Table of Contents 2 Letter from the President 4 How the Training Works 6 Daily Life at Ellerslie 8 The Basic Training Overview 11 Costs, Dates & Details 12 The Advanced Training Overview 14 Campus Details and Locale 16 Student Testimonies 20 Why Ellerslie? 23 The Rebirth of Honor 28 Contact us 2
THE RETURN OF THE IRISH ELK The Irish Elk is now extinct. Many modern folk shrug nonchalantly at such news, for such tidings mean very little to them. But to those who know what the Irish Elk once was, its extinction is a tragedy. For the Irish Elk was once a picture of majesty. Its head reached heights over ten feet tall with a rack of antlers which sprawled twelve feet in diameter and an additional five feet upwards into the ancient skies. That’s fifteen feet of pure and utter awe. Ellerslie’s Campus is forty-five minutes from beautiful Estes Park, Colorado, where it is common to view elk herds grazing. I’ve grown up around elk, but not Irish Elk. Elk are impressive creatures, with a hint of majesty on their brow. And if I didn’t know about the Irish Elk, I wouldn’t complain about the bull elks in Estes Park (literally one-fourth the size of the Irish variety) and their tiny racks of antlers. But I do know about the Irish Elk, and thusly I have a vision of what an elk truly ought to be. I’d like to draw a parallel between the Irish Elk and triumphant Christianity. Both roamed the earth in history past and both seem to have gone extinct in our modern day. Oh, we still have a less triumphant version of Christianity that can be observed today, however, it would seem that this modern species stands less than one-fourth the size of its mighty ancestor. It’s Christianity minus the majesty. And, yet before we bemoan the loss, I wish to declare that there is a stirring within the ranks of the Christian soldiers of our day. It’s a desire to see the rack of glory return. It’s a yearning to see the ancient heavenly majesty thunder, once again, upon the stage of time.
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For in an age where spiritual mediocrity is praised within the corridors of the Christian faith, moral lassitude is overlooked, and the post-modern silt of the Emergent Church is tacitly exonerated in our midst – there is a need for lion-hearted believers to emerge. Or should I say, “Irish Elk” Christians to rise up. All one must do is read the Bible and one will see how far we are from the stature of our Cross-purchased ancestry. But how do we get from where we are to where we ought to be? There is a very simple solution. There must be more of Jesus in our lives, in our families, and in our churches. More time given to Him in prayer and pursuit, more of our souls opened up for Him to rule and control. He is majesty. And for majesty to return, He must be given the preeminence in all things. (Col 1:18) Ellerslie is a training environment where this very thing is happening. “The Return of the Irish Elk,” is not merely a humorous unofficial motto amongst our students and faculty; it’s a very serious articulation of an actual, real-world event being witnessed by each and every person on our campus. It is a moment-by-moment yearning in our souls for the return of Christianity as it ought to be. There is a need in this day for souls polished pure by the fire of God, hearts built courageous by the training of the Spirit, and minds tempered and harnessed by the unchanging Truth of Scripture. After all, who will stand when all others subside into a seated silence? Who will fight for Truth when all others have determined fighting for Truth to be harmful and incorrect? The time has come for the Church to regain its ancient rack of glory and to rise up and remove the spit from the face of Jesus Christ. The return of the Irish Elk Christian is at hand. So, who’s with us?
Eric W. Ludy President, Ellerslie Mission Society
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HOW THE TRAINING WORKS Ellerslie Training specializes in taking students deeper with God and providing an atmosphere in which a love for the Word of God, prayer, and Biblical study can be cultivated. We are more of a spiritual-training retreat than a classical school environment. But though our primary goal is to help students go deeper with Christ, we are also very purposeful about giving students a strong Scriptural understanding and Biblical framework as they walk through this deepening process. • A passionate love for the Word of God • A clear and intimate understanding of the Gospel life • The cultivation of a vibrant prayer life • An establishment of healthy, life-long spiritual behavior patterns • An intercessor’s mentality - being made strong in order to be poured out for the weak
This is what we specialize in at Ellerslie - stoking the fire of the human soul - acquainting Christians with the enormity of our God and His ability to bring about a very real triumph in the human soul. In the Ellerslie Training program, we don’t merely talk about prayer – we pray! We incorporate powerful prayer into our mornings, afternoons, evenings and nights. We don’t just talk about the importance of the Word of God – we get into it, we dig deep into the rich ore of its life-giving substance; we learn to cherish every word; the poetry of its cadence, the power and efficacy of its Truth.
Photos compliments of4Bri Tabler
We don’t just talk about the Cross, we experience its redemptive and life-altering power. We grab a hold of its strength. We let it break us, rebuild us, and fortify us to enter this battle truly ready to make a difference. We don’t just talk about the least; we prepare ourselves practically to be poured out on their behalf. We explore the ideas of realworld intercession, of courageously standing in harm’s way to act on behalf of the vulnerable. At Ellerslie, our desire is not to talk about Christianity, but to live it. If you are looking for head-knowledge about God and His Word, you’ll get it here – but you will also get a lot more. There are plenty of Christian programs that could give you the academics of the Christian faith – and we certainly don’t shy away from offering them. But we specialize in helping student’s experience the substance of the Christian faith. This program may not be for everybody. But if you are hungry for the sort of things just mentioned, it may just be for you.
