Indy Christian .com -- Daily Internet Starting-line: 03/01/2006

Purpose Driven Cell.... Phone.

God's Word

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and
young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Isaiah 40:28-31
NIV

Cedar Rapids or Bust...

Dear _______

Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ! We are thrilled that you have registered for the April 3-5, 2006 National City Impact Roundtable. We look forward to meaningful interaction with you.

The National City Impact Roundtable (CIR) being held in Cedar Rapids April 3-5 has the potential to be our best yet. Your presence will certainly be used by the Lord to contribute to the fantastic conference we are trusting God for! Francis Frangipane, one of the early strategic and spiritual voices for city reaching, will be our plenary speaker. Leadership teams from six city models will present stories that will engage, encourage and equip. Some of the exciting workshops this year are: Funding Your Vision Thru Private/Public Sources; City AIDS Summits; Global Day of Prayer; City Reaching 101; Blogging Technology for City Reaching; and the Mega City Movement Dynamics.

The nine pilot cities for Loving Our Communities to Christ (LC2C) are sending leadership teams for pre and post CIR strategic planning. You will learn more about how God is using the Mission America Coalition partners in this new framework for city reaching and city transformation as you interact with these and other city leaders during the CIR!

There will also be coaches available to help you take the next steps in planning, operating and sustaining your city movement. Plus, as always, there will be the many special surprises and blessings we have come to expect from God during the CIR.

Never in our lifetime has it been more important for the Body of Christ in America to come together in our cities and communities for sustained “Whole Church-Whole Gospel-Whole City focus than now! We must continue to encourage one another around the concept that it is vitally important that we get together -- in the same room and at the same time -- to share, seek God, pray and plan together under the leadership of Jesus Christ and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is not too late to invite other key leaders to register and join us.

Again, thank you for registering. We look forward to seeing you in Cedar Rapids. Until then, please faithfully pray for one another and for our time together.

Prayerfully and expectantly -- in Christ,

Rev. Jarvis Ward
Rev. Phil Miglioratti
National Facilitators for
City and Community Ministries
Mission America Coalition

*******************************************
Indy pastors/leaders/innovators/communicators... If God leads you to drop whatever you're doing (next Mon-Weds), and ride along... email me.

Victim finds her attacker... in 'Facebook'

West Lafayette, March 29 - The suspect pulled a knife on the victim at a Purdue bus stop. She then checked photos on a website to find the suspect and tell police.... [continued at WTHR.com]

God's Word

Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord's coming is near. Don't grumble against each other, brothers, or you
will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door! Brothers, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job's perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.

James 5:7-11
NIV

Indianapolis Report 2005

[This narrative is being prepared for Mission America Coalition's national city-impact roundtable taking place next week in Cedar Rapids. We encourage you to add your comments of other great things we've either inadvertantly omitted, or that we've not known about at all. Then let's commit to connect and communicate even better through 2006.]

Indianapolis 2005 -- Praise the Lord for these city-reaching highlights....

Disclaimer: Not only may we have inadvertantly omitted some key items, we also recognize that our connections & communications are not yet what they could & should be. It is very likely that we are unaware of many more great happenings taking place right here in our own communities. Please forgive our omissions, and come get involved with us in the collaborative efforts of faith among Bible-believing ministries working together in the ONE name of Christ in Indianapolis.

Prayed in the New Year together. We include prayer for 'extraordinary' blessings... to surprise us.
Transform Indiana (TI) network of networks met monthly, praying, planning and pursuing increased relational networks of Bible-believing, city reaching types throughout the city/state.
Indianapolis was represented at Mission America Coalition's national City Impact Roundtable (St. Louis).
IndyChristian.com now has over 50 pastors/leaders/communicators equipped to post at this centralized citywide communications site.
Transform Indiana network now has appx 40 county websites among the state's 92 counties.
Many related teams met monthly -- eg. CCDA Indy, Prayer Breakfast team, FHL.
CCDA Indy urban/suburban team met monthly at our great little Christian cafe in the hood, creating many friendships, and spurring fantastic success for CCDA national convention, which experienced a 70% boost in attendance. As for the host city team, working together like this greatly helped spur us onward into 2006.
TI hosted a collaborative discussion series..."Breaking Out of the Jail Cycle"...
which led to increased Urban/Suburban partnering...
which led to planning initiative for our networking to help recruiting mentors for at-risk kids.
The governor's new office for Faith Based & Community Initiatives was able to gather 1,000 leaders from Faith-based community, and formed an advisory council.
'Faith Hope & Love' was a pilot initiative featuring a week of servant-evangelism in the Castleton area. As a springboard for 2006's metro-wide activities, 11 area mayors declared an annual "FHL Day" in their cities.
Indiana Christian Expo -- A convergence of ministries & Christian-owned businesses.
One of our partners, Indiana National Day of Prayer, held an event in every single county of 92 counties.
Governors Prayer Team launched. (from Indiana, but targeting every state nationwide).
Partner Crossroads Bible College, whose unique mission is to train multicultural city-reachers, experienced 23% growth in enrollment. They now train over 300 students of various ages and are very racially diverse.
Partner CBMC doubled its number of Paul/Timothy mentor/mentee relationships. And plan to again in 2006.
Indianapolis Prayer Breakfast substituted former Philadelphia Eagles running-back-turned-pastor Herb Lusk into the line-up at the last minute... and the breakfast was evaluated as best-ever!
Hurricane Katrina: IndyChristian.com served as a clearing-house of info regarding many Indianapolis efforts.
'Faith Hope & Love' helped facilitate a number of collaborative reflief trips to the Gulf Coast.
Likewise, many churches & ministries sent work-crews and supplies to the affected area.
As a result of much of the teamwork above, many more collaborative activities are on the calendar for 2006.

