God Bless and be encouraged!

"The Path Principle"   Bryan Hudson, DMin

I want to talk to you briefly about gun violence and something called "The Path Principle." 

This morning on May 20, I received an email from Anthony Beverly who is the founder and director of Stop the Violence Indianapolis. In this message, he communicated the tragic story of a 17 year old young man who died of gun violence at 29th and Dearborn here in my city of Indianapolis. First of all, I grew up six blocks from 29th in Dearborn. I'm in this neighborhood almost every day as my 88-year-old father lives in the vicinity of 34th and Dearborn. 

The tragedy of the young man who died of gun violence is a story that we've heard before, but it's very important that we do not become desensitized to hearing the stories. Because each young person who dies of gun violence is a person who will not get to fulfill his or her purpose in life. 

As someone who with my wife raised four children, including two sons, have worked with youth over the course of 46 years of ministry, including running a Media Camp each summer for 20 years, these stories of tragedy always strike me as being close to home. While gun violence has not touched my family directly, like you, I know someone who has been touched by it.

The first thing I want to say is do not make the mistake of painting all young people, particularly young, black men, with the same broad brush. The vast majority of young people want to do the right thing, and are doing right things. I don't think of young people as being “at risk,” I think of young people as being “at promise.” This was the case with the young man whom Anthony Beverly highlighted in his communication. May and June should be a season of commencement, not a season of tragic conclusions and death.

I don't know all the circumstances surrounding the death of a young man, but we do know he was attending a party. 

Let me talk about "The Path Principle.”

There is a story in Proverbs 7:7-15 that you can read later. It starts this way, and I will paraphrase it:

“At the window of my house I looked out through the lattice. I saw among the simple, I noticed among the young men, a youth who lacked judgment He was going down the street near a corner, walking along in the direction of a house at twilight, as the day was fading, as the dark of night set in. Then out came a person to meet him, and took hold of the youth and said, So I came out to meet you; I looked for you and have found you!’

Trouble is literally looking for all of us, but especially young people because their whole life is ahead of them.

Here is the Path Principle:

Anthony Beverly and Stop the Violence Indianapolis has many programs to empower young people. I know many others who have programs and opportunities for young people. Many churches, including our church, New Covenant has done a lot of work to empower young people. I have supported organizations like Children's Policy and Law Initiative, Evolve with Pastor Denell Howard. Three of my children are alumni of The Center for Leadership Development, which was led in the beginning by the late Henry Bundles, Jr. and currently by Dennis E. Bland, esq.. 

All these are not simply programs. These are paths.

Let me say this, a party is also a path. Simply “hanging out” is a path. Too many young people have lost their lives while attending a party or hanging around. No one intended to go to a party and get shot or die from gun violence. Not all parties end in violence, but youth need to consider their path. 

This problem of gun violence is persistent and there's not one solution. But let me offer this one insight to parents, youth, and anyone listening: 

It is always your direction that ultimately determines your destination.—it is not your intentions, not your hopes, not your dreams, not your prayers, not your beliefs.

Every path leads somewhere. Your path determines your destination.

Proverbs 4:26 Ponder the path of your feet, And let all your ways be established. 

Summary of Message:

“God’s People in the City” by Pastor Bryan Hudson, D.Min.

This message focuses on God's call for His people to commit to long-term ministry and outreach, especially in the urban context, under the theme “Each One, Reach One.” Drawing from Acts 18, Pastor Hudson reflects on Paul’s ministry in Corinth, emphasizing that God told Paul in a vision, “Do not be afraid... for I have many people in this city.” This refers not only to current believers but to those who would be saved.

Key scripture Text:

Acts18:9, Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, “Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent; 10 for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city.” 11 And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them. 

God Knows Who Will Be Saved—We Don't

God, in His foreknowledge, knows those who will respond to the gospel.

Our responsibility is to share the message with everyone—we are not told who will or won’t respond.

Romans 8:29–30 outlines the process: foreknown, predestined, called, justified, glorified.

The Power and Necessity of the Gospel

Romans 1:16: “The gospel is the power of God to salvation.”

