I have watched with great interest (and concern) at the evolution of "church membership" over the years. This obviously is seasoned with my own personal experiences, from an early background attending (and technically a "member" of) the Episcopal Church while growing up, to various excursions into differing faith groups - and ultimately being redeemed, baptized, … Continue reading Redefine or Rediscover Church Membership
Children, Compassion, and DACA
I try not to spend too much time and effort in posting with political material. Yet int he last couple of days, much has been said, and the faith of many Christians has been questioned in the political realm. What's it all about? DACA -Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals DACA is a policy put … Continue reading Children, Compassion, and DACA
IGNITE!
I am truly excited! Tonight is the launch of FBC Cave Spring's IGNITE Ministry. What is IGNITE? IGNITE is First Baptist Church's approach to Wednesday/mid-week ministry. Year-round, we have Wednesday evening classes available for all ages, but during the school year, we have a special emphasis on children and youth. Each Wednesday evening begins with a fellowship meal … Continue reading IGNITE!
Ukraine, Arkansas Master’Singers, and God’s Plan
In 2014, the Arkansas Master'Singers (a ministry made up mostly of worship pastors and musicians serving primarily in Arkansas Baptist State Convention churches) traveled to Ukraine with Evangelist Michael Gott to share the gospel through music and preaching. Approximately 10,000 people attended the series of concerts and heard a clear presentation of the Gospel, with … Continue reading Ukraine, Arkansas Master’Singers, and God’s Plan
Identity Politics, Race, and the Church
What part of Jesus Christ's ministry, teaching, or preaching played race-identity politics? What, then was the message, both of Jesus' own words and the rest of Scripture? It's summed up in Christ's response to those trying to corner him: The greatest command is to love God with all - your heart, body, mind, … Continue reading Identity Politics, Race, and the Church
Loving, Christian Parents
A news story crossed my feed this evening, a story that literally broke my heart. Here is a link: 13-year-old girl who was supported by her Christian parents in living as a transgender boy commits suicide The title pretty much says it all. Two parents, who apparently profess to be "Christians" chose to not only allow, … Continue reading Loving, Christian Parents
Church Membership? (why should I join?)
There are many misconceptions today about many areas of Christianity. There is even a movement among some Christian groups away from a “formal” church membership. The New Testament never mentions the term (in any translation I am familiar with) “church member”, but the attitude with which Paul writes to the various churches and to Timothy … Continue reading Church Membership? (why should I join?)
Hope in a Hopeless World
I received some truly heart-rending news last night from our old stomping grounds of Carlisle, Arkansas, where I spent 13 years of my teaching career. News of another student taking his own life. This was the second such sad news in a month. Of course, immediately rumors were flying that this was yet another case … Continue reading Hope in a Hopeless World
Discernment
Sadly, I see an ever-growing plague afflicting Christians - and the disease is "Discernment Deficiency". What do I mean? Well - the most obvious is the lack of discernment regarding who they spend their time listening to. I see many churches hosting speakers and simulcasts of celebrity preachers and teachers, who might offer up some "good stuff" on a regular basis, yet at the same time hold to heretical position, which they generally weave in with the "good stuff" they put out.
Churches, Pastors, and a Problem
Biblically, we see in the New Testament, elders/pastors basically appointed by the faithful to lead local congregations. Those men were entrusted with "feeding" Christ's sheep. They were appointed to be leaders who literally ran the affairs of each local church. Church members (saints) were expected, so long as that elder/pastor remained qualified and faithful to the work, to submit to their authority, and to serve along side them willingly and with joy in the Kingdom work.
Contending For Christ 