I got a bit behind (email and social media remain the best ways to get these), but here's the latest
(1) Playing in the Mud
(2) Watchmen on the Wall
Showing posts with label Newsletter. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Newsletter. Show all posts
Monday, October 23, 2017
Monday, August 7, 2017
God is With Us in the Battle AND A Character Witness for Christ
Here's the latest two Centurion/FCPO e-newsletters and Bible studies that have gone out to our worldwide readership (email me at fullarmor911@yahoo.com to get signed up):
(1) God is With Us in the Battle
and
(2) A Character Witness for Christ
Stay safe out there -- but radically bold in Him.
MC
(1) God is With Us in the Battle
and
(2) A Character Witness for Christ
Stay safe out there -- but radically bold in Him.
MC
Thursday, November 22, 2012
"A Cop's Thanksgivng" -- The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry/FCPO Newsletter
Happy Thanksgiving, brothers and sisters! This week's newsletter is UP and includes an audio link to my Thanksgiving message given this past Tuesday at the Calvary Chapel South Denver TRUTH service along with the recap from last week's Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry/FCPO-Denver Bible study. Please take the time to read it, apply it and then pass it on to a friend and/or colleague. Just click here on "A Cop's Thanksgiving" -- TCLEM Newsletter.
Let's serve boldly in Christ and then thank God for all His blessings -- including bringing us home safe after our shifts.
MC
Monday, October 29, 2012
God's Unique Gifts to Cops: The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry/FCPO Newsletter
This week's law enforcement ministry newsletter has gone out to our worldwide subscribers but, as usual, I've re-posted it here as well -- just click on NEWSLETTER. This week (Thursday, November 1st) we'll be meeting at Calvary South Denver in Littleton where Jim Wattles will be teaching a message he's entitled "Unique" -- a biblical look at the unique gifts our loving Father gives to each of us and the unique RELATIONSHIP he wants to have with us. The newsletter includes the recap from last week's message along with resources and other helpful "411" to help you in your daily walk with our Lord.
Finally, let me urge you to be in prayer for all those in the path of Hurricane Sandy -- including but by no means limited to our fellow first responders.
Finally, let me urge you to be in prayer for all those in the path of Hurricane Sandy -- including but by no means limited to our fellow first responders.
Monday, October 1, 2012
FCPO Conference, Centurion Ministry Newsletter/Devotional, Prayer Requests and More
We are home from an amazingly successful (praise God) Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers (FCPO) National Conference and this week's Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry/FCPO Newsletter has been sent out to our contacts worldwide. For this who missed it, here it is again: http://conta.cc/PGx21z. Be sure to pass it on!
Pics from the conference are starting to show up on Facebook (to start with, try Jonathan Parker's Covered Law Enforcement photo page). I'll be posting more on both the Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry Facebook page and on the Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers -- USA page (as will others).
Finally, new Prayer Requests are posted below. Please take the time to join us in prayer reference these requests (and feel free to send me yours).
PRAYER REQUESTS: Updated 10/01/2012
** Please pray for NMSP/SID Sgt. Lee Mullen who is in critical condition after suffering a heart attack.
** Pray for the Christian leaders (meaning those chiefs who are truly living their faith) at the IACP conference in CA this week (boldness in their faith and opportunities to share Christ).
** Pray for a deputy and his family reference serious financial problems (in danger of losing their home) and issues with their adult son as well.
** Praise Report! Thanks to all who prayed concerning this year's FCPO National Conference. God answered! That said, there were some who came who are also in need of prayer (families, job issues, etc.) -- just pray!
** Please pray for the newborn granddaughter of Chattanooga PD Sgt. Mike Minnick. Baby is having breathing problems and possible pneumonia.
** Pray that the Christian chiefs attending the IACP conference will be sold-out for their faith and share Christ openly. Pray also for Arkansas City, KS Chief Sean Wallace as he speaks tomorrow (10/2).
** A police chief writes, "Please pray for my son . He was in the police academy at the top of his class when he had a bicycle accident and broke his collar bone. This required him to leave the academy and he had surgery on 9/28. His PD does not have a lot of "light duty" work for him and because he has only worked for them two months he is already out of leave. He will be off work recuperating without pay. He has to recuperate enough by November 5th to join the next academy class where he left off or he will be released by his PD. Please pray for his healing, recuperation, and finances. He is a strong believer so he is trusting the Lord but he is a bit nervous about he will take care of his family."
Pics from the conference are starting to show up on Facebook (to start with, try Jonathan Parker's Covered Law Enforcement photo page). I'll be posting more on both the Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry Facebook page and on the Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers -- USA page (as will others).
Finally, new Prayer Requests are posted below. Please take the time to join us in prayer reference these requests (and feel free to send me yours).
PRAYER REQUESTS: Updated 10/01/2012
** Please pray for NMSP/SID Sgt. Lee Mullen who is in critical condition after suffering a heart attack.
** Pray for the Christian leaders (meaning those chiefs who are truly living their faith) at the IACP conference in CA this week (boldness in their faith and opportunities to share Christ).
** Pray for a deputy and his family reference serious financial problems (in danger of losing their home) and issues with their adult son as well.
** Praise Report! Thanks to all who prayed concerning this year's FCPO National Conference. God answered! That said, there were some who came who are also in need of prayer (families, job issues, etc.) -- just pray!
** Please pray for the newborn granddaughter of Chattanooga PD Sgt. Mike Minnick. Baby is having breathing problems and possible pneumonia.
** Pray that the Christian chiefs attending the IACP conference will be sold-out for their faith and share Christ openly. Pray also for Arkansas City, KS Chief Sean Wallace as he speaks tomorrow (10/2).
** A police chief writes, "Please pray for my son . He was in the police academy at the top of his class when he had a bicycle accident and broke his collar bone. This required him to leave the academy and he had surgery on 9/28. His PD does not have a lot of "light duty" work for him and because he has only worked for them two months he is already out of leave. He will be off work recuperating without pay. He has to recuperate enough by November 5th to join the next academy class where he left off or he will be released by his PD. Please pray for his healing, recuperation, and finances. He is a strong believer so he is trusting the Lord but he is a bit nervous about he will take care of his family."
Sunday, September 9, 2012
9/11, FCPO Moldova Mission Report and More: TCLEM/FCPO Newsletter
This week's newsletter has gone out to our worldwide subscribers but is also available by clicking HERE. It includes news about our upcoming FCPO National Conference, a report on our recently completed FCPO mission to the police and people of Moldova, my 9/11 devotional/Bible study and more. Take the time to check it out and pass it on.
Speaking of Moldova, check out this video of our fearless leader Sean Wallace talking about this year's mission: Team Moldova Update.
Speaking of Moldova, check out this video of our fearless leader Sean Wallace talking about this year's mission: Team Moldova Update.
Sunday, May 13, 2012
National Police Week and "Running Code for Christ"
National Police Week is in full swing and this week's newsletter is up! Take the time to check it out (and pass it on) by clicking here: http://conta.cc/J1JitV! Also check out the new links and resources here on our site. If you're in the Denver area, plan on joining us this week for "Cop Church" (fellowship, Bible study and more) at Calvary AURORA.
Let's stay the course in Christ!
Let's stay the course in Christ!
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
New Newsletter Format
This week's newsletter is our first using the Constant Contact format. Hopefully, this eliminate some of the SPAM, scam and other email issues I've been having with Yahoo (no, I'm not again stranded in Scotland). If you wish to opt out from receiving the newsletters or if it was sent to you in error, please shoot me an email to thecenturionministry@yahoo.com and I'll remove you forthwith.
The Latest Prayer Requests & Announcements are posted and updated regularly here on our website (scroll down). Please take the time to be review and join us in praying for our own.
