2020-03-12

Informing and Inspiring Oklahoma Baptists Since 1912

BAPTISTMESSENGER.COM • MARCH 12, 2020

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CO N T E N T S : Page 2 | News & Trends IMB forms coronavirus task force >> DIANA CHANDLER

2020 Mission Ignition takes giant ‘leap’ for world missions >> BRIAN HOBBS

On Feb. 29, Leap Day, more than 1,000 children from across Oklahoma, first through sixth grade, took part in Mission Ignition, one of the largest annual children’s missions events in the state.

Taking place at three locations—Lawton, Oklahoma City and Tulsa—the event featured a wide array of hands-on missions activities, as well as opportunities to meet actual Southern Baptist missionaries from around the world. /// SEE PAGE 5

Attending 2020 Oklahoma Baptists Women’s Retreat will be a ‘gift’ >> CHRIS DOYLE

The theme of the 2020 Oklahoma Baptists Women’s Retreat will be “Gifts,” and is based on 2 Cor. 9:15, “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!”

Those attending the event, April 17-18, may consider the experience a gift, as Amy Cordova describes why the annual event at Falls Creek Baptist Conference Center is something women cherish. /// SEE PAGE 7

Encourage: Make baptism an Easter priority >> HANCE DILBECK

Years ago, one of our dear friends brought his family to church on Easter Sunday. On the way, their oldest child, a 7-year-old boy, moaned from his spot in the third row seat, “I don’t know why we are even going to church today.” His father was concerned, “Why do you say that, son?” The little boy, dressed in his Easter best, responded, “We already know what the preacher is going to preach about.”

Hallelujah! Christ is Risen! That is what we will preach about. /// SEE PAGE 10

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To comment on articles, visit www.baptistmessenger.com

Page 3 | Voices Sword & Trowel: Faith, free speech & universities >> BRIAN HOBBS

Page 4 | Gospel Ministry Rite of Passage: It made my heart laugh >> WALKER MOORE

Page 7 | Feature Priority of Preaching speakers ‘expound’ on Hebrews >> CHRIS DOYLE

Page 10 | Church Toolbox 4 reasons church leaders can’t afford to neglect rest >> MAINA MWAURA

I N I S T RY GOSPEL M

ENDS NEWS & TR

& IMB forms coronavirus task force SPORTS & T MISSIONS I S T RY AINMEN ENTERT

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>> by Diana Chandler

BAPTIST PRESS GENERAL ASSIGNMENT WRITER/EDITOR

RICHMOND, Va. (BP)—As the global coronavirus crisis nears pandemic status, the International Mission Board (IMB) announced Friday, Feb. 28 a coronavirus task force to address implications for IMB personnel and partners, including church volunteer mission teams.

“We recognize the concern that coronavirus is causing, and we are grateful for individuals and churches who are praying for IMB personnel and for people around the world directly affected by the virus,” IMB President Paul Chitwood said in a press release. “We are continually monitoring the global situation and remain in frequent contact with our missionaries to take the best precautions possible related to their health and safety.”

Updates and recommendations are available to IMB personnel, partners and mission teams at the newly launched website imb.org/COVID-19.

Coronavirus has met two of the three criteria for pandemic status, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said, and World Health Organization (WHO) issued a global “very high” alert for coronavirus transmission, raising the alert from “high.”

“The task force recommends that personnel and church partners monitor the CDC guidelines and follow the latest recommendations regarding travel and virus

prevention,” IMB said in its press release. “IMB suggests churches frequently monitor travel advisories in order to make wise and prayerful decisions about mission trips planned in the near future.”

The new website also offers a porO O L B OX tal to fiC nancially C H Tministry U Rsupport H efforts in specific areas impacted by the virus.

“Local partners and personnel urgently need supplies to continue responding to those affected,” IMB said on the site. “Your gift will supply critically needed FIEDS S S Isanitizer, C L Ahand face mask packs, medical supplies and other resources that will be distributed to individuals and families across the country.”

As the rate of new cases slows in China, at least five countries reported their first cases, and the U.S. documented cases of people who have not travelled abroad, accordingV toO WHO E Swidespread media I C and reports. The virus has variously affected international economic and social sectors, including Gospel outreaches and discipleship efforts.

IMB has repositioned some missionaries to areas where interaction and ministry are more feasible, as other missionaries have elected to remain in high risk locations.

Southern Baptist Convention Executive Committee President Ronnie Floyd, along with Peter Yanes, SBC EC executive director of Asian American relations and mobilization, have urged & prayer for a global O P L E increasP Ecommunity ingly affected by the virus.

NEWS H C R U H C Chitwood urged the public to follow safety measures, as he reiterated the IMB’s commitment to prayer and the Great Commission.

“We undergird all our decisions with fervent prayer for the Lord’s wisdom and guidance,” LT U R E C UChitwood EW said.N “As we S do& daily, we trust in God’s providence over this situation and will faithfully remain on task to reach the nations.”

IMB recommends its personnel not travel to or through Hong Kong, the entity said in its press release.

The CDC discourages nonessential travel to China and South Korea and encourages those over 60 and those with chronic medical conditions to avoid nonessential travel to Italy, Japan and Iran.

General safety measures include frequent handwashing for at least 20 seconds each time; using hand sanitizer when soap is not available, and avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

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EVENTS

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MARCH 12

MARCH 27

Singing ChurchWomen Regional Concerts

Oklahoma Groups Summit

Info: 7 p.m., Alva, First; Commanche, First; Hulbert, First; Sallisaw, First oklahomabaptists.org/worship

Info: 6 p.m., Moore, First Contact Bob Mayfield, 405/942-3800 or bmayfield@ oklahomabaptists.org

MARCH 27-28

MARCH 29

Critical Incident Stress Management Training

Singing Churchmen at Baptist Church Music Conference

Info: $45, OKC Police Training Center, 800 N. Portland oklahomabaptists.org/chaplaincy

Info: Tulsa, First oklahomabaptists.org/worship

MARCH 27-28

MARCH 31

Literacy Missions Workshop

Falls Creek Prep Meeting

Info: $25, Baptist Building Contact Cheryl Wilkinson, 405/613-1513 or literacy@oklahomabaptists.org

WEB-EXCLU

Info: 6:30 p.m., Oklahoma City, Southern Hills skopos.org/fallscreek

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

Bryant Wright named Send Relief president BAPTIST PRESS | MARCH 2

The International Mission Board (IMB) and the North American Mission Board (NAMB) announced Bryant Wright as the new president of Send Relief today, March 2. Wright was the founding pastor of Marietta, Ga., Johnson Ferry, where he served for 38 years.

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Tennessee Baptists remain S faithful T N E V E as tornadoes kill at least 22 DIANA CHANDLER | MARCH 3

Pastors shared hope and faith in the midst of death and destruction early Tuesday, March 3 just after a series of tornadoes tore through middle Tennessee, killing at least 22 and heavily damaging businesses, homes and at least two Southern Baptist churches. The Southern Baptist Convention Executive Committee headquarters and the LifeWay Christian Resources building, both near the path of the storm, were not damaged. Employees are also reportedly safe.

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

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March 12, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | News & Trends

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PUBLICATIO

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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: 41,967. 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. March 12, 2020 • Volume 109, Number 5.

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: Make baptism an Easter priority Hance Dilbeck Oklahoma Baptists’ Executive Director-Treasurer @Hance_Dilbeck

Years ago, one of our dear friends brought his family to church on Easter Sunday. On the way, their oldest child, a 7-year-old boy, moaned from his spot in the third row seat, “I don’t know why we are even going to church today.” His father was concerned, “Why do you say that, son?” The little boy, dressed in his Easter best, responded, “We already know what the preacher is going to preach about.”

Hallelujah! Christ is Risen! That is what we will preach about.

