CoJourner

Growing Up Digital - Tapscott on Video

2012-01-04T13:10:00.000-08:00

One valuable source for considering "trends" is the 20 videos provided by Ericsson as part of their 2020 Shaping Ideas initiative. Here is Don Tapscott, Author of Grown-up Digital, discussing the emerging generation:

A very optimistic viewpoint...

Today's College Student: Lost in Transition (?)

2012-01-04T08:49:00.000-08:00

For the next couple of days, I am focused on synthesizing research regarding the changing cultural landscape of today's college student. I will post a few of the resources that have captured my attention and may be worth your time to peruse.

The first is Lost in Transition, by Christian Smith, along with Hillary Davidson, Kari Christofferson and Patricia Snell Herzog (08-04-2011).

Based on their on-going studies of teenagers who have now become "emerging adults", Smith explores the "darker side of emerging adulthood". The chapters are:

Morality Adrift
Captives to Consumerism
Intoxications: Fake Feelings of Happiness
The Shadow Side of the Sexual Revolution
Civic & Political Disengagement

While sociological "data" can be extracted from each chapter, the writing focuses around in-depth personal interviews with 230 emerging adults, enabling us to understand, even empathize with the world of the 18-23 year-old (the narrower focus of this present study).

Great insights into the world of today's college student.

CoJourner Podcast: Power Play

2011-12-19T09:44:00.000-08:00

Are you experiencing the power of the Spirit for witness? Here is another of the CoJourner radio spots that I have done for MyBridge Radio Network.

Power Play

CoJourner Podcast: Heart Check

2011-12-16T07:33:00.000-08:00

Is your heart (for the lost) healthy? Here is the first of the CoJourner radio spots that I have done for MyBridge Radio Network:

Heart Check

Millenials: Fast Company's InfoGraphic

2011-12-15T14:47:00.000-08:00

In a couple of weeks, I will be sharing with a group of leaders an overview of the changing student culture. It is timely to have Fast Company publish their latest InfoGraphic, "The Blessing and Curse of Being a Millenial." The infographic gives a visual summary of the generation's diversity, political leanings, lifestyle preferences, education and work opportunities. Nice little summary.

Evangelism Like Tomato Gardening (Tim Downs)

2011-11-19T19:13:00.001-08:00

From our friends with Overflow Today...

Backstory on the iPad

2011-11-09T07:35:00.000-08:00

Flying back from Indianapolis last week, I set next to Carl---an engineer returning home on a business trip. A bit of exploring (see CoJourner role: The Explorer) revealed an ex-Catholic who considers himself "spiritual" and believes that the gnostic gospels are equally important as the canonical gospels. Hmm....

As we visited, I asked it I could briefly show him Backstory, a visual synopsis of the Bible. Using my iPad, loaded with a pdf of Backstory (and using the Documents to Go application), I walked him through the seven themes:

Intimacy
Betrayal
Anticipation
Pursuit
Sacrifice
Invitation
Reunion

Expanding each of the seven theme pages (i.e., the left-side photograph pages) to screen size and flipping through them one at a time, it was easy and engaging to briefly walk through and explain the story-line of the gospel. After further discussion, I offered him a printed copy of Backstory (the pamphlet), which he gladly received.

This was the first time I used my new iPad in a conversational witnessing experience. The iPad presentation of Backstory was gorgeous (given the black & white photography that provides the background for each theme.) Using the "up/down swipe" feature, enabled me to share without having to reference or even show the additional content (found on the right-side, white-background pages of Backstory). Knowing that the additional material was available at the swipe of a finger (i.e., right-to-left exposes the right-sde page; left-to-right returns to the photo-theme page) was nice, but not necessary for this conversation.

My conclusion: This will easily become my favorite way to share Christ when in a conversation it becomes appropriate to explain the gospel.

BTW - Carl wasn't anywhere close to receiving Christ (as best as I could discern), but having a positive, engaging conversation, which included the gospel and for which he thanked me, was a gift from God.

Here is a brief video introduction of how I used Backstory, shot with my iPhone video. Its not professional, but perhaps it will help...

I Agree with... Kirk

2011-11-07T11:51:00.000-08:00

Through the years, local Cru ministries have conducted an innovative outreach campaign known as "I Agree With..."

This fall, the Michigan State Cru helped sponsor an "I Agree with Kirk" campaign, featuring the personal testimony of starting MSU quarterback, Kirk Cousins. Here is an article from the Christian post: Michigan State Quarterack Kirk Cousins Talks Faith, Football.

The Gospel (Husker Style)

2011-10-13T10:08:00.000-07:00

Being that it is football season and that years ago I co-led the ministry with the University of Nebraska Huskers football team, and being that the legacy of that ministry has continued through leaders to the team today, I was particularly encouraged when a friend sent me this link...

Husker Football Players Share the Gospel - FCA from Three Pillars Media on Vimeo.

Thank you, Lord, for men who embrace the gospel and extend its reach!

Topography of Faith: Mapping the USA

2011-09-12T15:23:00.000-07:00

USA Today recently published a fascinating graphical depiction of faith in the USA: The Topography of Faith. Based on research done by the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life, the map presents the overall view of the US and yields individual views for each state as you scroll over. Makes for a fascinating few minutes as you try to guess-timate the religious topography of different states and regions.

How did you do?

SuJo John: 9/11 Survivor

2011-09-12T09:07:00.000-07:00

Over the last few years, we have begun to witness momentum grow on college campuses for speakers & programs who present the gospel relevantly. One of those has been SuJo John, a 9/11 survivor. Here is his story.

(Special thanks to our friends in ministry at IamSecond).

A Contextualized Version of Soularium

2011-08-09T13:00:00.000-07:00

Just became aware of the Singapore contextualized version of our very popular, Soularium.

It is called, Frames of Mind.

CruPress User Guide: Check it Out

2011-07-20T16:06:00.000-07:00

Have you seen the 2011-12 CruPress User Guide. Glance here, but go to Crupress Green:

cru - A New Name for CCCI

2011-07-19T21:45:00.000-07:00

Campus Crusade for Christ is in the process of changing its name. Here is the background of the process in a Christianity Today article, "Campus Crusade for Christ changes its Name to Cru".

Framing the Problem of Evil in Animation

2011-06-27T11:49:00.000-07:00

Want help framing and responding to the problem of evil? Here are two animations that could help.

The shorter version (1 min, 46 sec):

And a bit longer response (3:10)

Thots?

Debunking Teen Media Myths

2011-06-23T08:36:00.001-07:00

Just received the latest Research Brief from the Center for Media Research. Helpful summary. Includes stats like:

Out-Text All Other Age Groups: In Q1 2011, teens 13-17 sent an average of 3,364 mobile texts per month, more than doubling the rate of the next most active texting demo, 18-24 year olds (1,640 texts per month)

What does that say about the next generation of freshmen classes? We have to keep figuring out how to better leverage texting in campus ministry!

A couple of "myths" it debunks are:

Teens are NOT abandoning TV for new media: In fact, they watch more TV than ever, up 6% over the past five years in the U.S.

Teens love the Internet...but spend far less time browsing than adults: Teens spend 11 hours and 32 minutes per month online-far below the average of 29 hours and 15 minutes.

Teens watch less online video than most adults, but the ads are highly engaging to them: Teens spend 35% less time watching online video than adults 25-34, but recall ads better when watching TV shows online than they do on television.

Not sure what those mean for ministry, but thought it interesting. Thots?

Question: Social Media & Ministry?

2011-06-22T14:30:00.000-07:00

Social media has evolved...

Via: Online Schools

As social media has evolved, so has ministry and no place more than on campus. What has been your most effective use of social media in ministry?

What is the Gospel? Another Video Sketch

2011-05-25T16:21:00.000-07:00

Here is four-minute video of the gospel, sketched. This version is from Southern Seminary

What is the Gospel? from Southern Seminary on Vimeo.

Thots?

Lasting Influence form Short Term Experiences

2011-05-21T12:03:00.000-07:00

Are summer mission trips worth the investment? Do they lead to lasting impact? Great questions!

Couple those with another set of good questions. What part does the ministry of compassion and social justice play when on a mission of gospel proclamation? How do you wed together good news with good deeds? What happens when you do?

How do these two set of questions relate?

As students are exposed to the needs of the world and experience the difference that the gospel (that is, gospel living and gospel proclaiming) can make, it prepares them for a lifetime of gospel ministry--whether in the U.S. or the world.

That reality is illustrated very well by the University of South Carolina Media Relations article: "USC Retailing Student is Clothed in Hope."

Go, Amy!

30 Seconds...Another 18 yr Old Latino in US

2011-04-07T09:31:00.000-07:00

Here is a 90 sec read from Fast Company on the Hispanic Market in the US. Not just how big it is, but the implications for companies (and organizations). It is worth your minute and a half.

What the Rise of Univision Means for Your Brand

Every 30 seconds a Latino turns 18 years old. Will we be positioned to reach him or her?

