gdp's Comments

Ron Edmondson : An Interview with Pete Wilson

Tue, 3 Jan 2017 19:33:22 +0000

Ron Seems the guys at ExPastors.com, are also removing And editing posts by, and about “Tullian Tchividjian.” ---------- ExPastors.com Apparently has Deleted Posts and References to Tullian Tchividjian https://spiritualsoundingboard.com/2017/01/03/exp... “...two of the four relevant articles at ExPastors.com had been removed from their site – one by Bo Lane and the other by Tullian Tchividjian. Two other articles by Greg Atkinson had been edited without any notice or update that I could find, that he had made edits to the pieces. Also, a search on the ExPastors.com site for “Tullian Tchividjian” yielded no results.” ---------- Can these guys at ExPastors.com, really help “Ex Pastors?” By “deleting and editing posts” that prove to be ugly, NOT True? ---------- When you believe the lie you start to die...

Ron Edmondson : An Interview with Pete Wilson

Tue, 3 Jan 2017 19:05:16 +0000

Ron Seems ExPastors.com has removed your interview with Pete Wilson. With NO explanation.

Ron Edmondson : An Interview with Pete Wilson

Wed, 21 Dec 2016 16:54:03 +0000

Ron Seems there is more to the story then burnout. Brandi Wilson, Pete Wilson’s Wife, Files For Divorce. http://thewartburgwatch.com/2016/12/20/brandi-wil...

Ron Edmondson : 7 Of My Biggest Frustrations as a Leader

Sat, 30 Jan 2016 16:30:33 +0000

And God bless you Ron. Mal 3:16 Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name.

Ron Edmondson : 7 Of My Biggest Frustrations as a Leader

Sat, 30 Jan 2016 16:11:49 +0000

Hmmm? My "biggest frustration" as a leader? When I searched the scriptures... For the Qualifications of an “elder/leader.” And realized I did NOT meet the Qualifications... And as hard as I tried, I still did NOT meet the Qualifcations. Now what? :-( Here are three qualifications for pastor/elder, from Titus... That most who call themselves “pastor/elder” tend to “Ignore,” or “Twist.” 1 - For a bishop (overseer) “Must Be” *Blameless.* 2 - Just. 3 - Holy. Titus 1:5-8 KJV 5 ...ordain elders in every city... 6 If any be *blameless,* the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. 7 For a bishop “must be” *blameless,* as the steward of God; not self willed, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; 8 a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, *just,* *holy,* temperate; 1 - *Must Be* Strongs #1163, die. - It is necessary (as binding). Thayer’s - necessity established by the counsel and decree of God. This *must be* is the same Greek word. - You *must be* born again. Jn 3:7 Seems *must be* is a small word but very important. Yes? 1 - Blameless Strongs #410 anegkletos - unaccused, irreproachable, blameless. Thayers - cannot be called into account, unreproveable, unaccused. Dictionary - Without fault, innocent, guiltless, not meriting censure. 2 - Just Strongs #1342 - dikaios {dik'-ah-yos} from 1349; Thayers - righteous, observing divine laws, innocent, faultless, guiltless. 3 - Holy Strongs #3741 - hosios {hos'-ee-os} Thayers - undefiled by sin, free from wickedness, religiously observing every moral obligation. Now that’s three tough qualifications for pastor/elder/leader. Yes? How many pastor/elder/leaders today, who honestly examine themselves, seriously considering these three qualifications, can see themselves as Blameless, Just and Holy, innocent, without fault, above reproach, undefiled by sin, and thus qualify to be an pastor/leader/overseer? And, if they can see themself as *blameless?* Is that pride? And no longer without fault? ;-) If WE, His Ekklesia, His Church, His Sheep, His Kings and Priests, His Body... Take seriously the many tough Qualifications in 1 Tim 3:1-6, and Titus 1:5-9... The number of Biblically Qualified, pastor/elders/leaders, is quite small. ;-) But, will these UN-qualified, pastor/elder/leaders, “Remove Themselves?” And be a good example to the flock? Ps 138:6 Though the LORD be high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly: but the proud he knoweth afar off. Ps 40:4 Blessed is that man that maketh the LORD his trust, and respecteth not the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies.

