THE TOWN CHURCH // Fort Collins, CO

What is apologetics?

2012-01-26T09:23:00.001-07:00

Questions to ask

2012-01-09T10:08:00.001-07:00

Last Sunday we worked through Nehemiah 8. Near the end of the sermon, I challenged everyone to ask the following questions to at least one person during the week. Here they are, so ask away.

1. What are you reading this week?

2. What is it teaching you about God?

3. How have your eyes been fixed on Jesus and the gospel?

4. How are you moving toward obedience because of it?

Why New Year's Resolutions Don't Work

2012-01-02T09:36:00.000-07:00

If you hadn't noticed - it's 2012. Many make resolutions this time of year. Are all of those resolutions helpful? Justin Holcomb posted a few thoughts about that at TheResurgence.com. Below are his main points. Do yourself a favor and read the entire article.

1. Not all resolutions are good
2. Just do it...
3. Grace actually works
4. God gives grace to change

READ the article HERE!

Read your BIBLE!

2011-12-30T06:47:00.000-07:00

In just a few short days we will be in a new year. Many of you will resolve to be more disciplined in many areas of life. One of the disciplines many of you may try to begin is more thorough Scripture reading. This is a good and God-honoring desire. Below are a few suggestions of plans you may want to try this year.

1. If you are a part of The Town Church and have an account on The City - you may choose to read through the bible reading plan in the "Read the Bible" section of the "GROWTH" tab on the left hand side of the page. This plan will take you through four different sections of the bible each day with the goal of reading the entire bible in 2012. If you choose this plan, you will be reading at the same pace and schedule as others who choose this plan.

2. Read through a book of the Bible in its entirety (repeat 20 times). To see this challenging plan READ HERE.

3. YouVersion.com has several Bible reading plans available for synced reading on all your devices. Find a plan for you HERE.

As we read through Scripture we must remember that God's Word is primarily about God. These Bible reading plans are not about us. They are not about what we can accomplish. These plans are simply tools to point us to our Savior.

What is your plan for Scripture reading in 2012? If you have one, share it in the comments section below. Let's encourage and challenge one another to know God in His Word in 2012.

Repent & Believe (12.29.11)

2011-12-29T09:19:00.000-07:00

Prayer on Psalm 73

Truly God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart.  But as for me, my feet had almost stumbled, my steps had nearly slipped.  For I was envious of the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked…Nevertheless, I am continually with you; you hold my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will receive me to glory.  Whom have I in heaven but you?  And there is nothing on earth I desire besides you.  My flesh & my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalm 73:1-3, 23-26

Father God, how I resonate with the cry of the Psalmist early in this chapter – how easily, how unconsciously I envy those around me! And the specifics are even more condemning as I daily demand in prayer that you provide me with security, financial comfort, health, & the removal of troubles from my life or relationships.  Dear God – I am praying for You to give me the life of a wicked, arrogant man!

Thank you God that you are not fooled by the many ways that I cloak these requests in quasi-spiritual rhetoric.  My unbelief in Your providence is disguised in an American ethic of ‘hard work’ or ‘financial stewardship’.  My commitment to athletics is make paramount because I am modeling good disciplines for my children and watching my health.  Eliminating troublesome situations or relationships is often justified as some form of ‘Christian discernment’.  I have made idols of so many of the GOOD things that You provide.  And I cannot help but believe that I am not the only one who does this.

Abba, I pray that you would show me the many ways that I, like the Psalmist, actually pray that you would give me the life of an independent – one who does not know God, one who wants stuff, but not the Father.

But God, You treat me like a Son.

I am reminded afresh of the beauty of Christ & the power of Your Gospel.  You sent Jesus to suffer at the hands of the wicked so that I might live forever as one of your sons with whom you are well pleased.  Because of Christ, you guide, rebuke, delight in, & care for me.  I pray God that you would chase those idols away that would tempt me towards unbelief & self-dependence or that would cause me to depend on anything other than the finished work of your Son.

Amen

Written by Nate Hines

Bad Art (Video)

2011-12-21T14:33:00.001-07:00

Have you ever wondered why there is so much bad "christian" art? This 10 minute video featuring Greg Thornbury, Scotty Smith and Mike Cosper, may help you understand. Watch, listen, learn and be enthralled by Thornbury's bow tie.

This Sunday

2011-12-15T15:30:00.000-07:00

This Sunday we will be taking a break from Nehemiah to focus our attention on the One who was sent to save - Immanuel. In preparation for this Sunday, read John 3:16-21. Why did Jesus come?

Repent & Believe (12.15.11)

2011-12-15T09:10:00.000-07:00

'But they and our fathers acted presumptuously and stiffened their neck and did not obey your commandments. They refused to obey and were not mindful of the wonders that you performed among them, but they stiffened their neck and appointed a leader to return to their slavery in Egypt. But you are a God ready to forgive, gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, and did not forsake them. Even when they had made for themselves a golden calf and said, ‘This is your God who brought you up out of Egypt,’ and had committed great blasphemies, you in your great mercies did not forsake them in the wilderness. The pillar of cloud to lead them in the way did not depart from them by day, nor the pillar of fire by night to light for them the way by which they should go. You gave your good Spirit to instruct them and did not withhold your manna from their mouth and gave them water for their thirst. Forty years you sustained them in the wilderness, and they lacked nothing.' - Nehemiah 9:16-21

Dear Father, as I read through this stark retelling in Nehemiah 9 of the pursuit of Your people, I am struck afresh with the contrast between our continual betrayal and Your awesome, never-ending love. From the first verse of Genesis You show yourself to be a God of unmatched power and grace, who preserves and upholds all of creation. Rightly, the host of heaven worships You.

Also in this chapter, I am cut deeply by the conviction that I am exactly like Your people who for centuries You have pursued and rescued. So often I forget and move away from You to pursue my own selfish agenda - to make myself the small god of my paltry kingdom. Just like Your people of old, I imagine that my duty-bound, joyless religious life is somehow pleasing to You. Really I have elevated my own comfort, my personal right-ness, my independence above total reliance on Your Son.

But You are a God ready to forgive, gracious and merciful, and You reveal the tenderness that You have for Your people in this passage. I see it most clearly in the number of times it says, ' But God....' In contrast to my actions, and the historic actions of Your people, You display again and again and again Your power unto salvation. Father, in Your Son You came to earth for us, to live with us, suffer, bleed, die, and be raised again. You have sent Your Spirit to guide, teach, reprove, protect, and comfort us. From the beginning of creation You have upheld Your covenant to pursue, sanctify, and redeem Your people.

God as we enter the Christmas season, I pray You would continue to reveal the multitude of golden calves that I have stored up - my agenda items for perfect health, great fitness, a profitable business, a well ordered family, a 'spiritual' reputation at church. May Your Spirit drive me to ever deepening repentance and dependence on Christ Jesus. Amen
Written by Nate Hines

Repent & Believe

2011-12-14T16:40:00.001-07:00

In the gospel account of Mark, Jesus says, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe the gospel. Hundreds of years later, in 1517, Martin Luther nailed his Ninety-Five Theses to the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany. The first of these ninety-five states: When our Lord and Master Jesus Christ said “Repent,” he intended that the entire life of believers should be repentance. We believe these words are not out-dated. They were relevant then and they are relevant now. Repentance and belief are part of the daily Christian life.

Over the next several weeks, we will be posting short reflections and prayers from our elders and elder candidates - pointing us all to a life of repentance and belief.

Please check back soon to read the first installment by Nate Hines.

Advent for you and yours

2011-11-27T09:26:00.001-07:00

As a church we want to provide resources that point our attention and affection toward our Savior. Below are two resources that may be of help for you during this holiday season.

DAILY ADVENT READING: This is a daily plan to read through four portions of Scripture leading up to Christmas day. There is one reading from a psalm, one from a prophet, one from a gospel account and one from an epistle. Download the file here.

DAILY ADVENT DEVOTIONAL FOR FAMILIES: This is a daily devotion for families. There are activities associated with several days, so you may want to plan ahead. This devotional uses the Advent Wreath with candles. Each day has a very short reading from Scripture. Download the file here.

Inspecting the walls

2011-11-22T06:02:00.001-07:00

Last week we looked at Nehemiah 2. In that chapter we learn that Nehemiah assesses the damage of the city. As we apply this, we are learning that we also need to know about the brokenness of our own surroundings so that we can move toward the brokenness with the hope of the gospel. We will not learn of the hopelessness of our surroundings by sitting on our couches. We learn these things when we do the difficult (enjoyable) work of inspecting our surroundings. If we are praying for opportunities, we also need to be acting out on our prayers. Prayer is not an excuse for inactivity.

