Resource Review: Plugged-In Parenting

Plugged-In Parenting comes at a time when parents find themselves between a rock and a hard place. They want to protect their children from the increasingly violent and sexualized content of movies, TV, the Internet, and music as well as cyber bullying and obsessive cell phone texting. But they fear that simply “laying down the law” will alienate their kids. Can parents stay connected to the media while staying connected to God and to each other? This book makes a powerful case for teaching kids media discernment, but doesn’t stop there. It shows how to use teachable moments, evidence from research and pop culture, Scripture, questions, parental example, and a written family entertainment constitution to uphold biblical standards without damaging the parent-child relationship.

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Resource Review: The Rage Against God by Peter Hitchens

Here, for the first time, in his new book The Rage Against God, Peter Hitchens, brother of prominent atheist Christopher Hitchens, chronicles his personal journey through disbelief into a committed Christian faith. With unflinching openness and intellectual honesty, Hitchens describes the personal loss and philosophical curiosity that led him to burn his Bible at prep school and embrace atheism in its place. From there, he traces his experience as a journalist in Soviet Moscow, and the critical observations that left him with more questions than answers, and more despair than hope for how to live a meaningful life.
      With first-hand insight into the blurring of the line between politics and the Church, Hitchens reveals the reasons why an honest assessment of Atheism cannot sustain disbelief in God. In the process, he provides hope for all believers who, in the words of T. S. Eliot, may discover “the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time.”

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Resource Review: So Long, Insecurity by Beth Moore

Perhaps one of the biggest issues women face is their own insecurity. Beth Moore, one of today’s most admired and trusted Christian writers, wants women to be free from the insecurity trap. So Long, Insecurity will strike a chord with women everywhere, as Beth speaks truth into the lives of readers, showing them how to deal with their innermost fears, rediscover their God-given dignity, and develop a whole new perspective—a stronger sense of self. Women of all ages and backgrounds will resonate with this message of security and discover truths that will free them emotionally and spiritually and lead them to a better life as they walk with God.

     Beth Moore has written many best–selling books and is a dynamic teacher and a prolific Bible–study author whose public speaking engagements take her across the United States to challenge tens of thousands. Beth is focused on teaching women all over the world and is known and respected wherever she goes. She is a dedicated wife and mother of two adult daughters and lives in Houston, Texas.

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5 Questions with Israel Houghton

UNITE editor Kyle Patterson with Israel Houghton

Interview with Israel Houghton by UNITE Editor Kyle Patterson

You see where you are at now, but really it is 20 years of music behind you. Often times people think that it is an overnight process and God elevates someone that quick. Can you touch on the process that he brings someone like you through?

I think it all works together. If you look at the collective of 20-21 years, you start out with a dream, a what if and to see some of it come to pass like the things you would have never dreamed or if you did you would have never told anyone, then to live out some of the things you imagined happening, is pretty amazing. Yet I think the key to longevity is humility. Just staying low and staying small and constantly acknowledging the fact that we actually had nothing to do with it except being obedient and God orchestrated the rest.

Can you touch on keeping the balance between connecting people to God as a worship leader and the praise and appreciation of man with all the awards you have won?
I went to the Dove Awards in 1995 and it was the first time I went and I sat way up at the top of the arena. Michael W. Smith got up and I think that year he won no kidding like his 30th Dove Award, some crazy number and people made a big deal about it. He got there to accept it and he said, "This is just one more thing that I get to lay at the feet of Jesus." You know how you'll hear a certain comment and it'll just reverberate and you know you will never forget that? I think that made a lasting visual impression on my mind and heart that it doesn't matter what the earthly accolades are, none of them compare to the signature of God on your life and you can never confuse the two. It is great to be acknowledged by our peers as  musicians and artists and that sort of thing but really whatever that hardware is, you take it and lay it at the feet of Jesus.

What would you say to an aspiring Christian musician today who is caught in the trials of life but with a heart to lead worship?
I would say, I don't know if this applies to everybody but for me, when I stopped chasing it, when I just  said, Jesus is all I want is you and I want to know you and be used by you but I am not going to chase a career, I am not going to chase the accolades, I am not going to chase the stage. For those reading this and are serving at a local church, serve in the local church like it's the thing, the only thing. I meet a lot of people who are frustrated serving in a church and are frustrated and looking ahead for the next big thing. I am like you are in the next big thing right now, the power of the local church, serve there and let the doors open up. The most frustrated people I've met are trying to kick down doors as opposed to allowing God to open the doors for them.

