DESTINY 2020 GATHERING CONFERENCE REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
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DESTINY
SPRING 2020
M A G A Z I N E
THE IRONY OF
THE CROSS
2020
GATHERING
SHIFTING
CONFERENCE
ATMOSPHERES
REGISTRATION
A DELICIOUS RECIPE NOW OPEN
FOR CHILDREN'S MINISTRY
SPECIAL EASTER SECTION
WELCOME TO YOUR FUTURE!
Welcome to Destiny’s Covenant Family of Friends and a World of opportunities for
you to GROW, SERVE, and SOW in the Kingdom of God. At Destiny you can build
lifelong relationships, be challenged to achieve your greatest potential, see the world,
serve someone in need and become all thatGod has called you to become. Experience
all of these exciting opportunities among a family where you are loved, accepted and
celebrated!
A PLACE TO GROW...
As a Christian Leader you need a safe place to be challenged, equipped and encouraged
to reach your greatest potential. At Destiny we are absolutely committed to meeting
those needs. Through Destiny Membership you will find growth opportunities such as:
one-on-one coaching, exciting events & conferences, roundtables, internet webinars,
strategic relationships, educational travel and mission outreaches. Each designed to
grow you into the leader God wants you to be.
A PLACE TO SERVE...
The Kingdom of God is about service to God and to others. At Destiny you will find
many opportunities to serve by assisting other Christian Leaders to achieve their
goals and dreams. We do this together as we plant new churches, develop interns,
train leaders, participate in special projects and various short term missions efforts.
A PLACE TO SOW...
Destiny’s Covenant Family is filled with generous people. We are a giving/sowing
culture. We believe strongly in the principle of tithing and that it should be practiced
at every level in the Kingdom. We believe that both individuals and organizations are
included in God’s concept of sowing and reaping, and that as we submit to God’s plan,
both are abundantly blessed. As individuals we sow in obedience, and as organizations
we teach giving and lead by example.
WWW.DESTINYLEADERS.COM
2
IN THIS ISSUE...
THE IRONY OF THE CROSS
4 Landon Galloway
SHIFTING ATMOSPHERES
6 Jonathan R. Perry
IF JESUS REPEATS HIMSELF,
8 MAYBE WE SHOULD LISTEN
Ben Cooley
A WORD FROM PHIL & CATHY A DELICIOUS RECIPE FOR
12 CHILDREN'S MINISTRY
Ashley Clinton
Welcome to this edition of the Destiny Magazine.
I’m sure that like us, your spring is off to a roaring
start. I love spring with its flowers, showers (maybe
not so much showers), and fresh starts. It’s the
time of year that shouts “you can start over!” and
“forget the past and begin again.” In spring we
16 SPECIAL EASTER SECTION
Phillip Brassfield,
Marcus Briggs Jr., Brian Davis,
have that feeling that something new has begun.
Micah Sutton, Amos McFalls
And it is supported with nature’s multi-media
providing glorious illustrations to drive the point
home, like budding trees, spring flowers, buzzing
bees, and, well forgive me I’m getting carried CALLED | EMPOWERED | OBEDIENT
away. Anyway, here we are and off we go into
the wonder and excitement of what 2020 might
24 TO THE KINGDOM: PURPOSED
WOMEN OF GOD
bring. We pray that your 2020 will be the greatest
year on record, filled with great opportunities, Jen Mains
monumental miracles and breakthroughs of every
sort; breakthroughs you’ve been praying for!
At Destiny we want to be a part of them all! We
are excited and fulfilled when we see you win,
26 2020 GATHERING INFORMATION
overcome and achieve your dreams. When we
REVELATION FRISCO:
can help, it’s even better. So, this year let’s make
a move toward God and each other like never
before. Let’s pray and believe, hope and support
28 ONE ARROW AT A TIME
Ben Sanders
each other, and encourage one another to our
greatest potential!
In this edition of Destiny Magazine, you’ll meet
some new people who are part of your covenant
family. You’ll learn some great information and
31 THE WOOD WIDE WEB
Phillip Brassfield
be inspired to charge ahead into the resurrection
Power of the Lord. We hope you enjoy! Publisher: Dr. Phillip Brassfield Layout & Design: Stephanie Powers
Editors: Cathy Brassfield & Jeannie Abbott Circulation: Amy Dew
Destiny Ministries | PO Box 341, Heber Springs, AR 72543 | 501.887.9933
destinyleaders.com | Copyright 2020, All Rights Reserved
3
LANDON GALLOWAY
Irony is a valuable literary device, often employed
by writers and communicators to convey
important truths. Irony expresses meaning by
using words that usually signify the opposite for
the intent of humor or emphasis. Biblical writers
often use irony. For example, Job replies to his
pseudo-philosophical companions’ musings
about the meaning of his suffering: “No doubt
you are the people, and wisdom will die with you
(Job 12:2).” Obviously, despite the literal meaning
of Job’s words, he means that his friends are
neither as significant or as wise as they presume
themselves to be. This is an example of explicit
irony. However, other biblical authors used irony
in more conspicuous ways to emphatically convey
truths.
Matthew, for example, weaves irony throughout
the narrative of the cross to emphasize the
significance of Jesus’ death. This article will briefly
highlight a few of the ironies of Matthew’s passion
narratives.
Before Pilate, the crowd chose Barabbas because
they wanted to stop Jesus and His mission.
Ironically, releasing Barabbas was Jesus’ mission
(Matt. 27: 15-23). Those following Matthew’s
story line will be outraged at Jesus’ conviction
and Barabbas’ release. Barabbas is a murderer, a
rebel, and a warmonger. He is guilty and shows no
remorse for his actions.
Jesus, on the other hand, has been healing,
teaching, and loving people. He is not only
innocent of the crimes of which He has been
charged, He is the only completely pure and
innocent person to ever live. So when the crowd
chooses the criminal over the King, the readers’
sensibilities are greatly offended. How could they
4
THE IRONY OF
THE CROSS
choose Barabbas and kill Jesus? Don’t they watch Son of God, save yourself " (Matt. 27: 40). Ironically,
Law and Order or any other TV courtroom drama? it was because of His identity that He chose not
This isn’t how the story is supposed to go. The good to save himself. By not coming down, Jesus was
guy should go free while the bad guy faces the establishing Himself as the true rebuilt temple.
consequences of his actions. He appeared completely helpless and hopeless:
however, His temporary powerlessness would soon
However, Barabbas’ release is exactly how the yield to eternal omnipotence.
story should go according to God’s divine plan.
