7.8 Magnitude Earthquake in China.

A colleague of mine in Asia forwarded several pictures and articles to me over the last week. (Since the day of the earthquake which was a little over a week ago.)

My heart cries out for these people who have suffered under the weight of the rubble as rescuers search for them, and those who are suffering the loss of their loved ones and for those who have lost their lives.

Please pray for them!

I’ve also learned that Medical Teams International is currently working to send over a half millions pounds of supplies to help them and they’re working with Boeing to deliver the supplies via several new planes that they are already planning to delivery to China. Please pray that this effort will be successful and help support them as God leads!

I’m reminded of the following scripture and will direct my prayers that those who are directly impacted by this disaster will be comforted by Him.

“God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
though its waters roar and foam and the mountains
quake with their surging.”
~Psalm 46:1-3


Again, I will pray that God will comfort them during this devastating time and I'll especially pray that they would come to a personal relationship with the Him. May the Body of Christ be there to minister to the hurting and share His love while meeting the physical needs!

I wanted to share a few pictures that once you see them, I believe you’ll be moved to prayer as I have been. Please note: These images may be disturbing but they are also the reality of what has happened and what is occurring due to the Earthquake. Thanks for your prayers. Please see the below.


Please join me in prayer!

Humbled in Christ,

rlk














A boy is rescued from the debris of a collapsed building after an earthquake in Dujiangyan, Sichuan province May 13, 2008. [Agencies]














Bodies of many of the victims. [Agencies]




















Several young children trapped in the rubble. Note the IV attached to one of them onthe left. Some apparently are alive while some sadly are not. [Agencies]




















Young Man trapped in the rubble. [Agencies]


Young Boy receiving medical attention. [Agencies]


The Remnants of what was once a building. [Agencies]

Please pray!

New Features!

You may have already noticed but I wanted to let you know that I've added 4 new features to this blog which you'll see on the right navigation bar.

Here's what I've added:

Feature 1: Verse of the day

Feature 2: Weekly Bible Memory Verses

Feature 3: Read Through the Bible in a Year Plan

Feature 4: My Book Shelf - gives you the titles and information about a few of the books I'm currently reading.

You can click on each of these features to read or go to further information.

Regarding the first three features, I've wanted to add something like these for a while and just figured out the best way to do so.

Scripture is vital and having an additional tool to help you read and memorize it verse-by-verse is a practical addition. Note: these tools are linked to the ESV however, you can use it as a guide to read any version you like or simply use it as a tool to read your favorite version.

Enjoy!

rlk

Prince Caspian!

This Friday, the film Prince Caspian hits theaters which is based on C.S. Lewis' 4th book in the Chronicles of Narnia series.

For more information, be sure to see the below Prince Caspian Interactive widget! Or, You can click on the following link for the official web site! http://disney.go.com/disneypictures/narnia

Laminin

Below is a video from Godtube.com that you’ll want to view.

The speaker, Louie Giglio, speaks of an amazing scientific truth regarding the cell adhesion protein molecule “laminin”. Which is the “glue” that holds our cells together. It is described as the rebar of the human body—it holds us all together. Louie uses it as an awesome illustration of a Biblical truth.




There is more I could share here after viewing this but you'll just have to watch the video as I don't want to give away the message. It is worth the watch!

"He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities--all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together."
~Colossians 1:15-17 (NASB)

"I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Your works, And my soul knows it very well."
~Psalm 139:14 (NASB)

Here is a diagram of Laminin:




Isn’t that amazing!

You may also want to do a Google image search using the term laminin and you'll also find some amazing pictures in outer space of pictures taken of a black hole by the Hubble Telescope.

God is Amazing and may you be encouraged today at God's mighty hand as He alone holds all things together!

God Bless,
rlk

Supporting Each Other

The Word:

Read: Exodus 17:8-16

"Supporting Each Other." By Randolph Koch

If you've ever been through a tough time in your life, you've probably come to know the importance of the support you were most likely given from a friend, a family member, your pastor, or someone from your church. The support may have been given through prayers, a supportive or loving word, a meal, or many other ways. It ministers to you in ways that words cannot describe. It's humbling to receive support from others and goes a long way to help heal the wounds of the battles of life.

