Join our Discussion!
Have questions or comments? If you would like to submit a question or comment about a particular sermon, bible study or other topic, please join our discussion with Pastor Gary, Pastor Pete and our church staff. Every week or so, we'll select a few questions for the Staff to respond to and post them here on our Discussion page (Questions may be edited for brevity and clarity). Thank you!
Subject: Tithes & Offerings
Is that which we give to the Lord (tithes) not just our weekly offering at church but the children we've adopted, the missions we support (on our own), giving as
prompted by the Holy Spirit? In other words our tithes are anything given to the work/love of the Lord.
| Pastor Gary |
Thank you for your question. The Bible makes a distinction between two types of giving; "tithes" and "offerings." The tithe is the first tenth which is biblically intended to support
the ministry of your local place of worship – your church (in Old Testament times the equivalent was the Temple treasury, see below). The offering is designed for special causes such as you mention,
in addition to our regular tithes. The passage below kind of spells it out. The Israelites were confronted for cheating God in both tithes and offerings, and then told to bring the
tithes to the "storehouse" for the support of the Temple. "Should people cheat God? Yet you have cheated me! But you ask, 'What do you mean? When did we ever cheat you?' You have cheated me of the tithes and offerings due to me. You are under a curse, for your whole nation has been cheating me. Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do," says the LORD Almighty, "I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won't have enough room to take it in! Try it! Let me prove it to you!" Mal 3:8-10 (NLT) Hope that helps and thanks again for your good question, Gary |
Subject: Ten Percent
Dear Pastor Gary,
Hope this doesn't sound like a silly question, but when you say we should give ten percent of our income, does that mean ten percent before or after taxes. Is there a certain
procedure I should follow through the church or should I just put it in the basket?
BG
| Pastor Pete |
Thanks for your question and taking the time to ask. The call to tithe in scripture is the giving of 10 percent back to the Lord of all that the Lord has given to you. That would
be our gross. It's not really a tithe to subtract out our largest payments and then give 10 percent out of what is left. In Malachi 3:9-11 God says, "Bring the whole tithe into
the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing
that you will not have room enough for it" I know that this is a challenge. It's an amount large enough that it takes a real act of faith and trust to give it to Him. God does say to
test Him on this, and God is faithful to honor His own word. As for the right procedure, the Church offers several opportunities to tithe. We receive tithes during Sunday Church services, tithe Boxes are located towards the rear of the sanctuary and lobby at all services, online giving on our website, and we receive tithes by mail. If you have any further questions you can always contact the Church office for assistance. God Bless You, Pastor Pete |
Subject: Question
Hi, Pastor Gary.
I have a question for you. On Sunday in your sermon, I remember you saying something to the effect that you believe that things like death, and illness etc... don't ever come from God. But only
every good and perfect thing is from above. I've been reading the book of Duetoronomy these last two weeks and I came upon this verse which struck me.
Duet.32:39-40
"No see that I, even I am He. And there is no God besides me; I kill and I make alive. I wound and I heal; Nor is there anyon who can deliver from my hand."
I was really blown away by this verse because it's not written in a passive context. It doesn't imply that if you (or the Isrealites at the time). Don't follow His ways, death and wounding will
happen as a natural consequence of your sin. It is written in an active context. What does it mean, and how does it fit in?
I'd really appreciate your perspective.
Thanks,
Celia
| Pastor Gary |
Hi Celia,
Sorry it took me a while to get back, I was tied up with weekend preparations. You ask an excellent question. Ultimately, we only know in part and trying to understand God completely is like an ant trying to comprehend the internet or nuclear physics. I believe the context of the passage you are referring to describes God's judgment upon those who turn against Him and in it God is pointing out His absolute power, that He is God and not the idols. I think that is the main point. But, even in His judgment God's wounding and even His punishment is ultimately good and perfect because it brings the world closer to the perfection that God has always intended and shortens the duration and scope of evil. I do not believe that these are things that God intends for His obedient children, or even things that He ultimately intends for anyone. If you take the whole Bible in context and look at the Garden of Eden before the fall, and look at Jesus actions on earth and on the cross, and then look at Heaven after sin is eliminated, I think you get an accurate picture of what God is like and what His intentions are. Placing Deuteronomy 32 within this context, I do not believe this passage implies that God is the author of evil, but instead is the One who works all things (including all the evil things in this world that are the human result of the fall and sin; things like disobedience to God, disease, war, poverty, injustice, death, abuse, etc...) together for good, even if it is an act of judgment. In that sense, everything God does is good and perfect and all of His judgment is ultimately passive because it is a corrective and redemptive response and reaction to human sin and the fall. It is like corrective surgery. Although the doctor did not cause the disease and the surgery may not be pleasant, it heals and saves lives. I know that's a bit wordy, but that's the way I see it. Hope to see you guys Friday for Hearts, Pastor Gary |
Subject: Trusting again by God's Grace
Pastor Gary,
Thank you for always instructing the Word of God in such a structure way. The four C's is a great way to
summarize what trully helped to cope when my former husband chose to walk out of the relationship (7 yrs ago).
It was for a better reason that only God knows it was better that way.
It trully has been a gift by the grace of God to learn to trust again by the same steps (the four C's)
Confide/Count/Connect/Continue Living my life for God. It has been so awesome that makes me wonder, when
considering to be married again (whenever it may be), the Bible says it would make a married woman concerned
with worldly matters. (1 Cor 7:34)
So how does one continue to live a life for God (where there is no dissapointments of abandonment for He is
always a healer, merciful, faithful and loving God) and transsition to a life of marriage where dissapointments
can certainly happen at any time as the husband and wife change thru the years?
Thanks for including this message in the series of Love and Marriage, it is trully challeging me. Thanks for
being considerate and thoughtful of everyone in the flock.
In His Service,
Leonelly
| Pastor Gary |
God bless you Leonelly. The Spirit of God will never lead you where the Grace of God cannot keep you.
Pastor Gary |
Subject: Lent
Hi. As we approach the Easter holiday I have interacted with a few people in my community who are participating
in the 40 day period of Lent. I wasn't sure exactly what it was so I did some research and found that it runs
from Ash Wednsday through Easter. So my questions are:
- Is Lent and Ash Wednsday mainly Cathlolic Customs?
- Does Calvary Chapel acknowledge Ash Wednsday and Lent?
I must say that I admire the idea of Lent where:
The three traditional practices to be taken up with renewed vigor during Lent are prayer (justice towards
God), fasting (justice towards self), and almsgiving (justice towards neighbor). Today, some people give up
something they enjoy, add something that will bring them closer to God, and often give the time or money spent
doing that to charitable purposes or organizations (Wikipedia, 2007).
Does Calvary Chapel ever set aside a specific day, time period, or certain circumstances where the congregation
should/would fast?
