by Chris Doyle | Jul 3, 2015
Greetings!
After all the discouragement that happened last week, and even carried over to this week, I decided I’d take a page out of Pollyanna’s story and make this week’s edition “Doyle’s Happy Half Dozen.” By the way, Pollyanna would be an appropriate movie to watch this weekend. Haley Mills singing “God Bless America” as part of the children making a human American flag is a heart-stirring scene for any patriot.
1. Depew Does Diligent Deeds Due to Developing Designs
Students from First Baptist Church in Depew, Okla., were scheduled to attend Falls Creek youth camp last week, but because of major flooding at Falls Creek, the encampment had to cancel regular activities for that particular week.
So, what did the youth group do instead? They spent the week as flood relief volunteers, helping the Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief ministry serve flood victims in Durant and in the Lake Texoma area.
To all the students and sponsors of FBC Depew who missed out going to Falls Creek, I commend your willingness to redeem the time helping others.
2. Speaking of Falls Creek…
The world’s largest Christian youth camp was back in action this week. Early reports said more than 5,000 were at the conference center, and the number of decisions made is exciting.
With one more service scheduled this evening, so far Falls Creek witnessed 234 students make professions of faith, 209 make recommitments and 114 answer a call to ministry. On Thursday night alone, there were 106 who committed to ministry service.
Praise to the Lord for impacting these students! May they go make a difference in this world for the furtherance of His Kingdom!
3. Kingdom Work in Calgary
A story was released by Baptist Press this week about Calgary’s population growth, spurring the need for more church plants. Though there is a long way to go, as the current ratio is one church for every 55,000 people, I am encouraged when I think of the five college students from my church who are doing summer mission work up there right now.
God bless Brittany, Caroline, Collin, Kendall and Tanner, as well as others on their team. May He use them to spread the Gospel to the many who need to hear it.
4. Celebrating Independence Day on My Block
Tomorrow is the 4th of July which commemorates the 239th year we have been declared an independent country. I do appreciate the freedoms we cherish in America and thank the Lord for His provisions to allow such freedoms.
Every year, my neighbor down the street allows every house on our block to reflect patriotism, as he and his wife place many small American flags in front yards. I appreciate his efforts and hope this tradition continues in many years to come.
5. A Very Special Birthday
One year ago, on July 2, my friends welcomed their daughter to the world. She was born 24 weeks and four days early and was only 14 ounces, because her mother was experiencing a life-threatening condition. Though I never shared my feelings with my friends, I now confess I was discouraged for them, figuring this little one did not have much hope to live.
Thankfully, I was wrong, and throughout this year, many experienced firsthand a work of God, as many (and I mean MANY) joined together in fervent prayer for this tiny baby. Here’s what the mother recently shared:
“We were humbled and truly overwhelmed at the outpouring of love and prayer and support from people near and far; even people who had no idea who we were. From 14 ounces to now a little over 14 pounds this little miracle is a living testimony of the mighty and faithful hand of GOD who has sustained her life and preserved mine as well. Looking back at where we were this time last year I have so much gratitude and thankfulness to God that we are where we are today.”
6. Vacay next week
I end Doyle’s Happy Half Dozen with my excitement of going on vacation next week. Karen and I will literally be traveling down memory lane for me, as we will visit my alma mater, Liberty University in Lynchburg, Va.
Much has changed since I left working at LU in 1999 (graduated in ’92 and worked in sports information office for seven years). I have twice visited the campus since I moved, but knowing there has been an extreme makeover, I will be curious to see what I still recognize. We also will get to visit some friends, having them meet Karen, which means the stories told may cause me some apprehension.
Lord willing, I plan to submit a DHD next week, possibly on my adventures in Virginia. I’m sure I will be able to come up with six relevant topics next Friday.
by Chris Doyle | Jun 26, 2015
Wow, it’s a heavy day. For two weeks in a row I changed my topics. After the SCOTUS announcement this morning, I considered to speak only on one topic. However, though the marriage ruling is major news, it would be good to maintain my traditional (pardon the pun) presentation.