The crowd wanted to stop Jesus and His mission; The scribes soon added their own derisive
however they only manage to further His mission. commentary: “He saved others, but can’t save
The Gospel is that Jesus came to die so that law- himself (Matt. 27:42).” Ironically, His decision
breakers like Barabbas could be set free. The cord not to save Himself will save many, many others.
of irony continues when the crowd condemned Though He appeared powerless to save Himself,
Jesus: “May His blood be on our hands and on He was powerful enough to endure the cross so
our children’s" (Matt. 27:25). They were of course, that multitudes could be saved. A few of the Jewish
speaking of the guilt. “Don’t worry about it, Pilate. elders joked: “He trusts God, let God save Him
We will take the blame. This is our decision not (Matt. 27:43)!” Once again, the irony is difficult
yours.” However, Jesus knew (and we know) that to miss. Enduring the cross was the greatest act
His blood was shed not for their condemnation, but of trust in history. The mockers were reciting the
for their forgiveness. The cross was the designated common misunderstanding that trusting God
way for “His blood to be upon them.” always means deliverance from hardship, rather
than sustenance in hardship. The cross confirmed
The actual crucifixion is also rife with irony. Jesus Jesus’ cry in Gethsemane: “Father, not my will but
received His customary floggings, then the soldiers yours be done (Matt. 26:49)!”
engaged in the unsophisticated and juvenile humor
often acquainted with the barracks. They placed a This irony of the cross is also true in the lives of
scarlet robe on His body, a scepter in His hand, and Jesus’ followers. We become powerful by suffering,
a crown of thorns on His head. They then mockingly influential by serving, prosperous by giving, and
prostrated themselves and cried out: “Hail! King of trusting in God’s goodness by enduring life’s
the Jews" (Matt. 27:27-29)! Ironically, their actions hardships. The irony of the cross allows us to
were appropriate as the cross was, indeed, His reevaluate our seasons of suffering. Sometimes,
coronation as King of all. The resurrected Jesus God’s greatest gifts are hidden in our greatest
would proclaim: “All authority has been given to me griefs. God is doing something in us that is greater
(Matt. 28:18).” And, Paul reminds us that because than what is happening to us.
of the cross that “every knee will bow and every
tongue confess that Jesus is Lord (Phil 2:10).” Landon Galloway is Director of Education
at Destiny Ministries and oversees Destiny
A passer-by joined the mocking soldiers by taunting Leadership Institute. Landon also serves as
campus pastor of Grace Church in Tomball,
the crucified Jesus: “You said you could destroy the
TX. Landon is married to Sarada and they
temple and in three days, rebuild it. If you are the have two daughters, Vanna and Zarra.
5
shifting
atmospheres
J O N AT H A N R . P E R R Y occasional outreach, but something in
In 2013 I turned 50. For me my spirit said there is more. I wasn't sure
this was a major milestone what "more" meant, but I allowed a holy
and one I had every intention hunger to be cultivated in God's presence.
of celebrating! I woke up early
on the morning of Wednesday Over the next 5 years, I continued this act of
June 5th, and felt the Lord calling me to walk obedience during the week of my birthday. I
50 miles around our city and pray. One mile would walk and pray over different areas of
for every year He had given me. Not exactly the city. Each year it was as though I could
how I imagined spending the day, but I feel a new level of spiritual authority rising
started out on my trek. Over the next 3 days up in my spirit. Although I have walked in a
I walked a 50 mile loop around our city and place of spiritual authority within the walls of
prayed. Nothing earth shattering happened, the church, I sensed God was shifting me into
but as I walked and prayed throughout the a new place of influence that would move
city I began to feel a fresh call of God on my beyond the walls of the church I pastored. This
life as a leader, and for the church I pastored had not been a real desire of mine, but never
to do more than we were currently doing. I the less doors began to open. Opportunities
am sure my congregation would say, “aren’t started to come to me and I started having
we doing enough?” We were having fervent sit down meetings with influential people in
prayer meetings, great worship experiences, our community. As time progressed people
6
started to reach out to me, seeking story building in the middle of gives you and me an assignment,
advice or direction concerning the city. God gave us a vision of He will also give us the grace to
various situations. While I was doing ministry beyond the walls fulfill that assignment! This grace
accustomed to doing this for the of the church. We set our mind on to influence has given us a place at
people I shepherded, operating the idea that we could influence the table of leaders, and has given
in the capacity of spiritual leader Toledo and beyond by shifting the us a voice to communicate the
within the city was new territory atmosphere. redemptive power of God to more
for me. This walking, praying, and people than we imagined possible.
gaining spiritual authority was My wife, Sharon, opened a design
setting me up for a position of and home decor shop. She has a Where I used to spend hours a
influence in our city like I never God given talent to create physical week in my office praying, reading,
could have imagined. atmospheres that make people and thinking about leadership and
comfortable. My oldest son, Grant, the work of the Kingdom of God,
Life Chapel is located east of Toledo, and his wife, Brooke, established now I feel that I am able to be more
Ohio, tucked away in a cornfield. a high end coffee shop, with mobilized and less static. There is
We are not highly visible which meeting rooms, great wi-fi, and hardly a week that goes by that I
caused a desire in me to move to with an industrial design. Although am not asked to strategize with a
a different location. My leadership Rustbelt Coffee is not a “Christian” team, talk with a community leader,
team and I, after much brainstorm coffee shop, we had people who or pray over a business deal. I often
and research, considered the would pray on the second and find myself advising pastors and
possibility of moving our church to third floors while the people of sitting on the board for a non-profit
the middle of the city. We prayed various backgrounds drank coffee talking about what the Kingdom of
and fasted but received no clear and experienced this God-filled God looks like in our city right here,
sign that we should relocate. atmosphere. right now.