Love, Mercy, and Patience,
Jeremy M
|
Bill Kinney Small Groups Director |
Hi Jeremy,
In response to your 2 questions: The season of Lent and celebrating on Ash Wednesday is not mentioned in Scripture and is not a commandment of God. Calvary Chapel Sawgrass does not celebrate either of these as a congregation. Repentance and helping others should be an everyday practice for all believers. Fasting is an individual's decision. I hope to see you at the Men's Group tonight! Grace and Peace, Bill |
| Pastor Gary |
Hi Jeremy,
I agree with Bill, and especially that prayer, serving others (especially the poor and oppressed) and fasting should be a part of a believer's life all year long. I would only add that while we at Calvary Sawgrass do not specifically celebrate the season of "Lent" as some other Christian traditions do, we do understand the reasons and are not opposed to those who do. The Bible says: "One man considers one day more sacred than another; another man considers every day alike.
Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind." Blessings, Pastor Gary |
Subject: Confused
Hi Pastor Gary,
I know you recently clarified in one of your sermons earlier this year what the bible is referring to when it says
something along the lines of women should submit to their husbands, but husbands should respect their wives. I am
asking for reclarification because I came across 1Corinthians 11:2-13, where it says "A man is responsible to Christ,
a woman is responsible to her husband." It also mentions women should cover their head (which I'm wondering if that
is hair?) during worship, and "a man should not wear anything on his head when worshiping, for man is God's glory,
made in God's own image, but woman is the glory of man." It goes on to say a verse below that, "And man was not made
for woman's benefit, but woman was made for man. So a woman should wear a covering on her head as a sign of authory
because the angels are watching." Anyway, what I'm trying to get at is that I feel that there is some sort of "rank"
between women and men in this passage, and I'm a bit baffled, confused and, I believe, misunderstanding this.
Thanks in advance!
|
Bill Kinney Small Groups Director |
Hi Crystal,
My name is Bill Kinney, Dir. of Small Groups at C.C.S. Pastor Gary asked me to respond to your email concerning 1 Cor. Ch. 11. Christ is the head of the church as its Savior and Lord. Men have authority over women in the basic order of creation. As man carries authority delegated to him by God, so woman carries authority delegated to her by God through her husband (Gen. 2:9-23; 1 Tim. 2:11-23). However, priority does not imply inferiority, for Paul made it clear in 1 Cor. 11:11-12, that there is a partnership as well as headship in God's creation. The man and the woman are spiritually one in the Lord and one cannot do without the other. All believers, male and female are equal in the Lord and complimentary in the Lord's work. Their roles are different in function and relationships, not in spiritualism or importance (Gal. 3:28). The important thing is the submission of the heart to the Lord and the public revealing of obedience to God's order. The covering of a woman's head was a local custom at Corinth, not a universal law of God. "Man looks at the outward appearances, but God looks at the heart (1 Sam. 16:7)." To read about instructions for husbands and wives, read Eph. 5:22-33; Col. 3:18-19; and 1 Pet. 3:1-7. I hope this has been a help to you. Grace & Peace, Bill |
Subject: Membership
I received the Lord Jesus as my savior and I also did Baptism some years ago. I was attending New Testament Baptist
Church. My sister and I have been attending Calvary Chapel for some time now. I really enjoy coming to this church.
What Do I have to do to become a member of Calvary Chapel?
| Pastor Gary |
We do not have a formal membership, but we do believe in a spiritual membership. Just keep coming and get involved
as an "organic" part of the body. We also have a Welcome Class twice a year to introduce new people to CCS.
Blessings, Pastor Gary |
Subject: Orphans
I was just wondering....
Why couldn't the church pick up some children from an orphanage and bring them to church on Sundays?
This would probably be fun for the children and would give an opportunity for the people in the congregation to meet
them in person. It would be a lot harder for someone to turn their backs on a real child than it would be a picture
or just the age and first name of a child.
Just a thought.
| Pastor Gary |
Great question. Are you volunteering? People sometimes forget that when they say "the church" that "the church"
is you.
Love and Blessings, Pastor Gary |
Subject: Wondering
Pastor Gary,
How did it go with the other pastors you were addressing this past Thursday? I'm hoping you felt the peace of God and
were led by the spirit. Thank you for all you and Kathy do to open your arms to those who bless us, like Rev. Simon.
I'm so grateful to have "touched" another part of the world from my own backyard.
Blessings,
Donna
| Pastor Gary |
Thank you for asking. The pastor's were all very receptive and respectful, though none to date have showed interest
in joining us for the vision trip to Africa or adopting a community of their own yet. Please keep praying that God
will touch the hearts of pastor's and churches across America to take part in this great cause for the glory of God
and the honor of Jesus Christ.
Thank you for helping us to reach our world for Jesus Christ, Pastor Gary |
Subject: Jan 7th Sermon 2 cents worth(actually 25 cents)
Since "The Extreme Baptism" Nov.5th, I have been using more Scriptural sources in teaching...it is tricky because
of Church & State rulings but I manage due to the fact that I do teach Psychology and Ethics and as long as I am
careful of the wording and cognate of student beliefs I am fine. I also teach Family Values and Coping with Stress.
Today's sermon Love & Marriage (45 years Feb.23rd!) was very informative and accurate, as usual. CONFRONT & not
avoid was especially helpful...due to LOTS of childhood conflict and abuse I have spent the better part of my life
AVOIDING any possible confrontations whether I was right or not. I used appeasement & extreme need for approval. My
"waterloo" turning point was having to confront the DEVIL himself to save my son (literally) ... after going through
that experience 4 years ago and then coming to Calvary Church at my SON'S request cause it had helped him in the
Recovery program, I was led by God in a "process of forgiveness" of my past that led to, and I quote you," this has
been the most turbulent the ocean has ever been for our Baptisms!" I actually had my first Panic attack in 8 years
when I saw MEN being thrown by the waves and started calling out DAVID! My son came right in, clothes, wallet and all
and held me tight! (Laughing, of course) and it only took 6 MEN to Baptize me...one of the best moments in my life,
Gary. You also preach like I teach...using humor, analogies and personal examples backed by Scripture. The part about
keeping stress IN was very accurate. It causes an elevation of blood pressure (esp. in males) an excess of stomach
acid flowing into the stomach in addition to what it usually uses and drops the immune systems effectiveness. Stress
affects men and women quite differently and as to WHAT they stress about. LOVE, RESPECT, AND A SENSE OF HUMOR IS VITAL
TO MARRIAGE LONGEVITY.
Mrs. B.
| Pastor Gary | Dear Mrs. B. Thanks for the post and the advice. So glad to hear about how God is at work in your life. Praise the Lord! |
Subject: Minnie's song request
For the person that requested the worship team keep the songs long enough for them to be able to learn the
words, I would be more than happy to give them a free CD with the words to any/all of the songs they want to learn.
Send your request by email.
Hope this helps?
Bill
Subject: Update
Dear Pastor Gary,
Good afternoon. I wanted to write you to give you and everyone at Calvary Sawgrass an update and share the wonderful
news. Our 3 year old daughter, Katie, underwent an operation in November 2005 to correct a problem with her kidneys.
That surgery failed and she had an even more extensive operation in April 2006, which left her in the hospital for 5
long days. Back in May, I wrote you an email expressing our gratitude to everyone at Calvary Sawgrass. During this
tough time we really leaned on everyone there, but most of all we leaned on God. We were delivered some wonderful
news last Friday from the doctors at Miami Children's Hospital. Katie had a follow-up test to check on her kidneys
and we were told that she no longer suffers from her kidney problems. Finally, she can now live a normal and healthy
life. No more medicines, tests and hospital visits! I just wanted to thank the Lord and all of you at Calvary
Sawgrass once again for all of your support through this tough time.
