A Higher Cause

2011-08-17T23:06:00.012-05:00

I read this today from Oswald Chambers it is very convicting and very true when you think of the parables that Jesus told as well as His encounters that are recorded in scripture. "Have you ever heard the Master say something very difficult to you? If you haven’t, I question whether you have ever heard Him say anything at all. Jesus says a tremendous amount to us that we listen to, but do not actually hear. And once we do hear Him, His words are harsh and unyielding."

The Start....part 2.

2011-08-05T17:23:00.005-05:00

TBC (new building)
TBC (pre-2001 new building)

10 years ago today, God had confirmed a clear calling and direction for me to preach,
and serve in full time ministry. It was something that I had struggled with, denied, and even doubted. I remember my dad telling what he had heard Dr. David Jeremiah say over the radio which his father had told him which was something like this "If you can find something else to do other than preach do it." I wondered why would someone say that when most pastors and missionaries stand up and talk about the great commission and the need for ministry? Looking back on it, that piece of advice is good, because it will either confirm God's plan for you one way or another. All believers have a call for their life, the first call is the call to salvation, this is the call that God desires that must be answered, I answered this in December 1989 by receiving Christ as my savior, and placing my trust in Him to save me from my sins. This particular call to preach and serve in full time ministry happened at Topeka Baptist Church, in Topeka, Kansas during the first service in the new building. During this service I was running the powerpoint for the sermon. Pastor Mark Doss preached that morning from Psalms 118:23 and many other passages and as I heard him explain that this new completed building wasn't a place to stop, but that now God expected us to work harder and for people to be sent out the Holy Spirit convicted me. There was so much going on in my personal life already that this was just the icing on the cake, and it was time to surrender. Until that day I had a total 100% self-centered agenda that consisted only of making money and being in a comfort zone. I did not go forward, or even pray in that service. Looking back in it, I wished I would have. I did however go home and pray and do some much needed business with God on that issue. To this day I still pray and surrender to God to do whatever He has for me whether it is as a pastor or a missionary, or a church intern, or church toilet scrubber. A couple of weeks later I moved to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and began preparing for ministry by attending Heartland Baptist Bible College. I still have a copy of that message Pastor Doss preached that day and listen to it at least once a year, as a reminder of keeping the main thing, the main thing. If anyone who is reading this is sensing a call to preach and/or serve full-time ministry talk to your pastor, and gain some insight, and after that if you are still conviced God has placed this on your life, announce it to your church so they can be praying for you and encourage you. Announcing it to the church doesn't make it about just you, it is about God working through you and through the life of His church and His servants.

The Start.

2011-07-14T21:18:00.004-05:00

10 years ago I was called to preach, and serve in full time ministry. There was a series of events that led to this call. After I was saved in 1989, I wanted people to know about Christ, but yet never desired to be a pastor or missionary. Growing up, several people told me to think about what bible college to go to. I would laugh at them or just be nice and nod. During my senior year in high school I had applied to Topeka Technical College, with the intent of getting an associates degree in business information systems, then make money. In July 2001 I was finishing up the final paper work to get myself going into the program. Then one warm July day I walked up to the campus and saw furniture laying out on the grass, and a fridge defrosting, and boxes everywhere. When I asked the receptionist what was going on, she explained that the school was closing, and that my file and all it's contents had been shredded. My world felt like it was falling apart. Please read the story below, God used this to get my attention....

Technical college to close
Posted: Saturday, July 07, 2001
By By Keri Bradford
The Capital-Journal
Education America Inc., the parent company of Topeka Technical College, 1620 N.W. Gage, announced Friday that the school is suspending all further enrollment and will be sold or closed after its current students graduate.

The decision was a difficult one, EAI president Jerry Barnett said.

"We have worked for over 16 years to serve students in business and technical fields in the Topeka area," he said.

The college offers associate degree programs in computer programming, electronics, business and legal assisting. It also offers non-degree programs in computer networking and Internet information systems.

"We have a real good history of training kids and sending them to work," said Pedro DeGuzman, EAI vice president and chief operating officer.

The college opened in 1968 as the Electronic Computer Programming Institute in the basement of White Lakes Mall. EAI moved the college to its current location when it affiliated with the school in 1985.

"After careful consideration, we have determined that due to economic and regulatory conditions, we could no longer be successful in the market," Barnett said.

"Being a private school, we're 100 percent tuition driven," DeGuzman said. "We've struggled with low enrollment for years."

Though the building's lease expires at the end of 2001, DeGuzman said enrolled students will continue to receive full service.

"We are working with the Kansas Board of Regents to ensure that all students currently enrolled have the opportunity to complete their education," Barnett said.

The last class will graduate in October 2002.

Keri Bradford can be reached at (785) 295-1277 or kbradford@cjonline.com.

Is This What it Has Come to Now?

2011-06-22T17:06:00.005-05:00

Is this what it has come to? Have we lost faith in the gospel? Don't get me wrong, I am all for making the message of the gospel understandable. SEE VIDEOS BELOW. This stuff is WAY OVER THE TOP. Methods still matter to God. I don't want to sound like a legalist and say that church needs to look and be what we know it was in the 1950s or the 1800s. On the other side of this I don't want to say that we need to re-invent the church, so anything goes either....

Church needs to be the way GOD WANTS IT TO BE. Think on these verses.

"But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth." (John 4:23-24)

"For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh." (Philippians 3:3)

Fellowships, Associations, and Denominations?

2011-06-15T22:41:00.005-05:00

Heard from Dr. Harley Howard this evening that there are 33,000 different denominations. This is surprising and alarming. It is surprising that more people are trying to be cute and come up with something different, and appealing. To quote Dr. Paul Chappell, "You don't need to re-invent the church, just go to the book of Acts and reproduce the church." It is alarming because not everyone can be right either. By no means am I a "Baptist brider", just because someone has the gospel doesn't mean that they are teaching, and practicing correct doctrine. This is not a time for churches and pastors to entertain people or "pet" them while they sin. It is a time for us to hold to the truth and follow and practice, 2 Timothy 2:15 "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."

-On a personal note many denominations have helped great missionaries accomplish God's will, across the globe, but at what costs? Many denominations, fellowships, and associations have controlled and destroyed the lives of churches, pastors, and missionaries. This is a fact that needs to be brought out, studied, and thought through. Let's follow the word of God, not the traditions of men. I am an independent, or more accurately an unaffiliated Baptist, but first and foremost a follower and believer of Jesus Christ. I am what I am because of what the Bible teaches not because of anyone else. I have many friends that aren't Baptist or any denomination so this isn't intended to throw rocks, just want everyone to think about where they are and why. You have to decide for yourself what doctrine to hold to. Before that though you must have a true, real relationship with Jesus Christ. I just don't want people to follow others without conferring with the Word of God.

-As this is being thrown out there, we live in an age where we need to cooperate and work towards seeing the gospel taken out to the lost world, (see Philippians 1:27). In conclusion there must be BALANCE. Be willing to work with others, balanced by the scripture.

A new title

2011-04-17T00:29:00.003-05:00

"For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake." (II Corinthians 4:5)

I have decided to change the name of this blog to "A Higher Cause". I have called this blog the journey, but it is "A Higher Cause" that really drives someone following Jesus Christ, not necessarily the journey itself. While the journey is important it is the higher cause that motivates us, and causes us to check ourselves.

The Impact of Missions Trips

2011-04-09T20:51:00.006-05:00

"Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." (Matthew 6:19-21)

It was ten years ago last month that I had the privilege to take a missions trip to Guatemala and do work for a seminary that was under construction. You can the see in the picture above, the "retaining wall" at the top of the hill. Our particular group constructed a portion of it. Little did I know how God was at work and that 5 months later I would surrender to preach/christian service and go to Bible College. God did so much before, during, and after that trip. Today that seminary appears to be up and running, training men and women to start churches, and serve in existing ones throughout that area in Guatemala.

Fishing for Souls?

2011-03-30T21:44:00.003-05:00

"And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." (Matthew 4:19)

The other day while on patrol at Fellows Lake, I noticed one of our regular fisherman named "Joe". I paid closer attention to what he does because a of message I heard at church by one of our pastors last Sunday night. I noticed how "Joe" fishes everyday sometimes catching NO fish at all. Other days he says he is only catching little ones. Other days he will out fish everyone on the lake, so much to the point others will ask him how he does it. Has I sit here tonight I thought of the verse where Jesus calls for the disciples to be fishers of men. Jesus obviously compared evangelism/soul-winning to fishing. Many times people will turn down the gospel, put it off, or become angry. I know I have given up too easily on people, and even opportunities in the past. The serious fishermen don't give up on fishing. If you watch the fishermen at Fellows Lake they might move around to different spots, or come out at different times, but they still use lures, bait, a pole, and perhaps a boat. They don't change their "fundamentals of fishing" but rather stay with it looking for that next big catch. Tonight I am praying that God will put it into my heart to look for that next soul. Research shows that, on average, adults must hear the Gospel message about seven times before they come to faith in Christ. This means that everyone in our churches is vital to the work of evangelism.

Death of a Church?

2011-03-23T17:06:00.005-05:00

Are we called to be community organizers or to give the Gospel, and disciple people? (Matthew 28:18-20)

Normally I usually leave these kinds of situations alone. However after watching this it was difficult to ignore. Why did the Community Baptist Church of Madison Heights, Michigan have to die? Why couldn't it be revived? Did the congregation really not care, or did the leadership just want to create a "hip" new philosophy and name to stand out be different? After watching this it made me realize that in the eyes of God every church has a chance to be revived. So as long the doors are open, God can even bring truth and life into a church that has been overtaken by liberalism, or is dying. All throughout the Bible peoples, and nation were given opportunities of revival. The point is we should never give up on church. We need to pray for our own church, and other churches that are struggling. It is easy to allow a church to become a corporation, or a central base for community organizing, rather than being primarily a shining light of the gospel, acting as a spiritual hospital.

