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10 Things I Really Care About part 3

2012-01-25T18:44:00.000-05:00

Hey Discover Church I hope your week has been influential! Remember you are a leader, the question is will you be a good leader or a bad one? This blog post comes at a good time in our journey through Nehemiah because a key element in good leadership is the willingness to take off our "crowns" of authority and pick up a "towel" of service. This is the third thing that I really care about, it is through sacrifice that the Kingdom of God is advanced.

I am sharing these things with you because I hope that you will:
1. understand who we are more completely
2. see this in who we are as a church
3. work hard to align yourself and your practices around these things
4. help us improve in these key areas

We need these reminders because it is NOT a natural function of a strong leader to embrace sacrifice and servant-hood. However, this was one of the reasons that Jesus stated He came to humanity. He wanted to display what true spiritual-leadership looked like.

Matthew 20:25-28 ²⁵ But Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. ²⁶But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, ²⁷ and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave. ²⁸ For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

It is in this sacrificial example that we are too follow and yes to even lead. One of the reasons that I think the American Church has slowed in its influence today is because we have embraced too much of a CEO mindset. The teachings of Jesus and the examples displayed by the early Church are anything but hierarchal. The men and women who sacrificed the most were the ones who had the greatest influence.

Not only as leaders but simply as disciples of Jesus I challenge all Discover Church'ers to not resist sacrificing but to display to the world in the same way that Jesus did that they are worth it. Let's "pick up our crosses" and thrive through a daily, voluntary, death to self and live for others.

10 Things I Really Care About part 2

2011-12-21T18:50:00.001-05:00

Hey Discover Church, Merry Christmas to you and I look forward to sharing a "Not So Silent Night" with you Saturday night at 6pm! Here is the second thing that I really really care about. Remember I am sharing these things with you because I hope that you will:
1. understand who we are more completely
2. see this in who we are as a church
3. work hard to align yourself and your practices around these things
4. help us improve in these key areas

The second of the "10 Things I Really Care About" is Leading Through Teams. Ministry in the local church is not intended to be like tennis but rather like baseball; it's a team sport! We are dependent on other team members in order to succeed. See, God has wired us as relational people and intended us to function in coordination with others. The apostle Paul described how Christians should function by using the human body as an illustration.

Ephesians 4

¹⁵ Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. ¹⁶ He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.

Stating the obvious, a body is dependent on the other parts of the body to be healthy and to work properly. We are able to do far more together than anyone of us could ever accomplish on our own. Not only can we more done but it will also be far more complete.

Think of it this way, each of us have unique talents, skills, abilities and spiritual gifts that have been entrusted to us from God. As each of us are involved in the work of the ministry we are able to pool our collective gifts, talents, etc together and present a more complete picture of who God is. The opposite is also true. If only a select few are involved in ministry then only a small portion of gifts, talents, etc are visible.

I intend on leading every Discover Church'er towards discovering God's unique purpose for your life. I know every one of you desire for your life to matter and to see this world changed by the power of Holy Spirit at work through you. In order for this to occur you must tap into God's gifting for your life and offer it to the church body. I believe in leading through teams because it is what is best for you and best for the church! I do not want you to get involved in ministry to get a job done but rather for the job to get you done! So what do you say? If you are interested in getting involved in a deeper way email Leslie Smith, Director of Volunteers at Leslie@DiscoverChurchPBC.com and tell her you're ready to be a contributer and not simply a consumer!

You can click here to read Part 1 Commitment to Strong Biblical Teaching.

Discover Church Gives Back!

2011-12-20T16:31:00.000-05:00

Way to go Discover Church! I am very proud of you and your sacrificial involvement at Grove Park Elementary School. We are grateful to support the faculty and administration at Grove Park, through Connect Groups you provided Christmas for many families in need! Thank you Rachel Smith for coordinating our efforts. You know it's a great haul when it requires a cart on wheels...

10 Things I Really Care About

2011-12-13T15:02:00.000-05:00

Hey Discover Church, in reflecting over the last several years of my life and ministry I have compiled a list of practices that I am fully committed to fleshing out. I have challenged our staff and ministry team leaders to not only agree with them but to also fully commit to them. Over the next several weeks I will be unpacking them for you here. I am sharing these with you in the hope that you will:
1. understand who we are more completely
2. see this in who we are as a church
3. work hard to align yourself and your practices around these things
4. help us improve in these key areas

The first of the "10 Things I Really Care About" is a commitment to strong, biblical teaching. Simply stated, I really, really trust the Scriptures. God has provided wonderful promises to us through the Bible. Here are a few that guide me regularly:

The Bible purifies-Psalm 119:11 "I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you."
The Bible guides-Psalm 119:105 "Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path."
The Bible prepares & equips-2 Timothy 3:16-17 "All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work."
The Bible is our offensive weapon-Ephesians 6:17 "Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."
The Bible is alive & powerful--Hebrews 4:12 "For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires."

As the Pastor of Discover Church I have a charge to, "Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching" (2 Timothy 4:2). This is not an easy or light responsibility rather it is one that I take very seriously.

There are so many life-giving results that come from the Scriptures why would I need to depend on any other source to communicate? God has promised that His Word will accomplish all He wants it to do (Isaiah 55:11). It is with full confidence in Him that I stand before you week in and week out. I promise to not share my thoughts but to speak under the authority of the timeless truth of the Scriptures!

Forgiveness? You, yes I am speaking to you...

2011-12-08T12:28:00.000-05:00

So what do we do with where we have been? How do I process past my past? Because of the fight within us to journey onward and survive we will find ways (many are unhealthy) to "forget" or "suppress" but what if there was something so much greater available to you? The following thoughts are intended to assist you in experiencing true, biblical forgiveness.

Being sorry does not lead to forgiveness because that originates within us. The identification with Jesus' death provides my acceptance to God. Hebrews 10:14, "For by that one offering He forever made perfect those who are being made holy." I am not in any way in a position to earn this forgiveness but because of the cross in the perfect place to receive it. To attempt another way would be like beating on a door right next to the one that Jesus has opened. As I pass through this door opened by the death of Jesus I am forgiven and this powerful moment is made visible because of the changed man! "Atonement is a propitiation whereby God, through the death of Jesus, makes an unholy man holy" (Oswald Chambers).

If this seems too good to be true it is because you are seeing this correctly. Not completely understanding something hasn't prevented us from learning to read, write, ride a bike or operate the smart phone in your purse. If you have read this, you have enough information and access to truth to respond to it.

Am I living to please man or God?

2011-11-30T12:12:00.000-05:00

I care way too much about what others think and far too little about what pleases God. My life has been granted tremendous value because of Jesus' sacrifice for me however if I am living for man's approval then I am drastically limiting God's access to utilize this life He has transformed. The frustrating part is that I know how foolish it is to allow another imperfect person to be a greater influence than the gentle nudging of the Holy Spirit. Why would I settle for less than the unlimited power, wisdom and grace available to the obedient child of the King? Father force all other desires to be released so that I have ample room to grasp on to more of You.

What we can expect when we seek God in our finances...

2011-11-10T15:07:00.000-05:00

This is from this Sunday's message, Week 1 of Stressed?, "Living Vertical in a Horizontal World", Stress comes from ill-proportioned priorities and for many of us there is no greater source of stress in our lives than money. I ended Sunday's message by encouraging everyone that it is possible to overcome the stress brought on by finances. Here is a list of promises that we tap into by seeking God in our financial life:

• Peace—Philippians 4:4-7

• Joy—Psalm 2:12; 5:11-12

• Guidance—Proverbs 3:5-6

• Receiving of Needs—Matthew 7:7-11; Hebrews 11:6

• Restoration—Jeremiah 29:11-13

You can listen to the whole message on our podcast by clicking here...

