Pastor Cleans Off Platform

[deltaguitar]

This is a testimony from a young lady in our church who is a praise singer. Also, I have been the guitar player in this church for 10 years. We are part of the leadership of our church and have no problem with what our pastor did and are behind him 100%. We also have a very good music program in our church and have always been known for our music more than anything else.

Funny thing, the only people who find this offensive are the same people who caused tons of trouble for our former pastor.



Sunday, June 10, 2007

Music-less Revival

For whatever reasons that are not important, my pastor has decided to clear off the platform. In our main services, we have no live music. All our music is coming from CDs, and everyone is invited to have worship time in the altar.

For typical APs, it sounds bizarre, and many would question the action. However, I can honestly say we had 2 of the greatest services this weekend as a result. We haven't gotten past worship service. He invited us down to the altar, we all started praying and the next thing you know people we've NEVER seen before are getting the Holy Ghost! It's been phenomenal. I saw people who haven't really prayed in years, fall to their knees in the presence of God.

I know that a lot of people are apprehensive about the change, but honestly, I think it's for the best. It's nothing permanent of course, but it's given a chance for some who hide behind their instruments to be an active part in worship. Some people won't accept it, and refuse to confirm to the new arrangement, but they are only hurting themselves.

Revival is sweeping through our church. It may be unorthodox and offensive to some. That's how I know it's God!

[revrandy]

This is a testimony from a young lady in our church who is a praise singer. Also, I have been the guitar player in this church for 10 years. We are part of the leadership of our church and have no problem with what our pastor did and are behind him 100%. We also have a very good music program in our church and have always been known for our music more than anything else.

Funny thing, the only people who find this offensive are the same people who caused tons of trouble for our former pastor.



Sunday, June 10, 2007

Music-less Revival

For whatever reasons that are not important, my pastor has decided to clear off the platform. In our main services, we have no live music. All our music is coming from CDs, and everyone is invited to have worship time in the altar.

For typical APs, it sounds bizarre, and many would question the action. However, I can honestly say we had 2 of the greatest services this weekend as a result. We haven't gotten past worship service. He invited us down to the altar, we all started praying and the next thing you know people we've NEVER seen before are getting the Holy Ghost! It's been phenomenal. I saw people who haven't really prayed in years, fall to their knees in the presence of God.

I know that a lot of people are apprehensive about the change, but honestly, I think it's for the best. It's nothing permanent of course, but it's given a chance for some who hide behind their instruments to be an active part in worship. Some people won't accept it, and refuse to confirm to the new arrangement, but they are only hurting themselves.

Revival is sweeping through our church. It may be unorthodox and offensive to some. That's how I know it's God!

:lol This cracked me up a bit....

but I Think That's Great!

[tamor]

Hey, whatever it takes! If my pastor decided to do this, he would. His thing is, "The only thing constant at Love and Truth Church is change." Alot of folks don't like it, but he follows the leading of God.

I was also in a conference at a large COG church in Mobile, AL a couple of years and they did all the music by CDs. They had a large choir and the music pastor led the praise and worship to the CDs. There was a very powerful presence of God in the place. It's nice to know He's not restricted to our box!

[deltaguitar]

:lol This cracked me up a bit....

but I Think That's Great!

Basically what is happening is that the people in charge of music have been causing a lot of problems for the pastor and the former. They have been bluffing for years to get their way or walk off the platform. Our new pastor just called their bluff. Kicked them all off.

I would have never guessed in a million years that we would have had church by CD.

[Barb]

Hey, whatever it takes! If my pastor decided to do this, he would. His thing is, "The only thing constant at Love and Truth Church is change." Alot of folks don't like it, but he follows the leading of God.

I was also in a conference at a large COG church in Mobile, AL a couple of years and they did all the music by CDs. They had a large choir and the music pastor led the praise and worship to the CDs. There was a very powerful presence of God in the place. It's nice to know He's not restricted to our box!

The uniqueness of Pentecost is that every church is different and every pastor is different...breaking it down even further, every service is different, and the reason is because every need is different.

Each pastor should follow the leading of His hand however he deems it proper to do so...if it works for them, wonderful!! Praise God!!

[Whole Hearted]

I prefer live music, but if the musician and singers attitudes are bad maybe canned music is better.

[tamor]

The uniqueness of Pentecost is that every church is different and every pastor is different...breaking it down even further, every service is different, and the reason is because every need is different.

Each pastor should follow the leading of His hand however he deems it proper to do so...if it works for them, wonderful!! Praise God!!

Well said, Sis!

[Digging4Truth]

I have sang on the platform for over 20 years. Choir leader, praise team leader, I lead the music etc.

If my pastor said that he was going to do that... I would be blown away (pleasantly) and would be behind him 100%.

I'm up there. I feel the constant pull for more, more, more.

Perform, perform, perform....

I think that this would be a good thing. No... a very good thing... no.. a God thing.


Below is the song Heart Of Worship, the lyrics and the story behind the song.

