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God vs The gods of Egypt

By the time Moses arrived on the scene, around 1500 B.C., the Hebrews had been in Egypt for more than a hundred years. The days of Joseph serving as vizier to the pharaoh were long gone. The Hebrews had grown from an extended family of about six dozen to a couple million, but they were suffering under the rule of a nation that no longer valued their presence except as forced labor.

So Yahweh set the next phase of His plan in motion. After guiding the life of Moses from infancy to adulthood (you don’t think he survived that trip in the reed boat by accident, do you?), Yahweh appeared to Moses in his exile and tasked him with bringing Israel out of Egypt. And the way God had him do it was a clear message to the gods of Egypt.

Moses’ first encounter with Yahweh was in Midian. That was at Horeb in the northern Sinai, later part of Edom (contrary to long tradition that puts the mountain in southern Sinai), the har elohim, or mountain of God. Get this:  The burning bush incident was the first time since Eden that a human had come face to face with Yahweh on His holy mountain. There is no question that the bene elohim, the Fallen “sons of God,” the seventy rebel angels God allotted to the nations after Babel, knew about this meeting. It was a very clear message from Yahweh to the rebels:  I have reestablished my mount of assembly on the earth.

The time had finally come. God called Moses back to Egypt to bring His people, Israel, to the place He’d claimed as His own—Canaan.

Yahweh chose to convince pharaoh and the Egyptians to not only let Israel leave, but to encourage them to go. He did it by hardening pharaoh’s heart through a series of increasingly severe trials until the people of Egypt must have been begging pharaoh to let His people go.

There are several studies you can find online that draw links between the ten plagues Yahweh inflicted on Egypt and specific Egyptian gods. For example, the first plague turned the Nile River to blood. This is said to have been directed at Hapi, the god of the annual Nile flood. Plague number two, frogs, was aimed at Heqet, a fertility goddess worshipped since the early dynastic period—the time of Narmer and the first kings of Egypt, about 1,500 or 1,600 years before Moses.

Those match up well enough, but when we get to the third and fourth plagues, the connections are iffy at best. The plague of lice or gnats, depending on the translation you read, doesn’t match up well with any known Egyptian god. The plague of flies is paired by some with Khepri, a god of creation. But Khepri had a scarab beetle for a head, so that’s not a good match, either.

Some of the pastors and teachers who’ve published these studies are very intelligent people whom I respect. However, and with all due respect to those pastor-teachers, they’ve overlooked an even bigger supernatural conflict, and understanding that confrontation will show you why trying to link the ten plagues to specific Egyptian gods is looking in the wrong direction.

More accurately, it’s looking at the wrong pantheon.

Yes, Yahweh demonstrated with the ten plagues that His power was superior to that of the gods the Egyptians trusted to keep the Nile flowing and the crops growing. And we know for a fact that Yahweh put a hurt on the gods of Egypt the night He took the lives of Egypt’s first-born.

How do we know? He told Moses.

For I will pass through the land of Egypt that night, and I will strike all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and on all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgments: I am the Lord.

Exodus 12:12 (ESV), emphasis added

How likely is it that Yahweh told Moses that He was about to punish imaginary beings? What would be the point? How would that demonstrate His power and glory?

No, something happened in the spirit realm on the night of the Passover. When Yahweh passed through the land of Egypt, taking the lives of firstborn humans and animals, He simultaneously carried out His sentence on the bene elohim, the entities who’d rebelled and made themselves gods in Egypt.

Here’s a fascinating detail we never hear about in church:  It appears there was a very old tradition in Egypt, an ancient myth dating back centuries before the Exodus, that a day was coming when the first-born of Egypt would die. The pyramids of the 5th Dynasty king Unas, c. 2350 B.C., and the 6th Dynasty king Teti, c. 2320 B.C., are inscribed with this line from a well-known inscription called the “Cannibal Hymn”:

It is the king who will be judged with Him-whose-name-is-hidden on this day of the slaying of the first-born.⁠

Similar phrases are found on other coffins from Egypt’s Middle Kingdom, including a variant that reads “this night of the slaying of the first-born.” Some scholars believe the context of the Coffin Texts and the Cannibal Hymn points to the first-born belonging to the gods, although that’s not a view shared by all Egyptologists.

What does it mean? Scholars aren’t sure. But it seems that by the time of the Exodus, there was a very old tradition in Egypt of a future nightmare event when the first-born would be killed.

Consider this possibility: Maybe the Coffin Texts and the “Cannibal Hymn” were an ancient warning to Egypt of that coming day of judgment. And forty years earlier on Mount Sinai, Yahweh revealed to Moses that He was Him-whose-name-is-hidden, I AM WHO I AM—the One who would someday fulfill the prophecy of the slaying of the first-born.

That’s speculation, of course, but fascinating. And we’re not at the best part yet.

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Scholars today, 3,500 years later, still argue about where the Red Sea crossing occurred. We won’t get into it here. If it hasn’t been settled by now, we’re not going to put the question to bed in a couple of paragraphs. Besides, that’s not important right now. What matters is what Yahweh told Moses to do next.

Then the Lord said to Moses,

“Tell the people of Israel to turn back and encamp in front of Pi-hahiroth, between Migdol and the sea, in front of Baal-zephon; you shall encamp facing it, by the sea.

Exodus 14:1-2 (ESV, emphasis added)

Okay, this begs some questions:  Why did God tell Moses to turn back? Why did He command Moses to camp facing Baal-zephon? What is Baal-zephon? And mostly, what was Ba`al doing in Egypt?

You know Ba`al was the Canaanite storm-god and the king of their pantheon. He’s mentioned in the Bible from the Book of Exodus through the gospels. Ba`al, which is properly pronounced bah-awl with a glottal stop like, “Uh-oh,” was the main thorn in the side of the followers of Yahweh for about the next 1,500 years, all the way down to the time of Jesus.

But during the Second Intermediate Period in Egypt, roughly 1750 to 1550 B.C. (give or take a hundred years), foreigners from Canaan called the Hyksos ruled northern Egypt. Their capital was at Avaris in the Nile delta, and they worshipped the gods of the Canaanite pantheon headed by Ba`al.

