Bruce Waltke Belated Birthday Bash

BYOT - "Bring Your Old Testament" Birthday Bash

The Regent College Foundation USA invites anyone who knows and wants to honour this Professor of Old Testament, to come and join them in an informal birthday celebration. Dr Waltke will be sharing his thoughts over what has happened over the past year. If you are in Seattle, or planning to be there, don't miss this.

Sunday October 24, 2010, 4:00-6:00pm 

The Calvin Room, University Presbyterian Church

4540 15th Ave NE, Seattle

RSVP to Holly by October 20th at hrail@regent-college.edu or 604.224.3245×377

c

Gordon Fee

This is a nice write-up by charismamag.com on one of Regent-College's beloved Professor Emeritus.  Reading this article gives us a background on how Dr Fee become so well-known in the evangelical world.  Below is an excerpt about his stand over women in the Church.

========================================== 

“It’s a given,” he says. “The real question is, Which comes first, gender or gifting? What [opponents of women in ministry] are trying to tell me is that gender comes above gifting. How can that be? The Spirit gives the gifting. If a woman stands and prophesies by the Spirit, and men are present, does the Spirit not speak to them? Come on! How dumb can you get?”

His advocacy, Fee says, is on behalf of the Holy Spirit rather than women. “The Spirit is gifting women,” he says, “but many evangelicals are not prepared to adjust because of the ‘box’ they’re in.

 “I’ve been blacklisted over this issue,” he adds. “People have said, ‘We can’t have Fee speak because he’s pro-women.’ I am pro-Holy Spirit! I just can’t get over that some people think gender comes before gifting.”

- "A Professor with Spirit"
- "How Christians miss the mark when studying the Bible."

conrade

Spiritual Leadership Classic

Now in audio!

This is a wonderful resource that can be downloaded free for the month of September 2010. After all these years, this book is still a leading resource for spiritual leadership. Highly recommended. You can download the audio resource for J Oswald Sanders' "Spiritual Leadership" here. Use the coupon SEP2010 to download it free of charge for the month of September 2010.

conrade

Relevance to the World or the God?

This article mirrors the stance taken by Lesslie Newbigin who once said,

"Traditional Christian teaching has been otherworldly in its emphasis. It has had more to say about how to accept failure than about how to succeed, more about suffering than about action. Theology has been the preserve of those who minister as priests and pastors to the inner spiritual life of their people. Consequently, when theologians whose whole work is in this pastoral ministry try to speak about matters of politics and economics, their words do not carry weight." (Lesslie Newbigin)

Indeed. When Churches become too much of this world in the name of relevance to the world, it unwittingly loses its relevance to God. The blog below is first published at yapdates.

conrade

==========================

Why Hip-Style Christianity Is Not Preferred

The Wall Street Journal published an insightful article on religion on Aug 13th, 2010. In the article entitled: "The Perils of Wannabe-Cool Christianity," Brett McCracken begins by comparing the BP oil-well leak in the gulf of Mexico with the leak of young people from evangelical churches. He claims that the young people leaves 'never to return.' The writer is the author of the book, "Hipster Christianity: Where Church and Cool Collide."

Essentially, McCracken argues that while Churches are right to be concerned about the exodus of young people from may churches, they are wrong in trying to use 'hip' and 'cool' stuff to draw them in. He questions the popular person approach, which is use of modern sitcom and popular television personalities. He criticizes the technological approach where churches seem to attract people on the basis of them adopting the greatest and the latest technologies in the ministries. He hits out at sensationalism style church ministry. He is annoyed at the use of 'sex' as a cover. Finally, he tells the reader what is the biblical approach:

"If we are interested in Christianity in any sort of serious way, it is not because it's easy or trendy or popular. It's because Jesus himself is appealing, and what he says rings true. It's because the world we inhabit is utterly phony, ephemeral, narcissistic, image-obsessed and sex-drenched—and we want an alternative. It's not because we want more of the same." (Brett McCracken)

I like the way Dr David Wells of Gordon-Conwell is quoted:

"The born-again, marketing church has calculated that unless it makes deep, serious cultural adaptations, it will go out of business, especially with the younger generations. What it has not considered carefully enough is that it may well be putting itself out of business with God.


"And the further irony," he adds, "is that the younger generations who are less impressed by whiz-bang technology, who often see through what is slick and glitzy, and who have been on the receiving end of enough marketing to nauseate them, are as likely to walk away from these oh-so-relevant churches as to walk into them."

I agree very much with Wells and McCracken. This book is indeed a needed jab for many of us concerned about serving God in biblical ways. We need to be Christlike. If Christ alone is not attractive, nothing else will be permanently attractive. If we become too much like the world, then the people outside the Church will ask: "Why should I come to Church? After all, I can get all the hip and cool things that the world offers. What's the difference?"

The difference must always be Christ. Anything else is a lousy alternative.

conrade

"Pocket Guide to the New Testament Theology" (Free!)

Thanks to the generosity of BiblicalTraining.org, a free ebook by Dr Ian Howard Marshall is available for your download. Note that it is specifically targeted at iPad users and ebook standard like epub. If you want to read it on your PC, you can conveniently download an add-on (Firefox users) and read it from inside your browser. Otherwise, download an Epub application and use it to read the ebook. Alternatively, go to the website here and read it like any website.

Click here for the free ebook download, or simply read it from here:

A POCKET GUIDE TO NEW TESTAMENT THEOLOGY (I HOWARD MARSHALL)

• Chapter 1. Why Study Christian Doctrine
  
• Chapter 2. Our Knowledge of God
  
• Chapter 3. What Can We Know about God
  
• Chapter 4. God and the Universe
  
• Chapter 5. The Person and Work of Jesus
  
• Chapter 6. The Life of the Christian
  
• Chapter 7. The Christian Community
  
• Chapter 8. The Last Things

Cheers!

conrade

Rikk Watts in Singapore (11-13 Aug 2010)

Those of you who will be in Singapore can catch Dr Rikk Watts as he speaks and teaches there. You can download the flyer here.

Simpson Community Services

One Regent-alum has recently setup a community services group that ministers to people living at Vancouver's Downtown East Side and marginalized groups at various parts of Vancouver. This new ministry is called "Simpson Community Services." If you are on Facebook, you can join his group by clicking here.

From their website, the rationale for the ministry is this:

The rationale of the Simpson Society builds on the ancient proverb “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.” Therefore, the Society interacts with vulnerable persons by first relief (giving fish) and then development (teaching people how to fish). However, the Simpson Society goes further and adds social justice (defending the right for persons to fish) and also providing palliative, pastoral care when there are no supports available for people in dire need (when there are no fish).This four-fold approach to community service is offered in a networking context and a hands-on work, bottom-up working style.

[From Simpson Community Services Society website]

Dylan Goggs (MCS, 2008) and his wife are co-founders of the organization. You may want to check them out here. Thanks Dylan for your love in the LORD.

[Photo Credit: Dylan Goggs]

conrade

Updates on Dr Gary Parrett

Here is more updates about Gary's condition. The news clip reveals the horrors of the accident.



Further Updates
Taken from the latest journaling from his daughter Alisa, here is an excerpt which contains both positive and not-so-positive news.