Ron Edmondson : 10 Random Things to Know about Pastors - Or At Least This One

Mon, 7 Dec 2015 15:35:46 +0000

Hi James You seem to be edjumacated about “Biblical standards” for pastors. But, I’m having a hard time finding today’s “Titled” pastor... And what these "Titled" pastors get “Paid” to “Do”... In the Bible. Oy Vey!!! And, since Making Disciples seems to be a priorty for "today's Pastors." Was wondering... In The Bible, Can you find, and name... One of His Disciples calling them self, pastor? Or shepherd? Or leader? Or reverend? One of His Disciples calling another Disciple, shepherd/leader/reverend? One of His Disciples with the "Title/Position," shepherd/leader/reverend? One of His Disciples Hired or Fired, as a shepherd/leader/reverend? One of His Disciples who became... A Paid, Professional, Pastor, in a Pulpit, Preaching, to People, in Pews? ---------- What did His Disciples know 2000 years ago? That those who call themselves “pastor/leader/reverend,” Miss Today? ---------- If, NOT one of His Disciples “Did” any of these things 2000 years ago? In the Bible? Why would someone, who desires to be one of His Disciples, “Do” these things today? ----------- Jer 50:6 “My people” hath been “lost sheep:” **THEIR shepherds** have caused them to *go astray,* 1 Pet 2:25 For ye were as *sheep going astray;* BUT are now returned to the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls. {{{{{{ Jesus }}}}}}

Ron Edmondson : A Word of Encouragement to Pastors During Pastor Appreciation Month

Sat, 10 Oct 2015 17:30:17 +0000

Hi Lance Glad ya-all like them Famous Amos cookies... But, sorry, I can NOT take any credit for them. ;-) I’m NOT a fan of Baking. - But, I am a fan of BACON. ;-) Flour tends to be messy, going all over the place. Hard to clean up after. But, Pigs, Now a pig is a marvelous, magnificent, miracle working animal. You feed that pig useless stuff like vegetables, lettuce and tomatoes - And bingo... That marvelous, magnificent, miracle working pig turns it into - BACON... And, as for my pastor NOW, Well... Me and My Pastor have a “load of fun” together. 1 - My pastor NOW, loves me - Unconditionally. 2 - My pastor NOW, promised to never leave me nor forsake me. 3 - My pastor NOW, NO longer calls me servant. He calls me FRIEND. Yeah, My pastor NOW, is way cool. 1a - I’ve had a few Mere Fallible Human pastors in the past... Who did NOT love me unconditionally. Go figure... Oh, they said they loved me... When I agreed with them... Gave them lots of money... Was willing to Pray, Pay, Stay, and Obey... But, challenge their Power, Profit, Prestige, doctrines, beliefs... Dis-agree, question, their character, their theology... Ask them, How come, In the Bible... NOT one of His Disciples... Called them self pastor? Had the “Title” pastor? Or, Had their own parking space? :-) And things would get ugly pretty fast. NO, I’m NOT a fan, of a man... Who takes My pastors Name, in Vain... Exodus 20:7 Thou shalt not take the NAME of the LORD thy God in VAIN; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. Seems. in the Bible, the only ONE I can find... Who has the “Title,” Shepherd/Leader/Reverend... Or was referred to as, Shepherd/Leader/Reverend... Is... My Shepherd and FRIEND {{{{{{ Jesus }}}}}}