We found no viable option for
relocating our entire congregation Our goal from the beginning was I have total confidence that God is
to city center. to establish a place where people seeking to raise up men and women
from all backgrounds, religious and all over the world to advance His
non-religious, could gather and Kingdom beyond the walls of
Now, in hindsight, I believe God create, collaborate and connect. the church. We are called to shift
had kept us hidden for a divine We had our fair share of pushback atmospheres and bring spiritual
purpose. While we had enjoyed and protests from a few fringe influence to our communities. So, I
some level of success with groups who found out through encourage you to get ready for the
numerical church growth and news articles and radio talk shows expansion of Kingdom influence in
leadership development, we knew that we are Christ-followers. But your community. I encourage you
God wanted more for us. The Spirit our goal was not to fight, but to to prepare to see atmospheres shift
began to talk to me about how simply influence our world through as you walk out your God calling.
influence works in a culture and spiritual, cultural and physical shifts
how to shift atmospheres. Major in the atmosphere.
cultural shifts do not normally
happen from rural to urban. Culture Five years ago our family was
is many times established in urban virtually unknown in the larger
settings and over time leaks into community. It wasn’t that we didn’t
the rural areas. try to reach out, but attempting to
connect through the traditional
Armed with this knowledge, I church concepts had created
realized the Lord was giving me boundaries which we had not been
and my family an assignment. I sat successful at breaking through. I
down with my wife and boys and felt like when I began to obey God Jonathan R. Perry lives in
their families to share the vision by walking, praying, listening, and Toledo, Ohio with his wife of
God was placing in my spirit for being attentive to the voice of God, 36 years. Together they have
effecting our city. After considering we have experienced an unusual three sons, two daughters-in-
multiple options, building ideas, level of influence that I don’t think law and one grand daughter.
and receiving a lot of favor from we could have ever accomplished
God, we purchased an empty 3 otherwise. I believe when God
7
If Jesus Repeats Himself,
Maybe We Should Listen
places fighting for freedom of the world, empowering
and justice. them, growing their
leadership and giving them
While we may consider the tools and education
slavery a historical darkness they need to protect their
the reality is that more people families. Here in the US, our
are trafficked today than teams work with teens and
ever before, an estimated runaways, ensuring they
BEN COOLEY 40 million. Just like Joseph know the horrific dangers
HOPE FOR JUSTICE experienced, our team has in believing the lies told by
seen countless victims sold traffickers.
God’s desire to bring into slavery and exploited
freedom and restoration by their own families. We Jesus declares his mission in
to those in captivity is one see governments like China Luke 4:16-20. “The Spirit of
of the running narratives and North Korea using the the Lord is on me, because
of the Bible. Starting with forced labor of their citizens He has anointed me to
the trafficking of Joseph, to make profit just as the proclaim good news to the
through the liberation of Egyptians did. The centuries poor. He has sent me to
the Israelites in Exodus, and may have changed but the proclaim freedom for the
running all the way to the sin has not. prisoners and recovery of
restoration of heaven and sight for the blind, to set the
earth in Revelation, the Bible One of the first girls we ever oppressed free, to proclaim
constantly declares a God rescued told me, "I didn't the year of the Lord’s favor.”
who cares about rescuing, need someone to cry about Twice he points out bringing
restoring and reforming the this; I needed someone to do freedom to others in just one
world. something about it." That's sentence! Yes, He brought
what we've built in Hope for salvation for our souls but
I am honored to lead an Justice: a thought-through, is He not the breaker of
organization where we professional response to the physical chains too? If our
believe that our mission is issue of trafficking. Wherever savior felt it was worthy of
directly connected to the it exists, we are committed repeating, I hope it is worthy
mission of God. Each day, to stamping it out. We work of our action.
our team is on the front- with women and children in
lines in some of the darkest some of the poorest parts
8
That is why we rescue victims. informed care, immediate It’s why the church is such an
Our specialist teams (with crisis intervention, long-term integral part of what we do –
decades' worth of FBI, CIA education and vocational you are the beacons of hope
and local law enforcement learning. The goal is always to a community.
expertise) identify victims of restoration and reintegration
sex trafficking, forced labor into a family. We have seen time and
and domestic servitude. This time again the impact that
happened, just a few weeks We were honored to provide churches can have. From
ago, for 17-year-old Dee*. this life-changing, reunion hosting training sessions
She had managed to escape moment 1,014 times in the for local law enforcement
her trafficker and get into a last year alone. One family to general awareness for
rehab program and off the thought their child had been the community, when a
drugs he had used to control dead for more than five years. church uses its voice to shine
her. But he tracked her down Can you imagine the Lazarus a light on this darkness,
and made her leave with moment they had when they things change. We would
him. Hope for Justice was saw their child walking to be honored if you would
quickly brought in and our them again!? consider partnering with us
investigation determined – please visit hopeforjustice.
that she was being trafficked I have sat with rescued victims, org/church – as we continue
across the Southeast US. Our I have spoken to people freed to be God’s hands and feet
team found the motel where from years of exploitation, I today.
she had been taken. We have looked into their eyes
intervened and got her away and because of people just Together in Him,
from danger and back safely like you, they now have their
to a new rehab program. hope back and are excited
about their futures. It’s such Ben Cooley
As we have learned from an indescribable feeling
rescuing thousands of victims to set free another human Founder and CEO,
over the years, we know being! Hope for Justice
that rescue isn't an event
- it's a process. Restoring We believe in the power of *Name changed to protect identity
lives begins at our aftercare using our voice for things that
facilities where highly matter: we believe it echoes
trained staff provide trauma- out into the darkest places.
Hope for Justice now works from 32 locations across five continents,
working with over 71,000 children in the last year alone.
9
DESTINY LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE
NEXT TERM STARTS SEPTEMBER 2020!
Study the Bible, theology, practical ministry, and leadership in a simple and
interactive online environment. Serve in your local church while taking the online
courses, so that you have a chance to gain practical experience to complement
your ministry education. DLI includes an “internship” that allows students to
learn from seasoned ministry mentors while serving in a local ministry setting.
