Benjamin Durbin

Teaching notes: Christ Centered Worship at Man Up

2012-01-14T19:38:00.000-08:00

Here is a peak of my teaching notes on Christ-Centered Worship from the Man Up family night of worship. This is just the form/structure/guide and not everything I actually taught. Maybe you can still pull some nuggets out of it.

Christ-Centered Worship
Man Up Family Night of Worship
Benjamin Durbin
Colossians 3:1-17

Key Truth #1: Everyone worships something

One of my greatest fears is that God would look at our events, our services, and our lives and proclaim this passage from Matthew 5:18

"'This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.'" Matthew 15:8-9

Would he look at us and say they pray, they sing, and they preach for nothing. It is vain. Empty?

The Big Question
What is my heart supposed to be doing so that the preaching and singing is not in vain?
Or
What turns all of life into worship?

The Answer:
Being satisfied with all that God is for us in Christ!

Key Truth #2: Right worship comes from a heart position that magnifies Christ

"If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory." - Colossians 3:1-4

Key Truth #3: When you see your position in Christ, you will worship

1) I died with Christ. vs. 3
2) I live with Christ vs. 4
3) I am raised with Christ vs. 1
4) I am hidden in Christ. vs. 3
5) I am glorified in Christ vs. 4

The life of a Christ-Centered Worshiper
In view of my wonderful identity in Christ,
I seek and set my heart and mind on things above.

Key Truth #4: I am dead, so I put to death the earthly.

"Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. On account of these the wrath of God is coming. In these you too once walked, when you were living in them. But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth. Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator. Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all."

Key Truth #5: The opposite of right worship is idolatry

Worship Distortions
Pleasure
Power
Pride
People

Key Truth #6: I am alive, so I bring to life the heavenly

"Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God." - Colossians 3:12-16

Note how many things we do TOGETHER in this passage
Note the variety of expressions: teaching, admonishing, psalms, hymns, spiritual songs.

Key Truth #7: Worship is all of life

"And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." - Colossians 3:17

Worship is continuous in the everyday activities of life

We do not simply go to the church for worship. It is just as much about how we live when we are not gathered.

But as continuous worshipers, we do gather ourselves together to continue our worship, but now in the context of our family in Christ.

Key Truth #8: The way to worship is falling madly in love with Jesus.

Worship is responding to God for who He is, what He has done, and what He is doing.

"And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience- among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ-by grace you have been saved- and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus." - Ephesians 2:1-7

Haiti Teaching - Spiritual Gifts

2011-10-29T19:42:00.000-07:00

I will be teaching a group of pastors while in Haiti next week. Take a peak at some of my notes if you would like.

The Gospel of Mark Overview

2011-10-27T05:53:00.000-07:00

The Gospel of Mark

Scratch Notes

This is the story of Jesus and His life.

Mark’s gospel highlights action over teaching, which leaves us with the impression of a dramatic story.

Mark’s favorite word is “straightway, or immediately.”

Again and again, Mark cuts to a different camera shot. Like a fast-paced movie, Mark keeps the interest of his readers.

Compared to the other gospels, Mark does not contain much teaching. Luke’s gospel includes twenty-five parables, Matthew has twenty parables, Mark has only seven. However, Mark’s accounts of events and teachings are vivid, and sometimes even more vivid than the other gospels.

Many of the details found in passages such as: Mark 6:30-34, 7:31-37, 8:22-26, 9:14-29 are not found in the other gospels even if the stories themselves are present. This leads me to think the book recounts what Peter remembered from the events. It has sort of an eye-witness feel.

Who wrote Mark?

A: Peter is the source. John Mark wrote it down.

The late first and early second century church leader Papias, who knew the disciples themselves, said that mark wrote down everything the apostle Peter told him about the sayings and deeds of Jesus. This is an idea the NT supports. John Mark first became associated with Peter when Peter was freed from prison and went to the home of Mark’s mother in Acts 12:12. Peter later mentioned that mark was with him in 1 Peter 5:13.

Many think that the fleeing figure in Mark 14:50-52 was actually the young John Mark and that this is kind of his signature in the book.

According to tradition, Mark wrote down Peter’s account near the end of Peter’s ministry in Rome.

STRUCTURE:

Mark contains the quickest beginning of any of the Gospels.

It begins by saying this is the good news.

Mark jumps right into the ministry of John the Baptist. By 1:16 Jesus is already calling his first disciples.

Chapters 1 – 8 provide a record of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee, where he established himself as a teacher and miracle-worker

A turning point occurs in Chapter 8 when Peter confessed that Jesus is the Messiah. After this confession Jesus focused more intently on his closest followers. He warns of his coming death /resurrection, and taught them about the cost of following him. Chapter 8-10 continues this focus and teaching as they travel towards Jerusalem.

Chapters 11 – 13 contain Jesus’ teaching in Jerusalem over the last week of his life.

Chapter 14 contains the Last Supper, Jesus’ betrayal, arrest, and arraignment before the Sanhedrin.

Chapter 15 describes his appearance before Pilate, his conviction, his being mocked, as well as his crucifixion, death, and burial.

Chapter 16 then provides a brief account of Jesus’ resurrection.

Mark records honestly how people responded to Jesus

Mark 3:20-21 – Jesus’ own family wanted to have him committed. [no dressing up Jesus here to make him look better—his family thought he was crazy.]

1) Some believed he was the messiah

-The friends of the paralyzed man in 2:5

-The bleeding woman in 5:34

-Jairus in 5:23

-Syrophoenician Woman in 7:29

-Blind Bartimaues in 10:52

-The Roman centurion at the cross 15:39

2) Some were confused

-You would think the disciples would be among those who believed, but they are portrayed throughout the gospel as confused and slow to learn.

-Note Jesus’ responses to them in 4:13, 4:40, 6:37,52, 6:49-0, 7:18, 8:16-21.

-The disciples didn’t understand Jesus’ teaching about his death and resurrection in 9:10

-They were shocked by his teaching on wealth and heaven in 10:22-27

-They fought over their comparative importance in 10:35-45

-They rebuked people when they brought their children to Jesus in 10:14

-Mark is clear: the disciples were confused and slow to learn.

3) Some were antagonistic

-Some clearly understood what Jesus was saying, and they opposed him.

-The teachers of the law charged him with blasphemy in 2:7

-The Pharisees objected to his eating with sinners and his statements about the Sabbath (2:16,24)

-The Pharisees and Herodians began to plot to kill Jesus in 3:6

-Jesus’ family thought he was crazy in 3:21

-The teachers of the law said he was demon possessed in 3:22,30

-The Gerasenes asked him to leave their region in 5:15-17

-His hometown residents were offended by him 6:4-5

-Herod worried about him 6:16

-The Pharisees kept challenging him 7:5

-The chief priests and the teachers of the law joined the Pharisees and Herodians in the conspiracy to kill Jesus in 11:18

-They challenged him publicly in 11:23-33. His response exposed their intentions in 12:1-11

-The liberal Sadducees take their turn at him in 12:18-23

-The plotting continued in chapter 14:1-2

-When Judas decided to help these conspirators in 14:10-11, the whole story turns in a tragic direction.

-The opposition engulfed Pharisees, Sadducees, Jews, Gentiles, foes and even friends.

A note on the “messianic secret”

Throughout the first half of Mark’s gospel, Jesus occasionally attempted to hide his identity as the Messiah (1:25, 1:34, 1:44, 3:12, 4:11-12, 5:39, 5:43, 7:36, 8:26, 8:30). Why? I think it was a teaching method.

Possibly His purpose was to shield himself from the attention of the crowds long enough to teach the disciples what the Messiah had really come to do. He was reeducating them and pointing them to particular scriptures that taught about the Messiah but had gone unnoticed. We see in 9:30-31 that after his Transfiguration that he left with the disciples and didn’t want anyone to know where they were so he could teach them. Once the disciples were reeducated, the “messianic secret” evaporated. We see Jesus is teaching publicly who he is in chapter 12.

What was this secret that led first to confusion and then to opposition? It is the centerpiece of Mark’s Gospel: the truth about who Jesus is.

Jesus on Jesus

If you listen to Jesus’ own words in Mark’s Gospel, you will find he did teach about matters of morality. However, that is not mainly what he taught about. The main thing he taught about was himself.

Except for the name Jesus, the title “son of man” is the most frequent phrase used to refer to Jesus in Mark.

Jesus uses it to refer to himself in 10:45 for instance.

He uses it again in 2:10 and 14:62 as he teaches that he is more than a normal human and is the Messiah.

What did the “son of man” come to do?

A) Bear Authority

-He taught with authority (1:22)

-He casts out demons. Evil spirits obey him. (1:27, 3:15, 6:7)

-He has the authority to forgive sins (2:10)

-He has the authority to be the Lord of the Sabbath (2:28)

B) Suffer

-He taught he must suffer much and be rejected (Mark 9:12)

-At the Last Supper he tells the disciples what has been written about him must happen (14:21)

-He was to be betrayed into the hands of sinners (14:41)

-Mark 8:31

-Mark 9:31

C) Return to Judge

-Promises to rise from the dead (8:31, 9:9, 9:31, 10:34)

-Promises to return (8:38, 13:26, 14:62)

-Jesus knows who he is

In Mark’s Gospel, Jesus knows who he is

1) He is David’s greater son [Uses Psalm 110 to teach about himself. CF with Mark 12:36, 14:62]

2) He is the suffering servant [Uses Isaiah 53 to teach about himself. CF specifically with 10:45 and above passages]

3) He is the one who will come again to bring judgment [Uses Daniel 7:13-14 to teach about himself. CF with 8:38,13:26,14:62)

This is Mark’s teaching about Jesus: God came in the flesh, was rejected, and will come again in judgment.

What about Jesus and You?

At the very beginning of the book Mark writes about the gospel, the good news. 1:1

What is the good news?

For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45.

Referencing Isaiah 53, Jesus teaches that he was God come in the flesh both to be rejected by people and to give his life as a ransom for all those who would repent of their sins and believe in him.

What we can learn from Peter

Jesus laying down his life as a ransom was good news for Peter. Throughout the gospel we see that Peter leads the disciples in confusion, confession, cowardly denials, and bold promises. In chapter 14 we see Peter’s three-fold denial of Jesus, BUT, we also see Peter’s weeping (v. 72). In these tears we can see hope.

Repentance begins with realizing the weight of your sins and the greatness of your need. It can come like a thunderclap. Then it can cause showers of weeping. If it is godly sorrow, it brings change.

If you want to see Jesus for who He is, you must see yourself for who you are. And if you are seeing clearly, you will weep.

May god give us eyes to see the truth about ourselves, and then the truth about Jesus who came to lay down his life as a ransom for many as we teach this book. This was the good news for Peter, and it is the good news for us too.

Steps for Inductive Bible Study

2011-10-21T09:18:00.000-07:00

Steps for IBS: Observation, Interpretation, Application

By Ben Durbin in Leadership Cell

Step 1: Begin with prayer

Step 2: Identify context

What goes with the text

Look at the surrounding verses, chapters, book

Step 3: Look for the obvious

Write out obvious facts, details, or ideas

Observation Questions:

Who is the audience, the author, the main characters

What are the main events? What is the major idea? What are the people like? What does he talk about most.

When was this written? When did it take place? When was it received?

Where did this event occur

Why was it written? Why did he say that, go there, or respond that way? Why is so much or so little space given to a topic.

How did this happen? How is it done? How is this truth illustrated

Step 4: Meditate on the passage and observations and pray some more

Step 5: Identify key words (anything used multiple times), topic, or theme

Step 6: Keep in mind a few rules of interpretation

Seek the full teaching of God's word for any topic you find. (e.g. -- the bible has a lot to say about prayer)

Interpret Scripture with Scripture (Start with the author's writings, and expand out)

Remember: The New Testament interprets the Old

That which is said multiple times interprets that only said once

Clear interprets unclear

Does what you are concluding fit into the whole of the Bible? Does it reject teaching of the Bible--if so, try again. Meditate on it. Work it out.

Follow the literal sense. You typically want to go with the "obvious" meaning and not a "hidden" message

Look for the authors intended meaning

Step 7: Make your interpretation (only 1)

How was this relevant to the original audience?

What are the key words phrases, or themes

What was the author's purpose of intent

What are the key truths/and or principles

What is the TIMELESS truth!!

Does your interpretation fit within the context of THIS passage

Does your interpretation harmonize with the whole scripture

Step 8: Check your conclusions using reliable study aides

Concordance -- cross references / parallel passages

Bible Dictionary -- word definitions and meanings

Commentaries --- input from professional students of God's Word

Bible foot-notes -- study bibles can include all of the above

Step 9: Make your application(s)

Tip 1: Start with your discovery of God's word

Tip 2: Accept God's truth and work it out into daily living

Tip 3: Be Specific: application must be personal and measurable to each individuals life.

Tip 4: Practice: maturity isn't measured by how much we know, but by how much we actually live out.

The application questions

How did this message apply to the original audience?

What are the similarities between us and them?

How does the meaning of the passage apply to me?

What are the theological principles of the passage?

What truth(s) am I to embrace, believe, or order my life by?

What changes should I make in my belief, in my life?

How can I practice what I have learned from this passage everyday?

Step 10: Pray before you share

Evidences of Grace

2011-09-26T07:18:00.000-07:00

Evidences of Grace since our last Member’s Meeting

The Bridge Community Church

We exist to make disciples who make disciples

by helping people believe it, grow it, send it

[ IT is the GOSPEL]

· Believe it --- evidences of grace

o 12 baptisms Dec. 19^th 2010

o 15 baptisms April 10^th 2011

o 14 baptisms July 30^th, 2011

o 7 baptisms September 18, 2011

o 48 total baptisms this year!!!

o ***Prayer goal for the next year = 96 baptisms

o 18 baby dedications this year!!!

o I believe we had our first child that was dedicated at The Bridge baptized this year. Elijah Yount.

o ***Our prayer goal is to keep having and adopting babies who take over the county! Little Bridge Kids for the gospel everyhere.

o GROWTH in BK - we expanded BK into two celebrations bringing the gospel to more children.

o GROWTH in celebrations – we are seeing larger crowds at 9:00 AM and an increase in overall attendance.

o CA – we are bringing the gospel to more people via CA than ever before. This year CA has ran in the prison, jail, csc, at the journey in Herky, and at The Bridge. Our largest CA ever is taking place right now.

o Night in Bethlehem – 1100 people through the doors to hear about the good news of Jesus

· GROW IT – evidences of grace

o New cell families – Brian & Sarah Dunlap, Zack & Jen Mills, Ronnie & Angie Buckingham, New leadership cell, Ladies daytimer cell/ Juanita Gray, Stan & Christina Jackson, Bismark/Brown cell, Fredericktown/Bollinger, Derek & Tiffany Barker youth cell.

o The Leadership cell is training potentially four new cell starts right now.

o *** Our prayer goal is for 10 new cell starts this year, and 100 new people in cell.

o Two elder tracks going strong. Elder Track #1 recently finished a workbook with 20 sessions on Bible doctrine.

o Three secret church simulcasts on Salvation, OT Survey, and NT Survey. (These can be used as cell resources). Financial Seminar – cell resource

o Sermon Series: We finished 1 Corinthians and made it through Spiritual Gifts, Are You Smarter than a Corinthian, and From Death to Life among other mini-series in the letter, A Global Christmas – helped feed kids and pay teachers salaries at an Orphanage in Haiti, Habbakuk, Always True (cell resource) Into the Light (1,2, 3 John), Currently on part 9 of Mark.

o Two Night of Worship celebrations where we joined together to sing our hearts out for King Jesus.

o Women’s events – Beth Moore, Priscilla Shire, Mother’s and Others (MOMMY RHAPSODY)… Man UP , Youth Ski Trip, One Initiative, Couples Retreat

o Added Lance to full time pastoral staff. Re-explain prophet, priest, king

· Send it – evidences of grace

o Camp Pennuel Mission Weekend

o Joplin Mission Trip

o Nicaragua Mission Trip

o Youth 3MT Mission Trip

o Youth Costa Rica Mission Trip

o Tim – India, Goldsmith’s to Haiti

o Advent Conspiracy

o Arnold cell and movement towards a second campus

o New Volunteers – large increase in BK workers, first Impressions volunteers, new cell leaders, new musicians, CA workers, missional cell

o *** Our prayer goal should be to see at least one new volunteer each weekend. There are 52 weeks a year.

o We have several families considering picking up and moving to Arnold to help with the launch of our second campus.

o Internet –

§ our videos have been watched in 114 different countries

§ We average 65,000 hits a month on bridgelife360.com

§ There were 102,000 hits in the month of December alone

§ On Vimeo there have been 39,000 videos viewed alone. We also put up videos on three other online venues

§ Top videos with partial plays = All Because of Jesus off the old DVD, The Christmas NOW

§ Top videos played all the way through last year = Mommy Rhapsody, Shadows

§ Top sermons watched actually happened last September, but were watched most since OCT. 1) Tough Love – Divorce and Remarriage 2) Tough Love – Good Sex, Bad Sex)

o Our cells are on mission as well!!!

o ** Pray for the upcoming scheduled mission trips to Haiti, Liberia, and Nicaragua this year. Also pray for those that are not scheduled yet locally, state-side, and with our youth.

o *** Pray for our Advent Conspiracy season this year and the offering. Where should we focus internationally with these funds? India? Haiti? Nicaragua?

Becky and I are going to Haiti

2011-09-08T15:33:00.000-07:00

Friends and Family,

Becky and I have decided to go on mission to Haiti this fall, together! Our faith community (The Bridge Community Church) supports New Hope Missions International and their church planting efforts and schools in northern Haiti. We will be going in partnership with Tennessee Valley Community Church, which also supports NHMI. While we are there we will work on NHMI's fifth church plant/school location (pouring concrete) in addition to some other exciting opportunities.

