COMEBACK

I watched history last night. Deb and I attended the Dallas Mavericks versus Minnesota Timberwolves basketball game at the American Airlines Center. Both of us are big fans of the MAVS so we enjoyed this night to remember. Dirk, Jet, Kidd and the boys were down 29 points two minutes into the 3rd quarter. So…it looked like the game was over, a disappointing end to 2008. Then it happened. The MAVS caught fire and began dominating the game. History was made when the deficit was overcome and the team pulled out its largest comeback win ever.

So I’m thinking, on this last day of the year, that a comeback is on the way for this New Year. I know it seems unlikely if you read the reports and listen to the news media. Everybody loves a comeback. They are exciting and rewarding. Fighting through and overcoming adversity builds character and strengthens confidence. So, I am believing God for victory in 2009. If you are a follower of Jesus, you are more than a conqueror. Romans 8:37 says: "No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us."

Christians live in the confident hope that, though life can be hard – God is good and always working positively, creatively and constructively in our lives. The new year means new dreams, new possibilities and new hopes. It is a time to renew our faith, rededicate our lives, and revive our spirits.

The nation needs a comeback.
The church in America needs a comeback.
You need a comeback.

So let’s make history instead of watching it. Choose to be a part of what God will do in the lives of people who seek Him. I am praying God will move powerfully in us, and 2009 will be our greatest year. Hey, after a long layoff, even the blog is back. I look forward to communicating with you throughout the days ahead. Happy New Year!

Love London

It's good to be back after six days in London. This is a world city with a history that is remarkable and a future that is hopeful. We had the opportunity to interface with many of the Brits, and we came away encouraged by the response to PowerPoint and our ministry with the Word of God. We experienced overflow crowds and made connections for the future that will allow us to make an impact upon this great city for Christ.


I am including some photos of our moments there. Click here to download an interview that I did with call-ins from the audience to give you an idea of what Brits are interested in and the answers that I gave to some very intriguing questions. Please pray for PowerPoint and its ministry in the United States and around the world. These are uncertain times, but we have a sure Word from God to share with people who desperately need to know and respond to Truth.

London

Today, Deb and I, along with a team from PowerPoint, will leave for London and an opportunity to preach the Word of God in this great world city. Our daily radio program is heard each day in the "Mother Country," and the response has been remarkable. The radio audience is growing and we are connecting with people on a personal level. Lives are being transformed and the Scripture is being taught.

Western Europe, including Great Britain, is becoming increasingly secular. Alongside of this is the explosion of the Muslim population and the advance of Islam. With the current birthrate in Europe, most countries will be predominately Muslim within the next 50 years. So it is extremely urgent that the Gospel is preached now. This is a tipping point for the world.

There are signs that God is beginning to move in London. Asian, African and Australian immigrants are reaching large communities for Christ. The Brits themselves are open to the Good News. Revival is touching many of the churches. When we were in London last year, more than 2,000 came out on a Friday night to hear our message. I was deeply moved and encouraged by what we experienced. Premier Christian Radio is providing us and other strong ministries the opportunity to proclaim the Word of God, and this is having a certain impact.

At the same time, many pastors and church leaders are discouraged. One of our privileges this week will be to speak to a large group of pastors and encourage them to stay in the battle and fight the good fight of faith. Deb will speak at a Women's Conference. We are doing radio and television interviews, and then on Friday, October 3, we will have a PowerPoint rally and worship service at one of the largest evangelical churches in London. Please pray for these opportunities God is giving us and that the Holy Spirit will enable us to exalt Christ and declare Truth. On Sunday I will be preaching at the very fine Trinity Baptist Church and inviting people to follow Jesus. So, as you can see, we have a full schedule and an amazing privilege for which I am very grateful. There are a number of you who would like to see the detailed schedule and may have friends who want to attend. By clicking here, you can get the day-by-day itinerary.

One of my preacher heroes is the renowned Charles Haddon Spurgeon, who is considered by many as the greatest pastor/preacher in history. He preached in London in the 19th Century. Vast throngs of people came to hear him at the Metropolitan Baptist Tabernacle. All of London heard the Gospel. Today, it is very different in Great Britain and most of the churches are struggling. But God is still on the throne and Jesus is Lord. I believe God still moves and so do many believers in England. The God of Spurgeon, Wesley, Wilberforce and Whitfield is able to bring Britain to Christ. With believing hearts, we go knowing that He will use us. Please pray. —Jack

MINISTRY TO THE MARKETPLACE

PowerLunch is a marketplace ministry of Prestonwood. Years ago, I believed it was extremely important to cross over into the business community with the Good News, so we began this outreach into the business community of West Palm/Palm Beach, Fla. We have been doing it ever since, and you know, it is more effective than ever. We have changed speakers and formats but the basic idea is intact: People inviting their friends from the office or neighborhood to a great lunch to hear encouraging, inspiring, motivating messages that add value to life every day.

This week began a new season for PowerLunch with a new feature...dynamic guest speakers each Tuesday with a strong, life-building focus. E.D. Hill, FOX News commentator, show host, and author, spoke this week to more than 700 guests on parenting, based on her new book, I'm Not Your Friend, I'm Your Parent. Our upcoming guests include authors, athletes, business and ministry leaders, a U.S. Congressman, and me every now and then. Go to http://www.prestonwood.org/powerlunch for a detailed schedule for this fall. I know you will agree that this will be an outstanding opportunity to enrich your life and to invite friends to a strong introduction to Christ and the Church.

The marketplace is where our light is to shine. 24/7-faith is lived out in the workplace each day. You are a witness. The question is...are you a good one? Our goal should always be to make a difference, not just a living, as we work each day. I challenge you to look for ways to invite your friends to church and to make sure your co-workers and friends hear the message of Jesus.

STORMS

As I write this on Saturday morning, the rain from Hurricane Ike is moving through Dallas. The impact of Ike is still unknown, but once again we are reminded of the need to pray for families who are experiencing devastation today in the aftermath of this massive storm. Please stop and pray for these, along with the churches in the Houston/Galveston region. I spoke yesterday with Dr. Edwin Young of the Second Baptist Church of Houston and assured him of our support as this great congregation ministers to displaced people with food, clothing and shelter. They, like many other churches in the area, are doing a super job of responding to the needs all around them.

