Future of the Pepperdine Bible Lectures
I spoke for the first time at the Pepperdine Bible Lectures in 1986. I’ve been there every single year since then. There is nothing else even close in my travel and speaking experience. Even the year I was in a fog of grief, I accepted Jerry Rushford’s offer to teach in Smothers.
What’s that about? Why have I kept going?
Great lectures and worship experiences 
Seafood
Close friends
Mountains
Insightful classes (where freedom to stretch is offered)
Ocean and seabreeze
Eager learners
Summary: friends, teaching (giving and receiving), and MALIBU
So now I’m gonna follow the most successful lectureship director in the history of the planet. (OK, in the history of the American Restoration Movement.) We all knew someone had to be foolish enough to try to follow Jerry. It might as well be me.
I said “yes” finally for these reasons: what the lectures have meant to me for a quarter of a century, my belief in Pepperdine, my love for my religious heritage, and my confidence in Andy Benton, the school’s president.
So now . . . as the clock ticks toward my official starting date (5/15/12) . . . HELP ME think about the future of the Pepperdine lectureship. If you’ve been, what do you like about it? What do you hope remains the same? What are some ways in which you hope it might evolve as time moves (and as churches and our culture change)?
Shoot me your best suggestions!!
The obvious: MORE ZOE!
I’m sure you’re already thinking about this, but “Bible lectures” doesn’t seem to describe the experience you have alluded to above. Does that fit this time in our culture? That sounds very 1950sish. And much more important, of course, is the program that goes along with the name. Is the goal to have all day lectures and classes and sermons? Really? When you’re in Malibu?
I love the way Jerry Rushford is in touch with churches all over the world and includes speakers and honorees from so many locations. That’s something I hope will continue.
With all the options of speakers, I sometimes wish the less well-known speakers were not in competition with the well-known speakers. If there was one time period – maybe even one hour each day – when everyone was encouraged to pick a small-class, I think that would honor those speakers who’ve come from other countries or small churches in the states. I don’t know if the space issues would work out, but it would be supportive of those who put so much work into their classes but then only have a small number of listeners.
Sara
One more thought: This amazing program, year-after-year, seems like it could just as easily be held in Searcy, Abilene, Henderson, etc. How can the beauty of Malibu and the international flavor of LA be incorporated?
I have enjoyed and been blessed by the lectures’ main speakers unpacking a series of contiguous scriptures over the course if the lectures. However, I wonder if there could be a focus on a topic not usually associated with the passages at hand. (Example: ‘What does Romans 9-12 have to say about bridging the racial divide?’)
I think you did sum it up pretty well. We get back as often as possible. I have admired Pepperdine so much and I am thrilled my oldest granddaughter graduated from there and had such a wonderful education. I love being involved with the Women of Pepperdine and seeing their vision. The campus works and I feel a part of it for a week. I do love to hear all the stories of Christians all over the world and the great things they have done to glorify Christ. You just cannot believe how it charges you up to be the best you can be for Him. The singing always is great with new groups starting up all the time. Still the Hallal singers and Zoe seems like wonderful old friends I look forward to praise the Lord along with them. You will do a great job Mike !
Mike,
I am impressed by the quality of the presentations. You can go to any class (better known speakers and less well known) at any time and take part in an amazing class. The bar is set high and presenters know it. Also, I was struck by the feeling that God is in this place. This covers everything from the beautiful scenery to the men and women of God who are all over the campus during the week. It just feels special, especially during the worship time. I was also encouraged to know that people are going out from there encouraged and equipped to leave there and spread the kingdom of God in dynamic and effective ways. The ripple effect of that week in May is felt all year long, all over the world.
There are a few things that might help it evolve to be ready for the future. I don’t have the specifics on all of these and don’t want to take up all the space here with the specifics I do have but let me toss a few things out there and see what you guys think.
1 – Authenticity. For as large a gathering as this is, maybe this is already being done as well as possible. The best moments in the worship this year were the times when the things that were happening or being said were 100% real, unscripted, and honest. Whether it was the children or some of the personal examples from guys like Graves and Seidman…those were the times when the hair stood up on your arm and there was an energy in the air that you could just about touch. You can’t script authenticity but you can provide opportunity for it. If big needs or prayer requests come up during the lectures, pray for them right then and there. If people are baptized or lives are changed, have a way to get the word out (even if it is just the twitter feed).
2 – Service. With this many Christians in one place there is tremendous potential to do some good. It would be great if there was one session or one/day that was devoted to service. Don’t offer any classes for one block. Instead, offer a list of things that needed to get done where we all could pitch in and work together. People would need to know what the opportunities were, where to meet, etc. This could be anything from packing meals through organizations like Feedingchildreneverywhere.com where the bring the ingredients, form assembly lines and pack food for children in under developed countries. Or maybe there is a local congregation or non-profit that needs man power. The University Church might have a need that could be knocked out in an hour by 100 people. Another possibility, get out the word that this year you are taking up blankets or sheets or towels for a homeless ministry in LA. People could bring them, pile them up on the stage behind where the keynotes speak and let people be amazed by the visual display of just how much good was done. Just something to think about, ask people around Pepperdine and see what might be available to gather that many people around for an hour or two during the week. Lectures tend to focus us inward as we gather information and tools. This would give us some time to focus outward toward others and put our faith into practice during the week. Consider it our tithe of time for others during the week.