Let me encourage you to proclaim the resurrection of our Lord Jesus through believer’s baptism on

this Easter Sunday. We proclaim the resurrection in song, Scripture reading and sermon. We can also proclaim the resurrection through baptism. “Therefore we were buried with Him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too may walk in newness of life” (Rom. 6:4). Could your church baptize someone this Easter?

Churches from all across the Southern Baptist Convention are working toward “#FilltheTank Sunday” this Easter Sunday, April 12. We only have about a month. Let’s all begin to pray for lost people to be saved and for new believers to be prepared to follow Jesus in believer’s baptism. Let’s fill the baptistery and call people to a personal faith in Jesus. Let’s challenge people to obedience in believer’s baptism so that we can proclaim the resurrection of our Lord in this glorious and good New Testament way.

Oklahoma Baptists are committed to baptizing 20 percent more people by 2025. Believer’s baptism

holds us accountable for doing the work of evangelism and making disciples in the context of the local church. Think about it—baptism is the visible, tangible fruit of evangelism and discipleship in the local church. Baptism braids three aspects that are priority of our calling, which are evangelism, discipleship and local church connection. Baptism is a New Testament priority.

We are very busy on Easter Sunday. We are preparing lessons and sermons, songs and greetings, parking lots and nurseries. Will we also have the baptistery ready? Baptism proclaims the Lordship of Jesus and His redemptive work, His death and resurrection. What a joy the people of God find when we witness baptism on Easter!

I pray—let’s pray together—that churches all across Oklahoma will know the joy of the Lord this Easter as they celebrate and proclaim the Newness of Life that comes through Jesus, His death and resurrection.

Sword & trowel: Faith, free speech & universities Brian Hobbs Editor of the Baptist Messenger @BrianGHobbs

Across America, college campuses are changing. Technology has changed how and where students learn. A new generation of young people has emerged, moving from Millennials to Gen Z. Another significant change that appears to be taking place is the fading of free speech on campus. In fact, a recent Rasmussen Report found that 47 percent of Americans think there is less freedom of speech than there was previously. College students themselves seem to agree with that trend, as other polling suggests.

In a significant book that was released in 2018, two authors also discussed this trend. “The Coddling of the American Mind: How Good Intentions and Bad Ideas Are Setting Up a Generation for Failure” is a book by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt. Neither of these authors is a conservative Christian.

Lukianoff and Haidt have made a compelling case

that Christians and others must consider. They “argue that overprotection is having a negative effect on university students and that the use of ‘trigger warnings’ and ‘safe spaces’ does more harm than good.” Their book, which contains some bad language, presents a compelling case that free speech on campus is in peril.

Oklahoma, of course, is not immune to trends like these. This is partly why it is significant that one of the leading Southern Baptist thinkers, Albert Mohler, is bringing his “Ask Anything Tour” to Oklahoma this spring.

On Wednesday, April 1 at 7:30 p.m., Mohler will be on the University of Oklahoma campus. Then on Thursday, April 2 at 7:30 p.m., he will be at the campus of Oklahoma State University.

This open forum is geared toward engaging with students who are skeptics or non-believers, taking on their toughest questions about the Christian faith. The event, which is being organized by the Baptist Collegiate Ministries on campus, is inviting students to “come and ask your questions about faith, religion and the Bible.”

Some of the questions could look like the following: • Has science disproved the Bible?

• Why believe the Bible over other sacred texts?

• What does the Bible say about sexuality?

• If God is good, why does He allow suffering?

• What happens after you die?

• Why is your truth right and my truth wrong?

• Are there multiple ways to God? • Why did God appear to command genocide in the Bible?

• What would it take for you to leave your faith?

• What’s so bad about hell?

Mohler’s “Ask Anything” events have appeared on other college campuses, including UCLA, and the response was encouraging. The dialogue was productive.

Events like these show how the Christian worldview answers life’s most challenging questions.

They also show we can have an open and honest exchange of ideas, even on today’s college campuses.

If Christians are going to advance the Gospel to our neighbors and the nations, then we need to be prepared to engage better with this generation of college students. To reach them with the Truth, in a winsome way, one that benefits both the one listening and the one speaking.

For more information on the Ask Anything Tour, visit askanythingtour.com or oklahomabaptists. org/events.

Voices | March 12, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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I N I S T RY GOSPEL M

ENDS NEWS & TR

Rite of passage: ItSmade my heart laugh PORTS & T N AINME

& MISSIONS M I N I S T RY Walker Moore

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True worship Amy Cordova Missions and Women’s Ministries Partner for Oklahoma Baptists @amy_cordova

“Therefore, brothers and sisters, in view of the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your true worship” (Rom. 12:1).

Recently, I was preparing to speak at a worship pastors’ wives conference. I was excited for this opportunity since corporate worship through music has always been my favorite element of a worship gathering.

I wanted to encourage these ladies in a memorable way. My heart kept drawing me back to Romans 12.

I have had the first two verses of Romans 12 memorized since I was little girl, but those two words, “true worship,” jumped off the page as I was preparing what I wanted to share.

Paul defines true worship as surrendering ourselves completely to God. Rom. 12:2 shows us how to surrender ourselves to Him, “Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing and perfect will of God.” When we read Scripture, we see the

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definition of worship defined more clearly. Renewing our minds is part of surrendering our entire selves to Christ!

Scientific studies have confirmed that a majority of our thoughts are negative.

Oftentimes, those negative thoughts are recurring. This can create a toxic spiral of negativity in our minds.

Many times, I have seen the attack of the enemy happening through a person’s thoughts. John 10:10 teaches us that the enemy comes only to steal and kill and destroy, but Jesus came so that we may have life and have it in abundance. In 2 Tim. 1:7, Paul reminds Timothy, “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but one of power, love and sound judgment.” We no longer have to be slaves to our own thoughts. There is power and freedom found in Christ.

Recently, I was teaching my girls, ages 9 and 6, these truths. I tallied up negative comments I had heard them say that morning. Then I drew a spiral from those negative tally marks. I asked them if my spiral drawings reminded them of anything.

Immediately, they saw the drawing take a tornado-like shape. “Girls,” I said, “you know how destructive tornados can be. When you continue to think negative thoughts, lies from the enemy, it will destroy your mind.

But God has given us the power to overcome these lies.”

Remember Paul’s letter to the church at Philippi? It’s such a joyful

book, yet we know Paul is writing this letter from prison. His mind was renewed in Christ! With great joy, he greets the church out of thanksgiving for their partnership in the Gospel (Phil. 1:3-5). Even in the midst of trial and hardship, he encourages the church to rejoice, reminding them the Lord is near (Phil. 4:4-5).

Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we have a choice of what we think about. As I learn more about how God has designed our brains, I have discovered how much our thoughts matter.

In fact, our thoughts produce matter.

Studies show that our thoughts can actually change our DNA. While Paul is in prison, he is teaching the Philippian church that “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”

Even in the midst of brokenness and chaos, we can have peace because we have Jesus.

In renewing our minds, what should we think about? Paul provides us a beautiful list of thoughts to dwell on: whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, morally excellent and praiseworthy (Phil. 4:8). These are the subjects we are to think about.

Today, I encourage you to take every thought captive to obey Christ (2 Cor. 10:5). This is true worship.

May the God of peace be with you (Phil. 4:9).

March 12, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | Gospel Ministry

P L A N T E R

All this explains why I lead students to do “Jesus ministry.” Every day, without fail, some student will come up and ask me, “What are we doing today?”

I have only one answer: “Jesus ministry.” We are not doing mission work, First Church of something work or Baptist work; we are simply doing Jesus ministry. Most of us have to go somewhere to do mission work or be a part of a program for First Church work. And even though I am proud to be a Baptist, I am not sure what Baptist work is.

All I know is that one day I read in the Scriptures, “Then He said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow Me” (Luke 9:23). If Jesus is doing ministry, then I am doing it alongside Him. I can do His ministry any time, any place, anywhere, whether it be in the jungles of Panama or in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

You only need three things, let’s make that four, to do Jesus ministry: An obedient heart, a Bible, Anti-Evil-Spirit Powder and the Walker Rocker: Patent Pending. That’s true if you are going to live in the jungle; otherwise, you will only need the first two. And if you act now, the Holy Spirit is standing by to show you Jesus’ ministry—with or without H & H.