God Bless,
Tammi Kilbury
| Pastor Gary | Thank You for sharing the wonderful news with us! |
Subject: Trinity
My husband goes to a Jehovah's Witness hall. He says Calvary [where I go] believes that God, Jesus and the Holy
Spirit are all the 'same person and that's what Calvary believes. Is that what Calvary believes? Please explain
so I understand and can explain it to my husband.
Thanks, Barb
| Pastor Gary |
Hi Barb, Christians for 2,000 years have believed in the Trinity, God in three persons, and so do we. The idea of the Trinity is not that the Father, Son and Holy Spirit are each the "same person" but rather that they are three distinct personalities with one divine Essence. It is a mystery, but we can see the Trinity in action together at creation and at Jesus baptism, for example: "Then God said, 'Let Us make people in Our image, to be like Ourselves.'" Gen 1:26 (NLT) "After His baptism, as Jesus came up out of the water, the heavens were opened and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and settling on Him. And a voice from heaven said, "This is my beloved Son, and I am fully pleased with Him." Matt 3:16-17 (NLT) There are many scripture verses that refer to the Holy Spirit as God. Here are two examples: "The earth was empty, a formless mass cloaked in darkness. And the Spirit of God was hovering over its surface." Gen 1:2 (NLT) "The Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life." Job 33:4 (NLT) There are also many verses that refer to Jesus as God. Here are three examples: "Your attitude should be the same that Christ Jesus had. Though he was God, he did not demand and cling to his rights as God." Phil 2:5-6 (NLT) "We look forward to that wonderful event when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed." Titus 2:13 (NLT) "Jesus said to Thomas 'Put your finger here and see my hands. Put your hand into the wound in my side. Don't be faithless any longer. Believe!' 'My Lord and my God!' Thomas exclaimed." John 20:27-28 (NLT) Of course, we all believe that the Father is God. The difference between the Jehovah Witness organization and all other Christians is that Jehovah Witnesses do not believe that Jesus is God, equally eternal and present with the Father and the Holy Spirit. Some compare the Trinity to water - it can manifest in three forms; liquid, gas and solid, but it is all still water. I don't think we will ever fully understand a Being like God, but I am not sure we are supposed to. However, I think it is pretty cool that God is Three Persons because it tells me that God is really into beautiful and loving relationships and He invites us to join with Him in the Divine one He already enjoys. Pretty amazing if you ask me. Hope that Helps, Pastor Gary |
Subject: Hi!! I have a request!
Hey!
It's Nick,
Well from what I understand the church's youth won't be going to any events this year such as the Night of Joy. Is there anyone who could help with directing things if it were to be done without official slips of a "field trip" type of thing from the church? Thanks
Nick
|
Steve McCormick Youth Director |
Hey Nick, You may ask any of the leaders if they are going? Melissa and I are not planning on attending the event. I also know that most of the female leaders are busy organizing the Revolve event for the young ladies. If you can find a leader who isn't busy with anything else at the time and they want to go, then have fun! Other than that, dude. I don't know what to tell ya! BTW check your messages on the Forum. I did respond (finally) to your Holy Spirit question. Let me know if there is anything else I can help you with! Thanks, Steve |
Subject: Worship
I have come back to the church from being gone for a number of years. I am so happy to some familiar faces and to receive the love and kindness. I have been moved the past few weeks with Pastor Gary's message.
My concern is that I have been here for a few months and my family and I are still not familiar with the worship songs. If I can please suggest that when doing new songs, if possible keep at least one song for a few weeks so that we may get to know the songs. Don't get me wrong the songs are nice but it's hard to learn them if we don't get a chance to hear them enough. Coming from the old church, the entire congregation new all the songs and I'm just noticing that now not too many people are singing like before. I do miss some of the old songs, I know that it's a different time but it would still be nice to hear an oldie every once in awhile.
Thank your for giving me the opportunity to express my thoughts.
With all my love!
| Pastor Gary |
Thanks Minnie, I will fw your comments to the worship team! Gary |
Subject: Heart and Vision Messages
Dear Pastor Gary,
I wanted to take the time to thank you for your clarification of your "3.0 Series" message. "Thank you!"
I was not one to complain or be pulled in a different direction with "my" walk with the Lord, but I was a bit confused during the series. Nor did it change my opinion/point of view of Calvary's ministry direction.
However, your clarification helped me completely understand "why certain topics/issues were addressed the ways there were" and helped me a great deal! I'm sure many members feel the same. I believe you narrowed down the entire 3.0 series when you said "Change is good - if we're still doing the same thing 10 years from now, we're doing something wrong. I agree completely! You're "See-Saw" theory was a great point (as to "which side of the see-saw would be heavier?" That hit home and I thank you for sparking a light (if I may) in me and my spiritual walk with Jesus.
Personally, I think you should send a copy of Sunday's service to all of your members on record (for those who missed the service) so that they too can have the opportunity to better understand the 3.0 series. Or if this is not feasible, maybe make them all aware of the Tape/CD and strongly encourage them to listen to it or via the internet.
Well, just wanted to share my thoughts and appreciation for your effort in clearing up many confusion; even to those members who did not speak up, like me :o)
Have a great day and may God Bless you and your family.
| Pastor Gary | Thank you for your kind words! |
Subject: Does God really mean what He says?
I used to believe that.
I've even taught that concept to my kids...
"If God went so far as to put it in writing,
He must be serious about it" I would say.
But now I'm not sure...
The specter of divorce looms over our house, I pray, the kids pray with no answers, the specter just keeps tightening his grip. My wife seeks counsel from bible reading, communion eating, Christ confessing Christian friends who not only condone but advocate divorce as an acceptable answer to marital problems.
As anxiety increases I watch the destruction settling into my home and wonder if God really meant what He said or have I been duped?
Can anyone explain this to a Dad who's giving up?