Ellerslie Students at Horsetooth Reservoir, Colorado 5
Daily Life at Ellerslie The Ellerslie environment has been created as a set-apart training retreat in which you can tune out the distractions of the world and simply focus on your relationship with Christ. Everything that happens on the campus, from classes to meals to free time, is tailored around that goal. The daily schedule has been designed to provide a healthy balance of teaching, prayer, study, quiet time, and fellowship with other believers. And while we strive to maintain an atmosphere of honor, reverence, and peace, there is also plenty of laughter, fun, and camaraderie on the campus! Lifelong friendships will be forged within this training – both with your fellow students and with the speakers and staff. We consider it a privilege to invest into your spiritual life – and we look forward to maintaining a lifelong connection with you, even long after you leave this program!
A TYPICAL ELLERSLIE DAY 5:30 - 6:15 a.m.
Corporate Prayer (M/W/F, opt.)
6:15 - 7:30 a.m.
Personal Prayer & Study
7:30 - 8:15 a.m.
Breakfast
8:15 - 8:40 a.m.
Corporate Stillness
8:40 - 8:55 a.m.
Corporate Devotions
8:55 - 9:30 a.m.
Corporate Worship
9:30 - 11:30 a.m. 11:30 - 12:15 p.m. 12:15 - 1:15 p.m.
Session One Lunch Personal Study
1:15 - 3:15 p.m.
Session Two
3:15 - 5:30 p.m.
Student Activities & Free Time
5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Dinner
6:30 - 9:00 p.m.
Student Activities & Study
Lily Lake in Estes Park, CO
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Daily Worship
Class in the Chapel
His Little Feet International Children始s Choir
Lake at Ellerslie
Ellerslie Chapel
Personal Study
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Basic Training Overview The Word of God Series The Heavenly Blueprint for Christian Truth Fall in love with the timeless Word of God. This is the foundational series for Ellerslie training. At Ellerslie, we believe that the Word of God has the Divine right to rule and control the life of a believer. This series introduces the ancient principle of Canon – powerfully demonstrating the origins of the Word of God, the flawless nature of the Word of God, and the supernatural construction of the Word of God. During this series, students will gain an unshakable Biblical framework, develop a deep passion for the changeless Word of God, learn to recognize and resist the error of the postmodern Gospel, and gain a strong personal grasp of how to study and apply Scripture to every facet of their lives.
Sessions Include: Scripture - Seeing Christ in Every Page Proclamation - Holding the Heavenly Message Sacred Origins – Understanding the supernatural pedigree of Scripture Translations – What’s a student of Scripture to do? To Tremble - The Sacred Task of Handling the Word of God Canon - The Test to Prove Control; The Divine Right to Rule and Control Emergent(cy)– Understanding the danger of the post-modern Gospel Dependence - Unlocking the Mystery of Godliness Powerless Grace - The Dangerous Pathway to Spiritual Mediocrity
The Gospel Series The Heavenly Blueprint for Christianity that Works Experience daily triumph, joy, peace and victory over sin. This series provides the “engine” that propels a Christian life forward into God’s endless frontier. At Ellerslie, we believe that grace is more than the merciful hug of God; it’s the divine enabling power of His Spirit to transform a human life from the inside out; to supernaturally equip us to live a life that would be impossible in our own strength. We believe that love, joy and peace are not meant to be merely nice-sounding Scriptural concepts, but rather the daily experience and outflow of the Christian’s life. During this series, students will explore the six key components of the Gospel, study the pattern for historic, Biblical Christianity, and gain a clear understanding for how to not just esteem Truth, but live it out daily through the enabling power of God. 8
Sessions Include: Father and Son – Awakening to the Love that is ours Endless Frontier - The Essence of Historic Christianity Grace - The Gospel Secret Unveiled Opposition - Recognizing the Enemy Tactic Kingdom - The Ruling Domain Burning Bush - The Baptism of Fire Solyma - The One Who Bears His Name Consecration - Set-apart for His Glory The Name - Like Ointment Poured Forth Covenant - The Forging of Two Destinies Stillness - The Work of the Bond-slave - To Give Ear to His Master Heart and Reins - Proving the Innermost You Right-handedness - As a Man Ought to be
The Honor Series The Heavenly Blueprint for Christian Conduct Showcase Christ’s nature in every area of life. This series introduces the lost art of Christian honor. At Ellerslie, we believe that no area of our life should be exempt from the refining, purifying work of God’s Spirit. A fully consecrated life is one that allows Him to transform every thought, attitude, decision, and action into an expression of His character. This series interjects God’s Truth into the nittygritty areas of life – the way we treat others, the way we conduct ourselves, the way we govern our thought-lives, the way we make decisions, the way we handle our sexuality, and the way we spend our free-time. Through this series, students will understand how to exchange worldly behavior patterns for God-glorifying ones and showcase a heavenly conduct that brings renown to the name of Christ.