Mission Opportunities:

I will encourage and train the five pastors from NHMI's five churches (5th currently being built/constructed)
Becky will assist in medical clinics with people from our church, TVCC, and the NHMI crew in the areas the churches are located
Others from both churches will assist in the medical clinics and/or pouring concrete for a new church
We will get to meet and spend time with the children from the schools and share about Jesus via VBS types of activities
We will assess and be praying about the possibility of sponsoring children in the new church/school location. We are considering bringing this possibility up to our faith community as the advent conspiracy emphasis this year. We hope to assess the need,viability, and appropriateness of this.
We will visit one of the current churches in need of an expansion project due to growth and assess future possibilities

Becky and I are asking for your prayer and support. We could really use your prayers as we prepare to leave.

Pray specifically for:

The pastors of the five churches, their families, and lives
The construction of the (fifth) church to go smoothly while we are there
The medical clinics to be safe and ran well
Gospel conversations to develop in the medical clinics, at the construction sites, and in the schools
My time in teaching/training the five pastors
Safe and healthy travel for our team (7 from our church, 14 total)
Our financial needs to be met. Total cost for our family will be around $2200 for this trip. We are saving and working extra. Pray for God's provision in and around these times
The financial needs of those traveling with us to be met
Our children while we are gone

Thank you for partnering in prayer and support for us and the Haitians we will encounter. If you have any questions feel free to ask. I left the dates off of this note because of its public nature.

Others from our church attending to pray for in addition to Becky and I :

1) Michael Goldsmith

2) Melissa Goldsmith

3) Tisa Ayers

4) Bill Janes

5) Chris Guthrie

We do not want to make this trip without the prayers of our friends and family! Begin praying today!

God bless,

Ben and Becky Durbin

BELOW is a Photo from a recent backpack challenge we participated in with NHMI

Reading List

2011-06-14T20:07:00.000-07:00

I haven't updated my reading list in a while so I am sure I'll miss a few. Here are some of the books I've read recently or have been reading through (e.g. the Dever books are still in process).

Radical Together by David Platt
Always True by James MacDonald
Epistles of John by James Montgomery Boice
Redemption by Mike Wilkerson
Rid of My Disgrace by Justin and Lindsey Holcomb
The Message of The New Testament by Mark Dever
The Message of The Old Testament by Mark Dever
You Can Change by Tim Chester
Reverberation by Jonathan Leeman
Downpour by James MacDonald
Finally Alive by John Piper
One-to-One Bible Reading by David Helm
Christian Beliefs by Wayne Grudem
Theological Clarity and Application (workbook) by Scott Thomas

Bible Reading:
I currently read a chapter from Psalms, Proverbs, Acts, and Mark a day.

Teaching 1 John

2011-04-30T10:05:00.001-07:00

We begin a study of 1 John tomorrow with our faith community at The Bridge. Here is an outline that I put together to plan ahead with our teaching and celebration teams. Maybe you will find it useful for your personal study as well.

Psalm 16 and God's Goodness

2011-04-18T08:27:00.001-07:00

A quick look at how the Psalmist in Psalm 16 believed that God is good so we don't have to look elsewhere.

1 Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.

God is good so we don’t have to look elsewhere for refuge.

2 I say to the LORD, "You are my Lord; I have no good apart from you."

There is nowhere else to look for good but in God!

3 As for the saints in the land, they are the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight.

God let’s his goodness shine through his community.

4 The sorrows of those who run after another god shall multiply; their drink offerings of blood I will not pour out or take their names on my lips.

God alone is good and other gods only lead to sorrow.

5 The LORD is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot.

God is good so we don’t have to look elsewhere for a portion of good!

6 The lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance.

God is good so we need not look elsewhere for sovereignty or for inheritance.

7 I bless the LORD who gives me counsel; in the night also my heart instructs me.

God is good so we don’t have to look elsewhere for counsel or instruction.

8 I have set the LORD always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.

God is good so we don’t have to look elsewhere for a path or direction.

9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure.

God is good so we don’t have to look elsewhere for gladness.

God is good so we don’t have to look elsewhere for security.

10 For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol, or let your holy one see corruption.

God is good so we don’t have to look elsewhere for a future.

11 You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

God is good so we don’t have to look elsewhere for eternal pleasure!

God is good so I don't have to look elsewhere

2011-04-12T07:38:00.000-07:00

For many, following Jesus is like finding yourself driving in front of a police officer and grumbling about it. That officer doesn’t care if you’re happy about driving the speed limit. He doesn’t care if you’re mumbling under your breath how you hate to drive the speed limit. He only cares if you obey the road rules. We often treat God like that police officer, begrudgingly “doing the right things.” But God is not interested in our mere obedience, as though it merits us anything. Time after time, God shows us Himself as our motivation.

Many of us never experience true freedom from sin because we try to conquer it with simple brute force. We try to change our actions without ever changing our hearts. We pull the weeds but leave the roots. We have not truly tasted and seen that God is good so we believe in the goodness of momentary fleeting pleasures that moth and rust will destroy (Matthew 6:19).

Have you thought of sin in terms of believing that God isn’t good enough? What difference might it make in your life to fight sin with something better?

Join us this week for truth #3 in our series Always True for, "God is Good So I Don't Have to Look Elsewhere"

-pastor ben

Do you want to read ahead???

Psalm 34:8 Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!

Psalm 100:5 For the LORD is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.

Psalm 135:3 Praise the LORD, for the LORD is good; sing to his name, for it is pleasant!

Psalm 16:11 You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Genesis 1-3

Preaching truth to my own heart

2011-04-07T18:00:00.000-07:00

I put this together last week for a study guide that goes along with the sermons for our new series, "Always True." Today, I got to preach it to my own heart.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

God sets up kings and kingdoms and knocks them down. “He determines the number of the stars; he gives to all of them their names” (Psalm 147:4). He has counted every grain of sand on every seashore. He knows the number of hairs on our heads (Matthew 10:30), He knows when a sparrow falls from the sky (Matthew 10:29). He spoke and out of nothing came everything. He declares the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46:10), in fact, He is the beginning and the end (Revelation 21:6). He redeemed the Israelites from slavery by slaying the firstborn, and He has freed us from slavery to sin by bearing our punishment. He has set the captives free and brought water from rocks.

No problem is too big for Him and no detail is too small.

He Himself reminds us that with Him all things are possible (Genesis 18:14, Matthew 19:26). Nothing is too hard. No problem we are facing is beyond His concern, care or ability. He is God and He is great.

God is great, so we don’t have to try to be in control.

God is gracious so I don't have to prove myself

2011-04-06T08:16:00.000-07:00

Whether it is at the bus stop or in the office, we often are motivated by a need to prove ourselves.

We want to prove ourselves to others.
We want to prove ourselves to God.
We want to prove ourselves to ourselves.

When the gospel declares that God is gracious we nod and say, 'Yeah I know that!' but do we really?

In our current series, "Always True" we are studying four truths that remind us that there is sometimes a gap between what we 'know' and what we 'believe'. To figure out if we really believe this week's truth that "God is Gracious so we don't need to prove ourselves!" we need to look at our hearts, and the outflow of our hearts - our lives.

If we believe he is gracious then we will not feel the pressure to defend ourselves or to prove ourselves. But, if we think of our life as a series of trophies then we feel the pressure to continue to perform and to prove ourselves worthy. But the truth is that we are not worthy. We are unworthy. Still yet, God in his graciousness has given us life in Jesus. "God saved us and called us to a holy life- not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time." (2 Timothy 1:9-10).

Join us this Sunday for, "God is Gracious so I don't have to prove myself!" at 9:00 or 10:45 at The Bridge.

This is a special Sunday as we are celebrating baptisms during our 10:45 celebration and baby dedications during our 9:00 AM Celebration. I'll see you there!

-pastor ben

Do you want to read ahead for Sunday?

Scripture Speaks of Grace

1 Peter 5:10 – God of all grace
John 1:14-16 – Grace upon grace
Acts 15:10-11 – Grace frees us from religion
Romans 3:23-26 - The grace of the cross justifies us. Romans 11:5-6
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 – Comfort and hope comes from grace
2 Timothy 1:8-12a – A grace given purpose.
Romans 12:3-8 - Service only by God’s grace. – God’s grace kills pride!

The Lost Sons
Luke 15:11-32

Child of God

2011-02-07T21:23:00.000-08:00

I remember my father singing a chorus he had written in churches and youth camps a lot while I was growing up. The chorus he wrote was called "Child of God." It was more of a prayer that still today strikes a chord in my soul.

Tonight, I was picking around on the guitar and decided to write verses to it. While I have written 20-25 songs, I'm not sure that I have actually finished a song in the last two years. So...enjoy! I recorded the tune on my Sony Vaio lap-top. Top Quality for sure! :-) Who knows, maybe I'll rediscover the guitar.

Child of God
by Roger and Ben Durbin

CLICK TO LISTEN to me play this at 11:30pm to my laptop!

Verse 1:
I was sitting in that old church, all the family gathered round.
I was wishing I was outside, with my feet high off the ground.

I remember grandpa preaching, and grandma praying loud
And mom and dad were singing as tears fell to the ground.

They sang..

Chorus:
Lord I want to be the child of God you'd have me be
Help the world to see, more of you and less of me
Make my light to shine. Show the way to friends of mine.
I want to be the child of God, you'd have me be.

Verse 2:
Now I am a grown man with two girls all my own.
Four blue eyes look up to me, and see more than they should know

Sometimes I want to give up, and walk a road all my own
But I look down beside me to the little hands that I must hold..

And sing..

Chorus
Lord I want to be the child of God you'd have me be
Help the world to see, more of you and less of me
Make my light to shine. Show the way to friends of mine.
I want to be the child of God, you'd have me be.

Bridge:
I pray one day You take them, and call them both Your own
& that old song my daddy sang...
Please God let them make it all their own...

And sing

Chorus
Lord I want to be the child of God you'd have me be
Help the world to see, more of you and less of me
Make my light to shine. Show the way to friends of mine.
I want to be the child of God, you'd have me be.

The Bridge Builder

2011-01-22T17:41:00.000-08:00

An old man, going a lone highway,
Came, at the evening, cold and gray,
To a chasm, vast, and deep, and wide,
Through which was flowing a sullen tide.

The old man crossed in the twilight dim;
The sullen stream had no fear for him;
But he turned, when safe on the other side,
And built a bridge to span the tide.

"Old man," said a fellow pilgrim, near,
"You are wasting strength with building here;
Your journey will end with the ending day;
You never again will pass this way;
You've crossed the chasm, deep and wide-
Why build you this bridge at the evening tide?"

The builder lifted his old gray head:
"Good friend, in the path I have come," he said,
"There followeth after me today,
A youth, whose feet must pass this way.

This chasm, that has been naught to me,
To that fair-haired youth may a pitfall be.
He, too, must cross in the twilight dim;
Good friend, I am building this bridge for him."

by Will Allen Dromgoole

What legacy will you leave?

Making Decisions for the Glory of God

2010-11-23T10:32:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday I spoke about making decisions for God's glory. Why? We must make decisions daily about the food we eat, the drinks we consume, the films we watch, the events we attend, the hobbies we pursue, the jobs we work, and the friends we have. 1 Corinthians 10 leads us to some helpful missional questions to inform our decision-making so that God is glorified, we are joyful, and non-Christians meet Jesus.

You can watch the sermon here:
You can download the notes here:
You can read a position on alcohol here:

Enjoy and God bless,
Ben

What if this Christmas was different?

2010-11-04T14:00:00.000-07:00

The story of Christ's birth is a story of promise, hope, and a revolutionary love.

So, what happened? What was once a time to celebrate the birth of a savior has somehow turned into a season of stress, traffic jams, and shopping lists.

And when it's all over, many of us are left with presents to return, looming debt that will take months to pay off, and this empty feeling of missed purpose. Is this what we really want out of Christmas?

What if Christmas became a world-changing event again?

Welcome to The Bridge Community Church's Advent Conspiracy.

This Christmas we are seeking to worship CHRIST fully, spend less, give more, and love all!

How?

Worship CHRIST fully -

Begin your Christmas season by visiting the tiny village of Bethlehem. Explore the busy marketplace in Bethlehem where you might create something, join in an activity, or taste an authentic Holy Land treat! Visit the stable and talk to Mary & Joseph…and don’t forget to visit the camels, donkeys and sheep!

Start off this Christmas season with A Night in Bethlehem on December 5th, from 4 - 8pm!

Then, join in our celebrations for a new sermon series entitled, A Global Christmas!

Dec. 5th – One life with a global gospel
Dec. 12th – A mission only the church could stop
Dec. 19th – What if this Christmas was different? (Christmas Sunday)

Next, sing loud at our "A Night of Worship" Christmas Celebration Concert on Dec. 12th @ 6:00 PM.

Finally, join us for a Christmas Eve Candlelight service Dec. 24th at 11:00 PM. We will sing, pray, take communion and learn from God’s word together. We’ll see you there.

Spend Less

America spends an average of $450 billion a year every Christmas. How often have you spent money on Christmas presents for no other reason than obligation? How many times have you received a gift out of that same obligation? Thanks, but no thanks, right? We’re asking people to consider buying ONE LESS GIFT this Christmas. Just one. Sounds insignificant, yet many who have taken this small sacrifice have experienced something nothing less than a miracle: They have been more available to celebrate Christ during the advent season.

Give More

Give the gift of time.
God’s gift to us was a relationship built on love. So it’s no wonder why we’re drawn to the idea that Christmas should be a time to love our friends and family in the most memorable ways possible. This year we are choosing to give time to our friends and family. Time to make a gift that turns into the next family heirloom. Time to write mom a letter. Time to take the kids sledding. Time to bake really good cookies and sing really bad Christmas carols. Time to make love visible through relational giving.

Give gifts that have eternal impact.
Most gifts that you normally give at Christmas time have a lifespan of a few months or maybe a year. The video games get old, the clothes go out of style or no longer fit, and the seasons change. Why not give a gift with rewards that will last into eternity?

This year we are partnering with Growing Hope For Haiti for our Advent Conspiracy offering. With the money that we save by spending less and giving gifts of relationship, this year we will use our savings to build permanent housing in Leogane, Haiti and to pay teacher's salaries at a Christian orphanage!

Advent Conspiracy Offering
For Growing Hope for Haiti
December 19th
9:00 AM & 10:45 AM

Looking to change lives around the globe by your Christmas purchasing?

Check out the Samaritan's Purse Gift Catalog!
Or take a peak at Trade as One!

Looking for ways to give gifts that don't cost a lot of money this year? Visit Re-Thinking-Christmas!

Do you drink a lot of coffee? What if you could transform a village with your morning cup? How about plant churches? Check out Land of a Thousand Hills to help those in Rwanda, or 29 Coffee that helps plant churches!

Love All

What does it really look like for us to follow Christ's commands this year? How can we slow down and focus in on loving God more passionately. What would it look like for us to love our neighbors as ourselves? How can our love grow for our brothers and sisters in Christ?

This year let's love all. Let us love God more fully [gospel]. Let us love our neighbors, even our enemies [culture]. And let us show radical love for our brothers and sisters in Christ [church].

Will you join us this Christmas as we seek to worship CHRIST fully, spend less, give more, and love all! Welcome to The Bridge Community Church's Advent Conspiracy!

The Bridge Community Church
301 Lore
Leadington, MO 63601

Check out http://www.aglobalchristmas.com

Current Reading List

2010-11-01T07:41:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since I updated my reading list. Here is what is on the shelf these days.

The Radical Reformission by Driscoll
Leaders that Last by Dave Kraft
Vintage Church by Driscoll and Breshears
ESV Study Bible and notes. I picked up a new study bible.

Becky and I are continuing to read "What did you expect?" by Paul Tripp and the Love Dare Devotional Guide for couples for a structured devotional time. Our children have completed The Jesus Story book Bible and are now reading from another children's bible. We are also considering taking the oldest through the "The Story of God" for kids. Becky is currently reading a Beth Moore devotional as well as "Death by Love."

A Curious Year

2010-10-27T16:13:00.000-07:00

The year 2010 has been curious at best for me personally. This year I have seen the gospel take root and grow in many of my friends lives. I have grown closer to my wife. I have had many incredible experiences pointing to the vastness of the grace of God. But, I have also had several encounters that I'm not even sure how to explain.

I've decided to give you all a peak into my life for fun. I hope you enjoy.

Interesting 2010 tidbits from the life of a 27 year old church-planter:

In Feb. I visited Honduras, Belize, and Mexico with my family on vacation. It barely peaked into the 70s a total of one day of the vacation while in Belize. I am thankful for the amazing opportunity. The rain and cold weather forced me to spend time with those I love.
In early 2010 I found a mass. It wasn't cancerous, but it wasn't in a good place either. Not fun.
While teaching at The Bridge one evening, someone broke into my car.
Also while teaching, volunteers found people having sex in a van I own. Yep, on church property while I was preaching.
On Good Friday I received a phone call about two kids needing a mommy and daddy for awhile. Becky and I took in a 3 day old and a two year old for two months. While this was an enjoyable experience, let's just say that I have tremendous respect now for foster parents.
I decided to go to Haiti to build homes in July and contracted some strange rash. It went away without harm, but it is not fun to have to wear jeans everywhere you go in Missouri humidity like a Mennonite.
While in Haiti I encountered my first voodoo priest and celebration. I have always believed in spiritual warfare, but now I have experienced it in a powerful way. I would share details but I do not want to sound like a charismaniac.
Did I mention that our team tents flooded the first night in Haiti? :-)
Also while in Haiti my wife got sick and was sent to the ER. I didn't find out until I got home. Becky ended up having surgery, is doing well, but we are not completely out in the clear.
The week after arriving home I was awakened to someone pounding on my front door. This was the beginning of strange letters, emails, and sightings of people.
After 57 years of marriage, I sat with my grandfather as he mourned the loss of his bride. A few days later I preached grandma's funeral.
In August I helped my brother tear up and burn down the house of my youth (in years previous our parents home was smacked by a tornado).
My oldest child began Kindergarten. My children are truly a blessing from the Lord.

and finally....
In 2010, I received my first and second death threat.