| Pastor Denny |
Dear Friend, It's really not that unusual to have some doubt from time to time. If you're a thinking person at all, and I believe you are or you wouldn't be seeking advice, then chances are that you will have some questions, issues, concerns, uncertainties, hesitations, or doubts. The truth is that the spiritual virus (doubt) has been going around Christian circles for centuries. In fact, we could divide Christians into three groups: 1) Those who have doubted; 2) Those who haven't doubted yet but who will; and 3) Those who are brain dead! Unfortunately we are all carriers of the virus to some degree. The big question is, How can we prevent that virus from turning into a dangerous disease that ultimately ravages our faith. Let me offer some words of encouragement: you can have a strong faith and still have some doubts. It has been said that struggling with God over the issues of life doesn't show a lack of faith--that is faith! You really can have a strong faith and still have some doubts. It's been said that we should believe simply...that is, have the pure faith of a child...but shouldn't just simply believe. That's because the chances are that someone, sometime, somewhere is going to challenge your faith. It appears that your wife is in your life for this very reason. Not knowing why you believe what you believe makes you especially susceptible to the doubt virus right now in life. If you think your faith, based on what God has said, offers blanket protection from life's turbulence, you're going to develop uncertainties of doubt when difficult times such as this continue to beset you. Let me suggest that you build up your faith by exercising it. Allow God to use your troubled marriage as a test of your character and commitment. He is in control...still on the throne of the universe...and He has your best interest at heart, even when your spouse may not! God knows your limitations and He will not give you more than you can handle. This means that He must really trust you right now with what you are facing! So, learn by doing and make the daily decision to submit your life to Him and enthusiastically press the envelope of faith like King David, who said, Taste and see for yourself that the Lord is good! We do this by keeping the proper perspective. You may not have the answer to your marriage and why those around your wife would be pushing for divorce, but I have learned over 35 years of marriage that many times I am the one who needs a dose of antibiotics to correct my thinking and restore my faith in a God who knows all and is intimately involved in my marriage. You may not have all the answers to your relationship problem(s), but the answers you do have regarding your faith in times past should point you unmistakably toward God as being real, as being dependable, and as being a Father who loves you. That's not an irrational faith. Instead, that's how we deal with our doubts responsibly by making an informed decision to suspend judgment for a while. I like to conclude in my life, from all the available evidence, that god can be trusted with my problems and that therefore it's permissible to take a wait-and-see attitude toward a personal hassles like a sour marriage. You may not have the answer right now for your wife's actions and what role you may have played in making this relationship unhealthy, but you know the ONE who does! I would be happy to meet with you and discuss your concerns in depth. I see couples everyday with challenges like yours and the Spirit of God can heal the wounds, but frequently it starts with you as the husband. Maybe you should seek counseling for yourself and set an example for her to follow by your making an appointment and going alone if necessary. Please let me know if I can help...my cell phone is 954.600.3436. Blessings, Pastor Denny www.lifemgt.net 954.GOD.LOVES (463.5683) |
Subject: What To Teach New Believers
Pastor Gary,
My husband and I love coming to church. God answered our prayers in finding a place where we'd both feel comfortable. My husband grew up Catholic and myself Baptist. However, years ago I began to question denominations and their purpose. Like most "non-denominational" members I decided I just want to follow Christ without any label. I'm just a Christian. I felt that the labels divide us. Anyway, we are both comfortable and uncomfortable (in a good way via conviction) and plan to continue growing with Calvary Chapel Sawgrass for as long as the Lord continues to guide us to you each week to hear you deliver His word. You are so on point. You provoke and challenge us and at the same time make us feel that you are like us... and it's ok to "mess" up, that we should all just be trying to follow Christ. I so want to do that.
I really felt moved to share what I'm about to share with you BUT I don't know why. However, it keeps coming back to me.
Sunday, you talked about the 3 things the church usually teaches new believers and how the church (we) should consider adding one more...I think it was follow Christ.
Well, I believe that those three things (read the bible everyday, pray (daily) or a lot, and go to church regularly)... are what we need in order to be able to follow Christ. It helps us to get to know him, feel close to Him, and trust Him to even attempt to try and follow Him. I grew up in the church and only within the last few years have I truly begun to "know" Christ. I was living off of what I "heard." A few years back I learned about Bible Study Fellowship and it has literally changed my life. I'm learning the Bible and how to apply it to my life and I'M LOVING IT. My whole outlook on life and how to handle situations on a daily basis is different. So, the bible is a powerful tool. And going to church to be around like minded believers is powerful and useful too. What can I say about praying... well, it just opens up my heart to Christ and presents an opportunity for me to hear from Him. So, again I don't why I'm telling you this other than to say that I think your "Fourth" principle really comes from the other three.
Please keep up the good work because I see such growth in my husband and it makes my heart happy. We love going to church and we love your creativity and "border-line" wit that keeps us coming back for more like a favorite TV show. We even stay until the end.
Be blessed and keep up the GREAT work.
| Pastor Gary |
Dear Friends, Thank you for joining our discussion about God and our lives for Him. My wife and other friends completed BSF and loved it too; what a great ministry to ground people in the Word of God. And yes, I do agree that any thing we "DO" for Christ must flow from the inspiration of His Spirit and His Word in our lives, so thank you for the input. By the way, the fourth follow-up principle I mentioned that I think we ought to consider as a regular part of "new believer" training was "do something good for a poor or needy person every day." We tell new Christians to read their Bibles every day (and we should), to pray every day (also good), and to go to church (also essential). I suggested adding "do something good for a poor or needy person every day" as a way of obeying the Great Commandment of the Bible and to be Good Samaritans who "let our light so shine before men that they might see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:16) It seems to me that we are so strong on the individual and personal side of our own relationship with God and could use added emphasis on "loving our neighbor as ourselves" as well. I think often of the incredible poverty and hunger and need all around the world today, and about our own abundance and blessing and the things that Jesus said about the Greatest Commandment of all, the priority of love: God bless you, Pastor Gary |
Subject: Christianity 3.0
Pastor Gary,
I just want to say thank you for your series on Christianity 3.0. It takes a lot of courage to do what you are doing because as a human being we all have a tendency in us to go with the current, not against it and in my opinion what you are doing is going back to the Christian roots as they were taught by Jesus himself and not by the dogmas and accessories of religion that is taught in many places today.
I know there will be people with fear because they think you are going the wrong way, and may be some leave our church because of it. It is my opinion that what you are doing is very nurturing and challenging to many of us and if we follow these teachings that God put in your heart on this area we will all to be blessed with a true revival in our lives.
Jesus was persecuted and killed by the religious guys of his time; those that were suppose to be the God teachers for the world. On the other side, I see Jesus with those in need and rejected by "the religion" because of an illness or their lifestyles. It is really very sad to see how the masquerade keep people just going with the current and not as it is taught in the Bible. Please keep going this way and never step back from this way of approaching Christianity again; it is very refreshing.
Also I want to give thanks to Pastor Pete because he is really a blessing to me, his testimony reminds me some of my years hanging out in Puerto Rico and it is also a great blessing hearing how our God has being working in his life.
Thank you also to Bill for your support to me as a servant leader and to Kathy for allowing me make some noise with Latin beats in the band. It is really a great pleasure to be with you all in CCS.
Your brother and supporter,
Moises
| Pastor Gary | Knowing that you have had many years in church ministry and seen many things come and go, this means a lot to me. Thank you so much for the encouragement. |
Subject: As our Pastors, you're our guide - to Follow Jesus!
Dear Pastor Gary,
The messages that you and Pastor Pete have delivered have been very real! We can not ask for any more real life issues to be addressed, you have covered them! and very well.
There is always going to be a controversial area, that few or many wouldn't even comment on. I believe that some people honor God with their lips and their hearts are far from Him. They let go of the commands of God and are holding on to the tradition of men!
It's great to address areas even if they create criticism-Jesus would probably say-how else can you trully care for 'all' in the flock?. Otherwise, people get too used to the easy-it's-always-the-same type of message. They don't challenge themselves for Jesus, nor follow Him!
Thanks
Leonelly
| Pastor Gary |
Thank you for your feedback Leonelly. I think it is very important for Christians to communicate often and clearly with one another, try to remain open-minded, and above all to search the scriptures constantly to test what we believe, especially when we are confronted with what sounds to us like a new teaching. I need to do that and I encourage everyone to do the same. No one should take my messages or the messages of any teacher as final truth. We must examine everything in the full light of God's Word, and be like the Berean's of the Bible: God bless you as you continue to seek after Him, Pastor Gary |
Subject: Calvary Sawgrass Vision
No question, just comments.