Sessions include: Twenty-Nine – The Princely Pattern of a Man The Sacred Mind – Every Thought Matters Purity and Love – The Inseparable Pair Men of Honor – The Code of the Mighty Honor – The Heavenly Blueprint for Christian Behavior Decorum – The Christian’s Noble Courtesy and Moral Etiquette Towards Others Heroism - The Christian’s eagerness to enter harm’s way to rescue the weak Sacred Intent – Becoming a Woman of Honor Sacred Decorum – Reflecting His glory in daily life Sacred Cultivation – Building your life around His priorities Sacred Singleness – Grasping His vision and purpose for your single years Sacred Claim – Adopting an others-focused lifestyle The Lost Art of True Beauty – The Scriptural pattern for feminine grace Sacred Singleness - God’s intent for the solo season of life God’s Mantle of Authority - Honoring parent’s role in a love story Innermost Purity - winning the battle over lust and sexual compromise Laying the Foundation of a Lifetime - preparing for marriage God’s way 9
The Intercessor Series The Heavenly Blueprint for Christian Heroism Become strong in order to be poured out for the weak. This series deals head-on with key foundational aspects of a believer’s daily walk, such as prayer, faith, and spiritual warfare. It deals straightforwardly with confusing areas such as disillusionment, pain, and doubt. At Ellerslie, we believe that God is every bit as big as He claims to be, and that He desires to do big things in the lives of His believers. This series challenges the mediocre expectations that many modern believers have of God, and helps students discover the power of wrestling prayer, persistent faith, and putting on the spiritual armor of God. This series also explores a crucial aspect of the Gospel that many Christians overlook - every believer’s call to be God’s hands and feet to the lost, the weak, the poor, the destitute, and the orphan. Through this series, students will learn how to find vibrant success in their prayer life, build mighty personal faith, and overcome spiritual weakness in order to be truly ready and able to make a godly impact upon the world.
Sessions Include: Hoshea – The Author and Finisher of our Faith Grace to Overcome – Wrestling until the Breaking of Day The Kingdom Meal - Partaking of the Body and Blood Two Hands – Made Whole in Order to be Broken The Claim – Covenanting with Life Peniel – Distinguishing Friend from Foe Pain – Is it Friend or Foe? Doubt – Exploring the Anatomy of Unbelief and Spiritual Impotence Wonder – The Kingdom, Power, and Glory of the King Evidenced on Earth The War Council - Built in the Secret Place to be spilled out on the open fields of Glory Corps of the Mighty - The calling of the Holy Gibborim Pasdammin - We mustn’t yield even the field of lentils Tenacity - Yielding not an inch of the King’s Land Season of Caves – Joining the Ranks of the Hunted and the Despised The Growl for Glory – The Princely Purpose of a Man Enemies of the State – Beware the Assassin The Mountain of Giants – The Epicenter of War Pistikos – Pouring out the Spikenard Spiritual Athlete – The Formation of Ready Christian Depraved Indifference – Solving the Sickness of Apathy Gethsemane – Entering the Travail of the Garden Calmer of Winds and Waves – Realizing the Power of our Christ The Mighty Intercessor – The Pattern of the Gap-filler The Bethlehemite – The Mighty Man of Redemption
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costs, dates & details: Photo compliments of James Jonas
Upcoming Ellerslie Leadership Training Sessions: 2011 Winter/Spring Training Program (February 14 - April 17) click here to apply for this course 2011 SummerTraining Program (June 13 - August 13) click here to apply for this course Cost Overview: On-Campus $3,850 (inc meals and lodging) On-Campus with family member(s) $3,650 (inc meals and lodging) Off-Campus, $2,000 (inc lunch M-F) Off-Campus with spouse or family member(s) $1,800 (inc lunch M-F)
WHO CAN ATTEND? The Ellerslie intensive training is designed for anyone who is serious about going deeper with Christ, and there is no age maximum. Though the material is geared for college-age or older, in certain situations students as young as 16 will be accepted. International students are welcome to attend. Additionally, spouses are welcome to attend as a couple. HOW TO APPLY: Simply fill out and submit our online application, along with a $50 registration fee. You will be contacted within three business days to confirm receipt of your application, and Sandi, our Registrar, will stay in touch with you regarding further details. Click here for further application and registration info. 11
EALT Ellerslie Advanced Leadership Training Ellerslie Advanced Leadership Training at a glance‌ Do you desire more than a semester of spiritual training? Do you want to be equipped for a specific field of ministry? Are you interested in taking the bravehearted gospel message around the world, or even pursuing a ministry position with Ellerslie and/or Set Apart Girl? If so, Ellerslie Advanced Leadership Training (or EALT) might be a good fit for you. EALT currently offers the following year-long training programs:
Ellerslie Pastoral Training (for men) Equipping men for key positions of spiritual authority in and amongst the Church of Jesus Christ
Ellerslie Set Apart Girl Leadership Training (for women) Equipping women to powerfully impact other women for the Gospel
Ellerslie Orphan Advocacy Training Equipping men and women to spiritually and practically intercede on behalf of the vulnerable
Ellerslie Global Training Equipping men and women to take the Ellerslie’s semester training model into the world
Ellerslie General Training Equipping men and women with the spiritual leadership foundation to impact in any and every realm of future labor In addition to these five tracks, we are currently developing future EALT tracks in the Creative Arts (literature, music, web, photography, film), Public Policy, and Marriage and Family. For Further Details about EALT, click here . . . 12
Early Foggy Morning
Ellerslie Winter
Class of Summer 2010
Ellerslie Kiddo Night
Ellerslie Games
Stillness
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Student Housing on Campus
Campus & Locale The Ellerslie Campus is a peaceful, set-apart setting with a beautiful view of the Rocky Mountains. The buildings are situated next to a sparkling lake, offering daily glimpses of the magnificent Colorado sunsets. Many of our dorm rooms have views of the mountains, and there is a quiet stillness over the entire campus - refreshingly separated from the hustle and bustle of city life, but with nearly every “big city convenience” a short 2 to 10 minute drive away. Windsor, Colorado is a charming city of 15,000 people, nestled within the “Front Range Corridor,” which runs along I-25 at the eastern base of the Rocky Mountains. One of the crowning features of this quiet bedroom community is the bicycle trail that winds through town, around Windsor Lake, along the Poudre River and then on to Greeley and Fort Collins. Loveland and Fort Collins are each 10 minutes away, and are larger cities with modern shopping, hospitals, and city-life. Denver is a 45 minute drive away, and our closest airport is Denver International - about one hour away from the Ellerslie campus. The Ellerslie campus has comfortable, modern dorm suites with two beds, two desks, closet/shelf space and a private bathroom per every 2 dorm rooms. 14
Lily Lake, Estes Park, CO
Old Town, Fort Collins, CO
The Colorado Experience: Windsor is a one-hour drive from many of Colorado’s most popular locations, such as Rocky Mountain National Park - this world-renowned natural wonderland is frequented by tourists from around the world and its terrain varies from majestic mountain peaks (over 60 of which are at least 12,000 feet), forests, and mountain tundra. The park, which is spread across 265,000 acres, offers 359 miles of trails, 150 lakes, and 450 miles of streams. Highway 34 runs from I-25 (two exits south of the Windsor exit) through Estes Park and on through the park. It’s a great place to visit during your stay at Ellerslie, as are the many other mountain towns within driving distance, such as Keystone, Winter Park, and Copper Mountain - if you attend Ellerslie during the winter, some of the best skiing in the world is a 2 hour drive away. Weather: Colorado boasts 300 days of sunshine a year, with a pleasant climate during all seasons. Summers are warm and dry - the average temperatures are in the 80’s and only occasionally rise above 90. Spring and fall in Colorado usually boast near-perfect weather and plenty of sunshine, though early spring can bring a fair amount of wind. Winters are mild to moderate, with temperatures ranging from the low thirties to mid fifty’s. It’s unusual for winter temperatures to drop into the single-digits, but it’s always possible! Some winters bring a significant amount of snow, but with the constant sunshine it usually melts within 2-4 days, and we have many winter days that are pleasantly sunny and crisp, rather than bitterly cold. All around, Colorado weather is among the best 4-season climates anywhere. We hope you will enjoy it as much as we do! 15
If I was talking with a future Ellerslie student
I would tell them... Student Testimonies from the summer class of 2010:
JAMES | Wisconsin Ellerslie is a place that has literally changed my life. Before coming to Ellerslie I knew that there was so much more that this life in Christ had to offer, but I had no idea of how to even go about obtaining it. I was striving to live a holy life for my God but I was doing it under my own power and by my terms. Ellerslie has been a place that has opened my eyes to what a victorious life in Christ looks like. The reality is that none of us can walk as Christ walked in our own power; it is only Christ in us that makes it possible. I know this seems like common knowledge to a Christian today, but there is a difference between knowing it and actually seeing it lived out. My favorite verse for some time has been Matthew 16:24-25, “Then said Jesus unto His disciples, if any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.” Only through complete surrender to my King have I been able to experience the fullness of my Lord and Savior. In giving Him everything He has proved Himself faithful beyond measure. I wouldnʼt go back for anything in this world.