- Maintain Marriage and Moral Measures
I can’t say anything that has not been said by those who I admire and respect on the marriage ruling. I did notice on Facebook I posted a response on this day two years ago to the Supreme Court’s ruling to reject the Defense of Marriage Act: “Not surprised but disappointed. Through it all, God is sovereign. Praise Him in good times and in troubling times.” The same applies today.
So how do we as Evangelical Christians respond? As I consistently reference, Russell Moore’s piece in the Washington Post is an excellent answer.
In short, here’s what I suggest: Don’t decry, instead display. If you are married, strengthen your marriage and remain faithful to your spouse. If you are single, practice sexual purity. If you are engaged to be married, observe Biblical counseling and maintain proper guidelines before your wedding day.
I know these aspects seem too simple and maybe “backwards,” but they will have a major impact on society in the days ahead.
- Russell Moore’s list on Southern Baptists
Again, I’m showing my admiration for Moore. Have you read “10 Things I Wish Everyone Knew About Southern Baptists”? This is the best, Jerry, THE BEST!!
I wish more churches would join the Southern Baptist Convention. If you have concerns about the SBC, Moore’s list should help you better understand that being Southern Baptist isn’t as bad as you think. Read all 10 things before you conclusively oppose.
I’d be all for a national marketing plan to encourage non-denoms and other evangelical churches to consider the SBC. As I mentioned last week, James MacDonald’s church in Chicago is now an SBC church. I don’t know why this is not touted more.
Why am I so strong willed about the SBC? It’s for one thing and one thing only – the Cooperative Program. This funding mechanism, as Moore describes it (see No. 5 on the list), is the most effective way churches throughout the country and beyond can work together to do missions and ministry.
A small rural church in Georgia and a megachurch in California join together to financially support “Kingdom” work, spreading the Gospel throughout the world. Do they agree on all doctrinal issues? No, but they can best demonstrate the Great Commission, which all Evangelical Christian churches agree that we are called to do.
- Farewell to BBJ
Today is the funeral of Bob Berry, Jr., a well-loved sports broadcaster in the OKC area. I’ve heard many other sports media personalities pay tribute to BBJ, and I enjoyed hearing all of them.
I met BBJ in Hattiesburg, Miss., when he came down to cover the Oklahoma State-Southern Miss football game in 2001. My brother Jon was there too, and we both introduced ourselves to BBJ, telling him that some friends ours thought Jon resembled BBJ. His response to Jon, “Well you’re a fine looking guy!” I’ve seen him a few times over the years, mostly at Thunder games, and he always said hello to me. It saddens me to hear of his passing. May God comfort his family.
- Thunder Draft Thoughts
Last night was the NBA Draft, and the Oklahoma City Thunder selected Cameron Payne, the point guard from Murray State, who many expected the Thunder would get. From what I can tell, Payne should fit in well, as a backup point guard.
Reading into this selection, I am also encouraged with the pick because what it says to me is the Thunder’s front office is showing confidence they can re-sign Kevin Durant at the end of next season. By drafting a point guard and not a small forward or someone with a reputation of being a major scorer, Sam Presti and the gang are taking the risk of putting a whole bunch of eggs in KD’s basket. This is commendable.
Experts will continue to spout off about KD going to Washington or LA or Miami after next season, and maybe he will consider going elsewhere, which is obviously his privilege if he so chooses. But one thing is certain, the Thunder is demonstrating loudly and clearly they will do their best to make the most appealing offer within the organization’s ability. That is all Thunder fans can hope.
- Falls Creek Follow-up
The world’s largest Christian youth encampment had some unexpected events happen in the last week. Major flooding caused the Week 3 (June 15-19) experience at Falls Creek to conclude early, and Week 4, this week, was cancelled entirely because of the flood results.
I wrote about Anthony Jordan, executive director-treasurer of the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma, giving an update on Falls Creek and how the camp will be in operation for Week 5, next week.
It is a rare experience for there not to be summer camp at Falls Creek, and it’s not just for tradition’s sake, but considering the impact the Falls Creek experience can have on many students who have had their lives changed for the sake of the Gospel that is presented on those grounds, it is a blessing and a privilege. May the cancellations be fewer in the future.