Programs and outreach are good, but they must be vehicles for presenting the gospel.

The Concept of “Locus” as Ministry Focus

"Locus" means the central area of activity.

Paul’s “locus” was preaching and teaching where God sent him, even staying for long periods to build impact.

We each must identify our personal ministry locus and stay committed.

Faithful Commitment Bears Fruit

Ministry impact takes time, consistency, and sometimes suffering.

Like Paul, we may face opposition, but God can shift us to nearby, fruitful places (e.g., Paul moved next door when rejected at the synagogue).

Being planted and focused leads to long-term results.

Salvation Process is God’s Work—but Requires Our Obedience

God does the calling, justifying, and glorifying.

Our job is to preach, share, and position ourselves so others can hear and respond.

Don’t Be Distracted or Discouraged

Ministry requires resilience. Not everyone will receive the message.

Even if we don’t see results, we may be sowing seeds others will water.

Christ Is Our Everything

1 Corinthians 1:30 says Christ becomes our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption.

No one can boast—salvation is fully God’s work.

Recognize that God has people in your city who haven’t heard yet.

Be intentional about your focus and committed to your calling.

Share the gospel faithfully—through outreach, in relationships, and wherever God places you.

Conclusion:

Summary of Message: “God’s People in the City” by Pastor Bryan Hudson, D.Min.

This message focuses on God's call for His people to commit to long-term ministry and outreach, especially in the urban context, under the theme “Each One, Reach One.” Drawing from Acts 18, Pastor Hudson reflects on Paul’s ministry in Corinth, emphasizing that God told Paul in a vision, “Do not be afraid... for I have many people in this city.” This refers not only to current believers but to those who would be saved.

Key Scripture Text: Acts18:9, Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, “Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent; 10 for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city.” 11 And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them. 

God Knows Who Will Be Saved—We Don't

God, in His foreknowledge, knows those who will respond to the gospel.

Our responsibility is to share the message with everyone—we are not told who will or won’t respond.

Romans 8:29–30 outlines the process: foreknown, predestined, called, justified, glorified.

The Power and Necessity of the Gospel

Romans 1:16: “The gospel is the power of God to salvation.”

Programs and outreach are good, but they must be vehicles for presenting the gospel.

The Concept of “Locus” as Ministry Focus

"Locus" means the central area of activity.

Paul’s “locus” was preaching and teaching where God sent him, even staying for long periods to build impact.

We each must identify our personal ministry locus and stay committed.

Faithful Commitment Bears Fruit

Ministry impact takes time, consistency, and sometimes suffering.

Like Paul, we may face opposition, but God can shift us to nearby, fruitful places (e.g., Paul moved next door when rejected at the synagogue).

Being planted and focused leads to long-term results.

Salvation Process is God’s Work—but Requires Our Obedience

God does the calling, justifying, and glorifying.

Our job is to preach, share, and position ourselves so others can hear and respond.

Don’t Be Distracted or Discouraged

Ministry requires resilience. Not everyone will receive the message.

Even if we don’t see results, we may be sowing seeds others will water.

Christ Is Our Everything

1 Corinthians 1:30 says Christ becomes our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption.

No one can boast—salvation is fully God’s work.

Recognize that God has people in your city who haven’t heard yet.

Be intentional about your focus and committed to your calling.

Share the gospel faithfully—through outreach, in relationships, and wherever God places you.

Conclusion:

Summary of the Message: “The Song of Mary: What is Your Song?”

Download Worksheet: “Developing Your Song”

It is a testimonial, a joyful and faith-filled declaration of God’s mercy, faithfulness and power in fulfilling His purpose through chosen vessels. 

Luke 1:46, And Mary said:“My soul magnifies the Lord, 47 And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.   48 For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed.  49 For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name.   50 And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation.  He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.   52 He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly.   53 He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty.  54 He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy,  55 As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.”