ESTHERLINE | Haiti If I was telling a future Ellerslie student about my experience here at Ellerslie, I would say that Ellerslie is not only a Bible school, this is a place we can feel the sweet presence of God, we can see the spirit of God moving and giving more understanding in the word of God. It is changing and transforming many hearts and bodies, giving a new birth, a new testimony, a new vision, and making an impact for the glory, the honor, of the kingdom of God. 16
AARON | California Ellerslie is a place of surrender. It is a place where flesh (sinful nature) dies and His Spirit reigns. It is a place where previous desires and dreams of this world are abandoned and His plans and desires are made known. I came here not knowing what to expect. I thought I knew what my future held for me. Now? Not so much. I don't know exactly what the future holds for me but I know exactly Who holds the future and I trust Him. At Ellerslie you will experience a breakdown of soul, flesh, and desire. Everything of this world that you once held dear will fade away sooner than you realize. You will learn what it means to "abide in Him" (John 15:7) When you abide in Him you will find that His desires become your desires. Ellerslie is a place where the abiding lifestyle is greatly encouraged. The environment here is nothing short of Spirit-led. Meditation in the Word becomes a very real part of your daily life here at Ellerslie. The teaching is always, only, the truth of the Bible. You will learn how to use the canon of scripture in a correct and useful way, just as God intended it to be used. If you want to experience the fullness of Jesus in your life, consider and pray about Ellerslie. It has changed my life...He has changed my life.
BROOKE | Colorado Here you will find hand picked mighties ~ men and women who desire to give their lives in full and utter abandon to The King of Kings, The Rock of Ages, and The Lord Almighty! When I came here I didnʼt know what to expect I just knew I had a great expectation. The Lord has taken that and given me a cup running over! As I was reading Rees Howellsʼ Intercessor I stumbled upon a quote that defines the extraordinary people here in my midst: “This band of young people were coming with something more than words.” We are coming in the name and power of Jesus Christ! He has called us each by name and here, at Ellerslie, it has truly been the launching pad, the training grounds, boot camp for each of us to showcase His glory to answer His call, “Who will go and who shall I send?” Not only are we continually being poured into, but we have the privilege to pour ourselves out to the poor, destitute, and least of these. To have the honor of standing in the gap for others around us interceding for them, and knowing that it is not by my might or power but all the glory be to the Mighty Intercessor who is standing beside me interceding for me and with me! Here you will find a generation with selfless faith rising up. Answering His call saying, “Here I am, send me!”
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GRACE | Philippines Ellerslie is beyond extraordinary. Our daily schedule is orchestrated around our greatest joy and need for knowing God - in study, stillness, reflection, meditation and hearing of His Word. Countless hours are spent praising God and wrestling with Him in prayer. Worship in Ellerslie involves not only the lips, but the heart, mind, soul and the body. Ellerslie is a place where the flesh is starved and silenced while the Spirit is esteemed and awakened. It is an environment that cultivates a life that is marked by confidence not found in any person, thing or place, but in complete dependence and yeildedness to God. Ellerslie is NOT a place for those who desire to live a mediocre Christian life. Be prepared to undergo pruning and discipline, to fully surrender and fully yield, to count the cost - your everything - and follow where He leads, and to be softened and strengthened by the grace of God. Be excited to come to Ellerslie and personally experience Godʼs hand working in and through you and find true love, peace and joy in Him.
MELODIOUS | Oregon My time at Ellerslie has been so amazing…Iʼm not even sure where to begin. I think in the future, whenever I look back on my 11 weeks here, I will simply stand in quiet “AWE” for what God has done. Here not only have we experienced Christ-like love and servant-heartedness from our roommates, classmates, and the staff, but weʼve been led into a relationship with Jesus Christ that goes much deeper than anything most of us have ever experienced before. Through hours alone in Bible study, wrestling many nights together in prayer, sacred worship services and praise, and powerfully packed messages straight from the Word, we have not only been given a foundation that cannot be shaken, but weʼve been given the tools to stand against anything the enemy may bring across our path. This hasnʼt exactly been a vacation, though the peace and stillness of the environment has been very refreshing. In all honesty, itʼs been more like a WAR (Eph 6:12). However, itʼs been a war where weʼve learned to fight in Godʼs strength rather than our own, and as a result weʼve seen amazing victories time and time again. God is sooo good – and the life Heʼs called us to live, while impossible in our own strength, is so utterly victorious and amazing when lived in Him! Itʼs funny, because at first I didnʼt think I could afford the “time out” to come be a part of this training, but NOW looking back, I wonder how I could have ever “not” taken the time out! Ellerslie is not something any of us can just tritely share with others, itʼs something that must be lived and experienced to be fully understood! All I can say is, itʼs been amazing...and my life will never again be the same! 18
ELISA | French Caribbean To me Ellerslie is a place where Christ is truly honored and thus it is a precious and rare place. If you are determined to know your God no matter what, you won't be disappointed. The atmosphere, the staff, and the students are always there to point you to Christ. Being here I have learned and grown closer to my God. He is all I need and all I have. Ellerslie prepares you to be fully equipped for the call of Christ. You will learn to depend on your God for everything and in every circumstance, standing firm on the Word. If you are passionate about Christ and ready to be a living sacrifice for His glory, this is the place you should come to. Ellerslie will change your life forever because Christ is it's Captain!
