My Creativity

The Church Web Site... Traditional or Modern?

2008-05-07T07:30:00.003-05:00

Hello Watercooler readers...

For most churches, websites act as brochures. Others, much larger churches have social networking built into their website. Why is there no middle ground? Why does the church not seek excellence in this area of ministry? It has been said that the average non-Christian checks the churches website a multitude of times before visiting. If this is true we must make some decision about our websites.

Should we use a traditional, brochure like, website or shall we delve into new technology. It is my belief, through research and a very successful attempt, it is more beneficial to us to have a well developed and maintained website. I have begun to recommend everyone to use a Content Management System. The advantages of a CMS, are numerous; however, it must be considered which one is best. I am a fan of Wordpress, it has allowed me to update, develop and adjust my friends Youth Site weekly. It is very simple, and since its implementation the site has seen a tremendous growth in volume.

This is my future buisness, as it seems, so my I hear any feedback you think?

Watercooler Wednesdays -- Salt and light

2008-04-30T09:32:00.003-05:00

Watercooler Wednesday!

Matthew 5
3 "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. 14 "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.

Okay, This scripture has been used so much, and so out of context; however, when in context and one understands what it means to be a Disciple of Christ (to whom He is speaking) according to this text, this passage is HUGE! In their culture salt did more than flavor food. It preserved it also. when salt would get contaminated (something else get mixed in with it) it would loose its value as a preservative and a spice. The only thing it was worth was a street marking. (salt would mark streets in ancient times). thats sort of the history behind this text, The meaning would hold that as Christians we have a purpose and a job.. yes it is to glorify God, but within this context, we are to save, flavor, as well as illuminate this world. When we become contaminated, or hide our faith we are worth nothing.

For too long I've been too sensitive about my faith. There is a balance, I do not need to shout out my beliefs that could split the church; but, I am definitely not to hide my beliefs any longer... I'm very frustrated with the church (over all). I feel as though the culture is far too ingrained in our church, causing it to be useless to God. it is good to be relevant, and modern in our message... but we are to bring One Truth, One Faith, One Grace, One Christ, For God's Glory Alone!

Logo?

2008-04-28T07:42:00.002-05:00

My second attempt at WFBC's Logo.. thoughts?

rest?

2008-04-24T09:39:00.000-05:00

Jesus, Thank You

2008-04-21T08:55:00.002-05:00

How despicable, and Glorious is the Cross of Christ? Covered in sin, but full of grace! A small group of men I meet with Just finished a book called "the Gospel for Real Life," and I can not but reflect on how great the cross is! Yesterday, we worshiped with two songs and they portrayed everything I've been feeling about the cross so here they are I'll let them speak for themselves:

Thy Mercy, My God
1. Thy mercy, my God, is the theme of my song,
The joy of my heart. and the boast of my tongue;
Thy free grace alone, from the first to the last,
Hath won my affections, and bound my soul fast.

2. Without Thy sweet mercy I could not live here;
Sin would reduce me to utter despair;
But, through Thy free goodness, my spirits revive,
And He that first made me still keeps me alive.

3. Thy mercy is more than a match for my heart,
Which wonders to feel its own hardness depart;
Dissolved by Thy goodness, I fall to the ground,
And weep to the praise of the mercy I’ve found.

4. Great Father of mercies, Thy goodness I own,
And the covenant love of Thy crucified Son;
All praise to the Spirit, Whose whisper divine
Seals mercy, and pardon, and righteousness mine.
All praise to the Spirit, Whose whisper divine
Seals mercy, and pardon, and righteousness mine.

Jesus, Thank You
The mystery of the cross I cannot comprehend
The agonies of Calvary
You the perfect Holy One, crushed Your Son
Who drank the bitter cup reserved for me

Your blood has washed away my sin
Jesus, thank You
The Father’s wrath completely satisfied
Jesus, thank You
Once Your enemy, now seated at Your table
Jesus, thank You

By Your perfect sacrifice I’ve been brought near
Your enemy You’ve made Your friend
Pouring out the riches of Your glorious grace
Your mercy and Your kindness know no end

Lover of my soul
I want to live for You

What We Should be About -- Watercooler Wednesday

2008-04-16T09:51:00.002-05:00

Joining in the Watercooler conversation...

Robert Randolph's Starbucks Cup Quote:
"When I wake up in the morning,
I want to know that my family,
friends and fans know what I
believe in and what I’m about.
That’s what should be important."

I want everyone who reads this blog to know what I'm about, my friends should, I know my wife does! I'm about the Gospel! Nothing else holds importance to me anymore. The Glory of God precedes all else. That is what is important to me... What about you?

Revelancy with in a Church...