AXvsKA4xdFM

The Lyrics

When the music fades and all is stripped away
And I simply come
Longing just to bring something that's of worth
That will bless Your heart

I'll bring You more than a song
For a song in itself
Is not what You have required
You search much deeper within
Through the way things appear
You're looking into my heart

I'm coming back to the heart of worship
And it's all about You
All about You, Jesus
I'm sorry, Lord, for the things I've made it
When it's all about You
All about You, Jesus

King of endless worth, no one could express
How much You deserve
Though I'm weak and poor, all I have is Yours
Every single breath

The Story Behind The Song

Check the liner notes of almost any modern worship recording, and the name Matt Redman is likely to be among the songwriting credits. Artists and assemblies regularly perform “Let My Words Be Few” (Phillips, Craig & Dean), “Better Is One Day” (Rebecca St. James, Petra), and perhaps most of all, “The Heart of Worship” (Michael W. Smith, Sonic Flood, Passion), a beautifully simple, acoustic confessional ballad. Still, as prolific as these works make him, he says the story behind “The Heart of Worship” in particular is a personal reminder that, “I’m just a little songwriter—and a pretty foolish one at that!”

The song dates back to the late 1990s, born from a period of apathy within Matt’s home church, Soul Survivor, in Watford, England. Despite the country’s overall contribution to the current worship revival, Redman’s congregation was struggling to find meaning in its musical outpouring at the time.

“There was a dynamic missing, so the pastor did a pretty brave thing,” he recalls. “He decided to get rid of the sound system and band for a season, and we gathered together with just our voices. His point was that we’d lost our way in worship, and the way to get back to the heart would be to strip everything away.”

Reminding his church family to be producers in worship, not just consumers, the pastor, Mike Pilavachi, asked, “When you come through the doors on a Sunday, what are you bringing as your offering to God?”

Matt says the question initially led to some embarrassing silence, but eventually people broke into a cappella songs and heartfelt prayers, encountering God in a fresh way.

“Before long, we reintroduced the musicians and sound system, as we’d gained a new perspective that worship is all about Jesus, and He commands a response in the depths of our souls no matter what the circumstance and setting. ‘The Heart of Worship’ simply describes what occurred.”

When the music fades, all is stripped away, and I simply come / Longing just to bring something that’s of worth that will bless your heart… / I’m coming back to the heart of worship, and it’s all about You, Jesus

Redman remembers writing the song quickly in his bedroom soon after the church’s journey together, with no grand intentions, by any means, for it to become an international anthem. He viewed the words simply as his personal, subjective response to what he was learning about worship.

But when Matt shared “The Heart of Worship” with Pilavachi, the pastor suggested making a few small adjustments to the lyrics so any member of the church could relate to it as well.

Amazed by how God has since taken the song around the world for His purposes, the songwriter smiles in regard to his own lack of foresight. “It nearly didn’t go any further than my bedroom. But I love that…”

The trademark tune soon became the title track for Matt Redman’s 1999 album, The Heart of Worship. The recording process was consistent with the artist’s sensitive approach to being in the studio.

“We decided to not get all complicated, and just let the song ‘breathe.’ We’re always trying to create more of a church atmosphere in the studio rather than just a technical musical gathering. Something happens when the people of God gather together and play out the praises of God in the presence of God. Hopefully something of that passion and purpose transcends beyond that studio room onto the recordings themselves.”

Following Matt’s original release, which featured a guest vocal appearance by Martin Smith, lead singer of Delirious, “The Heart of Worship” became a new standard of the modern worship music movement, sung by fellow artists, choirs, and church families alike. Among the ever-rising number of reinterpretations, Redman is especially fond of Michael W. Smith’s from his 2001 classic, Worship.

“I honestly like them all,” he admits. “It’s a great encouragement when people take the songs and run with them. Perhaps my favorite is Michael’s— maybe because it’s a live version and therefore really captures and conveys the heart of the song’s theme.”

Even more encouraging, he says, is when other pastors get in touch to let Matt know how God has used the song to take their congregations through a situation similar to the one his church experienced.

As teachable as “The Heart of Worship” has become, Matt Redman continues to learn about true worship and will journey further into that heart in summer 2004 with a new album, Facedown.

“It’s such a biblical posture in worship that speaks of reverence. If you look through the Bible, there’s a whole host of people who faced up to the glory of God and found themselves facedown in worship. So the album weaves through a theme of reverence, wonder, and mystery in worship, things I feel we really need to grasp more of in our worship expressions. I know that I do!”

[Digging4Truth]

Basically what is happening is that the people in charge of music have been causing a lot of problems for the pastor and the former. They have been bluffing for years to get their way or walk off the platform. Our new pastor just called their bluff. Kicked them all off.

I would have never guessed in a million years that we would have had church by CD.

That is an excellent reason to do this but the problem doesn't have to be with the musicians/singers either.

The problem can be just a church wide departure from what it is all about.

[tamor]

Alot of times when we have a lengthy altar service, Pastor will have the sound men put on a CD and tell the musicians to come down so they can pray and have their own touch by the power of God too.

[Barb]

Well said, Sis!

You said it best actually, tam...that it's nice to know He isn't restricted to our little box.

God wants to have His way, and He will do it without a sound system or with one...without a praise team or with one...without a band or with one.

It's really up to us if we are willing to let it all be about Him...JMHO...

[deltaguitar]

That is an excellent reason to do this but the problem doesn't have to be with the musicians/singers either.