MIKE | Georgia If I had to describe what Ellerslie has been like it would be “a burning bush”- a white hot flame that burns away any and all flesh, yet preserves and strengthens the Spirit to gain complete control. The Bible identifies the Lord in Hebrews 12:29 as a “consuming fire” and that is exactly what He has been to us here. I have not only been taught of the Lord, but have seen and experienced Him move in powerful ways each and every day. This is indeed a place where the Lord Jesus Christ is magnified and treasured above all else, A place where all must be sold to purchase the costly pearl of Jesus Christ. Great manifestations of the Spirit of God have been taking place in abundance on and off campus in the life of my wife and I. I have learned much concerning spiritual warfare and the mighty battle that is taking place within my very own soul. I was walking with and knew my Jesus very well before I came here, but this environment, teaching, and fellowship has certainly given me a mighty push forward in this pilgrimʼs journey. Praise the Lord for all He has done, all He is doing, and all He will do. What a mighty God we serve! May He continue to be the vision of our hearts. Hallelujah, all I have is Christ, Hallelujah, Jesus is my life!
For more student testimonies, go to www.ellersliestudents.com
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Why Ellerslie? by Leslie Ludy
When I was seven, I wrote these words in my journal: “Someday, I want to become a world-changer!” I wasnʼt sure how, exactly,
adventure and the satisfaction of changing the world – but I never envisioned the hardship, discomfort, pain, and spiritual
but I knew I wanted to do something significant with my life; something that would help people, something that would make a difference. I used to love reading books about Harriet Tubman and the
attack that comes when you take a stand for righteousness. It wasnʼt until I was in my early twenties, deep in the fray of fulltime Christian ministry, fighting fervently for souls, that I begin to really understand the
Underground Railroad – I imagined myself smuggling slaves to safety at the peril of my own life, using secret code words and leading slave children through hidden passageways in the dead of night – all
battle of Kingdom service.
We took a season of our lives to truly grasp vital aspects of the Gospel life
while being ruthlessly pursued by greedy slave-owners. In my mindʼs eye, I always made it to my destination safe and sound, and delivered my young charges into the arms of their waiting parents (who were weeping with gratitude). I used to wish I lived back in the days of the American slave-trade so that I could become a heroic rescuer, just like the valiant Ms.Tubman.
When Eric and I stepped out, young and idealistic, into Christian ministry, we got hit – and hit hard. It felt kind of like taking a baseball bat and hitting a hornetʼs nest – only to realize that our feet were stuck in concrete so that we couldnʼt run from the
As a child, I romanticized the idea of being a “Christian hero.” I imagined the thrill of 20
angry insects that were now coming at us us through a season of intensive spiritual with a vengeance. We were attacked on p r e p a r a t i o n a n d e q u i p p i n g b e f o r e all sides by both seen and unseen forces. launching us into the ultimate calling He Discouragement, disillusionment, and confusion came at us from every angle. Even though we were strong Christians and had a vibrant relationship with Christ, we had not been prepared for the battle we
has placed upon our lives. Maybe itʼs not 40 years like Moses, or 30 years like Christ. But often there is a need for a setapart season, where an unshakable spiritual foundation can be laid in our lives
had entered. And though we were making an impact upon the world and fulfilling the call God had placed upon our lives – for many years, we did so with a limp, reeling from the serious battle wounds that we
before we enter the intensive fray of fulltime missions or ministry work. Itʼs kind of like boot camp for the soul, before a soldier enters the actual war.
collected on a daily basis. We began to recognize why God took Moses to the back-side of the desert for 40 years – to break, prepare, and refine him – before launching him into his role as Israelʼs
a set-apart season of training, equipping and preparation.
leader. We began to better understand why God led the apostle Paul into a setapart season in Arabia before sending him to preach the Gospel to the Gentiles. And why even Jesus spent 30 years preparing
After “hitting the hornetʼs nest” early in our ministry, God had to take Eric and I through a spiritual boot camp, of sorts. He had to show us all that was missing from our spiritual armory, and equip us to be victorious in the battle for His Truth. We took a season of our lives to truly grasp vital aspects of the Gospel life, such as
spiritually for his public ministry. As E.M. Bounds wrote, “It takes 20 years to write a sermon, because it take 20 years to make a man.” God sometimes must take
wrestling prayer, spiritual disciplines,
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tensile strength, daily intimacy with Christ, true faith, self-sacrifice, and inner holiness – at a deeper level than weʼd ever known
needed for such a high calling. Time and time again, people would come onto the field to join her work – idealistic and filled
before. And when we entered back into the ministry He had called us to, there was a completely different outcome. No longer were we pummeled by defeat and discouragement – rather, we were strong,
with dreams of being a Christian hero. But all too often, they were not truly prepared for the battle, and after a few months or years, the romance faded, the burn-out set-in, and they limped away in defeat.
valiant, and triumphant – truly equipped for vital Kingdom work. We were able to enter the fray with a spiritual swagger rather than a spiritual limp.
