to the new year is a tradition at year's end. We plan, we ponder, we predict, and sometimes we even manage to get it right.
What do we want out of 2009? I think we all want our national economy to show some signs of real recovery. We all want our military efforts in the war on terror to be successful. Regardless of how we voted in November, we want the new President and Congress to succeed. We want our families and friends to be safe and happy.
What does our church want? Despite what it may seem money is not our main concern. What we really want is to carry out our mission-to bring people into a closer relationship with Jesus Christ. If we do that, the money will happen. We want to develop people who are serious about glorifying God and telling the world about their relationship with Him through Jesus. We want to help people understand they must become less dependent on the world, and more dependent on the power of the Holy Spirit. We want to grow a close, loving community within our Argyle family.
Hal Hunter
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Thursday, December 18, 2008
The 2008 Tree...
is now history. We had a great turnout. More than 2,000 people braved the cold to enjoy the 14th anniversary production.
We sometimes wonder if it's worth the effort and expense. After all, over a hundred people have been working, some since August, to put this puppy together. Is this effort paying off?
I think so. On each night we heard from people about their impressions. Some were veterans, and attending the Tree is a family tradition. Some were newbies, and they were, without exception, blown away. Everyone we talked to agreed this is an important ministry to our community.
The Saturday before we began, I spoke to a friend who is Choir Director of a United Methodist Church in Arlington. When I told him about our Tree, with 70 voices, 15 musicians, new music every year, done outdoors for four nights, he was flabbergasted. Understanding the challenges, it is something he can't imagine attempting.
I believe God blesses audacious things done to promote His glory and the Gospel. Done in our own power, I think the Tree would fizzle; done in His Name and in His power, it becomes a powerful way to reach people in our community.
Hal Hunter
We sometimes wonder if it's worth the effort and expense. After all, over a hundred people have been working, some since August, to put this puppy together. Is this effort paying off?
I think so. On each night we heard from people about their impressions. Some were veterans, and attending the Tree is a family tradition. Some were newbies, and they were, without exception, blown away. Everyone we talked to agreed this is an important ministry to our community.
The Saturday before we began, I spoke to a friend who is Choir Director of a United Methodist Church in Arlington. When I told him about our Tree, with 70 voices, 15 musicians, new music every year, done outdoors for four nights, he was flabbergasted. Understanding the challenges, it is something he can't imagine attempting.
I believe God blesses audacious things done to promote His glory and the Gospel. Done in our own power, I think the Tree would fizzle; done in His Name and in His power, it becomes a powerful way to reach people in our community.
Hal Hunter
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Weather Watching...
It's not just farmers and fishermen who watch the weather. People who put on major outdoor events involving hundreds of people and a lot of electronic equipment and musical instruments also ponder the sky.
Each year we present an Outdoor Singing Christmas Tree. 2008 is the 14th year. Our Tree has become something of a tradition in our community. (After all, it can be heard a mile or more away on a still evening!) The singers and musicians started rehearsing in August. Over 80 people have spent months learning music and practicing.
Last week we built and decorated the Tree structure. This morning we set up the mixing console (48 total channels for the techies), powered speakers, sub-woofers, amplifiers, signal processors, lights, spotlights, computers, projectors and flat-screens, drum kit, two keyboards, and what seems like a bazillion music stands and a couple miles of wire.
Now comes the weather watching part: predictions say we should expect rain Thursday. Not just rain, but the "possibility of severe thunderstorms." There have been a couple times over the years when we had had to cancel a single performance for weather, but we hope that Thursday is not one of them. The hour-by-hour predictions say the storms should be over by late afternoon, with clearing by 6:00 pm. If those predictions are accurate, we are good to go with performing at 8:00 pm.
Join us in praying for good weather later in the day Thursday. Since God encourages us to bring all our cares to him, let's get specific: rain ending by 4:00 pm, followed by quick clearing; conditions at 8:00 pm- clear, dry, still and 58 degrees.
We invite everyone to attend. It's free, with plenty of parking and seating. We even provide hot chocolate and coffee. This may be the only time this Christmas season some of the people attending the Tree will hear the Gospel and hear the real Christmas story. That's one of the main reasons we do it, and one of the main reasons you should join us in praying for the weather.
Hal Hunter
Each year we present an Outdoor Singing Christmas Tree. 2008 is the 14th year. Our Tree has become something of a tradition in our community. (After all, it can be heard a mile or more away on a still evening!) The singers and musicians started rehearsing in August. Over 80 people have spent months learning music and practicing.
Last week we built and decorated the Tree structure. This morning we set up the mixing console (48 total channels for the techies), powered speakers, sub-woofers, amplifiers, signal processors, lights, spotlights, computers, projectors and flat-screens, drum kit, two keyboards, and what seems like a bazillion music stands and a couple miles of wire.
Now comes the weather watching part: predictions say we should expect rain Thursday. Not just rain, but the "possibility of severe thunderstorms." There have been a couple times over the years when we had had to cancel a single performance for weather, but we hope that Thursday is not one of them. The hour-by-hour predictions say the storms should be over by late afternoon, with clearing by 6:00 pm. If those predictions are accurate, we are good to go with performing at 8:00 pm.
Join us in praying for good weather later in the day Thursday. Since God encourages us to bring all our cares to him, let's get specific: rain ending by 4:00 pm, followed by quick clearing; conditions at 8:00 pm- clear, dry, still and 58 degrees.
We invite everyone to attend. It's free, with plenty of parking and seating. We even provide hot chocolate and coffee. This may be the only time this Christmas season some of the people attending the Tree will hear the Gospel and hear the real Christmas story. That's one of the main reasons we do it, and one of the main reasons you should join us in praying for the weather.
Hal Hunter
Saturday, December 06, 2008
Electronic giving is now happening at Argyle...
We have been researching electronic giving options for months. After all the looking we have found a company that offers the right mix of cost and features coupled with safety and integrity.
We are now using eGive to allow members of the Argyle family to automate their giving. We took a survey several months ago, and most of the people who responded said they would prefer to do their giving using an electronic method.
It's safe, secure, costs nothing to the giver, is reasonably priced to the church, and simplifies bookkeeping for everyone involved.
Want to check it out? Click here to visit our Online Giving FAQ page or call us in the office (777-1238) during regular hours.
Hal Hunter
Administrator
We are now using eGive to allow members of the Argyle family to automate their giving. We took a survey several months ago, and most of the people who responded said they would prefer to do their giving using an electronic method.
It's safe, secure, costs nothing to the giver, is reasonably priced to the church, and simplifies bookkeeping for everyone involved.
Want to check it out? Click here to visit our Online Giving FAQ page or call us in the office (777-1238) during regular hours.
Hal Hunter
Administrator
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
Tree time rolls around again...
I swear it seems like we just finished the Tree, but it's time for another one.
For the fourteenth time, we are presenting our Argyle Outdoor Singing Christmas Tree to the community. Each year, over a period of four nights, as many as 3,000 people come to experience the music and the message. People all over our area know about the Tree, and for some, it is the only time they will hear the Gospel.
It is entirely free to our guests, but certainly not free to produce. We have to buy the music, buy the promotional material, buy the coffee and hot chocolate and the cups to serve them in, rent the chairs and scaffolding, and buy all the odds and ends of things needed to to produce the show.
In years past, we have had sufficient money in our regular budget to carry the cost of producing the Tree. This year, because of the budget shortfall, we are taking a special offering on Sunday, December 7, to subsidize the costs.
If you believe the Tree is an important outreach to the people around us, please join us in supporting this very public ministry.
Hal Hunter
For the fourteenth time, we are presenting our Argyle Outdoor Singing Christmas Tree to the community. Each year, over a period of four nights, as many as 3,000 people come to experience the music and the message. People all over our area know about the Tree, and for some, it is the only time they will hear the Gospel.
It is entirely free to our guests, but certainly not free to produce. We have to buy the music, buy the promotional material, buy the coffee and hot chocolate and the cups to serve them in, rent the chairs and scaffolding, and buy all the odds and ends of things needed to to produce the show.