Ron Edmondson : 10 Attributes of a Humble Leader

Thu, 6 Aug 2015 13:56:29 +0000

Hi Ron “Humble Leader” Wow! Me thinks that’s impossible. Especially in “Today’s Religious System.” In my experience - Most so-called Christian leaders today “Trust” John Maxwell. And his quote... “Everything rises and falls with leadership” - BUT - I do NOT see that principle in the Bible. That Maxwell quote makes so-called leaders think - “They are important.” Just the opposite of “Humble.” “Humble Leader” has to be confusing for those who tell others they’re Leaders in “The Body of Christ.” That quote causes so-called leaders to, Focus on self. Improve self. Have an excessive interest in self. But - That is the opposite of “Humble” = Having a low estimate of ones importance. Selfless. And - In the Bible - John the Baptist said - “He” must increase, but “I” must decrease. (Humble) Paul said - “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; *yet not I,* but Christ liveth in me.” And Jesus said - “I will build MY Church.” “I will add to MY Church.” Seems to me, in the Bible, Jesus gets the preeminence, and ALL the glory. Everything rises and falls with “Jesus.” NOT with mere fallible humans who think they are leaders. ----------------- ***Humble Dictionary - having a modest or low estimate of one's own importance. Thesauras - selfless, lowly, meek, unassuming, respectful, submissive, diffident, self-effacing, unassertive, unpresuming, modest, subdued, chastened. --------------- ***Leader Dictionary - the person who leads or commands a group. Thesauras - chief, head, principal, commander, captain; superior, headman, director, overseer, master, president, premier, governor; ruler, monarch, king, queen, sovereign, emperor, number one. --------------- ***Narcissistic Dictionary - having an excessive interest in oneself, in ones own importance. Thesauras - self-admiring, self-absorbed, self-obsessed, self-centered, self-regarding... -------------- Maybe this is why Jesus, in Mat 23:10 NASB, taught His Disciples NOT to be called “Leader” For you have “ONE” Leader - Christ. So His Disciples would NOT think of “Self” as important... They would remain “Servants,” And they would have a shot at remaining “Humble.” Haven't you ever wondered - Why - NOT one of His Disciples - called them self "Leader?" If you ask someone - Are you a “Humble Leader?” And they answer... Yes - I’m a “Humble Leader.” - Are they?

Ron Edmondson : Four Reasons the Great Commission Becomes the Great Omission in a Church

Sun, 25 May 2014 15:02:39 +0000

Ron How about a # 5? Most of these dying... 501 (c) 3, Non-Profit, Tax $ Deductible, Religious $ Corporations, the IRS calls church. Are dying because they do NOT follow the instructions of Jesus on how to make Disciples. Mat 28:19:20 NKJV Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations... **teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you** Seems easy enough - read the four Gospels - Even make a list... Teach, observe, what Jesus Did, Taught, and Commanded His Disciples. Teach, observe, what His Disciples Did and Taught. BUT - I’ve noticed MOST “Church Leaders,” Most pastor/leaders, Today... *Ignore* or *Twist* what Jesus Did and Taught and Commanded His Disciples. And - What His Disciples “observed Jesus doing” and what they Did and Taught. Here is some of what Jesus, “The Word of God,” taught “His Disciples” That, for the most part, is NOT being taught in “Today’s Religious System.” 1 - NOT to be called teacher for you have “ONE” teacher, Christ. Mt 23:8 NKJV 2 - NOT to be called leader for you have “ONE” leader, Christ, Mt 23:10 NASB .... And, NOT one of His Disciples called them self Leader. 3 - ALL shall be taught of God. Jn 6:45 KJV .... John taught, you need NO man teach you. 4 - ALL things, shall be taught you by the Holy Spirit, God. Jn 14:26 .... Paul taught, the Gospel he preached was from God, NOT from man. 5 - ALL truth, will come as the Spirit of truth guides and leads. Jn 16:13 6 - Jesus, as man, does nothing of himself, and is taught of God. Jn 8:28 7 - Jesus is the “ONE” Shepherd, the Good Shepherd. Jn 10:11-16. .... And, NOT one of His Disciples had the “Title” - shepherd/leader/reverend. 8 - He who speaks of himself seeks his own glory. ( Titles/Position?) Jn 7:18. .... And, NOT one of His Disciples called themself - pastor/leader/reverend. 9 - If I honour myself, my honour is nothing. (Titles/Position?) Jn 8:54 10 - Peter, knowing Jesus was the Christ, the Son of the living God, .... received *the revelation* from Father *God,* and NOT from man. Mt 16:17 .... NOT from Jesus, as man. Jesus gave “All” the glory, all the credit to God. 11 - I am among you as he that serves. Lu 22:27 12 - He that shall humble himself shall be exalted. Mt 23:12. .... Humble - A modest or low opinion of one’s own importance. .... And, ALL His Disciples called themselves “Servants.” And - Jesus taught a lot in the Streets and had His Disciples DO what He DID, in the streets. Luke 9:2.And He sent them out to preach the kingdom and Heal the sick. Kinda hard for those who call themselves teachers/leaders, to be making Disciples of Jesus... When Jesus taught His Disciples NOT to be called teacher - NOT to be called leader... If someone “Ignores” what Jesus taught His Diciples? If some one “Opposes” what Jesus taught His Diciples? And, calls them self leader? And allows others to call them leader? Are they one of His Disciples?

