Poured Out

ACTS: The Great and Powerful Church
Part 4: Poured Out
Message by Pastor Terry Crawford
Covenant Church' Shepherdstown, WV

Peter and John
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Acts 3:1-3 (NIV)
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One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer—at three in the afternoon.
Now a man who was lame from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts.
When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money.

Routine
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The Holy Spirit works within our routine.

Peter and John cont.
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Acts 3:4-5 (NIV)
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Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, “Look at us!”
So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from the

Temporary
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Our world is asking for temporary healing because that is all it knows or expects.

In the name of Jesus
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Acts 3:6-10 (NIV)
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Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.”
Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong.
He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God.
When all the people saw him walking and praising God,
they recognized him as the same man who used to sit begging at the temple gate called Beautiful, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him. Peter Speaks to the Onlookers

Holy Spirit
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Places us in Situations

Holy Spirit
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1. Prompts us Serve

2. Our anticipation of God's work is directly associated with our prayer time

3. Anemic prayer time leads to poor anticipation of God's work

4. Consistent prayer time is itself the anticipation of God's powerful work

5. The Holy Spirit's work requires us to have the faith to speak the truth
believing that what we say must be rooted in the command of God - prayer is necessity

Holy Spirit
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Propels us to Share

Kingdom Work
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Wonder and witness go hand in hand in God’s kingdom work

Catalyst Leader

If you are a leader, I want you to know about a brand new book that is Hot off the press. Many of you are familiar with Catalyst, the innovative and experiential leadership movement that has been going on for now almost 14 years, and now one of America's most influential leadership organizations, with conferences and leadership gatherings all around the US.


Today is a big day because of the release of the book The Catalyst Leader. My good friend Brad Lomenick authors this game changing leadership book, based on his 20 years of leadership experience, as well as the last 10 years experience as the president and lead visionary of Catalyst. In it Brad identifies and captures what he calls the 8 Essentials for Becoming a Change Maker. Ultimately identifying the essentials of a Catalyst Leader needed for leading well, and leading now.

You can purchase the book wherever books are sold. Go to the book site at http://catalystleader.com to purchase today. I can't recommend this book enough, whether you are a young leader or seasoned sage. It's filled with practical leadership advice and application.

And, as a special bonus::: anyone who purchases the book this week, from April 22-26, scan and send your receipt to catalystleaderbook@gmail.com and you'll receive over $300 of leadership resources for FREE, all for simply purchasing the book during this week from any outlet, including the Catalyst store as well as other retail outlets. Purchase here.

If you are familiar with Catalyst at all, you'll know that leadership development is at the core of their organization, and so this book in many ways serves as a leadership manifesto based on stories, Brad's personal leadership, interaction with the amazing thought leaders who have been part of Catalyst over the years, and interaction with everyday leaders on the front lines.

Reality is that all of us want to be a great leader, but many times we're not sure how to build in the essentials in a way that will deliver the most impact in our own leadership, and in the teams and organizations we lead. This book will help you do just that.

You may be recognized as a leader, but that doesn't mean you are influencing well and truly making a difference. The Catalyst Leader is a valuable new resource designed to help you in your leadership journey. Purchase it now  Here is a link to the book on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Catalyst-Leader-Essentials-Becoming-Change/dp/1595554971/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1365977072&sr=1-1&keywords=the+catalyst+leader

"The Catalyst Leader" an interview with Author Brad Lomenick Pt. 6

click here to get your copy, http://goo.gl/6TKvC


26. How do you stay hopeful when life sucks, business is crumbling, church or ministry is not growing, when everything seems to be going wrong?

Well, that’s a tough one. I believe your spiritual foundation and staying passionate for God is essential. And the understanding that tomorrow will be better than today, an underlying sense of staying hopeful. Eternal perspective is crucial, realizing that we are part of a story that is eternal and way bigger than any of us individually. Being a hopeful leader requires vision for the future, the ability to get from here to there, and take those you lead from here to there. And hopeful leaders keep that perspective on a consistent basis.