Can you touch on what it is like working with Joel Osteen at Lakewood?
Yeah, it has been fantastic, I have been there 10 1/2 years now on staff. I think there are a couple things that really stand out to me. One, when I agreed to come on staff the church was obviously growing but nowhere near what we have seen happen in the last 5 years. So, there is something to be said about believing God for big things and then watching them happen around you. And secondly Joel as a person is exactly who he is on the platform as he is off. He is just humble, very, very disciplined, very very focused on what he is called to do and he has been an amazing example to me and my family as to how to face down your critics, he has had a lot of critics, and yet he has just sort of shaken it off and stayed the course. His whole thing is that he is going to give hope to people and teach people to think differently if they can think differently they are going to live differently. I just applaud, man, his tenacious faith and to see history happening around us has been remarkable.

You have seen so much happen already, are there unfulfilled dreams or things you would still like to see happen in your ministry?

Oh I think always, our heart really is to expand what we have seen God do in our ministry. So we are in the process of expanding into South Africa and developing a group down there called New Breed Africa and I think it is the precursor to a lot more expansion, different continents, different teams and that sort of thing. Almost looking at it like church plants in the sense that we know what we are called to do, we accompany the sound of the church and all of us serve in our local church as well and I think that is very important and that is the criteria for being a part of this group. But we want to see that expanded, I look forward to doing a lot more behind the scenes though I love leading worship.

The Convergence of Prayer & Mission

Photo by Matt Brown

My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. John 17:20-23

By Kyle Patterson

We as the Church can do something together that we could never accomplish separately. While unity for the sake of unity can be unfruitful, unity with a mission, or The Mission of God, can multiply our impact. God is initiating a new level of collaboration so that all the gifts in His body in all nations from three generations work together. We can do so much more when we embrace each others different callings with love, agreeing on the real issues of faith—Lordship of Jesus, Eternal Salvation, Resurrection of the Dead, Life Everlasting, Prayer and the Great Commission—while agreeing to disagree on minor disputable matters. The truth is we need to make the main thing (reconciling the world to a relationship with Him) the main thing because we reveal the indescribable and incomprehensible love of God to a world that is, whether they know it or not, (and truthfully how easily we forget) longing for a relationship with our Creator.

     God’s love is only seen in fullness when the whole Body of Christ functions together. Part of our spiritual inheritance is in the hands of other ministries as is part of our revelation of God’s love.  Ephesians sums this up well in the record of Paul’s prayer when he prayed that together with all the saints we would have power to grasp the width, the height, the depth of the love of God and to know this love that surpasses knowledge.

     According to John Dawson, there are two attitudes that we can adopt as we minister translocally, either as “imperialists” that says, what I have is inherently better than what you have so I will impose my vision on you and ask that your culture submits to mine because the Lord has given me the strategy for you. Or as “settlers”, that says, may I come into your land, honor who you are, serve and befriend you and together we will find our destiny in God and experience kingdom life together. We cannot impose ourselves on those we minister to. According to Christ himself it is to our glory that we would be one (see John 17).

     The missions movement, prayer movement and church planting moments with market place ministries need to work together with focused effort to reach the seven spheres of society: family; education; government (politics, law and military); economy (business, science, and technology); arts (entertainment and sports); media; and religion Throughout history, the house of prayer has been a central part of God’s plan to advance His kingdom.

     Practically speaking the joining of missions efforts coupled together with the ministry of city-wide prayer is, I would like to suggest, the most effective way for the church to engage with one another, walking in the love and unity that Jesus spoke of in his final recorded prayer in John 17. It comes down to agreeing on the major issues—prayer and mission— and agreeing to disagree on the minors. It is time, like never before, to  work together to establish now what will benefit and bless generations to come after us. May our churches be places where the word is not just heard but also practiced. Dialoguing about the latest ideas of engaging unbelievers is helpful, but—but isn’t it time we as Christians have the character of Christ along with the power and spiritual depth that only comes from long and loving time in God’s presence? Truth be told, the whole earth is waiting for it. It is time we arise and take hold of that for which Christ took hold of us. The kingdom of God, Jesus explained, suffers violence and the violent take it by force.