Denver-Area Meeting News
Don't forget that -- as announced -- there is NO MEETING tomorrow night (1/26/2012). The Denver-area meeting schedules are of course posted at the top-left here on our website. We'll be back on February 2nd at Calvary South Denver (www.calvarycsd.org) in Littleton starting at 7 PM -- probably in the High School Room (all the way in the back past the main sanctuary). Bring your spouse and invite a colleague!
Update on Diana
Thanks to all who have been praying for Diana reference her recent surgery. Praise God, the procedure went well and she is now recovering at home (keep the prayers coming).
Message RECAP: Cops Bold as Lions
Last week I concluded our current 3-part mini-series with a message I entitled "Cops Bold as Lions." The National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington, DC has a panel below a statue of a lion bearing the words of Proverbs 28:1 -- The wicked flee when no one pursues; but the righteous are as bold as a lion. In fact, there is a pic posted here on our website (scroll down to bottom) of me standing beside that very portion of our wall. So how does this apply to us as both peace officers and Christians? In the original Hebrew, this passage comes alive in a way that just can't be matched in English.
-- Wicked: The word is an adjective in the Hebrew - rasha - and means guilty (as of a crime); hostile towards God; guilty of sin against man or God.
-- Flee: Literally means to be hide; fearful escape (as if running from the police).
-- Righteous: Just; make right, lawful. How? The ONLY way we can be made righteous is by being in a right relationship with God in Christ and NOT through our service as LEOs.
-- Bold (specifically "are bold" - batach in the Hebrew): confident, unwavering trust. The Hebrew connotation is also chazaq, meaning "mighty", "strong" (see below). How? True biblical boldness comes by the power of the Holy Spirit and not of ourselves.
-- Lion (specifically "as a lion" - kĕphiyr in the Hebrew): like a young lion among defenseless sheep.
So here's the gist: God is calling EVERY believer to boldness in Christ. Bold in serving our families and spouses, bold in how we serve and protect as cops, bold in sharing the Gospel and plan of salvation with others, and bold in our worship and devotion to our King. As true believers (those born again and made right through a personal relationship with God in Christ), we can also live boldly without fear inasmuch as there is NOTHING the "world" can do to separate us from our eternal destiny with the Lord.
Some of the primary passages of Scripture concerning being bold in the power of our Lord include but are by no means limited to Joshua 1, Joshua 10:21-27 and Ephesians 6:10-20. In addition, study 1 Chronicles 28:20; 1 Corinthians 16:13; Philippians 4:13; and 2 Timothy 2:1 (among others).
The conclusion of this mini-series is this: God is calling -- commanding -- us to be overcoming. radical and bold followers of Christ as opposed to lukewarm (Revelation 3:16), pew-warming, mediocre make-believers. To use the line from Courageous (now out on DVD and Blu-Ray), "Where are you men of courage?" Where indeed! I encourage you to review the following links that will pull this series together for you. Rak Chazak, my fellow servant-warriors!
See:
(1) The Ancient War Cry by Eric Ludy: www.youtube.com/watch?v=-XKSV9sKr8w
(2) Real Christianity! www.youtube.com/watch?v=iZByA0bFoNU&feature=share
That's it for this week folks! Let me know what you think of our new format and know your ideas, suggestions and comments are always welcome. Be safe but bold in Christ.
The Latest Prayer Requests & Announcements are posted and updated regularly here on our website (scroll down). Please take the time to be review and join us in praying for our own.
Denver-Area Meeting News
Don't forget that -- as announced -- there is NO MEETING tomorrow night (1/26/2012). The Denver-area meeting schedules are of course posted at the top-left here on our website. We'll be back on February 2nd at Calvary South Denver (www.calvarycsd.org) in Littleton starting at 7 PM -- probably in the High School Room (all the way in the back past the main sanctuary). Bring your spouse and invite a colleague!
Update on Diana
Thanks to all who have been praying for Diana reference her recent surgery. Praise God, the procedure went well and she is now recovering at home (keep the prayers coming).
Message RECAP: Cops Bold as Lions
Last week I concluded our current 3-part mini-series with a message I entitled "Cops Bold as Lions." The National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington, DC has a panel below a statue of a lion bearing the words of Proverbs 28:1 -- The wicked flee when no one pursues; but the righteous are as bold as a lion. In fact, there is a pic posted here on our website (scroll down to bottom) of me standing beside that very portion of our wall. So how does this apply to us as both peace officers and Christians? In the original Hebrew, this passage comes alive in a way that just can't be matched in English.
-- Wicked: The word is an adjective in the Hebrew - rasha - and means guilty (as of a crime); hostile towards God; guilty of sin against man or God.
-- Flee: Literally means to be hide; fearful escape (as if running from the police).
-- Righteous: Just; make right, lawful. How? The ONLY way we can be made righteous is by being in a right relationship with God in Christ and NOT through our service as LEOs.
-- Bold (specifically "are bold" - batach in the Hebrew): confident, unwavering trust. The Hebrew connotation is also chazaq, meaning "mighty", "strong" (see below). How? True biblical boldness comes by the power of the Holy Spirit and not of ourselves.
-- Lion (specifically "as a lion" - kĕphiyr in the Hebrew): like a young lion among defenseless sheep.
So here's the gist: God is calling EVERY believer to boldness in Christ. Bold in serving our families and spouses, bold in how we serve and protect as cops, bold in sharing the Gospel and plan of salvation with others, and bold in our worship and devotion to our King. As true believers (those born again and made right through a personal relationship with God in Christ), we can also live boldly without fear inasmuch as there is NOTHING the "world" can do to separate us from our eternal destiny with the Lord.
Some of the primary passages of Scripture concerning being bold in the power of our Lord include but are by no means limited to Joshua 1, Joshua 10:21-27 and Ephesians 6:10-20. In addition, study 1 Chronicles 28:20; 1 Corinthians 16:13; Philippians 4:13; and 2 Timothy 2:1 (among others).
The conclusion of this mini-series is this: God is calling -- commanding -- us to be overcoming. radical and bold followers of Christ as opposed to lukewarm (Revelation 3:16), pew-warming, mediocre make-believers. To use the line from Courageous (now out on DVD and Blu-Ray), "Where are you men of courage?" Where indeed! I encourage you to review the following links that will pull this series together for you. Rak Chazak, my fellow servant-warriors!
See:
(1) The Ancient War Cry by Eric Ludy: www.youtube.com/watch?v=-XKSV9sKr8w
(2) Real Christianity! www.youtube.com/watch?v=iZByA0bFoNU&feature=share
That's it for this week folks! Let me know what you think of our new format and know your ideas, suggestions and comments are always welcome. Be safe but bold in Christ.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Obedience -- The Centurion LE Ministry Newsletter
Fellow Servant-Warriors and Supporters:
Another crazy week – thanks so much for your prayers and support as we stay the course in what God has called us to do for both His Kingdom and our fellow officers serving in our God-ordained (Romans 13:1-7) profession. Lots to cover – read on!
Last week’s profession-relevant message centered on the biblical concept of obedience. Here’s the RECAP (as always, feel free to adapt the information posted her for your own studies
OBEDIENCE – Better than Sacrifice!
As Col. Jessup (Jack Nicholson) pointed out in A Few Good Men, “We follow orders Son. We follow orders or people die…” Thankfully, we can trust that our true Captain's orders will not the flawed one's of a Jessup.
The concept of obedience is central both to the Christian life and to us as peace officers (submission to authority, Romans 13). The Hebrew word shama means to “hear, listen and obey.” A prime passage where shama appears is I Samuel 15:22 - "To obey is better than sacrifice." The corresponding Greek word is hupakouo - "to listen under, to obey." Just but a few pertinent passages using this word/concept are:
II Cor. 10:5 -"taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ"
Heb. 5:9 - "He became to all who obey Him the source of salvation"
I Pet. 1:2 - "that you may obey Jesus Christ"
I Pet. 1:22 - "you have in obedience to the truth purified your souls"
To our Lord, obedience goes hand-in-hand with faith and is by NO MEANS "optional." The true story of Abraham and Isaac in Genesis 22 illustrates a faith that would obey. This is affirmed twice in the Scriptures. “By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son” (Heb. 11:17). “Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect?” (Jam. 2:21-22).
