500125 Postmaster: send change of address to: Baptist Progress, P.O. Box 2085, Waxahachie, Texas 75168

Official Publication of the Baptist Missionary Association of Texas | September 5, 2012 | Vol. 99 | No. 17

Pastor Steve Cowart and Others Return From Mission Trip to Brazil Where Over 450 Accepted Christ A group of seven college-age students accompanied by Pastor Steve Cowart, took a flight to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil for a two-week mission trip. Departing DFW Airport at 7:30 a.m. July 19, the group embarked on a 5,350 mile, 10 1/2 hour flight, landing in Brazil early the following Friday morning. They were met at the airport by Pastor Jeff Thompson of Pilgrim Rest, Emory, his wife, Jeannie, son, Tyson and JBC student, Shayla Lopez. The four had gone two weeks ahead of Cowart and the others to do mission work in the Valley of Jequitinhonha in Brazil. The traveling group was made up of Jennifer Thompson Worley (Pastor Thompson’s daughter), Laci Phillips and Kaylee Swoape from Alba (both students at the University of Texas at Tyler), Sarah McMullen from Georgetown, and Corey Cowart, Allie Lawrence, Stephen Davenport and Cowart from Eighth Avenue, Teague, where he is pastor. Four of the 12 who were on our trip will be students at Jacksonville College this fall. Corey, Pastor Cowart’s son, and Stephen made the trip last year with Pastor Jeff and were amazed at the work that was done there. “Upon hearing about their trip,” said Cowart, “I popped off and said that if Corey were to go again then I was going to go with them.” He continued, “I really had no idea as to what to expect from the trip. When we arrived on Friday morning, July 20, the part of our team that was already there was in the midst of a crusade in the city of Mesquita at the New Alliance Baptist Church. Pastor Jorge and his wife Lillian led the church. Almost immediately, we began doing home visits that had

been arranged by the people of New Alliance.” During the day, the group went into homes telling people about Christ. At night, a Gospel crusade was conducted at the church. Pastor Jeff Thompson preached until the others arrived and gave them preaching opportunities. On Sunday afternoon, most of the group moved on to the Central Baptist Church in Nova Aurora. Pastor Marcos leads the church and his wife, Christina, works alongside him and helping lead in worship. The crusade began on Sunday night in Nova Aurora as Cowart was honored to preach the concluding celebration service in Mesquita. Rising early on Monday morning, the group met with Pastor Marcos. He told them that there were over 200 visits planned and he hoped they were ready to climb mountains. Nova Aurora is surrounded by some mountains (maybe just really healthy hills). So, the faithful evangelistic hikers adopted the theme song of “Climb, Climb up Sunshine Mountain.”

Mission Trip to Brazil continued on p.3

O

80th Anniversary at Bethal Page 4

J k ill College C ll Jacksonville Page 6

A f f P P t Oasis O i Pastor Page 7

Ready When My Time Comes www.bmatexas.org Baptist Progress Jerry Fulton, Editor/Business Manager P.O. Box 2085, Waxahachie 75168 972-923-0756 • www.baptistprogress.org BMA of Texas Missions/ Loan Association Jerry Burnaman, Director PO Box 73, Waxahachie 75168 972-923-0757 www.texaschurchplanting.com Jacksonville College Dr. Mike Smith, President 105 B. J. Albritton Drive Jacksonville 75766 903-586-2518 www.jacksonville-college.edu Jacksonville College Bookstore 800-545-2791 Texas Baptist Home Eddie Marsh, President PO Box 309, Waxahachie 75168 972-937-1321 • www.tbhc.org Church Relations Coordinator David Pittman, Coordinator 972-935-0755

I recall enthusiastically preaching one Sunday about the Second Coming of Christ. A church member approached me after the service and said, “Bro. Jerry, you are too young to think that way. You have your whole life before you.” My first thought was, “Really?” Then I wanted to ask, “Have you not heard, or do you not believe the words of the apostle Paul who said, ‘To live is Christ, and to die is gain’?” Perhaps you have asked someone on his or her birthday, “Do you feel any older?” to which they replied, “Well, it’s better than the alternative.” Having received that response myself, I’ve wanted to shout, “Do you really believe what you are saying? Do you really think life here is better than living in the very presence of the Lord?” And then there is the joke about the preacher who asked while delivering his sermon, “Who wants to go to Heaven?” Seeing one little boy give no response, the preacher asked him, “Son, don’t you want to go to Heaven when you die?” to which the little boy replied, “Oh, yes sir, I want to go someday, but I thought you were getting up a load to go tonight.” Even some adults say,” I’m prepared to go to heaven, but I’m not ready to go today.” While it certainly would be counterproductive for the Christian to stand gazing into the heavens, as did the men of Galilee, shouldn’t we live expectantly of the life that is to come? Shouldn’t it bring joy to our hearts to know that one day we will actually place our hands in the nail-scarred hand? Doesn’t it excite you to know that perhaps today you could be walking down the streets of gold, viewing the splendor of Heaven, joining with the saints and angels around God’s throne in worship to Him? A few weeks ago, a Southern Gospel group, New Day, sang at our church. Included among the songs they sang was one I had never heard before, “I Might Go Home Today.” After hearing the song,

the words continue to ring in my head, and the thought keeps returning to my mind, “If only every child of God would live as if he or she might go home today, how differently our words, actions and attitudes might be!” While living here below, we are to live for Christ. But someday we will gain more than this world could ever offer – the day we walk through the gates of pearl and behold the King upon His throne. If today is the day, I’m not only prepared, I’m ▲ Jerry Fulton, Editor ready! Are you?

I Might Go Home Today We’ve read about the end of time for so many years We’ve heard about the blessed day when Jesus shall appear But I could get excited no matter come what may Just to think that I could be leaving here today Lately I’ve been thinking of a better place than this This old heart’s been longing for some happiness Though I’ve had a good life, there’s nothing can compare To the things that I can dream are waiting for me there I might go home today I’ve been ready for a long, long time to move away If the trumpet sounds that will be okay Because I might go home today

LOCAL ASSOCIATION ANNUAL SESSIONS IN TEXAS USPS: 043120 • ISSN: 005-5751 Published every first and third week of the month by the Baptist Missionary Association of Texas Jerry Fulton, Editor/Business Manager [email protected] P.O. Box 2085 • Waxahachie, Texas 75168 972-923-0756 • 972-923-2679 www.baptistprogress.org Periodical postage paid at Waxahachie, Texas 75165 and at additional mailing offices SUBSCRIPTION RATE: Mail Church Plan: $1.50 per month E-Mail Church Plan: $1.00 per month Mail Subscription: $21.00 per year E-mail Subscription: $15.00 per year Mail & E-mail: $25.00 per year (Advertising Rates Available on Request) Postmaster: Send address changes to Baptist Progress, P.O. Box 2085, Waxahachie, Texas 75168

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ASSOCIATION Angelina Central Texas Central West Texas Cherokee Dallas County East Fork Ellis-Hill Gulf Coast Harris County Houston-Anderson Landmark (Montague County) Landmark (Nacogdoches County) Liberty Mount Olive Navarro County Navasota River Original Bethlehem Plains Polk County Smith County Tarrant County Trinity River Tryon Van Zandt Wood County