Ron Edmondson : Pastor, Don't be Afraid of Good Leadership

Wed, 26 Mar 2014 19:51:02 +0000

Ron In my experience with having been ordained - in “Church Learship.” And with the “Title/Position” of *Today’s* pastor/leader/reverend... “Titles” become “Idols” .............. “Idols” of the heart - Ezek14:1-11 KJV “Pastors” become “Masters”........ A big No, No. Mat 23:10 KJV, Mat 6:24 KJV “Leaders” become “Deceivers”..... Isa 3:12 KJV, Isa 9:16 KJV, Mat 15:14 KJV “Church Leaders” become “Deception Breeders.” Isa 3:12 KJV, Isa 9:16 KJV And NOT one of His Disciples called themself, or had the “Title,” pastor/leader/reverend... And NOT one of His Disciples were, Hired or Fired, as a pastor/leader/reverend. Jer 50:6 “My people” hath been “lost sheep:” **THEIR shepherds** have caused them to *go astray,* 1 Pet 2:25 For ye were as *sheep going astray;* BUT are now returned to the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls. What is popular is NOT always “Truth.” What is “Truth” is NOT always popular. I’m Blest... I’ve returned to the Shepherd and Bishop of my soul... {{{{{{ Jesus }}}}}}

Ron Edmondson : Pastor, Don't be Afraid of Good Leadership

Wed, 26 Mar 2014 19:41:58 +0000

Ron Just something to think about when you write... “I’m not looking to **the Bible** to give me a definition either.” “Paul was a leader…” Because in the Bible - Jesus taught His Disciples NOT to be called “Leaders.” For you have “ONE” leader - the Christ. Mat 23:10 NASB - And NONE did... ;-) And Paul never called himself leader - Paul called himself "Servant." Mat 23:10-12 NASB - New American Standard Bible. Do NOT be called leaders; for “ONE” is your Leader, that is, Christ. But the greatest among you shall be your “Servant.” Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled; and whoever humbles himself shall be exalted. Mat 23:10-12 TM - The Message. And don't let people maneuver you into taking charge of them. There is only “ONE” Life-Leader for you and them—Christ. **Do you want to stand out? - Then step down. - Be a servant.** If you puff yourself up, you'll get the wind knocked out of you. But if you're content to simply be yourself, your life will count for plenty. Jesus instructed **His Disciples** NOT to be called **Leaders** and NONE did. Rom 1:1 Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, Php 1:1 Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, Col 4:12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, Tit 1:1 Paul, a servant of God, Jas 1:1 James, a servant of God 2Pe 1:1 Simon Peter, a servant **His Disciples** all called themselves **Servants.** None called themselves “Leaders.” None? None. None called themselves “Servant-Leader.” None. If Jesus instructed **His Disciples** NOT to call themselves “leaders?” And someone calls them self a “leader?” Opposing the teachig of Jesus? Are they one of “His Disciples?" Why isn’t what Jesus said important? ;-) And NOT one of His Disciples called themself - pastor, or shepherd. Seems His Disciples believed Jesus when He taught His Disciples there is “ONE” Shepherd... {{{{{{ Jesus }}}}}} And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall **hear MY voice;** and there shall be “ONE” fold, and “ONE” shepherd. John 10:16 One Voice - One Fold - One Shepherd - One Leader {{{{{{ Jesus }}}}}}