In James 2:14-20, 24 we are informed that a faith without works of obedience is: 1) dead, 2) imperfect, 3) no better than the devil’s faith, and 4) a contradiction to God’s word.
Further, we see that the offering of Isaac revealed a faith that obeyed with exactness ("partial obedience" is no obedience as all). Notice the exactness of God’s directions in Genesis 22:2. God specified what He wanted – a burnt offering, whom He wanted – Isaac, and where He wanted it – Mount Moriah. Clearly, Abraham obeyed with exactness!
God gave Noah exact directions as well, and Noah obeyed in kind: “Thus did Noah; according to all that God commanded him, so did he” (Gen. 6:22). When man does not obey with exactness, serious consequences will result, as was the case with Uzzah (2 Sam. 6:6-7) and Moses on one occasion (Num. 20:8-12). Many today are trying to treat obedience like a game of horseshoes – just trying to be "close." The offering of Isaac revealed a faith that would obey without question (our call as soldiers/cops so long as those orders are just and legal based). There would have been plenty that Abraham could have questioned God about, but he didn’t -- his faith was too strong (Rom. 4:20-22) and he was responding to the perfect Commander-in-Chief. We should never put a “?” where God has put a emphatic “.” or “!”.
The offering of Isaac revealed a faith that would obey regardless of the cost. As we see from this passage, obedience can be a very costly thing indeed. Obedience cost Job everything (Job 1). Obedience cost Moses riches and esteem (Heb. 11:24-27). Obedience cost Daniel his safety (Dan. 6:10-24). Obedience cost Stephen his life (Acts 6:10-24).
There is also a cost attached to Christianity as seen in Luke 14:25-33. We must not teach or practice "discount Christianity". Rather, we must possess the attitude of David, who declared “neither will I offer burnt offerings unto the Lord my God of that which doth cost me nothing” (2 Sam. 24:24). What will obedience cost us? It may cost us our friends, family, a job, and even personal joys and habits. But regardless of the cost, it pays to be obedient unto the Lord (Mk. 10:28-31) -- the rewards are worth any cost! Note further that our obedience should be out of love for the Lord rather than obligation (Matthew 22:37).
As peace officers, obedience and exactness (attention to detail) are incredibly important to both our success and survival (and that of others). That obedience is also how we show God how much we love Him and are committed to Him. Do you have a faith that will obey, that will obey with exactness, that will obey without question, and that will obey regardless of the cost? Are you the radical Romans 14 Christian God is calling you (us) to be? On this subject Os Hillman writes, “Joshua and Caleb (both great examples of biblical “cops” – true servant-warriors) are described in Scripture as men who had a different spirit. They were two of the twelve spies sent into the Promised Land to determine if it could be taken, as God had promised it to them. The other ten gave a bad report that instilled fear in the people, which ultimately caused a rebellion. This resulted in an entire generation dying in the desert. Joshua and Caleb were the only two who were led by the Spirit of God, versus the spirit of fear. They were the only ones to enter the Promised Land from their generation."
Are you a person led by the Spirit? Romans 8:13-14 (For if you live according to the sinful nature, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live, because those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God) tells us that those who are led by the Spirit are sons of God. "But because My servant Caleb has a different spirit and follows Me wholeheartedly (radical obedience, radical faith), I will bring him into the land he went to, and his descendants will inherit it" (Num. 14:24). Caleb was a Romans 8:14 man and warrior (cop)! The Spirit led him, he was obedient and true, and he was not led by fear.
Are you a Caleb or a David – both men after God’s own heart? If not, repent and turn to Him today. Ask the Lord to help you become men and women who serve and live obediently – and remember that it is only by the power of the Holy Spirit that we can truly be successful in being obedient to all that God has called us to (trying to do it on our own is destined for failure).
To conclude, check out the late Keith Green’s song on the subject (right on target for us in law enforcement): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A8gWDR35R8M. Obedience – that what our Lord wants from us -- let’s get to it!
______________________
THIS WEEK’S STUDY:
Along with an ongoing sense of urgency to share the Gospel with others, God has used the the events of the the last two weeks to impress on me the many of the central reasons for which this ministry exists. Accordingly, I’ll be teaching a new lesson on the importance of fellowship, peer support and accountability entitled "As Iron Sharpens Iron." I’ll have the RECAP in next week’s newsletter – stay tuned!
______________________
NEWS & TRAINING AND ANNOUNCEMENTS:
(1) Latest prayer requests and local (FCPO-Denver) meeting schedule has been posted here on our website (scroll down). Many of the prayer requests are urgent – please join us in praying for these needs.
(2) 10th Annual John Baker Memorial Golf Classic!
While I’m not personally a fan of golf (my friend Lt. Col. Dave Grossman has a famous saying about that activity…:), the 10th Annual John Baker Memorial Golf Classic is set for April 1st in Chattanooga, TN. This event is a great way for officers to gather, play, fellowship and raise funds for an exceedingly worthy cause. Please shoot fellow FCPO-USA Pres. Paul Lee an email at PWLee@unum.com or see our latest FCPO newsletter for details: http://www.fcpo.org/newsletters/FCPO_Winter_2011.pdf. If you can’t attend, pray that it will be a successful event.
(3) Given the events of the past 15 months in particular, the following resource sent to me by Streamwood (IL) Sgt. Dino Heckerman is spot-on. This intervention tool for first responders only is the first 24-hour, multi-state crisis hotline. Check out http://www.safecallnow.org/. I will be adding a link to our website.
(4) Speaking of Dino, check out this great You Tube testimony (obedience) that he recently put together. Dino’s church, Christ Community near Chicago, asked him to put his November 30th story from Grant Wolf’s book “Stories of Faith and Courage from Cops on the Street” on video. Go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pm7fyjZ1dmw to see it.
(5) Don’t forget that we’re on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/The-Centurion-Law-Enforcement-Ministry-FCPO-Denver/165229383527705. One there you can also click on my page (Mike Williams – page “owner”) – hope to see you “there.”
______________________
LOCAL (FCPO-DENVER) NEWS:
(1) Latest meeting schedule is posted on our website (updated frequently). We will in fact be meeting tonight at 1900 hours in the High School Room at Calvary South Denver (http://www.calvarycsd.org/). See you tonight!
(2) Tuesday Night Dialogue (TND) Retreat:
As most of you should know by now, I serve at our host church’s Tuesday night service (TND) and a good many of our FCPO-Denver regulars also attend this unique weekly event (teachings are absolutely warrior-relevant – deep and intense – and Pastor Sam Park has a heart for those of us serving in law enforcement). This year’s TND retreat is right around the corner – April 8-10 in beautiful Estes Park, CO. Diana and I will be there to serve and we encourage you to bring your brides and attend as well (unaccompanied/singles are welcome as well). See http://www.calvarycsd.org/event/2011-04-08-2011-tuesday-night-dialogue-retreat/ or contact Pastor Sam for details. Of course, I also encourage you to attend TND each week…hope to see you there!
It’s nearly 2:00 AM – gotta try to get a few hours of sleep (keep me in prayer). Not including suicides (tragic and often preventable), we’ve already lost 48 officers this year – and nearly half of those in violent encounters. Let’s serve with the Lord in the “driver’s” seat and take care of one another out there!
Another crazy week – thanks so much for your prayers and support as we stay the course in what God has called us to do for both His Kingdom and our fellow officers serving in our God-ordained (Romans 13:1-7) profession. Lots to cover – read on!