Uniting Through Intercession

Because intercession in a nutshell is telling the invisible God what He tells us to tell Him, people consider it to be too weak and offensive to do (especially since it is so simple that everyone can do it). We see God’s wisdom in sharing His government in a way that leaves no place for our glory or boasting. The fact that God chose the simplicity of intercession (so all could do it) expresses His desire for partnership with us.

    Intercession causes us to internalize God’s Word by saying it back to Him. Each time we say what God says, it marks our mind and spirit and changes us—a  process that progressively renews our inner man. God’s words are spirit and life, they impart God’s life to us. Each time we say what God says, we receive a small impartation of His life that illuminates our mind and tenderizes our heart. “The words that I (Jesus) speak to you are spirit, and they are life.” (Jn. 6:63) Intercession also unites our heart to the people we pray for—we love who and what we pray for. Intercession produces community with people and ownership of God’s purposes in the nations.

     Could it be that God ordained intercession so that we would not only pray for but also pray with one another? Intercession for others causes multiplied blessings to return back on the life of the intercessor—every prayer of blessing for another is a prayer that God returns back on you and your family. Intercession changes the spiritual atmosphere of cities and nations and thus prepares the way for the presence of God. It positions us to hear from God about the calling and destiny of others. In summary, intercession is God’s brilliant strategy for including the saints in ruling with Him in power. Yet, it has such great impact on us as it draws us into intimacy with God as it protects with humility, transforms with holiness, anoints with power, unifies in community, releases revelation and increases our inheritance while it trains us to rule the nations with His wisdom. God’s desire to be worshipped on earth as He is in heaven has not changed. It’s time we give him what he deserves, all our love and worship. Look for more ways to connect in city-wide prayer in upcoming issues of UNITE.

Mission: Reaching Israel with the Gospel of Jesus Christ

By Lou Perez

     Reaching the Jewish peoples for Christ is not a simple task. There are almost 13 million Jewish people in the world with beliefs and ideologies as diverse as Joseph’s coat.

Many are atheists, agnostics, and skeptics. Some embrace Eastern philosophies, liberal lifestyles, and western materialism. There are those who focus on following Jewish ethical and ritual laws to the letter, while others retrofit the ethics and traditions to keep up with modern times. Some believe that the Scriptures came from God, while others aren’t so sure. There are even Jews in the orthodox religion who are atheists. I know it’s difficult to believe such a disparity, but in Jewish religion, as Richard Robinson so eloquently puts it, “Judaism is a religion of deed, not creed”. In other words, personal beliefs are not as important as following the traditions and rituals.

So how do we reach the Jewish people when each tread with their own unique gait?

Some Challenges and Myths: Among many hurdles to reaching the Jewish people, there are challenges and myths Christians must navigate when sharing the gospel.

One of the first challenges to reaching Jewish people is that to many, Christianity does not square with what it has done to Jews in its name throughout history. Events like the crusades immediately come to mind when some think of Christianity.

Another obstacle to Jewish people hearing the Gospel is the idea that believing in Jesus will somehow make them less “Jewish”, thus losing their cultural identity - That Believing in Jesus is strictly for the gentiles. This is not to mention the social consequences believing in Jesus would engender among the Jewish culture. Paul called the idea of Jesus a “stumbling block” to the Jews.

There are many other challenges that can be mentioned, but let’s talk about some myths that must be dispelled so that we can better reach the Jewish people. Jonathan Bernis gives three:

The first myth is that Jewish people have their own custom-made salvation and don’t need Jesus. Some might debate this in favor of a custom salvation, but let’s remember Paul’s words in Romans 1:16, “The Gospel is to the Jew first”. Also Peter’s words, “And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other Name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12 ESV.

A second myth is that Jewish people have a greater knowledge and understanding of what they Bible says than we do – Yet it is believed that “Only about 10% of the Jewish community is actually involved in the study of Scripture”.  This tells us that most Jewish people have never really read the Bible.

The third myth is that all Jews reject Jesus as the Messiah. The fact is that many Jews have no idea who Jesus really is.  Most are conditioned when they hear the name Jesus, what comes to mind is “the God Christians serve”, not the true Jewish Messiah.    Many Jewish people do not know the simple fact that that “Christ” is simply the Greek word for Messiah. 

Being sensitive to these hurdles will give us sensitivity when sharing the Gospel with Jewish people. So how should we share?
Connect before you seek to convert. It is human nature to zealously bring people to our side before we have earned the right to be heard. It has been well said that “Counsel not asked for is not well received”.  The title of a book recently written by John Maxwell also bears this out, “Everyone communicates but not everyone connects”.  When we are connected with someone, the question, “How did you come to your faith?” will naturally come up at some point, opening a door.