DATE Oct 8 Oct 20 Oct 13 Oct 8 Sept 26 Sept 16 Oct 14 Oct 7 Oct 8 Oct 21 Oct 14 Oct 25 Oct 15-16 Oct 6 Oct 9 Oct 20 Oct 6 Oct 20 Oct 28 Oct 29 Sept 22 Oct 6 Sept 30 Oct 14 Oct 16

PLACE Shawnee Prairie, Huntington Calvary, Fairfield Grace Temple, San Angelo Dorman Chapel-BMATS, Jacksonville Not Available First, Crandall TBA First Berean, Port Arthur Carrell Street, Tomball Walston Springs, Palestine Northside, Nocona Pleasant Hill, Nacogdoches Fellowship, Pittsburg Antioch, Carthage Kerens, Kerens Beacon, Bryan Beech Grove, Jasper Missionary, Paducah Sunflower, Livingston Red Springs, Tyler Calvary, Arlington First, Flynn First, New Caney Tundra, Canton Central, Mineola

ANNUAL MESSAGE Joel Hitchcock Paul Heuermann Robby Harris Dr. Mike Smith Not Available Garris Baggett TBA Dr. John David Smith None Randy Sessions Don Hagan John Spurgeon Anthony Anderson Tommy Rose Dale Leggett Ryan Dansby Gene Maddox Michael Jannisse TBA John Harris Dr. Mike Smith Ray Grisset Wyatt Mericle Gary House Randy Johnson

Mission Trip to Brazil continued from p.1 Three weeks prior to departure for Brazil, Thompson called Cowart expressing his desire to come to Eighth Avenue for a visit with those who were going on the trip and have a time of prayer together. During the visit, he mentioned the number saved during the trip last year (only 1 crusade last year) and the 172 saved this year, and somewhere the number of 300 came into the conversation. Cowart admitted that he really did not see that as a very feasible number and sort of thought it was unrealistic. The pastor started mentioning to his church, family and friends that a goal of 300 conversions had been set for the month Pastor Thompson would be in Brazil. Arriving in Nova Aurora, the number of conversions was only about 70 following one week in the valley and a week in Mesquita. Cowart said, “I was less optimistic than ever that we would ever reach 300 people during this trip.” Each Monday morning, those taking part in the trip split into four groups. There were two Americans, a translator and two or three Brazilians from the local church to help get the others to the right places. They walked up the mountain to tell about Jesus in the mornings, stayed 3-4 hours, came in for lunch, then went out another three to four hours in the afternoon. The crusade meetings were at night. By the end of the first Monday, about 70 were saved. “When we came in for lunch on Tuesday, 50 more people had prayed to receive Christ,” said Cowart. By the time the services were over on Tuesday night, the Lord had blessed us with a total of 100 people saved that day. By the time the week came to an end with the Celebration Service on Sunday night, there had been about 450 saved during the week at Aurora Nova. Many of those were saved in their homes and some at the crusade services, while many others were saved through street witnessing. The group did not baptize anyone while in Brazil. The churches they worked through both in Mesquita as well as

Nova Aurora will be spending the next few weeks making contacts with all of the people who prayed to receive Christ. They will seek to incorporate them into a discipleship ministry in the respective churches. Cowart said, “There are two things I will remember the most. First, one afternoon, we were again climbing the mountain and were going to a house we had passed by that morning. When we first passed by, there was a man sitting on the steps of this very poor home, and I thought to myself when we passed that he ought to get up and go to work. When we got back to that house in the afternoon and went inside to share with them about Christ, I found out that this man was blind from diabetes. It was apparent then why this man was not working. He, his wife and two of the older children in the home prayed to receive Christ. I don’t know if he will ever recover his sight on earth, but I now know that one day he will see again.” He continued, “On the following day, we were walking down the street having made our visits and there was a group of nine grown men sitting on the curb of the street. I did not figure that they would be interested in what we were doing but we stopped to talk to them. By the time we walked away, all nine of those men had prayed to accept Christ.” The pastor stated that it was amazing to see how God brought the group together. Unbeknownst to anyone other than the Lord, He included in the group young, energetic singers, preachers and willing spirits. Pastor Cowart said, “I am almost 50 years old, and I can honestly say that I have never seen anything like it in my life. I am making plans and have already shared with my church that I plan to go back again next summer to be a part of this great effort.” He said, “When I realized we had four people from Eighth Avenue, Teague planning to make the trip I knew

We Need Your Help!!!

Bethel Baptist Mission D’Haiti Creve, Haiti Rev. Francois Norcilus www.bbmhaiti.com “Toyota Land Cruiser Pick Up 4x4”

My name is Rev. Francois Norcilus. I reside in a village in Haiti. I have been a missionary in this village since 1982. I have a great need of a new truck. The mountainous terrain has taken its toll on my current truck. It is in constant need of repair on a daily basis. This truck will be used for people who need urgent medical care, as the nearest hospital is five miles. People walk or ride a donkey. It brings food supplies to the schools from Port Au Prince (90 miles away) and transports missionary teams when they arrive and much more. This truck is greatly used for the needs of this community of approximately 15,000. A new truck cost $55,396.65. To date, God has given $21,041. We still need $34,355.65. Will you please help to supply this need? You can send your donations to: Liberty Baptist Church P.O. Box 1776 Mabank, Texas 75147 903-887-4873 (please feel free to call for more info.) Attn: Truck for Haiti This church has an account set up that I have access to in Port Au Prince, Haiti. Thank you so much and May God bless you. In Jesus Name, Francois Norcilus

that the price tag would be high. I contacted some area churches about coming and doing Sunday night Gospel music concerts, and they agreed to take a love offering for the trip. I performed concerts at Calvary, Fairfield; Mt. Zion, Lufkin; Sardis, Jewett; and Temple, Mexia. Each one gave generously to help us get to Brazil. Many from our church as well as some individuals, family members and friends from other churches also generously and kindly gave. May God bless each of you who had a part in making this happen.” Cowart added, “I personally did not feel comfortable in sending a letter asking for funds, so I appreciate those who allowed me to come and share my gift of music and your willingness to support this work. I also appreciate John David Aultman for going with me to each place to play the piano.” There is so much work to be done and so many possibilities for ministry in Brazil. If you or your church might be interested in being a part of this effort, Cowart invites you to contact him or Pastor Jeff Thompson for more information. As the next trip to Brazil draws closer, he will be contacting some churches about coming to do a concert. If you would be willing to host a Sunday night concert and receive a love offering to help with travel and other expenses, contact Pastor Cowart. He would love to come to sing and share more with you about the mission work in Brazil. Contact information is as follows: Pastor Steve Cowart 201 S. Eighth Ave. Teague, Texas 75860 Office – 254-739-2450 Cell – 936-676-2181 [email protected]

Pastor Jeff Thompson PO Box 1003 Emory, Texas 75440 Office – 903-473-3591 [email protected]

Ministers Resource Services Update By RON CHESSER Executive Director, Ministers Resource Services