Backstory on iPad: Cool View

2011-04-06T10:21:00.000-07:00

My friend and co-worker, RJ, took our work with Life@Large (a seven-chapter, gospel storyline) and created an updated version known as Backstory. We haven't yet pursued creating an "app" for mobile devices. That is coming (we say.) However, I was copied on (another friend and co-workers) DC's e-mail to RJ's on this creative usage:

I shared Christ with a grad student today at Cal using Backstory --- I had him Google search CruPress and download the pdf into his iPad and view on iPad Reader --- looking at it together we flicked the pages back and forth, read out loud scripture, and answered the Q's --- the way it's formatted is beautiful on iPad --- it's 4x it's printed size when you click on a pane and it fills the screen --- 2x the size when "scrolling"--- so easy to read you must try it it you haven't yet --- a quality conversation was had over quality Gospel media --- he's a believer, so I used Backstory to get to know better and to draw out his story --- asked him which of the 7 themes drew him in the most --- he came closer to Christ through the conversation and so did I --- Backstory should get a Grammy for best coffeehouse conversation media for use with an iPad --- I wonder if Backstory could be hosted on campus ministry and personal websites so one could click and drag-the pages and view it similarly to like we did today but with a cursor-- http://crupress.campuscrusadeforchrist.com/files/products/backstory.pdf

Be encouraged. -dc

PS ________, You men have iPads, reply-to-all with your thoughts (viewing it on my MacBook with the Marque Zoom is amazing too) --- let's creatively spread the word about this phenomenon to our students reaching out at Big Break and Spring Breaks everywhere --- and as something new and beautiful to share on campus during Easter Season.

Maybe you should try it too!

The Destino Challenge

2011-03-29T13:07:00.000-07:00

Watching the emergence of national ethnic ministries has been a fascinating learning experience for me.

All my mission training and exposure (both in seminary and since), emphasized the importance of contextualized ministry. Intuitively, we applied contextualized ministry locally, as well, adapting ministry to nature of the campus or community.

But over the last 10-15 years, I have been privileged to associate with (and, perhaps, by the grace of God occassionally assist) ethnically contextualized ministries, Destino being one. So I was delighted to read this blog from my blogging friend "Destinoeric":

The Destino Challenge

What if...? What if hundreds take the challenge?

"In this way the word of the Lord spread widely and grew in power." Acts 19:20 (NIV)

Speak Out: A Case Study in Fruitfulness

2011-03-28T09:45:00.000-07:00

One of the most fruitful student outreaches I have ever had association with is the Speak Out English Camps with Student Venture in Hungary. (I participated while in Hungary with my family in 1995. Two of my kids have returned as counselors in the intervening years.)

For instance, during the summer of 2010, more than a quarter of the 330 Hungarian (primarily) high school students passed through the threshold of faith, trusting Christ as their Savior. Why?

If you examine the design, you could discover principles that make this a high fruit-bearing initiative.

Speakout 2011

What can we learn from Speakout's effective model?

No Secrets

2011-03-28T08:59:00.000-07:00

In an effort to "see healing from the inside out for everyone across the campus, see freedom reign as lives are restored, and see God change us into a people of love, faith, and hope", our friends and fellow-workers at UCSD InterVarsity Christian Fellowship have created No Secrets. Have a look and listen...

Greek InterVarsity: NY Times Report Worth Celebrating

2011-03-08T07:47:00.000-08:00

Very encouraging to read the NY Times article on Greek InterVarsity, Inter Varsity Christian Fellowship's ministry to fraternity and sorority members. Entitled, "Where Raucous in the Norm, Bible Study", the article reveals the greek ministry has 2800 active members in 367 houses on 60 universities! How cool is that?

Earlier this morning, I received from York Moore (IVCF evangelist and leader) this update,

InterVarsity is on campus with the light of Christ reaching over 34,000 students with the gospel! Over 44,000 non-Christian students are being reached and participate regularly in our 500+ campuses...

Evangelical campus ministry is alive, vibrant and growing! God is doing incredible things among this generation of students! That is reason to rejoice!

Changed Life Story: Short Film Strategy

2011-02-27T16:52:00.000-08:00

We've spoken of the Short Film strategy as one of the emerging evangelism strategies. Here is a changed life story, the fruit of this powerful medium...

Easy Monday Witness

2011-02-14T12:23:00.001-08:00

Our friends at the Overflow Today just posted this tip from Kevin Harney (author of Organic Outreach for Ordinary People). These three minutes could help you be more alert to a common opportunity...

Praying for Missional Outreach

2011-02-10T10:14:00.000-08:00

Here are seven scriptural prayers for outreach:

* For the witness of the body through unity. (John 17:23)
* For workers for the harvest to be sent. (Matthew 9:37-38)
* For opportunities to witness. (Colossians 4:3)
* For clarity in our presentation. (Colossians 4:4)
* For the words to say. (Ephesians 6:19)
* For the boldness to speak. (Ephesians 6:20)
* For the gospel to spread rapidly. (2 Thessalonians 3:1)
* For the lost to be saved. (Romans 10:1)

What if we actually prayed these? What if the Lord answered "yes"?

Mission Quotes: John Piper

2011-01-24T07:49:00.000-08:00

Mission quotes from John Piper, speaking at the Denver Winter Conference for CCC, December 2010. This brief video was prepared to reinforce the message of the conference:

GenY and Technology

2011-01-18T14:39:00.000-08:00

I often find helpful insights from Dan Coates (President of YPulse Insights) and Engage GenY. The latest is no exception - Upward Mobility. These are some summary research insights on GenY and technology:

50% of collegians now have a smartphone
9 out of 10 use their phone for talking and texting
Taking photos is the next most common usage (8 of 10)
Sharing photos is next (7 of 10)
About half use their phone to update status on social networks and browse the internet

All this points to the importance of those involved in innovation and ministry to think carefully about the impact and usage of this powerful technology.

Hmm... How are we doing?

Cultural Shifts for Missions in Bhutan

2011-01-17T13:29:00.000-08:00

For those who track missions in South Asia (as I do), there is a fascinating development in the country of Bhutan according to a recent Christianity Today article, entitled, "Bhutan Budges". Two things of note:

The likelihood of Bhutan legalizing registered Christianity.
Registration could serve as a means of regulation.
The current estimate of 6000 believers in Bhutan.

Pray for the gospel to continue to spread with power throughout the country and region!

What is the Maze

2011-01-17T11:55:00.001-08:00

Just read new reports from the Maze. God is doing amazing works through this unique outreach. Jim, whose life took a detour a couple of years ago as a result of a battle with leukemia, shares:

Last week, we had an unforgettable outreach at TCU in Fort Worth, TX. Not only did 1100 students cram into a 600 seat venue to hear the gospel of Jesus Christ, but ....students signed up to become bone marrow donors.

Wow, now there is impact!

If you are unfamiliar with the Maze, check this out:

Do you believe him?

200 Countries, 200 Years, Four minute video

2011-01-05T14:51:00.000-08:00

This is a fascinating video telling the story of 200 countries over 200 years. Educational, without a doubt. But entertaining in the process!

Thanks, Hans Rosling & the BBC. Thanks, Gary, for bringing it to my attention.

Twitter & Me II

2011-01-03T13:44:00.000-08:00

An hour or so ago, I posted "Twitter & Me". Then a Facebook friend posted on my wall the suggestion I checkout klout.com, which I had never done. So, what did I find?

According to Klout, I am an "Explorer" with a score of 35 (on a scale of 100). That sounds fairly mediocre.

But it goes on to say,

You actively engage in the social web, constantly trying out new ways to interact and network. You're exploring the ecosystem and making it work for you. Your level of activity and engagement shows that you "get it", we predict you'll be moving up.

That seems like a fairly accurate description, and it makes me "feel good" with hope for more.

But lest I get to excited, here is the cautionary note from Ecoconsultancy. (I guess if I were a "bot", I'd have more klout.)

As for the prediction, I shouldn't think it would take much to "move (me) up". Just a little more intentionality with my tweets.

Hmm... Maybe I tweet to that.

Twitter & Me

2011-01-03T13:03:00.000-08:00

According to a December 31, 2010 Research Brief from the Center for Media Research, there is this on Tweeters:

According to the first-ever survey reading from Pew Research that exclusively examines Twitter users, 8% of online adults said they do use Twitter, with 2% doing so on a typical day. This survey also showed that 74% of American adults are Internet users, meaning that the Twitter cohort amounts to 6% of the entire adult population.

Wonder what is true of our typical audience--individuals involved in campus ministry and/or evangelism ministries?

In 2010, I dabbled with Twitter, 427 tweets to my now 206 followers. Contemplating now how to upgrade my effectiveness... Or if I should.

Hmm???

Perspective Cards - Website Now Live

2010-12-22T09:18:00.001-08:00

A week ago or so, our Perspective Cards website went live. There are still items to be added, included the training videos. But this at least begins the support of the Perspective Cards. Last I checked, there were more Perspective Cards sold than Soularium for the fall. And I am hearing stories of staff and students on campuses across the U.S. who love using these for spiritual conversations. Check them out!

If you have used them, share a story in the comments of what you think.

Divisions of People

2010-12-21T08:56:00.000-08:00

Divisions of People is a thought provoking video from our friends at InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, shown at Urbana '09. Enjoy...

The Divisions of People from Urbana 09 on Vimeo.