Why is that relevant? Stay tuned. We’ll get to that next month.

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How to avoid being overworked and feeling overwhelmed.”

Poor leaders find themselves running out of time while their direct reports lack motivation and are running out of productive work.  Great leadership is not about your personal production but your team’s production, especially when you are not around.
Delegation and deferring are two of your most important strengths as a leader. Doing them well is a must for providing effective leadership and significant success.  Great leaders spend less time “doing” and invest most of their time planning, organizing resources and coaching their team to do the “doing.”
There is a major difference between delegating and deferring.  Delegating means you still own some responsibility for the results, deferring means you give the task away without any further responsibility.  Great leaders use both and know when and how to use them.
Some warning signs you need to improve your delegating skills:
1. Your in-box is always full with work only YOU can do.
2. Delegated assignments are often incomplete and deadlines missed.
3. Direct reports feel they lack authority, resources and empowerment.
4. You constantly second guess your team members’ decisions.
5. Team morale is low, turnover rates rising and people lack motivation.
6. You frequently intervene in work you previously delegated or deferred.
7. Team members feel unprepared and are not taking full responsibility.
Tips for delegating effectively:
1. Recognize and affirm the capabilities of your team for their assignments.
2. Focus on results, not how tasks should be accomplished.
3. Use delegation to develop the skills of your team members and position them for advancement.
4. Always delegate or defer to the lowest level possible.
5. Explain assignments clearly and provide necessary resources.
6. Provide consistent feedback, emotional support during tough times and celebrate all wins, big or small.
7. Defer more, give away responsibility for results and avoid the comebacks.
Overworked and overwhelmed leaders are leaders who failed to learn how to delegate and defer effectively.
As a result your best people leave you because they are bored, you hold back the development of your good people and your average team members are burned up, or burned out because of trying to do it all.
How are you feeling as you start a new week?
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Sex, Money and Power: Table Talk

How do we treat God's Gifts?Dear Pastor,

A few years ago God put a strong word in me about the struggles Pastors have with sex, money and power. As people that are human we have the same driving issues that every other person has. The flesh that we live in has hungers that if not “Disciplined” will ruin our lives our families and our ministries! Sex has been made to be a dirty word by many pastors and churches because the world has been very abusive and seductive in its portrayal of it, however the beautiful union between a man and a woman was given to us by God. God set this special gift aside to be between a man and his wife as a Holy Union that demonstrates the oneness of marriage. Our challenge to you today is to ask yourself, am I seeking to be like the world or am I seeking to be like God. In other words, am I treating sex as “Holy Intimacy” as a gift or am I treating it as a flesh satisfying action where God is forgotten?

Pastors, we must not allow ourselves to stay in the trap of the enemy filling our eyes, mind and actions with sexual fantasies. This is a sure way to total failure and perhaps eternity in the pit of hell. Yes, we said hell! Let us say this very truthful statement, “Your Actions and Words Identify Whose you really are!”  The only way to defeat the enemy in this arena is to (1) Be “full” of God’s word (2) Obey the Holy Spirit (3) Put NOTHING before your eyes that cause temptation (4) If Married- Have Holiness in your intimacy and make your bed an altar before God (5) Engage in weekly Accountability The Bible teaches that the love of Money is the root of all kinds of evil. Having Money or lacking Money is definitely a driving force in peoples lives today.

As Pastors we must have Money for ministry. We must have money for survival. We must answer the question that if we serve an all powerful and loving God why are so many Christians struggling to eat and pay bills. These are questions that we face constantly. The wealthy Pastor versus the poor Pastor is a very difficult challenge. What we know is very clear, “Seek ye first the Kingdom of Heaven”! “Where your heart is there is also your treasure!” These are just two of the truths of God’s word. As Pastors we volunteer to give up our lives to serve the Lord. Money is the defining tool God uses to determine where your heart is. God may choose to bless one greatly and another not. He looks at the heart. But be aware, the enemy can pour money and earthly treasures on you as well giving you the choice, who are you going to serve?

The questions you may need to also ask is, do I have any idols in my closet? Would you be willing to sell all to follow Jesus? If the answer is No, then perhaps you need to examine your heart and see if Jesus lives there. If the answer is yes then you need to live like it! Treat everything you have as if it were Jesus’ and he expects you to return it to him. Having Money is a good thing as long as it doesn’t own you! Power and Glory are battles that all Pastors face. They are either inward or outward. Being in control as the Shepherd is a genuine responsibility that must be taken seriously. Falling into the deception that we are to control and dictate has caused the destruction of many great Pastors. Leading as a Bold servant of God who understands the authority you operate under is critical to having a highly blessed/successful ministry. Power struggles in church leadership, pastoral staffs and congregational leaders continue to be one of the primary tools satan uses to destroy churches and pastors.

Self center attitudes by pastors breeds destructive tendencies as well. Being in charge is a constant battle and it often stems from home life. The worlds way says, “it’s all about me”! The idea of being a humble servant is not very appealing based on worldly standards however Jesus humbled himself to become a man. The fact is that when you truly know who you are in Jesus and you know how to live under his authority then being humble is a necessity. Why? Because you walk in His Power and Authority, not your own. You walk in the fullness of Holy Spirit and are confident! Pastor, I pray that you will examine yourself today and get with your fellow Champions and review these three major battle grounds for Christians/Pastors. Dissect them, search the scriptures establish a checks and balance/accountability. It is our prayer that this brief letter will bring things to your attention that will cause you to stretch to a higher calling and a higher walk with the lord Jesus. We also pray that you will become the leader and pastor that God called you to be by humbling yourself and praying daily more fervently than ever before. We love you and continue to pray for you. Your Servant, paul        

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Nicaragua Pastors Excited About Starting Champions Tables!