FIND OUT MORE INFORMATION AT DESTINYLEADERS.COM/DLI OR BY CALLING 501.887.9933.
DLI IS CELEBRATING A
RECORD BREAKING SPRING
2020 ENROLLMENT!
WELCOME TO ALL OUR NEW
STUDENTS!
10MAKE PLANS TO ATTEND!
The first round of Destiny Connect events has been a huge success!
Over 700 people attended a connect event in 2019! We love being in your churches and in your cities.
Visit destinyleaders.com/connect to register today for a 2020 Destiny Connect Event!
CORINTH, MS: MARCH 28TH ELLSWORTH, WI: APRIL 25 TOLEDO, OH: MAY 2ND DOVER, DE: MAY 16TH
11A DELICIOUS RECIPE FOR
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY
(Investing in the Team)
ASHLEY CLINTON
Springtime is a great time for food, family and seeing all the new things in bloom. As a leader, springtime
has always been a great season to look at the health of my team-ensuring that each leader feels a personal
investment, placed in the right role and celebrated as a valued part of the team, helping them live out their
purpose God has placed before them. Spring brings new life, new excitement and fresh new leadership
“recipes” to share with your team. It is also a great time to bring teams together and celebrate wins and victories
and there is no better way to celebrate than to eat. And when gathering for the celebration, the ingredients of
the recipe are just as important as the ingredients of a great team, which make for an incredible meal.
12INGREDIENTS: (the team/the family)
The ingredients of a great grill chef are as secret as the
recipes themselves-even the temperature of these grill
master’s tools is kept a mystery. When the ingredients are
all mixed together, it makes things so delicious-it’s truly
the right amount of each ingredient that adds the perfect
flavor and zest to the meal. The same can be said with
the ingredients of a great team. The team is everything-
it sets the temperature, culture and excitement of the
room. Think about it, paint colors can’t smile and legos
can’t say, “What’s Up!”, so it’s all about the people. This
can be accomplished by recruiting out of vision, not out
of need. The word volunteer can be heard throughout the
halls of many children’s ministries, but it’s the word leader Ashley Clinton joined the pastoral staff at Christ
that can really open people’s eyes and ears. The leaders Church in 2018 as its children’s pastor and is
are the faces of the ministry, they’re recruiting, training passionate about making an eternal impact
and getting things done. Your personal investment in on the next generation. Ashley completed his
leaders is essential and empowers them to step out DLI education in 2019 and is honored to serve
of their comfort zones and here’s the best part, they alongside his wife, Laura, and their three children
reciprocate that investment into others. Think back on Jackson (18), Jacob (17) and Lexie Rae (13).
who first invested in you and look at how you’ve taken that
investment and grown it into your spiritual and leadership
development. When you add ingredients to your recipe,
you’re intentional about it-this is also true about your
leaders. Intentionality breeds success in relationships and So, what’s the best place for your leaders? Right where
that time is well spent. God places them!
So what’s the secret ingredient? Your team is your family. TIME TO ENJOY: (celebrating)
Invest in them and watch them grow!
The food is off the grill and it’s time to invite everyone
over for a great time of food and fellowship, maybe even
ON THE GRILL: (scheduling) a round or two of Uno or even Throw Throw Burrito. This is
the time to celebrate all the blessings that God has given
Now that you’ve got your ingredients mixed up, you’re
you and your family. Taking the time to celebrate with
ready to hit the grill or in our case, you’re ready to begin
your team can be more rewarding than the best recipe
scheduling your team. As grill chefs, when you place your
out there. Celebrating the biggest or smallest win is what
food on the grill you’re always aware of the best hot spots
adds value and appreciation to your team. When you see
that make the best grill marks for that Bobby Flay-Food
a win, capture it through a photograph or a mental note
Network look. When you begin scheduling your leaders,
and share that win with your team. Handwritten thank
don’t just fill a role, fulfill a purpose and find the perfect
you cards show an honest and genuine appreciation
place for them. Again, this is part of the investment
to your leaders-that you took the time to personalize a
process-try to avoid scheduling just to have “someone”
message for them and speak encouraging words over
in the room. Instead, fill the room with leaders that can
them. Imagine the wonderful world of creation that we
heighten the children’s experience with their passion,
have, just from God’s spoken words and think of the ways
spiritual giftings, energy and momentum. I encourage you
your words can impact others each and every week. I
to schedule with intentionality, avoid the pre-population
encourage you to keep a “team calendar” of your leaders’
trap and pray over each person as you place them in a
birthdays, wedding anniversaries and even their serving
role. We’ve all experienced the pendings or declines on
anniversary-include a special gift card in the note to
our schedules and this can be frustrating. However, just
show them that you’re celebrating with them. From team
like the crossing grill marks on a juicy steak, cross-training
cookouts to team game nights, celebrating with your
of your leaders in various roles is a great solution. Through
team shows them that you’re taking the time to invest in
our shadowing process, we have each leader serve in a
them-in and out of the ministry.
different area of our ministry. They have the opportunity
to view the ministry at a higher altitude and find the right
Every recipe can be successful when the ingredients
role for them. Consider creating additional roles for those
work together to create a beautiful dish and every team
leaders that are high-level, high-capacity leaders-anything
can be successful when personal investment, intentional
from game leaders to small group leaders, every role has
scheduling and celebration becomes the culture of your
its place and every leader has a purpose.
ministry. So, let’s get ready-we got this!
13INVEST IN DESTINY
AND CHANGE THE WORLD
Your faithful monthly support allows Destiny Ministries to invest into the Kingdom of God by
supporting efforts like MINISTRY STUDENTS AND INTERNSHIPS, PASTORS IN CRISIS,
MISSIONS, CHURCH PLANTING, and MINISTRY SUPPORT.
GIVE TODAY!
Visit destinyleaders.com/give or call 1.501.887.9933 to make a
contribution and find instructions on setting up your reoccurring gift.