I've seen powerful changes of insight at Calvary Sawgrass which I both commend and encourage. Your focus is clear, and you strike chords in my soul.
I know there has been objection to your message, and there are those who oppose the direction you are moving. I felt I should offer you my support to help counter those who would engender doubt and recrimination. Those who condemn sinners, for whatever reason, miss the message you deliver. Sinners may condemn themselves by thought or deed, but Christians should offer love and guidance for salvation.
I admire the courage and conviction, the love and guidance that I find at Calvary Sawgrass. You are a valuable influence on me, my family, and our community. I feel Jesus at work here.
Thank you.
Stan
| Pastor Gary | Thank you Stan - it is so refreshing to hear words of encouragement in what sometimes feels like a sea of criticism. Thank you. |
Subject: World Vision Sponsorship
Pastor Gary,
We just wrote out a graduation card to our nephew in California. We were searching for a meaningful way to honor his achievement beyond the usual gift or check, so we prayed about it.
The Lord reminded me of Saoli, our World Vision child in Kenya. It became clear what to do at that point. My wife and I dedicated three months of our sponsorship ($100) to our nephew as his graduation gift.
We wanted to share this with you as a unique way to support sponsorship at large and thought that you may want to share this approach with those who join us in World Vision.
God bless you and the staff at Calvary,
Bob & Donna Ziel - Paducah, KY
(Parents of Ryan & Laura Ziel and grandparents of Ella Ziel)
| Pastor Gary |
What an example and such a simple and powerful way to share your faith and to resist the lie that "just one more thing" in the land of plenty will make us better and happier people! Way to go! "Pure and lasting religion in the sight of God our Father means that we must care for orphans and widows in their troubles, and refuse to let the world corrupt us." James 1:27 (NLT) |
Subject: Christianity 3.0
Pastor Gary,
We just wanted to send you a note of encouragement as you bravely tread where most Christian Pastors are afraid to go. We have been troubled, enlightened and encouraged by the series. It has challenged us intellectually and spiritually. Some of it has been hard to process, but most of it is so right on target!
Over the years we have felt very much in the minority for being Christians who just cannot get on board with the Republican agenda. It just seems that while they hold true to many Christian beliefs, they have lost the compassion of Christ and have made Jesus into a political figure head. It seems to have begun in 80's with the formation of the Christian Coalition in an effort to solidify the election of Christian leaders for the country. Did we forget that this country was founded by and has since been lead by many Christian men and women? Why and when did it become acceptable to use their faith as a political asset? It's shameful and it's costing souls. So many people are disgusted by the unholy marriage of politics and religion, that they don't want to hear about the real Jesus anymore. By the way, isn't that why America was founded....to separate the two?
So even though its been difficult to watch many of our family members leave the church as they realize that cannot find agreement with you, we faithfully believe that God is building something new and great in this place and that you are on the right track.
We've been attending Calvary Sawgrass for 4 years now and we have never seen you more impassioned with the Holy Spirit. It's contagious. So, know that we keep you and our church in constant prayer as we travel alongside you on this exciting road!
Subject: No More Outsiders
Dear Pastor Gary,
I was moved to say the least at your sermon today entitled, "No More Outsiders." I found it informative and convicting and certainly, I will use it as an impetus for a change in my life. If I could just encourage you, pastor, as I heard Jon Courson today say that we are all called to be leaders in one way or another. He spoke about the men of Isachar in I Chronicles 12:32. They were REAL leaders because they had an understanding of the times as the bible puts it. Pastor Courson said it is mandatory that a good leader have a viable understanding of the times and this point is non-negotiable. You, Pastor Gary, are a great leader and you have a profound understanding of the times, this time and these messages are so crucial for us, your congregation as well as Christians everywhere. I wish more followers of Christ were receiving the word God is bringing forth through your teachings. Pastor Gary, because of this truth God has given you, I believe you will need prayer, I know the enemy will attack, because what you are teaching is so relevant. I will stay in prayer for you and please be encouraged, for you are equipping us with valuable tools of discernment. We too, need to be like the men of Isachar, able to discern as you have indicated, the current movements of God.
Thank you for obeying the Lord in this, for you have blessed many.
In Christ,
April Collado
Subject: Awesome Sermon
"MAD PROPS" to last Sunday's sermon Pastor Gary. It was awesome. May the Lord continue to speak to you so that you can keep delivering such wonderful messages. God bless you and your family.
Maria
| Pastor Gary |
Wow! Thanks so much to all of you for the encouragement. I think sometimes people forget that we pastor's are just people too, and the affirmation is
so encouraging. Thank you, thank you, thank you! |
Subject: Heresy?
Dear Pastor Gary,
As the content of the current series is continuously answering questions about the upgrade to Christianity 3.0, another one pops into my mind. Christ called us and captured our lives; He is our Savior and the essence to our existence. It's been less than a year for me. My big question is, "How do we know that the 3.0 version upgrade is not falling into heresy?" "How can we upgrade and avoid it becoming a heresy?"
When you spoke about Brickianity versus Christianity, is that what you meant? Heresies vs. in-touch-with-reality-Christian-believers using the trampoline to build the flexible foundation instead of the blocks? Maybe I missed the point.
A Traveling-Christian Believer
| Pastor Gary: |
Dear Friend,
Great question! Yes, Jesus has captured our lives and He is our Savior and the essence of our existence. In my mind, the whole 3.0 upgrade is really just an upgrade to living more and more like Jesus. It is not enough just to talk about Jesus, sing about Him and tell everyone how much we believe in Him. We should do these things, but the heart of the 3.0 upgrade is to move beyond just these things and to actually start behaving like Jesus - asking the question WWJD in the new multi-cultural, global, fully-integrated, borderless and yet very impoverished 3.0 world and then following Him! I believe that anything less than that would be a Christian heresy. In fact, that is the point of the trampoline analogy - it's not just about what we believe (the springs that propel us into action); it's about how we join with Jesus in following His example and living His exciting life and the pure joy of simply jumping with Jesus. Brickianity is the opposite - it does not emphasize living, it represents Christianity as a lifeless wall and emphasizes simply agreeing with all the "right" things to be inside the wall, or disagreeing and being outside the wall. It also begins to fall apart once one of the bricks in the wall is challenged or discussed, and asks Christians to fight and battle to defend the bricks, hold up the bricks, replace the bricks, live for the bricks - rather than to love and jump and live like Jesus. Our beliefs are important. But the essentials that I believe and all Christians believe have long been settled in statements like the Nicene Creed. (The Nicene Creed was drafted in @ 300 AD, see below). But I do not believe the primary question the world is asking of us today is "What do you believe?" They already know what we believe. The real question they are asking today is "Do I want to be like you?" Until we let Jesus shine out of our lives in all His beauty and love and radiance and glory, were only building the wall. Jesus put it well: "You search the Scriptures because you believe they give you eternal life. But the Scriptures point to Me! Yet you refuse to come to Me so that I can give you this eternal life." John 5:39-40 (NLT)
The Nicene Creed |
Subject: Flexible or Solid Foundation?