It has been a curious year, but the book is still out for 2010. How will it end?

God's grace has continuously and consistently been poured out through all of the ups and downs. This year I have seen our faith community grow as the gospel spreads. There are new opportunities that await us as we pursue spreading to Jefferson County and following God's call. Becky and I have finally settled into a consistent devotional and prayer life together. My girls have fallen in love with "The Jesus Storybook Bible."

So, how will it end?

My plan is to end it passionately, while living fully for the sake of the gospel!

1 Corinthians 9:19-27
19 For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them. 20 To the Jews I became as a Jew, in order to win Jews. To those under the law I became as one under the law (though not being myself under the law) that I might win those under the law. 21 To those outside the law I became as one outside the law (not being outside the law of God but under the law of Christ) that I might win those outside the law. 22 To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. 23 I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings.

24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. 25 Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. 26 So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. 27 But I discipline my body and keep it under control, [2] lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.

Fire. Certainty. Joy.

2010-10-09T21:01:00.000-07:00

I stumbled across this while reading "Church Planter" by Darrin Patrick.

Blaise Pascal (1623-1662) was a French mathematician and theologian. At the age of thirty-one, he had an intense experience of God's presence. He never spoke of it to anyone, but he did write a short journal entry about it, which he then sewed into his coat so he would always be reminded of it.

Pascal's memoriam:

"In the year of grace 1654, Monday 23 November...
From about half-past ten in the evening till about half an hour after midnight.
FIRE.
God of Abraham. God of Isaac. God of Jacob.
Not of the philosophers and the learned.
Certainty. Joy. Certainty. Emotion. Sight. Joy.
Forgetfulness of the world and of all outside of God...
The world has not known thee, but I have known thee.
Joy! Joy! Joy! Tears of joy...
My God, will you leave me? Let me not ever be separated from you."

May this serve as an encouragement to seek God in this way.

The Gospel Story

2010-10-08T06:50:00.000-07:00

How did it all begin?

The Gospel Story

Creation – In the beginning God created everything to be perfect.

The story began with God. God spoke and by His command all things exist. By God's design all of creation was in harmony and was exactly the way it was supposed to be. There was no pain, sickness, suffering, or death.

Genesis 1&2

What went wrong?

The Fall – man rebelled against a loving God and believed Satan’s lie. Sin entered the world and into every human heart. Everything is now distorted and broken. Everyone is guilty before God.

Genesis 3

Now we know that whatever the law says it speaks to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be stopped, and the whole world may be held accountable to God. – Romans 3:19

Is there any Hope?

Redemption – Jesus, who is God, came to rescue people by His death and resurrection. By faith alone in Him, all who are separated from God can have their sins forgiven and enjoy eternal life with him.

The whole Bible ultimately points to this one person, Jesus, as the focal point of all human history. Jesus defeated sin by dying on the cross, and He defeated death by rising from the dead.

Truth: Jesus loves us in spite of ourselves, but he does not leave us to fix ourselves, nor does he mislead us into believing we have our own answers. He is the answer.

Luke 19:10

For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit. – 1 Peter 3:18

Who gave himself for our sins to deliver us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father. - Galatians 1:4

Restoration- God will restore everything to the way that it was supposed to be, and those who trust in Jesus will get to enjoy eternity with God in the new heaven and new earth.

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” – Revelations 21:1-4

For all of those that trust in Jesus alone, God has promised that He will make all things new. No more earthquakes, mudslides, tornadoes or tsunamis. No more pain, broken hearts, sickness or death. A new heaven and a new earth - friendship with God, others, and all creation.

C.S. Lewis compared the first step into this new world as,

"Chapter One of the Great Story which no one on earth has read: which goes on forever: in which every chapter is better than the one before."

The Gospel Story is God's good news.

Reading List

2010-09-29T07:27:00.000-07:00

My current reading list.

1) Church Planter by Darrin Patrick
2) What Did You Expect?: Redeeming the Realities of Marriage by Paul Tripp
3) The Forgotten Ways by Alan Hirsch
4) Sacred Marriage by Gary Thomas
5) Spiritual Depression: It's causes and cure by Martin Lloyd Jones

Divorce and Remarriage

2010-09-29T07:13:00.000-07:00

I spoke last Sunday morning on divorce, remarriage, and children of divorce. You can watch the celebration below with notes following.

Tough Love 5 "Divorce and Remarriage" 09-26-10 from Roger Durbin on Vimeo.

Divorce and Remarriage Notes
The Ordained Elders at The Bridge

To the married I give this charge (not I, but the Lord): the wife should not separate from her husband (but if she does, she should remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband), and the husband should not divorce his wife. – 1 Corinthians 7:10-11 (ESV)

The Church at Corinth was confused over issues pertaining to divorce and remarriage and asked their pastor Paul a number of questions. His answers are recorded in 1 Corinthians 7:10-24, 39-40. The issue of divorce and remarriage is significant in our culture and is hotly debated among Christians. It seems prudent to answer the questions asked by the Corinthians in addition to many of the questions that are commonly asked around The Bridge Community Church. The following position paper seeks to do so.

What do we know for certain about marriage?
1. God created marriage between one man and one woman (Genesis 2:22-25)
2. God designed marriage to be a permanent union of “oneness” that is not to be broken (Genesis 2:23-24; Matthew 19:4-6).
3. Marriage is a covenant not a contract (Malachi 2:14; Proverbs 2:17, Ecclesiastes 5:4). God and human witness ratify and officially record the event. Anniversaries revisit the covenant.
4. A marriage partnership is one in which the husband commits to ensuring his wife’s and his children’s well-being. (Exodus 21:10; Ephesians 5:28-29; 1Timothy 5:8).
5. A husband is accountable for his family’s well-being and conduct. (Genesis 3:9; Ephesians 5:22-33; Colossians 3:18-21; 1 Peter 3:1-7).
6. God hates divorce (Malachi 2:16).
7. The death of a spouse terminates the marriage covenant (Romans 7:1-3; 1 Corinthians 7:39).

Does The Bridge Community Church honor cohabitation relationships as marriage?
No. A marriage is both a spiritual and legal matter (Romans 13:1-3).

What constitutes a legitimate ending of a marriage?
1. The death of a spouse (1 Corinthians 7:39; Romans 7:2-4). We recommend that you take time to truly grieve first and seek gospel-centered counseling.
2. Non-Christian divorce. A Christian should not initiate divorce with a non-Christian but should live graciously with their spouse. 1 Corinthians 7:14 tells us that this action may even lead the unbelieving spouse toward justification. If the non-Christian divorces them, however, they are free to-remarry (1 Corinthians 7:10-24). Our recommendation is that you make sure you truly grieve first and don’t be afraid to seek Biblical counseling.
3. An unrepentant spouse under church discipline. If your spouse betrays your marriage covenant (adultery, abuse, chronic sin, etc…) you are not free to divorce him or her, but you are free, and encouraged, to confront him or her with his or her sin and seek restoration. If you confront your spouse who is in sin and he or she is not repentant, then you should bring the matter to the elders and the elders may begin formal church discipline (Matthew 18:15-17). If in the course of discipline the sinning spouse does not repent, he or she will be viewed as a non-believer and asked to leave the church (1 Corinthians 5). If the spouse who is under church discipline, seeks a divorce, then 1 Corinthians 7:15 applies and the believing spouse is free from the marriage.

What will the elders do if my Christian spouse insists on divorcing me?
If a Christian initiates divorce, the elders will begin an investigation with the intent of bringing about repentance, forgiveness, and reconciliation. If biblical grounds are not found and there is no repentance, then church discipline will begin (Mark 10:11-12; Romans 7:2-3; 1 Corinthians 7:10-11, 27).

Does this mean that women must endure abusive relationships?
No. Abuse (physical, emotional, verbal, sexual, etc.) intolerably and sinfully violates the frequent command to love like Jesus. It also violates the spirit of 1 Peter 3:7. Those being harmed must be removed from the environment that endangers them and the laws of our state must be followed.

You may need to seek immediate separation until the offending party repents and returns to covenant. You should never place yourself, or your children, in harm’s way for the sake of the relationship or to prevent the other person from leaving. You should also immediately contact the elders of the church to assist you in confronting the abuse.

Am I required to take back my spouse after they have committed adultery?
Whenever possible, reconciliation is the primary motivation behind our actions toward those who have done great harm to us (1 Corinthians 7:11) because Jesus says we should love our enemies (Matthew 5:43-45). The Bible also commands sinners to repent. If, however, there is no true repentance, then there is no requirement to remain married.

This is how God relates to us in covenant. He confronts our sin and offers us forgiveness when we turn toward Him. The offending spouse must be willing to accept the confrontation and forgiveness and be completely repentant. We recognize the wounding that takes place when a spouse commits adultery and we know much healing will need to take place, but if the offending spouse is authentic in his or her repentance, then every effort should be made to keep the covenant of marriage. If the offending spouse is not repentant then he or she may be placed under church discipline.

Can I remarry if my spouse dies?
Yes. The marriage covenant ends with the death of one’s spouse (Romans 7:2, 1 Corinthians 7:39). We recommend that you have time to truly grieve and give consideration to 1 Corinthians 7:40.

Can I remarry after divorcing an adulterer?
This is the most disputed issue on the topic of divorce and remarriage. On the face of it, Jesus and the apostle Paul made no allowance for remarriage (Matthew 5:31-32; 19:9; Mark 10:11-12; Luke 16:18; 1 Corinthians 7:10-11).

These following points set the parameters for remarriage.
• The offended party of a divorce due to adultery may remarry but the guilty party may not remarry (Matthew 19:9; Mark 10:10-12; Luke 16:18).
• A believer who remarries after a non-Christian spouse divorces a believing spouse constitutes a legitimate marriage (1 Corinthians 7:15).
• If divorce occurs before a person has surrendered his or her life to Christ, and an appropriate effort to restore the marriage has been undertaken without favorable results, remarriage is appropriate, so long as the believer marries a Christian.

Does this mean the innocent party should remain single indefinitely?
It means that they should remain single until every effort to reconcile has been exhausted, with counsel from the local church elders to help guard against impulsiveness. (Proverbs 15:22; Hebrews 13:7).

If the offending spouse remarries, is there any obligation for the offended spouse to remain single?
This is a matter of conscience as no further option is Biblically available to restore the marriage (Deuteronomy 24:3-4). In this case, The Bridge Community Church feels that the innocent party would be free to remarry.

Can I remarry if I divorced my spouse just because we were incompatible?
No. A Christian’s strongest desire should be to work toward reconciliation, which means discovering what made you incompatible, and change. Remember, marriage is not for our happiness; it is for our holiness.

Can I divorce and remarry if my spouse is placed under church discipline by the elders?
If your spouse is placed under church discipline by the elders and does not respond in repentance, he or she will be viewed as a non-Christian. Even in the case of adultery and sexual immorality, you (the regenerated offended party) should not initiate divorce from your spouse without considerable council from church leadership and you should remain faithful to the covenant of marriage if at all possible. Depending on your spouse’s sin and refusal to repent, you may need to separate from your spouse. However, if your spouse chooses to divorce you, or if the spouse abandons you, then you are not bound to him or her in marriage and you are free to remarry.

What if I divorced while a non-Christian?
You had no power to submit to the commands of Christ as a non-Christian. While marriage is given for all humanity, non-Christians cannot be expected to obey God’s commands and Jesus died to forgive repentant sinners. Therefore, that person would be eligible to remarry as a new Christian, but only after every effort is made to restore the previous marriage through a reconciliation process.

CONCLUDING THOUGHTS:
True repentance and reconciliation is always the best option. Even if divorce is possible in some circumstances, patiently working through the process of reconciliation in the context of a community of believers is always preferable.

If one is currently considering divorce (or if his or her spouse in considering divorce) for any reason whatsoever, or if one is currently divorced and is considering remarriage, he or she should seek counsel from the elders of The Bridge.

Remarriage will be considered an option if a divorce has occurred on the basis of: unrepentant sexual immorality, desertion by an unbeliever, or if the divorce occurred prior to the regenerating power of Jesus Christ in a person’s life.

Good Sex, Bad Sex: The Sermon

2010-09-15T07:16:00.000-07:00

I blogged a few days ago about resources to go along with the sermon "Good Sex, Bad Sex." The sermon is now available on vimeo and embedded below.

[benjamindurbin.com]

Tough Love 3 "Good Sex, Bad Sex" 09-12-10 from Roger Durbin on Vimeo.

Good Sex, Bad Sex: Recommended Resources

2010-09-11T10:17:00.000-07:00

We studied 1 Corinthians 6:12-7:7 in a sermon titled "Good Sex, Bad Sex" at The Bridge on 9/12/2010. This post suggests recommended resources as a follow-up from the sermon. Many of these resources come recommended from the free resource we gave out to men, Sexual Detox by Tim Challies.

Sex
Undefiled - Harry Schaumburg writes about finding redemption from sexual sin and seeks to help couples find restoration for breaking or broken relationships.
False Intimacy - Also by Harry Schaumburg, this book looks to the struggle of sexual addiction, including homosexuality, cybersex and so on.
Sex and the Supremacy of Christ - This book, edited by John Piper and Justin Taylor, is the product of a Desiring God conference so is a compendium of conference talks and other useful essays or articles. It is a bit of a grab bag but there is lots of good stuff.
Intended for Pleasure - This is a nuts and bolts kind of book that is often given to newlyweds to help them get “oriented” in the bedroom. Most couples who aren’t given one before they get married end up trying to track one down during their honeymoon.
Sexual Redemption Bundle - Monergism Books has bundled a whole lot of resources into one “sexual redemption bundle” based around Harry Schaumburg’s Undefiled.

Marriage
This Momentary Marriage - John Piper puts a lot of effort into writing about the link between the union of husband and wife and the union of Christ to his church.
When Sinners Say ‘I Do’ - Dave Harvey’s book is a really good one for the newly married as it deals honestly with the inevitability of sin.
The Intimate Marriage - R.C. Sproul focuses on communication as key to a great marriage. His chapter on Communication and Sex deals with unusual topics like frigidity, impotence and what is permissible within marriage.
Mere Christianity - C.S. Lewis has only a couple of chapters dealing with sex and marriage but they are top-notch. You’ve probably got the book somewhere, so pull it out and read those chapters.
A Biblical Guide to Love, Sex and Marriage - Derek and Rosemary Thomas wrote this book on sex and marriage based on Song of Solomon.
Love that Lasts - Gary and Betsy Ricucci cover a wide range of marriage-related topics in this book.

Men
Sex Is Not the Problem, Lust Is - This book, by Josh Harris, is great reading for any man, married or single.
Sex, Romance and the Glory of God - C.J. Mahaney does a good job of challenging men to be godly husbands. The enduring wisdom here is never to touch your wife’s body until you’ve touched her heart and her mind.
Porn Again Christian - Mark Driscoll offers a frank discussion on porn and masturbation. MA-17

Women
Feminine Appeal - Carolyn Mahaney writes a book for women in which she challenges them on a host of issues related to love, sex and marriage.
Becoming the Woman of His Dreams -This one by Sharon Jaynes comes highly recommended.

Web Sites
CCEF - Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation offers counseling and excellent resources on any number of issues (including the New Growth Press).
Boundless - Targeted at Christian singles and young adults, Boundless features all kinds of great resources in their blog and webzine.
Stone Gate Resources - At Stone Gate Resources offers Brief Intensive Counseling for couples who are in need of intensive and immediate help. If your marriage is on the rocks due to sex-related issues, this is a good place to seek help.

Sermons
How to deal with the guilt of sexual failure for the glory of Christ and His global cause - John Piper
Purity series by Joshua Harris
- God's good plan for sex
- Resisting Lust
- Husband and Wife **must listen
Using Sex as a Weapon by Darrin Patrick

Date Night Tips
Date night tips for Married couples by Mark Driscoll

Marriage Conference
What Did You Expect? - A marriage conference with Paul Trip Oct. 1 & 2 on redeeming the realities of marriage. It won't take long for you to realize that your marriage hasn't escaped the reality of sin or the brokenness of the world. It's what you do next that will make all the difference in the world in the character and quality of your marriage.
Weekend to Remember - Becky and I attended one of these early on in our marriage. It was pretty good.

Good Sex, Bad Sex

2010-09-08T07:18:00.000-07:00

God created sex to be a beautiful and essential ingredient in marriage, but sexual sin---sex outside the marriage relationship--always hurts someone. It hurts God because it shows that we prefer following our own desires instead of the leading of the Holy Spirit. It hurts others because it violates the commitment necessary to a relationship. Sexual temptations are difficult to withstand because they appeal to the normal and natural desires that God has given us. Marriage provides God's way to satisfy these natural sexual desires and to strengthen the partners against temptation.

Satan’s plan is that people would have as much sex outside of the marriage relationship and as little within the marriage relationship as is possible. His plan is to mask, to hide, the true purpose of sex behind the pleasure it brings simply as a physical act. It is a clever plan that has proven effective time and time again. But, there’s more to sex than mere skin on skin. Sex is as much spiritual mystery as physical fact. As written in Scripture, ‘The two become one.’ Since we want to become spiritually one with the Master, we must not pursue the kind of sex that avoids commitment and intimacy, leaving us more lonely than ever—the kind of sex that can never ‘become one.’