14discovering the
PASSION | PURPOSE | POWER
of your destiny
ORDER YOUR COPY TODAY
AT PHILBRASSFIELD.COM
Dr. Phillip Brassfield will lead you on an amazing quest
to discover what really happened at Pentecost, the
journey that led to it, and how it can impact your life in
a fresh and powerful way. Discover your own destiny
as you walk with Jesus and his first disciples toward
one of the great defining moments of all of religious
history, the outpouring at Pentecost that birthed the
church. And as you make the trip with them, you’ll
experience the Passion, Purpose, and Power of the
fulfillment of God’s promise in your life as well!
1516
Easter SPECIAL SECTION
For believers, Easter is the most sacred holy day of the year. And at
Destiny, it’s our favorite! And apparently, it’s not just ours. According
to a recent study, America still thinks Easter is huge. In 2018, Forbes
reported that 84% of Americans intended to celebrate Easter in one
way or another. Our prayer is that this year’s celebration will be epic.
We are praying that your special events and services will be record
setting and life changing.
With that in mind, in this special section we’ve put together a
combination of articles that cross the spectrum of Easter excitement,
from the inspiring story of the effects of resurrection power from the
perspective of a first hand eye witness account, followed by several
practical glimpses into some of the strategies that make Easter so
special among Destiny churches.
17God's Answer: The Resurrection
PHILLIP visit to the palace of Caiaphas, (those great men of faith and
BRASSFIELD saying, “Guess who?”, or maybe power), about the resurrection.
An excerpt from Dr. appeared to the Sanhedrin in the By doing so he offers hope to
Phillip Brassfield's Hall of Hewn Stones, or perhaps all of us who have fallen, been
book, Pilgrimage shown up in Pilate’s courtroom, bound, and humiliated by sin.
to Pentecost. saying, “I’m back.” But not Jesus. Yes, the very first appearance
No, he understood destiny and of the resurrected Christ was to
Mark 16:9 “Now when He arose had no identity crisis, no need a woman with a past, a woman
early on the first day of the to get even. He was clear about whose life had been transformed,
week, He appeared first to Mary his purpose for coming into the who had become a woman of
Magdalene, out of whom He had world. It was for those very people light because of the victory he
cast seven demons.” who did what they did to him that had won.
he came to die.
Jesus’ idea of destiny is so For Mary, coming to the tomb
different from ours most of the that early on the third day had
time. And that is a good thing. I more to do with loyalty than with
must say, if I were Jesus Christ KING OF MISFITS faith. Reading the text of the
and had just experienced what So instead of making a grand
Gospels, it is quite clear that her
he experienced during his torture appearance at some strategic
visit was all about love for the
and death on the cross, I would location in an “I’ll-get-you-back”
Lord and a personal commitment
have done the resurrection a little kind of visit, Jesus makes his
that she felt toward him. She
differently. I mean, if I had been first appearance to a woman,
was no quitter. And she had not
betrayed by a friend, abandoned previously demonized, in an
forgotten what Jesus had done
by the rest, spit upon, cursed, obscure garden outside the busy
for her. Besides, she was a misfit
lied about, severely beaten, commerce center of Jerusalem
and an outcast from society.
and crucified, when I came (John 20, the appearance to
She was not concerned about
out of the grave I would have Mary Magdalene). She had been
the opinions of men and had
made a few more unscheduled delivered by Jesus only in the
long since lost the fear of social
visits than he did, if you know last couple of years, and now he
rejection or of losing her life. She
what I mean. And they would grants her the grand privilege of
had proven that when she stood
have been to a select group becoming the first evangelist of
at the foot of the cross, by staying
of people who had a celestial the New Covenant. Jesus sent
when almost everyone else had
visit coming. I probably would her to tell the apostles, who were
abandoned him. No, she was
have made another midnight currently hiding for their lives
not afraid; she was devastated!
18SPECIAL EASTER SECTION
All she could think about was what a fitting way to introduce this new into the presence of the Lord that
life was like before he came. For kingdom initiative, and to declare Adam and Eve had enjoyed before
her, prior to Jesus’ coming, life had to the principalities and powers sin slammed it shut, had been
been a living hell. She had fallen of this earth that death, hell and reopened by Christ on the cross.
so far into the pit of rejection and the grave had been defeated. To And now we, as soldiers of the
despair that her spiritual freedom choose one who once was a slave cross, without the condemnation
and free will had been surrendered to the flesh and to the devil was a of sin, could attack the kingdom of
to the devil, and with it her morals powerful sign of victory, and an the god of this world with faith as
and decency. In Jesus she had appropriate message announcing our focus instead of fear, joy as our
found freedom and peace where, the intentions of Christ’s kingdom anthem, and love and acceptance
in others, she had only found and what was to come for the as our banner.
judgment and condemnation. kingdom of darkness.
When he looked at her, all he could There are moments when our
see through the eyes of love was Now with the cross behind and dreams seem to go up in a puff
a confused, abused daughter that the resurrection having been of smoke, when our hopes are
had become a slave to sin. She was accomplished, the ground rules mortally wounded by the vicious
the epitome of what he had come had been completely redefined. No mobs of the disappointed. When
to do. So with the gentleness of a longer would death rule the hearts this happens, give it a little while.
loving father, he had freed her and of mankind through fear, for it had Let it rest maybe three days or so,
restored her without judgment or been defeated. No longer would then go back to where you laid your
condemnation. the dreams and destinies of people dreams and let the Resurrection
be dashed by the grim reality of sin and the Life restore, commission,
and despair. No, with the victory and renew your vision. He will give
of the resurrection came the hope you a vision that even death itself
HOPE LIVES of success and personal fulfillment cannot take away.
Jesus’ appearance to Mary in
in life and eternity. Death was no
the garden that resurrection
longer the master and we its fearful
morning must have been a vote of
subjects, but rather we were freed
confidence and affirmation for her,
to become what God has purposed
to say the least. For one who had
us to become. We were loosed from
been so devastated, humiliated,
the power of the flesh to rule over
even captivated by hell and sin, it
us and limit our potential through
really underscored the point and
a paradigm of fear. The door into
power of the resurrection. What
the favor of God, the way of access
19SPECIAL EASTER SECTION
Experience Easter at......