The problem can be just a church wide departure from what it is all about.

I emailed our pastor three weeks ago and told him that I felt like I shouldn't play guitar during the altar service. He agreed with me and said he would see me at the altar.

See my problem is that after about 5 years of never going to the altar I had a huge fear of the altar and basically had not spoken in tongues for over ten years. Anytime someone would pray for me I would basically freeze up because of this fear.

Yesterday I saw a friend of mine who is former special forces and alcoholic getting renewed in the Holy Ghost and I just got in line. My pastor didn't even lay hands on me until like five minutes later. He just said this is your day and I started crying and the power of God's spirit just surround me and I was refilled with the wonderful spirit of God.

So basically I was one of the people she was talking about.

["GL"]

I think I like your pastor.

:D

[Whole Hearted]

I emailed our pastor three weeks ago and told him that I felt like I shouldn't play guitar during the altar service. He agreed with me and said he would see me at the altar.

See my problem is that after about 5 years of never going to the altar I had a huge fear of the altar and basically had not spoken in tongues for over ten years. Anytime someone would pray for me I would basically freeze up because of this fear.

Yesterday I saw a friend of mine who is former special forces and alcoholic getting renewed in the Holy Ghost and I just got in line. My pastor didn't even lay hands on me until like five minutes later. He just said this is your day and I started crying and the power of God's spirit just surround me and I was refilled with the wonderful spirit of God.

So basically I was one of the people she was talking about.

You had not spoken in tongues for ten years?

I was taught and I teach that one should pray through (talking in tongues)everyday.

[SDG]

You had not spoken in tongues for ten years?

I was taught and I teach that one should pray through (talking in tongues)everyday.

What's the name of this new doctrine???

[Whole Hearted]

What's the name of this new doctrine???

Not a new doctrine at all. My great grandparent who came in to the church in the early 20's believed this way. My old Sunday School teacher taught us this in the the early 70's. It's not new.

Paul said "I die daily."

[deltaguitar]

You had not spoken in tongues for ten years?

I was taught and I teach that one should pray through (talking in tongues)everyday.

Time gets away from you. I know there is no excuse. However, I have never been taught this.

[deltaguitar]

Also, no one in our church realized that I hadn't spoken in tongues. People just assumed wasn't emotional.

It has only been the last few months that I have made it a priority to get closer to God in a spiritual way.

["GL"]

...Paul said "I die daily."

This scripture has absolutely nothing to do with speaking in tongues daily.

["GL"]

Also, no one in our church realized that I hadn't spoken in tongues. People just assumed wasn't emotional.

It has only been the last few months that I have made it a priority to get closer to God in a spiritual way.


I'm thrilled for you, BTW. Praying in tongues builds up the believer...

[Whole Hearted]

Also, no one in our church realized that I hadn't spoken in tongues. People just assumed wasn't emotional.

It has only been the last few months that I have made it a priority to get closer to God in a spiritual way.

But you knew that it had been that long.
Would you go ten years and not eat?

[Digging4Truth]

But you knew that it had been that long.
Would you go ten years and not eat?

Past behind...

Future ahead...

Please turn around in your seat. :)

[deltaguitar]

But you knew that it had been that long.
Would you go ten years and not eat?

Speaking in tongues is not comparable to eating.

[Whole Hearted]

Past behind...

Future ahead...

Please turn around in your seat. :)

:nahnah

[deltaguitar]

Past behind...

Future ahead...

Please turn around in your seat. :)

Thank you.

I don't think anyone would jump on a backslider and tell them they should have known what they were doing.

There have been a lot of situations namely the fact that I hid behind my music for so long. God basically took away my desire to play music in church anymore. Our pastor helped out by kicking everyone off the platform.

[Whole Hearted]

I play the organ for every service and have for years. My wife plays keyboard and has for years. I also am the pastor but I still make sure that I pray through daily.

[deltaguitar]

I play the organ for every service and have for years. My wife plays keyboard and has for years. I also am the pastor but I still make sure that I pray through daily.

Well I will take your advice and strive toward this. It doesn't sound like a bad thing unless it becomes like a ritual or something.

[AGAPE]

deltaguitar,
first let me say that I am glad that you have be re-filled.
Now, I agree with WholeHearted....
this is how I view it....On the day of Pentecost they spake with tongues as the Spirit gave the utterance....If we have God on the inside He will not be quit.....therefore we will speak with tongues and do it often....
One thing though....don't "try" to speak in tongues....but just try to touch Jesus every time that you pray....




disclaimer: I probable could have worded this better, but this is just a few quick words off of the cuff

[Barb]

Well I will take your advice and strive toward this. It doesn't sound like a bad thing unless it becomes like a ritual or something.

It's not a bad thing...the problem can come if one is seeking to just speak with tongues rather than commune with the Master.

I mean, that's what we tell those at the altar...don't seek tongues, but believe to be Spirit filled.

NOT saying that is what WH is meaning...just clarifying for DG...

