Brandon Booth
MollieMore on Pastor May
We have so many comments here, it’s difficult for me to read them all. But I did catch one in a thread from a few days ago that I thought should get more attention regarding Pastor James May, a missionary in West Africa, who is being sent home.
The following is a report from Pr. James May regarding his mission work in West Africa.
Rev. Kurt Hering, Pastor,
Trinity Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod
of Layton, UtahI was sent to Ouagadougou to learn French. There are no Lutheran churches here. I was directed to take my family and worship at non-Lutheran churches. I was forbidden to plant Lutheran churches in Ouagadougou.
In my daily life I was often encountered by locals asking who I am and what I am doing in Burkina Faso. I explained that I am a Lutheran pastor and am learning French. Many people wanted to know more. In a country that is 80% Muslim and animistic, I was happy to confess my faith in the savior Jesus Christ. People wanted to know more.
I was insubordinate and started Bible studies, and the area facilitator said that the regional director would not be happy, and therefore, even though he was informed, he said that he would turn a blind eye. Later while in the language learning process a friend of mine named his first born son after me.
My regional director had expressly told me that if someone wanted to be baptized I should send them to the Baptist church and NOT baptize them. Again I was insubordinate and preferred to disobey that order rather than break a relationship by insulting him and refusing to baptize his son. The father, Etienne Sam, has used his tailor shop to publicize and distribute Good News magazines.
A second time a man came from Cote d’Ivoire and was very poor. He couldn’t afford to send his kids to school which costs about $4 per child. His youngest son became very sick with dysentery. During a two week span he ceased eating and we feared for his life. His father was a Catholic but had been attending our Good News classes. I asked him if his son was baptized and he said the Catholic Church demanded $15 per baptism and he didn’t have the money. The Baptist Church was not going to baptize the child. Again I was insubordinate and baptized him so that his parents would have the assurance that even if dysentery won, the devil would not because Jesus would make Victorien His child. Miraculously the day after his baptism he also began eating and the dysentery left.
Finally, Rev. Dr. Anssi Simojoki, the Vice President of LHF and director for the Africa region, was making a trip through West Africa and contacted me. His son is the godfather of two of our children. I offered our house for him to stay in. I received an email from Rev. Dr. Paul Mueller in which he stated that he had not given me permission to have Anssi stay in my house. I was not aware that my personal home is ruled by World Mission. Again I was insubordinate and allowed Anssi to stay at our house.
In my most recent conversation with Rev. Dr. Paul Mueller in Conakry, Guinea, he said it is due to these acts of insubordination that he has determined I am a detriment to the LCMS WM team in Africa and that I was directed to seek another call. He would not put this in writing, rather he stated that I am unwilling to live in a primitive village, and therefore should leave Africa. This is untrue. I was unwilling to move to a village where access to emergency care is unattainable during rainy season. I have a pregnant wife and four children, one of which already had a medical emergency and nearly lost her fingers. Planting of churches and visiting of those remote congregations could have been done from cities with hospitals. This request was denied.
God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8
By His Grace alone,
Pr. James May
Filed under: Updates
OK, it’s late and I’m literally tired. Would someone please explain to me what the WM guys thought they were accomplishing by forbidding a missionary from teaching and baptizing?
I really do not get it.
I read this letter with horror. I cannot believe that we would send a pastor to a place and then command them not to carry out word and sacrament ministry.
What is going on? Is LHF that dangerous?
“He would not put this in writing…”
The modus operandi of the synodicrat. Nothing in writing.
I think there is an orientation when you get a job at the IC.
Lesson One: put nothing in writing.
Lesson Two: maintain plausible deniability.
Lesson Three: money talks, mission walks.
Lesson Four: synod inc.’s image must be maintained
Lesson Five: headquarter jobs come before missionary ministry.
Have I covered everthing?
My personal experience when I was an LCMS missionary from 1996-2002 was in-line with Pastor May’s experience. Ordained ministers (like myself) were increasingly discouraged from doing Word and Sacrament ministry.
God forgive me, but I am angry. Now Synodical Hacks are forbidding our Missionaries from baptizing and offering hospitality to other believers. Do I not speak rightly when I say that the Lord won’t bless that crap? No wonder our Church is in disarray; we are close to being under Christ’s judgement. I see less and less reason not to start another Synod. If these fools are not voted out in the next convention, I say “to your tents O Israel” and we begin a new association of like minded Lutherans.