RIVERPARK CHURCH Our main draw for this event is our get everything done in one day, so
Easter egg hunt which brings out ultimately you want people to come
MARCUS thousands of kids and their parents. back next week.
BRIGGS JR.
Marcus is the Executive Our goal is to simply introduce them • No matter what is done in the
Pastor of Riverpark to our friendly people, let them see worship experience on Easter, it’s
Church in Shreveport, the location, and then as they are important to practice transitions. The
LA. He is the husband leaving give them an invite to our worship team may kill it, the video
of Chelsea Briggs and Sunday Experiences. So many of our could be perfect, the preaching could
father of 3. Marcus is an avid musician, people had their first experience with blow you away but if the transitions
singer, and song writer, and gifted speaker.
Riverpark at an event like this. between each are cringeworthy,
that’s what people will remember.
Easter at Riverpark is one of the For us, Sunday is all about execution.
most exciting couple of days of Sunday night we wrap up the Easter
the year for us. Our goal isn’t to try • We try to present an experience weekend with a worship experience
something brand new. Instead, we that is similar to what you might at our local mission. On Easter we
try to raise our level of execution and see any other Sunday you visit. Side just want to bring the excitement of
give people a taste of what it’s like to note… Because we try to make every the day to the people at the mission.
experience God. Sunday guest friendly, excellent and Honestly, it’s one of our team’s
inspiring, Easter is an opportunity to favorite experiences, and it doesn’t
We believe strongly in using what do the same thing, better. take much more effort.
God has given you. Our best two
resources are our people and our • Every volunteer sees Easter as a big Bottom line, I believe you should
property. Our broadcast campus deal, so they are very open to your use what you have and execute
is located in an old theme park in insight on culture. (Here’s the secret… well. Communicate, in advance, the
Shreveport, LA. With that in mind… after Easter is over we remind them goal of the day to all of your teams
here’s what Easter has looked like for that this is the culture and feel we and volunteers. Let the Holy Spirit
us for the past few years. want every Sunday. In the words of lead your planning and preparation.
the Mandalorian “This is the Way.”) Finally, put it in God’s hands and
Saturday enjoy the day.
Easter Festival • Our crowds will more than double
Sunday Morning on Easter, so we double the amount
Multiple experiences at our of volunteers in each role. The key
campuses is communication. We make sure CHURCH OF THE
Sunday Night all of our teams know what other
Final Experience at the Rescue teams are doing that day so that
CROSSROADS
Mission they can answer the questions of
BRIAN DAVIS
our guests. Our parking team should
Brian serves as a Staff
know what’s happening with our Pastor at Church of
kids team that day. Our impressions the Crossroads in
team should know what buildings are Corinth, MS. He
used for what ages. Another result of is also co-owner
the crowd is that we will need more of Faith Teams
seating. However, we don’t start with Software, a church management software
all of our chairs out, we have them company serving hundreds of churches
across the country. Brian and his wife
available and a team in place ready to
Lisa have been married for over 23 years,
set them out but we want our regular and they have two sons Avery and Adam.
seats to fill up first.
Saturday is all about the community.
Without a doubt, Easter is a Big Deal
This is when we utilize our location • One of our strategies is to launch at Crossroads. We see tons of new
to reach the people who may not be a series on Easter Sunday. This gives people who don’t normally attend
interested in church. people a reason to come back the church, and we’ve come to expect
following week. Let’s face it, you can’t that God is going to give us a special
20opportunity to connect with new
people from the community on this
big weekend. It’s such an important
weekend, not only because of the
spiritual meaning, but also because
it’s probably the greatest opportunity
of the year to connect with families
and showcase what your church offers
for those who God is drawing to Him.
At Crossroads, here are a few things
we do to maximize the Easter holiday:
CONNECT ON SATURDAY
Every year, we have a big event
on Saturday to connect with the
community. We advertise “Easter at
going to be huge and that tons of to the Guests. Don’t call them out.
Crossroads” in the weeks leading up
brand new people are going to show Don’t ask them to raise their hand.
to Easter weekend, and get as many
up. What does God expect from us? Don’t ask them to stand. But speak to
people to our property as possible.
He expects us to BE PREPARED. So them.
We have food, giveaways, egg-hunts
we put massive effort into preparing
for all ages of kids, music and face-
for every part of Easter Sunday. Work hard on the wording of your
painting. One of the greatest things
transitions. Don’t wing it! Make sure
we’ve seen is our “special needs” egg
We think about parking and seating. that your wording is smooth and clear,
hunt, where we connect with local
We think about our lobby host teams, letting everybody know that they are
organizations to help us spread the
the flow of traffic coming into the Welcome at your church. We work
word about our egg-hunt specifically
sanctuary, and how we’ll route people hard on this every week at Crossroads,
designed for kids with special needs.
to overflow seating when the need but especially at Easter, we want this
We make them feel like a million
arises. We think about how much to be incredibly intentional and clear.
bucks and roll out the red carpet for
coffee we need, and how many extra “Hey, if you’re a guest with us today,
these families.
kid’s check-in workers we need. We we are so glad you’re here. It’s such
think about beefing up the nursery an honor that you took time to come
We have everybody register, and
teams and how we want our staff worship with us this weekend. We’d
we make sure they know about our
out front meeting everybody as they love to get to know more about you
services the next day. Then we just
come in. The Key: PREPARE. and help you get plugged in here at
love on them and let them experience
Crossroads. There’s a connect card
the life-giving culture of our church
Easter usually ends up getting hectic in the seat-back in front of you, and
family. All of our Pastors, team
at Crossroads and we LOVE it. But it we’d love for you to fill that out and
leaders, group leaders…everybody
usually goes pretty smoothly, because take it out to Guest Services where
is a part of simply mingling with the
we have Prepared. In fact, we believe they have a free gift for you…or just
crowd and making people feel loved
a huge reason God continues sending drop it in the black buckets when you
and welcome on our property. No
people is because He knows that leave today. We’re SO thankful you’ve
need for high-pressure sales tactics –
we’ve worked hard to be ready for come to worship with us today, and we
They just need to experience the love
them when they arrive. just welcome you into the Crossroads
of Christ and feel like their family is
family.”
welcome and loved.