God has certainly blessed beyond all expectations the ministry of Ministers Resource Services. Who would have thought that in 12 years the BMA Retirement portfolio would have grown $10 million. Today we stand at $13.5 million and growing. Our Long Term Growth portfolio is up over 6 percent thus far for this year and since 2003 we have averaged annually a growth of over 7 percent net of fees. Our Fixed Income portfolio is paying 3.25 percent for this year. The Fixed Income portfolio continues to look strong and stable; therefore, we would anticipate continuing to pay an excellent rate each year going forward. This portfolio is not tied to the stock market so consequently it does not fluctuate. We ask for your continued prayers and financial support for the operation of the retirement agency of the BMAA. We ask for each church to prayerfully consider enrolling their pastor and church staff in the BMA Retirement program. Please contact us at 870-774-2654 or email us at [email protected] and we will mail you a retirement packet. Remember little is much when God is in it. Church, set aside just a little monthly for your pastor’s retirement and God will multiply it and make it much for his retirement days. September 5, 2012

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An Expression of Everlasting Love Many of our friends choose to honor or remember a family member, a friend or an associate with a gift for the children of the Baptist Home. Texas Baptist Home, in turn, notifies the appropriate person. Listed in capital letters are those honored or remembered from July 1, 2012 to July 31, 2012. ENDOWMENTS RICKI MARIE JOHNSTON: Bro. & Mrs. Duane Turner E. ANN PACE: Mr. & Mrs. Karl Pace MYRA STOKES: Bill Stokes HONORARIUMS ALL SERVICE MEN & WOMEN: Earlene Crenshaw JOHN ALLEN: Bro. & Mrs. Charles M. Johnson JAMES & LINDA LUNDAY’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY: WMA, Calvary First, Mesquite BRO. & MRS. FRED MORROW’S 50TH YEAR IN MINISTRY ANNIVERSARY: James Schafer MR. & MRS. WILLIS’S 60TH ANNIVERSARY: James Schafer MEMORIALS JOYCE BARDEN: Bro. & Mrs. Duane Turner DWAINE BARGER: Tracy & Rose Moore TOMMY O. BLAKLEY: Mrs. Betty Blakley CORA BUNN BOONE: Jed & Glenice Whitaker, Bro. & Mrs. Charles M. Johnson SUE BUSSE: Bro. & Mrs. Charles M. Johnson, Mr. & Mrs. Donald Cox FRANKIE CASTLOO: Jed & Glenice Whitaker ALICE CLARIS COOPER: Lynn Lister ED COPLEY: Temple, Mexia DOROTHY COWAN: Jed & Glenice Whitaker, Bro. & Mrs. Charles M. Johnson FERN CRADDOCK DARBY: James Schafer BRO. & MRS. FRED MORROW’S: James Schafer MR. & MRS. WILLIS’S 60TH ANNIVERSARY: James Schafer JOHN C. DOWDEN: Bro. & Mrs. Charles M. Johnson MILDRED GRAMMER: George Grammer JAY GRIFFIN: Bro. & Mrs. Duane Turner KEN HAMM: Mr. & Mrs. Andy McCuistion DOYLE HIGH: Bro. & Mrs. Charles M. Johnson JACQUE HOLLAND: Jean Lee HULON RISINGER INGRAM: Juanita Cassity, Helen Davis, Weldon & Jane Gray DOT JENNINGS: Don & Mary Ann Vaughn, Irene Wells, Our Beloved Aunt- Dovie & Don Edwards, Sandra & Kyle Edwards & Family, Kelly & John Cannon & Family GATLIN JETER: Thomas & Jeanne Walters CHEYENNE JOHNSON: Bro. & Mrs. Charles M. Johnson EDDIE MAE JOWELL: Etha A. Douglas JACK KIRKPATRICK: Mrs. Sandra Ballard CALLIE KNIGHT: Mr. & Mrs. Tommy E. Mullinix JACLYN LANDRUM: Gary Landrum THOMAS LOCKHART: Mary K. Gilbert MRS. LOUISE MAY: Tracy & Rose Moore, William & Dorothy McAdams BETTY MURRELL: Bro. & Mrs. Charles M. Johnson, Rosewood, Gilmer DANA NELSON: Mr. & Mrs. Joe Vern Melton KENNETH OLIVER: Mt. Home Miss. Jacksboro, Mrs. Jean Epperson GUY PHILLIPY: Hoyt & Virginia Hopkins GLENDA WHITE: Don & Mary Ann Vaughn ALIENE WINGS: Mr. & Mrs. Benny Lewis BRO. BILLY ZIEGLER: Don & Mary Ann Vaughn, H. Lloyd & Jo Anne Sullivan, Randy, Rebecca, & Hannah Osborne HOWARD ZIMMER: Don & Mary Ann Vaughn

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The 80th Anniversary of Bethel It was a hot Sunday afternoon as 20 or so people gathered under the shade of a tall cottonwood tree on Elm Street near Downtown Dallas. Wood-folding chairs had been set up and a young three year old boy (Reggie Hayes – now Chairman of Deacons) was laying back on one of the chairs looking up through the tree at the ▲ Bethel's steeple blue sky as he waited with his parents for the meeting to start. Even in the sweltering August heat, there was excitement in the air for the people had come together, under the leadership of the Holy Spirit, to form a new church. This was a remarkable step of faith for these believers, for it was 1932 and the nation was in the midst of the Great Depression. After prayer and some discussion, the assembly voted and Bethel Baptist Tabernacle (now named Bethel Baptist Church of White Rock) was established on Aug. 21, 1932. On Sept. 16, 2012, Bethel will celebrate its 80 th Anniversary (some four score and 26 days since that small band of believers came together under that cottonwood tree on Elm Street). Bro. J.E. Hughes (Former Associate Pastor of Bethel) will bring the homecoming message. A special music program is planned that will feature the “Ransomed Trio” starting at 10 a.m. before the message. We invite members, former members and friends of Bethel to join us for this special day of celebration/worship and for homecoming lunch after service. In reviewing Bethel’s past, we see the hand of God working in the lives of His people and we praise the Lord for His blessings and give Him the glory for what has been accomplished. Bethel’s first pastor was Bro. Edwin L. Barber and the young congregation initially rented a building (4101 Simpson Street) they could afford for their worship services. The Lord blessed them and they were soon able to purchase a white framed church building to become their new home at 4801 Gurley Ave. When Bro. Barber resigned in 1939, Bro. H. B. Gross (the former Church treasurer) was elected to serve as pastor. Under his leadership in 1940, Bethel joined the Baptist Missionary Association. Upon Bro. Gross’ death in 1942, Bro. Lloyd Harper then became Pastor during the height of World War II. Bro. Harper also owns Harper’s Bookstore in Downtown Dallas and he later resigned in 1945 as the war came to a close. In July of 1945, Bro. C.C. Phillips became pastor and with the returning troops and end of war-time economy, Dallas and the church grew. The Lord blessed Bethel during the 1950’s and the church added property and remodeled the church facilities on Gurley to make room for the growing number of members. By the early 1960’s, Bro. Phillips led Bethel into seeking a new church home and construction was completed on April 15, 1962 at its present location at 9314 Ferguson Road near Buckner Blvd. Bethel’s weekly radio program on KSKY continued each Sunday morning broadcasting Gospel messages and Gospel Music. After serving Bethel for 21 years, Bro. Phillips retired as pastor and Bro. C.D. Walker was called as pastor on Dec. 3, 1967.