City ministries are not without issues -- The City Council suddenly reversed course from earlier in the year, and granted special rights for homosexuals.

City Challenges: We recognize that we have 1.5 million residents, many of which are not able to live day to day knowing they have peace with Almighty God. Further, appx 400 people die every week in our metro area, many passing into eternity without the benefit of personally knowing the Savior.

Surprise blessing of the year: 25,000 Nazarenes converged on Indy, brought materials and monies to work on 106 homes in our inner-city... no cost to Indy. Major positive editorial in the Indianapolis Star citing it as the convention with the largest financial impact on Indianapolis (by mid-year '05). Uniquely situated at the Crossroads of America, Indianapolis has become an outstanding convention city for national ministries and family-oriented organizations.

Citywide networking... ON A ZERO-BUDGET... expedited much of the above. God blessed us all greatly as a result of collaborative prayer, planning and pursuit of the Great Commission and Great Commandment.

New Life In The Fast Lane...

View Free Internet Movie

One place you can see it, is from our Hamilton County team site... HamiltonCountyChristians.com.

God's Word

O God, and plead my cause against an ungodly nation; rescue me from deceitful and wicked men. You are God my stronghold. Why have you rejected me? Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy? Send forth your light and your truth, let them guide me; let them bring me to your holy mountain, to the place where you dwell. Then will I go to the altar of God, to God, my joy and my delight. I will praise you with the harp, O God, my God. Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.

Psalms 43:1-5
NIV

Governor's Conference: "Be The Solution"

In two weeks, the Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives, on behalf of Governor Mitch Daniels, will host the 2006 Governor’s Conference on Service and Volunteerism! Join hundreds of other Hoosiers at the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown on April 10 & 11 for this special event. Whether you volunteer through your church, a civic organization or a national service program, this conference is for you -- 89 different seminars allow you to customize your conference experience, and come away with the information you need.

Unsure what the law says about interaction between faith-based organizations and government? Professor Robert Tuttle from the George Washington University School of Law will be covering the latest developments, in a format designed for faith-based organizations, not lawyers!

Interested in working with prisoners in Indiana? Join J. David Donahue, Commissioner of the Indiana Department of Corrections, and his senior staff as they share their vision for the future of corrections in Indiana, and the role of faith.

Curious what funders look for in a good grant proposal? Join representatives from Indiana foundations (representing total assets of over $700 Million!) for an inside look at how grant makers operate.

The cost of the conference is $125, and includes breakfast and lunch both days. Student discounts are available. To register, or for more information, please visit http://www.ofbci.in.gov/ or call 317-233-4273.

In conjunction with the conference, Jim Towey, Director of the White House Office of Faith Based and Community Initiatives, will provide the keynote at the Governor's Awards Dinner on Monday evening. Governor Daniels will honor volunteers who have served the state with commitment and excellence in an effort to make Indiana a better place to live. Six individuals will receive the 2006 Governor’s Award for Excellence in Service & Volunteerism. The Governor’s Award is intended to recognize the efforts of individuals and organizations that contribute their time, talents, and resources to Indiana communities. Award categories include youth, faith-based, national service, community volunteerism, service learning, and lifetime achievement. Angela Cain of WTHR-Channel 13 will moderate the award presentations, which will take place at 5:30pm at the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown.

Tickets for the Awards Dinner are not included in the conference registration. Tickets are $35 for those also registering for the conference, or $50 for the Awards Dinner only. Tickets can be purchased at http://www.ofbci.in.gov/ or from The Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives, 302 W Washington, Room E012, Indianapolis, IN 46204.

David J. Liebel
Program Officer

Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives
Indiana Government Center South
302 W. Washington Street, Room E012
Indianapolis, IN 46204
T: 317-233-0902
F: 317-233-5660
E: dliebel@ofbci.IN.gov
http://www.ofbci.in.gov/

United Methodist Board of Discipleship: Radical Change Needed

"NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) - The fact that 43 percent of United Methodist churches in America did not receive a member by profession of faith in 2004 is an indicator that congregations are in trouble, say leaders of the denomination's discipleship agency.

Both the Rev. Karen Greenwaldt, top executive of the United Methodist Board of Discipleship, and Bishop Michael Coyner, board president, cited that statistic during addresses at the March 14-18 board meeting.

Coyner, leader of the United Methodist Church's Indiana Area, made the observation during a presentation on the seven vision pathways the Council of Bishops, with the denomination's Connectional Table, is using to help the church make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation the world. One of the council's pathways is transforming existing congregations by helping them become more effective and faithful in ministry.

"There is one number in our denomination which keeps going up," Coyner said. "It is the percentage of churches that did not receive even one person as a new member by profession of faith, a number that is now up to 43 percent."

[continued at Virtue Online]

God's Word

Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.

Matthew 5:5-9
NIV

Barna: Born-agains, Evangelicals... Up.

Barna Survey Reveals Significant Growth in Born Again Population

"The new research found that 45% of all adults meet the criteria that The Barna Group uses to classify people as “born again.” That number is up from 31% in 1983."

[IndyChristian.com note: That number is up from the 40% reflected in last year's report.]