- A major relief for Disaster Relief
I’ll end with some good news. Last weekend, a Baptist Disaster Relief team from Tennessee was serving in Lawton, helping with homes affected with flood damage. Their truck with equipment trailer was parked in a church lot, while they were retiring for the evening. When they returned to the lot, they noticed the truck and trailer was stolen.
After reporting to the police, the Tennessee DR volunteers (pardon the pun) were able to use equipment from the Oklahoma DR team. A day after reporting the missing truck, it was found off a highway in a deserted field. All the equipment remained intact and undamaged.
Praise the Lord for protecting this resource that is needed to do great work with those affected by disasters for the sake of the Gospel!
by Chris Doyle | Jun 19, 2015
Greetings!
I think I changed my DHD topics about 5-10 times in the past 48 hours. The original intent was to be six takeaways from this week’s Southern Baptist Convention meeting in Columbus, Ohio.
By the way, I wasn’t much of a “foodie” as I projected in last week’s DHD. Limited to walking and didn’t find out I was a few blocks away from North Market (a major “foodie” hangout I am told) until hours before my flight home, my eating experiences were rather unoriginal (twice ate at Subway).
I’ll cover a few SBC takeaways, but there is a lot of stuff happening here in the last few days that I thought I needed to broaden the scope a bit. Let’s get to it.
- Prayer meetings in Columbus and Charleston
Earlier this week, I experienced an intentional observance of racial reconciliation at the SBC meeting. Church leaders of various ethnic groups participated in a major highlight of the event, a two-hour prayer meeting, crying out to God to, among many requests, unite the Convention with a riddance of prejudice and hate in our churches and communities. Seeing a white pastor from Florida and a black pastor from Philadelphia embrace each other at center stage definitely inspired me.
Then, two days later, the horrible occurrence happened at Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, S.C. It is unthinkable someone would kill nine people during a church prayer meeting, and to hear the suspect intentionally allowed a woman to escape in order to make known his evildoing, this is just gut-wrenching.
Though this may stir some to promote this act with racial divisions, I know it has brought many from different ethnic congregations together in prayer. I was encouraged to read the reaction from Citadel Square Baptist Church, which is on the same block as Emanuel AME. CSBC is planning a special prayer emphasis this Sunday, June 21.
I have no doubt, God was present at the prayer meeting in Columbus and Satan was instrumental in the murders at the prayer meeting in Charleston. However, I know God is supreme, and somehow, someway He will once again overcome evil with good.
- Tramel meets Lankford
Sports columnist Berry Tramel is visiting our nation’s capital this week, and the Oklahoman’s website is featuring his travel blog. Yesterday, Tramel wrote about visiting Sen. James Lankford. Two of my favorite people (my favorite sportswriter in the state and my favorite politician in the world) connect on Capitol Hill. Love Tramel’s descriptions of Lankford, and I agree with his conclusions. Check out the blog post here.
- Speaking of favorite people…
The list is full of great experiences I had at the SBC meeting, and three of the top experiences involve Russell Moore, president of the SBC’s Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission and currently my favorite national Christian leader. I got to hear his sermon at the Pastor’s Conference (summary of his sermon can be found here) and hear his panel discussion with Mark Dever of 9Marks (here’s a brief summary of the discussion, but it won’t do justice). Attending this panel could be my favorite experience of the whole SBC meeting, as Moore expressed so much wisdom about the social issues that relate to today’s church.
My third favorite experience does not just involve Moore but also two others of my favorite people – Rosaria Butterfield and Al Mohler. All three participated in a panel discussion in the SBC’s final session, covering the topic of the Church responding to the culture change as it relates to homosexuality and same-sex marriage (story on the panel discussion here).
