Monday, January 5, 2015

What God Taught Me About NewSpring

     You have no doubt probably seen the article circling social media entitled, "Perry Noble Rescinds the Ten Commandments," about the message Perry Noble preached at NewSpring's Christmas Eve service. There is another video entitled, "Perry Noble Drops the N-word on Christmas Eve." Now, in full disclosure, I do not know Perry Noble. We have never met, but we did eat across from each other at Mama Penn's in Anderson, SC years ago (a great place by the way).

     So you know where I am coming from, I pastor what you would call a fairly "traditional" church in Mauldin, SC.  I really despise the terms "traditional" and "contemporary" because they are subjective, but I use it so people have an idea of what we do. I am blessed to pastor New Hope. We have made some great strides in many areas over the six years of my ministry. We have a long way to go. The people are loving, friendly, and have supported me and my family beyond anything I could ask.

     I generally do not comment on what other churches are doing because I have a full plate myself. Until recently, I was in graduate school (completing my D.Min in December), with two small children and a church to pastor. Needless to say, I have more to do on any given day than I care to enumerate.

     However, I did make a careless comment on social media when I saw the article, "Perry Noble Rescinds the Ten Commandments." After I did so, God convicted my heart about it. Now, I am being fully transparent here. I do not endorse everything Perry Noble does. There are some things that concern me. This is not the point of the article. I do not endorse everything many other pastors do, (including some well known pastors as well). I am sure there are some people that could say the same thing about me. They have, trust me.

     After thinking about my comment, God directed me to Acts 5:33-39. To summarize the passage, Peter and apostles were put in jail for preaching the gospel. God sent an angel to break them out of jail, and they proceeded to the temple to teach the people. They were brought back before the Jewish High Council, where they wanted to kill them.

     Enter Gamaliel, a respected Pharisee. He gives the Council some sage advice in verses 38-39: "So in the present case, I say to you, stay away from these men and let them alone, for if this plan or action is of men, it will be overthrown; but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them; or else you may even be found fighting against God."

     I see so many blogs and websites devoted to tearing down, nit-picking, and analyzing every word and phrase from prominent pastors that it is mind-boggling. What God has really impressed upon me is that we are actually hindering the gospel by fighting and tearing one another down. If God is not involved in something, it will eventually come to naught. However, if God is actively working, you might be actually fighting against what He is trying to do. I don't know about you, but I would rather err on the side of caution, than be caught fighting against God. In other words, God will either expose or vindicate NewSpring or any other church. It is not up to us.

     We actually give credence to unbelievers who think all we do is fight and argue over everything: from mode of baptism, to whether you adhere to Calvinism, Arminianism, or Molinism, praise band or choir, jeans and t-shirt or suit, etc. What we need to do is pray for one another and work together to advance the gospel to the ends of the earth.

     Now, in case you might be misinterpreting what I am saying, let me clarify. Do I believe Perry Noble and every other pastor needs to be held accountable? Absolutely. Let me share a couple of suggestions. First, if you are genuinely concerned about what Perry Noble, or any other pastor says or does-pray about it first. Ask God to give that person you are concerned about wisdom and discernment. Pray that God will use someone close to them to point out an error. And pray that God will reveal to you if this is a genuine concern or just something you are hung-up personally about. If you are still concerned, contact NewSpring. While you won't get to speak with Perry Noble, they do have people on staff who will talk with you about your concerns. And finally, leave it there. Don't start a blog or a website airing your perceived grievances. I can promise you, it will not benefit anyone.

     While I have my concerns about some of things NewSpring does, it does not negate the fact they do a lot of great things. I have family that goes to NewSpring and they are passionate about Christ. I have personally talked to people who never served in church before that are now active in ministry because of their involvement with NewSpring. Countless people have come to faith in Christ through their ministry. All of these things I can rejoice in and celebrate.

     I am sure some people will object to my opinion and that is fine. I might be perceived as someone who is "compromising" the truth or becoming "liberal." Hey folks, I only have two pairs of jeans and I was given those at Christmas! How liberal can I be? Even though I am probably your stereotypical pastor; I am comfortable in suits and I am very conservative in my theology and morals, please do not label me or put me in your box. There is more to me than meets the eye.

     In the same way, I am sure Perry Noble and other high profile pastors would appreciate it if we did not label them and put them in our preconceived boxes. There is more to them than meets the eye.

     In the end, Perry Noble, myself, and every other person who has stood in front of people and proclaimed God's Word will have to give an account before Jesus Christ Himself. Please don't take this the wrong way, but I am much more concerned about what Jesus is going to say to me than anyone here on earth. Perry Noble is aware of his accountability to Christ I am sure.

     So, in closing, can I make an appeal to everyone who calls on the name of Jesus Christ as their Savior to focus our energies on coming together and partnering with one another to see people come to Christ, instead of pointing out what we don't agree on? I am blessed to have relationships with a variety of churches that are very different than the one I pastor: The Church at Cherrydale, Summit Church, Maudlin United Methodist, and Brookwood Church to name a few. Do we agree on everything? No. But do we share a passion to see as many people come to Christ as possible? Absolutely. I pray you will commit to doing the same.