"Evangelicals, who are born again but also possess each of seven core beliefs that mirror those taught in the Bible, represent 9% of the adult public."

[IndyChristian.com note: That number is up from the 7% reflected in last year's report.]

[Full article at Barna.org]

[IndyChristian.com note: If you would like to see a "State of the Church, Indianapolis" report at the end of 2006... contact us and advise how you might be led to help.]

God's Word

As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him; for he knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust. As for man, his days are like grass, he flourishes like a flower of the field; the wind blows over it and it is gone, and its place
remembers it no more. But from everlasting to everlasting the LORD's love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children's children - with those who keep his covenant and remember to obey his precepts.

Psalms 103:13-18
NIV

God's Word

The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us
put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of
light. Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in
orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and
debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy.

Romans 13:12-13
NIV

Online Mentoring...

Consider this -- online mentoring -- from one of the most innovative ministry guys you'd want to meet... Rob Williams, Campus Crusade. 'e-Ministry Notes'.

Ok, now consider this -- Transform Indiana's goal to help network to better-recruit mentors for at-risk kids in our inner-cities.

Ideas for networking to help find mentor-applicants, anyone?

God's Word

He who forms the mountains, creates the wind, and reveals
his thoughts to man, he who turns dawn to darkness, and
treads the high places of the earth - the LORD God Almighty
is his name.

Amos 4:13
NIV

God's Word

He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth. By oppression and judgment he was taken away. And who can speak of his descendants? For he was cut off from
the land of the living; for the transgression of my people he was stricken. He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth. Yet it was the LORD's will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the LORD makes his life a guilt offering, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the LORD will prosper in his hand.

Isaiah 53:7-10
NIV

Help Indiana stay #1 in prayer coverage.

Hello, Tom Walker here from The Indiana National Day of Prayer and the National Governors Prayer Team. As you know the National Day of Prayer will be taking place as always on the 1st Thursday in May (May, 4th 2006). Indiana has been blessed to have NDP event coordinators in all 92 of it counties two years in a row. This has never been accomplished in NDP history before and it has the attention of all the states now. They all are being asked to accomplish this same goal and with Gods help all 50 states will accomplished this assuming it is within Gods will.

Listed below are the 13 counties that we are unaware of prayer events taking place. There is a quick online form that folks can fill out to be Official NDP Task Force prayer event coordinators located HERE. And wouldn't it be great to come and meet with Shirley Dobson during here visit to Indianapolis September 7th as one of the team? There is plenty of helpful information available there to act as a guide to holding many different types of prayer events. There are leadership positions available in every county (city, town & event leaders).

If there are questions I may be reached at 317-286-1117 or tomwalker@ndp-in.org

Benton County (Fowler)
Franklin County (Brookville)
Jennings County (Vernon)
Martin County (Shoals)
Ohio County (Rising Sun)
Owen County (Spencer)
Parke County (Rockville)
Pike County (Petersburg)
Ripley County (Versailles)
Rush County (Rushville)
Starke County (Knox)
Steuben County (Angola)
Union County (Liberty)

Connecting people for Gods Holy purposes,

Rev. Thomas (Tom) C. Walker
President & State Chairman - Indiana National Day of Prayer
Founder & President - Governors Prayer Team
865 Country Walk Court
Brownsburg, Indiana 46112-1770
tomwalker@ndp-in.org
http://www.ndp-in.org/
http://www.governorsprayerteam.org/
http://www.oneaccordministry.org/
317-286-1117

FHL Youth Conference

March 31st...

"the Last Call" Youth Conference will be at Church at the Crossing Youth Center, 9111 Haverstick Road, Indianapolis, IN, Telephone # 317-844-9355. It will be from 7:00PM to 11:30PM. Our Guest Speaker is Allen Griffin, an internationally recognized Youth Speaker. Prepare to lift up yourself and others through the music of Airlift! Get ready for an awesome time with youth groups from different churches.
The purpose of this conference is to bring students(7th to 12th grade) from diverse background to be empowered to change the Indianapolis area. Please hang around after the conference for pool, foosball, food and friends. $5 donation per student.
For more information, please visit www.fhlcommunity.org

God's Word

Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. For, "Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech. He must turn from evil and do good; he must seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those
who do evil."

1 Peter 3:8-12

Praying for CCDA Philly...

Remember what it was like last November here in Indy?

Then let's join our Philly friends in praying that God will specially bless CCDA Philly 2006, as well. [Sept.27+]

Here's their prayer team already in motion... [continue]

And here's the new CCDA Philly Video !

God's Word

Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.

Colossians 3:18-19
NIV

Transformers... on internet radio today

Because of today's snowfall, we've made special arrangements to go LIVE on internet-radio... here....

[continued at 'Foxs Den']

**************************
Subsequent Note: If you tuned in too early... ie, before we got the kinks worked out, LOL... we're sorry. Or if you tuned in too late... we're also sorry that we couldn't archive the broadcast on such short notice this time. But if you actually HEARD the broadcast... Wasn't that awesome!!! Praise God, what a report from cities around the world.

Btw, some of these same cities will be represented in Cedar Rapids for the Mission America City Reaching national conference, April 3-5. If interested in going with us... contact me.

Web streaming for free

Snow. Sickness. Distance.

All of these can keep church members apart. But what if there was a free way to include them?

Last night I set up web streaming for free. While I haven't extensively tested this setup, I have posted a rough draft of instructions.