Ron Edmondson : 7 Ways I Deal With Fatigue as a Leader

Fri, 24 Jan 2014 16:52:35 +0000

Ron Much agreement with... “I hear someone say every day “I’m so tired”. It’s epidemic it seems.” “I know it’s true of those in ministry.” In my experience, most of the fatigue that comes to those in ministry is spiritual. Man doing his own works. Creating their own difficult yokes and picking up heavy burdens that Jesus never asked them to. They wind up in bondage to the “Traditions of men,” that make Void the word of God. They have “Titles” that place heavy burdens on shoulders that Jesus never asked His Sheep to carry. Instead, God asks WE, His Ekklesia, go to Him to give us rest, to labour to enter into His Rest... By ceaseing from our own works. And taking His Yoke which is easy and His Burden which is light. Heb 4:9-11 KJV There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God. For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his. Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief. Mat 23:28-30 KJV Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I (Jesus) will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; (Follow His Example) for I am meek and lowly in heart: (Could His Rest come when you’re meek and lowly in heart.) and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. How many today, in ministry, are meek and lowly in heart? Clothed with humility? 1Pet 5:5 KJV. Humility - Dictionary - a modest or low view of one's own importance. Man becomes busy setting goals, thinking they are important, and labouring to meet those goals. To impress. To achieve. To be recognized. To be known as successful. To feel good about ones labors. To feel significant. To produce. All those things highly esteemed among men but abomination in the sight of God. Luke 16:15 KJV. And when Man does NOT live up to our own expectations, or the expectations of others... When the dream, the goals, become overwhelming, NOT working, people NOT following... Discouragement becomes a constant companion and Fatigue sets in... Whose yoke and burdens are you under? If it’s NOT easy? If it’s NOT light? Jesus said - “My yoke is easy. My burden is light. When you believe the lie you start to die...

Ron Edmondson : Those "recognized as leaders..."

Fri, 10 Jan 2014 18:40:40 +0000

Hi Ron Please, also remember Jesus, in Mat 23:10 NASB, teaching His Disciples NOT to be called Leaders. For you have “ONE” Leader. Christ. And NOT one of His Disciples called themself “Leader?” Mat 23:10-12 NASB - New American Standard Bible. Do NOT be called leaders; for “ONE” is your Leader, that is, Christ. But the greatest among you shall be your “Servant.” Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled; and whoever humbles himself shall be exalted. And, I’ve noticed, most who desire to be, or think they are, a pastor/leader/elder/overseer “Ignore” or “Twist” the “Qualifications” in 1 Tim 3:1-6, and Titus 1:5-9, for appointing elder/overseers, so they could obtain for themselves this “Title/Position” of - pastor/leader/reverend - that comes with - Power - Profit - Prestige. What’s up wit dat? ;-) Anyway, it was after I left “The Corrupt Religious System” of today, tore up my papers, and walked away from “Church Leadership,” that I realized Isaiah, had prophesied about my “Leadership skills.” And the “Leadership skills” of the rest of todays “Church Leaders.” No really... ;-) Isa 3:12 KJV ...O my people, *they which lead thee* cause thee to err, and destroy the way of thy paths. Isa 9:16 KJV For *the leaders* of this people cause them to err; and they that are led of them are destroyed. Some legacy todays “Church Leaders” are creating for themselves... And I still can NOT find “Church Leaders” in my antiquated KJV. And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall “hear My voice; “ and there shall be “ONE” fold, and “ONE” shepherd. John 10:16 If NOT now - When? One Voice - One Fold - One Shepherd - One Leader {{{{{{ Jesus }}}}}}

