Fear, Control, and Manipulation: Have not Love?
Russell Benson
I have been running into a lot of people lately that just have been frustrated with "church". The sad fact is that all of them have been pentecostals/charismatics. After speaking with them, the same story usually follows. They have been hurt by a pastor, felt controlled, or did not sense any form of true love and care in the church.
Now as a pastor, I understand that people can exagerate and it is not always the pastor/ministers fault. I also understand that some people are too "supersensitive" and needy and may have been hurt becasue of false expectations they held. I know this. Understanding this, there still is a major problem!
The truth is people are leaving the church becasue it has lost its relevance. The sense of community and love is not being felt, that is a big problem!Many have given up on finding community and love at church, all they now expect is a good program when they go. Church is being redefined by our dissapointments. We are know lowering our expectations of what we think church should be.I have really been impressed lately by the Spirit to share on the topics of community, love, humility, and charector.
There is no bigger believer in revival than me, but if revival is going to be led by leaders without fruit and love, I dont want it!If so called revival churches and spirit filled churches dont have love, I want nothing to do with that.Jesus said they will know us by our love. Where is the love? What I have seen in the pentecostal church is a lot of manipulation. Pastors leading through tactics of fear and control. If you dare challenge them on any issue they will throw scripture like Annanias and Saphirra at you. They will warn you that you are close to witchcraft with any opposition."Follow what I say" or you will be under a curse, in rebellion, and close to the fires of hell.No wonder why they are leaving the pentecostal church. No wonder why people are being hurt and held back from fufilling thier destiny. No wonder why people are so bound up in church. They are scared! Thankfully, perfect love casts out fear.
Recently, a came across a website called the association of former pentecostals. It is a very large online community made up of people who left the penetecostal/charismatic movement. They are speading a message that we are hurting this world more than any other organization. This is coming from former members of our own movement!Do you want to know the major issues they have...the gifts of the spirit? wrong
worship? wrong
tongues? nope
The major problem these ex pentecostals have is the lack of love in our pentecostal churches. The fear and control used to manipulate people to obey. They are calling it "spiritual meaness." They are calling us a false movement because of the lack of love and fruit. The sad truth is...they are not all wrong!In many cases, pentecostal churches take themselves way too serious. There is an atmosphere of meanness, anger, and even hate. We have many "holy" christians who are meaner than a cobra! Where is the love that Jesus said we would be known for. He said that the world would know that we are TRUE disciples by our love.
What will mark true Christians? Gifts? tongue? good music? great preaching?NO! its love! What is going on with us pentecostals? Things must change! We should be the most loving, caring, body of people on the face of the earth.We are filled with the Spirit, so we should be filled with the fruit of the Spirit.We should be marked with love, care, concern, and community. I want a revival that is marked with souls, worship, and LOVE AND COMMUNITY. Together, cant we both have them together. Some people go to pentecostal churches becasue of the annointing. Some go to mainline denominations becasue of the fellowship and community. Cant we have both? I have been a part of the pentecostal movement my whole life and I have seen many things.
I believe we are right about worship, the power of God, and the gifts of the Spirit. Yet, I bear witness to the truth in the allegations against our movement and it breaks my heart! I want to challenge all of us. I recongnize the problem. I will not turn a blind eye to it, I cant.Lets recognize it, address it, and change!Lets be radical! Lets win the lost and shake our communities. But when they come into our church communities may they see Jesus. May they sense the love of God so much that it is unlike any love they have EVER experienced.May they not come in and be dscouraged by our atitudes and manipulation.May we be known for our love, church. Pentecostals have made fellowship a bad word. In our circles it's like a curse.
Things have to change. Please, let it start with me and you...even today.Be Christ-Like, Be a Christian. Love your neighbor! May we be truley marked with Love above all. If we have not love, we have NOTHING!
Sermon Player
Friday, December 14, 2007
Monday, December 10, 2007
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Late Night Cosmic Bowling!
Hey everyone! We had an awesome time last night at Brandon Crossroads for "Cosmic Bowling." Here are a few pics of all the fun!
The entire group
Nice form, Dan!
It was a really late night.
It was kind of hit-or-miss in lane 37. This time, a miss.
Whoever said you can't practice the "laying on of hands" outside of church?
We ate at Denny's afterwards for a really late night snack.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Biel Family
CCF wants to welcome Pastor Austin, Brandy, Jazz, Melody, and Tenor to the CCF Family!
(sorry since it has been so long since the last post!)
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
40 Days of Prayer and Fasting
40 Days of Prayer and Fasting
The leadership of CCF is calling this community to 40 days of prayer and fasting.
June 17th-July 27th
We are asking each willing participant to fast at least one meal a day and pray over four specific areas...
1. New level of purity and separation in our lives
2. Open Heavens in our church and community
3. Fresh anointing on CCF, Cover the Earth, and all the ministries of this movement
4. SOULS, SOULS, SOULS!
Also every 10 days we will be focusing on a one of the four prayer focus points.
Please join us in this fast in faith that God will do something fresh in our midst!
Friday, June 1, 2007
Kingdom Life
KINGDOM LIFE by Julie Kladakis
He brought my attention to some words that we use regularly that draw a very strong reality to kingdom life.
First He had me look up some words that are basic everyday words, but gave me a newer perspective on their meaning in relation to His children.
Make: to bring into existence by shaping material, combining parts. To appoint.
Creature: Subject to the will of another.
Breath: To give utterance to; to whisper; to infuse; to inject
Inject: To force into a cavity or tissue
Infuse: To introduce as by pouring, to pour in; to inspire
Planted: to establish or set up as in a colony
Colony: A group of people who leave their native country to form a new land subject to the rulership of the parent land.
Dominion: the power or the right of governing authority
Ambassadors: a diplomatic agent of the highest rank sent by one sovereign. An authorized representative. Temporary special service.
Son: a male child or person in relation to his parents. One adopted as one in a legal position related as if by ties of sonship.
