Random Questions and Answers
Here are some answers to some common questions that I’m frequently asked as the lead pastor of Hope Church…
What Bible translation am I reading from and preaching from on Sunday mornings? The Bible translation that I teach and preach from is the ESV (English Standard Version). The ESV is my Bible of choice because it beautifully accomplishes the challenging task of combining accuracy to the text & an absolute faithfulnes to the words of Scripture with easy readability. If you don’t have an ESV Bible — go and get a copy, you’ll love it.
What are some of the things I’ve recently read or I’m reading right now?
- The Bible.
- I’ve been reading some of the writings and sermons of Jonathan Edwards (1703-1758)
- Reading “Biblical Theology” by Geerhardus Vos (1862-1949)
- Recently finished John Piper’s “A Sweet and Bitter Providence“
- About to start Francis Chan’s latest book, “Crazy Love“
- I also read Yahoo! Sports, CNN.com, and ajc.com pretty regularly.
Why do I choose not to wear a “suit” when you preach on Sunday mornings? First of all, let me say that I have absolutely no problem with pastors and/or ministers who wear suits when they’re preaching or teaching God’s word. For many years I wore suits every week as a pastor, and still do on certain ministry engagements (if I’m preaching in a church where the pastor customarily wears suits, then as a guest minister I always wear a suit in that context). And while I typically don’t wear suits each week at the church I now pastor, there are many men in our congregation who do wear suits each week, as well as many others who wear jeans. For me, as a pastor, not wearing a suit on Sunday mornings is a decision based more on personal preference and culture, not theology. Quite honestly, I don’t think God cares one way or the other whether I preach wearing a suit, or whether I’m wearing jeans and a shirt. It’s people who care. I could say a whole lot more, but I’ll stop there.
Where can someone go or look to find biblically sound resources to read and study from? Here’s a website that I often recommend: http://www.monergism.com
What denomination or groups are you and Hope Church affiliated with? Acts 29 Network, Association of Related Churches, The Assemblies of God, and WRC Network of Churches.
Click the comments button near the top to post your thoughts or questions!
DEAR PASTOR, I LOVE THE FACT THAT YOU DON’T WEAR SUITS . IT’S NOT A PASTORING REQUIREMENT. THE OLD CHURCH HAS SO MANY PEOPLE’S THINKING SO MESSED UP. FOR SO MANY YEARS THE SCRIPTURE HAS BEEN TAKEN OUT OF CONTEXT ABOUT ATTIRE. I PRAY THAT MAYBE YOU WILL SHARE WITH US IN THE FUTURE, THE WORD CONCERNING OUR ATTIRE. PEACE & LOVE , YOUR SISTER ANGELA BETHEA
May I be so boldly to say: I was talking with my husband about the way that you dress and it is a breath of fresh air to us. The reason why we love Hope Church so much is the non-traditional way you minister.
My husband’s comment was he can see the love of GOD in you. Please continue to be yourself in the love of GOD.
Peace be unto you and your Family!
Sandi & Tony Priester
Hey, I’m just excited you want to be REAL and share your heart and not your clothes. Many years I have been in the flux of “looking good”, but now it’s time to put off the old and began anew. I praise God that you are willing to submit to His Lordship to be different and not go along with the standard protocol as to even a dress apparel. This is cultivated in your sermons even to be fresh and bring about ‘reconciliation’ and restoration along with your dress attire. Praise God that you are submitting to His ‘breath ‘ of fresh air! I admonish you Pastor to “keep on keeping on.. and ‘go get em’!!!!!!!
good stuff!
Great to read about the doctrine of Hope Church. I couldnt find this clearly outlined on the website. I wanted to know more about our doctrine, affliations, etc before joining. Thanks for the info!