Pastor Seabaugh's Blog

Future Church Now

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What comes to mind when we talk about “youth group?”  Perhaps it’s something like this.  “The youth ministry is important.” “Youth are so different today.”  “We need to keep them occupied.”  “They can do their own thing so long as they don’t get in the way.”  Why do we think this way about the youth?  … Read more

Are You Listening?

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I love to talk.  Especially if you can get me talking about something I’m passionate about, such as the ministry at Bethel, LINC Twin Cities, or good choral music.  I’m sure you have your favorite topics as well.  “Don’t get me started!”  But as much as most of us like to talk, we also know the value of a good listener.  This reminds me of James 1:19, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry…”  The Bible calls for us to listen first.  What great advice for us as we seek to develop Christian relationships between the members of our church and especially with others     outside of our church so we can share about Jesus.

 Active Listening
When somebody has something to say to us, we show that person respect by actually receiving the message they are sending!  But researchers have found that on average we only retain 25-50% of what we hear in conversation!  That’s like leaving out every other word!  There’s nothing more damaging to a relationship than having someone share something important with you only to have you promptly forget.  Active listening can help us strengthen relationships by opening up better lines of  communication.  Below are a few tips to help us all be more active listeners.

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Our Common Bond

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Some of my most fond memories from my schooling have come from the relationships that were created. When I entered college and began my instruction in music, I was suddenly thrust into a community of students who had much in common. We all loved music and we talked about it all the time. Of course, … Read more

GodSpeak: It Will Change Your Life… Forever

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Really? Really. There are lots of things that promise to change your life. Some actually deliver. Choosing a college, a spouse, or a career will certainly change your life. But it won’t change it… forever. Yea, literally forever, eternally, perpetually, without end. This can. And it actually has the potential to change the lives of … Read more

GodSpeak

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These are exciting times at Bethel! Beginning in September we will undergo a major congregation-wide initiative to read through the Bible together in two years. Now, this means a few things will change around here so I thought I would answer a few common questions in this venue so that you can consider joining us in this life-changing experience.

Why are we doing this?
The concept of GodSpeak traces back to a few realities I observe in and among the people of God today. First, I see Christianity existing in a world that is less than open and accepting of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Second, I see Christians who, for whatever reason, were trained that only a pastor or qualified layperson could really talk about God. As a result I see Christians who are fearful to speak of spiritual matters with others, even with other Christians! I was faced with this question: How can we equip the people of God to be comfortable enough with their faith that they can share the Gospel with their unbelieving friends and relatives?

What is GodSpeak?
I believe GodSpeak could prove to be a major step in the right direction. Here’s the concept.

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Rummage

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What are you looking for? Do you feel like you just rummage through life, searching for something that will satisfy an otherwise unidentifiable longing? It seems in our current society contentment is shunned and the “haphazard search” is glorified. Think about it. When was the last time you watched a movie or a TV show … Read more

Holy

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Holy Things The word “holy” means to set something apart for a special purpose, specifically for God’s purpose. We call the Bible the “Holy Bible” because of all the books in the world, this one is set apart by God as His word. We call the Lord’s Supper “Holy Communion” and baptism “Holy Baptism” because … Read more

Fatigue

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Sleep Deprivation With a new baby in the house I am beginning to wonder what a full night’s sleep actually feels like. When you’re sleep deprived, everything is more difficult. Making decisions is more difficult. Staying sharp in the afternoon is more difficult. Even things that are otherwise routine are made more difficult. It helps … Read more