Dear Pastor Gary:
I have been visiting your church and have found your sermon on Christianity 3.0 both interesting and disturbing. I can tell you're searching for truth and common sense in the Christian
walk (so am I) and I do appreciate your work and heart in the matter. When you explained how we are to build on a flexible foundation, however, I must take exception...
When you say foundation, what foundation are you talking about: the foundation of Christ or the foundation of man? If you're talking about the foundation of man, then it's WORSE than
flexible, it's a downright broken bridge (like the pictures in your presentation). Without the foundation of Christ and the Cross we have nothing. (There is nothing 'flexible' in what
Christ did.) All of our good works (Feeding Children, being like Oprah) mean nothing if it's done to promote ourselves to God and show him how good we are. (Martin Luther made some nail
marks on a door over that one.) It is the Foundation of Christ as given to us by God Himself that saves us. There is nothing flexible in His plan.
Now, if you're trying to fight the legalist who is ready to stone the first 'hippie' they see with long hair, I agree. Jesus took issue with the church leaders who were going to stone the
woman caught in adultery. We fail because of our flexible ways. ("I think I'll stone that guy. He doesn't believe in my doctrine".) God saves because of his non-flexible ways. He is good.
He is not flexible on that. If we beg Jesus to save us, He will save us. He is not flexible on that.
As you spoke, I found all the scriptures regarding foundation that I could find. They're all based on God, not us or what we do. And they're all FIRM FOUNDATONS. Ps 102.25, IS 28:16,
Jer 10:12, Mt 7:25, Lk 14:29, Rom 15:20, 1Cor 3:10, 1Cor 3:11, Eph 2:20, 1Tm 3:15, 2Tm 2:19, Heb 1:10, Heb 6:1, Heb 8;6.
Why not do works as a way of saying thank you to Christ as opposed to showing God that we made a decision to be Good Christians? We never made the decision. God called us.
Again Pastor, it's easy for an amateur bible reader to walk in, sit back in the chair your organization provides by Gods grace and critique a sermon from a dedicated man of God such as
you. I do not mean to come across in any negative fashion to you. However your sermon series appears to be addressing the issue of the fine line between Gods grace and mans responsibility.
That's where my search is too, because I fail constantly.
Winston Churchill made an interesting comment: 'Free Will and Predestination are one in the same. The decisions we make are the ones that have been predestined for us."
In Christ,
John
| Pastor Gary: |
Dear John, Thanks for joining the discussion! I appreciate your input and think it is every Christian's job to think critically and biblically. I also must admit, when you say my message was both interesting and disturbing to you, I think "bulls-eye," "high-five," "hurray"! Sometimes we need to be disturbed out of our complacency in order to re-think our faith and re-think our traditions, and Jesus was a Master Disturber. I am also glad to hear you are still searching for truth and learning, as am I. Far too many Christians, and especially too many pastors, have stopped searching for truth and opted instead for the comfortable rut of routine and tradition. A rut is nothing more than a shallow grave and once we have all the answers, it's over. You raise some good questions about the "foundation" - I feel I have addressed those in a previous reply (see my reply to April, subject: Our Foundation). I would agree with you that there are essentials that Christians should not be flexible on: things like salvation through Christ alone, the deity and humanity of Christ, the reality of sin in the world, the actual return of Jesus Christ and the final judgment, etc... These are the basic and settled essentials that I affirm with all other Christians and are stated in the great creeds of the church (see the Nicene Creed and the Apostles Creed, for example). Regarding the issue of faith versus works; to God and in the Bible they are not enemies. The truth is we need both and they both meet seamlessly in the life of a true follower of Jesus Christ. No, we do not offer good works as a way to promote ourselves to God or earn our salvation; we rely on God's grace. But we also do good works as something far more essential and integral to our faith than just saying "thank you" to Jesus. Faith has been emphasized at the expense of truly FOLLOWING Jesus for the past 500 years as a reaction to the abuses of the medieval church. This was necessary in the 2.0 world but is not the key issue for Christians today. We need more Christians today who actually live like Jesus lived and this is the "3.0 Upgrade" that many of us are trying to get across. The most common expression that Jesus used to call people to be his disciples was "Follow Me." I think the real question we need to be asking ourselves today is what does it mean to follow Jesus in the 3.0 world? Where would Jesus be and what would Jesus be doing in our world today? The Churchill quote is interesting, but I think that God's pre-destination is based on His foreknowledge of our free-will choices ("Those God foreknew He also predestined..." - Romans 8:29). That means the ball is still in your (our) court. I like the scriptures you researched on "FOUNDATION," but did you notice that 1 Timothy 3:15 says that part of God's foundation IS based on man and what we do: "God's household, which is the church of the living God, is the pillar and foundation of the truth." 1 Tim 3:15 (NIV) |
Subject: Our Foundation
Dear Pastor,
I wanted to get some clarification on your sermon "Building on a Flexible Foundation". In the beginning of your sermon it seemed that you were saying that everyone's interpretation of the
Bible is going to be flawed, so we should not interpret the Bible. I agree that we are not perfect and our interpretations are fallible, but does that mean we shouldn't interpret the
Bible? That is like having a work of art that is of immeasurable beauty, but since none of us can fully appreciate the beauty we cover it with a sheet and don't look at it anymore. The
beauty is there, but what use is it if we cannot appreciate/interpret it?
I completely agree that we are to be led of the Spirit, receive counsel from Godly people, and be as much like Jesus (the Word made flesh - our foundation), but all of these things need to
be checked against the Word. Sometimes people feel they are hearing from the Spirit, when if they would check what they are hearing against the Word they would realize it is not the Spirit
speaking, because God does not contradict himself. Again, there can be very well-meaning Christians, but how can they give Godly counsel if it is not based in the Word?
If you make your foundation the Word of God, and you follow it, then you will, just by following the Word, be led of the Spirit and counseled by others. The Spirit teaches us
(1 John 2:27) and we show Jesus our love by following his commandments (documented in the Bible) (John 14:15)but with the guidance of
the Holy Spirit to lead us into truth (John 14:17).
In a world where everything is relative and where we are taught there are no absolute truths, we need the "solid" foundation of the Word that teaches us that God is the same yesterday,
today, and forever - but by following the Word we learn that we must be flexible and have a fluid faith led by the Spirit, but again, based on solid truths that do not change. As Chuck
Smith says, "Blessed are the flexible for they will not be broken".
I hope I was able to explain my thoughts. Thank you for your time.