Don’t let it be awkward – Make it
SPEAK TO THE GUESTS
Excellent and let your guests KNOW
PREPARE BETTER THAN EVER This is so important. It’s something that you are genuinely glad they
you should be doing every week, but came.
As we get ready for the Sunday
especially when there are so many
services, we KNOW attendance is
guests in the room. It’s simple: Speak
21START SOMETHING NEW Easter isn’t just the biggest and beautiful church and creates
celebration in the Christian faith, amazing opportunities for growth.
A few years ago, we recognized the
where we celebrate the Risen Christ,
value of starting something new on
but it’s also one of the biggest Ours is a largely liturgical community
Easter. In previous years, we would
opportunities to make an impact in and Easter is a celebration of
end a big series on Easter. But we
our cities. You can do this! We’re believers. The number of non-
recognized that, for us, it was more
praying that this is the biggest and believers it attracts is lower than in
impacting to start something new.
best Easter EVER at your church! other regions where I’ve pastored.
So, we start a brand new big series
While our numbers will increase
on Easter, and lead into the next
they will not approach the size of our
week, giving them something to
Christmas Eve crowds. These realities
come back to.
MCCORD ROAD guide our strategy of reaching for
the “dechurched” in this season.
They’ve already gotten a taste of CHRISTIAN CHURCH We begin with a celebration on
the new series, and now they feel
Ash Wednesday 46 days before
like they’re a part of the journey the MICAH
Easter. The one hour service
congregation is going on over the SUTTON
includes no ashes and resembles
next few weeks. We push hard at the Micah Sutton is a
husband, father, a “worship night”. Corporate
end of the service, inviting everybody
pastor, leader, church- worship will be punctuated by
to come back and “Don’t Miss Part 2”.
planter, and author of times of led prayer focusing on
Noel: Bringing Your God Given Destiny to repentance then celebration.
Life. Ministry has brought him around the
FOLLOW-UP LIKE A PRO world, allowing him to experience many
different cultures. His driving passion is
At Crossroads, we put a lot of helping others move forward in their lives.
importance on Guest Follow-up He and his wife, Kristy, live in Sylvania,
every single week. We’ve got a clean Ohio with their two sons, Talon & Tyrian.
2-week guest follow-up plan that He serves as the senior pastor of McCord
we’ve seen incredible results from. Road Christian Church. You can learn
more about him at http://micahsutton.
For every church, Easter is a GIANT
com.
opportunity to connect with guests,
but you need a guest follow-up plan
Effective ministry depends The Thursday before Easter, MRCC
in place and the staff dedicated to
largely on the culture of a church will commemorate Maundy Thursday.
carrying it out.
and community. While raised a This service historically features foot
pentecostal I now pastor a non- washing, but that was discontinued
Get that Monday text out. Get those
denominational evangelical church long ago. We combine elements
letters mailed on Monday. Get that
with 54 years of tradition. John of the last supper and Good Friday
email sent. Make sure to engage
Maxwell says, “Culture eats vision for into one service and remember
conversation when those guests
lunch.” While the vision must push Christ’s last moments and His death
reply to one of your texts. Bottom
culture, it can’t break it or the vision on the cross. It is contemplative
line = Be Ready. If you don’t have
will fail. We work hard to walk this and concludes with communion.
a clearly mapped-out guest follow-
delicate line in our preparation for
up plan, work on it now. God wants
the Easter Season. Easter Sunday is a celebration of the
you to let those guests know they are
resurrection. We don’t have a pattern
noticed, welcomed, prayed for and
The culture of McCord matches many of launching series on Easter, but do
invited back.
evangelical churches doctrinally plan an attractive one. Excellence
with a few additions. First, MRCC is something we consistently work
These simple things have proven to
embraced certain liturgical elements for and our attention to detail will
be effective for us. God will do His
from its founding. Secondly, MRCC be high on this weekend. In format
part, but He expects us to do our
possesses an unequivocal desire our Easter service is not much
part to engage with the community,
for the gifts of the Holy Spirit. different than any other weekend.
prepare for excellence, communicate
This makes McCord a unique Any unique preparations would
clearly, and follow-up with care.
22SPECIAL EASTER SECTION
What You Can Do
be standard when preparing for AMOS atmosphere of hospitality. Preparation
any larger than normal crowd. M C FA L L S communicates, “We expected you to
Amos is the Director come and are glad you are here!”
The mentality that may be unique is of Operations at
that at MRCC, “The Sunday after the Destiny Ministries. • Consider that Easter is not the
big Sunday is the bigger Sunday.” He serves as a Staff
endgame but the beginning for a
The idea was spawned when I Pastor at Church of
the Crossroads in Corinth MS where he new guest. As mentioned above, we
recognized that traditionally many works with serve teams and leadership are believing and praying for new
guests will visit the church during development. Amos has been married to guests to become 2nd time visitors
holidays. I honor their attendance, Lindsey for 11 years and they have two and 2nd time visitors to become life
but understand that we will not see children Caroline (6) and Franklin (4). He members. I’ve heard some refer to
many of them again. Those who is passionate about helping others find Easter Sunday as the “Super Bowl” of
return for the following Sunday have God’s redemptive calling for their lives. church, and while it may be one of the
given us the greatest opportunity to most attended services in your year,
see them added to our faith family. Now that you’ve heard from Dr. we should be particularly interested
That’s how a church grows. That’s Brassfield about the why of Easter and in the attendance numbers over the
our focus on Easter Sunday. We you’ve seen what different churches next few weeks. Those numbers can
offer as many reasons as we can for do through the eyes of Pastors Micah tell us more about our church than
a guest to return the following week Sutton, Marcus Briggs, and Brian the one isolated Easter Sunday. How
then deliver everything we’ve got. Davis, I have the opportunity to share would it change the complexity of
If Easter was good, the next Sunday is with you some practical ways of how your sermon series during that time?
