2020-09-24

Informing and Inspiring Oklahoma Baptists Since 1912 BAPTISTMESSENGER.COM • SEPTEMBER 24, 2020

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CO N T E N T S : Page 2 | News & Trends OBU student serves her home with DR >> CHRIS DOYLE

Page 3 | Voices Sword & Trowel: Amused to death

Encourage: Unhindered >> HANCE DILBECK

IMB’s MedAdvance meets virtually for 13th annual event

Baptist Village ministry marches on —despite pandemic

Unhindered.

That is the last word in the book of Acts. Luke, inspired by the Holy Spirit, chose that word with purpose.

“And he (Paul) stayed two full years in his own rented quarters and was welcoming all who came to him, preaching the Kingdom of God and teaching concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with all openness, unhindered” (Acts 28:30-31 NASB).

Consider Paul’s circumstances. His “rented quarters” were where he paid to keep himself under house arrest while awaiting trial in Rome.

>> CAROLINE ANDERSON

>> JASON DAVIS

RICHMOND, Va.—On Aug. 7-8, healthcare professionals, students, church leaders and state and associational leaders attended the International Mission Board’s (IMB) MedAdvance conference. Participants learned about the IMB’s work in healthcare missions and how they can use their professions to partner with IMB healthcare workers.

This is the 13th year the IMB has hosted MedAdvance, and because of COVID-19, it was the first year the forum was hosted virtually.

“Serving God… Serving you…

Serving together.” This is Baptist Village Communities’ (BVC) unwavering theme. It is BVC’s calling—in spite of the challenges life presents.

The COVID-19 virus has affected millions of people and numerous businesses. The aging services field has been greatly impacted. Now more than ever, senior adults need to be ministered. They need to have purpose. They need to know they are loved.

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Follow the Baptist Messenger on social media!

To comment on articles, visit www.baptistmessenger.com

>> BRIAN HOBBS

Page 4 | Gospel Ministry Rite of Passage: Jeopardy! >> WALKER MOORE

Page 5 | Missions & Ministry Momentum Worship Night uplifts students >> BRIAN HOBBS

Page 10 | Church Toolbox How your church can engage your community >> MICHAEL TAYLOR

Page 12 | News & Culture Want faithful teens and young adults?

Disciple parents >> AARON EARLS

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1) Kiana Wray, left, connected with family and friends back in Louisiana while she was serving with DR; 2) Wray, middle, was a part of the first DR volunteer team that left to serve Louisiana; 3) DR volunteers have been serving more than 4,000 meals a day; 4) Meals are distributed to vehicles due to COVID-19 restrictions; 5) A DR volunteer carves a cross in a tree; 6) DR volunteers remove a tree limb off a roof.

>> PHOTOS: 1-2) PROVIDED; 3-4) DON WILLIAMS; 5) DAVID CROWELL; 6) KEITH LOZIER

>> by Chris Doyle

MANAGING EDITOR

LAKE CHARLES, La.—Hurricane Laura had a major effect on many people earlier this month, including those who were not directly in the hurricane’s path.

Kiana Wray from Sulphur, La. is beginning her freshman year at Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU). She was in Shawnee a couple of weeks before the hurricane reached landfall. Though she was miles away, her heart was with her family and friends in Louisiana.

Through OBU connections, Wray met up with Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief (DR) volunteers, and she was on the first team that left to serve her home area.

“It was the biggest blessing of my life,” Wray said. “I was able to connect with people and love on everybody back home but also do everything God was call-

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ing me to do back home. It was E D toS serve people I great I Ftough S S this L Aduring and support C them time.”

Wray was able to see her family who are displaced as their homes are currently unlivable. Many are staying in Tennessee.

Wray learned about OBU through her church going to summer camp at Falls Creek Baptist Conference Center. “God told me I was going to go to OBU,” she said. Her majorVisO cross-cultural I C E S ministries with a minor in business.

DR helping hurricane victims Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief remains active in supporting areas that are recovering from Hurricane Laura, while being aware of Hurricane Sally expecting to make landfall on the gulf coast.

Don Williams, state DR director, is overseeing the work DR volunteers are doing through Lake

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Charles, La., Moss Bluff, providing meals, URE Ttaking L U C & S W E work requests and dispatching recovery teams. WilN liams also is aware of current storm developments.

“We continue to pray for those who may be impacted by (Hurricane) Sally,” Williams said. “We will continue to bring hope, help and healing to those already impacted and prepare to provide assistance to those in the near future.”

Williams reported DR provides more than 4,000 meals a day to the people of Lake Charles, La. Many are still without power and running water.