Respectfully,
April
| Pastor Gary: |
Dear April,
Thank you for a very intelligent and well written question. I love your analogy of the Bible - "a work of art that is of immeasurable beauty..." I couldn't agree more. And by all
means, I believe we should look at it, read it, study it, appreciate it, admire it, memorize it, interpret it and do it. And of course, I agree with you that we should use the Bible
as a measuring rod to see if we are heading in the right direction. God does not contradict His Word, but He often sheds new light on His Word in changing times, and understanding
the new light and embracing it requires that we build on a flexible foundation. By using the title "Building on a Flexible Foundation" I was playing on words to make us re-think the more popular but less realistic and less reliable cliché of "Building on a Solid Foundation," which implies an unchanging foundation. I do believe our interpretations of the Bible as well as our understanding of God will always be incomplete, but we should interpret the Bible anyway, in fact we must. The important point I think we need to recognize is that while God and His Word is infallible and unchanging, we are always fallible and interpreting and changing. I would opt for a stronger foundation than just our interpretations, and hold together all four corners of a well-balanced and flexible foundation: the Word of God, the Spirit of God, the People of God and the Son of God. Leaning on any one of these legs alone can be like leaning on a twisted ankle, and lead us down the wrong path, especially during changing times. There are times when we temporarily need to lean on another leg, until all the legs are healthy again and can hold our full weight. Looking at one such momentous occasion when the earth shook under the church, the council of Jerusalem in Acts 15, I can see how God builds on a strong and flexible foundation with multiple corners and multiple legs. The apostles and leaders of that church had to answer the question of what to do with the Gentile believers. Until that time, Jesus was thought of basically as the Jewish Messiah and an outgrowth of the Jewish religion. Many thought that Jesus came for the Jews only. Gentile converts were a novelty at first and many expected that they first ought to become Jews, which really seemed pretty logical. Of course, Paul had a radical upgrade from God to that idea, but he brought the issue to the leaders in Jerusalem. What did they have to go on as they moved forward in a critical and ever-changing environment? The leaders met together, prayed together, reasoned together, discussed their interpretations of the scriptures together, talked about their experiences with God together and thought about Jesus together. In the end, this was their interpretation: "It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us not to burden you with anything beyond the following requirements..." (Acts 15:28). Did you notice what they said guided their decision that ultimately shifted the foundation of our faith? They said it "seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us..." I love their honesty and their sincerity and their humility and their sense of adventure. They knew they were empowered by Jesus to make judgments that would guide the church in changing times and they partnered with one another and with Jesus in the journey. As a result, the church upgraded and today we don't have to go to synagogue, celebrate the Jewish holy days, men don't need to become circumcised, wear yarmulkes, and we do not need to convert to Judaism to follow Jesus. And why? Because they realized they had to interpret the meaning and the message of Jesus and they built upon all four corners of the flexible foundation of the Word of God, the Spirit of God, the People of God and the Son of God. There have been many such issues and times that have required the church to interpret the will of God, and every time of change in the history of the church that has been navigated successfully has been built upon these four corners and moved us all forward as a church. I think we are in one of those exciting times now, and the discussion is just getting started! |
Subject: Thank You!
Dear Pastor Gary,
My family and I would like to thank all of you for your prayers for our 2 year old daughter Katie. Back in Nov. 2005, Katie had an operation to correct a problem with her kidneys. We
were given an 80% chance of success, but unfortunately she fell in the 20% range. She went back in for an even more involved and intense surgery in April which left her in the hospital
for 5 days. The doctors have given us a 90% success rate for this one, so we are praying that it works. We will find out the results in June. My family and I were there on Easter,
just 3 days before her operation, and met with several of your church employees and members. Everyone was so concerned and added us to their prayer lists. We felt so blessed that day
that we wanted to spread the fortune and ended up sponsoring a child from Kenya in our childrens' names. Since then, we have accepted a 9 year old boy named Gilbert into our family.
And he shares the same birth date as Katie, just a different year! God meant for us to take care of him! I just wanted to take a moment to say thank you. Calvary Chapel Sawgrass has
a wonderful and loving group of members & employees that I can't thank enough.
God Bless All Of You!!!
Tammi Kilbury
| Pastor Gary: | Thank you for sharing the good news with us Tammi! We will be praying for Katie and may God bless you for opening your heart to another child! |
Subject: Helping the World's Poor
First, I just wanted to say how awesome I think your new series on Christianity 3.0 is. I know this series has opened my eyes and my heart like I have never experienced before. I feel
so excited, like we are on the brink of something great. What I would like to see is a "National Help the People of the World Day". If each person, no matter what church or religion,
Catholic, Methodist, Jewish, etc. would donate just one dollar each to help the poor throughout the world, can you imagine how great that would be? We cannot only just depend on our
government to provide assistance. It is time for all of us to come together collectively to make a difference, in Gods name. One person can do some good, but just think of the
possibilities if we all joined together. So my prayer each day will be for God to direct all of us and show us what is really important. Thank you Pastor Gary. You are truly a gift to
us. May God bless you each and every day.
| Pastor Gary: | Thanks for the encouragement. I like your idea. There are some organizations already doing something like what you suggest. You can look online at www.one.org and www.worldvision.org and join what is already happening! God bless you! |
Subject: Christianity 3.0
Pastor Gary,
I want to support your position concerning Christianty 3.0.
Jesus tells us that the greatest commandment is to love one another as we would love ourselves. ( 1.0 or 3.0 I don't think that anything has changed in that regard )
More compassion and leading by example is required from all believers and I appreciate your encouragement in setting that example through your ministry.
By "leading by example", I mean learning from scripture, prayer and asking the guidance of the Holy Spirit to keep us on track. It seems to me the compassion part will take care of
itself from there.
I have been attending since January of this year and it has been a blessing to my family and me.
Bob Fairbanks
| Pastor Gary: | Thanks for the input. I agree that love is the key and that has not and will not change- but how and where we show that love needs to be decided and re-interpreted and may not be as automatic as we would like to think. Scripture, prayer and guidance from the Holy Spirit are key, but we need to wrestle with what it really means to love our neighbor in the new global environment we find ourselves in and not only ask the question "WWJD" but, more importantly, "What is Jesus Doing?" |
Subject: Discussions
Dear Pastor Gary:
I just wanted to send a quick note saying I totally agree with Robert. I meant to write you immediately. I love the chicken and the egg analogy. I hope our church really does move into
action locally and globally.
Thank you, thank you.
Elaine Bronstein
| Pastor Gary: | Welcome to the Discussion! |
Subject: Christianity 3.0
I just wanted you to know how much that you inspired me last week. I had holy chills most of the time. Looking foward to tomorrow!!!
One time when I was leaving service a little early. I put my keys in the ignition and it wouldn't turn. I said Thank-you LORD I know that you must have a reason. I went back inside for
awile, when I came back to my car,It started right up! As I drove out of the parking lot,I noticed an accident in the exact place where I would have been pulling out. Praise the LORD!!!!
| Pastor Gary: |
Thanks, and let that be a lesson to all the early escapees! |
Subject: Kickin-butt for Christ
That's what you're doing! Kickin-butt for Christ. I just wanted to say that I am very excited for this new series, Christianity 3.0, because I know the Holy Spirit is doing a wonderful work through you and I'm loving every minute of it. Keep on, keepin' on! You're always in my prayers -Chris
| Pastor Gary: |
Dear Friend, Thank you for your enthusiastic support Chris; I hope no one gets hurt! |
Subject: Christianity 3.0
Pastor Gary,
I sat listening to your 11am sermon today and for most of the service I had tears in my eyes. All of my time as a Christian (now 5 1/2 years) I have felt that I've been swimming against the current. It has been particularly depressing to witness the takeover of Christianity by those who have used it for political advantage. To hear the rhetoric of the Republican Party using "Christian" causes such as the two you identified and using Christians as pawns is a distortion of the total message of Jesus. To disregard the poverty that I have seen up close all over the world and the other global issues that seem to fade into despair is truly a misrepresentation. And just when I felt that the only way to love Jesus was to sell out and be unhappily conformed (or reformed), you deliver this powerful sermon.