27. How do you become collaborative without competitive?

Collaboration has to flow from a place of generosity, truly believing that a higher tide lifts all boats. Be more concerned with others. Listen instead of talk. Be interested over interesting. To be collaborative we must understand that it’s not about me. It’s not about your organization, your non profit, or your project. It’s about connecting people, not competing. Collaborators are okay sharing their wisdom, their knowledge, their connections, and their networks, because collaboration means working together alongside others. Co-laboring. Building bridges instead of constructing walls. We at Catalyst have partnered with those who might be seen as competitors, because we believe in an abundance mentality. When you have an abundance mindset you are more likely to collaborate instead of compete. Avoid the scarcity mentality – the idea that there is only so much to go around. Think of churches in the same city- if you believe we’re all on the same team it’s much easier to collaborate instead of compete.

28. In 10+ years with Catalyst, what’s the biggest leadership challenge you’ve faced?

We’ve had plenty, but I would say our greatest challenge has been to maintain a standard of excellence and keep improving and getting better every single day. It would be easy for us to become complacent and simply rest on what we’ve already done. Maintaining that passion for improvement and innovation is a challenge every single day. It’s also really important that we maintain a hunger and laser focus on our mission, and not allowing ourselves to have vision shift. Another major challenge is to say no a lot. The more you grow, the more opportunities you have, and more opportunities to chase after projects or new initiatives or new partnerships. We’ve had to learn to say no a lot more often than saying yes. Which is just the opposite of what it was like in the early years of Catalyst, when we were trying to establish credibility and connection, and said yes to just about everything.

29. What are you looking forward to this year?

The release of this book! As well as continuing to gather leaders at our Catalyst events all over the US. This will be our 14th year of Catalyst in Atlanta the first week of October with 13,000 leaders gathered. I always look forward to that gathering. And we are starting to work on a Catalyst Europe gathering in the fall of 2014, which will be our first time to take the Catalyst experience outside of the US. And we have 4 Catalyst One Day events planned for August through November this fall, which feature Andy Stanley and Craig Groeschel in a practical nuts and bolts leadership environment. You can go to http://catalystconference.com to find more info.

30. Talk about the design of the cover of the book. Explain that.

The lines represent the idea that the Catalyst community is interconnected. We all come from different backgrounds, industries, ages, perspectives, and angles, but our leadership crosses over each other continuously. And when we are together and unified, represented by the middle section of the book cover, we start to form a sense of community, but it's still not easily defined and some normal shape. It's unique and creative. The 8 starbursts represent the 8 Essentials of a Catalyst Leader for becoming a Change Maker.

Here is a link to the website also,

http://catalystleader.com/

Thanks











"The Catalyst Leader" an interview with Author Brad Lomenick Pt. 5

click here to get your copy, http://goo.gl/6TKvC

21. You’ve been around a lot of great leaders, practically what are a couple traits you have found they all share?


Well, I would say that the great leaders I look up to all model the 8 essentials in their leadership. Specifically I find that they are courageous and principled. Humble risk takers who live and lead with complete integrity and are constantly pushing to climb the next hill. Great leaders know who they are. They are comfortable in their own skin, and able to motivate those around them and create vision that moves people to action.

22. Share some of your favorite stories from spending time with those leaders?

I get to be around Andy Stanley quite a bit because of Andy’s involvement with Catalyst events. Andy is the real deal. What you see on stage is the same as off the stage. Same thing with Craig Groeschel. He is authentic, principled and passionate about following Jesus. I remember the first time I met Chuck Swindoll- someone I had listened to on the radio for years. He was so down to earth and approachable. The notion of authenticity and humility is something I find that really resonates with all of the great leaders. It was an honor the first time I met Dr. John Perkins, and since then developing a friendship with him. Giving him the Lifetime Achievement Award at our Catalyst event in Dallas was one of my favorite moments ever at a Catalyst event. And as I discuss in the book, my time at Lost Valley Ranch being mentored by Bob Foster for 5 years was truly formative and defining for me in my spiritual life and leadership.

23. What are some positive trends you’re seeing in the Church and ministry environments?

Collaboration, idea sharing, unity, excellence, and authenticity. I think we are at an unprecedented time in history where churches are partnering and willing to work together more than ever before. A focus on neighborhoods and the local community is also a major positive trend happening in the church right now. Known as being missional, it’s the idea that the church is invested in not just bringing people into the church, but actually sending people out into the communities to be salt and light. Another trend is authenticity among leaders in the Church. Sharing struggles and showing vulnerability.

