I found this article in this weeks edition of the Florida Baptist Witness. It coincides with my last post, which dealt with SBC leaders speaking out against the abuse of blogs and the SBC. Frank Page and Jerry Ranking both removed endorsements for the blog sbcoutpost.com. In this article Thom Rainer, President of Lifeway, speaks to this issue as well. These men made endorsements in good faith, when asked to by the focal contributors of SBCoutpost. When the true heart of these contributors was demonstrated on the blog, our SBC leaders have begun to speak against the manner in which that blog was being used. I applaud these men for being men of integrity and character. It takes these characteristics in leaders to address issues like character assassination, etc... God bless this great Southern Baptist Convention.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Point of View
In denominational life, a plea for more civil discourse
By THOM S. RAINER LifeWay Christian Resources
Published August 23, 2007
"May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to You, Lord, my rock and my Redeemer" (Psalm 19:14, HCSB).
I wish I could say that I get it right all the time. I wish I could say that I get it right most of the time. But, more often than I care to admit, the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart are not acceptable to the Lord. I do not always bring glory to God in the words I say and the words I write.
I, therefore, consider myself unworthy to pass judgment on those who say and write matters that seem to me to be displeasing to the Lord. But my silence is no longer an option.
Frank Page, our Southern Baptist Convention president, called me today. He told me he would be issuing a statement about the words being spoken and written on church and denominational issues. Though I have not yet seen his statement, I imagine this article will "amen" to Dr. Page's words.
Electronic media, particularly Websites and blog sites, is neither inherently good nor evil. This medium can be used for God's glory, or it can be used in a manner that clearly does not glorify God. I have seen it become a particularly wonderful medium to keep us updated on key issues, to engender dialogue, to provide a forum for healthy debate, and to ask necessary questions.
But it can also host forums that cannot please our Lord. Whereas most print media have the accountability of boards, bosses and subscribers, much social electronic media does not have clear and explicit accountability—it's the community's responsibility. Words that are hurtful, untrue and even displeasing to our Lord can be written without consequence. The community then becomes collectively accountable.
I'm not saying avoid substantive issues and the calls for accountability, but I plead with my brothers and sisters in Christ, particularly in our denomination, to move toward a more civil discourse, a more Christlike attitude in what we say and write.
I have made my own mistakes in the blogosphere. Prior to the launching of the Weblog SBC Outpost, I responded positively to a request for an endorsement. My endorsement spoke with a hope that this new blog would be an exciting opportunity to focus our denomination more on missions and evangelism. My words, instead, were construed by some to be an endorsement of every article that followed, particularly those articles that were critical of other entity presidents. That was unacceptable. I was wrong. By the time I contacted SBC Outpost asking for the withdrawal of my endorsement, all endorsements had been removed.
My passionate desire is to be a bridge builder in the Southern Baptist Convention. Not to compromise biblically. Not to be soft in my theology. I desire true collaboration with those of uncompromising biblical certitude to reach a lost world with the Gospel of our Savior. My prayer is that the conservative resurgence will now grow into a Great Commission resurgence.
But our witness is compromised when a spiritually lost world sees us fighting with one another, when they see unloving words hurled without restraint, when they see terse comments cloaked in civility—when they see little evidence of Christian love.
Would you pray with me that the world will see us as men and women who love the Lord with all of our hearts, and who love one another? Will you be a part of the conversation that shifts from negativity to Great Commission obedience?
I ask: Will you be a person who speaks a truth in love in such a way that your comments glorify God and are found acceptable to Him?
Such is my plea. Such is my prayer.
Thom S. Rainer is president and CEO of LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention.
Monday, August 27, 2007
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Good News from BP
I opened my email this morning and read an article on BP by our SBC President Frank Page and a statement concerning SBCoutpost.com from Jerry Rankin, the IMB President. I was greatly relieved by Jerry Rankin's statement. I also appreciate greatly the statements of Frank Page. Listed below is a link to the article which contains the statements from both of these leaders. I encourage you to read it and ask questions if necessary.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=26293
I also decide to put the entire article here just in case you would rather read it here.
FIRST-PERSON: For Christ's sake, stop!
Posted on Aug 22, 2007 by Frank Page
EDITORS' NOTE: A statement by International Mission Board President Jerry Rankin follows this article by Southern Baptist Convention President Frank Page.TAYLORS, S.C.
(BP)--Do we love one another? Do we love our pastors? Do we genuinely care one for another? Do we care for the lost? Obviously, the list could go on and on, but the question remains, "do we love and care for one another?"I have been greatly burdened in recent days. Our lost world, our lost continent, hurting churches and hurting pastors are crying out. A few days ago I had the opportunity to share Christ with a young man on an airplane. At that very moment, I had to decide whether to continue writing this article or talk to this young man. Obviously, I put the writing material down and spoke with this young man who is in desperate need of Christ. He, like our world, is looking for authenticity and for love. I point this out because I believe we often are making the wrong choice.Our witness is being diluted and energies expended on other activities, especially on internecine conflict.Church conflict is rampant. Seldom does a day go by that I do not receive a call for help from either a church, a pastor or staff member. Recently I received three in one day. And, there seems to be a new way to deal with church conflict. These days, increasing numbers of church members launch websites detailing allegations, accusations and complaints. I ask church members this question: Do you think lost people see this? When newspaper reporters are called and church conflict becomes known in the newspaper, either locally or nationally, what do you think this does when lost people read it? For Christ's sake, for the sake of the lost, stop!Personal attacks are on the rise. I recently removed my endorsement (as did David Dockery, Thom Rainer and others) when a hoped-for and needed place for dialogue on the Internet degenerated quickly into a place of personal attack against denominational leaders as well as those who are advocating reform (emphasis added) . For Christ's sake, stop!Phone calls, e-mails, and hallway conversations continue to take place with the bottom line being character assassination. For Christ's sake, stop! Yes, as you can tell, I am sick and tired of all of this. But guess what? What I think or feel matters little, if at all. However, what does matter is what our Lord Jesus thinks. He states his heart in John 17:21, where he prays, "May they all be one, as You, Father, are in Me and I am in You. May they also be one in Us, so the world may believe You sent Me." He also states in Galatians 5:20 that the works of the flesh are "strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions and factions. What must we do?1) We must beg God for forgiveness. We have spoken ill of brothers and sisters of Christ in ways that should never occur. 2) We must pledge to avoid personal attacks in the future and not to support an activity or conversation in which this occurs. By the way, there is an individual in our convention with whom I have disagreed and have done so publicly. I personally think that is fine. However, I will not be a part of a personal attack of any brother of sister in our convention. 3) We must learn to disagree using the biblical mandates in Matthew 18, Ephesians 4:15, etc. Most church problems and convention problems could have been overcome if we would have followed these biblical mandates.4) We must learn to listen to one another. This applies to all of us. It is time for leaders, trustees, pastors and people in the pew to listen to the concerns of others, even those with whom we have serious disagreement. The pattern of totally ignoring others with whom we disagree has led to a stone walling and given many the encouragement to become extreme.5) We must learn to talk to each other, not just about each other. I challenge you to do this. I also promise to you that you will find new friends in so doing. What is at stake? Certainly I am concerned about the future of our convention, its great mission work, and the educational work in which we are involved. However, even more importantly, I am concerned about lost souls and new believers. Lost people are seeing the deep division and sometimes hatred that is flowing forth among churches and among those who are involved in convention discussions. For Christ's sake, stop!--30--
Grace & respect needed in dialogue By Jerry Rankin RICHMOND, Va.