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Author’s Note: As I was going through my stuff trying to reduce the clutter, I came across something I wrote many years ago. It made my heart laugh not once but twice. So I thought I would share it again.

We slept in Fmosquito I I E D S net-covered hammocks, SS C L Aour cooked meals in a big iron pot over three logs that had been pushed together and walked from village to village presenting the Gospel.

If you’ve never been to Panama, let me tell you that country’s two outstanding characteristics. It is hot with a capital H, and it is humid, which should also be spelled with a capital H. Spring, winter, fall or summer, Panama I C EHS& H. It is one of the few places in VisOalways the world where your sweat sweats.

You sweat in the shower; you sweat lying down; you sweat standing up, and you sweat sleeping. Because of the H & H, it’s easy to get a heat rash. I was encouraging our students to apply some baby powder to help with that problem.

Students don’t listen much to what anyone, even a seasoned missionary, tells them. But I’ve been at this long enough that I know how to get them to do as I say without blinking an eye. Call the powder by a fancy name, and they’ll fall over one another wanting to use it. Don’t believe me? Starbucks learned this long ago with their la-di-da crema, mocha, Frappuccino, chinchilla drinks.

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O O L B OX T H C R U H C

P R A Y

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

So while I was in the jungle, I renamed the powder “Anti-Evil-Spirit Powder” with the slogan, “Don’t go into the jungle without it.” Next thing I knew, every student wanted some of that Anti-Evil-Spirit Powder.

E& P Lbaby And never once was called powder again. AnyP EitO time someone got tired, another student W S would ask, E N H C R U H C “Did you put on your Anti-Evil-Spirit Powder?”

I applied the name game to hammock life, too. If you’ve spent many nights in a hammock, you know it can be somewhat stifling—especially in a place like Panama where, as you know, the H & H are intense.

You can lie there forever waiting for a breeze, but E it to the if you’re smart, you’ll get aU string andRtie TU L C & S W E side of the Nhut. With a gentle tug of your wrist, your hammock will swing back and forth, sending a slight breeze across your body. I do this every time I go to the jungles of Panama.

Instead of calling it a string, I have renamed my apparatus the “Walker Rocker: Patent Pending.” I go into a whole spiel with the students about how it can be used for the whole family and comes in all colors, sizes and shapes. I tell them, “If you pick up your phone and call within the next 10 minutes, you will receive not one but two ‘Walker Rockers: Patent Pending.’ Operators are standing by, and if you give them the secret code, ‘H & H,’ we’ll include a bottle of Anti-Evil-Spirit Powder absolutely free!” I add in a whisper, “Shipping and handling not included.”

For the next four days, the students will keep talking to me about the “Walker Rocker: Patent Pending.” (We are currently in development, testing the next generation of Walker Rockers.) My friends, it is just a string, but which would you rather have: a string, or the brand-new and improved “Walker Rocker: Patent Pending”?

Vernell and Vickie Racy Gans, Grace New Beginnings Launched Sept. 2019

Vernell is a singer and a preacher who loves to lead other people to Jesus! He and his wife, Vickie, love to witness in any way they can to the goodness of God. God has been doing many wonderful things through their church planting work in Gans.

Prayer Requests: • For them as they work on a project to renovate the local community park.

• For their growing connections with the town of Gans and other local churches.

• For health and well being for both Pastor Vernell and the church membership.

oklahomachurchplanting.com

& MISSIONS M I N I S T RY

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

2020 Mission Ignition takesC Hgiant ‘leap’ for world missions PLE & O E X P O B L O TO WS R CH /// U PREVIEWED ON COVER

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DS CLASSIFIE >> PHOTOS: 1,4) PROVIDED) 2-3) BRIAN HOBBS 1) Pinewood race cars are a favorite activity; 2-3) Children hear from local and international missionaires; 4) Churches earned recognition for accomplishments in mission work to their church family (bronze), their neighborhoods (silver), their community (gold), and the “ends of the earth” (platinum).

VOICES

>> by Brian Hobbs EDITOR

On Feb. 29, Leap Day, more than 1,000 children from across Oklahoma, first through sixth grade, took part in Mission Ignition, one of the largest annual children’s missions events in the state.

Taking place at three locations—Lawton, Oklahoma City and Tulsa—the event featured a wide array of hands-on missions activities, as well as opportunities to meet actual Southern Baptist missionaries from around the world.

One Mission Ignition attendee was Ethan, a second grade student from an Oklahoma City church, who dreams of being an overseas missionary. Ethan and other children like him were able to meet missionaries who served in Germany, Poland, West Africa and other places across the globe. The event also featured various “home missionaries,” includ-

Mission Ignition Awards

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ing Disaster Relief volunteers and representatives from Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children.

Two fixtures of Mission Ignition are the pinewood derby races and the missions service projects awards. Racer winners from various Baptist associations across the state took part in the state race, and church groups who took part in the Missions Challenge were announced.

Mission Ignition is organized by various Oklahoma Baptists groups, including state associations and churches. Lynn Jordan of Capital Association said, “Thanks Gina McKean (of Oklahoma City, Portland Ave) and all the great volunteers who made the (Oklahoma City) Mission Ignition 2020 such a great event.”

Host churches for the 2020 event were Lawton, First East, where 230 attended; Oklahoma City, Southern Hills with 536 in attendance; and Tulsa, South Tulsa with 630.

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Bethany, Council Rd Bethany, First Cushing Oak Grove Earlsboro, First Hobart, Territory Cowboy Church McLoud, First McLoud, Hillside Meeker, First Morris, First Muskogee, Southeast Mustang, First MWC, Eastwood MWC, Meadowood Ninnekah, First Noble, First

Ochelata, First OKC, Newchurch OKC, Portland Avenue OKC, Quail Springs OKC, South Lindsay OKC, Southpark Okmulgee, Calvary Ponca City, First Poteau, Southside Prague, Pleasant Home Shawnee, First Skiatook, First Tahlequah, First Tulsa, First Tulsa, Good News Tulsa, South Tulsa Verden, First

Walters, First Weatherford, First Wichita, Believer’s Southern

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Elgin, Crossroads TURE L U C & S W E Lawton, Olivet N Mounds, First

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Collinsville, First Lawton, First East

BR ONZE

Meeker, Mammoth Temple, First

Charlie Gatton, who serves as Oklahoma Baptists CrossTimbers Children’s Camp and childhood ministry partner, sees the value of the event. “Mission Ignition is an event designed to engage kids with hands-on missions experience, fun, and games,” he said. “Kids meet missionaries from Oklahoma and learn how the message of Christ is carried around the world. There are sights, sounds, smells and tastes that invoke a child’s imagination about what the world is like. Boys and girls learn that they can be missionaries right where they live.”

The 2021 Mission Ignition is set for March 6. For more information about Mission Ignition, visit oklahomabaptists.org/mission-ignition.

On this Leap Day, countless children in Oklahoma caught a vision of world missions, a day that could represent a giant leap for missions in years to come.

MISSIONS VOLUNTEER TIES

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OKLAHOMA

These ministries have various on-going opportunities for volunteers: Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, OKC and Community Food Bank of Eastern OK, Tulsa—both locations, call 405/972-1111. (Not a Baptist ministry, but many Oklahoma Baptist churches receive food from them for local food pantries.)

Arms Around Broken Arrow—food pantry, clothes closet—918/258-7714—hugh@armsaroundba.org Lake Texoma Baptist Resort Ministry Pete Richards, Director, 580/579-1671 2034 Max Rd, Mead 73449 email: thehelm2034@gmail.com Cherokee Baptist Assembly, Cherokee—918/506-5482 email: cba_tahlequah@yahoo.com

DISASTER RELIEF

Training:

Orientation and Credentialing (Training) Dates for 2020: April 4-Muskogee, Southeast 2511 East Hancock St. May 2-Ponca City, First 218 S. 6th St. Sept. 12-Owasso, First 13307 E. 96th St. N. Additional information can be found at www.okdisasterhelp.org

Chaplaincy: April 21 or May 16-Chaplain Refresher Training-8:30 a.m.

