Acts 14 "Gazing Intently"

Acts 14 – Brandon Hatmaker “Gazing Intently”
Wednesday, April 30, 2008

“In Lystra there sat a man crippled in his feet, who was lame from birth and had never walked. He listened to Paul as he was speaking. Paul looked directly at him, saw that he had faith to be healed and called out, "Stand up on your feet!" At that, the man jumped up and began to walk.” Acts 14:8-9

Paul saw that this man had enough faith to be healed. Once again, we see evidence of faith. The Greek wording used communicates not only that Paul looked at him directly, but that he was "gazing intently". This was with intention to discern the depth of His faith. Because of this intentionality, he was able to perceive what this hope in Christ meant to him. And he was healed. When Paul told him to stand up, he didn’t say, “why?” Scripture tells us that he jumped up and began to walk.. He was expecting great things, and Paul perceived this through simply watching him.

So many questions follow: What do we perceive about faith from one another? Do we take intentional moments to see what the Spirit is doing in us and around us? Do we take moments to see if God is moving elsewhere that we might join His movement (or at least be encouraged by it)?

As a huge part of the vision of Austin New Church, we've been spending a lot of time prayerfully looking for new ministry partnerships and opportunities to serve the poor and abandoned not only in Austin, but in other countries. Today, I had the honor to sit with a couple of my friends and hear the story of two incredible missionaries near Roma, Texas who run an orphanage in a Mexico border town. They did not ask God to give them an orphanage to run. It was not their original vision. In fact, the man started as a Pastor of a church. But when given a moment to sit and share stories of God’s faithfulness and his movement in and through this orphanage, I was amazed. And I was ministered to. I caught myself just listening, probably gazing (hopefully like Paul, with "intent" to discern their faith), and hearing story after story. It was obvious that their faith was great. And great things were happening for these abandoned children. That’s because God is great and He is doing great things.

Acts 13 "Success"

Acts 13 – Brandon Hatmaker “Success”
Tuesday, April 29, 2008

“So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off. The two of them, sent on their way by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus. When they arrived at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the Jewish synagogues.” –Acts 13:3-5

All that happens in the following verses is contingent upon the leading of the Holy Spirit. That is the way in which they were sent. In this manner, success will be found, even in what some may consider failure. The thing I love is how God went before them. They did not force themselves upon the teachers in the synagogues. They were invited. Look again at verse 15, “After the reading from the Law and the Prophets, the synagogue rulers sent word to them, saying, "Brothers, if you have a message of encouragement for the people, please speak."

So they spoke God’s Truth. They did not water it down, but they did speak gently and did not mock their history. They simply shared how Christ completed it. This does not de-value a heritage. They do not ridicule what they once believed. And they were invited back.

“As Paul and Barnabas were leaving the synagogue, the people invited them to speak further about these things on the next Sabbath. When the congregation was dismissed, many of the Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, who talked with them and urged them to continue in the grace of God.” – Acts 12:42-43

Here is the fruit of the leading of the Holy Spirit. The word spread and persecution stirred up. “The word of the Lord spread through the whole region. But the Jews incited the God-fearing women of high standing and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their region. So they shook the dust from their feet in protest against them and went to Iconium. And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.”

They were literally chased out of the region yet they were filled with joy. Most of us would probably feel like we failed. We would question whether or not we were even called in the first place. We might be reminded how we had a few successes along the way, but then feel like the ultimate test was that we weren’t welcome any longer. Joy might be the furthest thing from our minds.

Not only does the Spirit allow (encourage, permit, desire) us to measure successes in the way God does, but it also gives us the confidence in knowing it’s not us that success ultimately depends upon. In a way, it takes the pressure off. It gives us the green light to do what the Spirit leads, do it the way the Bible tells us, and trust God with the results. Here, they were ultimately run off. And they celebrated.

Father, I pray that you will go before each one of us in the tasks you have called us to both personally and corporately. May we be faithful to measure success as you measure success and may we constantly find joy in knowing we followed your Spirit. Amen.

Acts 12 "Enough"

Acts 12 – Brandon Hatmaker “Enough”
Monday, April 28, 2008

“On the appointed day Herod, wearing his royal robes, sat on his throne and delivered a public address to the people. They shouted, "This is the voice of a god, not of a man." Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died.” – Acts 12:21-23

At this point, apparently God had had enough. Scripture gives no room for misunderstanding. An angel of the Lord struck him down. And the gory details were included.

Why now?

Herod had a terrible history. He had taken many lives and yet he still lived. His excessive brutality was constantly condemned by the Sanhedrin, he was known for the Massacre of the Innocents in which he gave orders to kill all boys of the age of two and under in Bethlehem and its vicinity in hopes to kill Jesus after his birth, and he was certainly guilty of many other brutal acts, including the killing of his wife and two of his sons.

Herod was appointed “King of the Jews” by the Romans. However many of the Jews were upset by this since most did not consider Him to be a true Jew (Herod was of the Idumaeans, who were forced to convert to Judaism under Hyrcanus). While King Herod publicly identified himself as a Jew and was considered as such by some, this religious identification notwithstanding was undermined by the Hellenistic cultural affinity of the Herodians, which would have earned them the antipathy of observant Jews.

I wonder if it was his insecurity about not having the full support of the Jews or if it was his defensiveness that caused him to lash out so overtly. Whatever the reason, he was a terrible man. Yet he lived.

Until now.

He had finished the temple (Which was eventually destroyed in 70 AD) and it was referred to as “Herod’s Temple”. Not God’s. The Wailing Wall (Western Wall) still stands today. And in Acts 12, we see that when the people finally gave him praise as “a god, not as man”, and he received it instead of acknowledging the true God. Shortly thereafter, his life was taken.

