2020-01-23

Informing and Inspiring Oklahoma Baptists Since 1912

BAPTISTMESSENGER.COM • JANUARY 23, 2020

Advance Conference offers new elements while pursuing evangelism /// SEE PAGE 6

CO N T E N T S : Page 2 | News & Trends Southern Baptists respond to Puerto Rico earthquakes >> CHRIS FORBES

Page 3 | Voices Encourage: Powerful summary of baptism

Vietnam missions work hits close to home for McLemore

3 commitments for surviving and thriving in the ministry

>> CATHERINE FINCH

>> PATRICK LATHAM

PONCA CITY—As French McLemore rode through the streets of Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, the last thing he expected to see was a sign for a Baptist church.

Born in Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon as it was once known, McLemore and his family lived there until two days before the fall of Saigon in 1975. McLemore’s Vietnamese mother met his father, a full-blooded Cherokee Indian, while his father served in Vietnam as a civilian contractor.

When I first started out in ministry, I was often amazed by the number of pastoral failures I witnessed. Now I am not so shocked when I hear of those who sputter and stall-out. Ministry can indeed be tough and tricky!

Apart from the grace and strength of the Holy Spirit, no one would last. Because of this, I believe three commitments are essential for those who want to survive and thrive in the ministry.

Protect your private worship. Jesus gave us an example in this regard.

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To comment on articles, visit www.baptistmessenger.com

>> HANCE DILBECK

Page 3 | Voices Sword & Trowel: Feelings, faith & roses >> BRIAN HOBBS

Page 4 | Gospel Ministry Rite of Passage: Ding Dong Jesus >> WALKER MOORE

Page 5 | Missions & Ministry Oklahoma DR ramps up collaboration with Tenn.

Baptists >> CHRIS FORBES

Page 7 | Feature Regional events offer churches training to prevent sexual abuse, raise awareness >> STAFF

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Southern BaptistsMrespond to ISSIONS & M I N I S T RY Puerto Rico earthquakes

SPORTS & T MEN E N T E R TA I N

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Cabrera explained the conditions in again without power. a text message interview on Tuesday Cabrera reported he and his famimorning, Jan. 7. “The past two days, Swere safe. “There was no damage ly E C I VO we woke up with strong tremors,” he to the location where we meet as a PUERTO RICO—Southern Baptist texted, “Monday with a 5.6 quake, and church, praise God! We are in the SEND Relief volunteers responded this morning at 4 a.m. with 6.4 and two metropolitan area of the island, and to two devastating earthquakes that hours later with 5.6. The major dam- there has not been much damage struck the island of Puerto Rico, Jan. 7 age is in the southwest area of Puerto there so far.” and 11. Southern Baptist Convention Rico. The damage was unlike anything Immediately after the quake, Cabre(SBC) leader and Puerto Rican pastor we had seen before. ra began organizing initial relief efFelix Cabrera has been working to get “After a hurricane as devastating as forts. “Crises are opportunities in the much needed aid to the people af- Maria, we didn’t expect something hands of God,” he said. “That’s how O NonL I NlikeEEthis fected by the 6.4 magnitude so soon. The sad and difficult we saw it. We believe that all this will N E Wquake T NisTthat we continue to have after- be used as evangelistic opportuniCON E Tuesday, Jan. 7 with B another powerful thing IV S U L C X WE -E 5.9 quake on Saturday, Jan. 11. shocks every hour. The earth contin- ties for us Southern Baptists in Puer“We had been feeling tremors since ues to move and that makes the whole to Rico.”

November that increased in the past population very anxious.”

Cabrera expressed appreciation for two weeks,” said Cabrera who curHurricane Maria was a deadly Cate- Oklahoma Baptists who have shown rently serves as SBC second vice pres- gory 5 hurricane that devastated the support and are praying for him and ident and is the executive director of island in September 2017, wiping out his family. “Pray that we can take adO grid and much of the in- vantage of the crisis to point people N E W O N L I NTEENT F IN the Convención de Iglesias Bautistas N the power IO T A BLIC SIVE CON PU del Sur de Puerto Rico. frastructure. Now the island was once to Christ,” he said.

WEB-EXCLU >> by Chris Forbes

OKLAHOMA BAPTISTS MARKETING & BRANDING SPECIALIST

NE N E W O NELCIONTENT

EVENTS

SIV WEB-EXCLU

JAN 26

FEB 7

Oklahoma Baptist Children’s Chorus Concert

Oklahoma Baptist Symphony Concert

Info: 5 p.m., OKC, Brookwood oklahomabaptists.org/worship

Info: 6 p.m., Skiatook High School oklahomabaptists.org/worship

JAN 27-28

FEB 13

Advance Conference

Vacation Bible School Training Clinic

Info: Del City, First Southern oklahomabaptists.org/advance

FEB 5

Rose Day at State Capitol

Info: 9 a.m., Muskogee, First oklahomabaptists.org/childhood

FEB 13

Info: 9:30-11:30 a.m., rose distribution; 11:30 a.m., rally in House Chambers roseday.life

Singing ChurchWomen Concert

FEB 6

FEB 14

Info: 7 p.m., Piedmont, First oklahomabaptists.org/worship

Singing Churchmen Concert

Vacation Bible School Training Clinic

Info: 7 p.m., Pryor, First oklahomabaptists.org/worship

Info: 9 a.m., OKC, Southern Hills oklahomabaptists.org/childhood

FOR MORE INFO ON OKLAHOMA BAPTISTS’ EVENTS, VISIT WWW.OKLAHOMABAPTISTS.ORG/EVENTS

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FIRST-PERSON: Clarity in the New Year RONNIE FLOYD | JAN 10

The start of a new year is a good time to review where we are and to state clearly where we are heading.

This is true personally, in our families, in businesses and even as a convention of churches. I hear from pastors and other leaders wondering where we as Southern Baptists are heading. Where are Southern Baptists headed? We are headed on mission with God under the Lordship of Jesus Christ as revealed through His Word.

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Baptist Union provides relief to Australian fire victims TESS SCHOONHOVEN | JAN 13

Devastating fires rage across Australia and currently show no signs of stopping. In an intensified hot and dry season, the country is experiencing its worst fires in years.

Australian Baptist Ministries and the Baptist Union of Victoria are offering aid and support to those affected.

FIND ALL THESE STORIES AND MORE ONLINE AT WWW.BAPTISTMESSENGER.COM

January 23, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | News & Trends

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The Baptist Messenger (ISSN 0744-9518) is published semi-monthly by the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma, 3800 N. May, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73112-6506. Periodicals postage paid at Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Circulation last issue: 42,043. Individual subscriptions $13.75 per year. When writing for a change of address or a subscription renewal, please include a copy of your mailing label. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Baptist Messenger, 3800 N. May, Oklahoma City, OK 73112-6506.

While the Baptist Messenger attempts to provide advertisers of integrity who furnish quality products, it is recommended that buyers be cautious, do research and get references to any advertiser with which they are not familiar. Publication of an advertisement in the Baptist Messenger does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services or businesses. January 23, 2020 • Volume 109, Number 2.

Member, Baptist Press News, Christian Newspaper Association, Evangelical Press Association, Oklahoma Press Association.

EVENTS

MESSENGER STAFF >> Brian Hobbs | Editor bhobbs@baptistmessenger.com >> Chris Doyle | Managing Editor cdoyle@baptistmessenger.com >> Hannah Hanzel | Art Director hhanzel@baptistmessenger.com >> Lori Coats | Subscriptions/Assistant lcoats@baptistmessenger.com >> Advertising advertising@baptistmessenger.com

VOICES

Encourage: Powerful summary of baptism Hance Dilbeck Oklahoma Baptists’ Executive Director-Treasurer @Hance_Dilbeck

Come, Holy Spirit, Dove Divine

Come, Holy Spirit, Dove divine, on these baptismal waters shine, and teach our hearts, in highest strain, to praise the Lamb for sinners slain.

We love Your name, we love Your laws, and joyfully embrace Your cause; We love Your cross, the shame, the pain, O Lamb of God, for sinners slain.

We sink beneath the water’s face, and thank You for Your saving grace; We die to sin and seek a grave with You, beneath the yielding wave.

And as we rise with You to live, O let the Holy Spirit give the sealing blessing from above, the joy of life, the fire of love.

I love that hymn text, written in 1829. Its power comes from both content and context. The words of this great baptismal hymn present a powerful summary of much of what the Bible teaches us about believer’s baptism.

In baptism, we publicly identify in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus. As Paul writes in Romans, “We have been buried with Him through baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life.”

What this hymn says is strong, and who said it adds to the punch. Adonirum Judson, the son of a well-known Congregationalist pastor, wrote this hymn in Burma. He was baptized as an infant and committed to go to India as a missionary supported by Congregationalist churches.

While on board a ship to the field, Judson be-

gan a careful study of the New Testament teaching concerning baptism. Through Scripture, he became convinced that the Bible calls for believer’s baptism through immersion.

This conviction created a crisis. Would he risk disappointing his family and losing his financial support by following through with believer’s baptism?

On Sept. 6, 1812, Judson and his wife settled the matter. Their public statement was clear and simple. “We wish to profess our faith in Christ by being baptized in obedience to His sacred commands.”

I hope you will join us at the Advance Conference next week. I am grateful for the pastors and Oklahoma Baptist leaders who have prepared this focus on evangelism and baptism. This Messenger contains pages of information about the event.

Bring some people with you. We will encourage one another to advance the Gospel by sharing the Good News of Jesus; making disciples who follow Christ in baptism and a lifetime of obedience.

Sword & trowel: Feelings, faith & roses Brian Hobbs Editor of the Baptist Messenger @BrianGHobbs

When actress Michelle Williams, in a Golden Globe award acceptance speech earlier this month, “credited her success to the ‘right to choose when to have children and with whom,’” her comments sparked outrage and renewed debate.

Her comments also surfaced a growing attitude of callousness in regard to abortion that must be addressed. Added to Williams’ comments, a news report showed that “one of the largest studies about women’s emotions after an abortion finds most feel relieved and don’t regret their choice, even if they struggled beforehand or worried about stigma.”

A report on the study from the Social Science & Medicine journal said, “Researchers found that at five years after having an abortion, only 6 percent expressed primarily negative emotions. The overwhelming majority of women surveyed—84 percent—had positive emotions or no emotions whatsoever about their abortion decision.”

Pro-abortion forces seemed quick to tout the study.

Before we discuss this study, let’s stop to be thankful for one thing. The nation is now talking about the issue of abortion.

For too long, the issue of abortion was left in the shadows. People knew it was happening. Lives were being lost and shattered daily, too often without any comment, one way or the other.