Ron Edmondson : 10 Traits to Identify Potential New Servant Leaders

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 18:21:33 +0000

Hi Ron I’d like to suggest a change for your title - Remove “Leaders” and insert “Servants.” "10 Traits to Identify Potential New “Servants.” Lots of info, and talk, today about “Leaders” - NOT much about “Servants.” I suggest this because - Jesus instructs His Disciples - NOT to be called “Leaders” For you have “ONE” leader - Jesus. Mat 23:10 NASB. And here are - “10 Traits to Identify Potential New “Servants.” 1 - Are they living examples of - NOT lording it over “God’s heritage?” 1 Pet 5:3 KJV 2 - Are they living examples of - Lowliness of mind? Phil 2:3 KJV 3 - Are they living examples of - Esteeming others “better” than themselves? Phil 2:3 KJV 4 - Are they living examples of - Submitting “One to Another?” Eph 5:21 KJV, 1 Pet 5:5 KJV 5 - Are they living examples of - Prefering others before themselves? Rom 12:10 KJV 6 - Are they living examples of - Being clothed with humility? 1 Pet 5:5 KJV 7 - Are they living examples of - By love “Serve one another?” Gal 5:13 KJV 8 - Are they living examples of - Laying down their lives for the brethren? 1 John 3:16 KJV 9 - Are they living examples of - NOT speaking of themselves, NOT seeking their glory? Jn 7:18 KJV 10 - Are they living examples of - NOT “execising authority” like the Gentiles?” Mark 10:42-43. KJV And - NOT one of His Disciples called them self “leader.” ;-) wink... ALL His Disciples called themselves “Servants.”

Ron Edmondson : When the Church is Hated, How should Leaders Respond?

Sat, 12 Jan 2013 15:36:37 +0000

Ron Yes - It's the things we learn after we know it all that really count... And - those people who think they know it all - really aggravate those of us who do.

Ron Edmondson : When the Church is Hated, How should Leaders Respond?

Sat, 12 Jan 2013 15:25:56 +0000

Ron This post mentions - “Dickerson’s new book “The Great Evangelical Recession” **identifies six factors of decline in the American Church** Since leaving “The Abusive Religious System” I have a little different take for this “Decline.” And - I can also **identify six factors of decline in the American Church** that most leaders “Ignore.” For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God 1 Pet 4:17 Seems lots of folks are recognizing and leaving - “The Corrupt Religious System” of today. Many never leave The Church of God. aka The Body of Christ. (I love His Church.) Most have left “The Corrupt Religious System” - That has damaged so many. The 501 (c) 3, Non-Profit, Tax $ Deductible, Religious $ Corporation, the IRS calls church. Should His Disciples call an IRS Corporation “His Church?” His ekklesia? AAARRRGGHHH ;-) Now - Maybe I’m exaggerating when I call it “The Corrupt Religious System” of today? Lets check out - Corrupt - Dictionary... 1) - showing a willingness to act dishonestly in return for money or personal gain. 2) - debased or made unreliable by errors or alterations. 3) - in a state of decay; rotten or putrid. Hasn’t The Whole Religious System, for 1,700 years, been *Totally Corrupt?* With... 1 - Elder/Overseers who do NOT meet the qualifications found in the Bible? .....(1. Must be Blameless. 2. Holy? 3. Just? 4. Rule well their own house? etc.) 2 - Multiple thousands of denominations - NOT found in the Bible? .....(Baptist, Presbyterian., Catholic, Lutheran, Assembly of God. etc.) 3 - Multiple Movements - NOT found in the Bible? .....(Reformed, Evangelical, Pentecostal, Emergent, etc.) 4 - Abusive Heirarchy - Abusive Authoritarians - NOT found in the Bible? .....(Who Exercise Authority like the gentiles and lord it over God’s heritage.) 5 - Traditions of men - NOT found in the Bible? .....(Money as a Tithe, Go to church, Join a church, church membership. etc). 6 - Titles/Positions - NOT found in the Bible? (Pastor/Leader/Reverend?) .....(Clergy, Doctor, Right Reverend, Cardinal, Senior Pastor, Lead Pastor. etc.) Isn’t “Today’s System” filled with those having “a willingness to act dishonestly” And are after... 1) - “money and personal gain” ..... (Celebrity Pastors, Authors, Confrence speakers. where everyone KNOWS my name.) ..... (He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory... John 7:18 2) - and make “Today’s Religious System” “unreliable by errors or alterations,” to the Bible. ...... (How the Bible describes “His Church.” How elders “Ignore” Qualifications for Overseer?) And because of these errors and alterations to the Bible and qualifications of Elder/Overseer. 3) - The Corrupt Religious System is in a state of decay; rotten and putrid. And folks are leaving by the millions. And turning to Jesus. So - Am I exaggerating when I call it “The Corrupt Religious System” of today?