24. Can you give us a brief overview of a couple of the essentials you prescribe in the book?

A principled leader is one who is disciplined, has integrity, and remains humble. Who you are becoming as a leader is more important than what you are doing. What matters is what’s on the inside. A hopeful leader is a visionary leader who is able to move people into the future with passion. That’s a tough question, but I believe being an authentic leader is one of the most important. Over the years, I’ve realized a great lesson about leadership: I’m at my best when I’m simply being me. It’s taken some time to figure that one out. Every leader I know faces the temptation to project a persona other than their true selves. They think that in order to maintain the confidence of their team or followers, they must appear faultless, flawless, and ever wise. Yet I believe that what everyone around around you wants is an authentic leader, not a perfect one. A leader who is willing to admit their mistakes. A leader that a team can trust and follow. The real you. That can only happen if I embrace who I truly am rather than trying to be someone else. The other essential that stands out for me is being Capable as a leader. Excellence is a non-negotiable and one we have many times not led with in the Christian community. As Catalyst leaders we have to make excellence a non-negotiable. Put into practice competence, excellence, and a standard of reaching for perfection. Chase after a level of excellence that will stretch you and astonish others. Capable leaders are willing to set standards that scare them. A true change maker strives to be the absolute best in the world at what they do. They hustle, they are hungry and are committed to getting better every single day. Being the best requires focus, determination, intentionality, hard work, perseverance and making sacrifices. The stakes are high. And we all know when our performance is not our best. Make sure your standard is not just being a bit better than average. Or merely being better than your competitor. You must always strive to be the best you can be. Without a standard of excellence in your work, you have no hope for becoming a true change maker. A Catalyst leader is capable. Make excellence a non-negotiable.

25. We hear a lot about the characteristics of successful leaders. What if you don’t espouse those- what steps can you take to change yourself before you can change others?

Start with one area of your leadership. Work on that first. Improve in that area. Set a goal to get better daily. Ask those around you to help you. And ask them to point out the areas of your leadership that need improvement. Give them permission to challenge you and help you get better. Understand your blind spots and the areas you struggle. You have to truly know yourself before you can lead others. Greatness starts with you. Everyone wants to be great but few are willing to work really hard to get better. Understand it starts with you. You have to lead yourself first. Before you can release your true self you have to recognize your true self.

Here is a link to the website also,

http://catalystleader.com/

Thanks

"The Catalyst Leader" an interview with Author Brad Lomenick Pt. 4

click here to get your copy, http://goo.gl/6TKvC



16. You have so many stories throughout the book, which is your favorite?

My time with best-selling author Bob Goff at his house and the lessons I learned about courage and risk is probably my favorite story. Bob’s friendship has been an incredible blessing to me, and every time I’m around Bob I pick up more “Bob-isms.” Most recently Bob sent our Catalyst team a dozen baby ducks in the mail, just for fun! It was quite the surprise, opening a box to find 12 baby ducklings!! I love the “Bob-ism” of “be inefficient in love.” The idea that love is not always efficient and requires more than normal. Love extravagantly. Bob says “I don’t want my life to only rhyme, I want it to resonate! Such a good word. The other story I really love from the book is my first trip to Africa, specifically to the country of Rwanda, with Compassion International. And the clarity it provided me in understanding the Leadership essential of Hopeful. Seeing children with nothing living a life of hope because they have a sense that tomorrow will be better than today.

17. In the book you talk about working at an actual ranch, did you really spend days shoveling manure? How does your time at the ranch actually translate to what you are doing now?

Definitely. I worked on a 4 diamond working guest ranch for 5 years right after college. And yes, I scooped a lot of horse manure. Every day. It was very humbling. But also provided me with an appropriate theology of work- living out Colossians 3:23 every day- that whatever you do, do your work with great heart for the Lord rather than for men. We had a strong sense of pride in the fact that we kept the corral at Lost Valley Ranch the cleanest in the country. We wanted our guests to know that we valued them by working our guts out to keep the ranch clean and provide them with an amazing experience. Setting that standard at the ranch taught me the power of excellence.

18. Do the leadership essentials in, “The Catalyst Leader,” apply differently to older leaders than younger leaders?

The 8 essentials for becoming a change maker included in the book are applicable to every leader, regardless of young or old. But there are some specific responsibilities younger leaders have to take on, such as the notion that they are a called-but-not-yet-equipped leader. This is not as true for older leaders. Also, the way a younger leader views legacy is different than an older leaders in their 50’s or 60’s.