Mohler you may know as president of Southern Baptist Seminary and prominent SBC leader. Butterfield is somewhat new on the radar who, as a lesbian and professor of women studies at Syracuse University, was doing a study on Evangelical Christians with the intention of discrediting until she met a pastor and his wife who led her to Jesus. You can read some of her remarks from the discussion, as well as Mohler’s, in the above link, but believe me, you need to hear Butterfield speak. She will step on toes, but her message needs to be heard in the Church. I’m glad SBC attendees had the chance to hear her.
- ‘In Christ Alone’ gives me chills
As with many Christian conferences and meetings and of course worship services, music is always involved. I won’t be a curmudgeon and gripe about different music styles or how loud praise bands are. I am one who enjoys all kinds of worship songs, though I do have my preferences, just like you and everybody else.
As I was attending one of the early sessions, most of the songs being sung were unfamiliar to me. One song in particular bothered me because it featured a certain passage that I found confusing. I won’t get into it now. If this certain song becomes more popular I may bring it up in a later DHD.
However, after a bevy of unknown ballads, an intro was played that made me say aloud, “Ah yes!” This one I did know, and I kid you not, thousands of others seemed to respond the same way because the volume of singing greatly increased.
“In Christ alone, my hope is found; He is my light, my strength, my song…”
I am now convinced “In Christ Alone” ranks aside “Amazing Grace.” The details this song shares of the Gospel could soften even the hardest of hearts.
“No power of hell, nor scheme of man can ever pluck me from His hand…”
If you are unfamiliar go to this site, and let the Gettys share with you this powerful song.
“Til He returns or calls me home—here in the Power of Christ I’ll stand.”
- By the way, did you hear about James MacDonald and his church?
James MacDonald, pastor of Harvest Bible Church in Chicago and well-known author, announced his church voted to join the Southern Baptist Convention. I don’t know the actual size of the church’s membership, but this is really good news, especially with the recent stories of how the SBC is diminishing.
MacDonald is an influential leader, and I’m glad he and his church have joined the SBC and have come to the understanding of how more can be accomplished for the Gospel through cooperative giving.
- Thoughts on My Dad
I’ll end with reflections about my dad, as this Sunday is Father’s Day. This August, it will be four years since my dad passed away. I remember him for his love of sports and his lasting Christian example.
Regarding his love of sports, Dad seemed to be an expert on game announcers. His favorite was Vin Scully. His least favorite was Dick Vitale (guaranteed to be muted when Dad was watching his called games). I can’t help but think of my dad when I hear both of these commentators, as well as others. Even with those who have recently come on the scene, I often think “I wonder what Dad would think of this guy?”
As far as his Christian example, one of the most inspiring experiences I had with him was near his time of death. Dad suffered from congestive heart failure, and I would take him to his doctor’s appointments. After we were finished with one of these appointments, he told me to wheel him over down the hall. He needed to speak with a nurse he recognized. As we approached the nurse, he asked her how her daughter’s softball team was doing. The nurse beamed as she gave Dad the successful report, but I’ll never forget how she ended the conversation, “I’m so glad you came to see me. You just made my day.”
At 90 years of age, in poor health, unable to walk, Dad still was encouraging others.
by Chris Doyle | Jun 12, 2015
Greetings!
This day started with a nice shower, cooling the temps at least for the time of my writing. Now for the hot topics in this week’s edition of Doyle’s Half Dozen.
1. New Visitation Revelation
Check out Alvin Reid’s blog on “Church Visitation and the Next Generation.” I remember well the description Reid offers about trying to find houses of those who visited my church, not knowing exactly the street to turn or misreading the Google map’s instructions, then finding no one at home and using up 45 minutes with no result.
This idea he proposes is excellent and effective. It shows a willingness to adjust or try other options to connect people with church, especially those classified as “millennials.”
“…we would do well to meet them where they are comfortable instead of expecting them to be available in ways we are used to using.”
Church trends are just that. What was effective in past generations may not work for today’s generation. Don’t compromise biblical convictions but consider other approaches. Be willing to be “all things to all people so that I may by all means save some” (I Cor. 9:22).
2. Falls Creek dedications
I had a busy night last night at one of my favorite places in all the world. I know I have mentioned Falls Creek in DHD in the past (at least I believe I have). If you are unfamiliar with this Oklahoma tradition, I would love to personally introduce you to this great place in the Arbuckle Mountains. I have so many memories that could fills dozens of DHDs.