Serving Christ, Loving Others, and Growing Together,
Dr. Bryan Cox

Monday, November 24, 2014

TBT

You have probably heard the term TBT. It stands for "Throwback Thursday," or sometimes "Throwback Tuesday." If you go on social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram on Thursdays you will see lots of old pictures of people with the hastag #TBT. The reason people love  TBT is because it gives them a chance to go back and remember good times in their lives. People love to poke fun at their big hair, clothing, and cultural emphasis of whatever year the photo is from. Let's face it. We all enjoy looking back at our younger, slimmer, and full heads of hair selves!

There is another important TBT coming up this week-Thanksgiving. It is a time to remember the good things God has blessed us with. Psalm 103:2 tells to, "Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name." The Psalmist tells us here that we are to remind ourselves of all the blessings God has given to us-forgiveness, hope, grace, peace, family, friends, material blessings, etc.

This Thanksgiving, take a moment to recount all of the wonderful things God has surrounded you with. Have your own #TBT with your family. You will be surprised at the good memories you will share and create.

Serving Christ, Loving Others, and Growing Together,
Dr. Bryan Cox

Monday, November 17, 2014

The Benefits of Loving Correction

This past Sunday I had the privilege of preaching from 1 Timothy 5:1-2: "Do not rebuke an older man, but exhort him as a father, younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, younger women as sisters, with all purity."

The reality is, we all need correction from time to time. There are blind spots in our perceptions, attitudes, and actions that occasionally need adjustment. But how should we receive that kind of correction? Let me give you a few steps to implement.

1. Is the person giving the correction a trusted individual in your life?

In other words, is this a person who is close to you and knows you, your personality, and strengths/weaknesses? You do not need to give everyone the right to speak into your life. If the person is on the outside of your sphere of influence, think twice before receiving their correction.

2. Is the person giving you correction doing it publicly or privately?

Loving correction as a general rule needs to be done privately. While there are certain instances where public correction is necessary that should be the exception, not the norm. Many times an individual attempting to correct you in public has ulterior motives: cause you embarrassment, undermine you, etc.

3. What is the attitude in which the correction is given to you?

In the 1 Timothy 5:1-2, "Paul says do not rebuke..." That word rebuke carries the connotation of harshness and violence. Rather, he says, "exhort." The word exhort in the Greek conveys the idea of encouragement, walking alongside someone to help them.

If the attitude to the individual attempting correction is harsh and angry, that is a good sign you do not need to receive it. However, if the attitude of the individual is one of encouragement, and trying to help you in your walk with Christ then God is using that person as an instrument in your life.

If the individual meets these three criteria, what should be your reaction?

1. Receive it with humility.

It is never easy to be corrected, even if it is warranted and the individual does it biblically.

2. Thank the individual.

It takes great courage to lovingly confront and correct someone. Thank the person for loving you enough to want God's best for you.

3. Take it to the Lord in prayer.

Ask God to show you how to implement what was said in your life.

While it might be painful, having someone lovingly correct you can be the best thing to happen to you if you receive it in a godly way.

Serving Christ, Loving Others, and Growing Together,
Dr. Bryan Cox

Monday, November 10, 2014

Heeding the Warning Signs

Hebrews 3:13: "But encourage each other daily, while it is still called today, so that none of you is hardened by sin's deception."

Imagine for a moment a world without signs. How would we even know where to go or how to get there? Think about how dangerous driving would be if all the caution signs suddenly disappeared. Consider how many people might get hurt walking too near an unmarked construction site, or taking unlabeled medicine.

Thankfully, warning signs appear everywhere. In fact, we see so many that we often times ignore the ones we see. We need the warning signs.

In verse 13 in Hebrews 13, the writer gives us a warning. We must not let the tests of life harden our hearts against God. Instead, we must encourage each other to persevere in our faith and walk with Christ.

The journey of faith is a lifelong trek, requiring us to navigate the twists, turns, and detours of life that put our faith to the test. We have a mutual responsibility to warn and encourage one another daily.

Who do you have in your life that encourages you to keep the faith? If  you cannot think of anyone, it probably means you are not plugged into a local church. If not, prayerfully find a church that is doctrinally sound and seeks to build your faith.

Second, who are you encouraging in their walk with the Lord? If no one comes to mind, ask the Lord to direct you to someone who needs a kind word and prayer.

Don't neglect the warning signs in your life. Allow the Holy Spirit and the Word of God to keep you on the right road today.

Serving Christ, Loving Others, and Growing Together,
Bryan

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

Being Submissive to Our Government

No doubt you are aware of the situation in Houston, TX. Their openly lesbian mayor, Annise Parker has subpoenaed five area pastor's sermons in response to opposition over a city-wide policy allowing trans-gender individuals to use opposite sex public bathrooms. The blatant abuse of power is obvious and unsettling to believers. So, what does the Bible say about how Christians should relate to the government?

One of the first things I notice is that every government is put in place by God.

Jesus answered [Pilate], "You would have no authority over me at all unless it had been given you from above." (John 19:11)

There is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God (Rom. 13:1).

Second, God uses even sinful governments to do His will.

