God Bless America

Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people - Proverbs 14:34.

The United States of America is a great nation, and has been preserved for 232 years by God. The young country of 1776 has grown from two million strong to over 300 million, with fifty states, much wealth, and power. The necessities of life are available to all and freedom is granted as a right to each individual citizen. What a truly blessed nation we are. However, can such a nation continue being blessed when abortion, pedophilia, drugs, murder, and a general hatred towards one’s neighbor is the norm? We all know the issues facing our country, but what can be done about it?
Fortunately, we are given the answer in Scripture. To continually be exalted, we must be righteous. Yet, the righteousness spoken of here is that of just principles and actions which seems to be foreign to the train of thought of many Americans. No matter what the pundits say, righteousness is required by God for a nation to be blessed and that righteousness can only be found in Jesus Christ. We as a nation are not righteous, but we as a nation following the Lord Jesus Christ can be righteous.
“Justice, reigning in a nation, puts an honor upon it. A righteous administration of the government, impartial equity between man and man, public countenance given to religion, the general practice and profession of virtue, the protecting and preserving of virtuous men, charity and compassion to strangers, these exalt a nation; they uphold the throne, elevate the people’s minds, and qualify a nation for the favor of God. Vice, reigning in a nation, puts disgrace upon it: Sin is a reproach to any city or kingdom, and renders them despicable among their neighbors. The people of Israel were often instances of both parts of this observation.” (Commentary)
The early leaders of our nation realized morality and righteousness were needed for a nation to truly succeed.
“Observe good faith and justice towards all Nations; cultivate peace and harmony with all. Religion and Morality enjoin this conduct; and can it be, that good policy does not equally enjoin it? It will be worthy of a free, enlightened, and, at no distant period, a great Nation, to give to mankind the magnanimous and too novel example of a people always guided by an exalted justice and benevolence. Who can doubt, that, in the course of time and things, the fruits of such a plan would richly repay any temporary advantages, which might be lost by a steady adherence to it? Can it be, that Providence has not connected the permanent felicity of a Nation with its Virtue? The experiment, at least, is recommended by every sentiment which ennobles human nature. Alas! is it rendered impossible by its vices ?” (George Washington in his farewell address to the nation)
May we as Christians pray for our nation, repent of our sins, allow the righteousness of Christ to lead us, and be the godly citizens the U.S.A. needs!

Fox News Reports...You Decide

Schoolboys punished with detention for refusing to kneel in class and pray to Allah

Two schoolboys were given detention after refusing to kneel down and 'pray to Allah' during a religious education lesson. Parents were outraged that the two boys from year seven (11 to 12-year-olds) were punished for not wanting to take part in the practical demonstration of how Allah is worshipped. They said forcing their children to take part in the exercise at Alsager High School, near Stoke-on-Trent - which included wearing Muslim headgear - was a breach of their human rights.

Alsager School, near Stoke, has received furious complaints from parents after two Year 7 boys were punished for refusing to kneel to Allah during a religious studies class. One parent, Sharon Luinen, said: "This isn't right, it's taking things too far. I understand that they have to learn about other religions. I can live with that but it is taking it a step too far to be punished because they wouldn't join in Muslim prayer. Making them pray to Allah, who isn't who they worship, is wrong and what got me is that they were told they were being disrespectful. I don't want this to look as if I have a problem with the school because I am generally very happy with it."

Another parent Karen Williams said: "I am absolutely furious my daughter was made to take part in it and I don't find it acceptable. I haven't got a problem with them teaching my child other religions and a small amount of information doesn't do any harm. But not only did they have to pray, the teacher had gone into the class and made them watch a short film and then said 'we are now going out to pray to Allah'. Then two boys got detention and all the other children missed their refreshment break because of the teacher. Not only was it forced upon them, my daughter was told off for not doing it right. They'd never done it before and they were supposed to do it in another language."

"My child has been forced to pray to Allah in a school lesson." The grandfather of one of the pupils in the class said: "It's absolutely disgusting, there's no other way of putting it. My daughter and a lot of other mothers are furious about their children being made to kneel on the floor and pray to Islam. If they didn't do it they were given detention. I am not racist, I've been friendly with an Indian for 30 years. I've also been to a Muslim wedding where it was explained to me that alcohol would not be served and I respected that. But if Muslims were asked to go to church on Sunday and take Holy Communion there would be war."

Parents said that their children were made to bend down on their knees on prayer mats which the RE teacher had got out of her cupboard and they were also told to wear Islamic headgear during the lesson on Tuesday afternoon. Deputy headmaster Keith Plant said: "It's difficult to know at the moment whether this was part of the curriculum or not. I am not an RE teacher, I am an English teacher. At the moment it is our enterprise week and many of our members of staff are away. The particular member of staff you need to speak to isn't around. I think that it is a shame that so many parents have got in touch with the Press before coming to me. I have spoken to the teacher and she has articulately given me her version of events, but that is all I can give you at the moment."

A statement from Cheshire County Council on behalf of the school read: "The headteacher David Black contacted this authority immediately complaints were received. Enquiries are being made into the circumstances as a matter of urgency and all parents will be informed accordingly. Educating children in the beliefs of different faith is part of the diversity curriculum on the basis that knowledge is essential to understanding. We accept that such teaching is to be conducted with some sense of sensitivity."

(Thanks Noah for the map!)

Kids Kamp '08

I was blessed to have the opportunity to preach the Evening Services at Kids Kamp this year. The theme was "Heroes of Mega-City" which the kids just loved! It was a superhero based theme which always fits with children and was especially appropriate seeing that this summer has more than its fair share of superhero movies.
While the week was a great hit, the best part was the salvation of at least 15 souls. Praise God! And while the number may seem small to some camps, many of these children are very young, "new" to church "stuff," and at least had the gospel seed planted in their heart.
Continue to pray for Pine Springs Baptist Camp and its staff. Continue to pray for me - I will be preaching at "Encounter" (another week of camp at Pine Springs Baptist Camp). And continue to pray for the salvation of souls.

On The Road Again...

After a week of meetings, it was good to hang out with some friends Thursday afternoon and evening. We ate supper with the Hebert's and saw Jason make a horrendous mess (just ask him about it!!!). We then got everything ready, slept a bit, and arrived at the rental car place around 6:00 am. Our flight to Seattle was to leave at 7:00, however, at 6:55 they called us off the plane and put us on a plane flying straight to Portland (instead of Spokane-Seattle-Portland). For as time goes, that's great, but I did want to see Seattle. Anyway, we arrived at Portland ahead of schedule and was even able to fly out of there four hours early. To make a long story short, we arrived in Dallas before we would have even left Portland!!! And yes we flew first class (thanks again Retta!!!), and yes we enjoyed it!

Well, I have been working on the plane, in the hotel room, etc. and am ready for a short break. After that, we'll eat and get back to working on Sunday's stuff and next week's camp stuff (and the next week's camp stuff!!!).

Pray for us, we have one more flight from Dallas to Longview in the morning around 9:00 am or so. Can't wait to be home!!!

Day 4 - Report B

1:30 PM:

The session began with music and prayer and contained reports from the National Music Director's Association, the National Women's Auxiliary, and the Resolutions Committee. A standing vote of thanks was shown for the city of Spokane and its hospitality.