19. Let’s talk about legacy, how does someone create legacy where they are right now?

Your legacy, regardless of where you are in your leadership journey, starts now. The way you start determines how you finish. Start with the end in mind. So many of us don’t think about our legacy until we reach the finish line. But creating legacy has to begin when we begin. Starting well means finishing well.

20. When you look five to ten years down the road, what is your hope for, “The Catalyst Leader?”

I want to see our generation finish well. I want this book to be a timeless resource for a whole new generation of leaders. I hope to see churches, organizations, businesses, non profits and teams use this resource for equipping their leaders. I want to see hundreds of thousands of leaders all over the world leading now, and leading well. My hope is that The Catalyst Leader will create change makers that saturate all areas of our culture, and a leadership revolution will begin. Ultimately, I want to see the leadership culture transformed to

Here is a link to the website also,

http://catalystleader.com/

Thanks

"The Catalyst Leader" an interview with Author Brad Lomenick Pt. 3



click here to get your copy, http://goo.gl/6TKvC

11. Talk about the term, “Change Maker,” what does it mean?


Being a change maker I believe is a new term for being a leader. Ultimately being a Catalyst Leader. A leader who wants to make a difference. To make your life’s work count. To leave the world better than you found it. A change maker is someone who leverages his or her influence for the betterment of the world, to collective good of others, and the greater glory of God. And living out the 8 essentials of a Catalyst Leader is crucial for a leader to be a change maker.

12. Talk about the 8 Essentials. A catalyst leader must be the following:

- Called by God to leadership and willing to seek his will

- Authentic and humble, becoming influential rather than impressive

- Passionate about God, committed to developing a heart for the creator

- Capable and determined, working harder than anyone on the team

- Courageous when the time comes to take a leap

- Principled in every decision made, unwilling to compromise for convenience

- Hopeful despite challenges, believing God can do what we cannot

- Collaborative, drawing on the strength of others and sharing praise

Living and leading by these essentials provides both spiritual and practical avenues to developing the qualities essential to leaders hoping to build a passionate, effective team that will last. This is not a book of theories. It is not a bragging autobiography from one successful boss. It is an honest and authentic examination of what you must be and do in order to empower and lead others to success and righteousness.

13. Of the eight essentials which stick out to you as the most important?

That’s a tough question, but I believe being an authentic leader is one of the most important. Over the years, I’ve realized a great lesson about leadership: I’m at my best when I’m simply being me. It’s taken some time to figure that one out. Every leader I know faces the temptation to project a persona other than their true selves. They think that in order to maintain the confidence of their team or followers, they must appear faultless, flawless, and ever wise. Yet I believe that what everyone around around you wants is an authentic leader, not a perfect one. A leader who is willing to admit their mistakes. A leader that a team can trust and follow. The real you. That can only happen if I embrace who I truly am rather than trying to be someone else. The other essential that stands out for me is being Capable as a leader. Excellence is a non-negotiable and one we have many times not led with in the Christian community. As Catalyst leaders we have to make excellence a non-negotiable. Put into practice competence, excellence, and a standard of reaching for perfection. Chase after a level of excellence that will stretch you and astonish others. Capable leaders are willing to set standards that scare them. A true change maker strives to be the absolute best in the world at what they do. They hustle, they are hungry and are committed to getting better every single day. Being the best requires focus, determination, intentionality, hard work, perseverance and making sacrifices. The stakes are high. And we all know when our performance is not our best. Make sure your standard is not just being a bit better than average. Or merely being better than your competitor. You must always strive to be the best you can be. Without a standard of excellence in your work, you have no hope for becoming a true change maker. Capable leaders get their hands dirty; they make it happen and get it done. A Catalyst leader is capable. Make excellence a non-negotiable.

14. The essential of Calling is important for young leaders to figure out, to know what you’ve been wired to do. What is your specific calling?

To convene, connect and invest in leaders is my personal calling and purpose. I use the phrase “influence the influencers.” I find tremendous joy in being a “facilitator of good” by connecting people together for the greater good and greater vision. I also feel a deep calling to lead. To be out in front and leading the charge.