When a report like this comes out, Christians, first, should redouble our prayer and other life-saving efforts. With all of the euphemisms the abortion industry uses, such as the term “products of conception” instead of “unborn person,” it’s no wonder some people do not fully grasp what has happened to them and their offspring.

This study also is a stark reminder that feelings are unreliable. The Bible says, “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?” (Jer. 17:9).

While the world tells us to “follow our heart,” the Bible cautions strongly against that approach. If these statistics are to be believed—that truly these women are not experiencing regret from a past abortion, at least in the short run—that could mean that, believing the lies of the enemy, they are further trusting their feelings instead of truth. Or perhaps worse, their consciences have become even more impaired.

The worst impulse from a study would be to take on

an attitude of condemnation. Russell Moore once said, there’s no one more ‘pro-choice’ going into the abortion clinic and ‘pro-life’ going out of the clinic than the devil. In other words, Satan tempts us to sin, then condemns us in our sin.

On the contrary, Jesus comes to give us life and abundant life (John 10:10). While we should always pray and work to discourage abortion—all as we work toward the day in which abortion is not only illegal but unthinkable—we should be ministers of God’s grace. God is willing to forgive anyone who did not choose life, by the grace of Jesus Christ and repentance and faith in Him. For every person in this study, I am aware others who regret their past abortions, many of whom have found forgiveness and been set free by God. One such person is Abby Johnson, who not only experienced abortion but also directed a Planned Parenthood center where thousands of abortions took place, before God radically changed her life and turned her into a pro-life spokeswoman.

You can hear Abby’s powerful testimony at the 29th annual Rose Day on Feb. 5 at the Oklahoma State Capitol, for a loving and helpful message about choosing life and protecting unborn life. Visit RoseDay.Life for more details.

With God’s help, together, we will change not only the laws of our lands regarding abortion—we will change hearts and minds on this issue.

Voices | January 23, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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Rite of passage: Dong Jesus RTS & S P ODing T N AINME

it was no longer wrapped in aluminum foil; it was now encased in a little plastic bag. It also appeared as if it had shrunk considerably from the Ding Dongs of my youth. I know things R E different T U look L U C & S W E when you’re N an adult, but this looked much smaller than I remembered. When I bit into it, there was very little cream filling, and the icing reminded me of the chocolate you find on those cheap packages of miniature chocolate-covered donuts.

I was disappointed. Titus thought these pseudo Ding Dongs were great, but I felt sorry for him. He will never have the joy of biting into an original Ding Dong.

Instead, he has to settle for a cheap knock-off. I looked online to verify what I was experiencing and yes, Ding Dongs have shrunk by two ounces. The recipe has been altered, and the treats don’t arrive in the store fresh, but frozen, only to be thawed out in the store.

I plan to introduce Titus to some of the other popular treats I enjoyed at his age: Black Jacks, Beemans gum, clove gum, Slowpokes, Sugar Daddies, Mary Janes, Boston Baked Beans and Dad’s Root Beer Barrels, just to name of a few. I hope none of these other treats have been radically altered like Ding Dongs. I have touched, tasted and experienced the originals of all these treats.

I have deep embedded memories of my mom giving me a nickel on Saturday morning, when we

3 ways to avoid ‘compassion fatigue’ table. I am outright begging you to also put your “No” on the table. PasEast Regional Partner tors may have trouble saying “no” to people because we like to be liked & Director of Pastor and enjoy serving the Lord. HowevDevelopment for er, if you make every issue your isOklahoma Baptists sue, you will end up embracing ev@markdance eryone’s emergencies as your own.

People-pleasers dig big holes by Our love for God fuels a genuine over-promising and under-delivering. compassion for others, but sometimes If you are doing most of the minisour fuel runs out. When compassion fa- try in your church, you are heading tigue sets in on pastors, you can see it in down the predictable path of comtheir eyes and hear it in their voices. passion fatigue. Giving ministry away While tough seasons of ministry affirms the giftedness of the Body of are inevitable, do they really have to Christ while simultaneously stewardbe open-ended? If you are in a min- ing our own gifts better. istry sprint that never ends, you need 2. Quit blowing off boundaries to ask yourself whether you are actuHealthy churches are led by healthy ally sprinting or merely surviving. pastors who have learned how to pastor Pastors who love and lead on emp- at a healthy pace. Make sure your calenty may be tempted to think that it dar reflects your convictions, then comis a normal part of their call to min- municate your work-life flow to your istry. I can assure you that compas- leaders and members. What a great dission fatigue is neither normal nor ad- cipleship opportunity to demonstrate mirable. I’ve found three alternative God’s perfect plan for the rhythm many routes that can help you avoid com- Americans are trying to achieve. passion fatigue altogether.

Pastors recharge their souls by 1. Say ‘No’ more than you say ‘Yes’ connecting daily with their Savior at Did you just flinch when you read that? a time and place that has the least While pastors are servants who interruptions. When history’s first are not too good to do anything, we pastors neglected the disciplines of should also be equippers who are prayer and the ministry of the Word, not too stupid to do everything (foot- they stopped growing, as did their note: “stupid” is a legit CSB word). church (Acts 6).

I have heard many preachers imWe also recharge with our families plore people to put their “Yes” on the when we protect our time with them.

Mark Dance

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The simple way to connect with our family each day is to intentionally and literally disconnect from our ministry. Compassion fatigue sets in when boundaries are set aside.

3. Take a whole day off When pastors tell me how overwhelmed they are, it does not take long to diagnose the source of their dilemma. They stopped stopping.

God modeled and commanded Sabbath for us, which literally means “to stop.” We need to create margin every single day so that we can sleep well, and create margin every week so we can recharge well.

Don’t brag about working hard, yet also don’t apologize for resting hard.

Exactly how and when you stop is up to you. While we all believe in the idea of Sabbath, the practice often eludes us, so we must be intentional about it.

The cold, hard truth is that nobody in your church will make you stop.

No one will give you a day off. You have to take a day off, which is an act of faith, obedience and discipline.

There will never be a long line of people wanting to police their pastor about his churchaolic tendencies, so choose carefully who speaks into your life the most.

It is your choice whether to steward your time or allow it to be stolen. No pastor sets out to be a superhero, but if the cape fits ... take it off anyway.

January 23, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | Gospel Ministry

P L A N T E R

I have discovered a new joy: introducing my grandsons to the treats I liked when I was growing up. At 6 years of age, Titus the Honorable is getting a kick out of sampling Poppy’s old-fashioned candy stash.

A year ago, I introduced D Shim to Necco Wafers. You I Ehard A S S I Fthis C Lremember may candy, which first came out in 1847. It consisted of a roll of 40 wafers that came in an array of eight flavors: lemon, lime, orange, clove, cinnamon, wintergreen, licorice and chocolate. You could buy a whole package of chocolate wafers or the multi-flavor pack, all for the measly price of a nickel. I had three favorite flavors: chocolate, and Scinnamon.

ICE V Oclove I wanted to introduce Neccos to Titus because on July 20, 2018, the New England Confectionary Company quit producing this candy, and I knew it would soon be hard to find. Necco Wafers were a big hit with Titus, and on several occasions, we have ventured to find some more, but we always come up empty-handed.

This year, I introduced to him another childhood favorite of mine—Hostess Ding Dongs. For a brief time, they were not being produced, but they quickly returned. I don’t how or why I started doing this, but as a kid, I would freeze these round devil’s food, cream-filled delectables before eating them. Recently, I bought a box and put it in the freezer. When Titus came over, I pulled the treats out to share with him.

When I examined the first Ding Dong, I noticed

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would go to town for the weekly shopping. She would let me loose in the penny candy section, knowing the struggles I would have in making a wise choice. I think she was pretty smart, because she would do the rest of her shopping, knowing when she came back, I would still be standing there, trying to figure which treats to buy. When you have only a nickel and your choice has to last an entire week, you need to use discretion.

I want Titus the Honorable, Cohen the Goodhearted and River the Peacemaker to enjoy Poppy’s old-time treats, but I have an even greater desire for them to discover the exciting faith that has long been a part of my life. I grew up in a church where the Bible was taught every time the doors opened, and evangelism and missions were emphasized.

We cared for each other and were involved in each other’s lives. Church was 24 hours a day, seven days a week; Jesus was our life.

I am afraid the church at large has shifted just like Ding Dongs. Life has become too busy, and we avoid opening ourselves up to each other. Families meet, but they don’t engage. These days, the Bible is often optional when you come to church. It was Jesus who said, ‘”If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free” (John 8:31-32, NASB).

I don’t want my grandsons to have the Ding Dong version of Jesus, but the real Jesus. Yes, Titus, the original Jesus is still available, along with everything He has promised. And when you touch and experience the real Jesus, you will know the imitators are nothing but … ding dongs.

F O R

President Emeritus of Awe Star Ministries Email | walker@awestar.org @WalkerDeanMoore

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P R A Y

& MISSIONS M I N I S T RY Walker Moore

Michael and Laura Wilson Oklahoma City, Oikos Currently in pre-launch preparation

Michael and Laura spent 2019 in residency with Bethany, New Covenant Fellowship. They have been preparing to plant Oikos Church in northwest Oklahoma City. As of this month, they have officially begun the work of planting. They are committed to reaching families with the message of the Gospel and making disciples who will join Jesus in His mission to make disciples. Pray for Michael and Laura as they build their first Gospel Community Group and work to gain favor in their community.

Prayer Requests: • For the Gospel Community that meets in the Wilson home.

• For favor and new relationships in the community.

• For partnerships with other churches in the area.

oklahomachurchplanting.com

& MISSIONS M I N I S T RY

SPORTS & T MEN E N T E R TA I N

Oklahoma DR ramps up collaboration with Tenn.

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VOICES >> PHOTOS: DON WILLIAMS

>> by Chris Forbes

OKLAHOMA BAPTISTS MARKETING & BRANDING SPECIALIST

COALGATE—A Dec. 1 Facebook message to the Tennessee Baptist Mission Board (TBMB) led to a rapid response from Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief (OKDR) to a ministry need in Coalgate. OKDR provided a Christmas present of an ADA-wheelchair compliant ramp to a military veteran with Parkinson’s disease and battling stage 4 cancer.

The daughter-in-law of the Coalgate resident contacted the TBMB, seeking help for her in-laws.

The woman wrote in a Facebook message to the TBMB, “Do you help people in need? My fatherin-law has been recently diagnosed with cancer.