We can see an example of the importance of supporting each other through the example of Moses during a battle against the Amalekite's. He went to the top of a hill, which was a vantage point overlooking the battle. As he moved up the hill, Joshua and the army were sent to war against the enemy. Moses, with staff in hand, stood and raised his hands. As he raised his hands, Israel prevailed. Then there was a point where he became weary and had to rest but while his hands were lowered the Amalekite's prevailed. Moses needed support, and who wouldn't after having their arms raised for such a long time while a battle raged on. Aaron and Hur came to help him in his time of need. They placed a stone beneath Him so we could sit instead of stand. Then they supported his arms so Moses could hold his hands up. With their help, Aaron on one side and Hur on the other side, his hands remained steady until the sun went down. Israel won the battle. Moses received the support he needed to get him through. The Lord told Moses to write down the experience of the day's war, and how the Lord led them to victory in a book so it could be relayed to others. Then Moses built and altar and named it "the Lord is my banner." What a day it was and what a support plan it was that God unfolded for us to learn from. Without the Lord, Israel and Moses would not have prevailed. Furthermore, with out the two men coming to Moses' aid, he wouldn't have made it through the whole day. Likewise, we cannot make it with out the Lord. It seems that in today’s world, we tend to believe we can do it all alone because we think ourselves to be self-sufficient and honestly we're trained to think this way. Many times our schools, businesses, the movies we see, and many other avenues train us to believe this is a totally healthy and necessary trait, (at times it's true that we have to be somewhat self-sufficient), but we desperately need each other. We can go way to far, and many do, with the self-sufficiency idea. Starting from our homes on into the rest of the world we need to be counter culture, especially in this area. We need to trust the Lord and receive the comfort He and others give us. We weren't created to be in this life alone. We in fact, were created to live and work for the Lord, to have an eternal relationship with Him, and to live and fellowship amongst other believers and of course the world. The Lord is our main source of strength - so don't be afraid to seek His support. Furthermore, it’s crucial to have support from the Lord and other believers. In other words, accept their support. Then as life unfolds and you travel from one storm to another you may begin keeping a log or a journal just to write down all of things God has done for you during your times of need (and what people have done). So you'll remember and be encouraged, especially when rough waters hit. This will be a great reference tool for you so you'll be reminded of His goodness when we tend to forget it in the middle of the trial. Memorialize all that God does and has done to bring you through. Review this list from time to time to refresh your memory and to add to it so you'll be encouraged for years to come. This is also something that you may be able to share with others or pass down to testify of the amazing love that the Lord and others have no matter the situation. Along the way, don't forget to thank the Lord and others for what they've done for you.

No matter what the time or season let us be willing and able to in turn support those in need. We need to be wise and sensitive enough to see the Holy Spirit's leading, as we are lead to help others. There are many ways we can effectively do this. There is also wisdom that we need to use as we seek to support others. The spirit will help us discern real needs or false ones. Finally, and most of all, let our prayer be that the Lord would find us whole heartily supporting each other.

Questions to Get Started With:

-Where do you look or to whom do you look for support in your time of need?
-Do you reach out to support others?
-Are you sensitive to seeing others needs?
-Do praise God for His amazing love and provision when the times are calm or when in rough waters?
-Do you keep a running log or journal of what He's provided for you physically and spiritually?
-What are some of practical things you can do to support others?

(Originally published Jan 21, 2001)

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Wanted to share an old and very sincere Irish Blessing with you on this St. Patrick's Day!

An Old Irish Blessing

May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind always be at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
and rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

Have an Excellent day!

Your Bro,

rlk

Free Download of John's Gospel - An Easter Gift for You From The Listener's Bible

If you are having trouble viewing this e-mail, click here.

Message from Randolph Koch Thought you might enjoy taking advantage of this free audio download. All the best, rlk This Easter be prepared to answer the most important question ever asked: "What must we do to do the works God requires?" Jesus answered, "The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent." John 6:28-29. For many Christians, John’s Gospel is the most precious book in the Bible. Its beautiful language and penetrating descriptions of Jesus have the capacity to bring us closer to God than any book ever written. Max McLean’s own testimony is this: “The event that brought me over the line to fully accept the reality of Jesus came when I read all of John’s Gospel in one sitting. I thought Jesus was going to come right out of the pages of the Bible and take me with him. When I got to the cross I was in tears. I saw the sacrificial love and I responded to Jesus, immediately.” Now Max McLean and The Listener's Bible is offering this compelling and moving narration of John’s Gospel as a free download for you and your loved ones. Use it for your own edification or as an evangelism tool to forward to friends, family. Learn more about Max McLean.