We got the results of the MRI today, and they were mostly encouraging.  Although the doctors see that there is likely permanent damage to the brain (enough to cause some disability), they believe that with time and proper rehabilitation, he could be on his way to a full recovery.  Right now, it's sort of a waiting game--because my dad still hasn't woken up, there's some concern as to how long he will remain unconscious and how that will play out on his brain's condition when he does wake up.  He also has to wake up quickly for the sake of the rest of his body, which can't be fully treated until he is conscious. (From: Caringbridge, July 14th, 2010)

WHAT YOU CAN DO

#1 - PRAYING

In prayer, we trust our Heavenly Father to take over the many aspects of this situation, which man does not fully comprehend.

#2 - GIVING

If you want to help the family with donations, remember to do it through a site (not CaringBridge above!), set up by Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. Note that if you are a US or Canadian taxpayer, all contributions to the Parrett family are not tax-deductible. The website is here. You can also go the the seminary website and follow the links that lead you there. The direct link is:

http://www.gordonconwell.edu/supporters_friends/parrett_family_fund

Note: If you click the the icon, you will be transferred to a website setup by Gordon-Conwell Seminary, where Dr Gary Parrett works for. As all contributions go directly to the Parrett family, they are not tax-deductible.

conrade

Pray for Dr Gary Parrett - July 8th, 2010

Dr Gary Parrett is a Regent alum (MDiv, 83) who is currently unconscious in a hospital in Seoul after a horrific bus accident that killed 12 people (July 3rd, 2010). Gary is a professor serving at Gordon-Conwell theological Seminary as a Professor of Educational Ministries and Worship. According to a Gordon-Conwell update as of today (July 8th, 2010), he is recovering from multiple injuries, including hemorrhaging in the brain.

You can pray and also watch for updates at a website set up by his daughter to update concerned friends about Gary's progress.

Pray also for the family of newly installed Pastor Kenny Ye from Highrock Covenant Church, who died in the crash.

conrade

"Church Communications Network" Shuts Down!

Started in 1998 to provide online resources for pastors and Christian leaders, this website has garnered lots of publicity when it was first launched. There is a formidable pool of popular leaders and famous speakers in the evangelical world. The subscriber lists and teachers sound impressive. Yet, as of today (1st July 2010), the CCN website has this terse announcement above. Without going into the details of what are the challenges CCN faced over the past two years, it is fair to say that CCN is yet another victim of the economic problems America is facing.

Online ministries have promise. Yet, it comes with its share of risks. I got a feeling that the economic downturn is not exactly the main problem. I suspect that the ongoing fragmentation of evangelicalism is the main culprit.

conrade

"The Wondering Fair" Regent Blog

This is a soon to be launched collaborative blog by a few members of the Regent community. They are planning to launch it in July 2010. Called WonderingFair, it has several well known Regent alums, as well as Dr John Stackhouse as the contributors. It plans to be some kind of an online cafe, to allow anyone to discuss spiritual matters. The list of contributors are visible here.

The aim of the blog is to have an average of 3 articles per week. Should be great!

[Picture Credit: WonderingFair.com]

conrade

Free Audio Book - "Forgotten God"

One of the key distinctiveness of Regent-College is its particular emphasis on Trinitarian theology. In nearly every lecture, there is a reminder from professors that God is Father, Son and Holy Spirit. I remember hearing it drummed up so often that I find myself becoming more Trinitarian than before.

Francis Chan, a rising evangelical star in the United States has written a second book, that is focused on the Holy Spirit. Even among Churches that proclaim to worship the Triune God, sometimes, the focus tends to be more on God the Father, and Jesus. Hence the title of this book, "Forgotten God" is to help us remember this third member of the Triune Godhead. For those of us who have graduated, and yearns for some spiritual nourishment from time to time, ChristianAudio.com generously makes available a premier audio book each month. For the month of June 2010, you can download the entire audio book by Francis Chan absolutely free of charge. All you need is a computer, an Internet connection and a brief account set up Enjoy. The website is here. Use JUN2010 when you checkout your shopping cart, and your download will be free.

conrade

Another Rick Warren Wake-Up Call

Rick Warren is exercising courageous leadership. This message is a necessary wake-up call for churches with spiritually lethargic members. While we may not always agree with Rick Warren's way of growing churches, in this case, I admire his brave approach to trim his flock. Unfortunately, if these 'fake Christians' do find another Church, God help that other Church. For that, I feel that Warren's approach is still flawed. Perhaps, his wake-up call is mere rhetoric?

The article in full is reproduced below for 'ministerial or educational purposes only' as permitted by the Christian Post Copyright policy here.

conrade

======================================
[Article Credit: Christian Post, May 24th 2010 - permalink]

Rick Warren Tells Passive, Fake Christians to Find Another Church

During his weekend sermon, Warren laid out a plan for Saddleback's next "Decade of Destiny" in which he's anticipating exponential growth. And the plan has no room for fake Christians, he indicated.

Mon, May. 24, 2010 Posted: 08:14 PM EDT

---

Pastor Rick Warren has a message for the some 20,000 people who attend Saddleback Church: If you want to remain a passive Christian, find another church.

During his weekend sermon, Warren laid out a plan for Saddleback's next "Decade of Destiny" in which he's anticipating exponential growth. And the plan has no room for fake Christians, he indicated.

"Let me just be honest with you as somebody who loves you. If you passively just want to sit around in the next 10 years and just waste your life on things that won't last, you probably want to find another church because you're not going to really feel comfortable here. Because if you're in this church, I'm coming after you to be mobilized," said the renowned southern California pastor.

Saddleback celebrated its 30th anniversary last month and in preparation for the megachurch's next decade, Warren took the congregation back to the first church in the New Testament for a look at what "real Christianity" is all about.

"There are a lot of things done in the name of Christianity in the church that Jesus Christ would disavow," he lamented. "There's fake Christianity, there's phony Christianity, there's pseudo-Christianity.
"I want us to look at the real deal. What does it mean to really be a follower of Jesus Christ?"
Preaching on Pentecost Sunday – the anniversary or birthday of the first church – Warren said that just as a child is born with its entire DNA, all the DNA was in the body of Christ when it was birthed more than 2,000 years ago.

Unfortunately, the churches and Christians he sees today in the 21st century are a far cry from how they were in the first century, he noted.

Aligning Saddleback with the DNA of the original church – which grew from 120 believers to dominating the Roman Empire within 300 years – Warren directed the congregation to adopt and strengthen eight characteristics of real Christianity as found in the book of Acts.
They include: supernatural power through prayer, using everybody's language and every communication channel for mission, mobilizing everybody from kids to seniors, life-changing truth, loving support or fellowship, joyful worship, generous sacrifices and exponential growth.

"Real Christianity uses everyone's gifts," said Warren, author of The Purpose Driven Life, as he rejected passive and consumer Christians.

"Everybody's a minister," he stressed. In the original church, there were no audiences. Rather, everyone was a contributor and participator which led to the tremendous growth of Christianity.

Over the next 10 years, the megachurch will be launching Saddleback worship services in every city in Orange County and in other cities across the country and the world. The Lake Forest, Calif., church also plans to become the first church in history to send someone to every nation in the world to share the Good News.

"We're going to sing until the whole world knows" is the theme song for the next decade, Warren said.

"If we went back to New Testament real Christianity, not the fake stuff ... do you think we could reach more people for Jesus?" he posed.