...Sorry folks but on August 5, 2001, I didn't surrender to be a community organizer, but to preach the word, and minister to people, using THE WORD.

Church Voting

2010-11-02T17:08:00.007-05:00

Found this and thought the author made several valid points in addressing a critical issue within the church. Realistically none of us want to be told what to do. It goes against our flesh. Church is a Theocracy, well it is supposed to be...

http://www.brandonacox.com/2010/03/09/nineteen-reasons-baptists-should-stop-voting-on-stuff/

Nineteen Reasons Baptists Should Stop Voting on Stuff
by Brandon A. Cox on Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Our church votes on things. I’m not seriously calling for the abolition of voting among churches, just a severe reduction in the practice. I’m a strong believer in the autonomy of the local church, but I’m the first to admit, I don’t like Baptist “business.”
I was once the Pastor of a church in central Arkansas that had battled years of political scheming and the resulting resentment. We once moved an old metal desk out of the auditorium into a side room and I got in huge trouble because the moving of the desk wasn’t voted on! On the basis of this and dozens of other frustrating experiences, here are some reasons I think we should vote not to vote on so much stuff…
1. Voting never brings unity, it actually calls for division. Who is for and who is against?
2. Voting is democratic – government by the people. Church should be theocratic – government by the Holy Spirit.
3. Voting plays right to the flesh and personal preferences. We typically vote what we want or prefer, regardless of what God wants or what leaders are leading us to do.
4. Voting gives equal weight to every member, regardless of investment in ministry.
5. Voting leads us to believe that the majority must be right. According to some presidential elections, that obviously isn’t true (I’ll leave you to sort out which ones make my case).
6. Voting gives the impression that a plurality of approval is the same as unity. It’s not. One deeply hurt family prevents real “unity.”
7. Voting supersedes God’s intended order of leadership within the structure of the local church.
8. Voting risks friendships needlessly.
9. Voting equals leadership by polls. Since when did Jesus ever ask the audience their opinion? Even with His shepherd’s heart, Jesus never polled the sheep to find out which direction to go.
10. Voting doesn’t work too well for Congress!
11. Voting is man-made, there isn’t a single scriptural example. And Mattathias is not an example (Acts 1).
12. Voting keeps us business-minded, not ministry-minded.
13. Voting suggests the church has a political side. It’s the only time we really see power plays within God’s family.
14. Voting is governed by rules but church is governed by relationships.
15. Voting creates confusion and invites the opinions of 15, or 150, or 1500 viewpoints. No real problems are ever solved.
16. Hanging chads.
17. Democrats.
18. Republicans.
19. People were pretty much unanimous to crucify Jesus.

You’ve got to admit, I have at least a dozen good points, right? What’s your vote?

Four Ways that Churches Die

2010-09-06T00:24:00.003-05:00

This comes from my professor Dr. Harley Howard, out of my Acts II class concerning churches. This is scary, convicting, and not surprising.

1. When they lose their sense of accountability to the Head of the church, Jesus Christ

2. When they lose the sense of the fact that Jesus Christ knows everything about us, both individually and collectively

3. When they see their sufficiency or strength in anything other than Jesus Christ

4. When they do not see their true spiritual condition

The Music War

2010-08-01T22:05:00.004-05:00

Learned about this a couple years ago, and now have done further reading and wanted to share what I found.

Benjamin Keach (1604 – 1704) was a reformed Baptist Pastor. He was the pastor of a Baptist church in Horsley Down, Southwark (London, England) that later became Metropolitan Tabernacle, whose later pastors included John Gill and Charles Spurgeon. Benjamin Keach was one of the original participants and signers of the 1689 London Baptist Confession of Faith.

Although the 1689 London Baptist Confession of Faith states the following:
“…the acceptable way of Worshipping the true God, is instituted by himself; and so limited by his own revealed will, that he may not be Worshipped according to the imaginations, and devices of Men, or the suggestions of Satan, under any visible representations, or any other way, not prescribed in the Holy Scriptures,…”

Keach’s interpretation was different than others as to what the statement meant. Many church leaders and members at that time felt that only the Psalms should be sung. Meaning that only direct verses of Scripture could be sung,and not any man-made songs.

Somewhere between 1671 and 1673, Benjamin Keach lead his congregation in a hymn after the observance of the Lord’s Supper. This continued for almost twenty years. Just a hymn after the Lord’s Supper, then later a hymn on a Day of Thanksgiving. In 1690, Keach asked for a vote about allowing congregational hymn singing regularly. However it became a very heated meeting with several objectors. The vote to allow hymn singing did carry and a regular time of hymn singing was instituted after the sermon and prayer time. Some objected so much to this that they left after the sermon and prayer time. A few members objected so much that they split off and formed another church.

This resulted in a pamphlet war. Benjamin Keach arguing for restoring hymn singing as an “ordinance” of the church. Isaac Marlow, a church member, wrote against hymn singing in the church.

One of Keach’s arguments was that just because Catholics did allow hymn singing (by a choir in Latin) did not make it wrong to allow hymn singing. During the Protestant Reformation there were some who were so Anti-Catholic that if Catholics did it it must be wrong and thrown out. The battle that Keach fought has led to us being able to sing hymns and express ourselves in worship to our Lord. Keach wrote many hymns in his lifetime, often even writing a hymn to go with his message passage. However, his songs weren’t of a type that they were easily sung. Music tunes then were much different from what they are today. Isaac Watts was one of the first to write hymns in English for a congregation to sing. Without a study of church history we don’t appreciate how something as simple as singing a hymn was hard fought and won hundreds of years ago. Give a hymn, chorus, or praise song you sing some thought next time you sing it.

For further study see: "Hymnology: a collection of source readings"
By David W. Music

Evangelism

2010-07-31T16:37:00.002-05:00

SOMEONE CAME to D.L. Moody one day and said, “I don’t like your method of evangelism.” Moody asked, “What is your method?” The person replied, “I don’t really have one.” Moody responded, “I like my way of doing it better than your way of not doing it!”

To make it possible for everyone to attend church next Sunday, we are going to have a special "No Excuse Sunday".

2010-07-24T14:43:00.002-05:00

Cots will be placed in the foyer for those who say, "Sunday is my only day to sleep in."

There will be a special section with lounge chairs who feel that our pews are too hard.

Eye drops will be available for those with tired eyes from watching T.V. late Saturday night.

We will have steel helmets for those who say " The roof would cave in if I ever came to church."

Blankets will be furnished for those who think the church is too cold and fans for those who say it is too hot.

Score cards will be available for those who wish to list the hypocrites present.

Relatives and friends will be in attendance for those who can't go to church and cook dinner, too.

We will distribute "Stamp Out Stewardship" buttons for those who feel that church is always asking for money.

One section will be devoted to trees and grass for those who like to seek God in nature.

Doctors and nurses will be in attendance for those who plan to be sick on Sunday.

The sanctuary will be decorated with both Christmas poinsettias and Easter lilies for those who never have seen the church without them.

We will provide hearing aids for those who can't hear the preacher and cotton for those who say he is to loud.

by Unknown

A Tale of Two Sons

2010-06-08T22:15:00.004-05:00

In preparation for a couple of sermons I am currently working on, I have used the book above for a resource. Haven't read it "cover to cover" but have looked over chapters that apply to the thrust of the messages. This is a great book. It is quite a change from Dr. MacArthur's other works such as "Hard to Believe", "Truth Wars", or "Fool's Gold". All of us at some point in our life were in the same situation as the Prodigal son was. A convicting and humbling thought.

How Green was my Valley

2010-04-13T21:54:00.006-05:00

Three Mile Island

2010-03-28T16:37:00.001-05:00

Found the news story below and found it interesting...

At 4 a.m. on March 28, 1979, the worst accident in the history of the U.S. nuclear power industry begins when a pressure valve in the Unit-2 reactor at Three Mile Island fails to close. Cooling water, contaminated with radiation, drained from the open valve into adjoining buildings, and the core began to dangerously overheat.

The Three Mile Island nuclear power plant was built in 1974 on a sandbar on Pennsylvania's Susquehanna River, just 10 miles downstream from the state capitol in Harrisburg. In 1978, a second state-of-the-art reactor began operating on Three Mile Island, which was lauded for generating affordable and reliable energy in a time of energy crises.

After the cooling water began to drain out of the broken pressure valve on the morning of March 28, 1979, emergency cooling pumps automatically went into operation. Left alone, these safety devices would have prevented the development of a larger crisis. However, human operators in the control room misread confusing and contradictory readings and shut off the emergency water system. The reactor was also shut down, but residual heat from the fission process was still being released. By early morning, the core had heated to over 4,000 degrees, just 1,000 degrees short of meltdown. In the meltdown scenario, the core melts, and deadly radiation drifts across the countryside, fatally sickening a potentially great number of people.

As the plant operators struggled to understand what had happened, the contaminated water was releasing radioactive gases throughout the plant. The radiation levels, though not immediately life-threatening, were dangerous, and the core cooked further as the contaminated water was contained and precautions were taken to protect the operators. Shortly after 8 a.m., word of the accident leaked to the outside world. The plant's parent company, Metropolitan Edison, downplayed the crisis and claimed that no radiation had been detected off plant grounds, but the same day inspectors detected slightly increased levels of radiation nearby as a result of the contaminated water leak. Pennsylvania Governor Dick Thornburgh considered calling an evacuation.

Finally, at about 8 p.m., plant operators realized they needed to get water moving through the core again and restarted the pumps. The temperature began to drop, and pressure in the reactor was reduced. The reactor had come within less than an hour of a complete meltdown. More than half the core was destroyed or molten, but it had not broken its protective shell, and no radiation was escaping. The crisis was apparently over.