In years past, we have had sufficient money in our regular budget to carry the cost of producing the Tree. This year, because of the budget shortfall, we are taking a special offering on Sunday, December 7, to subsidize the costs.
If you believe the Tree is an important outreach to the people around us, please join us in supporting this very public ministry.
Hal Hunter
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Budget Town Hall Meetings...
So far, we have held two Town Hall Meetings to give our members an opportunity to review the details of the 2009 Ministry Spending Plan and to speak to the Stewardship Committee and Staff about our finances. A grand total of ZERO people have shown up so far.
We always wonder if this means that everyone is totally satisfied with the state of our finances, or if they simply don't care. Of course we hope it means people trust the leadership and have all the information they need, but you have to wonder.
We would like to hear a little feedback on this. If you care to comment, tell us why you haven't attended one of the Town Hall Meetings, or maybe if you plan to attend one of the ones coming up.
Hal Hunter
We always wonder if this means that everyone is totally satisfied with the state of our finances, or if they simply don't care. Of course we hope it means people trust the leadership and have all the information they need, but you have to wonder.
We would like to hear a little feedback on this. If you care to comment, tell us why you haven't attended one of the Town Hall Meetings, or maybe if you plan to attend one of the ones coming up.
Hal Hunter
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Going Out...
We had a great time this past Sunday after the second service. About 50 people gathered in the Family Life Center where Rich Painter's Community Group passed out trash bags and gloves so that we could go out into our surrounding community to pick up trash.
Rich led us in prayer, then divided us up into two groups. One went into the neighborhood behind the church and the second group crossed Argyle Forest Boulevard into the neighborhoods across the street. The weather was beautiful and everyone was energized and excited! We had all generations represented with a common goal!
One group had a car stop and ask what they were doing and if we were part of the church! They said yes and that they just wanted to reach out to the community and clean up. He appreciated the effort and said thank you. If nothing else, maybe we touched someone who might not have realized we cared.
We want to say a personal thank you to Rich and Mindy and their leadership in the area of community outreach! We are also hoping this will spark interest in others as we step outside of the box and reach out. We would love to hear about other group interactions!
Some of the pictures are posted on the "photo album" section of the church website. Check it out by clicking here.
Peace
David Bass
Rich led us in prayer, then divided us up into two groups. One went into the neighborhood behind the church and the second group crossed Argyle Forest Boulevard into the neighborhoods across the street. The weather was beautiful and everyone was energized and excited! We had all generations represented with a common goal!
One group had a car stop and ask what they were doing and if we were part of the church! They said yes and that they just wanted to reach out to the community and clean up. He appreciated the effort and said thank you. If nothing else, maybe we touched someone who might not have realized we cared.
We want to say a personal thank you to Rich and Mindy and their leadership in the area of community outreach! We are also hoping this will spark interest in others as we step outside of the box and reach out. We would love to hear about other group interactions!
Some of the pictures are posted on the "photo album" section of the church website. Check it out by clicking here.
Peace
David Bass
Friday, November 07, 2008
Post Election Pondering...
I know that there are many emotions today.... happy and sad. I have heard some pretty negative words from "Christians" so I thought I would send out an email with my thoughts about the matter.
First thing is my hope is not in a particular party or ideology, it's in Jesus. Nothing caught Him by surprise. According to scripture God puts leaders in power and takes them out... all for His purpose.
Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience' sake. For because of this you also pay taxes, for rulers are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing. Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor. Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law. (Romans 13:1-8)
Second thing is maybe we Christians need some fire under us to get us on the ball. I think we have become complacent, fat and sassy.
Luke 12:16 -20a sounds familiar... "And He told them a parable, saying, "The land of a rich man was very productive. And he began reasoning to himself, saying, `What shall I do, since I have no place to store my crops?' "Then he said, `This is what I will do: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. `And I will say to my soul, "Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years to come; take your ease, eat, drink and be merry."' "But God said to him, `You fool!'""
I have noticed the the Christian faith is growing like a wild fire in the nations where there is the most pressure on them. Perhaps we can grow in this season and set the record straight on what a real Christian looks like.
We are living in extreme days!
Davis Bass
Deacon Chairman
Student Pastor Designate
First thing is my hope is not in a particular party or ideology, it's in Jesus. Nothing caught Him by surprise. According to scripture God puts leaders in power and takes them out... all for His purpose.
Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience' sake. For because of this you also pay taxes, for rulers are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing. Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor. Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law. (Romans 13:1-8)
Second thing is maybe we Christians need some fire under us to get us on the ball. I think we have become complacent, fat and sassy.
Luke 12:16 -20a sounds familiar... "And He told them a parable, saying, "The land of a rich man was very productive. And he began reasoning to himself, saying, `What shall I do, since I have no place to store my crops?' "Then he said, `This is what I will do: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. `And I will say to my soul, "Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years to come; take your ease, eat, drink and be merry."' "But God said to him, `You fool!'""
I have noticed the the Christian faith is growing like a wild fire in the nations where there is the most pressure on them. Perhaps we can grow in this season and set the record straight on what a real Christian looks like.
We are living in extreme days!
Davis Bass
Deacon Chairman
Student Pastor Designate
Friday, October 31, 2008
All Star Survey .. Part II
Another thing we saw on several surveys had to do with music. A number of people yearn for the traditional hymns.
When we decided several years ago to try to reach people who weren't already in church, one of the major changes had to do with our worship style, and music in particular. Study after study, plus personal experience, tell us that unchurched people are uncomfortable with traditional hymns and church music styles- they simply don't get it.
Our music is chosen to be both doctrinally sound and in a style that will appeal to a wide variety of the people in our community. It is more a "rock band with horns" sound, with prominent drums and bass. it's uptempo and takes advantage of the outstanding musicians and singers God has sent us.
Remember, our Sunday Worship Gatherings are primarily "living room" environments- a place an unchurched visitor can feel comfortable and welcome. It is designed for those folks, the outsiders, not so much for insiders.
Load your favorite style in your iPod, but celebrate Sundays with a style that will appeal to the people we are trying to reach with the all-important message of the Gospel.
Hal Hunter
When we decided several years ago to try to reach people who weren't already in church, one of the major changes had to do with our worship style, and music in particular. Study after study, plus personal experience, tell us that unchurched people are uncomfortable with traditional hymns and church music styles- they simply don't get it.
Our music is chosen to be both doctrinally sound and in a style that will appeal to a wide variety of the people in our community. It is more a "rock band with horns" sound, with prominent drums and bass. it's uptempo and takes advantage of the outstanding musicians and singers God has sent us.
Remember, our Sunday Worship Gatherings are primarily "living room" environments- a place an unchurched visitor can feel comfortable and welcome. It is designed for those folks, the outsiders, not so much for insiders.
Load your favorite style in your iPod, but celebrate Sundays with a style that will appeal to the people we are trying to reach with the all-important message of the Gospel.
Hal Hunter
Saturday, October 25, 2008
All Star Survey.. Part I
We have carefully reviewed all of the All Star Surveys. If you haven't already participated, you can click here to complete the survey.
We are going to use this blog to discuss some of the results.
Several people mentioned they thought we ought to be be doing an invitation or altar call. First, we may need to explain what this is for those who didn't grow up in a church that does this.
An altar call or invitation is usually given at the end of the service. The pastor invites people who have made a spiritual decision to come forward. It is usually accompanied by music, lasts several minutes to perhaps ten minutes, with periodic exhortations from the pastor to those who may be considering a decision.
We stopped doing a traditional invitation several years ago, and we did it for several good reasons.
Almost every week we speak at length with someone who has questions or who has made a spiritual decision of some type. We are not missing opportunities by not doing an invitation- we are simply eliminating the intimidation factor.
Hal Hunter
Ministry Pastor
We are going to use this blog to discuss some of the results.
Several people mentioned they thought we ought to be be doing an invitation or altar call. First, we may need to explain what this is for those who didn't grow up in a church that does this.