better. In every area from parking to to put their thoughts into action. Here How would it change how you trained
platform our teams are on point. This are some considerations for your your first impression team members
isn’t easy as the natural tendency is church and teams and leaders?
to take a breath after a big weekend,
but we make it happen. While we • Consider the possibility that your • Consider praying for the other
work to avoid any “down services” church needs to adapt an inclusive churches in and around your
the Sunday after the big Sunday event on Easter weekend. That community. It’s easy to be inward
is certainly not a relaxed one. The event is a way that people in your focused, but remember that there
goal is to knock it out of the park. community can meet members of will be churches in your community
your church without actually stepping that are experiencing a big Sunday
By aligning our efforts with elements into your auditorium. I’ve heard it as well. We must remember not to be
of the prevailing culture in our said this way, “People are looking to so focused on our own desires for our
community many raised in the celebrate Easter, why shouldn’t the church that we forget that we are a
liturgical traditions who left church church provide a place to celebrate?” part of building the Kingdom of God.
long ago have returned to faith. That concept seems so simple, but I believe that it was Pastor Dave Willis
Providing services on days and the truth is that we forget how to who phrased this thought by asking,
for reasons they recognize creates host people outside of our weekend “If God answered all of your prayers,
soft entry points particularly for services. would the world look different or just
a younger generation looking your life?”
for something different, but not • Consider what you communicate on
unrecognizable. We welcome them Easter Sunday. I’m sure that you are Lastly, let me say that the Destiny
into a modern worship experience meticulous on your communication team is praying for you, your teams,
with the expression of personal from the platform, but we must also and your churches. We believe that
worship and liberty in the Holy Spirit. communicate the correct things God wants your church to grow and
The result has been extraordinary. from the parking lot, the lobby, and reach the lost for His kingdom.
the door ways. A guest’s next steps
should be crystal clear from the
moment that they drive on to your
campus to the moment they leave. By
preparing answers for the questions
guests may encounter in advance,
you have laid the foundation for an
23CEO
Called | Empowered | Obedient
TO THE KINGDOM
Purposed Women of God
JEN MAINS Searching through the church women using their gifts in the
We have been blessed with four today, are we able to find a large church. When those girls grow
amazing children; two sons and contingency of business women into adult women, is it possible,
two daughters. All of them have mentors for our daughters? because they have not seen an
grown into strong, independent, Women who have reached the example of a Godly Christian
successful entrepreneurs and highest levels of success in Professional Woman actively
business owners. Each year over business while also dedicating participating in His Kingdom, that
the holidays, we gather to create themselves to the work of the they turn their focus and attention
our vision boards for the year. On Lord. In our household, we have into furthering their careers while
one occasion, my daughters and had several discussions about this abandoning the call of ministry in
I got into a conversation about topic and the question arises; is their life? Are we putting them in
their futures, dreams, and goals. there a possibility of serving God a position that they feel they need
That conversation has stirred my in a professional capacity within to choose between pursuing a
heart ever since. the kingdom? Specifically, when career OR pursuing a calling?
related to our women of God;
In society today, our daughters see where do they fit? How can we empower our girls
examples of women participating and women to lean into their
in many secular industries, There seems to be a disconnect, God-given gifts of leadership and
businesses, professional sports, and almost confusion, when show them the path to use those
entertainment, doctors, lawyers, considering how a woman’s talents in furthering the gospel?
CPA’s, and so on. Yet throughout professional talents can What can we do as a church
our churches, are they exposed to contribute to the furthering of body to celebrate all women’s
the same inspiring examples to God’s work. Young girls may not vocational callings? How can
emulate? witness professional Christian the church provide examples
of strong, professional women
who are also committed to their
husbands, their families, and their
call to ministry?
As the body of Christ, can we
welcome women to serve the
church in ways that are related to
their professional field? A woman
may not be a good fit to lead the
children’s ministry, yet, as a CPA,
she may be perfect to lead the
24financial board. Rather than having on their careers. Invite local 6. Provide Bible Study groups
her organize a charitable food community colleges, girl scout on evenings and weekends
drive, as an Architect, she may be troops, Big Sister Club, etc. to meet the needs of working
perfect to design the new wing that women in our churches.
would house the kitchen to serve. 3. Work with local women
shelters or community 7. Provide them with coaching/
These women struggle because organizations like Dress for mentoring. Studies show that
they may not be talented singers or Success. Women can teach the over half of all professional
musicians. They may wish they were women from the community women in the US have never
more gifted in hospitality or experts how to build a resume, how to had a mentor or coach. This
in cooking, baking, or sewing. Yet be effective at interviewing. includes women of God.
many of them own companies, are
respected as specialists within their 4. Encourage women to When our women devote
industries, or are highly sought facilitate a tax course or themselves fully to Christ’s work, I
after by elite corporations to run investment seminar and open believe we change the trajectory of
their companies. Where do they it up to the public. Weave in our future generations. Our women
fit in the kingdom? These women financial Biblical precepts into CEOs who are Called, Empowered,
are young, old, married, single, the curriculum. and Obedient to the Kingdom will
mothers, grandmothers, aunts and transform her family, her workplace,
friends. And they are also CEOs, 5. Teach women about their her church, and her community
business owners, doctors, nurses, strengths and embrace how with the gospel of Jesus Christ. Rise
accountants, writers, attorneys, they can use them. up women of tenacious faith…you
lawyers, consultants, and more. have a purpose to fulfill.
WHAT CAN WE DO WITHIN About Jen Mains
OUR CHURCHES? James and Jen pastor Spirit of Life
Church in Woodbury, MN; a growing,
1. Develop a business ministry family church committed to being salt
for women. Are there women and light in their community. Jen has
mentors who could encourage also worked in the real estate industry
for over 24 years as an agent, team
other women juggling work/life
leader, business coach, and CEO of
balance? three real estate offices. She and Contact Jen
James have four beautiful children: www.JenMains.com
2. Create a ‘job fair’ for the Haley, Ayden, Charlie, and Ben; the www.SpiritofLifeBibleChurch.org
women in the congregation most important people in their lives. CoachJenMains@Gmail.com
to hold informational booths
25You can also read