I’m deeply discouraged by these recent events, as are many of you. Yet perhaps there may be a bright side to all of this in the longer view of things. Though things do indeed look dark for us now, perhaps Satan’s blundering attempts to foment division in our Synod may be the best catechesis for current and future young pastors (such as myself) and lay people, on what NOT to do. Perhaps it will serve as a reminder to future generations of how the church is not to be run like a corporation, but rather as the body of Christ. Integrity is going to be put to the test, no doubt–but we rise or we fall with our stand on God’s Word. Wouldn’t it be delightful to think that Satan’s best efforts to divide and destroy the Synod could actually be God’s agent for bringing about godly renewal in solid Scriptural orthodoxy? Sometimes pruning hurts, but it gives rise to new growth.
Wise words, Seminarian Joshua.
Regarding my comment above, in fairness, I should add that in some cases, in my experience, ordained missionaries were discouraged from doing Word and sacrament ministry so that more focus could be given to educating and preparing local men to themselves be ordained and do this work, which, of course, is a good goal.
Michael Paul: “Regarding my comment above, in fairness, I should add that in some cases, in my experience, ordained missionaries were discouraged from doing Word and sacrament ministry so that more focus could be given to educating and preparing local men to themselves be ordained and do this work, which, of course, is a good goal.”
Right-o, but Pr. May talked about what he was instructed not to do upon his arrival. I still don’t understand why the jefes of the banana republic formerly known as LCMS would prohibit that.
I’m still seeking the logic.
[I do "get" the effrontery of the synodocrat who attempted to dictate who the pastor could and couldn't invite into his house. Good grief!]
Pr. May’s own account throws a fasiancating new light on the matter.
The first thing to note, IMO, is that from a corporation’s point of view, insubordination is a perfectly legitimate reason for firing. Scriptures can also be adduced to support the idea that we are to submit to our Christian leaders, those who have the charge of us.
The next question is whether Pr. May was justified in being insubordinate. I personally *think* I am on his side. However, it has to be admitted that he is only seeing, and only showing us, the little picture, while his employer must look at the big picture. We do not know what that big picture is. We do know, though, that in involves a heavily Muslim population, and we know what the consequences can be when a Muslim converts and is baptized. Consequences for him, for his family, and for the pastor who performed that sacrament, and his family.
So perhaps (I only say perhaps!) we can sympathize some with the corporation’s stance as well, wishing to avoid bloodshed.
Plus, they may know other things we don’t.
That’s my own best construction.
I don’t believe I’m going to try to put the best construction on this foolishness. Here it goes:
Rev. May states that his goal in Ouagadougou was simply to learn French. It is my assumption that, once he learned the language, he would be moved into his long-term area of mission. Therefore, since he would not be staying in Ouagadougou very long, it would not be wise to begin long-term, pastoral relationships with the locals. His departure would have caused a void.
That being said, when so many opportunities present themselves–baptisms, questions about Christ, desire to begin Bible study, etc., it is clear that God was in that place preparing the people for his salvation. If LWM would’ve been wise, they would’ve changed their original plans, and kept Rev. May where his ministry as already bearing much fruit.
Those who are more in the know, does this “best construction” hold water?
Matt: ” If LWM would’ve been wise, they would’ve changed their original plans, and kept Rev. May where his ministry as already bearing much fruit.”
An ineffective corporation is less able to respond nimbly when things don’t go according to plan. Just sayin’.
Anastasia,
Your points are well taken. But when, as the servant of God, you are given the command directly from His mouth to “preach the Word; be ready in season and out of season” (2 Tim. 4:1), you must follow that command. I agree that such consequences should be factored into the thought process when making bureaucratic decisions like where it may be more efficient to locate missionaries. However, when God’s created children cry out in repentance for His redeeming grace, the messengers of God are not permitted to say, “I am prohibited from proclaiming this grace to you. Seek it elsewhere.” What is that popular saw? “Man plans; God laughs”? When God brings the mission field to your doorstep, you don’t turn them away.
And don’t even get me started on the $15 “admission fee” for baptism at the neighboring church! I can barely stomach it when I hear of our congregations charging tuition at their schools, so don’t even get me started on charging tuition for the means of grace. The Church is not a “fee for service” institution!
“Freely you have received; freely give.” (Mt. 10:8)
“For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you…” (1 Cor. 11:23)
This is devastating!
With all do respect, this is worse than the cancellation of Issues Etc.
This is the INTENTIONAL withholding of the gospel proclamation to those desiring to hear it.
May God forgive Rev. Mueller.
Pastor May, thank you for proclaiming the gospel even under the threat of persecution.
John (Presbyter,” “JMK” and “Jack)?
No comment on these actions of admin in direct conflict with the Lord’s Commission?