The following were elected as officers for 2008-2009:

President - Roger Copeland

V.P.s - Calhoun, Crain, and Owens

Speaker - Robert Myers

Alt. Speaker - Barry Carter

Missionary Speaker - Livingstone Lambert

Alt. Missionary Speaker - Carrion

Music Directors - Paulk, Albritton, and Crouse

Director of Mtg. Arrangements - Eddie Sutton

Asst. Dirs. of Mtg. Arrangements - Neal Sutton, Jerry Grimes

A standing vote of appreciation was given for now past president, Bro. Neal Clark, who served as president of the ABA for the last two years

All salaries were kept the same (as were the salaries for the Secretary-Treasurer of Missions, Editor-in-Chief, and Business Manager).

With a few closing remarks from the officers and other individuals, the 83rd messenger meeting of the churches of the American Baptist Association ended. Pray was offered for God's blessings upon every one's travels, upon their churches, and upon the work accomplished in Spokane.

Day 4 - Report A

9:15 AM:
The meeting began with Scripture, prayer, and music. The Editor-In-Chief and the Business Manager of the Baptist Sunday School Committee gave their reports which were adopted. A motion was made to increase the literature price by 7%. An amendment was made to that motion to increase the literature price by 10%. The amendment passed and the overall motion passed. This price effect will take place starting in the Winter Quarter (according to my understanding). A motion was made and seconded to authorize the SS Committee to increase the price of the literature throughout the year as the economy dictates. After some discussion, the motion failed. The SS Committee then recommended the writers for the coming year. The motion was passed (the office in Texarkana can provide you with the names). A motion was made for the Business Manager in conjunction with the SS Committee to produce a general financial report in basic format for information purposes of the messengers. The motion failed. (The Committee does produce an annual Auditor's Report available to everyone.)

Bro. Eddie Sutton spoke concerning the annual meetings and the hotel reservations. The attrition rate was very high this year and almost cost the association quite a bit of money. He encouraged all messengers to realize the business aspect of the association meeting.

The session adjourned for lunch at 11:30.

Day 3 - Report D

6:30 PM:

The session began with music, prayer, and a devotional. Music included many specials and a choir presentation. Following a short presentation, Fresno, California was chosen as the meeting place for 2012. (Springfield, Missouri will be the location for the 2009 meeting.)

The Memorial Committee spoke concerning all pastors that had passed away since we last met. Five past presidents of the ABA passed away last year. Combined, these men had over 320 years of ministry experience. A short presentation was given in remembrance of these men.

Following this presentation, the Missions Presentation was given by Dr. Randy Cloud. The missionaries, joined by their families onstage, were presented to the Messenger Assembly (194 missionaries through the office in Texarkana). An offering was then received ($6,003.83) while the 2009 VBS material was presented and the Olympic Bible project was presented.

At 8:50 PM, Bro. Jason Rigby, missionary to Chehalis, WA, brought a missionary sermon from 2 Timothy 3:15-17. We were dismissed at 9:30 PM.

Following the dismissal, Jen and I went to the Exhibit Hall to pick up more information concerning the 2009 Springfield, Missouri arrangements, etc. After speaking with fellow pastors concerning various business, Jen and I met up with Bro. Lynn Raburn and his wife, Brenda at approximately 10:30 PM. (It was such a joy to visit with them!) Finally, at midnight, Jen and I return to the hotel room and start finishing things up for the day.

Day 3 - Report C

1:30 PM:

The afternoon session began with prayer, music, and a devotional. The Youth Campgrounds Report was read and approved. The camp managers for Bogg Springs and Pine Springs spoke to the report. The camp trustees were re-elected.

The Chaplaincy Report was read, spoken to by various chaplains and military officials, and addressed by former chaplains. The report was then approved. "America The Beautiful" was sang and then a special time of silence was observed followed by a prayer of blessing for our military.

The History & Archives report was read, spoken to, and then approved. Bro. Terry Parish was honored for speaking at a 2007 celebration honoring Baptists in America ("300 Years of Baptist Associations in America"). He spoke concerning the legacy of Landmarkism in America at this event.

The Law Enforcement Chaplaincy Report was read and approved. The MBSF report was read and approved. The National Youth Meeting Report was read and approved. The ABA Credit Union Report was read and approved.

The Enrollment & Finance Committee reported 640 churches pre-registered with 150 registering at the meeting for a total of 790 churches sending in letters of association (very low number this year). $80,113 was given towards the meeting expense and $11,923 towards the Missions Committee expense. There were 356 Messengers pre-registered with 275 registering at the meeting for a total of 621 (very low numbers as well). [Total attendance will be determined after the Wednesday night service.] $10, 376,574.95 was given to mission work this year throughout various mission programs.

The Exhibit Hall has over 100 booths (low numbers again) containing ministry, mission work, publishing house, music, etc. information.

Day 3 - Report B

9:15 AM (cont.):

The meeting was very calm with no missionary brought up for a separate vote. (The questions concerning Bro. Jeremiah were answered yesterday and not brought up again.) Bro. Randy Cloud was re-elected as Secretary-Treasurer of Missions. The amendment proposed by Heritage MBC was taken off the table and will be referred to the churches of the ABA for the next year. At the meeting in Springfield, Missouri, this item of business will then be debated and voted on. (I have a copy and will discuss it later.) The second amendment to the Missions Policy of the ABA proposed by Pine Crest in Georgia was voted down and not taken off the table. (I have a copy and will discuss it later.) Later, a motion was made and seconded to report in the mission booklet the number of professions, baptisms, and amount of sponsoring church's support sent through Texarkana for each missionary. This motion failed. The session adjourned after a few other items were handled. After the session, we walked to Chili's for a quick lunch and then headed back for the afternoon session.

Day 3 - Report A

9:15 AM:
After enjoying a great breakfast (the bacon is incredible at the hotel restaurant - even though Jen did eat some of mine!) with the Grigsby's (former Pastor of Pleasant Hill MBC outside of Overton), we started the morning meeting with prayer, a devotional, and a special in song (a lady performed "How Great Thou Art" in sign language - it was beautiful!). Dr. Randy Cloud, Secretary-Treasurer of Missions of the ABA, gave his annual report concerning the missionary work supported through Texarkana. He reported "18,452 professions of faith, 1,613 baptisms, 601 received by letters, 74,341 sermons preached, and 16,611 lessons taught. Missionaries reported self-supporting churches being established in Africa, Philippines, India, Belize, and Thailand. For the fiscal year 2007-2008, $2,614,584.64 was given through the office in Texarkana. At the messenger meeting of the churches this year in Spokane, Washington, 194 missionaries will be recommended for financial support through the office of Secretary-Treasurer of Missions. These missionaries are serving the Lord in 28 states and 28 foreign countries. If all of the Interstate, Foreign, and National Missionaries are approved without any raises, the monthly pay out will increase approximately $23,000 or 11%. Approximately $2,767,000 will be needed to pay the missionaries for the coming year. The balance in the mission treasury at the end of May 2008 was $783,083.46." (abbreviated information taken from the Secretary-Treasurer's 2007-2008 fiscal year annual report) This information pertains only to the missionaries supported through the office in Texarkana - much more missionary work is done outside this program as well.

The final process of approving missionaries is now under way. Due to the nature of this meeting and my responsibility as a teller, I will be forced to write about the rest of the morning meeting later.

