This Sunday will mark the launch of our 3rd Worship Gathering at 10:30 am. To find out why we we are adding a 3rd Worship Gathering read here.  All three Worship Gatherings will be identical so pick a time and invite your friends. Regardless of which Gathering you will call your home, we need your help spreading the word about our new times.

Here are a few practical ways you can spread the word.
1.) Tell everyone you know personally.
2.) Post it on Twitter and Facebook.
3.) Send a smoke signal.
4.) Text your friends that have been out of town the last few weeks to let them know.
5.) Write a note and tie it to a real live pigeon.
6.) Invite someone by talking to them face to face.
7.) Knit a Scarf with the new Gathering Times in bright colors.
8.) Ask someone personally.
9.) Tell Everyone You Know
10.) Spread the word any way possible.

How will you spread the word?

Good morning,

We are in need of some extra volunteer help for Easter Sunday. Below are several opportunities that need a few extra sets of hands. These opportunities are one week commitments for Easter Sunday only.To sign up, simply email (ethoschurch@gmail.com) with the Volunteer opportunity in the subject line. The coordinator of each team will contact you in the next few days regarding next steps.

Saturday Afternoon Set Up Team
We need 5-6 people that can help us on Saturday, April 3rd from 4-6 pm as we set up for Easter Sunday.

Easter Lunch Set Up Crew
We need roughly 10 people that can help set up the Mercy Lounge for our Easter Meals. You would need to get to the Cannery at 10 am and you would be finished at 1 pm.

11 AM Welcome Team
We need 10 people that can help create a welcoming environment for our 11 AM Worship Gathering.

Easter Dinner Clean Up Crew
We need 10 people that can help with serving dinner and cleaning up from 4:30 pm – 7:00 pm. This would be an ideal opportunity for someone planning to attend the 11 am Worship Gathering.

Clean Up Crew
We need 10 people that can help us get the Cannery and the Mercy Lounge back in order after a long day. These volunteers will serve from 8:15 pm – 9:30 pm as we sweep up, take out the trash, and pack up all of our equipment.

Good morning,It is exciting to think that we are only ten days away from celebrating our second Easter Sunday as a church. Please take a minute to read through the items below and respond where necessary.

FOUR THINGS WE ARE ASKING FOR EASTER
We are asking that every person in our church do four things as we prepare to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus not just on Easter Sunday but in the weeks that follow as well.

ONE : Sign Up for a Worship Gathering
As a church our desire is to provide a place where every person in our church can invite their friends every week. Since many of you have friends that only think about Jesus around Christmas and Easter we want to create extra space on these days. With that being said, we will be adding a special 11 am Worship Gathering on Easter Sunday.

Regardless of which Worship Gathering you are planning to attend, can you email (questions@ethoslove.com) letting us know if you and your guest will be attending (11 am, 5 pm, or 7 pm Worship Gathering)? This will help us as we plan for food and seating.

TWO : Invite your Friends
This is really self explanatory. Will you commit to inviting your friends that don’t know Jesus to celebrate with us? One of the reasons Ethos Church exists is to share the love of Jesus with those that do not yet know him. So who are you bringing with you on Easter Sunday and beyond?

THREE : Eat a Meal
We don’t simply want our friends to attend a Worship Gathering, we want our friends to experience the joy of Christian Community. So on Easter Sunday, there will be a free meal for you and your guests to share in at each worship experience .

FOUR : Serve our City
Finally, we are asking that you and your friends join us in serving our city. Beginning with Easter, we are going to spend the next 40 Days Blessing our city through service. There will be service opportunities to sign up for every Sunday Night from Easter through the end of May. This will be a great way to celebrate the reality that Jesus is alive and well in our city and beyond.

So what do you need to do?

ONE : Choose a Worship Gathering
TWO : Bring your friends
THREE : Eat a Meal
FOUR : Serve Our City

Be praying that God moves in big ways not simply on Easter, but each and everyday. See you Sunday Night!

At the end of our time in Luke 4 tonight, I read some passages over our church family. Several of you asked for a copy of the verses I read. Here they are:

• Romans 8:14,15
because those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” Galatians 3:26
You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus John 1:12
Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God

• .
2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!

• Galatians 3:26,28
You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

• Galatians 4:6.7
Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, “Abba, ” So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, God has made you also an heir. Romans 8:17
Now if we are children, then we are heirs heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.

• 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.

• Ephesians 2:10
For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

• Ephesians 2:19
Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God’s people and members of God’s household Philippians 3:20
But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ

• 1 Corinthians 12:27
Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.

• 1 Corinthians 6:17
But he who unites himself with the Lord is one with him in spirit.

• John 15:15
I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.

• Romans 6:18
God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God

• Ephesians 4:1
As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.

• Colossians 3:3
For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.

• Matthew 5:13
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness,how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything,except to be thrown out and trampled by men.”

• Matthew 5:14
“You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.”

• 2 Peter 1:4
Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.

• Colossians 3:4
When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

• Colossians 3:12
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience 1 Thessalonians 1:4
For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you

• 1 Thessalonians 5:5
You are all sons of the light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness.

• Romans 8:37
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.

• 1 Peter 2:5
you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

• 1 Peter 2:9
But you are a chosen people, a royal priest hood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.

• 1 Peter 5:8
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

• John 3:3-6
In reply Jesus declared, “I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again” “How can a man be born when he is old?” Nicodemus asked. “Surely he cannot enter a second time into his mother’s womb to be born!” Jesus answered, “I tell you the truth, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit. 6Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit.

• 1 Peter 2:11
Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul.

• 2 Corinthians 2:14
But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him.

• Ephesians 2:8
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God

• Revelations 5:9
And they sang a new song: “You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased men for God from every tribe and language and people and nation.”

• Revelations 19:7
Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory!For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready.

Due to inclement weather Ethos we will not be gathering as a church family tonight. Both of our services (5 PM and 7 PM) are cancelled. We realize that certain parts of our city have clear roads, and but there are large portions of Nashville that are still covered with snow and ice.

In particular, the roads in and around the Cannery have not been cleared by Snow Plows, and the Parking Lot and drive into the Cannery (which is a hill) are still solid ice. With temperatures scheduled to dip into the low 20′s later this afternoon, getting in and out of the Cannery will be nearly impossible if you don’t have four-wheel drive on your vehicle.

That being said, here are a couple of things :

1.) We challenge you to spend some time in prayer, scripture reading, and communion with your friends, family, roommates or neighbors. Just because we aren’t meeting as an entire church does not mean we aren’t meeting.
2.) House Churches WILL MEET this week at 7 PM
3.) Check back here tomorrow for details regarding Superbowl Sunday.

It’s going to be a great week. Enjoy this beautiful day, and spend some time worshipping Jesus.

Ethos this Sun (5 PM and 7 PM)
Last week was an incredible week at Ethos. This week we will be back to our regular schedule with worship gatherings at 5 PM and 7 PM. We are asking that you help us out with a couple of things :

1.) Invite someone new to Ethos this week
2.) Spend some time praying for our time together and for our city
3.) Bring a Bible if you have one and come ready to worship
4.) We will be in Luke 3 this week. Read ahead.