Last week’s profession-relevant message centered on the biblical concept of obedience. Here’s the RECAP (as always, feel free to adapt the information posted her for your own studies
OBEDIENCE – Better than Sacrifice!
As Col. Jessup (Jack Nicholson) pointed out in A Few Good Men, “We follow orders Son. We follow orders or people die…” Thankfully, we can trust that our true Captain's orders will not the flawed one's of a Jessup.
The concept of obedience is central both to the Christian life and to us as peace officers (submission to authority, Romans 13). The Hebrew word shama means to “hear, listen and obey.” A prime passage where shama appears is I Samuel 15:22 - "To obey is better than sacrifice." The corresponding Greek word is hupakouo - "to listen under, to obey." Just but a few pertinent passages using this word/concept are:
II Cor. 10:5 -"taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ"
Heb. 5:9 - "He became to all who obey Him the source of salvation"
I Pet. 1:2 - "that you may obey Jesus Christ"
I Pet. 1:22 - "you have in obedience to the truth purified your souls"
To our Lord, obedience goes hand-in-hand with faith and is by NO MEANS "optional." The true story of Abraham and Isaac in Genesis 22 illustrates a faith that would obey. This is affirmed twice in the Scriptures. “By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son” (Heb. 11:17). “Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect?” (Jam. 2:21-22).
In James 2:14-20, 24 we are informed that a faith without works of obedience is: 1) dead, 2) imperfect, 3) no better than the devil’s faith, and 4) a contradiction to God’s word.
Further, we see that the offering of Isaac revealed a faith that obeyed with exactness ("partial obedience" is no obedience as all). Notice the exactness of God’s directions in Genesis 22:2. God specified what He wanted – a burnt offering, whom He wanted – Isaac, and where He wanted it – Mount Moriah. Clearly, Abraham obeyed with exactness!
God gave Noah exact directions as well, and Noah obeyed in kind: “Thus did Noah; according to all that God commanded him, so did he” (Gen. 6:22). When man does not obey with exactness, serious consequences will result, as was the case with Uzzah (2 Sam. 6:6-7) and Moses on one occasion (Num. 20:8-12). Many today are trying to treat obedience like a game of horseshoes – just trying to be "close." The offering of Isaac revealed a faith that would obey without question (our call as soldiers/cops so long as those orders are just and legal based). There would have been plenty that Abraham could have questioned God about, but he didn’t -- his faith was too strong (Rom. 4:20-22) and he was responding to the perfect Commander-in-Chief. We should never put a “?” where God has put a emphatic “.” or “!”.
The offering of Isaac revealed a faith that would obey regardless of the cost. As we see from this passage, obedience can be a very costly thing indeed. Obedience cost Job everything (Job 1). Obedience cost Moses riches and esteem (Heb. 11:24-27). Obedience cost Daniel his safety (Dan. 6:10-24). Obedience cost Stephen his life (Acts 6:10-24).
There is also a cost attached to Christianity as seen in Luke 14:25-33. We must not teach or practice "discount Christianity". Rather, we must possess the attitude of David, who declared “neither will I offer burnt offerings unto the Lord my God of that which doth cost me nothing” (2 Sam. 24:24). What will obedience cost us? It may cost us our friends, family, a job, and even personal joys and habits. But regardless of the cost, it pays to be obedient unto the Lord (Mk. 10:28-31) -- the rewards are worth any cost! Note further that our obedience should be out of love for the Lord rather than obligation (Matthew 22:37).
As peace officers, obedience and exactness (attention to detail) are incredibly important to both our success and survival (and that of others). That obedience is also how we show God how much we love Him and are committed to Him. Do you have a faith that will obey, that will obey with exactness, that will obey without question, and that will obey regardless of the cost? Are you the radical Romans 14 Christian God is calling you (us) to be? On this subject Os Hillman writes, “Joshua and Caleb (both great examples of biblical “cops” – true servant-warriors) are described in Scripture as men who had a different spirit. They were two of the twelve spies sent into the Promised Land to determine if it could be taken, as God had promised it to them. The other ten gave a bad report that instilled fear in the people, which ultimately caused a rebellion. This resulted in an entire generation dying in the desert. Joshua and Caleb were the only two who were led by the Spirit of God, versus the spirit of fear. They were the only ones to enter the Promised Land from their generation."
Are you a person led by the Spirit? Romans 8:13-14 (For if you live according to the sinful nature, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live, because those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God) tells us that those who are led by the Spirit are sons of God. "But because My servant Caleb has a different spirit and follows Me wholeheartedly (radical obedience, radical faith), I will bring him into the land he went to, and his descendants will inherit it" (Num. 14:24). Caleb was a Romans 8:14 man and warrior (cop)! The Spirit led him, he was obedient and true, and he was not led by fear.
Are you a Caleb or a David – both men after God’s own heart? If not, repent and turn to Him today. Ask the Lord to help you become men and women who serve and live obediently – and remember that it is only by the power of the Holy Spirit that we can truly be successful in being obedient to all that God has called us to (trying to do it on our own is destined for failure).
To conclude, check out the late Keith Green’s song on the subject (right on target for us in law enforcement): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A8gWDR35R8M. Obedience – that what our Lord wants from us -- let’s get to it!
______________________
THIS WEEK’S STUDY:
Along with an ongoing sense of urgency to share the Gospel with others, God has used the the events of the the last two weeks to impress on me the many of the central reasons for which this ministry exists. Accordingly, I’ll be teaching a new lesson on the importance of fellowship, peer support and accountability entitled "As Iron Sharpens Iron." I’ll have the RECAP in next week’s newsletter – stay tuned!
______________________
NEWS & TRAINING AND ANNOUNCEMENTS:
(1) Latest prayer requests and local (FCPO-Denver) meeting schedule has been posted here on our website (scroll down). Many of the prayer requests are urgent – please join us in praying for these needs.
(2) 10th Annual John Baker Memorial Golf Classic!
While I’m not personally a fan of golf (my friend Lt. Col. Dave Grossman has a famous saying about that activity…:), the 10th Annual John Baker Memorial Golf Classic is set for April 1st in Chattanooga, TN. This event is a great way for officers to gather, play, fellowship and raise funds for an exceedingly worthy cause. Please shoot fellow FCPO-USA Pres. Paul Lee an email at PWLee@unum.com or see our latest FCPO newsletter for details: http://www.fcpo.org/newsletters/FCPO_Winter_2011.pdf. If you can’t attend, pray that it will be a successful event.
(3) Given the events of the past 15 months in particular, the following resource sent to me by Streamwood (IL) Sgt. Dino Heckerman is spot-on. This intervention tool for first responders only is the first 24-hour, multi-state crisis hotline. Check out http://www.safecallnow.org/. I will be adding a link to our website.
(4) Speaking of Dino, check out this great You Tube testimony (obedience) that he recently put together. Dino’s church, Christ Community near Chicago, asked him to put his November 30th story from Grant Wolf’s book “Stories of Faith and Courage from Cops on the Street” on video. Go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pm7fyjZ1dmw to see it.
(5) Don’t forget that we’re on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/The-Centurion-Law-Enforcement-Ministry-FCPO-Denver/165229383527705. One there you can also click on my page (Mike Williams – page “owner”) – hope to see you “there.”
______________________
LOCAL (FCPO-DENVER) NEWS:
(1) Latest meeting schedule is posted on our website (updated frequently). We will in fact be meeting tonight at 1900 hours in the High School Room at Calvary South Denver (http://www.calvarycsd.org/). See you tonight!
(2) Tuesday Night Dialogue (TND) Retreat:
As most of you should know by now, I serve at our host church’s Tuesday night service (TND) and a good many of our FCPO-Denver regulars also attend this unique weekly event (teachings are absolutely warrior-relevant – deep and intense – and Pastor Sam Park has a heart for those of us serving in law enforcement). This year’s TND retreat is right around the corner – April 8-10 in beautiful Estes Park, CO. Diana and I will be there to serve and we encourage you to bring your brides and attend as well (unaccompanied/singles are welcome as well). See http://www.calvarycsd.org/event/2011-04-08-2011-tuesday-night-dialogue-retreat/ or contact Pastor Sam for details. Of course, I also encourage you to attend TND each week…hope to see you there!