Join us this week for the riskiest sermon I may ever preach. I'll see you at 9:00 or 10:45 for "Good Sex, Bad Sex." Read ahead in 1 Corinthians 6:12-7:7.

We are giving out two resources for married and single men this weekend. If you are a dude, don't miss.

Parents - view this warning from Roger Durbin on Vimeo.

Current Reading List

2010-08-11T06:29:00.000-07:00

My current reading list has slowed down since coming back from Haiti. Here is what I have been reading.

Radical by David Platt
The First Epistle to the Corinthians by Gordon Fee
Don't Waste Your Life by John Piper
1 Corinthians (over and over again as we teach it at The Bridge)
I use http://www.esvonline.org now for my daily bible reading plans.
My grandfather gave me Zondervan's Handbook to the Bible and I have been reading overviews of the books periodically.
We use The Jesus Storybook Bible for family devotions
Becky and I just began using The Love Dare Day by Day: A Year of Devotions for Couples as well.

In two weeks my missional cell family starts the Radical study.

Vivian Janice Durbin - Eulogy

2010-07-28T08:46:00.000-07:00

Vivian “Janice” Rogers Durbin was born on July 15, 1933, in Mine La Motte, MO to Lloyd Glenwood and Blanche Elizabeth (Scott) Rogers. Janice was the oldest of three children. Janice accepted Christ as her personal Savior and was baptized at the age of 7 in the little creek in Mine La Motte. Janice graduated from school in 1951 and was the valedictorian of her class. Janice grew up with a love for singing, and joined the Rogers Quartet at the age of 13. She met her husband, Elmer “Lloyd” Durbin when he joined the Rogers Quartet. Janice and Lloyd were united in marriage on December 4, 1952 and were blessed with fifty-seven years of marriage. Janice and Lloyd had two children. Roger Dale was born in 1956 and Mary Elizabeth “Beth” was born in 1964.

Janice held a few jobs such as bookkeeper, secretary, and store clerk, but made taking care of her family and fulfilling the role of “minister’s wife” her career. Lloyd referred to her as his “spiritual director”. Janice also made time to squeeze in the roles of “singer” and “piano teacher”. Beginning in 1961, Janice served as the “minister’s wife” to many church congregations: Mill Creek Free Will Baptist Church for 21 years (two different times), O’Fallon Free Will Baptist Church for 1 year, Mine La Motte Free Will Baptist Church for 15 years (two different times), and most recently, First Free Will Baptist Church of Fredericktown for 5 years. Janice traveled across Missouri and the surrounding states for over 50 years singing the gospel first with the Rogers Quartet and later with The Durbin Family. Throughout her lifetime, Janice taught dozens of men and women to play the piano and served the Lord faithfully through many other positions such as Sunday School teacher, church pianist, church camp counselor, church camp teacher, and Vacation Bible School teacher. Janice was a member of First Free Will Baptist Church of Fredericktown.

Janice passed away on July 23, 2010, at the age of 77 years at St. Clare Hospital in Fenton, MO. She is preceded in death by her parents, and one daughter, Mary Elizabeth Durbin Standley. Janice is survived by her husband, Lloyd, one son, Roger (Tamera) Durbin of Farmington, five grandchildren, Andrea (Rick) Pirtle of DeSoto, Rachel (Micah) Inman of Ironton, Benjamin (Becky) Durbin of Farmington, Seth (Amanda) Durbin of Park Hills, and Isaac Standley of Fredericktown. Janice is also survived by six great-grandchildren, Trevor and Taylor Pirtle, Nolan and Evan Inman, Brylee and Halle Durbin, and has one great grandchild (Addelynn Joy Durbin) who will arrive this September. Janice is also survived by one sister, Phyllis (Clyde) Berry of Bonne Terre, one brother, James “Jimmy” Rogers of Mine La Motte, Richard (Barb) Standley of California, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Janice always loved this poem by CT Studd :

“Two little lines I heard one day,Traveling along life’s busy way;
Bringing conviction to my heart, And from my mind would not depart;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Only one life, yes only one, Soon will its fleeting hours be done;
Then, in ‘that day’ my Lord to meet, And stand before His Judgement seat;
Only one life,’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Only one life, the still small voice, Gently pleads for a better choice
Bidding me selfish aims to leave, And to God’s holy will to cleave;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Only one life, a few brief years, Each with its burdens, hopes, and fears;
Each with its clays I must fulfill, living for self or in His will;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.
When this bright world would tempt me sore, When Satan would a victory score;
When self would seek to have its way, Then help me Lord with joy to say;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Give me Father, a purpose deep, In joy or sorrow Thy word to keep;
Faithful and true what e’er the strife, Pleasing Thee in my daily life;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Oh let my love with fervor burn, And from the world now let me turn;
Living for Thee, and Thee alone, Bringing Thee pleasure on Thy throne;
Only one life, “twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Only one life, yes only one, Now let me say,”Thy will be done”;
And when at last I’ll hear the call, I know I’ll say “twas worth it all”;
Only one life,’twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last. ”

Janice spent her lifetime serving God, knowing what’s done for Christ will last. She was a true example of what it looks like to surrender your whole life to Jesus. She leaves behind a legacy of ministers, ministers’ wives, Sunday School teachers, worship leaders, small group leaders, musicians, and a host of family and friends who will see Janice again in Heaven.

Vivian Janice Durbin

2010-07-25T20:50:00.001-07:00

I have been hearing many terrific stories about grandma Janice and how her life impacted others. If you have a story to tell about her, our family would love to hear it. These can be serious or funny stories. Grandma left us this past Friday to be with Jesus, but her impact on us all remains.

Would you like to share a story? Here are some questions to help get you started. Share your story in the comment section below.

What about her life impacted you the most?
What was your favorite memory with Janice?
What did she teach you?
What about her made you laugh?
What was your favorite song to hear her sing?

Our family would like to thank everyone for the prayers, friendship, and food. And we look forward to reading your stories!

Haiti 2010

2010-07-23T15:54:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege of traveling to Haiti early in July for a mission trip. Below is a picture video that captures our time there. We worked with Growing Hope for Haiti to begin constructing a community in Leogane, and we provided VBS to some local tent villages and orphanages. We are continuing our mission efforts in Haiti and are planning two trips in 2011. I will be blogging about our continued efforts in the future, but check out this video put together by Michael Goldsmith for now!

Haiti 2010 from Roger Durbin on Vimeo.

Preview of upcoming CD/DVD

2010-07-15T16:27:00.000-07:00

Take a peak at the first song from The Bridge Community Church's upcoming CD/DVD from "A Night of Worship"

<---video embedded at benjamindurbin.com --->

All Because Of Jesus from Roger Durbin on Vimeo.

The upcming CD/DVD includes:

1. All Because of Jesus
2. Sing, Sing, Sing
3. Your Love
4. Beautiful Jesus
5. Lead Me To The Cross
6. How He Loves
7. It Is Well
8. Glory To God Forever
9. Today Is The Day
10. God Is With Us
11. Happy Day
12. Jesus Paid It All
13. No One Greater/The Stand
14. God Is Alive

More details TBA

I want to be a radical

2010-07-13T15:25:00.000-07:00

Do you really believe that Jesus is worth abandoning everything for?

Do you and I really believe that Jesus is so good, so satisfying, and so rewarding that we will leave all we have and all we own and all we are in order to find our fullness in him? Do you and I believe him enough to obey him and to follow wherever he leads, even when the crowds in our culture--and maybe in our churches--turn the other way? - David Platt in Radical

I am back from Haiti with a very unsatisfied feeling with where we are as a people. I want to be a part of a people who delight in him like the brothers and sisters that worship in a shack in Haiti who have nothing but Him. And I want to be a part of a people who are risking it all for him.

For the sake of more than a billion people today who have yet to even hear the gospel, I want to risk it all. For the sake of twenty-six thousand children who will die today of starvation or a preventable disease, I want to risk it all. For the sake of my life, my family, and the people who surround me, I want to risk it all.

It is time to re-orient our lives around a radical abandonment to Jesus.

P.S. I highly recommend that everyone read Radical by David Platt. It is the most important book I have read this year.

Haiti Team

2010-06-30T08:38:00.000-07:00

Will you join us in prayer for our mission trip to Haiti?

Next Monday morning at 3:00 AM thirteen men and women will be leaving the Parkland to spend a week in Haiti. Why? Growing Hope for Haiti and The Fuller Center for Housing has partnered together to build a community in Leogane. This is a community near the epicenter that was destroyed by the January 12th earthquake.

We will be helping to build this community and we will be providing a Vacation Bible School to a nearby tent city. Did you know that there is a possibility that we will reach 865 children ages 0-14?

Will you pray for us? Will you pray that we can work hard, stay safe, and help spread the Gospel? Will you pray for us individually? We are:

Jackie Adams
Jonathan Barnes
Mark Burlison
Ben Durbin
Michael Goldsmith
Stephanie Hedrick
Matt Helms
Melissa McDonough
Jeromy McDowell
Zack Mills
Jake Whitener
Justin Yount
Renee Jean

Colossians 4:2,3a -Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare
the mystery of Christ

Pride & Gospel Humility

2010-06-21T08:17:00.001-07:00

Here is a copy of the note I gave to our dads on Father's Day at The Bridge.

Dad’s,

God deliberately designed the gospel in such a way as to strip us of pride and leave us without any grounds for boasting in ourselves. This is actually a wonderful mercy from God, for pride is at the root of all our sin. … So, to experience deliverance from sin, we must be delivered from the pride that produces it. Thankfully, the gospel is engineered to accomplish this deliverance.

Preaching the gospel to yourself each day mounts a powerful assault against your pride and serves to establish humility in its place. Nothing suffocates your pride more than daily reminders regarding the glory of your God, the gravity of your sins, and the crucifixion of God’s own Son in your place.

The gracious love of God, which is lavished on you because of Christ’s death, is always humbling to remember, especially when viewed against the backdrop of the Hell we deserve.

-Pastor Ben

In short: We don't graduate from the gospel.

"For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God." - 1 Corinthians 1:18

Preach the Gospel to yourself daily. Why? It brings a proper view of who we are and who He is.

Without Christ I was on the precipice of hell. Without Christ we were all the worst, wickedest, and most undeserving people who ever lived. The worst of the worst. But in Christ we go from worst to first. We receive an “other worldly” gift that we do not deserve, and were absolutely helpless in ever earning.

True Gospel Humility should cause:

Daily amazement at what has happened to you
Daily gratitude for what has happened for you
Joyful awareness that your greatest problem in life has been resolved.
Overwhelmed by hope because you now know that no problem is too big for God.
Sobered awareness of what you were: amazed awareness of God’s mercy.
Serving others becomes a first thought, as it pertains to behavior.
Hope, joy, care, encouragement, gratitude, and kindness are the characteristics of lives.
Tearfulness is a normal response as you think of Christ and what he did for you.
Gospel-centered-motivations shape what you do.
Radically transformed from the inside out.
Uninhibited in your transparency with others.

Missional Ministry Matrix Part 1: Christology

2010-06-04T09:14:00.000-07:00

I stumbled across this matrix while reading "Confessions of a Reformission Rev." by Mark Driscoll. I liked it so I decided to work out some of the answers for our church community as missionaries in St. Francois County (The Bridge). Today's blog deals with "Christology."

1) Who is Jesus, what has He accomplished, and what has He sent us to do?

God sent His Son, Jesus Christ (Who) to live our life, die our death and rise again triumphantly to bring forgiven sinners together by the Holy Spirit (What) to live as his Kingdom people under his gracious reign (Our mission becomes His mission).

Being a missional Christian is simply following the way of Jesus. Jesus Christ was the first and greatest missionary. The Bible tells us that He came from heaven to earth to die for a lost and dying world.

Who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. - Philippians 2:6-8

This is the good news (Gospel)! The focus of the gospel is not on the inadequacy of me (though we are born dead, condemned, depraved, corrupt, perverse, and sinful), but rather on the glory of God.

Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. - Philippians 2:9-11

The gospel is what makes us right with God and it is also what frees us to delight in God. Grace extends down to us! God became flesh and dwelt among us (1 Timothy 3:16, John 1)!

The following scriptures reveal how the mission of God was fulfilled through Jesus Christ and how we are called join Him on mission in our culture.

Jesus said to them, "My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to accomplish His work." John 4:34

"I can do nothing on My own initiative. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is just, because I do not seek My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me." John 5:30

"For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me." John 6:38

"I know Him; because I am from Him, and He sent Me." John 7:29

"And He who sent Me is with Me; He has not left Me alone, for I always do the things that are pleasing to Him." John 8:29

"We must work the works of Him who sent Me, as long as it is day; night is coming, when no man can work." John 9:4

And Jesus cried out and said, "He who believes in Me does not believe in Me, but in Him who sent Me. And he who beholds Me beholds the One who sent Me." John 12:44-45

"For I did not speak on My own initiative, but the Father Himself who sent Me has given Me commandment, what to say, and what to speak." John 12:49

"Truly, truly, I say to you, he who receives whomever I send receives Me; and he who receives Me receives Him who sent Me." John 13:20

"And this is eternal life, that they may know Thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom Thou hast sent." John 17:3

"For the words which Thou gave Me I have given to them; and they received them, and truly understood that I came forth from Thee, and they believed that Thou didst send Me." John 17:8

"As Thou didst send Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world." John 17:18

Jesus therefore said to them again, "Peace be with you; as the Father has sent Me, I also send you." John 20:21

This mission of The Bridge is one of joining God on His mission. We are to be disciples of Jesus who make more disciples.

We didn’t make it up.

Jesus left his disciples with two big assignments: make disciples of all nations, and be my witnesses in your city, in your region, and “to the end of the earth” (Mt. 28:19; Acts 1:8). So, we teach people to believe it, grow it, and send it (the gospel). All for God’s glory to spread in our context!

Why? God is a sending Father. He desires to send the church back into the world. We will not be a “holy huddle.” We will be a community that seeks to be salt and light in the world.

Why once more? The church is mission. Yes, the church gathers as people being called out (ekklesia) of the world. But the church is at the same time being sent out (apostolos) into the world. We will be a church community that gathers and scatters for the glory of God.

Current reading list

2010-05-31T19:25:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since I updated my current reading list. It is shorter but here it goes! You'll notice that I have been studying church staff/teams.

The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Lencioni

Staff Your Church for Growth by McIntosh

Confessions of a Reformission Rev.: Hard Lessons from an Emerging Missional Church by Driscoll

Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument -- not a book but worth your time.

1 Corinthians - at least once a week

I honestly do not think I have ever read a Christian book that is as raw, funny, and real as Confessions of a Reformission Rev. You'll either love it or hate it. I love it. I'm looking forward to reading "The Radical Reformission" next.

Jacob and Kate

2010-05-22T08:01:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege of officiating a wedding yesterday at Vance Vineyards and Winery in Fredericktown for Jacob Musgrove and Kate Hennrich. All I could think about while officiating the wedding was one Sunday last January. On January 24th, 2010 we baptized Jacob as he publicly professed his faith in Jesus.

Jacob's baptism is about ten minutes and forty-five seconds in. Listen to his response. Glory to God forever!

(embedded video - facebook viewers may need to visit benjamindurbin.com to watch it)

If you are interested in having a full wedding script from their ceremony last night, you can download it here.

When is a generalization about a group racist?

2010-05-14T07:18:00.000-07:00

I had this question posed to me yesterday. I couldn't come up with a great answer but John Piper did! Below is an excerpt from an article on racism, stereotypes, and generalizations. Check out the whole article here.

When is a generalization about a group racist? I am using the word racist as something sinful, and the following answers move toward a definition. The following uses of generalization would be wrong (racist):

When you want a person to fit a negative generalization that you have formed about a group (even if the generalization statistically is true).
When you assume that a statistically true negative generalization is true of a particular person in the face of individual evidence to the contrary.
When you treat all the members of a group as if all must be characterized by a negative generalization.
When you speak disparagingly of an entire group on the basis of a negative generalization without any regard for those in the group who don’t fit the generalization. Or: When you speak negatively of a group based on a generalization without giving any evidence that you acknowledge and appreciate the exceptions. (I assume that Jesus’ generalizations about the Pharisees [Matthew 23] and Paul’s generalization about the Cretans [Titus 1:12] are not sinful because they did have such regard and did appreciate the exceptions.)

Implication for Christians: While realizing that life is not livable without generalizations, be careful not to let your pride lead you to use statistical generalizations in unloving ways.

Pastors are poor repenters. Ironic isn't it? The men who call people to geniune repentance weekly, often fail to deeply repent themselves.

This week I had some of my personal property violated. In my anger, I formed generalizations that led to racist thoughts and complete bitterness. This wasn't towards a people group of a different ethnicity. No, it was towards a people group that are near the low end of the social and economic scale often by their own choice and actions. They need discipline, yes. And yes, I must protect my family, friends, and flock as well.

But....

They don't need me to be racist. That is sin. I don't want to be bitter. I don't want to dishonor God or the gospel. I repent and trust the gospel. They need me to speak the gospel, live the gospel, and keep the gospel at the center of my heart and actions.

The formula of a successful church

2010-05-08T07:07:00.000-07:00

Watch this video and give me your honest reactions. '
(Facebook viewers need to visit benjamindurbin.com)

"Sunday's Coming" Movie Trailer from North Point Media on Vimeo.

Here are mine.