Eric and I have heard similar stories from modern-day missionaries and ministers. They are longing for valiant Christian men and women to come alongside them in Kingdom work – men and women who
We were able to enter the fray with a spiritual swagger rather than a spiritual limp.
have the Gospel DNA embedded into their souls, their outlook, and their daily decisions; those who have truly been prepared for the intensity of the battle for souls and Truth. Whether God has called you to the mission fields of Africa, Haiti, or Main Street, USA – whether you are called to fight for the soul of one little child or rescue millions of people - He desires to equip and prepare
Thatʼs why Iʼm so passionate about your time at Ellerslie. Itʼs a set-apart season of training, equipping, and preparation. Itʼs
you for the sacred calling He has placed upon your life. Thatʼs what youʼll experience at Ellerslie – a set-apart season of spiritual training.
boot-camp for the soul, becoming spiritually fit for the battle. Itʼs a chance to avoid the spiritual burn-out and mediocrity that can all too easily creep into the life of a Christian minister.
Becoming strong to be poured out for His glory. Being built by Him into a true worldchanger, able to withstand the winds and rain and emerge from the storm in perfect peace. Thatʼs what this set-apart season at Ellerslie is all about. I count it a privilege
Amy Carmichael wrote about the formation of her ministry to temple children in India, in her book Gold Cord. It took her years to find like-minded men and women that truly possessed the spiritual strength that was
to be a part of it with you!* 22
Rebirth of Honor The Ellerslie Vision by Eric Ludy
As sparkle is to a diamond, so honor is to a soul.
Such moments are perfect opportunities for honor training.
My little boy, Hudson, is currently
“Hudson,” I said firmly, while bending down
undergoing “honor training.” Itʼs a hilarious training process, really. For one thing, itʼs comical because noble behavior seems odd and out of place nowadays. And itʼs even funnier when a little five-year-old boy
to comfort the wailing Harper, “you are NEVER to use your sword to hit your sister. A man of honor uses his sword to protect people, not hurt them.” We talked for some time about the
makes a valiant attempt at chivalry.
commission of a Jesus-forged gentleman. Since that infamous day, Hudson has begun to learn that a God-built hero always has eyes to see those weaker than himself, and his sword is always available
About a year ago, Hudson got a foam sword from Walgreens. Immediately, he kicked into a whole new manly gear, slicing and dicing the air in pursuit of imaginary
villains. It was all quite innocent and for their help and rescue. In fact, Hudsonʼs adorable until he whacked his little sister Truth is never oldHarper on the head with his new weapon. fashioned. Iʼm sure it didnʼt hurt on the outside, but it It may be ancient, but it is definitely bruised her little heart on the
very much alive.
inside to be so blatantly whacked by her big brother. 23
biggest dream in life is to one day be a mighty, heroic rescuer of orphans.
godly character, and the noble selflessness that God intended us to have as His sons and daughters. Christian honor is hard to
Honor is made up of simple ideas, concepts that are so obviously needed for the formation of a godly man or woman. Principles such as self-sacrifice, protecting the weak, and treating others with dignity and respect are all but lost in this post
come by in todayʼs self-indulgent church. Like little five year olds left untrained in the pattern of heavenly decorum, too many of us are unwittingly thwacking others with the blunt edge of our swords – selfishly
modern, “itʼs-all-about me” generation. But Godʼs principles of honor are not time-worn and dated. They are as fresh today as they were when Jesus modeled them to perfection 2,000 years ago. Truth is never
hurting, rather than heroically protecting. If you donʼt know exactly what I mean by this, just think about the way most of us approach guy/girl relationships. How many of us have left a slew of bruised and
old-fashioned. It may be ancient, but it is very much alive.
wounded hearts in our wake as a result of seeking to satisfy our selfish whims? How often does a modern guy actually stand up and fight to protect a girlʼs purity, rather than trying to conquer it? How often does
Ellerslie puts a strong emphasis on “honor training.” Thatʼs because God has given Leslie and I a longing to see nobility,
a modern girl actually help preserve the integrity of a manʼs soul, rather than enticing him toward lust and compromise? How many of us have a history of sin and selfishness that we deeply regret?
selflessness, and triumph infused into Christianity once again. Men and women of godly honor, self-sacrifice, and heroism – fully adept at handling their God-given sword. Those who place the glory of God
and the needs of others far above their I yearn for a return of honor, a rebirth of own fleshly desires and earthly comforts. dignity and strength within the corridors of Those who are willing to lay down the the church. Not just in the area of trivial distractions of this world and follow I yearn for a return of Christ to the ends of the earth.
honor, a rebirth of dignity and strength within the corridors of the church.