 


I have just returned from a Pastors conference in Matagalpa Nicaragua with Pastors Nolan Edwards and Willie Bolden. Pastor Edwards invited me to join him and Pastor Bolden on this Pastors Conference sponsored by Champions Church in Winter Haven, Florida, with my sole purpose to share about All Pro Pastors and what we are doing worldwide in Pastors lives and their communities. On three different days I had the honor to speak to a new group of Pastors and it was truly amazing at the response. The Holy Spirit moved in a powerful way and the Pastors embraced the “Champions Table” as possibly a way for Pastors to come together for the very first time. It looked like 100% of the Pastors stood to join a “Table”. Pastor Luis Corea, one of the Pastor Associations main leaders, has volunteered to lead the All Pro Pastors movement in Matagalpa. Pastor Corea is now our Ambassador and he is very committed to taking this to the 120 plus Pastors in his city. Pastor Corea has a very strong church and is on Television weekly. Pray for him as he moves forward. Pastor Adonay Gonzales is a Pastor who had come over from Honduras to assist Pastor Nolan with an outreach to Pastors and many special events and to help with the conference. He also asked to become an Ambassador for APP and to take the “Champions Table” to Honduras. He is a leader in the GERAZIN church group which has 200 churches in Honduras. He helps to open new churches in Nicaragua and Costa Rica. We look forward to working with him to help start All Pro Pastor Chapters throughout his region of ministry. He is a great man of God. We left on Sunday May 18th and returned Saturday May 24th. As part of a team we had several worship services to speak at and ministered to many people each night. Pastor Nolan Edwards is planning a city wide Crusade with the local Pastors. Getting them together to work together and develop relationships is why All Pro Pastors was invited to join the team. Pastor Edwards has been in a Champions Table for over two years and he has seen how it is bringing the Body of Christ (The Church ) together in a transforming way. The Pastors in Nicaragua have caught the vision too. Please pray for us as we work to facilitate and supply the needed information and supplies that they need in the Central American Spanish language. Praise God that Pastor Tony Ponceti from Lakeland, Florida  is an Ambassador with APP and is bi-lingual. He has agreed to help and already travels often to Honduras. I also want to thank Pastor Edwards for inviting us to be a part of His great work in Nicaragua and to also ask for you to pray for him as he  diligently strives to minister the wonderful people of Nicaragua.

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A Time to Stand!

Every year when we come to February many churches and individuals have just completed a 21 day Daniel Fast (or other fast), started new diets/exercise, started praying with your spouse daily, and are on your way to  reaching Newly established Resolutions. February is a critical point in this new year journey because statistics demonstrate that most people are now fighting hard to stay on track.

The enemy wants you to give up. He whispers, quit getting up early for that intimate time with God. He wants you to give in to that sweet tooth. Missing a day of exercise won’t hurt and praying with your spouse daily is to hard to do EVERY day. He tells you your goals are to big and unreachable. He tempts you by planting doubts and negative thoughts such as; you have always been overweight and people still like you, you have tried to quit dozens of times its just too hard, why get up early God is awake 24/7 you can pray anytime, let your wife sleep in she doesn’t need prayer this morning, you may want to adjust that goal before you get to much egg on your face.

The ENEMY wants you to fail, period! Remember, he is a liar and a thief. He wants to steal your joy and distract you away from being ALL God has for you. He wants you to fail and to miss God’s Destiny for you.

Praise the Lord Jesus. you are an overcomer! Our God is much bigger than satan’s lies and the world’s statistics. Did you know that the enemy cannot touch or harm you (Christians) without permission? He can bring about temptation but as Christians we can rebuke, flee and stand firm with God’s Word in our heart and on our lips. As Ambassadors of Christ, you are a personal representative for Jesus. You are under His authority and have Him standing behind you. (remember the Roman Centurian) When we accept the mantle of being a Christian, we are accepting a position in the army of God. This includes many wonderful benefits that include equipping to overcome the enemy!

Today let us encourage you to Stand Firm against doubt and discouragement. Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty Power! When you feel the temptation to order a dessert, skip a day of exercise, sleep in and miss your private time with God, etc., speak to your mind and the temptation in Jesus name to leave. Rebuke the enemy in Jesus name! Declare that you are going to stand firm! Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty Hand! Amen

We are praying for you

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“God Day” Celebration in Orlando Florida Introduced to the World!

Throughout the world there are many one day special celebrations set aside from Presidents Day to Secretaries Day, from Mothers Day to Fathers Day. The list is countless. We are excited that Pastor Joshua Fowler and a team of visionary Pastors and Christian Leaders in Central Florida have been charged by God to start a “God Day” celebration! You may ask, why “God Day”, isn’t every Sunday supposed to be God’s Day? Yes it is, however this “God Day” is a time of bringing unity to the Kingdom Body by demonstrating God’s love.

It stands out as a “Day” for pastors to show everyone in Orlando, Central Florida and the World what can happen when the Body of Christ (the church) works together. This very special day is bringing pastors and churches together to touch their community by putting thousands of shoes on children who are in need. It also is a day of new beginnings, new beginnings of friendship and care that touches these little ones as Jesus tells us to do. Different denominations, races and cultures have come together to minister to the children in Orlando Florida, many of whom have never owned a brand new pair of shoes. A New pair of shoes will be placed on each child’s feet by a local Pastor or Christian volunteer.

We pray that this will be a huge success and Orlando embraces the opportunity to recognize and celebrate our creator and lord, Jesus Christ!

Pastors we applaud you and your obedience to the Holy Spirit who put this on your hearts. Please take this opportunity to embrace one another as God’s leaders and Ambassadors publicly and wholeheartedly and let this unity continue through each and every day.

We are praying for you and that many lost families will be brought to know Jesus and receive His everlasting love!

The “God Day” celebration is officially on December 12th starting with a “Declaration” from 6:00 PM- 9:00 PM.  Followed by a Global Awakening Ministers Congress on Friday the 13th from 9:00 AM-9:00 PM  and Saturday December 14th is the big shoe distribution, a  United Demonstration of The Father’s Love!

To get involved or learn how to plan for your church to get involved contact :  www.godday.com. 

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Jesus and Moses had one, What about you?