Two days later, however, on March 30, a bubble of highly flammable hydrogen gas was discovered within the reactor building. The bubble of gas was created two days before when exposed core materials reacted with super-heated steam. On March 28, some of this gas had exploded, releasing a small amount of radiation into the atmosphere. At that time, plant operators had not registered the explosion, which sounded like a ventilation door closing. After the radiation leak was discovered on March 30, residents were advised to stay indoors. Experts were uncertain if the hydrogen bubble would create further meltdown or possibly a giant explosion, and as a precaution Governor Thornburgh advised "pregnant women and pre-school age children to leave the area within a five-mile radius of the Three Mile Island facility until further notice." This led to the panic the governor had hoped to avoid; within days, more than 100,000 people had fled surrounding towns.

On April 1, President Jimmy Carter arrived at Three Mile Island to inspect the plant. Carter, a trained nuclear engineer, had helped dismantle a damaged Canadian nuclear reactor while serving in the U.S. Navy. His visit achieved its aim of calming local residents and the nation. That afternoon, experts agreed that the hydrogen bubble was not in danger of exploding. Slowly, the hydrogen was bled from the system as the reactor cooled.

At the height of the crisis, plant workers were exposed to unhealthy levels of radiation, but no one outside Three Mile Island had their health adversely affected by the accident. Nonetheless, the incident greatly eroded the public's faith in nuclear power. The unharmed Unit-1 reactor at Three Mile Island, which was shut down during the crisis, did not resume operation until 1985. Cleanup continued on Unit-2 until 1990, but it was too damaged to be rendered usable again. In the more than two decades since the accident at Three Mile Island, not a single new nuclear power plant has been ordered in the United States.

A Love Issue??

2010-03-23T22:57:00.002-05:00

Boy this one isn't popular...

Hook, Look, Book and Took

2010-02-10T21:34:00.001-06:00

I have heard about this from my in-laws, and found the article below and wanted to share it. Many of you that teach probably use this concept or parts of it.

Adult Sunday Morning Connecting Points
Teaching Aids
Hook, Look, Book and Took Teaching Method, by K.C. Winters

You turn to Philippians 4:10-13 and read these words from the NIV:

"I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength."

How do you teach this as a Bible lesson?

One of the most effective ways of creating and teaching lessons was taught to me in 15 minutes on the back of a paper napkin in a college cafeteria by my friend and mentor J.T. Walker. If you remember these four words you'll know how to turn this or any Scripture into a powerful message for whomever you're teaching: HOOK, LOOK, BOOK, and TOOK.

In teaching lessons most people start with the HOOK or introduction and try to come up with some great outline or illustration to hang the biblical text upon after a few readings of the Scripture. This is actually the backward way to begin a lesson, the first place to start is with the BOOK.

BOOK refers to the truths, content, and heart of what the passage is talking about. This is how the passage talks to you as you read it and understand it. What do you see God teaching you in these verses and sections? Don't worry about how you'll share that with other people yet, just what jumps out to you. This is where your own style of studying the Word comes in. Some like to use inductive Bible study; others just let the Spirit prompt and lead. Whatever your style, when you're done you have the meat of your lesson. In the lesson I generated I came up with two points: (1) Contentment is in Position and not Possession and (2) Contentment is in Perspective and not Possession. Then I boiled down my main points to a single sentence that people can walk away with and understand as the heart of the lesson: "True contentment is found in our position in Christ and our perspective on life rather than on our possessions in life."

Next comes the TOOK otherwise known as the application, something that the student takes away from our time together and applies to his/her real life situation in a measurable way. If I haven't challenged my learners to apply these Scriptures to their lives then I've failed at my job. God's Word is not just for fattening up our intellects, it is about putting it into practice in a meaningful way. I always try to make sure my TOOK (application) has both a "know" and a "do."

Third comes the LOOK. This is how I work to creatively engage the student as an "active learner" in the class. I try to avoid being a "talking head" or lecturer if I can and do whatever it takes to draw the class members into digging, commenting, doing, working, thinking and engaging in learning these principles themselves. Ideas for this include breaking into small groups to discuss ideas; having people read Scripture out loud, drawing posters as a group, writing out lists, asking the students opinions, videos, overheads, note taking, fill-in-the-blanks, singing, stories, lyrics, poetry, photos, history, etc. My hope and prayer is to teach them to dig in the word with me themselves for truth rather than spoon feed them the "correct answers." This is what Jesus always did with parables, object lessons, metaphors and examples to people he met along the way.

Last comes the HOOK, that introductory way of snagging the students attention from wherever their brain is when they enter the class to an interest in the subject we are discussing. Again this is where creativity comes in. A funny story, an article in the newspaper, getting a discussion on a controversial subject started, even a video snippet of current events or fun TV programs can get people focused where you want to lead them.

In the case of Philippians 4:10-13 I actually came up with the following:

Lesson Title: "Contentment is a Happy Meal?"

HOOK - McDonald's Happy Meal illustration: kids often find contentment in life in a Happy Meal (French fries and a plastic toy that's ignored in a few days). The world teaches us that happy meal items are what will make us happy. Transition to the reality that adults have their own versions of "Happy Meals" where they hunger after something for contentment. Discuss what things make up adult happy meals? On TV, advertisements, schools, etc.

LOOK - fill in the blank handouts, white board, small group discussions, class members reading specific Scriptures, several McDonald's Happy Meals and $5 gift certificates.

BOOK -- True contentment is found in our position in Christ and our perspective on life rather than on our possessions in life.

TOOK -
" KNOW(something to think about): You WILL be unhappy in life but you can always be content. Keep your eyes on Jesus and your contentment is assured.
" DO (something to act upon):
1. Make a list of the things which you currently believe you need to be happy/content to solve your problems. Do they provide real and lasting contentment?
2. Make a list of your position in God.

HOOK, LOOK, BOOK and TOOK will provide you a framework for solid biblical teaching. And you will find that no two lessons need look alike as you use your creativity to generate the LOOK and HOOK sections. I've been using this for nearly 20 years now as a spiritual tool to allow me to take what God has laid on my heart and convert it into a lesson that engages students as active participants in the learning process and not just bodies in the class seats. Hope you find it a blessing too.

The Balance Beam

2010-02-07T12:14:00.000-06:00

I saw this at church this morning before our couples bible class met, and wanted to share it.

Resentment versus Rejoicing

2010-02-06T11:48:00.004-06:00

It's funny how all of a sudden certain things just pop into your head. I was thinking about this video and wanted to share it. In my personal life if I am not careful, I can be resentful. Without joy a person will end up being a bitter old person, just complaining about their family, their job their church and the pastor. Everything stinks pretty much. John Maxwell words it this way,

"Here's an old story I used to tell in conferences. A grandfather was sleeping on the couch one day when his young grandchildren decided to play a trick on him. They went to the refrigerator and pulled out a bit of extra smelly Limburger cheese. They took the cheese and quietly rubbed a little into their grandpa's mustache. Then they hid around the corner to see what would happen.

After a few moments, the old man's nose began to twitch. Then his head started to toss. And finally Grandpa sat bolt upright on the couch with a sour look and said, 'Something in here stinks!'

He got up, shuffled into the kitchen, took a deep sniff, and said, 'It stinks in here too.'

At that point, he decided to go outside to get a breath of fresh air, but when he took a deep breath, there was the foul smell again. 'The whole world stinks!' he lamented.

The moral of the story? To a person with Limburger cheese under his nose, everything stinks! The good news for Grandpa is that he can remove the foul stuff from his mustache with soap and water, and things will seem sweet again. But a person who has foul stuff on the inside has a more difficult task. The only way to change how you view life is to change who you are on the inside."

-This is where we must be walking with Jesus Christ starting with a personal relationship with Him. Only then can our inside be cleaned and we begin to have joy on the outside.
"If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind." (Philippians 2:1-2)

24/7 Prayer

2010-01-10T20:41:00.002-06:00

I wanted to share something that we at SSBC have been doing this week. Part of our pastor's vision is to be a praying church. Not just have a general prayer list that sits all week in our Bible, but to truly pray as a church, praying 24 hours a day for 7 days. This was done by signing up to pray in one hour blocks. It was a great time of bearing others burdens and watching God work on hearts. It was great tonight to hear people give testimonies about how the prayer room changed their lifes and the direction of our church. The prayer room was such a great tool to help me learn how to pray, and what to pray for. There isn't anything "mystical" about that room, but there is something special about getting away from everything and opening up to God, and ask Him to lead your life, and work in your circumstances. Everything good thing that happens is truly of God. Could this be a taste of what the church in Acts looked like praying everyday?

Year in Review-2009

2009-12-26T10:53:00.005-06:00

There are still 4 days left in 2009, but I wanted to share some thoughts and news about 2009 for those that pray for Charity and me, and have an interest in us. First I would like to just say that 2009 was filled with a lot of trials, difficult struggles, and some blessings scattered around. This time a year ago Pleasant Grove Baptist Church voted 100% to call me as pastor. Without bad mouthing anyone or any organization there were several attacks against me and Charity, and work was done to tear down what God was doing. On the last day in April 2009 the "Chairman of the deacons" with the help of an outside organization, announced to the church his demand that I resign, but with no details as to why or a Biblical reason as to why. This caused trouble, so I resigned to avoid more trouble. So with that said Charity and I have joined another church in Springfield for now, and are praying and waiting concerning God's direction. That has included things from going to a church and being an assistant or administrative pastor to being the "lead" or "senior" pastor even to the possibility of starting a church somewhere. To be honest it has been tempting to give up, and "sit on the pew" and it has went so far that has been what I wanted. But God hasn't let me forget about His calling. The Bible still says "the harvest is plentiful but the labors are few." When God calls you it isn't easily forgotten. Now if God wants me to just help an SS class and teacher, and clean toilets thats fine. Or if He brings Charity and I to pastor and lead another ministry or go to the mission field thats fine too. But He called me to preach/vocational ministry so I am not giving up on that, right we aren't sure what will happen concerning that.