"Without a doubt. We'd reach more people in the next 10 years than the 30 years combined."

Lillian Kwon
Christian Post Reporter 

=========================

On Doctorates

One of the benefits of a Regent-College education is the high academic standing and requirements expected of students. As a top-tier theological institution, Regent-College adheres to the accredition standards of theological colleges and seminaries under the ATS (Association of Theological Schools in USA and Canada). Regent-College's accredition status is available here. Earned doctorates (different from honorary ones) nowadays include PhDs, DMins, DPhil, DTheo, DMiss, etc.

Many Regent students and alumnus have at some point considered a higher degree after graduating with the Masters. Many have moved on to do doctorates of various theological disciplines. I have read several tips for those who are pursuing a doctorate. Here is a list of resources for you to read, before attempting a doctorate level education.

• Dr John Stackhouse's "Thinking about a PhD?" (good advice from Regent's own Professor)
• John Roxborough's Postgraduate research criteria; (very clearly written, and easy to understand)
• American vs British PhD Programs: Three Doctoral Students reflect...
• Tips for PhD Students. (Lots of links for PhD students).

Remember that going for a doctorate is not for the faint-hearted. It does not guarantee a better status or a higher salary, or even a job! In today's environment, having a doctorate can sometimes repel prospective employers. It is a calling. 

conrade

NT Wright on Blogging

Thanks to our blogger Regent Alum, Matt Jones, I learn about this little quote from NT Wright about physical anger and habits being transferred to the blogsphere. I find his writeup insightful. Thanks Matt for spotting this. Do check out his website for other great blog articles.

I checked out the book and found more of Wright's perceptive words.

"Everything is interconnected, and when people feel the floor shaking and the furniture wobbling, they get scared. Test this out. Go to the blogsites, if you dare. It really is high time we developed a Christian ethic of blogging. Bad temper is bad temper even in the apparent privacy of your own hard drive, and harsh and unjust words, when released into the wild, rampage around and do real damage. And as for the practice of saying mean and untrue things while hiding behind a pseudonym - well, if I get a letter like that it goes straight in the bin. But the cyberspace equivalents of road rage doesn’t happen by accident. People who type vicious, angry, slanderous and inaccurate accusations do so because they feel their worldview to be under attack. Yes, I have pastoral concern for such people. (And, for that matter, a pastoral concern for anyone who spends more than a few minutes a day taking part in blogsite discussion, especially when they all use code names: was it for this that the creator God made human beings?) But sometimes worldviews have to be shaken. They may become idolatrous and self-serving. And I fear that the has happened, and continues to happen, even in well-regulated, shiny Christian contexts - including, of course, my own." (NT Wright, Justification: God's Plan and Paul's Vision, Downers Grove,IL: IVP, 2009, p26-7)

Of course, the context of Wright's argument here is that what is considered a 'new perspective of Paul' is not exactly a new rocket-science idea. What the blogging platform has provided is to transfer (not transform) an old perspective from the offline terrain to the online domain. In other words, some things have not changed. Describing his 35 years of writing on the subject of Paul, his experience with detractors has NOT been 'disagreement' but failing to meet his opponents' expectations and 'wants' (20). Moreover, Wright claims that those who disagree with him often did not listen in the first place.

Wright is precisely right. As I reflect, blogging does not change the person. It is simply a change of platforms. What was previously paper is now electronic. Self-publishing is overtaking conventional publishing. Distribution by hand is replaced by distribution by wire (and wireless!) In other words, the content may be the same but the medium is different. Whether the medium has changed or not, people has not changed. Didn't they say that a leopard does not change its spots?

At the end of the day, we need to remember that for all views whether online or offline, God is watching.

conrade

Inspiring Speech "Be the One"

This monologue by Amena Brown opens the recent ChickFila Leadercast event. It is highly inspiring. Entitled "Be the One," Brown encourages conference attendees to be the leader God has called them to be. The way she ends the exhortation is superb. I am moved. Let me share the closing words:

"But one snowflake can cause an avalanche and a single seed can birth a tree. See the phrase 'Change begins with me.' It's more than a cliche. It's a mantra. Let's make it a reality. So what will you do? Who will you become? Imagine the change you could see in the world, if only you would be one. "

May we as Regent alums, be used by God to be the One God calls us, in our respective neighbourhoods of ministry.



conrade

"Be Interesting" vs "Being Interested"

This post is first published at Yapdates.

---

Title: "Be Interesting" vs "Being Interested"
Written by Conrade Yap
Date: 13 May 2010
Main Idea: There is a difference between 'interesting' and 'being interested.'

I remember back in Regent-College where I encounter how people use the word 'interesting.' After each lecture, classroom discussion, or any impromptu chats, the word 'interesting' appears to be a suitable one-size-fits-all answer to any question. In fact, after talks from the esteemed and popular Dr James Packer, to the lesser known adjunct professors with their newly minted PhDs, the word 'interesting' can be fitted in like a standard three-pin plug in any electricity outlet. New students can say it with confidence without becoming embarrassed by any lack of theological jargon. Older students use this word to politely disagree, or to appear brilliant, while carefully preparing one of their brainy counter-points to the propositions concerned. 'Interesting' is a word likened to a T-shirt, clothing that reveals a little bit, and hides the rest.

"Most Christians Called to Social Action"

Kudos to our Regent alum, Dr Lai-Yong TAN!

Having won many awards by governments in China and Singapore, Dr Tan, a medical doctor from Singapore  continues to bring inspiration to many Christians both at home and abroad. This article, called "Most Christians Called to Social Action: Award-Winning Doctor," was published by Christian Post on May 4th, 2010. With a calling that is in line with the ethos of Regent-College, Dr Tan argues compellingly that the default position for 'most Christians' is toward the poor and the needy. Here's a short quote:

"Speaking to some 140 Christians from over 70 churches and organisations at St. Andrew’s Cathedral, Dr Tan urged skilled Christians to enter the overseas mission field. It is not to become fulltime missionaries, but to use their skills to help the poor and needy. This is God’s calling for most of them, he said.

Addressing a concern of many Christians, the 49-year-old doctor likened cross-cultural mission work to driving. Most people do not have a calling to be a driver. Still they get a driving license. 

This is because they regard it as a necessity and skill, he pointed out. Churches need to help people understand that overseas mission work “is like driving,” Dr Tan added. “You got to pick it up.”

You can read the article in its entirety here.

conrade

A Review of the NET Bible

A Regent Alum Reviews The Freely Available NET Bible


Here is a nice informative review of the NET Bible, the first English translation to be freely made available to the public on the Internet. Tze-Ming QUEK is a Regent Alum currently a PhD Candidate with Cambridge University (UK). He is currently a lecturer (New Testament and Hermeneutics) with Biblical Graduate School of Theology in Singapore.

You can download the NET Bible here, or simply read it online here. Another nice feature is that the NETBible is available in many different formats, including Kindle and MS Word.

You can read more of Tze-Ming's review by clicking here.





conrade
(Regent MDiv, 2008)

Chick-Fil-A Leadercast Seminar (May 7th 2010)

This is a 1-day seminar on leadership. It brings together a remarkable group of people, like John Maxwell, Ben Carson, Jim Collins, Tony Blair etc. What is interesting is that you do not need be physically in Atlanta, Georgia in order to attend the conference. There is a webcast to a host of different cities around the world. It may very well be in your local church or in a church where you live. Check it here for locations.