Baptist Building; Cost $10.00 payable in advance.

Pray for Oklahoma Missionary James Swain James is Oklahoma Baptists’ associate executive director for the Church Relations group. Pray for wisdom in encouraging pastors and directors of missions.

Pray for Oklahoma Missionary Joe Ligon Joe is senior associate executive director of Oklahoma Baptists.

He assists most of Oklahoma Baptists’ groups. Pray for the Gospel to be preached to all nations.

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

Missions & ministry | March 12, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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Safe & sound: Regional events equip churches to prevent sexual abuse & to care for survivors /// PREVIEWED ON COVER

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>> by Brian Hobbs

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>> PHOTOS: 1) GRANT BIVENS; 2-3) BRIAN HOBBS 1) Greg Love, founder of MinistrySafe, talks about the importance of screening and training church volunteers; 2) Conference attendees were equipped with resources churches can use to elevate child safety; 3) Jennifer Greenberg shares her testimony of being an abuse survivor.

EDITOR

Like many people, Jennifer Greenberg seemed blessed to grow up in a family that attended church frequently. What many people did not know, though, was Jennifer’s father subjected her to frequent abuse, including verbal, sexual and physical abuse, for nearly all of her upbringing.

When she shared with others—including her pastor at the time—about the abuse, no one did anything to help her.

“My pastor told me, ‘We need to pray for your father’s anger issues.’ That’s not what I needed to hear. That’s not what I needed,” Greenberg told attendees at three regional events “Abuse Prevention & Awareness” Conferences hosted by Oklahoma Baptists, Feb. 24-25.

The regional conferences took place at Tulsa, South Tulsa, Feb. 24, and at Oklahoma City, Wilmont Place and Ardmore, First, Feb. 25, and drew nearly 300 attendees from numerous Oklahoma Baptist churches.

Greenberg is not only an abuse survivor today.

She is a recording artist, church pianist and an author who recently wrote the book “Not Forsaken.” She worships at a church in Houston, Texas, where she resides with her husband Jason and their three children.

Another presenter at the conferences was author and MinistrySafe founder Greg Love, who shared that Greenberg’s story is not an isolated incident.

Love said there are tens of millions of Americans who have been victims of sexual abuse, with some statistics showing that as many as one in four females and one in six males in the United States have experienced some kind of abuse.

The purpose of the conferences was to make churches better aware of risks and to help abate and eliminate sexual abuse.

“This was one of the best conferences I have ever attended,” said Justin Sampler, pastor of In-

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ola, First. “The materials were practical and helpful. We learned both how to prevent abuse from ever happening in the local church, as well as how to care and support abuse victims and survivors.”

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 “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 hosting these events, as part of our larger strategy to create a culture of awareness and safety, we believe churches will be better equipped in this vital area.”

According to Love, 50 percent of perpetrators of abuse in a church context were volunteers. “We need to do better in screening our volunteers, and background checks are not enough,” he said.

Love cited statistics which indicate 90 percent of offenders are male, while 10 percent are female.

“Peer-to-peer abuse—that is to say, youth abusing other youth or children—is a major issue, as well,” he said.

“Having a better understanding of sexual predators ‘grooming’ of victims is key,” Love said. “We need to recognize behavior and risks. Only four percent of sexual abuse offenders are ‘abduction offenders.’ (More than) 90 percent are ‘preferential offenders,’ abusers who are often known people in our midst who go where barriers are lowest. And barriers are lowest where information is weakest.”

Love challenged churches to go beyond background checks.

“I wish all we had to do was run background checks,” he said.

March 12, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | Features

“We have to deal with our environment as it is, not how it should be. This is our problem as the church.

It’s a today problem, and we need to make changes now and not wait for a personal crisis.

“This is not a Catholic problem, or another group’s problem. Sexual abuse is a crisis that cuts across demographics and racial lines,” he added, saying that youth sports and churches are some of the highest risk areas for abuse.

Amy Cordova, who serves as missions and women’s ministry partner for Oklahoma Baptists, also spoke at the event.

“Thanks to the generosity of Oklahoma Baptists, our churches can have their first year of MinistrySafe paid for,” she said.

MinistrySafe was created by legal professionals “to protect children and those who serve them.”

Interested churches can contact Thomas Jordan at tjordan@oklahombaptists.org for more information.

“We are called to be shepherds. We need to understand what risks look like in order to put up the right fences for those in our care,” Love said.

With God’s help and the right training, screening and precautions, there will be fewer victims like Jennifer Greenberg in the future. And with God’s people rallying to support abuse victims and survivors, people will see that the church is not only a safe place, but a place where people will truly love them and care for them.

“God still loves me,” said Greenberg. “What my abuser did was evil. Their sin was their choice and their responsibility. I was not at fault. I can have a healthy marriage. I can be a good friend. I can be a good parent. I can live my life and experience joy again because Jesus Christ is my strength and my Redeemer.”

Visit ministrysafe.com or oklahomabaptists. org/abuse-prevention for more information on the conferences.

Attending 2020 Oklahoma Baptists Women’s Retreat will be a ‘gift’ /// PREVIEWED ON COVER >> by Chris Doyle

MANAGING EDITOR

The theme of the 2020 Oklahoma Baptists Women’s Retreat will be “Gifts,” and is based on 2 Cor. 9:15, “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!”

Those attending the event, April 17-18, may consider the experience a gift, as Amy Cordova describes why the annual event at Falls Creek Baptist Conference Center is something women cherish.

“One of the best parts of attending Women’s Retreat is the fellowship women experience with the ladies from their church,” said Cordova who serves as missions and women’s ministry partner for Oklahoma Baptists. “There will be great opportunities for women to make memories but also learn from the Word, to 1 worship together. What I hope is that the relationships that are developed at Women’s Retreat will last beyond the 24 hours that we’re at Falls Creek, and oftentimes they do. That’s what makes it so special.”

All the regular Falls Creek activities will be available for Women’s Retreat participants, and the lineup of keynote speak2 ers include a few favorites from previous retreats.

Jennie Allen is an award-winning and bestselling author who last spoke at the 2014 Women’s Retreat. She is the founder of IF:Gathering, a Gospel-centered community that helps equip women with resources and events “so they can learn who God is and disciple (other) women.”

“Jennie just came out with a book called ‘Get Out of Your Head,’” Cordova said. “It’s a fantastic book;

it’s already a bestseller. People are going to enjoy the content of her teaching.”

Another Women’s Retreat favorite speaker is Lina Abujamra who is a pediatric ER doctor and author.

This will be Abujamra’s fourth appearance at Women’s Retreat.

“Oklahoma loves Lina, and she loves Falls Creek,” Cordova said. “For those 3 who have been to women’s retreat before, they know Lina loves her fried pies and driving around in a golf cart. She gets a lot of laughs, but she’s a powerful speaker. She’s very passionate about the Lord.”

Laura Perry will be making her first appearance as a keynote speaker at Women’s Retreat, but she is well-known among Okla4 homa Baptists. Her story was first told through the Baptist Messenger with an article titled “Transgendered to Transformed,” which is the same title of her autobiography.

“What I like about Laura and her story is she grew up in the ‘local Baptist church,’ just like many of us,” Cordova said.

“Though she went through a rough patch, she found Jesus who has given her life abundantly. She lives that every day, and now Laura is sharing the hope of Jesus with others. It’s a beautiful thing.”

Perry lived as a transgender male for nearly nine years before making a profession of faith in Christ. She has been redeemed back to her God-given female identity and now ministers to those struggling with their sexual identity.