Also I had a close friend that went through some difficult situations on his life and its still not over yet. I won't give his name but I have been praying for him and trying to encourage him. So far its been great to see God's mercy and grace in his life. He has grown, and devoted himself more to living for God.

Charity has been blessed in her work as a nurse. She did home health for awhile, and worked part-time at the hospital on the cancer floor. Then around August she went back to the hospital working 12 hours on Saturday and Sunday. She has made a huge difference at her job with patients and co-workers. She has gotten letters of recognition by the administration of the hospital. Even though I am not "on staff" or "pastoring" she still has made some wonderful food, and helped out at baby showers and its been awesome to God using her. Probably she has more impact on peoples lives than I do.

Finally the last thing just happened a few months ago. I have worked for Securitas/Pinkerton and Burns since just after 9/11 with the exception of three months working as an intern in 2002. Since July 2008 I have been working as a supervisor with the rank of Sergeant on a Patrol done for City Utilities, and my boss had offered me the rank of Lieutenant. I turned it down for awhile thinking that someone else wanted it and would get it. However after a couple months I accepted this promotion. This has been a great opportunity for me and helps the resume as well. I don't talk a great deal about work, but I enjoy my job and the co-workers as well.

Thanks God for all you do for us and how you bless us. Thank you for the live and sacrifice of Jesus Christ without Him we couldn't pray and wouldn't have hope for this life. Take us and use us for your glory. Amen.

Me Church

2009-11-15T16:40:00.003-06:00

"The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed:
Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.
Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time." (I Peter 5:1-6)

"Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country."-John F. Kennedy

Submission? Serving others? This is a strange concept in 2009 isn't it? The answer is yes. No wonder the church is in trouble, and our nation is trouble as well. If we aren't careful we will get into an entitlement mentality that will cripple us and our ministries.

Sarcasm In the Church?

2009-09-26T22:07:00.002-05:00

Most of us have or do use sarcasm in daily life. A convicting thought came across my mind today and I wanted to share it. "Do my actions edify other believers?" As I read the article below it made me realize that my actions need some work so that I can be a blessing to others... The following article below is from the LifeWay website.

Sarcasm: The Verbal Enemy at the Gate

Written by Dale and Jena Forehand

The word sarcasm doesn’t sound too pleasant. It seems to leave a bad taste in your mouth when you say it, but even more so when you use it. The Greek form of this word, sarkasmos, means "to tear flesh, bite the lips in rage, sneer." And Webster’s dictionary defines sarcasm as "a sharp utterance designed to cut or give pain." Wow, all of that in one small word. Yet, from experience, we know that the emotional impact of sarcasm is far from small.

Divide and Conquer

Sarcasm is one of the most harmful verbal tactics used against a spouse. It destroys communication and unity in marriage. One of the oldest military strategies is to divide and conquer. Our enemy, Satan, still uses that tactic to destroy families. Satan first seeks to separate you and your spouse emotionally. Then he moves in and seeks to separate you and your spouse physically. When this occurs, he is in the perfect position to conquer your marriage. In the midst of conflict, the enemy begins outside the gate of your marriage, cunningly tempting you and your spouse to wage war through verbal attacks. And sarcasm often is Satan’s weapon of choice.

We’ve all used comments like, "Whatever" or "Oh yeah, I forgot. You’re perfect." And the list goes on. The following acrostic will help you understand why sarcastic remarks are so damaging to marriages. As you read, prayerfully consider how sarcasm shows up in your relationship with your spouse.

Stings. Sarcasm is much like a bee sting. When a bee stings, the direct hit of poison causes immediate pain and inflammation. Sarcasm does the same thing.

Sometimes, we use sarcasm to voice harsh words we otherwise would not say, often intentionally hurting others. Once the pain is inflicted, however, we retreat, saying, "Oh, I was just kidding." But the sting of our words hurts so much that those we have injured withdraw. Our words don’t feel like jokes at all.

Jesus’ words should be a warning to those of us who are tempted to use sarcasm as a weapon: "But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they
shall give account thereof in the day of judgment." (Matthew 12:36).

Aggravates. Do you want to make an already bad situation even worse? Then use sarcasm. Sarcasm will aggravate rather than improve any situation. Just as a child continues to scratch an insect bite, further irritating the area and causing infection, the use of sarcasm can take a small disagreement and turn it into a verbal war with emotional casualties.

In Paul’s letter to Titus, he said we are to live "Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world" (2:12). Sarcasm is not evidence of a self-controlled or godly life.

Retaliates. Often the motivation for sarcasm is retaliation: "You hurt me, so I’ll hurt you." When this occurs, the conflict usually escalates to a game of verbal one-upmanship. The enemy wants you to recall every single argument or unkind word your spouse has ever spoken. In response, your words often drip with sarcasm as you exhume and relive past hurts and pains again and again.

In Luke 6:37, Jesus admonished His followers to "forgive, and ye shall be forgiven" Forgiveness means letting go of past hurts rather than holding on to them and attacking your spouse with reminders of them.

Controls. Sarcasm can be used to control a conversation. The more sarcastic a person becomes, the more control he or she has over the conversation. The other party will often yield territory or end the conversation just to escape the verbal darts.

Jesus said that "for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh." (Matthew 12:34). What are your words saying about your heart?

Alienates. Sarcasm alienates and often humiliates the other person. Some people seem to think if they can get the first verbal shot in during a disagreement, their spouses will retreat. In the process of trying to protect themselves with sarcasm, they damage their partners in ways that are often irreparable.

James 1:19 reminds believers that we should be "quick to listen" and "slow to speak." Instead of trying to get the first verbal shot in, listen to your spouse and really seek to understand his or her point of view.

Shames. Sarcastic remarks usually seem like no big deal to the person who makes them. But to the recipient, those words make lasting impressions that scar to the very core of the heart.

Many times, sarcasm shames a person, causing her to feel belittled and unworthy. When shame takes root in the heart, it can cause disastrous behavior, because the person now feels worthless and seeks desperately to find anything that will make her feel otherwise. Shaming a spouse is a serious offense with serious consequences. Jesus said, "For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou
shalt be condemned." (Matthew 12:37).

Manipulates. Often, self-centeredness motivates a person to use sarcasm. A person seeking to have his own needs for approval, affirmation, and value met by a spouse may use sarcasm to convey that those needs are not being met to his satisfaction. In contrast, Philippians 2:3-4 says, "Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others."

It is foolish to think sarcasm is going to draw your spouse to you. Sarcasm destroys intimacy, but putting your spouse’s needs first is a sure way to build intimacy.

Lay It Down

If we know the enemy uses sarcasm to tear down marriages, then what can we do about it? We need to lay down the weapons of our enemy and pick up the weapon God has given us through His Word. Colossians 3:12-17 provides the perfect answer:

"Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of
mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him."

The apostle Paul made it very clear that we are to put on the heart of Christ. This involves a daily dying to self – putting off self to make room for putting on Christ. He calls us to forgive one another. If you have used sarcasm in your relationship, you need to ask your partner’s forgiveness. Then, seek the love of Christ as your sole motivation and focus, so you and your spouse can live in perfect unity. The love of Christ is the glue that bonds Christians together perfectly. And the peace of God is what should control us.

Are your words controlled by a desire to seek peace and unity, or are they driven by your fleshly desire to sting, aggravate, retaliate, control, alienate, shame, and manipulate through sarcasm?

The enemy is camping out at the gate of your marriage. He is lurking about, seeking to find that one open crevice where he can enter. If he has been entering in and camping out in your home through the use of sarcasm, it is time to cast this verbal enemy out and lock the gate behind him. Die to yourself; fill your heart and mind with the words of Christ; and allow His love, peace, and compassion to be the source of every word that proceeds from your mouth.

Dale and Jena Forehand lead Fall Festival of Marriage workshops and other conferences. For booking information, write to Stained Glass Ministries, P.O. Box 382303, Birmingham, AL 35238; call (205) 408-5696.

Remember When....

2009-09-11T20:38:00.005-05:00

Today while celebrating Charity's b-day in Branson we attended a show where at the end the "moderator" talked about how faith and freedom go hand and hand. Then the performers sang "Battle hymn of the Republic" and pictures of soldiers flashed on the screen along with a few pictures of the Bible and a few of Christ. That was an awesome to see how receptive people were to viewing this after a Branson show.

While the group sang my mind wondered back to the events of 9-11-01. At the time of the attacks that day I sat in a class called "College Life" on the campus of Heartland Baptist Bible College in Oklahoma City, OK, beginning to prepare for a life of being in the ministry. None of it seemed real as classes ended that day. Gas price gouging began, the mall closed in the middle of the day, and most people were glued to the continuous news reports over tv and radio. The following Sunday churches filled with people looking for comfort and the presence of God. While we think things have changed, at the same time this is nothing new throughout history.

"Thank you Lord for the men and women that defend this nation, its freedoms and privileges that many of us enjoy. Because of their efforts God is freely praised and the gospel of Christ is preached freely and openly. May this nation move closer to you through the Lord Jesus Christ. Help us remain true and faithful to you when persecution comes. Guide us and direct us in your will. AMEN."

Firing a Coach in Preseason????

2009-09-01T23:40:00.004-05:00

Never heard of this before. Watch as Len Dawson tries to explain.

UNCONDITIONAL LOVE---A MOTIVATING STORY

2009-08-10T19:54:00.003-05:00

Found this during my study and thought I would share it.

A story is told about a soldier who was finally coming home after having fought in Vietnam. He called his parents from San Francisco. "Mom and Dad, I'm coming home, but I've a favor to ask. I have a friend I'd like to bring home with me." "Sure," they replied, "we'd love to meet him." "There's something you should know the son continued, "he was hurt pretty badly in the fighting. He stepped on a land mind and lost an arm and a leg. He has nowhere else to go, and I want him to come live with us." "I'm sorry to hear that, son. Maybe we can help him find somewhere to live." "No, Mom and Dad, I want him to live with us." "Son," said the father, "you don't know what you're asking. Someone with such a handicap would be a terrible burden on us. We have our own lives to live, and we can't let something like this interfere with our lives. I think you should just come home and forget about this guy. He'll find a way to live on his own."