▲ Bro. and Mrs. C.D. Walker Bro. Walker led Bethel into expanding the church campus with the addition of the Phillips Building that included classrooms and a gym. The Lord blessed Bethel during the late 1960’s and early 70’s with attendance growing to over 300 people. During this time, Bethel launched a Bus Ministry that expanded to four bus routes covering Pleasant Grove, East Dallas and the Casa View/Mesquite areas. Hundreds of children were taught the Bible and souls won for the Lord. Bethel Child Care was opened in January 1970 and it expanded until it became Bethel Christian School in 1983 with Grades 1-6. Bethel’s youth ministry formed various sport programs to train young people in sportsmanship and Christian Fellowship as well as a Bible Credit program that prepared them for a life of ministry and service. In December 1974, Bro. Walker resigned to become the director of the BMA of Texas Missions Department. Dr. E.H. Henderson became pastor of Bethel in March 1975, and under his leadership he expanded the deacon body and led them into the deacon care program. Dr. Henderson was an outstanding biblical scholar and wrote Sunday school quarterlies, and taped sermons that were broadcast on mission fields around the world. After Dr. Henderson resigned in October 1977, Bro. Dan Elliott (the former youth minister) became pastor and served a short time until he resigned in1979. Bro. Ronnie Chesser became pastor of Bethel in 1979 and served faithfully for over 20 years. Before Bro. Chesser resigned, Bro. C.D. Walker was called to be associate pastor of Bethel in 1999 and after nine months became pastor upon Bro. Chesser’s resignation to lead the BMA Minister’s Resource Services. Bro. C.D. Walker is currently the senior pastor and with godly dedication has served Bethel for a combined 19 years. Two years ago, Bethel extended an arm to a Hispanic mission church (Family of God Church under the leadership of Pastor Israel Arredondo) that is meeting in Bethel’s facilities. We rejoice that the Lord is blessing them (grown from 75 to over 200 attending in two years) as they reach out and win souls for the Lord in the Hispanic community. Today, Bethel is a senior-age congregation with approximately 57 active and faithful members. We not only believe, but we know that God has a plan for our future and a ministry that will continue from generation to generation. We look forward to celebrating the heritage of these and many other faithful men and women who have served the Lord here and who have laid a foundation for those who are continuing the work of the Gospel for the honor and glory of God.

More Than a Pep Rally Most of us have been to a pep rally at some time in our lives or a sporting event where we cheer for our team. There is some humor and a lesson that can be learned from our participation as fans at one of these events. The trumpet blows followed by everyone standing and yelling, “Charge!” Then we all sit down to eat our hot dogs, popcorn, and nachos. We aren’t in the game and we do not know the game plan. We are only spectators! Every team has a particular cheer or song that unites everyone in the stadium. In high school my sons played sports for the Ft. Gibson Tigers so every game we heard “The Eye of the Tiger.” In college football the Razorbacks call the hogs, Oklahoma has Boomer Sooner, and Georgia has “Who Let the Dogs Out!” In churches today we have a “Vision Statement’ that is meant to rally the troops in our churches to carry out God’s Great Commission. Vision has the ability to excite people, rally them and urge them to join in the game. Vision statements are worthless without a game plan that will turn followers into spectators. What is you process of discipleship and does everyone in your church know how to get from point A to point B? Vision needs an easy step-by-step reproducible process to ensure progress toward its fulfillment. Every member should know what that process is and be able to explain it to others. Churches should be good at welcoming people,

inviting people, and building relationships with system should always serve the vision, protect the people outside of the church. One problem is vision, and help carry out the vision. Clear vision that when they are ready to join the team there enables leaders to navigate difficult times and is no system in place to show them the step- hard decisions because they know where they are headed. A church can become by-step process for greater the victim of circumstances involvement. Some may say, unless it has a clearly defined “That doesn’t sound very unapologetic vision. spiritual and you don’t need a Here are a couple of quotes system!” The truth is that not BY L ARRY B ARKER on vision from Thom Rainer; having a system is a system but “A vision statement can be not a very good one. concise and clear but unless it In Church in the Making is communicated well, it has Ben Arment describes little power…It isn’t enough a system as “the way your to talk about vision from the organization operates. It’s a pulpit. It must be lived out series of steps that are repeated by the leaders…An unclear (or not repeated) as a way of vision statement can actually accomplishing your goals.” If do more harm than good.” you’re thinking that doesn’t When you know what God sound scriptural, Paul gave wants you to do and how Timothy a system when he He wants you to carry it out said, “And the things that thou in your context it gives you hast heard of me among many the freedom to do it and the witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach liberty to not do anything outside His vision for your church! others also.” Vision is important but without a system in When a church understands its unique vision (if members cannot articulate it easily they don’t place to sustain the vision it can easily just become understand it) then you can begin the process of a pep rally. Everyone gets excited for a moment developing a system to carry out that vision. The but then they sit down and are not involved in the

Church Health

65 Years Together The Tapleys in 1947

The Tapleys in 2012

Congratulations to Pastor and Mrs. J.R. Tapley who were married 65 years ago on Aug. 9, 1947. Lost Prairie Baptist Church, near Groesbeck, where Bro. Tapley serves as pastor, honored the couple with a surprise anniversary gathering and ice cream party earlier this month.

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF JUDSON, TEXAS

Homecoming 129 Years Sept.9, 2012 2038 FM 1844 Judson, Texas Service Schedule COVERED DISH LUNCH Sunday School 9:30 a.m. EVERYONE WELCOME Worship Service 10:30 a.m. Children's Nursery Available Bro. Jim Crump, Pastor

process. Vision is where you compare the present reality with a desired future. This is where people are asking what it means to be a disciple and how they can be more involved. Here is where you Engage them Personally. People must know you heard them when they said they wanted to be more committed to your vision. When they are ready to take the next step(s) everyone needs to know what those next steps are. Systems enable people to know how to move from an observer to a seeker to a follower and then to investors of their lives into the vision. This is phase 2 where you begin Equipping then in Practical Ways. The reason you create a system is to make you more effective at achieving your vision. You must consider what it takes to reach people, what it takes to keep them moving forward in their faith journey, what it takes to keep them engaged, what it takes to equip them for the journey, and what it takes for them to be effective disciples. This is where systems fit in the big picture. They Empower a Process that is easily reproducible and sustainable. We will be discussing in the weeks to come systems that give our vision the opportunity for long success!

Larry Barker is the operations director for North American Missions. For more information or to contact him, visit www.bmaamissions.org.

BAPTIST PROGRESS Thanks again to all who have given to the Baptist Progress $100 for 100 Years of Ministry Campaign. The total amount given as of publication date is $16,000. Those giving since our last issue include the following: Anthony Drive Fellowship Class Central, Aspermont Craft, Jacksonville Cross Roads, Sulphur Springs First, Livingston First, New Summerfield John Rogers Macune, San Augustine New Bethlehem, Cut and Shoot Piney Creek, Kennard Sheppard Drive, Euless

$100 $100 $100 $18 $100 $239 $100 $200 $100 $100 $200

TOTAL RECEIVED TO DATE: $13,823 Our overall goal is $20,000. Only $6,177 more is needed to meet our goal. Just 37 more churches, groups or individuals giving $100 and we'll make it! Help us! Send your offerings to: Baptist Progress P.O. Box 2085 Waxahachie, TX 75168

September 5, 2012

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(Not picture are Michelle Kearney, art instructor; and Kim Clater, cheerleader coach.)