3 – Intergenerational connection. Our churches have a growing culture gap in them and it would be great if there was a venue at the PBL where we could intentionally spend time with someone not in our generation. One of the most memorable conversations I had at the lectures this year was a long talk with Leon Sanderson at the Harding evening gathering. I can’t tell you how much it meant to me to talk with him and hear his wisdom. Too often we seek out and hang out with those in our demographic. This might be as simple as having speakers before one of the blocks of free time all mention that during the next break, try to find someone older/younger than yourself and get to know them.
4 – Target young people to attend in a more intentional way. Most Bible Lectures/workshops are aging out. The gray is starting to outnumber the other heads in the room. The older people/ministers are going to come. The younger might not have the funds or support to come. They might not understand just how beneficial these lectures would be to someone their age. We assume they get how amazing the lectures are but if you have never been, how would you know? Sometimes we make assumptions based on our own familiarity and forget that not everyone is as close to the things we care most about as we are. You have to assume there is a large group of people out there who know nothing about the lectures but who would benefit tremendously from being there. How do we get them there? Is there a way to help them (locally even) with their expenses?
Just a few thoughts to bounce. Looking forward to everyone else’s thoughts.
Ok… Hey Mike… First don’t lose what the lectures are. We are culturally diluted in so many ways… Let’s not dilute the essence of the Bible lectures.
Also the great national and international flavor must continue.
The consistent honoring of our heritage is a refreshing experience in the midst of an extremely aggressive climate of change.
One of the things that always irks me is the lack of room for the dissenting voice… Sometimes there are provocative thoughts given but no room given for the other side of the conversation. Open discussion of thought isn’t really that open if there is intentional censorship of those who think differently.
Also there is often much ado and lip service given to the divide between the “black” and “white” church. Well, if there have only been 3 or 4 “black” evening speakers in the past 3 or 4 decades… what does it say in terms of actions? I have often been perplexed by terms such as “urban ministry” and “inner city missions”. Those conversations often make me feel extremely uncomfortable. I believe there needs to be open and honest dialogue. There needs to be the commitment and fortitude necessary to continue the conversation even when the experience becomes hurtful because some may speak from a place of ignorance and pain…
On a more positive… I would LOVE to see the churches, ministries, ideas, etc. within our fellowship that are working be showcased in some way. We here often about the bad it would be excellent to celebrate the good!
Hope that’s not too much.. Blessings and momentum in your new endeavor!
Mike, my wife and I first went to Pepperdine in 87 and 88 and have been there every year since 1994 (I was stationed overseas in between). We took our kids out of school to go with us until they got into high school and couldn’t miss class anymore. It has been one of the highlights of our year and some of the best memories of our family. The encouragement of the worship time and classes as well as the fellowship of so many friends and the beauty of the area all combine to make it the best among churches of Christ. I have had the priviledge to teach one of the small classes on 3 occasions and this has caused me to develop the habit of going to small classes with teachers I don’t necessarily know – they are really done well – and then ordering the CDs of the larger classes and main lectures for me to take home (as well as some smaller classes). Child care for young ones was especially important to us during that time in our life. Opening university facilities (such as the pool) was also important to us. These provided family time in addition to everything else. I have brought 1 to 10 people from our church with me each year from as far away as Alaska and they are always impressed by how affordable it has been kept. Concerts and coffee and pie at night are also traditions I really enjoy. I could keep going, but I know you will do a great job as well!
Mike,
First off, as I think I’ve said before, I think you are a great choice to follow Jerry Rushford and I am sure that the Pepperdine Bible Lectures will continue to be what it has been under your leadership.
So what do I like about it? Pretty much for all the reasons you said. From the Malibu environment to the friends I catch up with and, last but certainly not least, the great worship and teaching…these are the reasons why I first attended the Bible lecture and why I have come back.
What could be different or improved? I don’t really have any clue. But I did notice last year that that it seemed like the majority of people were older than me (I’m 38). That begs a question of how to attract those who are younger. I don’t think that’s an easy question to answer but I think it’s a reminder that what has made the lectures great was first and foremost the fact that the teaching sought to address questions people were asking. If the lectures are to speak to a new generation, they must continue to address the questions that generations is asking. But I think you know that and that is one reason why you’re a good person for this job.
Grace and Peace,
Rex
Preserve the core, innovate around the edges.
Fire bullets, not cannonballs.