[deltaguitar]

deltaguitar,
first let me say that I am glad that you have be re-filled.
Now, I agree with WholeHearted....
this is how I view it....On the day of Pentecost they spake with tongues as the Spirit gave the utterance....If we have God on the inside He will not be quit.....therefore we will speak with tongues and do it often....
One thing though....don't "try" to speak in tongues....but just try to touch Jesus every time that you pray....




disclaimer: I probable could have worded this better, but this is just a few quick words off of the cuff


Thanks. :shockamoo

[Ronzo]

How exactly does one 'touch Jesus' in prayer?

[ForeverBlessed]

Well I will take your advice and strive toward this. It doesn't sound like a bad thing unless it becomes like a ritual or something.

While I personally believe we should strive to pray in the spirit often, tongues is not the litmus test for spirituality. Striving daily to apply the principles of God’s word to our life and living for him is a daily worship to him and shows the intent of the heart.

I have known people who could speak in tongues at the drop of a hat… even dance and shout every service and live like the devil when not at church. Why some people easily yield to speaking in tongues is beyond me… but is not the sign of spirituality… Lord help the people who think it is…they need to get beyond this thinking.

I encourage you in your recent breakthrough and may God richly bless your desire to draw even closer to him.

Btw, I admire what your pastor has done. :)

[Digging4Truth]

:nahnah

:lalala

:)

[Ferd]

How exactly does one 'touch Jesus' in prayer?

Great question! I dont think I can answer....but i know when I have....or better, when I have been touched BY Jesus.

[Neck]

This is a testimony from a young lady in our church who is a praise singer. Also, I have been the guitar player in this church for 10 years. We are part of the leadership of our church and have no problem with what our pastor did and are behind him 100%. We also have a very good music program in our church and have always been known for our music more than anything else.

Funny thing, the only people who find this offensive are the same people who caused tons of trouble for our former pastor.



Sunday, June 10, 2007

Music-less Revival

For whatever reasons that are not important, my pastor has decided to clear off the platform. In our main services, we have no live music. All our music is coming from CDs, and everyone is invited to have worship time in the altar.

For typical APs, it sounds bizarre, and many would question the action. However, I can honestly say we had 2 of the greatest services this weekend as a result. We haven't gotten past worship service. He invited us down to the altar, we all started praying and the next thing you know people we've NEVER seen before are getting the Holy Ghost! It's been phenomenal. I saw people who haven't really prayed in years, fall to their knees in the presence of God.

I know that a lot of people are apprehensive about the change, but honestly, I think it's for the best. It's nothing permanent of course, but it's given a chance for some who hide behind their instruments to be an active part in worship. Some people won't accept it, and refuse to confirm to the new arrangement, but they are only hurting themselves.

Revival is sweeping through our church. It may be unorthodox and offensive to some. That's how I know it's God!


How childish. Fix the problem.

[Whole Hearted]

:lalala

:)

RIGHT BACK AT YA

[Ronzo]

The original expression makes it sound as though you climb a ladder or beanstalk or something and tap Jesus and slide down like the rope test in elementary school gym class. Not a big fan of the expression sorry...

[Ferd]

DeltaDude! (or should we call you deltaguitarless?)

That is way cool! I am glad you have found spring in your desert!

I rejoice with you my brother!

[Neck]

Great question! I dont think I can answer....but i know when I have....or better, when I have been touched BY Jesus.

I find mysel referrring to the blood of Jesus and the price he paid on Calvary. We can touch Jesus by pleading the blood of the cross.

[myhaloisintheshop]

I remember in my late teens that my pastor was having some issues with musicians. There was one in paticular that had a horrible attitude and basically would throw temper tantrums.

Pastor announced that for 30 days we would not have musicians. We sang accapella and the spirit was amazing! The only person that got upset was the guy with the horrible attitude!

Here is a link to a blog I found that you may--or may not--find interesting. http://www.escapethefamiliar.blogspot.com/

"Fighting the Music devil"

[deltaguitar]

How childish. Fix the problem.

Not sure I understand. This is fixing the problem. These people have been causing trouble in our church for almost 30 years. They finally went to far with our new pastor who has the backing of the church.

As sad as it is they will probably never be on the platform again unless true repentance has taken place

[Neck]

Not sure I understand. This is fixing the problem. These people have been causing trouble in our church for almost 30 years. They finally went to far with our new pastor who has the backing of the church.

As sad as it is they will probably never be on the platform again unless true repentance has taken place

That I can understand. If that is the reason. Then I understand.

[deltaguitar]

I remember in my late teens that my pastor was having some issues with musicians. There was one in paticular that had a horrible attitude and basically would throw temper tantrums.

Pastor announced that for 30 days we would not have musicians. We sang accapella and the spirit was amazing! The only person that got upset was the guy with the horrible attitude!

Here is a link to a blog I found that you may--or may not--find interesting. http://www.escapethefamiliar.blogspot.com/

"Fighting the Music devil"

This is actually what happened. A total of 16 people were booted and only about four people had problems with it and they are all family.

[Whole Hearted]

Not sure I understand. This is fixing the problem. These people have been causing trouble in our church for almost 30 years. They finally went to far with our new pastor who has the backing of the church.

As sad as it is they will probably never be on the platform again unless true repentance has taken place

I admire your pastor for this. If some of those on the platform were trouble makers, he doesn't need them or their bad spirits and attitudes on the platform.