Although Herod lived a miserable life (Modern scholars agree he suffered throughout his lifetime from depression and paranoia), all these brutal acts in God’s sovereignty, were to a degree, tolerated. But God was not willing to share His throne. I wonder today if this was even more significant being that it was in the eyes of His chosen nation and so recently after he had given His only Son. Either way, Herod’s death was as brutal as his life.

Here’s my takeaway today: So easily we claim praise for what God does. We've all done it. How long can we take credit for God’s work and still live, much less still experience success for which we claim credit? As believers, this should make us dive deep into allowing the Spirit to search our hearts and motives. May we never take credit for what God is doing in our lives. May we always be humbled by the fact that God chose to use sinners for His work. He requires a child like faith, a willingness to obey, and a desire to give credit where credit is due. Here’s a verse for perspective and to serve as a great reminder:

“Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption.” – 1 Corinthians 1:26-30

Father, may we find more joy in knowing that we are used of the King than receiving the praise of men. Help us to keep perspective, help us to remain humble and thankful, help us to always consider our lives of service as a privilege and honor. Amen.

Acts 11 "Labeled a Christian"

Acts 11 – Brandon Hatmaker “Labeled a Christian”
Friday, April 25, 2008

“The Lord's hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord. News of this reached the ears of the church at Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. When he arrived and saw the evidence of the grace of God, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts.” – Acts 11:21-23

The evidence was overwhelming.

There was evidence of an incredible number of newly converted believers. There was evidence of joy that they understood it and received it. They were free and they felt it. The application of “Grace” used in Acts 11 not only comes with a favor and acceptability before God through Christ, but also (and especially) the divine influence upon the heart and it’s reflection in one’s life, including gratitude. This is the evidence Barnabas saw. He affirmed that the work of the Spirit was true both through his own personal joy as well as his exhortation to persevere. This was a special time in Antioch.

Paul and Barnabas spent a year there meeting with the church and teaching them. Verse 26 tells us that this is the first time the disciples were called Christians. History tells us that Ancient Antioch was known for their humor (mostly sarcasm) especially the giving of jesting “nicknames”. The label Christian did not begin as a positive accusation and was used initially only by hostile unbelievers. It was used to point out those who were following this new way. It has an interesting resemblance to the word “Chrestianos” which was a common name used for “slave”. This was most certainly, in their sarcasm, a play on words. This, however, became a welcome label by Christians and ironically was a perfect way to describe what was happening. I guess the name stuck.

There is another key element of Acts 11 that I think is important to point out. It’s part of the legacy of the Christian church and is found in the closing verses (29-30) after hearing of those in need because of an impending famine spreading over the entire Roman world. Their response, “The disciples, each according to his ability, decided to provide help for the brothers living in Judea. This they did, sending their gift to the elders by Barnabas and Saul”.

The church responded in holistic generosity.

Each member as they were financially able, contributed to a famine relief fun. Their generosity is holistic in two ways. First, it extends beyond spiritual concern and simply praying that God will provide for others (which is what we so many times do) and moves to practical physical aid and doing something about it. Second, this interchurch relief effort involves the receiving church serving the sending church--a mixed Jewish and Gentile congregation serving a Jewish assembly. This unity is based on the conviction that the church is a body greater than any single congregation within any culture.

I can’t help but translate this to modern day acts of unity across denominational lines. It obviously applies within a denomination as well, but is unique in serving those who do not come from the same faith background. I also can’t help but think about churches who have been helped or partnered with to be planted or supported in times of need, giving back in their time of plenty.

Here’s a thought I read this morning that puts some summary to Acts 11, but also asks a great question: “In our time, in the Western world and increasingly elsewhere, decades of social legislation have made the state responsible for meeting the physical needs of our neighbors, including fellow Christians. Antioch's example, then, raises the hard question: How much personal responsibility do I feel for the physical needs of others? Though we cannot meet every need that global news brings to our attention, we can still do something to live out the holistic generosity that is an essential mark of being Christians.”

Father, I thank you that we were once labeled as Christians. It was an accusation that was fitting. Help us today, as the Church, to live and pursue lives and structure that honors the amazing heritage of the Church. I ask that you would move in power in affirmation and success in the efforts of your children who are serving those in need. I pray that you would bring life transformation through those acts of service, both for the giver and the one receiving.

Acts 10 "Food for Thought"

Acts 10 – Brandon Hatmaker “Food for Thought”
Thursday, April 24, 2008

There are a couple things that strike me as significant today from Acts 10. The first is found in the first four verses of the chapter.

“At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion in what was known as the Italian Regiment. He and all his family were devout and God-fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly. One day at about three in the afternoon he had a vision. He distinctly saw an angel of God, who came to him and said, "Cornelius!" Cornelius stared at him in fear. "What is it, Lord?" he asked.” – Acts 10:1-4

Throughout scripture, each time when someone encountered a presence representing the Glory of God, the immediate response was fear. Most of the time it came with an immediate recognition of who it actually was. Here, there was no doubt by Cornelius’ response that he knew it was the Lord. His response was confidence and obedience.

What’s interesting to me is the parallels in how we often experience God’s leading today and yet how often we respond differently. Whenever we see something in our journey that might cause change or take a sacrifice, we often experience fear (albeit a different kind of fear), but then that fear at times can paralyze us instead of give us confidence.

I think we need to take more time evaluating our emotions. Why do we feel like we do in reaction to things that may be happening? Is it our nature, our shortcomings, our nurture, or even a personal bias? We need to recognize that often it’s the things that are scary that God is really in. Many times it’s the safe and comfortable stuff that keeps us from moving forward. Just food for thought.