So all of the words are in the Bible regarding us, except , infuse, inject or colony. But these are in relation to the words by definition. God made us in their image, forming us, breathing into us, or injecting or pouring into us. He planted the Garden of Eden, which plant means to colonize. So He brought a colony of the Kingdom to earth for us to be ambassadors to, or to govern. Obviously sin ended that little stint of having dominion because we carried a "disease" that required our "quarantine" Then finally the cure came. Doctors today think that they came up with cleansing the blood from diseased cancerous cells, by transfusing the blood or injecting some other substance into it, but Christ performed the 1st transfusion that cleansed us, restored us and brought us out of quarantine so we as a colony could once again be in line with the parent land. So what we really need to grasp is that we are ambassadors in a foreign land with the governing power to go forward and complete any mission that the King proclaims. He's says he restored us from sickness, then why do we still live as foreigners who's king can not make such proclamations of healing as ours does. We are under our Kings jurisdiction. Why do we live anxiously when our King proclaims peace. Why live in bondage when He says He has brought us to a free land. Kingsmen spoke boldly of the Kings laws and ways. When they were sent out to proclaim the words of the king they went shouting them in the streets. Yet our king does more that just call us to be parrots of the things that He has proclaimed. He's called us to live by His Words and walk in His promises and has given us authority to act in His name, as ambassadors, on behalf of each other and of the foreigners. We have got to get a kingdom understanding as to who we really are through Christ the King. We are son's and daughters.We hold a legal position as if related by sonship. We have been called ambassadors so we have the right to govern with the authority of the King. We are of the highest rank under the king. He has restored the colony to live as an extension of the Kingdom. Under the same laws and beliefs. Christ believed He could heal the sick because of His relation to the Father, and that through Him, the proclamation of the King, we could do the same things that he did and even more because He had to go to be with the Father, because of the sonship He formed for us through the adoption signed in blood, making it a perfectly legal claim.
We must gain a Kingdom faith and mentality. We can not colonize the earth if we're afraid to live as if in the parent land. When this church was begun it was referred to as a church plant. Or a colony. We have the legal right to proclaim the ways of the King. When people walk through our doors, claiming to be ill, we as a congregation should not depend on the Pastor to call for a healing alter call. We should not just show empathy and walk on. We should stop right there and send out a proclamation of the Lord to be healed, and recognize it as the Kings Word, because we might live in a foreign land of another ruler, but we reside in the colony of the King where His Word is the Rule within the colony, and this should go for all needs. And it shouldn't stop with the needs only but we should bring into the colony the praise of the King as if we were in our Parent Land, because He rules and reigns. Because He loves us so much. Because the reality of His Kingdom is right before us. Our King has already told us clearly what His kingdom stands for. We need to clearly and boldly speak with the authority given to us by the King.
Again I know this isn't new news, but maybe God just thinks we need to hear it again. I pray that He will prepare our hearts to have an even greater understanding. The prince of another world rules in the earth for now, but God has planted His Colonies, to proclaim a new government in this land. To carry the ways of the Parent Land, to here. To invite the foreigners to become natives of the Parent Land. Heaven is a place of supernatural, therefore the colony must become a thriving land where the supernatural ways of the Father become a way of life.
He brought my attention to some words that we use regularly that draw a very strong reality to kingdom life.
First He had me look up some words that are basic everyday words, but gave me a newer perspective on their meaning in relation to His children.
Make: to bring into existence by shaping material, combining parts. To appoint.
Creature: Subject to the will of another.
Breath: To give utterance to; to whisper; to infuse; to inject
Inject: To force into a cavity or tissue
Infuse: To introduce as by pouring, to pour in; to inspire
Planted: to establish or set up as in a colony
Colony: A group of people who leave their native country to form a new land subject to the rulership of the parent land.
Dominion: the power or the right of governing authority
Ambassadors: a diplomatic agent of the highest rank sent by one sovereign. An authorized representative. Temporary special service.
Son: a male child or person in relation to his parents. One adopted as one in a legal position related as if by ties of sonship.
So all of the words are in the Bible regarding us, except , infuse, inject or colony. But these are in relation to the words by definition. God made us in their image, forming us, breathing into us, or injecting or pouring into us. He planted the Garden of Eden, which plant means to colonize. So He brought a colony of the Kingdom to earth for us to be ambassadors to, or to govern. Obviously sin ended that little stint of having dominion because we carried a "disease" that required our "quarantine" Then finally the cure came. Doctors today think that they came up with cleansing the blood from diseased cancerous cells, by transfusing the blood or injecting some other substance into it, but Christ performed the 1st transfusion that cleansed us, restored us and brought us out of quarantine so we as a colony could once again be in line with the parent land. So what we really need to grasp is that we are ambassadors in a foreign land with the governing power to go forward and complete any mission that the King proclaims. He's says he restored us from sickness, then why do we still live as foreigners who's king can not make such proclamations of healing as ours does. We are under our Kings jurisdiction. Why do we live anxiously when our King proclaims peace. Why live in bondage when He says He has brought us to a free land. Kingsmen spoke boldly of the Kings laws and ways. When they were sent out to proclaim the words of the king they went shouting them in the streets. Yet our king does more that just call us to be parrots of the things that He has proclaimed. He's called us to live by His Words and walk in His promises and has given us authority to act in His name, as ambassadors, on behalf of each other and of the foreigners. We have got to get a kingdom understanding as to who we really are through Christ the King. We are son's and daughters.We hold a legal position as if related by sonship. We have been called ambassadors so we have the right to govern with the authority of the King. We are of the highest rank under the king. He has restored the colony to live as an extension of the Kingdom. Under the same laws and beliefs. Christ believed He could heal the sick because of His relation to the Father, and that through Him, the proclamation of the King, we could do the same things that he did and even more because He had to go to be with the Father, because of the sonship He formed for us through the adoption signed in blood, making it a perfectly legal claim.
We must gain a Kingdom faith and mentality. We can not colonize the earth if we're afraid to live as if in the parent land. When this church was begun it was referred to as a church plant. Or a colony. We have the legal right to proclaim the ways of the King. When people walk through our doors, claiming to be ill, we as a congregation should not depend on the Pastor to call for a healing alter call. We should not just show empathy and walk on. We should stop right there and send out a proclamation of the Lord to be healed, and recognize it as the Kings Word, because we might live in a foreign land of another ruler, but we reside in the colony of the King where His Word is the Rule within the colony, and this should go for all needs. And it shouldn't stop with the needs only but we should bring into the colony the praise of the King as if we were in our Parent Land, because He rules and reigns. Because He loves us so much. Because the reality of His Kingdom is right before us. Our King has already told us clearly what His kingdom stands for. We need to clearly and boldly speak with the authority given to us by the King.