Hear the entire Bible: Now on Sale Plus Free shipping! • English Standard Version » • New International Version » • King James Version » Give God's Word, always the perfect gift. View all our products. The Listener’s Bible® a ministry of Fellowship for the Performing Arts One High Street Court Morristown, NJ 07960 http://www.listenersbible.com/?utm_source=EM0803FJ&utm_medium=email&utm_content=EM0803FJ&utm_campaign=EM0803FJ 888.876.5661

You Are Not Forgotten

The Word:
Read: Luke 12:6-7

"You Are Not Forgotten" by Randolph Koch

Standing alone, or in a crowd of people, in a time of struggle or easy going, you may feel at time that you are alone. This happens to many, because at times we have a wrong view of God. We tend to believe sometimes that God is a distant God that is only around or available when we speak the "magic words" in our prayers. We think that when mankind forgets us or treats us bad that God must be the same way. This is so far from the truth! God loves us so much that He gave us His one and only Son. We know this to be true as believers so why should we feel alone?
You're more important to God than anything in the universe. Be encouraged today knowing that God will never forget you or forsake you. He knows each hair on your head and I can't think of anyone else that knows us that well. So remember, you are never alone and you'll definitely never be forgotten in regard to our great and mighty God.

Questions To Get Started:
-Are you prone to feeling alone?
-How much time do you spend with the Lord on a daily basis?
-Do you notice a difference in how you feel when you do or don't spend
time actively seeking Him?
-Do you relate your self worth with how God views you; or with man's opinions?


(Original Publish Date; Thursday, July 09, 1998 – Revised 02/27/08)

 

Our Refuge

The Word:
Read: Psalm 46:1-11

"Our Refuge" by Randolph Koch

Here they come again. The pressures, trials, and struggles of life. It seems that we have daily events that give opportunity to refine us; reminding us who we should be seeking as our shelter. Personally I've been bombarded with one event after another, making me almost feel like I'm going to break down or make me question what is going on. "Why are things going so rough I've asked myself?"

There have been so many times where there has been so much to do at work with literally not enough time to get everything done. It's pretty overwhelming at times. Then I'm reminded of the scriptures that tell me to cling to God and not operate under my own understanding. Seek refuge. Seek the only cover that will protect and sustain us because the storms will continue to come.

Recently, I turned on the news to see coverage of the aftermath of a cyclone that led to a major flood in South Africa. The people were running as fast as they could through very deep water, scrambling to save their lives. Some were only able to escape with the clothes they had on their backs. It was heart wrenching to see them. It was obvious that they had tremendous fear. It was visible on their faces as they climbed onto a small platform where a helicopter was waiting to try to rescue as many people as they could. There was a lack of helicopters so when one would come, you'd see them sprint by the dozens toward their rescue; many being turned away because there was no room for them. There were pictures of those that had been waited for hours and in some cases days in the chilling waters, to be rescued.

In other parts of the world during this same time, volcanoes were erupting. People in these locations were fleeing also for a safe refuge. All of these things remind me of the truth that every one of us no matter in flood, famine, or any situation good or bad we need our own refuge. We need to run to Jesus and cling to Him with everything we have. We cannot rely on ourselves completely because we cannot make it without Him. He is our refuge. The question is will we seek Him today?

Maybe it's been a long while since you've made Him a part of your life? Give Him control and He can take care of you completely. Enter back in to His presence and know that He'll strengthen, encourage, and hold you up by His power, glory and strength.

Maybe you're a Christian that is walking faithfully with Him? May you seek Him all the more because you know the value of seeking and clinging to Him in your life.

You could be a non-Christian reading this today- I'd like to encourage you to seek His refuge for the first time. Come to know salvation through Jesus Christ. He is waiting with open arms for all of us to run to Him.

For all of us may His refuge be our daily homecoming as we come and go - wherever we go. We can trust Him for He will never fail us. No matter what happens in this world He'll be your refuge.

I pray for all of us that in times of trouble or not, we'll seek Him as our refuge. You'll never go wrong by seeking Him.

Questions to Get Started With:
-Do you cling to Him as your refuge?
-Do you seek Him daily?
-Are you striving in the midst of your struggles?
-Or have you ceased to strive and know that He is God?