Ron Edmondson : A Dozen Bible Verses for Leaders (Repost)

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 14:48:06 +0000

And Ron Jesus also said... John 5:41 - I receive *NOT* honour from men. John 5:44 - How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only? When someone aknowledges you as a “Leader:” Are you “Receiving Honor” from men? Jesus also said... John 7:18 - He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory... John 8:50 - And I seek not mine own glory... When you let people know, you’re a “leader” is that seeking your own glory? If you’re a leader? Why do you want people to follow you? And NOT follow Jesus? Why not let people know you’re just a servant? A Disciple? And Jesus is the “ONE” “Leader?” Mat 23:10 NASB Luke 16:15 - And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God. Seems to me “Leadership” is highly essteemed among men. Yes? NOT servanthood.

Ron Edmondson : A Dozen Bible Verses for Leaders (Repost)

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 14:47:06 +0000

Ron I really appreciate the tone, the spirit, of these verses. - Humble... ;-) The Challenge I see with being known as a “Leader” is... If one sheep is a “Leader” - Then the other sheep are “Followers.“ And they “Follow” a “Mere Fallible Human.” - When they could “Follow” Jesus. And Jesus never taught anyone to “Follow” a “Mere Fallible Human.” Jesus only taught His sheep to “Follow” Him. John 10:27. The Challenge is - As man, Jesus, when they wanted to make him king “leader of the people” Jesus departed again into a mountain himself alone. John 6:15 - Jesus came to serve... As man, Jesus did NOT want that recognition or honor that today’s Pastor/Leaders seek after. My advice now is: When they want to make you a “Leader; “run, run as fast as you can. The snare, the trap has been set. Your *test* has begun... A man that flattereth his neighbour spreadeth a net for his feet. Pro 29:5 Bread of deceit is sweet to a man; but afterwards his mouth shall be filled with gravel. Pr0 20:17 “Pastor/Leaders,” and their families, pay an horrendous price today for taking that “Title.” That they do NOT qualify for. A “Title/Position” NOT found in the Bible. # 80% of pastors' spouses wish they would choose a different profession. # 80% believe pastoral ministry has negatively affected their families. http://www.pastoralcareinc.com/statistics/

Ron Edmondson : A Word of Encouragement to Pastors During Pastor Appreciation Month