15. Talk a bit more about the essential of calling.

To start with, here’s a working definition of calling: God’s personal invitation for me to work on His agenda, using the talents I’ve been given in ways that are eternally significant. In essence, calling is where your greatest talents and deepest passions intersect. Our vocation should flow from that crossroads. It’s imperative that you discover God’s unique calling on you life. I’ve come to realize that living and leading from one’s calling is a necessary first step to leading well and becoming a change maker wherever God has planted you. Without understanding your calling, you’ll end up bogged down in the mud of life. But when living out your calling, your work will be better, and you’ll naturally want to work harder. Calling should give us life, and provide us direction. Our vocation should flow out of who we’ve been uniquely designed by God to be. Think back to your childhood. Identify the things you were good at and energized you. Do they still? What did you naturally look forward to? What barriers are preventing you from pursuing the stuff you love to work on? God desires for a sense of mission to burn within us, driving us forward in the perilous journey of life. I believe God has a unique purpose that He desires to carry out in every single person he creates. He’s carved a specific and significant path for us all. A Catalyst leader is called. Find your uniqueness.

Here is a link to the website also,
http://catalystleader.com/

Thanks

"The Catalyst Leader" an interview with Author Brad Lomenick Pt. 2

This is a pre-answered interview with the author of the book "The Catalyst Leader". Today is release day click here to get your copy, http://goo.gl/6TKvC.

6. What is the connection between the book and the actual Catalyst Conferences?


I have been leading the Catalyst organization for over 10 years, and The Catalyst Leader book is really a result of the lessons we’ve learned in leading the Catalyst leadership movement. After 13 years of gathering hundreds of thousands of Christian leaders, we decided to create a brand new resource to help every leader, at every level. The book project provides a deeper dive into the eight essentials we believe are imperative to becoming a Catalyst Leader. Providing a glimpse at the very heart and soul of Catalyst and what we believe is essential to being a change maker. This is not just my leadership story. It’s a leadership story reflective of the Catalyst movement. This is our leadership story. It’s your leadership story.

7. Why are you qualified to write a leadership book like The Catalyst Leader?

To be honest, I’m not sure when someone becomes qualified to write a leadership book. I’m still learning and figuring things out myself. And I understand that there is a sense of “leadership fatigue” in our country, and everyone seems to be writing a leadership book or has the next great answer. I get that. As for my experience, I have been leading and stewarding the movement of Catalyst for the last 10 years. Catalyst is one of America’s largest and most influential leadership movements. We’ve gathered, influenced, and continue to inspire hundreds of thousands of leaders through our cutting edge experiential leadership events and resources, so based on that knowledge and experience, along with the connection to leaders in all industries and across demographics. I hope I can serve as a translator between generations, challenging those leaders who are younger, and helping connect those who are older to the younger generation. I just recently turned 40. I’m at the “crossroads” between being a “next generation” leader and a wise and experienced leader. I’m passing along what I’ve learned from my journey so far in my leadership and life and the wisdom I’ve learned from other Catalyst leaders so that you will hopefully avoid some of the common mistakes I’ve made as you pursue your vocation. I understand what is required of leaders in today’s organizational and cultural landscape.

8. Who do you hope to impact with, “The Catalyst Leader?”

All leaders, but specifically those in the first half of their vocation life. I’m writing specifically to the called-but-not-yet-equipped leader. Young leaders (primarily in their 20’s and 30’s) who are called and passionate hopefuls who want to change the world but are unequipped, and need tools and a roadmap for how to get that done. I want to help me. I’m in the same boat as leaders I’m writing this book for. I am a called but not yet equipped leader. I desire to be a true change maker, and ultimately a Catalyst leader, but I know I fall short constantly. So I’ve written this book really for me and my peers, and ultimately my generation. This book is for anyone that leads, but the strike zone is a 35 yr old senior manager, church planter or senior pastor, innovator or entrepreneur. Take Jim, who runs a 2 million dollar small business with 20 employees. He needs someone to help him Lead well now. He's trying to figure out how to lead with courage, to be a collaborator. Take my friend Shawn, who leads a thriving social innovation company. He's grown from 5 employees to 50 in the past year, and wrestling with how best to manage his staff of 20 somethings. Take Hannah, a 23 year old recent college graduate who is struggling with trying to figure out what God has called her to. Take my friend James, leading a growing church in downtown Chicago, has board members who are difficult to manage and tension between his older staff and younger more progressive and innovative staff.