Popcorn’s Funeral Arrangements (Friday, 6 PM)
Just a reminder that the Memorial Service for Popcorn will be held at 6 PM tonight. You can find out more specifics and get directions here. We believe the place is going to be packed tonight so if you can carpool please do so. Immediately following the Memorial Service, there will be a dinner at Matt Preston’s home. If you plan on coming to eat, please bring one food dish to share with a few others.

Relief for Haiti (this Sun)
By now I’m sure you have all heard about the tragedy in Haiti. This Sunday Night you are going to have an incredible opportunity to make an impact. Bring cash / check book, and come with a willing heart. It will be great getting to make a difference together.

House Churches
House Churches get started next Wednesday, January 20th at 7 PM. You will have an opportunity to sign up for a house church this Sunday Night at both the 5 PM and the 7 PM. If you would like to find out more about house churches click here. Our prayer is that every person in the Ethos Community will be connected in a House Church this spring.

As many of you have probably heard by now, our brother Steve, better known as Popcorn passed away in the early hours of the morning. He passed in his sleep, in a warm bed, surrounded by folks that loved him dearly. This morning as I arrived to his apartment, I was greeted by several folks from his church family that were there to provide comfort to Jim and to Popcorn’s family. It reminded me of one of the many reasons it is so wonderful to be a part of the body of Christ.

Below I have included the details for the Memorial Service, and how you can help if interested.

Memorial Service
when : Friday, January 15th at 6 pm
where : Holmes Funeral Home Chapel / 1408 Jo Johnson Ave / Nashville, TN
details : Immediately following the memorial service there will be a dinner at the home of Matt Preston (2004 Heiman St, Nashville, TN 37208)

Financial Assistance
If you or anyone you know is interested in helping cover the costs of Popcorn’s funeral, make checks payable to Ethos Church at 3 Cannery Row / Suite 101 / Nashville, TN 37203. Specify “Popcorn” in the subject line.

Just a reminder, January 3rd and January 10th are the last two weeks of the Ethos Holiday Schedule. We will only be meeting at 5 PM on the 3rd and 10th. We look forward to seeing you at 5 PM.

Dinner this week at Ethos (Dec 27th)

This Sunday Night is going to be a special night at Ethos. As a part of our Sunday Night Worship Gathering, we will be gathering as a church family to eat a meal, reflect on the goodness of Jesus, worship, share scripture, and spend time in smaller groups praying for one another and our city. It is going to be a special night that you will not want to miss. Just a couple of things to remember.

1.) We will only be meeting at 5 PM this week because of our holiday schedule.
2.) Since we will be eating dinner together this week come hungry. If you have a job and can afford to help cover the cost of your meal that would be greatly appreciated. If you have a job and can help cover the cost of someone else’s meal that would be great as well. Suggested donation is $8 for the meal. If you can’t afford, you eat free. No biggie.
3.) Bring a friend with you this week.
4.) Get to the Cannery a few minutes early, go for a walk around the block, and invite someone in to share a meal with you who is cold and will not have a place to eat, or friends to share life with on Sunday Night.

Have a wonderful Christmas and we will see you Sunday Night.

Last night was an incredible night at Ethos Church. Here are just a few things that are resonating with me this morning.

+ Listening to hundreds of people sing what we have traditionally viewed as Christmas Carols as passionate songs of worship

+ Watching a couple, down on their knees pouring their hearts out as they sang “Fall on your knees, hear the angels singing…”

+ Watching Cre Nix choose to follow Christ through baptism. There is something unbelievably powerful about watching a baptism in a bar.

+ Just watching the diversity of our church body interact … long time followers of Jesus, athiests, rich business men, poor street dwellers, educated, uneducated, American and Not-American. It made Paul’s words really come to life when he says here (around Jesus) “There is no Jew or Greek, Male or Female, Slave or Free.”

+ Nearly all of our regular volunteers were out of pocket last night with Holiday travel. I was overwhelmed by how many people just stepped up and helped out.

+ It was a powerful night that reminded me of how grateful I am for our church family.

Merry Christmas.

Sorry that these were not posted last week. I had some serious internet troubles as Sydney and I were in the process of moving. We are back on track today.

If you would like to find out more about what we are doing this Christmas Season then you may want to read this post : Give Your Life Away : Make a New List.

Day Ten : Give Your Talent
When it comes to giving gifts, I find that we often think in a far too limited capacity. We tend to think of financially gifts, or something that we can purchase from a store, but what would it look like to give something a little more unique.

One of my best friends is an unbelievable web designer and graphic artist. Over the years I have watched as he has continuously given hundreds of hours to build websites and do design work for people and causes he believed in for absolutely nothing. In fact, he will often put his paid projects on the back burner because his generosity nearly all takes the front seat.

So what would it look like for you to give your talents away today? Are you good with numbers and spreadsheets …. help out your buddy who is starting a non-profit. Are you a great photographer, share that love with others like my friend Justin Wright. Do you play guitar, give free guitar lessons to someone you know this Christmas. The list could go on and on. I know a lady whose favorite hobby is writing encouragement notes. She literally writes more than a hundred a week. But she doesn’t stop there, she now invites people to come share in that hobby with her.

Whatever your talent may be, I encourage you to give it away today. Have fun. Merry Christmas.

Ethos this Sunday (5 PM only)

Merry Christmas. This is just a reminder that Ethos will only be meeting at 5 PM this Sunday Night, December 20th. This Sunday Night we will continue our study in the Gospel of Luke as we look at the Birth of Jesus. Take some time today to invite a friend to come with you this Sunday Night, if you have a Bible bring one with you, and we look forward to gathering on Sunday Night to worship God and celebrate all of the things he has done through Jesus.

Holiday Schedule

Although this is a wonderful time of year, it can also be a hectic time of year as we travel to see family, friends, and everyone else in between. Over the next several weeks, Ethos Church will be on a slightly different schedule. Please take a second to look at our holiday schedule below, and make sure you spread the word to anyone you know that might not be on our mailing list.

Sunday, December 20th – 5 PM Only
Sunday, December 27th – 5 PM Only
Sunday, January 3rd – 5 PM Only
Sunday, January 10th – 5 PM Only

House Church Schedule

If you are a part of one of our house churches, then you have probably heard that our house churches will not be meeting for the next couple of weeks. Every year, around this time, we take a 3 week break from house churches as peoples’ schedules tend to get a bit hectic.

House Churches will resume the second week in January. If you are not a part of a house church, you will have an opportunity to sign up for one after the first of the year … but as we say every week, you are welcome to join a house church whenever (not just in September and January).

If you would like to find out more about what we are doing this Christmas Season then you may want to read this post : Give Your Life Away : Make a New List.

Day Nine : Give Up Your Parking Space
Now I realize this is stepping on sacred ground, but today we are going to give up our parking spots. If you are high enough up on the corporate food chain and have your own parking spot … give it up today. Make sure you let someone know they can park there or else it won’t do much good.

If you aren’t privileged enough to have your own spot, then simply park farther away from the building. For one day, simply leave the closest and best spots for your friends and complete strangers. Don’t just practice this at your work … do this at the store, when you go to lunch, and anywhere else you might venture for the day.