There is no substitute for face to face personal interaction (cf. 3John 13-14: "I have much to write you, but I do not want to do so with pen and ink. I hope to see you soon, and we will talk face to face."), but when that is not possible, perhaps a web stream would be helpful?

God's Word

Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.

Matthew 7:24-25
NIV

Transformers... Worried about snow?

[Just a quick reminder: We would always try to keep you posted here, in the event that tomorrow's snowfall would disrupt the plans for the Transform Indiana meeting at noon. Or in a worst case... you can always call us. 490-1255. But remember, we're pursuing a big goal... and not likely to cancel.]

God's Word

Don't have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord's servant must not quarrel; instead, he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Those who oppose him he must gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant
them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth,

2 Timothy 2:23-25
NIV

A Lunch Invitation for Carmel, Westfield Churches...

[Excerpts from an email from Paul Backer, Outreach Minister at Central Christian Church of Carmel -- to the churches from the Westfield/Carmel area...]

"Greetings from Central Christian Church of Carmel, IN!

"I would like to invite you to join me for a lunch meeting at Lutz's Steakhouse on SR 32 (east of N. Gray Road and west of Hazel Dell Rd) on Monday April 3, from 12noon to 2pm. We will have a private meeting room reserved. I believe so much in developing partnerships with other churches... that I promise to buy your lunch..."

[continued at HamiltonCountyChristians.com]

God's Word

Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you
are suffering, as though something strange were happening to
you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of
Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is
revealed. If you are insulted because of the name of Christ,
you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on
you. If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief
or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler.
However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed,
but praise God that you bear that name.

1 Peter 4:12-16
NIV

Feature: Church at the Crossing...

[The following is excerpted from the Indianapolis Star feature this weekend...]

Steve Rennick
Sr. Pastor

Q: What is the essence of your church's beliefs?

A: Key points:

Jesus is the Son of God who died, was resurrected and offers us hope for today and tomorrow.

God's spirit is among us today -- working with us, guiding us and helping us in our lives today to live as God wants us to live.

The Bible has authority to teach us, correct us and point us to all truth.

All Christians need to practice a "practical unity" of loving and helping one another.

The Christian life is an exciting journey of faith in which we learn to follow Jesus.

[continued at IndyStar.com]

[Visit ChurchAtTheCrossing.org]

[Also visit their youth site... Crossing360.com]

*****************************************
IndyChristian.com Ed.Note: CATC has been a great outreach partner in the city, having teamed up collaboratively with other Bible-believing churches & ministries in the area to do outreach together in some practical ways.

Tim Broyles
Outreach Pastor

Church at the Crossing was one of the 7 founding churches last year, for the growing "Faith, Hope & Love" initiative. Outreach pastor Tim Broyles served on the launch team for FHL's multi-church pilot initiative last year, which is now growing into a metro-wide effort for 2006... serving our communities, sharing the Good News, and celebrating together. Learn more at FHLcommunity.org... and come join in.

Special info meetings are being conducted in all areas of the city. Click for more info.

God's Word

Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content
with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I
leave you; never will I forsake you."

Hebrews 13:5
NIV

Google's definition of 'hate speech'?

Christians... This will be an interesting case to follow as it develops. [continued]

Scott's Africa Trip...

[received via email this morning from Scott Truex, CCDA Indy]

Greetings from Maputo, Mozambique!

Wow! What a great part of the world! We started in East London visiting the work of churches in shanty towns and more rural area. Seeing what the "churches" are doing to combat this pandemic has been one of my greatest surprises! I thought we (US) had developed the idea of Christian Community Development but the Africans (once again) are way ahead of us when it comes to serving others. I am so excited to tell the stories of these people and their communities so that the American church can learn and partner in their efforts. (We should offer it as credit at every university and pay the African to teach us how to serve others despite unbelievable odds.)

Of course a trip like this reveals how little I know about Africa, tribalism, apartheid, colonialism and some much more. But I have even more African friends who will be teaching me.

I visited Malawi and Mozambique after are initial SA - visits which provided many more examples to share. We are driving back to South Africa from Maputo this morning ending up in Jo-burg Sunday night and departing for Atlanta Monday night.

I look forward to some time to talk with each you about Africa and your insights on some of our plans.

Your prayers have paved the way before us as we have had one blessing after another! Every time I thought the next meeting was not necessary I was reminded that the trip was committed to the Lord's schedule and that seven hours bouncing around in a van was worth the time meeting a new pastor and learning how they serve others. I certainly don't know hardship!

I would ask your continued prayers for our return as we have "good news" to share and unbelievable opportunities to bless the work of the Lord. One of my devotions was I Corinthians 2 - seeking the wisdom of the Spirit - not the wisdom of the world. The world humanitarians are baffled as to how to proceed but the Body of Christ is coming to life and will be a force like no other! Some one here said the American church is a sleeping giant that if awoken to "true" service the world would be a very different place. To those who are given much - much is expected!

Blessings from Africa! I am in your debt for your intercessions for us! I praise God for your kindness and support!

Scott

'Faith, Hope & Love' Info Meetings...

Per email from Pastor Merlin Gonzales, Coordinator,
Faith, Hope & Love (collaborative ministries)...

"Hope you are all doing well.