It’s nearly 2:00 AM – gotta try to get a few hours of sleep (keep me in prayer). Not including suicides (tragic and often preventable), we’ve already lost 48 officers this year – and nearly half of those in violent encounters. Let’s serve with the Lord in the “driver’s” seat and take care of one another out there!
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Cops & Compromise
This week’s Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry Newsletter just happens to coincide with the Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers (FCPO) Winter 2011 Newsletter. I therefore encourage you to go to http://www.fcpo.org/ and check it out. The FCPO version also includes a picture of Yours Truly baptizing our own Louie Jaramillo at our recent law enforcement baptism service.
MESSAGE RECAP!
The intent of my weekly message recap is to give you a tool that you can use for your own personal and/or group profession-relevant Bible studies and devotionals as well as a means of review for my locals and regulars here in the Denver metro area (FCPO-Denver). I would also strongly encourage you to get a copy of Dep. Mike Dye’s outstanding The PeaceKeepers -- Small Group Bible Study for law enforcement personnel. I used that book almost exclusively in my first year of ministry and often refer to it even now. Mike is also a dear friend and a fellow FCPO National Board member. The book is available on both the FCPO website (http://www.fcpo.org/) and from Mike’s site (http://www.christianlawenforcement.com/). Together with this site, you have three sites that provide you with a veritable treasure trove of helpful information and resources.
Last week we had our first official monthly meeting at Calvary Aurora (we will be meeting there the third Thursday of every month) where we had the pleasure of meeting new officers who might not otherwise make the trip down “south” to our main meeting location at Calvary South Denver in Littleton. The focus of our tactical Bible study was a reminder that our Lord has given peace officers a very special CALLING as it relates to our God-ordained profession.
The first part of our study came from the following passages in God’s perfect and inerrant “policy and procedure manual” (aka The Bible): Romans 13:1-7 and 1 Peter 2:13-14. A major theme in these passages is SUBMISSION. Not only are those we serve and protect called to submit to our God-given authority, we too are called to submit both to His Lordship and to those He has placed in positions of leadership over us (yes – EVEN if those authorities are corrupt or we deem them “unworthy” of such submission). In short, our submission is a voluntary act of obedience to our Lord. The word “submit” comes from the Greek hupotasso, which literally means to place UNDER (hupo) in an ORDERLY manner (tasso). The tense used in Romans 13 also carries a military (law enforcement) connotation, meaning to draw up in order of battle; to form, array and marshal troops or naval vessels and then being subject (submission) to the orders of the commanding officer. Moreover, the biblical concept of submission involves not seeking one’s own interests but rather assuming a voluntary commitment to serving and protecting others.
The second part of the call we have as LEOs is found in Psalm 82:3-4 which reads, Defend the cause of the weak and fatherless; maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed. Rescue the weak and needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.
Note that this passage is in the form of an ORDER (as opposed to a suggestion) from our true Commander in Chief. That said, it is still up to us to submit and carry out those orders (we have a free choice).
Is that you? Are you faithfully answering the CALL God has placed on your life as an officer, husband (or wife) and parent? Have you submitted your life to Christ? Are you RIGHT with Him today? If not, then seek His loving forgiveness and grace NOW – tomorrow may very well be too late. Our Lord has a plan for you – THE Plan. Come to Him now and begin walking the path our loving Father has laid out for you.
THIS WEEK’s STUDY:
Many of us work for agencies that have returned to our law enforcement roots by driving “black and whites” – police units decked out in traditional black and white paint schemes. There is a reason for that and it has everything to do with integrity, honor, right and wrong. That concept is central to this week’s profession-relevant TACTICAL Bible study that I’ve entitled “Cops and Compromise.” Please join us if you’re in the Denver metro area or stay tuned for next week’s recap.
The Latest PRAYER REQUESTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS, MEETING SCHEDULE & More… are posted here on our website. I also post regularly on our Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Centurion-Law-Enforcement-Ministry-FCPO-Denver/165229383527705. Please take the time to check it out – and check back frequently.
Reference prayer requests, I’ll close this week’s newsletter by asking you to take some extra time in prayer (“talking with God”) for our brothers and sisters with the St. Petersburg (FL) PD. They’ve lost three officers in the last thirty days. See the following links for more and to learn how you can support the families of our fallen brothers:
(1) http://goforward.bm23.com/public/q=preview_message&fn=Link&t=1&ssid=10534&id=0qp6450wf0ksleoamgf3o0ocnyyci&id2=gfns6enbocek6y47lp181s926the3&subscriber_id=bfxxiqgujszcxkmugcoihrpxhtpdbpk&messageversion_id=bopwbdsioblqwfjhcsyelorqcrfsbai&delivery_id=ajyfyuoafpigjyrvvefjbxaxwqmcbcp&tid=3.KSY.A7ATSA.CCDZ.JR5l..M2JQ.b..l.AtcB.b.TWQrrA.TWQrrA.NSSV2Q
(2) http://www.stpete.org/police/
Strap on your armor (both spiritual and physical) and take care of your brother/sister officers, your families and yourselves! Feel free to contact me if I can be of service.
MESSAGE RECAP!
The intent of my weekly message recap is to give you a tool that you can use for your own personal and/or group profession-relevant Bible studies and devotionals as well as a means of review for my locals and regulars here in the Denver metro area (FCPO-Denver). I would also strongly encourage you to get a copy of Dep. Mike Dye’s outstanding The PeaceKeepers -- Small Group Bible Study for law enforcement personnel. I used that book almost exclusively in my first year of ministry and often refer to it even now. Mike is also a dear friend and a fellow FCPO National Board member. The book is available on both the FCPO website (http://www.fcpo.org/) and from Mike’s site (http://www.christianlawenforcement.com/). Together with this site, you have three sites that provide you with a veritable treasure trove of helpful information and resources.
Last week we had our first official monthly meeting at Calvary Aurora (we will be meeting there the third Thursday of every month) where we had the pleasure of meeting new officers who might not otherwise make the trip down “south” to our main meeting location at Calvary South Denver in Littleton. The focus of our tactical Bible study was a reminder that our Lord has given peace officers a very special CALLING as it relates to our God-ordained profession.
The first part of our study came from the following passages in God’s perfect and inerrant “policy and procedure manual” (aka The Bible): Romans 13:1-7 and 1 Peter 2:13-14. A major theme in these passages is SUBMISSION. Not only are those we serve and protect called to submit to our God-given authority, we too are called to submit both to His Lordship and to those He has placed in positions of leadership over us (yes – EVEN if those authorities are corrupt or we deem them “unworthy” of such submission). In short, our submission is a voluntary act of obedience to our Lord. The word “submit” comes from the Greek hupotasso, which literally means to place UNDER (hupo) in an ORDERLY manner (tasso). The tense used in Romans 13 also carries a military (law enforcement) connotation, meaning to draw up in order of battle; to form, array and marshal troops or naval vessels and then being subject (submission) to the orders of the commanding officer. Moreover, the biblical concept of submission involves not seeking one’s own interests but rather assuming a voluntary commitment to serving and protecting others.
The second part of the call we have as LEOs is found in Psalm 82:3-4 which reads, Defend the cause of the weak and fatherless; maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed. Rescue the weak and needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.
Note that this passage is in the form of an ORDER (as opposed to a suggestion) from our true Commander in Chief. That said, it is still up to us to submit and carry out those orders (we have a free choice).