Pastor May’s problem is that he did what Christ commands him to do, but not what Ablaze! commands him to do. My pastor is now pushing the “Fan into Flame” fundraiser and he gave us all the booklets last night (it was not well received I might add). It states that one of the goals of ablaze is adding missionaries to the field and I quote,
“Behind the vision of the Ablaze! movement is the need for more missionaries positioned throughout the world. Through Fan Into Flame, the current number of professionals, trained, and deployed missionaries will increase by more than 50 percent - from 65 to 100 - by 2013. These professional missionaries will initiate new outreach ministries, train new leaders, provide educational tools, and offer medical aid to those in need, all with the goal of sharing the Good News of Jesus with 50 million people and establishing 3,000 new congregations worldwide. Fan Into Flame will provide start-up funds for the 35 new missionaries. Once the new missionaries begin their work, the core budget of LCMS World Mission will absorb the cost and fund these postitions.”
A whole lot of talk about sharing the “Good News of Jesus” but it is completely divorced from the preaching of the Word and the administration of the Sacramets.
There is also the great sadness that is presented in Pastor May’s letter that LWM wants to pick and choose who they share the Gospel with. This same mentality is seen in my PLI pastor who is constantly picking and choosing what groups of people he wants to reach out to. Now he wants to start some church to go after the “post-moderns.” It would seem that these guys need a good lesson in the parable of the sower again.
God bless Pastor May and his work as he faithful preaches Christ to all the world and not just some select group!
V.A.,
You’ve got get out of that congregation and away from that pastor.
Run, don’t walk.
We have reduced the Great Commission to “Go directly to jail. Do not pass go, do not collect the Papists’ $200.”
Well, collecting the Papists’ $15 per Baptism might be okay.
In fact, if Jefferson Hills did this for all of their rebaptisms, maybe they wouldn’t need synodical grants anymore.
I will be leaving, but that is only because I am assigned here as a Vicar. It is sad to see this happening though. It is not just contained to particular congregations or to the offices of synod, this faulty PLI/Corporation model is effecting all of us one way or another. Thanks be to God that Christ is the Lord of the Church and the gates of hell will not prevail against her!
Edith Piaf,
I’m actually a young pastor (same class as Rev. May), not a seminarian…though I see how the way I typed that could lead to the confusion ;)
Anastasia,
One other thought of concern is that it sounds ’safe’ to not baptize or proclaim the Gospel to avoid bloodshed, but that does not take the long view. What is better: That I am killed for my faith in Christ, or live a life without Him because others wanted to spare me harship in a hostile environment? One is bad now, but good for eternity, the other is helpful now, but leads to eternal death. There is always impetus for the faith in the hostile lands. And it is the boldness of the faith in such cultures that makes it have a hold and respect among the people.
Also note that it was fine for the Baptists to do it, but not the Lutheran, so there is more at work there than Christianity among Muslims.
I don’t know what the PLI/Corporation model is.
I am wondering who are the players? In other words, I know the confessing Lutherans adhere to the Formula of Concord and believe in Word and Sacrament.
But it sounds as if the denomination is evolving into some sort of company whose whole goal is the protection of the company. It is like any other bureaucracy, the first law is preserve and protect the bureaucracy. The company man gets promoted; those who aren’t company men get eliminated. It does not really matter what the company product is because the real goal is the survival of the company.
All of this points to even greater problems and the ultimate effect events such as this will have on the life of the LC-MS and the spiritual vitality of our laity. For further comments along this line see my post on http://www.on-the-rock.blogspot.com.
God’s peace.
Rocky
Pastor Joshua, congratulatoins and thanks for the correction.
Rev Furgeson and Anastasia, about being “safe” in a Muslim place. This would parallel the professor who doesn’t want to say “Jesus” or show a cross in worship, the better to lure in (my words, bait & switch) Muslims.
A well meaning evangelical friend showed me a medal that a soldier can wear in Iraq “without offending” the Muslims there. It says “I love God, i love my country” and has a flag but no cross or other symbol (I suppose there are some jewish soldiers who would be illadvised to wear the star of david).
Beyond the inanity of the war over there, my friend’s medal brought tears of frustration and anger to my eyes.
All of the same cloth, I think.
V A
Isn’t it the responsibility of the elders to see to it that Word and Sacrament are presented properly? Bring that Pastor into correction before he destroys the congregation. The congregation does not have to put up with this sort of thing and it should be nipped in the bud early on. Confessional congregations don’t have to sell out to the Pastors whims do they? Why let it get to the point where the congregation has to “move over” or leave once the division has begun. This is exactly what happened at my daughter and son-in-law’s church. Now the Church is operating in the red both financially and spiritually. CLOSE THE CRACK IN THE DOOR! The problem is that many congregation get blindsided and don’t realize that they are playing with fire until the wreck happens. Pastors get out there and teach your people how to recognize these frauds before your people get wooed by this error!
To Anestasia, What is the difference in blood shed because a Baptist Pastor does the baptizing or it is a Lutheran? And aren’t pastors ( and we as well) to obey God instead of man?