Day 2 - Report B

1:30 PM:
Separate votes were called for on several men in the Missions Committee. Most (maybe all...can't quite remember right now) of these men were "approved" to remain on the list for the main meeting tomorrow. There were some other side issues regarding raises of the Secretary-Treasurer of Missions, etc., however, the main excitement began when certain churches were named according to the amount they sent to Texarkana for "missions." This caused quite a stir to which several of those pastors spoke out against such action. Things will certainly be interesting tomorrow when much of this will come up again! Also, there is much discussion concerning the actual responsibilities of the Missions Committee. There are also two amendments to be presented tomorrow concerning changes to the Missions Policy.

6:30 PM:
The ABA meeting was opened with adoption of the agenda, specials in music, presentation of the colors, and a President's address from Neal Clark and a soul-stirring message from Bro. Darrel Owens. The list for meeting places to choose from for 2012 was distributed with the vote to be taken tomorrow. Certain amendments were proposed and tabled so that we might discuss them tomorrow.

9:15 PM:
The exhibit hall officially opened with less exhibitors than in the past, but still a great showing of colleges, printing houses, mission work, individual church ministries, etc. Jen and I even found a cool helicopter toy for the children.

10:30 PM:
Supper time. Let's eat!

12:15 Midnight
It's time for blogging, checking email, and taking care of miscellaneous business items that need to be done before the meeting tomorrow.

P.S. Pray for the meeting - I'm a teller!!!

Day 2 - Report A

8:30 AM:
After breakfast, I attended the Baptist Sunday School Committee. The overall progress of the printing and literature seems to be positive. There are concerns with the overall Christian Store Industry and the approximate 25-32% decline in the actual number of stores. The store sales have seen some upswing with the implementation of new technologies. The overall literature sales are up, however, the Spanish literature sales is not increasing as quickly as was hoped. The price of literature will also be increased upon approval of the messengers on Thursday morning.

10:00 AM:
I am currently in the Missions Committee meeting and, while I am not a prophet, I can guarantee you there will be some fireworks this year. There are some major issues/problems to deal with, so please pray for us as we use godly wisdom to further His work.

Day 1 Report

6:30 PM:
The meetings have begun, and it was good to see everyone at the opening banquet. Following approximately an hour of fellowship, I attended the ABATS (American Baptist Association of Theological Schools) as a representative of Texas Baptist Institute & Seminary. The meeting was informative and encouraging. It is good to see our schools advancing forward in the teaching of God's Word and in the methodology used (technological advancements, etc.). After the schools meeting, I attended the last part of the Missionary Share Time. This is a time where anyone from a Missionary to a Pastor of a Missionary can quickly (1-2 minutes at most) share the work with which they are involved. There are many exciting works in many different places by many different servants but all blessed by one God!!!

9:30 PM:
Following the meetings, Jennifer and I went to eat supper with some friends at Chili's, but for whatever reason, the Chili's across from the hotel closes at 9:00 pm...bummer! So, we made our way down to Azteca (Mexican Food). While it was not quite the Tex-Mex cuisine we are used to, it was pretty good. But better than the food was the great time we had with Doug & Marnie Gregg, Chris & Christine Miller, Jason & Cindy Hebert, Wayne & Novis Stringer, & Michael. It is so much fun to spend time with brothers and sisters in Christ (even if they do pick on me for the color of my shirt...which by the way Jennifer picked out!). Having finished our meal, we finally made it back to the hotel at 11:30 PM. So, now I must finish because our meetings start at 8:00 AM, and I need sleep!

Who's On First

Pray that our meetings this week do not go like this!

Father's Day

I hope every father has a great day of superior remote-controlling, lots of food, and relaxation. Well, at least maybe the fathers will realize how much we appreciate all they do. Fathers are so important to families and children, so pray for your father, husband, brother, uncle, etc. to have the strength to be the father God would have them to be. Also, read Proverbs 27:6-7 and see what God has to say about fathers.

Sunday Happenings

I hope and pray you all had a wonderful Sunday (at least you finally got to hear some good preaching!). Jen and I attended Valley Landmark Missionary Baptist Church's worship service here at the DoubleTree Hotel and was blessed to hear Bro. Brian Sellers bring a message from Judges 7 (Gideon and his 300 men). Jen was also glad to finally hear some good preaching (and so was I)!!! Seriously though, it was a great to hear the Word of God preached. Afterward, the church had reserved a banquet room and fed all the guests. Now you know they are real Baptists! Jen and I also relaxed some and caught up on some reading. We also walked around the park (old Expo grounds) and loved seeing all the waterfalls here in Spokane.

Now for the interesting/funny stuff:
First, it is 9:17 pm here and it is just now getting dark. I mean, it will not be fully dark until about 9:45. What's up with that? Furthermore, if you don't like to get up early, then don't come to Spokane! I know at 5:30 it is full daylight!
Second, for some reason, people seem to think Jen and I have an accent...imagine that! We went to eat supper and when the waiter came to introduce himself, he asked from what southern state we came. We told him Texas, and he said that he knew we were not from Spokane.
Third, the waiter asked Jen what she wanted to drink and she said "Sweet tea." He then said, "Green tea?" She responded, "No, sweet tea." He then looked for a second and said, "Black tea?" She then looked at him and asked for iced tea. He then said, "Ah, you mean brewed tea." She said, "Yes. Brewed tea. Do you have it already sweetened?" He said, "No." So that's when I start thinking about Dr Pepper. Jen then ordered unsweet iced tea. Then he asked what I wanted and I said, "Tea, but bring some sugar." He brought the sugar, but the tea had some fruit flavoring in it - nasty! Tea should only have two things in it - ice and sugar! Here's the catch. No one up here serves sweet tea (or at least I have not found the right restaurant yet). In fact, many of them look at you weird when you ask for it. Besides, what self-respecting restaurant serves green tea?!? Well, I can only stomach so much of the tea, so then I ask for a Dr Pepper. He looked at me and said, "I'm sorry. We don't have Dr Pepper. We have Coke." Well, I can handle that, so off we go. Come to find out, the waiter loves Dr Pepper too!!! I have not found a restaurant up here that serves Dr Pepper, thus my theory is strengthened that we are not in the Bible Belt - no sweet tea and no Dr Pepper.

Well, as you can tell, I'm out of my culture up here. But at least the people are nice, and they have not thrown me too many weird looks. Yet, they are not used to people saying "Ma'am" and "Sir" so I'll try to soften up the "Southern speak"...naw, not really!

Now for the business:
We start the meetings tomorrow, so probably much less funny stuff and much more serious stuff will come your way. I hope you have a great week and we are praying for all of you!

World Traveler

We have finally made it to Spokane, Washington. We left this morning from Longview and arrived in Dallas. From there, we flew to Portland and then hopped on another plane to Spokane. Overall, it was a breeze (no pun intended). Besides being tired of travelling and the 2 hour time difference (not a big deal really), we are doing great.

The only complaint about this area is the price of everything. It is ALL high. Can't wait to be back in East Texas where things are not so outrageously priced (and not EVERY single item talks about environmental stuff).

Futbol...Goal!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This is for my South American and European friends.

The Top 5 Worst Goals

Political Hypocrisy

[The following excerpt is taken from the June 14-21 issue of World Magazine.]