We should beware of our “Christianize” (words that only Christians understand). There are “Christian subculture” words we use that, to the average Jewish person, you may as well be speaking in code. Veteran Jewish Christians insist on using the term Messiah over Christ or even Joshua. This is closer to the language Jewish people understand.

Tell them your story.   You don’t have to be a theologian to win souls. People can argue with your theology, but they cannot invalidate your story. As the saying goes, "A man with an experience is never at the mercy of a man with an argument".  “And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony,” Revelation 12:11.

Show them how the Old Testament is totally interconnected with the New Testament though messianic prophecies. To do this, we must read and understand the Old Testament. It says in Acts 28:23 that the apostles “explained the kingdom of God from the law of Moses”. There are over 300 messianic prophecies that can be used to share with our Jewish friends.

Affirm that you believe in the Jewish Messiah. Acknowledge that you cannot be saved without Him. It’s important to note that Jesus is not just the God of Christians, but the God of all. A Jewish person may view converting to Jesus and converting to Christianity as one and the same. But these are two entirely different things. One is a personal thing, and the other cultural. In America especially, a person can be a convert to the Christian culture without really belonging to Jesus. On the other hand a Jewish person can convert to Christ without having to convert to Christian culture.  When I came to Christ at the age of thirteen, I did not have to give up my Hispanic cultural heritage to be saved, only my sin.

 

Lou and Louisa Perez both grew up in New York City and met in the first Church Lou pastored in Schenectady, NY. In 1999 they started Destiny Christian Church in Niagara Falls with the vision of taking Church outside the four walls. Find out more at www.destinychristianniagara.com.

Your Role in God’s Promises

By Robert Stearns

I’ve noticed a remarkable phenomenon over the past number of years, which seems to be growing in intensity. It has to do with the catastrophic events taking place in every corner of the globe. Civil strife, ecological disaster, political unrest. No one seems to be unaware or untouched by these disturbing incidents, which are changing the fabric of life as we have always known it.

     The phenomenon I have noticed in the midst of all this is that the events we hear about on the six o’clock news, the flashing alerts that interrupt our web browsing, the black and white headlines splashed across the front of our local newspapers, all have one thing in common. Today’s news seems to have more in common with the Bible than ever before.

     A perfect example of this is the upheaval going on in Egypt right now. Many of us remember opening up our Bibles to Isaiah 19 this past winter when everything there started to break out. The words we read made the Prophet Isaiah sound like a news correspondent on CNN! Certainly, few would argue the Bible’s relevance, wisdom and accuracy in application to our world today.

     Space does not permit me to go into the many layers and nuance there are to biblical prophecy. But what I am saying, and what I hope you grasp, is that you and I are alive at a very exciting and momentous time in human history. Many times throughout Scripture, God makes declarations through his prophets concerning future events to take place at an appointed time. He often begins these prophecies with the phrase, “In that day…” I want to boldly declare to you that I believe “that day” is today! Promises of reconciliation and the outpouring of the Spirit – spoken of throughout biblical history – are coming to fruition in our day.

     I often speak on the Tabernacle of David – that bastion of worship and prayer that God promised would be raised up again in a future season (see Amos 9:11). The global emphasis being placed on intercession, and the desire Believers now have for the presence of God is, I believe, evidence that we are seeing this promise fulfilled again in the last days Church.

     God’s stated purposes are alive and well, and are coming to pass before our eyes. Of course, this fact holds more bearing on the land and people of Israel than it does on any other entity. God is still at work in this place, and His purpose will be accomplished in and through Israel. Although we don’t know what exactly that entails, or how it will all unfold, we do know one critically important part of the puzzle: God’s end-time covenantal purposes surrounding Israel involve us!

     You – yes, you – are a part of the miraculous work God is doing in this hour. You have a role to play in fulfilling God’s covenant purposes! All you need do is open the Bible and read your lines.

Don’t miss these two important events in your area:

     October 2, 2011 The Day of Prayer for the Peace of Jerusalem Already, millions of Christians around the globe are praying for the peace of Jerusalem the first Sunday of every October in accordance with the biblical mandate found in Psalm 122:6. And around the world, Believers are joining together to celebrate what God has done, is doing and will surely accomplish through Israel. Visit www.daytopray.com and get equipped.