(BP)--Within the diversity of the Southern Baptist Convention, we desperately need dialogue to take place in which we can listen and learn from each other, even to the extent of respecting differing viewpoints. However, the Bible gives us clear instruction of how we are to deal with disagreements with others. As a leader of a Southern Baptist entity, I find there is no lack of those who have disagreements with the work of the International Mission Board and issues with me personally or my leadership.I welcome direct communication that is intended to result in understanding or corrective actions. But discussion of such issues publicly without making every effort to deal with me or the individual involved is inappropriate and unbiblical. There can never be justification for communicating, even areas of serious concern, without grace, respect and a Christ-like spirit. I regret that SBCOutpost.com, which I and others earlier endorsed, has not fulfilled its intended purpose (emphasis added). This had the potential of being a forum for an objective interchange of ideas and opinions that would contribute in a constructive way to the Southern Baptist Convention. While I continue to endorse and advocate the value of open communication and understanding that comes from a free exchange of ideas, I am retracting my endorsement of SBCOutpost as the place for that to happen (emphasis added).
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=26293
I also decide to put the entire article here just in case you would rather read it here.
FIRST-PERSON: For Christ's sake, stop!
Posted on Aug 22, 2007 by Frank Page
EDITORS' NOTE: A statement by International Mission Board President Jerry Rankin follows this article by Southern Baptist Convention President Frank Page.TAYLORS, S.C.
(BP)--Do we love one another? Do we love our pastors? Do we genuinely care one for another? Do we care for the lost? Obviously, the list could go on and on, but the question remains, "do we love and care for one another?"I have been greatly burdened in recent days. Our lost world, our lost continent, hurting churches and hurting pastors are crying out. A few days ago I had the opportunity to share Christ with a young man on an airplane. At that very moment, I had to decide whether to continue writing this article or talk to this young man. Obviously, I put the writing material down and spoke with this young man who is in desperate need of Christ. He, like our world, is looking for authenticity and for love. I point this out because I believe we often are making the wrong choice.Our witness is being diluted and energies expended on other activities, especially on internecine conflict.Church conflict is rampant. Seldom does a day go by that I do not receive a call for help from either a church, a pastor or staff member. Recently I received three in one day. And, there seems to be a new way to deal with church conflict. These days, increasing numbers of church members launch websites detailing allegations, accusations and complaints. I ask church members this question: Do you think lost people see this? When newspaper reporters are called and church conflict becomes known in the newspaper, either locally or nationally, what do you think this does when lost people read it? For Christ's sake, for the sake of the lost, stop!Personal attacks are on the rise. I recently removed my endorsement (as did David Dockery, Thom Rainer and others) when a hoped-for and needed place for dialogue on the Internet degenerated quickly into a place of personal attack against denominational leaders as well as those who are advocating reform (emphasis added) . For Christ's sake, stop!Phone calls, e-mails, and hallway conversations continue to take place with the bottom line being character assassination. For Christ's sake, stop! Yes, as you can tell, I am sick and tired of all of this. But guess what? What I think or feel matters little, if at all. However, what does matter is what our Lord Jesus thinks. He states his heart in John 17:21, where he prays, "May they all be one, as You, Father, are in Me and I am in You. May they also be one in Us, so the world may believe You sent Me." He also states in Galatians 5:20 that the works of the flesh are "strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions and factions. What must we do?1) We must beg God for forgiveness. We have spoken ill of brothers and sisters of Christ in ways that should never occur. 2) We must pledge to avoid personal attacks in the future and not to support an activity or conversation in which this occurs. By the way, there is an individual in our convention with whom I have disagreed and have done so publicly. I personally think that is fine. However, I will not be a part of a personal attack of any brother of sister in our convention. 3) We must learn to disagree using the biblical mandates in Matthew 18, Ephesians 4:15, etc. Most church problems and convention problems could have been overcome if we would have followed these biblical mandates.4) We must learn to listen to one another. This applies to all of us. It is time for leaders, trustees, pastors and people in the pew to listen to the concerns of others, even those with whom we have serious disagreement. The pattern of totally ignoring others with whom we disagree has led to a stone walling and given many the encouragement to become extreme.5) We must learn to talk to each other, not just about each other. I challenge you to do this. I also promise to you that you will find new friends in so doing. What is at stake? Certainly I am concerned about the future of our convention, its great mission work, and the educational work in which we are involved. However, even more importantly, I am concerned about lost souls and new believers. Lost people are seeing the deep division and sometimes hatred that is flowing forth among churches and among those who are involved in convention discussions. For Christ's sake, stop!--30--
Grace & respect needed in dialogue By Jerry Rankin RICHMOND, Va.
(BP)--Within the diversity of the Southern Baptist Convention, we desperately need dialogue to take place in which we can listen and learn from each other, even to the extent of respecting differing viewpoints. However, the Bible gives us clear instruction of how we are to deal with disagreements with others. As a leader of a Southern Baptist entity, I find there is no lack of those who have disagreements with the work of the International Mission Board and issues with me personally or my leadership.I welcome direct communication that is intended to result in understanding or corrective actions. But discussion of such issues publicly without making every effort to deal with me or the individual involved is inappropriate and unbiblical. There can never be justification for communicating, even areas of serious concern, without grace, respect and a Christ-like spirit. I regret that SBCOutpost.com, which I and others earlier endorsed, has not fulfilled its intended purpose (emphasis added). This had the potential of being a forum for an objective interchange of ideas and opinions that would contribute in a constructive way to the Southern Baptist Convention. While I continue to endorse and advocate the value of open communication and understanding that comes from a free exchange of ideas, I am retracting my endorsement of SBCOutpost as the place for that to happen (emphasis added).
Thursday, August 09, 2007
The Majors
There are four major championships on the PGA Tour: The Masters (April), The US Open (June), the British Open (July), and the PGA Championship (August). The PGA is the last "major" of the year and is being played beginning today at Southern Hills Country Club in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Three first time major winners have taken home the title of major champion this year. It is up in the air about who will take home the title, the trophy and the check in Tulsa. Some of the favorites are doing rather well on this first day and some are not fairing so well in the sweltering heat of Oklahoma. But whomever wins this weekend, their life will never be the same.