Again I know this isn't new news, but maybe God just thinks we need to hear it again. I pray that He will prepare our hearts to have an even greater understanding. The prince of another world rules in the earth for now, but God has planted His Colonies, to proclaim a new government in this land. To carry the ways of the Parent Land, to here. To invite the foreigners to become natives of the Parent Land. Heaven is a place of supernatural, therefore the colony must become a thriving land where the supernatural ways of the Father become a way of life.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Goiania, Brazil
I have just returned from Brazil and I have to say, WOW...God is moving there. I have never seen revival on a national level like this. Churches all over the country are exploding with growth. The passion of the people is astounding. The young people are going into the ministry by the thousands. The depth and quality of the worship is amazing. My last stop was a city called Goiania. I ministered in a church of 15,000 members called Videira. My last service was Tuesday morning and it was full of hundreds of pastors, bible school students and visitors.. After I preached, I agreed to pray for everyone that wanted to come forward. They pressed in like cattle in a stampede and the alters looked like a battlefield before it was over. There was an open heaven and a heavy anointing...I was doing all I could do to stay standing myself. I love the presence of God. I have posted more pictures and notes on the Cover the Earth blog (www.CoverTheEarthUpdates.BlogSpot.com) or visit www.CoverTheEarth.org and click on the "Blog" link. Thank you all for your prayers. You are a blessing.
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Preaching in the Streets
The evening services were held in the city square. between 20 - 30 thousand attended the meetings. There were many salvations and notible miracles. More to come
Greetings From Brazil
Thank you to everyone who is continually praying for us as we minister in the city of Belo Horizonte, Brazil. God is moving here. We have had a wonderful meeting this morning and we are looking forward to a great harvest of souls tonight. Please remember me and this crusade in your prayers.
AM Meetings at Lagoinha Baptist Church
AM Meetings at Lagoinha Baptist Church
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Next Prophetic Seminar
Hello to everyone,
Thank you to everyone who came out this past Saturday for the seminar and everyone who came out on Sunday. I was talking to someone this past week, and asked how the seminar went. I said that it was incredible! They continued and asked how many people attended. I said around 10 people showed up. All of a sudden I saw a disappointment come over their face almost if they were confused. They asked if I was ok with that. I immediately smiled and said, yes. I continued with saying that it doesn't matter how many people come or who all comes. I trust that in the Father's perfect leadership that He sends the people to each seminar that need to be at that particular seminar. So I said, no I'm not concerned because I know God has these people in a specific place in their lives for such a time as this.
I say this because some of you have come to me and apologize for missing one seminar or another. While I'll appreciate your conviction, I trust that Holy Spirit knows what He is doing.
In conjunction with that, I realize that over the summer people go on vacations and have plans. However, we will continue to press on with the seminars. Our next one will attentively be Saturday, June 23rd at 2:00 pm in our main building. So grab those pens and markers, and mark your calendars.
I also want to extend my gratitude and appreciation for you all. I had someone come up to me and tell me what a wonderful group we have and how nice it is to have a safe place where they can just be themselves, learn, and not be afraid to ask questions. Keep up the good work you guys! You're awesome!
May the Lord bless each and everyone of you. And be sure to tell your friends and family members to come out if they can too!
- Jared Bennett
Thank you to everyone who came out this past Saturday for the seminar and everyone who came out on Sunday. I was talking to someone this past week, and asked how the seminar went. I said that it was incredible! They continued and asked how many people attended. I said around 10 people showed up. All of a sudden I saw a disappointment come over their face almost if they were confused. They asked if I was ok with that. I immediately smiled and said, yes. I continued with saying that it doesn't matter how many people come or who all comes. I trust that in the Father's perfect leadership that He sends the people to each seminar that need to be at that particular seminar. So I said, no I'm not concerned because I know God has these people in a specific place in their lives for such a time as this.
I say this because some of you have come to me and apologize for missing one seminar or another. While I'll appreciate your conviction, I trust that Holy Spirit knows what He is doing.
In conjunction with that, I realize that over the summer people go on vacations and have plans. However, we will continue to press on with the seminars. Our next one will attentively be Saturday, June 23rd at 2:00 pm in our main building. So grab those pens and markers, and mark your calendars.
I also want to extend my gratitude and appreciation for you all. I had someone come up to me and tell me what a wonderful group we have and how nice it is to have a safe place where they can just be themselves, learn, and not be afraid to ask questions. Keep up the good work you guys! You're awesome!
May the Lord bless each and everyone of you. And be sure to tell your friends and family members to come out if they can too!
- Jared Bennett
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Rebekah Kolenda Preaches at CCF
This past Sunday Rebekah Kolenda preached a wonderful mothers day message about trusting the Lord our provider...Jehovah Jireh...we are all very proud of her.
Monday, May 14, 2007
Woman's Day Tea @ CCF
Friday, May 11, 2007
Waiting on the world to change
A few weekends ago at CCF we watched a Christian video to John Mayer's song, "Waiting on the World to Change" and I was surprised and found it slightly ironic. Ironic because he has initiated a movement for environmentalism where the goal is people making small steps toward making their world better and cleaner, through little things every year. He calls it Another Kind of Green.
I was thinking about it today--and the message of that video--that we as the Church can do that as well, for the Kingdom. I sometimes feel overwhelmed when I think about all that needs to be done: all the prayers that need to be prayed, all the captives that need to be set free, all the hearts that need to be moved. But I guess that's the beauty of the body of Christ. Each person, with the help of the Holy Spirit, can use their unique talents and giftings to bring our world one step closer to the Knowledge of God.
None of us has to do it all. And it's so easy to get hung up on that, give up, and end up not doing anything at all. CCF is dedicated to a movement of believers spreading the Kingdom through unique individuals. I think that's what Pastor Russ says each and every time I see him, in some form or another.