Here are the meeting places and dates for the FHL church informational meetings/orientations:

March 21st... 'Transform Indiana' networking meeting at Grace Missionary in Mooresville. Pastor Jim Taylor to share 12 principles of transformation (He traveled to several transformation cities around the world) Transform Indiana will be handed off to Faith Hope and Love in the area of Indianapolis, Transform Indiana will focus on other areas of the State.
March 30th... Noblesville Area Churches at Bethel Lutheran at 11:30am (place TBD)
April 3rd... Carmel/Westfield Area Churches meeting at Lutz'sSteakhouse on SR 32, 12p-2p
April 6th... Zionsville/Northwest Indy Churches at Zionsville Presbyterian Church, noon to 2pm.
April 13th... Nora/Castelton Churches meeting at First Baptist Church on 86th, 10:00am

All to His glory!
Merlin
372-7222"

Need Money?

Need money?

[continued at WhenYouNeedSomeone.com]

God's Word

The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul. The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes. The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever. The ordinances of the LORD are sure and altogether righteous. They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb. By them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward.

Psalms 19:7-11
NIV

Why God and Theistic Evolution Do Not Mix

[Posted with permission from author]

I remember as a boy (1950s) standing in the back of the church hearing adults confidently stating, "Man will never get to the moon. If God intended for us to be on the moon, He would have put us there." It made sense to me. But, on July 20, 1969 Neil Armstrong became the first man to land on the moon. This is only one illustration of the Church's perceived reluctance to recognize the potential achievements of science. Christendom has been credited for protecting such theories from "the earth is flat" to "man will never fly." The scientific community frequently views religion as an obstacle to advancement, while the church historically has feared science.

Many feel a need to change the tarnished picture of science and the church. So, in an effort to erase the "image of ignorance" historically earned, Christians are demonstrating a greater respect for scientific findings. Science and the church have become friends. Nowhere is that seen more clearly than in the widespread acceptance of Theistic Evolution. This theory has something for both camps. The church is pleased to acknowledge that God started the process. Scientists are glad to see religious people bow to their scientific theories. It's the best of both worlds, sparing the church from academic embarrassment suffered in the past.

But, is it possible this "theological/scientific friendship" is a compromise? Theistic evolution is a theory which states God created elementary forms and allowed evolutionary processes (natural selection, random mutations, etc.) to develop, refine and complete life as we know it. Does acceptance of this view undermine God's creative activity? Does it yield to science more respect than it deserves? The answer is "yes." God and evolution (evolving from simple lifeforms to more complex - fish to humans) are enemies not friends. Christians who hold evolutionary concepts are flirting with ideas contrary to basic biblical principles.

Creation and the Bible
The Bible is clear on God's creative process. He spoke all things into existence. It was instantaneous. He spoke and it was so. The Psalmist wrote, "For He spoke, and it came to be; He commanded, and it stood firm"(Ps.33:9). The writer of Hebrews affirmed the Psalmist in Hebrews 11:3, "By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible." There are some who debate the length of each creative day recorded in Genesis 1. Were they periods of 24 hours or thousands of years? Those who lengthen the day do so to accommodate the scientific data which suggests an older earth. However, the crucial question focuses on the process not the time elapsed. God's creative work was immediate. It makes little difference whether the "Genesis Day" was 24 hours or a thousand years. [ed.note... That is, it didn't even take him all day.] God acted and time advanced.

How do we know earth's creation was instantaneous? First, the grammatical structure of the Genesis text indicates an immediate action. The recurring phrase is "And God said..." If His command incorporated a natural process, the text would read, "And God developed", or "And God built", or another phrase conveying the idea of continuing development. Second, we have the example of Christ in which all (with one exception) His miraculous works were simultaneous with His spoken commands. Speaking equaled accomplishment.

Other Considerations
If God started the process and backed away allowing evolutionary progression to complete the task, Christianity is faced with certain inconsistencies. First, if humankind evolved, so did humanity's values. Basic definitions of right and wrong would continually change. For example, apes and humans do not operate under the same value system. If one evolved from the other, the value system necessarily must evolve. The "absolutes" we see in Scriptures would only be principles developed over eons of time. That which is the product of change is at risk of changing again. Theistic Evolution places "certainty" in jeopardy. How do I know the law that says "thou shalt not kill" will be valid 100 years from today?

If Theistic Evolution is true, all life becomes "common." That means there is no difference between "animal life" and "human life." The same "spark" energizing fish is the same "spark" energizing humans. The difference could only be in the degree of complexity as organisms evolve. The contradictions to Christian teaching are monumental. The Bible distinguishes between human life and all other forms of life. Only humanity was created "in the image of God." Animals are for food and clothing, thus, their life is expendable. However, the taking of human life is prohibited. What is the difference? Man/woman was created in God's image. There is a divine significance to human life. To ignore that basic principle is to suffer under the social ills of the day. The logical extension to Theistic Evolution is abortion and euthanasia. If all life is "common", the societal rules are similar for both animal and human kingdoms. If society "puts down" a suffering animal, it should extend the same mercy to a suffering human.

The core problem facing those who mix God and Evolution is in the compromise of absolutes. When life is interpreted in an evolutionary context, everything is in a state of change. There can be no eternal moral values. There can be no principles of Scripture which cannot change. Ultimately, the very gospel to which every Christian clings is in peril. Who's to say the process of change is complete?

Final Thought
Christians have a responsibility to investigate and follow truth. True science and Christianity are brothers not enemies. But, God's children begin their analysis on basic assumptions quite different than many in the scientific community. We must be aware of those differences. We must guard against compromising God's eternal truth to gain respectability from a world blind to the obvious footprints of God.