At that point, the son hung up the phone. The parents heard nothing more from him. A few days later, however, they received a call from the San Francisco police. Their son had died after falling from a building, they were told. The police believed it was suicide. The grief-stricken parents flew to San Francisco and were taken to the city morgue to identify the body of their son. They recognized him, but to their horror they also discovered something they didn't know, their son had only one arm and one leg.

The parents in this story are like many of us. We find it easy to love those who are good-looking or fun to have around, but we don't like people who inconvenience us or make us feel uncomfortable.

Serving God

2009-07-12T19:51:00.003-05:00

Today Charity and I visited South Side Baptist Church in Springfield, MO. We are currently praying about the next step God wants us to take concerning ministry. We were privileged to hear missionary Mike Napper speak this morning about "the woman at the well". Bro. Napper shared his testimony and vision for missions in Burkina Faso. It was a powerful message that convicted and encouraged us.

Firing the pastor?

2009-06-20T10:58:00.002-05:00

I came across this article and found it interesting and thought I would share it. Until I moved to Missouri I never heard of "firing the pastor". I have heard of pastors stepping down due to sin but there was hurt on both the pastor and the church not hate or bitterness.

Heres the article...
It was to have been a prayer service and routine business meeting at the church in North Carolina where John (not his real name) served as pastor. But no sooner had the business meeting been called to order than a member of the congregation asked the pastor and his wife to leave the sanctuary while a sensitive matter was discussed.
Two hours later, John was informed that his tenure as pastor had been terminated, effective immediately. No charges had been brought against John's character or doctrine, but he was not to go on the church property unless accompanied by one of the trustees. He would be given one month's salary. The action by which John was terminated ignored the church's constitution and bylaws.
Mark (Not his real name) endured the trauma of a volatile quarterly business meeting which focused on his effectiveness as pastor of the Virginia church he had served for five years. He and his wife were asked to leave the meeting and they waited in his study for two hours without an opportunity to respond to any statements made against his ministry.
Although he was not fired that night. Mark was told to look for another position immediately. The opposition, though a minority, let him know they would not give him long. The future of his ministry was thrust into uncertainty.
~~~
In an ideal world, the 'marriage' of church and pastor ought to be 'for better and for worse, for richer and for poorer'. But we do not live in an ideal world. Sometimes divorce is the only option when this important relationship breaks down.
Today, it's both easier and harder to be a pastor - and indeed any sort of church leader. It is easier for pastors because there are so many resources available to help him/her do a professional job. (See for example, 'The Professional Pastor' in Paul Beasley-Murray's 'A Call to Excellence' , Hodder & Stoughton, 1995). But it's harder for both pastors and church leaders primarily because churches are becoming more specific in their performance-expectations of their pastor, and more likely to initiate a termination if the pastor doesn't meet those expectations. In a world of 'performance standards' or even 'downsizing', executives these days are disposable.
The key question we want to look at here is not whether that ought or ought not to happen, but _how_, given that the church is, theoretically, a Christian not-for-profit organization of volunteers. These factors add dimensions which make the whole issue very complex.
Of course, it's very painful for both church and pastor - and the pastor's family - when a pastor is 'fired', or 'let go'. No one wins when a church feels forced to terminate the services of a minister or staff member. In many instances, not all church members favor the action or the process and tempers flare and often times a church split results. If forced terminations become the "norm" for a church, there is negative witness in the community, and sometimes that church gets a 'name' for crucifying its pastors. Pastoral associations have been known to formally or informally 'black-list' a church that gets this kind of reputation, and that church may find it difficult to find a suitable pastor.
~~~
But first, consider these:
* 'Last year (1999) 72,000 pastors and clergy were fired across America. For reasons that were partially their fault, for reasons that were not their fault, some for reasons no one knows but God Himself. Nevertheless, they and their families were fired, force terminated, pushed out into the streets' (http://www.thecents.org/ )
~~~
* 'A 1984 study on forced terminations in the Southern Baptist Convention indicated 1,056 pastors were terminated annually. Among causes cited in that study were lack of unity and the presence of factions in the church, conflict over leadership styles, relational incompetence and tenure. Four years later, the survey was repeated, and forced termination totals had increased to 1,392 pastors annually. Primary reasons included lack of communication, problems related to immorality and unethical conduct, performance dissatisfaction, authoritarian leadership style, power struggles and personality conflicts.
'(But by 1999) forced terminations among Southern Baptist pastors and other full-time church staff appear to have leveled off, results of an annual survey of state Baptist conventions indicates.
'The survey, coordinated by the LeaderCare ministry of LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention, shows the total number of forced terminations reported by 22 state convention church-minister relations directors has dipped to 987 in 2000. The 1999 total, which also reported on full-time pastors, bivocational pastors and full-time staff, was 1,077 in 26 state conventions.
'The 1999 survey found once again the most common causes for firings cited by directors of missions in reports to state convention church-minister relations directors were:
control issues regarding who will run the church, poor people skills of the pastor, pastoral leadership style perceived as too strong, the church's resistance to change and the church was already conflicted when the pastor arrived.'
(http://www.lifeway.com/about_pr0801l.asp )

Church Planting

2009-06-09T22:33:00.004-05:00

http://www.truveo.com/Church-Planting-Part-I/id/4217260869

A Thief at church???

2009-06-05T21:02:00.004-05:00

...WARNING VENTING AHEAD...
I read the blog of my home pastor, Pastor Mark Doss, this evening and learned that a thief had stolen 200 dollars from his wife's purse during VBS! Honestly I have some other words that come to mind, but for sake of personal testimony they will not be shared on this blog. It bothered me to hear of this event taking place. I am in ministry today because of the care, and the preaching of Pastor Mark. He taught me that ministry is about sacrifice and about people, mainly reaching souls. Not building a big church then preaching at a Bible College chapel service, or in a convention conference, or being the key note speaker at a fellowship meeting or getting any other kind of "attention". Pastor Mark isn't part of "the good old boy system" he is a man of God! Whoever stole from the purse doesn't how good they really have it having him for their pastor. I don't tell him and his family enough how thankful I am to them for their prayers and ministry to me over the past 10 years or so. This letter reminded me how much they have sacrificed for me and the community of Topeka, Kansas. If you are reading this thank you Pastor Mark and Mrs. Karen for investing in me, God greatly used you both to get me to where I am at. I am praying for the one who has sinned against you that they repent and ask you and God for forgiveness.

Pragmatism 101

2009-06-02T15:50:00.000-05:00

I saw this video and was reminded of what I have been reading on another pastor's blog about how church is being done in the time in which we live...

A New Opportunity

2009-05-16T11:43:00.002-05:00

I have prayed and took my time before sharing and posting this post. As of April 29, 2009 I am no longer the pastor of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church. As difficult as this was and still is in some aspects God has a plan and purpose for all things that happen not just for us but for others as well (Romans 8:28). Lord willing myself and a group of believers are praying and planning starting a church in the Rogersville/Webster county area (Unless God puts on the brakes). This is an exciting and encouraging time please pray for us.

Different Churches

2009-05-12T00:08:00.001-05:00

Sunday Report

2009-04-13T18:00:00.002-05:00

-This Sunday was special as we remembered it as "Resurrection Sunday"
-Learned about the "Journey to Calvary" that Jesus took for us.
-The worship was amazing Sunday morning, as we had some guest that "filled in" in some places.
-The presence of God was strong.
-Sunday evening was good as we took requests for songs.
-We continued in the book of Acts looking at "How to Handle a Miracle"
-Peter deflected the praise to God and explained it wasn't Peter but God that has the power.
-He used the event to share the gospel.
-God has been speaking to hearts, and greatly used the revival meetings we just had.

Spring Revival Meetings

2009-03-25T23:17:00.004-05:00

Tonight was our last night of the preaching portion of the revival meeting. Tomorrow we will have prayer, then Sunday morning we will look at the "Revived Promise". Pastor Kevin did an outstanding job. We had different people there each night. Had everyone all shown up on the same night, the seating would become difficult. Each sermon was dynamic in expressing the importance of the shed blood of Jesus Christ for changed lives. Pastor Kevin expressed his personal testimony a few times about how Jesus alone changed him and his family. Also another aspect was the health of the church, and how relationships between all the saints of God must be nurtured. The illustrations ran from every level of leadership, down to brothers and sisters in Christ. It was a thrill to see our 2 hour prayer meeting, then to jump into the great preaching. The messages Pastor Kevin brought were as follows: "The Vitals of the Church"-Acts 1-2, "Why We Do What We Do"-Colossians 1, "Whos in the Church Today"-John 8:1-11, "Not My Well, but Thy Well Be Dug"-Genesis 26:1-22

feel free to listen to the messages on pleasantgrovebc.net

Sunday Report

2009-03-22T23:56:00.002-05:00

-This mornings crowd was hungry for revival.
-Enjoyed the two hours of prayer the previous night.
-Our service was blessed with two wonderful specials before the sermon.
-Looked at the "sacred cows" of our lives, similar to the one in Exodus 32:1-6
-Learned how destructive the "sacred cows" can be when not dealt with.
-It was a great service to kick off the revival meeting.
-Another area church joined us for the evening service and provided two specials.
-Pastor Kevin Baker preached from Acts 1-2 on "The Vitals of the Church"
-It was a blessing to see him and fellowship with him briefly before the service.
-The preaching was right on.