Some of you may be at a loss of what to do to carefully inspect your surroundings. Let's start by getting to know our neighborhoods. Let's start by simply getting to know our neighbors. You may be asking, "how am I supposed to get to know my neighbors?" That's a great question. Below is a list of 100 ideas to get your mind turning. Read through the list. Print out the list. Pray through the list - asking God to show you how to put action to your prayers.

Neighbors – Your Immediate Neighborhood
1. Stay outside in the front yard longer while watering the yard
2. Walk your dog regularly around the same time in your neighborhood
3. Sit on the front porch and letting kids play in the front yard
4. Pass out baked goods (fresh bread, cookies, brownies, etc.)
5. Invite neighbors over for dinner
6. Attend and participate in HOA functions
7. Attend the parties invited to by neighbors
8. Do a food drive or coat drive in winter and get neighbors involved
9. Host a music share party in your home (everyone brings 5 favorite songs and discusses)
10. Offer to mow someone’s yard who needs it on your street
11. Have a garage sale
12. Organize a tasting tour on your street (everyone sets up food and table on front porch)
13. Cook Out with gate open, or even in the front yard and let neighbors know they are welcome to join. 14. Have a game night (yard games outside, or board games inside)
15. Art swap night - bring out what you’re tired of and trade with neighbors
16. Grow a garden and give out extra produce to neighbors
17. Have an Easter egg hunt on your block and invite neighbors use their front yards
18. Start a weekly open meal night in your home
19. Do a summer BBQ every Friday night and invite others to contribute
20. Create a block/ street email and phone contact list for safety
21. Invite your neighbors to serve along with you for a local cause in your community
22. Organize a backyard movie night for kids on your block
23. Prayer walk and talk to people you come across
24. Jog outside instead of on the treadmill
25. Pull their trash back in when you notice its out
26. Cook an extra casserole and give it to a neighbor
27. Buy an extra dozen donuts and give them to a neighbor
28. Start a compost pile and allow neighbors to dump their compost and take
29. Host a sports game watching party
30. Host a coffee and dessert night
31. Organize and host a ladies craft night
32. Organize an effort for neighbors to help take care of elderly in neighborhood
33. Become a regular at your neighborhood pool/park
34. If you have a skill, let neighbors know that you can use it to help them for free
35. Host a movie night and discussion afterwards
36. Start a walking/running group in the neighborhood
37. Start hosting a play date weekly for other stay at home parents
38. Organize a carpool for your neighborhood to help save gas
39. Collect good will store items and offer to take them to goodwill
40. Have a front yard ice cream party in the summer
41. Start a sowing group
42. Go Christmas caroling in your neighborhood (invite neighbors in on it)
43. Throw a July 4th block party
44. Start a neighborhood Facebook/Twitter/Google + group
45. Ask longtime residents to help you learn about the neighborhood
46. Offer to babysit neighbors kids so they can have a date night
47. Find out your neighbors birthdays and take them a card and baked goods on it
48. Setup a meet your neighbors night with drinks in your driveway/front yard
49. Ask your HOA or apartment complex if they need help with anything
50. Host a regular Saturday morning breakfast potluck

Extended Neighborhood – The Regular Spots In Your City
51. Frequent a local gym or recreation center
52. Find a park that you consistently spend time with your community at
53. Pick a few restaurants to frequent getting to know the staff and regulars there
54. Go to the same coffee shop when you can
55. Start a regular ultimate Frisbee game in your city
56. Take the kids to story time at your local library
57. Let your kids play in the city sports leagues
58. Attend your city council meetings and get to know what’s going on in your city
59. Attend your local school board meetings to know what is going on in the schools
60. Participate in the local festivals, parades and celebrations of your city
61. Invite a neighbor to a local sporting event
62. Start a guys night at your local pub/eatery
63. Get involved in your kids school PTA
64. Connect with other home school kids through local coop events
65. Be a part of your local genealogical society
66. Tip generously at your regular restaurant spots
67. Participate in local film viewings and discussions
68. Attend your local High Schools sporting events
69. Coach a local little league sports team
70. Offer to teach free computer training sessions at your local library/public venue
71. Start a Study Group at a local place that needs business
72. Be a regular with your kids at the same playscape/restaurant during the day
73. Ask your local college how you can help serve international students
74. Get involved with your local lions or rotary club to learn about the community.
75. Find a local tweetup group to meet with regularly
76. Frequent a live music night at your local coffee shop or bar
77. Make a routine of taking the family to a evening recreation spot (pool, jump zone, etc.)
78. Find a local philosophy/theology discussion group and become a regular participant
79. Find a baking meet up group and be a part of their activities
80. Go to the same hair stylist/barber and get to know them
81. Find your local bank representative and get to know them
82. Be a regular at your local farmers market

83. Take a regular stroll at your local park

84. Take your dog to the dog park in your city

85. Start a local art collective blog and organize around different themes

86. Have gospel discussions in public places where others can listen in

87. Check your areas craigslist for community service needs

88. Ask a local restaurant owner how you could bless their employees

89. Frequent the same gas station and make an effort to get to know the workers there

90. Watch sporting events at the same local sports bar/restaurant in your city

91. When you can, support local businesses and get to know the people in that business.

92. Visit your cities visitors center to learn about the it’s history

93. Start a storytelling group at your local coffee shop

94. Organize a kids fun day at your city park

95. Offer free computer/technology help for elderly citizens in your area

96. Start a bike repair coop

97. Cook out at your local park and invite the people there to eat with you

98. Start a sowing class at your local community center

99. Organize a coworking time at your local coffee shop for people who work at home

100. Join a city softball, soccer, football, basketball league.

This list was taken from Josh Reeves and may be read in its entirety HERE.

Example

2011-11-14T21:03:00.001-07:00

As we work through Nehemiah as a church in combination with our discussions about the purpose of our Townships, we thought this video would be helpful as an example for us. It is 14 minutes but well worth the time to see how others are carrying out a very similar vision.

Songs we sing

2011-11-14T09:29:00.001-07:00

Our vision as a church is to see the gospel transform everything. On Sunday afternoon when we gather, our desire is to sing songs that point to the transformative power of the gospel of Jesus. Yesterday we sang a song originally written by Isaac Watts. The updated melody was written by Jamie Barnes. Below are the lyrics to this song.

ABSENT FROM FLESH
Absent from flesh, O blissful thought
What joy this moment brings
Freed from the blame my sin has brought,
From pain and death and its sting.

Absent from flesh, O Glorious day!
In one triumphant stroke
My reckoning paid, my charges dropped

and the bonds 'round my hands are broke.

Absent from flesh! then rise,my soul,

Where feet nor wings could climb,

Beyond the sky, where planets roll,

And beyond all keep of time.

CHORUS:
I go where God and glory shine,
To one eternal day
This failing body I now resign,
For the angels point my way.
For the angels point my way.

<p>&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://sojournmusic.bandcamp.com/album/the-water-and-the-blood"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;The Water and the Blood by Sojourn&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;</p>

If you are interested in listening to more of the album from which this song was taken CLICK HERE. You may also purchase the album at the same link.

Puritan Prayers

2011-10-16T05:37:00.000-06:00

Resting on God
O God, most high, most glorious,
the thought of Thine infinite serenity cheers me,
for I am toiling and moiling, troubled and distressed,
but Thou art for ever at perfect peace.
Thy designs cause thee no fear or care of unfulfilment,
they stand fast as the eternal hills.
Thy power knows no bond, Thy goodness no stint.
Thou bringest order out of confusion,
and my defeats are Thy victories:
The Lord God omnipotent reigneth.

I come to Thee as a sinner with cares and sorrows,
to leave every concern entirely to Thee,
every sin calling for Christ's precious blood;
revive deep spirituality in my heart;
let me live near to the great Shepherd,
hear His voice, know its tones, follow its calls.
Keep me from deception by causing me to abide in the truth,
from harm by helping me to walk in the power of the Spirit.
Give me intenser faith in the eternal verities,
burning into me by experience the things I know;
Let me never be ashamed of the truth of the gospel,
that I may bear its reproach, vindicate it,
see Jesus as its essence, know in it the power of the Spirit.

Lord, help me, for I am often lukewarm and chill;
unbelief mars my confidence, sin makes me forget Thee.
Let the weeds that grow in my soul be cut at their roots;
grant me to know that I truly live only when I live to Thee,
that all else is trifling.
Thy presence alone can make me holy, devout, strong and happy.
Abide in me, gracious God.

This was taken from The Valley of Vision: Puritan Prayers and Devotions. If you don't own a copy - you should.

4 Ways to Pray the Gospel

2011-10-11T10:17:00.000-06:00

J.D. Greear wrote an article at TheResurgence.com about praying the gospel over yourself. This would be a good set of prayers to put into practice on a daily basis.

1. “In Christ, there is nothing I could do that would make you love me more, and nothing I have done that makes you love me less.”

Pray about this “gift righteousness” of the gospel (2 Cor. 5:21) and go to war against the incipient works-righteousness hardwired into our hearts.