Pastor, what is it that you struggle with? Is it depression because everything is so hard and no-one helps or cares? Is it the secretary because she is always smiling and starting to look too good, or is it the lady who you are counseling and you should never be alone with!!? Is it the “power” you have over people as the leader and you like it , oh so much? Do you have a strong desire for more titles and prestige so more people will go wowwwww? Is money causing you to slip away from God’s way? Are the attitudes of people driving you to quit or compromise? Are the sheep biting you and your spouse and you feel like the sacrificial lamb? Do you feel like striking back? Is the church your mistress and your wife is ready to leave you?

Pastor, the enemy is like a roaring lion seeking to devour YOU! You need to stand firm and stand strong and perhaps get a couple of brothers to hold your arms up. Moses had Aaron and Hur to hold his arms up during the battle. Jesus even took Peter, James and John  off regularly for private times. As a Pastor and a man we all need to have an inner group that we can lean on.Men we can TRUST!  We need accountability daily, weekly, monthly, etc. We need each other to help us fight the good fight and not give in to the flesh or satan’s trickery. A good encouragement group will save you!!

A good accountability group is not afraid to question about any of the above issues and challenges. It will face these and more with you head-on. A great accountability group will go much deeper than is comfortable and walk with you through the onslaught of hell if necessary! Accountability is not to be feared but to be embraced! As Pastors we need strong accountability. We need to be questioned and drilled by our Trusted brothers in order to be the men of God we should be.

It is the Pastor who men and women see that set the standard of morality and character. If you tell off colored jokes or listen to them, then it must be okay. If the Pastor doesn’t return calls or is late to meetings or texts during worship, then must be okay.  If the Pastor doesn’t “date” his wife or show her attention in public then that must be okay too. If the Pastor has wandering eyes… well lets not go there because this is a plague in most churches among men and women!

However, if the Pastor shows his wife genuine love and attention for all to see and he is prompt and considerate in everything,  everyone will follow suite. If he worships in worship and stays clear of the appearance of evil this too will become the standard. When the congregation sees a loving, considerate man with high moral character and uncompromising values this will bring life to the messages you deliver!

It is the accountability group that helps hold us to the standards that we set and demand of ourselves. A great accountability group can help you raise the bar to another level and help you hold it up. It is brothers who link arms with you and you are never never never alone. If you have heard the phrase “they will take a bullet for you”, this is what a great group brings you.

This is why we call All Pro Pastors accountability groups “The Champions Table” . It is a place that Champions are made! It is where we step out of our box as Pastor and embrace challenging accountability by brothers we love and trust! It grows us into the” Man of God” we preach about becoming.

Pastor, what do you struggle with? The many issues we listed above are real and you know they are. The question is what are you willing to do about it? My prayer is that today you will reach out and start an accountability group today and if it happens to be a “Champions Table” we will do everything possible to support you. The Champions Table is safe and life saving. Join one today.

Blessings,

paul

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David Gibbs III Hits a Home Run or “Nerve” of Many Pastors

July 25th at the Pastors Power Luncheon Attorney David Gibbs and Pastor Fred Harrold both gave resounding messages. Pastor Fred reviewed many of the issues Pastors face with congregations that can be very demoralizing, however he gave a solution for many to consider, “The Champion Table”. To see this compelling presentation go to our video gallery.

Attorney Gibbs talked squarely to Pastors about real legal issues that can not only create great distress for a church/pastor but could possibly destroy a church. Churches today must be aware of the many satanic attacks that are taking place each day across America within churches. I did say within! Church membership is not something to take lightly these days. Please go to our video gallery and take the time to watch Attorney Gibbs powerful and informative message. Every Pastor and committed Christian leader should watch this!

We are thankful for Attorney Gibbs and Pastor Fred for giving their time to Pastors for this tremendous luncheon. We want to also thank Plant City Church of God for hosting and providing a delicious meal!

If you were unable to attend this luncheon please join us on September 26th at Church at the Mall in Lakeland, Florida to see and hear Attorney Gibbs III. (see events for details)

 

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Sexual Holiness Hits Home at Pastor/Wife Conference!

On Friday May 5th All Pro Pastors had our first Pastors/Wives conference. It was a great day. Attorney John Stemberger founder of the Florida Family Policy Council shared many truths about the freedoms and the restrictions Pastors have. He shared about 501C3 corporations and whether it is necessary for a Church to have this designation. He is a part of the Alliance Defense Fund which is a network of attorneys nationwide who offer free services to churches and pastors to defend your constitutional rights. Free consultations over the telephone are available for many different legal issues. Please feel free to call his office at: 407-251-5130. “May we say another thank you for the countless hours and resources you spend defending our freedoms and liberties as Floridians and Americans!!!” We do not take this for granted and encourage everyone who reads this to support your great life’s work. Amen

Rob Casatta, talked about the importance of managing your money. The principle of telling your money where to go instead of wondering where it goes was a central point he tried to encourage. As a staff Pastor and a trained money professional Rob has seen the impact bad money management can have on a couple or individual. His words challenged each of us to become pro-active with our money and to take a hands-on approach.

Dr. Jay Dennis Pastor of 1st Baptist church at the Mall in Lakeland Florida, revealed how challenging pornography is in society today. With the easy access to porn on the internet many “good” people have become victims of their own weaknesses and lost families and fortunes because of this growing epedemic. He offered step by step means for men to get this illuminated from their lives. Everyone received a workbook and a 31 day supply of memory cards. He shared his vision to see men completely freed from this stronghold! Thanks Dr. Jay for sharing your heart and encouraging words!

Richard Mull, founder of Operation Lightforce and author of several books, shared a powerful word on the freedom that comes with real forgiveness. Discovering the many issues that hold us back or hold us down is the key to experiencing freedom. When these obstacles are removed your life can start moving at an accelerated pace and healing takes place. This was a life breathing message that rang true for all.

Dr Allan Meyers, shared by video his first session called Valiant Man. This is a 10 week program on sexual discipleship. It may be the one and only program for churches to use that can help men handle their God given sexual appetite. This presentation pointed out the difference in how men and women are made and how they think about sex. The women were also a part of this and learned some of the challenges men face “within their own skin”. It is a great relief knowing that men can be discipled in this area of life and be taught how to make sex ‘Holy”! We recommend that every pastor go through this program.