He is in a wheelchair due to his Parkinson’s dis-

1) Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief

trained and equipped volunteers build a ramp for a military ease and he has a heart condition. They live veteran in Coalgate; 2) The completed ramp is ADA compliant. in Coalgate, OK. They are truly followers of Christ and he served in the Vietnam War. Is there someone who can get them a wheelchair ramp built on their home? Their son is ramp to be ADA compliant, we had to make it a also a missionary in East Asia.” little bigger than usual,” Williams said. “But I knew TBMB director of communications Chris Turn- our DR team members were up to the task.” er forwarded her message to Oklahoma Baptists TBMB State Executive Randy Davis expressed his with a request, “We received a private Facebook thanks to Oklahoma Baptists for helping the fammessage through our TBMB Facebook page today ily in need. “This is what cooperation is all about,” and were wondering if the Oklahoma DR team Davis said. “It is great that two state conventions might take this on?” miles apart were able to work together through After receiving the message, OKDR director Don their disaster relief teams to help this family in a Williams coordinated with OKDR team members very tangible way. I’m so appreciative of Oklahoto build the ramp. “This project was a bit more ma Baptists taking the baton and running with complicated than the average wheelchair ramp this. We really can do more as the body of Christ due to the design of the house. In order for the when we work together.”

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These ministries have various on-going opportunities for volunteers: Camp Gibson, Hardesty—Tom Freeman, 580/338-3452 or pbaok221@gmail.com Families Feeding Families Meal Center, Durant— 580/230-9142 or familiesfeedingfamilies.org Hope Pregnancy Centers—South OKC 405/688-8700, North OKC 405/755-5433,Edmond 405/330-0200, Ardmore 580/223-7232 Tulsa 918/622-3325 Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children Campuses Oklahoma City—Peggy Duncan, 405/691-7781 Edmond—Brent Thackerson, 405/341-3606 Madill—Stephen Wiese, 580/564-2218 Owasso—Kate Eacret, 918/272-2233

DISASTER RELIEF

Orientation & Credentialing (Training): Feb. 8-DR TEaM Center, 7180 NW Expressway, Okarche April 4-Muskogee, Southeast, 2511 East Hancock St. May 2-Ponca City, First, 218 S. 6th St. Visit www.okdisasterhelp.org for more information

Chaplaincy: Feb. 27-29: OSFA & Chaplain Manual Training-Baptist Building, 3800 N. May Ave. 8:30 a.m. Cost: $15.00 for OSFA; $35.00 for chaplain manual.

Pray for Oklahoma Missionary Walter Wilson Pray for Walter Wilson, who serves as African American Church Consultant for Oklahoma Baptists, “helping reconnect our brothers and sisters into Oklahoma Baptist life,” Wilson said.

Pray for Oklahoma Missionary Brett Selby Pray for Brett Selby, a regional ministry partner in Oklahoma Baptists’ Church Relations Group. His ministry involves encouraging pastors as they advance the Gospel in their communities.

For Powerpoint slides of Prayer Guide, visit www.oklahomabaptists.org/cp

Missions & ministry | January 23, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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New name, new schedule, same purpose: Advance Conference offers new elements while pursuing evangelism /// PREVIEWED ON COVER just that moment in which they step in and Heath Thomas also will speak at the Advance Conout of the baptistery waters. Immersing ference. The conference also will have both nationthem begins with introducing them to al and Oklahoma pastors speaking, including Noe Oklahoma Baptists will experience the Gospel which leads to making a Garcia, Sammy Lopez, Doug Melton and Stephen a new name this year to a traditional commitment of a life to Christ. Believ- Rummage. er’s baptism is a significant part beevent that maintains its consistent pur“We will have speakers who have written and pose. What has been known for many cause it’s publicly displaying your first helped shape our thinking about evangelism and years as the State Evangelism Confertime to give pubic declaration that your culture,” Quigley said. “We wanted to have a good Tom Elliff ence will now be called the Advance life has changed.” mix of national speakers and Oklahoma leaders.”

Quigley said seven pastors will give testimoConference, which will convene Jan. 27What baptism represents, though, 28 at Del City, First Southern. does not end with this observance, nies in the plenary sessions of what baptism Alan Quigley, associate executive director of Okla- Quigley said. The Advance Conference will address means to their congregations. Also, Hance Dilhoma Baptists’ church resources group, explained the full purpose of the commitment behind what beck, executive director-treasurer of Oklahoma the purpose behind the Advance Conference Baptists, will give an interpretation of the conferbaptism publicly displays. and gave information to what should be an ence’s theme “Immerse.”

A flexible schedule Leading times of worship through music will be exciting and refreshing agenda.

The Advance Conference will feature “As Oklahoma Baptists, it is our desire a unique schedule. Both plenary ses- Matt Roberson who is best known for leading worto advance the Gospel,” Quigley said. sions and breakout sessions will meet ship at Men’s Rewired and during the summer youth “In relationship to that, we are making simultaneously throughout the event. weeks at Falls Creek Baptist Conference Center.

Earnest to share testimony of baptism this lead event, which has been tradiThe purpose behind this new schedMona Earnest was born and raised in the Middle tionally known as the State Evangelism ule, Quigley said, is to provide flexible Conference, an opportunity for trainopportunities for the many approach- East, lived in England and went to school in Pakistan. She moved to the United States and made a ing and equipping pastors and church es to learning.

Adam Greenway profession of faith in Christ as an adult. lay leaders to advance the Gospel. This “We all have different learning Many Oklahoma Baptist women have is why it has been renamed to the Adstyles and preferences,” Quigheard Earnest’s story, but she will be vance Conference, so that we can address advanc- ley said. “For some, the ‘large room’ is a sharing during a plenary session at the ing the Gospel throughout our state. place that they prefer to find their inspiAdvance Conference what her obser“’Advance’ is a New Testament word,” Quigley ration. For others, they like the more invance of believers’ baptism meant in continued. “Paul said, ‘These things happened so timate small group setting where they her life. that the Gospel might be advanced’ (Phil. 1:12). We have interaction and discussion about “Mona’s story is unique,” said Amy are adopting New Testament language, and we the subject. We are going to provide the Cordova, Oklahoma Baptists’ women’s wanted to make sure that people understood that best of those opportunities throughout missions and ministry partner. “She is advancing the Gospel is even more than just per- the entire conference.”

Stephen Rummage from a Muslim background, and when sonal evangelism. It includes meeting the needs of The new schedule also will be favorshe was baptized, she had to count the broken people, regardless of what their brokenness able for those who cannot attend both might be, with love and compassion, but also with meeting days. Usually, a conference will have set cost. For many in our churches, baptism is somethe message of the Gospel.” times when breakouts occur or when main sessions thing to be celebrated, but for her, it meant losing her family.”

‘Immerse’ is the theme are scheduled that do not work for those whose Earnest and her husband are church The Advance Conference will be addressing the time is limited. Quigley said those who can planters who are sponsored by Oklahoimportance of baptism, as the conference’s theme only come one day will have the opporma Baptists. is “Immerse.” Quigley said conference speakers will tunity to experience both plenary and The Advance Conference is made be elaborating on why baptism is important and breakout sessions. possible by the generous gifts of Oklawhy Oklahoma Baptists should have baptism as an National speakers and local leaders homa Baptists giving through the Coemphasis.

The Advance Conference will have operative Program. For more infor“We want to make sure that we are clear about nationally-recognized speakers such mation on the Advance Conference, what the Great Commission says about baptism,” as Greg Stier, Ed Stetzer, Adam Greenvisit oklahomabaptists.org/advance or Quigley said. “It says ‘baptizing in the name of the Fa- way and Shane Pruitt. Oklahoma favorEd Stetzer call 405/942-3800. ther, the Son and the Holy Spirit,’ which is more than ites such as Tom Elliff, Nick Garland and >> by Chris Doyle

MANAGING EDITOR

CONFERENCE

SCHEDULE

MAIN SESSIONS

B R E A KO U T S E S S I O N S

Monday, Jan. 27

Monday, Jan. 27

1:30 p.m. session Immerse testimonies—Will Wilson and Mona Earnest Speakers—Stephen Rummage and Doug Melton

2:30 p.m. session Impacting Brokenness with the Gospel—Hance Dilbeck Immersing the Next Generation—Greg Stier Immersing Children—Charlie Gatton

9 a.m. session Immerse testimony—Rusty Gunn Speakers—Greg Stier and Ed Stetzer Theme interpretation—Hance Dilbeck

6 p.m. session Immerse testimony—Andy Bowman Speakers—Adam Greenway and Tom Elliff

Tuesday, Jan. 28

9 a.m. session Immerse testimonies—Danny Gandra and D.J. Carney Speakers—Nick Garland, Clint Dawkins and Sammy Lopez 1:30 p.m. session Immerse testimonies—Chris Fields and Brad Graves Speakers—Shane Pruitt, Heath Thomas and Noe Garcia

9:30 a.m. session Immersing the Culture—Ed Stetzer Immersing Worship—Randy Lind Intersecting Women in Life’s Crossroads—Panel Discussion

Tuesday, Jan. 28

9:30 a.m. session Immersing Rural Oklahoma—Joe Ligon 9 Common Lies—Shane Pruitt Revitalizing through Evangelism—Noe Garcia 2:30 p.m. session From Harvest to Immersion—Sammy Lopez Immersing Groups—Bob Mayfield Immersing Students—Todd Sanders

Worship in all sessions will be led by Matt Robinson Band

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January 23, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | Features

O KL A H O M A B A P T I S T S.O R G/A DVA N C E

EL MENSAJERO

BAUTISTA

Informando e inspirando a los Bautistas de Oklahoma desde 1912

BAPTISTMESSENGER.COM • INVIERNO 2020

Animar: Alentándonos para avanzar el Evangelio >> HANCE DILBECK

El Señor me está dando un mejor entendimiento del lenguaje hallado en Filipenses 1:3-5. He conocido, estudiado, y predicado estos versículos por años. La oportunidad que tengo ahora de servir a los Bautistas de Oklahoma me ha permitido experimentar lo que significa ser socios en el Evangelio de una forma totalmente nueva.

“Doy gracias a mi Dios cada vez que me acuerdo de ustedes. En todas mis oraciones por todos ustedes, siempre oro con alegría, porque han participado en el evangelio desde el primer día hasta ahora.”

Pablo reflexiona acerca de esta participación de socios en el Evangelio. Este concepto de socios es igual a la palabra “compañerismo” que encontramos en el Nuevo Testamento. Tenemos un deseo profundo de estar unidos por el Evangelio de Cristo. /// PAGINA 2

Los Bautistas de Sur responden inmediatamente a la devastación en Puerto Rico >> CHRIS FORBES

PUERTO RICO – Voluntarios de Alivio en el Desastre (Disaster Relief) de los Bautistas del Sur respondieron al terremoto devastador que sacudió a la Isla de Puerto Rico el 7 de Enero. El pastor Puertorriqueño y líder en la Convención Bautista del Sur, Félix Cabrera ha estado ocupado trabajando para facilitar la ayuda a los damnificados del terremoto de 6.4 de magnitud.