I Told My Kids I Ate All Their Halloween Candy

2011-11-04T00:05:00.001-04:00

New Testament "One Another's"

2011-10-29T23:42:00.002-04:00

Here are the one another's mentioned in Sunday's message:

Wash one another’s feet—John 13:14.
Love one another—John 13:3; 15:12, 17; Romans 13:8; I Peter 1:22; I John 3:11, 23; 4:7, 11.
In honor preferring one another—Romans 12:10.
Don’t judge one another—Romans 14:13.
Receive one another—Romans 15:7.
Salute one another—Romans 16:16.*
Greet one another—I Cor. 16:20, II Cor. 13:12, I Peter 5:14.
Serve one another—Gal. 5:13.
Don’t provoke one another or envy one another—Gal. 5:26.
Bear one another’s burdens—Gal. 6:2.
Forbear one another in love—Eph. 4:2, Col. 3:13.
Forgive one another—Eph. 4:32, Col. 3:13.
Teach and admonish one another with song—Col. 3:16.
Comfort one another—I Thess. 4:18.
Edify one another—I Thess. 5:11.
Exhort one another— Heb. 3:13; 10:25.
Consider one another to provoke unto love and good works—Heb. 10:24.

Beach Baptism Video

2011-10-24T23:31:00.000-04:00

Below is the video from Discover Church's last beach baptism. I wanted to give you a feel of what to look forward to on November 19th. Interested? Sign up in the lobby on Sunday or email me Chip@DiscoverChurchPBC.com.

Discover Church Band

2011-10-18T16:10:00.000-04:00

Here are some pics taken from Sunday's Gathering at Discover Church. I am so grateful for such a talented and hardworking group of people. Thanks Shay, Jack, Jubel, Duke, Josh, Rachel and Joshua!

My Weekend...

2011-10-17T18:23:00.000-04:00

We hate that I missed Sunday at Discover but Brittni and I had a great time in Wilmington, NC at my bro Jordan and his new bride Christian's wedding. I had the privilege of being the best man and standing beside Jordan while he made his vows in front of God, family and friends.

Thanks to such an amazing DC team I am able to get away and enjoy such an incredible time with my family. It is great to hear that when I am gone that things actually run smoother than when I am present. You make me proud to be your pastor...

Isabel's Story

2011-10-07T12:10:00.001-04:00

I received this email and these pics this week and after getting permission wanted to make it available to you. I trust you will be as encouraged as I was. Thanks Isabel!

Hi,

>>>>

>>>> I just wanted to tell you about my morning today:

>>>>

>>>> I decided to take a walk during the Sunrise Beach Bible study

>>>> this morning and send out my usual SBBS morning text message.

>>>> This was the text message:

"So this morning as i was watching the sunrise i noticed there

>>>> were a bunch of fishermen on the beach trying to catch some fish.

>>>> Some were using poles and others nets. It reminded me how god is

>>>> constantly fishing for us. Sometimes he uses small and big event/

>>>> nets to search for us. But how awesome is our God who baits His

>>>> hook and casts it into the vast ocean... patiently waiting until

>>>> we grab hold."

>>>>

>>>> While on my walk I met several fishermen:

>>>>

>>>> One of the fishermen came up to me. His hair was graying around

>>>> the edges and he had clearly had coffee this morning because he

>>>> had spilled it down the front of his shirt. Regardless, this man

>>>> and I started talking about life. His name was Jim and he is 75

>>>> years old (his wife says he is 25 with 50 years of experience).

>>>> His wife, who was his college sweetheart, was recently diagnosed

>>>> with cancer.

>>>>

>>>> He told me about his position on the executive board of a

>>>> missionary program in Africa. We talked about the importance of

>>>> doing this type of work and the impact it can have on people who

>>>> least expect it. I told him how I would love to someday do

>>>> medical missionary work so this was absolutely fantastic talking

>>>> to someone who knew so much about it.

>>>>

>>>> We began discussing how his sister went to medical school and is

>>>> now an OB/Gyn. When she went to med school in her class of 150

>>>> students only 2 were female.

>>>>

>>>> He had asked me my plans for after school and I had mentioned how

>>>> I would love to go to medical school. And He told me something

>>>> that I know I will never forget...He said "After 75 years of life

>>>> and reading scripture when young people ask him, How will I know

>>>> God's will for me?, he always replies that you follow God's will

>>>> by not becoming lawyers or doctors but by being Godly. If God

>>>> wants you to become a Doctor He will place this on the hearts and

>>>> minds of the admissions committee. If it is God's will, God will

>>>> make it happen."

>>>>

>>>> While I know that this is such a simple concept, because

>>>> scripture tells us that God loves who we are today and not the

>>>> occupation will have in the future, but how we should live our

>>>> lives by His standards and not by our parent's, peers, or even

>>>> the world's expectations . At this point I was on the verge of

>>>> crying because I never thought, especially when I woke up this

>>>> morning, that God would answer my prayer, that I have been

>>>> praying for the past few months and again that morning, pleading

>>>> for answers of why I am struggling with the plans for my future

>>>> and I certainly never thought that He would do it in the form of

>>>> this Godly man fishing on the beach.

>>>>

>>>> This adorably sweet man, who invited me to church with him on

>>>> sunday (his wife and him always sit in the front row so you can't

>>>> miss them), was just casually fishing on the beach, just like in

>>>> my text message, and had clearly been placed there by God. Taking

>>>> advantage of the opportunity I gave him a DC card. When I handed

>>>> it to him He became very excited because his friend fishing next

>>>> to him, had just moved to the area with his wife, and was looking

>>>> for a laid back/casual kind of church (which is pretty much DC in

>>>> a nutshell). I couldn't help but see God's hand in this

>>>> situation. Not only was I just in awe that I had this encounter

>>>> with this first fisherman but then I met someone who was actively

>>>> looking for a church!

>>>>

>>>> Even though there are times when you think you are just one of

>>>> many fish searching for God in a VERY large ocean--Our God still

>>>> finds you and places people, sometimes in the form of a

>>>> fisherman, in your life to show you His Love for you.

>>>

>>>> -Isabel

Connect Groups Beginning September 27th-29th!

2011-09-22T14:44:00.001-04:00

After a short break Discover Church is ready to launch our next 3 month wave (Sept-Dec) of Connect Groups. You can begin signing up for one of our four groups on Sunday at the "Get Involved" table in the lobby. So why Connect Groups? Great question... see life in Christ is not an individual sport rather it is best fleshed out in community with other Christ-followers. This is not an environment for a traditional Bible study but rather a place to honestly figure out how to apply the truths of Sunday's message into our every day lives! So this is a great group for anyone, at any point in the spiritual journey, to authentically grow with others towards life in Jesus Christ.

"No Perfect People Allowed"

2011-09-21T13:14:00.001-04:00

Keep up the great work Discover Church! Last Sunday we hit another all time high in attendance and this Sunday we are preparing for an even greater opportunities to influence your friends, family, and co-workers with the life transforming message of Jesus! Keep PLOWING in prayer, PLANTING with intentional investments, and Harvesting by sharing your story and inviting your "BIG 10" to Sunday at 11am! We will have more exciting giveaways this Sunday to help you connect with the people under your influence.

Going Next Level Journal--Thursday

2011-09-15T14:07:00.000-04:00

Day 5 - Thursday, September 15, 2011

Read: Isaiah 60:21; 1 Corinthians 6:20

We are the work of God’s hands – with the purpose of showing His glory and

splendor. We are bought with a price; we are not our own - we belong to God.

As we work and serve at Discover Church, we are not here to showcase our own

talents and gifts, but to proclaim Him, the Author and Giver of all talents and

abilities. His promises are not dependent upon our own abilities or favorable

circumstances, but on the work of God in our lives, and our humility before Him.

Remember, Jesus came to serve; not to be served and He is our example to fol-

low.

Father,

Thank you for the gifts and abilities you have placed in our lives. May we surren-

der fully to You and allow You to equip and use us in any way You desire. May

we be willing to receive no praise or credit for what we do. May we always be

willing to take the lowest place, to be a servant, to work not for individual

praise, but for the building up of Your kingdom on earth, and for the glory of

Jesus Christ.

Pray and ask God to show you today ways to serve the 10 people that you

have been praying for.

Journal: What new thing has God shown you today, and how will you apply it to

your life?

_________________________________________________________________

Going Next Level Journal--Wednesday

2011-09-14T14:49:00.000-04:00

Day 4 - Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Read: 1 Samuel 15:22; John 14:15, 1 Corinthians 15:58

These passages remind us of the importance of steadfast obedience to God. The

smallest and seemingly most insignificant thing we may do is not in vain if done

in obedience and for the glory of God. We are reminded of the priority God

places on obedience over sacrifices. We are challenged continually to obey God

– keeping His commandments is a sign of our love for Him.