Mike,
Pepperdine Lectures is a wonderful inspirational, educational, and spiritual experience. I have attended for about a dozen years but have been to only one other lectureship – Abilene Christian. Therefore, I don’t have much other experience to which to compare it.
I offer the following thoughts.
1. With men and women from across the country (the world?), this would seem like the perfect opportunity to bring to the fore ideas and teachings and “theology” on the hearts and minds of church members everywhere. What is lacking are forums or presentations and discussions on key issues from both or all sides. I realize this has inherent risks, the most significant being that such conversations can divide rather than cause understanding. Nevertheless, I believe we miss the give and take of reasoned, Biblical, and theological argument. If the first church in Acts (15) can deal with a controversial subject, one that relates directly to the gospel message, surely we can talk openly about issues and questions such as the place of women in the church or principles of Biblical interpretation or the nature of Baptism and the Lord’s Supper. Obviously this calls for a great deal of prayer, careful planning, and the selection of appropriate speakers. I believe the end result will be a better informed church and, hopefull, one in which we can begin to understand one another better.
2. We hear from the College teachers, the writers, and the Ministers of lareg and successful congregations. What about the men (and women) from small places who also have keen insight, communication abilities, and ideas which the whole church needs to hear? Is it possible to break out of the “good old boy” network and actively seek and give opportunity to lesser known lights?
3. As one who served a congregation where women had an active and public leadership role, I am always hoping to hear more women speakers – yes, even keynote speakers. I know that is not going to happen anytime soon, but I hope that we can begin to include them in the larger venues.
4. Since I am already a radical, I might as well request that we share the Lord’s Supper at some point. Nothing says oneness like the common covenant meal.
Thank you for listening, and may the Holy Spirit guide and direct your work.
Charlie Robinson
(formerly minister with Columbia Church of Christ, Columbia, MD.)
Mike,
I too think you being asked and accepting is a great idea. I have attended since 1985 except for three years with some family issues that prevented.
I like Malibu beauty and interaction with leading edge culture in CA. Some good and some bad.
I like the variety of speakers, men and women, old and young, national and internatinal.
I like the blend of topics theological and practical.
I like the freedom and flexibility.
I like the singing groups in the evening.
I like pie and coffee in the late evening.
I like interest groups during breakfast and lunch.
I like the ideas mentioned by others, don’t make major changes to something so great, but tinkering to improve is good.
Love,
Larry Wishard
Something, anything, for youth ministries. At best we have one or two youth ministers a year on the lineup, and only a handful in attendance. One year, the only two sessions that focused on ‘the next generation’ were in the same early morning time slot. I’ve been the past 7 years due in large part to my proximity, and it’s a relaxing week away from the office before summer hits that doesn’t count against my vacation days. This isn’t to say that I don’t get a lot out of the sessions already available, but I don’t go with youth ministry in mind. I love the content of the Pepperdine Lectureship for what it is, but it would be nice to be able to allow some great youth ministers that currently fly under the radar be able to have a more active voice in our fellowship (I’ve got plenty of names available upon request). A few years ago we (Southern California youth ministers) were approached about having a more active role in the lectureships that resulted in creating a ‘recruiting’ session for teens that we had to put together ourselves.
I’m not suggesting another NCYM, but there is a lot of headway that could be made in content for youth ministries. I love the idea of inviting all of the adults from our church that attend PBL sitting in one room listening to other youth ministers share their experiences and words of encouragement on day capped off by one of the typically powerful keynote speakers.
I say all of this out of a hope that more youth ministers would come for youth ministry content and stay to be blessed by the wide range of talent the PBL has to offer.
See you in May!
KYAL
Mike,
I know you know I love, love the Pepperdine Lectures, & for all the same reasons you listed in your post. I soak up every minute of it, & am always so bummed when Friday night comes & it’s time to go back home. Those 3 and a half days are circled in red ink on my old-fashioned calendar at my kitchen desk. I feel so fortunate Jimmy & I get to attend every year, & I just think it’s the best venue our fellowship has going. If I had one wish, it would be for everybody in the cofC to be able to attend……
I would love to see the panel discussions fleshed out more. For example, last year, I was at a panel at the hour before breaking for lunch. Things got really interesting when a question about women’s roles in our fellowship came up, with hands going up all over Elkins, & the interaction, electric. Randy Harris was one of the guys on the panel, & he was asked to comment. He pointed a finger, & said, ‘this conversation has gone very badly’, & then the stupid bell rang & we had to dismiss! I was so frustrated! I was dying to hear his thoughts on this issue, as well as others, & I just wanted to stomp my foot at having to quit for lunch. I wanted Randy to say that anyone could leave who wanted to, but he would be happy to stay & expound on his comment…..I couldn’t help but wonder if he was really glad it was time to go eat. :/ I don’t know exactly what to suggest, but just wanted more time, I guess.
And, regarding women’s roles…..I hope you will consider having some of the women class presenters be keynoters. Jimmy & I would love to hear Sara Barton, for one…. And, I know there are others, but she could be the first…..