As I was thinking about that my mind drifted back to the moment my life was radically changed forever. You may think that I am referring to the day I graduated high school, college or seminary, but you would be wrong. You may think I am referring to the day I was married, but you would be wrong, although my life did change drastically that day. You may assume I am thinking about the day my precious little girl was born two years ago, but again you would be wrong. It is not the day I submitted my life to God's plan for me and I went into full time vocational ministry, but that's not the day either.
The day I won the "Major" was the day I came into a personal, intimate relationship with the Creator God who died in my place and forgave me of all my sins: past, present and future. On that day when I was five years old I won the major and my life has never been the same.
The Bible says that this major victory is available for anyone and everyone who is willing to come to God on HIS terms. There are many people who say there are many different roads that lead to God. But I challenge you to take just any road today and see if it takes you home. You can't just take any road to get home, it just doesn't work that way. God has provided the only way to Himself, and that way is through His son Jesus. It takes a person being willing to put their complete trust in Christ and resting in Him. Trusting Him to meet all your needs, even the most simple things.
There are people who need to win this major and God has given us the privilege of teaching them how to "get the ball in the hole." That is the goal of all those professional golfers in Oklahoma, and that is our goal too. We want to win, and the only way to do that is in and through Christ. May you know the "thrill of victory" rather than the "agony of defeat."
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
As I was thinking about that my mind drifted back to the moment my life was radically changed forever. You may think that I am referring to the day I graduated high school, college or seminary, but you would be wrong. You may think I am referring to the day I was married, but you would be wrong, although my life did change drastically that day. You may assume I am thinking about the day my precious little girl was born two years ago, but again you would be wrong. It is not the day I submitted my life to God's plan for me and I went into full time vocational ministry, but that's not the day either.
The day I won the "Major" was the day I came into a personal, intimate relationship with the Creator God who died in my place and forgave me of all my sins: past, present and future. On that day when I was five years old I won the major and my life has never been the same.
The Bible says that this major victory is available for anyone and everyone who is willing to come to God on HIS terms. There are many people who say there are many different roads that lead to God. But I challenge you to take just any road today and see if it takes you home. You can't just take any road to get home, it just doesn't work that way. God has provided the only way to Himself, and that way is through His son Jesus. It takes a person being willing to put their complete trust in Christ and resting in Him. Trusting Him to meet all your needs, even the most simple things.
There are people who need to win this major and God has given us the privilege of teaching them how to "get the ball in the hole." That is the goal of all those professional golfers in Oklahoma, and that is our goal too. We want to win, and the only way to do that is in and through Christ. May you know the "thrill of victory" rather than the "agony of defeat."
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
Good Read!
I have read some great books throughout my college and seminary days. I must say that reading is not something that I enjoy doing, but it is something that I must do as a Christian and a pastor. I have read some good books this summer: The Costly Call by Emir Caner and Ed Pruitt and Twelve Ordinary Men by John MacArthur. I would highly recommend each of these books for your benefit and personal growth in the Lord.
Tim, Jeth and I read the MacArthur book together for our staff meeting and used it for some discussion. We are in the process of reading a book that seemingly is changing my outlook on ministry in general and specifically what we do here at HGBC. The book is entitled The Simple Church by Thom Rainer and Eric Geiger. After I am through reading it, I believe that I am going to require all leaders at HGBC to read it and then evaluate what we are here for as a church and why we do what we do. At this point I would recommend it to any pastor, staff and church leader; I believe it will greatly benefit your ministry.
Jesus came and fought against, stood in opposition to the religious establishment of His day. He presented a very "simple" way of life compared to a very complicated way of life. His ministry was simplistic in nature verses the complicated requirements of the religious leaders of His day. I believe we have taken the place of the Pharisees in our churches today. We have bogged down the people of God. I believe Jesus would come to us and say "simplify" your lives. Simplify your church and ministry. Focus on one thing and do it with excellence.
I have talked a lot about excellence since coming to HGBC in November of 2005. I think that we are doing a few things with excellence, but I believe their is room for great improvement in other areas of ministry. How do we bring excellence to these other areas of ministry? I believe the answer is focus. What do we focus on here at HGBC? What do you focus on in your life or church?
We have a three step purpose at HGBC: Exalting the Savior, Equipping the Saint, Evangelizing the sinner. I believe that is exactly what we are here for. It should be our focus; it should be our life as the children of God. Another way of communicating this purpose is: Loving God, Loving Others and Serving the World ("Cross Church" in The Simple Church). I like that. That is the same purpose we have only worded slightly different. But it works! It is something that we all can internalize. It is something we can all accomplish in our lifetime.
All God is looking for is found in that statement of purpose. Exalting the Savior is Loving God. Equipping the Saint is Loving Others. Evangelizing the Sinner is Serving the World. I pray that that is all we seek to do, and I pray that you find fulfillment in it.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Tim, Jeth and I read the MacArthur book together for our staff meeting and used it for some discussion. We are in the process of reading a book that seemingly is changing my outlook on ministry in general and specifically what we do here at HGBC. The book is entitled The Simple Church by Thom Rainer and Eric Geiger. After I am through reading it, I believe that I am going to require all leaders at HGBC to read it and then evaluate what we are here for as a church and why we do what we do. At this point I would recommend it to any pastor, staff and church leader; I believe it will greatly benefit your ministry.
Jesus came and fought against, stood in opposition to the religious establishment of His day. He presented a very "simple" way of life compared to a very complicated way of life. His ministry was simplistic in nature verses the complicated requirements of the religious leaders of His day. I believe we have taken the place of the Pharisees in our churches today. We have bogged down the people of God. I believe Jesus would come to us and say "simplify" your lives. Simplify your church and ministry. Focus on one thing and do it with excellence.
I have talked a lot about excellence since coming to HGBC in November of 2005. I think that we are doing a few things with excellence, but I believe their is room for great improvement in other areas of ministry. How do we bring excellence to these other areas of ministry? I believe the answer is focus. What do we focus on here at HGBC? What do you focus on in your life or church?
We have a three step purpose at HGBC: Exalting the Savior, Equipping the Saint, Evangelizing the sinner. I believe that is exactly what we are here for. It should be our focus; it should be our life as the children of God. Another way of communicating this purpose is: Loving God, Loving Others and Serving the World ("Cross Church" in The Simple Church). I like that. That is the same purpose we have only worded slightly different. But it works! It is something that we all can internalize. It is something we can all accomplish in our lifetime.
All God is looking for is found in that statement of purpose. Exalting the Savior is Loving God. Equipping the Saint is Loving Others. Evangelizing the Sinner is Serving the World. I pray that that is all we seek to do, and I pray that you find fulfillment in it.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Buddy Mullins
Wow! Let me say that again, and backwards if I may, WOW! We had an amazing service Sunday morning. I met Buddy Mullins in June of 1989. He was traveling in ministry with his family and my family had just started traveling together in evangelism. Buddy's family held an annual Jubilee at their home church in Hillsville Virginia. We went and they let us sing. That began a long friendship. Although we lost touch with each other for almost 15 years, it was great seeing he and his family again.