Is that you? Are you faithfully answering the CALL God has placed on your life as an officer, husband (or wife) and parent? Have you submitted your life to Christ? Are you RIGHT with Him today? If not, then seek His loving forgiveness and grace NOW – tomorrow may very well be too late. Our Lord has a plan for you – THE Plan. Come to Him now and begin walking the path our loving Father has laid out for you.
THIS WEEK’s STUDY:
Many of us work for agencies that have returned to our law enforcement roots by driving “black and whites” – police units decked out in traditional black and white paint schemes. There is a reason for that and it has everything to do with integrity, honor, right and wrong. That concept is central to this week’s profession-relevant TACTICAL Bible study that I’ve entitled “Cops and Compromise.” Please join us if you’re in the Denver metro area or stay tuned for next week’s recap.
The Latest PRAYER REQUESTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS, MEETING SCHEDULE & More… are posted here on our website. I also post regularly on our Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Centurion-Law-Enforcement-Ministry-FCPO-Denver/165229383527705. Please take the time to check it out – and check back frequently.
Reference prayer requests, I’ll close this week’s newsletter by asking you to take some extra time in prayer (“talking with God”) for our brothers and sisters with the St. Petersburg (FL) PD. They’ve lost three officers in the last thirty days. See the following links for more and to learn how you can support the families of our fallen brothers:
(1) http://goforward.bm23.com/public/q=preview_message&fn=Link&t=1&ssid=10534&id=0qp6450wf0ksleoamgf3o0ocnyyci&id2=gfns6enbocek6y47lp181s926the3&subscriber_id=bfxxiqgujszcxkmugcoihrpxhtpdbpk&messageversion_id=bopwbdsioblqwfjhcsyelorqcrfsbai&delivery_id=ajyfyuoafpigjyrvvefjbxaxwqmcbcp&tid=3.KSY.A7ATSA.CCDZ.JR5l..M2JQ.b..l.AtcB.b.TWQrrA.TWQrrA.NSSV2Q
(2) http://www.stpete.org/police/
Strap on your armor (both spiritual and physical) and take care of your brother/sister officers, your families and yourselves! Feel free to contact me if I can be of service.
Monday, October 4, 2010
True Repentance, Real Forgiveness
Fellow Servant-Warriors:
We had a full house at last week’s meeting of our local fellowship here in Denver. My message centered on the oft-misunderstood but essential biblical concepts of true repentance and real forgiveness. Here’s the RECAP for all those who could not attend or reside outside the Denver-metro area:
STUDY RECAP: True Repentance, Real Forgiveness
True biblical REPENTANCE is not just being “sorry” for having offended God. The Hebrew word for “repent” is shub, and literally means to “turn back” or “turn around;” a complete change in direction akin to a receding flood. The Greek word for “repentance” is metanoia and denotes a “change of mind” along with remorse for sin accompanied by turning away from our that sin and towards God for salvation. True repentance thefore includes not only sorrow but also a complete turnaround: to change one’s mind about sin, receive God’s provision of salvation, and giving oneself completely to Him. Ezekiel 14:2 says, Thus says the Lord GOD: “Repent, turn away from your idols, and turn your faces away from all your abominations.” In Judges 10:10-16, the people of Israel acknowledge (admit) their sin in an attitude of true repentance and God lovingly responded. Teaching on this passage, my pastor, Sam Park, noted that true repentance ALWAYS results in God’s grace and mercy – that our loving Father looks at the heart – a heart totally surrendered to Him. True repentance also means admitting that nothing we do on our own -- including what we do as officers, can "earn" us forgiveness and salvation. That said, the Bible – God’s inerrant, breathed word, reveals that genuine repentance will necessarily result in a change of actions (Luke 3:8-14, Acts 3:19). Acts 26:20 declares, I preached that they should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance. In short, the full biblical definition of true repentance is a change of mind that results in a change of action (evidence). See also Matthew 3:8, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Galatians 5:19-23, and James 2:14-26.
Understand that repentance goes hand-in-hand with FORGIVENESS and ultimately our salvation. Again, God will ALWAYS forgive those who come to Him in an attitude of true repentance. 1 John 1:9 tells us, if we confess our sins, He (God) is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. See also Psalm 51 (esp. v. 17), Psalm 103:12, and especially a passage that beautifully illustrates the whole concept of repentance and forgiveness – the Parable of the Prodigal Son as revealed by Jesus in Luke 15:11-32. Do any of you see yourselves there?
Ultimately, our study was all about what it means to get “right” with God. Having a right relationship with our Lord begins with acknowledging (admitting) our sin, a humble confession (repentance) of that sin, and a determination to truly turn (forsake) sin and make Christ first in our lives (only by God’s grace and the power of the Holy Spirit is this truly possible). Being right with God is ultimately YOUR response to what God has done on your behalf. He sent the Savior, He provided the sacrifice to pay for your sin (John 1:29), and He offers you the ultimate promise: Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved (Acts 2:21).
Finally, as it relates to us in law enforcement, we must again accept that there is NOTHING we can do on our own to "earn" God's grace, love and salvation. God's word is clear that we can NEVER be "good enough" or "do" enough to "deserve" salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9). Rather, we must admit that, just like those we serve, we can only come to Christ on His terms and His terms alone.
Are YOU right with God today? Have you repented and received God’s forgiveness? If not, I encourage you to do so now. Go to the left side of this page, scroll down, and click on the two links under the heading, Are you a TRUE Christian (How to be RIGHT with God). Take the “good person” test (Are you?) and then go to the “How to know Christ as Savior” link. If you already know Christ as Savior but have not been living for Him, then I also encourage you to repent and turn back to Him today.
The latest updated local meeting schedule and prayer requests have been posted on our website below this one. Take note that there will be NO MEETING on October 14th! As such, I’m encouraging our “locals” to consider attending Calvary South Denver’s unique and uplifting Tuesday night service where I also serve. Entitled “Tuesday Night Dialogue” (the “dialogue” being with God) or “TND” for short, we feature outstanding worship music, great fellowship and inspired teaching of God’s word by Pastor Sam Park. Those who have heard my own profession-relevant teaching on Samson from the Book of Judges (chapters 13-16) are in for a treat as Sam is about to start a very in-depth look at this oft-misunderstood and extremely important passage of Scripture. Several of the officers who attend our local Centurion fellowship (essentially a FCPO chapter) also attend TND so it is a very “cop friendly” group and the atmosphere is anything but what some might think of as a “standard” church service. Note that new attendees can also enjoy the after-service buffet for FREE! Invite your spouse and join us.
October 7th Meeting Reminder:
This week (10/17, 7 PM, Calvary South Denver, Littleton, CO) our own Mark Roggeman, a Denver PD veteran with nearly forty years "on the job" who is also considered something of an expert on cults and false teaching, will give a special presentation on the Mormon faith. Invite a friend/colleague and join us as we learn how to best come alongside and share true Christianity with those – including many of our fellow officers -- who have been led astray by the many false doctrines associated with the Latter Day Saints (LDS) -- commonly referred to a the Mormons. Spouses are both welcome and encouraged to attend.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
(1) As a reminder, this outreach is aligned and associated with the national Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers (FCPO). Please check the FCPO website (http://www.fcpo.org/) for more on what we are doing nationwide.
(2) Baptism Event! If you’re an officer who has accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior but have never been baptized, I’m working with Calvary South Denver to make that happen. Stay tuned as I’ll share more details as I have them. We are currently looking at the November time frame.
(3) Arkansas (pronounced “Are Kansas” or “Ark City” for short – not like the state of Arkansas) City Police Chief and fellow FCPO Board Member Sean Wallace shared the following about the good work his team is doing to be proactive and better prepared to effectively deal with Amber Alert scenarios. The Cowley County Child Abduction Response Team, or CART, is one of only ten in the nation and the first of its kind in Kansas. Their recent joint training operation was very successful andwell-received. See http://www.kake.com/home/headlines/104176104.html for more. I’ve posted Sean’s contact info below – this is something we should be doing in everywhere!