“As Oklahoma Baptists, we talk about embracing brokenness as an opportunity to advance the Gospel,” Cordova said. “When we see our family members and our close friends broken, we know that only the Gospel can heal their broken hearts.

Laura makes that come alive. Her mom’s small group never quit praying for her.

They never gave up on her. And I want women to know it’s not too late. God’s not done yet. Keep praying with childlike faith that Jesus can do anything.

Laura is a testimony of that.”

Leading worship through music at the Women’s Retreat will be Eden Trentham who serves at Owasso, First with her husband Brandon who is the children’s pastor.

The deadline to register for Women’s Retreat is Monday, March 16, but Cordova said it may be possible for the event to sell out prior to the date. Registration for adults is $75, and for students ages 14-17, the cost is $50. To register and for more information, visit bgcowomen.org.

“Women’s Retreat is located in a place that’s near and dear to all of our hearts,” Cordova said. “It’s such a special place to experience, but on top of that, we are gathering with other churches. Last year we had more than 400 churches involved. We get to gather with churches from all over the state and come together to worship Jesus and it’s the most beautiful thing to experience.” >> PHOTOS: PROVIDED Keynote speakers include 1) Jennie Allen; 2) Lina Abujamra; 3) Laura Perry; and worship leader 4) Eden Trentham.

Priority of Preaching speakers ‘expound’ on Hebrews >> by Chris Doyle

MANAGING EDITOR

EDMOND—Brett Selby is in a new role, serving as southwest regional partner for Oklahoma Baptists, but he will continue overseeing the Priority of Preaching Conference, which met March 2-3, at Edmond, First. He understands the benefit the conference is to Oklahoma 1 Baptist pastors.

“A pastor does many things in the fulfillment of his ministry,” Selby mentioned previously. “He leads the church and cares for the members, but there is nothing more important that a pastor does than preach the Word of God. Pastors are shepherds, and the primary role of a shepherd is to feed his flock.”

The Priority of Preaching Conference helps Oklahoma pastors in sermon preparation and delivery of sermons, and this year’s conference followed this role with the theme “Doing the Work of an Expositor.”

The conference opened on Monday, March 2 with Adam Dooley and Hershael York presenting lectures on the Book of Hebrews.

“The whole book sets up this comparison and contrast between Jesus and the major figures of Judaism as well as the major tenets of Judaism,” Dooley said, giving an overview of the Book of Hebrews. “The pastoral implication that this leads us to is that if Jesus really is better, why would we turn back to our old way of life after coming to know Christ.”

3 Dooley recently became senior pastor of Jackson, Tenn., Englewood after serving 20 years as senior pastor of Sunnyvale, Texas, First.

“If you find yourself pastoring in a particularly carnal setting, I don’t know a better book to lead your people through than (Hebrews),” Dooley said. He also addressed how the author of Hebrews is unknown.

“There is really no consensus whatsoever about the author of Hebrews,” Dooley said. “There’s no historical tradition. There’s no inspired reading that makes it clear. There’s no inspired claim of authorship anywhere that we know of. Some have suggested that the Apostle Paul wrote Hebrews. I think he is the most unlikely candidate who wrote this book.”

Dooley discussed the possibilities of Luke, Apollos or others being the author of Hebrews and said he favored the possibility of Apollos being the author, as Hebrews features much teaching involving Judaism, and Luke is believed to be raised as a Gentile.

“I think we do a disservice when we act like we do know (the author of Hebrews),” Dooley said. “It is unnecessary (to know). Thankfully, our igno2 rance about the authorship of Hebrews doesn’t prevent us from understanding the overall message. That’s the main takeaway that we need to understand.”

York serves as dean of Southern Seminary’s School of Theology, and he is pastor of Frankfort, Ky., Buck Run. York opened his lecture encouraging pastors to be willing to lead congregations through sermons expounding on books of the Bible.

“People can digest anything you can serve them,” York said. “They are not afraid of big stories that go on at great length. That’s what you have to give them when you preach. There’s no place in all of the Bible that brings it all together like the Book of Hebrews. Hebrews reaches back into the Old Testament and shows how it applies to Christ, how Christ is revealed in the Old Testament, and this anonymous author, whoever he is, is writing to a bunch of Jews who have accepted Jesus as the Messiah.”

York explained that Hebrews was written to encourage Jewish Christians not to return to the old way of life but that Jesus is enough and to follow Him completely.

“The Letter to the Hebrews was written to the Hebrews to tell the Hebrews to stop being Hebrews,” York said, sharing the humorous comment from another Bible scholar.

Adam Greenway, president of Southwestern Seminary, opened the second day of the Priority of Preaching Conference, delivering a sermon he planned to give six years ago. Greenway was scheduled to preach at the 2014 Priority of Preaching Conference, but weather did not permit him to come, as he was serving at Southern Seminary at the time.

The title of Greenway’s sermon was “Why preaching the Bible must be our priority,” speaking out of Acts 2.

“When we preach on Sunday, we all assume we are preaching to a mixed multitude,” Greenway said. “In our cultural context today, and every time we preach, we ought to be able to preach the Scriptures in such a way for those who are searching can find salvation; that they will hear the love of God; they will hear (about) their sin; they will hear Christ’s atonement; they will hear their need for response. And that everyone who calls on the name of the Lord—red, yellow, black and white, they are all savable in God’s sight.

That’s why we preach.”

All three speakers, Dooley, York and Greenway, had a time of Q&A with those who attended the conference. Recordings of the Priority of Preaching sessions will be available in the coming weeks at oklahomabaptists.org/pop. >> PHOTOS: 1) CHRIS DOYLE; 2-3) BRIAN HOBBS Speakers included 1) Adam Dooley; 2) Adam Greenway; 3) Herschael York.

Features | March 12, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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Falls Creek hosts 3rd MVP Retreat S D E I F I C U LT U R E S & S S A L W

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Childers celebrates 20 years as DOM

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>> PHOTOS: CHRIS DOYLE

DAVIS—For the third consecutive year, Falls Creek Baptist Conference Center hosted the Multi-Vocational Pastors (MVP) and Wives Retreat, Feb. 28-March 1 with more than 150 people attending.

Joe Ligon, senior associate executive director of Oklahoma Baptists, above right, was the lead speaker for the retreat. He opened with a message from Luke 3 and 4 about Jesus beginning His earthly ministry.

“You guys are important to the convention, and more importantly you are important to the Kingdom,” Ligon said to the multi-vocational pastors attending the retreat.

The retreat featured breakout sessions led by conference speakers Preston and Kelly Condra, who each led sessions for men and women. Walter Mullican, pastor of Oklahoma City, Portland

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Avenue, led training sessions to be certified “Prepare Enrich” facilitators at their churches.

Evidence, a worship and praise quartet, led the main sessions in times of worship through music. LeRon West, pastor of Tulsa, Gilcrease Hills, also delivered a message during the Saturday evening session.

Raymond Bohannan, outreach pastor at Ochelata, First, has attended the MVP Retreat for the past three years.

“It’s just a wonderful experience—so many great people coming together and worshipping the Lord,” Bohannan said. “It revives us and renews us. We can take this back to our communities and share with other people.”

When asked why he serves in multi-vocational pastoral ministry, Bohannan responded, “I do it because of what the Lord has done for me.”

March 12, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | People & Church News

>> PHOTO: FACEBOOK.COM

Randy Childers, above right, recently reached his 20th year as director of missions in Rogers Association. Mark Dance, north central regional partner and director of pastoral development for Oklahoma Baptists, above left, shared a message on social media honoring Childers.

“Congratulations to Randy Childers who is celebrating 20 years of faithful ministry as the director of missions in Rogers Association!” Dance posted on Facebook and Twitter.

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Shawnee, Frontline hosts second E D S Town Jesus Conference LT U R E L A S S I F ISmall Cannual NE WS & CU

PEOPLE IN THE NEWS SERVATI DEATH. Dick Servati, 82, died Feb. 13 in Moore. Family honored him with O MHisA ministry was to H a private ceremony.