Father,

We pray today we will be obedient to You in every situation and circumstance.

Help us to seek Your will always, and then obey You without hesitation. Thank

you for providing the wisdom and ability required when You call us to any task.

Help us to step out in faith knowing You are with us always to lead and guide at

every step.

Pray for your 10 people and ask God for opportunities to invite others that you

come in contact with today.

Journal: Reflect on what God has shown you today, and how you will apply it to

your life.

_________________________________________________________________

Going Next Level Journal--Monday

2011-09-12T16:18:00.003-04:00

Just in case you missed Sunday or misplaced your journal. I have included today's Going The Next Level devotional. Join the rest of Discover Church as we do whatever is necessary to get people to Jesus. Let's Plow, Plant, and Harvest our way to reaching our friends, neighbors, co-workers with the gospel of Jesus! Can't wait till Sunday...

Day 2 – Monday, September 12, 2011

Read: Psalm 1:3, Jeremiah 17:8

Today’s passages remind us that we are like a tree that God has planted along a
continual source of water. No plant grows by itself; it must be planted. As we take
care to plant in the best soil and provide nutrients and water, God places us where
we are provided with all the resources for this life.

Father,

We pray today the roots of our lives will go down deeper and deeper in You. May
we always seek You as our source of nourishment. We pray that we may flourish
even in the dry and difficult seasons of life. We pray You will produce the fruit of
Your Spirit in us so we may be nourished ourselves, as well as nourish others –
so when we prosper, benefits will come to others.

Pray for the 10 people whom you will be inviting and ask God to give you the
names of others if you do not have 10.

Journal: Write about what God has shown you today, and how you will apply it to
your life.
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Feeling Unproductive?

2011-08-23T14:56:00.000-04:00

There is a huge difference between "busyness" and "productivity". Here is an article by Brad Lomenick, Director of Catalyst, called The Way I Get Things Done. This contains several helpful ideas to upping our productivity! Invest 5 mins in reading it, 5 in implementing it to work for you and get way more done than you thought possible.

Fall Kick off--September 18th!

2011-08-22T13:42:00.001-04:00

Don't miss out on a great event for the whole family! September 18th 12:30-4 at the Weiss School (new location of Discover Church) you can expect a completely FREE EVENT with food, giveaways, bounce houses for little kids and big kids, face painting, cotton candy, HUGE game of kick ball and much much more!

Churches Serving Churches

2011-08-16T17:18:00.001-04:00

This summer Discover was blessed by an amazing group of students from Church at the Bay in Tampa, FL. Hal Mayer and his team of adult leaders brought over a team of students to be our hands and feet to the community. While here they landscaped yards, prayer walked the neighborhoods by our new location, handed out fliers, and gave away hot dogs and bottles of water to people on the beach. Thank you CATB for encouraging DC and allowing us to be a blessing to the community we love.

Week #2 of "Church, if it could be it should be"

2011-08-12T14:55:00.000-04:00

Week #2 in the Church series 11am at our new location The Weiss School. Directions/Details at www.DiscoverChurchPBC.com. This Sunday we are looking at what it means for the individuals that make up the church to be "Need Meeters". If you want to read ahead, the primary text is Matthew 5:13-16.

Discover Church New Location

2011-07-26T19:21:00.000-04:00

Hey DC get ready for our big move! Curious? Take a look at this video and see why it is going to be such a great move for the friends and family you bring with you...

Click here to get all information regarding the move including the address to our new location at The Weiss School.

Reading Chart for series on book of James

2010-10-25T17:17:00.001-04:00

§ James 1:1-12 Intro and Thriving in trials

§ James 1:13-27 The Word and Temptation

§ James 2:1-13 Treatment of People

§ James 2:14-26 Faith and Works

§ James 3:1-18 Controlling of tongue and real wisdom

§ James 4:1-17 Worldliness

§ James 5:1-12 Riches, Patience

§ James 5:13-20 Prayer, Healing, and Reaching out to the Erring

Beach Baptism/Cookout

2010-10-12T15:56:00.000-04:00

On September 26th Discover Church had an incredible celebration of what God has been doing over the last several months. We had the privilege of baptizing some wonderful people and spreading the fame of Jesus Christ in the waters at Jupiter Beach Park. Here are a couple pics from the day and more can be seen on our Facebook page.

7 Reasons Your Church Plant Won't Make It

2010-10-12T15:20:00.002-04:00

Sorry I have been so slack on the blog lately. Here is an article that I think is great advice. As I speak to potential church planters I would absolutely reinforce these 7 checkpoints to see that the planter is going into this venture with the correct motivations and mindset. Follow this LINK to Mike Lukaszewski's blog, planter and pastor of Oak Leaf Church.

So you can find us!

2010-07-19T12:02:00.007-04:00

Discover Church NEW TIME 11am-- NEW PLACE newly renovated PGA Gardens Cinamax Don't miss out on our new series beginning this Sunday "REALationships". Get directions here!

Pastors As Rock Stars?

2010-07-14T17:16:00.001-04:00

Really good article by Ed Stetzer on how "success" can impact a pastor. Should pastors be viewed as "rock stars". Here is just a short quote to wet your appetite. It is not the look, following, or size of the church, but the culture of the SuperPastor that can do great harm. Check it out here.

New Series starting July 25th--REALationships

2010-07-14T16:19:00.001-04:00

Whether you are a satisfied single, looking to be in a healthy relationship, or in one already this series is for you. We will be taking a refreshing and helpful look into what a real relationship should look like in today's culture. Come and join us at our new location and time (PGA Gardens Cinamax 11am-12:15pm). Directions and info is easily accessible at our site. See you soon...

Big Move July 25th-Time and Location

2010-07-14T16:10:00.001-04:00

We are thrilled about what the PGA Gardens Cinamax will be able to do for us as well as moving our time to 11am-12:15pm. The new time will be much more friendly to our young families and who doesn't like going to the movies anyway? So, don't miss out, come and join us at Discover Church!

Discover Church series--D90x

2010-07-14T15:55:00.001-04:00

Here is the latest bumper video for our D90x series on spiritual disciplines. All Discover Church videos can be found here.

Here's to marrying WAY over your head and being proud of it!

2010-05-24T14:57:00.000-04:00

Two years ago today in front of our astonished family and friends Brittni Nicole Smith said "yes" and instantaneously made me the envy of all men. Thank you boo for such an incredible two years. These have been tough but you have been sooo good to me. I am so thankful and blessed to have you in my life. Forever and Ever...

Is Your Church Pro-Family?

2010-05-04T16:07:00.002-04:00

Every pastor I know, is gripped by the challenges facing today's families. We are all too aware of the statistics that describe the state of the American and even the Christian home. So how does the church, mobilized by the Spirit of God, undergird the family so that we are partnering with parents and not replacing them? As a REALLY young, small church we have structured what we do around being pro-family. In an attempt to make this effort more than lip service we have implemented these 6 verbs:

FUND IT--quality, safe, clean, engaging children's space does cost $. In no way does spending money on sound, lights, cribs, toys, books, etc ensure a quality spiritual experience for a kid. However, if the environment is less than what a parent would provide for their own child it certainly diminishes the reality they will entrust him/her to you again. To do this we have dedicated a large percentage of our budget towards Discover Kidz.
PROMOTE IT--we have assembled a video that allows the adult Gathering attender to get a sneak peak of what Discover Kidz is all about. We do this in attempt to make this person a fan of Discover Kidz without ever experiencing it. We also place this on our website so parents and kids can get a taste test prior to showing up on a Sunday. In addition to the video we intentionally give Discover Kidz a prominent, visible space on our website.
STAFF IT--Stephanie (Discover Kidz coordinator) gets first access to prospective volunteers to make sure those working with our kids are highly qualified and are not simply baby sitting.
SECURE IT--This is essential! There are too many churches I am aware of who do not take this part as seriously as is warranted. Every one of our kids volunteers are nation-wide background checked prior to serving in the ministry. We have a check in and check out process that we LOVE called Kid Check. We highly recommend this process to up security, communication, and ease when parents are dropping off or picking up their children!
ALIGN IT--This step requires a total church effort and therefore is where many churches fall short. I, as the lead pastor, and Stephanie (Discover Kidz Coordinator) align our messages to cover the same texts and themes. This is to promote the possibilities that mom and dad is more likely to lead a spiritual discussion in the car or around the dinner table if they have already heard a message on the same topic. To further assist in this, each week Stephanie provides for the parents a handout with verses of Scripture and questions they could ask their children later in the week. Also, we will be taking it to another level that involves our Connect Groups through out the week. We will be encouraging parents to allow their children to participate in the Connect Group. We call them "multi-generational" small groups. Many times the church divides parents from their kids during all spiritual environments. We try to find as many venues as possible to keep the family intact. Yes, there are challenges with behavior, content, etc but we came to the conclusion we would rather fight for something we believed in than have ease in an area we were less than thrilled.
TEACH ON IT--As the pastor I involve the family into every message that I preach. I will regularly bring application/illustration of the text to the family in an effort to display how the Bible is relevant to today's home challenges. Also, there is a place on my preaching calendar every year for a series on the family.