Chief Sean Wallace
Arkansas City Police Department
117 W. Central Ave.
Arkansas City, KS. 67005
620-441-4447 (Office)
620-441-3767 (Cell)
620-442-1410 (FAX)
FBI NA Session 222
(4) Chicago PD Officer Densey Cole in the news! Please continue to pray for Densey (spiritual and physical). Densey was recently here in Denver for several weeks before returning home for the benefit described in the article. http://www.policeone.com/police-heroes/articles/2749621-Wheelchair-bound-cop-gets-help-from-his-friends/.
That’s it for this week. Don't forget to check the website frequently for new announcements and prayer requests. Let’s stay the course and finish strong out there!
We had a full house at last week’s meeting of our local fellowship here in Denver. My message centered on the oft-misunderstood but essential biblical concepts of true repentance and real forgiveness. Here’s the RECAP for all those who could not attend or reside outside the Denver-metro area:
STUDY RECAP: True Repentance, Real Forgiveness
True biblical REPENTANCE is not just being “sorry” for having offended God. The Hebrew word for “repent” is shub, and literally means to “turn back” or “turn around;” a complete change in direction akin to a receding flood. The Greek word for “repentance” is metanoia and denotes a “change of mind” along with remorse for sin accompanied by turning away from our that sin and towards God for salvation. True repentance thefore includes not only sorrow but also a complete turnaround: to change one’s mind about sin, receive God’s provision of salvation, and giving oneself completely to Him. Ezekiel 14:2 says, Thus says the Lord GOD: “Repent, turn away from your idols, and turn your faces away from all your abominations.” In Judges 10:10-16, the people of Israel acknowledge (admit) their sin in an attitude of true repentance and God lovingly responded. Teaching on this passage, my pastor, Sam Park, noted that true repentance ALWAYS results in God’s grace and mercy – that our loving Father looks at the heart – a heart totally surrendered to Him. True repentance also means admitting that nothing we do on our own -- including what we do as officers, can "earn" us forgiveness and salvation. That said, the Bible – God’s inerrant, breathed word, reveals that genuine repentance will necessarily result in a change of actions (Luke 3:8-14, Acts 3:19). Acts 26:20 declares, I preached that they should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance. In short, the full biblical definition of true repentance is a change of mind that results in a change of action (evidence). See also Matthew 3:8, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Galatians 5:19-23, and James 2:14-26.
Understand that repentance goes hand-in-hand with FORGIVENESS and ultimately our salvation. Again, God will ALWAYS forgive those who come to Him in an attitude of true repentance. 1 John 1:9 tells us, if we confess our sins, He (God) is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. See also Psalm 51 (esp. v. 17), Psalm 103:12, and especially a passage that beautifully illustrates the whole concept of repentance and forgiveness – the Parable of the Prodigal Son as revealed by Jesus in Luke 15:11-32. Do any of you see yourselves there?
Ultimately, our study was all about what it means to get “right” with God. Having a right relationship with our Lord begins with acknowledging (admitting) our sin, a humble confession (repentance) of that sin, and a determination to truly turn (forsake) sin and make Christ first in our lives (only by God’s grace and the power of the Holy Spirit is this truly possible). Being right with God is ultimately YOUR response to what God has done on your behalf. He sent the Savior, He provided the sacrifice to pay for your sin (John 1:29), and He offers you the ultimate promise: Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved (Acts 2:21).
Finally, as it relates to us in law enforcement, we must again accept that there is NOTHING we can do on our own to "earn" God's grace, love and salvation. God's word is clear that we can NEVER be "good enough" or "do" enough to "deserve" salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9). Rather, we must admit that, just like those we serve, we can only come to Christ on His terms and His terms alone.
Are YOU right with God today? Have you repented and received God’s forgiveness? If not, I encourage you to do so now. Go to the left side of this page, scroll down, and click on the two links under the heading, Are you a TRUE Christian (How to be RIGHT with God). Take the “good person” test (Are you?) and then go to the “How to know Christ as Savior” link. If you already know Christ as Savior but have not been living for Him, then I also encourage you to repent and turn back to Him today.
The latest updated local meeting schedule and prayer requests have been posted on our website below this one. Take note that there will be NO MEETING on October 14th! As such, I’m encouraging our “locals” to consider attending Calvary South Denver’s unique and uplifting Tuesday night service where I also serve. Entitled “Tuesday Night Dialogue” (the “dialogue” being with God) or “TND” for short, we feature outstanding worship music, great fellowship and inspired teaching of God’s word by Pastor Sam Park. Those who have heard my own profession-relevant teaching on Samson from the Book of Judges (chapters 13-16) are in for a treat as Sam is about to start a very in-depth look at this oft-misunderstood and extremely important passage of Scripture. Several of the officers who attend our local Centurion fellowship (essentially a FCPO chapter) also attend TND so it is a very “cop friendly” group and the atmosphere is anything but what some might think of as a “standard” church service. Note that new attendees can also enjoy the after-service buffet for FREE! Invite your spouse and join us.
October 7th Meeting Reminder:
This week (10/17, 7 PM, Calvary South Denver, Littleton, CO) our own Mark Roggeman, a Denver PD veteran with nearly forty years "on the job" who is also considered something of an expert on cults and false teaching, will give a special presentation on the Mormon faith. Invite a friend/colleague and join us as we learn how to best come alongside and share true Christianity with those – including many of our fellow officers -- who have been led astray by the many false doctrines associated with the Latter Day Saints (LDS) -- commonly referred to a the Mormons. Spouses are both welcome and encouraged to attend.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
(1) As a reminder, this outreach is aligned and associated with the national Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers (FCPO). Please check the FCPO website (http://www.fcpo.org/) for more on what we are doing nationwide.
(2) Baptism Event! If you’re an officer who has accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior but have never been baptized, I’m working with Calvary South Denver to make that happen. Stay tuned as I’ll share more details as I have them. We are currently looking at the November time frame.
(3) Arkansas (pronounced “Are Kansas” or “Ark City” for short – not like the state of Arkansas) City Police Chief and fellow FCPO Board Member Sean Wallace shared the following about the good work his team is doing to be proactive and better prepared to effectively deal with Amber Alert scenarios. The Cowley County Child Abduction Response Team, or CART, is one of only ten in the nation and the first of its kind in Kansas. Their recent joint training operation was very successful andwell-received. See http://www.kake.com/home/headlines/104176104.html for more. I’ve posted Sean’s contact info below – this is something we should be doing in everywhere!
Chief Sean Wallace
Arkansas City Police Department
117 W. Central Ave.
Arkansas City, KS. 67005
620-441-4447 (Office)
620-441-3767 (Cell)
620-442-1410 (FAX)
FBI NA Session 222
(4) Chicago PD Officer Densey Cole in the news! Please continue to pray for Densey (spiritual and physical). Densey was recently here in Denver for several weeks before returning home for the benefit described in the article. http://www.policeone.com/police-heroes/articles/2749621-Wheelchair-bound-cop-gets-help-from-his-friends/.
That’s it for this week. Don't forget to check the website frequently for new announcements and prayer requests. Let’s stay the course and finish strong out there!
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Another Lesson in Servant - Leadership
As many of you have heard by now, Mahnomen County (MN) Deputy Chris Dewey is very close to "end of watch" (being called Home with our Lord.) Several of us regularly visited and prayed with Chris and his bride Emily during their lengthy stay at Craig Hospital in Englewood and they became “family” in a very literal sense. Emily’s inspirational and powerful love and devotion to her warrior-husband is very much a picture of God’s love for us. Please keep them both in prayer and know that I will keep everyone posted as I receive status updates.