Jesus gave us the Holy Spirit corporately and individually so that we can do even greater things (John 14:12).
If all of us were wholehearted about even just one thing, no matter how big or small, it would surely make a difference.
Another Kind of Green: http://www.johnmayer.com/blog#329
I was thinking about it today--and the message of that video--that we as the Church can do that as well, for the Kingdom. I sometimes feel overwhelmed when I think about all that needs to be done: all the prayers that need to be prayed, all the captives that need to be set free, all the hearts that need to be moved. But I guess that's the beauty of the body of Christ. Each person, with the help of the Holy Spirit, can use their unique talents and giftings to bring our world one step closer to the Knowledge of God.
None of us has to do it all. And it's so easy to get hung up on that, give up, and end up not doing anything at all. CCF is dedicated to a movement of believers spreading the Kingdom through unique individuals. I think that's what Pastor Russ says each and every time I see him, in some form or another.
Jesus gave us the Holy Spirit corporately and individually so that we can do even greater things (John 14:12).
If all of us were wholehearted about even just one thing, no matter how big or small, it would surely make a difference.
Another Kind of Green: http://www.johnmayer.com/blog#329
Wednesday, May 2, 2007
You Can Hope Again!
This Sunday Pastor Russell will be preaching a prophetic message on activating the seed of God in your life. Please come expecting and invite those you may know that need to be encouraged!
Monday, April 30, 2007
LIVING A VICTORIOUS LIFE - PART 2
Last week I talked about LIVING A VICTORIOUS LIFE. I really felt the Lord say to continue with these articles because there are a lot of people who read this blog who could benefit from them.
We left off with talking about shame and its hold on our lives. We also saw one of the ways to wage war with shame. Coming into an understanding that not only does God love me (which we all know) but that He actually likes me and enjoys me, even in my weakness. This reality may seem incredible and may loosen the grip of the enemy on our lives a little bit. But it requires great discipline and constant reminding to LIVE in this reality.
One of shame’s counterparts is LONELINESS or the feeling of isolation. This not only relates to the drug addict, or the husband who is trapped in the grip of pornography, but to pastors, prophets, mothers, CEO’s, practically everyone. We all have a longing for intimacy and the need for fulfillment of those needs. Here are 10 intimacy needs that we require. In my next post I will discuss how to get out of the trap of loneliness.
1.) Acceptance – the reception of a positive response (Rom. 15:7)
2.) Affection – the communication of care of closeness (Rom 16:16)
3.) Appreciation – to communicate with words or feelings personal gratitude (1 Cor. 11:2)
4.) Approval – expressed commendation, to speak well of (Rom 14:18)
5.) Attention – to take thought of another and convey appropriate interest and support or to “enter” into someone’s world (1 Cor. 12:25)
6.) Comfort – to come alongside with words, feelings, and touch; to give consolation with tenderness (Rom. 12:15)
7.) Encouragement – to move forward and positively persuade toward a goal (1 Thes. 5:11; Heb 10:24)
8.) Respect – to value and regard highly; to convey great worth (Rom. 12:10)
9.) Security – confidence of harmony in relationships; free from harm (Rom. 12:16a)
10.) Support – to come alongside and gently help carry a load (Gal. 6:2)
The next time you begin feeling depressed, lonely, or shameful think of these intimacy needs and see if one or more of those needs aren’t getting met. The KEY is communication though. Communicate it to a friend a spouse, or someone you feel you can trust. Most of all communicate it with God. He really cares and can help you out more than you think.
We left off with talking about shame and its hold on our lives. We also saw one of the ways to wage war with shame. Coming into an understanding that not only does God love me (which we all know) but that He actually likes me and enjoys me, even in my weakness. This reality may seem incredible and may loosen the grip of the enemy on our lives a little bit. But it requires great discipline and constant reminding to LIVE in this reality.
One of shame’s counterparts is LONELINESS or the feeling of isolation. This not only relates to the drug addict, or the husband who is trapped in the grip of pornography, but to pastors, prophets, mothers, CEO’s, practically everyone. We all have a longing for intimacy and the need for fulfillment of those needs. Here are 10 intimacy needs that we require. In my next post I will discuss how to get out of the trap of loneliness.
1.) Acceptance – the reception of a positive response (Rom. 15:7)
2.) Affection – the communication of care of closeness (Rom 16:16)
3.) Appreciation – to communicate with words or feelings personal gratitude (1 Cor. 11:2)
4.) Approval – expressed commendation, to speak well of (Rom 14:18)
5.) Attention – to take thought of another and convey appropriate interest and support or to “enter” into someone’s world (1 Cor. 12:25)
6.) Comfort – to come alongside with words, feelings, and touch; to give consolation with tenderness (Rom. 12:15)
7.) Encouragement – to move forward and positively persuade toward a goal (1 Thes. 5:11; Heb 10:24)
8.) Respect – to value and regard highly; to convey great worth (Rom. 12:10)
9.) Security – confidence of harmony in relationships; free from harm (Rom. 12:16a)
10.) Support – to come alongside and gently help carry a load (Gal. 6:2)
The next time you begin feeling depressed, lonely, or shameful think of these intimacy needs and see if one or more of those needs aren’t getting met. The KEY is communication though. Communicate it to a friend a spouse, or someone you feel you can trust. Most of all communicate it with God. He really cares and can help you out more than you think.
Thursday, April 26, 2007
LIVING A VICTORIOUS LIFE
No one know sin-dirt-shame-unworthiness-unloved, more than I do. I would like to share with you something that helped me. Now don't be shocked but even with all of my dirt and all of your dirt God or who I like to call Dad, He still LIKES ME!!
This is a very important reality. One of the greatest longings is the assurance that we are enjoyed by God even in our weakness. If that is the case than our greatest fear is that God will reject us. If that fear is lodged in the core of who we are, than it will have a colossal effect on how we look at ourselves - whether we live in fear or faith, and whether we run to God or from God.
This fear that we will fail in our marriages, or at our business, at being a good parent or being a good friend can be paralyzing. It grips our throats when it attacks, and it puts us in isolation. There is a name for it. It is called SHAME, and it is one of the most paralyzing realities in our lives as we try to live for Jesus.