I love good music in the church and prefer live, but it's better to do without it than to have rebellious people on the platform.

[Barb]

The original expression makes it sound as though you climb a ladder or beanstalk or something and tap Jesus and slide down like the rope test in elementary school gym class. Not a big fan of the expression sorry...

Well, Ron, I see your point and am not a big fan of the expressions we use either.

However, they used to sing a song back in the day, Touching Jesus Is All That Really Matters...

The Scripture says that He can be touched by the feeling of our infirmities.

I think we can touch God...reach the throne room with our prayers.

If we can't, at least I try...

[Whole Hearted]

Well, Ron, I see your point and am not a big fan of the expressions we use either.

However, they used to sing a song back in the day, Touching Jesus Is All That Really Matters...The Scripture says that He can be touched by the feeling of our infirmities.

I think we can touch God...reach the throne room with our prayers.

If we can't, at least I try...

WE still sing it here.

[deltaguitar]

DeltaDude! (or should we call you deltaguitarless?)

That is way cool! I am glad you have found spring in your desert!

I rejoice with you my brother!

Thank you so much. After I was through praying I had such a deep feeling of thankfulness for those that were there praying for me. I hugged everyone in sight (even the 300lbs black lady with the big hat). I felt like they had walked with me through one of the toughest battles in my life and I now have such a love for these people that I didn't even know was possible.

[deltaguitar]

I admire your pastor for this. If some of those on the platform were trouble makers, he doesn't need them or their bad spirits and attitudes on the platform.

I love good music in the church and prefer live, but it's better to do without it than to have rebellious people on the platform.

Well you would have loved our church. We had some of the best music for the last 30 years. I don't know if it will ever be back the way it was however we have plenty of great musicians who were not even being used. Will just take some time to get back into it.

[Ronzo]

dg, sometimes deconstruction is a really good thing.

It looks like that holds true here.

Go with God, friend!

[tamor]

How childish. Fix the problem.

They did.

[tamor]

While I personally believe we should strive to pray in the spirit often, tongues is not the litmus test for spirituality. Striving daily to apply the principles of God’s word to our life and living for him is a daily worship to him and shows the intent of the heart.

I have known people who could speak in tongues at the drop of a hat… even dance and shout every service and live like the devil when not at church. Why some people easily yield to speaking in tongues is beyond me… but is not the sign of spirituality… Lord help the people who think it is…they need to get beyond this thinking.

:clap :clap :clap

Preach it Sister!!

[Barb]

:clap :clap :clap

Preach it Sister!!

Amen...!!

[AGAPE]

I do not know how to explain touching Jesus, but YOU KNOW IT WHEN YOU DO!!!!!!!!

[Praxeas]

This is a testimony from a young lady in our church who is a praise singer. Also, I have been the guitar player in this church for 10 years. We are part of the leadership of our church and have no problem with what our pastor did and are behind him 100%. We also have a very good music program in our church and have always been known for our music more than anything else.

Funny thing, the only people who find this offensive are the same people who caused tons of trouble for our former pastor.



Sunday, June 10, 2007

Music-less Revival

For whatever reasons that are not important, my pastor has decided to clear off the platform. In our main services, we have no live music. All our music is coming from CDs, and everyone is invited to have worship time in the altar.

For typical APs, it sounds bizarre, and many would question the action. However, I can honestly say we had 2 of the greatest services this weekend as a result. We haven't gotten past worship service. He invited us down to the altar, we all started praying and the next thing you know people we've NEVER seen before are getting the Holy Ghost! It's been phenomenal. I saw people who haven't really prayed in years, fall to their knees in the presence of God.

I know that a lot of people are apprehensive about the change, but honestly, I think it's for the best. It's nothing permanent of course, but it's given a chance for some who hide behind their instruments to be an active part in worship. Some people won't accept it, and refuse to confirm to the new arrangement, but they are only hurting themselves.

Revival is sweeping through our church. It may be unorthodox and offensive to some. That's how I know it's God!
The greatest moves of God's Spirit in our services is when the music stops and the people continue to worship.

[Margies3]

Thank you so much. After I was through praying I had such a deep feeling of thankfulness for those that were there praying for me. I hugged everyone in sight (even the 300lbs black lady with the big hat). I felt like they had walked with me through one of the toughest battles in my life and I now have such a love for these people that I didn't even know was possible.

EVEN??

Why "even"? Because she is black? or because she is 300 lbs? or because she is a lady with a big hat? Just what about her was so offensive that she became an "even" in your eyes?

[berkeley]

EVEN??

Why "even"? Because she is black? or because she is 300 lbs? or because she is a lady with a big hat? Just what about her was so offensive that she became an "even" in your eyes?

When in conversation with people, they will refer to whomever they are speaking of as "man" or "woman" but when it is someone who is African American, they refer to the as the "black man" or the "black woman".

[AGAPE]

good grief

[deltaguitar]

EVEN??

Why "even"? Because she is black? or because she is 300 lbs? or because she is a lady with a big hat? Just what about her was so offensive that she became an "even" in your eyes?

I have never been a real touchy feeling kind of person anyway. But I was trying to show how much love I felt. The lady I was trying to describe is someone I didn't see myself as having very much in common with before. However, once these people prayed with me I felt such a bond that I have never felt before.