As we did with Chris, some of us have been visiting Michigan officer Max Faistenhammer and now three (3) other officers who sustained serious spinal injuries for which they are all undergoing rehab at Craig. Please refer to the latest prayer request posts on our website (see PREVIOUS and following posts) for more on our wounded brothers and, if you are local, please take the time to visit.
Speaking of locals, we’ll meet as usual this Thursday (7/22) at Calvary South Denver in Littleton starting at 1900 hours (7 PM for everyone else) for a great time of worship music, profession-relevant Bible study, prayer and fellowship (essentially, “cop church”) -- read-on for details. In addition, the upcoming schedule along with the latest prayer requests have already been posted below -- please review and check back frequently!
For everyone else, here’s the RECAP from last week’s meeting:
Our primary focus at last week’s profession-relevant Bible study came from Luke 15:11-31 (parable of the prodigal son) and paints a picture of our heavenly Father’s love for us. The issue here is that, all-too-often, we launch out on our own without God’s full blessing (and therefore outside His perfect will and plan for our lives) only to fall flat our faces. When pride and a lack of humility enter our lives, it takes our dependence away from God and back on ourselves – and almost always with disastrous results (aka “FAIL!”). God repeatedly tells us in His word (the Bible) that we are to depend on Him and Him alone. The prodigal son, in his utter failure, learned a great lesson of grace with a true humility of the heart that would be with him for the rest of his life. In short, when we repent (turn) and place our trust totally in God, He will turn our failures into spiritual successes.
David's story is but one of many examples of a “prodigal.” At an early age, David came to know the meaning of the true “CALL” in his life and he knew the day the Holy Spirit began a special work in him (1 Samuel 16:13). In response, David sought to continually seek God’s wisdom, guidance and will in the decisions he made as a leader as opposed to relying on his own abilities. In turn, God saw to it that David never lost a battle despite facing serious consequences for the sin in his life.
God wants to do the same thing in each of us but only if we live His way instead of “my way.” True servant-leaders understand that we are only tools in the Master’s hand. The point is this: when we draw closer and closer to Christ, our will and God’s will for our lives will line up and become one in the same. David’s heart belonged to God. Is YOUR heart fully the Lord’s to do with what He wills?
I left time for Erv Meyer and recently retired DPD officer Mark Roggeman to share portions of their inspirational testimonies. Erv shared from Psalm 37:4 (spiritual brokenness) and John 12:26 (running to the battle). Both Erv and Mark will be speaking and teaching a profession-relevant Bible study in the near future – stay tuned!
Learning from David’s example, this week we will once again tackle another lesson in servant-leadership. Please join us if you can and don’t forget to “pass-on” this email to your colleagues.
ADDITIONAL ANNOUNCEMENTS:
-- Captain Travis Yates of Tulsa PD and Ten-Four Ministries is now on the radio! Dubbed Centurion Radio (no direct relation to us), this profession-relevant radio outreach can be accessed by going to http://www.sermonaudio.com/source_detail.asp?sourceid=tenfour or via their main website, http://www.tenfourministries.org/. Travis has asked me to be a guest for an upcoming program -- stay tuned for details (and I’m very humbled and honored)!
-- Announcing our “First Annual Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry BBQ” to be held at our home in Highlands Ranch! We’re tentatively scheduled the event for Saturday, August 14th, starting at 4:00 PM. Please email me and/or attend an upcoming meeting for more details -- and remember to bring your spouse!
-- Don’t forget that there is NO MEETING next week (July 29th) as several of us will be doing event security for world-renowned author and speaker Joel Rosenberg (http://www.joelrosenberg.com/) who will be speaking on behalf of his parents’ outreach, Ministry Architecture. Please come and support this worthy ministry if you can. Go to http://www.ministryarchitecture.com/ for more details and to so see how to support this cause even if you can’t attend this event.
Finally, be sure to check back frequently for the latest announcements, prayer requests, meeting updates, and more. I’ve also added a number of new links – check ‘em out!
It’s a hot summer but let’s stay “frosty” in Christ!
As we did with Chris, some of us have been visiting Michigan officer Max Faistenhammer and now three (3) other officers who sustained serious spinal injuries for which they are all undergoing rehab at Craig. Please refer to the latest prayer request posts on our website (see PREVIOUS and following posts) for more on our wounded brothers and, if you are local, please take the time to visit.
Speaking of locals, we’ll meet as usual this Thursday (7/22) at Calvary South Denver in Littleton starting at 1900 hours (7 PM for everyone else) for a great time of worship music, profession-relevant Bible study, prayer and fellowship (essentially, “cop church”) -- read-on for details. In addition, the upcoming schedule along with the latest prayer requests have already been posted below -- please review and check back frequently!
For everyone else, here’s the RECAP from last week’s meeting:
Our primary focus at last week’s profession-relevant Bible study came from Luke 15:11-31 (parable of the prodigal son) and paints a picture of our heavenly Father’s love for us. The issue here is that, all-too-often, we launch out on our own without God’s full blessing (and therefore outside His perfect will and plan for our lives) only to fall flat our faces. When pride and a lack of humility enter our lives, it takes our dependence away from God and back on ourselves – and almost always with disastrous results (aka “FAIL!”). God repeatedly tells us in His word (the Bible) that we are to depend on Him and Him alone. The prodigal son, in his utter failure, learned a great lesson of grace with a true humility of the heart that would be with him for the rest of his life. In short, when we repent (turn) and place our trust totally in God, He will turn our failures into spiritual successes.
David's story is but one of many examples of a “prodigal.” At an early age, David came to know the meaning of the true “CALL” in his life and he knew the day the Holy Spirit began a special work in him (1 Samuel 16:13). In response, David sought to continually seek God’s wisdom, guidance and will in the decisions he made as a leader as opposed to relying on his own abilities. In turn, God saw to it that David never lost a battle despite facing serious consequences for the sin in his life.
God wants to do the same thing in each of us but only if we live His way instead of “my way.” True servant-leaders understand that we are only tools in the Master’s hand. The point is this: when we draw closer and closer to Christ, our will and God’s will for our lives will line up and become one in the same. David’s heart belonged to God. Is YOUR heart fully the Lord’s to do with what He wills?
I left time for Erv Meyer and recently retired DPD officer Mark Roggeman to share portions of their inspirational testimonies. Erv shared from Psalm 37:4 (spiritual brokenness) and John 12:26 (running to the battle). Both Erv and Mark will be speaking and teaching a profession-relevant Bible study in the near future – stay tuned!
Learning from David’s example, this week we will once again tackle another lesson in servant-leadership. Please join us if you can and don’t forget to “pass-on” this email to your colleagues.
ADDITIONAL ANNOUNCEMENTS:
-- Captain Travis Yates of Tulsa PD and Ten-Four Ministries is now on the radio! Dubbed Centurion Radio (no direct relation to us), this profession-relevant radio outreach can be accessed by going to http://www.sermonaudio.com/source_detail.asp?sourceid=tenfour or via their main website, http://www.tenfourministries.org/. Travis has asked me to be a guest for an upcoming program -- stay tuned for details (and I’m very humbled and honored)!
-- Announcing our “First Annual Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry BBQ” to be held at our home in Highlands Ranch! We’re tentatively scheduled the event for Saturday, August 14th, starting at 4:00 PM. Please email me and/or attend an upcoming meeting for more details -- and remember to bring your spouse!
-- Don’t forget that there is NO MEETING next week (July 29th) as several of us will be doing event security for world-renowned author and speaker Joel Rosenberg (http://www.joelrosenberg.com/) who will be speaking on behalf of his parents’ outreach, Ministry Architecture. Please come and support this worthy ministry if you can. Go to http://www.ministryarchitecture.com/ for more details and to so see how to support this cause even if you can’t attend this event.
Finally, be sure to check back frequently for the latest announcements, prayer requests, meeting updates, and more. I’ve also added a number of new links – check ‘em out!
It’s a hot summer but let’s stay “frosty” in Christ!
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