And isn’t it intresting that the Ablaze! literature is touting sending out more missionaries when Synod is dragging the Confessional ones home!
“Isn’t it the responsibility of the elders to see to it that Word and Sacrament are presented properly?”
They need to know right doctrine & practice before they can recognize bad doctrine & practice.
“Pastors get out there and teach your people how to recognize these frauds before your people get wooed by this error!”
Provided the people care about the issue. One of the challenges is that the laity don’t want to be bothered with conflict and see nothing wrong with what is happening. In face many like this because it is forcing the Missouri Synod to be just like everyone else.
Many people I encounter in church are really gnostic universalists at heart. They believe that everybody is saved and it is wrong and “judgemental” to say that others are not saved if they don’t trust Christ.
I think there are many people in our synod who are still in the dark. If they don’t pay attention to anything but life in their own church, and if their pastor doesn’t let them know there is dissention anywhere, they don’t know! Some may care, if they are told. Those of us that are aware have to start telling others so the next election can turn out much better then the last one. They sometimes get too comfortable and don’t want to face facts that are easier to hide from. They also think they have to blindly follow their leaders, and don’t realize we are supposed to watch the shepherds. I read a paper Walther wrote on that. Keep watch so wolves don’t get in amongst us. I think they’re already here.
Regarding the $15 surcharge on baptism:
Here’s another option for fee for ministry services from jhchurch.org
8. Q: Does Jefferson Hills expect me to tithe 10% of my income as a member?
A: Members are committed to tithing 10% of our income because God attaches a specific blessing to this level of giving. (Malachi 3:8-10). Some will be able to tithe 10% upon membership; others will need to establish a specific plan to grow into 10%. Members also give over-and-above their regular offerings to special giving campaigns. God has blessed us all with an ability to give cheerfully. Every financial gift expresses our love for God. We are committed to this mission and it shows by where we prioritize our financial resources.
9. Q: What is the Raising the Bar Campaign that I hear about sometimes?
A: Materials are provided at Starting Point orientation to membership based the current progress of our capital campaign known as Raising the Bar. Raising the Bar seeks to secure permanent land and buildings for Jefferson Hills worship sites.
10. Q: What if I don’t really want to commit to all 3 steps in mission of Jefferson Hills?
A: Honestly! Then don’t join Jefferson Hills. We are absolutely committed to these three steps in living out the mission Jesus gave us. Perhaps another Christian church would serve you better. If you are not ready to commit to growing into these three steps, then be honest with yourself. You won’t offend us. In fact, tell us what kind of ministry you’re looking for. We know a lot of great ministries in the area that are doing things we aren’t in a position to do. We’ll be glad to help you find a Christian church home you can be committed to. Really, we will!
Barbara,
Unbelievable! I am astonished that an LCMS church actually commands their members to give 10% of their income (plus special gifts above and beyond), corrupts Scripture to do it, and then tells them that if they aren’t prepared to pony up the dough, they can pack up and get out! This is an embarrassment to Synod!
V.A.,
As you are a vicar, my advice is not to ruffle too many feathers. Remember the seminary mantra, “cooperate and graduate.” Take mental notes about what’s improper at the church as well as what’s proper. You’ll have plenty of time to promote the latter and avoid the former…but first you have to pass vicarage and receive a call.
“Follow the money.”
I’ve seen a number of posts criticizing the professor who authored “Musim Friendly Worship.” I would like to address it.
Let me first say that I disagree with the points cited–that Muslim-friendly Christian worship should not include Jesus, crosses, wine, or other potentially offensive elements. I think it’s just plain wrong and I am inclined to reject his advice.
That being said, having the opportunity to meet and work with the man in question, I don’t believe that he is the rebellious, anti-doctrine advocate some are making him out to be. It is my opinion that, in his desire to genuinely see the lost saved and show them love, he went WAAAAY overboard in his advice. It may be that he’s been hanging out with the wrong crowd; it may be that he fell victim to Ivory Tower good-in-theory-horrible-in-practice thinking, but I honesty don’t think he would ever want to see Jesus desecrated.
In sum, the element of his article previously cited are just plain sinful. However, I don’t believe it’s “rebelliousness,” but rather “missing the mark,” or “being out of step with God.”
I’m sure these comments won’t be well received, but I feel compelled to defend the man’s intentions, if not his results.
Linda,
You are correct that the elders “should” do this, but for many of them the only theological training they have is from their pastor. Secondly, under the PLI model the pastor is placed as CEO over the congregation and no one really has oversight over the pastor at all. This is what we are seeing in our synod in general with all of the corporate speak and corporate act. When the church is treated like a business then people are easily hired and fired (hence Issues Etc and Rev May). Also a business makes assessments and determines what will be most profitable for the business, so rather than preach the Gospel to all the world without distinction (the parable of the sower) the corporate model says we have to research and determine what is going to be the most “fertile soil” to plant the seed. So you hear alot of talk about going after the youth or going after the post-moderns and you never here about all the other people in the world outside of these groups!