A L K O E H T small churches asHheI Vpastored Medicine E RC TA T I SFirst; Faxon, First; Cache, Wichita; Fort B A PPark, Towson, First; and Miami, Southern Hills.

He served as Frisco Association moderator from 1988-90. He retired in 2002 after 40 years of full-time ministry. He is survived by his wife Nancy, daughter Debra Jones, two sons Richard and Matthew, nine grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and one greatgreat-grandchild.

LICENSED. Randy Townshend was licensed to the Gospel ministry at Ada, Lovelady, Feb. 16. He is the Baptist Collegiate Ministry director at East Central University in Ada.

VOICES

DOKU

S U hosted the Small Town Jesus Conference.

On Feb. 21-22, Shawnee, Frontline The event is designed to equip small town and rural pastors, church planters and church leaders, providing encouragement, networking, instruction and prayer.

RCH WORD SEA 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.

Accountability Afford Church Commands Creates

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Crippled Grow Healthy Leaders Management

Memories Mind Ministry Mwaura Neglect

Pray Reasons Reflect Renew Rest

CHURCH STAFF CHANGES Kurt Bloomstadt is pastor at Blanchard, Cole First.

Charlie Blount is pastor at Moore, First, after serving as pastor at El Reno, First. His first Sunday at Moore, First will be March 29.

Matt Brooks is pastor at Broken Arrow, First. He previously served at churches in Texas, Alabama and New Mexico.

Ron Brown is pastor at Muskogee, Central.

Clint Cain resigned as pastor at Oklahoma City, Camille Avenue.

Roger Eccles is pastor at Oklahoma City, Camille, Avenue.

Zack Evans is pastor at Oktaha, Trinity.

Eric Reeve is pastor at Muskogee, Three Rivers Cowboy.

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

Sabbath Space Time Tired Trust

People & Church News | March 12, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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4 reasons church leaders can’t DS afford to neglect rest CLASSIFIE

/// PREVIEWED ON COVER This is a serious problem for people in FACTSANDTRENDS.NET ministry. I couldn’t agree with him more.

God commands us to take time off. It’s time I grew up in a great church. When I reflect to put our trust in Him and not ourselves. on my childhood and church youth group 2. Resting renews your mind. The year ES I Coff years, I have fond memories. before I crashed, the only days were V OI took So when God called me into ministry, I saw Thanksgiving and Christmas. It’s a miracle I it as a positive. Even 20-plus years later, I have didn’t wreck my testimony and my ministry. an exceptionally fond view of ministry.

I was still preaching and reading the Bible However, one area that has been a strug- daily, but I wasn’t taking it in and allowing gle in my ministry journey is taking time off God’s Word to fill me. to rest and pray. Looking back at my earIt’s easy to think we’re doing the will of ly years in ministry, I didn’t have a healthy God because we’re preaching and reading model of time management from people I the Bible. However, there’s a stark contrast considered mentors. between doing the work of ministry and beOne of my pastor leaders told me there ing renewed by it. was no need to rest if you enjoy what you One is doing, and the other is being. God do. But that take on work and rest runs wants us to renew our minds. You can’t do counter to Scripture. God commands us to that unless you take the time to rest. take a Sabbath day.

3. Rest creates more space for prayer.

Throughout my time in ministry, I’ve had “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burto learn the importance of resting and pray- dened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon ing the hard way. Here are a few reasons it you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humis necessary. ble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

1. God commands rest. I hate to admit For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” this, but early on in my ministry, I was forced During my crash season, a fellow staff minto take time off. ister read Matt. 11:28-30 to me. Although I When I look back at that season of my had read the passage before, it was the first ministry, everything was going seeming- time it ministered directly to my soul. ly well. I had just helped the church finish a I find that when I have truly rested, I can $4 million project, and the student ministry hear from God in ways I couldn’t before. was growing.

I recently spent some time with pastor But when I look back, there were some and author Jarrett Stephens discussing his cracks inside of my soul because it hadn’t new book in which he explains that a bebeen nurtured. I was running on “10” and liever can’t grow outside of prayer. Without not taking any days off until the dam finally rest, it’s difficult to hear from God clearly. broke. I had become too emotionally crip4. Rest promotes accountability. After pled and tired. my crash, I decided I was going to schedule Thankfully, I was on staff at a great church regular days S , which ended up being FriRoff Eschedule G N I L S D that nurtured me back to emotional and days, and my vacation times a year R O W spiritual health. In Robert Morris’ book Take in advance. the Day Off he states: I also decided to take one more step: to “God thought resting was so important, invite accountability in this commitment to that He put it in the top 10 list (Ten Com- rest. I have my wife and three of my friends mandments). For just a moment, think hold me accountable. I love ministry, but I about it. God thought resting was so im- now understand that it can become an idol. portant that He put it in the same list as not SAlthough Y S ministry is a high and noble callV E ing,AGod DA murdering, coveting and putting no other never calls us to place it above Him. God’s before Him. He thought that much By taking time off to rest, we are showing about resting.” that we trust God and His will for our lives. >> by Maina Mwaura

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

BIT TERNESS BITES >> ANGELA SANDERS

Todd and I ran into an old friend Ya Swhile back. Excited A S E V A D to see him again, we approached, but as we did, it quickly became apparent something was different. Wrong.

It wasn’t just that our friend had aged with the passing of time. No, it was that his eyes, once bright and mischievous, were dim, almost lifeless. Pained.

It felt like a bad dream, and I stopped short, gooseflesh P T IS TS A B A M creeping upO the right side of my body.

O H KLA L I GH T I relaxed As Todd engaged our friend in H conversation, H IG E C R U O S E R a little. He sounded the same, had the same mannerisms, referenced mutual friends. He hadn’t been body snatched or anything—I’m kidding, of course—but he wasn’t the same, either, and as he spoke, I couldn’t shake the feeling something had gotten hold of him.

It took all of a minute to figure out what.

Bitterness.

A casualty of church polity and familial strife, our friend was still lying where he had fallen many, many years ago, alone by choice, angry by habit, warming himself by a fire of painful memories.

Over time, hurt and disillusionment had given way to self-pity, self-pity had evolved into negativity, and negativity had landed our friend squarely in the pit of defeatism.

To read the rest of Angela’s blog visit, baptistmessenger.com/blog-bitterness-bites

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

D AV E S AY S NO, THEY’RE NOT A GOOD DEAL

BAP T IS TS A M O H A L OK H IG H L I GH T R ESOURCE

BAP T IS TS OKLAHOMA H IG H L I GH T R ESOURCE Dear Dave, I have an emergency fund equal to six months of expenses.

Considering this, would you consider an extended home warranty to be a waste of money?

—Ami

AFFI LI AT E S

CO LLE G I AT E D R

OKLAHOMA BAPTISTS’ COLLEGIATE MINISTRY & DISASTER RELIEF MINISTRY

The Baptist Foundation of Oklahoma, Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children, Baptist Village Communities, and Oklahoma Baptist University are each valuable resources to become connected with in Oklahoma.

Become involved in team-building service with your college age church members by connecting with Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief.

oklahomabaptists.org/affiliates

oklahomabaptists.org/collegiatedr

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

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March 12, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | Church Toolbox

Dear Ami, My advice to have an emergency fund of three to six months of expenses, sitting in a good money market account with check writing privileges, is designed to cover the unexpected things that life will throw at you. The cash, combined with the easy access that kind of account allows, will make it quick and easy to take care of things in the event of a financial emergency.

Extended warranties, of any kind, are not a good deal, and I don’t recommend them. You’re better off to self-insure against things breaking down, and put what would have been profit for the extended warranty company in your own pocket!

—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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CLASSIFIEDS COLOR KEY: PASTOR YOUTH MUSIC

JOB LISTING VEHICLE MISC.

>> P/T OR BI/VO STUDENT PASTOR: Faith Baptist Church of Harrah. Please email resumes to: Dr. Dan Campbell at FBCBRODAN@GMAIL.COM.