If you are unable to attend, some of the past downloadable messages are worth listening to. Check it out here or some of the speakers bio here. You can gain some tips on leadership.

conrade

Teach Listening - 5 Tips

TITLE: TEACH LISTENING - 5 Tips
Written by: Conrade Yap
POINT: We learn so much about learning how to do expository preaching, what about helping the congregation toward expository listening?

At Regent-College, one of my favourite courses is expository preaching, conducted and eloquently taught by Professor Darrell Johnson. As a required course for MDiv students, we go through the basics of learning to do exegesis, to interpret the passage and their contexts, and to be faithful to what the texts say. A unique approach is the way Professor Johnson encourages each student's preaching practice time. He asks for fellow students to evaluate the 10 minutes preaching effort. All of us are encouraged to listen well, and to give feedback so as to help the student improve. I have many enjoyable times, being encouraged that I am not the only person nervous about preaching up front.

Indeed, speaking in public is one thing. Trying to be faithful to the Bible without becoming boring is an art. In this sense, preaching is both an art as well as a science. Yet, for all the expository preaching that we learn, what about the standpoint of the listener? Is there such thing as 'expository listening?'

According to Ken Ramey, there is. Ramey has just released a handbook called "Expository Listening: A handbook for Hearing and Doing God's Word." As I think about it, it certainly makes sense. What good is there for TV stations to transmit signals, if people do not have any television sets? What good is learning to speak eloquently in French, if the people we speak to do not understand French? Likewise, if we preachers spend so much time in preparing expository sermons, what about spending some of this time to teach the congregations how to listen?

I believe that preaching is one of the greatest privileges given to any Christian. Mind you, we can easily turn preaching into a pathway for super-stardom. When this happens, we are in danger of leading the people away from worshiping God. We end up putting ourselves on the pedestal instead of serving the people by pointing their eyes of Jesus. In teaching listening, we connect with the congregation even more, as they understand more of where we are coming from, and we seek to understand where they are coming from. Here are 5 tips I have for teaching listening.

Four Kinds of 'Friends' Every Pastor Needs

This is a very thoughtful article that should be a good resource for pastors and budding pastors. Entitled: "4 Types of Friends Every Pastor Needs," Ike Reighard, a pastor of more than 30 years, from Kennesaw, Georgia, writing for CrossWalk.com distills four different kinds of people that all pastors need to surround themselves with. Leadership can be lonely. (That is an understatement).

According to Reighard, we need a 'DEVELOPER' to bring out the best in us. We need a 'DESIGNER' as a kind of a mentor who walks alongside us. We need a 'DISTURBER' to rough us up in case we become too comfortable in smooth-sailing ministry work. We need a 'DISCERNER' to give us a fresh perspective of our calling as pastors.

Personally, I think Reighard misses out one important 'D.' A DISCIPLER. You can read the rest of the article here. Thanks to alum Stanley for first bringing this to my attention.

conrade

Dr Bruce Waltke Resigns from RTS

This is a special update on one of Regent-College's beloved Professors. Dr Bruce Waltke has resigned (6 April 2010) from the Reformed Theological Seminary because of a theological dispute between Bruce and the powers to be, at RTS. It seems that the controversy was first stirred by a video entitled: "Why Must the Church come to Accept Evolution?" The crux of the matter is that Waltke urges Christians not to completely reject evolution. In other words, it is entirely possible for a Christian to accept evolution. Theistic Evolution.

Dr John Stackhouse has written a posting on his own blog, largely in defense of his colleague.

For me, I think it is a regretful situation. In the words of Brandon Withrow, "any professor who really wants serious academic freedom needs to look elsewhere."

Personally, I do not hold the view that Dr Waltke holds, but I do not agree that he should have been forced to resign, simply based on one belief. From my interactions with him, Waltke is not one who willfully imposes his ideas on others, but respectfully offers them for consideration. For more information, check the following:

1) Biologos (the site video that started it all)
2) Dr John Stackhouse blog
3) Official News from RTS
4) Good roundup by Brian LePort
5) Cosmos (Dr Ross Hasting's Response)
6) Official Re-conciliatory Note from RTS

I wonder why in this particular case, both Waltke and the rest of the academics did not 'agree to disagree' and carry on life as normal? That is, is it necessary for Waltke to resign just because of this one issue? Or is this the proverbial feather that breaks the camel's back? Maybe, it is simply to let matter explain itself, like this note.


conrade

Daffodil Day 2010 (April 9th)

Today is Daffodil Day. This is an initiative spearheaded by the Canadian Cancer Society. For the day, the public is welcome to wear a little daffodil. Due to the ease of getting onto the Internet, anybody in the world, with an Internet connection can remember their loved ones, and friends afflicted by cancer. It may not bring immediate healing in itself, but just letting those who are affected by cancer, that we are with them, brings a certain kind of comfort that only companions can provide. Wear one today. For me, I remember Insu, Maureen, my late 4th uncle, and others who have left this world after battling bravely with cancer.

Photo credit: Canadian Cancer Society

You can get your Daffodil pin by clicking here. "Wear a badge of courage for someone fighting cancer."

conrade

Re-post: Three Scattered Thoughts on Good Friday

The following is first published under my blog: Yapdates.

---

Today is Good Friday. I wake up reflecting on Jesus and thinking about the Cross, the World's continued ignorance of Jesus, and how the Church continues to be under unfair labeling by media.

1) Thinking of Jesus and the Cross
It is a time to remember Jesus being captured, cursed, and crucified at the Cross. As we enter the last week of Lent, that climaxes in Easter Sunday or Resurrection Sunday, it is good to remember the work of Christ. It is important to know where our faith, our Christian belief centers on. It is Jesus. Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. It is because of Jesus' willingness to go to the cross, and die for all mankind, that we have hope. The Apostle's Creed says it poignantly, which is a summary and uniting statement for the vast majority of Christian denominations and quarters.

And in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord,
Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost,
Born of the Virgin Mary,
Suffered under Pontius Pilate,
Was crucified, dead, and buried:
He descended into hell;
The third day he rose again from the dead;

2) Thinking about the World Ignoring the Cross
Good Friday is a significant event for Christians all over the world. I know of some friends who would rather forget Christmas, instead of forgetting Good Friday. It is significant because, it is not Christmas, but Jesus's death on the cross that is the act of dying to give this world a new hope and opportunity to be restored back to God. About 2 billion people in the world have adopted Christianity as their faith, almost a third of the world's population. That is a significant number.

Unfortunately, I feel that many are not willing to take into consideration this number. Take Google for example. As a search company, their algorithms work on the basis of popularity and numbers. The more people links to a particular site, the more 'important' and 'relevant' this information is. On special days, on their plain white background search page, there will be special pictures to commemorate a significant event on the day itself. For example, when the Winter Olympics started, there was this:

Winter Olympics - Feb 20th, 2010

For special days like New Year's Day, it will be like this:

Happy New Year - Jan 1st, 2010

Not Good Friday. While many countries with a Christian presence declare Good Friday a national holiday, the giant search corporations prefers to remember the birthday of Hans Christian Anderson, the story teller. Even Halloween gets to have their icon on Google. Not Good Friday. Not Jesus. It is another example of how the world conveniently ignores Jesus, in favour of other gods.