2. “Your presence and approval are all I need today for everlasting joy.”

Pray about this value of God’s presence in our lives. It’s one thing to know that Jesus is your possession; it’s another for that approval to have such weightiness in our hearts that our captivity to other idols is snapped.

3. “As you have been to me, so I will be to others.”

Pray about and consider the extravagant generosity of God toward us. His generosity toward us leads us to radical generosity toward others.

4. “As I pray, I’ll measure your compassion by the cross and your power by the resurrection.”

Pray that God would help you view the world through the lens of the gospel. Seeing the compassion and power of God revealed in the gospel produces bold, audacious faith in our hearts.

Acts 29

2011-10-11T09:59:00.000-06:00

The Town Church in Fort Collins, CO is a part of the Acts 29 Network. Mark Driscoll posted an article HERE about the beginnings of the network as well as an interview with Scott Thomas (President of Acts 29).

For those of you who have questions about our network, this may be a helpful article for you to read.

25 Ways to be Missional in Your Neighborhood

2011-08-30T09:16:00.000-06:00

1. Stay outside in the front yard longer while watering the yard

2. Walk your dog regularly around the same time in your neighborhood

3. Sit on the front porch and letting kids play in the front yard

4. Pass out baked goods (fresh bread, cookies, brownies, etc.)

5. Invite neighbors over for dinner

6. Attend and participate in HOA functions

7. Attend the parties invited to by neighbors

8. Do a food drive or coat drive in winter and get neighbors involved

9. Have a game night (yard games outside, or board games inside)

10. Art swap night – bring out what you’re tired of and trade with neighbors

11. Grow a garden and give out extra produce to neighbors

12. Have an Easter egg hunt on your block and invite neighbors use their front yards

13. Start a weekly open meal night in your home

14. Do a summer BBQ every Friday night and invite others to contribute

15. Create a block/ street email and phone contact list for safety

16. Host a sports game watching party

17. Host a coffee and dessert night

18. Organize and host a ladies artistic creation night

19. Organize a tasting tour on your street (everyone sets up food and table on front porch)\

20. Host a movie night and discussion afterwards

21. Start a walking/running group in the neighborhood

22. Start hosting a play date weekly for other stay at home parents

23. Organize a carpool for your neighborhood to help save gas

24. Volunteer to coach a local little league sports team

25. Have a front yard ice cream party in the summer

*This has been taken from an article from vergenetwork.org. Read the entire article HERE.

Ezra / Nehemiah

2011-08-22T10:41:00.000-06:00

This Sunday we will begin a study of the books Ezra and Nehemiah. As you prepare to join us, take some time to read through these books over the next weeks and months. Ask God what He would have you learn of Him. Ask God what He desires from you as you read and apply His Word. See you Sunday.

10 Tips

2011-08-21T05:56:00.000-06:00

Do you have children? Do you want to teach them about God? Here are 10 Tips for Teaching Children About God.

Teach all the time: Young children live in the moment. Help them to learn in the moment by making the most of opportunities as they arise. Talk about God in the day-to-day things you are doing.
Teach at a special time: Try to set aside a special time to read about God. Prepare for this time. If you are going to read the Bible, think about what you will read and how to simplify and explain it.
Questions and answers: Listen to your children's questions, and give quality time to answering them. But also ask them questions about what you've been trying to teach to check they have understood.
Teach through your life: You are a living example (or visual aid) of someone who loves God. Set a faithful example of dependence on God and let them see you reading the Bible for yourself.
Be prayerful: Like adults, children need God's help to grow in Christ and they can learn to pray. So pray for them and pray simple prayers with them (e.g. "sorry God that we...", "thank you God for...", "God, please help...").
Be simple: Young children are not abstract thinkers so be literal and concrete. Use real examples where possible (eg. God made this flower). Use simple vocabulary that they can understand. Avoid jargon.
Be specific: Move from the specific (God loves Ben) to the general (God loves everyone). Use lots of familiar examples so that they can understand.
Repeat and repeat again: You might get tired of saying it, but remember young children thrive on repetition.
Be thankful: Approach God with thankfulness. Model to your children how we can thank God in various situations and what we can thank God for.
Be visual: Young children learn through their eyes as well as their ears. Use pictures, visual aids, picture books etc.

Josh Garrels

2011-08-17T13:08:00.000-06:00

Looking for good music? Go to Josh Garrels' site and download his new album. Creative. Thoughtful.

New West Fest - Ride your bike!

2011-08-14T04:58:00.000-06:00

We gather at 201 Whedbee Street in Old Town Fort Collins. New West Fest is this weekend and our gathering space is a block from one of the stages for this festival. If you plan to join us today at 4PM (and we hope you do), you may want to ride your bike. Parking will be extremely limited! See you this afternoon.

Dan Dunn

2011-07-25T11:41:00.001-06:00

Sunday we talked about the two portraits of gain found in 1 Timothy 6:3-10. As an illustration, I talked about Dan Dunn. Below is a clip to help you understand what Vince was talking about during the sermon. The painting begins about 2 minutes in.

25 Ways to Love Your Neighbor

2011-07-23T10:19:00.001-06:00

On August 14th we will be starting a two week series discussing our Mission. Part of our mission is to "engage the culture." We see this working best as individuals in our own context (neighborhood, workplace, school, etc.). Below is an excerpt from a blog post by another church planter in Texas. Read the entire article HERE.

1. Stay outside in the front yard longer while watering the yard
2. Walk your dog regularly around the same time in your neighborhood
3. Sit on the front porch and letting kids play in the front yard
4. Pass out baked goods (fresh bread, cookies, brownies, etc.)
5. Invite neighbors over for dinner
6. Attend and participate in HOA functions
7. Attend the parties invited to by neighbors
8. Do a food drive or coat drive in winter and get neighbors involved
9. Have a game night (yard games outside, or board games inside)
10. Art swap night – bring out what you’re tired of and trade with neighbors
11. Grow a garden and give out extra produce to neighbors
12. Have an Easter egg hunt on your block and invite neighbors use their front yards
13. Start a weekly open meal night in your home
14. Do a summer BBQ every Friday night and invite others to contribute
15. Create a block/ street email and phone contact list for safety
16. Host a sports game watching party
17. Host a coffee and dessert night
18. Organize and host a ladies artistic creation night
19. Organize a tasting tour on your street (everyone sets up food and table on front porch)
20. Host a movie night and discussion afterwards
21. Start a walking/running group in the neighborhood
22. Start hosting a play date weekly for other stay at home parents
23. Organize a carpool for your neighborhood to help save gas
24. Volunteer to coach a local little league sports team
25. Have a front yard ice cream party in the summer

There are 100 ideas in this list. These are the top 25. If you'd like to see the others, read HERE.

Minot, ND under water

2011-07-09T22:04:00.002-06:00

Trinity Church in Minot, ND is our sending church. As you've probably heard, much of Minot has been flooded and 4,100 homes are now under water. Once the water subsides, the clean-up and demolition efforts are going to be immense. Watch this short video below to get a glimpse of what the people in Minot are facing. We plan to put together a team to travel to Minot to help in the clean-up efforts. Check the blog, Facebook or Twitter to stay up-to-date on information about these efforts. May God be honored and the gospel proclaimed in all of these events!

Do I have to go to church?

2011-07-09T10:58:00.000-06:00

Is Church Membership Biblical?

2011-07-06T16:40:00.000-06:00

In an article about church membership at Resurgence.com, Matt Chandler finishes by saying "Local church membership is a question of biblical obedience, not personal preference." Read the article HERE to find out why.

Church in Culture

2011-07-01T05:46:00.000-06:00

New LOCATION in Fort Collins

2011-06-27T11:47:00.001-06:00

More resources on modesty

2011-06-10T08:18:00.000-06:00

Last Sunday we worked through 1 Timothy 2:8-15. In that passage Paul speaks about distractions in the church. One of the distractions in the 1st century church as well as the 21st century church is immodesty. The ladies at the Girl Talk Blog offer several resources in helping us think about modesty with the gospel as the center.

Click HERE to see their posts on modesty!

Modesty Heart Check

2011-06-07T12:56:00.000-06:00

Last week we looked at 1 Timothy 2:8-15. In that section Paul describes disruptions happening in the Ephesian church. One of those disruptions was tied to women who were dressing immodestly. During our time together I discussed some practical steps to point us all toward to the gospel in the way that we dress. You can listen to the sermon HERE.

Another very practical resource for women has been written by the ladies at the Girl Talk Blog. They say things much better than I could ever say them and they come from a female perspective. I commend it to you for your reading (and doing) pleasure. Read the Modesty Heart Check HERE !

NEW LOCATION

2011-06-03T07:05:00.000-06:00

This Sunday (June 5), we will be gathering at Mountain View Community Church at 4PM. The building is located at 201 Whedbee Street - a few blocks east of College Avenue in the heart of Old Town. If you've visited or if you are a regular attender, we'd love to see you this Sunday!