“Habíamos estado sintiendo temblores desde Noviembre los cuales aumentaron en las dos semanas pasadas,” dijo Cabrera, quien actualmente sirve como segundo vicepresidente de la SBC y también como el Director Ejecutivo de la Convención de Iglesias Bautistas del Sur de Puerto Rico. /// PAGINA 3

La importancia de la salud emocional en el pastor >> CESAR GARCIA

Un estudio presentado por Barna y Enfoque a la Familia, asegura que el 80% de los pastores y el 84% de sus esposas, se sienten desanimados para hacer su ministerio pastoral. El 50% de los pastores encuestados estaban tan desalentados que renunciarían inmediatamente si tuvieran otra forma de ganarse la vida.

7 de cada 10 pastores luchan frecuentemente con la depresión, sentimientos de insuficiencia, soledad, agotamiento y fracaso.

Todos, por experiencia sabemos lo importante que es cuidar nuestra salud emocional, con igual importancia como cuidamos nuestra salud física y espiritual. Si las congregaciones a las que servimos, van a estar emocionalmente sanas, nosotros, los pastores, debemos estar también, emocionalmente sanos. /// PAGINA 3

Sigue al Mensajero Bautista en las redes sociales!

Para sus comentarios sobre estos artículos visite: www.baptistmessenger.com

Animar: Alentándonos para avanzar el Evangelio /// VISTA PREVIA EN LA PORTADA

Hance Dilbeck Director Ejecutivo-Tesorero Bautistas de Oklahoma @Hance_Dilbeck

El Señor me está dando un mejor entendimiento del lenguaje hallado en Filipenses 1:3-5. He conocido, estudiado, y predicado estos versículos por años. La oportunidad que tengo ahora de servir a los Bautistas de Oklahoma me ha permitido experimentar lo que significa ser socios en el Evangelio de una forma totalmente nueva.

“Doy gracias a mi Dios cada vez que me acuerdo de ustedes. En todas mis oraciones por todos ustedes, siempre oro con alegría, porque han participado en el evangelio desde el primer día hasta ahora.”

Pablo reflexiona acerca de esta participación de socios en el Evangelio. Este concepto de socios es igual a la palabra “compañerismo” que encontramos en el Nuevo Testamento. Tenemos un deseo profundo de estar unidos por el Evangelio de Cristo. Pablo nos dice que este acto de compartir unidos ha estado sucediendo desde “el primer día hasta ahora.”

Leemos acerca de ese “primer día” en Hechos 16.

Pablo compartió el Evangelio con Lidia, y el Señor abrió su corazón para que estuviera atenta. Ella fue bautizada, junto con los de su casa, e invitó a Pablo para que usara su casa como base de operaciones en la misión para el avance del Evangelio. Ellos fuer-

on socios en el Evangelio, y no solo compartieron la experiencia del Evangelio – habiendo sido salvados por Cristo – ellos también compartieron en la labor del Evangelio. Lidia deseaba ayudar a Pablo con esta obra.

Esta unión por el Evangelio continuó “hasta ahora”. Pablo fue encarcelado por predicar el Evangelio. Él no se quedó de manos cruzadas sino que aprovechó la oportunidad para avanzar el Evangelio entre los guardias que lo vigilaban. ¿Adivine quienes fueron los que compartieron con él, enviándole su ayuda? Sus socios en el Evangelio de Filipos. ” Sin embargo, han hecho bien en participar conmigo en mi angustia. Y ustedes mismos, filipenses, saben que en el principio de la obra del evangelio, cuando salí de Macedonia, ninguna iglesia participó conmigo en mis ingresos y gastos, excepto

ustedes” (Filip. 4:14,15).

Por lo tanto, la unión por el Evangelio conlleva el compartir de una experiencia común del poder del Evangelio de Cristo para cambiar nuestras vidas. El ser socios también implica compartir recursos, tales como, tiempo y dinero para avanzar el Evangelio.

Bautistas de Oklahoma, nosotros somos socios en el Evangelio desde el primer día hasta ahora.

Compartimos una experiencia común de perdón, una nueva vida y esperanza en Cristo Jesus, y unidos compartimos en la labor de avanzar las Buenas Nuevas con nuestros vecinos y las naciones.

Nos alentamos los unos a los otros para avanzar el Evangelio. Al centro de todo, lo que nosotros hacemos es lo más básico. Avanzamos el Evangelio juntos.

Al igual que Pablo, yo siento gozo y gratitud cuando considero que somos socios en el Evangelio.

Graduación hispana en Midwestern es ‘épica e histórica’ >> Por Keila Díaz CORRESPONSAL DE VIDA HISPANA DE BAPTIST PRESS

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (BP)—El Seminario Teológico Bautista Midwestern (MBTS) celebró un gran logro durante su 66a ceremonia de graduación el 6 de diciembre cuando 29 plantadores de iglesia de habla hispana obtuvieron su Certificado de Plantador de Iglesia, y dos de esos graduados también recibieron una maestría en estudios teológicos con énfasis en ministerio pastoral del programa en lengua española de la escuela.

“Lo que sucedió hoy es épico e histórico. El programa piloto ya no es piloto,” dijo Félix Cabrera, profesor asistente de ministerio pastoral y coordinador de relaciones de la iglesia en español. “La experiencia ministerial combinada con la educación teológica es un escenario ideal para estos pastores que sirven en República Dominicana, Venezuela, México, Paraguay, Nicaragua, y Puerto Rico.”

“Como una institución con más de 4.000 estudiantes, estamos llenos de un significativo gozo por el crecimiento y la naturaleza esencial de nuestro programa en lenguaje hispano en el Seminario Midwestern,” dijo el presidente del Midwestern, Jason Allen.

“Dios ha traído nuestro programa hispano durante los pasados 10 años desde su concepción hasta ahora graduar en números sustanciales cada año una nueva generación de ministros hispanos que sirven en iglesias en Norteamérica y mucho más allá.

“Me regocijo en el favor de Dios en este programa y anhelo el futuro con optimismo añadido y anticipación de lo que el Señor hará mediante estos graduados.”

Cabrera, también director ejecutivo de la Convención de Iglesias Bautistas del Sur en Puerto Rico, ayudó a fundar el programa de certificado en 2017 con la visión de alcanzar a la comunidad hispana con

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la educación teológica.

El Midwestern también ofrece maestría en estudios teológicos y un doctorado en ministerio que está disponible completamente en línea y recientemente fue acreditado por la Asociación de Escuelas Teológicas.

“Históricamente la acreditación requiere que una parte del programa sea hecha en el país,” dijo Rodney Harrison, decano de estudios de post grado del MBTS, >> FOTO: PRESENTADA El presidente del Seminario Teológico Bautista educación a distancia y aproveMidwestern, Jason K. Allen (centro) posa con algunos de los estudichamiento y profesor de eduantes y líderes del programa hispano del seminario. cación cristiana.

La acreditación ATS hace posible que estudiantes internacionales reciban su doctolo que es plantar y dirigir. rado sin abandonar su país de origen.

“Todos los plantadores de iglesia tienen que pasar por “Es muy difícil para algunas personas obtener vi- seis meses de vida de iglesia,” dijo Cabrera. “Durante ese sas y algunas personas no pueden viajar debido a las tiempo se sentarán en reuniones de líderes, asistirán a restricciones financieras, pero ahora no tienen que grupos pequeños, se sentarán en reuniones de equihacerlo. Ellos pueden recibir una educación del Mid- po pastoral y así sucesivamente. Luego cuando vayan western sin ni siquiera poner un pie en nuestro cam- a plantar una iglesia, no van a ciegas sino más bien con pus en Kansas City.” respuestas a muchas de sus preguntas.”

El programa en línea está basado en texto y es muy El programa de certificación es una pasarela para interactivo. los hispanos hacia la educación teológica, dijo Cabre“Cada semana usted interactúa con otros estu- ra, y añadió que algunos de los graduados de prodiantes y con el profesor, lo cual crea un sentido de gramas de certificado se han matriculado para aspicomunidad que es muy importante para la comuni- rar a su bachillerato. dad hispana,” dijo Harrison. “De eso es lo que se tra“Estamos creando oportunidades para que los hista el cristianismo: relaciones. Restaurar nuestra rel- panos estén equipados para la iglesia,” dijo. ación con Dios a través de Jesucristo y los unos con Este año el programa en lengua española tuvo un los otros.” total de 100 estudiantes matriculados, dijo Harrison, El Programa de Certificación de Plantador de Igle- y añadió: “Estamos muy emocionados por esta éposia y las maestrías deben ser completados en perso- ca de crecimiento.” na, ya que requieren que el estudiante se involucre en una iglesia local para aprender de primera mano

| Invierno 2020 | www.baptistmessenger.com | El Mensajero Bautista

Los Bautistas del Sur responden inmediatamente a la devastación en Puerto Rico /// VISTA PREVIA EN LA PORTADA

>> Por Chris Forbes

ESPECIALISTA DE IMAGEN & MERC ADO PARA LOS BAUTISTAS DE OKLAHOMA

PUERTO RICO – Voluntarios de Alivio en el Desastre (Disaster Relief) de los Bautistas del Sur respondieron al terremoto devastador que sacudió a la Isla de Puerto Rico el 7 de Enero. El pastor Puertorriqueño y líder en la Convención Bautista del Sur, Félix Cabrera ha estado ocupado trabajando para facilitar la ayuda a los damnificados del terremoto de 6.4 de magnitud.

“Habíamos estado sintiendo temblores desde Noviembre los cuales aumentaron en las dos semanas pasadas,” dijo Cabrera, quien actualmente sirve como segundo vicepresidente de la SBC y también como el Director Ejecutivo de la Convención de Iglesias Bautistas del Sur de Puerto Rico.

Cabrera explico las condiciones durante una entrevista dada por medio de mensaje de texto. “Los dos días pasados despertamos con fuertes temblores,” escribió, “El lunes con un temblor de 5.6 de magnitud, y esta mañana a las 4:00 a.m. con uno de 6.4 y dos horas más tarde con otro de 5.6. La mayoría de los daños han sido causados en el área suroeste de Puerto Rico. Los daños han sido algo insólito como nunca antes habíamos visto.”

“Después de un huracán tan devastador como lo fue Maria, no esperábamos que algo como esto sucediera tan pronto. La cosa más triste y difícil es que continúa habiendo sismos cada hora. La tierra continúa moviéndose, y eso causa gran inquietud en el pueblo.”