SHAME is the polar opposite of the assurance that God really likes us. Instead of running to Him, we'll run from Him. But if we believe God really likes us (even in our weakness) than we are going to feel likeable. With this change of paradigm we run to God instead of running from God, appropriating the power and feeling the encouragement we need to live ever more VICTORIOUS LIVES.
God, help me to realize that you like me even though I've sinned and that you want me to run to you with all my sin, shame, and dirt. Amen!
This is a very important reality. One of the greatest longings is the assurance that we are enjoyed by God even in our weakness. If that is the case than our greatest fear is that God will reject us. If that fear is lodged in the core of who we are, than it will have a colossal effect on how we look at ourselves - whether we live in fear or faith, and whether we run to God or from God.
This fear that we will fail in our marriages, or at our business, at being a good parent or being a good friend can be paralyzing. It grips our throats when it attacks, and it puts us in isolation. There is a name for it. It is called SHAME, and it is one of the most paralyzing realities in our lives as we try to live for Jesus.
SHAME is the polar opposite of the assurance that God really likes us. Instead of running to Him, we'll run from Him. But if we believe God really likes us (even in our weakness) than we are going to feel likeable. With this change of paradigm we run to God instead of running from God, appropriating the power and feeling the encouragement we need to live ever more VICTORIOUS LIVES.
God, help me to realize that you like me even though I've sinned and that you want me to run to you with all my sin, shame, and dirt. Amen!
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
What is more important than...
"His Presence"
This Sunday, April 22, 2007
It's what we should long for. It's what we should desire.
In a world of confusion and pain, there is no greater need than the presence of the Lord. My heart is full and eager to linger in the presence of our King. As we gather this week may we anticipate the greatest thing any of us can ever recieve, a touch of His Presence! Are you hungry?
Thursday, April 12, 2007
The Prophetic 101: The Basics
For the past few months, I have had a stirring to really give people practical ways on how to grow in the prophetic. The basics if you will. I have been, what I like to call “messed upped”. I don’t feel it is a bad thing, but a tugging in my heart to make growing in the prophetic very practical and easy for people to understand and begin functioning in it with some level of confidence.
Have you ever desired to prophesy but weren’t confident that you could? Or, have you ever thought that prophecy was only for those weird ‘prophetic-type’ people, who always claim they heard from God? Or, have you been taught that prophecy is not even available today, so why bother pursuing something that is ‘spiritually-illegal’? Well, I want to encourage you, that not only is prophecy available today, but more importantly, that prophecy is part of your spiritual inheritance and something that YOU CAN DO!
Paul in his first letter to the Corinthians (1 Cor. 14:3, 31) gives this simple definition of prophecy, which is three-fold to strengthen, encourage, and comfort others. However, prophecy is not just speaking human encouragement; it is speaking divine encouragement. In simple terms, prophecy is “hearing” (we’ll discuss this later) from God and speaking what you hear in order to build, comfort, or encourage someone. To prophesy is to hear from God and speak to men.
When I am talking about prophecy, especially in these blogs, I am describing about receiving and giving a specific “word” to a person or group of people. I am not describing a person standing and giving a general word of exhortation to a congregation during a lull in a meeting. Although this particular form of speaking a “word from the Lord” is encouraging and valid, this is not our aim to develop you towards.
We are specifically seeking to train believers (you) to ask for, recognize, and interpret specific revelation for the purpose of encouraging, building up, or comforting individuals. These same principles can also assist you in receiving prophetic insight for congregations, cities, and nations as well.
It is our goal here at CCF to train, build, and release a company of individuals who can prophesy with a measure of accuracy to other churches, conferences, and in other ministry settings. We desire to partner with Holy Spirit in redeeming the Bride. In the process our hearts are strengthened and our faith is grown.
To be continued . . .
Have you ever desired to prophesy but weren’t confident that you could? Or, have you ever thought that prophecy was only for those weird ‘prophetic-type’ people, who always claim they heard from God? Or, have you been taught that prophecy is not even available today, so why bother pursuing something that is ‘spiritually-illegal’? Well, I want to encourage you, that not only is prophecy available today, but more importantly, that prophecy is part of your spiritual inheritance and something that YOU CAN DO!
Paul in his first letter to the Corinthians (1 Cor. 14:3, 31) gives this simple definition of prophecy, which is three-fold to strengthen, encourage, and comfort others. However, prophecy is not just speaking human encouragement; it is speaking divine encouragement. In simple terms, prophecy is “hearing” (we’ll discuss this later) from God and speaking what you hear in order to build, comfort, or encourage someone. To prophesy is to hear from God and speak to men.
When I am talking about prophecy, especially in these blogs, I am describing about receiving and giving a specific “word” to a person or group of people. I am not describing a person standing and giving a general word of exhortation to a congregation during a lull in a meeting. Although this particular form of speaking a “word from the Lord” is encouraging and valid, this is not our aim to develop you towards.
We are specifically seeking to train believers (you) to ask for, recognize, and interpret specific revelation for the purpose of encouraging, building up, or comforting individuals. These same principles can also assist you in receiving prophetic insight for congregations, cities, and nations as well.
It is our goal here at CCF to train, build, and release a company of individuals who can prophesy with a measure of accuracy to other churches, conferences, and in other ministry settings. We desire to partner with Holy Spirit in redeeming the Bride. In the process our hearts are strengthened and our faith is grown.
To be continued . . .
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Sunday, April 8, 2007
Easter Sunday April 8, 2007
Pastor Dan preaches the house down!!!
Saturday, April 7, 2007
Power of the Cross
Check out the Via Dolorosa video to the right. Then check out That's My King. Awesome!!! Jesus is so good. May we remember all He did for us in this season and praise Him.
Friday, April 6, 2007
He Enjoys you . . .