A special thanks to Moses Brown who sang and testified during lunch and shared a word about his trip to  introduce All Pro Pastors in Kenya Africa at a Pastors conference there! We have reports of over 500 pastors are now part of the Kenya /Uganda All Pro Pastors Africa chapter. Praise God!

Linda and I were extremely blessed to have this Conference at “Champions Church” in Winter Haven, Florida. The church leadership lead by Nolan and Kathy Edwards provided everything from Praise and Worship(wasn’t this awesome!) beautifully designed Programs for everyone, Media and Sound staff (Shannon and Jon), assistance with lunch(big Chris) and untold hours of help, the list could just keep going. Thank you Thank you! Special thanks to pastor Margaret too!

A very special thanks to Kingdom Walk, a Christian Business Men group in Winter Haven. They furnished lunch(by Devin’s Champions Smokehouse),helped served lunch, and served throughout the day, all because they love Pastors and their wives. They did everything possible to make the conference perfect. We also thank our good friends from Travel by Horizon, Rhonda Hardee and “H” Fry who stayed all day and worked side by side with Kingdom Walk.

A big word of thanks goes to our sponsor “Lake Placid Camp and Retreat Center” in Lake Placid, Florida. They have facilities to handle all types and sizes of camps/retreats. Anthony Haney executive director has offered short sabbaticals to Pastors who need a 2-4 day getaway at no charge. This is an offer you should definitely take.

The biggest thanks of all goes to our Lord Jesus who was with us all day long and “HOLY SPIRIT” was active and mighty!! Praise God! Thank you Father!!!

Finally, if you have any questions about speakers or how to contact them please contact APP and we will give you the information.

Many Blessings,

paulandlinda

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All Pro Pastors Newsletter March 2012


March 2012

Dear Friends and Beloved of God,

Linda and I are sincerely thankful for your prayers and continued support of All Pro Pastors. God has heard your prayers and this ministry is growing at an amazing rate. Pastors and their wife’s are testifying on a  daily basis of how APP is encouraging them and giving them strength to stay the course.

Pastor Moses Brown from Tampa spent 10 days in February for a Pastors conference in Kenya, Africa and started a new All Pro Pastors Chapter. Since his visit 16 New Champion Tables have started in Africa. 

 “ChampionTables” are starting to form all throughout the world, simply because Pastors need each other as men to lean on, talk to, laugh with and cry with. Most people do not know how lonely being a Pastor or a Pastors Wife can be. We need to be encouraged to live up to the standards God expects and requires us to. And perhaps more so, we need trusted friends to pick us up when we fail and fall short. Praise God that a great “Champions Table” will not kick us when we are down. We lift each other up and offer a shoulder to lean on for as long as it takes. The “Table” challenges us to keep our relationships with God and family in proper order so that we stay qualified as Pastors to lead and be living examples.

You need to know that you are helping reach Ten’s of Thousand’s of people for Jesus throughout the world through All Pro Pastors. The Pastors that we serve are encouraged to stay the course and stand strong through the struggles. They are comforted and challenged to link arms with each other to hold each other up when the going gets tougher!! These Pastors lead large and small congregations that rely on them to be living examples of Jesus. They give hope when things look hopeless. This ministry provides a safe place where Pastors can rest each week and truly lay their mantle off for a few minutes and breathe in a fresh breath of Holy Spirit with a few other hungry warriors for Christ! It is a place that they receive a re-fill of hope for themselves and power to move mountains!

We ask that you pray that every Pastor have the opportunity and challenge to become a part of a Champion Table. We are expecting to reach 1000’s of Pastors this year through the internet, personal engagements, Pastors telling Pastors and other media we expect God to open up. We ask that you pray for God to open doors and to provide provisions to see this vision come to pass quickly. What do you believe would happen if our Pastors started loving one another across all the divisions that exist today? We would see an amazing outpouring of His Spirit that would shake the world from the bottom up to the top!

Thank you for continuing to help us help Pastors develop trust with one another and embrace personal challenging accountability! Now tell someone else about this ministry and what God is doing.

Your Servants, Paul and Linda

PS. Please read through our local and Global news on page (2) and the Vision on the last page.

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Lakeland Luncheon Resonates with Passion Possessions and Power Message

Pastor Fred challenged the men and women who attended today’s luncheon at the Hawthorne Inn  in Lakeland Florida to stay focused on Christ as they focused on their spouses. It is true that we have wandering eyes that are built in but these eyes do not have to thirst with lust and immoral desires. As men we must admit that looking is what men do but what happens next is where the battles are often the hardest fought. We need to hold each other accountable to stay true to our wives and strong in our passion for God’s Word. The lust of the eyes has been the starting place for many who fall. Admitting that it is a real battle is where many men need to start. It is easy to say that you don’t look but we doubt your honesty with your self. Looking is normal. God built that into to us, but fighting off the temptation that follows strengthens us to stand strong when tougher battles confront us. How good it is to surround ourselves with Champion brothers to help us stand firm. Praise God!

Fred also shared about how our desires for possessions can destroy lives, marriages and churches. Our lust for the things of this earth can easily become our next IDOL! Financial honesty is critical in every marriage! Secrets are the road to trouble. Keep it open and honest even if it hurts.

Power struggles are common as Pastors, from boards at the church to that long time member who thinks they own the church. It can also be a struggle at home when a husband and wife allow the church to be their “playing field for arguments”. Men you need to date your wife every day. Treat her with loving compassion as Christ certainly treats you. Wives need to respect and support your husband even allowing him to fail. As long as he is trying support his efforts. Husbands need to realize that your wife wants you to succeed and probably has good ideas if you will ask and listen. She loves you! It is up to you to fight off the attacks of the enemy by showing kindness and respect for one another!