     November 6, 2011 The Buffalo Celebrates Israel night will take place at Zion Dominion Global Ministries, hosted by Pastor Roderick Hennings. We look forward to being joined by many friends from the Jewish community. Buffalo Celebrates Israel is free and open to the public. Mark your calendar today…You have an appointment with destiny! Check www.eagleswings.to/upcoming events.

     Regional leaders who have already come on board as part of the host committee include Dr. Ron Burgio, LoveJoy Church; Pastor Wayne Dent, Faith Tabernacle Church; Pastor Jerry Gillis, The Chapel; Pastors Vernal and Narseary Harris, Prince of Peace Temple COGIC; Pastor John Hasselbeck, North Gate; Pastor Roderick Hennings, Zion Dominion Global Ministries; Pastor Mark Hill, Covenant Community Church; Pastor Marty Macdonald, City Church; Debra Minotti, Ebenezer Emergency Fund; Todd Moser, The Bridge; Donna Naedele, My Father’s House; Rabbi Perry Netter, Temple Beth Tzedek; Pastors Mike and Anita Nolder, Living Waters Church; Pastor Lou Perez, Destiny Christian Church; Pastor Jose Robles, His Dwelling Place.

     I want to invite you today into a greater understanding and a deeper love for Israel. God Himself arranges the times and places in which everyone is born (see Acts 17:26), and you are alive today in Western New York for a reason. Join with the Spirit in the work of unity that is springing up in this region as Churches reach out in brotherly love to the Jewish people with words of hope and healing.

     Will you please, now, mark your calendar to join me and dozens of area leaders for a special event in which we celebrate our relationship with Israel and the Jewish people? Don’t miss your cue!

Robert Stearns is the founder and executive director of Eagles' Wings, an international relational network of believers, churches, and ministries committed to the lifestyle of biblical spirituality, the unity of the Body of Christ, and God’s enduring covenant with Israel.  Robert also serves as co-chairman of the Day of Prayer for the Peace of Jerusalem, and is the Publisher of KAIROS Magazine.

Exploring Our Jewish Roots

Over the years I have had the wonderful privilege of speaking in numerous cross-cultural, cross-denominational churches throughout the region.  It has been very encouraging to witness the increasing openness many have to exploring the Jewish roots of biblical faith.  Moreover too, it is gratifying to know of a much wider circle of people who desire to pray for the Jewish people and who have a profound love for the State of Israel.

     The most commonly asked question I receive has to do with effectively communicating the good news to the Jewish people.  How do I speak to my Jewish friend, colleague, or neighbor?  Many sound answers can be offered, but let me answer that query with one of my own.  “What Does It Mean To Be A Christian”?

      As a Messianic Jew, whose parents came to these shores as a result of Anti-Semitism, it’s time to reassess just what it means to be a Christian. 

     Assumed answers would be; “To be like Jesus”.  “To be obedient to G-ds word”.  “To be charitable, kind, and loving.” These are all fine answers for these are truly the goals of a spirit filled life.  But is there more?  Does the bible lay out other responsibilities that are often overlooked, even though they do fall within the framework of defining what it means to be a Christian? 

     Rabbi Saul of Tarsus relates a sense of indebtedness on the part of Gentile believers in Macedonia.  This was a church that understood and respected the sacrificial efforts made on their behalf to bring them the gospel.  They understood too that their faith, their salvation, their covenant standing was of the Jews.

     “And again he says, rejoice, O Gentiles, with His people. And again Isaiah says, There shall come the root of Jesse, and he who arises to rule over the Gentiles, In Him shall the Gentiles hope.” Yes, they were pleased to do so, and they are indebted to them.  For if the Gentiles have shared in their spiritual things, they are indebted to minister to them also in material things (Rom.15:10, 12,27NASB).

     It is readily acknowledged that Saul is commending the Macedonians for their generous giving with the hope of inducing the Romans to follow suit.  But the text goes much further.  The text brings forth the authors main reason and purpose; specifically that the Gentile believers have shared in the Jewish spiritual things and are therefore indebted to minister to them in material things.  They were pleased to demonstrate that they were in fellowship with the Jewish believers.  It was a demonstration of their common share in the “commonwealth of Israel” (Eph2:12).