Never been to the Pepperdine lectures. But, if I had a suggestion, I’d go with actors walking around in character as significant figures from the Restoration movement. I’d love to bump into and chat up Alexander Campbell, Barton Stone or David Lipscomb walking around campus.
If that’s not a good idea I think balloons are a fun touch.
Excited for you and Pepperdine! Congrats. I think you will need to wrestle with the question of how do we engage younger generations (in order to sustain the Bible Lectures for years to come) who think and live postdenominationally at a unashamedly Restoration-centered event?
As has been said, I too appreciate the geographical diversity of the Bible Lectures. Niches exist for almost every segment. When I was ministering in West Virginia, I would go to Pepperdine and see like-minded people from my region. It was in Malibu of all places where I was able to develop and deepen relationships with people who shared in my unique ministry challenges and opportunities. That’s such an amazing and unique aspect of the Bible Lectures.
The other side of the coin is that the rise of the Pepperdine Bible Lectures is in direct contrast to the decline of West Coast Churches of Christ. There are all kinds of reasons for this of course. Perhaps the biggest factor was the fact that many California churches were actually transplanted Oklahoma churches. They never made the leap of contextualization. A couple churches here still seem to thrive with that model, but most are dying. Others have painfully or unsuccessfully tried to make the leap to becoming a California church. Good things are happening in some churches, but there are many sad stories. Some great people are here out West trying to make a difference, but the obstacles are huge.
Mike makes the great comment that Pepperdine allowed a freedom of thought & experience that blessed so many people. It’s almost as if the Bible Lectures have been a think-tank, an experimentation lab where we could see new things. I’m not sure, though, how much this has directly helped West Coast churches up to this point.
But what if the Bible Lectures took it up a notch? The West Coast needs more than good worship and entertaining speakers. In truth, all Churches of Christ need more than that. If Baby Boomers don’t figure that out soon, they’ll be fewer and fewer young people in churches everywhere.
I’m personally optimistic about the future, but the time for deconstructing our heritage is over. We have to think and act strategically. In this regard, California provides the fertile breeding grounds for “experimental” work. Many of us here in California have moved way beyond the battles of the 80s and 90s. We need leaders who partner more broadly with folks outside our own “denominational walls” to construct something that will last more than another generation or two. So why not bring in a major speaker or two each year from outside our flock? Not just to tickle our fancy but to help us see God’s unveiling future and to inspire us to work toward it. The West Coast needs it. And I’m guessing that all our churches ultimately need it.
Good luck & God bless.
I’ve never been, but I listen to podcasts and watch videos from every year.
I think I wish for Pepperdine what I wish for the larger church: unity, not uniformity. I’d love to see the Restoration Movement look to its sibling churches – c of C, ICC and even DoC – and learn from each other. And use that knowledge and that humility to approach others outside the siblinghood.
I’d like to see all churches working for the inbreaking of the Kingdom of God into the Kingdom of man — not merely slapping a veneer of theocracy on any political party and calling it good enough.
Of course, I love to hear the voices of my sisters. But also of those of my brothers who’ve heard the pain of their sisters in Christ and *care* that this is wrong. That having half-members in the body of Christ hobbles the whole Kingdom of God. Yes, some places are aware of this. But not all.
I want to see reconciliation: racial, gender, socioeconomic, cultural and theological.
I want to see (and to be) humble seekers of the Lord speaking honestly and frankly and without fear about the realities of being a displaced church in a world that is not our home, of being Christians in exile and even agnostics in the pew — or pulpit.
I think, though, that I want too much.
We need more female voices, and particularly in the keynote speaker positions.
I’m so glad you’ll be leading us forward for the next three decades (that is the contract commitment, right?).
I remember having grandparents keep me in San Diego while mom and dad went to the Pepperdine Lectures 20 years ago. Now I know why they went every year. It’s a blessing in so many ways to ministers and wives.
What do I hope to see in the future?
-Be a thought shaper for the future of our movement. Don’t play it safe. Encourage the speakers to set the tone for a hopeful future.
-Promote Pepperdine to younger lay leaders in Churches of Christ. I’ve got many older members who attend faithfully, but I find it difficult to get my younger leaders to attend. No specific suggestions, but gear it for a new generation.
-More Diversity in Keynote Speakers. ACU has given a greater platform to African American leaders than Pepperdine. Los Angeles is too fruitful an area to leave untapped. I’d love to see women given a voice as well in the keynote sessions.
-Specific classes engaging elders in issues relevant to them. I have elders who attend Pepperdine who don’t get to attend an ElderLink. I’d love to attend a class with them on shepherding.
-BST & ZOE
-Lead us in the same pastoral, prophetic ways you have for so many years, Mike!
I like Wade’s Godin/pirate esque comment. I would add that the “lectures” should be idea driven in the same way that Catalyst is driven by the idea of leadership, the same way that the D6 conference is driven by the idea of family discipleship. The Bible can be your resource, but it isn’t a compelling idea. Also, the idea should be compelling regardless of denomination.