El huracán Maria fue un huracán devastador de categoría 5 que azotó la Isla en Septiembre del 2017, el cual desmanteló la infraestructura, incluyendo la red eléctrica. Ahora, una vez más, la Isla se encuentra sin electricidad.

Cabrera reportó que él y su familia se encuentran a salvo. “No hubo daños al local en donde nos congregamos como iglesia, ¡Gracias a Dios! Estamos en el área metropolitana de la Isla, y en esa región no han habido muchos daños hasta ahora.”

Tras el terremoto, Cabrera comenzó a coordinar los esfuerzos iniciales de alivio inmediata-

mente. “Las crisis son oportunidades en las manos de Dios,” dijo. “Así es como lo vemos. Nosotros creemos que todo esto será usado como una oportunidad para el Evangelio para los Bautistas del Sur en Puerto Rico.”

La unidad local de Send Relief de la Junta de Misiones Norteamericanas y los voluntarios de las iglesias de la Convención Bautista del Sur de Puerto Rico comenzaron a servir a los damnificados del terremoto poco tiempo después del temblor.

“En medio de la incertidumbre ocasionada por estos temblores, nuestra iglesias han estado ministrando y evangelizando en estas comunidades,” dijo Cabrera. “Las personas han estado receptivas y agradecidas por la ayuda que hemos podido proveer. Voluntarios de seis iglesias en nuestra Convención se unieron para ayudar. Más de 900 platillos de comida fueron preparados y servidos en tres localidades diferentes; 600 de los cuales fueron llevados a personas quienes fueron impactadas por el terremoto.”

Cabrera expresó su aprecio por los Bautistas de Oklahoma, los cuales han demostrado su apoyo, y quienes están orando por él y por su familia.

“Estamos muy agradecidos por mi amada familia de Bautistas de Oklahoma,” dijo él. “El Director Ejecutivo de los Bautistas de Oklahoma, mi pas-

tor, Hance Dilbeck se puso en contacto conmigo inmediatamente para asegurarse que nos encontrábamos con bien. No solamente él sino también Harry Black, director de Misiones de la Asociación Capitol en la Ciudad de Oklahoma, y Mark McClellan, Decano de la Escuela de Ministerio Cristiano Robert Haskins, y toda nuestra familia de la Iglesia Bautista Quail Springs. Muchos hermanos de otras iglesias en el estado. Ha pasado ya un año desde que salimos de Oklahoma en esta misión. Le doy gracias a Dios por mi familia espiritual en Oklahoma, por su apoyo para nosotros, en cada sentido de la palabra. Los Bautistas de Oklahoma ponen sus acciones en donde ponen sus palabras. Los amamos y los extrañamos.”

Cabrera pidió que se continuara orando por la gente de Puerto Rico, quienes se encuentran recuperándose del impacto de dos eventos catastróficos históricos.

“Por favor oren por la seguridad de nuestra familia, mi esposa y mis hijas, por la iglesia que estamos plantando, por nuestros plantadores y pastores de la Convención,” dijo él. “Oren para que podamos utilizar esta crisis para dirigir a las personas hacia Cristo. Oren también por sabiduría en caso que tengamos que enfrentar otro evento similar al que hemos tenido que enfrentar en días recientes.”

La importancia de la salud emocional en el pastor /// VISTA PREVIA EN LA PORTADA

>> Por Cesar Garcia

PASTOR DE IGLESIA BAUTISTA RIOS DE AQUA VIVA

Un estudio presentado por Barna y Enfoque a la Familia, asegura que el 80% de los pastores y el 84% de sus esposas, se sienten desanimados para hacer su ministerio pastoral. El 50% de los pastores encuestados estaban tan desalentados que renunciarían inmediatamente si tuvieran otra forma de ganarse la vida.

7 de cada 10 pastores luchan frecuentemente con la depresión, sentimientos de insuficiencia, soledad, agotamiento y fracaso.

Todos, por experiencia sabemos lo importante que es cuidar nuestra salud emocional, con igual importancia como cuidamos nuestra salud física y espiritual. Si las congregaciones a las que servimos, van a estar emocionalmente sanas, nosotros, los pastores, debemos estar también, emocionalmente sanos.

Sin embargo, las heridas emocionales del pasado, que permanecen abiertas, los traumas y los complejos de índole psicológico, son las causas principales de nuestro desequilibrio emocional.

Se dice que el 75% de nuestras enfermedades físicas, tienen origen psicosomático. Es decir, que su origen real, no está en el nivel físico, sino psíquico.

Emociones como la ira, el enojo, la frustración, el miedo, tristeza, soledad, depresión y ansiedad, en-

tre otras, pueden llegar a producir paros cardiacos, gastritis, úlceras, hipertensión y hasta resfriados.

Si estamos emocionalmente perturbados, tendremos dificultad en nuestra vida de oración personal, el estudio bíblico, y aún, el relacionarnos apropiadamente con nuestro cónyuge, familia, amigos y hermanos de la iglesia.

Debemos darnos cuenta que el ministerio pastoral incluye una cuota de penalidades y aflicciones de índole emocional. En relación a esto, Pablo le dice a Timoteo, quien en ese tiempo era pastor en la iglesia de la ciudad de Éfeso: “Tú, pues, sufre penalidades como buen soldado de Jesucristo”. II Timoteo 2:3. En el ministerio tenemos sufrimientos físicos, espirituales y también emocionales. El rechazo, la indiferencia, y a veces, hasta el ataque personal dirigidos al pastor, o a alguien de su familia, producen reacciones emocionales, que causan en nosotros heridas, sentimientos de enojo, amargura, resentimiento, rencor y venganza. Si estos sentimientos no son tratados de acuerdo al modelo establecido por Cristo, en Mateo 5:23,24; 18:15-17, Vienen a sabotear y debilitar nuestra salud emocional, a la vez que infectan nuestra relación de amor, respeto y transparencia con los miembros de la iglesia involucrados. ¿Cómo podemos, los pastores, alcanzar y mantener nuestra salud emocional?

En primer lugar, debemos darle importancia a

nuestra salud espiritual. Nuestra relación íntima y diaria con Dios, por medio de la oración, lectura, meditación y aplicación de la Palabra de Dios a nuestras vidas. Rendirnos al control y sabiduría del Espíritu Santo. Esto permitirá que nosotros experimentemos el amor, el gozo, la paz, la bondad, la mansedumbre, el dominio propio.

En segundo lugar, cuidemos nuestra salud física, descansando, recreándonos, alimentándonos saludablemente y no descuidando nuestro chequeo médico regular.

En tercer lugar, cuidemos nuestra salud emocional, identificando, admitiendo y confesando nuestras emociones negativas como: Enojo, ira, tristeza, insuficiencia, soledad, agotamiento, fracaso, etc. Es importante admitir nuestras emociones ante Dios y ante los demás, de modo especial ante un mentor maduro que nos comprenda y nos acompañe en el proceso de restauración.

Recordemos que en Cristo encontramos el ejemplo, la motivación y el poder para vivir una vida emocionalmente sana. El enfrentó y superó la adversidad, los conflictos, y los problemas de la vida, con una actitud de paz y pleno control.

Como cristianos tenemos, por la fe en Cristo, el poder de enfrentar y superar nuestras heridas emocionales, ya que la Palabra de Dios nos dice en Lucas 4:18: “El Espíritu del Señor está sobre mí, por cuanto me ha enviado a sanar a los quebrantados de corazón”.

El Mensajero Bautista | Invierno 2020 | www.baptistmessenger.com

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Capacitados para capacitar

EVENTOS 2020 ENERO 27, 28 “Advance” State Evangelism Conference ENERO 27 Cena de Pastores (durante Conferencia) FEBRERO 28 – MARZO 1 Retiro de Pastores y Esposas MVP

>> Por Jesus Villa

PASTOR HISPANO DE IGLESIA BAUTISTA SOUTHERN HILLS

Vivimos tiempos convulsos donde, lamentablemente, se está cumpliendo lo dicho por el apóstol Pedro en su segunda carta, capítulos dos, versículo 1: “Pero se levantarán falsos profetas entre el pueblo, así como habrá también falsos maestros entre vosotros, los cuales encubiertamente introducirán herejías destructoras, negando incluso al Señor que los compró, trayendo sobre sí una destrucción repentina”. Tiempos en los que es urgente y necesario que aquellos que hemos recibido un llamado pastoral, invirtamos tiempo en nuestra capacitación personal; una capacitación física, emocional, mental, espiritual…. y bíblica.

El pastor es alguien que ha recibido un llamado divino para servir a Dios y a la congregación donde Él lo ha puesto. Y una de nuestras tareas como pastores, es capacitar a los hermanos de la iglesia. El apóstol Pablo dice que “El dio a algunos el ser apóstoles, a otros profetas, a otros evangelistas, a otros pastores y maestros, a fin de perfeccionar a los santos para la obra del ministerio, para la edificación del cuerpo de Cristo” (Efesios 4: 11-12). Lo que dice este texto es que la labor de los pastores no es hacer

la obra del ministerio (esa la hacen los santos), sino capacitar a dichos santos para que sean efectivos en el ministerio, y la iglesia pueda ser edificada. La pregunta es: ¿cómo vamos a capacitar a otros si nosotros mismos no invertimos el tiempo necesario en nuestra propia capacitación? En el capítulo tres de Hechos se relata la sanidad del cojo de nacimiento en la puerta del templo llamada la Hermosa y justo antes de que este cojo fuera sanado, Pedro le dice las siguientes palabras: “No tengo plata ni oro, mas lo que tengo te doy” (Hechos 3:6). ¿Leyó bien? “Lo que tengo te doy”. La respuesta de Pedro a este hombre implica que uno no puede dar lo que no tiene.

De la misma manera, no podremos capacitar a otros, que es un mandato bíblico, si nosotros no estamos capacitados; porque no podemos dar lo que no tenemos. El llamado pastoral es por gracia (un regalo inmerecido), es un privilegio… pero también es una responsabilidad. Y esa responsabilidad implica prepararse bíblicamente para poder capacitar a otros. Necesitamos invertir tiempo en nuestra capacitación personal. Y no hay excusas para no hacerlo; tenemos a nuestra disposición numerosos recursos para capacitarnos. La pregunta es: ¿estamos dispuestos a sacrificarnos o queremos ministerios mediocres que hagan iglesias mediocres? Usted decide.