No matter what goes on in life God absolutely flippin adores you!! Think of this the next time you mess up or you think you don't quite live up to "His expectations" (which is actually ours)
Simply put, if you can’t accept God’s delight over you NOW, in your immaturity, than you are in pride. You are stating that you are superior to God and that somehow because of your actions they control how He feels or thinks over you. We do this to our friends, our spouses, and those whom we love when they hurt us. We withdraw and our attitude and actions toward them change. Why, because we hope that they can feel the same hurt and discomfort that they have caused us. We really wish that they would come, apologize, and things are made better. However this is rarely the case. God is not like that though. He said to Israel, ". . . I'll never leave you nor forsake you." (Heb. 13:5)
Now, that is not to say that God will actively show the affection which He feels regardless of your righteousness, but it is to say that God’s delight in you DOESN'T change when you mess up.
This is what distinguishes the redeemed from the world: God loves the whole world, but He enjoys His Bride.
Not only that but Jesus prophesied to you and I that on our worst day we would love the Lord with all our hearts (Matt 12:30 & Matt 22:37) Jesus is just referencing back to what the Father said in Deut 6:5.
HE NOT ONLY LOVES YOU BUT HE LIKES YOU TOO!!
Simply put, if you can’t accept God’s delight over you NOW, in your immaturity, than you are in pride. You are stating that you are superior to God and that somehow because of your actions they control how He feels or thinks over you. We do this to our friends, our spouses, and those whom we love when they hurt us. We withdraw and our attitude and actions toward them change. Why, because we hope that they can feel the same hurt and discomfort that they have caused us. We really wish that they would come, apologize, and things are made better. However this is rarely the case. God is not like that though. He said to Israel, ". . . I'll never leave you nor forsake you." (Heb. 13:5)
Now, that is not to say that God will actively show the affection which He feels regardless of your righteousness, but it is to say that God’s delight in you DOESN'T change when you mess up.
This is what distinguishes the redeemed from the world: God loves the whole world, but He enjoys His Bride.
Not only that but Jesus prophesied to you and I that on our worst day we would love the Lord with all our hearts (Matt 12:30 & Matt 22:37) Jesus is just referencing back to what the Father said in Deut 6:5.
HE NOT ONLY LOVES YOU BUT HE LIKES YOU TOO!!
Receving Our Inheritance through Meekness
Hello to you All! This is pastor Jared. I am so excited and thrilled at the creation of this new blog. I am looking forward to seeing what becomes of this and I encourage you all to check it regularly and to tell you friends about it as well. We're looking forward to posting prophetic words, tidbits of revelation and fun stuff about CCF.
Below is a message that I received from IHOP-KC that one of my teachers spoke on. I think the timing of it couldn't be better. It is rather lengthy so read this post when you have a few minutes to spare. Enjoy!
----------------------
THE BEHOLDING BECOMING PRINCIPLE.
Jesus answered and said to him, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but you will know after this.” John 13:7
The fullness of Christ love is seen in His meekness and servanthood. (John 13)
"It was just before the Passover Feast. Jesus knew that the time had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love." John 13:1 (NIV)
Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that His hour had come that He should depart from this world to the Father, having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end." John 13:1 (NKJV)
The greatest expression of godliness is to live in love (which is holiness, servanthood or meekness).
Beholding principle: whatever we behold about God’s heart is what we become in ours. The revelation of Jesus’ meekness produces a longing in us to be like Him.
But we all…beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory... (2 Cor. 3:18)
The Father is well pleased as He contemplates His own humility in the work of the Holy Spirit and in the life of Jesus. It humbles us to look upon the great mystery of God’s meekness. Jesus put on display the riches of God’s meekness. The ministry of the Godhead is ordered around meekness. How can One so strong stoop so low in such tenderness? (Psalm 113). The Spirit desires to give us revelation of the dignity, beauty and uniqueness of God’s lowliness.
Learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart… (Mt. 11:29)
For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve… (Mark 10:45).
HOLY, HOLY, HOLY: THE BEAUTY OF JESUS AS THE SERVANT OF ALL.
"Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come from God and was going to God, 4 rose from supper and laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself." John 13:3-4
The prophet Isaiah (Isa 49-55) covers in the most depth the subject of the servanthood of God. Isaiah saw the King of glory (Isa 6:1-3), but undoubtedly has no grid for what the Holy Spirit was about to declare to Him concerning the 2nd Person of the trinity – He is a Servant. The nation of Israel had no grid for this revelation of heart of the God. When the 2nd Person of the Trinity Christ Jesus revealed the face of the Godhead as the Servant, the nation of Israel greatly stumbled. God’s glory is His humility.
"The LORD of hosts, Him you shall hallow; let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread. He will be as a sanctuary, but a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense to both the houses of Israel, as a trap and a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. And many among them shall stumble; they shall fall and be broken be snared and taken.” Isaiah 8:13-15
“For Jews request a sign, and Greeks seek after wisdom; 23 but we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks foolishness…” 1 Corinthians 1:22-23
The prophet Isaiah declares to us that at the very core and essence of the Godhead lays meekness. All the nations will tremble - God is servant and not only that, He is the servant of all.
THE SERVANTHOOD OF GOD AS DIVINE ATTRIBUTE.
"After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded." John 13:5
A divine attribute is what God reveals of discloses concerning Himself. God’s attributes make known to us that which is true and that which lies within the character and nature of the Godhead. It shows us what God looks like and feels like.
“An attribute, as we can know it, is a mental concept, an intellectual response to God’s self-revelation. It is an answer to a question, the reply God makes to our interrogation concerning Himself.” - A.W. Tozer
When Jesus came on the scene He came as a servant but He also come revealing the very nature of the glory of God. At the very core of who God is, one of His attributes is Servant. God made all things for Himself that He might disclose all the He is to His people. This disclosure is called the knowledge of God. A divine attribute makes known to us that which true and what is within the character and nature of the Uncreated God. It shows what God looks like and feels like.
"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30
"Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross." Philippians 2:5-8
"who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person…” Hebrews 1:3
God is a servant and does not suspend the other attributes to manifest His humility. His servanthood rather as a divine attribute is intricately woven in and through the other attributes. Jesus’ attributes like Bridegroom, King and Judge do not get suspended in order for His servanthood to be made manifest. The angels of heaven around the throne of God are overwhelmed at the revelation of God the Servant (Is 42:1, 49:1, 3, 5-7; 50:10; 52:13; 53:11) – holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts they cry out as they are astonished at servanthood of God. God is the servant of the people of God forever.