2008-04-14T07:42:00.006-05:00

I have been thinking about this topic for weeks now. I don't think i've come to a full conclusion yet; however, I have some good thoughts that I would love to share. This whole idea scares me to my core. Mainly one person who pushes the emergent church scares me... Rob bell as great of a communicator as he is, his theology scares me. I agree with him in some ways. We as the church must change with the culture. To continue having the culture of the traditional church in our church we carry with that the baggage of past cultures. We must acknowledge our current culture. The question is how.

First we must realize that culture does not change truth. Our culture is post-modern at its core. Although we must embrace our culture, it does not mean we have to believe its philosophy on life. This is the whole point of "The Sermon on the Mount." We live, work, play, and worship, within a secular culture; however, Christ has called us to live in that culture, but be like God in our culture. This is the one and only truth. We have a standard and it is God. Not that we have limitations on our lives, but we have a picture of truth that we can grasp.

We also must be an educated people. In order for the world to take us seriously we can no longer get by on "feelings." I believe that our emotions, and desires are used by God to glorify him; however, it MUST be paired with knowledge. If we don't know what we believe people are going to be less likely to trust us, and to desire to be a part of us.

Our truths, and knowledge of our faith will be relevant to our culture. We must now take our truth to the world in a way the world understands...

Projection and Affrimation

2008-04-07T07:46:00.002-05:00

After much thought and prayer I have come to one conclusion. I'm called into full time ministry; however, not a Pastoral position. At least not a traditional style one. I have been blessed with different abilities that would be much better utilized working with media and organization. I recently have made the decision to pursue a IT business degree and possibly a masters back at SBTS; however, for now I am here. As much as long to be there, I am here. God, the Sovereign Lord of the Universe wants me at Winchester First Baptist Church, as a deacon, and laborer for the faith. How great is our God?

The beauty of His will astounds me. Sarah and I are doing very well, and as I look forward to our future, I have a sense of security; although, I do not know what exactly is going to happen I see guidance, and strength in God. I see this through the multiple people who have affirmed my desire to pursue this ministry. Those not even knowing this is what I'm called to have affirmed my calling to this position. It is comforting to know that I'm looking in the right direction. Now that I have a general heading... what path?

Marriage, 80's Pants, and Good Coffee...

2008-04-01T10:32:00.004-05:00

It has been over five months since I've gotten married. I have learned a lot, and made plenty of mistakes; however, it is the most amazing endeavor I have ever attempted! The change in my life is amazing! How I love Sarah, there are no words... The beauty of our relationship goes beyond description. As I refelect this morning on our marriage, and the progress of our lives I can not help but thank God for his abundant Blessings. The picture of Adam's help mate in scripture is so amazing and exactly what we desire for each other. As I strive to fill the role that I must play in our relationship, I certainly notice when I in some effect fill that role, we enjoy each other infinitely more.

God has blessed me with a position at Starbucks Coffee Corporation. The company is great to work for, I enjoy the tasks before me and We get insurance! Although I work for Starbucks around 30 Hours a week I am finding time and jobs working on computers and websites. We have been blessed Financially, God is taking care of us!
Hopefully within the near future I will have the ability and creative juices to continue posting here.

Encouragement / Hysterical Story

2007-03-12T23:22:00.000-05:00

This afternoon I received a phone call from my sister exclaiming that she must tell a story. I get these phone calls at least once maybe twice a month, they always prove to be worthy. This one is great.

my sister contineues: After I picked up Rowan (age 3) up from day-care this afternoon we were on the ride home talking as normal while Gunnar (age 6) chimed in "mommy, not everyone goes to church right?" Hesitantly Brandy answered "No, some people don't." A few moments pass and Gunnar again speaks up with another question, "People who tell people who don't go to church about God are missionaries, right?"

Okay to stop right here and explain the situation: Gunnar, my nephew (whom I've prayed for almost all of his earthly life to come to know the Lord in an amazing way), Started going to my home Church with his mom about 2 years ago. He is active in Awana, Mission Friends, Children's Chior, Sunday School, and Children's Church. So after being based in church for around two years, and I've began to noticed some interest in God. He also goes to a local public kindergarten and is doing exceptionally well. (yes i'm a proud uncle!)

Brandy responds with a very proud "Yeah!" Thinking wow he really does enjoy missions; however, she is completely unaware what is about to happen. Gunnar then explains "today, i told someone about God." Shocked, Brandy gives him affirmation (what parent doesn't want a kid to send all the glory to God) however the story does not end here. Rowan, the peppy little girl she is, noticed that Brandy takes joy in the fact that Gunnar is sharing what he learns in Church. She wants to get the attention and also chip in on the conversation between Gunnar and Brandy at this point. Rowan exclaims "well, um, mom... I uh.. told someone about the devil today!"