An altar call or invitation is usually given at the end of the service. The pastor invites people who have made a spiritual decision to come forward. It is usually accompanied by music, lasts several minutes to perhaps ten minutes, with periodic exhortations from the pastor to those who may be considering a decision.
We stopped doing a traditional invitation several years ago, and we did it for several good reasons.
- There is no Scriptural mandate for it- it is first documented being used in a form we would recognize today during what is known as The Second Great Awakening, a great period of revival that began in the 1820's.
- Many people find it intimidating to respond to a spiritual call in the presence of what might be hundreds of strangers. Remember, public speaking or doing something in fron of a crowd, is one of the greatest fears of most people.
- It can lead to "emotional" responses, rather than genuine responses to the Holy Spirit.
Almost every week we speak at length with someone who has questions or who has made a spiritual decision of some type. We are not missing opportunities by not doing an invitation- we are simply eliminating the intimidation factor.
Hal Hunter
Ministry Pastor
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
HVAC update
A week has now passed since the air conditioners were looted for copper. We thought maybe an update would be appreciated.
Q- Have the police caught anyone?
A- No; and they are not likely to. We are told this is a very common and wide-spread crime, but our police are already stretched thin and not able to give a lot of manpower to a non-violent crime when people are being murdered in our community almost every day. Pray for both situations.
Q- Are the repairs done?
A- About 85% as of today, and almost certainly will be 100% by this weekend.
Q- What has this all cost?
A- The damages have totaled just over $52,000 so far. Almost all of this has been paid by insurance. However, some additional costs will not be covered by insurance, and will eventually come to $4,000 or more.
Q- What are we doing to prevent this from happening again?
A- We are having alarms installed on all the equipment- this accounts for much of the additional cost. We are also increasing the amount of security lighting, adding some locks and taking some other steps we would rather not discuss publicly to discourage a repeat.
Q- What can I do to help?
A- Prayerfully consider your financial support to the church. With our already under-funded budget, this makes things even more difficult.
Hal Hunter
Administrator
Q- Have the police caught anyone?
A- No; and they are not likely to. We are told this is a very common and wide-spread crime, but our police are already stretched thin and not able to give a lot of manpower to a non-violent crime when people are being murdered in our community almost every day. Pray for both situations.
Q- Are the repairs done?
A- About 85% as of today, and almost certainly will be 100% by this weekend.
Q- What has this all cost?
A- The damages have totaled just over $52,000 so far. Almost all of this has been paid by insurance. However, some additional costs will not be covered by insurance, and will eventually come to $4,000 or more.
Q- What are we doing to prevent this from happening again?
A- We are having alarms installed on all the equipment- this accounts for much of the additional cost. We are also increasing the amount of security lighting, adding some locks and taking some other steps we would rather not discuss publicly to discourage a repeat.
Q- What can I do to help?
A- Prayerfully consider your financial support to the church. With our already under-funded budget, this makes things even more difficult.
Hal Hunter
Administrator
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Bad Day At Black Rock...
This morning, the world came crashing in on us. Anyone who might think that the church is immune from the world's problems needs to read this.
When walking between Building A and Building B, I noticed that the enclosure around the air conditioning equipment for the Family Life Center was standing open. In seconds, I saw that the units were in pieces! Copper thieves hit us overnight.
The emotion hits like a physical blow. It really does hurt and stun you to experience this kind of violation. And the full reality of the loss was even worse than the first impression. 12 units were damaged or destroyed- 94 tons of capacity. The Worship Center, Family Life Center, Cafe, most staff offices and the west side of Building B downstairs are totally without cooling.
That is the bad news- the good news is that we have good insurance and a great HVAC contractor. It isn't positive, but we hope that we will have repairs done by Sunday. But, just in case, no one is going to object if you show up in flops and shorts. It will be toasty if the AC isn't running. Pastor Ken has decided that regardless of the situation, gathering as a body to worship God is important, and we won't let thieves ruin our worship.
Hal Hunter
When walking between Building A and Building B, I noticed that the enclosure around the air conditioning equipment for the Family Life Center was standing open. In seconds, I saw that the units were in pieces! Copper thieves hit us overnight.
The emotion hits like a physical blow. It really does hurt and stun you to experience this kind of violation. And the full reality of the loss was even worse than the first impression. 12 units were damaged or destroyed- 94 tons of capacity. The Worship Center, Family Life Center, Cafe, most staff offices and the west side of Building B downstairs are totally without cooling.
That is the bad news- the good news is that we have good insurance and a great HVAC contractor. It isn't positive, but we hope that we will have repairs done by Sunday. But, just in case, no one is going to object if you show up in flops and shorts. It will be toasty if the AC isn't running. Pastor Ken has decided that regardless of the situation, gathering as a body to worship God is important, and we won't let thieves ruin our worship.
Hal Hunter
Friday, September 19, 2008
Winning...
What does it take to score a win with adults? What do we celebrate?
For years we have cultivated an invest and invite approach. We want our people to spend time and energy becoming involved in the lives of their friends, neighbors and coworkers. We want them so excited about being here they want to invite others to share what they are experiencing. So, one win is seeing people bring their friends on Sunday morning.
We think community is important. Another important win is seeing people getting involved in a Community Group. True involvement and engagement is difficult in a large gathering, but natural in a small one. We believe that spiritual growth is most likely to occur in our Community Groups.
An important win is seeing people getting involved in service. It takes a lot of people to make the ministry here at Argyle. People need to put their faith to work. Like our bodies, our faith needs exercise.
For years we have cultivated an invest and invite approach. We want our people to spend time and energy becoming involved in the lives of their friends, neighbors and coworkers. We want them so excited about being here they want to invite others to share what they are experiencing. So, one win is seeing people bring their friends on Sunday morning.
We think community is important. Another important win is seeing people getting involved in a Community Group. True involvement and engagement is difficult in a large gathering, but natural in a small one. We believe that spiritual growth is most likely to occur in our Community Groups.
An important win is seeing people getting involved in service. It takes a lot of people to make the ministry here at Argyle. People need to put their faith to work. Like our bodies, our faith needs exercise.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
More Wins...
In Student Ministry (7th-12th grade) we want to see students connecting and interacting in their small groups. Impact happens from 4-6 pm on Sunday. Our students enjoy their own praise and worship, hear from Student Pastor Rich Painter, then separate into grade and gender groups with their leaders. A win happens when a student connects to and participates in a small group. A win happens when they invite a friend to Outbreak, a periodic fun evening designed to engage unchurched teens. A win happens when a student participates in serving the body. A win happens when a student claims a place in the Body of Christ.
Our Student Ministry is based on the foundation of the 7 Checkpoints- click here to learn more.
Our Student Ministry is based on the foundation of the 7 Checkpoints- click here to learn more.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Some Win Statements In Children's Ministry...
One of our primary ministries at Argyle involves our kids. We have a lot of them in our family, and they are important to us. Click here to read about our Children's Ministry strategy.
Amazing Place is our environment for preschool kids. A win here is a kid who comes out of this environment knowing-
Another win is when we see families growing together. We want to partner with parents; we can never replace them in developing their kids spiritually. Family Times is a resource we encourage families to use to help their children in the rest of the week when they aren't here.
Amazing Place is our environment for preschool kids. A win here is a kid who comes out of this environment knowing-
- God made me
- God loves me
- Jesus wants to be my friend forever
- I need to make the wise choice
- I can trust God no matter what
- I need to others the way I want to be treated
- Jesus loves me so much He wants to save me forever
Another win is when we see families growing together. We want to partner with parents; we can never replace them in developing their kids spiritually. Family Times is a resource we encourage families to use to help their children in the rest of the week when they aren't here.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Getting In The Game...
Pasor Ken began a new series on September 14- Getting In The Game. It's all about people moving from being consumers to being communers. The first step in getting involved is to understand the game and the playing field.
At Argyle, some people (usually those with at least some background of church experience) come in and find that we do things a lot differently than they are used to. Everything we do is for a purpose, and everything you see (or don't see) is intentional.