Were I gifted in such way and inclined to do so, I could not have written it or delivered it better. My wife and I have not stopped talking about it. Thank you, thank you for bringing home what Christianity is about. I'm sure you'll catch a lot of flack from within and without. From someone who has seen courage, I have today experienced it from you and am proud to stand with you...
With the love of Christ in our hearts,
Robert Mencia
| Pastor Gary: |
Thank you Robert. As a veteran who saw more than your fair share of action in Vietnam, that means a lot coming from you. Is is so easy to allow the talking heads to do all the thinking for us. It is not only refreshing, but it is also a matter of obedience to God and the very survival of our faith for Christians to start thinking for themselves both biblically and objectively about God and the world we find ourselves living in today. Thank you, and keep swimming against the current. Jesus surely had it right: "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life and only a few find it." Matt 7:13-14 (NIV) |
Subject: Faith or Works?
Hi Pastor Gary:
I just wanted to clarify something. You know when you spoke of when God will judge the sheep and the goats on Good Friday? The goats think they are doing everything right and then God
says..No you are not doing enough, spend eternity suffering! It sounds so Catholic and also so unsure of salvation. I don't think that's what you really mean, but that's how I feel it
comes across. Last time when I was so happy with your talk, I didn't realize what a stir it would cause, because I was focusing on the good part about Christians really showing love,
instead of bashing others and telling non-christians how terrible they are. However, upon listening to that infamous sermon again and then hearing your message tonight I do see what the
controversy could be about. What I have been told is that when you are really saved, you will exhibit love for others and good works will follow, all by Gods' grace. Is that what you are
saying? Or is it that I can't be sure I am saved because maybe I haven't done enough? At your convenience please respond. Thanks for all you do, Pastor Gary.
| Pastor Gary: |
Dear Friend, Justice is such a huge issue in the Bible, because God loves all of us equally. With the situation in the world today, and Africa especially, I believe He wants us to show that love and compassion to others and that is, at least partly, what the parable of the sheep and the goats is all about. The goats thought they could be on God's side and not show God's love to people. They were in for an unpleasant surprise. Were they "born again" or "saved" in the way that you and I think of it; I don't know, but they called Jesus "Lord." I think there are probably some "Christians" who never give this kind of issue a second thought, and I know it is not normally taught in "conservative evangelical" churches. How God sorts out all the gray areas in the end, I really don't know. I do know He will be just and fair, and I know that Jesus is our Savior. But can we really call Jesus our Savior and refuse to follow Him? The Bible is full of both assurances and warnings, so we live in a kind of tension. I believe that once you are saved, you can be confident in your eternal salvation and, because the seed has been planted in good soil, you will want to continue to follow Jesus. That said, once you put your full faith in Jesus Christ and His work for you on the cross, once you are born-again, you are in and on your way (remember the thief on the cross). However, my understanding of Jesus is that finding Jesus is not the end of the Journey; it is really just the starting line. Finding Jesus is not then an excuse to live any way we want. I think for so many "evangelicals" - we have made it the final resting place and as a result our religion has become meaningless and of little real value to so much of the world. It should not be that way - it would not be that way - if we were really following Jesus. Does that make any sense? |
Subject: Christianity 3.0
I'm writing to tell you that I was very happy to hear the sermon about Christianity 3.0. So many of the things you said have been on my mind for a long time and this is the first time I heard
it from the pulpit.
First of all you are right on the money when you talk about the church talking about abortion and gay marriage but we never talk about poverty and hunger all over the world. Too many Christians
feel compassion but never act upon it. And how about rejecting gays but accepting couples that live together? (By the way, I am very conservative in my beliefs.)
Some churches reject people that pierce their bodies, but women and some men from the church have been piercing their ears for a long time and I ask , "What's the difference between piercing your
nose, tongue or whatever and piercing your ears?" And how about tattoos? So many Christian's claim that the Bible says it is wrong, but have they bothered to check other things the O.T. prohibits,
but we allow today? For example, Leviticus 19:27 - "Do not cut the hair at the sides of your head or clip off the edges of your beard."
And how about judging those who listen to secular music but watch hours and hours of secular TV and movies? (I do both with discernment).
There are things that are so simple but yet the church wastes so much time debating them and then there are such larger issues. Like you said, how about the billions of people that are hungry?
Isn't that more important?
I definitely think there is a new reformation and that with the reformation come some problems, but the important thing here is to acknowledge the changes and work to help more and more people
come to know the Lord.
You also mentioned Muslims. I have a good friend who is Muslin, in fact I'm having lunch with him this week and he appreciates me so much just because other Christians he met before me always
told him about how special Israel and the Jews were and that God preferred them to Muslims. Do we really want to tell a Muslim that God will not accept them into heaven but He will accept Jewish
people just because they are Jewish? Do Christians understand that there are some Muslims that have more respect for Jesus than some Jews?
As a final note, I'd like to comment on the immigration issue. I am a citizen of this country and very proud of it. I love this country more than my native country and I came to know the Lord here.
But it hurts me when I hear conservatives talk about immigrants as if they were the worst thing that ever happened to this country. I agree with many things that are negative about illegal
immigration and we can debate about the issues, but my problem is we are not showing compassion or grace in the process.
Thank you for talking about reality. The time has come for us to get out of the bubble and be in the world, but not of the world. God bless you and your ministry.
In Christ,
CG
| Pastor Gary: |
Dear CG, Thank you for sharing your ideas and joining the discussion! Pastor Gary |
Subject: A New Reformation
Hi Pastor Mauro,
This is Raul Hernandez, your church rep for World Vision. I am so thankful to the Lord for having met you and seeing the passion you have for the poor and destitute. This option for the poor is
the new reformation that the evangelical church has to go through and certainly you are one of then new prophets for a time like this.
I am not trying to flatter you with adulation. I have been around in the ministry for more than 30 years and I can see when God imparts grace on someone. You have a call larger than the beautiful
church God has entrusted you. You are a champion for the poor, the widow, and the orphan in the time of prosperity of the evangelicals in the richest country on this earth. Please forgive me if I
am crossing the line in my relationship, probably as a Latino, I speak too much...
I'd love to assist you in the process of sharing your passion and vision with other churches that you can help me contact. I'd like to contact all Calvary Chapel churches you have in the back of
the church's bulletin. You might have a personal relationship with those pastors and a word from you can be tremendous blessings to help me assist them in developing in their churches the kind of
commitment you already have for those who God has put before us to test our hearts. I truly believe that God has given you this prophetic voice to stir up a passion for those who are forgotten in
this world.
Thank you again for all you are doing in behalf of those without voice.
Your Servant in Christ,
Raul
| Pastor Gary: | It was an honor for our church to partner with World Vision and thank you for the kind words. I would be happy to introduce you to some of the pastor's in our area and hope that they will also "catch the vision." |