I'm afraid that the deconstruction in the video is true. We have the most important opportunity in the world every Sunday. I pray that we don't waste it being consumer driven rather than gospel driven. It is also a gut check to make sure we don't follow routine and trendiness rather than the triune God in our celebrations.

How does The Bridge rate in regards to simply following this formula?

I would of said it was more true of us in year 1 and 2. Now, we plod through scripture making the Gospel the centerpiece of all that we do. The gospel is elevated as the rock star. All of our elements proclaim the gospel and challenge people to move not consume.

We definitely aren't as trendy as we once were, but we do get to spend at least six months in 1 Corinthians soon! :-) We have made it a focused effort for scripture to be elevated to a place of prominence over any of our teachers.

Now, I do believe that there are still abuses in non-contemporary or non-relevant churches.

On the other end of the spectrum, you still have churches stuck in different eras. Often instead of following the Triune God, they would rather follow the good old days. You can find abuses on both sides of the fence.

This video could be shot with hymns, special singing, and old fashioned preaching with three piece suits and still pull out the same reaction in me.

What questions does this video force us to ask?

Who are we pleasing? God or man?
Who are we following? Our own plans and strategy, or the living and triune God?
Are we comfortable and set it something that worked once? Or are we being led by the spirit in faith?
What are we growing? Consumers or Gospel-Driven people?
What are we imaging? Radical disciples of Jesus? Or man-made systems and strategies?
Have we over-contextualized? Have we under-contextualized?
Is Jesus the hero of our church? The hero of our leadership? The hero of our celebrations?

These are the things I think about all of the time. These are the reactions I had to the video.

If you want to see a video that I believe is in contrast to this one, CLICK HERE.

Building Homes in Haiti

2010-04-30T07:25:00.000-07:00

I am heading to Haiti July 5-12 to build homes with Growing Hope for Haiti. As I write this, there are currently 8 spots left on the team. Would you pray about joining?

For every house is built by someone, but God is the builder of everything. Hebrews 3:4

Growing Hope for Haiti and The Fuller Center for Housing has partnered together to build a community in Leogane, Haiti. This community near the epicenter was destroyed by the January 12th earthquake. Opportunities for building homes for the people of Haiti exist in two ways:

Join my team!
Sponsor a home. $4,000 will provide a home for a family now living under a tarp, bed sheet, or tent, and contribute to the community well, latrines, and garden.

We will be there July 5th-12th
Building skills are not mandatory, but a willingness to work hard and be teachable is
Cost is estimated to be $1100 including airfare, food, water, and transportation. (subject to change if airfare changes)
Conditions are tough. You will be exposed to heat, rain, and sleep in tents.
Passport required

Quit sitting on your assets.
Get up off of your blessed assurance.

Put your faith and money where your mouth is and join our team.

I am hoping for at least half of the team to be men.
Email me today!

Your faith doesn't have a speed limit. Quit living like it does and FLOOR it.

Click here for the SHOT list.

Our Story: Gospel Principles for my Missional Cell

2010-04-23T01:51:00.000-07:00

Well over four years ago I began meeting together with other adults from St. Francois County in my home. We would meet for the purposes of developing community and spiritual growth. We shared stories, ate together, and dug into God's word together. I have been a part of four small groups of people (we call them cells) during this time period, with three of them being a part of The Bridge Community Church.

These small groups of people (cells) have been instrumental in my life. I have grown closer to Christ and have been moved to gospel maturity much quicker in these small communities, than I ever would have been just sitting in a pew. However, looking back they were missing something. I couldn't put my finger on it until I listened to Matt Carter from Austin Stone speak last year.

I realized that these groups were missing gospel intention. We had always aimed at deep community, but we lacked a focus on common mission and the eventual out-workings of the gospel. Because of this lack of living with gospel intentionality and common mission, our sense of deep community often dwindled over time.

This year my cell selected a common mission. We did this through prayer and cultural engagement. We looked at the specific rhythms of our county with the purpose of finding where the gospel needed to take root and grow. We asked God to open up our eyes to see how we could be missionaries for Him in our own back yard.

We settled on a common people group to whom we have been sent together to in order to make disciples. This group of people for my missional cell are the students living in the dorms at Mineral Area College. We are now working to radically reorient the rhythms of our own lives around loving and reaching these people. This is moving us away from simply focusing on a weekly meeting, and towards living a life together on mission.

We currently are 13 adults who share life and truth, love God and one another, and engage the social and spiritual needs of our county.

Together we ---

Share life and truth.
We are more than a meeting; we are a community that shares life throughout the week: meals, trials, vacation, mission, etc. We are imperfect but are united by the perfecting truth of the gospel of grace.

Pray for one another and St. Francois County
We pray regularly for one another, our neighbors, and our county because we know that it is ultimately God who renews the county.

Engage peoples and cultures.
Our missional cell engages the cultures of the students at the MAC dorms with genuine interest, love, and the hope of redemption.

Love one another.
We are bound together by mutual love and encouragement. We’re a family.

Why do we do this?
Gospel principles that guide missional cell.

We are all broken.
We are all more broken than we want to admit, and God is more holy than we comprehend.

We all need Jesus.
In Jesus we are more forgiven and accepted than we can imagine, and God is more delighted in us than we understand.

We all need one another.
We need each other to share our struggles and joys in following Jesus.

Our county needs the Gospel.
The gospel of Christ changes and renews the peoples and cultures of the county.

Interested in finding out about other missional cells at The Bridge Community Church? Contact Stan Jackson today.

Current Reading LIst

2010-04-22T18:04:00.000-07:00

Here are some books I have been reading in the last few months.

The Book of Ruth (I read it once a day gearing up to teach it in May)
Doctrine by Driscoll and Breshears
Total Church by Timmis
Sticky Teams by Osborne
A Sweet and Bitter Providence by Piper
Church 3.0 by Cole

Learn "Like a Lion" for Easter

2010-04-02T07:23:00.000-07:00

We often ask our community to learn a new song before special celebrations. For this Easter, we are asking them to learn "Like a Lion" and scream it out during our Easter Celebrations. Below is the Youtube video containing the song and the lyrics.

Like a Lion

Lyrics
Let love explode and bring the dead to life
A love so bold
To see a revolution somehow.
Let love explode and bring the dead to life
A love so bold
To bring a revolution somehow

Pre- chorus
Now I'm lost in your freedom
This world I'll overcome.

Chorus:
My God is not dead
He's surely alive
He's living on the inside
Roaring like a lion

Verse 2:
Let hope arise and make the darkness hide
My faith is dead
I need a resurrection somehow

Chorus:
My God is not dead
He's surely alive
He's living on the inside
Roaring like a lion

Bridge:
Let Heaven roar and fire fall
come shake the ground
with the sound of revival

Chorus:
My God is not dead
He's surely alive
He's living on the inside
Roaring like a lion

Living on Mission

2010-03-16T11:38:00.000-07:00

At The Bridge Community, we have made it a priority to train our members to live on mission as disciples of Jesus who make more disciples. In fact, we teach that one is not truly a disciple of Jesus if all one does is consume events. Our mantra is that we desire to teach people to believe it, grow it, and send it (with it being the gospel and central to all we do). All of this is for God’s glory to spread and grow in our context!

Why? We see that scripture is filled with language that speaks to the missionary nature of a Triune God. God the Father sends the Son, and God the Father and the Son sends the Spirit, and God the Father and the Son and the Spirit sends the church.

We realize that Jesus sees himself not only as one sent but also as one who is sending: “As the Father has sent me, I am sending you” (John 20:21). We are sent as a missionary people, individually and collectively.

In fact, Acts 17: 26-27 tells us that God has determined the exact place and time where we should live so that men may find Him. Isn't it amazing to think that you/we have been chosen by God to be His representative to our surrounding context? What a privilege! What an incredible responsibility! Every member is a missionary to the people they come into contact with (family, friends, co-workers, etc).

This truly is a tremendous responsibility. Overwhelmed by the thought that if you are saved you are to join God on mission? Not sure where to start? Need help? I thought you might so I have been putting together resources to share. Most of these resources have been collected for free via the GCM Collective. I am going to break these up into individual and community/cell family helps.

Individual Helps
Integrating Mission into your normal routine
How to talk to people: The Gospel is Good news
10 Ways to be Missional

Community Helps (cell, church, community)
Questions to help you understand your neighborhood
Living in a Missional context
Contextual Assessment Starter
Missonal Community (cell,group) Covenant Template (example to be seen as a resource)

I hope that you find these resources helpful. I earnestly pray that you go on mission and make disciples in St. Francois County and our surrounding context! I am encouraged that we have already begun doing this. Collectively GAP is exploding! We now have people on mission working in the FCC, CSC, Aquinas, and the jail. We now have missional cells adopting neighborhoods, the MAC dorms, and beginning free stores for the impoverished. The list goes on and seems to be growing monthly! Keep building relationships and presenting the gospel!

May we continue to creatively and fearlessly take Christ into the broken world that needs Him most (Matthew 28:18-20).

Info on Night of Worship + video & set list

2010-02-25T20:18:00.000-08:00

Our 4th birthday is coming up fast at The Bridge and we're having a Night of Worship to celebrate! It will be filled with music, drama, and food! Come celebrate with us! Also, we'll be shooting a live DVD and CD that night, so come prepared to sing, shout, dance, twirl, yell, hoot, holler, etc. BE THERE!

Details
The Bridge Community Church
301 Lore
Leadington, MO 63601

March 7th @ 7PM
For more details: info@bridgeworship.net

***Facebook viewers must view benjamindurbin.com for videos

In case you couldn't quite understand our speedy version of the set list, here it is in writing!

1. All Because of Jesus
2. Sing, Sing, Sing
3. Your Love
4. Beautiful Jesus
5. Lead Me To The Cross
6. How He Loves
7. It Is Well
8. Glory To God Forever
9. Today Is The Day
10. God Is With Us
11. Happy Day
12. Jesus Paid It All
13. No One Greater/The Stand
14. God Is Alive

P.S. Your worship leaders will be Ben, Matheaw, and Tisa. . . not those crazy guys in the video!

See you there!

Current Reading List

2010-01-29T11:06:00.000-08:00

I haven't updated my reading list in a while. Here is what I have read or have been reading since Christmas.

Deep Church by Belcher

Refuel by Fields

Culture Making by Crouch

Counterfeit Gods by Keller

Ignite by Searcy

Crazy Love by Chan

I've started writing something as well. It is a short booklet in pdf format for new believers at The Bridge. I hope to have it done by Easter. I stress hope.

What should I read next? I'm looking to pick up a good theology or church history book.

Power Button

2010-01-05T14:04:00.000-08:00

Have you discovered how the "Power Button" works? Not only does it turn on your "so-called life" (tvs, laptops, cell phones, radio), it also turns them off.

My prayer for The Bridge Community this week is that you will re-discover the power button. And as you turn distractions off, I pray you re-discover life.

See God's creation. See His hand in your routine. See your children. Get lost in your spouse's eyes. Play a game of cards with your friends. Read a book. Read the scriptures.

TALK to people face to face.

Talk to God in quietness. Hear from Him.

Psalm 46:10 - "Be still, and know that I am God. "

Remember the song that followed Holy Communion Sunday? Re-visit the lyrics.

Matthew West -- Stop the World

The TV is talking
The telephone’s ringing
The lights are all on
And the radio’s screaming
A million distractions are stealing my heart from You
I’m tired and empty
This life is relentless
It weakens my knees
And breaks my defenses
It’s wearing me down and I’m desperate to hear from You

Stop the world I wanna get out
I need an escape away from this crowd
Just to hear You speak to me

I need to be still before I make a move
I need to be humble with nothing to prove
I need Your Word to show me the truth
And I need time, precious time

Stop the world I wanna get out
I need an escape away from this crowd
Just to hear You speak to me
Stop the world I’m ready to listen
Show me sign, give me a vision of heaven
I can hold on to
Stop the world I need some time with You

Before I can find my voice
I need to hear Your voice
Above all the senseless noise

2009: It happens

2009-12-31T07:46:00.000-08:00

We made it through another year! And not just any year, this was recession and swine flu filled 2009! This was the year we left E-Hall and moved into our new location. This was the year GAP exploded and so did the camels on our front porch during "A Night in Bethlehem." We have so much to be thankful for.

Let's take a journey back through 2009 at The Bridge Community Church. 2009 proved to be the most grueling and rewarding year to date. As we look back to the year that was, my prayer is that you will see God's glory in it all.

"Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father who is in heaven" - Matthew 5:16

(Facebook viewers need to view benjamindurbin.com. Estimated reading and viewing time is sixty minutes).

It Happens - In Review.

Ricky Horton Sunday! On Feb. 8th, 2009, we partnered together with Esther Baptist Church and the MAC CSU to bring former St. Louis Cardinal pitcher Ricky Horton to the Bridge for the Mineral Area College student athletes.
We finally finished the Gospel of Luke. We began teaching the book of Luke in 2008 and finally completed it in 2009. We began the year with sermons such as "The Fighting Temptations" and "The Persistent Widow." We made it to EASTER and finished the final four chapters of Luke in our series "The Final Four." What's funny is after we finished it, a few months later, Tim decided to go back and teach in it again for three weeks during "Games People Play."
The grumblers. Sadly, the most viewed post of 2009 by far was "Bridge Life." I honestly had no clue how hard it would be on my family and personal emotional stability to be a church planter. I wanted to include this in our year in review to remind us that not every day of 2009 was worth celebrating.
Last Sunday in E-Hall. On February 22, we worshiped for the last time in Elizabeth Hall. We spent three years setting up and tearing down at a rented banquet facility. Check out this post to reflect on the E-Hall days.
We turned THREE! The 1st Sunday in the Sprung. March 1st, 2009.

Check out these three posts and reflect back on the big move!
March 1st
We are turning THREE!
Capturing the Moment
FEE Concert. Grand Opening Celebration. Over 800 tickets sold.
Bridge Kids moves to Sunday mornings! For the first three years of our existence, we had no childcare facilities for Sunday morning. Our Bridge Kids faithfully met every Wednesday night in E-Hall. In March, 2009 we finally had facilities and launched Bridge Kids at 9 and 10:45. WE ARE STILL GROWING! Check out these pictures below of the new construction work on the second floor for Bridge Kids. Very soon we will have more classrooms and a larger worship space for our children!
Bridge Kids Family Worship!!! IN 2009, our Bridge Kids team launched a monthly family worship at 10:15 AM under the direction of Jon Bacon. On the first Sunday of every month our parents and children join together to sing, experience drama, and hear from God's word together. At each month, a theme is announced that the children will be learning
Gospel Centering. In 2009, we moved relentlessly to place the GOSPEL at the center of all that we do. Check out this post!
Easter 2009. You all may not know this, but the cops almost put a stop to our Easter 09 celebration. They showed up right before our 9 AM celebration and told us the neighbors had called us in for noise disturbances. What took place that Sunday, no man could stop. And yes, we have worked hard to heal and mend all relationships.

Re-live a few of the moments. View pictures here.
Baptisms and Baby Dedications.
Mission Trips. The Bridge went on mission the summer of 09. A group of our adults returned to Nicaragua to work with Project Chacocente. Below is a picture of their send-off celebration. Our Youth also went on their 1st mission trip to Tipton.
Largest Alpha Course to date. During the summer of 09 we decided to run the alpha course again. To our surprise we had our largest enrollment ever smack dab in the middle of the summer! The alpha course retreat was held at Camp Allen near Greenville, MO.
Gideon 300 Launches. As a community we desire to be anything but mundane. In 09, we felt God leading us to pay off our church debt at an accelerated rate. We desire to cut out paying hundreds of thousands of dollars in interest to the bank, and instead pay off our debt early and return money to ministry. We have a goal to smash 300 pots this year. 1 pot = $1k.
Weddings. Terry and Nance Cole became the first couple to have a Bridge wedding in the new facility and was quickly followed by Seth and Amanda Durbin.
Technology: webcasts and simulcasts. We saw a massive upgrade in technology at The Bridge this year paving the way for live webcasts of all of our celebrations. You can view them here. These upgrades also made it possible for us to host national simulcasts. In 2009 we hosted the Beth Moore Living Proof Simulcast, as well as the National Apologetic's Conference Simulcast.
Sermon Series: 09 series included: The Final four, You Asked For It, Fearless, Disciple 101 (Colossians), Summer on the Mount, Ecclesia, Elijah, Games People Play, Forgotten God, and Shake. This. Planet.
Missional Cell Family. We have been refocusing from an inward, small-group based discipleship emphasis to one with an outward, mission-based, discipleship purpose. We have seen an increase in the past six months in active attendees seeking to get involved with family cells. Each of the cells have been actively participating in mission. From serving together in cleaning the facilities, to working with Journey to Bethlehem, we have seen the "parts of the Body" working to edify and build up the Kingdom. We have formulated a new leadership training cell group to be led by Tim Gray which will begin in January and is designed to spawn new missional cells. The youth cells have grown and are scheduled to divide and begin a new group in Desloge. Several of the adult cells have plans to divide and reorganize in 2010 around missional emphasis.
A healthier team. In 2009 we increased our staff and elder board. We welcomed Stan Jackson as our newest elder who is overseeing our missional cells. We also added: Lance Smith, Rob Pierce, and Josh Massey to our ministry staff. Lance is our new formation pastor, Rob works with the youth, and Josh works in the office for GAP and Tammy. Cheryl Guthrie was also hired as our new building Coordinator. These folks, along with our amazing staff and board, will make for an awesome 2010!
A Night in Bethlehem. I am speechless as to what I could possibly say to adequately articulate what happened December 13th, 2o09. The Bridge Kids ministry and our Cell Families joined together to turn our church into the tiny village of Bethlehem. 1500 people from our community experienced the buzz of the market place and a live nativity. Check out that camel!
Gap explosion. The doors continue to open for gap. IN 09, Conquering Addiction ran twice at The Bridge with 95 full completions and 274 total registrations. Our ministry to the prison and Community Supervision Center is growing rapidly. New doors of opportunity are now upon us. In December, GAP began running CA at the Aquinas Center. Now, the Farmington Correctional Center has requested Conquering Addiction come onto their facilities!
Youth. Our youth ministry continues to grow. This year our youth participated in several dramas for our church and for GAP. Take a peak at the picture below of our youth performing a drama for our Conquering Addiction course. Youth cells are growing and 2010 is going to be the year of our first Youth Ski Trip!!! I get to go. :-)
Our people. 2009 at The Bridge was special because of you: our community. There is no other group of people I want to share my life with more.
Top Videos of 2009.
Christmas Eve Candlelight. We were able to close the year with our first Christmas Eve celebration in the new building. Ronnie Buckingham and Brian Dunlap captured the night with a drama based on Ephesians 2:10. Over 250 people gathered at 11:00 PM to sing, pray, take communion, and hear Milford Gibbs speak to us all about the birth of Christ.