"The IRS concluded that Wiley Drake, pastor of First Southern Baptist Church in Beuna Park, California, acted as an individual and not as a representative of his church when he endorsed presidential candidate Mike Huckabee last summer in a press release and on his radio show. The ruling means the church's tax-exempt status is not in danger."

Now for my thoughts:
You have got to be kidding me. The IRS seriously investigated this man? What a ridiculous way to spend taxpayers' dollars. Furthermore, if they investigated pastor Drake, why are they not investigating men like Rev. Jeremiah Wright, Priest Michael Pfleger, Rev. Jesse Jackson, and Rev. Al Sharpton?!? Oh, I forget, the above mentioned men are of the liberal persuasion thus they can do no wrong.

As for myself, I do not endorse any candidate from the pulpit, however, I will speak with you after the service and tell you what I think about a candidate. And yes, I have that right as a U.S. citizen (remember, the first amendment?). Furthermore, I unashamedly speak about ISSUES from the pulpit. And yes, that is legal! (If you do not believe me, then check the laws. I have researched this issue and a church is 100% lawful in speaking for/against the issues. The only restriction in this arena is in the endorsing of a candidate - which is still debated in some areas.) The IRS cannot stop a person from doing such, for we as Americans have freedoms, and we as Christians have an obligation to speak out against sin of all kind. For example, I have preached against same-sex marriage, yet at the same pulpit I have preached that we should be a good citizen of our country.

May God have mercy on our nation.

"Providence has given our people the choice of their rulers,and it is the duty, as well as privilege and interest,of a Christian nation to select and prefer Christians for their rulers." - John Jay

"How To Survive In An Age Of Apostasy: Learning From The Lessons Of History"

The church today is quite possibly more susceptible to false teachers, doctrinal saboteurs, and spiritual terrorism than any other generation in church history. Biblical ignorance within the church may well be deeper and more widespread than at any other time since the Protestant Reformation. If you doubt that, compare the typical sermon of today with a randomly chosen published sermon from any leading evangelical preacher prior to 1850. Also compare today's Christian literature with almost anything published by evangelical publishing houses a hundred years or more ago.

Bible teaching, even in the best of venues today, has been deliberately dumbed-down, made as broad and as shallow as possible, oversimplified, adapted to the lowest common denominator - and then tailored to appeal to people with short attention spans. Sermons are almost always brief, simplistic, overlaid with as many references to pop culture as possible, and laden with anecdotes and illustrations. (Jokes and funny stories drawn from personal experience are favored over cross-references and analogies borrowed from Scripture itself.) Typical sermon topics are heavily weighted in favor of man-centered issues (such as personal relationships, successful living, self-esteem, how-to lists, and so on) - to the exclusion of the many Christ-exalting doctrinal themes of Scripture.

In other words, what most contemporary preachers do is virtually the opposite of what Paul was describing when he said he sought "to declare...the whole counsel of God" (Acts 20:27). Not only that, but here's how Paul explained his own approach to gospel ministry, even among unchurched pagans in the most debauched Roman culture: "I, brethren, when I came to you, did not come with excellence of speech or of wisdom declaring to you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified. I was with you i weakness, in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God." (I Corinthians 2:1-5)

Notice that Paul deliberately refused to customize his message or adjust his delivery to suit the Corinthians' philosophical bent or their cultural tastes. When he says later in the epistle, "To the Jews I became as a Jew...to those who are without law, as without law...to the weak I became as weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some" (I Corinthians 9:20-22), he was describing how he made himself a servant to all (vs. 19) and the fellow of those whom he was trying to reach. In other words, he avoided making himself a stumbling block. He was not saying he adapted the gospel message (which he plainly said is a stumbling block - 1:23). He did not adopt methods to suit the tastes of a worldly culture.

Paul had no thought of catering to a particular generation's preferences, and he used no gimmicks as attention-getters. Whatever antonym you can think of for the word "showmanship" would probably be a good description of Paul's style of public ministry. He wanted to make it clear to everyone (including the Corinthian converts themselves) that lives and hearts are renewed by means of the Word of God and nothing else. That way they would begin to understand and appreciate the power of the gospel message.

by contrast, today' church-growth experts seem to have no confidence in Scripture's power. They are convinced the gospel needs to be "contextualized," streamlined, and revamped anew for every generation. Forty years of that approach has left evangelicals grossly untaught, wholly unprepared to defend the truth, and almost entirely unaware of how much is at stake. The evangelical movement itself has become a monstrosity, its vast size and visibility belying its almost total spiritual failure. One thing is certain: the cumbersome movement that most people today would label "evangelical" is populated with large numbers of people who are on the wrong side in the Truth War.

[Entire quotation taken from John MacArthur's The Truth War, pgs. 165-168.]

Here I Raise Mine Ebenezer

Since becoming Pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church, I have had many (and I mean many) people ask me the following type questions:
“What does Ebenezer mean?”
“Why would anyone name a church Ebenezer?”
“Why name a church after a word in a song?”
“What does Ebenezer Scrooge have to do with the Bible?”
So what does the word Ebenezer mean anyway?

It comes from Scripture, specifically 1 Samuel 7:12-14 where it is written: Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Jeshanah, and named it Ebenezer; for he said, "Thus far the LORD has helped us." So the Philistines were subdued and did not again enter the territory of Israel; the hand of the LORD was against the Philistines all the days of Samuel. The towns that the Philistines had taken from Israel were restored to Israel, from Ekron to Gath; and Israel recovered their territory from the hand of the Philistines. There was peace also between Israel and the Amorites.

“The word ‘Ebenezer’ comes from Hebrew and is actually two words pronounced together: Even Haazer. Written in Hebrew it looks like this:
It is usually transliterated as a proper name by dropping the definite article (Ha) from the Hebrew word for ‘place’ (Ezer) and putting it together with the Hebrew word for ‘stone’ (Even) to create: ‘Ebenezer.’ The etymological roots of the word, thus defined, should demonstrate that an ‘Ebenezer’ is, literally, a ‘Stone of Help.’
“The place named ‘Ebenezer’ was not actually called ‘Ebenezer’ until after the Israelites finally defeated the Philistines, and took back the Ark of the Covenant. To commemorate the victorious battle, Samuel set up a marker-stone, named it ‘Stone of Help,’ and thereby the site became identified with the stone and with the place where God’s miraculous help aided them in their victory over the Philistines. The stone, standing up-right, was called "Ebenezer," and the site naturally took on that name as well. Literally speaking, an Ebenezer is a "stone of help," or a reminder of God’s Real, Holy Presence and Divine aid.” [copied]

Maybe now when you hear the following song at church, it will give new meaning to the words that are being repeated.

Here I raise mine Ebenezer
Hither by Thy help I’m come
And I hope, by Thy good pleasure
Safely to arrive at home
Jesus sought me when a stranger
Wandering from the fold of God
He, to rescue me from danger
Interposed His precious blood
(taken from “Come, Thou Fount”)

May Ebenezer Baptist Church be a Stone of Help!

(Thank you Sis. Pamela for sending me the email that started this idea for the newsletter. Kudos to the original author whose name was not given, but to whom much credit is due.)

ABA Mission Policy

The following is copied as sent without any re-editing from yours truly except for some spatial concerns (empty lines, etc.). I believe that this proposed change could solve many of our problems and prevent possible tax & legal problems from occuring on a national level. This would also allow a missionary to designate support for housing, medical, etc. instead of just all salary. Anyway, read over this proposed change and let me know what you think.

