Akureyri [ˈaːkʰʏrˌeiːrɪ] ( listen) is a town in northern Iceland. It is Iceland's second largest urban area (after the Greater Reykjavík area) and fourth largest municipality (after Reykjavík, Hafnarfjörður, and Kópavogur).


Nicknamed the Capital of North Iceland, Akureyri is an important port and fishing centre, with a population of 17,754. The area where Akureyri is located was settled in the 9th century but did not receive a municipal charter until 1786.[3] The town was the site of Allied units during World War II. Further growth occurred after the war as the Icelandic population increasingly moved to urban areas.

The area has a relatively warm climate due to geographical factors, and the town's ice-free harbor has played a significant role in its history.

I had a chance to visit Akureyri 2009. While I was there I prayer walked asking God to place a burden on the heart of a church for this city. Our prayer is that the gospel will abound to those who live here. Is it possible that God is calling you to come and join this work

Two themes from 2 Corinthians 4:1-12 have greatly impacted my life over the past six months. As Paul talks about his ministry, the “therefore” in 4:1 connects back to chapter 3. In fact, in many ways 4:1-6 reemphasizes chapter 3.
3:7-9 = 4:1 “having this ministry”

3:12 = 4:1 “not losing heart”

3:14-16 = 4:3 “veiling gospel” 

3:14 = 4:4 “hardened minds”

3:7-18 = 4:4, 6 - The theme of glory
The first theme from Paul is this: “The surpassing greatness of our salvation in the new covenant in comparison to the old covenant.” Paul makes three assertions:
Because the message is so great I did not need to trick anyone with my words. I was faithful to proclaim this gospel. “Therefore I have the right to be heard by you.”

1. The reality of those who reject the good news is that “they walk in blindness.”
2. The message of the gospel is Jesus Christ. The Lord Jesus breaks through all of life’s boastings or barriers:
1. To those who boast they are Jews (we have heritage rights) - He is the Light
2. To those who boast they are Greeks (we are educated) - He is the Knowledge
3. To those who boast they are Romans (we are in control) - he is the Glory

In Galatians 3:28, Paul draws a contrast with people and proclaims there are no barriers that prevent the gospel message from transforming a person. The second theme is found in verses 7-12, “through suffering Paul understands that the gospel will be proclaimed.” In verse 7 Paul states that we house this treasure -- the gospel -- in jars of clay. Now there were much more valuable vessels. Vessels made of gold and silver were attainable. Why clay? Clay pots were simply discarded after they became cracked or broken. They were never recycled. Clay was common; anyone could get it. Here in lies a life changing principle. God takes what is most glorious (the gospel) and houses it in what is common (born again believers), so that the surpassing greatness of God will be made known.
Although we may not suffer like Paul or the early church, may we see every circumstance or situation as an opportunity to share:
The Power of the Gospel
The Hope in the Gospel
Life Transformation by the Gospel
Praying for the gospel to transform the northernmost capital of the world to impact all of the world.

Here is a video link that was made in the summer. It provides some background to the work in Iceland.http://vimeo.com/28731645

We just wanted to update everyone that we are still waiting for the background check from the FBI. Please pray that this would come quickly. We have some sparkling apple cider that we will open once it comes in. 

On the first of January I had the privilege of preaching at one of the greatest churches in the world, Lucerne Baptist. I shared these thoughts and thought they might be an encouragement to you. From Matthew 26:1-29. In this passage there are four scenes that Matthew pens to reinforce Matthew 23-25. If you took Matthew 23-25 and summarized it you would have two major thoughts:
1. Salvation is a gift of God's grace, not of any works, and our works boast of God's grace.
2. The sternness of the chapters should keep Christian disciples sober in this world, longing for the world to come!
Now Matthew takes an brings several historical events to drive home the Lord Jesus' teachings.
vss.1-5 We have the intentional plans of the religious to kill the Lord Jesus
vss. 6-13 - The anointing of the Lord Jesus, reckless abandonment
vss. 14-16 - An act of betrayal
vss. 15-35 - A last meal together
Here are some applications from these scenes.
1. Religious people who embrace triton over truth will attempt to kill that which really reflects Lord Jesus.
2. Selfless abandonment to the Lord Jesus requires relinquishing what I hold most precious to my Lord.
3.Unless by God's grace I to would be a Judas. Question "Would you let the Lord Jesus wash your feet knowing you were about to betray Him?
4. The intimacy of a supper provides us a model for our church gatherings. Intimacy, devotion and strength.
Intimacy - We need one another; Kingdom living is lived among one another.
Devotion - Remembering Jesus is to proclaim his Life, Death, Resurrection, Ascension and Return.
Strength - We must press on faithfully. Remember our Lord will eat again at the Great Wedding Banquet.

Believing God for a work of His grace in the Northern Most Capital of the World!!
By His grace and For His glory.