Our leadership uses an approach discussed in a book we think every member of the Argyle family should read- 7 Practices of Effective Ministry, by Andy Stanley, Reggie Joiner and Lane Jones.
The first practice is to clarify the win. It is how we identify the important things we are trying to achieve, communicate what we want our people to do, and know when and what to celebrate.
We have talked about this before. Check here and here. We aren't really interested in numbers at Argyle- we are interested in changed lives.
The next couple days we will be discussing what we consider some wins here at Argyle. If you have questions, leave a comment, or check out our web site, or contact us.
Hal Hunter
Our leadership uses an approach discussed in a book we think every member of the Argyle family should read- 7 Practices of Effective Ministry, by Andy Stanley, Reggie Joiner and Lane Jones.
The first practice is to clarify the win. It is how we identify the important things we are trying to achieve, communicate what we want our people to do, and know when and what to celebrate.
We have talked about this before. Check here and here. We aren't really interested in numbers at Argyle- we are interested in changed lives.
The next couple days we will be discussing what we consider some wins here at Argyle. If you have questions, leave a comment, or check out our web site, or contact us.
Hal Hunter
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Still Worshiping With Our Lives...
- Open up your home (Luke 10:38)
Rick Painter
Worship Arts Pastor
Friday, August 08, 2008
A Rant Worth Reading...
Dave Ramsey has a lot to say about a lot of things, both financial and spiritual. This article on his web site is important reading during this election season.
Hal Hunter
Ministry Pastor & Administrator
Hal Hunter
Ministry Pastor & Administrator
Thursday, August 07, 2008
Still Worshiping With Our Lives...
- Give up the gossip (Proverbs 18:8)
Wrong! What goes down smooth and tasty will later only promote dissension and do your heart and mind no good. The next time you encounter a gossip circle or situation, try saying something nice about the person in question. Or, you may just have to walk away.
Rick Painter
Worship Arts Pastor
Friday, August 01, 2008
Spiritual Beliefs Survey Results...
We recently took an online survey of spiritual beliefs. We wanted to make sure we were getting through with some important principles.
55 people participated. Almost all of them reported that they attend here at Argyle frequently- 25 or more times a year, or at least half of all Sundays.
We asked why they attend Argyle. 47 say they enjoy the messages, 46 say they enjoy the music, and 39 appreciate the atmosphere. Only about half (23) reported it is close to their home. Several other responses were also recorded.
45 people described themselves as born-again, 8 reported they are Christians, and 2 are unsure about what they believe.
42 people say they pray daily, 7 say several times a week, 5 every now and then, and one reports seldom praying.
51 people are sure there is a heaven, 3 think there is, and one is not sure.
49 people are sure there is a hell, 5 think there is and one is not sure.
46 people are positive the only way to gain heaven is through Jesus Christ, 5 think that, 2 are not sure, and 2 think there may be some other way.
If you wish to see the graphical results, click here.
55 people participated. Almost all of them reported that they attend here at Argyle frequently- 25 or more times a year, or at least half of all Sundays.
We asked why they attend Argyle. 47 say they enjoy the messages, 46 say they enjoy the music, and 39 appreciate the atmosphere. Only about half (23) reported it is close to their home. Several other responses were also recorded.
45 people described themselves as born-again, 8 reported they are Christians, and 2 are unsure about what they believe.
42 people say they pray daily, 7 say several times a week, 5 every now and then, and one reports seldom praying.
51 people are sure there is a heaven, 3 think there is, and one is not sure.
49 people are sure there is a hell, 5 think there is and one is not sure.
46 people are positive the only way to gain heaven is through Jesus Christ, 5 think that, 2 are not sure, and 2 think there may be some other way.
If you wish to see the graphical results, click here.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Another way to worship with our lives...
- Cut out the distractions
Rick Painter
Worship Arts Pastor
Mid-Year Checkup...
Well, it’s that time again – time for a mid-year health check. The first half of 2008 has been a time of great spiritual growth in our fellowship. We have been baptizing, Children’s and Student Ministries are busy shaping young lives, and adults are growing and serving in many places.
Let’s see how our financial health stacks up. Our 2008 budget anticipated receiving just over $309,000 through June; we actually received a little less than $270,000. The income shortfall is just over $40,000.
We know that our country is in difficult economic times; we know that some of our Argyle families are feeling a pinch. Even with this challenge, God has work for us to do in our fellowship and in the community and world around us. Every week we see lives being changed forever by God working in the ministries your giving supports.
We have a vision of where God wants us as a church. If you missed the message on July 13th, we encourage you to listen to it online (click here to listen online). It will help you understand our vision and some of the financial obstacles we face getting there.
We encourage every family to prayerfully consider our giving, and decide if we are being faithful in managing all that God has entrusted to us. We are not asking more from those who can answer that they are being faithful, but we do challenge those who are not yet trusting God to do exactly what He promised in Malachi 3:10.
Hal Hunter
Ministry Pastor & Administrator
Let’s see how our financial health stacks up. Our 2008 budget anticipated receiving just over $309,000 through June; we actually received a little less than $270,000. The income shortfall is just over $40,000.
We know that our country is in difficult economic times; we know that some of our Argyle families are feeling a pinch. Even with this challenge, God has work for us to do in our fellowship and in the community and world around us. Every week we see lives being changed forever by God working in the ministries your giving supports.
We have a vision of where God wants us as a church. If you missed the message on July 13th, we encourage you to listen to it online (click here to listen online). It will help you understand our vision and some of the financial obstacles we face getting there.
We encourage every family to prayerfully consider our giving, and decide if we are being faithful in managing all that God has entrusted to us. We are not asking more from those who can answer that they are being faithful, but we do challenge those who are not yet trusting God to do exactly what He promised in Malachi 3:10.
Hal Hunter
Ministry Pastor & Administrator
Friday, July 25, 2008
Still finding ways to worship with our life...
- Help the weak (1 Thessalonians 5:14)
Rick Painter
Worship Arts Pastor
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Still another way to worship with your life...
- Give in secret (Matthew 6:1-4)
Do something nice for someone anonymously. Have you ever found your newspaper right by your door instead of at the end of the driveway? Or, when it came time to pay your dinner bill you found that it had already been paid? Would you refuse such kindness? Your "giving in secret" opportunities are endless. Let your giving include all of the "3 T's": Time, Talent, Treasure.
Rick Painter
Worship Arts Pastor
Friday, July 11, 2008
Yet another way to worship with your life...
- Say "please" and "thank you" (1 Peter 2:17)
Rick Painter
Worship Arts Pastor
From Momentum...
These words are from a new study that Momentum is doing. Just thought I would share them....
"Creation. Beauty. Perfection. Simplicity. Freedom. Life.
All of these, God freely gave to man, His prized creation, placing him in a perfect world designed to reflect His glory.
Yet, in an instant, all of life was corrupted. The beauty of everything God so beautifully birthed was tainted by creatures who willingly rebelled against their Creator. Suddenly and tragically, life was covered with death, freedom was bound by sin, and beauty was lost. God's glory on earth had seemingly been scarred forever.
Then, when all hope of restoration was lost, history took an altogether unexpected turn. In the midst of death, God came in human form---not to punish or destroy the traitor race, but to weave even the darkest of sins into a tapestry of His glory.
History truly is His story. The greatest story ever told. Find your place in the adventure and discover amazing life that never ends."
David Bass
Deacon Chairman
"Creation. Beauty. Perfection. Simplicity. Freedom. Life.
All of these, God freely gave to man, His prized creation, placing him in a perfect world designed to reflect His glory.
Yet, in an instant, all of life was corrupted. The beauty of everything God so beautifully birthed was tainted by creatures who willingly rebelled against their Creator. Suddenly and tragically, life was covered with death, freedom was bound by sin, and beauty was lost. God's glory on earth had seemingly been scarred forever.
Then, when all hope of restoration was lost, history took an altogether unexpected turn. In the midst of death, God came in human form---not to punish or destroy the traitor race, but to weave even the darkest of sins into a tapestry of His glory.