PROPOSED CHANGES TO MISSION POLICY

Be it resolved that the Mission Policy of the American Baptist Association be amended by the changes listed below.

CHANGES TO THE MISSION POLICY

SECTION l

Page 223 of Year Book
June 19, 20, 21 – 2007

POLICY FOR THE MISSIONARIES

Section 1 changed to read

1. Each supported missionary must have an endorsement from the
church of his membership. The Missionary may not be the
pastor of his endorsing church, except in the case of a National
Missionary as provided for in Section III, Article 3. In the event
a missionary moves his membership from his sponsoring church
between annual sessions, his endorsement stops, and he must be
endorsed as a new missionary by his new church at the following
annual session.

2. Each missionary may be recommended to receive no-designated
support or designated funds.

3. Each missionary asking for non- designated support or
designated funds must submit an itemized monthly financial
report and a quarterly statistical report to his sponsoring
church, which shall in turn send a report to the Secretary-
Treasurer of Missions using forms supplied by the office of the
Secretary-Treasurer.


Page 226

SECTION 5

1. “Delete” (This should be left up to the sponsoring
church.)

2. Support for endorsed missionaries.

A. The dollar amount of support for missionaries shall be
recommended by the Missionary Committee
annually and approved by the messengers when
meeting in regular annual session.

B. Support shall be paid July 1 through June 30.

C. Support and designated funds shall be dispersed
between the 20th and 25th of each month. Reports
from supported missionaries must be received
before support checks are issued.

D. “Delete”

E. No change

F. Any supported missionary whose endorsement is
discontinued or who is recommended and does not
receive a re-endorsement from the assembly for
the following year shall receive one additional
month’s support from the time of his endorsement
being discontinued.

G. In the event of the death of a supported
missionary, his support shall be given to his
widow or dependent children
for the ensuing six – month period.

H. In the event a supported missionary is disabled,
either by illness or accident and has to resign the
mission field, his support may be continued for six
months upon a request from his sponsoring
church.

3. Time on mission field for Supported Missionaries.

A. Interstate Missionaries shall be given a three-week
leave of absence annually with pay..

B. Foreign Missionaries shall be given a three-week
leave of absence annually with pay. In addition,
Foreign Missionaries shall be permitted a six-
month furlough every four years with pay.

C. National Missionaries shall be given a three-week
leave of absence annually with pay.



Done by order of Heritage Baptist Church, Missouri City Texas, May 25, 2008.

Dr. Charles A. Murphy Sr. - Pastor
Lela Burgess - Church Clerk

Outrigger Island VBS

Theme: God's Unshakeable Truth
Time: June 2-6 from 6:30-9:00 pm
Age: 3 yrs.-5th grade

Happy Mother's Day

I hope every mother has a great day of relaxation, surprises, and comfort. Well, at least maybe they'll realize how much we appreciate all they do. Mothers play a vital role in a child's life, so pray for your mother, wife, sister, etc. to have the strength to be the mother God would have them to be. Also, read Exodus 2:1-10 and see how God used Jochebed to prepare Moses for his task of delivering Israel out of Egypt.

Do Not Disturb

That's what I feel like saying many times when the phone rings, the doorbell chimes, or there is a knock on my door. I know that is not a proper attitude, but sometimes I feel so busy...it's like I never get a break. To me, the problem is in finding the proper balance between work, church, family, school, and my relationship with the Lord. Sometimes I'm busy about His work, but not really doing HIS work. I just hope and pray I can keep things relatively balanced and productive. And don't worry, if I don't answer your call right away, you can at least leave a voice mail!

Prince Caspian

It's almost time for the next Narnia movie!

Stairway To Heaven

Sunday's sermon will be over the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9). Please read Genesis 9-10 and Revelation 17-19.

Leadership & Growth Conference



Remember me in prayer as I speak today, at this conference, regarding "Recapturing Generation Lost: The Small Town Effect".

Aggie Muster

Softly call the Muster, let comrade answer 'Here'..."

Aggies gathered together on June 26,1883 to live over again their college days, the victories and defeats won and lost upon the drill field and in the classroom. By April 21, 1903, this annual gathering evolved into a celebration of Texas' Independence on San Jacinto Day. These early meetings included field games and banquets for Aggies to reflect and celebrate their memories of Aggieland. 'Let every alumni answer a roll call' wrote the former students. It was not until 1922, however, that April 21 became the official day of events for all Aggies, thus, the annual tradition of Muster was born. The March 1923 Texas Aggie urged, 'If there is an A&M man in one-hundred miles of you, you are expected to get together, eat a little, and live over the days you spent at the A&M College of Texas.
Still remembering and honoring the time spent in Aggieland, the tradition of mustering has grown in strength, meaning, and spirit. By 1929, meeting had grown worldwide, and in 1942 Aggie Muster gained international recognition. Twenty-five men, led by General George Moore '08, mustered during the Japanese Siege of the Philippine island of Corregidor. Knowing that Muster might soon be called for them, these Aggies embodied the essence of commitment, dedication, and friendship- the Aggie Spirit. They risked their lives to honor their beliefs and values. That small group of Aggies on an outpost during World War II inspired what has developed into one of our greatest traditions.
Muster is celebrated in more than four-hundred places world wide, with the largest ceremony on the Texas A&M campus in College Station. The ceremony brings together more Aggies, worldwide, on one occasion than any other event.
The students of Texas A&M University coordinate the Campus Muster. Because Muster was established to bring Aggies together, each Campus Muster is dedicated to the fifty-year reunion class. The Campus Muster involves an entire day of activities for students both present and past. Alumni enjoy a special program including tours of the ever-changing campus. At noon, all Aggies congregate at the Academic Plaza for the Camaraderie Barbecue that rekindles the tradition of the original Muster celebration. That night, the Muster ceremony consists of an address by a keynote speaker, the reading of poems, followed by the Roll Call for the Absent. The Roll Call honors Aggies that have fallen since the last Muster roll was read. As the names are read, a friend or family member answers 'Here', and a candle is lit to symbolize that while those Aggies are not present in body, they will forever remain with us in Aggie Spirit.
Century-old roots provide the basis of Muster as Aggies know it today. It has changed, yet the Spirit in which it was established remains the same. Since the beginning, every Aggie has lived and become a part of the Aggie Spirit. What is felt today is not just the love of a fellow Aggie, it is the spirit of hundreds of thousands of Aggies who have gone before. Muster is how that Spirit is remembered and will continue to unite Texas A&M and the Aggie family. A&M may change, but the Spirit never will.

[Copied from Aggie Traditions.]

God's Blessings

Many of you have asked about the Spring Revival, so let me report the good news.

Each service (5 in all) had a wonderful time of invitation. Overall, the invitations averaged 30 minutes with people being saved, re-dedicating their lives to Christ, asking for forgiveness, confessing sins, etc. In fact, we now have 7 baptisms to administer (we have already administer 3 in the last 3 weeks...10 baptisms in a month! Praise God!).

Bro. Lawrence Thompson was the evangelist, and he spoke mightily from the Word of God. God convicted and pierced our hearts with His Word. In fact, it seems as though Ebenezer has been revived (of course, time will tell)! Praise the Lord for His goodness!

Well, I'm physically tired but spiriturally recharged. May God use me in a mighty way and use Ebenezer Baptist Church for His honor and glory.