If you would like to find out more about what we are doing this Christmas Season then you may want to read this post : Give Your Life Away : Make a New List.

Day Eight : Spread Good Gossip
Okay we all know how to gossip. We know how to creatively tear someone down in ways that don’t make us look to bad in the process. But what would it look like if we reversed this? What if you looked for intentional opportunities to spread good things about people without them knowing? What if you went around spreading good (and true) things about people, all the while doing your best to make sure they never found out? I wonder what would happen? How could this change someone’s world today?

Have fun.

If you would like to find out more about what we are doing this Christmas Season then you may want to read this post : Give Your Life Away : Make a New List.

Day Seven : Give Globally
Still need a good gift for your brother, or maybe your sister-in-law from AZ? Instead of buying a sweater that will find its way to a Goodwill Collection Bin a few months from now, give a gift that will help someone in need. Simply purchase a gift in the name of the person you are shopping for. This is also a great conversation starter (your great aunt is going to want to know why you purchased a chicken in her name for a family in Guatemala).

If you need some ideas, here are a few links to fantastic organizations.

World Vision
Blood Water Mission
Red (Starbucks)
Compassion International
Heifer Fund

If you would like to find out more about what we are doing this Christmas Season then you may want to read this post : Give Your Life Away : Make a New List.

Day Six : The Shirt Off Your Back
I always grew up hearing that you knew your friend was a good friend if he would “give you the shirt off his back.” If you ask me, that does seem pretty admirable. Of course, I had never experienced that literally, but I got the point. A few years ago, I was downtown on a cold winter night when I saw a guy wearing a thin white tank top. I stopped to ask him if he was okay and if there was anything I could do to help. He said it would be great if I could give him a warm shirt.

I paused for a moment, and then took the sweater off my back and gave it to him. About thirty seconds after giving the guy my sweater, I realized it wasn’t my sweaters. I had borrowed the sweater from my friend and it was a gift from his girlfriend. That didn’t go over so well, but it really made me think — how can I use what I already have to bless someone who is without?

So maybe you don’t know anyone that needs a shirt, do you know someone that needs a ride? You don’t know anyone that needs a warm jacket, maybe you have an unemployed friend that could benefit from a bag of groceries pulled from your cabinets. How can you use what you already have to bless someone who is without?

Still out of ideas … with weather like this, it shouldn’t be too difficult to find someone who could use a warm shirt.

Baptisms this Week

Last night at Ethos a couple of people made the decision to give their lives to Jesus through baptism! If you are interested in learning more about baptism, or if you are interested in making the decision to follow Christ and would like to talk with someone, you can email Dave at (ethoschurch@gmail.com). If you are ready to take that next step in your faith, you can be baptized next Sunday Night along with others, or any other day for that matter.

Take time today to thank God for the decisions that are being made.

Christmas at Ethos : Give Your Life Away

If you weren’t at Ethos last night, then click here to find out how you can join with us as We Give Our Lives Away this Christmas. Currently hundreds of people from all across the country have decided to partner with our church as we bless one person at a time. I hope you will join us as we spread the love this holiday season.  You can follow along on twitter here or here.

Meals for Popcorn

We need people to help provide a warm meal for Jim and Popcorn over the next week and a half. If you don’t know Jim and Popcorn, they are a valuable part of our church family. Popcorn is extremely ill, and it makes it very difficult for them to get out. Over the last two weeks, our church family has been providing warm meals and fellowship. If you could provide a meal for one of the following dates (Dec 8, 10, 11, or Dec 14, 15, 16, 17, 18) please send an email to Jessica Duty (jessica.duty@lipscomb.edu).

Join us in Serving this Week

This week, Ethos will be serving all over the city in more than 26 different locations. Once a month, our house churches take a break from meeting in our homes so we can spend time loving on those in the larger Nashville community. If you are interested in meeting up with a house church to serve this week send an email to Brandon Steele (steelebn@lipscomb.edu).

If you would like to find out more about what we are doing this Christmas Season then you may want to read this post : Give Your Life Away : Make a New List.

Day Five : Give Your Time
Well since it is Monday, I figured we should start the week with something a little more challenging. Today we are going to give up something most of us seem to be running short on anyways … time. Today’s challenge is really straightforward — how can you bless someone today by giving them your time?

In case you are having trouble getting started, here are a few ideas:
* Babysit for free for a couple that could use the time together or a single mom that could use the help
* Spend time with an elderly friend or stranger who may not have many visitors
* Do something with your wife / husband that only he/she enjoys doing … and don’t complain
* If you have a job that pays hourly, work a free hour as a way to honor your boss (come in early / stay late)
* Volunteer at a local Non-Profit Organization of your choice
* Spend time listening to a friend that is grieving
* The list could go on. Be creative.

Christmas at Ethos begins tonight at 5 PM and 7 PM. Invite a friend, Bring a Bible, and Help Spread the word. We hope to see you tonight!

If you would like to find out more about what we are doing this Christmas Season then you may want to read this post : Give Your Life Away : Make a New List.

Day Four : Find a Third Wheel (The Gift of Inclusion)
The weekend is here. It is almost time to act like you are going to the bathroom only to cut out of work 15 minutes early. Time to pick up your girlfriend, grab a Red Box to watch with the kids, eat dinner at home, or go out with some girls in your dorm. Whatever your situation, whatever your plans…today’s challenge will apply.

As you think about your plans for tonight, ask yourself one simple question — “Who do I need to include?”

Now before you fill in the blank, don’t take the easy way out. It would be easy to think of one of your closest friends. Let’s stretch ourselves a bit. Who do you know that won’t have any plans tonight? Who do you know that may be eating dinner alone tonight?

You don’t have to commit your entire evening. Maybe you just decide to share a meal. Look for an intentional opportunity to include someone tonight who is not typically included by you or others. As we celebrate the Christmas Season today, give the gift of inclusion.

Who will be your third wheel tonight?

If you would like to find out more about what we are doing this Christmas Season you may want to read this post : Give Your Life Away : A New Kind of List

Day Three : Buy Coffee for a Stranger
This one is pretty self explanatory. Sometime today buy a complete stranger a cup of coffee. Trust me, this won’t be as weird as it seems. When you are standing in line behind someone, simply hand the cashier your money and place your order as you pay for both of your orders. At first they will be stunned, maybe they will try to refuse…but stay strong. Just smile, and say “Merry Christmas.” Encourage them to spread the holiday cheer.

This one is so much fun you may even try this more than once. Have fun living generously.

If you would like to find out more about what we are doing this Christmas Season you may want to read this post : Give Your Life Away : A New Kind of List.

Day 2 : Write a Letter
Okay we are going to start small. Yesterday you made a list of people you want to bless this Christmas Season. Today you are going to pick one person off of that list. Maybe you choose a parent, or a sibling, maybe a friend from college that you haven’t spoken to in awhile….I could go on, but you get the point.

Now today’s challenge is simple. Get out a piece of paper, or a card, or a piece of that monogrammed stationary you never use and write them a letter. Don’t send an email, don’t write them a message through facebook. Write them a good old fashioned letter. In a day and age where everything is so instant, getting a thoughtful letter can really go a long way.

