March 12, 2007
Quit Dating the Church
The Shepherds’ Conference closed with a new twist. Five different podiums were erected around the church campus with lighting and amplification. They were “soapboxes” for the five keynote speakers to use to preach, rant, ask questions, or do whatever they wanted to do in total spontenity without being recorded. A very good idea. It ended up being a highlight for me.
I went to hear Dever on his soapbox. His passion is the local church. He sets a high standard for membership, insists that membership should be the objective of every believer, will not baptize young children (he says that if Baptist keep on with their trends we will soon meet the Presbyterians), and although they have completely filled out their auditorium, he will not go to double services.
They have Sunday night services and expect their members to participate. Hour-long messages. Conservative music with no director. Average age of membership 79, er, 29!
It was extremely motivational to stand there and listen to him passionately “rant.” Both Chris and I were inspired.
For a great article about Dever’s church and the duty of membership, read this piece here.
Posted by Bob Bixby at March 12, 2007 12:03 PM | eMail this entry! | 189 WordsThis entry was posted in the following categories: Church Ministry
Great to have you posting regularly again. We also have an adopted child and rejoice with you.
Now back on topic. What was Dever’s reasoning for not having a second service?
Robert Talley (former BMM in Germany)
Posted by: Robert Talley at March 13, 2007 04:46 AMRobert, read his book, The Deliberate Church. Dever feels two services will infringe upon the one body.
Posted by: Todd Wood at March 14, 2007 02:22 PM