Wow. What amazing insights. PLEASE keep them coming.
Know that I—and several others!—will be reading through these suggestions very carefully.
Already, some of the formidable challenges are clear:
1) How do we emphasize more classes, while realizing that people tend to gravitate to a few large ones (being blessed by those but missing out on some of the best material)?
2) How do we connect with younger ministers (youth, campus, preaching, etc.) and younger lay leaders? (I think of it this way: what would make my older son, a 29 year old physician, want to arrange his schedule to come to Malibu for the Bible Lectures?)
3) How do we have more conversations among those who may not agree?
4) How do we incorporate more women into key teaching positions? (My views on this are pretty well known, but I also recognize that mine are not the only views that matter!)
So keep these thoughts coming. Very, very helpful. I treasure them.
Mike, how about some timely presentations on Women in the Church, ministries, out of the box roles, panel of women in unusual effective ministries, a vision of the future for the Church of Christ, hope for the young women called to ministry so that won’t have to leave and follow their calling somewhere else. Been waiting all of my life for this, God has graciously allowed me to express my calling in unusual locations and circumstances, but I long for freedom for my grandaughter and those who follow.
Hey Mike. I’ve never been to Pepperdine Lectures, but judging from ACU’s Summit demographic make-up, I assume the West Coast attendees are also an aging lot. I agree with some of the above comments about “lectures” not really being the type of event that will draw younger generations. But maybe that’s OK for right now.
Depending on the poll you read, only 4% of the 18-25 year old generation are traditional-church goers. And their children will no doubt be even less committed to the model we grew up in. Do you realize what that will mean to church as we know it in 15-20 years? There won’t be a church as we know it. Seems now is the right time for church leaders to prepare for this major shift in Christendom…and yet I don’t see many preparing. Perhaps classes and lectures aimed at this problem will be the last opportunity we get to help elders and preachers “release” the rising generations to develop an outlet for their faith, to probe new venues for “worship” (service) and consider new models for faith communities. I’ve really been impressed with what I experience in this regard at Summit. There are few people more qualified to speak to the subject than Dr. Kent Smith. He is in touch with trends and templates around the world of vibrant faith communities that are satifying the diverse thirsts of these younger generations while remaining true to the spirit of NT Christianity.
God is at work in wild and crazy ways to perpetuate his Kingdom. (Frankly, I’m very encouraged about what happens next.) I hope my church heritage will join Him before it’s too late. Pepperdine can (and does in many ways now) play a major role in helping us weather (and contribute in healthy ways to) these changes.
God bless you in your new role. Would love to have lunch with you soon.
Mike, We will be in MaLibU. Pepperdine is among some of God’s most glorious creation. We could have worship stations set up outside to observe in and around some of the lectures, at our own pace. Worship stations make personal time with God happen. I have a list of ideas from some I have recently experienced, including scriptures and meditating thoughts. If you are interested further I will send more info.
Gena
Friend,
I have been enthused over Jerry’s ability to bring us in from all over the world. I assume you will do the same while letting the imagination God embedded within you to further develop the Pepperdine tradition…a good and productive tradition.
The only complaint I have heard was from Walling and Atchley for speaking at the same time they did. They don’t like to go opposite me as I draw away from their crowds. I think I pulled away 9 (maybe 12) from their classes. But…I had to be opposite somebody!
Blessings as you are ideally the man for the job!
CMU is in the middle of doing Campus Ministry research. What we are finding is shocking. We are down to less than 130 church of Christ campus Ministries in the US. That is disturbing considering the fact that the 18-25 year old range is where young people are making their decision what faith they will follow and we are not amoung their choices in over 4,000 college campuses. We at Campus Ministry United are trying to change that. We are training and planting new evangelistic focused campus ministers. Some of our ministries are baptizing 50+ per year.
So my suggestion is to bring in some Campus Ministers that are focused on viewing the university campus as a mission field and find out what they are doing and how.
Mike – I have loved teaching a children’s ministry class at Pepperdine Lectures and have always had a very good response to the class. What I would LOVE to see, and better yet, would love to help organize if needed, is a larger community of children’s ministry resources and opportunities at the Lectures. We’ve often left Malibu “wanting more” of this important aspect of ministry. Offering quality classes, lectures, and other resource opportunities as well as really advertising it to our community of CoC’ers would be key.
I would be so happy to discuss this further! Email me for some ideas that I’ve been brewing for several years now. I think this could really be a great addition to these great Lectures. It could also draw a completely new crowd to them! I think it’s well worth a shot! The little ones that you work with on Wed. nights would be so proud!!
Lila Earwood
Montgomery Church of Christ, ABQ, NM
As a student, I loved the lectures and the opportunity to see so many of the Lord’s saints gathered together in worship. There is just something about “It is Well With My Soul” when it is sung by 2,000 voices – who mean it.