The second is found in verses 17-20 (as well as numerous other places in scripture)

“While Peter was wondering about the meaning of the vision, the men sent by Cornelius found out where Simon's house was and stopped at the gate. They called out, asking if Simon who was known as Peter was staying there. While Peter was still thinking about the vision, the Spirit said to him, "Simon, three men are looking for you. So get up and go downstairs. Do not hesitate to go with them, for I have sent them." – Acts 10:17-20

Over and over throughout scripture Peter is still referred to as Simon. Made me think about the “artist formerly known as Prince”. (If that doesn’t make sense to you, don’t wreck your brain). In this scripture it tell us that He was Simon… “who was known as Peter.” Makes me wonder, at what point would he be known as just Peter? The “Rock” who Jesus said that on a faith like his, His church would be built upon.

Who are we known as? Each of us has lives that are marked by milestones of growth in our faith journey. That may be marked in our ability to lead, to love, to share grace, to serve sacrificially, etc… I struggle at times when I revert back, whether in thought, or even action to who I once was. Maybe not so far back as to resemble my life pre-Christ, but even as a new believer, or one immature in my faith. That’s what happens when I act as if the world, my relationships, my church, my life should revolve around me. That’s what happens when I get too self-focused. That’s what happens when I think I can accomplish anything on my own. The list goes on and on.

God, Help me to daily put on Christ. I pray for wisdom beyond my years and experiences. I pray that I may live a life of pursuit of you and a life symbolizing what it looks like to be a child of the King. I know that is a lifelong process, Father. Help me to stay focused on that life journey.

Acts 9 "Life Interrupted"

Acts 9 – Brandon Hatmaker “Life Interrupted”
Wednesday, April 23, 2008

“Saul spent several days with the disciples in Damascus. At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God. All those who heard him were astonished and asked, "Isn't he the man who raised havoc in Jerusalem among those who call on this name? And hasn't he come here to take them as prisoners to the chief priests?" Yet Saul grew more and more powerful and baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Christ.” – Acts 9:19-22

Life Interrupted. That’s what it was. Everything Saul was living for, everything he believed, all his priorities, and all that motivated him came to a halt. And it changed on a dime.

So many of us struggle with surrendering completely to God because of our fear of massive interruption. We are afraid that God will really ask us to change. Well, He does. But there are a few questions that come to mind that impact our willingness or even ability to surrender willingly to interruption:

Do we really believe that Jesus brings the fullest of life? Do we really believe that God will do what He said He’d do? Do we really believe that God’s ways are greater than our ways? Do we really trust Him on our journey? Do we think God wants us to change for Him, or do we realize its God who wants to do the changing in us? Do we really believe God is sovereign and we should “fear” Him even in His love? How holistic is our concept of surrender?

Even as believers, we can have “Damascus Road” experiences. The question is, how far are we willing to go in our faith? How much are we really willing to offer of ourselves? Are we willing to let God completely interrupt our lives?

I had a conversation with a friend this morning about our faith life and our careers. We discussed briefly how much our jobs seem to define our lives more than our faith. Now that’s an easy discussion for me as a pastor who has the honor of doing what I do full time, but if I’m honest with myself (and God), he still interrupts what I’m trying to do “for him” at times (as if he needs me to do things for him). I used to think of that as a distraction. I’m trying to be through with that attitude and heart. While I obviously fall short at times, I truly want God to define not just what I do, but how I do it. God is clear throughout His word that the heart (reason) and method (journey) in which we do what we do is more important than the goal in which we typically strive. The only way to truly be okay with allowing our faith to define our lives is to truly embrace this truth. The victory, then, is surely God’s.

Father, grow my faith. Thank you for bold moments in my life that have caused me to ask tough questions. Thank you for moments where we have to blatantly choose to follow you or disobey you. Thank you for your constant faithfulness in those moments. Thank you that your “foolishness” is wiser than my wisdom.

Acts 8 "Biblical 180"

Acts 8 – Brandon Hatmaker “Biblical 180”
Tuesday, April 22, 2008

“And Saul was there, giving approval to his death. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church at Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him. But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off men and women and put them in prison.” – Acts 8:1-3

Talk about your 180 degree “u-turn” of Biblical proportions. It’s absolutely amazing to see Saul (Paul) prior to his conversion. I don’t know if there is any way we can truly grasp how significant his transformation was. There are a couple of additional scriptures that Paul wrote later that are profound to me in reading Acts 8 this morning:

“Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life.” – 1 Timothy 1:15-16

“But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him.” – 1 Corinthians 1:27-29

God chooses to use us for His Glory. So many times I sit back and say, “God, are you sure you want to use me?” Most of us can relate. It’s hard to believe. But He does. Let there be no doubt, there is nothing we can do of our own efforts that will be considered good fruit. Jesus said that apart from Him, we can do nothing. It’s amazing what can be done through us when we remain “in” him.

Keeping it simple today, here are some good additional thoughts I read recently on Saul’s conversion that I thought captures well what was happening:

“The scripture says that Saul, a young man, was present and that he ‘was consenting unto [Stephen's] death’ (Acts 8:1)…As we all know, Saul was subsequently converted while on the road to Damascus and in a few years became the great ‘apostle of the Gentiles’ (Rom. 11:13). It is probable that Stephen's gracious manner had almost as much effect upon Paul as did his stirring words…Paul was no doubt present at Stephen's defense in the council and had seen his angelic face on that occasion. He would have observed the kneeling Stephen plead with the Lord for the forgiveness of his persecutors. All of this must have made an impression in Paul's memory because sometime later during a vision, Paul said to the Lord Jesus, ‘When the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by, and consenting unto his death, and kept the raiment of them that slew him’ (Acts 22:20).