Take some time to think about what you want to say, and then say it. This Christmas Gift will cost you less than fifty cents but I guarantee you it will have a big impact on the person you mail it to. Who knows, it may even be the most meaningful gift they receive this year.

So I know this is tough. You are going to have to buy a stamp, walk to the mailbox, and even worse learn how to write again, but I think it will be worth it. Alright, let’s do this. See you tomorrow.

It is hard to believe that December is already here. I love this time of year. I love the parties, watching Christmas Vacation, drinking hot chocolate, and wearing bad Christmas sweaters. It all comes with the territory.

When I was a kid, one of my favorite aspects of Christmas was making a list to give to Santa. I remember in great detail asking for a Nintendo, Lego sets, footballs, bicycles, and everything else under the sun. I never understood how Santa could make a Nintendo that looked just like the one in the stores without infringing on copyright laws, but he always managed to pull it off. Year after year I would make my list, put it in a sealed envelope and mail it to Santa.

Over the years this hasn’t changed all that much. Of course I don’t write lists to Santa, but now I tell my wife, friends, and family what it is I want each year. If there is ever any confusion over what I am asking for I send them an email, or point it out in the store … that way they can get it just right.

Without climbing onto my soapbox, I want this year to be different. Instead of making a list of all the things I want people to give me, I want to make a list of the things I can give to others.

Can you imagine how powerful it would be if every person in our church made a new kind of list this Christmas? What if 500 something people committed to GIVE THEIR LIVES AWAY for the sake of those around them. What if you decided to consistently bless those around you? What if they did the same? What if this little idea spread, and one by one thousands of people came to experience the tangible presence of Jesus through small actions each day? I don’t know about you, but I think it would be incredible.

Are you in?

Each day there will be a new challenge posted on this blog for us to try together. Here is your first challenge.

Give Your Life Away
Day 1 : Make a New Kind of List
Alright, pretend you are a kid. Get out a piece of paper, or pull up a new doc on your computer and start typing out the names of people you want to bless this Christmas season. There are no limitations. Write down the names of your friends, family, co-workers, etc. Get creative. Make your list. Check it twice. Let’s get ready to make the lives of those around us better. We will use this list as a starting point for Giving Away Our Lives this Christmas.

This should be fun. Let’s go.

I hope all of you are enjoying this beautiful November weather. Just a couple of quick reminders. Since a lot of folks will be traveling for the holidays, this week (Nov 22) and next week (Nov 29), Ethos will only meet at 5 PM. Please help spread the word to your friends who might not yet be on our mailing list. Also, we are still collecting can goods so bring them with you the next two weeks. You can drop them off at the Service Table. Finally, I think the next two Sundays are going to be great at Ethos. Even though it is the holidays, it would be a great time to invite a friend who has never been to church before. For those of you that are traveling, we hope you have a safe trip and a wonderful Thanksgiving and we will see you when you get back. For everyone else, See you tomorrow night!

[This post is from Justin Wright] I am teaching a free photography class on Sunday, November 15th from 3-5pm at the Cannery Ballroom. The address is 1 Cannery Row Nashville, Tn. This class if for Beginners who are trying to figure out how to use that DLSR that they bought. We will be talking about Shutter Speed, Aperture, Composition, and lots of other awesome things. If you are beyond the basics of photography please come any way to have fun and help teach others. Make sure to bring your camera because we will spending as much time as possible taking photos. Reservations are not necessary but if you have an extra second I would greatly appreciate it if you could send an email to ethosartists@gmail.com to let me know you are coming. Hope to see you there!

Ethos Sun and House Churches

This Sunday Night we will be back to two services (5 PM and 7 PM) at the Cannery Ballroom. If you need directions click here. Also, every Wednesday Night, our church family gathers in homes all across the city from 7 pm – 8:15 pm for a time of prayer, fellowship and Bible Study. If you are looking to get connected, house churches are a great place start. If you are interested in getting connected with a house church, simply email Brandon Steele (steelebn@lipscomb.edu).

Who are you inviting?

Since we believe Jesus is the giver of life and hope, we believe inviting people to connect with our church family is an important way to display our love for God and for people. So with that being said, who are you inviting to Ethos each week? Our prayer is that this will be a consistent element of our church family every single week.

Volunteer at Ethos

Currently we need some volunteers to help in three areas. First we need several committed folks to help set up the Cannery each Sunday Night. The set up team arrives at 2:45 pm each Sunday to unload the trailer and set up the chairs. Second, we need several committed folks from the 7 PM Worship Gathering to serve on our Welcome Team. The Welcome Team arrives 30 minutes before the 7 PM service to help welcome first time guest. Finally, we need several committed folks to serve on our A/V Team. Our AV team is in charge of setting up our PA, running sound, and breaking down the equipment each week.

Serve Our City

It has been an exciting month at Ethos. Each Sunday Night we have been collecting can goods to feed hungry families in Nashville. We will continue to collect cans throughout the month of November. Thank you for bringing cans each Sunday.

On Sunday Night, our church family embraced the difficult news that Popcorn is fighting the AIDs virus. Thanks to your generosity, we have gotten Popcorn off of the street and currently moved he and Jim into the Casablanca Apartments off of Murfreesboro Rd. We also helped Brian and Anna get into housing in the Casey Homes over in East Nashville. Their baby is due in the next couple of weeks so this comes at a great time. Both of these families need food, toiletry items, and basic hygiene products. If you can help, simply bring these products with you on Sunday Night and drop them off at the “SERVE” banner in the lobby. More importantly, we need some folks from Ethos to really roll up their sleeves to walk along side of these families. We need folks to share meals with them, study the Bible, set up movie nights … quite simply be family during this transitional period. If you can help, please email Ilex at (Serve@ethoslove.com)

Ethos Photography Class

Justin Wright is beginning a free photography class before Ethos beginning this Sunday. This class is free and open to everyone. In fact, it is a great opportunity to connect with others at Ethos, and also a great opportunity to invite a friend that might not be connected to church. This class will meet at the Cannery Ballroom. For more info visit Ethos Artists.

Young Marrieds / Couples Group

Two Sunday Mornings a month, Jon and Pam Shoulders lead a discussion looking at what it means to have a Christ Centered relationship. If you don’t know Jon and Pam, they are a dynamic couple that have a deep desire to see young couples find a deeper relationship with Jesus. This group meets from 10-11:15 am. If you are interested in participating, email Jon at (jshoulders@friendshipchristian.org).

Hello. Here is a message from one of our brothers, Paul,  that is looking for work. If you know of anything, just shoot Paul an email (paulrobert.85@gmail.com)

—————– (Message from Paul) —————————————

To my Brothers and Sisters, I moved here in May after graduating from college and since then I have struggled to find my faith, to find what God wants for me in this life. Since attending Ethos, I have been challenged to allow Him to take control. I especially appreciate finding brothers and sisters here I can relate to. I attend the house church that Daniel Hudgins and Josh Martin head up and I feel I have found a place to contribute, to serve my Lord. I rejoice for these blessings, but still need prayers. I had a seasonal job for a couple of months, but have been unemployed since August. So here I am, humbly asking my family for advice about finding a job here in Nashville. I know the Lord has called me to paint, to create, to bring beauty to mankind, but I need to find a more consistent form of income. I have been looking for sometime by myself. Now I know I don’t have to do this alone. I would appreciate any help that can be extended. In Love, Paul Shoulders

Hello everyone. Julie Wheetley has asked that I post this amazing ministry opportunity. If you are interested in serving in this capacity, please send an email to (ethoschurch@gmail.com). Thanks guys. See you Sunday Night.