Above all, pray together hand in hands!!!! Every Day!!!! Do not pray at one another. Let’s face it, we are in WARFARE and it is our responsibility to utilize the armor and the weapons God has given us. Men, today you were charged to step up as real men of God and be a “CHAMPION”. Joining a Champions Table may be your next step. Being honest at your Table may be where you are?! Some may need to take good counsel and apply it. It may save your marriage, family, children, and possibly your church. One Pastor’s wife said today that the Champions Table has saved their marriage “for now“, but there is more work to do! The Champions Table is a safe place and it can also be the place that fuels your life with the wisdom and energy you thirst for!

Now, what are you going to do about it????

 

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Pastors Summit/Expo Big Success

Thank you goes to Abundant Life Church of God in Lakeland for hosting the 2011 Pastors Summit and Expo. It was by far the best we have seen. The Mission Possible team were truly amazing. The Planning team headed up by Travis and Rob were nothing short of remarkable. While we are giving out compliments we must identify Chuck, “H”, Lew, Everette, Tony, Marie, Ed, Dudley, Jessie, Rhonda, Curt, Pierre, and many others for all their time effort and prayers. A BIG Thank you goes to Pastor Ron for allowing us to use the event center. (We Highly Recommend This To Anyone For Their Next Event!)

The Pastor and Wives luncheon was far more inspiring than anyone expected. The atmosphere was created to bring our pastors and wives the feeling of true elegance! All of the beautiful decor and arrangements were done by “Zorita” and Marie!!! The food presentation from chef Ed demonstrated his artistic gift. Tony Ponceti was the perfect Host and the words of encouragement from Nolan and Kathy moved the hearts of all of us.

The EXPO brought many visitors from the community and a lot of introductions were made. The vendors met many potential customers because of the hard work and team work of the planning team. Having the EXPO this year for the first time on Saturday allowed many more people to attend. The Kids Midway offered lots of fun including free face painting and cotton candy. It was lots of fun. Thank you again to Mission Possible!!(This is a special group of young adults from Abundant Life who are committed to serving others, and they did a super job!)

It was a real community effort with churches joining together to promote this as a community event. Having Mayor Gow Fields Speak during the Expo and at the Pastors and Wives Luncheon was a great highlight and tribute!

We thank God for His provision and bringing this event together. Thank you for coming to all the guests, vendors, pastors and volunteers. Praise God!!! Next year will be even bigger and better. Thank You Again!

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Advisory Board

2016

Attorney David Gibbs III

David Gibbs III

Attorney David C. Gibbs, III is the President and General Counsel of the National Center for Life and Liberty, a ministry organization that defends life and liberty freedoms nationwide.  Mr. Gibbs speaks regularly to audiences in churches and conferences while also litigating cases as a trial attorney.

Dr. Anthony Ponceti

Tony Ponceti
Jacksonville Baptist Theological Seminary, Doctor of Philosophy & Theology, Master of Divinity Degree
Published: GOALS Mentoring Program, The Impact of the Gospel on an Internet Community
Dr. Ponceti has traveled for international mission projects in Brazil, Mexico, Nicaragua, Honduras, Dominican Republic, Haiti, India, and Europe.

R. Earl Burkett

Earl Burkett

R. Earl Burkett is a native of Valdosta GA. He graduated from Lee University in Cleveland, TN with a double major in Christian Education and Biblical Education with a minor in Pastoral Studies. Burkett began his insurance career in July of 1990 and in December of 2006 he took on the responsibilities of agency president for Strong Tower Insurance, Inc. which he now owns. He has held the designation of a CIC, Certified Insurance Counselor, since 2002. Earl also completed the Cambridge University’s Certification for Risk Managers for Churches and Schools. He is a licensed minister in the Church of God and is very involved in the Plant City Church of God.

Brad H. Avery

Brad Avery
Brad H. Avery is CEO of G7 Global, INC and President of Foundation for Defense of Families (FDF) a non-profit advocacy foundation with a mission to promote the Word of God In policy making in our government and legislative body.  Brad is the head instructor at RSG – School of Government at Revival Ministries International in Tampa, which prepares men and women that love the Lord and want to serve God in public policy making and other areas of government. Brad serves on numerous appointed and advisory boards across the state as well and sits on the legislative committees for Florida League of Cites, League of Mayors, RFT, NWRA and Florida Business Watch.

Ron Leef

Ron Leef
It is a privilege and joy to serve the Lord, alongside Paul & Linda Pickern and the All-Pro Pastors ministry family! I come to the All-Pro Pastors Champion’s table as a Jewish-born Believer in Messiah Jesus (Yeshua) since 1990, and as an active supporter of the development of the modern Messianic Jewish Movement, and the “One New Man in Messiah” relationship God ordained for Jewish and Gentile Believers, in John 17 and Ephesians 2.

Pierre Chestang

Pierre Chestang
Pierre Chestang is married to Donata. They have four adult children. He serves as Station Manager of Moody Radio Florida, heard throughout Tampa Bay, Central and Southwest Florida. Pierre is also South Regional Manager for Moody Radio overseeing stations in Florida, Alabama, Tennessee and Mississippi. His personal mission statement is “Making Disciples Who Make Disciples.” This is lived out through being an instructor in the Bible Training Center for Pastors Biblical training and discipleship course. Pierre is a graduate Moody Bible Institute of Chicago and Columbia College of Chicago.