VOICES

>> BI/VO PASTOR: FBC Sperry, OK is prayerfully seeking a BI/VO Pastor. Please email resume to: robland@peoplepc.com or mail to: FBC Search Committee P.O. Box 907 Sperry, OK 74073.

EMPLOYMENT >> P/T YOUTH MINISTER: FBC Westville is seeking a P/T Youth Minister. Send resumes to: fbcwestville.1@gmail. com or P.O. Box 900, Westville, OK 74965. Mark “Youth Minister Search Committee”. >> MUSIC/FAMILY MINISTRIES ASSOCIATE PASTOR: First Baptist West of Lawton is seeking God’s man to fill the F/T position of Associate Pastor for Music/Family Ministries. Send resumes to: harold.gaches@sbcglobal. net or First Baptist West, 7302 NW Cache Road, Lawton, OK 73505. >> BI/VO PASTOR: Byars Baptist Church is prayerfully seeking a traditional BI/VO Southern Baptist Pastor for a small, rural church. Please send resume to: P.O. Box 83 Byars, OK 74831 or byarsbaptistyouth@gmail.com. >> F/T PASTOR: Emmanuel Southern Baptist Church in Liberal, KS, is seeking a F/T Pastor. Responsibilities include regular preaching & teaching, counseling, visitation & other pastoral duties including church administration in conjunction with the church council & other designated entities. Send a cover letter, resume, references & a sermon link to: esbc.liberalks@gmail.com. >> F/T YOUTH PASTOR: Emmanuel’s F/T youth pastor position is open. Multigenerational, multiple services, multiple school systems, healthy church and youth budget, 100 weekly attenders in youth programs. Please send resumes to: David Camp david@emmanuelenid.org. >> WORSHIP DIRECTOR: Emmanuel is hiring a modern contemporary Worship Director. Visit www.emmanuelenid.org for more information about the church. Please send all resumes to the Executive Pastor, David Camp, at david@emmanuelenid.org. >> F/T MINISTRY ASSISTANT: Microsoft proficient.

Duties include publications, mailouts, administer database of families, order/distribute curriculum; web experience preferable. Applications available at Bethel Baptist Church, 1717 W Lindsey Norman OK. >> BI/VO OR INTERIM PASTOR: FBC Bluejacket, OK is searching for BI/VO Pastor or Interim Pastor. Parsonage is available. Please send resume to: FBC Bluejacket, P. O. Box 120 Bluejacket, OK 74333 or email barnett1946@ yahoo.com.

seeking a BI/VO Pastor. Please send resumes to: Bessie Baptist Mission, Attn: Pastor Search Committee, P.O. Box 92, Bessie, OK 73622

>> BI/VO PASTOR: FBC Bowlegs OK is seeking a Lead Pastor/Elder. No parsonage. Send Resume & letter explaining your conversion & goals to: FBC Bowlegs, P.O. Box 145, Bowlegs, OK 74830 or rwtroglin@gmail.com. >> P/T STUDENT PASTOR: One Church Elk City is prayerfully seeking someone to lead & direct an established youth ministry. Send resumes to: onechurchelkcity@gmail.com. >> F/T PASTOR: First Baptist Church of Jasper, AR, is seeking a F/T Pastor. Please send resumes to: P. O. Box 407, Jasper, AR 72641 or email to: fbcjasper2@gmail.com. >> BI/VO WORSHIP MINISTER: Accepting Resumes for BI/VO Worship Minister for blended service. Send to: fbccomanche@gmail.com or FBC Music Search Team, 315 Oak Main Comanche, OK 73529. >> F/T PASTOR: Hilltop Country Church, Morrison, is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Send cover letter, resume, brief statement of call to ministry, 2 video/audio sermons (as email attachments/hyperlinks) to: Hilltop Country Church, P.O. Box 136, Morrison, OK 73061 or email to: burton@htopc.org. >> F/T PASTOR: Eastside Baptist Church is seeking a F/T Pastor. Please send resumes to: Eastside Baptist Church 1120 Ida Ave, Sallisaw, OK. 74955, Attention: Pastor Search Committee. >> F/T ASSOCIATE PASTOR: NewPoint Church, Ponca City, OK is a growing, new church seeking to hire a F/T Associate Pastor to oversee adult discipleship, such as small groups, pastoral care, Next Steps & Growth Track. Please send resumes to: kyle@newpoint.church. >> BI/VO PASTOR: Canaan Baptist Church is seeking a BI/VO Pastor to lead a small congregation. Interested candidates should send their resume to: Attn: Pastor Search Committee, Canaan Baptist Church, 17092 CS 2730 Minco, OK 73059 or email to: Eisenmangd@gmail.com. >> BI/VO WORSHIP MINISTER: Calvary Baptist Church, Lawton is seeking BI/VO Worship Minister in leading in blended services. Pay is commensurate on experience.

Send resume to: Personnel Committee Chairman, 715 SW H. Ave, Lawton, OK 73501. >> BI/VO PASTOR: Bessie Baptist Mission, Bessie, OK is

>> BI/VO OR P/T WORSHIP MINISTER: Seeking God’s candidate for our next BI/VO or P/T Worship Minister for blended services. The position involves planning & leading worship services, as well as working with choir, instrumentalists & media/technology. Candidate will work closely with the pastor & other staff members. Resumes, along with a cover letter, may be sent to: cbcbamusic@ gmail.com or Clearview Baptist Church, Attn: Music Search Committee, P.O. Box 140892, Broken Arrow, OK 74014. >> F/T WORSHIP LEADER: FBC Canton seeking spiritually mature, F/T Worship Leader. Must have a heart for worship & for connecting with a strong, growing church.

As a multi-generational church, we love contemporary worship music, but we also love a balance of traditional or hymn arrangements. Minimum 5 years full-time experience, music degree preferred. Please send resumes along with a video or link of you leading worship to: libby@firstcanton.com by April 10, 2020. >> BI/VO WORSHIP LEADER & YOUTH PASTOR: Rimrock is growing! We are a thriving congregation on the western edge of Tulsa county, looking to fill two Bi/ VO staff positions: Worship Leader for a blended service & Youth Pastor. Send resume to: jason@jasonkearney.net.

Call (918) 809-2091 for more information or go to: www. rimrocktulsa.com. >> PIANIST/KEYBOARD PLAYER: Needing a piano or keyboard player to help us in worship services. We are a loving family of believers that enjoy music. Call (918) 605-9486. >> YOUTH PASTOR: Spiro FBC is seeking a Youth Pastor.

We are a loving church in rural community with great opportunity to reach youth! Competitive package, parsonage & good facilities. Send resume to: jamestsmith@ live.com. >> BI/VO PASTOR: Laverty Baptist Church is seeking a BI/VO Pastor. Email resumes to: lavertychurch@gmail.com or mail to: 2776 County Street 2760, Cement, OK 73017. >> BI/VO PASTOR: Buffalo Valley Baptist Church in Talihina, OK. is prayerfully seeking a Pastor. Parsonage available, utilities paid by church. Please send resumes to: 4152 S.E. Hwy 63, Talihina, OK. 74571 or email: bvbc4152@ yahoo.com. >> F/T PASTOR: First Baptist Church of Cache, OK is seeking a F/T Pastor. Please send resume to: Office@fbccache.org or PO Box 437, Cache, OK 73527. >> BI/VO MUSIC MINISTER: Sharon Baptist Church, Chickasha, is prayerfully seeking God’s person for our Music Minister. Send resume to: Sharon Baptist Church, 2414 State Highway 92, Chickasha, OK 73018.