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 15:23:11 +0000

Ron I’m also burdened for Pastors. But - My conclusion, and soul-lution is a bit different - you say... “the pastor is drowning. His spouse is drowning. His family suffers. They can’t keep up with the demands of the church.” And todays “Pastor/Leader/Reverend” becomes Burdened in many ways. 1 - Burden one - Pleasing people, doing what they expect - NOT what God expects. Well, from your list, aren’t Pastors “doing” a whole bunch of stuff - NOT found in the Bible? And, wouldn’t you say, the first place to go, and agree with, is the Bible? For God’s expectations? 2 - Burden two - Taking three names of the Lord - in vain. “Pastor/Leader/Reverend.” Haven’t “Pastor/Leader/Reverends” - also taken a “Title/Position” - NOT found in the Bible? I cudda missed it but - Any Disciples with the “Title” “Pastor/Leader/Reverend” in the Bible? Jesus, the only “ONE” called Shepherd, 1Pe 2:25, Leader, Mt 23:10 NASB, Reverend, Ps 111:9 KJV. 3 - Burden three - “Titles” become “Idols” with - Power - Profit - Prestige - Glory - Reputation... ALL stuff Jesus spoke against. ALL stuff highly esteemed by men - Abomination to God. Lu 16:15 ALL “Idols” of the heart. Ezek 14:1-11 - Addictions? - NOT easy to lay down? 4 - Burden four - Trying to live up to the “Qualifications” for Elder/Overseer. Paul gave some tough qualifications for Elder/Overseer, that most “know” they do NOT meet. How many today are: 1- Blameless? 2 - Holy? 3 - Just? 4 - Rule well their own house? I Tim 3:4-5 One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) This one qualification, I Tim 3:4-5, seems to eliminate 80% of todays overseers - Because... Rule here also means - to be a protector or guardian, to give aid, to care for, give attention to. And - 80% of pastors' spouses wish they would choose a different profession. And - 80% believe pastoral ministry has negatively affected their families. http://www.pastoralcareinc.com/statistics/ IMO - This says - 80% do NOT rule well their own house. Do NOT protect and guard their family. NOPE - In my experience - Today’s Elder/Overseers - Can NOT meet Pauls tough qualifications. And the “Pastor/Leader/Reverend” -And their families - suffer greatly.

Ron Edmondson : 7 Thoughts on Church Discipline

Sun, 27 May 2012 16:32:16 +0000

Ron - Real Good Stuff. ;-) Really liked number 4 - “Discipline is done in an effort to restore, not to punish.” Kinda like Gal 6:1-3, is a reminder to “Love” and “Restore.” *Brethren,* if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye (ME???) which are spiritual, *restore such an one* in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, *lest thou also be tempted.* Bear ye (ME) one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. For if a man (ME) think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. Seems the *test* here - is for “(ME),” the one who notices who is - “overtaken in a fault.” Mat 18:15-17, can also be a reminder to “Love” and “Restore.” For (ME) to gain “thy (MY) brother.” 15 Moreover if “thy (MY) brother” shall trespass against *thee,* (ME) go and tell him his fault between *thee* (ME) and him alone: if he shall hear *thee,* (ME) thou hast gained “thy (MY) brother.” 16 But if he will not hear *thee,* (ME) then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. 17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear “the church,” **let him be unto *thee* (ME) as an heathen man and a publican.** Again, the *test* is for “(ME).” The one who is “Trespassed against” to “Gain thy (MY) Brother.” And it’s up to (ME) - NOT the Church - And NOT the Church Leaders... To decide how (ME) will **let him be unto *thee* (ME) as an heathen man and a publican.** The trespasser *is* “Thy (MY) brother.” Do I really take the term “brother”seriously today? Do I even know, or care, who (MY) “brother” is? And NOT just the ones who “agree” with me? How much grace and mercy, how much patience, would I show to MY flesh and blood “Brother?” Would I give up on him so quickly? Would I ever NOT love him? Seems to me - Jesus went out of His way - to spend time with - the heathens and publicans. Yes? Jesus “Loved” the heathen and the publican. Died for them. Poured out His Blood for them. Yes? I’m supposed to “go” into the highways and by-ways to reach out to the heathen and publican. Maybe this means the process of preaching the Gospel can begin all over again? Maybe we need to practice “Loving them?” NOT excommunicating them? Maybe the real test is for those who desire to administer "Church Discipline?" Maybe the real test is for (ME)?