I AM, Jesus in His own words

2010-05-04T01:46:00.000-04:00

Join us on Sunday nights over the next several weeks as we examine how our lives can and should adjust by understanding and embracing what Jesus says about Himself! Details and directions at the website.

Discover Church Beach Baptism

2010-05-04T01:38:00.007-04:00

Saturday was a great day! Over 30 people gathered at Jupiter Beach Park to celebrate what God has been doing in the life of His people. Becky was the first person to be baptized at Discover Church. We had the privilege of hearing how God has transformed Becky's life and worship was the natural, appropriate response. Here are some pics from the day. More days like this to come!

Does your website get anyone through the door?

2010-04-16T16:51:00.003-04:00

Before pretty much anyone comes to your church they are going to look at your website. Websites have become for churches what store front windows are for Rodeo Drive. For whatever reason skepticism, anxiety, etc it is rare that someone will simply show up at church without first doing some online window shopping.

With that in mind here is an article from HolyKaw that was helpful to our team and might be for you too...

What makes Friday so good?

2010-04-02T15:38:00.002-04:00

Isaiah 53

² My servant grew up in the Lord’s presence like a tender green shoot,
like a root in dry ground.
There was nothing beautiful or majestic about his appearance,
nothing to attract us to him.
³ He was despised and rejected—
a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief.
We turned our backs on him and looked the other way.
He was despised, and we did not care.

⁴ Yet it was our weaknesses he carried;
it was our sorrows that weighed him down.
And we thought his troubles were a punishment from God,
a punishment for his own sins!
⁵ But he was pierced for our rebellion,
crushed for our sins.
He was beaten so we could be whole.
He was whipped so we could be healed.
⁶ All of us, like sheep, have strayed away.
We have left God’s paths to follow our own.
Yet the Lord laid on him
the sins of us all.

⁷ He was oppressed and treated harshly,
yet he never said a word.
He was led like a lamb to the slaughter.
And as a sheep is silent before the shearers,
he did not open his mouth.
⁸ Unjustly condemned,
he was led away.
No one cared that he died without descendants,
that his life was cut short in midstream.
But he was struck down
for the rebellion of my people.
⁹ He had done no wrong
and had never deceived anyone.
But he was buried like a criminal;
he was put in a rich man’s grave.

¹⁰ But it was the Lord’s good plan to crush him
and cause him grief.
Yet when his life is made an offering for sin,
he will have many descendants.
He will enjoy a long life,
and the Lord’s good plan will prosper in his hands.
¹¹ When he sees all that is accomplished by his anguish,
he will be satisfied.
And because of his experience,
my righteous servant will make it possible
for many to be counted righteous,
for he will bear all their sins.
¹² I will give him the honors of a victorious soldier,
because he exposed himself to death.
He was counted among the rebels.
He bore the sins of many and interceded for rebels.

Kitty Litter Invitational--Final Results!

2010-03-30T15:01:00.004-04:00

So... to answer the question on so many of your lips! I did win the Kitty Litter Invitational and Brittni is extremely excited about it (as you can see in this pic). As you can imagine she was a great sport, even in losing. The scooper has been officially passed on to her for the next 365 days!

Easter with Discover Church

2010-03-29T15:52:00.004-04:00

Come join us for a powerful service built around the celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ through the taking of the Lord's Supper. This will also be the first of the three week series "Inside Out". This is going to be an amazing night so don't miss out! More details/directions at Discover Church website!

Lessons from the Journey--Philippians 3

2010-03-24T13:20:00.007-04:00

Philippians 3:10

"That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to the image of His death"

People loved being around Jesus!

Fed 4,000 men (Mark 8)
Fed 5,000 men (Mark 6)
Crowd was so great He had to get away (Mark 1:37)
House so full people had to break through the roof to get a paralyzed man to Jesus (Mark 2)
Crowds lined the streets as Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey (Mark 11)

People flocked to Jesus everywhere He went, with the exception of the cross. Are you identifying with Him in His death? We are ready and motivated for some "power of His resurrection" stuff but how about the other desires of Paul in Philippians like "fellowship of His sufferings" and "conformed to the image of His death"?

This passion week lets remember that there would be no resurrection if there had not first been suffering! No amazing grace without spilt blood. No internal peace without external bruising.

Kitty Litter Invitational

2010-03-20T12:00:00.005-04:00

Everyone sing along with me... "its the most wonderful time of the year"!! Each year Brittni and I put together a NCAA Tournament Bracket. As you can imagine it gets rather competitve around the house (Britt would like it to be known she has won 3 yrs in a row) during the madness of March. The tension gets amped up because the loser of the Bracket Challenge has kitty litter duty for the next year!

1st round results:

Brittni--115
Chip--110

Lessons from the Journey--1 Cor 6

2010-03-17T11:18:00.010-04:00

1 Corinthians 6:9-11

"Such were some of you; but you were washed..."

It is essential to remember who I was and Who has made me the man I am today! I have not ceased being an idolater or a coveter because of any merit of my own. Paul reminds the Corinthians that certain actions reflect the wickedness within a person's heart and that we have been those people. Something happens in the life of a man/woman who becomes a Christian; it is something marvelous and wonderful. Through the Lord Jesus Christ the Holy Spirit transforms their life, washes them clean and sets them apart from their previous lifestyles to the purposes He has for them.

Let's not forget what it was like in our pre-Christian days to be longing for "something more" and looking for "something to provide significance". We were just like them and now we have been made new, through Christ. With humility, not forgetting where we have been, let's recommit to be the bearers of truth and hope this world is in desperation to experience.

Launch Sunday

2010-03-11T15:09:00.005-05:00

Really proud of our Discover Church team. Our launch went incredibly well on Sunday night despite several challenges. This is a pic (for more pics/video check out the Facebook page) of our new set for the Illuminate series. For the next 3 weeks we will be attempting to make visible God's priorities for His church and in doing that unpack the commitments of Discover Church.

Illuminate Series

2010-03-09T14:54:00.003-05:00

Sunday nights (6-7:15) for the next 3 weeks we will be making visible God's priorities for Discover Church. Hope to see you there, but if you can't make it you can listen to the audio from our site...

Lessons from the Journey

2010-03-04T20:48:00.004-05:00

1 Corinthians 4:17-21

Paul desires that the Corinthians become imitators of him. Not only does he provoke that challenge with words but sees to it that they have a living, breathing example in Timothy to lead them. In order to set the table for Timothy’s ministry Paul gets real serious with the reader. He apparently had been hearing some bad things about the Corinthian church so he aggressively defines for them that spiritual vitality is not equated in words but in power. Matter of factly, he explains to them that words can be faked but power is the evidence of authenticity.

The evidence of God’s hand on your life is not that you can say the right things or win at a game of Pictionary Bible edition. But rather, the mark of a spiritually vital life is that the power of God (Holy Spirit) moves through the human vessel with ease and authority. This cannot be manipulated or coerced and it is unmistakable when someone has “it”. This “it factor” catapults another person to levels of effectiveness that only God could do through him/her.