Every Life Has a Story-If You Care to Read it

2010-12-09T15:54:00.001-08:00

One of the principles driving effective exploring in the CoJourner Explorer role is the recognition that "everyone has a story and every story is worth discovering." Seems that Chick-fil-a agrees. Enjoy...

Introducing "The Art of the Four Holy Gospels"

2010-12-08T13:50:00.000-08:00

My last post touched the mixture of business and church--pretty much "left-side of the brain" stuff, don't you think. Well, traversing to the "right-side", what about Art & the Bible? Check this out:

Makoto Fujimura - The Art of "The Four Holy Gospels" from Crossway on Vimeo.

Makoto Fujimura is a writer, speaker, and, of course, world-class artist whose influence (including through the IAM Movement) is significant. I am so thankful for gifted individuals like him who are leading the way in wedding arts and faith!

Our experience increasingly demonstrates the powerful connections between the visual and the spiritual among the emerging generation. Perhaps The Art of the Four Gospels will be another profound display. Wish I could be there to see it!

Fast Company, Willow Creek & the Business World

2010-12-08T13:09:00.000-08:00

The December/January print edition of Fast Company will include a fascinating article, available to you now on-line, entitled, "How Willow Creek is Leading Evangelicals by Learning From the Business World". It is a longer article but worth the read, especially if you want a case study in mixing practical (in this case, business) wisdom with ministry philosophy.

While most of the article features Willow's Leadership Summits, I am intrigued by:

The insights into Bill Hybels as a man and a leader. For instance, "I've been put in a position of influence, and reading is one of the most economical ways to get better at it."
The tensions over Willow's intentional embrace of "secular" wisdom. How would you respond to David Wells critical comment? "Willow Creek has confused what leadership is in a company and what it must be in a church. We're in a very different orbit from the corporate world. Our objective is night-and-day different."
Common quote attributed to Calvin, "all truth is God's truth." Actual quote from his Institutes, "If we believe the Spirit of God is the only fountain of truth, we shall neither reject nor despise the truth itself where it shall appear, unless we wish to insult the Spirit of God." That, of course, frames the discussion around "truth". But is it better framed around "wisdom", and, if so, what difference does that make?
Willow's amazing international influence--"some 53% of the Willow Creek Association's nearly 9,000 congregations are now overseas"-- yet recognizing that the model hasn't worked everywhere, "Two years ago, the association quit India; the cost of putting on an event there...was prohibitive." Intriguing, in part, due to the reality that India is both an emerging global influence (especially in business) and home to a significant portion of the remaining "unreached" peoples for the gospel. That is one location I would expect to be a very high priority.

Of course, it is important to bear in mind, as with any article, you are getting the "author's perspective", and not all can possibly reflect the reality or views of Willow. But it is still a helpful (10-15 minute) read.

Thanks, Willow, and thanks, Fast Company.

The Next Christian - Lyons Interview

2010-12-03T09:11:00.000-08:00

If you haven't seen it yet, you might want to invest the 5 minutes and 36 seconds to watch the ABC News spot: Focus On Faith, entitled, "What's Wrong with Today's Christians?", an interview with Gabe Lyons.

Begins with a recounting of the rise of the Religious Right, including Lyon's "embarrassment" from peoples' perceptions of Christians (think, UnChristian). He also shares his perspective on the "attractional church".

But the greatest value (at least in light of my interests) is his brief insights into the emerging generation of believers as those "restorers". This begins BTW at 3:50 min into the interview.

We have continued to watch (with interest) this growing value among students over the last decade. The tsunami (Dec. '04) began to give initial motion within our movements, accelerating with the response to Katrina and now spilling into more and more campus movements, summer projects, partnerships and collaborative efforts.

Part of "The Changing Landscape of Campus Ministry".

Lausanne: A History Lesson in Missions

2010-11-22T08:33:00.000-08:00

With the conclusion of the Capetown 2010 meetings, and various reports now filtering out through the blogosphere, etc., it seemed appropriate to draw attention of my fellow CoJourner blog-ites to the Lausanne Movement History Video. Its three minutes is a refreshing step into the last century to consider how God has worked.

My favorite quote:

We must have the compassion to answer the honest questions, which men and women have, and this answering the honest questions is also a part of evangelism. (Francis Schaeffer)

True in 1974. Still true today!

This is why the third CoJourner role is "The Builder" - constructing bridges over and beyond the obstacles in the spiritual journeys of others, whether intellectual, emotional or matters of the will, helping them move toward Christ.

A God-Sized Vision: Revival Stories that Stretch and Stir

2010-11-17T12:50:00.000-08:00

Nanci and I are enjoying the reading the early chapters of Hansen & Woodbridge's, A God-Sized Vision: Revival Stories that Stretch and Stir.

What difference can it make? Here is a glimpse...

Chapter 8 "First Comes War, Then Comes Revival: Evangelical Boom, 19402 to 1950s, North America" includes a section on the birth of Campus Crusade for Christ.

Thanks, John, for sending me a copy!

Overflow Show: Going video

2010-11-13T07:32:00.000-08:00

I have drawn attention in the past to the great resources and work of "The Overflow Show". But I hadn't mentioned that the show has moved from audio podcasts to video. Nice.

Here is the latest - a three-minute interview with Greg Koukl, author of Tactics. This deals with religious pluralism. Haven't gotten his book yet, but it is on my list for later.

International Students: Demographics

2010-11-12T12:44:00.000-08:00

According to the Institute of International Education (as quoted in the Colleges of 2010 report, Institute of Higher Education), the 2007-08 Top Places of Origin for International Students in the U.S. are:

1. India - 94,563

2. China - 81,127

3. South Korea - 69,124

4. Japan - 33,974

5. Canada - 29,051

6. Taiwan - 29,001

7. Mexico - 14,837

8. Turkey - 12,030

9. Saudi Arabia - 9,873

10. Thailand - 9,004

Interesting to reflect on these from a missiological point of view. Makes one thankful for the work of Bridges, International and International Students, Inc.

India and China have far more graduate students than undergraduates, Korea and Japan more undergraduates than graduates.

BTW - in 2007-08, there were 623,805 International Students in US, amounting to 3.5% of our total 17,958,000 students (according to the National Center for Education Statistics).

Having been to India this fall and contemplating this emerging global power, it is fascinating to consider that we live at a time and in a place where 94,000 of their brightest and best are present in our country, being shaped through our education for positions of influence. Hmm. Imagine if...

Interesting indeed.

Social Media Revolution

2010-11-11T13:47:00.000-08:00

In the genre of the Did You Know videos, here is The Social Media Revolution:

Had you seen this one already? What did you think?

What are the implications for outreach and evangelism?

Chilean Miner T-Shirts

2010-10-15T18:59:00.000-07:00

You may have noticed on the news coverage of the trapped miners that many emerged wearing a tan t-shirt over their coveralls. If you didn’t notice, then at least CNN did. Here is an “investigative” article about it:

The Story Behind the Chilean Miners' Jesus T-Shirts

But we already knew the backstory, because the shirts were part of a gift from CCC in Chile. Here is a fuller picture of how it happened:

Chile Ministry Helps Trapped Miners

Isn’t it amazing how God works?

Wouldn't you love to hear even more of the stories of how God worked in individual lives in the mine and beyond?

Facebook's Backstory

2010-10-08T09:36:00.000-07:00

Having just posted GenY's usage of Facebook, it may be of interest to consider a bit of the backstory of Facebook -- Hollywood style along with social commentary. Here to do that, is Chuck Colson, in his Breakpoint for the day, "The Social Network: A Crisis of Ethics in America".

GenY: Social Networking

2010-10-08T09:17:00.000-07:00

GenY, that is those born between 1982-2004, are "the first generation in human history to, as children, be more technologically advanced than their parents." So writes Dan Coates, President of Ypulse, in his Engage GenY posting, entitled "Social Network Disconnect". He provides a good summary of GenY social networking preferences, including:

94% of GenY is on Facebook spending 11.4 hours/week there
78% prefer connecting to their preferred social network by mobile phone
55% prefer texting as their primary means of connecting with friends; Facebook (in second place for primary connecting) comes in at 24%

While there may be nothing surprising, it always good to have some of the latest research facts and figures at hand.

Thanks, Dan.

I Once Was Lost

2010-09-21T14:37:00.000-07:00

I was recently loaned Don Everts and Doug Schaupp's book, I Once Was Lost: What Postmodern Skeptics Taught Us About Their Path to Jesus, (IVP, 2008).

Though I am just in the process of becoming familiar with the book, I like what I see already. First, it starts with the audience. Perfect for the CoJourner paradigm (think, Explorer) and much preferable for our audience, as well!

Second, they emphasis the "path" to faith. How much more CoJourner-esque can you get. "Everyone is on a spiritual journey".

But the really valuable contribution is "the five thresholds" that mark similar "seasons of growth" or stages on the path to Jesus. Here is the essence:

The move from distrust to trust.
The move from complacent to curious.
The move from being closed to change to being open to change.
The move from meandering to seeking.
The move across the threshold of the kingdom itself.

Note the progression. Understanding the path helps create true empathy and understanding.

