|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
GOD'S ORDER
|
|
|
|
|
Testimonials
|
|
|
|
In God's Order, Dr. William E. Flippin, Sr. brings a much needed reflection on how we misbehave in church. With humor, insight, and compassion, Dr. Flippin invites us to see ourselves through the lens of his twenty plus years in the ministry. His "Twelve Points to Ponder and Practice" made me remember when, growing up, mom would insist that we get our clothes and offering ready the night before, and would not allow us to listen to "the other music" on Sunday. That gave the day the sense that it was set apart. Now, no matter how hard we try, it seems that nearly everyday, and especially Sunday, is a rushed affair. For my own part, I am not "in the mood" for church until after the welcome because of the rushed sense. And watching a majority of us fill out the offering envelope seems to suggest that a great many of us are "unprepared."
|
|
|
|
Dr. Flippin courageously notes that most congregations are being "crippled by power struggles over issues of tradition, change, morality and authority," and how, in the larger sense of serving the community, Christianity seems comfortable settling for "bringing up the rear, more led than leading." Always concerned about his people, Dr. Flippin highlights the church's healing power, by reminding us that Sunday morning worship service in a black church is still a "gathering place for persons who possess little worth in the eyes of the dominant culture." (I may have to quote that somewhere)!
|
|
|
|
God's Order tackles the weighty issues, but also touches on those little things that we all wonder about, like the raised index finger when someone is walking out (what is that!), and proper attire for ministers in the pulpit (green and red lizard shoes with a purple suit, definitely not a good look!). Needless to say, God's Order is GREAT!
|
|
|
|
DAP
~The Pope Family~
|
|
|
|
|