Church Hospitality

2010-03-02T18:27:00.005-05:00

We have all been to churches that made us feel like you didn't know the secret handshake or had bad b.o. Hopefully your church is thinking through their weekend experiences through the eyes of first time guests. Our guest relations team puts great thought, creativity, and effort into wanting each person to feel anticipated and valued. With that in mind, I found a great article by Evangelism Coach International on church hospitality today. Thought I would pass it along to you...

World's Greatest Launch Team

2010-02-26T15:03:00.005-05:00

If you come to Discover Church on a Sunday night you may not get to see all of the people that really make things happen. Sooo here are some pics from this past Launch Team Meeting. Not everyone was present but you can see how blessed we are to have so many amazing people commit to give and serve to get Discover Church off the ground!

Love is Forgiving

2010-01-26T15:16:00.003-05:00

Great time at the Gathering on Sunday night. God was faithful to set many free as they opened up their lives and their past to His grace. This is pic of what freedom looks like! You can listen to the message by clicking here. Join us on February 14th for our next Gathering as we continue in our Love Stories series.

"Mystery"-Charlie Hall

2010-01-20T15:43:00.003-05:00

Haiti Relief

2010-01-15T16:28:00.008-05:00

Over the last several days, I am sure you have been as gripped by the images on TV as I have been. Haiti has been rocked one of the worst natural disasters in our memory. As a church it is our privilege to represent Christ to these hurting people.

With this in mind, Discover Church will be partnering with Missionary Flights International to provide aid to those in need in Haiti. MFI has been involved in ministry in Haiti for decades and are currently making 2-3 trips a day. The needs this wonderful organization has are:

1. Money for the fuel required to make so many trips.
2. Medical supplies

Please bring with you on Sunday night (or mail in to us, info on bottom of page) to our Launch Team Meeting (6pm) a contribution to our efforts to represent the Father's unconditional love to the people of Haiti. If writing a check make it out directly to Missionary Flights International.

Please join me in praying and working for a new day for Haiti!

Discover Church

PO Box 7236

Jupiter, FL 33468

Sneak Peak at "Everyone likes a good love story" series

2009-12-23T10:52:00.003-05:00

For our January (10th, 24th) and February (14th, 28th) Gatherings at

Discover Church we are launching a new series. "Everyone likes a good love story" is going to be a high energy series of worship experiences aimed at exploring God's love for us and how that influences our ability to love those around us.

We need your help!

Our band is looking for your favorite love songs to select from to play at each Gathering. So...open up your ITunes and send me the titles of your favorites! Have fun with this but please do your best to keep the "lame" to a minimal (I know this is difficult considering our topic)!

Happy listening...

Lessons from the Journey

2009-12-14T16:57:00.005-05:00

Sorry this post is more selfish than anything. As many pastors with much more experience than I will tell you, "there are good days and bad days". Here is some ammo that was very helpful to me today during one of the later days...

"Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised.

For yet in a very little while, He who is coming will come, and will not delay.

But my righteous one shall live by faith, and if he shrinks back, My soul has no pleasure in him.

But we are not of those who shrink back to destruction, but of those who have faith to the preserving of the soul."

Hebrews 10:35-39.

Discover Church Gathering Nov 15

2009-11-09T13:34:00.001-05:00

Whether you are a child or an adult, curious about Christianity or devoted Christ-follower, this event is for you. Once a month Discover Church will be Gathering to look at life from God’s perspective. By turning out you can anticipate experiencing a casual, energetic and powerful night of worship and teaching from God’s Word that will have you looking forward to next month.

Eventually we will be meeting weekly but for now once a month will have to be enough to get your fix. The next Gathering is almost here Sunday night November 15 from 6:30-7:30 at the Hilton Garden Inn, Palm Beach Gardens. Check out www.DiscoverChurchPBC.com for directions/details. See ya there!

Lessons from the Journey--Life @ A Sustainable Pace

2009-11-03T16:01:00.004-05:00

As a leader of a church it is my responsibility to not only build a darkness penetrating, sacrificial, outwardly focused church but also to do this in a manner consistent with a balanced, healthy life. The first part of my job description as listed above is on most pastor's radar but what about the second part? We all know that it is impossible to be unhealthy and yet produce something healthy!

As the cultural architect of this young church it has been heavy on my mind and heart lately that Discover Church must start at a sustainable pace that works for your God and your family. Is this a possibility? Most of the stories I hear that are equated with success are of all the "sacrifice" and pain that is infected into families in the name of "God's calling". As I attempt to lead Discover Church through this VERY difficult balance here are some thoughts that I am implementing to create a culture of health and balance. I am really just digging into what this could look like. Please feel free to add your own suggestions or ideas...

We must keep church life simple and healthy
The Gathering (our worship service) must not ask so much of people's time that it ends up reinforcing the "busyness" cycle of unhealth
Sacrifice is expected but should not come from essentials (family, time with God, etc.)
Leadership Team must model the health wanted replicated in the church
Their must be an atmosphere of trust/accountability/vulnerability to assist in maintaining healthy pace
Everyone of our team members MUST be a part of one of our Gatherings (Discover Kidz or Adult)
Set up/Tear down environments MUST NOT be beyond our ability to complete in a reasonable amount of time (preferred 1 hr)
Pursuit of "health" is not a viable excuse for the lack of the hard work and sacrifice expected of a follower of Christ.
If I lived a balanced/healthy life how much time would be a sacrificial offering to present to God?

Take Away from The Gathering

2009-10-26T15:34:00.007-04:00

Yesterday was a great day for Discover Church. A lot of prayer, hard work, sacrifice, and most importantly the tangible presence of a faithful God made The Gathering a success! The following are some of my randomly organized "take aways" from yesterday.

Beginning the day in prayer and worship with Launch Team was quite possibly the most important thing we did in preparation for the night.
For future church starters, do as much organization weeks out as possible.
We will have a list of all the things we purchased, price, and where we found it
Last night was a beautiful picture of what the Church could be. We had volunteers from LifeChurch.tv, FBC West Palm, and FBC Lake Worth go over and above, THANK YOU!
Discover Kidz area (birth-Pre K and K-5th grade) looked warm, comfortable, and safe. Stephanie and her team did an amazing job!
Benj led a high energy, powerful, excellent time of worship.
Thank you Russell, Anthony, and Dustin for giving your time and talent.
Sound was a huge challenge as it was our 1st time setting up but not too much of one for Danny Dagher.
The entire process of loading trailer, unloading trailer, setting up staging/Discover Kidz, sound check, etc was for the most part without major surprises because of excellent team members (led by Jon Killian, you are the man) effort.
Brittni was great in her announcements and intro of message (plus she looked really good)!
Exciting number of FAU Honors campus students. Way to go Jordan and Amanda!
We tripped a couple breakers and had to reallocate our power output but Aaron Leahy from A-Train Productions rolled with the punches
Our screen was too big for the space (we measured incorrectly)
Hilton Garden Inn provided an excellent atmosphere and professional attendants for the event
We unloaded at 2pm for a 6:30 service start to allow for plenty of time
The "Clean Slate" (rv.worshiphousemedia.com) video provided an excellent intro to the message
Message was from Luke 19:1-10
"Jesus has time for those pursuing Him"
"Things are never a sufficient substitute for Jesus"
"Genuine transformation is seen in legitimate change"
"Jesus came to find those who don't know Him"

2009-10-22T17:13:00.007-04:00

2009-10-19T15:48:00.005-04:00

Although my pastoral responsibilities have changed some I still love hanging out with students.

This video was sent to me from one of my former middle schoolers

who is now a senior in college (thanks Amanda). I have such deep

respect for youth pastors (I still see myself as one)

and this is an appropriate solute youth minister style. Enjoy!

New Website Launched!

2009-10-08T15:50:00.004-04:00

Benj has done an amazing job rebuilding the Discover Church website! Check it out and we look forward to seeing you at an upcoming event...

Discover 4-1-1 Event Sept 19 7-9pm

2009-09-14T19:26:00.003-04:00

Discover Church is a new church in the Jupiter/Gardens area that is committed to helping people find life in Jesus Christ. We would like to invite you to attend our Discover 4-1-1 on September 19 from 7-9pm. By coming you can expect to meet the staff and core team of Discover Church over coffee and desserts, and hear how we intend on helping people find life in Jesus Christ.