Acts 7 "Perception and Reality"

Acts 7 – Brandon Hatmaker “Perception and Reality”
Monday, April 21, 2008

“Then the high priest asked him, "Are these charges true?” – Acts 7:1

What were the charges? In Acts 6 it tells us of his words about Moses and Jesus. He spoke about a new covenant and the insufficiency of the law. These were certainly accusations that were against their custom, but they were true. Although verse 10 tells us that “they could not stand up against his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke.” They still considered his words “blasphemy against God.”

What they claimed Stephen said was mostly true. He did say those things. But because they did not consider the Spirit, their perception of why he was saying them and the authority in which he spoke was off base. That made all the difference in the world. Their perception was their reality. Most of the time, so is ours. While we have to acknowledge and cannot ignore this “law of human nature”, we have to also recognize its shortcoming in our own logic. Our perception, our reality, and our opinions do not necessarily make us right. It’s a dangerous place when we find ourselves projecting our opinion as truth, leaving no room for correction. This is true especially as leaders. What if we’re wrong? What are the consequences? Is an individual’s well being at risk? A group or a family? A friend or a coworker? An entire organization, company, nation or culture? In this case, their eternity was at stake.

The signs were everywhere, and they missed it. They just missed it. In verse 51, Stephen pretty much called everyone out when he said, "You stiff-necked people, with uncircumcised hearts and ears! You are just like your fathers: You always resist the Holy Spirit!”

They always resist the Holy Spirit. There are not many greater accusations of a man of faith than this.

Father, we work so hard for you at times. It’s so easy to separate our spirit from our systems. It’s so easy to divorce our spirituality from our mentality. But we recognize that nothing is gained apart from you. Help us to not resist the Spirit that we might see where you are at work. Help us to deny ourselves and choose your ways in every realm of choice.

Acts 6 "The Missional Church"

Acts 6 – Brandon Hatmaker “The Missional Church”
Friday, April 18, 2008



“In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, "It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word." – Acts 6:1-4

Two themes are evident right out of the hat in Acts 6. The first is the wisdom behind delegation and team. There are so many needs that can slip through the cracks as a body of believers grows, needless to say in attempting to meet the needs of an entire community.

The second theme I see is strategic in how to meet those needs. Ironically, it also ends up meeting some spiritual needs of the body as well.

Traditionally in a church, the pastors organize and plan out a ministry event to meet needs. Maybe it’s a mission trip or a volunteer day at the local orphanage. They work like crazy to get people involved, signed up and show up. The project comes to a close and we all go home to our comfy houses. This might be the last time we do anything until our next trip or event.

What Luke is saying here in Acts 6 is that the people of the church need to be meeting needs on a regular basis and to not wait on the key leaders to do it. He’s introducing a key aspect of the missional church. That it's a lifestyle not just an event. However, people taking initiative will rarely happen unless the pastors lead people to do it. As leaders, we need to recognize that. It’s not a natural step for most of us who grew up in church. But, this is the textbook example of what it means to live missionally. Mission events are necessary and great for equipping and expanding the exposure of serving (especially for those who haven’t done it much), but the goal is for us to get to a point where we do it because it’s a part of our lives. We integrate it. We plan it. We live it. Where we are.

Then, lives served would be changed. And I guarantee that lives serving would be changed as well.

Father, make me more aware of the needs around me. It's so easy to get focused on those who I am already in relationship with or do church together with. Help me to serve those who I gain nothing from. Help me to do so without expectation of return. Give me an increased passion for meeting the needs for the outcast, the abandoned, the sick, and the neglected. Teach our churches to do the same.

Acts 5 "Let God be Judge"

Acts 5 – Brandon Hatmaker “Let God be Judge”
Thursday, April 17, 2008



"Men of Israel, consider carefully what you intend to do to these men. Some time ago Theudas appeared, claiming to be somebody, and about four hundred men rallied to him. He was killed, all his followers were dispersed, and it all came to nothing. After him, Judas the Galilean appeared in the days of the census and led a band of people in revolt. He too was killed, and all his followers were scattered. Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God." – Acts 5:35-39

We can learn a lot from this Pharisee named Gamaliel. He’s basically saying that time will tell, so stop attacking, stop putting so much focus on them and place it where it should be: Wherever it is that God is moving in their lives. If the apostles were found out to be wrong, relax, justice is Gods. All that the Pharisee’s would gain from this would be strife and struggle from trying to judge. He understood that such a huge movement coming with such blatant claims could not simply coast into longevity. Eventually the actions and claims will either be proven refining, or eventually exposing. Jesus basically said the same thing when He said that wisdom is proven by her actions.

Personally we can learn a lot from this. It’s our nature to focus on other’s issue more than we do our own. But before we can even begin to take a look at ourselves with an honest eye, we have to learn to stop spending so much time on criticizing or analyzing others. Not only is it not our responsibility, but we’ll save ourselves much angst in the process.

Corporately, there are so many fresh things happening in church today. As a Pastor, it’s exciting to realize that these movements are not necessarily new. Most are ancient. The drive for the church to exist outside of itself, movement towards social justice and an increased awareness of the needs of others (spiritual, emotional, physical, and relational), a method that places the ways of Jesus at the front of the vision, and a desire to show compassion and love as we offer grace (because God gives it to us). We have been in a season in which these efforts come packaged a little differently than that of the traditional church. In fact, now-a-days, it comes looking different from church to church, even within the missional or post-modern, emergent, emerging, attractional, blah… blah… blah… church realm.