Christianity, as we know it in this modern era, has grown soft. It lacks backbone, grit and bravehearted men and women willing to live and die for Jesus Christ. But not only has it become soft, it has grown
relationships, but in every dimension of our conduct as Christians. May our actions, attitudes, and decisions begin to actually
worldly and coarse. As modern Christians, all too many of us have lost the purity, the
bless and change this world for Godʼs glory 24
– rather than diminishing the great Name we are privileged to represent. Christian honor is a work of grace. It is not the byproduct of human discipline and moral grit – but rather, the outworking of the indwelling Christ. All the honor training in the world canʼt birth the substance of real-life honor into my little boy. Only Christ can accomplish it, through His grace. But when God gains access to Hudsonʼs life, fully and completely, then He will build Christʼs very character, behavior, and nobility into him. He will demonstrate, through Hudsonʼs life, what God is actually like in manner, speech, and action.
His salvation. Prevenient grace ushers us to the Cross. (See 1 John 4:19, Eph 2:8)
God wants to show this world, through my little boy, what heavenly behavior really looks like. And He wants to do the same
Second, there is the empowering grace of God that enables a weak and sinful man or woman to be made strong and triumphant over sin. (See Col 1:27, 1 Tim 3:16, Gal 2:20, Rom 8:11-13)
through me and through you. So what does Godʼs honor training look like? How does God enable us, by His grace, to showcase His heavenly nature to this world?
And finally, the polishing grace of God that refines a man or woman to behave with heavenly decorum amidst a dark and polluted world. (See Romans 6:11-14, 1 Peter 1:13-16, 1 John 4:14)
3 Elements of Grace – Grace must first usher, then empower in
the Secret to Christian Honor
order that it might then polish and perfect. In studying the pattern of the Gospel in We are found by grace, saved by grace, built by grace, enabled by grace every moment of every day, and thusly are intended to become pictures of grace that
Scripture, we find three dimensions of grace at work within the believerʼs life: First, there is the prevenient grace of God that warms our unbelieving soul to His Spirit and awakens us to our utter need for
this world might behold the beauty and majesty of the Most High. 25
The polishing and perfecting work of grace is what is largely missing in our modern era. Many of us know the ushering grace
return. Weʼve never understood its importance or witnessed its spectacular beauty in a personal way.
of God, a few of us know the empowering grace of God, but hardly any of us knows the polishing and perfecting grace of God.
Christian honor is far more than Jane Austen gentility and social refinement. Itʼs more than restraining from whacking your sister on the head with your little foam sword.
God desires to lead each of His children through honor training; to equip us to showcase His nature and character through our actions, attitudes, and daily conduct. But not many of us even realize this vital element of grace is missing from our Christian lives.
There are six key behavioral dimensions to the concept of godly, Biblical honor:
1. Decorum -
When all you have ever experienced in your Christian walk is the ushering Grace, it can be hard to comprehend His empowering grace let alone swallow the idea of His polishing and perfecting grace.
The Christianʼs noble courtesy and moral etiquette toward others 2. Holiness -
The Christianʼs set-apart, sanctified But, this triumvirate of grace was the conduct in daily life purchase of the Cross – the deposit of Christʼs very Spirit, the invasion of His divine nature into our own – that we might be conformed into the very image of Jesus
3. Heroism The Christianʼs eagerness to enter harmʼs way to rescue the weak
Christ. (See Romans 8:29)
4. Reverence -
What Christian Honor Really Looks Like
The Christianʼs holy, soul-trembling response to God and His Truth
So, what does this grace-enabled Christian honor look like up close?
5. Responsibility -
The Christianʼs watchful guard and stewardship over all God has therefore, we donʼt have a vision for its entrusted to him Most of us have never seen it, and
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mirrors of His person that clearly demonstrate the nature of our great God in every word spoken and every deed done.
6. Generosity The Christianʼs readiness to give of all that God has given to him
This is the Ellerslie vision. To encompass the triumvirate (3-part) work of grace in our teaching and training. To build men and women of Christian honor, made strong that they might be readied to pour out their
Honor is simply: Godʼs grace in action, in word, in countenance, and in attitude. Itʼs the Christian man or woman being made into an actual, real-life picture of grace for the world to witness.
strength on behalf of the weak.
Jesus was God incarnate. Honor is grace
Like little Hudson, may we be shaped into heroic rescuers that know how to wield our sword for Godʼs glory, protect and serve the weak, and lay down our lives for the
incarnate. Honor is the evidence of grace at work in the believerʼs soul. Grace ushers, then empowers in order that it might then polish and perfect. Honor is the evidence of grace at work in the
Gospel of Christ. For the Kingdom and the Kingʼs glory,
believerʼs soul. And so we, as Christʼs church, are to become ushers, inviting the lost into the presence of our King; empowerers, lending our strength to the weak all over the world; and polished
Eric Ludy President, Ellerslie Mission Society
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