     Earlier in Romans 11 this responsibility and indebtedness comes in the form of provoking the Jewish people to jealousy that they may come fully into the embrace of their Messiah.  History has borne out that there has been much provoking, but not to jealousy. 

      Spearheaded by teachings that replace Israel with the Church, the warnings against arrogance have generally gone unheeded.  Historically and theologically, Christianity has defined itself in opposition to, or at least in separation from the Jewish people.  The apostles, their disciples, and their disciples’ disciples did not see themselves as separate from Israel.  They couldn’t.  That would have separated them from “the adoption as sons, the divine glory, the covenants, the law, and the service of God, the promises, the patriarchs and the Messiah.”  (Rom. 9:4-5)

     Logic dictates that if Israel (Jewish people) is replaced, or if there is a “New Israel”, then Romans 11 makes no sense.  It would make no sense for it would deny the Jewish people of one day being “ grafted into their own olive tree” and at the same time, deny that individual Gentiles who believe are “grafted contrary to nature (Rom.11:17-24).  Further, it would deny the “mystery” of the gospel that far-off Gentiles, aliens, can be brought into the commonwealth of Israel.

     So, “What does it mean to be a Christian”?  Simply, to take on the calling of Ruth.  Ruth was an ever so faithful Moabite woman who wholeheartedly embraced the G-d of Israel.  Her calling was not to replace Naomi, or to be Naomi, but to come alongside and be a comfort to Naomi.  To be a Christian brings with it a redemptive vision to see the day when “all Israel will be saved” (Rom.11:26) that we may experience the soon return of our Messiah, the Holy One of Israel.  To be a Christian brings with it an empowered gospel, recognizing that the bible defines the gospel as being “the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Gentile.” (Rom.1:16)

Rabbi Lowinger was reared in a Conservative Jewish home, the eldest son of a Holocaust survivor.  He graduated from Census College in Buffalo, NY with a degree in accounting and marketing.  He went on to earn a degree in Ministerial Studies from Berea College in Springfield, Missouri, and has done course work in the Jewish studies program of the State University of New York at Buffalo. Rabbi Lowinger was reared in a Conservative Jewish home, the eldest son of a Holocaust survivor.  He graduated from Canisius College in Buffalo, NY with a degree in accounting and marketing.  He went on to earn a degree in Ministerial Studies from Berean College in Springfield, Missouri, and has done course work in the Jewish studies program of the State University of New York at Buffalo.

Brothers McClurg Release Debut Album with Integrity Music Titled “Alive.”

Brothers McClurg in partnership with Integrity Music recently announced the August 2 release of “Alive”, a digital EP and the debut recording from rock/folk-influenced worshipers Brothers McClurg, formerly Relevant Worship, a band that has organized and inspired a grassroots following among young people in the region.
The Alive EP offers six new songs including “Just Say,” a co-write with Dove Award winning writer Paul Baloche. It also includes two co-writes with the band’s label mates All Sons & Daughters (David Leonard and Leslie Jordan) on the title track and “Psalm 23” and features Leonard and Jordan as guest vocalists.
Brothers McClurg actually began as two separate bands fronted by brothers Anthony and Chris Hoisington but became a group of Christian brothers from various church traditions who share a desire to see lives changed through worship.
Until recently, this six-piece group from Western New York were known as Relevant Worship, the name of their community-wide ministry. With their signing to Integrity Music, the band decided to embrace their musical heritage by taking the name Brothers McClurg. The name pays homage to Anthony and Chris’ greatest influence, their maternal grandfather Pastor Bill McClurg, who led the southern gospel group The McClurg Family Singers. “We see it as a way of continuing the legacy and ministry while giving it a fresh vision,” says Chris Hoisington. “As young kids, my grandfather instilled within us an understanding of the power of God through music ministry. And he’s still going strong… at age 85, he’s still on staff at a local church and he ministers in nursing homes every single week.”
That family tradition of music is something that has made Hoisington’s family proud (they were all there for the CD release at Kingdom Bound) and is somewhat of a fulfillment of God’s promises and a reaching of a promised land of sorts for the band who had their starts as a rock band 14 years ago while leading their youth group at Evangel Assembly of God in Amherst. “That is kind of where it started, in the basement of Evangel and hearing people believe in us and sharing with us that maybe someday we could do what we are doing today,” recalled Chris.
The band has been working to bring a bit of warmth and hope to an area known for its winters and slumping economy. Their mission is to carry Jesus’ message of life, hope and forgiveness to a city that has been told for years that it is dead, hopeless and forgotten. The Brothers work to reach their community through prayer and acts of service, blessing the Church and uniting the body of Christ in worship.
“We want to spur one another on, lifting up the name of Christ inside the church, as well as in the streets,” adds Anthony. “Our goal is to rally the church to action, loving one another and also loving the ‘unlovely’ and replicating this passion in every city and community we encounter.”
Joining the Hoisingtons in Brothers McClurg are Matt Poulsen (guitar), Dan Swain (bass), Justin Michau (guitar) and Peter Bordin (drums). On occasion, they are also joined by their sound technician Karl Maciag filling in on lead guitar or their friend Ed Chilungu on keys.
Chris Hoisington explains, “Brothers McClurg is a traveling version of your church’s worship team, with many