Pastor Bryan Hudson explores Mary’s Song, also known as The Magnificat (Luke 1:46–55), as both a biblical testimony and a model for personal reflection. Mary’s declaration of praise to God was not merely a song in the musical sense but a profound testimony of God's mercy, power, and covenant faithfulness.

Key Themes of the Message:

Your Song is Your Testimony:

Five Elements of Mary’s Song:

Rejoicing – Worship and joy in God (v. 46-47)

Regarding – Humility in recognizing God’s favor (v. 48)

Reflecting – Acknowledging God’s legacy and mercy through generations (v. 49-50)

Revealing – Understanding divine purpose and justice (v. 51-53)

Recognition – Remembering God’s covenant and faithfulness (v. 54-55)

Application to Our Lives:

Believers are encouraged to reflect on their own song using these five elements.

Worship is more than singing; it is how we live and respond to God.

Testimonies should include humility, legacy, purpose, and an awareness of covenant relationship with God.

Mary's experience is uniquely maternal, highlighting the vital role of mothers in God’s redemptive plan.

Broader Biblical Context:

Call to Honor Mothers and Recognize Their Role:

The message honors the spiritual and physical significance of mothers, encouraging all to show gratitude while mothers are still present.

Birth, both physical and spiritual, is tied to God's greater plan and purpose.

Final Charge:

Proverbs 3:5-10 “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.

The 3Ds of Leadership & Indispensable Ministry Values

Instructor: Dr. Jerry M. Williams

I. Opening Remarks

II. Reflection: Four Lessons in Power and Purpose (Shared by Dr. Williams’ Son)

III. The 3 D’s of Local Church Leadership

Based on Romans 12:1–2

1. Dedication

2. Diligence

3. Discipline

IV. Vision Ownership Process

4 Steps to Vision Implementation:

V. CSI³ Evangelism Model

Caring, Sharing, and Involving:

VI. Indispensable Values of Ministry (8 Values)

VII. Seven Attributes of Poor Ministry Values (Who Not to Be)

VIII. Five Leadership Styles

IX. Best Fit Leadership Model

X. Leadership Readiness Pre-Flight Checklist

(Must answer “yes” to all to serve in leadership)

XI. Closing Charge

BIBLE STUDY NOTES AND RESOURCES

Summary: "You Are the Salt of the Earth: What is the Salt of the Covenant?" –

Bible Study by Dr. Bryan Hudson

This Bible study explores Jesus’ declaration, “You are the salt of the earth” (Matthew 5:13) and examines the deeper meaning behind the "salt of the covenant" referenced in Leviticus 2:13. Dr. Hudson explains that salt symbolizes influence, which is central to the believer's purpose and identity. Just as salt preserves, purifies, and adds flavor, Christians are called to influence the world through godly living and covenant relationship with God.

Key themes include:

Influence as the essence of salt: Salt’s historic uses (purification, preservation, healing, and value) all reflect its power to influence, just as believers are called to influence the world through God’s presence in them.

Covenant relationship: The “salt of the covenant” represents a perpetual, faithful relationship with God, marked by commitment and consistency, not just temporary benefit.

Spiritual formation through SHAPE: Using Rick Warren’s acronym (Spiritual gifts, Heart, Abilities, Personality, Experiences), Dr. Hudson explains how God shapes believers through trials (fire) and divine influence (salt).

Seasoned by fire: Trials refine faith like fire purifies gold or forms stainless steel—painful but purposeful, producing strength and Christlikeness.

New Testament application: Jesus shifts the salt metaphor from ritual to spiritual reality—"have salt in yourselves and peace with one another" (Mark 9:50)—emphasizing inner transformation that leads to external impact.

Living as influencers: Believers must first be influenced by God to influence others effectively. A lack of God's influence leads to a loss of “saltiness” or spiritual vitality.

Practical outcome: A life seasoned by God results in peace, stronger relationships, and the ability to represent Christ as both salt and light in the world.

Ultimately, Dr. Hudson teaches that to be the salt of the earth is to live under God's influence, embody His covenant, and positively impact others with purity, purpose, and perseverance.

Matthew 5:13, You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. 14 “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.