“Let your waist be girded and your lamps burning; and you yourselves be like men who wait for their master, when he will return from the wedding, that when he comes and knocks they may open to him immediately. Blessed are those servants whom the master, when he comes, will find watching. Assuredly, I say to you that he will gird himself (John 13:4) and have them sit down to eat, and will come and serve them (John 13:5-7). Luke 12:35-37
The weight of God’s glory is His humility and it is the weight of His humility, glory and majesty is that which will confront the pride of the earth. The humility of God is probably the most foreign and perplexing reality of God to the human heart. Jesus comes to Israel as the Servant of the Lord to exemplify and lead her into her servant-leadership role before the nations of the earth. The revelation of the humility of the Lord is not readily received because the implications of it on our live significant and intensely personal. (John 13:7)
"The LORD is high above all nations, His glory above the heavens. who is like the LORD our God, who dwells on high, who humbles Himself to behold the things that are in the heavens and in the earth?" Psalm 113:4-6
"The lofty looks of man shall be humbled, the haughtiness of men shall be bowed down, and the LORD alone shall be exalted in that day. For the day of the LORD of hosts shall come upon everything proud and lofty, upon everything lifted up — and it shall be brought low…” Isaiah 2:10-11
CHRIST THE SERVANT OF RULERS 49:5-7
"Jesus answered and said to him, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but you will know after this.” Peter said to Him, “You shall never wash my feet!” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me.” John 13:7-8
If the nations don't allow Jesus to be their Servant they cannot be a part of Him. The only way He will be our King is if we let Him be our Servant. Isaiah 49:5-7 Highlights the purpose and the mandate of the Man Christ Jesus (49:5) as the Servant of the Lord at His second coming receives those who rejected Him, Israel and the nations, as they come to worship and glorify Him. The truth of Phil 2:4-5 and the Lord's humility will still be true even during His reign and eternal government on the earth. In Philippians 2:4-5, 9-11 we see that the glory of God is the humility of God. The idea that the King of glory would do nothing out of selfish ambition and that His attitude will be that He considers others better than He in the millennium is most stunning and terrifying.
The prophet Isaiah clearly portrays the King high and lifted up of Isaiah 6:1-3 as the Servant of rulers Isaiah 49:7. (Isaiah 49-55)
“Thus says the LORD, the Redeemer of Israel, their Holy One, to Him whom man despises, to Him whom the nation abhors, to the Servant of rulers: “ Kings shall see and arise, Princes also shall worship, because of the LORD who is faithful, the Holy One of Israel; and He has chosen You.” Isaiah 49:7
That the King of Glory is called the Servant of rulers sheds more light on what Jesus told Peter in John 13:7. “You don't understand what I'm doing now but you will understand later.” This reference is revealed in three-fold reality
1) on the cross,
2) throughout out pre-resurrection lives,
3) Jesus is also referring to His reign in the millennium and throughout eternity. He is the same yesterday, today and forever (Heb 13:8). The Son of God came to serve forever.
The face of Christ as the Servant of rulers is going to be stunning to see Him lead with the strength of meekness, the might of humility, the relentless power of His tenderness, and gentleness of meekness that is unwavering (Isaiah 42:3-4) The Ruler of the kings of the earth is the Servant of rulers. This truly is a picture of how in the Kingdom authority is given and increased (Isa 9:7) for servanthood. In the world we serve and get promoted to no longer serve. In the kingdom we serve and get more authority so that the reality of servanthood and humility would permeate the Kingdom of God. We have an invitation and an opportunity in this lifetime to imitate Him in this. Our greatest glory, freedom and pleasure are found in being God like in our character.
"Therefore be imitators of God as dear children." (Eph. 5:1)
"He predestined (us) to be conformed to the image of His Son." (Rom. 8:29)
Below is a message that I received from IHOP-KC that one of my teachers spoke on. I think the timing of it couldn't be better. It is rather lengthy so read this post when you have a few minutes to spare. Enjoy!
----------------------
THE BEHOLDING BECOMING PRINCIPLE.
Jesus answered and said to him, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but you will know after this.” John 13:7
The fullness of Christ love is seen in His meekness and servanthood. (John 13)
"It was just before the Passover Feast. Jesus knew that the time had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love." John 13:1 (NIV)
Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that His hour had come that He should depart from this world to the Father, having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end." John 13:1 (NKJV)
The greatest expression of godliness is to live in love (which is holiness, servanthood or meekness).
Beholding principle: whatever we behold about God’s heart is what we become in ours. The revelation of Jesus’ meekness produces a longing in us to be like Him.
But we all…beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory... (2 Cor. 3:18)
The Father is well pleased as He contemplates His own humility in the work of the Holy Spirit and in the life of Jesus. It humbles us to look upon the great mystery of God’s meekness. Jesus put on display the riches of God’s meekness. The ministry of the Godhead is ordered around meekness. How can One so strong stoop so low in such tenderness? (Psalm 113). The Spirit desires to give us revelation of the dignity, beauty and uniqueness of God’s lowliness.
Learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart… (Mt. 11:29)
For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve… (Mark 10:45).
HOLY, HOLY, HOLY: THE BEAUTY OF JESUS AS THE SERVANT OF ALL.
"Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come from God and was going to God, 4 rose from supper and laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself." John 13:3-4
The prophet Isaiah (Isa 49-55) covers in the most depth the subject of the servanthood of God. Isaiah saw the King of glory (Isa 6:1-3), but undoubtedly has no grid for what the Holy Spirit was about to declare to Him concerning the 2nd Person of the trinity – He is a Servant. The nation of Israel had no grid for this revelation of heart of the God. When the 2nd Person of the Trinity Christ Jesus revealed the face of the Godhead as the Servant, the nation of Israel greatly stumbled. God’s glory is His humility.
"The LORD of hosts, Him you shall hallow; let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread. He will be as a sanctuary, but a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense to both the houses of Israel, as a trap and a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. And many among them shall stumble; they shall fall and be broken be snared and taken.” Isaiah 8:13-15
“For Jews request a sign, and Greeks seek after wisdom; 23 but we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks foolishness…” 1 Corinthians 1:22-23
The prophet Isaiah declares to us that at the very core and essence of the Godhead lays meekness. All the nations will tremble - God is servant and not only that, He is the servant of all.