Good Friday - Apr 2nd, 2010

So Hans Christian Anderson is more significant than Good Friday. Mmmmph. Either someone is a big Hans Christian Anderson fan, or he is plain ignorant of the significance of Good Friday. Come Easter Sunday, what do you think you will see? I think the Easter bunny and the chocolate eggs will dominate the headlines. Again!

3) Thinking of the Church Carrying the Cross
A thought provoking article was written by Dr David Horn of Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. He has recently returned from some humanitarian projects in New Orleans. He makes a sharp comment asking: "Where is Brad Pitt Now?" When the Katrina crisis first blew over, many people pay attention. The media swarm the place for coverage. People give generously to various agencies to help the hurricane victims. That was back in 2005. Now, about 5 years later, where are the famous movie stars? Where is popular media? What happens to the rebuilding projects that began with so much fanfare?

Not the movie stars. Not the big-time media. All they are doing right now is to look for the latest and the greatest excitement happening in town. Katrina is no longer exciting. Horn further observes that the real people picking up the pieces left behind, the ones who are faithfully and quietly helping are the religious groups, like Churches and many other faith based organizations. Where are the stars? What is the media portraying religions, especially Christianity?

Horn makes a stark contrast of the difference, and the injustice that is inflicted on Christianity.

"Which brings me back to Brad Pitt. Where is he now? One of the unsung songs in the national media, now that the television cameras are gone after five years, is that it is almost solely faith-based organizations—churches, Christian schools, and other religious organizations-- that are still packing their bags and heading down to New Orleans to patch the city back together again. Where did everyone else go? But why should the national media care? They already have their story. And the story is that apparently the church is full of hypocrites who think about little else but heaven." (Horn)

So while the Church continues to pick up the pieces, and be faithful to help in little ways, the mass media in general continues to portray the Church as a bunch of hypocrites only concerned about heaven. What kind of reporting will that become?

conrade

Against Self-Righteousness

This article is written to remind fellow theological students (like me) and Christians in leadership to beware of self-righteous behavior. I offer it to my fellow Regent alumni for consideration. Simultaneously published on Yapdates.

conrade

=================================================

Title: Against Self-Righteousness

Written by: Conrade Yap
Date: 26 Mar 2010

"Grace be to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." (Ephesians 1:2)

A) Self-Righteous Christians
Sometimes, it is embarassing to see that the self-righteous Christian tends to be those who are more affluent, more educated, more experienced, and more connected to the powers of this world. The root of self-righteousness is pride. For Christians, some of the unkindest things have been said to fellow believers. In the name of God, they claim to have the word of God and talks in a way that makes them more righteous than others. This is called self-righteousness. Some of the worst culprits of self-righteous behavior happen to be those who have been educated a little more than others. It could be a theology degree. It could be a special course attended. It could be a seminar with distinguished speakers. It could also be a direct association with a famed professor or speaker. Whatever it is, the claim to be right, tends to be based on works and self-worth to justify one's words. When these things happen, it is hard to be humble. It is hard to be gentle on dissenting views. It is hard to show grace.


Paul the Apostle is a top solicitor in Jewish circles at that time. He had influence. He had charisma. He also had a good following among Gentiles. He had the courage to face up to Peter when Peter is wrong (Gal 2:11). He too had the courage to admit when what he writes is not from the Lord (1 Cor 7:12). It is one thing to express a personal view. It is yet another, to use the name of Christ to state a particular opinion.

B) Self-Righteousness in the Church at large

"Many of our own children's questions stem from observing the defensiveness and mean-spiritedness that pervade so many expressions of Christian faith in America and around the world. They realize that many other religious groups have also become more extreme, even violent, in the ways they press for or against social change. But because they themselves are Christians, they are most disturbed by the attitudes of other Christians."
(Douglas Jacobsen & Rodney Sawatsky, Gracious Christianity, Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2006, 12)

One reason why Christianity tends to appear on the wrong side of the public eye is because of the way they behave. By claiming to hold the truth, sometimes, they see the world so back and white, that they tend to issue an ultimatum in such a way that, if one does not believe in Jesus, they will definitely go to hell. The problem I have is that such statements tend to be too judgmental. I do not want to go into theological explanations right now. My question will be: Will such a statement be helpful to the non-believer? Most likely, it will be something that will push people further away. I remember reading about a Buddhist who was staying in a Christian seminary. Many believers tried to convert him, even saying that the Buddhist will go to hell if he does not believe in Christ. In reply, the Buddhist said that if that is the case, he will remain a Buddhist and choose hell so that he can go and comfort the people who are suffering there.


This should show us that Christians should not behave in an arrogant way. Christians need to lead the way toward humility, not pride.



C) Self-Righteousness in the Board meeting

If a person stands up in the middle of a leadership meeting to claim outright, "The Lord spoke to me about what we should do."  It is truly amazing, when this so-called word from the Lord, tends to agree with his own personal viewpoints, like buying a plot of land, or approving a major church building expenditure, or an action to be meted out on a church member. For the rest of the people, it is hard to argue against something that is called 'word of the Lord.' When this leader says things that rides on God's authority, the rest of us are not really given much choice but to follow and to obey.


Discernment is something that needs to be constantly tested and tackled together within a community of believers. Leaders especially need to be extra careful not to speak so condescendingly, that it leaves no room for others to hold an alternative position. The way forward is toward gracious love via speaking the truth in love and grace.


D) Self-Righteousness in the Theological Classroom
Just because we know a little more Greek or Hebrew, just because we know who is Barth, Anselm, or Bonhoeffer, just because we can outline the Church history through the ages, or read through the Bible hundreds of times does not give us a license toward self-righteous behavior. I remember my Greek class where my professor regularly reminds the class that a little bit of Greek can be a temptation to sin by boasting and by putting down other people. I think the professor is right on. It reminds me of the 3 major attitudes we need to adopt when studying theology: Humility, humility and humility.



E) Antidote Against Self-Righteousness: Speaking with Grace
Conviction is good. If it is done with patience and love for the hearers, it is edifying. If it is done in the gracious spirit of correcting one another in Christ's love, it is redeeming. The trouble is when we speak in a way to gives another person no room to hold an alternative position. It is like saying: "This is the truth. Take it or leave it." It can be hard to swallow. For weaker believers in Christ, it can come across as spiritual bullying. God forbid. Let us all practice gracious speaking in our communications. Let those of us who think they are strong, bear with the failings of the weak. It is only when we adopt a lower sense of self-importance, that we can begin learning to speak with grace.


The Apostle Paul does this quite remarkably. In his letter to the Ephesians, he begins and ends with God's peace and grace (Eph 1:3, 6:23-24). This is important. By starting and closing with the Lord's peace and grace, it tells the reader that whatever is written and taught, is to be laced with graciousness. Let me offer three reasons why we need to practice gracious speaking.


1) We live by grace
Christianity is unique from other religions because it is a relationship given to all who believe, purely by grace, not works. We receive, then we can give, not the other way round. Paul expresses it clearly:


"For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, that no one should boast." (Eph 2:8-9)


What kind of a relationship do we have with one another. Let me suggest that our relationship must begin with us recognizing that we are forgiven sinners in the first place. We have been saved by grace, not of our works, but by faith in Jesus.