(Originally published Feb 28, 2000)

Free 2008 Calendar

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Wanted to let you know about a new free four page 2008 Calendar download that I've created and made available for you on the RLK Ministries Download page. Three of the four photos feature Oregon locations.

• You'll find the calendar files at the following link: http://www.rlkministries.org/Downloads.htm

You can download a full year calendar in one file or four individual files that have three months per file/page. The files require the free Adobe Acrobat reader in order to view and or print them.

Feel free to share the calendar with anyone you believe would enjoy having a copy.

In Christ,

Randolph Koch

Effective Planning In the Light of God’s Will

The Word:
Read: Proverbs 19:21

"Effective Planning In the Light of God’s Will" by Randolph Koch

No this isn’t some introduction to becoming a highly effective person seminar. Rather this is an attempt to have us look at our lives in the light of God’s will and Holy Word. We live in a day-timer, gotta check my calendar, I’ll pencil you in society. I must admit that I rely (sometimes heavily) on my planner to keep a balance between my family, ministry, work tasks, and priorities. If I didn’t, I would most likely let someone down because I double booked myself and forgot about a prior commitment. By no means am I trying to insinuate that planners or day timers are bad. I do however want us all to think about how we do plan or set goals, tasks and priorities- with or without a planner in hand. I firmly believe that managing our time is part of being a good steward with the limited time God has given us. No matter if you are a Church Elder, individual, corporation, small business owner etc., this still applies to you. When we sit down to plan our time, our lives, or whatever, I often wonder if we do it in conjunction with spending time in God’s Word and in prayer. We plan, but do we understand that our plans hinge on God’s will and timing before or if our plans are to succeed? Stop for a moment and think. Isn’t this a pretty basic idea, but also very counter-culture!? This is just another part of our Christian lives that we tend to forget as we live in this humanistic world that tells us that we are in charge of our destiny. Granted, we do have free will; but isn’t it God that holds everything and puts everything inevitably in place- according to His will and good purpose? Planning can be and is a healthy thing as we follow God’s will. Have you ever asked yourself how does this plan, idea, activity, etc. affect eternity? This is a healthy question for us to keep in mind. I’m not referring to small plans like: what color car you need to purchase, or what flavor of ice-cream to buy the next time you buy groceries. (Although I suppose it wouldn’t hurt to consult God if you really felt that you needed to.) Let us never forget to place Him completely in the center of our lives where He belongs. The next time you make plans for your life, try seeking His perfect council first. Reject the temptation to do it all on your own because you won’t be truly successful without Him.

Questions to Get Started With:
-When you have an idea or make plans do you seek the council of God, His Holy Spirit and His Word first?
-Do you ever ask yourself how important your plans are in view of eternity?
-Are your plans in the will of God?
-Is God’s will for your life important to you?

The Great Commission and Linebacker Evangelism

We're all called to share our faith and specifically in Matthew 28:16-20, (The Great Commission) Jesus Himself commissions us to go into the entire world and make disciples.

According to the Bible there are many methods and styles of evangelism and each of us according to our gifts will find that one style works best for us as we seek to share our faith.

Let us also never forget that how we live our lives is one of the biggest evangelism "tools" we have because our lives will either show forth a transformed life because of what Christ has done for us or in contrast, our lives will not show this transformation.

The following link is a humorous illustration of one person using his linebacker skills to remind believers that we are again, called to share our faith.

I pray that it gets you and I thinking more about our calling to serve and share Christ to a world in need. I hope it doesn't take a linebacker to get us to do what God has called us to do. :-)

Click on one of the Play Arrows/Icons in the following window:

Our Greatest Need

Merry Christmas!

It’s been a little bit since I’ve written but I wanted to share this wonderful poem by Roy Lessin that provides profound insight into our greatest need that God met through His Son Jesus Christ.

OUR GREATEST NEED - by Roy Lessin

If our greatest need had been information,
God would have sent us an educator.

If our greatest need had been technology,
God would have sent us a scientist.

If our greatest need had been money,
God would have sent us an economist.

If our greatest need had been pleasure,
God would have sent us an entertainer.

But our greatest need was forgiveness,
so God sent us a Savior.

Click on the following link to see a great
online presentation of this:
http://www.dayspring.com/movies/view.asp?moviename=ourneed.swf

We need Jesus more than any present we may receive!

I pray that your Christmas is centered on the matchless Gift, Jesus Christ.

Thanks for stopping by!

In Christ,

Randolph Koch

Spiritual Gifts and Dodgeball?