Discover 4-1-1 Location:

18883 Still Lake Drive

Jupiter, FL 33458

For RSVP, directions, and any questions you might have check the site www.discoverchurchpbc.com.

Announcement-Location for Discover Church Services

2009-09-09T11:35:00.006-04:00

I am excited to announce that Discover Church has reserved the banquet hall and two meeting rooms for our monthly Gatherings on October 25, November 15, and December 6 from 6:30-7:30 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Downtown at the Gardens. These will be our first public services and will have something for all ages:

Discover Kidz will be an exciting worship, teaching, and connect group time

--guests birth to pre-K

--guests Kindergarden to 5th grade

The Gathering--all other guests

Find more details and Google directions at www.discoverchurchpbc.com on the events link.

Creative Process-Losing Your Religion

2009-09-02T14:32:00.006-04:00

I guess its a North Point week. Just found a explanation on their creative process for the current series "Losing Your Religion". I really appreciate how accessible they are; it is very helpful stuff. Here is the LINK to their media sight.

Church Plant Resource

2009-09-01T15:49:00.003-04:00

Was turned on this resource by Matt Willmington thought some of you would be interested in it as well. When I find something that might be helpful I try to pass it along, let me know your thoughts.

www.ownthemix.com it is a resource from North Point Community Church in Atlanta, GA for audio improvements/excellence.

Discover Service Event

2009-08-24T18:51:00.005-04:00

On Sunday Discover Church had a full day of service! From 12-3pm we showed the Jupiter/Gardens community that service is something that we not only talk about but also flesh out. We had the privilege of serving around 260 hot dogs and 300 bottles of water to people while they were relaxing on the beach at Carlin Park. Largely we have heard that people in this area are disinterested in "church" (only 5% go to church) because they feel the "church" has become disinterested in them. Our hope is that people will see how interested Jesus is in their lives by us serving them in such a simple way!

After cleaning up we went to FBC of West Palm Beach and served them by handling their childcare for birth thru 5th grade during their "Leadership Rally". I grew such deep appreciation for the children's ministry workers as Brittni and I had 4 beautiful 1-2 year olds in our room. Overall, the day was a huge success and we loved being able to partner with another church in our area that is doing so many great things for the Kingdom!

The Discover Church team did GREAT and I am so proud to be their pastor! So many exciting days ahead...

Lessons from the Journey--what I am learning

2009-08-24T14:56:00.000-04:00

More lessons learned starting Discover Church

in our largely unchurched area (95%) most of the people who could be "core team" material are already invested significantly in their church.
it is extremely challenging to find people willing to consider leaving their existing church for a church start. Many do not desire to put forth the effort necessary to get a new church started and succeeding.
church planting is very hard.
God is very good.
in details, preparation, communication, etc present yourself and your church for where you are going not for where you currently are.
pray with your wife every night before you go to bed
if there is any way to have a true mother church then do it! They can help you overcome so many hurdles ($, core team members, facilities, insurance, accounting procedures).
investigate the "pool of potential" core team members in the area you will be going and adjust expectations accordingly. Things to investigate: % of people who attend church, % of claiming being "born again", % of those who live within 20-25 mins of area, and divide by .25 [amount of churched people willing to sacrifice enough to leave an existing church to be a part of a plant].
so many things are uncertain (people, $, locations to meet, etc.) spend time on what is certain (time with God, committed people, core team meeting prep).

Free Hotdogs and H20 Sunday 12-3pm

2009-08-22T15:06:00.002-04:00

Looking for something to do on Sunday afternoon come and hang out with the Discover Church crew and let us give you and your family a free lunch! Find more details at www.discoverchurchpbc.com.

Discover Church Website

2009-08-17T20:41:00.005-04:00

To stay up to date on all things Discover Church go to our website www.discoverchurchpbc.com! Thanks are def due to Benj Litter for all of his hard work and creativity.

Discover Church gets support!

2009-08-13T18:58:00.006-04:00

Great news! I am blogging from Lynchburg, VA the home of Liberty Church Plant Network and they have decided to take on Discover Church! This will mean some significant financial assistance along with meaningful networking with other church planters around the country. Thank you LCPN for a wonderful couple of days, you are generous hosts.

Lessons from the Journey--what I am learning

2009-07-30T17:04:00.008-04:00

Some of the lessons I am learning as I start Discover Church...

Under promise and over deliver. Disappointment comes from unmet expectations, resist temptation to raise them too high or spend a lot of time encouraging your core team.
No model will fit you perfectly.
God provides!
God has been bringing people into the community for years in preparation for your church.
Keep dreaming.
So comforting to remember that Jesus is the One building His church not me.
Planting with a team is essential
Be prepared to step up your commitment to spiritually lead your family.
Closely connect the dates for your community serving event and your Vision Cast. We waited about two weeks in between and it was too long. Lost momentum.
Make sure you have fun with your team. Church planting is so serious, taxing and sacrificial it's more important to have a blast too.
You must hemorrhage your vision for your people to bleed it.
My faith is weak.
Vision leaks, constantly revisit it again and again.
You must spend money to raise money.
Stay flexible on non-essentials especially if you are in a more transient culture.
Personal time with God is mandatory for confidence, wisdom, peace, vision, and compassion.

Discover Church Video

2009-07-25T14:24:00.007-04:00

This is a video that our worship leader, Benj Litter, made to Chris Tomlin's version of God of this City.

Sex, Suicide, and Bed Sheets in Seattle

2009-07-23T14:36:00.006-04:00

This is an article on Blaine Hogan's website about how some Christians in Seattle have responded to needs in their neighborhoods. Definitely raw but Christ-centered, so I love it! Lets take our responsibility as Christ-followers seriously and put on display the love, hope, and forgiveness that Jesus died to offer! Enjoy the read...

Discover Church Vision Cast--this Friday 7-9pm

2009-07-22T16:12:00.009-04:00

Discover Church is a new church in the Jupiter/Gardens area that is committed to helping people find life in Jesus Christ. We would like to invite you to attend our Vision Cast on July 24th from 7-9pm. By coming you can expect to meet the staff and core team of Discover Church over coffee and desserts, and hear how we intend of helping people find life in Jesus Christ.

Vision Cast Location:

18883 Still Lake Drive

Jupiter, FL 33458

For RSVP, directions, and any questions you might have email us at: info@discoverchurchpbc.com. Hope to see you Friday night!

Lessons from the Journey

2009-07-16T15:24:00.004-04:00

Hilarious video from Community Christian Church. Can you guess which person Discover Church is more like? (hint: ties make me claustrophobic)

Car Wash Reflections

2009-07-15T15:34:00.005-04:00

As I look back on the car wash from Monday I am reminded of the life of John the Baptist. For those unfamiliar with John he was the cousin of Jesus and was purposed by God to be the forerunner or "table-setter" for Jesus' ministry. Jesus described John in Matthew 11:11 by calling him the greatest to ever live who was born of a woman. So what made John so great? John fully utilized all the abilities that he possessed to point people to Jesus.

As you can imagine this was not easy for John because many came to him believing that he (not Jesus) was the Messiah (implying the desire to worship him) yet he stood resolute in his place in God's story and directed people to the One who could provide the hope they were longing to find. Many times John had to remind those closest to him that there was One coming (Jesus hadn't begun His public ministry) that was greater than him. His purpose was to decrease so that He (Jesus) might increase! Oh how I desire that to be said about me and about Discover Church.

Not sure if you are anything like me but I find myself many times fighting the desire to leverage my abilities to draw attention to me. That is one of the beautiful things about what we did Monday. We provided a service to the community of Jupiter/Gardens without receiving any compensation or payment but the simple joy of pointing people to the One who can be their hope! Eventually there will be dirt back on the cars and finger prints on the windows however what God did in the hearts of those you served selflessly will never dissipate.

Stepping out into the community and sharing the love of Christ in a practical way is a simple yet powerful message of what we value and who we are as a church! Thank you Discover Church for your sacrificial service, I am very proud to be your pastor! These are great days and many more ahead...