Steve Brown

Steve Brown

W F Floyd

W F Floyd

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Pastor Statistics

Newly Revised Statistics

  • 72% of the pastors report working between 55 to75 hours per week.
  • 84% of pastors feel they are on call 24/7.
  • 80% believe pastoral ministry has negativelyaffected their families. Many pastor’s children do not attend church now because of what the church has done to their parents.
  • 65% of pastors feel their family lives in a “glass house” and fear they are not good enough to meet expectations.
  • 23% of pastors report being distant to their family.
  • 78% of pastors report having their vacation and personal time interrupted with ministry duties or expectations.
  • 65% of pastors feel they have not taken enough vacation time with their family over the last 5 years.
  • 28% of pastors report having feelings of guilt for taking personal time off and not telling the church.
  • 35% of pastors report the demands of the church denies them from spending time with their family.
  • 24% of pastor’s families resent the church and its effect on their family.
  • 22% of pastor’s spouses reports the ministry places undue expectations on their family.
  • 66% of church members expect a minister and family to live at a higher moral standard than themselves.
  • Moral values of a Christian is no different than those who consider themselves as non-Christians.
  • The average American will tell 23 lies a day.
  • 53% of pastors report that the seminary did not prepare them for the ministry.
  • 90% of pastors report the ministry was completely different than what they thought it would be like before they entered the ministry.
  • 45% of pastors spend 10-15 hours a week on sermon preparation.
  • 85% of pastors report the use of the internet and other resources have improved their study time compared to when they first started their ministry.
  • 50% of pastors state they spend 1 hour in prayer each day.
  • 95% of pastors report not praying daily or regularly with their spouse.
  • 57% of pastors believe they do not receive a livable wage.
  • 57% of pastors being unable to pay their bills.
  • 53% of pastors are concerned about their future family financial security.
  • 75% of pastors report significant stress-related crisis at least once in their ministry.
  • 80% of pastors and 84% of their spouses have felt unqualified and discouraged as role of pastors at least one or more times in their ministry.
  • 52% of pastors feel overworked and cannot meet their church’s unrealistic expectations.
  • 54% of pastors find the role of a pastor overwhelming.
  • 40% report serious conflict with a parishioner at least once in the last year.
  • 80% of pastors expect conlfict within their church.
  • 75% of pastors report spending 4-5 hours a week in needless meetings.
  • 35% of pastors battle depression or fear of inadequacy.
  • 26% of pastors report being over fatigued.
  • 28% of pastors report they are spiritually undernurished.
  • Over 50% of pastors state the biggest challenge is to recruit volunteers and encourage their members to change (living closer to God’s Word).
  • 70% of pastors report they have a lower self-image now than when they first started.
  • 70% of pastors do not have someone they consider to be a close friend.
  • 27% of pastors report not having anyone to turn to for help in a crisis situation.
  • 81% of pastors have been tempted to have inappropriate sexual thoughts or behavior with someone in the church but have resisted.
  • 17% of pastors report inappropriately texting with a church member at sometime in their ministry.
  • 34% of pastors wrestle with the temptation of pornography or visits pornographic sites.
  • 57% of pastors feel fulfilled but yet discouraged, stressed, and fatigued.
  • 84% of pastors desire to have close fellowhip with someone they can trust and confide with.
  • Over 50% of pastors are unhealthy, overweight, and do not exercise.
  • The profession of “Pastor” is near the bottom of a survey of the most-respected professions, just above “car salesman”.
  • Many denominations are reporting an “Empty Pulpit Crisis”.  They do nto have a shortage of ministers but have a shortage of ministers desiring to fill the role of a pastor.
  • 71% of churches have no plan for a pastor to receive a periodic sabbatical.
  • 66% of churches have no lay counseling support.
  • 30% of churches have no documentation clearly outlining what the church expects of their pastor.
  • 1 out of every 10 pastors will actually retire as a pastor.

Improvements:

  • 73% of churches are treating their pastors better.  This statistic has improved due to the advent of clergy appreciation, better education on the role of the pastor, and denominational awareness to better supporting their pastors.
  • 77% of pastors, especially millennials ( younger pastors ages usually born around 1978-1990), are spending 20 or more hours with their families each week.
  • 90% of pastors feel they are called and in the place where God has called them.

Statistics provided by The Fuller Institute, George Barna, Lifeway, Schaeffer Institute of Leadership Development, and Pastoral Care Inc.

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About All Pro Pastors

Mission Statement

The purpose of our ministry is to empower Pastors to become Champion role models for all people through personal encouragement, challenge, accountability and achievement, and to bring unity to the “Body of Christ” through love, trust, prayer and personal relationships, that by this our Lord Jesus may say: “well done my good and faithful Servant”.

Vision Statement

Our vision is to see the Body of Christ joined together through a Covenant of Prayer that brings all denominations, cultures, races and pastors together in action, and that pastors have relationship between themselves of trust, love and determination to save their community and make disciples for Jesus Christ and the Kingdom of God!

Did you know that many pastors today live very lonely lives. Many pastors say, “I am surrounded by masses and still I am standing on an island all alone!” In recent surveys asking pastors what is the toughest thing about being a pastor, the re-sounding number one answer was “not having a trusted loyal friend”.

All Pro Pastors is a ministry founded in 2007 that addresses this issue head on. It is a “pastor-to-pastor” ministry bringing pastors together in very small groups of 4 for developing trust with encouragement, accountability and lifelong relationships. It is also a ministry that provides on-going words of inspiration and motivation with helpful resources, tools and special events that we can link into.

As men it is very easy to keep things bottled up inside and as pastors our very nature puts us on guard. Many pastors are stepping down or out of the pastoral ministry each and every day due to the pressure and high expectations that we feel. The fact is, only another pastor can relate to what we feel. It is with this in mind that we started what we call, “The Champions Table“.

The development of “The Champion’s Table“ is a God given instruction to be shared with all pastors. Pastor, the Table is a safe place! Jesus gave us an example to follow. We also call it “The Jesus Model“.

We believe that God has called pastors to lead, to set the example, to be His “Champion Role Models”. Through the Champion’s Table we see God changing pastor’s lives and their families, becoming leaders that men want to follow, and filling the void of aloneness by building trustworthy friendships!

All Pro Pastors is reaching around the GLOBE through the power of technology and “pastors telling pastors”. Pastors throughout North America, Central America, Asia, Europe and Africa are forming Champion’s Tables in increasing numbers and report that they are having a great impact on all relationships. Many other Continents and Countries are connecting the Kingdom together through Champion’s Tables and are sharing with us astonishing testimonies.