Some of you may remember Buddy from his time with Bill Gaither and the Gaither Vocal Band. He was the lead singer after Michael English. Buddy has been and continues to be on many of the Gaither Videos.
Anyway, if you missed Sunday you missed a blessing and treat. God was all over HGBC, and it was a very refreshing and encouraging time. Many of you were greatly blessed by Kerri's testimony of dealing with cancer. What an awesome God we serve!!!
Many have already commented that we should have Buddy back again very soon. Just to let you know, it is already in the works. Don't miss out. And for that matter, it's never the same when you aren't here. You are a part of this family and we need you.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Some of you may remember Buddy from his time with Bill Gaither and the Gaither Vocal Band. He was the lead singer after Michael English. Buddy has been and continues to be on many of the Gaither Videos.
Anyway, if you missed Sunday you missed a blessing and treat. God was all over HGBC, and it was a very refreshing and encouraging time. Many of you were greatly blessed by Kerri's testimony of dealing with cancer. What an awesome God we serve!!!
Many have already commented that we should have Buddy back again very soon. Just to let you know, it is already in the works. Don't miss out. And for that matter, it's never the same when you aren't here. You are a part of this family and we need you.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Friday, July 13, 2007
Thursday/Friday WC 07
What a week it has been. Naomi Evans' house was completed yesterday (Thursday) by lunch. We were then assigned the task of painting classrooms at SHS. We painted one completely, except for a few minutes of trim work, and taped off 3 more rooms. It was a great day.
Thursday night was amazing. We had a powerful service and invitation time. I truly believe God is working in our students and the others here also. It has been a privilege being here. I would encourage anyone who is able to to come next year and see for yourself what God can do during a week like this.
This morning, the last work day of the week, got off to a great start. Although there was a little hick up on sight with some other crews, we were able to complete the other 3 rooms we had taped off. The crew did an excellent job; I am so proud of them. "Job well done!" After we completed our assignment at SHS, we took our crew and went back to Ms. Evans house to present here with a WC bible, crew picture, t-shirt, and a poster the crew signed. She was so grateful, it was a very humbling experience. I thank God that He allowed us to meet and help her. I pray that God will use what we did here to draw her friends and neighbors to Himself.
Supper is in an hour. We are having our last meeting tonight at 6:45, then worship, then celebration time, and then our final crew meeting to say goodbye, exchange info etc... It will be a happy/sad time. Then it's up at 5:45 AM again, load up and hit the road by 6:30 AM. We should be back in GCS by 4:30 PM or so. I can't wait to see Morgan and Melissa.
We are going to have an amazing service Sunday morning at HGBC. Buddy Mullins, longtime friend and formerly lead singer of the Gaither Vocal Band, will be singing in the AM service. Bring a friend or twelve and enjoy a blessing. Until next time:
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Thursday night was amazing. We had a powerful service and invitation time. I truly believe God is working in our students and the others here also. It has been a privilege being here. I would encourage anyone who is able to to come next year and see for yourself what God can do during a week like this.
This morning, the last work day of the week, got off to a great start. Although there was a little hick up on sight with some other crews, we were able to complete the other 3 rooms we had taped off. The crew did an excellent job; I am so proud of them. "Job well done!" After we completed our assignment at SHS, we took our crew and went back to Ms. Evans house to present here with a WC bible, crew picture, t-shirt, and a poster the crew signed. She was so grateful, it was a very humbling experience. I thank God that He allowed us to meet and help her. I pray that God will use what we did here to draw her friends and neighbors to Himself.
Supper is in an hour. We are having our last meeting tonight at 6:45, then worship, then celebration time, and then our final crew meeting to say goodbye, exchange info etc... It will be a happy/sad time. Then it's up at 5:45 AM again, load up and hit the road by 6:30 AM. We should be back in GCS by 4:30 PM or so. I can't wait to see Morgan and Melissa.
We are going to have an amazing service Sunday morning at HGBC. Buddy Mullins, longtime friend and formerly lead singer of the Gaither Vocal Band, will be singing in the AM service. Bring a friend or twelve and enjoy a blessing. Until next time:
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Wednesday WC 07
Today was another good day at World Changers Durham. All the crews worked until lunch, and then we had the rest of the day off. Our group went to South Point Mall and walked around for a little while, then we went to my sister Mia's house and hung out there. After that we went to Golden Corral and gorged ourselves on the buffet, good food. When we were through eating we went to my sister's church, New Horizon Church; she and her husband Greg lead worship there. We hung out in their youth room shooting pool, playing air hockey and fooseball, and an assortment of video games. We had a great time.
We are back at Southern High School now. It's about bed time. We have two more full days of work ahead of us and then it's back to good ol' Green Cove Springs. My crew will finish up our original assignment tomorrow morning and then we will be coming back to the school to do some painting in the classrooms, PR work for World Changers and the school. It will be nice working in the AC for the next two days.
It has been a great honor to work on the home of Naomi Evans. She is a precious 91 year old woman who loves Jesus. We have seen her community and neighbors open up to us this week. The last two days at lunch they brought snacks over for us to eat. One or two of the kids have come over and eaten with us. The bibles says that "Jesus always attracts children." And our goal this week has been to "Let Jesus live all over again!" Try it some time. You just might like it.
I hope you are blessed as your read these babbling's of one preacher. I pray you are encouraged and strengthened.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
We are back at Southern High School now. It's about bed time. We have two more full days of work ahead of us and then it's back to good ol' Green Cove Springs. My crew will finish up our original assignment tomorrow morning and then we will be coming back to the school to do some painting in the classrooms, PR work for World Changers and the school. It will be nice working in the AC for the next two days.
It has been a great honor to work on the home of Naomi Evans. She is a precious 91 year old woman who loves Jesus. We have seen her community and neighbors open up to us this week. The last two days at lunch they brought snacks over for us to eat. One or two of the kids have come over and eaten with us. The bibles says that "Jesus always attracts children." And our goal this week has been to "Let Jesus live all over again!" Try it some time. You just might like it.
I hope you are blessed as your read these babbling's of one preacher. I pray you are encouraged and strengthened.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Tuesday WC 07
Today has been a long but great day. Some of our youth are doing amazing things like leading bible study for their crew each day and working very hard. I am very proud of them, and I want you to know that they are representing Christ and HGBC exceptionally well. Pray for them and us "old" people too. We miss you at home. "God bless us every one."
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Monday in Durham
Today has been a good day. I have heard, only, good reports of the beginning of the weeks work. Flexibility was definitely put into practice today. Most of the work sites didn't have materials for work this morning.