CROSSWO

ACROSS 1 “While we __ yet sinners, Christ died” (Rom. 5:8) 5 Pseudo chocolate 10 Toast go-with 13 Japanese poem 15 Sporty car brand 16 Prideful person has a big one

17 Birch-like tree 18 Spirit never does this 19 Mary __ at Jesus’ feet 20 Greens need 21 Sky color (Fr.) 23 When “the Spirit of __, is come, he will guide you” (John 16:13) 25 Spirit __ inside the heart

>> F/T YOUTH MINISTER: View Acres Baptist Church, Tulsa, OK. Vibrant, multi-generational church in the West Tulsa area seeks F/T Youth Minister to lead growing student ministry. Send resume to: shannonfayebaker@ gmail.com. >> STUDENTS: Faith Baptist Church, 901 Faith Ln, Claremore, OK 74017, is seeking a F/T Minister of Students. The position offers a competitive salary, benefits & housing.

Email resume: faith@claremorefaith.com. >> MUSIC AND/OR CHILDREN’S MINISTER: FBC Minco is seeking leadership in these areas. We are a Spirit-led, Bible believing church seeking person/persons to fill either or both positions. If interested, email resume to mike@mincofbc.com. >> F/T YOUTH MINISTER: Memorial Heights, Claremore, is prayerfully seeking the man called by God to serve as our F/T Youth Minister. Please send resumes to: memorialheights@sbcglobal.net, or to 1500 W. Will Rogers Blvd., Claremore, OK, Claremore, 74017. >> F/T PASTOR: First Baptist, Poteau, OK, currently accepting resumes for a F/T Pastor. Must be able to interface with Hispanic Ministry. Southern Baptist Seminary preferred. Resumes should be emailed to: janie@fbcpoteau. com or mailed to: 300 N. Witte, Poteau, OK 74953. >> 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 STUDENT PASTOR: Student Pastor sought for FBC Carrizo Springs in south Texas. Send resumes to: jonathan@firstbaptistcarrizo.org. >> 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.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

RD

26 Forger might have many 28 God-given gift 31 KJV Spirit 32 Where Spirit lives in you 33 What the sower of parable sowed in 34 Phone greeting, slangily 37 Great Lake 38 Architect Frank __ Wright 40 Sermon delivery, usually 41 Land east of Eden 42 Sullen 43 Pie serving 44 Spirit’s compassion 45 When it’s hard to pray, Spirit __ for us 46 Funnel-shaped fish 49 Angel’s topper 50 Island greeting 51 Central points 52 Legume 55 “Grieve not the holy Spirit of __” (Eph. 4:30) 56 Whining voice type 59 Shy, cheerful or friendly, e.g.

61 Gaza to Bethlehem (dir.)

62 “Who has insulted the Spirit of __?”

(Heb. 10:29 niv) 63 Holy person 64 Devil’s color, popularly 65 “Rich he hath sent __ away” (Luke 1:53) 66 “Lions roar after their __” (Ps. 104:21)

DOWN 1 “__ saith the scripture?”

(Rom. 4:3) 2 Spiritual comfort, e.g.

3 Do not “delay to offer the first of thy __ fruits” (Ex. 22:29) 4 Make do (with “out”) 5 54 Down projects 6 Freedom org. (Abbr.)

7 Herb tithed by Pharisees 8 Lode yield 9 Spirit’s water 10 Like a dove, Spirit descended on Him 11 Multicolored rock 12 “Treasures in heaven, where __...do not destroy” (Matt. 6:20 niv) 14 Straight 22 “__ your light so shine” (Matt. 5:16) 24 OT unclean rodent 25 Like Sinai Desert 26 Sailor’s call 27 “Each one should carry their own __” (Gal. 6:5 niv) 28 “Art thou __ the Son of God?” (Luke 22:70) 29 Aircraft (prefix) 30 “There is __ up for me a crown of righteousness” (2 Tim. 4:8) 31 “Happy are ye; for the spirit of __... resteth upon you” (1 Peter 4:14) 34 Church solo, maybe 35 “Walk honestly...that ye may have __

of nothing” (1 Thess. 4:12) 36 Madrid stadium sounds 38 Apocryphal story, e.g.

39 Ricky’s partner on classic TV 40 Sandwich spread 42 Unsettle 43 Leaves, informally 44 Dashboard reading (Abbr.)

45 Joey’s home 46 Brew 47 “Neither pray I for these __” (John 17:20) 48 Out-__, old fashioned 49 Perforated 51 Bible truth, e.g.

52 Animal combo for Noah’s ark 53 “__ Kleine Nachtmusik” (Ger.) 54 Court figure (Abbr.)

57 “To whom hath the __ of the Lord been revealed?”

(John 12:38) 58 Maple provider 60 Music genre

LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS

Classifieds | March 12, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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DS CLASSIFIE D CO N T I N U E >> 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. >> BI/VO PASTOR: FBC Wyandotte, OK is seeking is a Pastor for rural church. Parsonage available. Send resume to: wyandottefbc@gmail.com. >> 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. >> HIGH SCHOOL PASTOR: FBC Madill, OK is praying for a person who is called, gifted, & motivated to reach 9th-12th grade students. Opportunity for impact is spectacular with such a specific focus! Contact Randy at (580) 795-3341 or rkendrix@fbcmadill.org. >> 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, Broken Arrow, OK 74014. >> YOUTH/WORSHIP PASTOR: Holdenville FBC is looking for a Youth & Worship Pastor with Christlike character, a passion for God & His word, a love for people & a strong work ethic. Send resume’s to: youthmusicsearch@fbcholdenville.com before 3/30/20. >> 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. >> BI/VO YOUTH MINISTER: Hillside Baptist Church, McLoud, OK is seeking a BI/VO Youth Minister to begin this summer or in September. Great opportunity for a college student for ministry experience. All resumes will be considered. Email revwesbates@live.com. >> P/T OR BI/VO PASTOR: Panola Baptist church is seeking a P/T or BI/VO Pastor. Send resumes to: Pastor Search Committee at P.O. Box 120 Panola, OK 74559 or email: sansbois@crosstel.net.

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>> F/T SR. PASTOR: Sequoyah Hills Baptist Church, Tulsa, Oklahoma, is accepting resumes for a F/T Senior Pastor.

Please send resumes to debbi@shbctul.com. >> P/T or F/T YOUTH MINISTER: P/T or F/T Youth Minister at FBC Allen. Email resumes to: ckaminski2@sbcglobal.net.

M I S C E LLA N E O U S >> FALLS CREEK CABIN RENTAL: Falls Creek cabin #636 available for this summer. Associational Children’s Camp #1 & Youth weeks 1, 2, 3, 5, & 8 are available to rent. Great location close to tabernacle, sleeps 60. Will consider discounted rates. Please call/text (918) 973-1039. >> FALLS CREEK CABIN RENTAL: Week 2 of Falls Creek camp for Youth Week June 8-12, 2020. Contact Janet H. at (405) 401-6441 (Please leave message & I will call you back) or email: jazejan@cox.net. The cabin is extremely close to all the main facilities “A PERFECT SPOT!” >> 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. >> BUS FOR SALE: 2002 Starcraft Freight-liner Church Bus. Chassis is a Freightliner by Mid America Coach, Caterpillar ISB 300hp engine Allison 220PTS transmission, 5.13 rear Axle Ratio with Airliner air ride suspension. Electrical system has duel batteries & a 275 amp alternator. Suspension includes Merritor axles & Bosch hydraulic brakes. Mileage: 40,174. The bus seats 34 including the driver, fabric freedom seating, 2 point seat belts, vinyl trim, rubber flooring. Bus can be viewed at First Baptist Church, 505 North Broadway, P.O. Box 370, Broken Bow, OK 74728. Phone (580) 584-6353.

Monday thru Thursday. >> SUPPLY PREACHER: Roger Bennett is available for Supply Preaching and/or Interim Pastor. He may be contacted at (405) 313-5052. >> BIBLE REPAIR & THESIS BINDING: Hand Sewn, fine stamped leather. McSpadden Book Bindery, 911 West Benedict, Shawnee, OK. 74801. www.mcspaddenbookbindery. com, (405)275-7788.

March 12, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | News & Culture