MARZO 28 Conferencia de Plantación y Crecimiento ABRIL 17, 18 Women’s Retreat en Falls Creek JUNIO 27 Congreso de Pastores JULIO 18 Congreso de Mujeres Lideres OCTUBRE 10 Concilio para el Avance del Evangelio NOVIEMBRE 7 Young Latino Leaders Retreat

Para información y detalles síganos en Facebook “Ministerios Hispanos de BGCO”

Cursos Nuevos para la Primavera 2020 Panorama de la Biblia

Ministerio Juvenil I

Como Estudiar e Interpretar la Biblia

Ministerio Juvenil II

>> Rudy González

>> Robert Plummer

Oración y Espiritualidad >> Don Whitney

>> Jesse Rincones

Ministerio de Niños I >> Wendy Ortiz

Ministerio de Niños II

Evangelismo

>> Wendy Ortiz

>> Johnny Sangoquiza

Misiones y el Plan Cooperativo >> Mark McClellan

Creencias Bautistas >> Mark McClellan

Ministerio de Enseñanza >> Ana Meléndez

Liderazgo Cristiano I >> Rolando Aguirre

Liderazgo Cristiano II

Discipulado

>> Rolando Aguirre

>> Jorge Meléndez

Adoración Bíblica >> Jonathan Jerez

Ministerio Femenil I >> Betsy Gómez

Ministerio Femenil II >> Ana Meléndez

>> Moisés Gómez

Sistema de un Iglesia Saludable >> Jesse Rincones

Ministerio Pastoral I >> Freddy Nobles

Ministerio de Consejería Pastoral >> Félix Cabrera

Predicaccion II >> Juan Sanchez

HASKINSSCHOOL.ORG

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| Invierno 2020 | www.baptistmessenger.com | El Mensajero Bautista

Vietnam missions work hits close to home for McLemore /// PREVIEWED ON COVER

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>> by Catherine Finch

IMB STAFF WRITER

>> PHOTOS: PROVIDED 1) Sam James, left, and French McLemore take a photo together during James’ visit to Ponca City, First. James and McLemore met as a result of a trip McLemore took to Vietnam in 2013; 2) James shares with the congregation of Ponca City, First, Nov. 17.

PONCA CITY—As French McLemore rode through the streets of Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, the last thing he expected to see was a sign for a Baptist church.

Born in Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon as it was once known, McLemore and his family lived there until two days before the fall of Saigon in 1975. McLemore’s Vietnamese mother met his father, a full-blooded Cherokee Indian, while his father served in Vietnam as a civilian contractor.

Today McLemore is the associate pastor of Ponca City, First. Not forgetting his heritage and initial homeland and sensing God’s direction to invest in the work taking place overseas, McLemore and his mother, along with a team from his church, visited Saigon in 2013. It was their first visit since McLemore and his mother left in 1975.

“I was taken aback by the flood of memories as I stepped out of the airport and breathed in the fresh air,” McLemore said. “I can only describe it as everything I remember from my childhood.”

However, McLemore’s childhood memories of Saigon did not include Grace Baptist Church.

Founded in 1962 while International Mission Board (IMB) worker Sam James served in Saigon, the church has prevailed against the test of time, war and countless trials.

McLemore was surprised to see the Baptist church. He merely assumed the church was a “remnant of a bygone era.” When he returned

from his trip, he immediately searched for the church online and soon discovered Grace Baptist Church wasn’t a piece of the past preserved, but a living, thriving testimony to God’s goodness in times of trial.

One single survivor Sam James also had to leave Saigon during the Vietnam War. After living in the country for 17 years, James reluctantly left Vietnam because of the Communist control. During the Communist reign, all of the Baptist churches in Vietnam were shut down or disbanded.

All but one.

By God’s provision, Grace Baptist Church of Saigon remained open throughout what James calls the “dark times” and celebrated its 60-year anniversary this year. Before the fall of Saigon in 1975, Grace Baptist shared a space with a church of a different denomination. Thanks to a Lottie Moon Christmas Offering® grant of $50,000, the church members were able to secure property and a building for the church and establish their independence, financially and congregationally.

James explained in a podcast interview, “Back In 1970, when people gave to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering, they had no idea that some of that offering would be used to buy the land and the building for Grace Baptist Church. Then, what would happen as a result of that church being in that place has impacted the whole country for the Lord. They

had no way of knowing that, and yet they gave. I just praise the Lord for that.”

A long-awaited meeting When McLemore searched for Grace Baptist Church online back in 2013, he inevitably discovered the role James played in the church’s history and in Baptist work in Vietnam. After reading James’s book, “Servant on the Edge of History”, McLemore knew he had to meet James.

Since his initial trip back to Vietnam in 2013, McLemore led teams from Ponca City, First to Vietnam four times. McLemore has formed a friendship with the Vietnamese pastor of Grace Baptist Church.

Being the same age as the pastor of Grace Baptist Church, McLemore marveled at the different paths the Lord had for each of their lives.

Ponca City, First is sending another team to Vietnam in 2020. McLemore asked James to come speak in November to kick off the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering and to cast the vision for their 2020 trip.

“Sam did an incredible job in sharing about the work of the International Mission Board and the work that is going on all over the world,” McLemore said. “I cannot say enough about Sam’s passion and humility to serve our Lord and to make Him known to all people groups. I am truly blessed to have met him and am thankful for his faithfulness.”

The work of one IMB missionary has left an impact reaching beyond the city limits of Saigon, inspiring the friendship of a Baptist church in Oklahoma and a Baptist church in Saigon. The continued work points to God’s blessings when His followers faithfully go.

Regional events offer churches training to prevent sexual abuse, raise awareness >> by Staff As part of an ongoing emphasis to help equip churches in preventing sexual abuse, Oklahoma Baptists are presenting three regional events in February.

The 2020 “Abuse Prevention & Awareness Conference” will take place Feb. 24-25 in Tulsa, Oklahoma City and Ardmore. Each event will feature expert speakers, curriculum and testimonies, all designed to equipping the local church to be better aware and prepared.

Conference speakers include MinistrySafe co-founder Greg Love and author and abuse survivor Jennifer Michelle Greenberg. Topics covered in the conference include: • Skillful screening and training • Monitoring and oversight • Background checks and best practices • Creating a culture of awareness • Caring well for abuse survivors Oklahoma Baptists can register for a conference near them, including:

Tulsa—Feb. 24, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

South Tulsa Baptist Church 10310 S Sheridan Rd, Tulsa, OK 74133 Oklahoma City—Feb. 25, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Wilmont Place Baptist Church 6440 S Santa Fe, Oklahoma City, OK 73139 Ardmore—Feb. 25, 6-9 p.m.

First Baptist Church, Ardmore 225 1st Avenue Southwest Ardmore, OK 73401

Cost to attend this event is $10 per individual and includes a meal. Register online at www.oklahomabaptists.org/awareness-events.

“The church should be the safest place for people to turn to, and by implementing wise practices and prevention measures, we can better guard against child sexual abuse and other sexual abuses that are sadly so widespread today,” said Joe Ligon, senior associate executive director for Oklahoma Baptists.

“By attending one of these events, churches will be better equipped in this vital area.”

Features | January 23, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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PEOPLE & EWS CHURCH N

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The Batchelor Family sings FIEDS C L A S S Iat Red Oak, First

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Broken Arrow, Aspen Park observes note burning

Broken Arrow, Aspen Park celebrated its note burning on Jan. 5. Participating in the observance were, from left, new pastor Cameron Whaley; transitional pastor David Willets; and pastor of 28 years David Crump.

Whaley’s first Sunday at Broken Arrow, Aspen Park was Jan. 19.

VOICES

>> PHOTO: TAMI DOBBS

>> PHOTO: LINDA MORGAN

RED OAK—Members and guests of Red Oak, First were blessed with a concert during Sunday morning worship service, Jan. 12. The Batchelor Family from Poteau sang an array of songs written by lead singer David Batchelor. The southern gospel group shared God’s message through their many songs.

“What a blessing they were,” said Johnny Montgomery, pastor of Red Oak, First. “This family’s message strengthened and encouraged us as they shared the only hope we have in this life and in the life to come, our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Members of the group include David, John and Joanna and parents Delbert and Joan. For booking information, contact Shannon Batchelor at 918/821-1606 or visit batchelorfamilyministries.com.

Wayne, First observes note burning

Wayne, First paid off its note with WatersEdge Ministry Services 10 years early. The church observed a note burning Sunday morning, Nov. 24. Participating in the note burning were, from left, Shirley Carson, building committee chairperson; deacons James Paddack, Don Holden and Hoot Keely; and Pastor Rick McGee. For more information on WatersEdge Ministry Services visit watersedgeservices.org. >> PHOTO: PROVIDED

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January 23, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | People & Church News

O O L B OX CHURCH T

PEOPLE & EWS CHURCH N

Small Town Jesus Conference to S LT U R E town, rural ministry I E Dsmall A S S I Fon C Lfocus NE WS & CU SHAWNEE—The Small Town Jesus Conference is a two-day gathering designed to fill leaders with faith and help equip them for ministry in their context.

Shawnee, Frontline, 330 N. Beard AveICES VbeOhosting nue, will the conference, Feb. 21-22. Donnie Griggs of Small Town Jesus ministry said this conference will be a time to encourage and support pastors and church leaders serving in small cities and rural contexts around Oklahoma.

“Most of us have been trained to think of small towns as already reached or not worthy of prioritizing,” Griggs said. “Our wrong conclusions

about these towns and many of the churches that are located in them has only resulted in less of them being impacted by Jesus. This is not something we can afford to continue dismissing.”

Advance rate for the conference is $55 before Jan. 31. Regular rate is $65, and student rate is $25. To register or for more information, visit www.smalltownjesusok.com.

Sponsors for the conference include Oklahoma Baptists, Mathena Center for Church Revitalization, Oklahoma Baptist University, Midwestern Seminary and Acts 29 Rural Collective.

Swanberg, Green highlight ‘Singing & Praising’ March 8 MUSTANG—Singing and Praising is March 8 at Mustang, Chisholm Heights.

Choirs from across the state will gather for a day of training, encouragement and inspiration.

Singing and Praising is for senior adult choirs, but choirs of any age are welcome.

>> PHOTO: MESSENGER ARCHIVES

Bill Green leads a rehearsal during the 2017 Singing and Praising at Oklahoma Baptist University.

The opening session will be a rehearsal led by Bill Green, former director of the Singing Churchmen and ChurchWomen of Oklahoma and former senior associate executive director for Oklahoma Baptists.

Special guest for the event is Dennis “the Swan” Swanberg who is known as the “minister of encouragement.”

Many enjoy hearing him share stories and the Gospel.

Register for Singing and Praising at oklahomabaptists.org/worship.