Hurricanes like Ike remind us of our need to find our shelter in Christ who gives peace in the midst of the storm. Many people will walk into our services Saturday and Sunday in the middle of a personal storm of some kind. Pray they will find refuge in Jesus and a hope that endures...til the storm passes by.

September 11

Today I co-hosted a pastor's event at Prestonwood. In cooperation with KWRD Christian Talk and Teaching Radio and Salem Communications, several hundred pastors and ministers joined us for a time of encouragement. I have had the opportunity to do these kinds of events around the country in major cities such as New York, Boston, London, Miami, Tampa Bay, Houston, Detroit, Chicago, Milwaukee, Denver, Atlanta, San Diego and San Francisco. One of my goals is to encourage other pastors in their calling and challenge them to stay in the battle. Many are discouraged and almost giving up. As many as 100 ministers quit each month throughout the country. We should do everything we can to strengthen the servants of Christ, and that starts with prayer. Please pray for your pastor and ministry leaders. Remind your pastor of 1 Corinthians 15:58.

Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.

Since this is September 11th…I reminded all of the urgency and emergency of a post 9/11 world. The church must rise to the call of our generation to proclaim the Gospel and advance the Kingdom of God…which is His rule in the hearts of believers. We had an incredible time together.

This reminds me that on October 20-22, we are having our second Pastor and Ministry Leaders Conference…ENGAGE. If you are a pastor, staff member or church leader, such as a Bible teacher, you are invited. Click here for the website and registration information. I am speaking several times, along with my friends Greg Laurie, David Jeremiah, Jonathan Falwell, and Kerry Shook. Also, Josh Hamilton of the Texas Rangers will be telling his story. Our ministry staff will lead breakout sessions covering a variety of subjects pertinent to life and leadership. Help us get the word out by inviting your Pastor to join us for an enriching three days.

Catch you later…Jack

27,000

Prestonwood recently passed 27,000 members. This is a number which represents a remarkable story of faith. The church is determined to continue reaching and teaching people for Christ and nurturing them in Christian growth and service. Our mission at Prestonwood Baptist Church is to glorify God by introducing Jesus Christ as Lord to as many people as possible and to develop them in Christian living using the most effective means to impact the world, making a positive difference in this generation.

Church membership is often diminished and even disregarded by some—but it is a clear core value we find in the New Testament. While it is clear that numbers should never be the focus, it is equally clear that membership matters as every person matters to God. What is the value of church membership?

The Church is a place to BELIEVE…where faith is born and nurtured. We are baptized in confession of faith and identify with His Body on earth. In the church, we commit together to worship and discover truth for living. We bring ourselves under the authority of church government and mutual accountability.

The Church is a place to BELONG…because we need one another. Some move from church to church and never experience a real spiritual home for themselves and their family. This is contrary to the practice of New Testament believers who identified with local congregations, practiced ordinances, enjoyed fellowship, and ministered to one another. The idea of believing in Jesus without belonging to His Body—the church—is never taught in the Word of God.

The Church is a place to BECOME…we are called to grow together, advance the message of the Gospel, exercise spiritual gifts in service, invest personally and financially in the work of Christ, experience community in the teaching of the Scripture, and become more and more like Jesus as His representatives in the world.

The 27,000-and-growing membership of this church is a testimony to the grace and glory of God and an opportunity for every member to effectively change the world. If every member would become a minister, just imagine the impact we could make for the Word of God and testimony of Jesus!

Yankee Stadium

Known as “The House that Ruth Built,” Yankee Stadium is perhaps the most well-known sports venue in America. Several pastor friends and I were invited as guests of Yankee Manager Joe Girardi, who is a committed Follower of Christ. My lifelong friend O.S. Hawkins, Evangelist Jay Strack, Pastor Ken Whitten of the Tampa Bay area and Pastor James Merritt of Atlanta all met for one last game at the stadium—since this is the final year of the stadium, built in 1923. A new version is being built adjacent to the current ballpark.

I grew up a Yankees fan in the era of Mickey Mantle, Yogi Berra, Bobby Richardson, Whitey Ford, etc. So I was like a kid again—in awe of the great Yankee teams and players of yesterday and today.

We were on the field for batting practice and for conversations with players like Andy Pettitte and future Hall of Famer Mariano Rivera, who is the greatest playoff and World Series closer of all time. Both of these men love God and live their faith. We talked about the Lord, God's Word, and family and friends. The games were tough losses for the Yankees as the Red Sox beat them.

The most impressive part of Yankee Stadium is the memorial area just beyond the left field fence. The Yankee greats are remembered here. My favorite is the one of Mickey Mantle pictured here. I love the description: “A Great Teammate.” This incredible athlete played not for himself but for the team. This attitude is often missing in sports today. Enjoy these photos of our time there...especially if you love baseball.

A Time for "Saves"

Hey, everyone. I am in NY City for meetings with ministry leaders, and saw this poster in the Nike Store. It is great New York Yankee closer Mariano Rivera. A sure Hall of Famer, he finishes games like few others. In visiting with Pastor Jim Cymbala, of The Brooklyn Tabernacle, we talked about Mariano and his strong faith in Jesus. He walks the walk.

So when I saw this poster, I thought of the invitation in our church at the close of my message each week. This is the time people publicly respond to the Word of God. Lives are transformed. This is the time for "saves." Each week, scores of people come forward and it is always a highlight. Don’t even think about leaving before the close. So be a worshipper who stays ‘til the bottom of the 9th. Don't miss the saving power of Jesus and the excitement of another big win!

Redeem Team

The Olympics run pretty much continuously at our house these days. I find myself watching events that I would never watch on a regular basis as the pride of the USA and the every-four-years uniqueness of the Games draw me in. My favorite has been volleyball, and picking up gold in both men's and women's beach volleyball. But, of course, basketball and the men's team is of great interest to me...especially because of the dismal failure of our group of NBA stars in the '04 Olympics in Athens. This so-called "Dream Team," comprised of the best roundballers on earth, could never get it together and way underachieved four years ago.