9. What can leaders expect from the book?

The Catalyst Leader provides practical help for all leaders at any stage of their leadership journey, ultimately defining what it means to be a Catalyst in this generation, and inspiring us all to be true change makers wherever we lead. I believe the book is defining, practical, inspiring, and timely. The book provides perspective and practical application that leaders can put into practice immediately in their leadership today. I hope the book is both a kick in the pants, a bunch in the gut, and a pat on the back. Both challenging and encouraging.

10. When you say, “Lead Well, Lead Now,” what do you mean?

Many of us are leading now, but not necessarily leading well. The question isn’t how do we lead now, because so many young leaders have stepped into roles that they just don’t have the wisdom and experience for. It’s ultimately how do we lead now, and lead well. And finishing well means starting well. Only through leading well now can one finish well later. Your legacy depends on your present leadership. As I’ve dialogued with young leaders over the last several years, the common characteristic I’m finding is the desire to lead NOW. They’re embarking on creative projects, starting new organizations, writing books, excelling in large corporations, and creating causes that are solving some of the world’s leading problems. They aren’t willing to climb the ladder, or wait their turn. They want to catapult immediately into positions of influence. Energetic and passionate, these young next generation leaders want to jump in and make a difference now. They are not willing to wait. These issues aren't new. Been around forever for anyone in leadership. But, we have some realities converging. Generation leading early, and a generation not ready to lead. WE have a new generation of leaders emerging in our country. Called but not Equipped generation. Never before have so many been required to step into positions of leadership. Passionate and ready to change the world. But need a practical guide on what it looks like to lead well now. The aren't ready generation of leaders are in the seats of influence and need tools to help them. I have countless friends who are hungry to change the world, but if not careful will end up in the ditch along with their entire team. Reality is, they are already leading now.

Here is a link to the website also,
http://catalystleader.com/

Thanks

"The Catalyst Leader" an interview with Author Brad Lomenick Pt. 1

This is a pre-answered interview with the author of the book "The Catalyst Leader". The book releases tomorrow April 16 click here to get your copy, http://goo.gl/6TKvC.

I will post the interview over the next 5 days.

1. What is the Catalyst Leader about?

The Catalyst Leader lays out the eight essentials for becoming a change maker. The traits that I believe one must develop in order to become a change maker, and ultimately a Catalyst Leader. I hope this book will provide practical leadership answers for a new generation of aspiring leaders who are looking for answers and solutions, and not just leadership theory. It’s a practical guide for leading now, and leading well, serving as a leadership handbook for the next generation of leaders in our country. The book presents the key essentials that I believe will define our generation’s ability to influence over the next 20-25 years, laying out what it means to be a Catalyst in this generation. The Catalyst Leader is packed with a combination of candid interviews with thought leaders, research with the core leadership community, and overall leadership best practices. A rising generation of leaders need to be equipped for the task of leadership.

2. Why did you write The Catalyst Leader?”

I wrote this book primarily for 3 reasons. Frist, while leading the largest leadership movement that gathers young career aged Christian leaders in America, I noticed that many of these young leaders desired to lead right now, but they didn’t know how to ultimately lead well. We have a generation of “called but not yet equipped leaders.” Leaders who are passionate about making a difference and having influence now. Called leaders who want to change the world, a generation ready to action, ready to influence and ready to lead, but not yet equipped for the task. They need the tools, the roadmap, the guide for leading well and getting that done. So many of my peers at 25, 30, 35, 40 years of age are flaming out and need a resource to help them finish well. Second, I noticed that the leaders who were leading well shared several common traits and characteristics. What I’m calling the eight essentials. The book lays out those 8 essential characteristics for becoming a change maker, and ultimately a Catalyst Leader. Third, we’ve been handed the reins to lead. I just turned 40, and I believe it’s my generations turn and time to stand up, take the reins, and lead. We are now in the drivers seat, and it’s up to us. The called but not equipped generation. I want to see leaders, my peers, finish well. Too many leaders are crashing early and often right now. Just like me, tons of leaders in their 20’s and 30’s are facing great opportunities that they feel a deep calling and passion for, and willing to take on, but not altogether equipped to handle. These peers of mine need a roadmap, a guide, a handbook for leading well and tools for the journey forward. Our generation needs a roadmap for leading well. Some of my best friends currently sit atop great organizations but are failing to shepherd their teams and lead these entities well. I’ve begun to see a disappointing pattern among young leaders. They achieve liftoff with a rocket start but quickly fizzle out. With each instance of short lived success, I grow further convinced that we need to nurture leaders who will not just lead now, but also lead well. Ultimately, I’m writing a book that I wish would have been available to me 20 years ago when I was first starting my career and vocation life.