Last night was a special night as I was covering the dedication ceremony of the new Jordan Welcome Center at Falls Creek. This is a beautiful building that will be used to help make the Falls Creek experience even better. It is named in honor of Dr. Anthony Jordan, the executive director-treasurer of the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma.
As Falls Creek is approaching its 100th year of existence and having an impact on thousands upon thousands of Christians, especially those who have surrendered to ministry and missions works, we think about the many who were instrumental in creating this conference center and encampment and maintaining its reputation. Dr. Jordan is near the top of that list, and so far leads the ranks of making Falls Creek relevant, appealing and effective in the next century for the work of God’s kingdom.
3. Did Steve Kerr really lie?
I enjoyed Game 4 of the NBA Finals last night, with the controlling win by Golden State. The Warriors made the necessary adjustments to be more effective against Cleveland, including a starting lineup change that involved replacing center Andrew Bogut with forward Andre Igoudala (yes I googled to be sure I spelled correctly).
In the postgame press conference, Golden State head coach Steve Kerr apologized for telling the media earlier that day that he was not going to make a change in the starting lineup. He matter-of-factly said that he lied, and then justified saying they don’t give trophies for morality. They give them for winning.
His last comments made me a little uncomfortable. First, I don’t believe he needed to apologize. Secondly, he definitely did not need to play down morality after his unnecessary apology.
What Kerr did was appropriate in gamesmanship. He did not violate any rules, and he did not have to declare at the time who was in the starting lineup. However, his explanation of not giving trophies for morality easily could be misinterpreted.
The “win at all costs” mentality is never appropriate. “It’s not cheating unless you’re caught” evolves from this philosophy.
It’s apparent that Kerr has a conscience and knows how the media works, which is why he felt he needed to apologize. However, I think it would have been best to stop at the apology without the added justification.
4. OSSAA and prayer
Oklahoma State Rep. Bobby Cleveland is challenging the Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activities Association’s rule on prayer during state playoff games. I support his intention and hope he will be successful in getting this overturned. I definitely appreciated this comment he made:
“Freedom of religion does not mean freedom from religion,” Cleveland said. “It takes an awful lot of twisting around to get the concept so backwards. It is amazingly clear cut when you break it down, isn’t it?”
5. Paul not appalled by gay marriage?
David Roach’s analysis “Why gay marriage would not surprise Paul” gives great support to contradict the notion that the ancient world was ignorant of current society’s acceptance of same-sex marriage.
I definitely appreciate his final remarks and referencing Ecclesiastes’ popular message that there is nothing new under the sun.
6. Discovering Columbus next week
Next week I will be in Columbus, Ohio for the Southern Baptist Convention’s annual meeting. This will be my first time to visit the town of Ohio State University. From what I understand, Columbus is known to be favorite stop for “Foodies” with many popular restaurants. I know my wife would not want me to do too much exploring from this standpoint, but I may partake in an eatery or two while I’m there.
If you’ve been to Columbus and have any suggestions of what I should experience, please let me know! I’m sure next week’s DHD will offer some of my experiences in the Buckeye state.
by Chris Doyle | Jun 5, 2015
Greetings!
I’m covering a lot of current hot topics this week. I don’t know if I provide much original insight, but some of these subjects are definitely being discussed through social media and the regular media.
Let’s get to them.
- Duggar Dilemma Part Deux
Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar had their interview this week, and the critics have responded in rage.
Whoopi Goldberg shouts “Don’t talk about God….” and her audience responds with thunderous applause before she can finish her statement about not forgiving others who “feel differently than you.” Another critic on a panel with Dr. Drew emotionally charges other Christians to not associate with the Duggars. Another reporter on Good Morning America said he, as a father of young daughters, was shocked with how the Duggars handled the issue 12 years ago (but didn’t seem upset that this information was recently sent illegally to a tabloid, at the expense of the young female victims).