Change is hard for most. Our response to change has been causing confusion, disunity, defensiveness (offensiveness) and a general lack of focus for several years now. While some seem to think this is a black and white issue, I think reality is showing us that it’s still one of the biggest struggles we face in the church today: To discern where we can agree, where we should disagree, and where we should agree to disagree.

I believe we should stand strong when it comes to theology and doctrine especially in foundational truths like Faith through Christ alone, authority of scripture, etc (assuming we pray diligently for discernment in how we take that stand) … but methodology is just going to be different from church to church, community to community, and leader to leader. Even if we agree to disagree, what do we gain from the pursuit of one another and offensive strikes (although they are defensive in nature)? When it is a theological or doctrinal stand, we should react considering the life patterns of Christ, and maybe even receive some wisdom from Gamaliel. In it, God’s movement was shown true. Don’t forget, the Pharisee’s were arguing about a HUGE doctrinal and theological difference. The difference was about something that was core to what they had always known. This was much more significant than whether or not we have a choir or band or consider ourselves attractional or missional. But even here, the principle remains: Be faithful to the vision God has given you and spend less time worrying about others who are not a part of your church, association, denomination, affiliation, network... etc.

Bottom line, change is hard, especially for us humans (Which includes most of us). Should we spend more time criticizing and dividing, or should we invest that time in leading and teaching our convictions and vision? How do we know if we are assisting or hurting the work of God? Is it absolutely necessary to talk about all that others are doing bad in order to show our way good? I have a feeling that if we are doing what is right, honorable, and within the vision God has given us… He will show it to be good. We don’t have to bring up the contrast. I’d rather give that time and emotional energy towards moving forward.

"If you do away with the yoke of oppression,
with the pointing finger and malicious talk,
and if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry
and satisfy the needs of the oppressed,
then your light will rise in the darkness,
and your night will become like the noonday."

Isaiah 58:9b-10

Father, help me to live your renewed vision each day. Help me to chase after the things of you and trust what you are doing in each area of my life. I pray today not only for those who are far from you, but also for other pastors, other churches, and other believers whom I may never know. I pray that no matter their denomination, style, methods, or convictions, that they would seek Christ first, find comfort in that place, and lead others to do the same. I selfishly pray this for me as well.

Acts 4 "Desperate Times"

Acts 4 – Brandon Hatmaker “Desperate Times”
Wednesday, April 16, 2008



“Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: "Rulers and elders of the people! If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a cripple and are asked how he was healed, then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed.” Acts 4:8-10

I’m struck by Peter’s boldness. Not long after Jesus’ death, he not only spoke of Jesus’ resurrection… He proclaimed it boldly. He proclaimed Jesus as Savior. He proclaimed Jesus as healer. We know they spoke with a courage that could only come from someone convinced that whom they spoke of was who he said he was. Verse 13 says that, “When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.” Peter and John’s lives were literally on the line… yet they spoke the truth with great confidence. They no longer saw the sting in death. They saw the significance of eternity.

These were desperate times. They required bold measures. All believers rallied around the truth of Christ. Under great adversary and attack, they remained the course. They truly lived their faith to the fullest extent. Verses 32-35 paint a picture of what it was like, “All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had. With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and much grace was upon them all. There were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the apostles' feet, and it was distributed to anyone as he had need.”

It hit me for the first time as I read this scripture. These first generation Christians lived exactly Jesus’ prayer for them in the garden (John 17:23). Jesus knew they would have to become one in spirit in order to survive. He prayed, “May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.”

Jesus prayed clearly that they would be brought to complete unity specifically that others would believe. Obviously, they were brought to unity, and obviously many believed. Verse 4 says, “But many who heard the message believed, and the number of men grew to about five thousand.” God knows exactly what He’s doing.

Father, I believe. Help me in areas of unbelief. You have done and will do exactly what you said you would do. Thank you. I gain such great confidence in seeing even those who once denied you, three times at that, now standing and willing to give up their lives to proclaim you. In your greatness, God, you shaped them into the men you wanted them to be. And through the Spirit, they would initiate the first generation of the New Testament Church. In many ways, we deny you daily. Shape us so that in your Church today, we might live with any measure, that kind of fervor.

Acts 3 "Not Surprised"

Acts 3 – Brandon Hatmaker “Not Surprised”
Tuesday, April 15, 2008



"While the beggar held on to Peter and John, all the people were astonished and came running to them in the place called Solomon's Colonnade. When Peter saw this, he said to them: "Men of Israel, why does this surprise you? Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk? The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified his servant Jesus.” – Acts 3:11-13

This was a surprising event to those who saw it. Yet Peter asked the question, “Why does this surprise you?”

He went on to remind them that they should have known these types of things would happen, "Indeed, all the prophets from Samuel on, as many as have spoken, have foretold these days. And you are heirs of the prophets and of the covenant God made with your fathers. He said to Abraham, 'Through your offspring all peoples on earth will be blessed.' When God raised up his servant, he sent him first to you to bless you by turning each of you from your wicked ways." (vs.24-25)

God is in the business of doing great things. He’s been doing it from the beginning, and He does it today. In fact, just one chapter prior, we are reminded of the great promises and power of Christ through the Holy Spirit. As children of the King, we have an amazing amount of “untapped” resources in our faith. Our full potential is far from being reached. Not of ourselves, but because of Christ.

We become surprised, when we do not expect. Too easily we forget the place from which we have fallen and been rescued. That was amazing. We easily and often dismiss God’s amazing movement as coincidence or happenstance. We easily take God out of the equation while planning for relational and professional success.