But now, under the coaching prowess of Duke University Coach Mike Krzyzewski, this year's US team is playing like champions and dominating the field so far. What is the difference? Teamwork. Each sports season, I am reminded that a team will outperform a group of individuals every time. Coach K says that five talented players who come together as a team can beat five more talented players who don't. He uses the illustration of a fist - all of the fingers working together. Krzyzewski also said in choosing the American team's players, "We're not selecting a team…you select people and hope they become a team." So it appears that these pro players have now become a team and are committed to one another and to the team and its goal of gold. Now this group of individuals is known as the "Redeem Team."

Sounds to me like what the church ought to be. We have been redeemed out of failure and isolation and now have become a part of a winning team on our way to gold. To achieve greatness for God's Glory we must win together rather than lose separately. We need to be more like a fist working together than fingers working alone. Together we are triumphant. We are much much better together. It is the difference between winning and losing in our efforts to fulfill the Great Commission in our time. So, get on the team in your church and start becoming a part of His Redeem Team! One day, when the gold is passed out…you will be there to the sound of Heavenly cheers.

Keeping it Simple

I am on the last week of my summer break and enjoying some down time...included is Olympics watching. Of course, the star of the show is the Golden Boy himself, Michael Phelps. With eight gold medals this summer, he is being called the greatest Olympian in history. I especially enjoyed reading about his 10,000-calories-a-day diet, and immediately went out and ate a double cheeseburger and fries at one of my favorite places on earth...In-N-Out Burgers. This was easy since we are in Southern California. Unfortunately, my exercise output does not equal the intake!! Anyway, In-N-Out is one of the best burger places ever. They don't do chicken or tacos…just burgers, fries, shakes and soft drinks. Very simple. Very delicious.

In thinking about church and ministry, this is what we should do…keep it simple and basic. Deliver the Word of God and testimony of Jesus with simplicity and clarity, and structure the church to accommodate growth and discipleship. I am really ready to get back in the pulpit next weekend and intend to serve it up. In the meantime, a few more In-N-Outs and a long, long walk on the beach!

Harvest

This weekend I preached at Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside, California where my dear friend Greg Laurie is pastor. This is a great, great church with a local and global ministry of evangelism and discipleship. Greg and Cathe, as I have written recently, are grieving the death of their son, Christopher. I am happy to report the Lauries are doing quite well though deeply hurt. We had a chance to visit and talk about the future… especially Heaven. The Harvest staff team is outstanding and I had a great time pinch-hitting in such a dynamic, passionate, engaging congregation. All three morning services were full and the overflow in the courtyard area was strong. The church is rallying support and strength to the Lauries.

Please pray for the Southern California Crusade this weekend, August 15-17. Greg is going to preach for the first time since the accident. Pray that God will use the message and the messenger to deliver the Gospel to a world that needs to know Jesus. I am praying that the Crusade will ignite fires of revival across the nation. Check out the Harvest website for information and I encourage all my friends in Southern California to attend this weekend and take friend with you who needs to know Jesus.

In a political season where there is so much in the news…the most important thing happening is the advancement of the Kingdom of God. Our nation is in need of a great spiritual awakening. I am praying for that national revival, which could begin this coming weekend in Southern California.

Walking on the Clouds

Our family spent time last week in the Smokey Mountains of North Carolina. We stayed in Maggie Valley, a little village nestled in the beauty of the Smokies. This was a nostalgic trip in that our kids grew up vacationing here in the 80’s. The temperatures were great 50’s, 60’s, 70’s and the mountain air was refreshing. We stayed in the house of our dear friends Harold and Judy Vick and every day we walked on the clouds. The picture is from my Iphone early one morning.

Walking in mountains is an adventure. We exercised as a family – up and down the steep hills of the mountain roads. Walking down hill was much easier but the view from climbing to the top was amazing. Like life, we all enjoy the downhill – when our steps are much easier (as long as you don’t go too fast). Up hills are challenging and take your breath away, but the view from the top is worth it all.

I have been doing a lot of thinking and praying about my good friends, Greg and Cathe Laurie, whose 33 year old son, Christopher, died in a car accident July 24. Christopher is in Heaven but his family is hurting. Faith is strong but the grief is great. So while reading Oswald Chambers July 29, I saw this…

“Behold, He cometh with clouds.” Rev. 1:7

In the Bible clouds are always connected with God. Clouds are those sorrows or sufferings or providences, within or without our personal lives, which seem to dispute the rule of God. It is by those very clouds that the Spirit of God is teaching us how to walk by faith. If there were no clouds, we should have no faith. “The clouds are but the dust of our Father’s feet.” The clouds are a sign that He is there. What a revelation it is to know that sorrow and bereavement and suffering are the clouds that come along with God! God cannot come near without clouds, He does not come in clear shining. It is not true to say that God wants to teach us something in our trials: through every cloud He brings, He wants us to unlearn something. His purpose in the cloud is to simplify our belief until our relationship to Him is exactly that of a child. Is the relationship between myself and God getting simpler than ever it has been?

Greg Laurie and I talked by phone about “unlearning some things.” Jesus comes in the clouds when we look for Him only. Life is more simple in suffering and finally the only thing that matters is knowing and loving Jesus.

The last evening in the mountains, we had a campfire with our family. We roasted marshmallows, made s’mores, and had a time of prayer. I reminded our kids of the importance of obeying Christ in all things that we may glorify Him. Also, of holding one another close because you never know when you might say goodbye. So, it’s been good walking on the clouds and seeing with clearer eyes the simplicity of our faith, the importance of family, and the joy of serving Christ.

Christopher Laurie

Christopher Laurie, the 32 year old son of our dear friends Greg and Cathe Laurie died in an automobile accident July 24th in Riverside California. Deb and I are heart broken for this family and praying God’s grace and peace to be upon them in these days of incomprehensible sorrow. Christopher was a husband and the father of a beautiful 2 year old daughter, Greg and Cathe’s granddaughter, Stella. Christopher and his wife are also expecting a baby this November. This very talented young man, a graphic artist, was the art director at his Dad’s church. A statement regarding Christopher’s life and death can be found at Harvest.org.