Can you see your own path to Christ through these "thresholds"?

I identify with 2-5.

The Explorer's Invitation

2010-09-15T03:23:00.000-07:00

If you are familiar with the CoJourner paradigm, you know the first role in conversational witness is that of the Explorer. Your ability to help someone progress in their spiritual journey will be tied to your understanding of who they are, where they are and what they have experienced.

So what's the key to effective exploring? Asking questions and listening.

The primary questions (phrased in different ways in different settings) are really variations of a simple invitation, "Tell me about yourself."

Did you have any church or religious background growing up? How was that for you?
What have you tried in your spiritual life or journey?
Where are you at now spiritually?
What do you wish were true for you spiritually?
Etc.

The key is empathy - listening to genuinely understand. Exploring is taking a genuine interest in the other person and their spiritual experience. Its not just finding a transition to a different subject. You will discover that good exploring will open the door to a deeper relationship and often lead to a conversation about your story and the gospel.

Keep sharpening your skills as a CoJourner with others in spiritual journey.

Radical: Whose Reading it?

2010-09-10T12:15:00.001-07:00

Just posted a blog ("Radical: Whose Reading It?") on the newly deployed CruPress Green. I would copy and paste it here, but hey, its just a click away. Plus, you will get to explore all the goodies at CruPress Green, at which new goodies are being added each week.

Characteristics of a Movement - Tim Keller

2010-09-03T13:24:00.000-07:00

Interesting and short piece by Tim Keller on Four Characteristics of a Movement Vs an Institution over at Catalystspace.

While the body of the article is solid, but not particularly surprising, the conclusion is what caused me to pause and reflect:

...part of what makes a movement dynamic is a unified vision, and that always requires some codification and control. As time goes on, to maintain the main engine of movement-dynamics - a unified vision - a ministry must adopt some of the aspects of institutions. A strong movement, then, occupies the difficult space between being a free-wheeling organism and a disciplined organization. A movement that refuses to take on some organizational characteristics - authority, tradition, unity of belief, and quality control - will fragment and dissipate. A movement that does not also resist the inevitable tendency toward complete institutionalization will lose its vitality and effectiveness as well. The job of the movement leader is to steer the ship safely between these two opposite perils (emphasis mine).

I have felt that tension many times!

(Thanks to co-worker, co-leader, Holly, for bringing this article to our attention!)

Sage Advice on Using Research

2010-09-03T07:38:00.000-07:00

I like research, especially when it done by someone else. This is not because I am lazy (though that could be discussed among friends.) It is because I know my strengths—my training, experience and expertise—and high-level statistical social research isn't included. Let’s say I have a BA in Speech Communication and a Masters in Divinity. ‘Nuff said.

I also like all I’ve read by Christian Smith. He is what I am not (a sociologist) and does what I don’t (high-level statistical studies on our audience, particularly youth and emerging adults.) But today I am reflecting, not on his research, per se, but on his sage advice to us who rely on other’s people’s research and ideas. These excerpts are taken from a lecture he gave at Princeton in 2005, following the publication of Soul Searching: The Religious and Spiritual Lives of American Teenagers. Ponder these excerpts:

To begin, we suggest that faith communities would do well to stop accepting and promulgating what may be simplistic generalizations about American youth that originated from various popular book authors, substandard research studies, journalistic coverage of youth, common stereotypes about teens, and so on.

Note the key phrase: "simplistic generalizations"!

We have observed a noticeable tendency when it comes to youth—including among youth ministry workers—to overgeneralize, overstate issues, frame situations in alarmist or fear-based terms, and latch onto simplistic answers to alleged problems. But the fact is that the lives, including the religious lives, of American youth are diverse and complicated.

Four sins (Am I guilty?) or tendencies:

To overgeneralize
To overstate issues
To frame situations in alarmist or fear-based terms
To latch onto simplistic answers to alleged problems

Why these are wrong? Because “the lives, including the religious lives, of American youth are diverse and complicated.” (You can say that again. Oh, I think I just did.)

Thus, religious communities may do well to learn to be more discerning, more skeptical of alarmist claims, less captivated by trendy popular books, and more perceptive about the diversity and complexity of the experience and situation of U.S. teenagers. We suspect that they would likely then be more effective in planning programs, prioritizing initiatives, and working with teens in ways more true to their own traditions and identities and more effective over the long run.

So what we need to be is...

More discerning
More skeptical of alarmist claims
Less captivated by trendy popual books
More perceptive about the diversity and complexity of the experience and situation

What outcome should we expect? We would no doubt be “more effective in planning…, prioritizing…, and working…more true… and effective over the long run.”

Nice lecture from the esteemed professor of Sociology. Wonder if we have to know this for the final?

Resources Galore @ CrupressGreen

2010-08-27T10:53:00.000-07:00

Here is an announcement from our friends at CruPress Green (that is, Rick & Neil).

CruPressGreen.com has launched, offering nearly every chapter of every CruPress resource for free to download. You can instantly download materials like Cru.Comm, The Compass, publicity posters, teaching and training videos, classic Campus Crusade talks, and so much more. It’s easy to use, pretty to look at and just what you need to accelerate Movements Everywhere. Visit CruPressGreen.com and start downloading resources for your ministry.

If you are doing campus ministry, you might find the poster section particularly helpful at this time of year.

A Chartreuse Generation & the Make-up of a Future One

2010-08-27T08:15:00.000-07:00

As I am pouring through my backed up e-mails from the week, two items arrested my attention.

First, the color of this generation. Let's go with chartreuse, not a deep green. This thought was stimulated by MediaPost's, "Chartreuse is the Real Color of GenY". The bottom-line -- much greener in values than in action (at least when it comes to consumption.) Or should we say "hard-core light green"? (Nice epithet, in a positive sense of that word.)

Second, what will be the composition of a future generation of college students? Here from USA Today is a glimpse at the class of 2024: "Kindergartens See More Hispanic, Asian Students". Not surprising. But interesting, none the less. We have fourteen years to get ready for them. Is that in your long-term strategic planning? Does your current plans reflect these changing realities? If not, check out Destino and the Epic Movement.

Ex-Christian II

2010-08-17T16:19:00.000-07:00

Earlier today, I posted on the Barna research with an intro regarding Anne Rice's departure from Catholicism ("Ex-Christians"). Later this afternoon, I received the Christianity Today eNewletter that featured, "Q&A: Anne Rice on Following Christ without Christianity". Since I mentioned the wikipedia quotes, it seems more responsible to include this interview to capture a fuller sense of Ms. Rice's journey.

Ex-Christians

2010-08-17T12:40:00.000-07:00

Barna Research has recently released (Aug 16, 2010) new finding entitled, "Do Americans Change Faiths?"

The report begins with a very brief reference to writer's Anne Rice's public departure from organized or institutional Christianity (i.e. in this case, Roman Catholicism). It is worth reading a bit more about her thoughts and experience, which can be easily done at the Wikipedia article about her. Her departure stems from her experience of "Christians", not of Christ, in whom she continues to confess faith. She writes:

It’s simply impossible for me to “belong” to this quarrelsome, hostile, disputatious, and deservedly infamous group. For ten years, I’ve tried. I’ve failed. I’m an outsider.

How many new believers experience similar? It underscores the need for a community of grace and truth in Christ-centered community.

But within the Barna study itself is this: While one if four adults indicated they had changed from their childhood religion, 12% had left Christian (in some form) for no religion or another religion, while only 3% of the adults left no religion or some other religion for Christianity. Should this alarm us? Remember that 78% of Americans identify themselves as Christians, according to the U.S. Religious Landscape survey (Pew). So the departure numbers are quite consistent with the percentages of "Christians" to non.

Its worth noting that 75% of those in our culture will not deviate from the faith of their childhood. As Kinnaman concludes,

"...the study underscores that the spiritual allegiances of childhood are remarkably sustainable in our society."

Thoughts?

CurPress Green Goes Live

2010-08-16T04:52:00.000-07:00

I return to my blog after a month of travels--half for ministry purposes, half for vacation. In my absence, one of the most exciting developments has been the launch of CruPress Green.

CruPress is the formal publishing arm of the U. S. Campus Ministry of Campus Crusade for Christ. Over the last six or seven years it has developed and distributed (in my biased opinion) an excellent set of tools and resources for campus ministry (and beyond.)

What publisher, Rick James, and editor, Neil Downey, have down with CruPress Green is to take the majority of that "intellectual property", along with extra "goodies", digitize it and provide it free of charge for those doing campus ministry (and beyond). WOW! Great work guys!

Here are some of the highlights:

Resources are generally organized under six categories: Growing Movements, Evangelism, Personal Discipleship, Small Groups, Body Life, and Sending. Each category is packed with articles and resources for download. For example, Evangelism has (currently) 66 downloads available. Small Groups includes thirty three. But even more, all the three years of Bible Study curriculum of Cru.Comm is available under another tab, as is the proven discipleship materials of the Compass.

You need follow-up material? Download the zip file of the Life Concepts for five basic follow-up appointments for free. Of course, the formally published (and thus, much nicer) materials are still available through CruPress. But now you have options.