Discover Church Car Wash

2009-07-14T15:38:00.004-04:00

Monday July 13th was a big day in the life of Discover Church. From 10-2pm we went from being a church that WILL serve the Jupiter/Gardens community to a church who IS serving them. With tremendous help from middle school pastor Kevin Saxton and the Powerhouse Ministry of FBC of West Palm Beach the DC team shared the love of Jesus Christ in a practical way by washing right at 100 cars TOTALLY FREE! In addition to the wash of cars I personally had the privilege of speaking with almost everyone and was able to communicate with right around 60 of them the life transformation available in Jesus Christ. This was a momentum builder for DC and we are looking forward to our next event, DC Vision Cast on July 24thfrom 7-9pm. Come and find out what we are all about! RSVP, directions, and questions to info@discoverchurchpbc.com.

Totally Free Car Wash

2009-07-11T15:28:00.005-04:00

Who wants to wash their car anyway? No one, so let us do it for you! Discover Church desires to serve the people of Jupiter/Gardens and one way we will be doing so is on Monday, July 13th from 10-2pm by giving all who come by Moondog Creations a totally FREE car wash. Punch this address in your GPS and let us take care of you.

Moondog Creations

815 W. Indiantown Rd.

Jupiter, FL 33458

4th of July Celebration--West Palm Beach

2009-07-05T00:29:00.005-04:00

We had a great time hanging out in downtown West Palm Beach with our friends for the 4th of July. Brittni assisted a great team of people from the Mayor Lois Frankel's office who put on the downtown event for up to 700,000 people. This was also the centennial celebration of Palm Beach County breaking away from Dade County. Here are some pics from our time on Flagler Drive.

Lessons from the Journey--the cancer struggle

2009-07-01T15:08:00.004-04:00

Phenomenal story of hope and faith in the midst of cancer. "Jesus is not a crutch He must be a stretcher" was a remarkably powerful statement. This should be encouraging to anyone that is going through trials. Please join Brittni and I as we pray for Pastor Ted Blair of Livingway Church in Garland, TX. Watch till the end.

Best and Worst Cities For Recession Recovery

2009-07-01T12:42:00.000-04:00

Interesting info on how the cities of the US are handling the recession. Here is a story that lists the best and worst cities for recession recovery and of course south Florida is in the mix.

Discover Church meeting times

2009-07-01T12:40:00.001-04:00

For those of you checking in on when Discover Church is meeting here are some details:

Core Team Meeting 8-9:30pm on Thursday nights. If interested in hearing more about helping to get a new church start off the ground in Jupiter/Gardens, FL email Chip at chip@discoverchurchpbc.com for directions.

At this point this is our only weekly gathering but there is much more to come.

Lessons from the Journey--Jesus wants the rose

2009-06-30T12:07:00.000-04:00

Lessons from the Journey--John 2:23-25

2009-06-26T14:20:00.006-04:00

What was it about Jesus' leadership that He was willing to lay down His life for sinful humanity but yet was still resistant to entrust Himself to them? Here are a couple of thoughts that attempt to bring some understanding to the text.

1. Jesus death was "for me" but not "to me"

2. Maybe "entrusting Himself to them" would have carried with it an essence of influence?

In other words, Jesus limited what the people's influence on Him would be because He knew all men and what was in them. As a result of Jesus limiting the people's influence on Him He ensured and protected three dynamic things:

1. His vision was intact

2. His value was intact (many leaders look for their people to validate them)

3. His mission was unwavering

Economy not exams stressing out students

2009-06-26T11:23:00.000-04:00

58% of teens (12-17 year olds) polled are worried themselves with how the economy will impact them. In an interesting article on ABC.com there are polling results about the effects of the economic downturn on the American family. Important time for parents to lead their families into remembering what is important and valuing the things that are consistent and dependable.

Lessons from the Journey

2009-06-10T14:00:00.005-04:00

It seems with more and more regularity there are men whom God is using greatly that make poor decisions and disqualify themselves from the ministry that God was blessing. This has happened recently with a church planting pioneer and this should serve as a reminder to all of us that little decisions matter. Big decisions are made more palatable when little decisions have been given in to along the way. One of my mentors and Discover Church advisory team members Matt Willmington has provided some great insight on and questions to reinforce purity and allegiance to our wives. I highly recommend this read from his blog...

Lessons from the Journey

2009-06-10T11:06:00.001-04:00

Here are some more thoughts on what Ive found during weeks two-three while starting Discover Church.

There is never the money you have hoped and planned for.
Fundraising requires creativity.
Place sabbath periods of rest as immovable objects during your week.
Discouragement comes.
Discouragement is a tactic of the enemy; respond to it with the spiritual weapons available to us as Christ-followers (prayer, God's Word, faith).
There are far more well-meaning, cooperative pastors than territorial mean-spirited ones.
Fight the temptation to judge success by the scoreboard. Especially early on, numbers are not an accurate determination of success. (see #4)
Your spouse needs to be your chief encourager. Her words carry far more weight than most anyone else's.
Take as much pride in your study prep for 8 people as you have done for larger numbers of people in the past.
Find blogs, books, people that are not too far ahead of you and remember the early stages of a church start.
Stress on your teammates quickly becomes stress on you. Proximity enhances contagion.

Ed Young on methodology transplants

2009-06-08T11:41:00.005-04:00

Real good stuff from Ed Young and some of his team. Be wary of attempting to transplant someone else's method for reaching people. Look at the reason they did what they did and ask yourself if that is applicable to your vision and direction.

Lessons from the Journey--Dealing with Discouragement

2009-06-05T16:12:00.004-04:00

There is no doubt that every person with a heart still beating will find themselves sooner rather than later feeling their pulse race while dealing with discouragement. As a parent, friend, son/daughter, spouse, etc we all undergo periods of time that flesh out into discouragement. Knowing this God gave us purpose for these times in James 1:2-4,

Consider it all joy, my brothers, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

Here are some thoughts on discouragement that hopefully will be helpful:

it happens to everyone
see the potential in it for producing positive things that couldn't have happened apart from it
see the discouragement as spiritual warfare and engage it with spiritual weapons (faith, prayer, God's Word)
process through it or you will be face to face with its evil twin sister depression
celebrate God in it--celebration in good times are expected, celebration in bad times is explosive
ask God what you are to learn from it

Lessons from the Journey--Church Unity

2009-06-05T13:29:00.006-04:00

(Left to right) Scott Thomas, Jonathan Falwell, Mark Driscoll

One of the things that gets me most excited is the increasing levels of willingness for church networks, denominations, and spiritual influencers to work across lines that may have previously divided. This week Acts 29 and Pastor Mark Driscoll visited my alma mater Liberty University, Thomas Road Baptist Church at the invitation of Pastor Jonathan Falwell. This is so encouraging because there is far more that unifies these two great ministries than divides them and there is no way of measuring the potential kingdom expansion that can occur when two Christ-seeking movements cooperate. May there be many more meetings just like this all over the world, for His glory. Here is the link to Acts 29 and their blog on the meeting.

Lessons from the Journey

2009-05-23T01:01:00.005-04:00

Been in Jupiter, FL now for over a week and focusing on starting Discover Church on a committed basis for 7 days. I by no means have figured anything out and truthfully have learned how much I have yet to learn but maybe this will be helpful to those who come behind me next week or next year. If so, I will try to keep these coming on a semi-regular basis. These are some of the things I have learned/relearned during my first 7 days starting Discover Church...

A supportive, enthusiastic spouse is essential and I have the best!
Having an advisory team of experienced, wise, talented, Christ-pursuing pastors prevents blind-spots and is catalytic.
Establishing a prayer network months in advance of relocation prepares the way in immeasurable levels.
Planting in your hometown or a place with significant familiarity is tremendously helpful as it cuts down on the learning curve and allows you to "be" the area quicker and more streamlined.
Network, network, network--somebody always knows someone who knows somebody.
Be flexible in methods and in schedule but dogmatic when protecting the vision from day 1.
Listen to those who have gone before you very carefully (see #2).
Don't forget that this is also new for your spouse (and kids in applicable). Careful, intentional communication has been very important for us.
Connecting with area pastors provides great wisdom and networking.
Connecting with area pastors can be discouraging but resist becoming jaded.
Spend time building relationships with potential core team members. Each person adds texture, connections, and credibility (not to mention tithe) to a new start (see #5).
Plan for a separate environments for core team and seekers--seems simple but a mistake I have already made.
An intentional vision/plan for multiplication of churches disarms people who immediately assume church planters are about building their own kingdom.
Work hard--set a schedule and keep it like you would if are working for someone else.
Planting a church with a team allows for much more to get accomplished in a more effective manner and is MUCH more enjoyable.
Share your vision as often as possible; it is God's stamp of legitimacy and limits the sting of discouragement that will surely come.
Visit area churches and learn from what is going well and what is not.
Communicate with your spouse about the day you plan to begin to shift from unpacking mode to church planting mode.
Prayer walks are powerful for vision, compassion, motivation.