—————- (Julie’s Message) —————————————————–

Great news, this Sunday Night, October 11th, Ethos Church will be back at the Cannery for our regular worship times (5 PM and 7 PM). I know things were a bit chaotic last week as we had to relocate to Rocketown, but a bit of chaos makes everything a little more fun right?

After all, moving locations every so often serves as a great reminder that church has NOTHING to do with where we meet.  Our only purpose is giving our hearts to Jesus. I can’t wait to gather together tomorrow night.

Bring a friend and a Bible.

Occasionally there are conflicts at the Cannery (our usual meeting place) on Sunday Nights. This is one of those weeks. So this Sunday Night, we will be meeting at Rocketown (just a few blocks from the Cannery). Since Rocketown is larger, we will only have our 5 PM Worship Gathering this week. In other words, THERE WILL NOT BE A 7 PM WORSHIP GATHERING this week.

We are thankful that Rocketown has graciously allowed us to use their venue. Although it is a hassle to move locations, this is literally the best case scenario. What more can you ask for when you are trying to relocate nearly 600 people with just a few days notice? God is good. Thanks to Rocketown and the Cannery for allowing us to partner with them.

Directions to Rocketown
(click here)

WHAT DO YOU NEED TO DO?
1.) Tell everyone you know that Ethos will meet at Rocketown this Sunday (1 week only) @ 5 pm
2.) Post it on facebook, twitter, write blogs, send emails, texts, or just tell someone
3.) Carpool
4.) Bring a friend with you that doesn’t go to church, and Bring a Bible
5.) Pray for God to do something huge among us this Sunday Night

Well this is our final installment of 30 Days of Red Letters. As a church family, our desire is to go deeper in the Word, not just on Sundays but every day of the week. With that goal in mind, we are spending the month of September reading, memorizing, writing about, and reflecting on the words of Jesus. There is a short reading each day, and we encourage you allow these words of Jesus to change you this week. 

Here are the readings for this week.

Sunday, September 27th
If anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also; and if anyone would sue you and take your coat, let him have your cloak as well; and if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. – Matthew 19:39b-41

Wednesday, September 30th
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. – John 3:16-18

If you have not been with us at Ethos the last three weeks then you probably haven’t heard about the 30 Days of Red Letters. As a church family, our desire is to go deeper in the Word, not just on Sundays but every day of the week. With that goal in mind, we are spending the month of September reading, memorizing, writing about, and reflecting on the words of Jesus. There is a short reading each day, and we encourage you allow these words of Jesus to change you this week. 

Here are the readings for this week.

Sunday, September 21st
Not everyone who says to me, Lord, Lord will enter the Kingdom of Heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in Heaven. Many will say to me on that day, Lord, Lord did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles? Then I will tell them plainly, I never knew you. Away from me you evil doers. – Matthew 7:21-23

Monday, September 21st
I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again. – John 3

Tuesday, September 22nd
The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent. – John 6:29

Wednesday, September 23rd
Ask and it will be given to you: seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! So in everything, do to others what you would have them to do to you, for this sums up the law and the prophets. – Matthew 6:7-12

Thursday, September 24th
Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God: trust also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms: if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place I am going. – John 14:1-4

Friday, September 25th 
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled … blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of Heaven. – Matthew 5:6

Saturday, September 26th
When a man believes in me, he does not believe in me only, but in the one who sent me. I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness. – John 12:44-46

Man it is hard to adequately describe last Sunday Night. I can’t tell you how grateful I am for our church family. We knew it was going to take a lot of work and sacrifice from a lot of different people in order to make the move from one worship gathering at 6 pm to our new schedule on Sunday Nights (5 PM and 7 PM read more here). 

You guys stepped up big time though. We had more than 200 volunteers sign up on Sunday, August 30th. That was huge. Then you guys spent two weeks spreading the word through facebook, email, twitter, and word of mouth. Finally, countless volunteers showed up in droves to help us make the transition this past week. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

Most importantly, you invited your friends, and your willingness to make the move to two services has opened up a few seats for your friends who are not connected with a church family. We are still working towards freeing up more space. Thank you for your patience on this.

If you were at our 5 PM service, you know there were about 100 people without seats standing in the back. We still have some room at the 7 PM. It would be great if 50 of you would commit to joining us at 7 PM to help with some of these space issues. 

Once again, I can’t thank you enough for your help through all of these transitions. Most importantly, I can’t thank you enough for being on mission with us at Ethos Church. I love that we get to serve alongside one another. love – Dave

If you want to learn more about our transition to two services follow the links below.

Why Two Services (click here)

If you have not been with us at Ethos the last two weeks then you probably haven’t heard about the 30 Days of Red Letters. As a church family, our desire is to go deeper in the Word, not just on Sundays but every day of the week. With that goal in mind, we are spending the month of September reading, memorizing, writing about, and reflecting on the words of Jesus. There is a short reading each day, and we encourage you allow these words of Jesus to change you this week. 

Here are the readings for this week.

Monday, September 14th
If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all. – Mark 9:35

Tuesday, September 15th
The most important commandment is this, Hear or Israel, the Lord our God is one. Love the Lord your God with all of your heart and with all of your soul, and with all of your mind, and with all of your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself. – Mark 12:29-31

Wednesday, September 16th
I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies: and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. – John 11:25-26

Thursday, September 17th
I tell you the truth, the man who does not enter the sheep pen by the ate, but climbs in by some other way is a thief and a robber. The man who enters by the gate is the shepherd of his sheep. The watchman opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all of his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice. But they will never follow a stranger: in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger’s voice. – John 10:1-5

Friday, September 18th
I am the good shepherd: I know my sheep and my sheep know me–just as the Father knows me and I know the Father — and I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd. The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life — only to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father. – John 10:14-18

Saturday, September 19th
If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. – John 8:31-32

Who are you bringing with you Sunday Night? This isn’t a rhetorical question. Who have you invited? Have you invited anyone? Spend some time praying about who you should invite this Sunday Night. Then invite them. Don’t wait until Sunday. Go ahead and give them a call right now. The worst thing they can do is say no. That doesn’t seem to bad does it? 

See you Sunday. We look forward to meeting your friend.

That’s right. After a break from House Churches this summer, our house churches start back up tonight. If you have been attending our Sunday Worship Gathering, and are looking for a way to get more involved, we encourage you to become a part of one of our House Churches. Although our Sunday Worship Gatherings provide a wonderful opportunity for us to worship God, share Communion, study the Bible together, and enjoy the fellowship of our entire church family, our House Churches give us the opportunity to build deep relationships with one another in a more intimate setting.

Each House Church consists of 8-12 people. It doesn’t matter if you are white, black, young, old, Christian, or not — you are invited to be a part of a House Church. It is through our House Churches that we eat meals together, pray for one another, spend time in conversation, and serve our city.