My crew started the day with prayer. We prayed that Mrs. Evans' neighbors would see Christ in us this week. Then we went to work. We had to take down the gutters first thing. The next task was to scrape the old paint off her house so we could paint. The materials needed for this part of the job are scrapers and plastic. We had the scrapers but we didn't have the plastic, so we couldn't get started right away. So I organized an on the spot prayer walk. We divided the group in two and started walking and praying. When the group returned still no plastic. There is another job site about a block away so I sent several from my crew to beg/borrow some plastic so we could work. God provided plastic, some from the work site down the street and some from HGBC. I found plastic in the materials you supplied (I told you God was good!!). So we got to work scraping. About 11 AM the rest of the plastic was delivered to the site. We got half way through with the scraping and it was time to head back to SHS. We should finish scraping tomorrow and then paint Wednesday and Thursday.
Tonight's supper was very good, NC BBQ. Jeth was even pleased with it. I was so relieved (LOL). Worship was great also. God is moving and I can't wait to see what He does, how He does it, and who He does it to and through. It may even be you. (Pray!)
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
My crew started the day with prayer. We prayed that Mrs. Evans' neighbors would see Christ in us this week. Then we went to work. We had to take down the gutters first thing. The next task was to scrape the old paint off her house so we could paint. The materials needed for this part of the job are scrapers and plastic. We had the scrapers but we didn't have the plastic, so we couldn't get started right away. So I organized an on the spot prayer walk. We divided the group in two and started walking and praying. When the group returned still no plastic. There is another job site about a block away so I sent several from my crew to beg/borrow some plastic so we could work. God provided plastic, some from the work site down the street and some from HGBC. I found plastic in the materials you supplied (I told you God was good!!). So we got to work scraping. About 11 AM the rest of the plastic was delivered to the site. We got half way through with the scraping and it was time to head back to SHS. We should finish scraping tomorrow and then paint Wednesday and Thursday.
Tonight's supper was very good, NC BBQ. Jeth was even pleased with it. I was so relieved (LOL). Worship was great also. God is moving and I can't wait to see what He does, how He does it, and who He does it to and through. It may even be you. (Pray!)
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Sunday, July 08, 2007
World Changers 07
Well it is Sunday afternoon in Durham, NC. We arrived safely yesterday and had an uneventful evening, meaning no tragedy's, etc... We had several meetings and a worship service. (There are 336 people here this week serving others in the Durham area. What a privilege it is to "allow Jesus to live all over again this week."
We got up about 6 AM this morning, got ready for church and had breakfast. We had one big group photo at 8:45 and then each church had a picture taken. We met our "crew members" for the week. At World Changers they separate youth groups to "stretch" them and help them to learn to adapt to different situations, which is a hard but good thing for teenagers. We went to church this morning with our crews. It was a good experience and a time for us to get to know each other before we start working in the morning. We went to the church who is sponsoring our crew for the week. This basically means that they are providing us with lunch every day. They had lunch for us today, and it was good!!! Can't wait to see what the rest of the week has in store.
After lunch each crew went to its job site to check things out. My crew is working on Naomi Evans house this week. (We are working through the Durham Housing Authority.) The materials we need aren't there yet, but I know God will pr0vide all we need to get the job done; that's just the kind of God He is. You ought to get to know Him, it could change your life. We finished there and are now back at Southern High School in Durham. There are several meetings today followed by supper and worship, and then it's off to bed, the day starts at 5:30 AM and we leave for work by 7 AM. Pray for us, not many here are already on that schedule. Pray that God will teach us "flexibility."
Until next time:
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
We got up about 6 AM this morning, got ready for church and had breakfast. We had one big group photo at 8:45 and then each church had a picture taken. We met our "crew members" for the week. At World Changers they separate youth groups to "stretch" them and help them to learn to adapt to different situations, which is a hard but good thing for teenagers. We went to church this morning with our crews. It was a good experience and a time for us to get to know each other before we start working in the morning. We went to the church who is sponsoring our crew for the week. This basically means that they are providing us with lunch every day. They had lunch for us today, and it was good!!! Can't wait to see what the rest of the week has in store.
After lunch each crew went to its job site to check things out. My crew is working on Naomi Evans house this week. (We are working through the Durham Housing Authority.) The materials we need aren't there yet, but I know God will pr0vide all we need to get the job done; that's just the kind of God He is. You ought to get to know Him, it could change your life. We finished there and are now back at Southern High School in Durham. There are several meetings today followed by supper and worship, and then it's off to bed, the day starts at 5:30 AM and we leave for work by 7 AM. Pray for us, not many here are already on that schedule. Pray that God will teach us "flexibility."
Until next time:
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
VBS 2007
Well Vacation Bible School has come and gone here at HGBC, but what a great VBS it was. We had kids comin' out our ears, and God blessed beyond measure. First of all we had record attendance each night. On Sunday night we had 80 kids and over 50 workers. Each night after only saw an increase in the attendance of the kids, to the point that on Thursday night we saw 120 kids come through the doors. We had to average over 110 kids for the week, doubling our attendance from a year ago. "And all God's children said 'Amen'!"
But that is not the greatest event of the week. The family night on Friday was a huge success. Most of the kids came back and brought their families with them. They sang great and we laughed, ate and just had a wonderful time. There were some amazing prizes given away: tickets the Jacksonville Suns baseball games, tickets to Adventure Landing, etc... (Karen Brown did an amazing job of getting the prizes together and organizing VBS this year. Thanks Karen for a job well done.)
But Friday night was not the greatest event of the week, it wasn't recreation, music time, craft time, or snack time. The greatest thing that happened during VBS last week was 10 precious kids prayed to receive Christ as their personal Savior and Lord. "And all God children said, 'Amen'!" What a privilege it was for me to be able to present the Gospel to the kids from each class and see them respond to the invitation of eternal life through Christ Jesus.
I would ask that you pray for these kids, we will be going into their homes this Thursday night to talk with them and their families about this decision and about baptism. Pray that God would guide these conversations and that Jesus Christ would be exalted beyond measure. God bless you.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Rom. 5:8
But that is not the greatest event of the week. The family night on Friday was a huge success. Most of the kids came back and brought their families with them. They sang great and we laughed, ate and just had a wonderful time. There were some amazing prizes given away: tickets the Jacksonville Suns baseball games, tickets to Adventure Landing, etc... (Karen Brown did an amazing job of getting the prizes together and organizing VBS this year. Thanks Karen for a job well done.)
But Friday night was not the greatest event of the week, it wasn't recreation, music time, craft time, or snack time. The greatest thing that happened during VBS last week was 10 precious kids prayed to receive Christ as their personal Savior and Lord. "And all God children said, 'Amen'!" What a privilege it was for me to be able to present the Gospel to the kids from each class and see them respond to the invitation of eternal life through Christ Jesus.