Blessed be the tie that binds us!
As an attender, and a presenter, I still feel like one of the “kids” on campus and I’m 38. While last year, many of the sessions covered the missing 20s and 30s generation in our churches, it was clear that they are missing from PBL as well.
There are West Coast churches who are successfully reaching this generation and building ministries – like Campbell, for one. Bring in those who have successes and let them share them – it seemed like last year the focus was more on the problem than on those who are successfully solving it.
Invite the younger generation to present – there are so many lay ministers, men and women, who are qualified speakers who could present – and bring their friends. Leaders from cell groups like Mens’ Fraternity and MOPS…
And keep up with the great, cost-effective childcare and offering young families the use of the campus pool and other facilities…definitely a must!
Looking forward to the next season for PBL…
Youth Ministry!
There is a great variety of topics presented at PBL, but youth ministry seems to be an afterthought. It gets only three (3!) lectures all week, and all of those start at 8am (have you ever met a youth minister…?).
There is SO much potential for involving talented youth ministers from across the country, yet it is untapped.
Some suggestions:
-Roundtable: Pull Walling out and put him up there. Where has youth ministry been? Put Surdacki up there. Where is it right now? Throw some current youth ministers up there. Where is YM going?
-Research: there is some incredibly valuable research coming back from places like the Fuller Youth Institute. What are they saying about the teens of the church (and as a result, what are they saying about the adults of the church)?
-Collaboration: What are churches doing that is working? What is struggling? How can we sharpen one another?
-Outreach: What is speaking to teens in today’s culture? What does this mean our outreach to adults will look like in 10-20 years?
-Shared stories: Bring up groups that are working together to share their stories. I’m working on a camp team in the SF Bay Area that is collaborating to do some pretty amazing things. I’m sure this is the case across the country/world.
-Developing leaders. How are different churches developing leaders int heir youth groups? How are mentoring programs going? How strictly do you hold leadership teens to righteous living policies (and what do those policies look like)? Etc.
-Ecumenical leadership. Teens are leading the way in uniting the body of Christ across denominational boundaries. Hear inspiring stories of teens honoring Jesus’ prayer in John 17, and how God is being glorified through this.
Similarly, how the Church of Christ name is being redeemed in ecumenical circles. It seems the experience many other church leaders have had with Church-of-Christers is that we are ready to judge/baptize first and ask questions second. This is a powerful ministry as well.
-…and lots more. This is all off-the-cuff.
If people are concerned about the graying of the flock, let’s not only invite younger ministers to attend, but incorporate them into the process and integrate them into the lectures!
If we look to Europe we can get a glimpse of where we will be in a generation or so. It is a bleak prospect.
However, there are some amazing things being done through a revival in Sheffield, England. We would all be edified from looking at examples of what is happening there and seeing how we can grow from that.
If interested, I have a TERRIFIC resource that could probably influence us if we pursued that.
I’ve never been. Without meaning to offend, the “Pepperdine Bible Lectures” appear exclusive, rather than inclusive. What’s the average motel room rate out there? Do they offer some form of affordable accomodations, or am I naive for even asking? How far does the average attendee travel to get there? Is it mostly ministers being sent by their congregants? What’s the ethnic make-up of attendees – not speakers but attendees? Is it for card-carrying church of Christers, or open to other Christians? Just curious.
These are all great suggestions mentioned, but in my mind, the single biggest challenge to the future of the PBL (how ’bout that for rebranding?) is that the younger generations are absent. I am in my late 30′s and feel like I’m one of the youngest attendees each year. There are a few families with children present every year, but most are ministers’ or missionaries’ families (i.e. families of presenters on the program). I meet very few families that are not presenters and have taken off work and school to attend.
Here are few ideas that may help reverse this trend:
Expand the Children’s Ministry offerings. Make this the “can’t miss” event of the year for families of young kids, who may not worry as much about their kids taking 3 days off school. Especially if it was to attend a spiritually uplifting event where the whole family was encouraged. Make the event more family and kid-friendly in every way to ensure this goal is met.
Expand the Youth Ministry offerings like others above have mentioned. Make this the “can’t miss” YM conference of the year, where youth ministers come together to share ideas and be encouraged, challenged and uplifted.
I love the inter-generational aspect of the PBL. Let’s bolster that by increasing the participation and offerings for younger attendees.
Congratulations again, Mike. You are the right person to help lead PBL into the future!
As a long time attender of the lectures I am excited that you will be directing the lectures and know it will continue to be the highlight of my year. I have two main suggestions and I think like all the others it says more about me than maybe the benefit of all. I would love to see the Lectures invite a major player to speak as a keynote… by major player I mean (N.T. Wright, Walter Brueggemman, Eugene Peterson, William Willimon, etc.). I also think it would be valuable to invite as speakers/teachers or maybe a panel those who have been a part of our fellowship and even specifically the Lectures but have left in other spiritual directions (e.g. Randy Mayeux, Oliver Howard, etc.). I also hope some things will continue such as honoring Christian Service awards and showcasing new talent/spiritual leadership that is on the horizon. May God bless you in your ministry and life as you continue to pioneer for the kingdom of God.