Frequently Asked Questions
How can I become a part of a House Church?
It is simple. You can sign up for a House Church at our Connections Table on any Sunday Night. Email ethoschurch@gmail.com for more information regarding locations.

What can I expect at a typical House Church?
All of our House Churches meet on Wednesday Nights @ 7 pm and are finished by 8:15 pm every week. Every week we read the Bible, pray, and discuss issues in our spiritual journey. Some weeks we share a meal together, and one week out of each month we don’t meet in a home…instead we go out into the city and serve people that aren’t apart of our church.

If I go to a House Church, do I have to participate in the conversation?
No, in fact, lots of people show up for weeks and even months before they feel comfortable talking. House Churches are a place where you can be totally comfortable just being you…if that means you come and go without saying a word, then great. We are glad to have you here.

What parts of Nashville do the House Churches meet?
Hillsboro Village, Green Hills, Crieve Hall, Nipper’s Corner, Hermitage, Cool Springs, Oak Hill, Antioch, Brentwood

How many weeks do House Churches meet?
14 weeks. Then we take a break for the holidays before starting up again in January. 

More questions?

Email us at ethoschurch@gmail.com

On Sunday Night, roughly 150 of you committed to being on mission with us at the 5 pm Sunday Worship Gathering. We still need another 50 or 60 to commit to the 5 pm Worship Gathering. Are you willing to join us at 5 pm? 

What are you waiting for? Make the decision. You don’t have to tell anyone. No need to sign up. Just show up at 5 pm and bring your friends with you. See you Sunday Night at 5 pm.

Okay, so you have heard that Ethos is starting another Sunday Night Worship Gathering beginning this week, Sunday September 13th. You are probably wondering, how can I help spread the word? Great question. Here are a few practical ways you can help get the word out. 

1.) Tell people. Novel approach I know. Simply open your mouth, string words together forming a sentence, and speak these words in the direction of another human’s ears. If you need help on forming the above mentioned sentence try something like this : “Have you heard Ethos is having a 5pm and a 7pm worship gathering this week? Want to ride with me to the ____pm?”  

2.) Facebook. Update your facebook status. Send out messages. Post on your friend’s walls. Be creative.

3.) Twitter. Tweet about the time change like crazy. The more the better. 

4.) Personal Text. If you know people that are regulars at Ethos who have not been during the last 3 weeks, or if you know folks that have not been in a while, make sure they get the message. Give them a call, or shoot them a text. Just don’t be the guy that sends out a bunch of mass texts. Everyone hates that. 

5.) Be Creative. You are smart and creative. Use that for something good.

We have a wonderful problem. If you have not been to Ethos Church in the last two or three weeks then you might not have noticed, but we are out of space. With that being said, beginning next week (Sunday, September 13th) Ethos Church will offer two identical worship gatherings each Sunday Night (5 pm and 7 pm).

Below I have addressed some commonly asked questions.

Why has our attendance nearly doubled in the last 3 weeks?
This is a wonderful issue, that has several obvious reasons. First, you guys did a great job of inviting your friends to church this summer. You may not have realized, but our church nearly doubled between the middle of May and the end of July. Second, college students are back. College students are a huge part of our church family, and since the college years are some of the most important years in a person’s spiritual formation, I pray we reach more college students this year than ever before. Third, summer schedules are crazy which means it is rare that our entire church family is ever together in the summer. Now that vacation schedules are slowing down, we will find that our church is a little larger than most of us realized.

Why does this matter?
Most Christians would consider a crowded room a wonderful thing. However, for those who have not been to church in a long time, or who have never been to church it can be quite intimidating. The last thing we want is for someone to show up and struggle trying to find a place to sit. Since Ethos longs to be a place where non-Christians can explore questions about God in a safe environment, we want to make sure we remove any unnecessary barriers between people and Jesus. We would never think of inviting someone over to our home for dinner if we didn’t have a place for them to sit at our table. Since we expect you to invite your friends each week, we are doing our best to make sure they have a place at the table beside you.

What is the plan?
Beginning, Sunday September 13th we will offer two Sunday Night Worship Gatherings (5 pm and 7 pm). Both worship gatherings will be identical. Our goal will be to create a sense of community and belonging among the people at each worship gathering. For example, our hope is that those who attend the 5 pm worship gathering will serve, participate in House Churches, and build deep friendships with the other people at the 5 pm Service. This will allow us to build deeper friendships while reaching more people for Christ. As our church grows, our prayer is that our relationships will grow in depth as well.

This will be temporary.
Even as I write this blog outlining this plan, I am confident that it is only a temporary solution. I am convinced that when Jesus is drawing people to himself, and when the Spirit of God is pursuing hearts … the Kingdom of God will expand. Who knows what that timing will be, but we must be willing to adapt. If you want to get a great picture of a church that was willing to adapt just read the first few chapters of Acts. Don’t you know the people freaking out as the kingdom grew from 12 to 120 to 3,000, to 10,000 in a few short years. Who knows what God is planning to do with our meager efforts, but I know we must be flexible.

Last week at Ethos, Elliot challenged our church family to go deeper with God, not just on Sundays but Monday – Saturday as well. The Ethos Discipleship Team has challenged our entire church family to read through the words of Jesus during the month of September. 

I invite you to read along with us. The readings for each day are short. The idea is to really soak in these words. I encourage you to ask God each day to help you very practically understand what these words mean for your life.

How will you respond to the words of Jesus?

I have included this week’s readings below.

Sept 7th : Blessed are the poor in Spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. – Matthew 5:3

Sept 8th : You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on a stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. – Matthew 5:14-16

Sept 9th : Do not judge or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. – Matthew 7:1-2

Sept 10th : Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. – Matthew 11:28-30

Sept 11th : Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. – John 15:13

Sept 12th : Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. – Matthew 5:5

Just a few quick things. First things first, tonight will be the last time we meet at 6 pm (at least for a while). If you weren’t with us last week then you may not know, but beginning next Sunday Night (September 13th) we will move to two services (5 pm and 7 pm). We will explain this in further detail tonight. But for tonight, we will be at our regular time (6 pm) at our regular place (the Cannery). 

Tonight will also be your opportunity to sign up for House Churches. Our House Churches begin this Wednesday, September 9th at 7 pm. This is a great way to connect with other people in our church family. I highly encourage you to become a part of a house church. 

Finally, thanks to everyone that signed up to become a volunteer last week. More than 200 of you committed to volunteering at Ethos! That is huge, and I can’t tell you how much I appreciate that. For those of you that volunteered, you will be receiving an email this week regarding everything you will need to know in order to serve. Thanks again. 

I look forward to seeing you tonight.

It has been a real joy studying through the Book of Genesis this summer. In particular, I have really enjoyed our study through the life of Abraham over the last 4 weeks. That being said, I wanted to post one last blog (for now) regarding Abraham, Isaac, and ultimately their connection to Jesus. 

One : All Scripture Points to Jesus
For the majority of my life, I struggled understanding the stories of the Old Testament. They seemed weird, irrelevant, and completely disconnected from the story of Jesus in the New Testament. It wasn’t until a few years ago that I really started to understand that all scripture (Old and New Testament) is ultimately about the work of God through the life of Jesus empowered by the Holy Spirit. If you have ever taken a graduate Bible course, or read scholarly work on the Old Testament you know this is not a popular view. In fact, many Bible Scholars believe it is absurd to think the Old Testament is about Jesus at all.