There is a huge difference between being surprised and being amazed. The word used for surprised in this scripture means to “greatly wonder”. When you know it’s an act of God, there is no more room for wonder, just amazement.

When was the last time we set ourselves up to be absolutely amazed by God? When was the last time we responded faithfully to something that took a massive amount of faith, trust, and guts in which God was proven faithful and we were shown a branch that abides in the vine? When was the last time we were truly amazed by His supernatural presence, hand, leading, or movement?

Father, I want to be a part of things bigger than me. As your child, I desire to be amazed but not surprised, by your movement. I pray that you would continue to sharpen and mold me into the man you desire for me to be. I pray that you allow each of us to see your amazing hand and voice that we might not wonder, but instead recognize it as a child recognizes a father’s voice.

Acts 2 "What do we do now?"

Acts 2 – Brandon Hatmaker “What do we do now?”
Monday, April 14, 2008



"Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ." When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, "Brothers, what shall we do?" – Acts 2:36-37

This must have been an amazingly powerful moment. Few things in life truly cut us to the heart, especially to the point in which we are asking, “what shall we do?” This reminds me of the question Jesus asked of the two disciples following him in John 1 when he said, “What do you seek?” There was something special happening, they knew it, and wanted to be a part of it.

Peter went on to explain what they should do. Essentially it was to surrender to the teaching of Christ, unite with Him through Baptism, and be devoted to one another. Thousands came to know faith on that day. The following verses tell us that the Lord added to their number daily. Seems like a simple formula.

So what was it that drove them to ask the question, “What shall we do?”

I think they stood in the reality of seeing something amazing happening in the Spirit on that very special and anointed day. I think they began to realize the truth of how Jesus fulfilled all that he said he would fulfill. I think the thing that cut them the most was realizing the fact that they were the ones who crucified Him… and yet through that act, God offered them life. That is our God. He looks at us for who we are, the one’s whose sin ultimately led to the death of His Son, and He loves us anyway.

The movement that followed would not happen through Peter’s amazing exhortations alone or even the miracles seen. As Matthew Henry writes, “These two could not produce such effect by themselves”. But it was the gift of the Holy Spirit that prompted this level of response. This was something new, and something very special. And it’s a gift promised to us today.

So the question remains, as the Spirit moves, “Brothers, what shall we do?”

Today, I pray that through the Spirit, we are prompted to remember the sacrifice made. I pray that we seek His understanding. I pray we gain confidence and strength to follow the ways of Christ. I pray that our trust is increased. I pray the Spirit gives us insight to things we could not grasp with human minds and makes us sensitive to the needs around us. I pray that our love increases for one another as it grows for God out of a thankful heart.

“I once was lost, but now I’m found. Was blind, but now I see.” Thank you, Lord.

Acts 1 "Selfish"

Acts 1 – Brandon Hatmaker “Selfish”
Friday, April 11, 2008



“…and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

"Men of Galilee," they said, "why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven."

Two very specific directives are given in Acts 1 to believers. The first is to be Jesus’ direct witnesses… literally everywhere. Originally it was speaking of a first hand knowledge from someone who has actually seen him and/or his resurrection. I think it’s a reminder for us today to be a witness of Jesus and His life, not just the traditions or rituals of religion. That’s what everyone already did. He came to change that. He came to offer a new covenant, a new way, and obviously (Acts 1) a new Spirit.

The second directive is to stop looking up. The task for the first one is pretty obvious. The second is a little bit more abstract.

Why should they stop looking up? Why should they take their eyes of the risen Lord? I don’t know that I have a Biblically sound answer to that. What my gut says though is that it’s not so much about where our eyes are, as much as it is where our eyes are not. Sometimes we get so focused on our own faith that we forget about others. Sometimes when we are focused on others (even in the name of ministry) we don’t realize we are often focused only on those we gain benefit from. It becomes selfish. We do this in faith, we do this in our relationships, and we do this in our churches. It makes me wonder whom I’m neglecting in my faith and leadership. We so easily make things about us. But it’s not about us.

Father, I want to be the man of God you want me to be, help me to be a witness of the life and person of Jesus. Help me to keep focus where Jesus kept it, on others. Give me concern and compassion for others. God, help me to look outside of those who I selfishly benefit from. Teach me to care for those and to give to those that I may never receive from.

John 21 "Run, walk, or swim"

John 21 – Brandon Hatmaker “Run, walk, or swim”
Thursday, April 10, 2008



“Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!" As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, "It is the Lord," he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water. The other disciples followed in the boat, towing the net full of fish, for they were not far from shore, about a hundred yards. When they landed, they saw a fire of burning coals there with fish on it, and some bread.” – John 21:7-9

Chapter 21 is so full of truth and insight. But I can’t help but focus on and be encouraged by Peter’s response to Jesus. This was truly a “Forest Gump” moment when Forest was driving his new Shrimp boat, saw Lt. Dan on the pier, and jumped into the water to swim to him. He was completely oblivious to his captain-less boat. He just knew he wanted to be with Lt. Dan.

Literally days before this moment, Peter had denied Christ three times. This was not only a sad moment, but a very embarrassing moment in his life as well. So many times when we “mess up” before God our response is withdrawal. Our guilt combined with our nature is to cover up our sin and keep distant. In fact, the very nature of our sin creates separation from Godly things. Often creating a downward spiritual spiral.

Peter didn’t wait. He didn’t sulk and think about his denial. He jumped out of the boat and swam to Jesus as quickly as he could. This was the same guy that walked on water with Jesus… doubted… began to sink… then reached out to Him for help. He was doing the same today. Peter knew (in the fullest sense of the word) what it meant to run, swim, crawl, or walk on water towards Jesus in his need. It was his first defense to his humanity.