Note:(The Champions Table format can be used by any Ministers Group, Association or Organization as a tool to strengthen and sustain their efforts)

Core Values

  • Commitment to Jesus, Wife, Children, The Body of Believers, and to never give up  I Timothy 3: 5
  • Humble as a Servant leader, accepting this Powerful God given role (Humility)  Philippians 2:5-8
  • Accountable. God holds everyone personally accountable – we accept genuine self accountability shared with a trusted few for counsel, strength, and Agape’ love. Proverbs 27:9
  • Mature – God expects us to be a “Role Model” by being Spiritually Mature Hebrews 5:13,14
  • Positive – Giving confidence to others by the words we speak and by displaying a victorious life attitude Philippians 4:13
  • Influence – realizing that the world is watching our every move, starting with our family, and diligently working to carry the Light of Jesus for all to see Matthew 5:16
  • Openness – We are transparent and trustworthy with heart to heart confession, examination, counsel and grace  Proverbs 27:17
  • Network – We support fellow “Champions” like a tightly woven garment, and we strongly encourage the support of Evangelical Christian businesses, churches and all believers as co-laborers to reach the world for Jesus Ephesians 4:15, 16
  • Self Examination – To test ourselves against God’s Word and determine specific ways to Achieve improvement Galatians 6:3,4

Tables

All Pro Pastors is helping Pastors overcome the heartbreak of “aloneness” by bringing Pastors together in a format that has proven success. Christ is using All Pro Pastors to accomplish this mission utilizing several platforms:

  • Champion’s Tables – small groups of 4 Pastors meeting weekly in a much needed, structured, simple and completely confidential forum with secure website weekly support.
  • Pastors Events – Luncheons, Breakfasts, Conferences, Retreats, and Seminars offer to Pastors informational and encouraging platforms that cover the real issues that are current and relevant in the lives of Pastors.
  • Speaking at existing Pastor/Leaders events such as monthly meetings and annual conferences
  • Mission Trips – International Pastor Conferences as well as USA/Global Pastor Unity Events
  • Website and Multi-media weekly challenges, news, devotionals, encouragement videos, Webinars and social networking

Letter from the Founders

Dear Pastor,

In 2003 the Lord clearly spoke to me that we as Pastors need to learn to trust one another and to love each other. He also said that we as Pastors need to live” Holy” lives at home and embrace accountability. This word started my wife and me on a journey to begin a ministry called All Pro Pastors (APP).

The Lord gave me the vision of 4 pastors meeting together as men and this was to be called “The Champions Table”! The Champion’s Table is the foundation of APP and have helped Pastors throughout the world to experience miracles, start lifelong friendships, save marriages and ministries, and unify the Body for Kingdom building. We are committed to praying for you and encouraging you to stay the course! When we say we love you, we mean it.

Please take the time to read through some of these great testimonies and to watch some of the Pastor’s Testimonies  and much more on our All Pro Pastors YouTube Channel. We are absolutely sure the Holy Spirit has given this to us for all pastors and it will bless you.

As a Pastor it is your decision as to whether you want a strong “Accountability and Encouragement” table or simply a Fellowship/Friendship table. Both are extremely essential in your life. These are a few examples of what makes a successful Champion’s Table:

  1. Pastors who meet together with Pastors from different churches/denominations/tribes/etc (if at all possible).
  2. “Four” Pastors are the best number at a Table. 5 or more reduce “Trust Building” genuine intimacy.
  3. There are stages “Strong Tables” go through. : Fellowship-Friendship-Honesty-Encouragement-Commitment-Trust-Accountability-Achievement-Success-CHAMPIONS
  4. The Table is not a Bible study. (You should already have this). It is easy for us as Pastors to avoid real issues by using the Bible as a way not to face them. The Table is for us as Men.
  5. The Table is your Prayer Fortress! You can put any and all prayer needs on the Table because it is safe and secure.

Please read through the Champion’s Table Guidelines and pray about this for yourself. We love you and this ministry is striving to honor God best by serving you as His Servant. Press onward as Champions!

Your Servants,

Paul and Linda Pickern

Note: We invite you to become a part of connecting 1,000,000 Pastors by 2020 through Champion’s Tables of trust, love, encouragement and accountability. We need your prayers. There is NO Cost or Fees required by Pastors to join or start a Table. All-Pro Pastors is completely funded by donations of Individuals, Christian Companies, Pastors and Churches who want to see Pastors encouraged and strengthened. Participation in any way helps this ministry reach more Pastors and provides for on-going daily and weekly encouragement, national and international travel, radio and television, breakfasts-luncheons and dinners, pastor conferences, pastor retreats, website support and encouragement, e-mail messaging, other events and critical personal pastoral care.

Please Register Today

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Sponsors

Our vision – That that men and families will have Pastors who set the example of Jesus as Champions to be followed – is happening with your help!

Embracing Pastors as God’s chosen leaders for His church, our minstry serves Pastors as their missionaries. We are supported  by  churches, businesses, Christian organizations, individuals and Pastors who believe in this ministry and have seen how it is impacting many lives. Thank you for your gift today and joining us in this effort.

 

  • Every Ministry Partner will receive APP’s Word of Encouragment Video (via email)
  • Every Ministry Partner will know that their support is making a difference in the lives of Pastors, their families, and in the lives of those they shepherd for the the sake of the Gospel!

 

God bless you and thank you.

The All-Pro Pastors Team

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Ministry Support

Introduction

For everyone who really loves their Pastor, All-Pro Pastors is a natural fit.

Our ministry embraces Pastors as God’s chosen leaders for His church. We are 100 percent underwritten by Christian companies, churches, ministries and individuals who believe that God wants Pastors empowered and encouraged to be living examples for their families, churches, and the community.

What are some of the ways I can get involved?

Companies – through corporate gifts, your company can partner with All Pro Pastors to carry this vision effectively to more Pastors.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE

Churches, foundations and other ministries – through in-kind promotions, lunch hosting and other resources, including financial gifts, your organization can partner with us in a number of ways. Most of all, we ask that you just continue to love and pray for your Pastor. Encourage him to get involved in a Champions Group, and at our Champions Web Site and special events

Families and individuals

Through financial gifts, volunteering and spreading the word about All Pro Pastors, your family can know you are helping make a real difference in Pastors’ lives. Encourage your Pastor to join or even start a Champions Group

 Thank you for all you do to help Pastors.

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