-We learned that the church needs...
-Prayer, Preaching, and Participation.
-Good service, and the revival meetings are off to a great start!

The Sunday Report

2009-03-15T22:54:00.002-05:00

-It was a blessing to enjoy the warm weather and the sun still being up after church.
-We learned about some characteristics out of I Thessalonians about a church that is alive.
-It was nice to have the freedom to preach this morning, haven't felt that good in sometime.
-Many people were very encouraging after the service.
-The worship in the evening service was amazing! It was simple and yet so moving.
-We sang songs that we haven't sang in sometime.
-We learned that God was the power source for the early church in Acts 3:1-11
-Peter and John began praying for God's power.
-The fellowship after the evening service was a blessing.

A Preacher's Reaction

2009-03-14T11:24:00.003-05:00

I came across this video of Evangelist Jamey Ragle. He is a good preacher and I enjoy his humor. In this clip it was kind of convicting on how we all as preachers and first of all as Christians respond or rather react. Sometimes as preachers it is easy to react to others. Honestly I struggle with issue. Criticism with a solution is always nicer and better take, but we don't always get that luxury. I watched Jamey Ragle and laughed, so I hope you can enjoy it and maybe even laugh at yourself. While at the same time pray and read scriptures that will help your heart to respond with love, and not anger or bitterness.

Revival Meetings

2009-03-13T17:25:00.008-05:00

Coming up soon is our revival meetings. Starting on Sunday March 22 at 6pm. Then Monday through Wednesday March 22-25 at 7pm. Our speaker will Kevin Baker, Pastor of West Finley Baptist Church. Please pray for those meetings, all are welcome to attend and be our guests.

click below for directions
http://www.pleasantgrovebc.net/default.asp?page=31794

The Sunday Report

2009-03-08T20:24:00.002-05:00

-It was a blessing to not have to worry about ice and snow!
-We were privileged to have a few guests in the AM service.
-Loved using the new wireless mic, but it kept shutting off :(
-The choir stepped up in leading the worship.
-Learned that Joseph dealt with his hurts (Genesis 50)
-We all have been hurt, but its all about how we respond.
-The evening service was a blessing, with good attendance, and the sun shining.
-Replaced the batteries in the wireless mic, that seemed to do wonders!
-Learned that we must continue in ministry (Acts 2:42-47)
-Doctrine, Devotion, and Dedication are the keys of the early church continuing and not just holding on til the rapture.
-Everyone was plugged in and joyful.
-Several families need prayer, Jim Myers our deacon, has recently had a death in the family, and several others are sick.

The Sunday Report

2009-02-24T18:36:00.003-06:00

...Enjoyed the choir singing before the sermon.
...The worship was encouraging
...Looked at God's people being revived in Nehemiah 8
...The word of God is the refreshing source
...Learned that Ezra used a pulpit
...The meal after the service was good, and all seemed to enjoy it! :)
...It was a blessing hosting area pastors, and church members for our afternoon service
...The Dean Family blessed us with their testimony and music
...It was a blessing to preach from Philippians 1:27 (but was a little nervous)
...Was reminded of the importance of "Striving Together: in Southwest Missouri"
...Our church had a sweet spirit that day, while encouraging and ministering to others that day

The Dangers Of Pragmatism (Part 3) - John MacArthur

2009-02-22T00:00:00.000-06:00

Part 3 final.....

The Dangers Of Pragmatism (Part 2) - John MacArthur

2009-02-21T00:00:00.000-06:00

Part 2...

The Dangers Of Pragmatism (Part 1) - John MacArthur

2009-02-20T18:44:00.002-06:00

I found this video awhile back, and while studying recently it came to mind. This is part 1. Over the next few days I will post part 2 and 3.

Funeral.

2009-02-11T16:44:00.002-06:00

On Monday my granddad passed away. Pray for Charity and me, as I am officating the service.

Wayne Hall granddad is on the right

Wayne Hall, 74, of Topeka, passed away, Monday, February 9, 2009. He was born October 7, 1934 in Decatur, IL. Wayne married Mary Scott June 26, 1955. She survives. Other survivors include two sons, W. Anthony and Russell Hall; one daughter, Annette Voigt; and two grandchildren, Josh and Tabatha Hall. Graveside services will be held 11:00 a.m., Friday, February 13, 2009 at the Mt. Hope Cemetery. The family suggests no flowers. To leave a message for the family, visit www.PenwellGabel.com . Penwell-Gabel Mid Town chapel is assisting with arrangements.

the link below is where to make comments.
http://www.newcomernet.com/obituaries/ObitMsgView2.asp?ObitID=31510&EMSessionID=-1&Source=choice

Ice storm Memories

2009-01-28T17:15:00.001-06:00

As we were spared from a devastating ice storm that hit far southern Missouri and Northern Arkansas I was reminded of the ice storm of January 2007 and how everyones life was effected during that time....

Crazy Coaches

2009-01-22T13:04:00.003-06:00

With the Superbowl approaching with the Arizona Cardinals and Pittsburgh Steelers, I remembered how several coaches over the years had acted on television. Above is a video collection of several coaches.

Evangelism Linebacker

2009-01-14T17:22:00.001-06:00

Tonight at church we are starting a study on Soul-winning, and evangelism. I remembered this video and thought it would be fun to share.

Jesus Hold My Hand

2009-01-10T17:00:00.003-06:00

This is a great congregational song that I found on youtube. It is a great song about the Christian life. It was sung at the 2006 Spiritual Leadership conference, and I was privileged to be able to participate worshiping in song. I can still remember Dr. Gibbs getting up there in the middle of the hymn and giving a speech about singing "Southern". It was funny, and hope you will enjoy it as well.

A Christmas Story

2009-01-07T17:13:00.004-06:00

Here is a story that I was privileged to be a part of. It is a joy to help people, and things turn wonderful!

Security guard aids in capture of Gus (courtesy of the Springfield News-Leader)

A security guard named Josh who patrols the Fellows Lake area was very helpful when our dog got loose on a cold and rainy Saturday night. Gus Bassett seems to plan his escapes during the most inclement weather possible as he must assume it will be more difficult for us to catch him if we are cold and miserable.

Josh came by as I was waiting for my friend Anne to get back to the escape scene with a warm coat and dry boots as we were preparing for a long night of dog search and rescue. I got thawed out in the cab of Josh's truck as we waited for my dry stuff to get back to the search area.

While we were waiting in the truck Josh looked over to the side and said, "Is that your dog?" I jumped out and grabbed Gus before I'd seen him as I was certain no other dog would be out in that weather.

At that moment Anne arrived with warm and dry stuff for me to wear and a flask of hot chocolate. I collected Gus and shoved him into the car as we thanked Josh for his help and our Christmas story for this year ended with Gus having a good time, me having a miserable time and Josh being very helpful. It was good to have Gus the Escaper back in custody although even now he's probably planning his next caper.

Tom Moulder Springfield

The New Year, New Theme

2009-01-06T17:19:00.006-06:00

At our church the theme for 2009 is "Magnify the Lord Together" based from Psalms 34:3. Sometimes it can seem like anything but the Lord is magnified. After prayer and Bible study it has become a goal for our church to magnify the Lord in every area of our life.

In 2009 its seems like everything but the Lord is magnified. We see celebrities, and personalities that are magnified or brought to our attention above the Lord.
Not only is the Lord not magnified, but division and strife is all around us. Families are divided, marriages more than ever are being attacked and split apart. We are not just commanded to magnify the Lord but to magnify and exalt His name together. A verse that I have already quoted many times from the pulpit is Philippians 1:27 which states "Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel." God desires not only to be magnified and praised but that we work together for "the faith of the gospel". This means putting aside our pride, and our preferences in order to move ahead for God.

So...Funny Story!

2008-12-28T01:17:00.003-06:00

Tonight at work I request that one of our other patrol officers check on a certain individual. As the patrol officer and I talked and discussed the situation, he told me that he would introduce himself to this individual then say "Your future is in my hands". You're all thinking what does that mean? Well it means that if that individual does something outlandish it will be documented. Then we talked about leadership, and this one thought came to mind. "Those who seek leadership pridefully, or foolishly or are unprepared aren't ready to lead, leadership is thrusted upon those who are quietly doing what they are supposed to do or called to do in life."

Crazinesss!

2008-12-22T23:52:00.003-06:00

This is a story from my work site. (courtesy of the Springfield news-leader)

Springfield firefighters pulled a 1996 Ford van out of the east side of Fellows Lake Wednesday afternoon.
Advertisement

The teal-colored van was reported stolen in February, said Lt. Ben King of the Springfield Police Department.

City Utilities spokesman Joel Alexander said CU had several instances when people who stole cars would deposit them in McDaniel Lake, but it is less common at Fellows Lake, which is more remote. About a year and a half ago the utility put up several barriers to make leaving a car in McDaniel difficult.

Alexander said the last time a vehicle ended up in Fellows Lake was probably about two years ago, and it was an accident. Someone had left a truck in gear and it rolled into the lake.

Jim Carter, who runs the marina at Fellows Lake, said he saw the top of the van sticking out of the water four or five days ago and Tuesday reported it to lake security guards. The water level of the lake is much lower than it has been in recent months, he said.

Crews from City Utilities were on hand to place booms in the area of the vehicle to soak up any gas, oil, or other fluids that may have leaked out into the lake.

"This being a drinking water supply for the city of Springfield we want to make sure that no problems come from a leaky fuel tank, oil spill or anything," said Alexander.

New Ministry

2008-12-14T15:08:00.003-06:00

After the morning services today at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, the church met and voted to call me as pastor. Charity summed it up best when she said "I have enough sense to be scared, but enough faith to be excited." Pray for us during this time of transition. I appreciate those who have been patient and prayed about this issue.

Wisdom of the Ozarks

2008-12-11T14:59:00.003-06:00

I have decided to post some postings from Josh Ts blog. Lately I haven't had anything entertaining or enlightening to post. So I figure theres nothing new under the sun, and we all really have no pride, and use ideas and thoughts from others. :)

Police/Fire Fighters Pention Fund and Stray Cats