Greg Laurie is the pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside, California. He is also an incredible evangelist, author and leader. Harvest Crusades are held worldwide including the upcoming Southern California Crusade, which is held each year in Anaheim Stadium. Upwards to 50, 000 people attend these crusades each night and thousands of people come to faith in Christ as a result. Greg’s latest book Lost Boy is the story of his life and conversion, which is a profoundly moving testimony to God’s grace in his life. Greg’s radio program, A New Beginning is a daily ministry I highly recommend.

So now, this wonderful man and his family are dealing with inexplicable grief and sadness. I know Greg, Cathe, and their family will experience the living hope we have in the Risen Christ, but it is so important that we pray for them and their church family as well. We certainly know that God is good and His grace is sufficient for every fiery trial. This is about as painful as it gets. Now it is time to lift our dear friend and brother and faithful preacher of the Gospel up in relentless prayer.


Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.” Psalm 30:5 (ESV)

Jack

English Standard Version

I am often asked which translation of the Bible is the best. That is a hard question to answer since there are a number of versions that have fine qualities, including the New King James and the New International. However, 18 months ago I made the decision to choose and use the English Standard Version as my primary reading and preaching/teaching Bible. I made this decision as a result of personal study and careful evaluation. The reason for such change is the balance of accuracy, clarity and readability found in the ESV.

The ESV “seeks as far as possible to capture the precise wording of the original text and the personal style of each Bible writer.” Rather than being a translation based on a “thought for thought” style, greater effort has been made to provide a translation that honors the grammar, words and sentence structures of both the original Hebrew or Greek and contemporary English languages. The result of this effort is a translation of accuracy and clarity that enhances understanding of biblical truth and honors the highest standards of biblical scholarship. I also appreciate the beauty of the text and find it readable both publicly and privately.

The ESV provides word-for-word precision and literary excellence for a biblical text that is both reliable and beautiful. If you would like to learn more about the ESV, please visit www.esv.org. You can also browse our website at www.prestonwoodbookstore.org or simply stop by one of the Prestonwood Bookstores to see and learn more about the English Standard Version.

Obviously, it is very important that you select a Bible you will use. The Word of God is our spiritual food for daily strength and the powerful testimony of God’s eternal Truth. Love it. Read it. Mark it. Memorize it. Live it. Trust it. Share it. I always encourage believers to bring their Bibles to worship services and interact with the Scripture as it is delivered from the pulpit. Large screens with Scriptural support for the message are no substitute for actually holding and handling God’s Word.

"All flesh is like grass
and all its glory like the flower of grass.
The grass withers,
and the flower falls,
but the word of the Lord remains forever."

1 Peter 1:24-25

Books, Bibles and Baseball

This week I’ve been in Orlando, Florida for the International Christian Retailers Convention. Deb and I and our daughter Kelly enjoyed meeting Christians from around the world who manage Christian bookstores and many others who produce products and resources for believers and proclaim the Gospel to the world.

I was there to sign copies of my latest book Are You Fit For Life. We had a great group show up and I ended up signing books for two hours one day and one hour the next. It was a lot of fun to meet great people and participate in the conference. By the way, you can get information about the book at www.fitforlifebook.com.

One of our evenings was spent at a dinner with my publisher, Crossway, and the release party for the brand new English Standard Study Bible. I have been studying and preaching with the ESV for some time now and many in our church have also adopted this new, and beautifully accurate translation of God’s Word. I highly recommend it. Now the Study Bible is due to be on sale in bookstores in October. Go to www.crossway.org for more information. This will be the most comprehensive, clear and conservative Study Bible ever produced. I can’t wait to get my hands on one! Of course we will carry them in our Prestonwood Bookstores as soon as they are available.

The picture here is of me and British scholar and author Dr. J.I. Packer (on the right) and the dynamic young pastor of the amazing Mars Hill Church in Seattle, Washington, Mark Driscoll. Dr. Packer is a theological hero for many of us and is the general editor of the ESV and chief consultant for the Study Bible. We all had a great time celebrating and anticipating the upcoming release of the Study Bible which will be a gift to the church in our generation.

Have you ever wondered if a person can really change? If you know anything about baseball you most likely follow the story of Texas Ranger outfielder, Josh Hamilton. In 1999, Josh was the #1 draft choice in major league baseball, but a series of bad choices took this straight arrow kid from North Carolina down the road of drug and alcohol addition. Like a prodigal son, he wasted everything and nearly threw his life and future away. Banned from baseball and living in desperation, there seemed to be no hope for Josh. But the faithful love of his young wife and her family and a loving confrontation with his grandmother brought Josh back from the brink - Jesus changed his life. From crack cocaine, heroin and alcohol addiction, his life was transformed. Forgiven and free in Christ he was able to conquer his addiction and was restored to his faith, family, and baseball career. With very little minor league experience, this five-tooled ballplayer made it all the way to current stardom in the Big Leagues. He is the greatest talent I have seen in a generation. He has Mantle/Mays kind of talent (that’s for all you baseball fans).

So after a great half season in Texas and being voted an American League All Star, Josh stunned the sports world with an unbelievable display of Home Run power that few have ever seen. In the historic Yankee Stadium during Monday night’s Home Run Derby, Josh captured the hearts of sports fans everywhere. Hitting ball after ball deep into the night and setting the Home Run Derby record, the “Hambino” shared the reason why he was there – God, through “His Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ” changed his life. A dream was now a reality – telling the world of the power of Jesus to change a life. It is an amazing story of grace and redemption.

Josh Hamilton is a witness to what Jesus can do with a life given over to Him. So Sunday, I’m going to be speaking on How A Person Can Really Change. The answer is in God’s Word found in 2 Corinthians 5:17-21. If you can’t join us at Prestonwood, go to our website and watch the streaming video www.powerpoint.org of our eleven o’clock service. I can’t wait to tell this story of Jesus and His Power to save. Leave a comment and tell me how Jesus changed your life – Jack.