So much happened at The Bridge in 2009 that I can't possibly talk about it all. I am amazed at what God has done and continues to do through our people for His glory. It happens! My prayer is that gospel fruit will continue to grow and develop in 2010. Is that your prayer?

Today is the last day of 2009! Did you know that according statistics, 32 percent of new churches don't reach the four year mark? How about this one? Did you know that churches that reach age four on average have a weekly attendance of 85?

We are bucking the trend and on March 7th, 2010 we will celebrate FOUR.

Let the countdown begin.

Song List - 12/20

2009-12-19T07:32:00.000-08:00

Song List for 12/20

Countdown - O Come Let Us Adore Him / O Holy Night (Instrumental)

1. All Creation Sing (Joy to the World) - Fee
2. O Holy Night - Mercy Me
3. Until the Whole World Hears - Casting Crowns
4. O Come Let us Adore Him - Parachute Band Arrangement
5. Silent Night
6. Go Tell It - Lee McDermott

Shake. This. Planet. - Part 3
A study of Ephesians 2:1-10
Sermon: Ephesians 2:10 - "Show and Tell"

Until The Whole World Hears

2009-12-16T11:40:00.001-08:00

We are kindly asking all of our Bridge Community to learn this song and be ready to sing it loud this Sunday!

Tim says, "do it now or burn." :-)

Until the Whole World Hears.mp3

Shake. This. Planet.

2009-11-27T11:33:00.000-08:00

The story of Christ’s birth is a story of promise, hope, and a revolutionary love.

So, what happened? What was once a time to celebrate the birth of a savior has somehow turned into a season of stress, traffic jams, and shopping lists.

And when it’s all over, many of us are left with presents to return, looming debt that will take months to pay off, and this empty feeling of missed purpose. Is this what we really want out of Christmas?

What if Christmas became a world-changing event again?

Join us for a new series all about Jesus.
“Shake. This. Planet.”
A study of Ephesians 2:1-10.

Dec. 6th – God Saw Our Greatest Need
Dec. 13th – God Filled Our Greatest Need With a Gift
Dec. 20th – “Show & Tell.”

JOIN THE CONSPIRACY!
Advent Conspiracy
http://www.bridgelife360.com

Feed readers and Facebook viewers must visit http://www.benjamindurbin.com to view the video.

"All The World" is here!!

2009-10-01T15:51:00.000-07:00

Parallax View's new album "All the World" is now here!

Here are a few ways you can pick it up today.

Digital Download
http://www.digstation.com/AlbumDetails.aspx?albumid=ALB000035942

Order the CD and other new merchandise
http://www.parallaxviewband.com/store

The new album will be available on itunes, rhapsody, and CDbaby soon!

WATCH PARALLAX VIEW VIDEOS

Subscribe to our Youtube Channel
http://www.youtube.com/user/pview

Click to view the end of "Yesterday's Changes and our encore from the CD Release Party"

"If using a feedreader or facebook visit www.benjamindurbin.com"

BlOG UPDATES

Don't forget to check http://www.parallaxviewband.com weekly for blog updates!

Track #11 - Yesterday's Changes

2009-09-28T07:47:00.000-07:00

Yesterday's changes is the last track on our new album. This song reflects back to moments throughout the bands life that have been monumental. It ends very honestly depicting that it is God who makes one strong. God working through our past experiences, not just the moments themselves.

You do not want to miss the ENDING of the song on the new Album! We had a version of this on our demo CD, but it doesn't compare.

Yesterday's Changes

V
Used to be twenty-three
Used to be eighteen
Now that's gone, we've moved on, still the moments they live on

Used to be everything
Used to be nothing
Now that's gone, we've moved on, still some moments they live on

Chorus
Yesterday's changes do play on
Just to remind me what makes me strong

V
Used to think obscene
Used to think naive
Now that's gone, we've moved, still the moments they live on

Used to think no one dies
Used to always think blue skies
But now that's gone and we've moved on
Still some moments they live on

Chorus
Yesterday's changes do play on
Just to remind me what makes me strong

B
Where do we go?
Where do we go from here?
Where do we go?
You make me strong.

You make me strong.

Track #10 - Saves the Day

2009-09-27T05:24:00.001-07:00

1 Day until the Album relase and party for "All the World!"

http://www.parallaxviewband.com

Saves the Day

V
Jesus the everlasting God
Reached out from Heaven and pursued
The heavy hearts and wounded souls
of every nation, tribe, and tongue

Spikes were driven in his hands
A crown of thorns placed on his head
He gave his blood for all to see
And bore the sin of you and me
C
Our God is a God who reigns
A God who saves
Our God he made the way
Our God he saved the day
Our God is a God who reigns
A God who saves
Our God he paved the way
Our God He saved the day!!!

V
He spoke the truth for all to hear
Repent and believe the good news
He healed the sick and calmed the storms
Foretold his death as God's command

Three days they laid him in the grave
Jesus was crushed on our behalf
His blood now covers you and me
He conquered death so now we sing
C
Our God is a God who reigns
A God who saves
Our God he made the way
Our God he saved the day
Our God is a God who reigns
A God who saved
Our God he paved the way
Our God He saved the day!!!

Bridge:
(and) Now He sits at the right hand of power
Raise up your heads, redemption is here
let your heart confess
C
Our God is a God who reigns
A God who saves
Our God he made the way
Our God he saved the day
Our God is a God who reins
A God who saves
Our God he paved the way
Our God He saved the day!!!

Track #9 - Goodbye to Me

2009-09-26T07:20:00.000-07:00

Goodbye To Me

Note: Very last chorus is slightly different than the rest. . .

V
Follow your dreams, is what they said to me
In their suits and ties with money wads by their side
So I chased my pride, and built my kingdom high
Then watched it tumble to the ground
What a beautiful sound

C
Goodbye to me
I'm letting go
So the world can see
I'm better now
Where are you now
I'm on the ground
Wish you could see
I'm better now

V
Hello old friends. So we meet again
But I'm not the same man, I'll take a stand
What's past is past.. What's been has been
But I'm not turning round..
Until they put me in the ground

C
Goodbye to me
I'm letting go
So the world can see
I'm better now
Where are you now
I'm on the ground
Wish you could see
I'm better now

B
The winds they blew, right through you
Old memories, they went too
But, I'm finding my strength in You
Cuz You make all things new

C
Goodbye to me
I'm letting go
So the world can see
I'm better now
Where are you now
I'm on the ground
Wish you could see
I'm better now

Goodbye to me
I'm letting go
So the world can see
I'm better now
World's upside down
You came around
It all fell into place
To make me better off now

Track #8 - My only Hope

2009-09-25T07:26:00.000-07:00

This is the most depressing yet hopeful song on the entire CD.

My Only Hope

V1
Everything I know changes down life's road
Everything I do, it changes too

V2
Everything it seem is changing around me
You and I can see, that's everything but me

Chorus
I can't change. I stay the same. No, I can't change. My sin remains.

V3
Everyone I know, changes down life's road
Except the darkness in my soul
It takes hold and won't let go

Chorus
I can't change. I stay the same. No, I can't change. My sin remains.
I've tried and tried, but I fail every time.
I can't change. My sin it stains.

Bridge
You can change me
You can save me
You can raise me
Jesus, save me
You're my only hope

Track #7 - We Are the Few

2009-09-24T07:24:00.000-07:00

We are the Few

V
Wake up. . .
Rise up from your grave
To hear the One. . . Thats calling out your name
Its time to go. . . stand for what is right
its time to fight. . . .

C
We are the ones
We are the few
We will bring them back to You
We are the ones
We are the free
We will bring you victory

C
Don't give up
When life gets tough
Christ has come... God gave His only son
He took the cross...and carried your weight too
Don't give up
He's counting on you

Take a stand
Rise up to this fight
The battle's on.. put your armor on
It's time to go...before its too late
Until we die...
We fight

C
We are the ones
We are the few
We will bring them back to You
We are the ones
We are the free
We will bring you victory

B
So open up your eyes
Let the sleeping giant rise

C
We are the ones
We are the few
We will bring them back to You
We are the ones
We are the free
We will bring you victory

Track #6 - FLY

2009-09-23T08:06:00.000-07:00

FLY was the first song we ever wrote as Parallax View. We categorize these lyrics as silly yet fun. This song quickly became a crowd favorite and we are glad to put it on our first full length album. We think you will enjoy the way it makes you smile. :-)

FLY
V
I see you standing next to me
You’re always watching over me
So I step to the left, and I slide to the right
Then I jump around in circles and clap in time
Then I bounce to the back, and I’m pushed to the front
Just so they’ll see who lives in me.
This is the best time x 2

C
If the sky is falling, then I don’t mind
‘Cuz when you’re with me I feel just fine
And if the world comes crashing down tonight
I’ll Fly

(REPEAT COURSE)

V
You seem to be chasing after me
No matter where I turn you’re always there with me
So I lift up my hands and I shout to the air
And my lips declare you’re the Lord of this land
Then I fall to my knees, and my heart it decrees
That you will always be the God of me
This is the best time x 2

C
If the sky is falling, then I don’t mind
‘Cuz when you’re with me I feel just fine
And if the world comes crashing down tonight
I’ll Fly

(REPEAT COURSE)

Track #5 - Yours Forever

2009-09-22T07:26:00.000-07:00

Here is a preview of track #5 from our new project. This is a new worship song "Yours Forever."

Verse 1:
Lord we are Yours forever
Your mercy is new each day
Even when
the darkness threatens
You're there
You'll be there

Chorus 1:
We will stand and sing
that You're our king
Who will reign over us forever

We will dance and shout
Let our hearts cry out
We are Yours, Yours forever

Verse 2:
Lord we are yours forever
We will sing of your grace each day
Cause when we were dead
You gave us life

Lord I am yours forever
I will sing of your grace each day
When I was dead
You gave me life
You raised the dead in me

Chorus 2:
I will stand and sing
that You're my king
Who will reign over us forever

I will dance and shout
Let my heart cry out
I am Yours, Yours forever

Bridge 1:
On the day You rose
You brought hope to the world
And You called us Your own
You gave us a robe
now we sing.....

Chorus 3:
We will stand and sing
that You're our king
Who will reign over us forever

We will dance and shout
let our hearts cry out
We are Yours, I am Yours... FOREVER

Chorus 4:
We will stand and sing
that You're our king
Who will reign over us forever

We will dance and shout
Let our hearts cry out
We are Yours, Yours forever

Oh we are Yours, Yours forever
I am Yours, Yours...
forever

Track #4 - All the World

2009-09-21T08:01:00.000-07:00

7 DAYS and Counting!

All the World

Verse

Rise up
Open up the doors
Let the sun come in
And feel its warmth within
The air, the breeze
How the trees move the scene
To proclaim God reigns
The creator of all things

Pre Chorus

Today's the day
We shine His fame
Sing! Our God Reigns!

Chorus

All the world is singing
With all our hearts we're bringing
Praise to You
We sing to You
With all the world we're singing
With all our hearts we're bringing
Praise to you
We sing for you ... Our God

Verse

Rise up
Open up your hearts
Let the Son come in
And feel His grace within
Your past, your pain
It's now all wiped clean
To proclaim God saves
The redeemer of all things

PreChorus

Today's the day day
We shine His grace
Sing! Our God Saves!

Chorus

All the world is singing
With all our hearts we're bringing
Praise to You
We sing to You
With all the world we're singing
With all our hearts we're bringing
Praise to you
We sing for you ... Our God

Bridge

With our hearts we bow down
Our eyes are lifted high
To the creator of earth and sky
We lift you high
You came down and you found me
You opened up my eyes
You set my heart on fire
Now I'm alive, I'm alive!
I can't help but to sing
For you my eternal king

Chorus

All the world is singing
With all our hearts we're bringing
Praise to You
We sing to You
With all the world we're singing
With all our hearts we're bringing
Praise to you
We sing for you ... Our God

Psalm 19:1-6
Romans 1:19-20
2 Corinthians 4:6
Psalm 103:4

Track # 3 - Come With Me

2009-09-20T05:34:00.001-07:00

8 Days until the release of "All the World." Here is a peak at the lyrics of track #3.

http://www.parallaxviewband.com

V1
I've tried to be real to the things I believe but my conscious deceives
I've tried to be real to rid this disease that's making you bleed
I love the words you say to me through thoughts, through love, through the things I see
I know you're always here with me
I want to see you

Pre-Chorus
I want to know you more
I want to see you

Chorus
Come with me, make me open myself to you
Come with me, I want to see

V2
Each day I travel on this road to a fork leading here where I've never been before
Every moment I find something fresh
I'm amazed in my shame how you've something to gain
I love the beauty that I see through waves, in trees, things surrounding me
I know you're always here with me
I want to see you

I want to know you more
I want to see you

Chorus
Come with me, make me open myself to you
Come with me, I want to see
Come with me, make me run to your arms again
Come with me, I want to be free

Track # 2 "Our God is Able"

2009-09-19T13:36:00.000-07:00

Below are lyrics to track #2 on the upcoming album. We wrote this tune for a Jr. High weekend conference we were playing.

Do you remember
Little David boy
Who with his stones
Knocked a giant down

Do you remember
Old Moses man
Who with his staff
Watched the waters part

Pre-Chorus
Our God is BIG
Our God is STRONG
Our GOD is HERE

Chorus 1
We're lifting high
The name of Christ
To worship You our God

So shout it out
That He's our king
Who is able
Our God is able
Yeah!

Verse 2

Do you remember
Down by the Lake
When with some loaves
He fed them all

Do you remember
Dead Lazarus
In the ground he laid
and by His word was
Raised?

Pre-Chorus
Our God is BIG
Our God is STRONG
Our God is HERE

Chorus 2
We're lifting high
The name of Christ
To worship you our God

So shout it out
That He's our King
Who is able
Our God is able
Yeah!

Bridge
And He is here
in this place
Same yesterday and today

Yes He is here
in this place
We'll rise again
By His grace

Pre-Chorus
Our God is Big
Our God is STRONG
Our God is HERE

Chorus 3
Lift high
The name of Christ
We worship you our God

So Shout it out
That He's our King
Who is able
Our God is able

Chorus 4
We're Lifting High
The name of Christ
To worship you our God

So shout it out
That He's our King
Who is able
Our God is able
YEAH!

Track # 1 - Your Grace

2009-09-18T11:26:00.001-07:00

10 Days until the release of Parallax View's new project "All the World!!!"

Today and for the next TEN days, I will post the lyrics to our tunes so you can get a preview of the songs. Don't forget the CD release party on Sept 28th at 11:00 PM at The Bridge Community Church.

Track #1
Your Grace

You Took The Fall
For Everyone
and gave Your life
as a sacrifice

You made us right
in the Father's sight
and freed from sin
The hearts of men

Chorus
Your Grace
Your Grace is All I Need
It Takes Control of Me
It Helps Me To Believe

Your Grace
Your Grace, it Covers Me
In My Darkest Hour of Need
It's to Your Grace I Cling

To Your Grace I Cling

Verse 2
You gave your blood
So the world could see
Mercy displayed
Poured out for me

You became sin
and took on death
to rise again
the King of Kings

Chorus
Your Grace
Your Grace is All I Need
It Takes Control of Me
It Helps Me To Believe

Your Grace
Your Grace, it Covers Me
In My Darkest Hour of Need
It's to Your Grace I Cling

To Your Grace I Cling

Bridge
Your Gace is All I Need (when I stumble)
Your grace it covers me (when I fall down)
Your grace it carries me (when I call out)
Your grace it sets me free

Chorus
Your Grace
Your Grace is All I Need
It Takes Control of Me
It Helps Me To Believe

Your Grace
Your Grace, it Covers Me
In My Darkest Hour of Need
It's to Your Grace I Cling

To Your Grace I Cling

Help promote the CD Release!

2009-09-08T12:15:00.000-07:00

Hey, friends! We are looking for folks to help us promote the CD release party for Parallax View's new album, "All the World." The CD release party is Monday night, September 28th at 7:00 PM. It is taking place at The Bridge Community Church at 301 Lore, Leadington, MO. Cost = $5. CD cost = $5. Kids 11 and under get in free!

Here are a few creative ideas of how you can help!

1) Social media. a) Update your profile pic on facebook, myspace, shoutlife, and etc.. to include details of the album release party! You can use the photo above. b)Use status updates to announce the cd release party to your friends on twitter, facebook, and myspace.
2) Text messaging. Send out a text message to everyone in your phone announcing the event.
3) Email. Simply email your friends inviting them to the cd release.
4) Fliers. Print out the picture above and hang it up at your church, business, or school.