So I was listening to KTTS on Sunday Morning there call in show Cracker Barrell. Some of the people were talking about the Underfunded Springfield Police and Fire Fighters pention fund, and some of the callers were griping about people dumping off animals and such. So I got to thinking on how to solve two of Springfields biggest problems, and without raising the citizens of Springfields Taxes.

First lets look at the problem of the over popultated animals. The Stray cats, and dogs, turn them loose from the Humane society as it is full. Let the cats, and dogs over populate for the next 6 months on the streets. Then this is where we kill both problems, charge a hunting license to people so they can hunt the stray cats and dogs. Have a two week Archery hunting season, have the citizens keep there legit pets inside or in there yard and what have you. The money made from the hunting season would go to fix our Police and Fire Fighters pension fund. And the stray animals would be taken care of as well. As far as what to do with the dead dogs and cats, just take them to the local Chineese Resteraunts they'll take care of the rest.

Myspace Profile Religion Choices

Am I the only one who finds it a bit flusterating that for a myspace profile when you choose your religion instead of being able to just put down Christian, it is Christian-Other. What does that mean? I mean to me your either a Christian or your not. I don't think it is a multiple choice question here. I am a Christian, what does the other mean? Why can't they just have it where you can be proud to be a Christian on myspace instead of trying to sugar coat it by calling it Christian-Other? Further, why not let people actually type what there Faith is. I personally attend a Southern Baptist Church. I was raised Strict Fundamentalist but as I got older I moved on over to the Southern Side of Baptist. Instead of me having to put Christian-Other on my profile, I ought to be allowed to put Christian-Southern Baptist, or Christian-Fundamental Baptist Turned Southern Baptist, or even Christian-Back Row Baptist if I choose so.

Rogersville, Missouri and decisions.......

2008-11-20T00:18:00.003-06:00

This is a video I made for one of Charity's classes and decided to post it. Also pray for us as we are seeking God's will concerning a few situations...Will update on that later.

Memorial Day trip

2008-10-28T00:27:00.001-05:00

Watch memorial2.wmv in Travel Videos | View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

This is a video from this years memorial day weekend. It would have been up sooner but it took forever getting the video compressed. The trip was fun, and was a nice time to get away for a day.

Josh T. talks about slobs

2008-10-21T14:14:00.000-05:00

Josh T. returns again with more commentary...

Ministry in the rural community

2008-10-21T01:38:00.004-05:00

Recently a close friend of mine and his family have taken a pastorate in Fordland, MO a rural community near Springfield, MO. I used to say "I won't go minister in a town less than the 50,000-100,000 range." That is putting God in a box, and possibly putting the brakes on a possible revival in the bigger cities. How? One might ask. Perhaps revival in past years has started in rural, or smaller communities and spread to the cities. This whole thought came to mind as I remembered what former Springfield Mayor Otis Barbarick said about Baptist Bible College in 1950 when the school opened. "This college will be a great benefit to the small churches and sunday schools in our surrounding rural areas which are now decaying." Sound familar at all? Something to think about.

Josh T. makes fun of Davey...A Classic...

2008-10-15T14:18:00.002-05:00

I thought of this video recently, and remembered how funny it was. Most of you will think Josh T. is hilarious but what gets me rolling is hearing Cindy say "You're on video don't do that!"

Football Follies

2008-10-13T11:32:00.002-05:00

I remember watching this film in a PE class in public school. It was in grade school maybe 4th or 5th grade.

God at work in Hollywood?

2008-10-07T14:50:00.003-05:00

Last night my wife and I had the opportunity to watch "Fireproof" starring Kirk Cameron, known as Mike Seaver on Growing Pains. As we watched the movie and saw how that Christ was presented in the movie, it caused me to think back to some of the pastors I had early in my life and a few I heard while I was a freshman and sophomore in college. Most were extremely negative about Hollywood, and painted a picture that God was nowhere near southern California, and rightfully so when you see actors and actresses get on television as activists for liberal, anti-God agendas. However God is at work in Hollywood, and Kirk Cameron is an example of that. When seeing his movies like "Fireproof" and shows like "Way of the Master". God definitely has control of Kirk's life and is using him to share Christ with the lost. We might not all be "famous" but God can use you to influence others and spread the gospel. Now is the time to pray for Hollywood, and that it turn to God. While praying for Hollywood pray for your community, and ask God to bring revival, and His spirit into peoples lives...

Truth about Sin

2008-10-06T13:18:00.002-05:00

We all need a reminder sometimes about sin. Many Christians or church members go on without any thought of sin in their lives and how it should be addressed. Dr. John MacArthur discusses the importance of recognizing sin, and addressing it. If a Christian or non-believer goes on thinking "they're ok" it will drive a wedge into their relationship with the Lord.

The Firefighter.....

2008-09-30T22:05:00.002-05:00

PART ONE

PART TWO

PART THREE

This particular episode was life changing to me. Instead of looking as evangelism and visitation as just a "church staff" duty, it is a great responsibility to give the gospel. That can be by inviting people to church, or living it by unconditional love, or by using scripture and giving a clear plan for salvation. (II Corinthians 4:3) "But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost". So even by leaving a tract on a persons door, we are doing them a favor. Ask God to give you a passion and love for those that are not saved. True Christians are easy to love...well sometimes. Anyway it is only by the grace of God that we can truly love and care for unsaved people.

Broadway 50th-reposting....

2008-09-23T21:35:00.002-05:00

This is a repost of a video I made about my churches 50th anniversary. Alot of churches 50th anniversary is just looking back at "glory days" or better days. I am thankful to be part of a church that has a great past of standing for the truth and is also looking ahead to the future and expecting God to bring revival to Springfield, Missouri.

A morning scare, and Josh T's place

2008-09-15T10:24:00.002-05:00

Yesterday morning I woke up at my usual time on Sunday mornings, with chestpains and an upset stomach feeling. Fearing a heart attack I debated going to ER, and ended up not doing so. I missed church, however did go to work but didn't push myself hard, and fortunately because of the rain/cool weather there weren't too many problems. Normally this blog isn't for "Josh updates" but for useful information, and random fun. So to keep things in a positive perspective I have posted a video above about Josh T's home out in the Marshfield/Seymour area. Enjoy and get ready to laugh.

Vacation...re-posted

2008-09-09T23:14:00.001-05:00

This is another re-post of some videos that weren't working right. I have a lot of great memories from this trip. The landscape was beautiful.

Hunting in the Ozarks

2008-09-08T22:15:00.002-05:00

Back in April I originally posted this video but it won't work now. It is hilarious to watch Davey and Josh Thomas go after "the elusive buck" in this short documentary of "Hunting in the Ozarks".

Video about envy...

2008-09-06T15:12:00.001-05:00

I came across this video made someone I went to BBC with. It is funny to watch this, and wonder if this really goes on with church staff members...?

Sacred Cow video number three...

2008-08-21T12:07:00.002-05:00

God had given us many resources to use. The Old Ford "Model T" car was considered to be a very reliable car with a fuel economy of between 21-25 MPG. It was produced between 1908-1927. However we don't see those around anymore. Now God's word hasn't changed nor should we change it or its message either. Something we should consider is that the message doesn't change, but what we use to get it to others needs to be strategically thought out. Always remember though in getting the gospel truth to others not to be "pragmatic" meaning doing something just solely because "it works" even if it is contrary to God's Word. While there are many truths to consider, God has given the chance to give ministry creativity, and a fresh perspective.

Chad Vader: Night Shift Manager

2008-08-20T00:01:00.001-05:00

I thought this was hilarious. Rated PG-13 for language used by "Clint-day manager". Enjoy. Thursday will have another "sacred cow" video posted.

Sacred Cow video number two...

2008-08-19T15:13:00.003-05:00

When we aren't willing to change at all as Christians we walk on dangerous ground. If our ideas or opinions aren't in line with the scriptures we need to rethink them or get rid of them completely. Christians should be about change, change that is going to grow them closer to Christ.

As I heard a sermon last night at a revival meeting, it was clear that as Moses was about to lead God's people out of slavery from Egypt, Pharaoh needed to change but refused to. The preacher explained how misguided conceptions influence us. As I heard the sermon it struck me how when our concepts of God aren't correct we can't change. Change isn't bad unless God's truth, and the person of Christ is changed.

Sacred Cow video number one....

2008-08-15T01:16:00.002-05:00

While I may not agree entirely with how much change some make to be relevant, there is still a lesson to learn and that is we must be willing to change to conform to what Christ wants us to be. That means changing our ideas and thoughts if they aren't supported with scripture. We need to kick out the "sacred cows" in our lives.

Are you ready?

2008-08-12T11:16:00.001-05:00

There is some intense stuff going on in the world today. It will only increase. However God is still in control. The next question is does He have control of you? Have you surrendered to Him....

Yoda and Wisdom

2008-07-15T21:16:00.002-05:00

My wife and I watched the empire strikes back, a few nights ago. I really enjoy the voice and words of Yoda. I am not saying that Yoda is "theologically correct" only entertaining.

Wedding photos

2008-06-30T17:39:00.002-05:00

Wedding photos have posted on facebook and myspace.

Using your head

2008-06-24T15:22:00.001-05:00

Saw this video and remembered how funny it was. Even "all-stars" make mistakes too.

Revival

2008-06-13T22:10:00.002-05:00

Finally! I am back now after a wedding, and just a time of "laziness". On top of all that I have been blessed with the opportunity to work as an armed security officer with Loomis starting Monday. While studying for a sermon I thought about this video that is posted and how God has done great things but we can't stare into the past anymore than we can drive a car in reverse and not look in the rear view mirror and expect to go anywhere. Theres so much ministry to be done and its all ahead of us. That is exciting to think about! The statistics are convicting....

NOTE: Those of you from Topeka will see TBC featured in this video, as God has, is, and will do great things there!

Josh Thomas Speaks