History truly is His story. The greatest story ever told. Find your place in the adventure and discover amazing life that never ends."
David Bass
Deacon Chairman
Thursday, July 03, 2008
More ways to worship with your life...
- Love the unlovely (Leviticus 19:18)
- Give God your first fruits (Proverbs 3:9)
- Pick up litter (1 Peter 4:10)
- Be neighborly (Luke 10:25-37)
Peace,
Rick Painter
Worship Arts Pastor
Friday, June 27, 2008
YMCA...
With apology in advance to Reggie McNeal and his book, The Present Future.
My wife and I are thinking about joining the local YMCA. It's a wonderful modern, clean, family-friendly place not far from our house. They have a pool, exercise equipment, and trained staff that can help us learn how to use all that great stuff to exercise and maybe lose a few unwanted pounds, tone up, and be healthier. Great idea- right?
How about if we went once a week and hung out in the equipment room for an hour or so. What if we watched the people using the equipment and maybe clapped a little when they finished a set with the Nautilus machine? What if we never got wet, but became great critics of the swimming styles of the people in the water? What if we never broke a sweat? Would we benefit?
That's the approach some people take to church. They spend a little time once a week hanging out with people who are exercising spiritual muscles and hope something rubs off on them. They watch from the sidelines and never actually get engaged. They never break a spiritual sweat and wonder why their spiritual muscles are flabby.
Hal Hunter
Ministry Pastor & Administrator
My wife and I are thinking about joining the local YMCA. It's a wonderful modern, clean, family-friendly place not far from our house. They have a pool, exercise equipment, and trained staff that can help us learn how to use all that great stuff to exercise and maybe lose a few unwanted pounds, tone up, and be healthier. Great idea- right?
How about if we went once a week and hung out in the equipment room for an hour or so. What if we watched the people using the equipment and maybe clapped a little when they finished a set with the Nautilus machine? What if we never got wet, but became great critics of the swimming styles of the people in the water? What if we never broke a sweat? Would we benefit?
That's the approach some people take to church. They spend a little time once a week hanging out with people who are exercising spiritual muscles and hope something rubs off on them. They watch from the sidelines and never actually get engaged. They never break a spiritual sweat and wonder why their spiritual muscles are flabby.
Hal Hunter
Ministry Pastor & Administrator
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Ways to worship with your life...
1) Love the unlovely (Leviticus 19:18)
2) Give God your firstfruits (Proverbs 3:9)
3) Pick up litter (1 Peter 4:10)
How many times do we pass the same crushed up Coke can that's been on the sidewalk a week? Trash pickup isn't listed as a specific spiritual gift per se, but perhaps lifting a hand to clean up the world around you is exactly what God is calling you to do.
Rick Painter
Worship Arts Pastor
2) Give God your firstfruits (Proverbs 3:9)
3) Pick up litter (1 Peter 4:10)
How many times do we pass the same crushed up Coke can that's been on the sidewalk a week? Trash pickup isn't listed as a specific spiritual gift per se, but perhaps lifting a hand to clean up the world around you is exactly what God is calling you to do.
Rick Painter
Worship Arts Pastor
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Something neat I want to share...
Something really great happened last night at our house. I was playing a game with my four year old granddaughter, Lilly. We were "talking to God" on the cell phone. Her eight year old sister, Savannah, was watching.
During the conversation, Savannah started telling me the Biblical story of Esther. She floored me! She knew the story, the names, the details, everything. She was able to tell the story better than I could!
I asked her, "How did you learn about Esther?" She looked at me and said simply, "In UpSteet."
You need to understand what happened here. The pastor's granddaughter didn't learn this Bible story as his knee- she learned it in the UpStreet environment. Dedicated people working with not only Savannah but with dozens of other kids communicated Biblical truth. A complicated story was presented in a way that made sense to an eight year old and made a lasting impression. She didn't memorize the story- she learned it. She learned it so well she could explain it to her granddad.
I am grateful that God has gifted our fellowship with people that have a heart for kids. I am grateful that my grandchildren learn from people who love kids and know how important they are to God. I am grateful that we are able to make a difference in the lives of not only my family but the lives of so many more families in our fellowship.
I am constantly amazed at the people God sends us. I am thankful, every day, for the gifts He has given our fellowship. Thank you to all the people who are working in our children's ministries.
Next time you wonder if what we do here at Argyle matters - think about these kids. It matters. It matters a lot.
Ken Dyal
Senior Pastor
During the conversation, Savannah started telling me the Biblical story of Esther. She floored me! She knew the story, the names, the details, everything. She was able to tell the story better than I could!
I asked her, "How did you learn about Esther?" She looked at me and said simply, "In UpSteet."
You need to understand what happened here. The pastor's granddaughter didn't learn this Bible story as his knee- she learned it in the UpStreet environment. Dedicated people working with not only Savannah but with dozens of other kids communicated Biblical truth. A complicated story was presented in a way that made sense to an eight year old and made a lasting impression. She didn't memorize the story- she learned it. She learned it so well she could explain it to her granddad.
I am grateful that God has gifted our fellowship with people that have a heart for kids. I am grateful that my grandchildren learn from people who love kids and know how important they are to God. I am grateful that we are able to make a difference in the lives of not only my family but the lives of so many more families in our fellowship.
I am constantly amazed at the people God sends us. I am thankful, every day, for the gifts He has given our fellowship. Thank you to all the people who are working in our children's ministries.
Next time you wonder if what we do here at Argyle matters - think about these kids. It matters. It matters a lot.
Ken Dyal
Senior Pastor
Monday, June 09, 2008
SummerStuf Stuf...
We are adjusting to the new summer schedule here at TCAA and there is still some confusion in the Children's Ministry. I hope if you are a blogger/blog reader this will clear up some of the fog.
There are Children's Ministry small groups for both Amazing Place (babies - 4 year olds) and UpStreet (Kindergarten - 6th grade) at 10:00 during the Worship Service.
Our 6th graders have moved up into the student ministry but all of our other ages still meet in the classroom they were in during the school year. We will not move everyone else up into their new grade/classroom until the fall. So, if your child just finished 3rd grade, they are still in the 3rd grade room upstairs. If they turned 2, 3 or 4 on or before September 1st, 2007, they are still in the same classroom downstairs, etc. We are using the same classrooms and curriculum, rather than purchasing a separate curriculum for the summer months. Some of their leaders during the school year have taken a break and God has led some new leaders to serve during the summer! I know this makes the transition even a little crazier but they all have a background check along with a servants heart and attitude and I pray you will encourage your children to be patient and helpful as any new leaders, really all of us, become comfortable with our SummerStuf schedule and small group routines.
I pray for your continued patience and support as I am combining old and new, learning what works and what doesn't and being open to God's leading and will even though it continues to mean change and growth as much for me as for all of our leaders and children. I take very seriously the responsibility of our ministry to build a foundation for your children in God's Love and Word and to partner with you as parents to have another adult in your child's life that will say the same thing you would say in growing them into young men and young women for the Lord.
He is so good to provide and we are blessed with each leader, "veteran" and "rookie", student and adult!! As a parent and/or member, if you are led to serve or have any questions or comments please contact me at 777-1238 or at my email address amygieger@thechurchatargyle.org.
Amy Gieger
Children's Ministry Director
There are Children's Ministry small groups for both Amazing Place (babies - 4 year olds) and UpStreet (Kindergarten - 6th grade) at 10:00 during the Worship Service.
Our 6th graders have moved up into the student ministry but all of our other ages still meet in the classroom they were in during the school year. We will not move everyone else up into their new grade/classroom until the fall. So, if your child just finished 3rd grade, they are still in the 3rd grade room upstairs. If they turned 2, 3 or 4 on or before September 1st, 2007, they are still in the same classroom downstairs, etc. We are using the same classrooms and curriculum, rather than purchasing a separate curriculum for the summer months. Some of their leaders during the school year have taken a break and God has led some new leaders to serve during the summer! I know this makes the transition even a little crazier but they all have a background check along with a servants heart and attitude and I pray you will encourage your children to be patient and helpful as any new leaders, really all of us, become comfortable with our SummerStuf schedule and small group routines.