I love everyone however went it comes down to hugging or shaking hands I will always stick out my hand.

I was basically just trying to paint the scene as it happened. I go to a very diverse church and I appreciate people who are different and I love being around people who are different than myself. You don't get much whiter than me and the thought of seeing the skinny dorky white guy joyfully hugging the big black lady with the big hat is a beautiful picture in my mind.

:hug3

[berkeley]

good grief

Spit it out, boy.....

[deltaguitar]

When in conversation with people, they will refer to whomever they are speaking of as "man" or "woman" but when it is someone who is African American, they refer to the as the "black man" or the "black woman".

Yeah, and when most of my black friends are talking about a white guy they will say "that white guy."

[Monkeyman]

I refer to singers and preachers all the time as "white" just to be fair! My pastor is a great white preacher!!!!

[berkeley]

Yeah, and when most of my black friends are talking about a white guy they will say "that white guy."

Yeah, probably so..... I think I use color or race to describe everyone...

[Thad]

I recently had to go help a church out whose musicians walked out on the Pastor. It wasn't the first time either. they even had their intruments on the platform and everytime the family got mad over something, they would stomp out and take their instruments home. it happend a number of times. I told the pastor's wife, If i come and help you again please promise me that you are Done with these people once and for all!!!! I told her, they have been in numerous churches pulling the same tricks, manipulating their gift. i said, you'd be better off to struggle through it, get grandma back up there but let that mess go!

[Monkeyman]

Yeah, and when most of my black friends are talking about a white guy they will say "that white guy."
hahaha, touche! I'm glad for your new direction, remember as musicians, we have to stay CLOSE to the Master! If we are to lead in worship, we must be prepared for battle...only thru prayer!!!

[COOPER]

Alot of times when we have a lengthy altar service, Pastor will have the sound men put on a CD and tell the musicians to come down so they can pray and have their own touch by the power of God too.

Sometimes I would put the Bass down and go pray.......

The drummer had a few kids waiting to play so he could go pray too.

[berkeley]

Sometimes I would put the Bass down and go pray.......

Why did you take a fish with you to church???:lol

[Monkeyman]

Why did you take a fish with you to church???:lol
He must "stink" at it, hope he knows his "scales"!!!

[deltaguitar]

I recently had to go help a church out whose musicians walked out on the Pastor. It wasn't the first time either. they even had their intruments on the platform and everytime the family got mad over something, they would stomp out and take their instruments home. it happend a number of times. I told the pastor's wife, If i come and help you again please promise me that you are Done with these people once and for all!!!! I told her, they have been in numerous churches pulling the same tricks, manipulating their gift. i said, you'd be better off to struggle through it, get grandma back up there but let that mess go!

Oh, let me tell you. Some of these people own their own equipment. However, a Baptist preacher who has been coming to our church seeking the Holy Ghost just donated the money for a brand new keyboard and they wouldn't allow it. Why? They lose some of their control. Also, they own the bass amp and we have needed a new one for years. Guess what. No bass amp.

I can tell you that the church as a whole is tired of this mess and back the pastor. Or course you do have some who are family and whatnot but they were always causing problems too.

:haloplug

[Monkeyman]

use a DI box for now and play bass through your system until you can afford one

[deltaguitar]

use a DI box for now and play bass through your system until you can afford one

Yep, we can do that. Another thing is that we have two other great bass players in our church who havn't been allowed to play because the bass player is the wife of the piano player. She only plays on the down beat and there is no thump at all.

[Thad]

Oh, let me tell you. Some of these people own their own equipment. However, a Baptist preacher who has been coming to our church seeking the Holy Ghost just donated the money for a brand new keyboard and they wouldn't allow it. Why? They lose some of their control. Also, they own the bass amp and we have needed a new one for years. Guess what. No bass amp.

I can tell you that the church as a whole is tired of this mess and back the pastor. Or course you do have some who are family and whatnot but they were always causing problems too.

:haloplug


Messy people! and you all have finally been delivered.
have some fundraisers and/or take up a special offering to buy and replace what they took. that will cook their goose :killinme
thank God your pastor is not letting these people manipulate and hold your church hostage any longer. God will honor this and send you the musicians- i urge you all to train up some right in your own congrgation too if youhaven't started to already

[Monkeyman]

Women bass players are of the devil..........I KID I KID!!!!!!!
Man if your bass player isn't any good, the whole team is a mess, the bass is the glue!!!

[Thad]

Women bass players are of the devil..........I KID I KID!!!!!!!
Man if your bass player isn't any good, the whole team is a mess, the bass is the glue!!!

i have NO tolerance for Drummers who can't play either. that drives me to the Padded cell

[revrandy]

i have NO tolerance for Drummers who can't play either. that drives me to the Padded cell

Your big boy is a Good Drummer!!

[Monkeyman]

i have NO tolerance for Drummers who can't play either. that drives me to the Padded cell
I have a problem with drummers who play too well and know it. I promise you, my drummer is one of the best I have seen in church..he would NEVER outplay us unless its called for, ie. a concert solo.

It's all about the pocket bro, stay in the pocket!