For the Sake of Israel

PICTURES: Robert Stearns (left) prays in Jerusalem for the DPPJ

Not all locals are aware that Western New York is home to an international ministry sensation that spans 175 nations, over 50 million homes and five continents. Eagles’ Wings is nestled within the quaint and quiet town of Clarence, NY. Begun by Clarence native Robert Stearns at his grandmother’s dining room table in 1994, the ministry’s Western New York base is now home to several area families, couples and young people who are part of the Eagles’ Wings team. Although they are very active within Clarence and the surrounding areas through volunteer work for town functions and service at the Buffalo City Mission, etc., team members have a global focus and often travel around the U.S. and internationally (even multiple times) in any given year. The vision is fueled by a passion for biblical Christianity, unity in the body of Christ and God’s enduring covenant with Israel – three core values that translate into a plethora of initiatives.

Eagles’ Wings has expanded globally taking the lead in the greater body of Christ in numerous and massive projects such as the international Day of Prayer for the Peace of Jerusalem (DPPJ) which Stearns co-founded with Dr. Jack Hayford of The Church on the Way. The DPPJ is a global grassroots prayer movement that unites Christians of all sorts of different backgrounds to pray for the peace of Jerusalem the first Sunday of every October. Started in 2002 in meetings with leading political and religious leaders from Israel and the United States, the event is now the largest prayer movement of its kind, with over 1200 key leaders from the Evangelical Christian world lending their active support. The vision is for sustained, fervent and informed intercession for the plans and purposes of God for Jerusalem and all her people. Amazingly, and by God's grace, there are at least 175 participating nations and 300 million believers who take part in this global prayer endeavor during their worship services. In the same spirit, Stearns also founded the Israel Experience College Scholarship program with support from Christian leaders like Pat Robertson, Pat Boone, Frederick Price and others, which takes some of the brightest Christian college students and sends them each summer to be equipped to serve as educated ambassadors on their campuses and in every aspect of life, both now and in the future. The Israel Experience is not simply a tour or summer field trip, but an intensive time of equipping and relationship-building that will increase support for Israel. In the midst of the raging culture war and the attack on Judeo-Christian values, the Israel Experience is giving tomorrow's leaders an educated heart for Israel.

Eagles’ Wings is also known for their passionate worship—recorded live and available for purchase from many of their River Conferences with the multi-talented Stearns on piano and vocals and the team supporting on instruments. 

A lot is packed into their small, unassuming office space including magazine production, a bookstore warehouse, event planning for equipping conferences in Chicago, New Jersey, California and other locations, international dialogue, plus all the regular admin activities associated with normal office life. The humble ministry headquarters has welcomed major Church leaders and distinguished diplomats alike. It’s certainly not the dentist office it might be mistaken for! Stearns, though sometimes in Beverly Hills interacting with the Jewish community, or leading worship in places like Poland, London or Brazil, is happy to still be able to call Clarence ‘home’: “We are so thankful for the many strong believers and churches in the area that we have the blessing of partnering with. Buffalo is a very winnable city, and the more we unite under the banner of God’s purposes, the more transformation and blessing we are going to see flow.”     