I ran across this humorous video on a site named God Tube, (it’s like YouTube but for Christian videos.) and it’s simply meant to get you thinking about and using your spiritual gifts. The guy in the video thinks his gift is dodgeball! No, dodgeball isn’t a Biblical Spiritual gift but I wonder what would happen if we exercised the gifts God has given us as diligently and tenaciously as the guy in the video?

Check the video out then go out and discover and use the Spiritual gifts God has given you! :-)

God Bless, rlk

Excuses

The following post is what I'd call humor with truth that I received years ago and decided to post it for your benefit.

It will make you laugh if you think about each item for a moment and I'm sure you've experienced somebody who makes excuses for not attending church on a regular basis or those who choose only to make a holiday visit to Church. Maybe that person used to be you? Hope you see the humor and the truth and that you earnestly seek to spend time with other believers and learn about and worship God each week through your local Bible centered, Christ Centered Church.

Here’s part of what God’s Word has to say about the importance of His Church and your part in it:

“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.”

~Hebrews 23-25 (NASB) (Bold Emphasis mine)

People even in the early church had become casual or had outright forsaken coming together as The Church and God tells them and us simply - don't be like those people rather, you be an active part of the Body! You come together in Jesus name and quit making it optional because it's for your good and God wants you there!

There's more I could say but let me close by asking you to encourage yourself and others to make God and His Church a priority and allow yourself to be accountable to others in this vital area of your life and walk in Him.

Now, read the below. :=)

God Bless,
rlk

*************************************************************
Excuses
by Unknown

Everybody has a good excuse for not attending church. If you take those excuses and apply them to other things we do (or don't do), like eating, they might look like this list:

1. I was forced to eat as a child.
2. People who eat all the time are hypocrites; they aren't really hungry.
3. There are so many different kinds of food, I can't decide what to eat.
4. I used to eat, but I got bored and stopped.
5. I only eat on special occasions, like Christmas and Easter.
6. None of my friends will eat with me.
7. I'll start eating when I get older.
8. I don't really have time to eat.
9. I don't believe that eating does anybody any good. It's just a crutch.
10. Restaurants and grocery stores are only after your money.

Be Still and Wait

Be Still and Wait

Being still before God is a hard thing to do for most Christians, especially in the fast paced high expectation world and environment we live and work in each day.

Then, couple this with the trials we go through from time to time or, as I like to affectionately refer to them as the “Here we Grow again times!” (Although it doesn’t feel like it’s for our good when we're going through it sometimes does it?)

Take time to read the below scripture, pray, and ponder how you can apply the principles of this scripture in your life. Then encourage others that God has placed around you to do the same.

Have a blessed day as you seek Him!

rlk

"Let all that I am wait quietly before God,

for my hope is in him. He alone is my rock

and my salvation, my fortress

where I will not be shaken."

Psalm 62:5-6 (NLT)

Discouragement – Peace – Hope

Have you ever been discouraged before? Have you received news that was very disappointing and you felt just broken before the Lord?

I’ve been there and tonight was such a night for me – a night of disappointment, discouragement, brokenness.

Then I turn to the Word and the following verses come to mind to minister to me.

If you’ve been there, or maybe you're there now, I pray that these same verses will be of encouragement to you as well.

"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."
~Psalm 43:5 (NIV)

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
~Philippians 4:6-7 (NASB)

"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen."
~Ephesians 3:20-21 (NIV)

"And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the
Holy Spirit, whom he has given us."
~Romans 5:2b-5 (NIV)

God Bless you – keep pressing on, keep clinging to Him and I’ll do the same.

Your Bro, rlk

Welcome to Drama Church

Over at least the past decade the trends would indicate that the use of drama is becoming an ever more popular feature in worship services.

Whether you agree or disagree with this practice, in reality it’s not necessarily a new issue because preachers like A.W. Tozer were speaking against what was then a new trend via the use of drama or the “religious movie.” In other words, we’re just witnessing a resurgence of an old form of what is considered a method of communication within the “Christian Context.”

I’ve personally been involved with the arts for a large portion of my life including vocal music, leading worship for Sunday schools and retreats, musical drama, Easter programs, and even an Opera in one act to name some of my involvement.

I’m not completely apposed to the use of drama if it’s used responsibly and in good taste. In fact, I’ve been in several Easter productions where the scripts and the drama itself beautifully communicated the Gospel. Furthermore, I’m also for (for the most part) the use of creative ways to present and communicate as long as it’s not in conflict with the Word of God.