2) We live by God's Mercy
If there is anyone more deserving of death, it is the sinner who refuses to repent, or think that he is more righteous. There is no one righteous, no not one, says Paul, for the wages of sin is death. If God has been merciful to us, should we not be merciful to others as well. The parable of the wicked servant is a case in point (Matthew 18:21-35). Having been forgiven of his debts of ten thousand talents (like millions of dollars), the servant goes on to demand repayment of 100 denarii (like a few dollars) from another person. If we do not show grace to one another, it is like us, who have been shown multiple acts of mercy and grace, refusing to show a single act of grace and mercy to another.


3) We live to be peacemakers

We live in a world that has experienced two major world wars. Since the end of WWII, there has been an average of 40 wars throughout the world. Even right now, wars are still being fought. For countries that claim to be peaceloving, the way citizens treat one another does not exactly reflect this attitude. Look at the parliamentary debates. Look at society meetings. Look at the many demonstrations in the streets. Look at the newspapers that report and sensationalize many hot warring topics. Controversy sells.


Christians are called to be peacemakers. This is an active command. In our world of broken relationships, we need more peacemakers. Christians have an exciting opportunity to lead the way. If we feel we need to correct another brother or sister in Christ, ask ourselves what 'right' we have? Maybe we should pray more. Maybe we should seek to understand more than to be understood. Maybe we should simply wait for a better opportunity, or to pray that someone else will be the first to speak. Whatever it is, learn to make peace through gracious speaking.


May we all learn to avoid self-righteous behavior. May we choose instead to rest on the righteousness of God, and to allow all our actions, our words and our deeds stem from a life of grace built on the work of Christ.


conrade

FW: "The Blind Side": A Movie with Christian Themes

We have long heard of how many non-Christians are cynical about Christians being able to practice what they preach. Arguments are plenty, for and against. The vocal evangelical right group have often come under heavy criticism for not being as Christian as they claim to be. So, it seems that one way to remind them to practice what they preach is through a movie story. Based on a true event, "The Blind Side" shines a way how Christians ought to live out their faith by bringing hope to those who are less fortunate. See the full review here.

conrade

Regent-College Mission Statements

When we are deep into a certain mission, sometimes we forget why we are doing what we are doing. For many of us, these statements serve as good reminders of our heritage and what it means to be a Regent alum.

---

Global Mission Statement of Regent-College

Regent College cultivates intelligent, vigorous, and joyful commitment to Jesus Christ, His Church, and His world.

Global Educational Mission

Our hope for students is that through their time at Regent College their lives will become more fully integrated in Christ, so that their minds are filled with the truth of Christ, their imaginations captivated by the glory of Christ, and their characters formed according to the virtues of Christ.

Regent Ethos

Regent College, as a Christian academic community, takes relationships seriously, seeking to understand and live them in light of our biblical and theological commitments. We want to embrace the vast implications of being the “new humanity in Christ,” including how we treat gender, ethnic, racial, denominational and theological differences (cf. Galatians 3:28). Regent College welcomes students as varied as the whole people of God and seeks to create an environment in which all students feel safe to engage in courteous and respectful conversation in the pursuit of truth, as we seek to be formed and reformed by the Scriptures. The College welcomes and actively pursues qualified faculty reflective of this commitment.

[Credit: Regent-College]

Repost - "The Olympic Spirit"

The Following article was first published under yapdates.blogspot.com (http://bit.ly/9FO8oa).

---

The Vancouver 2010 Olympic Games end this Sunday 28th February 2010. In terms of gold medals, this third attempt is the best ever by a Canadian city. Montreal (Summer 1976) and Calgary (Winter 1988). So far, the host country Canada has raked in 7 golds, and more are expected to come. Of course, for a die-hard hockey fan, none of these really matter if Canada fails to bring in a gold in Ice-Hockey. In fact, many are already preparing for the gold medal game this coming Sunday noon. Some churches have even prepared large screens for their members and friends to capture the historic occasion. Even though Canada is not officially in the gold medal game yet, anyone walking in downtown Vancouver is confident that Canada will be there. Having swept past Russia 7-3 last night, Canadians all over are preparing and hungry for a rematch between Canada and the USA. After the surprise upset last week where Canada lost 5-3 to the USA, this time, Team Canada will be ready.

The Olympic Spirit

This is one Olympic moment to remember. It is a moment in which we cherish our beloved hometown heroes. It is a moment where we marvel at history being made. It is a moment in which we experience the ecstasy of human achievement. In a competition that is highly contested and sometimes results disputed, everyone plays to win. Even though some are there for the experience, the fact is that, to be an Olympian is already an accomplishment in itself. What exactly is an Olympian? What exactly is the Olympic Spirit?

Baron Pierre de Coubertin has been credited as the founder of the modern version of the Olympic Games. His famous words ring true to this day. With regards to the Olympic Spirit, he says:

"It is not about winning but taking part, not conquering but fighting well."

This is important. In a winner-takes-it-all world, sometimes, we can allow our infatuation with medals and results overwhelm us to the point that we miss out the 'participation' aspect. There has been many cases where athletes behave in an unsportsmanlike manner. Take the victory of Canada's Alexandre Bilodeau for example. After winning the first gold medal for Canada, others grumbled about his win. One Australian daily reported that the silver medalist, Begg-Smith representing Australia should have won. Geoff Lipshut was quoted as saying:

"My own opinion is that probably Alex is not capable of a 4.8 or a 4.9 (on his turns) ... because 5 is a perfect score." (link)

Is this a case of sour grapes? Probably, it is a spur of the moment comment as a result of heightened emotions. I believe that the Australian officials will take a more reasonable stance once the results sink in.

True Competitor

Personally, I believe that sportsmanship is a mark of a true competitor. Whether one wins or loses, one should be proud of having been part of the sports to spur one another on toward achieving their best. A healthy competition is only when all athletes give of their best. It makes it worthwhile. It motivates each athlete to compete and fight well. It encourages the public to see that dreams can come true. I like what the Canadian skier, Jennifer Heil says about her silver medal. She said:

"I really don't feel like I lost gold, I really feel like I won silver." (link)

While she may have felt let down by her failure to win gold, I think this should be the attitude of all competitors. The joy is in participation. The reward is in knowing that one has tried the best. If there is a medal won, great. If there is no medal, give thanks for the privilege of being able to compete in the first place.

More Than Gold Within Us
Truly, a thankful heart goes a long way. As a Christian, I believe that this is where Christian athletes can shine for God. With a thankful heart, be grateful for the privilege to compete. For the Christian, if winning is important, there is something else that is 'more than gold.' In fact, this is precisely why a group of Vancouver churches have banded together under the umbrella, "More Than Gold," to remind all of us, that winning is not the end of it all. It is competing for something that is more than gold.

We may not know the extent of the influence of More Than Gold. However, I must say that the words 'More Than Gold' (MTG) captures the Olympic Spirit in more ways than one. It is helpful to contrast "Just Gold" vs "More Than Gold."