CHECK OUT http://www.parallaxviewband.com

Will you help us?

All the World - New Parallax View Album Details

2009-08-29T05:22:00.000-07:00

Parallax View is getting ready to release our first full length album! It will be titled "All the World" and available for pre-sale soon.

Check out the cover!

Sneak peak at track listing:

1)Your Grace
2)Our God is Able
3) Come with Me
4) All the World
5) Yours Forever
6) Fly
7) We are the Few
8) My only Hope
9) Goodbye to Me
10) Saves the Day
11) Yesterday's Changes

Did you know we sold over 1000 copies of our demo (not including digital downloads) from the back of our van?

Help us spread the word about Parallax View's upcoming album by becoming a fan on facebook!

http://www.facebook.com/parallaxviewband

Videos

2009-08-04T15:30:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple recent videos from The Bridge. Facebook viewers need to visit www.benjamindurbin.com to view.

Current Reading List

2009-07-13T08:20:00.001-07:00

I haven't updated my current reading list since May. Here is what is currently on the shelf.

The Equipping Church by Mallory
The Equipping Church Guidebook (workbook)
Encouraging the Heart by Kouzes/Posner
Finally Alive by Piper
Servolution by Dino Rizzo
1 John

The Bridge on Mission

2009-07-08T10:19:00.000-07:00

Next week we have 35 adults and youth on mission.

The youth are on mission from July 11 - 18 in Tipton, MO. The adults are on mission in Nicaragua July 13 - 21. I am asking everyone to pray for their mission trip. Pray for those they will come into contact with. Pray for the individuals on the trip that God would work in them from the inside out.

The youth are leaving at 11:00 AM from The Bridge parking lot on Saturday. Come out and show your support.

The adults are leaving early Monday morning. There will be a special send-off for them during the 10:45 AM celebration this Sunday.

Check out the two videos below from last year's mission trip to Nicaragua (facebook viewers visit www.benjamindurbin.com)

Chacocente 2008 Part One from Roger Durbin on Vimeo.

Project Chacocente - 2 from The Bridge from Roger Durbin on Vimeo.

The Legacy of a Great Woman

2009-06-15T07:42:00.000-07:00

Alta Virginia Elizabeth Huffman

February 24, 1917 – June 12, 2009

Alta Virginia Elizabeth Huffman was born February 24, 1917, in Buckhorn, Missouri to James Washington Huffman and Eva Caroline Henson Huffman. Alta was the oldest of nine children.

Alta married Ted Sylvester Matthews on September 12, 1935, and two daughters were born to this union: Sylvia Virginia and Carol Joyce.

Alta enjoyed quilting and gardening. She also enjoyed creative writing and penned a number of plays, skits, and poems commemorating special events in her church and community. In addition to helping her husband on the farm, Alta worked at The Trimfoot Company until her retirement. She was a member of Mine La Motte Free Will Baptist Church for eighty years, where she served as the church clerk and treasurer for a number of years, and as a Sunday School teacher for more than 60 years.

Alta Matthews passed away on June 12, 2009. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ted Matthews, her parents, (Jim and Eva Huffman) four brothers: Raymond, Homer, Truman and Richard Huffman, all of Missouri, and one sister, Blanche (Mrs. Woodrow Matthews) of Guin, Alabama, and one son-in-law, Bob Warner, of Mine La Motte. She is survived by one brother, Abe Huffman, of Fredericktown, and two sisters, Anna Lee Rebella of Nevis, Minnesota, and Joyce Lundsford of Fredericktown.

Alta is also survived by her two daughters, Sylvia (Mrs. Larry Finch) of Mine La Motte, and Carol (Mrs. Charles Belken) of Libertyville.

Nine grandchildren also survive:

Tamera (and Roger) Durbin of Farmington

Robert (and Donna) Warner of Mine La Motte

Wayne (and Christy) Warner of Mine La Motte

Michael (and Cyndi) Belken of Libertyville

Barbara (and Richard) Standley of Flagstaff, Arizona

Timothy (and Mary) Belken of Libertyville

Mark (and Mary) Belken of Libertyville

April Finch of Mine La Motte

and Chris Finch of Mine La Motte
Alta loved to boast of her 19 great grandchildren:

Andrea, Rachel, Benjamin, Seth

Tabitha, Owen

Caleb, Jennifer

Isaac

Daniel, Nathan, Robert, Garrett

Jonathon, Kristopher, Megann, Dalton

Marcus and Lucas
And of her 8 great, great grandchildren:

Trevor, Taylor, Nolan, Evan, Brylee, Hallee, Jackson and Walker.

Alta Matthews was a “Proverbs 31” woman. She took care of her husband and family. She served the Lord every day of her life. Her two children, nine grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren, and eight great great grandchildren can be found in church on any given Sunday. They and their spouses include pastors, missionaries, deacons, Sunday school teachers, worship leaders, children’s ministry workers, church staff and lay leaders. They are her legacy and the mark of a great woman.

Current books on my shelf

2009-05-26T08:32:00.001-07:00

I haven't updated my reading list in a while. Here are the current books on my shelf for seminary, sermon prep, or other interest. Note: I hardly ever read one book at a time.

The Connecting Church by Randy Frazee
Christ-Centered Preaching by Bryan Chapell
Organic Community: Creating a place where people naturally connect by Joseph Myers
Fusion by Nelson Searcy
The Sermon on the Mount: An expositional commentary by James Boice
What is a Healthy Church? by Mark Dever

I also picked up a resource entitled, Commentary & Reference Survey: A comprehensive guide to Biblical and Theological Resources.

Have I finished reading all of these books? Nope. Do I endorse them all? Nope. Am I learning something from each? Yes.

This week at The Bridge

2009-05-19T20:37:00.000-07:00

We're beginning a new discussion this week on the church. A discussion about what it is, what it's not, how it works, how it doesn't work, what it was supposed to be, and what God meant it to be. Here's the deal. This discussion is going to last throughout the summer and it won't come to a close until September. Why? We will only be discussing this in one part, stand alone weekends at The Bridge in between the teachings from our next series, The Summer on the Mount.

Yes, I know we are beginning our study of the Sermon on the Mount next week.....But before we do that, I want to tell you where we came from. And by "we" I mean the believers at The Bridge Community Church. Now to even have this discussion, we've got to go back to the beginning. And by "beginning," I mean thousands of years ago when the oral tradition of creation being passed down hit Moses, and Moses started writing.

So join us this week as we discuss our church heritage. We are going to journey through the Bible to see where we came from and catch a glimpse of something much larger than all of us that you and I get to be a small part of.

I look forward to celebrating with you Sunday morning, then going skiing Monday!

Resources from Disciple 101

2009-05-12T10:18:00.000-07:00

Hey all, I decided to post resources from our study of the book of Colossians here today.

We will finish out Disciple 101 this weekend with two guest speakers. Both speakers will preach on "Prayer" from Colossians 4:2-6. Milford Gibbs will preach at our 9:00 AM celebration, and Lance Smith will speak at 10:45. Milford is a former full-time pastor now on disability. His years of experience with prayer and Bible will be a terrific example for all of us. Lance is a missionary to Thailand who we are supporting to help plant a new church in Bangkok. Do you think someone moving to Thailand has anything to say about prayer???? I think so!

Resources from our Series so far

Sermons
All of the sermons can be viewed at our Mogulus channel. Sermons include: "The Gospel", "Gospel Mission", "Baptism", "Bring to Life, Put to Death", and next week you can view "Prayer." Visit the channel and click "on demand" to select a sermon. You can fast forward to any point in the celebration.

Cell Family Studies
Week 1
Week 2
Week 3
Week 4

Worksheets / Handouts
Put on, Put Off (page 2 of the file)
Gospel Journey Chart

Additional Study Articles
10 Characteristics of a Missional Church by Scott Thomas
Religion and the Gospel by Tim Keller (adapted by The Journey Church St. Louis)

Disciple 101 Promo Videos
Intro videos for this series can be found on our vimeo channel.

Enjoy - I'll update week 5 study guides next week.

Parallax View 2009 PROMO

2009-04-29T12:24:00.000-07:00

Parallax View - 2009 Promo Video from Seth Durbin on Vimeo.

facebook viewers need to see benjamindurbin.com

Compassion Sunday

2009-04-27T19:42:00.000-07:00

This past week at The Bridge we participated in Compassion Sunday. I wanted to go ahead and blog tonight about a few ideas to help your child sponsorship experience.

Pray for your sponsored child at mealtime. Also encourage your own children to do so.
Post your child's photo on your refrigerator door. This will act as a visual reminder that most children living in our world today do not have easy access to the delicious food and drinks inside our refrigerator doors.
Encourage your children to start a piggy bank to go towards your sponsored child.
Write a meaningful letter to your sponsored child. Encourage each family member to write a paragraph in each letter. Be sure to write atleast three times per year.
Teach your own children through your letters.

If you missed last week's celebration you can watch it at http://www.mogulus.com/bridgelife360

More resources:

Compassion International

Note: The Compassion International booth will remain up next week.

Watch last Sunday's Celebration

2009-04-20T21:49:00.000-07:00

Every week you can now watch The Bridge live at http://www.mogulus.com/bridgelife360 .. You can also watch past celebrations including last week's on The Gospel in Disciple 101. Use the menu button to re-start the celebration.

Video Preview for Disciple 101

2009-04-16T22:49:00.000-07:00

Watch this video intro for our new series "Disciple 101." If you are viewing via facebook you may need to go to www.benjamindurbin.com

Disciple 101 starts April 19th

2009-04-16T07:39:00.000-07:00

From sitting in prison for preaching the Gospel...the Apostle Paul wrote a plea to the church in Colosse to help them understand TRUTH.

Why? The early church was JACKED up*.

There were teachings being presented in the city of Colosse that were opposing the true Gospel, and confusion was flourishing.

In the book of Colossians, we see that the early church was facing and even participating in: false teaching, false gospel, mysticism, legalism, self-salvation projects, inactivity, and even exclusion.

Certain members of the church were teaching observance of rules that could help earn salvation, or an elevated level of the spiritual realm. Other gentile members were promoting a form of mysticism that claimed that Jesus was a higher being but not God.

This early church was being challenged to its very core. They were being asked, "What makes someone's life whole? What makes it complete? What should our faith be centered upon?"

They were being challenged on what it meant to be a disciple of Jesus.

Now, fast forward to present time.

Our church doesn't face issues such as these today, do we?

We don't face teachings in our city that oppose the gospel, do we?
There isn't confusion about what makes one's life complete, is there?
We don't have questions about how to live the life of a disciple, do we?

Well, yes we do. The truth is that the time we live in today is just as jacked up as this early church.

Join us for a new series at The Bridge called Disciple 101. Over the next five weeks we will explore the basic tenets of a disciple's life.

April 19 - The Gospel
April 26 - Gospel Mission
May 3 - Baptism
May 10 - Bring to Life, Put to Death (How we live)
May 17 - Prayer

*Jacked up: 1. Not working properly or as intended; in a state of disarray; 2. Having consumed large quantities of harmful substances; 3. In generally poor or injured condition; 4. Something that is not quite right.

Update: family, schedules, and learning how to Sabbath

2009-04-03T13:43:00.000-07:00

Hey all, it has been a while since I last updated. I have been very active in ministry over the past few weeks. I wanted to take a minute today and give an update on what's been going on with me and the family.

Family:
Everyone needs to head over to my wife's blog today and watch the two videos she has uploaded of Brylee and Halle. They are getting so big! Halle turns 1 on May 6th, and Brylee turns 4 on May 10th. Becky is doing really good and heading up a group of 20 to Project Chacocente this July.

Now on to my Schedule:
The past two weeks had me away from family 8 out of 14 days with music. I led worship at a Men's retreat for four days, and then Parallax View opened up for FEE and headed to Windemere for a Missouri District LCMS Jr. High Retreat.

We recorded the concerts from the FEE opening and the LCMS event and plan to release a "live" album soon. St. Paul Lutheran School selected our band for a school project and the 8th grade class has put up a website about us including interviews, videos, and mp3s. Check out their work here! THEY DID AN AWESOME job!

Tonight, I am speaking at a YouthFest in Farmington, MO on the Gospel and what it means to have relationship with God. I can't wait. It is awesome being able to speak at events and then leave. :-) This is a really unique event as tomorrow youth groups from all over the surrounding areas will be involved in "re-building" efforts around the community. Sunday morning, we are continuing the "Final Four" series at The Bridge and I'll be in Luke 23 as we take a peak at various characters from the events surrounding the cross.

Learning How to Sabbath:
Finally, I am learning how to sabbath. Probably the greatest way that I have sinned against God since planting The Bridge is in violating the Sabbath. I am in the process of repentance. It is clear to me that there needs to be some kind of practice of the Sabbath as New Testament believers. Darrin Patrick says, "We need, and are commanded to have, sanctified time, set apart time, consecrated time - Sabbath"

I am learning to cultivate not just a Sabbath day, but a Sabbath heart that is at rest and is experiencing peace with the God who rested on the 7th day. God put rest in the Top 10 list of commandments. This week, I shall rest and reflect on Holy Week.

The Final Four

2009-03-13T15:38:00.000-07:00

Starts March 22nd
The last four chapters of Luke!

Worlds are about to collide.

Challenged by the religious leaders of the day,
Jesus continued to teach about God and His
kingdom—about faith and what it means
to give all.

But a traitor was among them and another would deny His name.

No one expected His footsteps would lead to a cross. And few could believe what happened next.

Join us for "The Final Four."

Grace is ushered in.

The chains of sin are broken.

Death is defeated.

Salvation is here.

http://www.bridgelife360.com

Worlds are about to collide.

Capturing the Moment

2009-03-05T17:27:00.000-08:00

How often do we zip through a day at work, a night at home, or a complete week without embracing the moments we walk in? God is teaching me this week to capture the moments and to delight in Him.

Saturday I stood and stared at 1400 people as we were about to lead worship and wondered why in the world God was trusting me to do this. I don't think I will ever forget that moment. I felt the weight of the task and the joy of the relationship with my Father.

Sunday morning we rolled into church around 3:00 AM from the road. I spent the next few hours trying to sleep on the floor of the church before our grand opening celebration of our new location. Memories flooded my brain of the first three years of our church plant. I thanked God for His goodness and felt the pain of my mistakes. I stood on stage to lead worship at the first service and Seth began to sing that "greater things have yet to come." I looked out to the crowd and saw the faith of God's people. In that moment, I realized that I was a part of God's redemptive plan in St. Francois county that was only beginning.

Sunday night Brylee told me that she loved me while I was gone. I will never forget the look in her eyes and the sound of her voice. I thank God for trusting me to raise two beautiful girls.

Monday - Outside of playing another concert, my brain was mush. God was telling me to sabbath and rest in Him.

Tuesday - I worked in the children's area at The Bridge. We were getting the rooms ready for 100 children to have an atmosphere to experience and to be taught about the grace of God. I couldn't help but picture little hands in my mind painting stories about Jesus and later showing them to their parents. I also attended CA and saw many imperfect people chasing after a perfect God and being taught the Gospel. I felt so thankful to have people who care so deeply about me and others.

Wednesday I attended a funeral. I saw the faith of a family and the glory of God in terrible times. Later on that night, I hung out with my cell family and studied how God gifts each of us to build up the body. I felt so thankful that we are not supposed to do this life alone.

Thursday is today. Right now my daughter is asking me to play Chutes and Ladders with her. I'm going to publish this post now and spend time enjoying the family God has given me.

Take some time this week and capture the moments, see God in them, and delight in Him.

(Note to Bridge Folks: Don't forget that this week is Daylight Savings)

We are turning THREE!

2009-02-25T12:22:00.000-08:00

The Bridge TURNS THREE this Sunday March 1st, 2008! Come join us as we celebrate by opening up our new location (right behind Elizabeth Hall) at 9:00 AM or 10:45 AM.

We are "FEARLESS" ... The God we serve today is the same God who created the universe, defeated death, opposed the Pharisees, drove out demons, gave life, and who is STILL on the throne.

March 1: Gideon
March 8: Beniah
March 15: Shadrach, Meshack, and Obednego
March 22: Luke 20
March 26: FEE concert and celebration

Three Pathways of Identity

2009-02-16T08:27:00.000-08:00

I spoke at The Bridge yesterday on "Gospel Community" and talked about three pathways of identity in life.

The first pathway was the path of "Moral Conformity."
The second pathway was one of "Self-Discovery."
We learned that both of these pathways end in alienation from God as seen in the parable of the lost sons in Luke 15.

(Please reference "The Prodigal God" by Tim Keller)

And then I presented a third pathway called "Gospel Community" that we as a body want to be true of our identity. At the center of community must be the Gospel where we realize we are nothing without Christ. None of us have any "rights" (elder brother / moral conformity) and we can't make it on our own (younger brother / self discovery). We are nothing without Christ, praise God.

I spoke from Romans 12:9-13 and Galatians 6:1-2 from the ESV about what Gospel Community should like. You can pick up the dvd of the teaching if you need it. Then we discussed how this plays out at The Bridge where as we grow this gets harder.

At The Bridge we offer and speak of multiple environments for gospel community. As each of these environments shrink, the more opportunity for deeper relationship and gospel community happens. We provide these environments but rely on the Holy Spirit to make this happen.

Large Group:
Sunday Celebration @ 9:00 & 10:45 AM
Monthly Youth Bash
Bridge Kids

Midsize Group:
Conquering Addiction
Alpha Course
Leadership Bible Study
Crown Financial Training
Men’s / Women’s Trips
Youth Trips
Socials: bowling, burger with a pastor, and etc..