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Walk for the World—October 13, 2012 By DIANE WARD National Walk for the World Coordinator Lifeword Media Ministries

The 2012 Walk for the World is fast approaching! I hope your church is making plans for your Lifeword Sunday promotion and participation in the Lifeword annual event. Please check out our website and follow the simple instructions at www.firstgiving.com/ lifeword to create your personal Walk page, set your individual Walk goal and reach out to your social media contacts as a convenient, effective method to raise money for the Walk. Traditional fundraising is still an option as well. Online Walk material downloads, including the Walk video, are provided for you; however, if you should need a copy of the video or any of the other materials sent to you please contact us at 1-800-543-1090. Please encourage your youth to get involved and help raise money for their church. Two youth room makeovers will be awarded this year—one to the church who raises the most money and one to the church who raises the most money per capita. The Walk t-shirts are in house and we are shipping orders. The shirts are $12 again this year. Please note the incremental shipping charges on the walker sign-up form and t-shirt order form. Credit card orders may be placed online or by phone, and mail orders sent to us

with your t-shirt order form and check are also acceptable. The National Walk for t h e Wo r l d i s Saturday, Oct. 13, 2012; however, if you want to participate in the Central Arkansas area Walk, it will be held from 6-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 10, 2012 at the Conway High School Football Stadium in Conway, Arkansas. Seven hundred walkers and spectators attended the event last year, and we are planning for a larger number of folks at this year’s local Walk. A great time was had by all last year as we came together to raise money for a common goal—sharing the Gospel with those who have never heard that Jesus loves them and died for them. Conway is the international headquarters for Lifeword and we would be honored to have you join us for our area Walk. If you plan to attend this event this year please give us a call and let us know how many people you plan to bring. We hope to see you there!

Revival

First Baptist Church Blooming Grove, Texas September 16-19 at 7 p.m. Tommy Oglesby, Evangelist Steve Colburn, Music Grady Cashion, Pastor

Tommy Oglesby

The New Edition Is Here! The Directory and Handbook is a valuable resource for BMAA churches, departments, and agencies, and contains FRPSUHKHQVLYHDQGGLYHUVL¿HGGDWDSHUWDLQLQJWRWKHZRUNDQG ZRUNHUVRIWKH%0$$ Order your copy of the 2012-13 BMAA Directory and Handbook today!&DOORUORJRQWRZZZ'LVFLSOH*XLGHRUJ 'LUHFWRU\

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Jerry Jolly Speaker

David Watkins Speaker

Buddy Johnson Speaker

Travis Sellers Worship

Anita Renfroe Guest Artist

No Other Name Guest Artist

Joe Castillo SandStory Artist

September 5, 2012

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Camp Christa: Reaching Children Through Christian Camp Ministry By SHARON COLE Editor, Texas WMA

The Navajo is the largest Native American tribe in the nation with about 300,000 located in the four corners region of Arizona, Utah, New Mexico and Colorado. Domestic violence, drug and alcohol abuse, and physical and sexual abuse are common in the lives of so many of these children. They need to know the God who loves them. They need the ministry of a camp that can reach them for Christ, address issues that are unique to their culture and give them a sense of belonging. With the help of the BMAA churches we can reach out to these children both physically and spiritually. The National WMA has devoted the major portion of their Project this year to Camp Christa. It is directed by a missionary to the Navajo Indians, Jason Walters. The idea of a camp for the Indian children began in 2000. The first camp began by renting a facility with 21 people total. Organizing began a little at a time and by year four they averaged between 70 and 100 in attendance. After much prayer and waiting, God led them to the right place and provided a down payment and borrowing the rest. They now have 40 acres at the base of Mesa Verde. For a year work was done clearing the land before building could be done. In the spring of 2011 building began with two cabins, the beginnings of a dining area that will be finished as time and finances allow. Also in the building stages are two, 12-stall showers and a 4-stall bathroom. Continued needs are four more cabins, kitchen, beds and mattresses and an activity center. They are also praying they can pay off property owing $79,000. The camp property is surrounded by reservations. They minister to six communities in a 50–mile stretch. The camp is another 30–miles further and there are thousands of youth in this 80–mile stretch that will never go to a camp at all unless there is this opportunity. Their goal is to reach these people for Christ and it may only happen by reaching the youth. They preach Jesus to the children and have counselors working night and day with them for one reason, they desperately need Jesus. The first camp this summer took much preparation and lots of prayer and tears. It was worth it all. They had 15 first time campers with 53 in total attendance. Counselors also were taught how to minister to children during the day and went to Shiprock, Towaoc and Cortez to do Bible Clubs in the afternoon. The evenings were filled with good old fashioned preaching and fellowship before bedtime. They gave the gospel to 127 children and 33 made professions of faith. Grace Baptist Church of Zachary, Louisiana, was a tremendous blessing in helping make this camp possible. They also helped build another cabin. Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church came the week before camp and helped set up and also did some building. After the second camp this summer and all the outreach that they have been involved with, they ministered to a total of 350 children, saw 62

8 | September 5, 2012

professions of faith and 13 baptisms! God was lifted up and glorified and Bro. Walters, his family and church family are praising God for allowing them to be a small part of His work with the Native Americans. Send all offerings and donations to National WMA Corresponding Secretary, Pat Duncan, P.O. Box 30, Hardy, AR. 72542. Make checks payable to the National WMA Project. LAST REMINDER FOR THE TEXAS WOMEN’S RETREAT Although the deadline for registration has passed, don’t let this keep you from coming to the Texas Women’s Retreat. But please call Mary Phillips at 903638-6019 or 903-920-3828 and tell her you are coming so preparations for food and seating can be arranged. Remember the late fee is $25. Lunch will be provided by Wood County WMA. You will enjoy fellowship with ladies from all over the state, door prizes, talent and lots of fun. There will also be a Silent Auction to bid on. The proceeds from this auction will be applied to the Texas WMA Project. A nursery is provided for children under the age of 5. Please specify in registering whether you are bringing children. PRIORITIES Laundry and dishes aren’t my favorite things to do. I’d rather play with kittens or admire the sky of blue. Ironing and mending could be left for another day. I’d rather read the comics or watch my children play. Sweeping, mopping, and cooking fills a mom’s time.

I’d rather sing or crochet; my head is full of rhyme. God has placed me here; I wouldn’t change a thing. I know when I do these things, heaven’s angels sing. I know I am pleasing God and I show my family love, To be a wife and mother is the highest honor from above. ~ Written by Sharon Cole The writer of Ecclesiastes tells us there is a time for everything. In order to have the time for everything we must have goals. What is really the most important thing you have to do each day as you awake? Many of us have full time jobs where we have to be there at a certain time. Others have a full time job at home with a husband and children to care for. And even working mothers juggle both jobs. The management of time is similar to the management of money. If money is short at the end of each month, spending habits must be adjusted. Time can be managed the same way. There is a very good reason that our time should be used wisely: the Christian belongs to God. We are not our own to do as we like with our bodies. “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought with a price. Therefore honor God with your body.” Sharon Cole is the editor for the Texas WMA. Contact her at [email protected]. For more information on the Texas WMA, visit www.texaswma.com.