Do Christians Get On Your Nerves?

Lumiere Du Monde (Here I Am To Worship)

Enjoy watching Jason Clark sing this song in French. Sounds like he's getting it down to me!

Spring Revival

April 13-16
Sunday @ 10:45 am & 6:00 pm
Monday-Wednesday @ 7:00 pm
Evangelist: Bro. Lawrence Thompson

Please pray for God to truly revive us and the Henderson area.

True Revival

EBC will hold services in hope of being revived on April 13-16. All are welcome, however, the main thrust of the services will be to the members of EBC. Please pray for us as Bro. Lawrence Thompson speaks from the Word of God and shares God's will for us as an individual and church.

However, I am concerned that true revival may not occur if we just see our need to repent. In other words, if we are just trying to correct ourselves, then it may be a quite shallow revival. But what if, instead of first focusing on us, we focused on who God is and His majesty. Such a revelation of His magnificence and glory would cause us to fall to our knees and repent! I believe such an occurrence would bring true revival. So may we realize who God is in all of His glory and power!

Happy Birthday!

My mother's birthday is today (and that's no April Fool!). It seems she has mixed emotions about these birthdays. While she is able to get cheap coffee (25 cents at McDonald's), she doesn't really like getting the cheaper price because of her age. Of course, my dad thinks it is great! Well, I guess I'll go play some April Fool jokes on her now.

Happy Birthday Mom!

A More Correct View Of Christ?

I do believe that we have made Christ so user-friendly that the mention of His name no longer instills fear and respect in the lost - nor even the believer! He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords! May we all fall down at His feet.

Absentia

Sorry for the lack of blogging, but it has been quite busy around here.

First, I ask that you pray for Jen's cousin, Christina and her husband Josh Croswell. They lost their two-year old son a week ago today. They have a baby girl who is 9 days old as well. They are very faithful to the Lord, but need His people to surround them in prayer and support during this crucial time.

Second, I thank everyone who prayed for Jen and the children. The kiddos seem to be doing fine now, and Jen is getting stronger everyday. Thank goodness too, for daddy just doesn't do things like mama!

Third, Easter was wonderful yet busy. We had a Sunrise Service with 45 in attendance. After that we had a really good Breakfast Fellowship. The Morning Worship was wonderful as well with a sanctuary-full of people worshiping the Lord.

Fourth, all of this happened while we were in Arkansas, returning from Arkansas, or just returned from Arkansas. So you can see why the blogging has been slow. On top of that, I'm trying not to get sick myself! Well, I'll try to catch up on all the good stuff in the next few days.

Psalm 23

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

Psalm 22

My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? why art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring? O my God, I cry in the day time, but thou hearest not; and in the night season, and am not silent. But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel. Our fathers trusted in thee: they trusted, and thou didst deliver them. They cried unto thee, and were delivered: they trusted in thee, and were not confounded. But I am a worm, and no man; a reproach of men, and despised of the people. All they that see me laugh me to scorn: they shoot out the lip, they shake the head, saying, He trusted on the LORD that he would deliver him: let him deliver him, seeing he delighted in him. But thou art he that took me out of the womb: thou didst make me hope when I was upon my mother's breasts. I was cast upon thee from the womb: thou art my God from my mother's belly. Be not far from me; for trouble is near; for there is none to help. Many bulls have compassed me: strong bulls of Bashan have beset me round. They gaped upon me with their mouths, as a ravening and a roaring lion. I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint: my heart is like wax; it is melted in the midst of my bowels. My strength is dried up like a potsherd; and my tongue cleaveth to my jaws; and thou hast brought me into the dust of death. For dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet. I may tell all my bones: they look and stare upon me. They part my garments among them, and cast lots upon my vesture. But be not thou far from me, O LORD: O my strength, haste thee to help me. Deliver my soul from the sword; my darling from the power of the dog. Save me from the lion's mouth: for thou hast heard me from the horns of the unicorns. I will declare thy name unto my brethren: in the midst of the congregation will I praise thee. Ye that fear the LORD, praise him; all ye the seed of Jacob, glorify him; and fear him, all ye the seed of Israel. For he hath not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; neither hath he hid his face from him; but when he cried unto him, he heard. My praise shall be of thee in the great congregation: I will pay my vows before them that fear him. The meek shall eat and be satisfied: they shall praise the LORD that seek him: your heart shall live for ever. All the ends of the world shall remember and turn unto the LORD: and all the kindreds of the nations shall worship before thee. For the kingdom is the LORD's: and he is the governor among the nations. All they that be fat upon earth shall eat and worship: all they that go down to the dust shall bow before him: and none can keep alive his own soul. A seed shall serve him; it shall be accounted to the Lord for a generation. They shall come, and shall declare his righteousness unto a people that shall be born, that he hath done this.

The Messiah - Hallelujah

Part #4 of Handel's Messiah.

The Messiah - He Was Despised

Part #3 of Handel's Messiah.

The Messiah - And He Shall Purify

Part #2 of Handel's Messiah.

Homeschooling

Most everyone has heard about the issue in California regarding homeschooling, however, wading through the truth of the ruling seems to be quite difficult. According to which lawyer, paper, defense organization, etc. you read, the ruling has different meanings. All I know is that I do not want the village of idiots (not referring to teachers but to much of government) raising my children into a village idiot. I'm fine with public, private, and home school education. What I'm not okay with is a government where a few rule over the many uninformed and powerless...hmm...I believe we would call that an oligarchy.

The Messiah - For Unto Us A Son Is Born

In order to properly celebrate the Easter season, I will post parts of Handel's "The Messiah" (and yes, this composition was written for the Easter season even though we primarily use it at Christmas). Here is part #1 - Enjoy!

End Of The World...Again

Okay, I know I've said it before, but it's really got to be the end of the world this time. First, a Jewish seminary is attacked. This cannot be good. Secondly, it's snowing in Dallas in March (that's definitely a sign!).

Psalm 21

O LORD, in your strength the king rejoices, and in your salvation how greatly he exults! You have given him his heart’s desire and have not withheld the request of his lips. Selah For you meet him with rich blessings; you set a crown of fine gold upon his head. He asked life of you; you gave it to him, length of days forever and ever. His glory is great through your salvation; splendor and majesty you bestow on him. For you make him most blessed forever; you make him glad with the joy of your presence. For the king trusts in the LORD, and through the steadfast love of the Most High he shall not be moved. Your hand will find out all your enemies; your right hand will find out those who hate you. You will make them as a blazing oven when you appear. The LORD will swallow them up in his wrath, and fire will consume them. You will destroy their descendants from the earth, and their offspring from among the children of man. Though they plan evil against you, though they devise mischief, they will not succeed. For you will put them to flight; you will aim at their faces with your bows. Be exalted, O LORD, in your strength! We will sing and praise your power.

What's Your Theological Worldview?

Okay, I took another one of those quizzes and no surprises from the following results:

You scored as a Fundamentalist
You are a fundamentalist. You take the Bible as the foundation of your faith and read it very literally, and it shapes your worldview. Non-fundamentalist Christians have watered-down the Gospel in your view, and academic study of the Bible stops us from 'taking God at his word.' Science is opposed to faith, as it contradicts basic biblical truths.