Truly in this city there were gathered together against your holy servant Jesus, whom you [God] anointed both Herod and Pontius Pilate, along with the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel, to do whatever your hand and your plan had predestined to take place. (Acts 4:27-28)

Third, we ought to pray for those who govern us.

First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings, and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. (1 Tim. 2:1-2)

Fourth, we should honor and submit to those who govern us.

Jesus said to them, "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's." And they marveled at Him. (Mark 12:17)

Finally, Christians should disobey governing authorities when it directly contradicts biblical principles.

"But so that it spreads no further among the people, let us severely threaten them, that from now on they speak to no man in this name." So they called them and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered and said to them, "Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard."

So, what should these pastor's responses be, and the Christian community at-large in Houston, TX?

1. First, these pastors should openly refuse to hand over any sermons to the city of Houston. This is in direct violation of their First Amendment right of free speech.

2. Their churches should retain legal counsel to fight these discriminatory acts.

3. Churches all over Texas and across the country should flood the city of Houston with emails, letters, and phone calls denouncing their dictatorial policies.

4. The Christians in Houston, TX should make their voices heard at the voting booths to oust Annise Parker.

5. Christians across the United States need to pray for Annise Parker's salvation. We are called to pray for our government leaders. Christ died for her and longs to see her come to faith.

Let us rally around our brothers and sisters in Houston, TX and pray for God to intervene in Annise Parker's life and let her see the error of her ways.

Serving Christ, Loving Others, and Growing Together,
Dr. Bryan Cox


Friday, August 29, 2014

Don't Let the Pigskin Hinder Your Gospel Witness

One of the best things about living in the South is the prominence college football has in culture. It has been said that there are really only two times of the year in the southeast-football season and getting ready for football season. Here in my home state of South Carolina, Clemson and The University of South Carolina dominate the headlines from late August to the holiday season.

I must add a word of confession here-I am a born and bred South Carolina fan. My mom has pictures of me at five years old wearing my gamecock pajamas (no I am not going to post a picture). I can recall growing up having a distaste for anything orange (I still do not like orange M & M's. They taste funny.) Whether you root for Clemson or South Carolina, it was instilled at an early age to loathe the opposing team's colors, university, mascot, fight song, and everything associated with it.

Growing up, I went to a great deal of Clemson home games. My dad's company always bought tickets and they would take business clients. As a perk, I got to tag along. Even though I am a South Carolina fan, I still have some good memories of going to watch Clemson play.

With the advent of social media and the Internet, you now have fan blogs, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. to interact with people across the nation and around the world. Many times, I see on game days some good natured ribbing between friends and family members from opposing teams. Often, I see anger, virulent attacks, and slanderous comments from people who support a wide variety of teams-Clemson, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama-I could go on and on.

As football season has officially started, I began to think last night about how my passion for football-namely South Carolina football, could have a negative impact on my gospel witness.

Paul said in Ephesians 4:29 (ESV):
"Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you."

While it is perfectly fine to passionately support your chosen team, I wonder what would happen if we all committed to praying what Paul said in Ephesians 4:29 before we engaged our brothers and sisters from opposing teams.  Do not misunderstand me. There is nothing wrong with joking and ribbing friends and family who know you and appreciate it. However, to someone else, it could be a stumbling block. I myself have been guilty of this in the past.

So, wear your team colors proudly this season-win or lose. Remember to be humble in victory and gracious in defeat. Most of all, remember that the gospel of Christ trumps all other allegiances, and dictates how we interact with others.

Best of luck and enjoy the football season!
Bryan

Tuesday, August 26, 2014

The Changing Face of Ministry

As you well know, life is about transitions and changes. I just celebrated my 40th birthday this month. My daughter started 1st grade and my son began 5th. Next year, Zachary will be entering middle school, which is already giving my wife anxiety attacks! In other words, nothing in life ever stays static. Things are always moving, changing, transitioning-whether we want them to or not.

What is true in life is also true in the church. No matter how much we want things to stay the same, the reality is in a rapidly changing culture, the church must transition in order to meet the ministry needs that are around us today. Whereas in the past people came to church out of sincere faith, duty, or sometimes obligation, today people have no problem leaving church out of their lives. In other words, in past generations, we programmed church events and activities with the "come and see" approach. Now, the church must leave the confines of the building and seek out those who need to hear the gospel.

This means church ministry has to take on a totally different look and feel than in past generations. The church has to take ministry to the neighborhoods, schools, and businesses around them. Pastors and staff have to take on a community service mindset. This means establishing relationships with principals, business leaders, and community leaders to discern what the legitimate needs are in their communities. Then the pastors and staff came formulate ways their churches can meet those needs.

The cookie-cutter days of ministry are over. Churches simply cannot afford to copy another church's student ministry, outreach ministry, etc. Each church must do the hard work of establishing relationships in their respective communities, earning trust, discovering needs, and meeting those needs under God's grace and provision.

Jesus said in Matthew 9:38, "Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” Will you be one of His laborers to go out into the fields of your community to advance the kingdom of God? Let us pray to the Lord of the Harvest for laborers for His glory.

Serving Christ, Loving Others & Growing Together,
Bryan