I would echo the comment and you have already mentioned it yourself, but need to target a generation of ministers that are choosing to go to other venues.
Here’s my two cents.
Jerry’s genius is this. The lectureships flowed out of who he is: a love for scripture, Churches of Christ, speakers from small churches, big churches, etc. I never got the feeling that Jerry felt like he was working so much as he got to do what he loved (connecting people, advocating Pepperdine, etc).
Figure out (not that you haven’t done so already) what makes you really excited, passionate, and engaged and chart a moderate progression from where things are to where things could be.
I like Wade’s wisdom on this.
You’ve been one of the great gifts to Churches of Christ the last 20 years, keep being who you are (don’t worry about who you aren’t) and we’ll all be blessed.
And, for a practical suggestion, if you could get the Edge to come down out of the mountain, I personally promise that more young adults will show up.
Other than time with my family during holidays or vacations, the first week of May has been my favorite time of the year for more than 10 years now. Jerry has been and will continue to be amazing. Why? Because he has allowed God to do amazing things thru him! I know God will do the same thru you, Mike. He already has for many years, hasn’t He? I have always thought of that week as a little peek into Heaven each year. Everybody is so loving and caring…….and we spend a LOT of our time praising God!! It is always a Hebrews 10:24 time for me.
You might kill two birds (attracting a younger crowd and having someone from outside our fellowship to speak) with one stone by asking a Shane Claiborne, Donald Miller, Francis Chan, or Erwin McManus to come and give a key-note.
May God and His Spirit give you wisdom! DU
I think we need more Christian Church folks there. Being a Christian Church guy serving in a Church of Christ Church, I see the lectureship as an important unity piece. I went a few years back, and would love to present someday like a few of my former professors from Lincoln Christian University did. I know that they were enriched and accepted well by those in attendence.
My PhD research is in ecology and theology….an area that the church must focus on more clearly than it regularly does…so topics like that (i.e. doctrine of creation in a post-eco world, for example) would be very welcome, i think.
Adelle,
Just a plug for the second session I did with Eric Brown this year at Pepperdine. We did cover things we have done that work with the 20s & 30s. It was very practical
I am glad to see some young guys get some big opportunities. Many of the keynotes have been capable guys in their 20s & 30s. That is really great. When you tell a young person that you trust them and are willing to release the apron strings and give responsibility it sparks something in them that is wonderful. Too many of our churches aren’t willing to give our young people a voice, influence, or ability to take on responsibility other than leading a prayer or passing communion. That has to change. It is modeled well at Pepperdine by giving young people freedom and permission to present their thoughts. I appreciate Jerry’s influence and vision in that area.
Again – Still soaking all this up. Thanks so much. It’s a challenge to follow Jerry—I’m thankful to be working alongside Rick Gibson, Joella Michael, and Tami Williamson!
Mike,
After reading Darin Campbell’s comment, it made me think of one more thing. The date of the lectures is still at the tail end of most school years. I know that PBL already has some programing for children but I don’t want to pull my children out of school for nearly a week, especially at the tail end of the school year (I’m assuming most parents feel pretty much the same as I). I don’t know if a date change would be wise or not. But I know if families are attending together, that can never be a bad thing either.
Any ways, you’ve got your work cut out for you but I’m sure it will all be good. Thanks!
Grace and Peace,
Rex
You know I LOVE the Pepperdine lectures. SO many things done so well that I can’t list them all–and you did a pretty thorough job anyway.
One improvement that happened last year: they extended the ages allowed in the kids’ program during the day. This allowed our daughter (8) to stay with the kids and was a big factor in our decision to attend.
There is only one improvement that would make the lectures perfect for me. It seems as if every year, the miking of the praise team in the general assembly gets louder and louder. It’s so extreme now that I can no longer hear the assembly singing–only the praise team and the people immediately adjacent to me. This is a big loss. The joy of community singing is in being able to hear *everybody*. Otherwise it’s just like singing along to a recording. I would also like to see a greater variety of praise teams leading the singing in the general assembly. I’d love to see a different person or team lead every time. Hallal is great, but variety is the spice of life, and I found the sameness in style and musical selection became a little monotonous last year.
Have simple speakers with simple stories—I vote Steve Ridgell to speak so that I can go!
Seriously, Steve speaks from his heart and has a special class on how simple it is to communicate with people to motivate Christians to share the good news of Jesus by telling stories–stories from Scripture and stories from their lives and the lives of believers today.
Pepperdine has 3 things no other lecture program really has:
-It’s residential–people live together on campus for the most part. Obviously, it’s Malibu too. This residential part can be leveraged more effectively.