Fundamentalist 89%
Evangelical Holiness/Wesleyan 71%
Reformed Evangelical 64%
Neo orthodox 61%
Emergent/Postmodern 36%
Classical Liberal 29%
Charismatic/Pentecostal 21%
Modern Liberal 18%
Roman Catholic 7%

However, I'm not sure the above representation of Fundamentalism is totally correct. Science is not opposed to faith, for true science does not contradict basic biblical truths. Also, academic study will only add to the character of God if it is an unbiased study.

If you would like to take the quiz, go to The Quiz Farm.

Happy Birthday Texas!!!

Today is Texas Independence Day (March 2 - in case you're reading it late). 172 years ago Texas declared its independence from Mexico at Washington-on-the-Brazos, and to celebrate, I say we should all go eat some good Tex-Mex food! Yee-haw!

Napoleon and Spooky II

Our two dogs are crazy. Napoleon is the inside dog (he's a small Yorkie of course) and Spooky II is our outside dog (a huge black lab for his age). Anyway, they have developed a wonderful friendship even though they are totally different (except for the part about being dogs). The problem is they tend to get one another in trouble. Spooky finds a rug and starts ripping it apart. Well guess who joins in? Napoleon! Napoleon finds an obscure outside ornament (supposedly in storage) and mutilates it. Well guess who joins in? Spooky! While I'm glad they are "friends," I sure wish they would destroy less of my backyard.

Yet, people are so often like my dogs (just be patient...you'll see). They often travel in packs and just follow the lead dog. It doesn't really matter what is right, if it's fun and everyone is doing it, then let's join in! And pretty soon, you have a whole life destroyed.

And yes, my dogs are just dogs...I know that. But isn't it sad when people act no better than dogs? For some reason this passage of Scripture keeps popping into my mind - "Our righteousness is as filthy rags." Which reminds me...I've got to go clean my backyard.

Pray For Savannah

Please pray for Savannah tomorrow morning around 9-9:45 am. She qualified to represent Full Armor Christian Academy in a speech meet and will compete at the event in Tyler tomorrow. She is nervous, of course, but I hope she will do her best (win or lose!). So please pray for her to remain calm, remember what she has studied/practiced, and to rely upon God for her strength. Also, pray that she can use her talents/gifts to glorify God in all she does. And thanks in advance for the prayers.

A Proud Papa

Apologetix - Tom Saw Ya

Parody of the Rush song "Tom Sawyer" with new lyrics about doubting Thomas and the coming of the Holy Spirit.

I'm Suing My Parents

Yes, that's right. I'm suing my parents for defamation of character, for all the years they went around calling me by my full name when I got in trouble. Yes, they called me Matthew Derek Gholson! They used my middle name, and of course, we all know that middle names are now off limits. I mean we definitely cannot say Hillary Rodham Clinton, John Sydney McCain, or even Barack Hussein Obama, for that might insinuate something. I mean, let's forget the facts, and just make everyone "feel" good. Oh well, maybe I'll settle out of court for a blackberry cobbler.

A False Messiah?

According to several reputable news agencies, people are now calling Barack Hussein Obama the savior and messiah (lower case letters intentionally used). Whether they mean of this nation or not, it is a chilling thought to even have those labels attached to a person. There have been many instances of people fainting at the sight of him (come on now...you've got to be kidding me) and even a great roar of applause as he blew his nose.

However, this "got me to thinking" about how easily people will be deceived by the antichrist. If all it takes is a well-dressed, likable, good motivational speaker to make people abandon their principles and vote against their "party," then how easy will it be for Satan to use his antichrist to fool the lost and unbelieving world. Besides, the world already is looking for anything that looks good and denies Christ, so no wonder many will fall prey to his schemes.

Now while I am not accusing anyone of being an antichrist, Obama's massive following does help us to see how such movements occur.

Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time - I John 2:18.

Petrified Gopher Wood?

Below is the article Bro. David Smith referenced concerning tangible evidence of Noah's Ark on Mt. Ararat.

Noah’s Ark nestled on Mount Ararat Saturday, February 23, 2008-->Web posted at: 1/19/2008 5:50:44Source ::: The Peninsula / BY SATISH KANADY
Dogubayazit (Turkey’s Iran-Armenian Border)

For the first time in the seven decade-long history of the search for the legendary Noah’s Ark, a Turkish-Hong Kong exploration team on Tuesday came out with “material evidence”, to prove that the Ark was nestled on Mount Ararat, Turkey’s highest mountain peak bordering Iran and Armenia.
A panel of experts, comprising Turkish authorities, veteran mountaineers, archaeologists, geologists and members of Hong Kong-based Noah’s Ark Ministries International, also displayed an almost one-metre-long peice of petrified wood before the media and specially invited international experts.
The experts claimed it to be a part of a long structure they had unearthed during their February-August 2007 exploration. “It is for the first time in the history of the Ark search that an exploration team is getting a material evidence and graphic documentation. This makes it not only a the significant breakthrough in the Ark-search, but one that is supported with the most substantial evidence in recent history,” the panel said.
The revelation is expected to open up a fresh chapter in the ongoing debates in the scientific community on the search for Noah’s Ark.
Narrating the genesis of their exploration on Mount Ararat, the mount which has a direct reference in Holy Quran (Mount Judi) and Bible, the panel said the search team had made several foiled attempts before unearthing the evidence at an altitude of 4,500-metres of the estimated 5,165 metre volcanic mountain.
“The structure was discovered in the interiors of an unusual cave. The 11.5m wide and 2.6m high white wooden texture was revealed after removing thick layers of volcanic ash on the cave wall,” panel members said at a press conference.
One of the underlying issues in the search for the Ark is the proper identification of its wood fragments. A petrographic examination carried out by the Applied Geoscience Centre of the Department of Earth Sciences, University of Hong Kong, identified the object as a petrified wooden structure, the panel said.
“Some of the big holes found on the structure indicate the locations where branches used to grow on tree. In places, original holes are partly or completely replaced by individual minerals and crystalline materials that can be found in rock materials,” said Dr Ahmet Ozbek, a panel member, who is also a faculty of Geology Engineering Kahramanmara Suctcu Imam University.
Dismissing the possibilities of the structure being wood that could appear naturally around the discovery site, Professor Oktay Belli, director, Eurasian Archaeology Institute, University of Istanbul, said researches have proved that there was no vegetation on Mount Ararat ever since 2000BC, because of the asperities of Ararat’s climate.
Talking to The Peninsula, Cemalettin Demircioglu, Dogubayazit City Governor, under whose jurisdiction the mount is located, said the civic body will invite more international experts to conduct further scientific studies on Mount Ararat.
“History has more than one times corroborated the legendary evidence that the ark was nestled on Mount Ararat. We will introduce the latest findings to the world and continue the scientific study. All interested scientists and NGOs can join our missions” he said. However, he said, those who are involved in the project must ensure the findings are not used politically, religiously, or for any vested interest.
Located in the Far Eastern Turkey, Ararat is great prize for mountain collectors. Ark sighting has often been reported from this mountain. The observation of Vessel-shaped features in aerial photograph of Ararat had caused a stir in the late 1950’s. However, this is the first time an exploration team is coming out with “material evidence”.