3. Talk about your passion for leaders.

I have a deep passion for helping leaders lead well. It’s what drives me. At Catalyst, we are crazy about gathering, inspiring and releasing the next wave of leaders who love Jesus and have a burden to be Catalysts in their communities and culture. I believe it’s my stewardship, and my responsibility to help these leaders do their jobs well- all over our country in our churches, businesses, and all organizations to lead well. And ultimately finish well. And I’m incredibly optimistic about the next wave of leaders who are now stepping into leadership roles. It’s a generation of leaders willing to work their guts outs for something bigger than themselves, and also willing to work together to accomplish the big vision. This book is about the broader Catalyst movement.

4. Why write this book now?

Because I believe we are at a crossroads of leadership in the US, and ultimately around the world. In fact, I believe we have a leadership crisis in our country. And based on the research we did in partnership with The Barna Group for the book, the survey and data would validate that assumption. We currently have a dearth of leadership in our country. In general, we trust our leaders less today than we have in the past. There is a lot at stake. And it’s time for a new generation of leaders to rise up and take charge. Catalyst has gathered leaders for 13 years now. We wanted to create a leadership guide, the “ultimate” handbook on influence. It’s our turn to lead now, but we have to make sure we are leading well. I want to see leaders all over the world take their leadership and influence to a whole new level. Lots of great leaders have created great leadership resources, but most of them aren’t peers to me or my generation. We wanted to create a community driven resource that would be a practical guide for leading over the next 20-30 years. I’m passionate about raising up great leaders, and I’ve devoted much of my life to convening and equipping leaders of all ages and stages in life who want to grow in their leadership abilities. And I’ve written the Catalyst Leader to empower you to lead better, and lead longer. Perhaps never before have so many young leaders been poised and positioned for influence. Scores of twenty and thirty somethings are running companies, nonprofits, churches, and social innovation projects. They don’t have 10-15 years to figure things out anymore; they need to be equipped and prepared for the journey now. Many leaders today have platforms that exceed their wisdom, experience and maturity. These leaders need the tools and know how for getting it right. I hope The Catalyst Leader is a resource for them to do just that. A roadmap for our generation to lead well. Our tribe and community of Catalyst leaders are in need of practical and relevant help in regards to their leadership and influence. We currently are dealing with a demise of leadership mentoring in our culture, especially in organizational life, and I want to truly help leaders lead well.

5. How is The Catalyst Leader unique from other books?

The Catalyst Leader book is unique in many ways. First, it’s written from my vantage point as the steward and primary leader of the Catalyst movement. The book includes ground breaking research on the state of leadership in America in partnership with The Barna Group. Also included are thoughts and perspectives from today’s top leadership voices, and practical application at every turn. We’ve also included “5 Leaders to know” at the end of each chapter, as well as the “50 Leaders to watch for” at the end of the book, along with each chapter includes at least one compelling story of a young leader who has modeled the key essential in their life. The book is packed with a combination of candid interviews with thought leaders and overall best leadership practices from the lens of the leader of the Catalyst movement. Each chapter includes a profile on a wise older sage “Lessons from Leading Well” with advice from that leader. We’ve also included several QR codes that link to additional leadership nuggets and wisdom on the book website. Perspective, innovative research, and best practice from today’s thought leaders.

Here is a link to the website also,
http://catalystleader.com/

Thanks

Empowered

Message by Pastor Terry Crawford
Covenant Church
Shepherdstown, WV

Gathering on Pentecost
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Acts 2:1 (NIV)
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When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place.

The significance of Pentecost:
===============
Celebrated the giver of a new harvest.

The significance of Pentecost:
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Celebrated the giving of redemption.

Freedom
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Passover freed them from slavery and death.   Pentecost gave them the way to overcome idolatry and immorality every day.