Small Group:
Weekly Cell Family
Covenant Membership Courses
Mission Teams
First-Serve Teams
Youth Cell
BK Cell
Yon’s round table

One on One:
Mentoring
Parenting
Marriage

Please take a moment as you read through this to search your heart. Where are you finding your identity? Are you living to please others and gain status and control (moral conformity)? Are you on a path of self-actualization to find the meaning for your life (self-discovery)? Or are you living in gospel community where the end goal is not to get status, power, or self-pleasure - but just to delight in God.

I challenged all of our people to get in community surrounding themselves with people whose identity is found in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and do life together. Breathe. Laugh. Cry. And yes, call one another to repentance and faith. You can't go to these groups with rights, leaning on the cross and pointing the finger at others for Gospel Community to take place. You must go to these groups broken in submission to God at the foot of the cross.

The glory of God in salvation

2009-02-14T19:56:00.000-08:00

One of my close friends called tonight. He said that he had been faking it for 31 years and that last night standing in the shower God saved Him. Those were his words. If you knew this man's upbringing you would think he was saved already. If you knew this man's recent life you would say, "Impossible, there is no way he could save himself." That's the beauty of the gospel. He can not and he did not. But God did. The holy spirit regenerated His heart and showed him his depravity and need for Jesus. Then last night he cried out to God in faith and was converted.

It reminded me of this paragraph from chapter 2 of Desiring God,

We will never fully appreciate what a deep and awesome thing conversion is until we own up to the fact that it is a miracle. It is a gift of God. Recall again the point that we not only sin, but we also are sinful. The Bible describes our heart as blind (2 Corinthians 4:4) and hard (Ezekiel 11:19, 36:26) and dead (Ephesians 2:1,5) and unable to submit to the law of God (Romans 8:7-8). By nature we are "children of wrath" (Ephesians 2:3). And so when we hear the gospel we will never respond positively unless God performs the miracle of regeneration.

Interesting things to note:
1) This man grew up in and around church and never responded positively to the gospel until the age of 31
2) The seeds of the gospel still took root in his life and were made alive by the Holy Spirit standing in the shower

My friend told me that for weeks all he could think about was that God did not exist, he wasn't real, and that he had even grown to have a hatred towards Him. He told me he had been planning to talk to me about why God didn't exist (he had been reading Christopher Hitchens book God is not Great). And then standing in the shower last night he broke and God saved him. Now, all of the sudden he feels peace.

What a miracle!

To God be the glory.

Ephesians 2:4-9 ESV

But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved— 6 and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast.

Parallax View Sampler

2009-02-09T15:42:00.001-08:00

A sneak peak at a few things to come from Parallax View Band.

01 Track 1.mp3

Our God is Able Acoustic - St. Paul Interview

2009-02-05T16:04:00.000-08:00

(Facebook viewers visit benjamindurbin.com for video)

Acoustic version of Fly

2009-02-04T21:39:00.000-08:00

I found this video on schooltube tonight. It was recorded by the 8th grade class at St. Paul Lutheran School. We were doing an interview at the school for a cyberfair project they are involved in and upcoming concert on Feb. 20th. I need to remember to get my hair cut before going to interviews.

(Facebook viewers will have to visit benjamindurbin.com to view)

These guys are coming to The Bridge?

2009-02-03T08:54:00.000-08:00

Hey all, I saw this video over on feeband.com and couldn't help but re-post it on my my blog. It was too funny.

(video embedded here facebookers)

We are bringing in Fee for our grand-opening celebration at The Bridge of our permanent location.

Fee is most known for their hit single, "All Because of Jesus", which peaked at #2 on Billboard's Hot Christian AC Chart. Steve Fee, the band's founder, is one of the worship pastors of North Point Community Church in Alpharetta, GA. In January 2007 he released his first record, "Burn for You." In September 2007, the record was re-released on INO records, "We Shine." Fee not only is a worship leader at North Point, but also leads worship at the Catalyst East conference every year.

To watch a video of the band and purchase tickets, please visit the link below.

http://www.itickets.com/events/221114.html

The concert will be held in our new building.

The Gospel as Discipleship

2009-01-16T13:46:00.001-08:00

I recently read "The Centrality of the Gospel" by Tim Keller. I must admit, I've been doing a lot of repenting over the last few months/year. I am pretty sure that I allowed unhealthy, un-Biblical teachings and thoughts, creep into life and influence my teaching. I am not about to give a list of people, things, or methods here...so too bad if you are pridefully wishing for a list to boost your ego. Here is where I got way off.

I thought that the Gospel was only for Non-Christians.

I repent.

No program changes people. God changes people through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. End of discussion. This is God-centered, Bible-centered, Jesus-centered, and of course Gospel centered.

I had never thought about the Gospel being used as intense discipleship. Basically, I was taught that to be a disciple you had to "do better, try harder" to meet the expectations of Church. I really think that I had a blaring idol in my heart that was anything but Jesus Christ. It was religion and etc... I mean, I had heard people quote that line "no program changes people" over and over again.. but still didn't get it! BTW - I think most who say that still don't get it. They just say it for show and pretense... um.. to get amens.

Check out these excerpts from Keller on "The Centrality of the Gospel."

We are not justified by the gospel and then sanctified by obedience, but the gospel is the way we grow (Gal.3:1-3) and are renewed (Col.1:6). It is the solution to each problem, the key to each closed door, the power through every barrier (Rom.1:16-17). It is very common in the church to think as follows. "The gospel is for non-Christians. One needs it to be saved. But once saved, you grow through hard work and obedience." But Col.1:6 shows that this is a mistake. Both confession and "hard work" that is not arising from and "in line" with the gospel will not sanctify you--it will strangle you. All our problems come from a failure to apply the gospel. Thus when Paul left the Ephesians he committed them "to the word of his grace, which can build you up" (Acts 20:32)

then later on...

A whole new way of seeing life
Paul shows us, then, that we must not just simply ask in every area of life: “what is the moral way to act?” but “what is the way that is in-line with the gospel?” The gospel must be continually “thought out” to keep us from moving into our habitual moralistic or individualistic directions. We must bring everything into line with the gospel.

All of life is repentance and exposing darkness to the light. All of life is repenting and becoming in line with the Gospel.

The Gospel and Discipleship

2009-01-15T12:44:00.000-08:00

We are called to make disciples; not members of our church, denomination, theological perspective, cause, or movement.

This comment is probably driven by my context. I live in a Bible belt area where the gospel has been drowned out by legalism and false gospel living and teaching. That is a strong statement, but I believe is true.

I see people that all they know about the gospel is do better, try harder. The problem is, that's not the Gospel. Understanding this fundamental concept, and being gospel centered in everything that we do, is key to our discipleship at The Bridge. Everything springs forth from the fact that the gospel is not do better, try harder. You can't save yourself...

Sometimes I wonder what we are trying to convert people to, being a disciple of Jesus or some false god? I think churches are full of people trying to do "discipleship" that don't know the Gospel, and thus fail because they have an inability to be a disciple.

So you want to talk about discipleship? First, make sure you know what you are asking people to be a disciple of.

Below are some interesting insights from Keller and others I have collected.

* Religion says, if I obey, God will love me. Gospel says, because God loves me, I can obey.
* Religion has good people & bad people. Gospel has only repentant and unrepentant people.
* Religion values a birth family. Gospel values a new birth.
* Religion depends on what I do. Gospel depends on what Jesus has done.
* Religion has the goal to get something from God. Gospel has the goal to get God.
* Religion sees hardships as punishment for sin. Gospel sees hardship and giants as a chance to grow in our hope - JESUS.
* Religion is about me. Gospel is about Jesus.
* Religion believes appearing as a good person is the key. Gospel believes that being honest is the key.
* Religion has an uncertainty of standing before God. Gospel has certainty based upon Jesus' work.
* Religion sees Jesus as the means. Gospel sees Jesus as the end.
* Religion ends in pride or despair. Gospel ends in humble joy.

More on Religion Vs. The Gospel can be found here.

"Grace as a gift"

Romans 3:10-28
10 as it is written: None is righteous, no, not one; 11 no one understands; no one seeks for God. 12 All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one. 13 Their throat is an open grave; they use their tongues to deceive. The venom of asps is under their lips. 14 Their mouth is full of curses and bitterness. 15 Their feet are swift to shed blood; 16 in their paths are ruin and misery, 17 and the way of peace they have not known. 18 There is no fear of God before their eyes.

19 Now we know that whatever the law says it speaks to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be stopped, and the whole world may be held accountable to God. 20 For by works of the law no human being will be justified in his sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin.

21 But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it-- 22 the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25 whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. 26 It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.

27 Then what becomes of our boasting? It is excluded. By what kind of law? By a law of works? No, but by the law of faith. 28 For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law.

Our Heart Disease

2009-01-13T17:43:00.000-08:00

Our Heart Disease:
Much of this is adapted from "Idols of the Heart" by Fitzpatrick for our cells. Please buy the book.

Reading:
Yes, it is true that God does call us to learn and embrace the truth with our mind. He calls us to desire and long for Him with our affections. He commands us to choose Him with our will. He does hold us responsible in each of these ways. But we have a problem don't we. Without God's aid, we'll never understand or choose Him. We have a major heart problem against which we have to struggle our entire lives – so says the Bible.

Jeremiah spoke about our heart disease.

“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it?” - Jeremiah 17:9 (ESV)

Our heart is false: it tricks us and decieves us into thinking that our desires are pure. It tells us that what we want is good and that God approves. However, many of our ways seem right in our own eyes but still lead to death and Hell.

Look at what the Bible teaches.

Gen. 6:5, Gen. 8:21
Psalm 51:5
Ecc. 9:3
Matthew 15:19

So you may be thinking: “If my heart is so bad, why should I even bother?”

Please, take refuge in that fact that while your heart may decieve you, it isn't hidden from the Father. Your heavenly father completely understands your heart.

1 Samuel 16:7
1 Chron 28:9
Psalm 44:21
Jeremiah 17:10
John 2:24-25
Acts 1:24
Rev. 2:23

The Father knows everything about you. He knows when you long to love Him, when you want to please Him. He knows when and where you are decieved. He knows when you are faking it and trying to show Him and others that you are OK. Your not okay. Get over it. He knows when you do good works to impress others. He knows YOU through and through.

So what is the diagnosis for your heart condition?

Simply put, the Word.

“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account.” - Hebrews 4:12-13 (ESV)

What does this have to do with last Sunday?

Sunday at church, Tim taught us from Luke 17:1-2 about the temptations that will come. Tim talked to us about how our sin is rooted in idolatory and pride and how are temptations take this form spewing forth from our hearts.

Let's see what the Bible has to say. Do you remember the Ten Commandments? The ten what?????

The first commandment is:
"I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery. You shall have no other gods before me.” - Exodus 20:2-3 (ESV)

How amazing it is that God's primary command is to have no other gods before Him! God commands our absolute devotion. He demands our pride. He demands the idols of our hearts. This first command is preeminent because it is impossible to obey the other nine if we fail to obey this one. God cuts right to our heart.

This begs the question. Do the Ten Commandments still apply today? Yes, they play a very important role in the life of a believer. Reading them intently shows God's unchanging standards. They help us grasp the fact that no mere human has ever pefectly kept the law and can not do so. It makes Romans 3:23 come to life! “for all have sinned and fall short...”

That is important for us to understand! People you work with, go to school with, play golf with, flirt with, drink with, or whatever...trust that they are going to heaven because they are relatively good. They are nothing more than moral diests. The Ten Commandments prove that we are unable to live a life that matches up to God's Holy and perfect standards. We can't even get God's primary command down.

We fail the first commandment on nearly a daily basis due to our heart condition. Don't believe me? Do you not think that you have pride or idols in your heart? Do you not often worship things other than God?

Answer these questions honestly.

Do you think that God's lovingkindness is better than a nice car, house, or retirement plan?
Is God's steadfast love more desirable than good health? What about when you are suffering from cancer on your deathbed?
Is His everlasting love more pleasurable than obedient children?
Is spending time in the word and in prayer more pleasurable than chicken wings and football?
Is declaring His fame at work more desirable than achieving your fame/status at work?
Where is your happiness found? Name your god.
What do you want, desire, or wish for daily? Know your heart.
Who are you trying to please?
What would bring you the greatest happiness, pleasure, delight?
What would bring you the greatest pain and misery? Why?

After answering those questions, what are you tempted to worship more: the God of the Bible, or an idol of your heart that forms due to your pride. Temptations will come.

Paul wrote that he came to know sin through the law in Romans 7:7. What has the law, specifically the ten commandments taught you?

Do you see our heart disease?
Do you know your heart's condition?

If you were at church Sunday Tim challenged all of us to write out the gospel. After this study, would you change what you wrote?

What did you write?

Wishing you a Happy New Year!

2009-01-09T06:30:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure what's happening here, but its entertaining to watch!

Fee tickets available to the general public

2009-01-06T07:38:00.000-08:00

The general public can now purchase tickets to the FEE concert through itickets.com. Spread the word! Fee will be in concert at our new building March 26th.

Purchase Tickets Online

personal goals

2009-01-06T05:03:00.000-08:00

A friend asked me what my "personal" goals were.

I have a few minor ones
1) Finish the two albums I have started
2) Finish seminary
3) Have some form of normal routine

And

I have one major one
1) I want to be a part of something that only God can take credit for. I don't want my faculties to be able to fully comprehend it.

Fee in Concert @ The Bridge

2008-12-17T08:46:00.000-08:00

Mark your calendars for a grand opening celebration with FEE!

Thursday, March 26th @ 7 PM @ The Bridge!

Tickets are $10.

Visit their website here. http://www.myspace.com/stevefee

Christmas Pictures

2008-12-11T17:20:00.000-08:00

Meet Ray.

2008-12-07T19:29:00.000-08:00

This morning an old friend walked into The Bridge. I had not seen him for years. I didn't even recognize him until he was sitting in the altar area waiting for Coach Gray to pray with him after I finished the sermon.

I met Ray in High School. Ray was an athlete. Ray was ripped. He joined the basketball team and helped us to win many games and we share many good memories.

but...

Ray has had a rough life.
Ray came to my school to stay a few years with foster parents.
Ray has three bullet holes in his stomach (to my knowledge).
Ray told us that his mother recently got shot in the head.
Ray traveled down from St. Louis today because he felt God telling him to get around some people that could talk to Him about God.
Ray said that HE wanted to give his life to Jesus and that nobody was forcing Him too. He just had to.
Ray said that he had seen it all, done it all, and he knew it was time.

Today, Ray poured out his thoughts and heart to coach gray and to God.
AND Today, Ray repented and believed the gospel.

That is why tonight, I give glory to God. I give glory to God that calls the broken, the suffering, and the helpless and begins to heal their lives.

To God be all the glory.

Christmas Schedule @ The Bridge

2008-12-02T12:37:00.002-08:00

It is the Christmas Season! Below are opportunities for you to worship Jesus more fully during this advent season at The Bridge.

All services at Elizabeth Hall
Dec. 7th -
"A Christmas Story: You'll Shoot Your Eye Out."
Services: 9:00 AM & 10:45 AM
Theme: The birth of Jesus was anything but safe.

Dec. 14th -
"A Christmas Story: I Triple Dog Dare You."
Services: 9:00 AM $ 10:45 AM
Theme: It is never too late to become who you might have been."

Dec. 21st -
"A Christmas Story: "A Red Ryder BB Gun with a compass in the stock and this thing that tells time."
Services: 9:00 AM & 10:45 AM
Theme: Everyone wants the perfect gift.

Dec. 24th -
Christmas Eve Candlelight Service
11:00 PM
Communion and Celebration of the birth of Christ.

Everyone is welcome. Due to space limitations, we are kindly asking some of our members and regulars to consider attending the 9:00 AM services.

Christmas Schedule @ The Bridge

2008-12-02T12:37:00.001-08:00

It's never too late - rants and raves on Black Friday

2008-11-28T06:35:00.000-08:00

This Sunday is the first Sunday of the Advent Season. As we move closer to Advent, our worship of Jesus is being challenged by an empire of materialism. Sadly, many of us have been taken captive. We shop till we drop, sit in traffic jams flaring up at one another, and even create massive to-do, or to-get lists that haunt our days.

Did you know that Americans spend 450 billion every year on Christmas? Did you know that many Americans rack up credit card debt that they won't pay off by the next Christmas? We apparently buy enough things on Black Friday to move retailers from operating in the red to turning a profit. Give thanks.

Do you realize that the holiday season is very lonely for many Americans? Do you know why? Consumerism does not equal meaning, happiness, or value. It just equals having more things.

Here's something I have been learning lately.

It's never too late to become who you might have been. Maybe I'm just hopeful. I desire something deeply valuable and beautiful this advent. I desire relationship not plastic. I desire a heart that is continually being transformed by the grace of God. I desire meaning, happiness, and value. I find it more every single day in my relationship with Jesus. I grasp it more and more as I begin to understand the sermon on the mount.

I desire rubbing shoulders and spending time with others who have a desire for something deeply valuable and beautiful this advent.

I desire to give. To love. To worship.

It's not too late to worship Jesus more fully this advent season.
It's not too late to spend less, and give more gifts of relationship and presence with family and friends.
It's not too late to love like Jesus loved.

The Bible as We Know It

2008-11-20T05:07:00.000-08:00

Join us on Sunday evening, November 23rd for a short study entitled The Bible As We Know IT! This three week course led by Yon Wibscov is for both seeking unbelievers and mature leaders and will explore:

* how the Bible was put together
* how the right manuscripts were chosen
* how to know what you read is true
* how to know it's really from God
* what the word 'inerrant' means

IT begins at 6:30 PM @ Elizabeth Hall.