Making A Connection

I’ve spent the last couple of days in Cleveland/Akron Ohio visiting and speaking to our PowerPoint call center. We partner with an outstanding ministry business named Infocision in receiving the hundreds of calls each day from the messages heard on radio and television. I was very impressed with the quality of the operation and the mission focus of this group. When people call in with a prayer need, a spiritual decision, or a request for teaching resources, like CDs, DVDs, and books, they are received by dedicated Christians who personally respond to each request. These “communicators” then let us know at PowerPoint and enable us to build a relationship with people who need on-going ministry. Scott Seal, Executive Director of PowerPoint, and Josh Graham, our Director of Operations, joined me for a great time of fellowship along with a book signing of my book Life According to Jesus. It was good to connect with the people who provide invaluable assistance to our ministry as they help us talk to people one on one. PowerPoint continues to grow and is making an impact for the Kingdom.

I spoke to the group regarding our commitment to proclaiming Christ and the Gospel and teaching the Word of God effectively. Please pray with us that we will be faithful and that God will give this outreach success while bearing much fruit. PowerPoint is so named from one of my life verses.

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the POWER of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. Romans 1:16

The influence of Prestonwood all starts during our weekend services and then advances through our personal and cooperative witness. I can’t wait for the opportunity at both our campuses this Saturday and Sunday as together we fulfill the mission of the church.

“Our mission at Prestonwood Baptist Church is to glorify God by introducing Jesus Christ as Lord to as many people as possible and to develop them in Christian living using the most effective means to impact the world, making a positive difference in this generation.”

HD Vision

We just opened Prestonwood’s brand new PowerPoint studio with our first programs in full HD. High Definition television is spectacular – it looks almost three dimensional. I am very grateful for the opportunity to broadcast our services in this 21st century format. PowerPoint is seen and heard around the world and the response is growing daily. The PowerPoint production team is second to none in Christian broadcasting. Look for our new HD programs to begin appearing soon and please pray for this ministry.

From the PowerPoint studio I went to downtown urban, inner city Dallas to visit with our H.I.S. BridgeBuilders teams working to change lives every day. This ministry is led by Mike Fechner, and an incredible team of staff and volunteers is providing hope in Christ to thousands of hurting people in the inner city. We are engaging a broken world with the Gospel. BridgeBuilders supports a professional eye clinic, a dental clinic and also a computer training center. Many Prestonwood members are serving and sharing Christ up close and personal. In the streets of neighborhoods the world gave up on years ago, lives are changed daily. I walked away thinking – this is High Definition Christianity at its finest.

Touring the facilities with BridgeBuilders staff members

From a high tech studio of PowerPoint, to the high touch ministry of BridgeBuilders, I came away with tears in my eyes thanking God for the opportunity He is giving us to proclaim Christ and extend hope to countless souls locally and globally. Are you a High Definition Christian?

Happy 4th of July

The 4th of July is a day to celebrate our great nation. Enjoy the fireworks, the great food on the grill, and especially your family and friends. The life and liberties we know as Americans represent the very best nation on earth. I am proud to be an American and especially grateful for God’s blessings upon our country. Love America and be loyal to its great principles of freedom. Pray for our leaders both local and national and do not forget those who are serving in our military defending our way of life.

We all can serve our nation by giving ourselves to ministry in our neighborhoods and communities. In our church we constantly encourage one another to be salt and light. Here are just a few ways you can bless America with God’s work:

• Volunteer to work with children and teenagers
• Serve in a Crisis Pregnancy Center
• Work in a ministry with special needs persons
• Help a widow with household physical labor
• Support a single parent with encouragement and assistance with their children
• Give a gift to the poor or a food bank
• Visit a friend or neighbor in the hospital
• Assist in a program for the addicted
• Befriend and express appreciation for a teacher (both church and school teachers), and the police and firefighters
• Mentor a college student or seminarian
• Be a part of a military ministry

These are just a few ideas as to how you can be a great American by serving our citizens and influencing our culture. Can you think of, or suggest others? If so, leave a comment and let us know. There are so many ways we can make a difference for Christ. Of course, social ministries help us earn the right to speak the Gospel into people’s lives. We express our love for God by loving our neighbor.

And who is our neighbor? Anyone who has a need. Just as the Samaritan served the beaten man on the side of the road, we are to compassionately minister God’s grace and mercy to people who need Jesus. Sharing Jesus is a way of life for the spirit filled Christian. So enjoy the 4th and give thanks to the God of freedom who provides an abundant life to all who call upon His Name. Then turn your gratitude to active service in the church to advance God’s Kingdom on earth right where you live.

A Big Move

I am happy to announce a major move with PowerPoint at KCBI. Our daily program of teaching and proclaiming God’s Word is now heard Monday through Friday at 8:30am!

KCBI is a wonderful station in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex and is heard throughout North Texas and beyond. Founded by Dr. W. A. Criswell and operated by the outstanding Criswell Bible Institute, KCBI is the largest non-profit Christian radio station in America.

The listenership is huge and we are very grateful to move from our former time at 12:30pm to the drive-time 8:30am slot. We will be on just before Chuck Swindoll and Insight for Living and David Jeremiah with Turning Point.

It is a privilege to be a part of the Criswell radio family. Dr. W.A. Criswell was an amazing and powerful preacher of the Gospel. To be included in his legacy is an incredible privilege.

So now you can hear PowerPoint in the Metroplex at 8:00am on The WORD 100.7 and at 8:30am on KCBI 90.9. For those of you who want to find PowerPoint in your area go to www.powerpoint.org for information.

Let me hear from you if you are finding our program either on television weekly or daily on radio.

June 30, 1950

That means yesterday was my birthday! Yes, I am now 58. To me birthdays are a great time to reflect and project. To remember the past and look forward to the future.

The photo is actually me in my first year. I was born in a small town in Arkansas, 30 miles north of Little Rock, a place called Conway. The population of Conway was around 10,000 in the 1950’s. My Dad, Tom, ran a drive-in called the Dan-Dee-Dog. We served delicious corn dogs, malts, etc. Some of my happiest days early on were hanging out at the drive-in with my Dad. My mother, Emogene, was a stay at home mom so she spent a lot of time chasing me. The 1950’s were a much simpler time. I spent my days playing ball and most of the evenings catching fire flies in a jar or swinging on the front porch with my grandpa. I actually liked school and picked up a life-long habit of reading. My maternal grandfather Sims taught me…readers are leaders.