Schedule for the event: 2:15-2:45— Registration/Check-in 2:45-4:15—Rehearsal 1 4:15-5—Break 5-6:30—Rehearsal 2 6:30—Break/Doors Open 7-8:30—Singing and Praising with Dennis Swanberg

EWS CHURCH N PEOPLE IN THE NEWS DICKERSON RETIRES. Richard Dickerson, left, retired on Dec. 31, M 2019, Aafter 40 years in O AH O K LHe pastored churches in Texas H Eministry.

Tthe V E serving, for H Irecently R Cwas and Oklahoma I S T Aand T P BA the second time, at Stonewall, First. He and his wife Nancy are living in the Lake Texoma area.

LANGDON DEATH. Bert M. Langdon, 95, died Dec. 8, 2019, in Oklahoma City. He was born in Mayesville on Aug. 26, 1942. After serving in the Army during World War II, he attended Oklahoma Baptist University. After graduating from OBU, Langdon attended Golden Gate Seminary and served several churches after graduation. He spent 27 years as director of missions in Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties in Calif. He also spent two years in the German Baptist Convention and one year with the American Baptist Convention in Mexico. He returned to Calif. and served 12 years in prison ministry. He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Iris; and his children Robert, Alexa and John.

CHURCH STAFF CHANGES Roger Bennett has resigned as pastor of Duncan, Parkview.

Zephram Foster is worship leader at Tahlequah, Park Hill.

Bob Payne retired as pastor of Ada, Colbert. He has served in ministry for almost 70 years.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS NEW CONGREGATION. Edmond, New Hope is now meeting.

Andrew Choi is pastor.

NEW CONGREGATION. Tulsa, Hope Fellowship is now meeting. Dean Johnson is pastor.

TO SHARE NEWS, PLEASE EMAIL ALL INFO TO BAPTISTMESSENGER@OKBAPTIST.NET

SUDOKU

RCH WORD SEA

C A R TO O N

Note: The word clues for the Word Search are chosen by the Messenger staff, while the puzzles and letters surrounding the clues are computer-generated at random.

Advance Bible Church Commitments Counseling

Encourage Equip Family Homestead Household

Latham Ministry Preach Private Protect

Scripture Sermon Serve Standard Stick

Surviving Thriving Toolbox Victory Worship

People & Church News | January 23, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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3 commitments for surviving and DS thriving in the ministry CLASSIFIE

PEOPLE & EWS CHURCH N GERS W O R D S L I N S & C U LT U R E NEW

/// PREVIEWED ON COVER cons should be well-versed in managing PASTOR, LAWTON, FIRST their own households (1 Tim. 3:4, 12).

If an ordained individual failed in this reE S an When I first started out in ministry, I was gard, Paul cast doubt on V O I Csuch whether often amazed by the number of pasto- individual should engage in church leadral failures I witnessed. Now I am not so ership. He asked, “How will he take care of shocked when I hear of those who sputter God’s church?” (1 Tim. 3:5).

For the apostle, the home place was the and stall-out. Ministry can indeed be tough proving ground for public ministry. It was and tricky!

Apart from the grace and strength of the where one demonstrated his ability to teach, Holy Spirit, no one would last. Betrain, provide a godly example, love, be cause of this, I believe three compatient and lead. mitments are essential for If you want to thrive in the those who want to survive ministry, don’t forget your family. Make them a priority and thrive in the ministry. in your schedule, and make Protect your private them your first ministry. worship. Jesus gave us Be on guard against an example in this rea duplicitous lifestyle gard. Massive throngs through which you are of people regularly jockone thing in the home, eyed to get a piece of His time. On one occasion, and something different in those who wanted to see the church. Date your wife Him actually had to rip a roof off and spend quality time with of a house so that they could gain an your children. Lead family devotions in the home. If you can lead your family to audience with Him (Mark 2:1-5).

One could argue that Jesus was much Christ, you will be well-equipped to lead busier and that He had far more demands others to Christ.

Stick with Scripture. My grandfather was from people than any modern minister. Despite His responsibilities, Jesus made time to a preacher for more than 50 years. When I pray. Mark records, “Very early in the morn- was scheduled to preach my first sermon, I ing, while it was still dark, he got up, went out, went to him for advice. He told me, “Stick and made his way to a deserted place; and with the Bible, and you’ll never go wrong.”

I’ve found that his advice is appropriate for there he was praying” (Mark 1:35).

If Jesus protected His private worship, much more than preaching.

Throughout my ministry, I’ve relied on the shouldn’t we? Know this, your public ministry will be stale if it isn’t backed by pri- rock of Scripture for counseling situations, cult vate prayer. Though no one may keep tabs diffi R S pastoral care, leading G Edecisions, N I L S D R O on the quality of your quiet time, W the Lord ministry and countless other pastoral situknows. Don’t rob yourself of the strength ations. At times, I’ve often felt helpless to and joy that comes from private worship. encourage, equip and edify God’s people, but I’ve found comfort in the fact that the Be like Jesus; make prayer a priority.

Don’t forget your family. For those who Bible is “profitable for teaching, for rebukserve in ministry, the homestead is the ing, for correcting, for training in righteousfrontline of ministry. If we fail with our fam- ness” (2 Tim. 3:16). If you want to faithfully ily, we fail in the church. Paul emphasized S AY Sthe choppy waters of ministry in a E navigate V A D this when he wrote to Timothy. He taught post-modern, relativistic culture, stick with his protégé that aspiring pastors and dea- the standard of Scripture! >> by Patrick Latham

BAP T IS TS OKLAHOMA H IG H L I GH T E C R U O S E R

AD D I C T I O N C AR E

OKLAHOMA BAPTISTS’ MINISTRY

M US I C M I N I S T RY EVENTS OKLAHOMA BAPTISTS’ WORSHIP & MUSIC MINISTRY

Learn more about how you or your church can utilize Oklahoma Baptists’ resources to bring healing to areas of addiction in your community, church and home.

Between retreats and training, Oklahoma Baptists can find multiple events to equip their music leaders or worship team.

oklahomabaptists.org/addiction

oklahomabaptists.org/worship-music

Check back with the highlight every issue to learn more about the resources available to every SBC church!

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January 23, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | Church Toolbox

BOOK REVIEW: ‘SACRED REST’

BY SAUNDRA DALTON-SMITH D AV E S AY S

>> K AREN KINNAIRD

Are you weak, weary or worn out? Are you maxed out and stressed out? When is the last time you were simply still?

These are auS I S Tquestions P Tsome A B ASaundra Dalton-Smith O K L A H O Mthor HT LIG H IG asks inH her book Sacred Rest: E C R U O S E R Recover Your Life, Renew Your Energy, Restore Your Sanity.

Published by Faith Words in 2017, Sacred Rest addresses the epidemic of exhaustion in our culture. It challenges readers to understand the practical aspects of rest, evaluate themselves for rest deficits and encourages them to take steps toward needed changes.

The book is written in short, easy-to-read chapters with the tired and soul weary person in mind. It includes science and research, Scriptural wisdom, real life accounts and practical application.

To read the rest of Karen’s blog visit, baptistmessenger.com/sacredrest

RS RD SLINGE O W To read more blogs with Jesus in mind, visit www.baptistmessenger.com/blog

D AV E S AY S PLAYING THE LOTTERY ROBS YOU OF YOUR FUTURE Dear Dave, T IS TS Ppast BA A M I’ve been struggling fi nancially for the O H A L OK HT few months, so I’ve been playing H L I Gonce IGlottery E Hthe C R U O S E R a week. To me, the chance to win millions is worth a few dollars a month, even if things are tight.

—Paula Dear Paula, You’ve told me you’re having money troubles, and at the same time you’re throwing money out the window every week? Honestly, the small amount you’re talking about doesn’t make a difference. Even if it’s just two or three bucks a week, that action represents a lot of financially irresponsible behavior in your life.

I’m going to be very blunt with you. The lottery is a tax on the poor and people who can’t do math. Your chances of winning are bleak at best. Did you know the odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are about 1 in 292,000,000? There are plenty of other very unusual things that are much more likely to happen to you than winning the lottery. Your chances of making a hole-in-one on the golf course are about 1 in 12,500. Even your odds of having quadruplets are around 1 in 11 million.

When times are tough and you’re strapped for cash, the last thing you need to do is spend what little you have on gimmicks. My advice is to focus on working hard, living on a tight budget that cuts out all unnecessary expenses, and saving every penny you can.

Unlike the lottery, this is a plan that works every time. When you start living on a budget and get out of debt, it provides a little bit of breathing room in your life. You might even feel like you got a raise!

Don’t let your finances—and your dreams—be hijacked by the lottery.

—Dave The views expressed by Dave Ramsey do not necessarily reflect those of the Baptist Messenger and do not constitute legal financial advice.

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Rate: $1.00 per word, $25.00 per issue, minimum • Deadline: Two weeks prior to publication. Submit a classified ad at www.baptistmessenger.com/advertise on the Classifieds Form

CLASSIFIEDS COLOR KEY: PASTOR YOUTH MUSIC

JOB LISTING VEHICLE MISC.

>> F/T YOUTH/FAMILY MINISTER: First Baptist Miami, OK currently accepting resumes for a F/T Youth & Family Minister. Please submit to: fbcmiamioffice@ gmail.com by February 28.

S EYOUTH/MUSIC MINISTER: FBC Cache, OK is V O I C>> seeking: 1) F/T Youth/Music Minister or 2) F/T Youth

>> F/T PASTOR: FBC Blackwell is seeking a F/T pastor. Please send resume to: Pastor Search Committee at P.O. Box 388 Blackwell, OK 74631. Parsonage Available.

EMPLOYMENT >> F/T PASTOR: Whitesboro Baptist Church is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Very nice parsonage available. Please send resume to: Pastor Search Committee, P.O. Box 125, Whitesboro, OK 74577-0125 or email to: srodmorgan@msn.com. >> F/T PASTOR: The FBC of Prague, Oklahoma is seeking resumes for the position of F/T Pastor. Email resumes to: fbcpsecretary@gmail.com. Mailing address is: FBC, Pastor Search Committee, 1500 Blue Bell Rd, Prague, OK 74864. >> F/T OR P/T MUSIC MINISTER: Prague, FBC accepting resumes for Music Minister with possibility of other ministries such as education, visitation, etc.