Prayer For Missionaries

So often, those serving on the "front lines" of the Lord's work are overlooked and underappreciated. These missionaries who have sacrificed so much should be remembered in our daily prayers and thanked for helping us fulfill the Great Commission. This is especially true when difficult times arise. Thus, I ask that you take a minute and pray for these missionaries, and their families, who have faced some recent difficulties. (Also, if there is a missionary you would like to list, add them in the comments section.)

Bro. Charles Bobo - He is having to leave the field of Papau, New Guinea due to internal strife.
Bro. David Helmnick - He is in Kosovo (Kosova) which has declared its independence.
Bro. Joel Cobbs - He has been forced to leave the nation of Kenya and is working in surrounding countries.
Bro. Asheervadam Sankya - He constantly faces persecution from terrorists in India.
Bro. David Smith - He just started pastoring a church while also working with the XSTREAM Global Missions ministry.
Bro. Leland Acker - He is in need of monthly support for the work in Texas.

Praise God for the faithful men, and their families, who have been obedient to His calling!

That's My King!

Starting Sunday, I will preach through the final week of Christ's ministry before His crucifixion and burial. I will use Matthew 26 and 27 as my primary texts but will also reference the other Gospels. Please pray that God will use these sermons to touch our hearts and to plant the good news of Jesus Christ in those without hope.

Cletus Take The Reel

Thanks to Jason Clark for sending me this link. It is a parody of Carrie Underwood's "Jesus Take The Wheel."

Bookmark This!

Check out www.globalincidentmap.com for all the updates on worldwide terrorism and other suspicious activities.

(This is the same map about which I sent an email several weeks ago.)

Top Ten Pickup Lines Used By Adam

10. You know you're the only one for me!
9. Do you come here often?
8. Trust me, this was meant to be!
7. Look around, baby. All the other guys around here are animals!
6. I already feel like you're a part of me!
5. Honey, you were made for me!
4. Why don't you come over to my place and we can name some animals?
3. You're the girl of my dreams! (Gen. 2:21)
2. I like a girl who doesn't mind being ribbed!
1. You're the apple of my eye!

(Taken from Mike's Funnies)

Interesting Thoughts

The following is an adaptation of the article written by Dr. Raymond McAlister, president of Emmaus Baptist College, Brandon, Florida. The article is based on the book, The Coming Destruction of Baptist People by James R. Beller.

Baptist Heritage in Danger
The following is an adaptation of the article written by Dr. Raymond McAlister, president of Emmaus Baptist College, Brandon, Florida. The article is based on the book, The Coming Destruction of Baptist People by James R. Beller.

Mr. Beller’s thesis in the book is that our Baptist heritage is systematically eroded and soon Baptist people will have no idea that Baptists are not Protestants. His idea of Baptist heritage is threefold, “ancient ancestry, revival heritage and American principles.” Even now few people have any idea of the part Baptists played in the establishment of religious liberty in America.
Presbyterians know the names of John Calvin, John Knox and Jonathan Edwards. Methodists know the names of John and Charles Wesley, Sam Jones and Gypsy Smith. Fundamentalists know the names of Dwight Moody and Billy Sunday.
Why then do Baptists not know their ties to the Donatists, the Waldensians, the Paulicians, John Clarke, Obadiah Holmes, Shubal Stearns, John Leland, Isaac Backus and a host of others?
Beller makes the statement, “Until 1899 every Baptist historian in the world acknowledged the Baptists as ancient people tracing their principles back to Christ and His disciples.” Then he lists the Baptist historians who do:
Thomas Crosby (1740), Isaac Backus (1770), David Benedict (1813), G. H. Orchard (1830), William Cathcart (1887), Thomas Armitage (1880), J. M. Carroll (1901), and John T. Christian (1922).

Reason One—Baptists
The first reason Beller gives for the demise of Baptist heritage is some Baptists, beginning with one William H. Whitsitt. Whitsitt was a professor and eventually president of the Southern Baptist Seminary in Louisville, KY. In 1896 he wrote an article about the Baptists for Johnson’s Encyclopedia in which he said that Baptists did not begin to baptize by immersion until 1641, when a portion of the “Anabaptists” began immersing.
This “Theory of 1641” set off a firestorm of opposition and Whitsitt was proven wrong many times over and was dismissed from Southern Baptist Seminary in 1898. However historians A. H. Newman, W. W. Barnes, and Henry Vedder followed Whitsitt into the next generation.
And in the Twentieth Century Baptist historians Robert Baker, Leon McBeth, Walter Shurden, Robert G. Torbet, and others all marched lockstep with a man who was proven wrong in his own generation.

Reason Two—Fundamentalism
The second reason Beller gives for the demise of Baptist heritage has been “Fundamentalism.” It was an accidental blow but it happened. He points out that as Baptists, being both Fundamental and Baptist, we have been drawn into Fundamental heritage to the forsaking of Baptist heritage. For example, you have heard of the great revivals of Finney, Moody, Sam Jones and Billy Sunday. But, I doubt if you have heard of the great Baptist evangelists: Shubal Stearns, Daniel Marshall, Samuel Harriss, John Waller, John Taylor and Jeremiah Taylor.
You probably did not know about Shubal Stearns, a converted New England Congregationalist who migrated to North Carolina. He began preaching to a congregation of seventeen in central west North Carolina when revival broke out. He soon had seventeen preachers whom he trained and sent into Virginia and South Carolina. Within one generation 1,000 churches were started and within two generations 5,000 churches were started. Many Baptist churches today are direct descendents from Stearns’ revival.
Baptist people today have seldom heard of people like: John Clarke, Obadiah Holmes, Isaac Backkus, Samuel Stennett, Shubal Stearns, Daniel Marshall, Samuel Harriss, John Gano, John Leland, Adonirum Judson, Jeremiah Vardeman or Hudson Taylor.
Many Baptist preachers have attended Fundamentalist schools, like Moody and Bob Jones. These schools are not Baptist and graduates come away with the “Baptists are Protestants” philosophy. Fundamental heritage has overtaken our Baptist heritage.

Reason Three—Christian Schooling
The third reason Beller gives for the demise of Baptist heritage has been our Christian School system. Christian schools have been training our children for several generations but few to none have taught or teach the part that Baptists played in the establishment of religious liberty in America.
Our religious liberty certainly did not come from theologians like Martin Luther or John Calvin. These men did not believe or teach personal or religious liberty.
Beller reviewed all the major Christian curriculums for Christian schools and home schooling, Bob Jones, Alpha-Omega, A Beka, Landmark, ACE, Bill Gothard and Christian Liberty Home School, and did not find one that gave a true accounting of Baptist heritage.
I realize this article has turned into a book review but this is a book every Baptist should read, especially every Baptist preacher. What Beller says is true and we are in fact in danger of losing our Baptist Heritage.
The book is a 120-page paperback and is an easy read with a big impact. You may order it online at http://21tnt.com/pfp/. The cost is $12 plus shipping.

Have It Your Way

Forget the old way of planting churches. According to some information, the new way is to franchise your existing church so that there will be brand recognition, quality, etc. Check out this blog to read more information on this new trend.

Out Of Ur - McChurch: I'm Loving It

Right or Wrong or Indifferent?

Many people say that Mike Huckabee should not be running for President since he is called of God to preach the Gospel (for sake of this argument, let's all assume he has been called as a minister). What do you say? Is this a matter of right or wrong? Is it being approached in the wrong manner? Does it really make a difference? Does he have his "nose" where it does not belong? Let me know!