The toys were very simple…hula-hoops, slinkies, electric football, and the like. But we never lacked for fun even though there was not a lot of money. I loved being a boy growing up in very innocent times.

The most important thing that happened to me in those early years was my salvation. I believed and received Jesus into my life as a six year old attending a tent-revival with pastor/evangelist J. Harold Smith. It is the most vivid remembrance of my early life and set the course for my future. I am very grateful for a Christian home and family that made it possible to become a follower of Jesus at a young age. He truly has given me a wonderful life. So I am celebrating life in Christ today and looking forward to the days and years ahead. For the believer, the best is always yet to come!

The path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, which shines brighter and brighter until full day. Proverbs 4:17

Camp: Yesterday and Today

Prestonwood students are off to camp this week and I can’t help but think of my own student days and the life-changing experiences at Camp Sagamore at Latham Springs, Texas. Our home church, Sagamore Hill Baptist Church in Ft. Worth was well known for it’s youth ministry and camp was always the focus each summer. Over 500 campers joined us every August for fun and faith on the Brazos River near Waco. Scores of teenagers came to Christ each year and many others strengthened their walk with Christ – including me.

In 1965, I was a 15 year-old soon to be sophomore at Eastern Hills High School. Playing baseball was pretty much my world. Girls were also in the mix, but the great game was the most important thing in my life. Growing up in church and being saved as a child, my Christian faith was stable but definitely not a priority. Some spiritual slippage was taking place and compromise was a real possibility. I was at a crossroads. Would I follow Christ with my whole heart or just be a “church kid.”

The theme of Camp Sagamore that summer was “I Take Hands Off My Life.” Taken from a chorus we sang at each camp service, the words began to capture my heart:

I take hands off my life
It is no longer mine
I take hands off my life
Let it be forever Thine.
Help me to walk each day
Just for Thee
All the heart of me
Every part of me
Just for Thee.

I knew it was time for me to get in or get out spiritually. Lukewarmness was not a choice. Be “hot or cold” Jesus said – not lukewarm. My friends needed to know Christ. I needed strength to face temptation. What kind of person would I be? What would I do with my life?

That summer of ’65 my life turned. I fully surrendered to know and do God’s will. I gave myself unconditionally to Christ. It wasn’t long after that I heard God’s call to preach and the course of my life was in motion. Camp Sagamore was the place I discovered my purpose and passion.

This is why I strongly urge you to make sure your children are involved in the student ministry of your church. It has been more than forty years since my camp experience but obviously I’ve never forgotten what God did in me those hot days of August so long ago.

There are many activities that seem to compete with the church youth ministries. There are many more options for kids in 2008. But make sure your teens are being exposed to spiritual influences at church. I am preaching the Word of God today because of what happened in my life at youth camp.



This photo is taken of me and my pastor Dr. Fred Swank a few years late baptizing campers in the Brazos. The young boy who was called at camp is now preaching and baptizing.

As I am praying for Prestonwood students at camp this week, I am forever grateful for God’s work in me and asking God to raise up a new generation of young men and women who will take this Gospel to the world.

A Superior Savior

The Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life released a report Monday from a major national survey taken last year. The survey asked about religious identification, beliefs and practices. The vast majority of Americans questioned, say they believe in God (or a “universal spirit”). But substantial majorities from all major religious categories say they believe their religion is not the only path to eternal life and there is not just one correct version of faith. This includes evangelicals and Southern Baptists who said by a clear majority of 57-60% that other religions besides Christianity can led to eternal life.

A whopping 85% of members from mainline churches such as Methodist, Lutheran, United Presbyterian understand there is more than one way to Heaven. Catholics weighed in at 79% who said Jesus is not the only way to salvation. In Texas, the so called buckle of the Bible belt, 65% said you can get to God by your religion of choice.

Are you surprised at these overwhelming numbers of acceptance and tolerance? I’m not. We have been observing a growing willingness of people in America to reject Biblical Christianity in favor of an eclectic homogenized form of religion which has as a supreme goal of religious tolerance.

Many claim it is offensive and even bigoted to say that the Christian faith is superior to others. How dare someone say that Jesus is the only way to Heaven and salvation is found in Him alone.

The exclusivity of Christ is the major point of resistance by most unbelievers and it is a volatile discussion among friends and family members. Of course when you begin with the cultural relativism that pervades our times and believe that all truth is relative, you soon conclude that it is not just one truth that is absolute. Yet the concept of God alone being our Savior is common in both the Old and New Testament. For example, Isaiah 43:11 “I, I am the LORD, and besides me is no Savior.”

God our only Savior, sent His only Son, Jesus, to provide salvation. Jesus is called our Great God and Savior in Titus 2:13.

“waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ,”

Jesus came to be the Savior of the world. That includes the world of all religions, all races, all nations and generations. The love and grace of God is inclusive of all but it is exclusive in that only Jesus can save.

Jesus claimed this in John 14:6.

Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."

The apostles proclaim it in Acts 4:12.

Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.

This is the difference of the Christian faith and all the religions of the world. Religion is man’s effort to please God and earn eternal life. But Jesus came because we cannot save ourselves and He died and rose again to give us a hope and future with Him in Heaven.

Without Jesus we have only the puny efforts of religion that cannot save or even help to save. We need so much more than religion – we need a Savior. It is true…one religion is as good as another – none of them can save from sin and provide eternal life. Only Jesus saves.

The problem is people don’t want Jesus. They want a religious salad bar to pick and choose what they like and want to believe. People choose idolatry – a designer religion, rather than the one true God and Savior.

One final word on this today. Is tolerance and acceptance of all gods really a virtue? Paul commends the warnings of the Old Testament against false religions with these words.

“No, I imply that what pagans sacrifice they offer to demons and not to God. I do not want you to be participants with demons. You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. You cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons. Shall we provoke the Lord to jealousy? Are we stronger than he?” 1 Corinthians 10:20-22

So here it is – any religion that does not worship the God and Savior of the Bible is worshipping demons! What do you think? Let me hear from you…Jack.