I pray for your continued patience and support as I am combining old and new, learning what works and what doesn't and being open to God's leading and will even though it continues to mean change and growth as much for me as for all of our leaders and children. I take very seriously the responsibility of our ministry to build a foundation for your children in God's Love and Word and to partner with you as parents to have another adult in your child's life that will say the same thing you would say in growing them into young men and young women for the Lord.
He is so good to provide and we are blessed with each leader, "veteran" and "rookie", student and adult!! As a parent and/or member, if you are led to serve or have any questions or comments please contact me at 777-1238 or at my email address amygieger@thechurchatargyle.org.
Amy Gieger
Children's Ministry Director
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Family Feud...
The new series began on Mother's Day. The first message was Fight Night. Not exactly your traditional Mother's Day subject.
For more of us than would care to admit it, we didn't grow up at Ozzie and Harriet's place. Our home probably looked more like Ozzie Osbourne's. Families are messy and difficult. But God can deal with messy and difficult-after all, he deals with us.
For more of us than would care to admit it, we didn't grow up at Ozzie and Harriet's place. Our home probably looked more like Ozzie Osbourne's. Families are messy and difficult. But God can deal with messy and difficult-after all, he deals with us.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Welcome...
During the past few weeks, Pastor Ken's messages have been about The Little "c", the local church. One of the goals for this series has been to call people's attention to the importance of being associated with a local church.
People in our post-modern society seem to have little desire for association, commitment and accountability, but Scripture seems to tell us that is not the way God intends us to live. The Bible indicates humans function best in close community, with a high level of mutual commitment and accountability.
Joining a local church shows commitment, makes close community available, and provides accountability. This past Sunday, 44 people joined our fellowship, and we have at least a dozen more in the process of counseling and baptism preparation.
This is exciting! These people are all showing they want to be a part of what is happening at Argyle, and want to do it in a way that shows their identification with Jesus as the head of the Church. After all, it really is Jesus the Church is all about- not the pastor, staff, or members. But we do get to work side-by-side with God in doing His work.
Hal Hunter
People in our post-modern society seem to have little desire for association, commitment and accountability, but Scripture seems to tell us that is not the way God intends us to live. The Bible indicates humans function best in close community, with a high level of mutual commitment and accountability.
Joining a local church shows commitment, makes close community available, and provides accountability. This past Sunday, 44 people joined our fellowship, and we have at least a dozen more in the process of counseling and baptism preparation.
This is exciting! These people are all showing they want to be a part of what is happening at Argyle, and want to do it in a way that shows their identification with Jesus as the head of the Church. After all, it really is Jesus the Church is all about- not the pastor, staff, or members. But we do get to work side-by-side with God in doing His work.
Hal Hunter
Friday, April 18, 2008
Financial Peace University ends...
The 13 weeks of our first Financial Peace University just concluded. Not everyone who started back in January completed the course, but those who did were excited about the things they learned and the progress they made.
We took a followup survey of family debt. Twenty-five families participated. Their aggregate debt when we took the first survey was $1,481,174. Now, ten weeks later, their debt is $1,325,176- a 10.5% reduction of $155,998, or an average of $6,240 per family!
While still a lot of debt, things are headed in the right direction with these families. Two families showed no reduction in their debt load, but four had reductions of $10,000 or more.
The biggest single message we heard from participants was new found confidence that things could be different in their financial lives, and that it really is possible to be debt free and at peace financially.
We will be offering the FPU again beginning August 27. Check the Financial Peace section of the web site for complete details and a registration form.
Hal Hunter
We took a followup survey of family debt. Twenty-five families participated. Their aggregate debt when we took the first survey was $1,481,174. Now, ten weeks later, their debt is $1,325,176- a 10.5% reduction of $155,998, or an average of $6,240 per family!
While still a lot of debt, things are headed in the right direction with these families. Two families showed no reduction in their debt load, but four had reductions of $10,000 or more.
The biggest single message we heard from participants was new found confidence that things could be different in their financial lives, and that it really is possible to be debt free and at peace financially.
We will be offering the FPU again beginning August 27. Check the Financial Peace section of the web site for complete details and a registration form.
Hal Hunter
Thursday, April 03, 2008
Something new at Argyle...
We are introducing something new... TCAAShareCycle.
This is a great opportunity to share unneeded items with others within the Argyle family. It also serves to reduce the waste stream, conserving both energy and space in our landfill.
If you have (or need) an item you would like to share, consider TCAAShareCycle. It's free, but you do have to be a member of the Argyle family, you have to register, and there are a few rules to remember (click here to read the rules).
We really appreciate the effort and energy Patti Wall has spent in putting this together. She will serve as the moderator of the group.
This is a great opportunity to share unneeded items with others within the Argyle family. It also serves to reduce the waste stream, conserving both energy and space in our landfill.
If you have (or need) an item you would like to share, consider TCAAShareCycle. It's free, but you do have to be a member of the Argyle family, you have to register, and there are a few rules to remember (click here to read the rules).
We really appreciate the effort and energy Patti Wall has spent in putting this together. She will serve as the moderator of the group.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Answering a few whys...
At the end of each Worship Gathering, we ask people with needs or questions to meet with a member of the staff. Yesterday, a lady who was with us for the second time had a few questions. Maybe others may have the same questions and just never made it to the front to ask them. For their benefit, here are the answers.
Why don't you do communion each service?
Different denominations and different local fellowships have varying approaches to communion, or the Lord's Supper. We believe that it is an important symbol and act of obedience reserved for born-again, Scripturally baptized believers. Since our Sunday mornings are intended primarily to engage outsiders, not insiders, there are many people here who would not understand exactly what was happening, and why we are asking them to not participate. So, instead of Sunday morning, we usually celebrate the Lord's Supper on Sunday evening every two or three months, at a special service where it is the primary focus. We also serve the Lord's Supper in Community Groups or in other small groups as requested.
Why is there no cross in the Worship Center?
Actually, there is often a cross as an element in the projection graphics, but there is no permanent cross in the furniture of the room. If an outsider needs a physical symbol to identify who we are and what we believe, we are failing as a fellowship. Insiders already know, and try to be a living symbol of the presence of Jesus to everyone around them.
Why don't we have pew Bibles? Why isn't everyone bringing their Bible?
Scripture references are always included in the projection show that supports each message. And remember, we are trying to engage outsiders on Sunday morning. Often, people coming to our Worship Gatherings are not familiar with the Bible and trying to find a passage may be a distraction for them. Projecting them means no one is distracted away from the message. Also, Pastor Ken sometimes uses more than one translation version, so there is no confusion between alternate wordings of the passages he uses.
Hal Hunter
Why don't you do communion each service?
Different denominations and different local fellowships have varying approaches to communion, or the Lord's Supper. We believe that it is an important symbol and act of obedience reserved for born-again, Scripturally baptized believers. Since our Sunday mornings are intended primarily to engage outsiders, not insiders, there are many people here who would not understand exactly what was happening, and why we are asking them to not participate. So, instead of Sunday morning, we usually celebrate the Lord's Supper on Sunday evening every two or three months, at a special service where it is the primary focus. We also serve the Lord's Supper in Community Groups or in other small groups as requested.
Why is there no cross in the Worship Center?
Actually, there is often a cross as an element in the projection graphics, but there is no permanent cross in the furniture of the room. If an outsider needs a physical symbol to identify who we are and what we believe, we are failing as a fellowship. Insiders already know, and try to be a living symbol of the presence of Jesus to everyone around them.
Why don't we have pew Bibles? Why isn't everyone bringing their Bible?
Scripture references are always included in the projection show that supports each message. And remember, we are trying to engage outsiders on Sunday morning. Often, people coming to our Worship Gatherings are not familiar with the Bible and trying to find a passage may be a distraction for them. Projecting them means no one is distracted away from the message. Also, Pastor Ken sometimes uses more than one translation version, so there is no confusion between alternate wordings of the passages he uses.
