Chuck Eisenmann wrote:

Great idea. I look forward to reading your comments. Southeast is in good hands.

Chuck

August 27, 2009 @ 1:38 am

Luke wrote:

great blog can’t wait for more!

August 27, 2009 @ 1:52 am

Debra Childers wrote:

I am so excited about this blog, I can’t wait to read your thoughts.

August 27, 2009 @ 2:24 pm

Charlene Steele wrote:

this is fantastic! you guys rock. Thanks!

August 27, 2009 @ 2:29 pm

Nikki Ward wrote:

Nice!! I’m looking forward to reading your blog!

August 27, 2009 @ 2:34 pm

Brian wrote:

Trusting in God and truly living by faith is not nearly as easy as we sometimes think it should be. I am also learning to really allow myself to be led by faith more than by my own understanding. Good stuf Dave.

August 27, 2009 @ 2:40 pm

Stephanie wrote:

This is exciting you all are blogging! Maybe I can learn how to do it now too! :O)

August 27, 2009 @ 2:41 pm

David Rouff wrote:

Glad to see this new means of keeping in touch. We all can stay closer to the church’s activities and direction. Thank you for your new effort! Now that we don’t have to carry chairs from the second floor to the sanuary for folks to sit in, ” Hikes Ln”, we have more time to devote being part of the service. I sure didn’t think we would still have space problems which is a nice problem to have.

I hope to get back to ushering soon. I have missed not being involved!!
Take care!
David

August 27, 2009 @ 2:42 pm

Rich Gimmel wrote:

If you’re like me Dave, I suspect our kids really “encouraged” us into this blogging thing. They do force us out of our comfort zones occasionally, and in this case I think it’s a good thing. Now, I’m motivated!

Looking forward to your posts here!

August 27, 2009 @ 2:49 pm

Michael Kyle wrote:

Dave, great idea on the blog. I wanted to thank you for your sermon this past weekend. As a man with a ministry degree myself, I know well the problem of having fear, especially right now as I try to decipher what God would have me do next. My past experiences have left me scarred and fearful of similar events. Thank you for all you do.

August 27, 2009 @ 2:50 pm

John wrote:

Dave I think it is great that you are doing this. I also want to tell you how much I appreciate your humilty in front of the congregation. You bare your soul with us in so many ways. I especially appreciated the part where you told us of your early struggles as the new leader of this Church) I would think everyone could look at your situation and understand at some level. Following Bob’s leadership was not an enviable position to be in.

Being a Green Bay Packer fan I have to say this.. when Vince Lombardi stepped down his followers failed miserably… the constant comparisons were inevitable. Eventually it took its toll and they stepped down. Fortunately God Chose you to lead us.. and you toughed it out and are showing the leadership qualities and being the man of God that make you the ideal choice for the position.

Praise God for all that he does for his Church… and thanks to God for putting the right person in our leadership role.

August 27, 2009 @ 2:57 pm

Russ Maney wrote:

Dave -

Congratulations on starting a blog and even more congratulations on a very inspiring sermon last Sunday. I have to tell you that, the first thing I thought of, when you said last Sunday, “Now, you’re stuck with me,” was:

“Well, Dave, you’re stuck with US, too.”

Imperfect preacher, imperfect congregation, perfect God.

We’ve got everything we need to succeed. To Him be the glory!

August 27, 2009 @ 3:27 pm

Adam Bengston wrote:

I know you won’t read this, but Dave, I’ve always been impressed with how willing you and Kyle have been to be transparent and real. It’s extremely difficult for one man to lead a congregation of tens of thousands, and even more difficult to try to shepherd even a 1/4 of that number.

But the fact that you do take time to know faces, remember names, and hear stories sets you apart from your normal “run of the mill” Mega-church senior pastor, who is more like a rockstar than teacher, pastor, and brother in Christ.

I’ve been reading a novel by Frank Peretti where the character recapped a story of his experience with a mega-church in California and the impersonality and lack of depth and community gave me chills, because I know that it’s not just a story. It happens everyday. Though there were some things I laughed at in the familiarity of finding a parking spot and hording around a TV set sometimes just to see you or Kyle preach. Ultimately, it made me glad that this church is intentional about developing community and a true body, with enough staff for true shepherding and empowering us to spread the Gospel is happening. I don’t feel like a number here. Thank you for that!