Before Jesus
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Before Jesus Pentecost was Torah centered and directed.

After Jesus
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After Jesus Pentecost was Christ centered and Holy Spirit directed.

Shavuot
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originally a festival for expressing thankfulness to the Lord for the blessing of the harvest. And because it occurred at the conclusion of the Passover, it acquired the name "Latter First fruits."
http://judaism.about.com/od/holidays/a/shavuot.htm (link)

Firstfruits
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Leviticus 23:9-11 (NIV)
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The Lord said to Moses,
“Speak to the Israelites and say to them: ‘When you enter the land I am going to give you and you reap its harvest, bring to the priest a sheaf of the first grain you harvest.
He is to wave the sheaf before the Lord so it will be accepted on your behalf; the priest is to wave it on the day after the Sabbath.

Firstfruits
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Leviticus 23:15-17 (NIV)
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“ ‘From the day after the Sabbath, the day you brought the sheaf of the wave offering, count off seven full weeks.
Count off fifty days up to the day after the seventh Sabbath, and then present an offering of new grain to the Lord.
From wherever you live, bring two loaves made of two-tenths of an ephah of the finest flour, baked with yeast, as a wave offering of firstfruits to the Lord.

Christ Firstfruits
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1 Corinthians 15:23 (NIV)
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But each in turn: Christ, the firstfruits; then, when he comes, those who belong to him.

Firstfuits of the Spirit
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Romans 8:18-23 (NIV)
---------------
I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.
For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed.
For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope
that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God.
We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.
Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies.

Spirit Filled
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Acts 2:2-13 (NIV)
---------------
Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting.
They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them.
All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.
Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven.
When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard their own language being spoken.
Utterly amazed, they asked: “Aren’t all these who are speaking Galileans?
Then how is it that each of us hears them in our native language?
Parthians, Medes and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia,
Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome
(both Jews and converts to Judaism); Cretans and Arabs—we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!”
Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, “What does this mean?”
Some, however, made fun of them and said, “They have had too much wine.” Peter Addresses the Crowd

Wind
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Wind - Ezekiel, God breathing life into mankind, (God’s Spirit is linguistically rooted in the word wind)  Wind and Spirit were associated with each other.

Fire
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Fire - burning bush, pillar of fire, consuming fire at Mount Sinai, fire the hovered over the wilderness Tabernacle.

Empowered
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There is no doubt that the Early church was empowered.  Two important questions are …

Question One: Empowered by whom?
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The Holy Spirit - Third part of the Trinity.

A Fathers Promise
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Luke 24:46-49 (NIV)
---------------
He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day,
and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
You are witnesses of these things.
I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.” The Ascension of Jesus

Over 800 years before
===============
Joel 2:28-29 (NIV)
---------------
“And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions.
Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days.

Question Two: Empowered for what?
===============
You will be my witnesses.  To make disciples.  To become holy and help others to become holy.  To present bride spotless

Gifts, Service and Working
===============
1 Corinthians 12:4-7 (NIV)
---------------
There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them.
There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord.
There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.

ALERT - The Great and Powerful Church

Message by Pastor Terry Crawford
Covenant Church, Shepherdstown, WV

Are you Going to Restore the Kingdom
===============
Acts 1:1-9 (NIV)
---------------
In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach
until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen.
After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God.
On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about.
For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”
Then they gathered around him and asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?”
He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority.
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.

Waiting
===============
Everyone has to deal with the reality of waiting.

Wait
===============
Psalm 27:14 (NIV)
---------------
Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.

Be Still
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Psalm 37:7 (NIV)
---------------
Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.

Hope
===============
Isaiah 40:31 (NIV)
---------------
but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Fear
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We do not have to be frozen by the fear of waiting.

Open minds
===============
Luke 24:45-49 (NIV)
---------------
Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures.
He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day,
and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
You are witnesses of these things.
I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.” The Ascension of Jesus

Great Commission
===============
Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)
---------------
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

God can use waiting and watching to…
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Rearrange our priorities.

God can use waiting and watching to…
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Test our faith.

God can use waiting and watching to…
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Purify our motives.

Rely on the Spirit
===============
Zechariah 4:6 (NIV)
---------------
So he said to me, “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty.

Gratitude
===============
Increase our gratitude when the answer finally comes