Firstly, there can only be one gold medal winner. In MTG, we are all winners in the name of Christ. Secondly, in the medal race, some people use all kinds of ways to win. Some use cheating, like drugs. In MTG, there is no need to do any cheating. One seeks to give more than to receive. Thirdly, a 'Just-Gold' mindset tempts one to try to win at all costs. A MTG mindset reminds us that winning is just not the only thing in life. Whether one wins or loses, one can be proud of the fact that they have tried. Finally, in the MTG website, there are many different athletes whose testimonies reflect a common faith in Jesus. They come from diverse ethnicity, different nationalities and various other backgrounds. They may compete under the flag of their respective countries. However, all of them know that something else is at stake: their witness for Christ. Their stories can be found under the "Beyond the Ultimate" website. Some of their quotes are worth repeating here. Reading them warms my heart. I pray that you experience the same too.

Quotes from Olympians who are Christians:

• "The way that I conduct myself could be seen around the world. In the heat of competitions, emotions run high. It can be easy to lose tempers, get mad, or argue with officials or opponents. But the person that keeps Christ as a priority throughout the competition seems to be the winner no matter what the score is in the end. A great Christian can remain calm in pressure situations, upbeat in the face of defeat, and even content with not winning. It’s important to be consistently reminded that winning and losing are not the most important things in life. The bigger picture is serving God the right way. I pray that I will always compete as a man with a strong apparent faith." (Curt Tomasevicz, Bobsled, USA)
  
• “Having Jesus in my life makes a big difference. Even if you fail, God can make the best of it. He stands behind you and carries you through the difficult times. I don’t know how I would survive without God, knowing that whatever I do in competition is good enough and doesn’t affect what God thinks of me. To get to the top in the world of sports there is so much pressure. People may think you have everything in life but I have learned that knowing Jesus and being loved by Him is the only thing that can really satisfy me.” (Ursula Bruhin, Snow Boarding, Switzerland)
  
• "My courage comes from my faith, and I don’t know any other way of thinking about it. It’s engrained in me and I can rely on God and know that He has a plan for me and things are in His control, not mine. That’s where my courage comes from." (Lyndon Rush, Driver in Bobsled, Canada)
  
• “There are great pressures – having spent so many years of effort just to get there. The expectations of your team and country and your own expectations, the coach is under pressure and passes that pressure on to athlete. If your race does not go well everything seems to collapse and you don’t know how to deal with it. As a Christian if I knew I had done all the preparation I could then I was able just to leave the rest to God.” (Katya Antonuk, Cross Country, Russia)
  
• "Whether the suffering is large or small, many people believe they will feel joy only after their circumstances get better. Actually, it’s the other way around. Making time and choosing God’s joy when your circumstances are at their worst gives you the energy to face those difficulties and truly effect change. The secret is to allow God to continually clear out the old cobwebs and make room for new joy in your life." (Bonnie StJohn, Paralympic, USA)

Sob. Sob. I think these are true Olympians in the Lord. One more thing, as light of the world and salt of the earth, how are we training for the spiritual Olympics?

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." (2 Tim 4:7)

May we be true Olympians in the Lord, not just in name but in the heart. All of us can be.

conrade

Re-Post: “A Zeal Misplaced?”

This article was first published by Cook International in November 2008 issue of Cook International Partners, CCMI.


 
conrade


 

---

A ZEAL MISPLACED?

Christian workers can be considered to be one of the most driven people on earth. Inspired by faith in God, they readily run the race even without ample remuneration. History is flushed with testimonies that encourage such zeal.

• "Unless I can be instructed with evidence from the Holy Scriptures. … I cannot and will not recant. ….. Here I stand. I can do no other. God help me. Amen." (Martin Luther, Reformer, 15^th Century)
  
• "Give me Scotland or I die." (John Knox, Scottish Presbyterian, 16^th Century)
  
• "Attempt great things for God. Expect great things from God." (William Carey, Baptist missionary to India, 18^th Century)
  
• "I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." (Apostle Paul, Philippians 4:14)

 Like a convenient spiritual to-go lunch box, young Christians can easily pack these words and run forward in the name of faith. In their eyes, it is a joy to serve God. There are no mountains too tall for God to move, no oceans too deep for God to touch and no sky too high for God to reach. Such zeal provides a remarkable source of energy. Will they ever say die? No. Hopefully, they will realize that even though they serve the Immortal God, they are still mortal beings. A time will come when naiveté meets cynicism. A Barna research group finding reveals that the average pastorate twenty years ago was about 7 years. In 1993, this has dropped to 4 years.  By doing a Google search on 'pastors leaving ministry,' we read an alarming trend in North America, which should put the rest of the world on notice. Even the renowned Episcopal preacher Barbara Brown Taylor, after years of dedicated service to the pastorate felt that she had to 'leave church' in order to keep her faith!¹  It is easy to blame burnout, overwork and exhaustion as a reason for ministry withdrawal.  It is far too simple to blame the externals. Perhaps, the reason for ministry fatigue and Christian burnout is not external but something much more internal and personal. It is a misplaced understanding of true zeal.  The Apostle Paul warns against zeal without knowledge. 

"For I can testify about them that they are zealous for God, but their zeal is not based on knowledge." (Romans 10:2)

John Stott is one of the foremost observers of the trends of Christian missions in modern times. He realizes that there is always a need to hold both zeal and knowledge. It is foolish to give up everything for Christ without properly counting the cost. 


 

"Now I thank God for zeal. Heaven forbid that knowledge without zeal should replace zeal without knowledge! God's purpose is both, zeal directed by knowledge, knowledge fired with zeal."²

A zeal misplaced is of no service to God at all. The 20^th Century theologian and martyr, Dietrich Bonhoeffer reminds us that when one boards the wrong train, it is essentially useless even if one runs speedily on the corridor in the other direction. Isn't it a shame for one to spend hours to assemble a house of sticks, only to realize that the base is actually a temporary shaky platform? Or for one to chalk up countless hours on something only to realize that it is not necessary at all in the first place?  Truly, truly, a misplaced zeal gets us nowhere. It may even lead us into a rabbit's hole of despair.


 
Effects of Zeal without Knowledge

The apostle Paul accuses the Pharisees for pursuing the law without adequate knowledge of God's grace. The early Christian believers in Jerusalem were also 'zealous for the law,' so much so that Paul has to accede to their requirements for purification so as not to stumble them (Acts 21:20b). There are at least five effects of misplaced zeal. The first one is fatal. One extreme case of zeal without knowledge is the Jonestown massacre-suicide in 1978. The false prophet, Jim Jones under the umbrella of the People's Temple, led all his followers to their deaths in South America. They have zeal, tremendous amount of it. Unfortunately, it was based on a faulty theology. Such a misplaced zeal led to 909 innocent deaths.


 
Many of us will prefer to think that we are not that extreme. Yet, the potential for Christians to work zealously without knowledge is always present. In churches, people work so much that it can be very difficult to get a day off. Pastors are on call 24 hours a day, for congregational needs can be very unpredictable. If Sundays are the busiest day of the week, the other days are basically spent on preparing for this hectic day. Some give up established professional careers so as to spend more time doing lowly paid 'Christian' work. It is a double whammy. While accepting a lower salary or no salary, they willingly embrace the work ethic of burning it all up for Christ. Such behaviour is indeed honourable. It also makes one more vulnerable to abuse and susceptible to unrealistic expectations. Becoming a 'workaholic for Christ' can subtly become an acceptable 'Christian' virtue. John O' Neikirk calls it 'the pain that others applaud.' Diane Fassel calls it a 'killer disease.' It is an addiction that is based on a faulty premise, the harder one work, the greater the self-fulfillment. A misplaced zeal is like cancer that spreads. It draws all attention to self to the detriment of the community. This is the second effect.