For more information about the church, check out our web site - www.thetownftc.org

10 Reasons NOT to Join a Church Plant

2011-05-12T12:21:00.000-06:00

As we look at 1 Timothy and Paul's words about the church being the foundation to the Truth, these words by Justin Buzzard are helpful.

If you live in Fort Collins, and you are looking for a church, we would love to have you join us. Keep in mind the following as you consider joining us.

10 Reasons NOT to Join a Church Plant

1. If you’re looking for the next cool thing in town. (We want to grow by conversion growth, not church-goer transfer growth.)
2. If you’re a Christian and you don’t like your current church. (You will find reasons to not like this church.)
3. If you have a bad track record at churches of being unteachable and causing problems. (You won’t change here, you’ll repeat the pattern.)
4. If you’re a consumer wanting to “go to church” once a week for a nice show. (We are not a Sunday show, we are a community of disciples on a mission)
5. If you want religion. (This church will be built on the radical gospel of grace)
6. If you have an agenda. (We have our vision, our mission, and our values—your private agenda does not supercede them)
7. If you’re a wolf. (We will sniff you out).
8. If you think this will be a nice little church that stays the same size, where everybody knows your name and you have my cell number on speed dial and we have a picnic lunch together every week. (By God’s grace, we want to grow.)
9. If you think this will be easy and smooth. (This will be hard and difficult; this will be a fight, a battle, and a challenging mission.)
10. If you want to hold onto your comfortable life. (You must lose your life.)

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T10:15:00.000-06:00

Happy Mother's Day! Be sure to check out the post at Resurgence. That's all. Carry on.

Books

2011-05-01T06:41:00.000-06:00

Here are a few books I've been reading over the last few days. Buy them. Read them. Share them and talk about them with friends. Ready! Set! GO!

The Water and the Blood

2011-04-26T09:38:00.002-06:00

Sojourn is an Acts 29 Church in Louisville, Kentucky. They have just released their second album based on hymns by Isaac Watts. This is a video explaining their vision for the album. Good music about a good God.

Sojourn Music: "The Water And The Blood" album preview from Sojourn Community Church on Vimeo.

5 Ways to Make Your Kids Hate Church

2011-03-27T06:12:00.002-06:00

Thomas Weaver posted a brief article on The Resurgence about how to successfully downplay the role of the church and godly living in your life. As you downplay the church and godliness, your children are watching. What are you teaching them?

1. Make sure your faith is only something you live out in public

Go to church... at least most of the time. Make sure you agree with what you hear the preacher say, and affirm on the way home what was said especially when it has to do with your kids obeying, but let it stop there. Don’t read your Bible at home. The pastor will say everything you need to hear on Sundays. Don’t engage your children in questions they have concerning Jesus and God. Live like you want to live during the week so that your kids can see that duplicity is ok.

2. Pray only in front of people

The only times you need to pray are when your family is over, holiday meals, when someone is sick, and when you want something. Besides that, don’t bother. Your kids will see you pray when other people are watching, no need to do it with them in private.

3. Focus on your morals

Make sure you insist your kids be honest with you. Let them know it is the right thing for them to do, but then feel free to lie in your own life and disregard the need to tell them and others the truth. Get very angry with your children when they say words that are “naughty” and “bad”, but post, read, watch, and say whatever you want on TV, Facebook, and Twitter. Make sure you focus on being a good person. Be ambiguous about what this means.

4. Give financially as long as it doesn’t impede your needs

Make a big deal out of giving at church. Stress the need to your children the value of tithing, while not giving sacrificially yourself. Allow them to see you spend a ton of money on what you want, while negating your command from Scripture to give sacrificially.

5. Make church community a priority... as long as there is nothing else you want to do

Hey, you are a church going family, right? I mean, that’s what you tell your friends and family anyways. Make sure you attend on Sundays. As long as you didn’t stay up too late Saturday night. Or your family isn’t having a big barbeque. Or the big game isn’t on. Or this week you just don’t feel like it. Or... I mean, you're a church-going family, so what’s the big deal?

6 Biblical Principles for Corporate Worship

2011-03-07T12:15:00.001-07:00

Mark Driscoll posted an article at Resurgence on biblical principles for the corporate worship setting. Below are the six principles. You can read the entire article HERE... and I would encourage you read it.

1. Corporate worship is to be God-centered
2. Corporate worship should be intelligible
3. Corporate worship is to be seeker-sensible
4. Corporate worship is to be unselfish
5. Corporate worship is to be orderly
6. Corporate worship is to be missional

At the end of the article Driscoll gives, what he thinks, are the biblical elements of corporate worship.

1. Preaching (2 Timothy 4:2)
2. Sacraments of Baptism and the Lord's Table (Matthew 28:19; 1 Corinthians 11:17-34)
3. Prayer (1 Timothy 2:1)
4. Reading Scripture (1 Timothy 4:13)
5. Financial giving (2 Corinthians 8-9)
6. Singing and music (Colossians 3:16)

The Gospel-Centered Life

2011-02-21T15:16:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday we finished the series, "Know Love Now: A look at 1 John." This week (2.27) we will begin a nine week series called "The Gospel-Centered Life." We will work through application questions from the series during our Townships. This will be a great opportunity for us to gain a better understanding of the gospel as well as learn to apply the gospel to all of life.

Join us at 4PM on Sunday evenings. We'd love to have you join one of our Townships as well. Looking forward to working through gospel issues in community.

Why we gather

2011-02-20T07:04:00.000-07:00

We gather every Sunday at 4 PM at Peak Community Church (500 Mathews St.). We are a young church plant and compared to other gatherings, you may find us small. Our size does not mean that we gather with less purpose. We gather to worship God together. John Piper explains well why the church gathers.

For more information about The Town Church - visit our web site - www.thetownftc.org

10 Characteristics of a Missional Church

2011-01-26T17:13:00.000-07:00

Scott Thomas wrote an article about the missional church. Below are the ten points article found HERE

10 Characteristics of a Missional Church

1. The missional church is committed to the authoritative, infallible, inerrant, inspired Scriptures (2 Tim. 3:14-17; Acts 2:42).
2. The missional church understands the centrality of the Gospel expressed in all aspects of a person’s life (1 Cor. 15:1-4; 2:2; Gal. 6:14)
3. The gatherings of the missional church are characterized by God-centered worship, preaching of the Gospel, prayer, Lord’s Supper by penitent souls, and baptism as a response to the Gospel (John 4:23-24).
4. A missional church understands it has been sent by God as missionaries in their own culture (Matt. 4:19; John 20:21; Acts 16:20; 17:6) to make disciples of all peoples (Matt. 28:18-20; Acts 1:8).
5. The missional church boldly and intentionally promotes the Gospel through making disciples and church planting globally through collaborative expressions of mercy and generosity
6. A missional church is dependent upon the Holy Spirit to empower and lead believers as agents for evangelizing and making disciples (Acts 1:8; Luke 4:1, 14, 18).
7. Missional churches utilize relationships and sacrificial love as the expressions of love to others in their journey toward faith (Matt. 5:13-16, John 15:12-17, 1 John 4:19-21).
8. The goal of a missional church is to walk in community with others as Jesus pursues them in His own way and timing (1 Cor. 9:20-23).
9. A missional church is a hands-on training ground for missionary training (Acts 4:13, 31-35).
10. Godly, biblically qualified elders lead a missional church (1 Timothy 3; Titus 1; Eph. 4).

Prayer

2011-01-15T07:09:00.000-07:00

Over the last several months I have linked to several books on this blog about prayer. Most of the books I've linked to have been books guiding the reader through what to pray.

Recently I came upon a book guiding the reader through how and why we should pray. This book has been extremely helpful in my attempts to become a better pray-er. If you are anything like me in your efforts to pray (I hope you are not), Paul Miller's - A Praying Life: Connecting with God in a Distracting World, will be a great encouragement and challenge. Buy it. Read it.

Back at it - 4 PM

2011-01-06T09:58:00.001-07:00

After a bit of break, we will be gathering again at Peak Community Church at 4 PM. Peak Community Church is located at 500 Mathews Street (on the corner of Mulberry & Mathews). Join us this Sunday!

Change o' venues

2010-12-28T19:53:00.001-07:00

Removing the Good Shepherd

2010-12-17T08:58:00.003-07:00

I've been reading Paul Miller's book The Praying Life: Connecting with God in a Distracting World. It's official, I don't know how to pray but I am learning. This book has been very helpful in working through this discipline.

This morning I read a section on cynicism and it's negative influence in our prayers. Miller points out the foolishness in our prayers when we cynically remove the Good Shepherd.