On the other side, I’ve also been in the audience many times during various services or other special events where I’ve felt very uncomfortable by what was communicated.

Some would say, “Lighten up man! It’s just a drama!”

In response, I’d say, no it’s not just a “drama” that’s at stake here - it’s the message that is being communicated that is at stake. This is especially true as we’re charged to uphold and proclaim the Word of truth and we should speak the truth in love and at the same time not water it down or have an anything goes attitude!

As I ponder past episodes where drama was used in services, I can’t emphasize enough that it’s really important that the dramas do not detract from the preaching of the Word of God nor should they negatively impact the atmosphere of worship. It should also be used to communicate the Gospel and not just be a form of entertainment not that I’m saying we Christians cannot have fun or be entertaining. Again, I’m speaking directly to the use of drama in the context of weekly worship services.

To take it one step further, dare I say that it should only be used during regular services to directly tie into the sermon to help illustrate or communicate a Biblical truth or principle!? Or, it can also be used responsibly during Easter or maybe Christmas where it may reach those who are seasonal church goers. Or, it may be used for a creative announcement of an upcoming church event. In either of these situations, let me stress again the importance of using it responsibly.

Through my first hand experience, I’ve come away from various services with much frustration because the dramas that were used didn’t seem to connect completely with the sermon or in some cased they didn’t connect at all. It’s as if there were two separate or competing messages.

There have also been times where I’ve seen questionable content written into the scripts to seemingly “push the envelope” which has been very offensive and contrary to The Word of God in my opinion.

Regarding the dramas not connecting to the messages, The Holy Spirit does not interrupt Himself nor should we interrupt the message, the worship of God and the edification of the body by misuse of this form of communication.

I keep asking, “Where is the accountability” and “at what point are filters applied by the local pastoral staff and elders who are our shepherds?”

It seems at times like anything goes and nothing needs to be filtered out because by all means it’s for the “seeker” that matters and the believer’s just need to deal with the approach that is being taken.

Where’s the reality that we’re all accountable to God and that we’ll account for what we did or did not do properly for the Lord. This is especially true of Pastors and Elders.

With further thought here are some important questions I believe drama teams and pastors should ask before a drama / skit is considered or standards by which I believe Drama’s should be used or filtered:

-Do the scripts/drama/skits magnify the Lord?
-Do the scripts/drama/skits proclaim the Word of God?
-Do the scripts/drama/skits have a redemptive message to them?
-Do the scripts/drama/skits have a message that is part of the edification of the Body?
-Do the scripts/drama/skits contain a clear illustration used to help illustrate a point and directly tie into the message somehow?
-Do the scripts/drama/skits need to be in alignment with the church’s mission/purpose statement which seems to be a part of the suggested test/filter for everything we do at our churches?

Whatever you’re opinion is let me state that we all need to grow in Christ and glorify Him more and guard what is sacred, good, right, and perfect.

We cannot and should not settle for a watered down Christianity nor can we or should we settle for watered down sermons, services or maybe what some deem as “Edutainment” if it muddies the message! If it muddies the message, then we’ve failed because we’re called and accountable to clearly communicate the living hope found in a salvatory relationship with Jesus Christ!

If we’re not about the Lord’s business, purpose and will, if God’s Word and the Lord Jesus Christ are not in the center of what we do in our churches then what business are we in?

Prayerfully we’ll take a serious look in the mirror at our churches and our hearts and ask the Lord through His Holy Spirit to spotlight what we need to change right now.

Some of what I share here is due to the fact that some churches across America it seems that the drama has replaced or taken a more prominent place than the preaching of the Word.

As sarcastic as this may sound, for these churches that have gone mainly to drama and some worship and very little Scripture at all, they may come to a point where they may just need to rename there meeting place from church to a performing arts center. A performing arts center that just happens to have paid pastoral staff on hand or maybe they’d rather change their titles to “chaplains” so that so called seekers will feel comfortable if the chaplain wouldn’t be seen as offensive to them?

The Word of God was good enough for Peter, just look at the books of Acts. Peter preached the Word and over 3000 people came to faith that day. Some would argue, well, “the culture has changed.” Yes, it has changed but the Word of God has not changed. It’s still as powerful today as it was then! If it was strong enough then, it’s strong enough now and we need to keep the Word of God the focus of our services. The Word of God alone stands supreme and the Word of God is powerful!