Hal Hunter
A Week After...
Last Sunday was Easter, and we packed out the house both Worship Gatherings. Even with a lot of extra chairs in the Worship Center, there were only a couple empties. It was so full a few Baptists had to sit in front!
But yesterday the crowd was more manageable. As a matter of fact, fewer than half as many people were in worship than last week.
What changed? Death still stands defeated and Jesus is still alive. If we had reason to celebrate last week, is this week any less deserving of celebration?
Hal Hunter
But yesterday the crowd was more manageable. As a matter of fact, fewer than half as many people were in worship than last week.
What changed? Death still stands defeated and Jesus is still alive. If we had reason to celebrate last week, is this week any less deserving of celebration?
Hal Hunter
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Knowing, But Not Yet Believing
There is something interesting to notice about the Gospel accounts of the resurrection and first few days afterward. Jesus' followers were presented with the evidence of the empty tomb, told by angels of the fulfillment of the prophesies, given every reason to believe what they had been told would happen did happen- they still had their doubts. When Thomas heard from men he had every reason to trust that Jesus was alive- when he heard eyewitness testimony- he still doubted. It was only when they had a personal encounter with the risen Lord that they went beyond knowing to believing.
It is the same today. We can read the accounts in the Gospels; we can read John's, Matthew's, Peter's and Paul's testimony; we can hear friends tell us about the truth. But, until we have our own encounter with the living Savior, until we feel the power of the Holy Spirit speaking to us, until we surrender our hearts to His love and grace, we only know it. And knowing is far short of believing.
Hal Hunter
It is the same today. We can read the accounts in the Gospels; we can read John's, Matthew's, Peter's and Paul's testimony; we can hear friends tell us about the truth. But, until we have our own encounter with the living Savior, until we feel the power of the Holy Spirit speaking to us, until we surrender our hearts to His love and grace, we only know it. And knowing is far short of believing.
Hal Hunter
Friday, March 21, 2008
Today is Good Friday...
and we are remembering and celebrating something really unusual... betrayal, abandonment, torture, cruel death and a borrowed tomb.
Let's admit it- that's what Good Friday is all about. We don't really like to think about it in detail, but when we talk about The Blood of Jesus and The Work of the Cross that is really what we are talking about- the end result of the work of sin in the world- loneliness, pain and death.
Take some time before Sunday morning and read Matthew 27:33-61, Mark 15, Luke 23:33-56 and John 19:17-42. It helps put the celebration of the Resurrection into perspective.
Hal Hunter
Let's admit it- that's what Good Friday is all about. We don't really like to think about it in detail, but when we talk about The Blood of Jesus and The Work of the Cross that is really what we are talking about- the end result of the work of sin in the world- loneliness, pain and death.
Take some time before Sunday morning and read Matthew 27:33-61, Mark 15, Luke 23:33-56 and John 19:17-42. It helps put the celebration of the Resurrection into perspective.
Hal Hunter
Sunday, March 09, 2008
Rattling some chains...
This morning something happened at Argyle that may have changed some lives. We had a visitor. Not just any visitor, but a scruffy, ill dressed, sort of blurry guy, sporting a classic ZZ Top beard. He shuffled in about 15 minutes before the first Worship Gathering. He spoke to no one, and some were reluctant to speak to him. I understand that some who saw him headed across the parking lot from the front sidewalk debated if it was a good idea to let him in.
But some folks greeted him, welcomed him, took him to the Cafe and made sure he had breakfast. When he sat down in the Worship Center, alone, several people spoke to him and shook his hand. But, a lot of people were looking at him and wondering. As Pastor Ken spoke, he moved about the Worship Center a couple times; a few people worried at his intentions. After all, we didn't know him or anything about him. Was he dangerous? Crazy? Violent?
It's funny how we see things that fool our eyes. The scruffy stranger was one of ours, wearing costume. We know him well, see him frequently and like him a lot. But, by wearing clothes that looked dirty, a beard and long hair, we stopped seeing him and started seeing a scary stranger.
Pastor Ken has spoken to us a lot the last few months about trying to see others as God sees them. Now, he has offered us some dress rehearsal. Thinking missionally and being the church in the world sounds easy enough- until you actually look the scary stranger in the eye. Loving your neighbor is simple- until your neighbor actually comes in and tracks mud into your nice neat life.
A little secret- I didn't know this was going to happen. I saw him as he stood on the sidewalk looking toward the front door. I remember thinking to myself, "If he comes in, he's going to smell pretty bad." (By the way, since he didn't, some people were a little suspicious about him. No one recognized him.) I was distracted by a request from someone, and the next time I saw him he was in the Welcome Center, alone, looking around. It crossed my mind I was going to have to go over and speak to him. It was a thought of duty, not pleasure. But. someone beat me to it, and I was off the hook (I really felt that way). They took him to the Cafe, and I was able to skate.
It's not easy admitting I didn't handle the challenge as well as I ought to have. Shoot, I handled it pretty badly. There were lots of people, people who aren't paid to be under-shepherds, who did a lot better job of dealing with this challenge. I hope I learned that it is easy to be distracted from seeing people the way God does; how superficial the basis of our prejudice often is; how hard it can be to overcome our own reluctance to step out of our comfort zones and take a risk for God and His kingdom.
Pastor Ken brought a powerful message today- but it wasn't really in the words he spoke. You can hear the words he spoke on the website, but trust me- the real message wasn't spoken today. It was lived.
Hal Hunter
But some folks greeted him, welcomed him, took him to the Cafe and made sure he had breakfast. When he sat down in the Worship Center, alone, several people spoke to him and shook his hand. But, a lot of people were looking at him and wondering. As Pastor Ken spoke, he moved about the Worship Center a couple times; a few people worried at his intentions. After all, we didn't know him or anything about him. Was he dangerous? Crazy? Violent?
It's funny how we see things that fool our eyes. The scruffy stranger was one of ours, wearing costume. We know him well, see him frequently and like him a lot. But, by wearing clothes that looked dirty, a beard and long hair, we stopped seeing him and started seeing a scary stranger.
Pastor Ken has spoken to us a lot the last few months about trying to see others as God sees them. Now, he has offered us some dress rehearsal. Thinking missionally and being the church in the world sounds easy enough- until you actually look the scary stranger in the eye. Loving your neighbor is simple- until your neighbor actually comes in and tracks mud into your nice neat life.
A little secret- I didn't know this was going to happen. I saw him as he stood on the sidewalk looking toward the front door. I remember thinking to myself, "If he comes in, he's going to smell pretty bad." (By the way, since he didn't, some people were a little suspicious about him. No one recognized him.) I was distracted by a request from someone, and the next time I saw him he was in the Welcome Center, alone, looking around. It crossed my mind I was going to have to go over and speak to him. It was a thought of duty, not pleasure. But. someone beat me to it, and I was off the hook (I really felt that way). They took him to the Cafe, and I was able to skate.
It's not easy admitting I didn't handle the challenge as well as I ought to have. Shoot, I handled it pretty badly. There were lots of people, people who aren't paid to be under-shepherds, who did a lot better job of dealing with this challenge. I hope I learned that it is easy to be distracted from seeing people the way God does; how superficial the basis of our prejudice often is; how hard it can be to overcome our own reluctance to step out of our comfort zones and take a risk for God and His kingdom.
Pastor Ken brought a powerful message today- but it wasn't really in the words he spoke. You can hear the words he spoke on the website, but trust me- the real message wasn't spoken today. It was lived.
Hal Hunter
Friday, March 07, 2008
Things that sneak up on us...
Every year, twice a year, I say I am going to remember Daylight Savings Time changes; remember them in advance, that is. Remember them far enough in advance to remind everyone a week or two before, so Rick isn't singing a solo at the first Worship Gathering.
We are living in the most information-rich environment that has ever existed in human history, and yet there will be a fair number of people who will miss getting the word and miss changing their clocks Saturday evening and will be late Sunday. Not that I am be critical- I missed it until late Friday. I just hope most people are more aware of their surroundings than I. Sunday morning will tell us.