Missions in the South American Country of Brazil By SHIRLENE SMITH National WMA Editor

Brazil is the largest of the Latin-American republics in both area and population. The country occupies 3,286,470 square miles of land and has a population of 198,000,000. Brazil was first called Vera Cruz (True Cross) by its discoverer, Pedro Alvares Cabral, a Portuguese navigator. Later the name was changed to Brasil (or Brazil) after the brazil wood that was found there. The official language of the country is Portuguese. The country is vast and varied. It contains some of the most modern cities, such as Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Belo Horizonte, Salvador, and the capital city of Brasilia. In contrast, it also contains the world’s largest tropical forest, which is traversed by the great Amazon River. Some of the most primitive peoples of the world live in the Amazon jungles. The climate is tropical. The major religions are Catholic, Pentecostal, and Baptist. Their education system includes classes for Kindergarten through Grade 12 plus college and university degrees. The younger children attend classes from 7-11 a.m. or from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.—four hours each day. The older children go to school from 2-7 p.m. Sports are not as important there as in America. Some of the major industries in the country are the automobile industry, metal works, textiles and farming. Some of the major farm crops are cotton, rice, coffee, soybeans, cashews, etc. In the southeastern part of Brazil, in the city of Sao Paulo there is one of the most loyal and dedicated servants of the Lord, Pastor Jarede Souza, director of Brazilian Missions, and his family. His wife is Dilma; she is a teacher. The Souzas have two sons, Felipe

and Tiago. They have one daughter, Sara. She came to the States to attend school at Central Baptist College, Conway, Arkansas. She is married to a young minister, Josh Whistler. This entire family is involved in serving the Lord. Pastor Jarede was saved at the age of nine. He lived in the state of Minis Gerais. One of the seminary students (Brazil had a seminary at that time) was preaching a series of messages at his home church. The Holy Spirit convicted his heart and he was saved that night. Brazil was one of the first foreign mission fields of the Baptist Missionary Association of America (BMAA). Bro. Harold Morris was the first American missionary to serve there. Pastor Jarede named many of the American BMAA missionaries that he remembered serving in Brazil. Among those named were John Elliott, Carol Thompson, Harold Morris, Mike Adams, Gerald Price, Marvin Henson, John Self, Richard Hackler and Rufus Crawford. He stated that the American missionary who had influenced his life the most was Bro. John Elliott who served in Brazil with his wife Harriett for 35 years. Pastor Jarede stated they have 27 churches in Brazil with fourteen missions. They have eighteen pastors and eleven national missionaries. Their churches have services like the churches in America including Sunday school and Vacation Bible School. His vision for the work in Brazil includes planting new churches, plans to start a seminary and extensions in Brazil, raising up new missionaries, and plans to start Lifeword Radio broadcasts. Pastor Jarede requested prayer for the churches, missions, pastors and missionaries in Brazil.

BMA OF TEXAS MISSIONS & THE INQUEST GROUP PRESENT: SEPTEMBER 15, 2012 Understanding Generations First Baptist Church, Livingston 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. SEPTEMBER 21 & 22, 2012 Developing Strategies & Leaders for Effective Ministry Genesis Metro Church, Frisco 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Sept. 21) 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Sept. 22) OCTOBER 6, 2012 Building Healthy Relationships First Baptist Church, Livingston 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. NOVEMBER 17, 2012 Developing Leaders that Lead First Baptist Church, Livingston 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, contact State Missions Director Jerry Burnaman at 972-923-0757 or [email protected].

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EVENTS SEPTEMBER 9-11, 2012 Youth Revival @ Calvary, Mt. Pleasant For information contact Betty Reese ([email protected]) SEPTEMBER 9-14, 2012 Fall Revival @ Jackson, Joaquin Guest Speaker: Larry Barker, Operations Director of BMAA North American Missions 7 p.m. each night SEPTEMBER 16, 2012 76th Homecoming @ Woodland, Splendora (6049 FM 3358) Message by The Hamptons, and special music featuring The Hamptons, Hugh Casey Prairie Wind, Bobby & Carolyn Pruitt, various others. Noon Meal in Fellowship Hall 9:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. SEPTEMBER 20-22, 2012 Revival @ Little Flock, Lufkin Pastor Jody Windham, Speaker SEPTEMBER 23-26, 2012 Revival @ Pilgrim Rest #2, Golden Michael Mize, Evangelist OCTOBER 3-5, 2012 Pastors Oasis @ Chateau on the Lake, Branson, Missouri OCTOBER 15-16, 2012 Liberty Association Annual Meeting @ Fellowship, Pittsburg 7 p.m. each night

Want to Make a Gift That Keeps Giving? The Lifeword Foundation provides that opportunity. Your gift is never spent, it is invested and only the earnings are used to help carry the Gospel around the world. Your gift keeps giving until the Lord returns. For more information, call the LifeWord Development Office at 501472-2183.

PERSONNEL & POSITIONS AVAILABLE POSITIONS PASTOR—Calvary, Fayetteville, Arkansas is seeking a senior pastor. Send resume to the attention of the Pastor Search Committee at the church’s address: 1410 N. Porter Road, Fayetteville, Arkansas 72703, 479-442-4634, www. calvarybaptistfayetteville.com. PASTOR—Opelika, Brownsboro is seeking a pastor. Send resume to 11431 CR 3520, Brownsboro, Texas 75756 or [email protected]. PASTOR—New Haven, Dallas is seeking a pastor. Send resume to Dennis Hevron, 377 Long Creek Road, Sunnyvale, Texas 75182 or call 972-897-0216. PASTOR--First, Rice is seeking a pastor. Send resume to the church at P.O. Box 188, Rice, Texas 75155. PASTOR—Heritage, Waxahachie is seeking a senior pastor. Those interested are encouraged to visit www.pursuingchrist.org, go to the pastor search page, answer the questions, resume and email to [email protected]. YOUTH—Calvary, Midlothian is seeking a full time associate pastor of youth and education. Send resumes to 1591 S. Ninth St., Midlothian, Texas 76065. PASTOR— University, Nacogdoches is seeking a pastor for full-time service. Send us a resume to the church at 2505 North St., Nacogdoches, Texas 75965. YOUTH—Jackson, Joaquin is seeking a part-time youth director. Send resume to the church at 11120 St. Hwy 7 E., Joaquin, Texas 75954, or contact Pastor David Long at 936-269-3370 or 936-488-1088.

AVAILABLE MINISTERS WALTER HOLMES is available to serve in the North Central Texas area to be near his grandchildren. He most recently served as pastor of Immanuel, Plain Dealing, Lousiana. He and his wife are members of Springhill, Louisiana. Contact him at 318-382-5300. More information is available on his web site, walterholmes.net. MATTHEW LOAFMAN is available for pulpit supply. He is the son-in-law of Bro. Paul Gauntt, former director of the BMA of Texas Department of Church Ministries, and has preached at Lakeside, Trinidad, where Floyd Loven is pastor for the past year. Contact him at 469-285-6060 or at [email protected]. WILEY DORMAN is available for preaching appointments. Contact him in Jarrell, Texas at 512-746-6085.