Again, I’m not saying that we cannot use creative methods to communicate the Gospel, but I am saying that the Word has to be central to how we communicate and we need to communicate in an appropriate way. I hope you can see this important distinction.

Again I ask His Church:

If the Word of God is not present then what is the point?
What is the church doing if the Word of God and Jesus Christ are not in the center of what we do?

May Jesus Christ and the Word of God be in the center of all we do because if this is not the case then how can we effectively communicate His message and furthermore - how can we call ourselves Christians, followers of Christ?
I’m committed to praying for the Body of Christ, including the leaders asking the Lord to help us come back to our first love, The Lord Jesus and the Word of God. How about you?

C.H.A.R.A.C.T.E.R. (Part 3 of 8) – Accountability and Responsibility

The Word:
Read: 2 Corinthians 5:10
Additional Reading: Matthew 5:13, Romans 12

“Accountability and Responsibility” By Randolph Koch

In a world where individuality is “king” the term accountability is seen as an assault to our ego-centric ways. It tends to be a word that we shy away from, even in Christian circles. I recall attending a retreat where we were defining what Biblical Discipleship is and one of the key truths that were brought out was none other than accountability in that we need others to keep us accountable. This was somewhat “controversial” because many in the group did not like the term or it made them uncomfortable to say the least. I would submit that it all goes back to our cultures and how we perceive the “outlandish” idea that we’re responsible for or actions and accountable to others!

It would seem that no one in the natural man really likes to be held to a standard but as you grow as a believer you begin to see that the Bible, God’s Word, teaches that accountability is important. Furthermore, the character qualities of accountability and responsibility really go hand in hand.

Whether we like it or not we are held accountable for our actions even though sometimes we might question this as we witness other people not being held accountable and essentially getting away with ridiculous actions. Regardless of other people’s actions, we should always seek to do what is right in God’s sight.

Let’s say you’re going 55 MPH in a speed zone where the posted speed limit is 25 MPH? If a police officer sees you, (of course you’ve broken the law no matter if they see you or not) and with lights flashing and siren blaring they pull you over, you will surely be given a ticket. Now the culture might say, “You can’t tell me how to drive!”, “you don’t have a right!” The reality is that there is a standard no matter how the culture tries to deny it or place blame on someone else for their own individual actions.

Now, you may think this is ridiculous but our society seemingly has devalued personal responsibility as it’s hardly emphasized anymore. You needn’t look any further for evidence of this than the news with reports of lawsuits over outrages things. More often than not, the person suing a company or individual is really the one at fault but they don’t want to be accountable for their actions. Of course in the before mentioned example - the right thing to do would have been to not speed in the first place, but in the “off chance” that you were the one speeding or have ever been in a situation like this, you should own up to it because you are responsible for your actions.

God’s standards are higher than ours and fight it as you may - His way is better than ours and allows you to really have a more successful life for Him especially when you live by His standards and reflect His character qualities.

As previously mentioned, a key to discipleship is accountability with other believer’s. If you don’t have accountability then you become like an island, you stand alone and you don’t have anyone to act like a jetty or barrier reef to protect you from the waves that come crashing upon you. No one was designed to travel this journey alone and God brings others into our lives to make us better people to make us more useful to Him and more mature.

Accountability and responsibility is important in all areas of your life not only for spiritual reason but also for very practical reasons as well.

Let’s consider for a moment a real life example. Let’s say that your employer gives you a task to complete and you blow it off or maybe you respond with a very negative attitude? How do you think your employer will respond? Well, you will be held accountable because you were responsible for completing this task and if you could not complete it you’d be expected to communicate this and work with the stakeholders to adjust the due date. If you’re reading this and you’re self employed, you likewise are accountable but in your case it’s directly to your customers as you’re responsible for fulfilling your agreement with them. Likewise if you’re a student and reading this, you’re accountable to your teachers or professors as you’re responsible to complete your assignment or projects and you’re responsible to be engaged and attentive in class. If you choose to not do these things, you’re grades will reflect this. There numerous examples we could discuss here but I’m sure you see the point here.

Ultimately we’re responsible to live our lives in a way that will bring honor and glory to God. You are and will be accountable to God and when you enter into eternity with Him He will assess what you did or didn’t do with your life. Hopefully this doesn’t make your fearful rather, hopefully this truth with help you understand how you should be living your life and allowing the Holy Spirit to help you make necessary changes.