I would ask that you pray for these kids, we will be going into their homes this Thursday night to talk with them and their families about this decision and about baptism. Pray that God would guide these conversations and that Jesus Christ would be exalted beyond measure. God bless you.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Rom. 5:8
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Left Pondering
As I read the article from BP today concerning the resignation of Dwight McKissic as a trustee of SWBTS, http://www.bpnews.net/bpnews.asp?id=25958, I began to ponder. Ponder what you might be asking. I began and continue to ponder what the "spin" will be.
"Spin" seems to be the prefered method from some of the bloggers who have aligned themselves with Wade Burleson and Ben Cole. (At least it is "spin" from my perspective.)
I believe the events of the SBC this year, "deflated" the efforts and agenda of those who are trying to lead the SBC in a direction, that to me, is very anti-southern baptist and unbiblical. I talked with my father, who is a SB pastor as well as my grandfather also a baptist preacher. They seemed to be of the opinion that every 25 years or so, there is a group who tries to influence the SBC with charismatic theology and methodology. I am a firm believer that the "battle for the Bible" will never end.
I am of this opinion for one simple reason. It is the main weapon of our enemy to attack the Word of God. He first used this method in the Garden with Eve. He attacked the Word and won the battle. Adam and Eve fell into sin, and were cast out of the Garden. Satan has found this such a useful method of defeating and distracting us that he continues to use it with great success. As SB's we firmly stand on the Word of God. It is inspired,inerrant and infallible. But it is easy for us to become distracted by discussions and practices that are unbiblical, PPL, and or misunderstood, other charismatic methods and theology.
I pray that God will give us discernment to see these distractions and the discipline to continue to fulfill the Great Commission. God bless you as you spread the "good news" of Jesus.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
"Spin" seems to be the prefered method from some of the bloggers who have aligned themselves with Wade Burleson and Ben Cole. (At least it is "spin" from my perspective.)
I believe the events of the SBC this year, "deflated" the efforts and agenda of those who are trying to lead the SBC in a direction, that to me, is very anti-southern baptist and unbiblical. I talked with my father, who is a SB pastor as well as my grandfather also a baptist preacher. They seemed to be of the opinion that every 25 years or so, there is a group who tries to influence the SBC with charismatic theology and methodology. I am a firm believer that the "battle for the Bible" will never end.
I am of this opinion for one simple reason. It is the main weapon of our enemy to attack the Word of God. He first used this method in the Garden with Eve. He attacked the Word and won the battle. Adam and Eve fell into sin, and were cast out of the Garden. Satan has found this such a useful method of defeating and distracting us that he continues to use it with great success. As SB's we firmly stand on the Word of God. It is inspired,inerrant and infallible. But it is easy for us to become distracted by discussions and practices that are unbiblical, PPL, and or misunderstood, other charismatic methods and theology.
I pray that God will give us discernment to see these distractions and the discipline to continue to fulfill the Great Commission. God bless you as you spread the "good news" of Jesus.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Friday, June 15, 2007
SBC 2007
The Southern Baptist Convention was in San Antonio, TX this year. The convention went well, but the interpretation of the votes of the SBC are being debated on blogs even as I type this blog. There are those who are of the same mind as I who feel that the SBC was great. It seems that we were able to help protect the SBC from another group who has a very different opinion of the SBC.
The election of officers went well. The most interesting vote for officers was for 1st VP. Jim Richards was one of the candidates, and David Rogers was the other nominee. Jim Richards won the vote 68% to 32%. In my opinion that was a great victory and a great relief. (David is the late Adrian Rogers son, but he does not hold the same views as his father; and "that is all I have to say about that.")
There was another controversial vote at the SBC. The vote was on a statement made by the Executive Committee of the SBC. It was a general statement concerning the Baptist Faith and Message 2000. The statement says that the BF&M is a "guide" for trustees of SBC entities. The debate was over what exactly "guide" means. Those who think along the lines of IMB trustee Wade Burleson and his cohort Ben Cole believe that the EC's statement means that the BF&M 2000 is the maximum guide, meaning that trustees can't hold any further standards for professors, employees, etc... without as Burleson says "getting permission from the SBC.
I believe, as do many other SB, that the BF&M 2000 is the foundational, minimal statement of faith for all SB and their entities. There are several other statements of faith, like the Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy, the Danvers Statement, and the Abstract of Principles, which are used in a complementary fashion with the BF&M 2000 that further clarify and define what we as SB have believed for hundreds of years.
The vote at the SBC was 57% to 43% in favor of the statement by the EC. One side says that everyone voting had a clear understanding of what was being voted on, and yet they did everything they could to end the discussion ASAP. While leaving the convention hall after the vote I heard many people talking who were very confused, saying, "Didn't we just reaffirm the BF&M 2000, that's all we did, right?" I had the "displeasure" of telling them that I was afraid that was not what happened at all. I was almost immediately proven right when Burleson and Cole and others began blogging that Dr. Mohler and Dr. Akin and others would now have to get permission from the SBC before they could continue using statements of faith in addition to the BF&M 2000. (I believe that this issue will be addressed again at the next SBC, and for years to come.) It is amazing that Wade and his cohorts all talk about widening the tent of acceptance and tolerance in the SBC, but want to exclude any other statements of faith which help us as SB understand what we believe and why we believe it.
Please pray that God will lead us very clearly in these areas of great concern. Pray that God will demonstrate to us what His plans are. Pray that we will all have the discernment to obey Him.
I will say, in closing, that I have a blast serving up Dr. Mohler on Wednesday morning. You should be able to go to http://www.sbc.net/ and see video of all the sessions of the SBC. Dr. Mohler, you did a great job responding to the questions about the EC's statement, as did several other seminary presidents. I am proud to have you all as leaders in our convention. May God bless you as you lead in the training of the future leaders of our churches.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
The election of officers went well. The most interesting vote for officers was for 1st VP. Jim Richards was one of the candidates, and David Rogers was the other nominee. Jim Richards won the vote 68% to 32%. In my opinion that was a great victory and a great relief. (David is the late Adrian Rogers son, but he does not hold the same views as his father; and "that is all I have to say about that.")
There was another controversial vote at the SBC. The vote was on a statement made by the Executive Committee of the SBC. It was a general statement concerning the Baptist Faith and Message 2000. The statement says that the BF&M is a "guide" for trustees of SBC entities. The debate was over what exactly "guide" means. Those who think along the lines of IMB trustee Wade Burleson and his cohort Ben Cole believe that the EC's statement means that the BF&M 2000 is the maximum guide, meaning that trustees can't hold any further standards for professors, employees, etc... without as Burleson says "getting permission from the SBC.
I believe, as do many other SB, that the BF&M 2000 is the foundational, minimal statement of faith for all SB and their entities. There are several other statements of faith, like the Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy, the Danvers Statement, and the Abstract of Principles, which are used in a complementary fashion with the BF&M 2000 that further clarify and define what we as SB have believed for hundreds of years.