Matt,
You are certainly correct in your advice.
Matt,
Has the man repudiated what he wrote?
He is surely aware by now of the reaction to his remarks considering that the document was removed from the web, etc.
If not, it becomes clearer that it is case of rebellion against the Gospel and not just merely missing the mark.
Since you have met the man and apparently had a good working relationship, perhaps you can ask him what he thinks about his remarks now. Hopefully he would not defend them in any way.
And I think that is something to keep in mind as we look at what is going on with Reverend May. If what he says is accurate, and I have no reason to question it, I also think that we should know that whether or not we agree with the methods employed by Dr. Mueller or Director Roegner. I sincerely doubt they have devoted their life to missions and are deliberately trying to keep the gospel from spreading. My husband studied with Dr. Mueller at the seminary , and while he may not agree with the things actions that Rev. May describes, knows Dr. Mueller to be a faithful man with a heart for the lost.
That is also something to keep in mind when we look at churches like Jefferson Hills as well. Their practices are abhorrent. But these two pastors do desire to share the gospel with others. Their desires should be respected, even if their methods cannot be.
But what they write about in their blog about how others should see that they are trying to reach out and give them the benefit of the doubt doesn’t fly. It is bad practice and slamming immature believers with this type of law (especially cough it up or leave) is abusive.
Treating the sacraments like a cheap circus sideshow is just awful (see their H20 Saved My Life Campaign, tied to a carwash promotion. From what I saw, at least they are not baptizing in a car wash.)
The church from ancient times has had rites for baptism and remembering your baptism that showed respect for the fact that the Holy Spirit is actually there, that faith is being received, that forgiveness of sins is being given. The reason they have been preserved is because that respect needs to be given. Churches that feel like they can constantly invent new rites and new ways of doing things don’t usually realize that in the midst of this, they are cheapening what they are trying to promote, and offending believers in the process (but their blog also says that believers are better to offend than unbelievers), as well as weakening the Office of the Ministry.
Matt: “In sum, the element of his article previously cited are just plain sinful. However, I don’t believe it’s “rebelliousness,” but rather “missing the mark,” or “being out of step with God.”
“I’m sure these comments won’t be well received, but I feel compelled to defend the man’s intentions, if not his results.”
Very good points, and I shouldn’t have mentioned something I haven’t personally read; but we all know what the road to hell is paved with.
Hey, looks like he has been insubordinate again. Check out his website (www.mayfamilyintogo.com), more baptisms.
At the rate people are entering the Kingdom of God in his vicinity, we need more insubordinate pastors in the LCMS.
I’m all for people enthusiastic for spreading “the Gospel.” The real problem is when “the Gospel” they’re spreading with such enthusiasm is “another Gospel.” Then, I want them to stop and go home.
Charles Finney did way more damage than he ever did good. John Wesley confessed he was not a believer by the end of his life. That’s the road so many are enticing so many more onto. May God have mercy on us all, in Christ.
http://www.ecrevolution.com
Rev. Fisk,
Your sour grapes are obvious. Is my “damage” the domination of American Christendom? If so, then I will gladly continue my damage. The people are excited and spiritual. What else really matters?
Charles Finney
chuckfinney,
Arius and his heresy dominated Christendom in the 3rd & 4th centuries. The people were taught to deny the diety of Jesus and the Trinity.
But what did it really matter, as long as the people were excited and spiritual?
Zeal without knowledge; a very dangerous thing, junior. (Romans 10:2)
Tsk, tsk, tsk, Charlie Finney,
Thou speakest foolishly once again, thou ghastly and foul spirit of pelagianism. Have you forgotten the Cross of Christ? You were defeated there and you will not prevail against the Church of Christ Jesus. Your dark deeds have been unmasked and we understand your wiles. Begone thou defeated foe and descend back into the chains of hell from whence you came!
Good to see some silliness from you, Chuck. :)
Thomas Paine:
That’s not the real Charles Finney. That’s someone who is playing the role of the famous Methodist enthusiast from early American history in satire of modern trends in evangepragmatism.
Not the real Charles Finney? How would you know?
Pelagius is a hack and I have never been defeated. Arius probably won the debate if you took the time to poll the peopl. Now, if there is any doubt, then just look at the statistics. Me and my brood have been victorious. Osteen is my prodigy. Hybels is my prodigy. Warren is my prodigy. Swindoll is my prodigy. The list goes on. Anywhere you find a scoundrel playing the part of mc, then they owe their ministry to me. The LCMS would like to be there, but they are still hanging on to the threads of doctrine and liturgy. Most of them treat the liturgy like a red-headed step-child and cannot let it go. If they would make the separation and follow the trends, then their numbers would increase.