Look what happens to Psalm 23 when you remove the Good Shepherd and everything He does:

~~The LORD is~~ my ~~shepherd~~; I shall ~~not~~ want.
~~He makes~~ me l~~ie down in green pastures~~.
~~He leads~~ me ~~beside still waters~~.
~~He restores~~ my soul.
~~He leads~~ me ~~in paths of righteousness~~
~~for his name's sake~~.
~~Even though~~ I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death,
I ~~will~~ fear no evil,
~~for you are with~~ me;
~~your rod and your staff~~,
~~they comfort~~ me.
~~You prepare a table before~~ me
in the presence of my enemies;
~~you anoint~~ my head ~~with oil~~;
my cup ~~overflows~~.
~~Surely goodness and mercy shall follow~~ me
all the days of my life,
~~and~~ I ~~shall dwell in the house of the LORD~~
~~forever~~.

Foolishness, but I am finding this is often my view of God. How about you?

Read it

2010-11-29T11:27:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday we looked at 1 John 2:18-27. In this section John warns his reader against the deception of those who oppose Christ (antichrists). One of the primary ways we are able to guard ourselves from lies about the godhead is to read and know the Word.

Sunday, November 28th was the first Sunday of Advent. We encouraged everyone to read through a daily Bible plan for the season of Advent. The reading plan is attached HERE. Join us as we celebrate the Incarnation of our Savior.

Revolving Door

2010-11-28T09:42:00.009-07:00

Over the last few weeks I've had discussions with several different church planters and pastors about the "revolving door" of churches on the front range - specifically Fort Collins. The term "revolving door" refers to the fluctuation of people coming in an out of churches in this city. The Fort Collins church-goer seems to attend a church for six months or a year and then, for some reason or another, they leave that body and "join" a different one. I won't get into the reasons why I believe this is detrimental to the individual and to the body, as some of the reasons I have may be personal opinions.

If you have been in the church world for any number of years, you have probably made a trip or two through the "revolving door." If you have, did you leave your church well? Did you leave for the right reasons?

A few weeks ago the Acts 29 blog posted an article by Luke Simmons entitled How to Leave a Church. Simmons gives great practical instruction on how and why to leave a church. In this article he links to another article on one of the Gospel Coalition's blogs. There the author gives several reasons often used which are insufficient for leaving a church. They are;

1. Children’s Ministry—The Children’s ministry at another church is better. This cannot be a reason for changing churches. It is rather an opportunity for you to get involved in the children’s ministry of your church.

2. Buzz—Many people will flow to whatever church in town has the current “buzz.” The argument will be that the Spirit is at work there and we want to be part of it. But buzzes come and go. And so do the people that follow them.

3. Youth Group—The unhappiness of our teenage children in the current Youth Group, because of activities, other youth, etc. is not a reason for leaving the church we have covenanted with. I know this one will be controversial. Believe me, I have empathy as a parent and a former Youth Pastor. But our children are not the spiritual directors of our home. They should not be choosing the church we attend based upon their social status and network.

4. Church has changed—Churches always change. Unless the changes are unbiblical than we don’t have a reason to move on. We don’t move on when our wife or husband changes! We are we so quick to do so with the church we have covenanted with.

5. New Pastor—A new pastor is not a sufficient reason to change churches. It doesn’t matter how stiff, impersonal, unfunny, etc. he is. The list is endless. It doesn’t even matter if he is not the most interesting preacher. He is the man God called to this church for this time. And this is your church. Again, unless he is unbiblical why move on? You haven’t covenanted with a man, but with this body.

6. I’m Not Being Ministered to—I tell every one of our new member classes, “If we all walked into church each week and had a list of people we were going to try and ‘touch,’ encourage, or minister to, do you know how dynamic this church would be? Just on Sunday mornings, let alone if we did it during the week. If we each were concerned about the other person and walked in each Sunday with that in the forefront of our mind instead of, “Why didn’t he talk to me?,” “Why doesn’t anyone care about me?,” “Why isn’t anyone ministering to me?” Start ministering to others and you will find that you are being ministered to.

7. Music—Not a reason—whether it is slow, fast, traditional, contemporary, Psalms, hymns, or gospel choruses. Stop using it as an excuse!

As you look for a church or as you consider leaving your current church, think about these things. Why are you looking? Why are you considering leaving? Are they God-honoring reasons?

Strangely Dim

2010-11-17T10:45:00.001-07:00

This Sunday (11.21) we will be looking at 1 John 2:15-17. A book that has been extremely helpful for my preparation is Worldliness: Resisting the Seduction of a Fallen World. It is a collection of essays about the issues being discussed in these three verses in 1 John.

Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world - the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions - is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.

Two instructions:
1. Buy the book.
2. Join us on Sunday at 4 PM.

Ordinary

2010-11-12T19:56:00.005-07:00

On November 11, the blog at Desiring God posted a response to an article written by Carl Trueman about the rise of extraordinary preachers. He states that the ordinary pastor is to be more likely in the life of a church than the extraordinary pastor.

In light of that statement, Desiring God posted implications for the church and implications for the pastor.
Three Implications for Churches

Listen (attentively and expectantly) primarily to your pastor's sermons (assuming he's biblically orthodox).
Listen to extraordinary preachers (unless he's your pastor) sparingly. Do you normally quote extraordinary preachers in everyday conversation more than your pastor? Doing so often unwittingly feeds into creating unrealistic expectations for your pastor.
Lower your (likely unrealistic) expectations of your pastor. While he may not be (and likely isn't) extraordinary, he is (for you and your church) likely the right man in the right place at the right time. It's okay that your pastor is ordinary. (Aren't most of us rather ordinary, regardless of vocation?) Exercise grace towards him and his gifts—you may just see him begin to flourish.

Three Implications for Pastors

Broaden your diet of your favorite preachers. Ask a trusted individual in your church if you've found your voice. (Or do you eerily resemble, in either vocabulary, tone/tenor, or overall posture, your favorite preacher?) You may have to "fast" from some of your favorites for a season to broaden yourself. Let other voices in (again, assuming they're biblically orthodox), thus eventually finding your own.
Be content being an ordinary pastor and preacher. It's okay (really it is!) to be ordinary. A brief glimpse of church history is littered with seemingly ordinary people God's been pleased to use for His glory.
To give you proper perspective (and deep encouragement) as you aspire and cope with your newly embraced "ordinariness," read Carson's Memoirs annually.

Townships

2010-11-09T11:15:00.000-07:00

As a church, Christ-centered community is a high value. We gather on Sundays to worship God through the Word, singing, prayer and fellowship. Throughout the week we have smaller groups who meet in homes to share life together - usually around a meal. We calls these groups "Townships." We currently have one Township meeting on Tuesday and one on Thursday. We will be adding another group in the near future. We'd love to have you join us at one of those groups.

Our Tuesday Townships is celebrating Taco Tuesday this evening. Care to join us? I knew you would.

119 - pt. 21

2010-10-17T11:29:00.000-06:00

Over the last 21 weeks we've been reading Psalm 119 as we begin our gathering. Today we come to the last section of the psalm.

Are you looking for a community where you can belong? Join us, eh?

Psalm 119:169-176

TAW

Let my cry come before you, O LORD;
give me understanding according to your word!
Let my plea come before you;
deliver me according to your word.
My lips will pour forth praise,
for you teach me your statutes.
My tongue will sing of your word,
for all your commandments are right.
Let your hand be ready to help me,
for I have chosen your precepts.
I long for your salvation, O LORD,
and your law is my delight.
Let my soul live and praise you,
and let your rules help me.
I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek your servant,
for I do not forget your commandments.

The Church

2010-10-14T07:10:00.002-06:00

Recently, Mark Driscoll posted an article on the Mars Hill Church blog about the church. Below is the definition they use for the church. The definition hits 8 crucial elements of the church. We also believe that each of these elements must exist in the church.

The local church is a community of regenerated believers who confess Jesus Christ as Lord. In obedience to Scripture they organize under qualified leadership, gather regularly for preaching and worship, observe the biblical sacraments of baptism and Communion, areunified by the Spirit, are disciplined for holiness, and scatter to fulfill the Great Commandment and the Great Commission as missionaries to the world for God’s glory and their joy.

Read the entire article HERE.

Music: The oldies but goodies

2010-10-10T13:51:00.002-06:00

A few weeks ago I posted some information about our desire to sing theologically rich songs. This afternoon we will be singing the song I wrote about below. Join us and sing!
*********************************
As a church we desire to worship God in community in all of life. One of the ways we worship God as we gather together is through singing. We have a few goals we try to achieve as we choose the songs we will sing. We want the songs to be theologically rich and at the same time we want the gathered people to be able to sing the songs with ease. A great way to accomplish both of these goals is to sing the oldies but goodies. There are a few groups who are making an effort to put older hymns into singable, modern tunes. One of these groups is Red Mountain Music.