There are people from all philosophical viewpoints who have expressed different levels of concern after the interview. Many believe there was a cover-up, as the Duggar family agreed to be involved in the reality TV show. Their response is the experience was five years removed when the show began, and they as a family reconciled and thought it was behind them. I confess, there seems to be some naivety with this explanation, but I believe they are genuine in their answer.
I could commit this whole DHD to this Duggar situation. There is a lot to process. It’s a very troubling topic with few positives and an abundance of negatives. I’ll just conclude on what I think the few positives are.
The Gospel was shared in the Duggar interview. They expressed Jesus died for all sins. They have demonstrated genuine forgiveness, as well as reconciliation with Josh and his sisters, even though many do not believe them. They will go on with their lives, more than likely with the cancellation of the show (which I believe is best), and hopefully they will make it their ambition to lead a quiet life in such a way that, over time, they can gain the respect of outsiders (I Thess. 4:11-12).
- Jenner to receive ESPN Arthur Ashe Award
Bruce/Caitlyn Jenner will be receiving ESPN’s Arthur Ashe Courage Award during the network’s ESPY Award Show in July. Many have expressed outrage for this decision, stating there are many other individuals who would be more deserving.
ESPN gave a defending response that Jenner showed courage by “embracing her identity in a public way to help move forward a constructive dialogue about progress and acceptance.”
How I interpret that phrase is ESPN wants to force the issue, whether society wants to accept transgenderism or not, and deem it to be progress. This award has little to do with Jenner and a lot more to do with the influential power of a major television network.
- Response to Muslim blog
Have you read Stacy Neuschaefer’s blog “I used to be afraid of Muslims”? It’s an excellent, thought-provoking piece. Definitely read her final two paragraphs, as she applies the teaching of Christ.
A friend from high school who is now a missionary in France read it and said she appreciated Stacy’s piece. She said the city where their church is located has a large Muslim population. This blog encouraged my friend to not be nervous, and she is praying the Lord will help her be a witness to her Muslim neighbors.
- Another thought on Adrian Peterson
I wrote about Adrian Peterson and the Minnesota Vikings in February, emphasizing both parties needed to reconcile. You can read it here.
It appears both Peterson and the Vikings have done what I proposed – “Move on, bury the hatchet, let bygones be bygones.”
Peterson will still face critics, but it will be downplayed if the all-pro running back has another powerful return to the field. If the Vikings are willing to reconcile to the tune of $12.75 million over the next two years, AD should take the money and, literally, run.
- NBA Finals
I loved Game One of the NBA Finals. That had to be one of the best ever opening matchups of the NBA championship series. Before Golden State fans already consider this series to be theirs, the Thunder faced a similar situation after they won the first game of their Finals series against Miami. The Heat responded by winning the following four games and claiming the title.
Golden State appears to be in a better position than the 2012 Thunder, especially since Cleveland is in a tough predicament after Kyrie Irving aggravated his already-injured knee. I do believe the Warriors will win the NBA title, but don’t be surprised if Cleveland somehow makes it challenging.
- Congrats to Mike Montoro
I end this week’s DHD with a shout out to my longtime friend and former boss, Mike Montoro, who will be acknowledged later this month at the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA) annual meeting. He will be receiving a special award for his 25 years in the business.
I first met Mike as a freshman at Liberty University. We both were student assistants in LU’s sports information office. Little did I know then that we would share a multitude of amazing experiences over a span of two decades. We worked together at two schools – LU and University of Southern Miss. He made it possible for me to earn my master’s degree, and most importantly, he was very instrumental in helping me advance in my career. Above all, Mike Montoro is a very dear friend and my brother in Christ.
I welcome your thoughts on any of the topics I addressed this week. Enjoy your weekend!
Students from First Baptist Church in Depew, Okla., were scheduled to attend Falls Creek youth camp last week, but because of major flooding at Falls Creek, the encampment had to cancel regular activities for that particular week.
Tomorrow is the 4th of July which commemorates the 239th year we have been declared an independent country. I do appreciate the freedoms we cherish in America and thank the Lord for His provisions to allow such freedoms.