Also at CruPress Green featured talks given to CCC audiences (conferences, etc.), a blog that is intended to tap into the writing of various USCM leaders, and the newly developed C456:Taking Conversations to a New Level videos.

This is not just a tool box. It is a treasure chest of resources for campus ministry!

Diminishing Teen Witness - Barna Study

2010-07-21T15:48:00.000-07:00

Interesting new Barna study on "How Teenagers Faith Practices are Changing". The study suggests a significant decline in believing teens attempts to witness.

Believing teenagers were asked if they had attempted to explain their religious beliefs to someone else with different religious beliefs with a hope that they might receive Jesus Christ as Savior. In 1997, 63% of "born-again" youth answered affirmatively. In December 2009, that number had dropped to 45%.

What does this suggest to those involved in campus ministry? Is the culture's aversion to dialogue about matters of faith taking its toll on youth witness?

My experience suggests that Christian students still desire to witness, but not necessarily in the "forms" that have been handed down from previous generations. This was a large part of the motivation behind the development of CoJourners.

Cru Video from Texas Tech

2010-07-17T09:14:00.000-07:00

Wonder what campus ministry looks like in the 21st Century? Here is a great video glimpse of the Cru (Campus Crusade for Christ) Ministry at Texas Tech.

Supreme Court Ruling: IVCF President Responds

2010-07-08T13:45:00.000-07:00

Different ministries (including ours) are in the process of assessing the potential impact of the Supreme Courts ruling in the June 28th "Christian Legal Society vs. Martinez" (Hastings Law School) decision and charting a path forward.

I had provided an earlier link to one legal experts opinion.

Here is a response from Alec Hill, President of Intervarsity Christian Fellowship: "Is the Christian Legal Society's Loss a Loss for Everyone?"

Mission Shift: From Good News to Good Deeds

2010-07-02T12:32:00.000-07:00

Wall Street Journal published a fascinating article by Brad Greenberg on the shift in missions from "preaching the gospel" to "serving the needy". It is entitled, "How Missionaries Lost their Chariots of Fire" and is worth the 3-4 minutes to read.

Supreme Court Ruling

2010-07-01T13:50:00.000-07:00

There has been a fair amount of conversational stir created by the recent Supreme Court ruling, CLS vs Martinez. Since I am not a lawyer, I will refrain from adding my ignorance to the discussion. However, since others (like me) would like some perspective, I offer this link from Jesus Creed:

Christian Legal Society vs. Martinez: "T" Weighs In

Q Conference

2010-06-21T14:31:00.000-07:00

ABC News did an interesting interview at the Q Conference on the "End of Christianity", as embraced by, well, Christians.

Thoughts?

Random Evangelism? Stop it!

2010-06-03T07:13:00.000-07:00

"Random Evangelism" is a phrase I have heard often in my 30 plus years of ministry. I have heard it again a couple of times lately. But I wish it would go away. Why? Because there is no such thing of "random evangelism", at least for a Christ-centered, Spirit-filled witness.

The phrase "random evangelism" is used to describe the process of approaching strangers for the purpose of witness. But the word "random" means "lacking any definite plan or order or purpose; governed by or depending on chance".

Since "evangelism is first and foremost a work of God" (a phrase I commonly use when teaching our Evangelism Model), it cannot be random unless God is not in it. The phrase "random evangelism" is a very man-centric view of evangelism and leaves one with an entirely wrong impression (or worse, the wrong mindset.)

I doubt this phrase is used broadly in Christian circles. But there is a certain ministry, of whom I am very fond, who has this ingrained in their language. My counsel is, (to quote Bob Newhart) "Stop it!"

I don't mean stop the practice of engaging strangers for the purpose of witness. The Sovereign God, Lord of the Harvest, still delights to work through such conversations when they are guided by his Spirit, motivated by love and practiced with genuine sensitivity and situational appropriateness. My counsel is to stop calling this "random".

Law & Gospel

2010-05-17T04:33:00.000-07:00

Run, run, and work, the law commands, But gives me neither feet nor hands; But sweeter sounds the gospel brings, It bids me fly, and gives me wings. (Spurgeon)

The Illuminated Atheist

2010-05-15T10:25:00.001-07:00

I have a casual interest in reading the writings and considering the thinking of atheists. I am generally intrigued by their logic, fascinated by their experience and concerned for their well-being. I don't have the time (or probably more honestly, the desire) to be an avid reader of their writings or engage deeply in on-going dialogue, but my interest is genuine.

So I take note of things like Fast Company's article: "Atheism Gets a Much Needed Rebranding". The intriguing quote is,

"Atheism is quite often mistakenly seen as a cold and distant world, rather than the beautiful, important, and engaging philosophy that it is," says Matt Luckhurst, a student in the School of Visual Arts Designer as Author MFA program.

It intrigues me to consider in what sense does an atheist see their philosophy of "beautiful"? "Important" and "engaging" are easier to understand. But the beauty of atheism? Intriguing.

Fortunately, Matt has provided a glimpse into reality as he perceives it with his website The Illuminated Atheist. It's mission is thus:

Illuminated Atheist is a website dedicated to making stories and writings of non-theism by illuminating them with exceptional artwork, design and photograpchy: subverting the concept of illuminated manuscripts the church once used to socialize its ideas. For those void of religion and full of belief.

"Void of religion and full of belief". A very winsome description of atheism. I'm looking forward to perusing this site more.

Return to Blogging

2010-05-15T10:17:00.000-07:00

Been awhile since I have actively blogged. What does that suggest about the last two months? Yep, it is true. I have had my margin sucked up and energies focused on the ministry at hand. That is actually a good thing -- it means that I have been privileged to see God at work in many ways over the last two months.

Now that the summer slow-down is beginning (hopefully this is true and not just blind optimism), I intend to return to the things that I have learned, seen and experienced through the spring. I trust that this will have value to those of you who return to this blog.

Thanks for your engagement with me!

As Paul wrote & NIV translated...
"...to win as many as possible...by all possible means..." (1 Cor. 9:19, 22)
Keith

Design Thinking

2010-04-05T13:16:00.000-07:00

Beginning to examine Design Thinking and its implications for innovation in ministry. I asked one of my brothers who works as a consultant of Architecture and Engineer executives to recommend a couple of books on the subject for me. His three recommendations are:

Martin, Roger. The Design of Business (2009).
Brown, Tim. Change by Design (2009).
Farson, Richard. The Power of Design (2008).

I had a chance to read the intro to Martin's book. Compared mentally the innovation and design of what we now know as McDonalds (restaurants) and Campus Crusade for Christ. Fascinating! The mystery (of reality), leading to a "heuristic" (insight), that was reproduced over and over again by some "algorithm". If that doesn't make sense, well, you will have to read the beginning of The Design of Business. And when you do, the lights will turn on! They did for me.

Prayer and Faith

2010-03-19T06:19:00.000-07:00

"When faith ceases to pray, it ceases to live." (E.M. Bounds, The Necessity of Prayer)

Three Kinds of People

2010-03-18T04:55:00.001-07:00

There are three kinds of people:

Those who pursue wrong things
Those who pursue the right thing, but in a wrong way
Those who pursue the right thing, in the right way

Though the first two look very different, both paths are disastrous. A skilled CoJourner must distinguish between the two and helping BUILD appropriate bridges for each.

It is these realities that Paul applies in Romans 9:30-10:13.

Group 1: The Gentiles did not pursue righteousness (9:30; compare Rom 1:18-32; 3:10-18).
Group 2: The Jews pursued righteousness as if it were based on works, seeking to establish their own righteousness (9:31-10:3; compare 2:1-3:20).
Group 3: But righteousness (the right thing) is from God by faith through Christ (9:30, 32-33; 10:3, 4; compare 3:21ff).

[21st Century moralism is a weak sister to 1st Century legalism. But both seek what is right in the wrong way. 21st Century amoralism appears just as strong a sibling as 1st Century immorality.]

How skilled are we at diagnosing a person's condition? At helping them understand their issue? At GUIDING them to faith in Christ?

"How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!" (Romans 10:15).

Old Testament Gospel

2010-03-08T06:34:00.000-08:00

Over the last 18 months, I have been studying (meditating upon; praying over; etc.) the book of Romans. (I have made it into chapter 10 now.) It has been a delightful exploration of the riches of the gospel. It has not changed my views of the gospel, though it has significantly deepened my understanding of it. Even more important it has changed me, as I have dug deeper and deeper into the profound truths encapsulated in this marvelous letter of the Apostle Paul.

Over the last few days, I have discovered another (previously un-mined by me) aspect of Paul’s writing—his use of the Old Testament. One can’t help but noting how often he quotes OT writers throughout the book. But I hadn’t stopped and focused on this aspect until now.

What have I discovered? Depending on how you count verses and occurrences, the OT is clearing quoted or referenced about 87 times in the letter. Given that there are 433 verses in Romans, that means 20% is OT. Think about it—Paul’s most complete articulation of gospel theology is one-fifth Old Testament.

Imagine sitting down for hours with someone explaining Jesus Christ as Lord, what he has done for us in salvation and why, and one fifth of all you say is drawn from the OT. What a profound understanding of the Law, prophets and Psalms that would require.