Sincerely,
Adam Bengston

August 27, 2009 @ 3:35 pm

Janet Backman wrote:

Thank you for your sermon Sunday. You humbled yourself before us and I believe it humbled each one of us. We are blessed to have you and we pray for you and your family daily.

August 27, 2009 @ 3:48 pm

Tim Bucy wrote:

Where do you find the time?? I’m amazed…Family, Church, Friends, and of course our Lord….don’t forget to take some time for yourself! Unless you are going to do this while driving…..just kidding..I think? God has truly Blessed the Metro Louisville with both you and Kyle sharing your gift of teaching with us….you guys are a Top Ten, no matter what market you would be in….Thanks!!

August 27, 2009 @ 5:00 pm

Dottie Ryan wrote:

Dave, I am praying for you - for Southeast - and for the Lord’s church. May we all come to understand submission and authority and join in Unity of Spirit. I want you to know that I made a decision this past week to come up under your authority. Some might say, well duh! He’s your Pastor. But we can all come to church and not be a living part of the body and never have chosen to surrender - to God or to those in leadership. You are God’s delegated authority. And I respect you. I pray for your leadership - for your sensitivity to the Holy Spirit and that you grow more every day to look like Jesus! Wow! What a beautiful site.
He’s doing wonderful things in His church! Amen?

August 27, 2009 @ 5:00 pm

Mark wrote:

Wow. This is so cool.

I too enjoyed your sermon this past weekend. Gosh, I really enjoy most of them. You are awesome and your young sidekick (heh heh) is not so bad either.

I want to thank you for reminding us of how the elders are watching over the flock! We have such a great church!

Thank you!
Mark

August 27, 2009 @ 6:32 pm

Sarah wrote:

Dave,
I have a grateful thanksgiving that you have been chosen for this roll to lead our church. I feel blessed but must admit there were times through the past two years that I have been sitting in my seat wanting to stand up and say come on Dave, come on! I felt that you were the one to lead but I wanted you to do more of it. It has been a blessing to watch you mature and become more comfortable in your leadership. We are yearning for your guidance because you are an anointed servant. I support this church with multiple campus’s and it’s ability to lead more to serve and glorify God. I like your short prayer of submission that you are encouraging us to pray daily. I think it’s great….Kyle’s was four lines and I could only remember two. I repent of my sins and I submit to you. Well there you go I pray daily for our church and the good we can do as we serve and glorify him.

August 27, 2009 @ 8:11 pm

Robyn K wrote:

Dave,
This is toooooo cool!
Thanks for being a blessing to me, Bob and Katie over these past 18+ years.
We are cheering, praising and praying for you, your family, and our church.
Our God is good!
Robyn

August 27, 2009 @ 9:48 pm

Elizabeth wrote:

Hello Dave,
How can I get more information about the new Oldham Co. campus and getting involved? I understand there was a prayer time at the new site over the weekend and am interested in helping in any way possible.

Thanks for all you do for SECC and for the Lord! We are a blessed church and are so grateful for your servant heart. God is doing great things through you!! Your humility is a human example of Jesus.

August 27, 2009 @ 9:53 pm

Holly wrote:

I’m so proud to be a part of a church that is so foward thinking!

August 27, 2009 @ 10:11 pm

Scott Clements wrote:

Never really enjoyed reading some stranger’s opinion on things but am very much looking forward to reading your inspired word.

Thanks, Dave!

August 27, 2009 @ 10:26 pm

Rebecca R wrote:

Hi, Dave,
Thank you for being a vessel for God’s Word, teaching, and leading us today when times are more challenging than ever! I love being “refueled” each weekend by the messages you and Kyle deliver! This is my first blogging experience, too, and I look forward to following your blog as well as Kyle’s.
Blessings to you and your family!

August 28, 2009 @ 7:58 am

Barbara wrote:

This is great! So much easier to keep up with. Great job, Dave!!!!

August 28, 2009 @ 8:09 am

Marilyn McDaniel wrote:

Dave,

This new venture is a great idea for you and Kyle. I cannot tell you how much I appreciate you and Kyle. I’ve been a member since 1994 and have always been inspired by your preaching. Many people have been proved wrong when they said the church will stagnate when Bob Russell left. God has guided you and Kyle these several years and I know He will continue to keep you wrapped in His care and Southeast will continue to grow. My unchurched neighbor has even started coming with me and I thought that would never happen… 3 times already. How great is that!!!!

