletter periodically to as many leaders as possible.

I began this process during mid-2005. In mid-July I had major surgery . . . the Lord provided a perfect match kidney and it was transplanted in me. I have recovered from the surgery and am ready to resume working on the project.

As the primary source for this project, I have been using the Web site www.christianchurchtoday.com. While the Web site is an excellent resource, there are some challenges I have encountered.

Here is my wish list:
• That all church leaders check out the Web site and update their church’s information.
• If a church has a Web site, list that URL address at www.christianchurchtoday.com. Also, please provide e-mail addresses for all key leadership people.
• Share pertinent local information, such as ministry needs, for others in the brotherhood.

There are a large number of congregations listed at that site whose only information is a P.O. Box/street address, perhaps a telephone number, and sometimes a staff person’s name. Few congregations have shared their Web address. Several hundred provide this kind of information, but compared with the total number of churches, it is a very small percentage.  

I want to encourage congregations who have not already done so to go to this site and update their information. It would be incredibly helpful. May I also encourage folks to share information about “what is happening in their neck of the woods.” Scripture is replete with admonitions and examples of Christian congregations sharing information with one another. What tremendous potential resources we have in this Web site!  Let’s use it to its fullest extent possible! Thank you very much!  
Jerry D. Robertson
jerryr@harvestprayer.com

Founders Considered U.S. a Christian Nation
(posted 1-3-06)
In our day, some people are unaware that the founders of our country considered the United States a Christian nation. This position was firmly upheld by our courts until the mid 1900s. John Jay, the first chief justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, wrote in February 1797: “Providence has given to our people the choice of their rulers. And it is the duty, as well as the privilege and interest of a Christian nation, to select and prefer Christians for their rulers.”
—Steve Hagerman
Grand Junction, Colorado

 

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