The vote at the SBC was 57% to 43% in favor of the statement by the EC. One side says that everyone voting had a clear understanding of what was being voted on, and yet they did everything they could to end the discussion ASAP. While leaving the convention hall after the vote I heard many people talking who were very confused, saying, "Didn't we just reaffirm the BF&M 2000, that's all we did, right?" I had the "displeasure" of telling them that I was afraid that was not what happened at all. I was almost immediately proven right when Burleson and Cole and others began blogging that Dr. Mohler and Dr. Akin and others would now have to get permission from the SBC before they could continue using statements of faith in addition to the BF&M 2000. (I believe that this issue will be addressed again at the next SBC, and for years to come.) It is amazing that Wade and his cohorts all talk about widening the tent of acceptance and tolerance in the SBC, but want to exclude any other statements of faith which help us as SB understand what we believe and why we believe it.
Please pray that God will lead us very clearly in these areas of great concern. Pray that God will demonstrate to us what His plans are. Pray that we will all have the discernment to obey Him.
I will say, in closing, that I have a blast serving up Dr. Mohler on Wednesday morning. You should be able to go to http://www.sbc.net/ and see video of all the sessions of the SBC. Dr. Mohler, you did a great job responding to the questions about the EC's statement, as did several other seminary presidents. I am proud to have you all as leaders in our convention. May God bless you as you lead in the training of the future leaders of our churches.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Friday, June 08, 2007
Thursday
Today has been a great day. We returned to Tegucigalpa last night, had supper and went to bed. We had a wonderful day of sight-seeing. We took a beautiful ride to this little Honduran village in the mountains to shop. (I think the women were pleased.) We got back to the hotel about 4 PM. I took a short nap, and then it was back out again for supper. We were treated to an amazing meal at a local mexican restuarant. They brought out enough food for 40 people, not an exageration, and we did our best to eat it, but barely put a dent in it. We boxed up the rest to distribute to the needy.
We had a tremendous team meeting tonight. I asked everyone to share the most important thing God has shoen them or taught them this week. It was great for me to hear each member of the team express what God has been doing in them. I can't wait for them to share this Jesus adventure with you. What a "Great Adventure" this trip has been. I pray that you will allow God to bless you on one of these exciting short term mission trips in the near future. You will never regret it for one minute.
I am sitting in the lobby alone; I think everyone has gone upstairs to pack and get to sleep. That sounds like a pretty good idea. We are flying out of Honduras at 3:30 EST. We should arrive in Miami at 5:30 EST. Our flight into Jacksonville should land about 10:30 EST. Sunday morning will be an awesome service. Each member of the team will be given an opportunity to share with the church about the trip. I pray it is contagious. God bless you.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
We had a tremendous team meeting tonight. I asked everyone to share the most important thing God has shoen them or taught them this week. It was great for me to hear each member of the team express what God has been doing in them. I can't wait for them to share this Jesus adventure with you. What a "Great Adventure" this trip has been. I pray that you will allow God to bless you on one of these exciting short term mission trips in the near future. You will never regret it for one minute.
I am sitting in the lobby alone; I think everyone has gone upstairs to pack and get to sleep. That sounds like a pretty good idea. We are flying out of Honduras at 3:30 EST. We should arrive in Miami at 5:30 EST. Our flight into Jacksonville should land about 10:30 EST. Sunday morning will be an awesome service. Each member of the team will be given an opportunity to share with the church about the trip. I pray it is contagious. God bless you.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Thursday, June 07, 2007
Tuesday & Wednesday
God has been so good to us while we have been here serving in Juticalpa, Olancho, Honduras. The community we worked in was called Soldadidad. God has done an amazing work. As I stated in a previous post, 12 people accepted Christ on Sunday night. 25 children accepted Christ Tuesday afternoon, and 12-15 people accepted Christ in the service last night. It was amazing to see God work.
But it has been amazing to see God working in the lives of those on the team. I believe that eternity will be different because of what God has been up to.
The lights in the church are working, as are the ceiling fans that were purchased with the money that was given for the trip. The members of the church were so greatful and thankful for all that was done for them in the name of Jesus. They asked us to come back, and assured us that we now have a church in Honduras that is praying for HGBC. God is definitely doing something that will be beyond imagination.
One of the possibilities is that I have been invited to bring a team to teach the pastors of Honduras during their annual national meeting. I pray that God will honor this request and allow a team to be put together.
I want to close by encouraging to come see what God is doing for yourself.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
But it has been amazing to see God working in the lives of those on the team. I believe that eternity will be different because of what God has been up to.
The lights in the church are working, as are the ceiling fans that were purchased with the money that was given for the trip. The members of the church were so greatful and thankful for all that was done for them in the name of Jesus. They asked us to come back, and assured us that we now have a church in Honduras that is praying for HGBC. God is definitely doing something that will be beyond imagination.
One of the possibilities is that I have been invited to bring a team to teach the pastors of Honduras during their annual national meeting. I pray that God will honor this request and allow a team to be put together.
I want to close by encouraging to come see what God is doing for yourself.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Monday, June 04, 2007
Monday
Thank you for your prayers for the Sunday evening service. It was a great time. Tyler Reeves, from SC, and my sister Mauri sang and I preached. The most important thing is God worked. And because He worked, 12 people are now adopted into the family of God. If you are a Christian, you have 12 new brothers and sisters, and they live in Honduras. How great is our God!!!
We serve an amazing God. He has been so good to us today. Everywhere you look you can see His hand. We are doing two types of ministry this week, besides the service we are participating in and the food ministry we did yesterday afternoon before the evening service. We are doing construction work and carnival.
The construction work is finishing the electrical work for the church. Dave, Jeff, and Mike with the help of some less educated in the art of electricity finished recepticals, hung ceiling fans, and light fixtures. Several will be going back tomorrow to complete the work.
This church basically is a block building with a roof and two doors. The dogs walk in as they please, as well as wasps and any other flying bug you can imagine. But the Spirit of God is in this place and it is a sweet time of worship when He shows up. The children are everywhere, but it is all good. (You are missing the time of your life if you didn't come on this trip. I pray that you will come the next time there is an opportunity, like January hopefully. More info on that later.) When we leave these people will have lights to help them see as they worship in one of three service held during the week at night: Sunday night, Tuesday night and Thursday night. They also have a Sunday morning service. (And you think we have church to much.) They will have fans in the building to help the air circulate while they worship. What a blessing it is to be a resource for God to use, and I thank you for all you have done to help us have the money to minister in this way. May God bless you as you have blessed others.
The other ministry is geared to the children. Today we saw over 120 kids come to play with us. What a great time we had. We are sunburned, tired and sore, but we are ready to do it all over again tomorrow. You see that is the attitude a person has when they are "allowing Jesus to live all over again" through them. These people are seeing Jesus up close and personal, in the flesh. And they are seeing Him because we are here. Are they seeing Him where you are?