We will be singing one of their songs in the next few weeks. Take a look at the lyrics below. You can listen to clips of their songs on their web site and download all of the chord charts as well. Enjoy singing the rich truths of the gospel!

Hark, the voice of love and mercy
Sounds aloud from Calvary!
See, it rends the rocks asunder,
Shakes the earth and veils the sky!
“It is finished, It is finished,”
Hear the dying Savior cry.
“It is finished,” O what pleasure,
Do these charming words afford.
Heavenly blessings, without measure,
Flow to us from Christ the Lord.
“It is finished, it is finished,”
Saints the dying words record.
Finished all the types and shadows,
Of the ceremonial law;
Finished all that God had promised;
Death and hell no more shall awe.
“It is finished, it is finished,”
Saints from hence your comfort draw.
Tune your harps anew, ye seraphs;
Join to sing the pleasing theme;
Saints on earth and all in heaven,
Join to praise Immanuel’s name.
Hallelujah! Hallelujah!
Glory to the bleeding lamb!

119 - pt. 20

2010-10-10T13:38:00.001-06:00

Join us today at 4 PM. We'll be looking at Jesus in 1 John 1:1-4. We'll also be reading from Psalm 119. The section below is what will be ready this afternoon. We'd love to meet you today. If you have questions or want more information about The Town Church, feel free to check out our web site - www.thetownftc.org.

Psalm 119:161-168

SIN and SHIN

Princes persecute me without cause,
but my heart stands in awe of your words.
I rejoice at your word
like one who finds great spoil.
I hate and abhor falsehood,
but I love your law.
Seven times a day I praise you
for your righteous rules.
Great peace have those who love your law;
nothing can make them stumble.
I hope for your salvation, O LORD,
and I do your commandments.
My soul keeps your testimonies;
I love them exceedingly.
I keep your precepts and testimonies,
for all my ways are before you.

119 - pt. 19

2010-10-03T09:49:00.001-06:00

We are nearing the end of our readings of Psalm 119. Join us today as we read and think about verses 153-160. We gather HERE at 4 PM every Sunday.

Psalm 119:153-160

RESH

Look on my affliction and deliver me,

for I do not forget your law.

Plead my cause and redeem me;

give me life according to your promise!

Salvation is far from the wicked,

for they do not seek your statutes.

Great is your mercy, O LORD;

give me life according to your rules.

Many are my persecutors and my adversaries,

but I do not swerve from your testimonies.

I look at the faithless with disgust,

because they do not keep your commands.

Consider how I love your precepts!

Give me life according to your steadfast love.

The sum of your word is truth,

and every one of your righteous rules endures forever.

The Town Church FB page

2010-10-03T09:35:00.000-06:00

If you are interested in "liking" things then The Town Church would like your "liking." Click the image below to go to our Facebook Page - then do your clicking to indicate your "liking."

The Gospel Changes Everything

2010-09-27T10:55:00.008-06:00

We have now finished a series on our MISSION as a church. Yesterday we talked through the last section of our MISSION - We Seek to Transform Lives with the Gospel of Jesus. This morning I read a post on the Resurgence blog about the very thing we discussed yesterday. Read it HERE!

119 - pt. 19

2010-09-26T14:11:00.000-06:00

This afternoon we will gather at 4 PM. We will be reading/meditating on the section of Scripture below as we move into our time of the Word together. Join us, won't you?

Psalm 119:145-152

QOPH

With my whole heart I cry; answer me, O LORD!
I will keep your statutes.
I call to you; save me,
that I may observe your testimonies.
I rise before dawn and cry for help;
I hope in your words.
My eyes are awake before the watches of the night,
that I may meditate on your promise.
Hear my voice according to your steadfast love;
O LORD, according to your justice give me life.
They draw near who persecute me with evil purpose;
they are far from your law.
But you are near, O LORD,
and all your commandments are true.
Long have I known from your testimonies
that you have founded them forever.

Know Love Now - 1 John

2010-09-23T19:54:00.000-06:00

Starting in October, we will begin a look at the book of 1 John. Throughout the book John uses the words "know" and "love" over and over again. In chapter three he combines the two to point us to the gospel. "By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers."

Join us October 3rd at 4 PM. We meet at Peak Community Church at the corner of Mulberry & Mathews. We'd love to have you join us. Bring a friend and an enemy!

Missional Community in simple terms

2010-09-20T15:10:00.000-06:00

We are beginning our missional communities this week. We will call them Townships and they will become the geographical divisions of our mission as a church. I ran across this video today and thought it was a simple way of defining what we want to see continue at The Town.

119 - pt. 18

2010-09-18T06:26:00.000-06:00

The Town meets at 4 PM at Peak Community Church (500 Mathews Street / Fort Collins, CO). Over the last four months we've started our gatherings by directing our attention toward the Word of God in Psalm 119. This week we are reading verses 137-144. We'd love to have you join us!

Psalm 119:137-144

TSADHE

Righteous are you, O LORD,
and right are your rules.
You have appointed your testimonies in righteousness
and in all faithfulness.
My zeal consumes me,
because my foes forget your words.
Your promise is well tried,
and your servant loves it.
I am small and despised,
yet I do not forget your precepts.
Your righteousness is righteous forever,
and your law is true.
Trouble and anguish have found me out,
but your commandments are my delight.
Your testimonies are righteous forever;
give me understanding that I may live.

119 - pt. 17

2010-09-11T14:16:00.001-06:00

Every Sunday the community of The Town Church gathers to worship God in the reading of the Word, singing of songs and fellowship (relationships united in the love of Christ). Over the last several months we've been reading through Psalm 119 to begin our gathering to prepare our hearts for the worship of God through the Word. This week we are reading Psalm 119:129-136.

Join us this Sunday at 4 PM. We meet at Peak Community Church - located on the corner of Mulberry & Mathews (500 Mathews Street // Fort Collins, CO).

Psalm 119:129-136

Your testimonies are wonderful;
therefore my soul keeps them.
The unfolding of your words gives light;
it imparts understanding to the simple.
I open my mouth and pant,
because I long for your commandments.
Turn to me and be gracious to me,
as is your way with those who love your name.
Keep steady my steps according to your promise,
and let no iniquity get dominion over me.
Redeem me from man's oppression,
that I may keep your precepts.
Make your face shine upon your servant,
and teach me your statutes.
My eyes shed streams of tears,
because people do not keep your law.

A good word on battling anxiety

2010-09-08T19:57:00.001-06:00

Here is the latest update from Matt Chandler. I appreciate his words in the first minute about battling anxiety. Good, honest words.

Come on over!

2010-09-06T13:23:00.001-06:00

Tuesday is National Spaghetti Day! Come on over to the Black House to join in the celebration.

6 PM

Bring your stomach!
Call for directions - 970.237.2427

*National Spaghetti Day is not recognized as a real holiday by anyone other than us...and you if you join us.

119 - pt. 16

2010-09-02T14:49:00.000-06:00

This Sunday we will be reading Psalm 119:121-128. Join us at 4 PM at 500 Mathews Street in Old Town, Fort Collins.

Psalm 119:121-128

AYIN

I have done what is just and right;

do not leave me to my oppressors.

Give your servant a pledge of good;

let not the insolent oppress me.

My eyes long for your salvation

and for the fulfillment of your righteous promise.

Deal with your servant according to your steadfast love,

and teach me your statutes.

I am your servant; give me understanding,

that I may know your testimonies!

It is time for the LORD to act,

for your law has been broken.

Therefore I love your commandments

above gold, above fine gold.

Therefore I consider all your precepts to be right;

I hate every false way.

Mission

2010-09-01T13:32:00.002-06:00

Last week we finished a series on Jesus words to his followers in the mountains. This Sunday (September 5th) we will begin a series on the mission of The Town Church. As a church our mission is to worship God in community - loving others, engaging the culture and seeking to transform lives with the gospel of Jesus. Each Sunday we will discuss a different aspect of the mission.

September 5 - We Worship God in Community

September 12 - We Love Others

September 19 - We Engage Culture

September 26 - We Seek to Transform Lives with the Gospel of Jesus

If you are interested in hearing more about and being a part of our mission in Old Town, Fort Collins and beyond - join us at 4 PM each Sunday in September. Looking forward to being with you!

We meet at Peak Community Church (500 Mathews Street) in Old Town, Fort Collins.

www.thetownftc.org

970.237.2427

Feast after gathering - 8.29.10

2010-08-28T11:54:00.002-06:00

Are you looking for a place of worship on Sunday? If so, join The Town Church. On Sunday, August 29th we will be gathering to read the Word, hear the word taught and respond in singing.

We meet at 4PM at Peak Community Church at 500 Mathews Street in Fort Collins (on the corner of Mulberry & Mathews - 2 blocks from CSU).

After our gathering we will all be headed back to the Black House to feast. Everyone is invited. We'll even provide the meat. Join us!