THE SERVANTHOOD OF GOD AS DIVINE ATTRIBUTE.
"After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded." John 13:5
A divine attribute is what God reveals of discloses concerning Himself. God’s attributes make known to us that which is true and that which lies within the character and nature of the Godhead. It shows us what God looks like and feels like.
“An attribute, as we can know it, is a mental concept, an intellectual response to God’s self-revelation. It is an answer to a question, the reply God makes to our interrogation concerning Himself.” - A.W. Tozer
When Jesus came on the scene He came as a servant but He also come revealing the very nature of the glory of God. At the very core of who God is, one of His attributes is Servant. God made all things for Himself that He might disclose all the He is to His people. This disclosure is called the knowledge of God. A divine attribute makes known to us that which true and what is within the character and nature of the Uncreated God. It shows what God looks like and feels like.
"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30
"Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross." Philippians 2:5-8
"who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person…” Hebrews 1:3
God is a servant and does not suspend the other attributes to manifest His humility. His servanthood rather as a divine attribute is intricately woven in and through the other attributes. Jesus’ attributes like Bridegroom, King and Judge do not get suspended in order for His servanthood to be made manifest. The angels of heaven around the throne of God are overwhelmed at the revelation of God the Servant (Is 42:1, 49:1, 3, 5-7; 50:10; 52:13; 53:11) – holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts they cry out as they are astonished at servanthood of God. God is the servant of the people of God forever.
“Let your waist be girded and your lamps burning; and you yourselves be like men who wait for their master, when he will return from the wedding, that when he comes and knocks they may open to him immediately. Blessed are those servants whom the master, when he comes, will find watching. Assuredly, I say to you that he will gird himself (John 13:4) and have them sit down to eat, and will come and serve them (John 13:5-7). Luke 12:35-37
The weight of God’s glory is His humility and it is the weight of His humility, glory and majesty is that which will confront the pride of the earth. The humility of God is probably the most foreign and perplexing reality of God to the human heart. Jesus comes to Israel as the Servant of the Lord to exemplify and lead her into her servant-leadership role before the nations of the earth. The revelation of the humility of the Lord is not readily received because the implications of it on our live significant and intensely personal. (John 13:7)
"The LORD is high above all nations, His glory above the heavens. who is like the LORD our God, who dwells on high, who humbles Himself to behold the things that are in the heavens and in the earth?" Psalm 113:4-6
"The lofty looks of man shall be humbled, the haughtiness of men shall be bowed down, and the LORD alone shall be exalted in that day. For the day of the LORD of hosts shall come upon everything proud and lofty, upon everything lifted up — and it shall be brought low…” Isaiah 2:10-11
CHRIST THE SERVANT OF RULERS 49:5-7
"Jesus answered and said to him, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but you will know after this.” Peter said to Him, “You shall never wash my feet!” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me.” John 13:7-8
If the nations don't allow Jesus to be their Servant they cannot be a part of Him. The only way He will be our King is if we let Him be our Servant. Isaiah 49:5-7 Highlights the purpose and the mandate of the Man Christ Jesus (49:5) as the Servant of the Lord at His second coming receives those who rejected Him, Israel and the nations, as they come to worship and glorify Him. The truth of Phil 2:4-5 and the Lord's humility will still be true even during His reign and eternal government on the earth. In Philippians 2:4-5, 9-11 we see that the glory of God is the humility of God. The idea that the King of glory would do nothing out of selfish ambition and that His attitude will be that He considers others better than He in the millennium is most stunning and terrifying.
The prophet Isaiah clearly portrays the King high and lifted up of Isaiah 6:1-3 as the Servant of rulers Isaiah 49:7. (Isaiah 49-55)
“Thus says the LORD, the Redeemer of Israel, their Holy One, to Him whom man despises, to Him whom the nation abhors, to the Servant of rulers: “ Kings shall see and arise, Princes also shall worship, because of the LORD who is faithful, the Holy One of Israel; and He has chosen You.” Isaiah 49:7
That the King of Glory is called the Servant of rulers sheds more light on what Jesus told Peter in John 13:7. “You don't understand what I'm doing now but you will understand later.” This reference is revealed in three-fold reality
1) on the cross,
2) throughout out pre-resurrection lives,
3) Jesus is also referring to His reign in the millennium and throughout eternity. He is the same yesterday, today and forever (Heb 13:8). The Son of God came to serve forever.
The face of Christ as the Servant of rulers is going to be stunning to see Him lead with the strength of meekness, the might of humility, the relentless power of His tenderness, and gentleness of meekness that is unwavering (Isaiah 42:3-4) The Ruler of the kings of the earth is the Servant of rulers. This truly is a picture of how in the Kingdom authority is given and increased (Isa 9:7) for servanthood. In the world we serve and get promoted to no longer serve. In the kingdom we serve and get more authority so that the reality of servanthood and humility would permeate the Kingdom of God. We have an invitation and an opportunity in this lifetime to imitate Him in this. Our greatest glory, freedom and pleasure are found in being God like in our character.
"Therefore be imitators of God as dear children." (Eph. 5:1)
"He predestined (us) to be conformed to the image of His Son." (Rom. 8:29)
Revival Now!
Tampa Bay has been prophesied to be the "Bay of the Holy Spirit". We are feeling a fresh prompting from the Spirit of the Lord to see that come to pass. CCF will be moving foward praying and believing for Revival Fire to hit our church, our community, the Bay Area, and the ends of the earth. Please be praying with us. "Lord, Send your Fire!"
Thursday, April 5, 2007
Welcome to the CCF Blog!
This is the new CCF blog. It will be linked from the website as also accesible from www.revivalchurch.blogspot.com
Please check back often as we will have pictures from church and events as well as prophetic words and other things that will be of interest to the community. We look foward to this new resource for our community. God Bless!
Please check back often as we will have pictures from church and events as well as prophetic words and other things that will be of interest to the community. We look foward to this new resource for our community. God Bless!
store front construction
This is what the church started like when we first got it. A lot of work, but worth it!
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