August 28, 2009 @ 8:44 am

Bonnie Hawkins wrote:

I am so happy to see you have made the jump into technology with this blog! I look so forward to reading it. I have recently joined the new members ministry and pray I can make a difference through Christ! You and Kyle inspire me to keep reaching, with God’s wisdom and grace I am moving forward and boldly doing something totally out of my comfort zone. Thank you.

August 28, 2009 @ 8:45 am

Matt Lozier wrote:

This will be great way to reach even more lost! I hear from people all the time who do not attend Southeast or any church that mention they listen to you and, what’s that young guy’s name who can say the books of the bible in one breath, oh yeah Kyle, on the radio. Just more ways to spread the good word! Our God is an awesome God!

God speed from us Indiana campus folks!

August 28, 2009 @ 9:06 am

Noizy wrote:

Dear Dave,

welcome to the information super highway. we are glad you could join us. it has just become a much more awesome place. the podcasts and online sermons have been really convenient, but the behind the scenes content you are going to add will be unpredictable and revealing.

August 28, 2009 @ 9:22 am

Martha Hamilton wrote:

I’m thrilled! I absolutely love Chip Ingram’s message each morning as I go to work. I look forward to hearing the Good News through your messages Dave here on the blog and all the truly cool things going on at our church! Thanks for doing this…

August 28, 2009 @ 5:33 pm

Odell Compton wrote:

Wow, your first blog and my first reply to a blog. I haven’t Facebooked or Twittered either.
This is an incredible way to reach our youth, who use these modes as easily as breathing. For us oldsters, it’s a little more trying.
I’ll be looking forward to watching this site evolve. Isn’t our God so amazing?
Oh, and Dave, when you and Kyle stop in to say a word to us during choir practice, it really means a lot that you take time out of your busy schedules to speak to us.
Blessings to you.

August 28, 2009 @ 8:50 pm

Jayne Chrouser wrote:

Brother Dave….Like other members of this fellowship, I appreciate the testimony you gave regarding your transition to this position as our Senior Pastor. The impact of your willingness to be both blatantly honest and vulnerable took many of us to a deeper level than just the words you conveyed. Your witness sounded much like the words of John the Baptist, “HE MUST INCREASE, but I must decrease”; and the Apostle Paul, “Not that we are adequate in ourselves to consider anything as coming from ourselves, but OUR ADEQUACY IS FROM GOD.” Thank you for testifying to the transforming power of the cross in your life!

August 29, 2009 @ 11:32 am

Lori Lucas wrote:

I am new to “blogging” myself and I am absolutely loving it!! My ABF class recently started one and I think it is a wonderful way to connect with one another! A church-wide blog is even more exciting! It’s another avenue to making a big church seem small and personable! Thank you!!!

August 31, 2009 @ 7:49 am

Gordon Rodgers wrote:

Man how things have changed in 22 yrs. since we first came to SECC Thank The Lord we still have human preachers!!! You’re not virtual reality are you?

September 3, 2009 @ 2:39 pm

Doug Dixon wrote:

I love the idea of a blog that you and Kyle will be looking at regularly! It is a great way to communicate on our respective schedules! By the way, “Already Gone” is an eye-opening commentary about how early our kids are deciding to leave our churches. Please consider having it read by someone you trust for a synopsis of what is happening to our kids and why - even in our own church!

God bless what you are doing! Go Dave!!

September 3, 2009 @ 3:37 pm

Debbie Finney wrote:

WOW! I love this! It’s interactive and enlightening. Of course, it’s Saturday morning and all the weekend weekly readers are climbing on board. Great to connect with others. The videos are great! Now, when we visit our daughter in Houston, I know where we can go to church! Yeah!

September 5, 2009 @ 8:06 am

Jacque Vogt wrote:

Would love you to blog on the President’s talk to the school kids tomorrow. Have listened to many different comments. Our son in law and daughter have decided to let their girls (5 and 7 years old) listen to the President. They know from God’s Word we are to respect our gevernment leaders. Yet, they also plan on talking to them afterwards about what was talked about and make sure what was said lines up with Scripture and doesn’t contradict God’s Word. This is only the beginning, I am sure. “Lord Jesus, come quickly.” God bless as you continue to preach God’s Word, not wavering from His truths.