No unicorns were hurt during the processing of this meat (maybe).

If you would like more information about The Town Church be sure visit the web site and follow us on

Twitter.

www.thetownftc.org

www.twitter.com/thetownchurch

Music: The oldies but goodies

2010-08-26T09:40:00.007-06:00

As a church we desire to worship God in community in all of life. One of the ways we worship God as we gather together is through singing. We have a few goals we try to achieve as we choose the songs we will sing. We want the songs to be theologically rich and at the same time we want the gathered people to be able to sing the songs with ease. A great way to accomplish both of these goals is to sing the oldies but goodies. There are a few groups who are making an effort to put older hymns into singable, modern tunes. One of these groups is Red Mountain Music.

It Is Finished (Hark, the Voice of Love and Mercy)
Taken from the Gadsby Hymnal #93
Words: Attributed to Jonathan Evans, 1784 & Benjamin Francis, 1787. Music: Jeff Koonce, 2005.

Hark, the voice of love and mercy,
Sounds aloud from Calvary!
See, it rends the rocks asunder,
Shakes the earth and veils the sky!
“It is finished, It is finished,"
Hear the dying Savior cry.

“It is finished,” O what pleasure,
Do these charming words afford.
Heavenly blessings, without measure,
Flow to us from Christ the Lord.
“It is finished, it is finished,”
Saints the dying words record.

Finished all the types and shadows,
Of the ceremonial law;
Finished all that God had promised;
Death and hell no more shall awe.
“It is finished, it is finished,”
Saints from hence your comfort draw.

Tune your harps anew, ye seraphs;
Join to sing the pleasing theme;
Saints on earth and all in heaven,
Join to praise Immanuel’s name.
Hallelujah! Hallelujah!
Glory to the bleeding lamb!

The world is filled with boys who can shave

2010-08-25T10:20:00.001-06:00

This week Mark Driscoll wrote an article for The Washington Post. In the article he addresses a subject that was written about in the New York Times Magazine. Read the entire article HERE. Below is a section of the article that sums up the main idea.

"I don't care if you buy a truck or play some video games or rock out on your guitar. But the problem is when those are prevalent, predominant, and preeminent in your life. Some of you guys would argue and say, "It's not a sin." No, but sometimes it's just dumb. You got fired because you were up trying to get to the next level and become a guild leader. That's dumb. You work one part-time job so you can play more guitar or Frisbee golf. That's dumb. You spend all your money on a new car or truck, or toys, or gear, or clothes, or gambling, or fantasy football. Dumb. Some of you say, "Well, it's not a sin." Neither is eating your lawnmower. It's just dumb. There are a lot of things that Christian guys do that aren't evil, they're just dumb and childish."

Read the article HERE. Thoughts?

119 - pt. 15

2010-08-25T09:29:00.001-06:00

This week we will be reading through Psalm 119:113-120. We'd love to have you join us this Sunday as we read through this section of the psalm together.

Psalm 119:13-120

SAMEKH

I hate the double-minded,

but I love your law.

You are my hiding place and my shield;

I hope in your word.

Depart from me, you evildoers,

that I may keep the commandments of my God.

Uphold me according to your promise, that I may live,

and let me not be put to shame in my hope!

Hold me up, that I may be safe

and have regard for your statutes continually!

You spurn all who go astray from your statutes,

for their cunning is in vain.

All the wicked of the earth you discard like dross,

therefore I love your testimonies.

My flesh trembles for fear of you,

and I am afraid of your judgments.

119 - pt. 14

2010-08-22T09:46:00.000-06:00

Over the last several weeks we've been reading through Psalm 119 to begin our time together. We've found that it helps direct our affections toward the Word of God. This afternoon we will be reading through the section with the Hebrew title NUN.

The section of the psalm is below. Join us in reading it in preparation for our time together this evening. If you are new to town or just passing through we'd love to meet you. If you are a CSU student we'd love to meet you! We gather at Peak Community Church at 4PM. The building is located on the corner of Mulberry & Mathews - just two blocks from College Avenue.

Psalm 119:105-112

NUN

Your word is a lamp to my feet

and a light to my path.

I have sworn an oath and confirmed it,

to keep your righteous rules.

I am severely afflicted;

give me life, O LORD, according to your word!

Accept my freewill offerings of praise, O LORD,

and teach me your rules.

I hold my life in my hand continually,

but I do not forget your law.

The wicked have laid a snare for me,

but I do not stray from your precepts.

Your testimonies are my heritage forever,

for they are the joy of my heart.

I incline my heart to perform your statutes

forever, to the end.

What is Acts 29

2010-08-19T15:44:00.002-06:00

The Town Church is part of a movement of churches in the Acts 29 Network. I frequently get questions about the network and why we've decided to connect with them. Recently Scott Thomas, the director of Acts 29, answered a few questions about the network.

Acts 29 was founded in 2000 with Mark Driscoll, pastor of Mars Hill Church in Seattle when it was about 200 in attendance and David Nicholas, a Presbyterian pastor (now retired) of a large church in Boca Raton, Florida. They formed the network to plant qualified, entrepreneurial men who held to a reformed soteriology (salvation) and were willing to engage urban cities with the gospel.

Acts 29 exists to make gospel-transformed disciples by planting church-planting churches.

Gospel Message: The major emphasis of Acts 29 is the gospel. The gospel is the power of God for salvation and sadly many churches are ashamed of proclaiming it (Rom. 1:16). As a result we may not be experiencing the fruit of transformation in our churches that is normally associated with the gospel (Col. 1:4-6; 2 Peter 1:3-9). God has given us His Word to proclaim to all nations in the power of the Spirit. Gospel transformation occurs with gospel proclamation.

The gospel can be (cautiously) summarized in the following manner: Jesus Christ, God’s promised rescuer and ruler lived our life, died our death and rose again in triumphant evidence as the first-fruits of the new creation to bring forgiven sinners together by the Holy Spirit to live under his gracious reign as His Kingdom people. Our full doctrinal statement can be found here.

Gospel Men: Our church planters are assessed on the basis of their qualification as elders, according to Scripture and their character as examined in an extensive review of their life and doctrine (1 Tim. 4:16). This includes a thorough examination of a man’s leadership in his home. A man’s family is his first congregation and his wife and children are his first disciples. We are looking for men who have been transformed by the gospel and are captured by the grace of Jesus and are following His mission to make disciples.

Gospel Mission: We believe church planting is the best way to take the gospel to the community it desires to serve. We believe new churches are the best means for Spirit-led followers of Jesus to make disciples of all people groups (Matthew 28:19–20). We believe church planting is the central process of evangelism in the Book of Acts, but also that doing so can spread the Gospel to every people or group, large or small, in every corner of the world. Throughout the Book of Acts we read narratives of the Gospel being planted in city after city. The book ends abruptly in Acts 28. Our mission with Acts 29 therefore is to carry on the discipleship making, church planting in the culture where God has sovereignly placed us (Acts 17:26-27).

Wolf in a Sheep Suit

2010-08-19T13:57:00.000-06:00

I've been studying Matthew 7:15-20 this week. In this passage Jesus warns his followers to watch out for "those who are in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves." It's a very helpful caution to us all. Unfortunately over the years there have been quite a few cheesy images produced to portray this idea. Enjoy.

This is my personal favorite. The sheep with wolf fangs.

Join us! Unless you are doing this

2010-08-19T09:53:00.000-06:00

If you live in Fort Collins or you are moving to Fort Collins soon - join us this Sunday at 4 PM...that is, unless you are practicing to be the next Yo-Yo Champion.

We are an Acts 29 church meeting in Old Town (2 blocks from CSU). Our mission is to worship God in community, loving others, engaging the culture and seeking to transform lives with the gospel of Jesus. If you would like more information about the church you may find it on the web site - www.thetownftc.org.

We meet at Peak Community Church located at the corner of Mulberry & Mathews. We're looking forward to meeting you!

119 - pt. 13

2010-08-13T10:13:00.000-06:00

It's Friday the 13th of August. Is it a coincidence that this is also the 13th part of our reading through Psalm 119? You decide.

This Sunday we will be reading through Psalm 119:97-104. If you plan to join us this Sunday I would encourage you to be reading and meditating on this section of the psalm.

We meet at 4 PM at Peak Community Church at the corner of Mulberry & Mathews just a few blocks from CSU.

Psalm 119:97-104

MEM

Oh how I love your law!
It is my meditation all the day.
Your commandment makes me wiser than my enemies,
for it is ever with me.
I have more understanding than all my teachers,
for your testimonies are my meditation.
I understand more than the aged,
for I keep your precepts.
I hold back my feet from every evil way,
in order to keep your word.
I do not turn aside from your rules,
for you have taught me.
How sweet are your words to my taste,
sweeter than honey to my mouth!
Through your precepts I get understanding;
therefore I hate every false way.

