the temptation of power

Jacques Ellul wrote:

"We have to say very forcefully that we see here the perversion of revelation by participation in politics, by the seeking of power. The church lets itself be seduced, invaded, dominated by the ease with which it can now spread the gospel by force (another force than that of God) and use its influence to make the state, too, Christian. It is great acquiescence to the temptation Jesus himself resisted, for when Satan offers to give him all the kingdoms of earth, Jesus refuses, but the church accepts, not realizing from whom it is receiving the kingdoms."

This so reminds me of the agenda of the so-called "Christian right" which has been so powerful over the past few decades. It would be wise to note from whom they receive their power and influence.

Jacques Ellul, "The Subversion of Christianity", p.124

Love Shack

Yesterday was amazing. I am still swimming in the sea of Love and Grace and Healing we experienced together at newhope church. Mr. Paul Young, author of the amazing book entitled "The Shack", shared his story with us. I am still in awe of the Work of Papa in his life. We felt the Spirit move strongly in the house. The message and demonstration of God's healing and re-creative Power that we experienced changed lives. We will never be the same. I encourage you, if you were not present with us at newhope church yesterday, to listen to Paul's story here at newhopenc.org. I hope God's Spirit speaks to you the words you need. You will never be the same again. And once again, I want to share one of my favorite quotes from "The Shack", words that paint a beautiful picture of the Kingdom into which we are called to be a part:

"Mack, if anything matters then everything matters. Because you are important, everything you do is important. Every time you forgive, the universe changes; every time you reach out and touch a heart or a life, the world changes; with every kindness and service, seen or unseen, my purposes are accomplished and nothing will ever be the same again." -- Sarayu

Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Amen

Ekklesia

check out this excellent sermon:

Title: Ekklesia
Preaching/Speaking: Rev. Adam Hamilton
Date Presented: Oct 19, 2008
Sermon Series: Illuminate
http://www.cor.org/worship-sermons/sermons/show/sermons/Why-Are-We-Here/