2008-05-26T21:20:00.000-05:00

Josh Thomas gives his opinion of me in this video.

Evangelism Linebacker

2008-05-21T19:34:00.001-05:00

I thought this was funny. Hmm...What would it be like if the holy spirit worked in our lives the same that this linebacker does in the video?

Drive Thru Church

2008-05-19T17:15:00.002-05:00

Last week my good friend Loren posted a video called "Me|Church". It inspired me to search out similar videos. As a result I came across this one, courtesy of Brad in WY. It is hilarious and yet sounds similar to what I have seen over the years...

Tornado

2008-05-12T17:07:00.002-05:00

Over the weekend the Springfield/Ozarks region experienced severe weather and tornadoes. Here in Springfield we had mostly wind, and heavy rain. However surrounding areas had multiple tornadoes touch down. This video is about tornado safety. It was made in 1967 so it may seem "outdated" but it is interesting.

Servant Leadership

2008-05-06T22:39:00.005-05:00

I had recently been doing some studying on Servant leadership and found these statements on the subject. Jesus practiced servant leadership in His earthly ministry.

"The servant-leader is servant first… It begins with the natural feeling that one wants to serve, to serve first. Then conscious choice brings one to aspire to lead. That person is sharply different from one who is leader first, perhaps because of the need to assuage an unusual power drive or to acquire material possessions…The leader-first and the servant-first are two extreme types. Between them there are shadings and blends that are part of the infinite variety of human nature."

"The difference manifests itself in the care taken by the servant-first to make sure that other people’s highest priority needs are being served. The best test, and difficult to administer, is: Do those served grow as persons? Do they, while being served, become healthier, wiser, freer, more autonomous, more likely themselves to become servants? And, what is the effect on the least privileged in society? Will they benefit or at least not be further deprived?"

Bad Traffic

2008-05-02T16:51:00.004-05:00

I found this picture as I was organizing stuff on the laptop. Would anyone enjoy driving through this? Trust me this traffic was slow moving on the 405 that day...

Historic Ice Storm....

2008-04-30T15:36:00.002-05:00

This was actually the first video I made independently. In January 2007 the Ozarks/SW Missouri area was crippled by the worst ice storm in over a century. After I got off watch that night and I drove home I saw transformers exploding and painting the sky with blue and green. Some roads were impassable. Several colleges MSU, CBC, BBC, Drury, and OTC canceled classes, and were threated with the possibility of postponing starting the semester on time. Several people compared the impact of this ice storm to a major hurricane.......

Vacation part three

2008-04-28T16:57:00.002-05:00

This is the 3rd and final part of our adventures up north. Watching this makes me what to visit the area again.

Vacation Part two

2008-04-25T15:40:00.002-05:00

This is the 2nd part of our adventure. It begins at Custer state park in South Dakota and carries on where part two left off.

Vacation part one

2008-04-23T19:45:00.001-05:00

About 1 year ago Charity's family and myself took a 4-5 day trip western South Dakota and eastern Wyoming. I thought I would share my video about the trip. This post is part one of three.
Enjoy.

J-Hall

WIBW 13...Fishing

2008-04-21T17:57:00.001-05:00

Found this a while back. Vaguely remember it, but I think its from the 80s?

Obi-Wan Kenobi buying tips

2008-04-17T19:14:00.001-05:00

Here we find how Obi-Wan goes about buying a car. This is funny, the umbrella handle looks much like his blue lightsaber hilt from episodes III and IV. Darth Vader's appearance is also funny.

Hunting in the Ozarks

2008-04-14T18:47:00.003-05:00

Back in November I was able to go deer hunting with my father in law and my brother in law. We only saw one deer that one was jumping in road as we were driving. So we didn't see any at our hunting area. I took my video camera and documented the occasion and made a video about it.

NOTE: Watch Josh T. try to eat a cookie.....

50th Anniversary

2008-04-11T22:41:00.003-05:00

A few weeks ago Broadway Baptist Church celebrated its 50th anniversary of ministry in the Springfield community. I had a morning free and created a video to look back on what God has done and to look ahead to what God wants to do in this community.

Been a long time......

2008-04-11T22:39:00.000-05:00

I will try to keep up with this a little more now.

The Personality Driven Church

2007-07-13T22:26:00.001-05:00

Several years ago the famous book came out and went on to be a best seller. This book was said to have changed the face of ministry itself. That book was called "The Purpose Driven Church" some time later another book graced our presence in more conservative circles, that book is called "The Savior-Sensitive Church". Even with both of those books which offer positive insights, many still haven't done it the way Jesus desired and even prayed that we would. There are churches across the county known only by its pastor, and not the doctrine it holds to, or its love for the community. That personality drives the church instead of leads it. Now I think it is wonderful for a preacher to be so blessed by God that he can ministry to several churches and various ministries. However when that preacher looks for a spotlight, or the place that pays the most, or somewhere to advance his influence and agenda he has missed out on what Jesus prayed for the disciples, whom I believe represented the first local church. Hopefully this simple outline of a section of Jesus' prayer in John chapter 17 will be a blessing. Christ has given you as a Christian, a purpose for your life, and has prayed that you will be a shining light in the world. The world needs Christians to show them the way, not confuse them and frustrate them.

"I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me." (John 17:15-21)

Jesus' prayer for the church.

I. The Prayer of Protection (vs. 15-16)

A. Protection from evil attacks (Acts 28:5-6)

B. Protection from evil teachings. (I Timothy 4:13)

II. The Prayer of Preparation (vs. 17-19)

A. Preparation in the Truth. (II Timothy 2:15)

B. Preparation for a Title. (I John 3:1)

C. Preparation to give a Testimony. (Acts 1:8)

III. The Prayer of Propagation. (vs. 20-21)

A. The power of unity. (Philippians 1:27)

B. The power of undeserving grace. (Ephesians 2:8-10)

C. The power of unlimited atonement. (John 3:16)

The end of an era....

2007-05-17T20:09:00.001-05:00

Today marks the end of a journey that began long ago....It began in a new church building in August 2001. It was during a sermon that Pastor Mark preached called "Why God has blessed us with this facility" that God called me to this path I am on. I then moved to Oklahoma and attended bible college for 2 years. Then took 9 months off and worked security for a distribution center thinking "God won't use me". Through some miraculous circumstances God brought me to BBC in Springfield in January 2004. Now 3 years later this journey is finished but is really beginning at the same time. Today marks the end of the BBC era, and the beginning of another...I am seeking God's will concerning ministry. Thanks to my friends, family, and fellow students for support over the past 3 years especially.

College Memory...Number 1

2007-05-09T22:31:00.000-05:00

To top off this exciting list. Getting engaged last month was really awesome. It was different from anything I had done my entire life. There was a uniqueness about it that cannot be described. I am not good at telling stories as much as Charity is so here is her version of what happened that day.....

Okay, here are the details about our engagement day. Last Saturday (April 14, 2007), Josh and I went to Topeka, KS to visit his father, sister, grandma and grandpa. We went to his dad's first and hung out with Russell, Eva (his dad's fiance), and Tabatha for a little while and then went to Windol's house. Windol was the coolest old man that I've met in a long time! He really liked me and told Josh that if he didn't marry me he'd be upset at him. So, after Windol's we went to Grandma and Grandpa's house. We ate lunch there and Josh was suppose to pick up the ring, but I thought that he didn't. I was sad. We left and went to the Capital building, but the doors were locked. I was cold, so I tried to put my hand in Josh's coat pocket, but he wouldn't let me. I was wondering if he had the ring in his pocket, but then I thought he was just messing with me to make me think he did, so I was sad again. Once we telephoned a guard inside the building, we went in and walked around. We made our way to a mural of this really famous guy in Kansas history (I think it was John Brown, but of course I don't remember his name!) and Josh was taking pictures. He stopped taking pictures and gave me this hug that was weird, but nice and told me he loved me a lot. He the turned around and took another picture and then turned back towards me with his hand in his pocket. He was having trouble getting his hand out of his pocket, so I asked, "What are you doing?" and he pulled out the box, opened it and said, "So, do you wanna marry me?" Of course I was shocked and I realized I was silent for like 15 seconds and then said, "YES!"

Funny story though. The ring almost fit, so I thought I could get by wearing it for a while (at least out to dinner with his family). But, after like 4 hours of wearing it, my finger swelled, turned almost purple, and I could not get the ring off! Finally (after like 20 minutes of trying to get it off), we got the ring off. It's now at the jewelers getting resized.(Got it back looks awesome!)

We've set our date for May 31, 2008 probably at Broadway Baptist Church.

Well, that's all I have to say about that.

College Memory...Number 2

2007-05-09T22:22:00.000-05:00

When I was going to school in Oklahoma City, Ok I can remember when 9/11 had occurred. I was sitting in "college life" class, and the teacher said that the nation was under attack. That day in chapel everyone's hearts were heavy and several were crying. This led to the mall and several public places closing, as well as Tinker Air Force base going on full alert. As this event happened, I felt that there would be a need, for more security in this nation. As a result I applied at Burns-Pinkerton, now called securitas. I have been privileged to handle security for some big businesses. This has been a fun and tremendous learning experience. I have many stories, both of the funny and the stupid variety.

College Memory...number 3

2007-05-03T17:11:00.001-05:00

During the fall of 2004 I was sitting in class at BBC with Tanner, and Eric. This particular class was called "Church History" and Dr. Wallace was talking about Pope John Paul II (the one that died recently). He told us about how this pope was conservative on the issues of abortion and gay marriage and so on. This kid in the back raises his hand and asks this question "Sir, if the pope is conversative would he vote for Bush?" We all lost it, we were laughing. Dr. Wallace then has a confused look on his face, looks at his notes starts laughing. Then we all start laughing again. He looks at the clock, then at his notes and says "Gentlemen have a great weekend" class was then dismissed about 15 minutes early. WOW the questions some people ask....