-Pepperdine is more praise focused. There’s more music groups present and more singing. It’s the only program where I feel as though this is a genuine strength.
-It’s thought-provoking while remaining encouraging. I would encourage Pepperdine to stay away from culturally controversial subjects, and focus on defibrillating a tired and declining fellowship.
As Wade said earlier…keep the essence, work on the edges. The edges have come to form the essence of the other lecture programs. Keep Pepperdine encouraging and thought-provoking but not sectarian. Jerry has done a great job of this over the years.
-Continue working closely with the West Coast to come. It’s our trip to Mecca every year…and the region can get pretty discouraged.
-As Fate said earlier, we need to give more emphasis to the practice of ministry–not just theology or preaching.
There’s my first two cents from a pocketful of change
Mike,
I am a little late on responding…..two suggestions to build on this wonderful event and resource. …and this is coming from someone who has never gone to Malibu !! I have always taken it in via tapes- CDs- mp3s – etc. As a teen- college student they were the first Bible lectures I ever heard…( Think I still have some old Oliver Howard tapes somewhere !) I am in my 40s now.
1) I would suggest recording the entire event and putting on ITUNES University like the ACU Summitt does every year. This allows you to truly share this event with the world and not just the people who can make it to Cali. So love doing this with the ACU event !
2) I would also suggest tapping into some “new voices”. The ACU and Pepperdine events have been getting so much better at this – but I think it is good to continue to broaden the pool. We have so many wonderful voices doing some creative , theologically driven and spiritually formative things that were cradled in the Stone-Campbell movement but are seeking to appropriate that in a post-Christendom context.
Figured I could get away with suggesting it since I am not a “speaker”- ha !!
So glad you are picking up the baton – so appreciate what Jerry R has done.
Come hang with us in Bham next time you are in the area…
Ken Haynes
Thanks Mike for being open on this. I think that we have always enjoyed the connections with other people and visiting. The campus is beautiful as well as the singing.
As a minister I honestly felt that the messages were far removed from the kind of ministry we do and need to have done for the future of the churches. While I appreciate many of our professors’ and ministers’ at large churches thoughts on what is happening in our world, it seems somewhat distant from the real needs facing urban ministry and the skills church leaders need to navigate us through a changing and diverse culture. I found myself choosing not to go over the last few years because it seemed like we could spend the money at other conferences to be better strengthened. I have attended Exponential and other gatherings and found that they offer much more for ministers and members wanting to engage our culture.
I think that the Pepperdine Lectures does help others and is well supported by many and will continue to do great things for the kingdom.
Dear Mike,
I have loved the comments. It has been better than reading the paper this morning! First, how do you comment on the work of Jerry Rushford—the man has created a gathering that gives life, challenges a fellowship and allows for conversation among God-fearing leaders. Thank you, Jerry. Your reward on earth is to enjoy the fruit of your long work. And God has a Restoration Movement section in heaven that He needs help organizing!
Second, you are being called to this moment, Mike. Thank you for taking the challenge.
One of the joys of being away from my computer the last few days has been I have read all 47 comments to date. My favorite so far: Alexander Campbell in costume all week long!
My work in helping the churches of Christ plant new churches again has been very insightful. It feels like our fellowship has almost overcome our most recent past identity and is ready for a new one. I sum up the recent past by saying “We are more ‘right’ than everyone else and surely people will come!” Most of our churches are past those days but are unsure of whether to say it out loud or how to proceed. The PBL has been key to helping ease us out of that mindset and into the future. Yet, the churches of Christ don’t know what that future is yet. We seem ready to have an identity to carry us to the future. Pepperdine has helped. Pepperdine Lectures could really call us to a new identity.
Our new churches are out on the front lines of culture, establishing beachheads in tough places, forcing a new identity for them and potentially for our churches. Jerrry has been our biggest advocate as we have had many, many church planters on the program. One of my suggestions (albeit a little self-serving) is to now bring those 21st century pioneers and their voices (and tatoos) to the big stage. They will be encouraging to an entire fellowship. They are starting the next generation of churches that will bring a 21st century harvest. And can enhance the conversation about our next identity as a movement.
Could I be Barton W. Stone for the week?
Wouldn’t it be great if our only concern was to lead others closer to God by listening to his Spirit and allowing Him to guide us. Wouldn’t it be great if our only concern was His Kingdom and not ours our are churhes or are fellowship. Maybe the Stone-Cambell movement is in decline for a reason…..
I have never – ever – responded to a blog before, but it is time. I love and admire Jerry Rushford and the Pepperdine Bible Lectures (PBL!). In selecting Mike Cope for the next chapter of PBL, we have chosen a bright and a vibrant future for Pepperdine’s relationship with Churches of Christ, and all those who desperately want to follow Christ. Following this blog is simply inspirational for me. I am now one of the “seniors” present each evening during PBL, and proudly so. With Mike’s leadership, I hope to be part of those who invite the next generation to walk with us and to own the future of the Restoration Movement.