Matt & Lauren Chandler on Family & Suffering

2010-08-09T14:08:00.001-06:00

Matt Chandler is a pastor at The Village Church in Texas and is part of the Acts 29 Network. There's no need to say anything about this video. Just watch.

119 - pt. 12

2010-08-08T12:22:00.000-06:00

If you are looking for a community to be involved in and with - join us this Sunday. If you are new to the area and you are looking for a place to worship - join us this Sunday. If you are a new CSU student and you arrived in Fort Collins way too early - join us this Sunday.

We meet at 4 PM at Peak Community Church at the corner of Mulberry and Mathews (just 2 blocks from CSU). Join us. Bring a friend and an enemy.

_________________________

Over the last several weeks we've been reading sections of Psalm 119 together to begin our time in the Word. This week we are reading the following section.

Psalm 119:89-96

LAMEDH

Forever, O LORD, your word
is firmly fixed in the heavens.
Your faithfulness endures to all generations;
you have established the earth, and it stands fast.
By your appointment they stand this day,
for all things are your servants.
If your law had not been my delight,
I would have perished in my affliction.
I will never forget your precepts,
for by them you have given me life.
I am yours; save me,
for I have sought your precepts.
The wicked lie in wait to destroy me,
but I consider your testimonies.
I have seen a limit to all perfection,
but your commandment is exceedingly broad.

1 Verse at a time

2010-08-04T15:17:00.001-06:00

On April 18th we began a series called "Learning to Live in the Mountains." We've been looking at Jesus words to his followers (and bystanders) in Matthew 5-7.

I thought we'd be finished by the time CSU students would be coming back to school. I was wrong. I was wrong, in part, because of weeks like this week. We will be covering Matthew 7:12. That's right - one verse.

Typically I don't think it's best to cover such a small section of Scripture because in so doing we lose much of the original context. There are a few occasions when it seems best to cover a verse or two - so that's what we will do this week.

If you are looking for a community to be involved in and with - join us this Sunday. If you are new to the area and you are looking for a place to worship - join us this Sunday. If you are a new CSU student and you arrived in Fort Collins way too early - join us this Sunday.

We meet at 4 PM at Peak Community Church at the corner of Mulberry and Mathews (just 2 blocks from CSU). Join us. Bring a friend and an enemy.

119 - pt. 11

2010-07-28T10:27:00.001-06:00

This week we are reading together the 11th section of Psalm 119. If you are joining us on Sunday, I would encourage you to read this section and meditate on God's goodness revealed to us in His Word.

Psalm 119:81-88

KAPH

My soul longs for your salvation;

I hope in your word.

My eyes long for your promise;

I ask, “When will you comfort me?”

For I have become like a wineskin in the smoke,

yet I have not forgotten your statutes.

How long must your servant endure?

When will you judge those who persecute me?

The insolent have dug pitfalls for me;

they do not live according to your law.

All your commandments are sure;

they persecute me with falsehood; help me!

They have almost made an end of me on earth,

but I have not forsaken your precepts.

In your steadfast love give me life,

that I may keep the testimonies of your mouth.

Join us this Sunday, eh?

2010-07-26T10:25:00.000-06:00

We meet at Peak Community Church
Sunday - 4 PM
500 Mathews Street // Fort Collins CO 80524
www.thetownftc.org
970.237.2427

Minimum Wage for the Kingdom

2010-07-26T10:21:00.001-06:00

A few weeks ago we looked at Jesus' words about our treasures on earth. That evening we gave everyone at our gathering Randy Alcorn's book - The Treasure Principle. We have a few copies left - so join us on Sunday and I'll give you a book.

Below is an interview Mark Driscoll did with Randy Alcorn about the reason Alcorn makes minimum wage.

119 - pt. 10

2010-07-25T05:54:00.004-06:00

Over the last several weeks we've been reading through sections of Psalm 119. I've encouraged everyone to be reading the section for the week. The section for this Sunday would be a beautiful prayer to start each day.

If you are in Fort Collins and you are looking for a community to call home, we'd love to have you join us this evening at 4 PM. We meet at the corner of Mulberry and Mathews - just two blocks east of College Avenue in Old Town.

Psalm 119:73-80

YODH

Your hands have made and fashioned me;

give me understanding that I may learn your commandments.

Those who fear you shall see me and rejoice,

because I have hoped in your word.

I know, O LORD, that your rules are righteous,

and that in faithfulness you have afflicted me.

Let your steadfast love comfort me

according to your promise to your servant.

Let your mercy come to me, that I may live;

for your law is my delight.

Let the insolent be put to shame,

because they have wronged me with falsehood;

as for me, I will meditate on your precepts.

Let those who fear you turn to me,

that they may know your testimonies.

May my heart be blameless in your statutes,

that I may not be put to shame!

5 Ways to Know If You're Really a Christian

2010-07-22T15:33:00.002-06:00

The Resurgence posted an article today based on Jonathan Edwards' view of true conversion. He believed (and probably still believes) that there were five ways to know if you were truly converted. The five marks are as follows:

1. You love Jesus
2. You hate sin
3. You love God's Word
4. You love truth
5. You love believers

You can read the entire article HERE!

Therefore do not be anxious

2010-07-19T14:07:00.000-06:00

Yesterday we looked at Matthew 6:25-34. After we talked through the text, I mentioned at book on the issue of fear and worry. Running Scared by Edward Welch is a very helpful work on this issue. At the end of each chapter Welch provides a personal response to each issue concerning fear and worry.

I would recommend this book to every person who knows someone else (wink, wink) who struggles with the sin of worry.

119 - pt. 9

2010-07-18T09:26:00.001-06:00

Are you looking to connect to a community? Join us this evening at 4 PM. We meet at Peak Community Church (500 Matthews Street / Fort Collins) - just two blocks from the CSU campus.

As a church we've been reading through Psalm 119 together. We read a section every Sunday evening and I've been encouraging everyone to be reading and meditating on the next section of the Psalm throughout the following week. Today we are reading Psalm 119:65-72.

If you are unable to gather with us this evening, join us in reading this passage where ever you may be.

Psalm 119:65-72

TETH

You have dealt well with your servant,
O LORD, according to your word.
Teach me good judgment and knowledge,
for I believe in your commandments.
Before I was afflicted I went astray,
but now I keep your word.
You are good and do good;
teach me your statutes.
The insolent smear me with lies,
but with my whole heart I keep your precepts;
their heart is unfeeling like fat,
but I delight in your law.
It is good for me that I was afflicted,
that I might learn your statutes.
The law of your mouth is better to me
than thousands of gold and silver pieces.

Training Your Children to Manage Money

2010-07-12T20:42:00.001-06:00

Last Sunday we looked at Matthew 6:19-24. In this passage Jesus talks about storing up treasures in heaven and not on earth. A great resource on this issue is Randy Alcorn's book - The Treasure Principle.

As a family we've been talking about how we can train our sons in a right perspective of earthly and heavenly treasures. Today I stumbled upon an article by Randy Alcorn. Below are ten lessons to teach your children about treasures.

1. Give your children something greater than money - your time.
2. Use life's teachable moments to train your children.
3. Take a field trip to a junkyard.
4. Teach your children to link money with labor.
5. Teach your children how to save.
6. Get your children started on the lifetime adventure of giving.
7. Provide your children with financial planning tools.
8. Teach your children how to say "No."
9. Show your children how family finances work.
10. Never underestimate the power of your example.

Read the entire article HERE.

Why Every Leader Needs a Shepherd

2010-07-12T18:52:00.001-06:00

Scott Thomas wrote a post on the Acts 29 Network site about the need for every leader to have a shepherd. The post was primarily written for pastors but I believe the principles apply to every believer.

Every leader needs someone in his or her life that serves as a shepherd. After observing Christian leaders for 30 years, I compiled a list of 16 issues that I believe Christian leaders hide from others and often suffer alone.

I’m really just average.
I’m really not sure what I’m doing.
I have hidden emotional issues, some of which is derived from my relationship with my biological father.
I’m often motivated by self-glory.
I’m battling sin constantly (and losing occasionally).
I work way too much.
I have an inconsistent spiritual life.
People often get on my nerves.
My marriage is average on a good day.
I’m not sure how to be a good dad.
I really don’t like my job but I’m stuck.
I’m too young and inexperienced or my best days are behind me.
I’m really uncomfortable around unchurched people.
I don’t have a close friend.
I rely on my position and guilt to get people to do things.
I make decisions without prayer or consulting others.

Scott posts some staggering statistics at the end of the blog post. Read the article in its entirety HERE.

Earth

2010-07-11T09:48:00.000-06:00

Join us today at 4 PM as we look at Jesus' words in Matthew 6:19-24.

We meet every Sunday at Peak Community Church at the corner of Mulberry & Mathews (2 blocks east of College Avenue).