A couple of other observations to note: Twenty-four quotations are from Isaiah (the most of any OT book). That is a quarter of all Paul’s numerous references. More than half of those (15) are found in Romans 9-11 where Paul unpacks the implications of God’s sovereign grace and plan for the people of Israel and the Gentile nations. Implication: If you want to understand Romans (and the gospel) more fully, you must understand Isaiah more completely.

The second most quoted book is the Psalms. I count 19 quotations from the Psalms. While I have now examined each of the Isaiah quotes in context, I have yet to do the same for the Psalms. That is next (I assume.) Genesis and Deuteronomy are the next most frequent with (about) nine each.

Given Genesis, Deuteronomy, Psalms and Isaiah, how well (i.e. how complete and clearly) could you communicate the gospel?

Challenging thoughts. Rich reflections. Hope it spurs your thinking, as well.

Our Semi-Literate Society

2010-03-07T10:09:00.000-08:00

Stephen Perk announced the cessation of the regular publishing schedule of Christianity & Society, the bi-annual journal of the Kuyper Foundation. I am struck by the reasons given—reasons which highlight the change in society and the communication of information, and more importantly ideas.

Three reasons are given: First, the volume of essays submitted for publication has significantly declined. Why? “Essays get published immediately on the internet on websites and blogsites.” Second, they have other projects to pursue. But it is the third that I draw attention to here.

“…that British society (possibly even Western society generally) is becoming semi-literate. The number of people who can be reached by intelligent literature is declining drastically. …we no longer have: a literate society.”

Perk relates a couple of examples of this sad reality. One is as follows: “…when I recently tried to organise a non-fiction reading group, I was told by one person whom I approached as a possible member of the group: “I got through college without reading any books, why should I start now?”

As he draws his thoughts to a close, he makes this observation:

“If we do communicate the message of the gospel effectively to our society in a way that most people can understand, and the result is the re-Christianising of the nation, this will eventually produce a literate society, because wherever Christianity has gone this has been the result. Christianity is a religion of the book.”

Is he right? Christianity is certainly the religion of the Book. And it is certainly the case since the Reformation, fueled in part by the fruit of Gutenberg’s movable type, that literacy has been tied to Christian education and missions. It is evidenced in the Bible translation work of global missions.

But communication media have changed, and not for the first time. The oral society gave way to the literate. The literate society has given way to the broadcast society. And now the broadcast society is yielding to the rise of the digital. Rex Miller has explored these changes in The Millenial Matrix.

Where will this lead? How will it impact not only the spread of the gospel (in relation to the breadth of its reach) but the embrace of the gospel (the depth of its influence on lives and society)?

Spring Break, Big Break & Help for Haiti

2010-03-02T10:54:00.000-08:00

This news item...

A wedding of Good News (the gospel) with Good Deeds (acts of compassion, meeting real need.)

The Folly of Indifference: Making Sense of It All (2)

2010-02-14T05:44:00.000-08:00

It makes a difference where you are. Really. That sounds simple enough, so simple that it hardly needs said. But given our tendency (as people busy with life) to avoid thinking about ultimate issues, it must be said. It makes a difference where you are.

I am spending a delightful five day visit with my daughter and her husband. I am a guest in their home and that makes a difference. Now my daughter loves me and is a most gracious host, looking after my needs and pleasures. But it makes a difference that I am here and not in my home. Despite her warm hospitality, making her home and possessions available to me, I observe that I restrict myself from making use of things as if I owned them. I am quite comfortable and happy, but I certainly limit my behavior in ways to be an appropriate guest. If I were in my home, I would exercise much greater freedom. In a context where I own it all, I can (and would) do what I want with whatever I want. You make think me foolish in what I do with my stuff, but you wouldn’t fault me for behaving differently in my home than while a guest at my daughter’s.

What does this have to do with ultimate matters, you ask? Everything, because it makes a difference where you are.

If we find ourselves in a universe that is merely physical, shaped only by forces of cause and effect, it will make a difference how we live. If this world happens to be a home that is deeply spiritually, but in an impersonal sort of way, governed by laws of karma (i.e., beware, its all coming back to you, at least eventually), well that too should make a difference on how you live. But if this cosmos is the possession and dwelling of a supreme being, who has not only created us but invited us to stay within this one’s abode, well, you better believe that would (or should) make a difference in how we live. Especially if this One cares deeply about how we treat other guests and make use of It’s generous provisions.

Context matters.

We live all of life adapting to our context. How I behave at the office is different than how I behave at home. How I behaved at school, is different than how I now behave at work. (Though my former teachers may have wished for a little better adaptation on my part.) It is only reasonable that we adapt. Likewise, it is only reasonable that we adapt life to the ultimate context we find ourselves within. And if we don’t know what context we are in, then it is only reasonable to seek to find out. We certainly wouldn’t want to be a slovenly guest, would we?

Indifference (on ultimate matters) is not only folly, it is highly inappropriate.

Making Sense of It All (1)

2010-02-13T07:02:00.000-08:00

I just finished reading Thomas V. Morris’ Making Sense of It All. I read it on the recommendation of a friend, Dave. Now I must admit Dave made this recommendation fifteen years ago when we were spending a summer together doing ministry in Keszthely, Hungary. But I never forgot the recommendation and finally this winter, I bought and read the book. I’m glad I did.

First, I must say I became a bit intrigued by the life journey (or what I have been able to discern of it) of the author, Tom Morris: a philosopher, former Notre Dame professor (and apparently a very popular one at that), now a “public philosopher” (or at least he has his own institute) working with corporations. Hmm… curious, indeed. I think I would like to meet the man, if Providence should ever orchestrate it.

But I have also become more intrigued by Pascal and his insights into life, captured for posterity in the classic collection known as Pensées. My real introduction (at least the one that caught my attention) came from seminary professor and mentor, Dr. Robert Coleman. I now wonder how Dr. Coleman, a man whose life has been defined and shaped by his Lord’s Great Commission, became interested in Pascal. Maybe I shall ask next time I have an opportunity.

But the question, you make ask, is what does all this have with my life and thoughts as a CoJourner? Well, I am growing convinced that Pascal offers us insight for the 21st Century post-postmodern (or whatever it is you’d like to call our world of thought and culture today.) He is a Guide par excellence. So I intend (and you know what often happens with good intentions) to reread this book (something I very rarely do. In fact, truth be told, though I love books and “read” many, I find very few books valuable enough to me to complete the reading the first time. ) I want to “harvest” valuable insights from this work to see if it can help me (a common Guide, in the CoJourner sense) “make sense of it all” for others on the journey of life.

Backstory: This Is Why I Sat Here

2010-02-12T14:48:00.000-08:00

I sat next to a 33-year-old, Chicago businessman on a flight Thursday. An alumnus of a school with a strong basketball program, he asked who I rooted for. Being an graduate of Nebraska, I said, “We don’t have much to root for in basketball. But football is another story.” I then raised the “spiritual flag” by mentioning that I was in Christian ministry and had led the ministry for 7 seasons with the NE Cornhuskers back in the late 80’s and early 90’s.

“Are you a minister?” he asked. That started one of the most amazing spiritual conversations I have had in a while. I EXPLORED asking questions and listening: his church connections (limited, but he does like Willowcreek), answers to prayer that he and his mother have seen (amazing), his relationships (feels some guilt over them), his own spiritual journey. He said he didn’t understand Jesus, the Trinity, or why he had to die on the cross. He preferred to go “straight to the source” in prayer.

I asked if I could take a shot at explaining why Jesus had to die. “Sure,” he replied.

So I pulled out my Bible and napkin. I showed him Romans 6:23 and drew the “one-verse” diagram. We talked through it very slowly and clearly, making sure he understood each word and all three phrases. “Does this make sense?”

“Yes, but it brings up a hundred more questions,” he said. “Like what?” I asked.

That launched us into another hour of questions and answers: regarding eternal life and living life to the full in the present; re: self-centered marriages vs. Christ-centered marriage; regarding the sin of those who lived before Jesus died; regarding reading the Bible and the difference between the four gospels.

I gave him a copy of Backstory and explained the story behind it, walking him through the 7 themes. As I focused on the response pages, I asked, “Is this true?” “Wow, I don’t know. Maybe I am just afraid of commitment,” he answered.

As we were landing, I gave him my e-mail and said we would be praying for him. I asked if he did make the decision to trust Christ as his Savior and Lord, would he write me and let me know? “Oh, I am sure you will be hearing from me. You will be the second to know” (i.e. after his mother).

“I think this is why I chose to sit here,” he said as he was getting up. Indeed, I am sure it was!

Backstory: The Story that Makes Sense of Our Stories

2010-02-12T10:27:00.000-08:00

Very excited to announce the publication (and availability) of Backstory! Even more excited about the very conversation I had in which I used Backstory, two days ago on a flight between Chicago and KC . Amazing! The story will have to wait until a future (next?) post. For now, let me introduce Backstory to you.