Hal Hunter
We are living in the most information-rich environment that has ever existed in human history, and yet there will be a fair number of people who will miss getting the word and miss changing their clocks Saturday evening and will be late Sunday. Not that I am be critical- I missed it until late Friday. I just hope most people are more aware of their surroundings than I. Sunday morning will tell us.
Hal Hunter
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Never get complacent.
As a staff, there are some things we have to constantly remind ourselves. One important thing is to remember that not everyone in our fellowship knows everything we take for granted.
I was reminded of this today when I was asked a question by someone fairly new to Argyle, an earnest seeker who is looking for answers to spiritual questions. "I heard someone on radio talking about Lent. I have heard the word, but what does it mean?"
Every one of us has their own level at which understanding stops and blank stares begin, so none of us can afford to laugh at this question. But, it does perfectly illustrate why we have to be very careful to remember how easy it is to communicate poorly because we make the wrong assumptions about what and how much people know.
Hal Hunter
I was reminded of this today when I was asked a question by someone fairly new to Argyle, an earnest seeker who is looking for answers to spiritual questions. "I heard someone on radio talking about Lent. I have heard the word, but what does it mean?"
Every one of us has their own level at which understanding stops and blank stares begin, so none of us can afford to laugh at this question. But, it does perfectly illustrate why we have to be very careful to remember how easy it is to communicate poorly because we make the wrong assumptions about what and how much people know.
Hal Hunter
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
ArgyleArts in StudioC
This past Sunday, something exciting happened. Almost two dozen people came to the information meeting about the new visual arts ministry here at Argyle- ArgyleArts in StudioC.
Do you draw? Paint? Sculpt? Take photographs? Do you want to use your talent to glorify God and beautify our campus? ArgyleArts is for you.
Contact John Santillo for more information. Click here to view the information brochure.
Hal Hunter
Do you draw? Paint? Sculpt? Take photographs? Do you want to use your talent to glorify God and beautify our campus? ArgyleArts is for you.
Contact John Santillo for more information. Click here to view the information brochure.
Hal Hunter
What really matters anyway?
Some of you who were raised in a traditional church will remember those little plaques on the front wall. One of them contained a little box score from the previous week- how many present, how many visitors, how much money collected.
What you value, you emphasize. Since those numbers were in such a prominent place, they must have been pretty important. Right?
For many people, that is the only way to measure success in church- count noses, count dollars, measure square feet of buildings, enumerate people passing through classes or studies. It seems if you can't count it, it doesn't matter. Our own denomination seems to highly value numbers. Open the annual report, and you will be swamped with page after page of small font numerical tables.
Do these numbers mean anything to God? After all, isn't everything we do supposed to glorify Him? Aren't we supposed to be moving on His agenda, not ours? Is it headcount He values, or is it changed lives?
We believe He really values changed lives. We aren't so concerned about numbers, except where they help us understand if we are reaching people. That's why we don't much talk about numbers, why we don't have one of those little plaques on the front wall, why we don't run a box score in the Argyle Connections.
But, are we changing lives? We think so. Not because we are counting noses on Sunday, but because we constantly are talking to people who tell us there is something new, different and exciting going on in their lives since they started coming to Argyle. People are encountering the living Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit, and their lives will never be the same.
Listening to these stories is a lot more fun than counting.
Hal Hunter
What you value, you emphasize. Since those numbers were in such a prominent place, they must have been pretty important. Right?
For many people, that is the only way to measure success in church- count noses, count dollars, measure square feet of buildings, enumerate people passing through classes or studies. It seems if you can't count it, it doesn't matter. Our own denomination seems to highly value numbers. Open the annual report, and you will be swamped with page after page of small font numerical tables.
Do these numbers mean anything to God? After all, isn't everything we do supposed to glorify Him? Aren't we supposed to be moving on His agenda, not ours? Is it headcount He values, or is it changed lives?
We believe He really values changed lives. We aren't so concerned about numbers, except where they help us understand if we are reaching people. That's why we don't much talk about numbers, why we don't have one of those little plaques on the front wall, why we don't run a box score in the Argyle Connections.
But, are we changing lives? We think so. Not because we are counting noses on Sunday, but because we constantly are talking to people who tell us there is something new, different and exciting going on in their lives since they started coming to Argyle. People are encountering the living Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit, and their lives will never be the same.
Listening to these stories is a lot more fun than counting.
Hal Hunter
Thursday, February 07, 2008
More than a little surprized
The Church at Argyle is conducting Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University. We have over 50 families enrolled, with over 100 people attending each week.
This past Tuesday was the third of thirteen weekly sessions. We asked each family to anonymously give us an index card with their family's total debt, excluding any first mortgage. 49 responded. We expected a lot of debt, but not what we saw.
The total debt was $2,273,000! Only six owed nothing, and some of these were teens who were asked to participate apart from their parents. Of those who owed debt, the average balance was $52,860. Eight of 49 owed more than $100,000. The carrying cost of that amount of debt will be in the range of $24,000 to $34,000 (or more) per month. It makes you wonder how high the total would be if first mortgages were included.
We hear media reports about rising debt loads and shrinking savings in America. But, seeing the real numbers in families you know, people right next door, makes for an entirely different impact.
Hal Hunter
This past Tuesday was the third of thirteen weekly sessions. We asked each family to anonymously give us an index card with their family's total debt, excluding any first mortgage. 49 responded. We expected a lot of debt, but not what we saw.
The total debt was $2,273,000! Only six owed nothing, and some of these were teens who were asked to participate apart from their parents. Of those who owed debt, the average balance was $52,860. Eight of 49 owed more than $100,000. The carrying cost of that amount of debt will be in the range of $24,000 to $34,000 (or more) per month. It makes you wonder how high the total would be if first mortgages were included.
We hear media reports about rising debt loads and shrinking savings in America. But, seeing the real numbers in families you know, people right next door, makes for an entirely different impact.
Hal Hunter
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
A new toy
It's way past Christmas, but you know guys and their toys- it's always Christmas when it comes to toys. Our newest toy is this blog- an opportunity to be heard far and wide and perhaps influence someone for the Kingdom's benefit.
The staff of The Church at Argyle is a pretty diverse group. God has assembled a team here that works together well, trusting each other and trusting that the Holy Spirit is leading. Click here to meet us.
As we begin the new year, we are well on our way to making a major shift in our direction and emphasis. For years, we have spent most of our effort on becoming an attractional church- on building environments that will attract and engage people by their excellence and relevance. Now, we feel that we are being called to more directly obey the Great Commission- to go instead of letting them come. Simple to express in words- difficult to do in terms of attitudes and actions within the whole body of the fellowship.
We are still wrestling within the staff and senior leadership to clarify the win. (Check out this invaluable book by Andy Stanley and others from North Point Ministries; clarifying the win is the first practice that must be mastered to do effective and efficient ministry.) We know beyond a doubt that God is leading us to take a missional approach- to be the church rather than going to church. But exactly what does that look like. How do we model it to the fellowship? Importantly, what is it not?
Hal Hunter
The staff of The Church at Argyle is a pretty diverse group. God has assembled a team here that works together well, trusting each other and trusting that the Holy Spirit is leading. Click here to meet us.
As we begin the new year, we are well on our way to making a major shift in our direction and emphasis. For years, we have spent most of our effort on becoming an attractional church- on building environments that will attract and engage people by their excellence and relevance. Now, we feel that we are being called to more directly obey the Great Commission- to go instead of letting them come. Simple to express in words- difficult to do in terms of attitudes and actions within the whole body of the fellowship.
We are still wrestling within the staff and senior leadership to clarify the win. (Check out this invaluable book by Andy Stanley and others from North Point Ministries; clarifying the win is the first practice that must be mastered to do effective and efficient ministry.) We know beyond a doubt that God is leading us to take a missional approach- to be the church rather than going to church. But exactly what does that look like. How do we model it to the fellowship? Importantly, what is it not?
Hal Hunter
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