PASTOR CHANGES RANDY SESSIONS has resigned as pastor of Calvary, Crockett. GAYLAN HENRY has resigned as pastor of South Park, Fort Worth. CHRIS PRICE has resigned a pastor of Opelika, Brownsboro. BRETT LESTER is the new lead pastor of First, Livingston. KEITH WOOLF is the new pastor of O’Quinn Pollok.

DEATH J.P. JONES

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John Paul “J.P.” Jones, 97, of Magnolia, Arkansas formerly of Lamesa, Texas and Willisville, Arkansas passed away on July 27, 2012 at Magnolia Health and Rehabilitation Center in Magnolia. He was born on January 1, 1915 in Comanche County, Texas. He was a retired Baptist minister of 74 years. He graduated from Jacksonville College and pastored throughout Texas and Arkansas. As director of Holy Land Tours he traveled to the Holy Land numerous times. Bro. Jones is survived by his wife of 76 years, Cleo Jones of Willisville, Arkansas; a daughter Doris Tunnell of Bryan, Texas; a son Carroll Jones of Willisvile; five grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, and one greatgreat grandchild.

CHURCHES IN REVIEW AUGUST 12, 2012 Church Anthony Drive, Ennis Cedar Creek, Teague Ebenezer Friendship, Pittsburg Elwood, Wills Point First, Blooming Grove First, New Summerfield Glade Creek, Gilmer Jackson, Joaquin Lake Highlands, Sulphur Springs Little Flock, Jewett Long Creek, Sunnyvale Merriman Hills, Sherman New Harmony, Tyler New Haven, Dallas Pilgrim Rest #2, Golden Pine Brook, Tyler Pleasant Oaks, Dallas Rosewood, Gilmer Security Calvary, Cleveland Suburban Wood, Humble Temple, Mexia Tundra, Canton Woodland, Splendora Yellowpine Macedonia, Hemphill

SS 53 7 31 38 211 46 16 69 82 7 79 16 224 29 64 34 14 77 20 45 46 95 54 24

Worship 118 30 38 85

Additions

67 31 90 122 21 88 21 306 48 75 63 31 158 35 66 58 125 75 27

1 by letter

2 by letter

AUGUST 19, 2012 Church Anthony Drive, Ennis Beautiful Acres, Scurry Cedar Creek, Teague Davis Street, Sulphur Springs Ebenezer Friendship, Pittsburg Elwood, Wills Point Farley Street, Waxahachie First, New Summerfield Glade Creek, Gilmer Jackson, Joaquin Lake Highlands, Sulphur Springs Merriman Hills, Sherman New Haven, Dallas New Hope, Mineola Pilgrim Rest #2, Golden Pine Brook, Tyler Piney Creek, Kennard Rosewood, Gilmer Sand Flat, Grand Saline Suburban Wood, Humble Temple, Mexia

SS 58 34 11 87 43 31 406 33 19 73 80 16 35 75 69 28 28 85 68 37 37

Worship Additions 96 45 2 by baptism 32 2 by statement 231 81 59 529 1 profession of faith 46 40 110 114 14 48 1 by statement 111 1 by letter 83 67 56 1 by letter 164 85 47 51

AUGUST 26, 2012 Church Anthony Drive, Ennis Cedar Creek, Teague Davis Street, Sulphur Springs Farley Street, Waxahachie First, Blooming Grove Glade Creek, Gilmer Jackson, Joaquin Lake Highlands, Sulphur Springs Little Flock, Jewett Little Mound, Big Sandy Long Creek, Sunnyvale Merriman Hills, Sherman New Harmony, Tyler New Haven, Dallas New Hope, Mineola Pilgrim Rest #2, Golden Pine Brook, Tyler Rosewood, Gilmer Security Calvary, Cleveland Suburban Wood, Humble Tundra, Canton Yellowpine Macedonia, Hemphill

SS 57 15 100 443 232 25 78 83 8 56 74 12 242 29 55 62 25 98 27 44 115 25

Worship 99 40 212 530

Additions

1 profession of faith 40 123 118 18 80 84 322 42 135 84 63 153 41 64 175 27

1 by letter 2 by letter 1 by baptism 1 profession of faith

1 by letter 5 by baptism 1 by letter

For publication, statistics for Churches in Review must be received by Monday at 5 p.m.

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God’s Spirit Through the Ages By GARY HOUSE DATE: Sept. 2, 2012 TEXT: Genesis 1:2; Joel 2: 28-29,32; Acts 2:16-18, 21 LESSON IN BRIEF: The eternal Holy Spirit Who has worked among mankind in ages past is still working today. OVERVIEW OF THE QUARTER: This lesson embarks on a study of what the Bible teaches about the Holy Spirit, the third Person of the Godhead. The title of the series is “God Working in You.” The focus of study will be Acts 1-12, although many supplemental passages will be utilized. The PURPOSE is to help us understand and experience the Holy Spirit as a Christian. FOCUS: If you are a believer, the Holy Spirit (God) lives in you. The Holy Spirit is God working in you as a Christian to glorify Jesus through your fruitful victorious life of service to Him. (Note: Throughout the quarter I will make reference to two excellent books which have helped me to understand the doctrine of the Holy Spirit: (1) The Holy Spirit John Walvoord, (1958); (2) The Holy Spirit in Today’s World, W.A.Criswell, Zondervan Press, 1966.) THE PERSON OF THE HOLY SPIRIT – We believe that the Holy Spirit is co-equal with God the Father and God the Son and is of the same essence (Matthew 28: 19-20). We believe there is one God with three equal persons in the Godhead. The belief that the Holy Spirit is some kind of impersonal force is so wrong. It is heresy! Such a belief has nothing in common with the Scripture’s description of the

Holy Spirit. He is God. The Scriptures attest to the deity of the Holy Spirit. He is spoken of as God and is identified with the title of Jehovah. The Holy Spirit possesses the attributes of deity, such as omniscience (1 Corinthians 2: 10-11); omnipresence (Psalms 139:7-8); omnipotence (only God can create: Genesis 1; 2 Psalms 104:30); and eternality (Hebrews 9:14). He does works only God can do, such as creating, regenerating and sanctifying (2 Thessalonians 2:13). One Scripture that makes this very clear is Acts 5:3-4. Here Peter equals the Spirit with God Himself. To him, God and the Holy Spirit are equals. Peter considers rightly the Holy Spirit as God. Paul share that view when he writes his letter to the church in Corinth. In 2 Corinthian 3:17 he says: “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. He is a Person. Scripture describes the Holy Spirit in personal terms, not as an impersonal force, when it says that He teaches, guides, comforts and intercedes. He possesses emotions, intellect and will. THE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT – It is evident that the Holy Spirit is present throughout the whole Bible, but his function is a bit different in the Old Testament and in the New Testament. In the Old Testament, we find the Spirit was active in creation (Genesis 1:2, 26.) He was also active in the restraint of sin (Genesis 6: 1-3) and the convicting of men of their sin and calling them to God. In Judges, the