September 7, 2009 @ 9:43 am

Clay wrote:

Dave,
I just wanted you to know how thankful my family and I are for Southeast and the church leadership. We came to the Family Palooza today with our children and grandchildren and had such a good time. It is such a blessing to see how God is using Southeast within the community and in the lives of so many children. Even though I am a little too old to play in the Jumpies, our grandchildren always look forward to come to church where the Gospel is always presented in unique ways. We pray daily for you and the leadership of our church.

September 7, 2009 @ 7:53 pm

Susie Tillman wrote:

One Sunday, you expressed how inadequate you felt taking over as senior minister. I was shocked because It didn’t show, not for one minute. You see, most of us knew you could do it. Yes, I’m sure you were constantly reminded of Bob; but you are you, he is Bob and both are very unique. You are so much more capable for any task this church has for you than you think. Keep the faith because God will not let you fail. You ARE the best man for this job! We’ve got your back!

September 10, 2009 @ 5:16 pm

Beth Burke wrote:

My husband and I volunteered and worked at Family Palooza this year for the first time. We had a blast serving food to soooo many people. It was awesome to see so many unfamiliar faces and hope that they will become familiar faces at weekend services. The food services part of the event ran smoothly. They had thought of everything. We will certainly volunteer next year and are looking forward to it.

September 10, 2009 @ 8:50 pm

Mark Curtis wrote:

Not to good on this blog deal so bare with me. As many times as I have thank you in my prayers, thought I would tell you myself. You touched my daughters life at a young age and have always been there through her struggles, she is a woman of god and her children,my grandchildren also. Your words of wisdom and encouragement have meant the world to her and she will walk in the name of the lord forever. Thank you Dave and hope to play golf again soon
Marc Curtis

September 11, 2009 @ 7:05 am

Jim wrote:

We are blessed way more than we deserve with SECC. God is always present and we see His hand in everything His church is doing through you and Kyle as preaching ministers. My wife and I are like little children awaiting a suprise every time we come to church, regardless of whether it’s a sermon, an event, a study, or service. Thank you Dave for dedication to God’s call.

September 17, 2009 @ 2:51 pm

Angie N. wrote:

Hi Dave!
Thank you for doing this! This blog is such a wonderful idea to keep us up to date and an awesome way for us to interact. You are doing really well with it too. There are so many interesting things that you are posting, and often! Kent and I really miss seeing you and your family. I know that you know this but, your words and example have really been an inspiration to us. I wanted to thank you again for all you have done. We hope to see you soon. God picked an awesome leader for our church. I am so proud to be a member!! Thank you Dave.

September 28, 2009 @ 10:26 pm

Dick Clifford wrote:

Dave: Just wanted to tell you that I thought you did a really good job on last Sunday’s sermon dealing with temptation in James’ letter. You covered it thoroughly and presented it clearly and it was very helpful. I have preached on the same text several times and I also added from the scripture1 Cor.10:13 that when we are confronted with temptation we should look for that way of escape which the Lord promised to provide. I also thought the Saturday night service was very meaningful so say thanks to the worship leaders. God bless you. Dick Clifford

October 5, 2009 @ 12:51 pm

Dottie Ryan wrote:

Dave - I know this is late - but . . . what an incredible sermon Friday night of the leadership conference!  You spoke with such a boldness and authority that I don’t believe my mind strayed for even one moment as God’s Word was ‘pure food’ for my soul.  I love that I am a part of SECC as it grows in its committment to surrender to The will of God through the annointing of The Holy Spirit.  May we all come to a place where we ‘lay it all’ at the feet of Jesus and become radically obedient without hesitation.  Blessings to you as you continue to bring forth the message of His Gospel.

November 3, 2009 @ 8:23 pm

Jayne Chrouser wrote:

I delighted to hear you teach about the word ‘coincidence’ in a recent sermon, Dave.  I couldn’t help but recall the impeccable timing of God, when you and your wife entered that empty tomb near Jerusalem on the very day that Bath’s father had soared into the presence of Jesus Christ OR the hand of God in leading Kyle Idleman to plan a family mission trip that landed them so near the epicenter of the Haitian earthquake when it hit.  Coincidences - No Way!!!  The all-powerful reality of ‘I AM’….Yes, Indeed!!!  What a mighty God we serve!

March 27, 2010 @ 8:50 am