Even when Rowan kind of misses the point it is amazing to see both of them grow up. I'm proud of both of them, and all of my nieces and nephews. I love them all and pray for them all daily. Moments like that, when Gunnar exclaims something so God honoring, make me weep, and realize how Holy and magnificent, and sovereign He really is, and Rowan? she reminds me to laugh and take delight in the creation of our God!

Update

2007-01-02T08:39:00.000-06:00

Its been a while... how is everyone in internet land? I've got a head ache.. probably from looking at a computer screen for far too long... oh well... Yeah life as i know it has been good.. I love being in winchester, i miss Louisville; however, i completely prefer being near her.. she is amazing.. i've had quite a few wow moments with her lately and i love those... we're planing our wedding ... its nice.. some closure on my end.. its actually happening... we think we know where we want to have the ceremony and are going to go look at a few places for our reception... I've got in my head the kind of tux i want, and she has 2 dresses she likes...but she doesn't like my tux... haha... i want Mr. Andrew Peterson to play a song.. but thats unrealistic... but would be cool..i like the ellipse... its... nice... work is okay... i wish i was working in a ministry position; however, this is a means to an end and that end is much greater than the means i am in. so glory to the creator of the universe, and the great thing is i get to talk about him on a few Wednesday nights a month to some youngsters... I've been reading this great book called Isaiah.... this is the first time I've read it through.. its really nice I'm going to read all of the book (mainly for the prophecies of Jesus' coming) and then follow it up with Matthews account of the birth and death of the Christ... that'll help me put this season into perspective...i hope ya'll have a great day and blessed Christmas! love ya'll

Thoughts on Vista

2006-10-10T10:43:00.000-05:00

I recently have had the oppritunity to work with a new operating system. This is very interesting for me because i get to see the problems and issues users are going to have in January. I'm learning the in's and outs of the new system. I do admit it seems much more stable; however, at a price. They rebuilt the operating system to rely on your processor, memory, and GPU alot more. It causes everything else to run a little slower. Visually, vista blows xp out of the water, and reminds me more of a mac. I think that microsoft finally did well on their design. Its great, very user friendly; however, not too insulting. The one annoyance that is above the rest is the constant warnings. Anytime you make a system setting it locks the screen and asks if it is okay to do so. I can see the need for this; however, it gets a little old after a day or so. Not all older software is compatable with vista. I've had quite the time finding virus software for it, avg will not install and the downloads i've searched for are all broken links.

The software included with vista rivals mac's prodctivity and creativity software. The only area lacking is sound. Windows Movie Maker, is much more stable and has many more bells and whistles. Media player is beautiful as always and has nice background abilities. There is also the new "side bar." It reminds me of yahoo widgets, but much more stable. i absoulutely love the note pad and cpu monitor. Its a great addition to windows. All in all, there is definately more hype than what is really going on, but microsoft is putting a out a great piece of software.

Hello World

2006-10-02T09:58:00.000-05:00

What a wonderful weekend! I enjoyed the company of the most beautiful woman in the world this weekend! We made a road trip to Nashville and ate at a fabulous restaurant. That wasn't the "plan" but the "plan" fell through, but I managed to keep my "date budget." My wonderful fiance' bought me the latest copy of one my favorite magazines, its called Paste. Check it out, it has great reviews and a free CD and DVD. They always have great music and videos, its great to find new people to follow!

I recently got a new job! I'm working at "CPU"! It's interesting because its in the same building of the computer store I worked at during high school. Its a comfortable niche, it does cause me to question my calling into ministry. It could help me find the ministry I need to provide! Its a great job, its fun and stable. Most of all it lets me think! Which is great because it keeps my brain active.

I have taken some great pictures lately, when I get them developed I will scan them and post them! May blessings, peace, and purity reign in your lives!

2 Peter 2:1

2006-09-20T21:17:00.000-05:00

Scripture is a guide to our lives, it lights our paths and lets us know the safest way to travel. Scripture is the one truth we have to live by; however, there are times when we must struggle with its concepts. There are many times we look at scripture and do not like what it reveals, and there are other times when we realize we must do research to understand what scripture is communicating. We should not shy away from these instances. We should embrace them! It is when we come to these points that we grow the most. It stretches our minds, hearts, and souls.

Second Peter two, verse one creates one of these moments. We must throw off our presuppositions and allow the text to reveal itself to us. This is a particularly tough passage. Calvin and Piper, both avoid the topic that seems to be presented here; however, after studying its vocabulary and context we can understand what Peter is communicating here.