Pastor Dennis Clark
Pendleton Baptist Church [more articles]
e-mail: dkclark7@msn.com

God's Word

These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.

Deuteronomy 6:6-9
NIV

"You Pick It."

1 Cor 12: 1-31

Minister Doug Hairston
Exec Dir, Jobs Partnership

"You Pick It." This is what we hear many times when asked for a preference. It might be that we don’t want to make a selection that might not be possible or it might not be what the other person would like.

But when it comes to God each of us has been given several spiritual gifts.

[continued at CEO Indy.com]

Looking for a washer...

[click to continue]

"Tipping Point Prayer"

Marc van der Woude,
Joel News Ministry

Phil Miglioratti (pictured below) interviewed me for his NPPN weblog about two books I read: Malcolm Gladwell's 'The Tipping Point' and Laszlo Barabasi's 'Linked'. He wondered how these books got on my radar screen, and why it's important for Christian leaders to read them. Because NPPN stands for (the American) National Pastors Prayer Network, Phil also asked me to formulate a prayer that pastors can pray. [continued at Mark's Messages at 'Joel News']

Phil Miglioratti
National Pastors Prayer Network

Read Phil's full interview with Marc.

Or better yet, come visit with Phil and city-reachers from other cities across the U.S. (and world), at Mission America Coalition's "City Impact Roundtable", April 3-5... in Cedar Rapids.

[A number of folks are driving over together from Indianapolis -- contact us.]

Puritan Writer Envisaged 'Transform Indiana' ?

[Christian History article at ChristianityToday.com]

Richard Baxter wrote, preached, taught, and visited his way to become the model pastor.

THE PROTOTYPICAL EVANGELICAL? Historians David Bebbington, Mark Noll, and George Rawlyk have identified four characteristic marks of "evangelicalism": a stress on conversion, a focus on Christ's redeeming work as the core of biblical Christianity, an acknowledgment of the Bible as the supreme authority, and an energetic and personal approach to social engagement and evangelism. According to Paul Lim, the life and ministry of Richard Baxter reveal all four of these qualities. Read more about this remarkable man.

On July 28, 1875, the town of Kidderminster in the English Midlands witnessed a rare moment of Christian unity. After over 200 years of deep Protestant divisions, clergy from all denominations came together for the unveiling and dedication of the statue of a Puritan preacher.

The inscription at the base of the statue read, "Between the years 1641 and 1660 this town was the scene of the labors of Richard Baxter, renowned equally for his Christian learning and his pastoral fidelity. In a stormy and divided age he advocated unity and comprehension, pointing the way to everlasting rest."

[continued at ChristianityToday]

********************************************
[hat-tip, Eldon Kibbey, Moderator, Transform Indiana ministry network]

If you've come to believe that this puritan writer just might have been onto something, come be with us at the next Transform Indiana ministry networking meeting... March 21st... at lunch-time (BYOL). This month's meeting rotates to Grace Missionary Church in Mooresville. [click for map]

In addition to our normal time of praying and planning together, Pastor Jim Taylor will be sharing his insights gathered during his recent Sabbatical, in which he traveled the world visiting the 'transformation (video) cities'... seeing for himself first-hand, the radical impact of the gospel.

As well, there will be information about this summer's 'Faith, Hope & Love' week of collaborative events.

God's Word

No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him, and I will raise him up at the last day. It is written in the Prophets: "They will all be taught by God". Everyone who listens to the Father and learns from him comes to me.

John 6:44-45
NIV

God's Word

So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. For in just a very little while, "He who is coming will come and will not delay. But my righteous one will live by faith. And
if he shrinks back, I will not be pleased with him."

Hebrews 10:35-38
NIV

'Indiana Christian News' sold

FROM SAM GAW:

This sale might have come to a surprise to many but it is of the Lord. While the name of the paper will change next month, the focus of bringing the Christian community together will not. I truly believe that Russ Jones (the new owner) is called to carry on the work we started. Ecclesiastes 3:1-10 tells us that ‘There is an occasion for everything, and a time for every activity under heaven.’ and it was time. With the sale of the paper, it secures that a Christian newspaper will be published in Central Indiana for years to come.

THIS WILL NOT EFFECT THE INDIANA CHRISTIAN EXPO AT ALL!!!

[continued at IndianaChristianNews.com]

God's Word

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to
God the Father through him.

Colossians 3:16-17
NIV

Gay-rights activists arrested at Liberty University

On the first stop of a 51-day "gay-rights" bus tour aimed at bringing media attention to the non-admission policies for gays at 20 Christian colleges and military schools, 24 members of the Soulforce Equality Ride found themselves sitting in the Lynchburg, Virginia, jail, arrested for trespassing at Jerry Falwell's Liberty University and facing possible $2,500 fines and a year in jail.

[continued at WorldNetDaily.com]

God's Word

Show me, O LORD, my life's end and the number of my days;
let me know how fleeting is my life. You have made my days a
mere handbreadth; the span of my years is as nothing before
you. Each man's life is but a breath. Man is a mere phantom
as he goes to and fro: He bustles about, but only in vain;
he heaps up wealth, not knowing who will get it.

Psalms 39:4-6
NIV

Granting Enrichment

[Another excellent article by Robert King]

Lilly endowment's focus on religious projects stems from belief that good churches create good communities...