What a great lesson for us today.

Father, I need more of Jesus. Thank you that you have shown your love and grace through Him. Thank you Jesus for making it possible for us to stand and live in truth because of the cross. Thank you God that your full revelation is found in your graciousness and verity.

John 20 "Jealous"

John 20 – Brandon Hatmaker “Jealous”
Wednesday, April 9, 2008

“A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!" Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe." – John 10:26-27

It’s funny. I always read this scripture feeling a little bit like saying, “come on Thomas, what’s your problem?” As if I’m some kind of “faith” giant that never struggles with doubt.

Today I was thinking about how Jesus revealed himself to Thomas. He spoke his exact language. “You want to see the holes? Here they are. Touch them.” I got a bit jealous. I want Him to speak my language more, exactly the way I need it. Sometimes I feel like he’s not, but reality is, He is always speaking my language. He’s everywhere and He’s speaking loudly. Most of us struggle with an unclear understanding of how to hear God. We might feel that He does not owe any of us clear communication, so why would he? But He does it anyways. He came to this earth and walked as a man, spoke our language, and is still speaking today.

Our problem is not God, it’s us. The writing is on the wall. Most of the time, we just need to be reminded, encouraged, or told to look at the wall (we’re typically to busy navel gazing, it’s all about us, isn’t it?). The next time we find ourselves wondering where God is, maybe we should check first if we’re really looking. Is He speaking but we’re not listening? He’s speaking our language, He’s been doing it for years.

God, help me to hear through the noise of my life, your clear message. Give me a growing desire to be in constant communication with you. Give me insight for times to be silent and still. Help me to be patient. Help me to have the courage to respond appropriately.

John 19 "Divided"

John 19 – Brandon Hatmaker “Divided”
Tuesday, April 8, 2008

“When the soldiers crucified Jesus, they took his clothes, dividing them into four shares, one for each of them, with the undergarment remaining. This garment was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom. ‘Let’s not tear it,’ they said to one another. ‘Let’s decide by lot who will get it.’ This happened that the scripture might be fulfilled which said, ‘They divided my garments among them and cast lots for my clothing.’ So this is what the soldiers did.” – John 19:23-24

They divided his garments. I don’t know what they gained from it. Maybe they brought a great price. They certainly came with one.

Today, we divide His garments as well. We take the things we love about Jesus and live them. We take the things that are tough to swallow and ignore them. We take the truths that are simple and make them difficult and the things that are supposed to be difficult, we sometimes oversimplify. We take mega-themes of church and make them minor and we take minor themes and make them major. We think mission exists for the bride (church) instead of the bride for the mission. We overanalyze, oversimplify, and bend truths to fit our agendas. I’ve fallen guilty of this so many times.

I’m sorry Jesus. Give me the courage and strength to take your whole life message, the full revelation of God, the good news for all people, and live it.

John 18 "Denied"

John 18 – Brandon Hatmaker “Denied”
Monday, April 7, 2008

“As Simon Peter stood warming himself, he was asked, "You are not one of his disciples, are you?" He denied it, saying, "I am not." One of the high priest's servants, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, challenged him, "Didn't I see you with him in the olive grove?" Again Peter denied it, and at that moment a rooster began to crow.” – John 18:25-27

Although in his heart, Peter still loved Jesus and believed in who he was, when asked by others, he denied him. Maybe it was out of self preservation, maybe fear, or even a bit of embarrassment (let’s be honest)… whatever the reason, here was a man who Jesus said was blessed because the father had revealed the truth of who Jesus was to him, and he stood now in denial.

You don’t plan this kind of thing. I seriously doubt it ever crossed Peter’s mind that he would do this. He was in a tough situation. After a night in the garden following the events of the Passion Week, he was probably exhausted emotionally as well as physically. His guard was down, and he stumbled. Okay, he fell. Blew it. Completely. Those moments come when we least expect them, but they come. I wonder today how I’ve denied him without even realizing I’ve done it.

Jesus said that we are to love one another as He has loved us. He said others will know that we are his disciples by our love for one another. One of the greatest ways we deny him today is through how we treat others. It’s amazing even as Christians, how we can set aside compassion and concern and replace it with neglect or even contempt. That has been one of the greatest accusations from skeptics of faith for years.

But we can learn from Peter. His denial happened with two conditions apparent, (1) he was separated from Jesus (Jesus taught about this in John 15 when he warned us to “remain in Him”) and (2) he was more concerned about taking care of himself than he was concerned about Jesus. We should always check these things first. Are we seeking the things of Christ? Are our motives about us, or about Him?

John 17 "Pray for me"

John 17 – Brandon Hatmaker “Pray for me”
Friday, April 4, 2008

"Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world. Righteous Father, though the world does not know you, I know you, and they know that you have sent me. I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them." – John 17:24-26

There it is. After Jesus prayed for himself, that through His death He might bring glory to God, He prayed for His disciples, and then He prayed for you and me.

Jesus prayed that we would come to a full understanding of who He truly was and how he truly glorifies God. John 1 showed us that Jesus revealed the full Glory of God through sharing Grace and Truth. Not truth as Moses shared it, truth as God shares it through allowing us kinship in His Kingdom, true kinship. And his continued prayer? That we would know Him, know that God sent Him, and to be known by Him… why… verse 26 says the reason is that we may obtain the same love that God has for the Son and that He might be in us.

Not only does God desire for us to know Him, but the cry of the heart of the Son of God is that we might literally be in union with Him in love… and all things. Thank you Lord. May we trust, love, enjoy, find peace in that desire.