Why We Came

There are many reasons to take a trip to the Holy Land. To strengthen faith, to grow in Gods Word, to celebrate the Promised Land, to view prophecy fulfilled and yet to be fulfilled, to meet and enjoy new friends. But on our last day here we realized why we really came to this incredible place. We gathered our group in a Garden and walked into a two thousand year old tomb that is… empty. Inside the words were written… “He is not here, He is risen.” So when you think about it, we traveled all this distance to see … nothing! This empty tomb could be the very place where Jesus was laid. There is compelling evidence to suggest that the Garden Tomb is the burial site for Jesus. But wherever the place, an empty grave proves our Savior lives and that He is Lord.


Just a few steps away is a rugged cliff which mysteriously looks like a skull. If you look closely you will see the bridge of a nose and two eye sockets in the photo. We are told in the Bible that Jesus was crucified at Calvary that means “the place of the skull.” Jesus did not die on a “Hill Far Away”, as the song suggests, but in a well-known public place of execution just outside the walls of Jerusalem. He was exposed to the stares and jeers of all who passed by. So when you look at the skull like features of this hill you realize the most important event in human history likely took place here.

Back in the Garden, we all remembered why Jesus died and shared the Lord’s Supper together. We wept and we worshipped. Most of all we celebrated the reality of the resurrection. We stood together, held hands and sang these words:
“Because He lives, I can face tomorrow, because He Lives, all fear is gone. Because I know He holds the future, and life is worth the living just because He lives.”

This is my last blog from a trip of a lifetime to the lands of the Bible. I hope that you can go with us same time next year. But even if you have never come to the Holy Land, never forget this truth… Jesus is where you are right now. If you are a Christ follower you are the temple of the Holy Spirit (I Corinthians 6:19). So every place you go is a holy place. Every step you take is a walk with Him. Jesus is alive and living in the Believer. So you don’t have to come to where He was to know where He is, if He lives in you. You are His Holy Place.

As we left Israel, we all felt like the disciples on the road to Emmaus. After they walked with the Risen Savior they exclaimed, “Did not our hearts burn within us while He talked to us on the road, while He opened to us the Scriptures (Luke 24: 32).” So we come back home with our hearts believing and burning. Make it your prayer each day to walk in His steps and by His Spirit make life a journey that never ends.

From Jerusalem – that is all for now. But join me regularly from this blog as we will have a chance to connect and communicate. I am looking forward to talking with you about a variety of important subjects. Stay tuned. Shalom!! Jack



Pictured: Jack, Deb, Kelly, Josh and Kaytie Graham

Gethsemane

The Garden of Gethsemane is near the Mount of Olives. Olive trees still grow here including some, as pictured above, which may be over 2000 years old. Gethsemane is the place where Jesus prayed and prepared for the cross. Near these olive trees, Jesus poured out His heart in passionate prayer to the Father and surrendered His will to God’s purpose in saving mankind. He was to “taste death for every one” (Heb 2:9). Jesus lived all his life under the shadow of the cross, and now it was time to drink the cup of suffering for all our sins. The Bible tells us that He sweated drops of blood as He agonized over the prospect of His imminent death. As gruesome as the physical suffering of the cross was, greater still was the terrible prospect of experiencing spiritual death. In this very garden where Jesus prayed-- we prayed. Individually and in small groups we prayed the prayer of Jesus “Not my will but Your will be done” I prayed with our family members on the trip - Deb, our daughter Kelly, our son Josh and his wife of two months Kaytie. We prayed to know and do God’s will, and just as Jesus fulfilled His destiny, so would we. Jesus came to seek and save the lost (Luke 16:11)… So His passion is our purpose as well. Here in this ancient garden Jesus surrendered fully to the Father and went to Gethsemane to Calvary for you and me. Our group walked away from the garden with an enormous sense of gratitude for what Jesus has done for us.

Pilate’s Pavement

As if that wasn’t emotional enough, we also gathered the group at the Antonio Fortress that contains pavement etched with Roman games dating back to the time of Christ. This means we were looking at the place where Jesus was mocked and beaten by Roman soldiers and then tried and convicted in the court of Pontius Pilate. Here the precious blood of Jesus was poured out. We stood under a first century arch where Pilate said “Ecce Homo” which means, “Behold the Man.” If you saw the movie the Passion of the Christ you will recall the violent beating of Jesus… beaten and bloody He was then led away to the cross to die. Rick Briscoe sang, “Behold the Lamb” and we walked away in silence remembering the One who was slain before the foundation of the world. His love for each one of us is eternal and we are forever saved because of what Christ did for us at Calvary.


To experience a Biblical-spiritual trip to Israel is to never be the same. I can’t wait to tell you more the next time- Jack

Jerusalem

We are now in Jerusalem described in the Bible as the joy of the whole earth and the city of the great King (Psalm 48:2). It is breathtaking to stand on the Mount of Olives and view this city and consider its history and destiny. Though Jerusalem is a very powerful city it is really a small stage for the divine drama of salvation. Jerusalem has been a city in conflict for most of its history and in the end all the nations of the earth will surround Jerusalem for a final world battle (Zechariah 12:2). However, when you consider this city you realize that…

God loves it
Satan hates it
Jesus wept over it
The Spirit descended on it
The nations are drawn to it
And Jesus is coming to it to reign over it!

Today, I had the opportunity to talk about the future and the prophetic events that will unveil here. Prophecy and the study of last things should motivate us to live Godly lives and to be more intense and intentional about sharing our faith. God gives us prophecy to change our hearts, not just fill our heads. I am amazed that some choose to neglect prophecy and yet every time I speak on the subject of the last days and the return of Christ, our church is uniquely blessed and people seem to respond so positively to these messages. You can go to Powerpoint.org and find my message series “The Beginning of the End” which is my latest series on the return of Christ if you are interested. Just because some people abuse prophecy does not mean we should avoid it. There is a crown of rejoicing to those who love his appearing (2 Timothy 4:8). So today on the Mount of Olives we talked about the future and the final events from the very place where Jesus ascended and will return one day! Read the words of the Angel who announced “Men of Galilee why do you stand looking into heaven this Jesus who was taken up from you into Heaven will come in the same way as you saw him go into Heaven (Acts 1:11).” Jesus is coming soon! Have you ever noticed at the end of a ball game the tempo of the game picks up and the energy and intensity of the game increases because the clock is running out? Because the time is short we need to make sure we are giving ourselves completely to Christ!