The endowment has been making grants in religion since its founding in 1937, when it gave mostly to local churches. In the past seven years, it has given more than $1 billion -- about a quarter of its total grants -- to religious projects. [continued at IndyStar.com]

God's Word

O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise.
You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do
not take pleasure in burnt offerings. The sacrifices of God
are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you
will not despise.

Psalms 51:15-17
NIV

Video Anchors Away

Weigh anchor. Hoist the sails. Cut to video.

Does this video pretty much say it all, that is, demonstrate the more compelling nature of web-video vs. web-text? Or is any debate still necessary about the need for free & easy video-capabilities for your ministries?

Note: Don't be confused... 'Anchors Away Ministries' is not about video-making... It's just the (great) subject of one of our innovative youth pastors in the area, Justin Young, Chinese Church of Indianapolis, as he generated this video for his constituency to more quickly grasp the value of sending their teens to Anchors Away.

You can get more ministry info at AnchorsAwayMinistries.org.]

And you can get more ministry innovation info at WirelessCoffee.org -- the hang-out for geeks working to accelerate the gospel in our community... on our watch.

Darwin smacked in new U.S. poll...

[Ed.Note: Will classrooms start walking upright?]

Whopping 69 percent of Americans want alternate theories in classroom.

[Full article continued at WorldNetDaily.com]

**********************************
[Be sure and take advantage of opportunities this weekend to hear 'that other side'.]

Tomorrow at the cafe...

We're welcoming a returning friend this week, as she represents SimDesk Indiana, and will be talking with several of our geekier friends (**LOL**) about helping us sponsor a Tech Awareness Day in the inner-city this year.

So y'all come, if you're interested in how we can work together to help folks cross the digital divide, in neighborhoods across the city.

[And it'd be a great opportunity to meet some other Christian techs increasingly working together for the Kingdom here in our city, on our watch.]

God's Word

At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" He called a little child and had him stand among them. And he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven."

Matthew 18:1-4
NIV

Cincinnati's Creation Museum... Blog

From the Creation Museum Blog...

"Today, we thought we’d select from one of our over 6,000 Charter Members and do a little Q & A with them about their experience with Answers in Genesis and why they chose to support the Creation Museum project.

Mark R. Scott III attends Park Chapel Christian Church in the Indianapolis area. He is also a member of the Christian Motorcyclists Association, and plans on attending our 3rd Annual Creation Museum Motorcycle Rally this September. He had some exciting things to share about how Answers in Genesis has helped to strengthen his faith and his confidence in the Bible..."

[continued at Creation Museum Blog]

Or check out their newest video online...

"Is Genesis Relevant for Today?"

Or better yet, come see Ken Ham live...

at Kingsway Christian Church this weekend.

A Scientific Dissent From Darwinism

*****IMPORTANT UPDATE*****
More than 500 Scientist sign paper declaring skepticism of Evolution From WorldNetDaily...
More than 500 scientists with doctoral degrees have signed a statement expressing skepticism about Darwin's theory of evolution.
The statement, which includes endorsement by members of the prestigious U.S. National Academy of Sciences and Russian Academy of Sciences, was first published by the Seattle-based Discovery Institute in 2001 to challenge statements about Darwinian evolution made in promoting PBS's "Evolution" series.
The PBS promotion claimed "virtually every scientist in the world believes the theory to be true."
"Darwinists continue to claim that no serious scientists doubt the theory and yet here are 500 scientists who are willing to make public their skepticism about the theory," said John G. West, associate director of Discovery Institute's Center for Science & Culture.
Finally, if you have a Ph.D. in engineering, mathematics, computer science, biology, chemistry, or one of the other natural sciences, and you agree with the following statement, "We are skeptical of claims for the ability of random mutation and natural selection to account for the complexity of life. Careful examination of the evidence for Darwinian theory should be encouraged," then please contact us at cscinfo@discovery.org.
http://www.dissentfromdarwin.org/

www.creationevidencecrusade.org

God's Word

And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away. Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

1 Peter 5:4-7
NIV

Home Educators Convention... March 24-25

The Indiana Association of Home Educators is dedicated to providing high-quality, statewide, homeschool events. Some of these events include the Annual Convention, Home Education Day at the Capitol, and Mom's Retreats. [continued]

God's Word

To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. "He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth." When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he
entrusted himself to him who judges justly.

1 Peter 2:21-23
NIV

"A Delicate Hospitality"

Christianity Today: "A Delicate Hospitality"

How Hispanic churches in Southern California negotiate the dilemmas of ministry with undocumented immigrants.

This and other related articles are seen at our companion-site...

LatinoChristians.com

"The objective of the site is not only to help Latino Christians directly, it is also to help Latino Christians by bringing the ENTIRE Christian family TOGETHER."

eMinistry Notes: Upload Your Videos

"Well, here’s a relatively new Web 2.0 site that is really worth a look: YouTube.com.

I’ve heard it described as “Flickr for Video”.

[continued at eMinistryNotes.com]

God's Word

Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your
heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?

Matthew 6:25-26
NIV

God's Word

O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise.
You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do
not take pleasure in burnt offerings. The sacrifices of God
are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you
will not despise.

Psalms 51:15-17
NIV

IndyChurches.com.... feeding on blog bugs

Churches are getting the blogging bug.

Our companion-site, IndyChurches.com is an 'aggregator' that feeds on 'em.

And ChristianHeadlines.com feeds off of our feeds.

Here's the newest Indy church to start blogging... Lakeview's worship team.

And suddenly, as a result of automatically generating their RSS-feed, they're now also seen at ChristianHeadlines.com. Click the Indiana page.