Scholarships to my workshop are still available at chuckfinney.wordpress.com.
Charles Finney
Ah, Finney,
Thou poor wretched hack. Defeated thou art, but still resorting to lies, deceit, and smokescreens of human ability. Your list of victims is unimpressive. Thou hast failed to stop the Church of Jesus Christ and His disciples such as Luther, Sasse, Walther, etal. Thou hast failed to deceive those who cling to Christ and their supposedly meager means of grace in the word and sacrament. Thou hast only encouraged us to cling more tightly to our confessions and liturgies. Yea, thou wast not only defeated but your destruction awaits thee.
Susan,
MLK? Sasse? Walther? Etal? Who are these people? Is Etal a Mohammedist?
You claim my defeat, but my name resounds in the American Church. And even your Germanic tribes now cling to my New Measures. Cling to you clingers. Cling to your dingers. My success is inevitable.
Would you like to learn how to implement my New Measures?
Charles
All I keep saying is “Oh my God, Oh my God…” while reading this.
I am speechless.
chuck, go to bed, there will be plenty of satan’s work to do tomorrow.
They are messing with people’s salvation.
I am so angry, I am shaking.
THIS HAS TO STOP! Our synod is refusing to baptize????
This has to stop. For God’s sake, please, this is beyond wrong.
Edith, Eric, and Rev. Fisk,
All points well taken. I especially appreciate Edith’s comment. Although his intentions are good, they are sinful nevertheless; if he does not repudiate his comments, he is acting out of sinful stubbornness; and those who follow his advice end up putting themselves and others in danger.
Should I run across the professor again, I will ask him if his views concerning Muslim-friendly outreach have changed.
Yet, in another vein, in order to do outreach more effectively, I don’t believe that inviting people to worship/creating new worship services is the first step. Worship is for believers and one would do well to design worship for that demographic in mind instead of designing worship for unbelievers (and their endless sub-categories such as postmoderns, Muslims, etc.). Begin with conversation that proclaims Christ, continue with prayer and Bible study, continue furrther with introducing them to other Christians, then invite them to worship (and not a worship tailored to fit their own idea of what “meaningful worship” should be like). I think trying to attract unbelivers through individualized worship experiences is where a lot of churches get into trouble.
LutheranLucciola,
Jefferson Hills isn’t refusing to baptize. They’ll probably dunk you as often as you like as long as you’re sincere about it.
Maybe we could borrow a page from the Mormon playbook, so that if someone at JH desires rebaptism, he can elect to apply that baptism to someone in Africa. Presto, two problems solved: rebaptism now has a real purpose, and Pastor May doesn’t have to be insubordinate.
Matt,
You said that ‘Worship is for believers’.
You couldn’t be more wrong. It is through the Word and Sacrament that our faith is created, sustained and strengthened.
Eric,
Your point is understandable. One becomes a believer (as well as has his faith sustained and strengthened) through coming in contact with the Word and the Sacrament. However, the Divine Service is not the only place where one may come into contact with such things. If I open a Bible with my unvelieving friend and we read and discuss John 3 (for example), he comes into contace with the Word–a means of grace–and thus Christ may create faith in his heart.
I do not advocate telling ushers “not to let unbelievers in” to worship. But I do advocate designing worship services with the needs of the believer in mind instead of trying to design worhip to attract those without faith.
In short, we would do well to emphasize the “sustain and strengthen” as we design worship services.
Matt,
The needs of believers and non-believers are the same - to have their faith created, sustained and strengthened.
I have to support Matt here, in that, the Divine Service is only for the baptized. This is ancient tradition that only fell out of practice when everyone was baptized.
The distinction between “believer” and “unbeliever” is not a helpful one, for who knows a man’s heart?
But, as for reaching the unbaptized, or even the wayward and erring anabaptists, the Divine Service is not a helpful point of entry. What they need is the preached Word. That Word takes many forms. I think what Matt is saying is that we should find ways to take that Word out of the “box” that is our building (where we have the DS) and into the world, in order to draw others to that DS which they so desperately need.
Ecclesiology is the real heresy of the day. Thank you Mr Finney, you jerk. ;D
Eric,
We don’t disagree on the nature of the Means of Grace nor do we disagree on the need for all people to receive them. Whether a believer or unbeliever comes into the congregation, they will receive, at the very least, the Word–a means of grace.