The Eagles' Wings Team

And now, more than perhaps ever before, Robert and the team are struck with the staggering amount of potential packed into Western New York. They feel that, Spiritually-speaking, this area is a powerhouse – a deep reservoir of strength and healing latent within it. Regional prayer gatherings and local River Conferences (often held at Love Joy Church in Lancaster) are examples of some of the ways in which this international ministry team is stirring up those wells. They even host annual Celebrate Israel nights, which gather the Church body to stand with Israel. (Visit eagleswings.to for info on the Buffalo Celebrates Israel night at Zion Dominion Global Ministries this November.) New York City is another hub of activity for the team. They see it as a key location since it is the epicenter for world trade, and has the largest Jewish population outside of Israel. God has opened doors for Eagles’ Wings to work with key Jewish leaders, bringing a representation of the Christian community’s support for the root and birthplace of our faith and our Messiah’s natural descent through the Jewish people. Robert and the team are calling Christians today to stand with Israel by voicing Christian love and support for Israel in the face of a rising tide of anti-Semitism and tension in the Middle East, Europe and elsewhere. Stearns hopes this critical message will get out and continue to echo throughout the nations.

God has led the path of Eagles’ Wings to cross paths with some of the world’s leaders in their pursuit of God’s plan and yet they are in our own backyard. Like Nathanael who asked, "Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?" (John 1:46) many people have said “Buffalo, can anything good come from there?” Like Philip who replied, "Come and see for yourself," I too say come to one of their many events and outreaches and see for yourself. One way to do that is the Buffalo Celebrates Israel event this November 6, taking place at 6:00 pm at Zion Dominion Global Ministries, 895 North Forest Road, Amherst, NY.

5 Questions with Kurt Tarkington Executive Director Teen Challenge of Western NY

Kurt Tarkington

Executive Director

Teen Challenge of Western NY

Teen Challenge is hosting their annual fund raiser (free) )this September. Kurt talks about working with troubled youth and how they are seeing God set people free through the ministry.

1) Teen Challenge helps people escape the perils of drugs and alcohol every day, is there a story of God changing someone's life at TC that really sticks out to you of how God changed someone's life? There are quite a few stories but if I were to pick one that stands out, then it would have to be a young man named Robert.  He is in early 20’s and originally from the Washington DC area. Robert was dealing with a few issues and let me just say it showed on his face. He did finally tell me that he needed to get his GED and really wanted it, but didn’t think he could do it because it was too hard.  I told him that “all things are possible with God,” and reminded him that God will make a way, but that he had to do the work.  Robert buckled down and received his GED with great scores. God also restored joy to his life and I am happy to report he is doing great. 

2) How did you end up as director of TC, have you walked through similar trials yourself?  Let me answer that by taking the second part first. I came into Teen Challenge through Peoria, IL induction center, and like Robert I was miserable and angry.  As a kid and teenager, I was always picked on and bullied, and as a result I develop a way of being nasty to keep people at a great distance.  Things really got complicated with the drugs and alcohol and the crazy lifestyle that all brings.  So, after about 20 years of drug use, I came into Teen Challenge at the age of 42 mad and lonely.  In short order I had a new encounter with the Lord, and like Robert, my life changed dramatically.  I stayed on to work in the Reading Room as a tutor and eventually I was hired by Reading Area Community College to be the instructor assigned to Teen Challenge.  Then in July 2010, I was called into the office of the Executive Director, Dr. Batluck.  He looked at me and said, “We need you to go to Buffalo and serve as the director.” Within five days, I was on my way to Buffalo. 

3) What is a typical day like at TC? Is there a certain regiment you follow to help people escape drugs? We start our day with wake-up at 6:00am and in prayer by 6:30 for an hour.  Then we have breakfast and morning chores.  The guys attend morning classes daily and we have visiting Pastors each day who come in to bring the word.  After lunch the guys will do some type of work either around the house or at one of the assigned worksites.  The lifestyle of active addiction is selfish and self-serving, so our schedule is designed to break that mindset.

4) How long does one typically stay at TC and what are the next steps after they go through the program? Ours is a 14-month, two-phase program.  TCWNY is Induction, or phase one, in which a guy typically stays about 4 months.  Then we transfer him to the Mountain for the second phase which is 10 more months.  Remembering that we are totally residential the whole time. 

5) Tell us about the dinner planned this September, is it really a free dinner? We are so excited to announce that Rev. Don Wilkerson has graciously accepted our invitation as guest speaker for this years Fund Raising Banquet. Our theme is “Reviving the Stones” which comes from Nehemiah 4:2. And YES our banquet is really FREE, but we are asking everyone to call our office at (716) 855-0602 before September 15^th to reserve seats. The fund raising dinner will be at Lucarelli’s Banquet Hall on Tuesday, September 15^th at 6:00pm.