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
We serve an amazing God. He has been so good to us today. Everywhere you look you can see His hand. We are doing two types of ministry this week, besides the service we are participating in and the food ministry we did yesterday afternoon before the evening service. We are doing construction work and carnival.
The construction work is finishing the electrical work for the church. Dave, Jeff, and Mike with the help of some less educated in the art of electricity finished recepticals, hung ceiling fans, and light fixtures. Several will be going back tomorrow to complete the work.
This church basically is a block building with a roof and two doors. The dogs walk in as they please, as well as wasps and any other flying bug you can imagine. But the Spirit of God is in this place and it is a sweet time of worship when He shows up. The children are everywhere, but it is all good. (You are missing the time of your life if you didn't come on this trip. I pray that you will come the next time there is an opportunity, like January hopefully. More info on that later.) When we leave these people will have lights to help them see as they worship in one of three service held during the week at night: Sunday night, Tuesday night and Thursday night. They also have a Sunday morning service. (And you think we have church to much.) They will have fans in the building to help the air circulate while they worship. What a blessing it is to be a resource for God to use, and I thank you for all you have done to help us have the money to minister in this way. May God bless you as you have blessed others.
The other ministry is geared to the children. Today we saw over 120 kids come to play with us. What a great time we had. We are sunburned, tired and sore, but we are ready to do it all over again tomorrow. You see that is the attitude a person has when they are "allowing Jesus to live all over again" through them. These people are seeing Jesus up close and personal, in the flesh. And they are seeing Him because we are here. Are they seeing Him where you are?
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Sunday, June 03, 2007
Sunday
Saturday was a great day. We traveled to the town of Olancho where we will be minstering until Wednesday. It was a 4.5 hour bus ride, but everything went well. We arrived safely, ate well, and went to a service at the church we are partnering with. Eric Rendell, one of my deacons, shared a great testimony and I shared a greating from HGBC. We were looking forward to getting to work Sunday.
Today we went to Sunday School. Dave Thurman, Mike Griggs, Melissa M., Renee, and several others helped or taught classes. We were all in the same room, so it was somehwat interesting to say the least, but God is good and he is in control. What an amazing God he is. After lunch, we made food bags, about 100. There is enough food to feed a family for at least a week in each bag. We are going to go door to door giving the food to families who live in the community of the church. We are going to share the gospel and invite them to the service tonight. Tyler Reeves, from SC, will be singing, someone will share a testimony and I will preach.
I am going to use Philippians 1:27 as my text. It says, "Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Jesus Christ..." Our conduct is to match our conversation and attitude, and for the Christian that means living the life of Christ. God help us all to allow Jesus to live all over again through us every day you bless us with on this earth.
Keep praying! God will bless it. Until the next time.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Today we went to Sunday School. Dave Thurman, Mike Griggs, Melissa M., Renee, and several others helped or taught classes. We were all in the same room, so it was somehwat interesting to say the least, but God is good and he is in control. What an amazing God he is. After lunch, we made food bags, about 100. There is enough food to feed a family for at least a week in each bag. We are going to go door to door giving the food to families who live in the community of the church. We are going to share the gospel and invite them to the service tonight. Tyler Reeves, from SC, will be singing, someone will share a testimony and I will preach.
I am going to use Philippians 1:27 as my text. It says, "Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Jesus Christ..." Our conduct is to match our conversation and attitude, and for the Christian that means living the life of Christ. God help us all to allow Jesus to live all over again through us every day you bless us with on this earth.
Keep praying! God will bless it. Until the next time.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Friday, June 01, 2007
We Made it Safely
Thanks for your prayers today as we traveled. Both legs of the flight went very well. No one had any trouble getting through customs, praise the Lord. Please pray for us this week: Pray that we will allow Jesus to live all over again, pray that we will surrender our plans and desires for this trip so that God can give us and show us what He desires and has planned for us, pray that there will be great unity and servanthood in our hearts, pray that we will love others as we have been loved by Christ.
I will try to update the blog every day, if there is internet access. God bless you.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
I will try to update the blog every day, if there is internet access. God bless you.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Honduras Here We Come
My heart is filled with excitement and anticipation. It is 10 PM on Thursday night. Melissa and I and 11 others from HGBC will be boarding a plane in the morning to begin a fabulous spiritual journey. My sister, her husband, and a teenager from SC will be meeting us in Miami and working with us in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. Pray for us! Pray that we will all stay healthy while there and after we return. Pray that God will move in the hearts and lives of the native Hondurans, and in our hearts as well. I believe that HGBC will never again be the same because of this journey. God make it so.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
Monday, May 21, 2007
"Get All Excited, Go Tell Everybody"
I don't know if you know it or not, but that is the title of great song that is sung in churches all around the country. It is a great description of my feelings about HGBC and what God is doing. It is an awesome privilege and responsibility God has placed before us. God is slowly manifesting His presence in our services as He works in the hearts and lives of people.
"How do I know He is working?" you might ask. Well, it is obvious to me. Last Sunday we had the opportunity to go to the "birthing room" when Nikki was gloriously saved and became our sister in Christ. We also had a wonderful couple join our church. May God help us to faithfully lead them in serving the Lord Jesus Christ. "If that don't light your fire, your wood's wet!"
I am also very excited about our upcoming mission adventure to Honduras. There are 13 people from HGBC who stepped out of their comfort zones, in faith, and watched as God "provided their needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus." I am waiting with great anticipation to see how God will change HGBC for His honor and glory. We covet your prayers as June 1st approaches, and we ask that you continue to pray for us as we go "on Mission" for Christ. Pray that God will reach out through us to demonstrate His love to people who desperately need Him. And pray that as we are there, that He would give you the opportunity to minister to someone here at home. There are needs everywhere you look, and God wants you to allow Him to interject Himself into those situations. Blessing upon you as you serve Him.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
"How do I know He is working?" you might ask. Well, it is obvious to me. Last Sunday we had the opportunity to go to the "birthing room" when Nikki was gloriously saved and became our sister in Christ. We also had a wonderful couple join our church. May God help us to faithfully lead them in serving the Lord Jesus Christ. "If that don't light your fire, your wood's wet!"
I am also very excited about our upcoming mission adventure to Honduras. There are 13 people from HGBC who stepped out of their comfort zones, in faith, and watched as God "provided their needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus." I am waiting with great anticipation to see how God will change HGBC for His honor and glory. We covet your prayers as June 1st approaches, and we ask that you continue to pray for us as we go "on Mission" for Christ. Pray that God will reach out through us to demonstrate His love to people who desperately need Him. And pray that as we are there, that He would give you the opportunity to minister to someone here at home. There are needs everywhere you look, and God wants you to allow Him to interject Himself into those situations. Blessing upon you as you serve Him.
Serving Him,
Pastor Mike
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