Ten years ago we made our first attempt at telling the storyline of the gospel (creation to return) using seven themes. It was published as Life@Large. (This is an early flash version of it. Click on the yellow arrows for navigation. Notice there is both a conversational view - upper - and storyline - lower). It was featured in a chapter I wrote entitled "The Gospel for a New Generation" in D.A. Carson's book, Telling the Truth: Evangelizing Postmoderns. It was fashioned using the best thinking we could assemble at the time, though much of that thinking was "theory", not "proven wisdom". Through the intervening decade, we saw it used in a variety of settings (including over a million copies distributed as part of the Fallen, Not Forgotten remembrance booklet in NYC following 9-11.) It was also translated in a handful of languages (including Italian) and used in a variety of global contexts.

But in the ten years since we have learned a lot about communicating the gospel storyline. Those lessons have helped shape Backstory. You can download a pdf to view it. But let me give you a quick idea of how to use it.

The backbone of the presentation is found the black, photo pages (left-side). These walk you through the seven themes, with brief explanation and a Bible verse.

Intimacy (Creation)
Betrayal (Fall)
Anticipation (OT promise of a Savior)
Pursuit (life of Christ)
Sacrifice (death and resurrection)
Invitation (the present age of salvation)
Reunion (the age to come)

These are the pages you would normally use as the focus of a conversation.

The corresponding white pages (right side) provide conversational questions for exploring the thoughts and experience of each other, or questions to help bring greater understanding. There are also points explanation (such as, "Crosswords" based on Romans 3:23-25) and apologetic touch points (such as, prophecies of a Messiah in Micah 5:2 and Isaiah 7:14). You use these as needed or appropriate.

If you read aloud the intro, the black theme (photo) pages, "Your Thoughts" and "Turning Point" page, there is seven and a half minutes of content. By adding the questions and explanations on the white (additional info) pages, the conversation can become as long and deep as you both desire. (My amazing plane conversation with "J." was a couple of hours.)

Hope you enjoy exploring Backstory. Hope even more that you have the privilege of helping others discover the story that makes sense their stories.

Teens Online: Pew Survey Results

2010-02-05T13:15:00.000-08:00

Pew Survey: Teens Love Facebook, Hate Blogging, Are Always Online, and Don't Use Twitter

Short Term Missions - Who Benefits Most?

2010-01-29T08:42:00.000-08:00

I was reading an article by Paul Borthwick (among other pursuits, a missions prof at Gordon College) entitled, "In Defense of Short-Term Missions" at RoundTripMissions.com. Paul shares a cautious defense of short-term missions. I was struck by the following observation:

When speaking to a group of short-term mission leaders about my concerns regarding the short-term mission trend, I commented that the short-term mission movement was “arguably the first time in Christian mission history where the mission is being is being done for the benefit of the missionary.”
After my observation, I re-read the encounter of Peter with Cornelius in Acts 10. For the first time I realized that my comment was wrong. Peter's “short-term mission” to Cornelius is arguably more life-changing for Peter than it was for Cornelius. (Will Willimon calls this Peter’s “second conversion.”)

I don't remember ever making the connection with Peter and Cornelius before. But it is worth pondering. Did you notice that statement "is arguably more life-changing for Peter"? Though I appreciate his insight and intent (and article in general), I wonder if Mr. Borthwick isn't wrong again in his conclusion at this point. It seemed profoundly life-changing for both -- Peter's world-view and ministry philosophy shattered; Cornelius's life (and household) transformed for now and eternity.

It reminds of my youngest son's experience on the Hungarian Speak Out '07 project. The experience was profound in his life--stepping out in faith and seeing God use him. And yet, by the grace of God, he was also used profoundly in the lives of some Hungarian youth--so much so that I heard unsolicited stories of his impact again last month.

Who benefits most in short-term missions? My genuine hope and prayer is that the answer is "both...and", not "either...or". That is the end we should seek.

Destino - Gaining Ground

2010-01-28T06:09:00.001-08:00

One very encouraging front in campus ministry is seeing the establishment of Destino -- a national ministry to Hispanic students. This young ministry is making progress in reaching this significant and growing segment of the student population. I just read an update from Jim Sautner, the National Director. Here are a couple of highlights:

80 students showed up to (their winter conference); about 65 showed up last year.
Last year, we had 10 Destino staff. This year we have 21 Destino staff. And in the last 3 weeks, a couple from St. Louis committed to joining Destino staff, I’ve had conversations with 7 others who are seriously considering joining Destino staff full-time, and (another) just crossed-over from Field Strategies to Destino staff at Texas A&M!

Last year, we had 239 students involved in 21 Destino movements. This year, we have 415 students involved in 40 movements. Last year we had 1 Destino summer project and this year we have 3 Destino summer projects. There is movement in the Destino movement!

Very encouraging indeed!

Next Destino event: Destino Winter Conference - East Coast (another first!)

Student's Media Habits: E-mail Still Happens

2010-01-25T10:53:00.000-08:00

A glimpse into research on Gen Y & media:

The Fluid Nature Of Gen Y's Media Habits

The two paragraph summary of college students' habits is clear and concise. But nothing too surprising. Just confirms what we already see.

Perhaps most helpful is the explanation of students' use of e-mail:

College students' email use also spikes during this time. This is driven by multiple life stage events ranging from the need to manage bank and credit card accounts, which deliver paperless statements via email, to interacting with professors and prospective employers, to getting coupons and offers (critical for survival on a limited budget). It is also driven by a recent surge in smartphone adoption among college students that correlates with increased email use.

Perhaps e-mail isn't as dead as some have suggested.

Evangelizing Protestants: Catholics Come Home

2010-01-19T13:10:00.000-08:00

Those involved in witness in the US (and many global contexts) often encounter individuals of the Roman Catholic background--at times practicing, more often than not, not. In this context it is helpful to be aware of Roman Catholic efforts to call their lapsed (and other unchurched and underchurched individuals) home.

Chris Castaldo, Pastor of Outreach at College Church, Wheaton, has written a Speaking Out column for Christianity Today entitled, "Catholics Come Home?" If you are unfamiliar with these efforts, it may be a quick introduction for you.

Question God -- Keller's Site for Exploration

2010-01-19T12:29:00.000-08:00

Was just introduced to Tim Keller's website, Question God. (Thanks, Ryan.)

Haven't had a chance to do more than glance over it. But it looks like a valuable repository of talks (and thus insights and wisdom) from a gifted communicator of the gospel.

Perhaps I'll post more later. But for now, what do you think?

Stats Abuse: An Evangelical Tendency

2010-01-15T17:19:00.000-08:00

Fascinating article by Stetzer, President of Lifeway Research, entitled, "Curing Christians Stats Abuse." While it doesn't often a "cure", it does provide insight into the state of Evangelical Christianity in the U.S. Stetzer's conclusion:

"Reports of Christianity's demise in America have been greatly exaggerated."

The article begins debunking a couple of the popular abuses of statistics found among Evangelicals with a cause to promote. Is the abuse intentional or just misguided? I trust the later.

Two thirds of the way through the article, Stetzer has a section entitled (and summarizing) "What does the Good Research say?" It is worth taking a moment and skimming down there, even if you don't have time for the whole article.

The insights of the article are not only valuable in better understanding the use of stats, but this section on "Good Research" compiles a helpful glimpse of the state of religion in our culture. Implications for evangelism?

Mystical America

2010-01-14T05:10:00.000-08:00

Pew research report, "Many Americans Mix Multiple Faiths" (Dec 9, 2009)...

Nearly half of the public (49%) says they have had a religious or mystical experience, defined as a "moment of sudden religious insight or awakening." This is similar to a survey conducted in 2006 but much higher than in surveys conducted in 1976 and 1994 and more than twice as high as a 1962 Gallup survey (22%).

More evidence of the spiritual orientation of (post-)postmodern America.

The Apostolic Church Planter -- Paul's Work

2010-01-13T14:00:00.000-08:00

Interesting thought:

We are wise to observe that Paul planted approximately 13 churches in his lifetime. The apostle was far more concerned with building quality—"gold, silver, and precious stone"—than he was with amassing big numbers (see 1 Cor. 3).

Except from Why Organic Church Is Not Exactly a Movement

Short Film - Emerging Strategy 2

2010-01-05T14:24:00.000-08:00

As we help create safe relational contexts for significant spiritual conversations, one of emerging outreach resources is short film. A major catalyst in the genre of short film has been the Damah Film Festival.

Our efforts to tap into this growing genre of short film have coalesced with the Global Short Film Network. Over fifteen short films are available there for viewing and for download (for nominal fee) to use in conversational witness. I first blogged about this emerging strategy back in the summer of '08.

The growth and impact of these short film was recently displayed at Urbana '09. The California Chronicle has just published an article regarding this entitled, "Young Evangelicals Embrace Film as a New Missionary Tool". From the article:

...this was the first year that Urbana organizers decided to tap into the younger generation's interest in film in a big way.

"At Urbana '03, there wasn't a peep about film or filmmaking, and in '06 there were two discussions that brought in about 50 people," said Nathan Clarke, 34, a documentary filmmaker with Fourth Line Films who organized this year's Urbana Film Festival and Forum.

This year, organizers devoted three formal sessions to the subject, screening six films. The festival drew more than 1,000 students to the sessions, and also to smaller workshops, round tables, lectures and one-on-one meetings in which students could get critiques on their film pitches.