Jesus however makes it clear all throughout the Gospel Accounts that the stories in the Old Testament only find their fulfillment in him (i.e. Luke 24:27). So you and I are left with a question : Do we believe Jesus is a better Bible scholar than some professor that teaches Bible at a state school? I don’t know about you, but I tend to side with Jesus. 

That being said, I think the story of Abraham and Isaac in Genesis 22 points us towards Jesus in a powerful way.

Two : The Connections

1.) Genesis 22 echoes the sentiment and tone of John 3:16

2.) Isaac was escorted to Mount Moriah by two servants, Jesus was escorted to calvary by two thieves.

3.) Isaac carried the wood on his back to Moriah, Jesus carried the wooden cross on his back to calvary.

4.) Isaac knew there needed to be a lamb to offer in worship, Jesus was the lamb offered in worship

5.) Isaac submitted to the will of his father Abraham and allowed his father to tie him up and lay him on an altar. Jesus submitted to the will of his father and was arrested, beaten, and nailed to a cross.

6.) Abraham named the future site of the temple “On the Mountain of the Lord it will be provided.” Centuries later, Jesus was the culmination of that promise.  

7.) God spared Abraham the pain of sacrificing his only Son. Thank God he chose to endure the pain of sacrificing his only son. 

I pray that we will come to see the story of Jesus in absolutely everything. Have a great night.

Last night at Ethos, Elliot challenged our church family to go deeper with God, not just on Sundays but Monday – Saturday as well. The Ethos Discipleship Team challenged our entire church family to read through the words of Jesus during the month of September. 

I invite you to read along with us. The readings for each day are short. The idea is to really soak in these words. I encourage you to ask God each day to help you very practically understand what these words mean for your life.

How will you respond to the words of Jesus?

I have included this week’s readings below.

Sept 1 : Anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. – Luke 14:27

Sept 2 : I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the father except through me. If you really knew me, you would know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him. – John 14:6-7

Sept 3 : Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air, they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life. – Matthew 6:25-27

Sept 4 : For whoever would save his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel’s will save it. – Mark 8:35

Sept 5 : You have heard that it was said, Love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore as your heavenly Father is perfect. – Matthew 5:43-48

Sept 6 : I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. – John 16:33

Bob Dylan hates Ethos Church. I know what you are thinking, “Dave that is an outlandish statement. Bob Dylan doesn’t even know about Ethos Church, much less hate it.” Here is scientific proof that Bob Dylan hates Ethos Church.

Fact # 1
On a cold night, next to a blazing fire, with a hint of Barry Manilow in the air, Bob Dylan conceived a son.

Fact # 2
This son was named Jacob.

Fact # 3
Since Jacob has the same DNA as one of the most influential musicians of all time, Jacob learned how to play guitar and thus started a band called the Wallflowers.

Fact # 4
In 1996, The Wallflowers hit it big with songs like “One Headlight” and “3 Marlenas”

Fact # 5
Due to their popularity, The Wallflowers have a sold out show at the Cannery this Sunday (Aug 30th)

Fact # 6
Ethos Church will be meeting at Rocketown this week because of the sold out show at The Cannery.

Conclusion
(Bob Dylan + A Blazing Fire + a Woman + Barry Manilow’s Greatest Hits) = Jacob Dylan
(Jacob Dylan + Guitar + a band + the Cannery) = Ethos Church meeting at Rocketown this week

It’s science. Bob Dylan hates Ethos Church. If the facts don’t convince you … I’m afraid nothing will.

For those of you that need a more formal explanation of why we are meeting in a different location this week (click here). See you Sunday Night @ 6 pm.

Lots of churches have to change locations periodically when something unexpected happens (i.e. a busted pipe,  a tree crashing through the roof of the sanctuary, etc). Since our church meets in a bar, we periodically have to adjust our plans to  accommodate The Cannery’s schedule. 

This Sunday (Aug 30th), The Wallflowers will be playing a sold out show at The Cannery. Typically when there is a conflict on the schedule, Ethos moves upstairs to the Mercy Lounge. The truth is, we have quite simply outgrown the Mercy Lounge and cannot get everyone through the doors.

Rocketown has graciously allowed us to use their venue this week. This will only be a one time deal. Rocketown is just a few blocks away from the Cannery, and they have even worked out a deal for free parking. What more can you ask for when you are trying to relocate 500+ people with just a few days notice? God is good. Thanks to Rocketown and the Cannery for allowing us to partner with them. 

Directions to Rocketown
(click here)

WHAT DO YOU NEED TO DO?
1.) Tell everyone you know that Ethos will meet at Rocketown this Sunday (1 week only) @ 6 pm
2.) Post it on facebook, twitter, write blogs, send emails, texts, or just tell someone
3.) Carpool
4.) Bring a friend with you that doesn’t go to church, and Bring a Bible
5.) Pray for God to do something huge among us this Sunday Night

Good morning. One of our sisters from church is getting evicted from her apartment tonight. It has been a rough couple of months with the economy, and this month was the breaking point. The good news is that she does have a place to move to, but she needs help moving from one place to another.

This is where you come in. Can you please help us tonight? Please don’t assume that someone else will do it. If you don’t have plans already, please commit to helping out. It will make a really big difference in the life of one of our sisters at Ethos.

If you can help, please email ILEX POUNDERS (ilexpounders@gmail.com).

We will meet at 6 pm sharp at Lipscomb University (One University Park Dr / Nashville, TN 37204) in the parking lot in front of the Ezell Building. If we have enough folks we should be done no later than 8 pm.

Thanks and please help us spread the word.

WATCH THIS VIDEO

A few things I think we can learn from this video.

1. One man can start a movement.
2. A movement need not be started by the most skilled member of the movement.
3. When beginning your movement and you look around and no one else is joining the dance, just keep dancing.
4. When the one guy who joins your movement slowly fades away, keep going.
5. Before you know it, the people joining your movement won’t even know you started it.
6. When your movement takes a life of it’s own, just let go. There will be no stopping it.
7. The very people who are staring at you like your nuts as you move alone, will be the very same people dancing the hardest in the end.

Sunday Night was an incredible night at Ethos Church. Brandon finished up our Fuzz Mustache series by wrapping up 1 Thessalonians for us. Worship was powerful. Todd’s thoughts regarding communion were sacred and challenging. Overall the night was really incredible. 

After our time of worship, a woman from our church named Ellie, stopped me and said “tonight was just incredible … and I can’t even tell you why, it just was.” I agreed. I feel pretty confident that it had everything to do with the movement of God. He is always present, but sometimes I think we do a better job of stopping to acknowledge that reality.

After our worship gathering on Sunday Night, Sarah Brummett decided to give her life to Jesus. About 30 of us made our way over to our friend’s hot tub to watch Sarah give her life to Jesus in baptism.

What a great way to end the night. I’m so glad I have the privilege of being church with each of you. Take time to celebrate the way God is changing lives. I hope you have a wonderful night.