A third consequence of misplaced zeal is unhealthy perfectionism.  Such people find it hard to discern the difference between the 'pursuit of excellence' and the 'perils of perfectionism.' Jesus exhorts believers to be perfect (Matthew 5:48). Perfectionists often take this verse out of context and justify their actions accordingly. We need to learn to distinguish between healthy and unhealthy forms of perfection. Dr Ralph Winter in Perfecting Ourselves to Death, sees healthy perfectionism as 'adaptive, positive, healthy and constructive.' It enables one to have good self-esteem. It strives for excellence but also realistic about failures. Unhealthy perfectionism on the other hand is 'maladaptive, negative, unhealthy, destructive.' It sets unrealistic high standards and seeks to achieve them at all costs. Failure is typically generalized and as a result, it can become controlling that easily leads to exhaustion.³ Misplaced zeal that leads to unhealthy perfectionism can also be deadly to relationships.


A fourth consequence of misplaced zeal is the detriment of relationships not only at work but at home. A pastor friend of mine shared about his struggles in his marriage. A dedicated servant of God, he gave his all to the church and Christian activities, almost to the point of sacrificing a bulk of his personal time for the sake of his perceived ideas of serving the kingdom. His wife protested that he gave away all his emotional cookies to others only to return home with emotional crumbs for his wife. Imagine a situation where both husband and wife gave their all to the ministry only to return home hungry with only crumbs for each other. This can easily lead to unfulfilled marriages, unmet needs and a dangerous walk along the park of adultery and temptations of all sorts.  The fifth consequence is something more personal. A misplaced zeal can easily lead a well-intentioned worker to proclaim: "I WORK, THEREFORE I AM."  True zeal is never at the expense of one's integrity before God. No amount of work can replace one's identity for God. It is not work that defines one's identity. Neither is it the amount of achievements that makes one worthy of God's calling. Instead it is grace. Grace to receive; Grace to give; Grace to share; Grace to understand. True zeal stems from true knowledge, and true knowledge begets true zeal. Our understanding of zeal has to be reformed. How then do we formulate a wholesome understanding of true zeal? We can take a leaf from the psalms of David.


A Zeal Recovered and Refreshed

For the Christian, grace is constantly flowing from the precious fountain of God. It quenches one's thirst for meaning. It refreshes one's zest for life. It fills one's soul with delight. It energizes one's zeal with joy. 


 
Like the loving father in the parable of the prodigal son, God waits for us to come seeking him for all things. He replaces our fanaticism for things into zeal for love. He makes us gracious receivers and grateful givers. He comforts us with a zeal that is constantly refreshed by the presence of God's Spirit. He humbles us with a zeal that acknowledges ones weaknesses. True zeal makes us turn back relentlessly to the Source of all comfort and purpose. In this state, becoming consumed for God emanates willingness, consistency and joy.

"for zeal for your house consumes me, and the insults of those who insult you fall on me." (Ps 69:9) 

The 19^th century 'prince of preachers,' Charles Spurgeon adds:
 

"Some men are eaten up with lechery, others with covetousness, and a third class with pride, but the master passion with our great leader was the glory of God, jealousy for his name, and love to the divine family." (Charles Spurgeon, The Treasury of David -Ps 69)

In reforming any form of misplaced zeal, the first step is to recognize two types of 'zeal for God.' The first type is motivated in God's name. The second type is done in the name of self. One of my favourite quotes is from James Hudson Taylor, OMF missionary to China whose expression of faith is captured in this wonderful statement: "God's work done in God's way will never lack God's supply."  If one works for the sake of self, doing God's work in man's way will always be found wanting.  How do we distinguish holy ambition from selfish motives?  Ps 69 gives us a clue that when we are working out God's will, we will enter the realm of spiritual warfare. We will be faced with all manner of evil against us. We will be accused and manhandled unfairly. Jesus calls folks like these as 'blessed.' True zeal will never be exhausted by opposition, but continually refreshed through a willing disposition toward God. True zeal is focused on God. Brother Lawrence teaches us that love is the motive of all things.

"That he had been governed by love, without selfish views; and that having resolved to make the love of God the end of all his actions, he had found reasons to be well satisfied with his method. That he was pleased when he could take up a straw from the ground for the love of God, seeking him only, and nothing else, not even his gifts."⁴

There is another way of reforming zeal regularly. This is our practice of the Sabbatical rest. The great reformer Martin Luther is well known for his 95 theses, his biblical commentary on the Old and New Testament as well as many polemical articles written against the papacy. Less well known however is his desire to love God leisurely. Philip Melanchthon, a good friend of Luther once shared his zeal with Luther saying:

"This day you and I will discuss the governance of the universe."

 

Instead of agreeing with his beloved buddy, Luther gave this surprise answer:


 

"This day you and I will go fishing and leave the governance of the universe to God."⁵

Truly, when we claim to fellow workers that we are ready to burn out for Christ, to give our all, let us all remind one another, that the ministry belongs firstly to God, secondly to God, and thirdly and always to God. Lest we boast upon our own achievements, and foolishly make our ministries into gods. Remind ourselves. Write it into our hearts that we live not to work but to worship God. The Sabbath is an opportunity to do just that.


 

"The Sabbath is not for the sake of the weekdays; the weekdays are for the sake of Sabbath. It is not an interlude but the climax of living."⁶

The Sabbath is made for man, not man for the Sabbath. Work well. Rest well. Above all, love well. When our zeal has been recovered and refreshed by the Spirit of God, we will feel less hesitation to say 'yes.' Neither will we feel guilty about saying 'no.' Life becomes bearable and enjoyable. No need to rush. No need to push. True zeal will allow one to slowly and surely enjoy a holy meal with fellow servants. May God raise up leaders with true zeal!


 
About the author

Conrade Yap is a graduate of Regent College [http://www.regent-college.edu/], and has worked in the information technology marketplace for more than 15 years. He has a keen interest in leadership development and in helping professionals find meaning and faith in the marketplace. He is currently a doctoral student at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary [http://www.gcts.edu/]. He resides in Vancouver, B.C., Canada with his wife, Mary, and three young children. He can be reached at yapdates@aim.com and maintains an active blog at http://yapdates.blogspot.com


 
Endnotes:

1. Barbara Brown Taylor, Leaving Church: A memoir of faith (New York: Harper Collins, 2007).

2. John Stott, Your Mind Matters (Leicester, England: Inter-Varsity Press, 1972), p1.

3. Ralph Winter, Perfecting Ourselves to Death (Downers Grove, IL: IVP, 2005), p33.

4. Brother Lawrence, The Practice of the Presence of God. ed. Owen Collins, "Complete Christian Classics Vol 1", (London: Harper Collins, 1999), p293.

5. David C. Egner, Let's Go Fishing in "Our Daily Bread" May 18^th, 1996. RBC press.

6. Abraham Joshua Heschel, The Sabbath: Its Meaning for Modern Man (Harper Collins Canada Ltd, 1951), p14.


 
Copyright © 2008 Conrade Yap