Does YOUR church have a blog yet? When you do, email us.

God's Word

You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are
to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be
called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him
the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the
house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end.

Luke 1:31-33
NIV

God's Word

But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.

Micah 5:2
NIV

Jobs networking and flapjacks...

Ms. Elease

What'd you miss last Saturday at the cafe?

Hmmm. Let's see.... Uh... blog-training & job-networking in the morning. And a wedding reception in the afternoon.

Oh, and a stack of Oscar's pancakes. But then, you could catch up on a stack tomorrow, couldn't you?

... at UBbloggin'... at the Unleavened Bread Cafe... 10am til noon.

God's Word

And live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.

Ephesians 5:2-4
NIV

Forum: Homosexuality, Civil Rights and the Church

[The following notes come from the office of the president at Crossroads Bible College, the venue of last night's debate.]

Praise God for the prayers of the saints. The forum was well attended (over 500), orderly and good exposure for CBC.

Thanks to all of you who served in various ways. God has given us a great team! I have received some great comments concerning our own Dean Baxter! It is very beneficial to have more of our faculty and staff known.

There were some representatives of Pure Life Ministries at the meeting. This is a ministry that deals with people struggling with sexual addictions. I was pleased that they felt the forum was handled gracefully but truthfully.

The bottom line was that one group saw the love of Christ in affirming a homosexual’s lifestyle, i.e. acceptance without change while the other saw the love of Christ in forgiving and freeing the individual from sin.

There is talk of a future debate focused upon certain Scriptural texts.

Media Coverage:

* Channel 16, was here and the forum should be shown on the public access station at a later time.

* A Christian friend from Indiana Christian News filmed the forum too. He'll do some editing, i.e. add Scripture texts, etc., and produce a DVD for distribution.

* Moody (WGNR), has asked for an audio copy for some future use.

* I was speaking with an Answers in Genesis worker yesterday and he asked about getting a copy of the forum. He wants to make Focus on the Family aware of it.

***********************************
See previous news re this special forum.

Those who may be interested in joining the 'Coalition for Compassion and Morality' may contact the coalition via email.

Homeschool Bloggers...

Looking for some more great folks to connect with, across the state? Check out HomeschoolBlogger.com's Hoosier connection.

[Thanks Sharra, for the links to IndyChristian & TransformIndiana! We'd welcome all Christian families to add a link to TransformIndiana.com... and their particular city or county site. Help connect the dots throughout the state.]

March 10th... Hamilton Co. Prayer Breakfast

March 10th, 7:30am, Ritz Carlton, Carmel

This annual event is designed to bring the community together to pray for our county officials, the business community and the citizens of Hamilton County Indiana. We provide an opportunity to get to know your neighbors a little better while enjoying a time of fellowship, food, music and inspirational speaking every year.

This years special guest is Ken Johnson, the chaplain for the Indianapolis Colts. Ken’s story of facing life’s challenges and standing tall will be one that you do not want to miss.

[continued at HamiltonCountyPrayer.org]

[Also visit... HamiltonCountyChristians.com]

God's Word

The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him.

Nahum 1:7
NIV

Indy Christian .com -- Daily Internet Starting-line

Friday, March 31, 2006

Purpose Driven Cell.... Phone.

God's Word

Thursday, March 30, 2006

Cedar Rapids or Bust...

Victim finds her attacker... in 'Facebook'

God's Word

Wednesday, March 29, 2006

Indianapolis Report 2005

New Life In The Fast Lane...

God's Word

Tuesday, March 28, 2006

Governor's Conference: "Be The Solution"

United Methodist Board of Discipleship: Radical Change Needed

God's Word

Monday, March 27, 2006

Barna: Born-agains, Evangelicals... Up.

God's Word

Sunday, March 26, 2006

God's Word

Saturday, March 25, 2006

Online Mentoring...

God's Word

Friday, March 24, 2006

God's Word

Thursday, March 23, 2006

Help Indiana stay #1 in prayer coverage.

FHL Youth Conference

God's Word

Wednesday, March 22, 2006

Praying for CCDA Philly...

God's Word

Tuesday, March 21, 2006

Transformers... on internet radio today

Web streaming for free

God's Word

Monday, March 20, 2006

Transformers... Worried about snow?

God's Word

A Lunch Invitation for Carmel, Westfield Churches...

Sunday, March 19, 2006

God's Word

Feature: Church at the Crossing...

Saturday, March 18, 2006

God's Word

Google's definition of 'hate speech'?

Scott's Africa Trip...

Friday, March 17, 2006

'Faith, Hope & Love' Info Meetings...

Need Money?

God's Word

Thursday, March 16, 2006

Why God and Theistic Evolution Do Not Mix

God's Word

"You Pick It."

Looking for a washer...

Wednesday, March 15, 2006

"Tipping Point Prayer"

Puritan Writer Envisaged 'Transform Indiana' ?

God's Word

Tuesday, March 14, 2006

God's Word

Monday, March 13, 2006

'Indiana Christian News' sold

God's Word

Gay-rights activists arrested at Liberty University

Sunday, March 12, 2006

God's Word

Granting Enrichment

Saturday, March 11, 2006

God's Word

Video Anchors Away

Friday, March 10, 2006

Darwin smacked in new U.S. poll...

Tomorrow at the cafe...

God's Word

Thursday, March 09, 2006

Cincinnati's Creation Museum... Blog

A Scientific Dissent From Darwinism