I read this verse earlier in the week, and it has really begun to take root. The more I think about this verse, the more impossible it feels. Have you ever read a verse and felt that way? Have you ever had the feeling … “well that sounds good and all, but I could never really do that?” 

This has been one of those verses.

“Cast your cares on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.” - Psalm 55:22

and then keep reading because the end of verse 23 will really get you:

“But as for me, I will trust in you.”

I’ve been asking myself one simple question all week. Why is it so hard for me to give all my cares to the Lord?

I think the only honest answer is painful, but true — I just don’t trust him enough.

I want to challenge you today to do one of the hardest things in the world. Give every single care, burden, worry, stress, fear, feeling of inadequacy, etc. over to the Lord. He will sustain you. He will not let you fall. Put your trust in Him alone.

He is a big God. He can handle it. You cannot.

Last night was absolutely fantastic. One of the best things about being a new church, is we get to experience a lot of firsts together as a church family. Since Ethos is roughly 6 months old, this was our first Easter. We mixed things up a bit, by adding another service at 4 pm with a family meal in between our 4 pm and 6 pm Sunday Worship Gatherings.

A few highlights from the evening:
+ Watching cars pour into the Cannery before both services
+ Seeing the way our church family really stepped up to the plate by bringing their friends, and bringing boat loads of socks for us to distribute in the community
+ Worship was absolutely amazing last night
+ Seeing hundreds of people circled around tables sharing the bread and the wine was powerful
+ The Resurrection of Jesus changes everything, and our ability to understand the resurrection has little to do with our circumstances and everything to do with our hearts. I pray that our church will never live another day as though the tomb is still occupied. 

I will post a few pics from our Easter Services later today. Have a great Monday.

I heard an incredible quote that I just wanted to share with you on this beautiful Wednesday afternoon.

“Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgment that something is greater than that fear. While it is true that the brave won’t live forever — it is also true that the cautious will never live.”

I don’t know about you, but that really stirred up something deep inside of me.

Is your life marked by courage?

Or has your life been dominated by fear and caution?

Let’s start living.

For those of you that listen to indie bands and drink local coffee, you will be pleased to know that Ethos Church is now on Twitter. You keep up with all the latest by following us here. Now, get off of your computer, go outside, and enjoy this beautiful Saturday. Peace.

Believe it or not, Easter is only 9 days away and the question begs to be answered … “Who are you inviting to Easter Sunday?” I hope you have spent time praying about who you should ask. I hope you have been taking note of your friends and family members who will be sitting at home alone on Easter Sunday. I hope you have had the courage to extend a warm invitation to that girl you work with, or that guy that sits in a cubicle that nobody talks to. 

After all, isn’t that how you came to know Jesus? Someone invited you — maybe it was a parent, maybe it was a friend, maybe it was a poster tacked on a bulletin board.

Don’t simply take the easy way out. The good news of Jesus is for everyone, even the folks you don’t feel comfortable around. 

Let’s pray hard. Let’s pray for a gigantic movement of God. Let’s trust that Jesus is risen.

So, who are you inviting?  

* Have you signed up for an Easter Service yet? To find out more click here.

If you weren’t at church last night, then you missed the announcement regarding Easter at Ethos. I will repeat the information here, because we need lots of help from you guys.

Why are we doing something different for Easter? 
For whatever reason, there are certain times each year where people (including those that don’t go to church) stop to reflect on Jesus. Easter is one of those times. Our prayer is that Ethos can play a role in sharing the Good News of Jesus with people that typically wouldn’t think twice about church. 

What You Need to Do
In order to reach as many people as possible, we really need everyone in our church to help us with a couple of things. 

One: 4 pm and 6 pm
If you have been at church during the last 6 weeks then you know we are out of room. We have added 150 more chairs, we added more chairs tonight, and we are still out of room. Since we believe we will have a record crowd at Easter we are going to host two Sunday Night Worship Gatherings.  

For those of you that are a part of the Ethos Family, we need you to sign up for the 4 pm or the 6 pm Service. You can sign up through email (ethoschurch@gmail.com). Just include your name, and time (4 pm or 6 pm) in the subject line. We need at least 200 of you to sign up for the 4 pm and 200 people to sign up for the 6 pm.  This will greatly help us as we try to make sure we have enough seats for everyone. 

Two: Bring a Friend
This is the most important aspect of Easter. We are asking that every single person bring at least one friend to our Easter Service that does not know Jesus, or does not go to church. Please spend time praying, and thinking about who you will invite, and go ahead and invite them. If we really believe Jesus is the author of life, then lets make sure we don’t show up to church alone (this doesn’t just apply to Easter). 

Alright, that is all for now. If you want to print up fliers to hand out, you can get them here. Spread the word any way you can (i.e. email, facebook, twitter, personal invite, pigeon with a letter, etc).  

Sorry I have been absent from the blogosphere recently. To be completely honest, I just hit a wall last week. After returning from our PCB Mission Trip over a week ago, I was just exhausted, and thought it would be good to take a break from blogging. Anyways, I’m back. 

It was a great night at Ethos. Here are just a few thoughts from the evening…

+ It was wonderful seeing so many new faces. For those of you that are regulars at Ethos, please make sure you follow up with those that are new. Remember what it was like to be new?

+ When the Created loses sight of the Creator, there is no purpose, where there is no purpose there is no hope, where there is no hope, there is no life.

+ If we aren’t choosing Jesus, we are choosing hell.

+ Communion was powerful tonight.

+ We talked through our plans for Easter as a church. This blog will be dedicated to our Easter Service between now and April 12th.

+ Sin begins the moment we take our focus off of Jesus.

+ God created us for so much more, why am I so comfortable settling for so much less?

I hope it never gets old gathering with friends, and strangers in a bar to worship Jesus. Have a great night. Love you guys.

In case you haven’t heard, Nick Shong made the decision to give his life to Jesus this past Wednesday. Around 9 pm, nearly 30 of us circled around a friend’s hot tub as we heard Nick confess his love for Jesus, and watch as he died to himself through baptism. What a night! If you see Nick, give him a big hug and tell him how much you love him. 

This morning’s post will be short, sweet, and to the point, but I think it has the ability to change the course of your hour, your day, your week, maybe even your life. Whatever you are doing right now (besides reading this blog) stop. Turn off the phone, turn down the volume on your ipod, quit multi tasking. I’m not asking you to do this because of what I am typing, but hopefully because of what God will reveal to you in the next couple of minutes. 
My question for you this morning is so simple, yet very difficult to answer honestly. 

Are you truly seeking the heart of God?

Not yesterday, last week, or over the course of this month — I mean right now. At work, driving in your car, wherever it is that you are reading this blog…today, are you truly seeking the heart of God?

If you said yes…

Why did you say that? Is it a feeling? Is it because of something you’ve done today? I’m not trying to talk you out of your answer, in fact I hope that is true. I just want you to think about it. What does a typical Wednesday look like when you are seeking the heart of God?

If you said no…

What is going to change, and when is that going to change? Don’t wait until after your meeting. Come on, we both know that meeting doesn’t have eternal significance. Don’t wait until after lunch, your appointment, or making the next phone call. Take some time to do the things that matter.

At the most basic level of your life, right now, how are you and God doing?