Lessons from the Journey--Grad Week

2009-05-08T16:55:00.005-04:00

Big Weekend for us! Brittni and I will be graduating this tomorrow, Saturday. Brittni will be graduating with a Communications major with a specialization in Public Relations/Advertising. I will be receiving my Masters of Divinity with a specialization in Leadership. We are so grateful for so many of our family members who will be here this weekend or have sent encouraging cards to us! It is at moments like this that we recognize how truly blessed we are to have the friends and family around us. To those who have been given much much is expected. We certainly fall under that category...

Countdowns

2009-04-25T15:13:00.006-04:00

Hard to believe but for us "it's the final countdown" (can hear Europe singing in the background now!). Here is what the next two weeks hold for Brittni and I:

Last day of classes is Wednesday April 29
Discover Church send off party Thursday April 30
Finals week May 1-7
Seminary Banquet May 7
Family comes in May 8
Graduation May 9
Move to FL date May 14

10 Qualifications of a Church Planter

2009-04-24T01:16:00.004-04:00

Church planting is a unique calling and one that comes with many sacrifices. One of the most influential voices in church planting is Mark Driscoll and the Acts 29 Network. Pastor Scott Thomas, director of Acts 29 Network, wrote an article on 10 qualifications of a church planter based on their detailed assessment. For those who have interest in starting a church this provides some clarity as to the type of person that Acts 29 looks to invest. The starting of a local church is the single greatest evangelistic tool in the world! So everyone should consider it at least...

Discover Church Commissioning Service @ LU

2009-04-23T00:37:00.007-04:00

Dr. Earley with future lead planters

Britt/Stephanie and Me with Matt Willmington (TRBC)

Side view of Jonathan speaking to us

Today was a HUGE day for Discover Church and our team. In Liberty's convocation Pastor Jonathan spoke a tremendously encouraging message that was based on his father and founder of Thomas Road/Liberty Dr. Jerry Falwell's famous message. This was the first time since Doc passed away (two years in May) that Jonathan preached one of his dad's messages. He led off the talk by asking us four big questions that Doc used to ask us regularly. I pass them on to you for you to answer:

What would I try to do if I knew I could succeed?
What goals would I set if I knew I could not fail?
What price am I willing to pay?
What sacrifices am I willing to make?

Pastor Jonathan then went on to preach to the 12,000 person audience from 2 Timothy 1:7, "God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind." Here are the main thoughts that he attached to us and challenged the church planters.

Be bold!
Don't focus on the problems!
Believe God for the impossible!
Commit to Him daily!
Learn to play hurt! (Never, Never, NEVER quit!)

At the conclusion of the talk Jonathan invited all the church planters, their wives, and team members to stand below the platform and challenged each of us by name and location. Then Dr. Elmer Towns (co-founder of Liberty and church growth guru) prayed for us as the pastors of LU and TRBC laid their hands on us! This was truly a remarkable day. If you are interested in hearing/seeing the convocation service click here and look for today's date (April 22nd); it may not be posted just yet. Click here for the story from Liberty's site. Here are some pics from this morning...

Lessons from the Journey

2009-04-20T17:20:00.002-04:00

As a good leader it is incredibly important to see the need to involve others into making things happen (mainly for me because I am sorely limited). A quality leader MUST recognize that he/she is unable to do everything on their own... so I need to delegate and trust others to do what they say they will do. However, if you are anything like me you find yourself incredibly frustrated when you were expecting something to be taken care of and it does not happen as it was stated it would. So, now there must be follow up and when he/she is approached there are always reasons (some valid and others not) as to why "said commitment" was dropped. But what do you do when there is a repeated history of excuses? How should a leader who sees the value in being compassionate, understanding, and flexible yet experiencing the tension of responsibility for accomplishing tasks and maintaining momentum, etc. approach these repeated conversations? In many cases, excuses are simply misplaced accountability. In other words, the excuse gets the blame instead of the individual. Here is where I will let you in on somethings I have learned lately:

Consider the history of the person
Remind yourself leadership is both a privilege and a process
Pray for wisdom and discernment to see beyond the moment
Temper frustration of the moment with the appreciation of the person
Act in best interest of person and organization/church (both mercy and discipline can be in person's best interest). Don't act until you are able to lead in a direction that you are confident is best for both. Sometimes best thing for the person is correction.

Behind Scenes Church Plant Video

2009-04-20T17:14:00.005-04:00

Really helpful and impressive behind the scenes video from OakLeaf Church. This video shows how they transform a movie theatre into their church. A lot of really helpful resources that they have discovered and pass along to us. Thank you Michael and OakLeaf..

Oak Leaf Church Behind the Scenes from Oak Leaf Church on Vimeo.

Discover Church Update

2009-04-12T15:42:00.005-04:00

Pastor Jonathan mentioning Discover Church in convocation on April 3rd. God is doing some remarkable things in and through this man! We deeply appreciate Thomas Road's support of Discover Church!

Lessons from the Journey

2009-04-12T09:58:00.004-04:00

"You are stronger, You are stronger! Sin is broken, you have saved me. It is written Christ is risen and Jesus you are Lord of all!" Hillsong--Stronger

NCAA Tourney Challenge

2009-04-10T01:41:00.004-04:00

Drum roll please....the winner of the Discover Church NCAA Bracket Challenge is none other than Brittni Stallings! With a comeback that will be talked about for decades to come, she stuck with the Tarheels and they got her a gold medal around her neck (actually me doing the cat's litter for 365 days)! Here are the final results...

(191 pts) Brittni Stallings
(174 pts) Chip Stallings
(171 pts) Samantha Linton
(167 pts) Stephanie Baker and Benj Litter
(160 pts) Seth Huber
(157 pts) Bliss Spillar
(155 pts) Michael Robinson
(146 pts) Brooke Haugan
(98 pts) TJ Jones

Lessons from the Journey

2009-04-09T22:44:00.005-04:00

Next level leaders maximize their time more efficiently than others. Some leaders are more intelligent, some possess greater charisma, others better looking, but all have the same time in each day. A leader's value is determined by what is accomplished with that common denominator.

Breaking Ground Church Planting Event

2009-04-04T22:30:00.006-04:00

On Friday night at the Muse Coffee Shop we had a great time talking church planting and general leadership principles with Daniel and Tammie Floyd. Daniel is the pastor of LifePoint Church in Fredericksburg, Va. LifePoint, under Daniel's leadership, is a tremendously generous church and we saw it firsthand as they hosted us last month. We learned so much from them! It is so great to reconnect with Daniel and to see guys I went to undergrad with at Liberty doing so well.

Lessons from the Journey--"But when God"

2009-04-03T01:43:00.006-04:00

Galatians 1:1-11-17

Paul wants the Galatians to know that the things he has taught them (ie: the gospel of Jesus Christ) was not something made up by man but rather revealed to him directly by God. The evidence of this divine message was the severe life change that was visible in the life of Paul. Previously to this miraculous encounter he was excelling and advancing in Judaism passed all of his peers. Then one of the most fabulous transitions in all of the Bible occurs...

"But when God", this changed everything! The passions and priorities of Paul were drastically and forever changed in an instant by his encounter with Jesus Christ on the road to Damascus.

Jupiter and Palm Beachers, I see this very story occurring all over the county! "I was excelling in so many areas of my life that I found valuable 'but when God' called me to Himself I found my life taking a drastic turn from the traditions that have long controlled my family to the priorities of God."

I can hear it as if it being said right now! Pray that God will begin to soften the hearts of those needing to experience this transformation and discover life in Jesus Christ!