While requiring a bit of "art" (more than science) in using conversationally, it is encouraging to see believers increasingly engaged in this form of "art" and using it to engage the culture. Check out the training for using these conversationally at GSFN's site.

Millenial Hispanics

2009-12-23T06:47:00.000-08:00

Here is a very helpful research summary of Millenial Hispanics -- based on Pew Research Center studies, but summarized by MediaPost. Deserves more thoughtful interaction than I have time for at the moment, but wanted to at least make it available to you.

Facebook's Reign -Only Site that Matters for College Students

2009-12-18T06:25:00.000-08:00

For today's college students, Facebook is the only social networking site that matters. That is the conclusion of a new study released by Anderson Analytics. While that may not come as too much of a surprise, there are a couple insights worth noting:

All other social networking sites studied were considered "lame" by students. Guess there really isn't any up and coming sites threatening Facebook's position any time soon.
Blogs are declining among students (down 8%). Maybe they are spending so much time communicating on Facebook, they no long have time to blog.
Hulu.com now ranks among students' top-ten favorite web-sites. The migration of TV and video watching to internet streaming is underway! Still watching the shows, just through a different delivery system.

My favorite quote:

"With its increasing variety of applications and flexibility, Facebook is delivering one-stop shopping... (in a) hyper-fragmented digital universe... (it) is becoming more of a hub than just a social networking site - almost a mass medium... " opined Anderson.

Barnardo's: Change a Child's Life

2009-12-09T15:43:00.000-08:00

This is a convergence of a couple areas of interest. First, the story and legacy of Christ-centered, gospel-shaped individuals serving others with compassion. The second is creativity in telling a story.

Through the later, I became aware of this powerful commercial for Barnardo's:

Captured by the images, I wanted to figure out what Barnardo's is, which led to to who Barnardo was. Thomas Barnardo was an Irish doctor, who while preparing for the mission field to serve with the China Inland Mission, came upon his life work among the homeless children of London and the United Kingdom.

I really know nothing much about Barnardo's today, save what I just read on the web. But the legacy of Thomas Barnardo is challenging. Is it not?

Evangelizing Postmoderns Revisited

2009-12-05T07:10:00.000-08:00

In 1998, I had the privilege of working with Dr. D.A. Carson and others from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in co-sponsoring "Telling the Truth", a three-day conference focused on evangelism in a postmodern age. As I shall be presenting a two-part workshop at Encounter '09 conference in Greensboro on "Evangelism in a Postmodern Age", I picked up "Telling The Truth" (the book which compiled our conference talks from '98) to see what has changed -- what we have learned since then. Interesting exercise that will perhaps (if I'm ambitious enough) will provide the grist for future blogs.

The first chapter is by Ravi Zacharias exploring, "An Ancient Message, through Modern Means, to a Postmodern Mind".

The most memorable line from Ravi's talk was the probing question,

"How do we communicate the gospel to a generation that hears with it eyes and thinks with its feelings?"

A decade later, is that still the question? Does that hit the bulls eye in defining the issue?

If so, are we communicating better now than ten years ago? My answer is "definitely" -- but more on why later.

Your thoughts?

A ChaCha Glimpse of Research

2009-12-04T13:22:00.000-08:00

It is the midst of tracking student issues and attitudes, it is sometimes refreshing getting a quick read on how they are feeling "at the moment". Christmas time certainly qualifies as a distinctive moment to check in. Susan Marshall, Vice President of Marketing at ChaCha, shares what they are hearing from their constituents in MediaPost's "Bah Humbug!"

ChaCha has received almost 2 million questions over the last few days. Interestingly, about 43,000 related to depression and the holidays. Hmm... That is interesting.

What concerns ChaCha users? Overwhelming concerns: The Future. College. Jobs. The Economy.

Their research shows what was number one the gift wish -- electronics. (That clue should help you do your Christmas shopping.)

What is NOT surprising?

It's pretty obvious that they really want to be connected and to feel loved, especially during these uncertain times.

No surprise there...

CoJourners: Power of Metaphor

2009-12-04T10:44:00.000-08:00

Aristotle wrote:

"The greatest thing by far is to be a master of metaphor."

That may be an overstatement (or miscalculation of greatness). Certainly we can come up with something greater.

But it hints at why CoJourners has been so well received. It utilizes five metaphors in evangelism:

Journey: As the overarching metaphor for life, witness is joining others in their spiritual journey.
Explorer: Discovering where people are at in their journey.
Guide: Showing the way to Jesus.
Builder: Constructing pathways over or around the obstacles keeping others from Christ.
Mentor: Encouraging others on in their journey with Christ.

Master these five metaphors and you will be a "great" witness! Wonder what Aristotle would think of that?

I Am Second - One Year Anniversary

2009-12-03T16:58:00.000-08:00

Last February, I wrote a brief post regarding "I Am Second". Keeping my eye on such initiatives, it seems fitting to note its one-year anniversary by linking to Christian Today's article "I am Second Teaches Christians Evangelism without the Script".

The article reports the site has had 1.7 million visitors worldwide, while originally considering it a local (Dallas-Ft. Worth) initiative. Guess that is why it is called the World Wide Web.

"I Am Second" is brought to you by e3 Partners. You have to impressed with the intellectual flexibility of a ministry who can create the low-tech Evangecube and hi-tech, hi-quality "I Am Second" campaign!

Design for Discipleship: A Primer for Disciple Makers

2009-11-25T13:17:00.000-08:00

A year ago, I mentioned working on an article (actually, a transferable concept) about discipleship. I now recognize, I never posted its completion.

So, here it is:

Design for Discipleship: A Primer in Disciple Makers

There is a pdf sample that can be downloaded for review.

"Bait & Switch" - Does the End Justify the Means?

2009-11-25T07:38:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I listened with special interest to the Nov 6th edition of This American Life, entitled "Bait and Switch".

During the 2nd Act, "Raw Sex", host Ira Glass (who identifies himself in this segment as an atheist) interviews two personalities regarding "bait and switch" evangelism. Dave Dickerson shares two experiences with Campus Crusade for Christ (I take it as a newly involved student, though the time-frame is never indicated). Jim Henderson discusses "doable evangelism" -- i.e., noticing others, listening to others and ____ (I forget the third element. Ah, my aging memory)--as a alternative to bait and switch approaches.

Three quick observations:

1. I appreciate and respect Ira Glass. He did an excellent job in the interviews, probing and exposing, yet not bashing. He is, of course, an entertaining radio personality and this edition of This American Life is enjoyable and thoughtful.

2. Dickerson's interview is a good challenge to us who witness. How do we engage others openly, capturing their interest and communicating the gospel message with relevance, without slipping into the ditch of "bait and switch"? [Note: The integrity of surveys was one of the reasons we framed QuEST (Questions Exploring Students Thinking) as, not a survey, but an interview that would yield helpful information to be used for a variety of national purposes (which it has.) No bait and switch in this.] But this discussions should also cause us to reflect upon how others are experiencing our outreach efforts--whether young believers involved with us or the audience that we reach out to.

3. Henderson's work at normalizing relationships with those who do not (yet) know Christ and engaging them appropriately has been helpful for many. But I was most intrigued by Glass' probing if it doesn't slide into the other ditch -- all relationship, no message. Given Glass' self-disclosed unbelief, he astutely exposes relationships-only approach as "all bait, no switch." Fascinating.

But taken as a whole, the interview serves as a clear reminder that as witnesses and as those who equip and lead others in witness, we must be sensitive and appropriate with our audience, while being faithful to our Lord and his message and mission.

An excellent expression of the balance is found in Intervarsity Christian Fellowship's "Evangelism Code of Ethics", which includes this:

We believe in the gospel of Jesus Christ, and affirm the role and goal of the Christian evangelist. However, we do not believe that this justifies any means to fulfill that end. Hence, we disavow the use of any coercive techniques or manipulative appeals which bypass a person's critical faculties, play on psychological weaknesses, undermine relationship with family or religious institutions, or mask the true nature of Christian conversion.

While respecting the individual integrity, intellectual honesty, and academic freedom of all other believers and skeptics, we seek to proclaim Christ openly. We reveal our own identity and purpose, our theological positions and sources of information and will not be intentionally misleading. Respect for human integrity means no false advertising, no personal aggrandizement from successfully persuading others to follow Jesus, and no overly emotional appeals which minimize reason and evidence.

Thoughts?

Artwork of the Human Soul

2009-11-23T17:11:00.000-08:00

Artwork has been defined as visual representations. This raises the question, representations of what? Here are two intriguing images of the human soul, by Ryan Alexander for Leeds Counseling.

What are the implications as we engage in others' lives and enter their spiritual journeys?

Thanks to Creativity for sharing these images.

Students' Taste in Advertising

2009-11-21T05:40:00.000-08:00

What does this generation of students respond to in advertising? A column by Dan Coates for Engage:GenY entitled "Ad Infinitum" gives us the answer. This isn't highly surprising, but helpful to have summarized.

Humor
Good music
Very practical information
Meaningful & relevant experiences

If this is what they prefer in advertising, what does it suggest about other media messaging?