Ps. We are also having a whole lot of fun meeting new friends…. Meet my new best friend Clyde the Camel.

Sunrise at Galilee

Check this photo out. I took it from our hotel at 5:30 AM as the sun was rising over the Sea of Galilee. This is one of the most beautiful places on the planet. It is also virtually unchanged from the time of Christ. No wonder Jesus spent so much of His time and ministry here. It was the center of His earthly ministry. He called His disciples here. He performed amazing miracles in the towns and villages surrounding the sea. He preached powerful messages overlooking the water including the Sermon on the Mount.

Our day began on boats as our group boarded small vessels called, “Jesus Boats.” We traveled to the middle of the lake (The Sea of Galilee is actually a large, freshwater lake) and anchored our boats together. I then preached from Matthew 14 where we are told Jesus walked on the water. He came walking on the water with regal strides in the middle of a storm to demonstrate that everything over our heads is under His feet. He is the Master of the winds and the waves. If you are going through a storm in life, remember Jesus is always in control.

Revival at the Mount of Beatitudes
We then made our way to the Mount of Beatitudes where we had a service at the place where Jesus delivered His famous Sermon on the Mount, which is recorded in Matthew 5-7. After reading the Beatitude, “Blessed are they that mourn for they shall be comforted” I asked Prestonwood member, Velma Mitchell, to tell her story. Velma then began to tell the story about how her 17-year-old son was killed in a drive-by shooting in South Dallas several years ago. Velma spoke of God’s grace in her life that comforted her and of God’s people from Prestonwood who ministered to her in this time of great need. There was not a dry eye when she concluded and sang…

In times like these we need a Savior
In times like these we need an anchor
Be very sure, be very sure
Your Anchor holds, and grips the Solid Rock

God moved throughout our entire group and our Jewish guides spoke to me privately about how much her testimony touched their hearts. We then worshiped as Rick Briscoe sang, “The Lord’s Prayer.” Since this was Father’s Day, we will never forget these moments in the presence of our Abba Father.

That’s all for today but I’ll be back with another post later tonight.

-Jack

Day 2

Our 2nd day in Israel was spectacular! Group spirit is soaring and we are experiencing the presence of the Lord each step of the way. At Caesarea by the Sea, an ancient Roman city, we gathered at an amphitheatre at the place where the Apostle Paul stood before Herod Agrippa who was a powerful Roman King. Paul boldly proclaimed his faith in Jesus and this powerful Roman King ended up saying, “Paul, you almost persuade me to be a Christian.” All of us have a story to tell. Make sure you are telling your friends and family how Jesus changed your life. You don’t have to have a spectacular, dramatic testimony like Paul. Just simply and boldly tell your own story. After a great day, including overlooking the plains of Megiddo where the battle of Armageddon will be fought (more on this in a later blog) we moved on to Nazareth and Cana of Galilee at the very place where Jesus attended a 1st Century wedding feast and performed a great miracle. Together we prayed and dedicated our own marriages to Christ and asked Him for miracles in our lives and families.

I’m looking forward to telling you more tomorrow about this incredible trip of a lifetime. Stay tuned and make sure and tell your friends and family about the blog…

Shalom Ya'll

Welcome to my new blog! I'm excited about this chance to communicate with you on a variety of subjects. Some biblical...some cultural...and I may even give a few sports' opinions from time to time. Most of all it will give us an opportunity to connect and talk about subjects we all care about.

So here we go with my first post...from Israel! So as we say in Texas, Shalom Ya'll. I'm leading a group of 150 on a trip of a lifetime through the Holy Land. Deb and I have been visiting here since way back in the 1970's. A lot has changed since then, but many things are just the same. We love coming here again and again because it always feels like "home." In a sense, Israel is the spiritual home of all believers. Our faith was born here. God's Word was given here. Jesus walked here. And our eternal future is unveiled here. As Christ followers, we have a vested interest in Israel past, present, and future.

This year, Israel is celebrating its 60th year of rebirth as a nation. The state of Israel was established in 1948 after centuries of Jewish dispersion. The very existence of Israel is a miracle of history and it is exciting to be a part of this very important celebration of freedom. My love for Israel is strong and I am grateful for the spiritual heritage we discover each time we are here. I like to say a trip to the Holy Land is like a front row seat to the Bible. The Word of the God comes alive when you see this place up close and personal. There is a very special sense of God's presence when we visit the lands of the Bible. I really hope you can come here someday soon. But til you do, let me tell you about a few of our experiences so far...

Joppa

We began on the Mediterranean Sea at a place called Joppa where Jonah set sail for Tarshish which was 180 degrees in the opposite direction from where God told him to go. Jonah was a reluctant, disobedient prophet who found it very dangerous to try to run from God. He ended up tossed from the ship, swallowed by a great fish where he spent three days in a sleazy, underwater hotel sleeping on a "foam, blubber mattress." He ultimately repented and God gave him another chance to obey Him which he did and God used him to bring about revival in a very pagan city. Also at Joppa, Simon Peter in the New Testament was led by the Spirit to share Christ with a God fearing Roman Centurion. Even though this soldier was responsive and ready to know about Jesus, God spent a great deal of time working on Simon Peter's heart to get him ready to go. Finally after sending Peter a vision, Peter obeyed God and led this man to Christ. It is one of the greatest conversions of the New Testament.

The point of these two stories, which took place in the same place centuries apart, is that God wants to get His Word to the world. He has called us all to share our faith and to tell people about Jesus. There is an incredible blessing when we obey Him and make ourselves available to the work of His spirit in us. As we stood by the Mediterranean Sea looking into distant horizons, I was reminded once again how important it is to do everything possible in our own generation to tell the Good News.

Ok so that's enough for today but I will be posting and telling you more about our second day in Israel as soon as possible. God bless you and... and oh by the way Happy Father's Day!