The question is, when a congregation puts a worship service together, should they think to themselves, “now, we must make sure that the Muslim/postmodern/feminist/Canadian feels good and is not offended; thus we must examine all aspects of worship to see if the Muslim/etc. would like it or not.” Or do we say, “God’s people need the Gospel communicated rightly and clearly and the Sacraments distributed purely. Let’s do that to the best of our ability.”
The former bends, twists, and obfuscates the Gospel, only showing what a certain segment are “comfortable with” and is done to the detrement of the solid believers who need bold proclaimation. The latter proclaims boldly for the sake of the believer, recognizing that (even though it can change the heart), the Gospel is, by it’s very nature, offensive to the Devil, the world, and our own sinful flesh.
Should we proclaim Christ to the unbeliever? Yes, absolutely! Yet, I maintain the best place to proclaim Christ is one-on-one or in small groups. They would benefit more from individualized attention than from our designing a special, hand-crafted worship service, just for their demographic. Once they receive the gift of faith, both their faith and understanding would be strengthened though participation in the Divine Service.
Thank you, Rev. Fisk. You said it better than I’ve proven able to.
Rev. Klemet Preus discusses the Pastor May situation in his Bible Study from last Sunday. Here’s the link:
http://gloryofchrist.org/Navigation_Audio.php?Type=Bible_Study
Why are we talking about re-baptism here? Unless I am misunderstanding something, the people Pastor May baptized were either Muslim, pagan, or Catholics who couldn’t get baptized.
I know the situation at JHchurch, but that’s not a direct issue with firing Pastor May, or canning our missionaries in general.
Just an attempt at humor, LutheranLucciola, with the goal of highlighting how foolish we have become in some of our “outreach” efforts.
Churches that encourage rebaptism of Christians are acclaimed for their “best practices”; meanwhile, missionaries who baptize Muslims and pagans into the faith are called off the fields.
You’re right, the two are not immediately connected, but if you consider them together, you see just how crazily convoluted things are becoming.
Just heard from a good friend in a pretty good position to know….Eight missionaries recalled without notice. He doesn’t have details yet. Anybody else hear of this, or is it just a wild rumor?
A prayer we used to pray in this beloved Synod of ours:
“Grant, we beseech Thee, Almighty God, unto Thy Church Thy Holy Spirit and the wisdom which cometh down from above, that Thy Word, as becometh it, may not be bound, but have free course and be preached to the joy and edifying of Christ’s holy people, that in steadfast faith we may serve Thee and in the confession of Thy name abide unto the end; through Jesus Christ, our Lord . . .”
If the eight missionaries are from the Latin American field then the rumor is a little correct. I don’t know about the “without notice” part as some left a couple of months ago. Missionaries all over are leaving the field because they just don’t agree with the way LCMS-WM is going. Please remember that there are always two sides to every story.
Lutheran Lucciola,
I think JH Church came up because people are growing more frustrated that we have money for Jefferson Hills, but not enough for our missionaries.
To my recollection, JH first came up shortly after the Issues issue, when it was pointed out that JH received $25,000 in Ablaze money for their very sick billboards while something as worthwhile as Issues was axed. Although, from my understanding, the $25,000 wasn’t given for the express purpose of the billboards, the point is still valid. At any rate, that was the first I had ever heard of JH, and it prompted me to go to their web site. I am still sickened by what I read on their web site. Except for the fact that there is an acknowledgement on some page about them being part of the LCMS, one would never no ever know it. In fact, I dare say that about the only connection I can see they might have with the LCMS is that they receive its money and run; there is certainly no theological connection. And they are upheld, by our SYNODICAL PRSIDENT, as an example??? We are rightly concerned when they are held as an example while Issues is canceled and faithful missionaries are called from the field! Our dollars no longer go to the synod; we want no part in supporting churches that do not make a Lutheran (therefore Scriptural) confession.
Sorry, I figured the first was a joke, but I wasn’t sure if people were then detailing it.
I’m so pissed at our synod, I’m just beside myself. Telling this pastor not to baptize just took it into a whole new arena.
Can we get these people out of our hierarchy? Is there a process to just kick them out already?
Probably not, but we can be ready the next time around. With a constitutional convention coming up with a constitution coming up for a vote that is designed by THEM, we really need to be ready.
The one thing that I saw on Jefferson HIlls’ website (aside from the admission that they are LCMS, which surprised me), was that they do seem to recognize the Real Presence. However, I sincerely doubt that translates into responsible communion practice. It certainly doesn’t in their baptismal practice.
A friend of mine asked about their “baptismal event” on their blog. Pastor Gonzales replied that they have a baptismal event every once in a while at a person’s house or another location. Those who have attended their baptismal orientation are invited to be baptized, as well as anyone who has not been baptized before. Then they have a remembrance of baptism event (I can’t really say “rite” can I) but they don’t use the same words (presumably, in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit), so he assured her it is not rebaptism.