[revrandy]

I have a problem with drummers who play to well and know it. I promise you, my drummer is one of the best I have seen in church..he would NEVER outplay us unless its called for, ie. a concert solo.

It's all about the pocket bro, stay in the pocket!

Your Bro..is a decent drummer..:D

[Monkeyman]

Your Bro..is a decent drummer..:D
Yup, my cuz (you say bro) is pretty good...getting old though! hehe

[Thad]

Your big boy is a Good Drummer!!

yes he is good i am blessed
i gotta another one too that grew up COGIC. he;s 16.
that boy is a monster on the drums! in fact, he won the California drum out last year frist place

[revrandy]

yes he is good i am blessed
i gotta another one too that grew up COGIC. he;s 16.
that boy is a monster on the drums! in fact, he won the California drum out last year frist place

Did he finally have the operation to fix the COGIC?

[Thad]

Yup, my cuz (you say bro) is pretty good...getting old though! hehe

Yes, you're brother is a good pocket drummer. very solid.


I do like a drummer that can fill in the empty holes too.
east coast (NY, Phila, DC) drummers are tops for that!

[deltaguitar]

Messy people! and you all have finally been delivered.
have some fundraisers and/or take up a special offering to buy and replace what they took. that will cook their goose :killinme
thank God your pastor is not letting these people manipulate and hold your church hostage any longer. God will honor this and send you the musicians- i urge you all to train up some right in your own congrgation too if youhaven't started to already

Praise God we have been delivered!

Also, we have many great musicians and singers in our church. I give guitar and bass lessons so we have a whole crop of those guys coming up.

[Thad]

Praise God we have been delivered!

Also, we have many great musicians and singers in our church. I give guitar and bass lessons so we have a whole crop of those guys coming up.


that's fantastic! I pray God's best for you and your church

[OP_Carl]

This smacks of wisdom to me.

You have already:

1) learned (anew?) of God's grace

2) refreshed your anointing and Christ-like attitude

3) gained new-found unity with your congregation

4) gained new-found respect for your pastor

What a great deal. And all it took was guts and determination. We (the apostolics) need more, not less, of this sort of thing.

I am very happy for you and definitely know how you feel. Just about anything can slip in and before you know it you are just going through the motions, wondering why you're so sick and tired of being sick and tired. And then it is so difficult to break through to a renewing of your spirit.

If you won't wait another ten years for your next renewing, I won't!

[deltaguitar]

Yes, you're brother is a good pocket drummer. very solid.


I do like a drummer that can fill in the empty holes too.
east coast (NY, Phila, DC) drummers are tops for that!

Oh, while I was at my sisters last week in Cali I sang with their youth choir. I have to say that their drummer was one of the best at staying in the pocket I have ever seen. A very humble guy and a joy to work with. Same thing with their piano girl. She was awesome too!

[Thad]

Oh, while I was at my sisters last week in Cali I sang with their youth choir. I have to say that their drummer was one of the best at staying in the pocket I have ever seen. A very humble guy and a joy to work with. Same thing with their piano girl. She was awesome too!


where at in cali?? I know you don't mean like right near me??
and you didn't stop by ?? :club

[revrandy]

Delta...

Who's your sis??

first name??

[deltaguitar]

where at in cali?? I know you don't mean like right near me??
and you didn't stop by ?? :club

I was close. We were in Turllock. I wanted to try to catch your service but instead went to Stockton for the youth service Wednesday night. It was such a fast trip that it was over before I realized.

[deltaguitar]

Delta...

Who's your sis??

first name??

Can't tell. She doesn't want her name mentioned on internet forums.

[deltaguitar]

This smacks of wisdom to me.

You have already:

1) learned (anew?) of God's grace

2) refreshed your anointing and Christ-like attitude

3) gained new-found unity with your congregation

4) gained new-found respect for your pastor

What a great deal. And all it took was guts and determination. We (the apostolics) need more, not less, of this sort of thing.

I am very happy for you and definitely know how you feel. Just about anything can slip in and before you know it you are just going through the motions, wondering why you're so sick and tired of being sick and tired. And then it is so difficult to break through to a renewing of your spirit.

If you won't wait another ten years for your next renewing, I won't!

Wow! That is a great summary of how I feel. I just might use that in testimony service.

[revrandy]

Can't tell. She doesn't want her name mentioned on internet forums.

Gotcha... We attended there for a couple of months and met some nice folks..

[deltaguitar]

Gotcha... We attended there for a couple of months and met some nice folks..

It was a great service. Very much like being with family. They had a great prayer service before church then the pastors brother from Southern Cali delievered a great message.

[Thad]

I was close. We were in Turllock. I wanted to try to catch your service but instead went to Stockton for the youth service Wednesday night. It was such a fast trip that it was over before I realized.

That sure is Cold ! !

[deltaguitar]

That sure is Cold ! !

Sorry! Didn't mean it that way. I just wanted to see how other churches are doing their youth services.

Hey you were close to me a few months back. Of course my location is hopefully secret.

[SoCaliUPC]

It was a great service. Very much like being with family. They had a great prayer service before church then the pastors brother from Southern Cali delievered a great message.