We are accountable to God and other Christians and we need to embrace that and allow God to work this in our lives for our good and for His glory. Make your life matter for something more than your own personal - temporal gratification. Be a living example of God’s character. Live your life being accountable to God and others and actively be responsible for your actions whether exemplarily or when you stumble because it’s not only the here-and-now but it’s also eternity that matters.
Questions to Get Started With:-What do you think God’s assessment of you will be on your way into heaven?
-Who are accountable to and who are you or what are you responsible for?
-What changes do you need to make to be more accountable and responsible?
-Do you have an addiction you need to be accountable to someone else about?
-Do you have an important goal you’ve set but you’ve yet to achieve? Do you think having someone check on your progress once in a while might help you?
-Do you purpose to stand up and be accountable and responsible for your actions – no matter the consequences?
-Have you been running from something you did possibly years ago? Don’t you think it’s finally time to confess it to God and be responsible for what you did? Again, no matter the consequences?
-What about how you’re living now? Anything you need to confess or be accountable for?
-According to Romans 12, how should we be living our lives and interact with others, especially other believer’s?
-In addition, what does Matthew 5:13 say about how we should live or be characterized?
-What or who are you living for?
For Further Study:1-Do a Bible study on accountability / responsibility.
2-From your Bible study, select a few verses about accountability / responsibility and memorize them. (Then review them on at least a monthly basis as a great personal tool and reminder of the importance of Accountability / Responsibility)
3-Pray and ask God to help you be accountable and also help you build at least one relationship (If you’re man, with another man or if you’re a woman, with another woman) to the point where you can be accountable to each other so you can speak into each others lives because you’ve come to trust each other.
 

RLK Ministries Update: 10 Year Anniversary!

Although this is more of my personal / ministry Blog, I wanted to share the following message with you that I sent to my ministry partners.

God Bless, Randolph Koch

*******************************************************

Dear Partners in Ministry,

In April of 1997 God started a work that you've come to know as RLK Ministries. This month we celebrate our 10 Year Anniversary! It's exciting times and we plan on continuing to build upon the foundation the Lord has built as He leads!

In celebration of our anniversary we'll be making some new additions to our web site in the weeks to come.

Here are a few items that are in the works:

Support Page:

In order to keep you abreast of what ministry services/projects we're currently working on, as well as resources and financial needs we have, this page will simply list these items. We'll eventually have information on this page so those who are led can give online. In sum, this page will keep you up to date regarding specific short term and ongoing ministry needs so you're aware of them and can pray and contribute as God leads.

Living Stones Page:

In the Old Testament, each time God did something significant He had the people build an altar, made of stones/rocks, or sometimes it was simply a large pile of rocks, to commemorate what He had done and this memorial was for their sake and for future generations to see.

We likewise can build a memorial of God's goodness, deliverance, and grace "one stone or rock at a time". This will be a place (possibly connected with a BLOG of the same name) where people can share their story, share a special blessing or encouragement from the Lord and, be encouraged, built up, and blessed by what God has done!

In sum, anything that points to and gives glory to God will be considered for posting as each item is significant and should be another rock of remembrance for all to see.

If you have something to share please submit your story for thoughtful review and consideration via e-mail to livingstones@rlkministries.org . You'll be notified if your submission has been selected to post on the page.

Audio and Downloadable resources:

We plan on adding more audio resources in the future and we also plan on adding more presentations, training material, and other useful resources for study as well as other practical items.

Links:

We'll be adding more links to the site to a variety of Christian and other resources. We'll be adding links for kids as well and plan on including some of our kid's favorite online places.

In addition to the web updates, I'm looking forward to restarting the Devotional Starters after a several month hiatus. I'm also seeking various other ministry/pastoral service opportunities wherever God wills.

Many of you have been with us since the beginning of this ministry and I want to express what a blessing it has been to serve you and the Lord!

No matter what direction God takes us, I/We want to be found faithful to His call.

Thank you for partnering with us through your prayers, encouragement and support!

We look forward to another 10 plus years of serving you and the Lord through this ministry!

In Christ Alone and For His Glory,

Your Brother and Servant,

Randolph L. Koch

Address: RLK Ministries C/O Randolph Koch - 6796 SE Sweet Meadow Lane, Hillsboro, Oregon 97123

Web: www.rlkministries.org