Spirit was engaged in qualifying men to serve God. For example, many times we read, “the spirit of the Lord came upon…” And a man’s name was given (see Judges 3:16; 6:34 and 13:25). He would come upon people to equip them for a particular task and then would depart from them the Holy Spirit dwells upon certain people in certain times. The presence of the Spirit were rare and limited. Where the Holy Spirit was, remarkable things happened. The Holy Spirit today plays a major role in the application of salvation to the individual. It is the Spirit who brings conviction to the unbeliever and causes him to see the truth of the gospel in a clear light (John 16:8-11.) Those who respond to this conviction and place their faith in Jesus Christ receive eternal life and a new nature (John 3:3-7; Titus 2:5). It is the Holy Spirit who shows people their sin and. It is the Holy Spirit that leads people to faith in Jesus Christ. The Spirit paints Jesus to us, we respond with repentance and faith. He also unites the believer with Christ in His death, enabling him to live victoriously over sin (Romans 6:1-10). The Holy Spirit controls the believer who yields to God and submits himself to God’s Word (Romans 12: 1-2). When these conditions are met, the believer lives in the power of the Spirit and produces the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5: 16, 22-23). The Holy Spirit indwells the believer permanently (1 Corinthians 6: 19-20). While the child of God may sin and grieve the Spirit, the Spirit will never leave the true believer. The Holy Spirit seals the

believer (Ephesians 4:30). This ministry guarantees the security of the believer “until the day of redemption.” THE PROMISE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT – God made a promise. He promised that He would pour out the Spirit on all people (Joel 2: 28-32). This famous prophecy was spoken 800 years before fulfillment. This promise was partially fulfilled at the first Pentecost in Jerusalem (Acts 2:1-4, see 2: 16-21.) The promise keeps getting fulfilled every time someone comes to faith in Jesus Christ. God promises to pour put his Spirit on all flesh. We are flesh. Because we think of and innovative scientific technologies, we believe we are very powerful beings. But until we receive God’s Spirit we are only flesh. Until we breathe God’s breath we don’t have the life that God wants to give us. When God’s Spirit is poured out upon us, we are transformed from flesh to children of the Living God. God’s Spirit transformed Peter who denied Jesus three times into a courageous and faithful disciple. When God’s Spirit is poured out upon us we are transformed. We are not timid anymore. We are not afraid of suffering and misfortune anymore. We are transformed to be faithful disciples who praise God with unshakable hope. The Spirit now indwells you as believer in Jesus Christ and will always be available to empower you to be the effective witness God desires you to be. Make yourself available to Him and be amazed at what God can do.

Start in the Spirit, Stay in the Spirit By GARY HOUSE DATE: Sept. 9, 2012 TEXT: Luke 3:21-22; 4:1-2;14, 17-19; John 3:34; Acts 10:38. LESSON IN BRIEF: Ministry begins with the Holy Spirit. Even Jesus didn’t start his official ministry until the Spirit came upon Him. God’s Holy Spirit has always been at work in His world, and this was certainly true in the life of Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit was there with the Lord every step of the way. The Baptism of Jesus (Luke 3:21-22) – In that day there were so many imposters pretending to be the real Messiah. How would John the Baptist know the real Christ? God let His Holy Spirit take care of this crucial task. The Holy Spirit was there for Christ’s identification. John Walvoord writes, “The baptism of Jesus was not the beginning of the Holy Spirit’s ministry to Christ, but marked the point in which the Holy Spirit would affect the outward signs of Messiahship. As the coming of the Spirit in the form of a dove was visible and outward, so the ministry of the Spirit in Christ would be visible and outward. The Baptism of Jesus gives no better illustration of the doctrine of the Trinity. At the same time, the occasion was one for declaration of unity. Christ is proclaimed as Son of God, and the Holy Spirit is declared to be permanently resident in Christ.” “…and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased. Note the Trinity here. The Son is being

baptized. The Holy Spirit descends. The Father speaks. There is a heresy that says that there is only one God who has changed at various places in history to manifest himself in different ways. In the Old Testament He is the “Father”. In the New Testament He becomes “Jesus”, and after the resurrection He becomes the “Holy Spirit.” Not so! What is happening here if that’s the case? Is Jesus talking to Himself like a ventriloquist? No. The Spirit and the Temptation of Christ (Luke 4:1-2) – Jesus Christ was led by the Holy Spirit in His movements here upon earth. Living as a man here upon earth and setting an example for us, each step of His life was under the Holy Spirit’s guidance. The Holy Spirit was there (in the wilderness) for Christ’s direction. The Ministry of Christ and the Holy Spirit – The key verse for today’s study is John 3:34, “God gives not the Spirit by measure unto Him…” It means that all of the gifts of the Spirit were in Jesus. There was no limit to the ability of Jesus. Being without sin, there was nothing within Christ to hinder the full ministry of the Spirit. The Holy Spirit was not given to Jesus. He was conceived of the Holy Spirit, indwelt by the Holy Spirit, filled with the Holy Spirit from His very first breath and from the time of His baptism, fully anointed by the Spirit .Just as the Holy Spirit intimately guided every detail of Christ’s life, we have the potential to be directed in the same way. Jesus Christ was anointed and fitted for service

by the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit certainly had a key role in the mighty miracles of Jesus Christ. Acts 10:38, “How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with Him.” In a prophetic vision of the coming Messiah in the Old Testament, Isaiah 61:1, “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; He hath sent me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound.” In a similar way Jesus said of Himself when speaking in the synagogue in Nazareth, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach good tidings unto the poor; He hath sent Me to proclaim release to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord” (Luke 4:18, 19). In Luke’s record of the earthly life of our Lord in Luke 4:14, “And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee, and there went out a fame of Him through all the region round about.” All these passages contain the one lesson – that it was by the special anointing with the Holy Spirit that Jesus Christ was qualified for the service to which God had called Him. As He stood in the Jordan after His baptism, “The Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove

upon Him,” and it was then and there that He was anointed with the Holy Spirit, baptized with the Holy Spirit, and equipped for the service that lay before Him. Jesus Christ received His equipment for service in the same way that we receive ours by a definite baptism with the Holy Spirit. The same Spirit by which Jesus was originally begotten, is at our disposal for us to be begotten again of Him. The same Spirit by which Jesus was anointed for service is at our disposal that we may be anointed for service. The same Spirit who led Jesus Christ in His movements here on earth is ready to lead us today. The same Spirit who taught Jesus and imparted to Him wisdom and understanding, counsel and might, and knowledge and the fear of the Lord is here to teach us. Jesus Christ is our pattern (1 John 2:6), “the first born among many brethren” (Romans 8:29). Whatever He realized through the Holy Spirit is for us to realize also today From Christ’s conception to His resurrection and every step along the way, the Holy Spirit was fully involved in the life of Jesus Christ. Praise God for the work of His Spirit in the life of our Savior and Lord! Gary House is the writer of the Sunday school lessons for Baptist Progress. He serves as pastor of Tundra Baptist Church in Canton. Contact him at [email protected].

September 5, 2012

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12 | September 5, 2012