1 But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will also be false teachers among you, who will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing swift destruction upon themselves.

The problem we must deal with here is “There will also be false teachers among you, who will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing swift destruction upon themselves.” Therefore, in this passage we have a contradiction. They have been bought (their sin paid for); however, they will bring swift destruction upon themselves, and continuing into the chapter, Peter explains that they will be punished as the fallen angels, the ancient world (Noah’s time), Sodom and Gomorra, etc… were punished.

The Greek brings us no major theological significance in this text. The word peter used for Master or Sovereign Lord, rarely refers to Jesus; however, it does refer to Jesus (Rev 6:10). The word used here for Bought, is a very common word meaning “to go to market.” This word is used salvificly (1 Cor 6:20; Rev 14:3,4); however, through out the gospels it is used in very general means. The word Destruction has very little theological meaning, it is used in instances for hell; however, it is also used generally.

Because we cannot find any significance in the words themselves, we must look at its context. Peter just established his apostolic authority, and the authority of scripture, and before that, he concluded that after receiving faith how then should we live. Moving beyond the passage, Peter, explains that these false teachers will be ones with moral mis-teachings. He uses the word “aselgeia” which denotes a hint of sexual misconduct; however, it also denotes a pleasing of the flesh. In verse two peter explains that people will follow the teaching of these men, because it pleases the flesh, and the truth will then be mangled. Peter continues to explain the punishment these men will receive for their actions.

Returning to the troublesome verse, we can look at these false teachers and understand that their sins have not been paid for; however, it is that they claim to be that of the elect. They are using their “status” of being paid for as a license to sin. Even though they are not saved they understand the Gospel just enough to get themselves into trouble. They realize that if their sin is paid for then let us sin all the more. This scripture beautiful not only because Peter condemns their teaching, but earlier in the letter Peter explains the way we should live. It is also healthy to remember that Peter is writing these things to remind us of what we already know.

When Blair challenged me with this assignment, I had no clue that it would be so personal. This passage is beautiful for refuting of antinomianism. It was so common while at Boyce to find those who so stressed grace that any sort of rule was “legalistic.” I even fell under this influence; however, I have since realized that there is more to grace than freedom. There is responsibility for our own growth. Amazingly this is addressed in 2 Peter 1:5-10.

This letter is overlooked far too often, deserves much more credit that it is given. It does have “hard passages”; however, these passages make the letter worthwhile. In our walks as Christians, we must look at passages that are hard, and we must deal with them. It is only then that we grow to understand that Martin Luther was right in saying that we should abandon our beliefs when the bible contradicts them and hold fast to its teaching.

Muse on some Music

2006-09-19T09:04:00.000-05:00

I'm still working on my article for 2 Peter; however, if anyone at all reads this blog I would like to point them to a website. Check out The Square Peg Alliance. They are the most amazing musical gathering I have ever known! Their music is so inspiring! Especially check out Mr. Andrew Peterson. He, along with the rest of the Square Pegs, go on tour in December doing a show called "Behold the Lamb of God" and its amazing. I did not have the privilege to attend last year; however, I am already looking at tickets for this year! The CD is absolutely fantastic! You can listen to a song by each of them on that web site; however, if you want more and are poor check out Indie Net . You can download Free!!! Concerts by the Square Pegs. You'll need to get a Bit-torrent client, and Flac codec for your music player, and if you like Derek Webb check out THIS. Have fun!

Life in Winchester

2006-09-18T14:05:00.000-05:00

Lately I have been job hunting. Looking under rocks and breaking branches in an attempt to pay off my debt. So far I have received no phone calls. This only affirms my decision to get out of the computer industry. It is so horribly flooded. I have two and a half years of experience troubleshooting and repairing computers, and what does that get me in the world today? Closed doors! God is sovereign! Isn't that glorious! On a much lighter note Sarah and I have set a month, and are working on the date of our wedding. After we get married and she completes her Associates Degree we will move back up to Louisville. I didn't realize how much I love Louisville until I moved out of that place. It is such a nice city to live in; its not too big, nor too small, its just right (as momma bear so elegantly put it).
The Greek phrase in my title is that of John 3:30. It is my mission statement and passion for my life. That Christ must Increase and I must decrease and allow him to rule my life. I thought it only proper to name my blog after that; however, English is such a common language, Greek is much prettier!
Blair has been challenging me on some scriptures lately, one being 2 Peter 2:1. Through his teaching any my research, I have come to an understanding of what Peter was trying to communicate. I am writing an article on it and I will post it in the days to come. I hope to allow this to be a creative output for my time here in Winchester and hopefully will follow me where ever I go.

I love you guys

-- Corey