I highly respect his brother (Tom) from SoCal. Consider them my "second church home."

[deltaguitar]

I highly respect his brother (Tom) from SoCal. Consider them my "second church home."

Cool. I thought he preached great.

[Old Paths]

Pastor Cleans Off Platform



Congradulations!

[StillStanding]

Pastor Cleans Off Platform



Congradulations!

:killinme When I first read this thread, I thought the platform might have accumilated a lot of junk over the years, and they decided to clean it off! :)

[Rico]

I play the organ for every service and have for years. My wife plays keyboard and has for years. I also am the pastor but I still make sure that I pray through daily.


This is not a bad idea at all and I don't see why people are not agreeing with you that it's a good idea. I don't pray in tongues every day, but there was a time when I did. It goes a long way in walking in the Spirit.

[Rico]

Well I will take your advice and strive toward this. It doesn't sound like a bad thing unless it becomes like a ritual or something.

Brother, I have heard it likened to the manna the Bible speaks about. If they tried saving the manna for the next day it would go bad, except for what they would need on the Sabbath.

[Rico]

I admire your pastor for this. If some of those on the platform were trouble makers, he doesn't need them or their bad spirits and attitudes on the platform.

I love good music in the church and prefer live, but it's better to do without it than to have rebellious people on the platform.

I agree. I think the pastor did the right thing and now the church is reaping the benefits of the stand he is taking.

[Rico]

Messy people! and you all have finally been delivered.
have some fundraisers and/or take up a special offering to buy and replace what they took. that will cook their goose :killinme
thank God your pastor is not letting these people manipulate and hold your church hostage any longer. God will honor this and send you the musicians- i urge you all to train up some right in your own congrgation too if youhaven't started to already

I agree. If the church is backing the pastor then they should know that it will cost money to replace whatever instruments and whatnot these people take with them. When I played in church I always used my own guitars and amps anyway, rather than anything the church had. Most musicians have their own anyhow.

[CC1]

deltaquitar,

If the church needs a new bass amp and other musical equipment I highly recommend www.americanmusical.com

They are just like the Musicians Friends website except that they allow you to split purchases above $250 over three payments on your VISA check card or credit card. It is a neat way to have three months to pay out something without having to pay any interest. I have bought thousands of dollars worth of equipment from them over the years.

[Whole Hearted]

I recently had to go help a church out whose musicians walked out on the Pastor. It wasn't the first time either. they even had their intruments on the platform and everytime the family got mad over something, they would stomp out and take their instruments home. it happend a number of times. I told the pastor's wife, If i come and help you again please promise me that you are Done with these people once and for all!!!! I told her, they have been in numerous churches pulling the same tricks, manipulating their gift. i said, you'd be better off to struggle through it, get grandma back up there but let that mess go!

I'd rather have someone who could only chord a little and loved God than to have the best musician with a bad spirit.

[Monkeyman]

I'd rather have someone who can chord a lot, love God a lot, and be a great musician with a right spirit. BTW, there ARE many of these out there!

[Whole Hearted]

I'd rather have someone who can chord a lot, love God a lot, and be a great musician with a right spirit. BTW, there ARE many of these out there!

I believe that there are many good musicians and singer out there.

But most of the time when a pastor has trouble it is with the musicians or singers. There is nothing worse than having people on the platform who are fighting the pastor.

[Monkeyman]

I believe that there are many good musicians and singer out there.

But most of the time when a pastor has trouble it is with the musicians or singers. There is nothing worse than having people on the platform who are fighting the pastor.Believe me I am with you as far as harmony with the musicians and the priests as in OT...great things happen when they are together and in submission to the Pastor....I take issue with "most trouble is with the musicians" this is NOT true...there are plenty of bad seeds in a church to take the blame...musicians are an easy target, because they are in the forefront...sister sally who is secretly miss-behavin' doesn't get as much attention. Joe the usher who talks about his Pastor and the decisions of the leadership runs in a small circle...LET THE CHURCH ROLL ON BRO!!!!

[Monkeyman]

My apologies to all good saints named Sally or Joe

[RevDWW]

I have actually heard a musician state "Where would the worship be with us!" and with a bad attitude no less. But that's not all musicians.

PS. Wasn't the Devil a musician?

[Monkeyman]

I have actually heard a musician state "Where would the worship be with us!" and with a bad attitude no less. But that's not all musicians.

PS. Wasn't the Devil a musician?I know preachers who drink wine with a good attitude!!!Doesn't mean they are all winos!he he

[Hoovie]

Another thread I haven't read, but a platform without music bands and microphones is more like the Apostolic pattern I think.

[Monkeyman]

I can see where this thread is headin so I a musician (saved too????) will depart thee now, have fun, let the bashing commence

[Whole Hearted]

I wasn't trying to bash musician of singers, seeing as I am one my self and have been on the platform in one positions or another for over 30 years.

But having been on the platform in close contact with other musicians and singer I have seen it first hand. There are some singers, musicians, and choir director that think the church can't have church without them.

Some have a bad attitude and think more highly of themselves than the should.

[Hoovie]

I can see where this thread is headin so I a musician (saved too????) will depart thee now, have fun, let the bashing commence

Hey Monk no bashin here, really.