If that is the case, I don’t think we can say that they are rebaptizing, but it still is very disrespectful and poor teaching. Remembering your baptism is something they could teach their flock that we do every day, and that brings us comfort. There are rites that the church has had since ancient times as well for remembering our baptism. This seems like it could be treading dangerously close to treating baptism with irreverence…tying it to a commercial promotion and going for a different way of doing it each time.
Right, I agree the mission field is no place for cowardice. Or for worries about self-preservation. In fact, neither is the Christian life, period.
That said, though, a *corporation* feels pressure to look out for the safety of its employees, to avoid lawsuits by surviving relatives, to do nothing to jeopardize its ability to send more missionaries in future, and so forth. I mean if you start baptizing people and then the government says get out and don’t come back, then you can’t even preach, right? Whereas if you give your converts the $15 to have the Catholics to the job, the Catholics get in trouble…
:-)
I know, I know, it all still stinks.
The real goal of Ablaze is to reduce the LCMS to 2000 congregations and 100,000 members by 2017.
Get out you book of Concord and read Part V, the Treatise, lines 40,41, 55,56 and 57. My wife and I are acting under line 57.
Pope Gerald 1 is not happy with us.
Greetings to all in the name of Jesus Christ our Savior!
I am a classmate of Pastor May (CTS ‘06) and I suggested last August to the Board of Education here at Trinity Lutheran Church in Ortonville, MN (MN North Dist.) that we adopt Pastor May and his family and send them the support of our Sunday School offerings. The BofE thought this was a great idea. I funneled our support through Mission Central in Mapleton, Iowa ( http://www.missioncentral.us/missioncentral/welcome ). By using Mission Central we are assured that 100% of all giving goes directly to Pastor May and his family.
Over the past nine months we have taken a free will offering or two and also had our VBS, which starts on June 2, adopt the Mays as well. Given that they have been told to leave the mission field in Africa we were concerned about where to send the last of our Sunday School offerings and the VBS offerings. The other day I called and spoke with Gary W. Thies, director of Mission Central. He told me that they are able to continue to support Pastor May until September. So if you would like to support Pastor May, Tiina, their four children and one on the way, please contact Mission Central through the web site above.
I would agree with another of my classmates Pastor Schneider who has written here recently. We must remember that God is in control of His Church. I for one KNOW that God will make good things happen from this bit of devilry that has been played upon the Mays, Issues, Etc., and Rev. Noland. Why just last night I found out Issues, Etc. is coming back in an independent mode to reach the lost and saved for Jesus Christ - AND with no Synodical strings attached! “Praise God from Whom all blessings flow!” May God use His faithful people to bring about the change that is so sorely needed. Prune away LORD so that we may see TRUE Church growth!
Saved by the Blood of the Lamb,
Pastor Raymond A. Smith
John 1:29 “Behold, the Lamb of God Who takes away the sin of the world.”
The LCMS website still has a tab for supporting the Mays…
http://catalog.lcms.org/GiveNow/Gift_Catalog.asp?Group=64
Hey Ray,
Sorry to tell you brother but Mission Central sends all funds it receives to LCMS WM. In fact one congregation had a member pass away and ask that memorials be given to support missionary Rev. James May. Apparently this congregation did not get the news as the funeral took place about a week after my firing. I have already raised the required $120K this year but the memorial money was accepted by Mission Central in Mapleton, Iowa AFTER they knew I had been fired. They didnt ask any questions but accepted the money and sent it in to World Mission. I never see this money, nor has one penny been used from World Mission or Mission Central to purchase the the Bibles and catechisms I have received here. It is only when I congregation called me that I found out about this situation. I was also told that some people who have called to Mission Central and asked about this were told that I was fired because I was a rabid Fort Wayner. I cant remember that being one of the criteria for firing. Furthermore, that is a name that lacks substance. Was I fired because I baptized and trained pastors AFTER learning French and BEFORE moving to northern Togo? Sounds rabid to me.
Just wanted to correct a possible faulty belief. It is not true that 100% of what is sent in to Mission Central goes to support your intended missionary. It is sent to World Mission in “his name” just meaning he gets credit towards that $120K and anything over that is used at their discretion, actually much of the $120K is.
J,
Thanks for the heads up.
Wow. I can’t believe I wasn’t told that when I called and talked to Mr. Thies at MIssion Central. I specifically mentioned that we wanted to make sure YOU received the money we were getting ready to send. Thankfully we were waiting until the conclusion of VBS this week before sending the funds.
Where should we send funds so that it gets directly to you?
Saved by the Blood of the Lamb,
Pastor Raymond A. Smith
John 1:29 “Behold, the Lamb of God Who takes away the sin of the world.”