Email resumes to: fbcpsecretary@gmail.com. Mailing address is: FBC, Music Minister Search Committee, 1500 Blue Bell Rd, Prague, OK 74864. >> BI/VO PASTOR: After completing the SBC Transitional Pastor process, FBC Wellston, OK is prayerfully seeking a BI/VO Pastor. Send resume to: P.O. Box 106, Wellston, OK 74881 or email: FBCWellstonPastorSearch@gmail.com. >> F/T PASTOR: First Baptist Church, Mannsville, OK is seeking a F/T Pastor. Interested candidates should mail resume with cover letter to: Charles Shockley, 12414 Sartin Rd., Madill, Oklahoma 73447. >> F/T OR BI/VO PASTOR: FBC Arkoma, OK, near Ft. Smith, AR, is prayerfully seeking God’s man for a F/T or BI/VO Pastor. Parsonage available. Send resumes & cover letter to: Search Committee, FBC Arkoma, P.O. Box 1004, Arkoma, OK 74901. >> F/T STUDENT PASTOR: Student Pastor sought for FBC Carrizo Springs in south Texas. Send resumes to: jonathan@firstbaptistcarrizo.org. >> P/T SECRETARIAL POSTION: 25 hours/week; computer proficient; friendly; good communication skills; loves Jesus & His people. Applications available at Country Estates Baptist Church, 1000 S. Midwest Blvd., Midwest City, OK.

ken Arrow, OK 74014.

>> P/T NURSERY ATTENDANT: Must be available for Sunday AM & PM services & Wednesday PM services as well as special church events such as revival services. Please mail resume to: First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 8, Fort Gibson, OK 74434. Applications will remain open until January 26, 2020. >> BI/VO PASTOR: Immanuel Baptist Church in Davis, OK. Please send resumes to: 903 E Ellis, Davis, OK. Phone (405) 238-0342 or email: normajgee123@ gmail.com. Contact name: Norma Gee >> BI/VO PASTOR: Lenapah Baptist Church is seeking a BI/VO Pastor. Please mail resumes to: Attention: Search Committee, P.O. Box 36 Lenapah, OK 74042 or email lenapahbc36@gmail.com.

Minister & a BI/VO Music Minister or 3) P/T BI/VO Youth Minister & a P/T BI/VO Music Minister. If you are interested in any position in these 3 options listed, please indicate same & send resume to: office@ fbccache.org. >> F/T YOUTH MINISTER: First Baptist Church, Ninnekah, OK is seeking a F/T Youth Minister. Music would be a plus. Send resume to: Attention Search Committee at ninnekahbaptistchurch@hotmail.com or P.O. Box 277 Ninnekah, OK 73067. >> WEDNESDAY NIGHT COOK: 12-8pm Wednesdays. Includes planning for 150 people, purchasing, cooking & clean up. Call (405) 321-3545. >> P/T RECEPTIONIST: Wed, Thurs, Fri 8-5. Computer experience required. Send resume and cover sheet to: Office@ibcnorman.org.

>> BI/VO PASTOR: FBC Wyandotte, OK is seeking is a Pastor for rural church. Parsonage available. Send resume to: wyandottefbc@gmail.com.

>> LEAD PASTOR: First Baptist Church Wewoka is a diverse, growing, multi-generational church located in Wewoka, OK which seeks a devoted Pastor to lead our congregation into the future, guiding them in fulfilling God’s plan & purpose. Ideal candidates should be enthusiastic, community minded, have a passion for God’s Word & a heart for His people.

Seminary degree is preferred & holding to the SBC teachings. Send Resumes to: fbcwewoka@gmail. com or mail to: Attn: Pastor Search Team, P.O. Box 916, Wewoka, OK 74884.

>> F/T STUDENT MINISTER: Leadership Team Opening. FBC Wagoner is accepting resumes for F/T Student Minister. Please send resume to: mark@fbcwagoner.com or mail to: FBC Search Team, 401 NE 2nd Street, Wagoner, OK 74467.

>> PASTOR: FBC Soper, OK is seeking a BI/VO or F/T Southern Baptist Pastor. Parsonage is available.

Health insurance benefit. Please send resume to: office@FriscoBaptist.com or to Attention: FBC Soper Search Committee.

>> BI/VO YOUTH LEADER: Highland Park Baptist Church, Edmond is seeking a P/T Youth Leader to grow a vibrant youth ministry in our small, but dynamic, multi-cultural congregation. Send resumes to: 400 N. Blackwelder, Edmond, OK 73034 or hpbcpastor@att.net. Info: (405) 414-7282.

>> YOUTH/MUSIC ASSOCIATE PASTOR: Holdenville FBC is looking for an Associate Pastor of Youth & Music with Christlike character, a passion for God & His word, a love for people & a strong work ethic.

Send resumes to: youthmusicsearch@fbcholdenville.com before 2/29/2020.

>> F/T PASTOR: FBC, Pocola, OK is seeking a F/T Pastor, will consider BI/VO. Please send resumes to: Search Committee at Pocolafbcsearch@gmail.com.

>> BI/VO PASTOR: FBC Gracemont, OK is seeking a Pastor. Parsonage available. Send resume to: P.O. Box 357, Gracemont, OK 73042 or email: jerrypatterson@ tds.net.

>> BI/VO PASTOR: Calvary Baptist in Holdenville, OK is seeking a Pastor please send resume to: Search Committee, 622 S. Hinckley Holdenville, OK 74848.

Or contact David Lowe at (405) 493-6060.

>> F/T YOUTH/CHILDREN’S MINISTER: Clearview Baptist Church, Broken Arrow OK is accepting resumes for a F/T Youth/Children’s Minister. Please send resumes to: cbcmysearch@gmail.com or mail to: Clearview Baptist Church, P.O. Box 140892, Bro-

>> P/T OFFICE MANAGER: Oakdale Baptist Church is looking for a P/T Office Manager. Experience working with Quickbooks, Word & Publisher is helpful.

This person needs to be experienced in managing

CROSSWO

ACROSS 1 Make taboo 4 Spirit “__ light on one’s inmost being” (Prov. 20:27 niv) 9 “Blessed __ the poor in spirit” (Matt. 5:3) 12 Some churchgoers, e.g.

14 Disciple

an office from top to bottom. Please send resumes to Paul Kersh at: kersh.legacy@gmail.com. >> F/T OR BI/VO PASTOR: Davidson First Baptist Church is prayerfully seeking a F/T or BI/VO Pastor.

Send resume to: P.O. Box 187, Davidson, OK 73530. >> BI/VO PASTOR: Highland Baptist Church in Moore, OK is seeking a BI/VO Pastor to a medium-sized church. Send profile to Highland Baptist Church; Attn: Pastor Search Committee, 2425 SE 4th St., Moore, OK 73160 or email to highlandbcpastorsearch@gmail.com. >> F/T MINISTRY ASSISTANT: Springhill Baptist, Howe, OK is seeking a F/T Ministry Assistant. Visit www.springhill.us/career to print application. Send application & resume to: Pastor Dr. Don Laughlin at: springhillbaptist2000@yahoo.com or 18210 State Highway 83, Howe, OK 74940. >> F/T YOUTH PASTOR: Lakeside Baptist Church, Mannford, OK is seeking a F/T Youth Pastor. Please send resumes to: lakeside@lmok.org. >> BI/VO ASSOCIATE/FAMILY PASTOR: Quapaw FBC is prayerfully seeking an Associate/Family Pastor to assist in ministry & preaching duties. Send resumes to the Pastor: mrobertson@wyandotte.k12. ok.us or by mail to P.O. Box 76, Quapaw, OK 74363. >> F/T PASTOR: Fletcher First Baptist Church is prayerfully searching for a F/T Pastor. Mail resume & cover letter to: Attention Pastor Search Committee, Fletcher First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 359 Fletcher, OK 73541. >> F/T YOUTH MINISTER: Canyon Road Baptist, Sapulpa/Tulsa, OK is seeking an experienced leader called to youth ministry who is relational & has a passion for students. Send resume to: Pastor Mike Peter at: crchurch8550@yahoo.com or 8550 S. 49th W. Ave., Tulsa, OK 74131.

MIS CEL L A NEO US >> VAN: Free 1999 Fifteen Passenger Ford Van, Runs Good, but AC Not Working. Call FBC, Noble, OK if interested (405) 872-9000. >> VANS: 2017 Chevrolet Express LT 15 Passenger 3500 6.0 v8 34k miles $22900.00. Call (918) 967-3394.

Williams Chevrolet Inc. 1100 E Main St. Stigler, OK 74462.

RD

23 __ Baba 24 Twitch 25 Stolen property 28 Cell card 31 Half (prefix) 34 Dance to music 36 He came to __ for sin 38 John, the voice of __ crying in the wilderness 40 Hairdo 41 He came from David’s __ line 43 Bruin’s school 44 Length meas. (Abbr.)

45 Guy’s partner 46 __, Son, and Holy Spirit 48 Eden name 51 Jesus gave people this (Abbr.)

53 Nifty 54 They are “as the early __ that passeth away” (Hos. 13:3) 56 Keyboard key 58 Graduates 61 Mary “__ the feet of Jesus” (John 12:3) 15 “He that ploweth should __ in hope” 66 Greek second letter (1 Cor. 9:10) 67 Capital of Senegal 16 Bitterness 69 Western treaty group (Abbr.)

17 Heavy-set 70 Bible times edible 18 “Or __ believe me for the...works’ sake” 71 Christ “shall rise the __ day” (John 14:11) (Mark 9:31) 19 Eternity 72 Flightless birds 21 The Lord’s __

37 Storybook character 39 Christ restored the high priest servant’s 42 Horse tidbit 43 Southwestern Indian 47 Against (Prefix) DOWN 49 Publicist 1 Jesus, __ of Bethlehem 50 Peter, James, and John, e.g.

2 Tel __, Israel 52 Fabrication 3 Pharaoh’s river 55 Temple or ark measurement 4 Thread holder 5 Ego 57 Christ, Lord of __ 58 Christ invites us to call our Father this 6 Fencing sword 59 Dregs 7 Snub, for short 8 Risen Christ, “firstfruits of them that __” 60 Salt Lake state 61 Related (1 Cor. 15:20) 62 Gaza to Joppa (dir.)

9 Supportive friend 10 Christ __ Easter morning 63 Pat down lightly 64 Decorative needle case 11 Pitcher 65 Med measurement 13 German article 68 Expression of surprise 15 Christ, Prince of __ 20 Christ’s gift bringers 22 Christ came to __ us of guilt 25 Hagia __, former Istanbul cathedral 26 Christ came to save the __ 27 “They would have repented long __ in sackcloth” (Matt. 11:21) 29 Song of Solomon, e.g.

30 “Mama __!”

32 Barista specialty 33 Bay 34 Comics sound 35 Work unit 73 Bible land tree 74 Jesus laid __ on the sick 75 Apple or peach, maybe

LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS

Classifieds | January 23, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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January 23, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | News & Culture