John 16 "Persecuted"

John 16 – Brandon Hatmaker “Persecuted”
Thursday, April 3, 2008

"All this I have told you so that you will not go astray. They will put you out of the synagogue; in fact, a time is coming when anyone who kills you will think he is offering a service to God. They will do such things because they have not known the Father or me. I have told you this, so that when the time comes you will remember that I warned you.” – John 16:1-4

In a conversation I had recently over lunch with Matt Thomas (One of three Bishops of the Free Methodist Church of North America), he shared with me story after story of recent and continued persecution of the church in India. There are stories of houses and church buildings being burnt down. There are stories of Pastors being held with a sword at their necks calling for them to renounce Christ. There are stories of missionaries losing their lives as stones are thrown from radicals opposing the church.

All this is happening in 2008. Almost seems impossible that it could be a reality. But it is. Jesus said it would happen. He told the disciples it was coming so that we might keep the faith and hold on to hope when it comes.

The Apostle Paul understood this type of persecution. His advice? Keep your chin up. This was his reminder to the church at Corinth, “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body.” (1 Corinthians 4:8-10)

These words of scripture remind me today how blessed we truly are. It’s such an honor to worship without worry of legal action. It’s such a privilege to have freedom of faith. It’s often taken for granted that we can live a day without worry of physical attack either on us, or our families.

We are so insulated from true persecution. We have very little, if any. Unless you count getting picked on for wearing a “His Pain, Your Gain” t-shirt, or a co-worker asking us “what would Jesus do” when the copier breaks down. Our problems are more related to how expensive gas is at the boat dock, how soon the technician can get out and fix the damper on my AC so I can control two zones in my house at the same time, and why I can’t seem to get all the HD channels to work on my cable. We have real issues too in raising our kids, dealing with our time commitments, stewarding our money, etc… but those are rarely related to persecution verses just trying to live the Christian life as a spouse, parent, or professional.

Jesus said that persecution comes because they do not know God. If we were to put as much effort in to evaluating this situation as we do our businesses, maybe even hire a consultant, we’d probably come to this conclusion: Do whatever it takes to introduce them to God. Then, one person at a time, the persecution would stop, as they gained life and the understanding that comes with it.

Today, in America, most of the destruction that occurs from a skeptic of faith happens to them selves (In fact, I would argue that most of the attack on the church today comes from within, not from skeptics). If someone does not know God or His ways, how could they understand how and why they were created? Without this understanding, all of us would accept the counterfeit solutions the world provides. The solution, once again, introduce them to our God.

Jesus said, “They will do such things because they have not known the Father or me.”

Father, may we be thankful. Even more so, may we respond with a life wholly committed to you and your way. Help us to keep perspective, keep our chins up, and spend our time sharing your love with others. Thank you, Lord, for your grace.

John 15 "Nothing gained alone"

John 15 – Brandon Hatmaker “Nothing gained alone”
Wednesday, April 2, 2008

"I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.” – John 15:1-4

There are a handful of guys out there teaching that if you are walking under the favor of God that tough times won’t come. Some even go so far as to say that if something bad happens to you that there is a reason, maybe a sin issue in your life. That’s is simply not Biblical. Tough times will come. Jesus said in chapter 16 that, “In this world, you will have trouble”. However, what we do know is that in those times, God can use it for good.

In John 15, Jesus teaches that EVERY branch bearing fruit will be pruned. Pruning can hurt. But it’s for the good of the branch as well as the fruit. No gardener prunes just to cut something back without reason, it’s always to make it more productive. God knows what He’s doing. And it’s to His glory. Hopefully this will provide comfort to us in our trouble, whenever it comes. Just like we discussed in Chapter 14, can we trust that He’s still there doing a good work?

Another quick thought comes to mind from verse 4. Jesus said, “Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.” According to this teaching, no accomplishment achieved on our own is credited as fruit. None. That’s an interesting truth to me. I wonder if it’s in the same realm of thought that Paul writes Romans 14:23, “everything that does not come from faith is sin.” All that we do is either out of faith, whether in freedom or obedience, or not out of faith. That’s the truth. The difficulty is being honest with our selves for what our motives are in each moment and in each day.

Teach us Father to abide in your Son. May we gain all confidence from Him and see all fruit as a byproduct of His work, not our own efforts. Help us to check our motives daily with a willing heart and mind to redirect them when they are not out of an overflow of You in our lives. Thank you for your pruning.

John 14 "Trust is earned"

John 14 – Brandon Hatmaker “Trust is earned”

"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” –John 14:1-3

There are times in life that certainly seem like trouble. They feel like trouble. They look like trouble. Sometimes it hurts, many times confusing. All of us can relate with that. At least anyone who’s ever been a parent, had a job, tried to be a good husband or wife, a good friend or neighbor, or someone seeking to be a faithful follower of Christ. Jesus tells us to trust Him.

Not only do we trust the creator of this universe (Trust in God), but also the part of that creator who gives us life (Trust also in me). The word used for trust means to “entrust, commit, to put in trust with”. This kind of trust goes beyond believing in the person of Christ for salvation, but also challenges us to make effort to “place” our trust in Christ, his teachings, and his methods for life. If those methods seem to create trouble, we can be assured that it’s trouble worth going through… and thus, our hearts can rest assured. That may be the greatest challenge of all, to not just know you can trust Him, but to actually do it to the point in which we experience peace in our hearts.

We’ve all heard the saying that “Trust is earned”. If anyone has proven that, it’s Jesus.

Father, it’s easier to obey physically than it is to trust emotionally to the point in which we experience peace in our hearts. You tell us not to worry. Your words say to be anxious for nothing. Forgive me where I fail to trust with my whole self. I ask for the strength to daily release everything and place in trust with you.