As of publication, DR has worked with 80 homeowners and continues to have more than 200 people requesting assistance. Williams also reported 254 professions of faith in Christ, resulting from DR work.

For updates or to donate to Oklahoma Baptists DR, visit okdisasterhelp.org.

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NE N E W O NELCIONTENT

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EVENTS

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SEPT 25-26

SEPT 29

Chaplain Retreat

Fall Historical Commission Meeting

Info: Contact Marianne VanZandt, mvanzandt@oklahomabaptists.org for more information

SEPT 25-26

Ministry Wives Weekend

Info: OKC, Northwest Contact Amy Cordova, acordova@oklahomabaptists.org for more information

SEPT 27

Oklahoma Student Worship Choir Concert Info: 6-7:30 p.m.

Blanchard, First oklahomabaptists.org/ student-worship

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Info: Baptist Building Contact Kdie Nix, knix@oklahomabaptists.org for more information

OCT 16-17

Fall Back Weekend

Info: Falls Creek Baptist Conference Center Contact Jordan Anson janson@oklahomabaptists.org for more information

OCT 17

Disaster Relief Training Info: Newcastle, First okdisasterhelp.org/ volunteer-training

OBU student wins Heartland Emmy Award KENNY DAY | SEPT 12

Oklahoma Baptist University student Victoria Coolidge was recently awarded the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Heartland Regional Emmy Student Scholarship. She is a sophomore from Mesquite, Texas, majoring in journalism and mass communication with a media emphasis.

PUBLICATIO

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N transition E V Emakes Charles Stanley to pastor emeritus at Atlanta, First, Anthony George named senior pastor SCOTT BARKLEY | SEPT 14

In a video announcement following the online service at Atlanta, Ga., First, Sept. 13, longtime pastor Charles Stanley announced his transition to pastor emeritus. Stanley, who came to Atlanta, First as an associate pastor in 1969 before being named pastor two years later, informed the church’s board earlier this month of the decision.

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: 41,882. 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. September 24, 2020 • Volume 109, Number 18.

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

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

FOR MORE INFO ON OKLAHOMA BAPTISTS’ EVENTS, VISIT WWW.OKLAHOMABAPTISTS.ORG/EVENTS FIND ALL THESE STORIES AND MORE ONLINE AT WWW.BAPTISTMESSENGER.COM

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September 24, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | News & Trends

>> Chris Forbes | Staff Writer/ Branding & Marketing cforbes@oklahomabaptists.org

VOICES

Encourage: Unhindered Hance Dilbeck Oklahoma Baptists’ Executive Director-Treasurer @Hance_Dilbeck

Unhindered.

That is the last word in the book of Acts. Luke, inspired by the Holy Spirit, chose that word with purpose.

“And he (Paul) stayed two full years in his own rented quarters and was welcoming all who came to him, preaching the Kingdom of God and teaching concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with all openness, unhindered” (Acts 28:30-31 NASB).

Consider Paul’s circumstances. His “rented quarters” were where he paid to keep himself under house arrest while awaiting trial in Rome. Paul’s path to Rome from Jerusalem included an angry mob, false accusations, an assassination plot, kangaroo courts, chains, prison cells and a shipwreck.

Suffice it to say, he was going through a tough spot.

He encountered geographic, political, cultural, ethnic and religious obstacles to his work. Yet, the Truth kept marching on— the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ kept on advancing, unhindered.

Paul could not come and go as he pleased, so the Lord brought people to him. Jews and Gentiles, rich and poor, slave and free—He took all comers and boldly told them about Jesus and the Kingdom of God. New Testament students often wonder why Luke did not finish Paul’s story. The Book of Acts leaves us with unanswered questions about Paul. Did he get out of house arrest? Did he get to testify to Caesar? Was he executed? Why doesn’t Luke tell us the rest of the story?

That’s Luke’s point. He is not telling the story of Paul. He is not telling the story of Peter or Stephen or Philip. He is telling the story of all that Jesus is continuing to do among us—of the advance of

the Gospel from Jerusalem to Rome and beyond.

Thus, unhindered is the rest of the story. Paul is in chains, the Gospel is not. The Gospel of Jesus is still unhindered.

Hear the word of the Lord for 2020: 1. It’s not about you or me, but Him. This is not my story or your story, but His story. Keep your focus on the Lord Jesus Christ and the Kingdom of God. Live each day grateful that you can have a small part in the advance of the Gospel.

2. In this year of obstacles and adversity, live with confidence that the Gospel is unhindered, especially if we will share it with openness and with boldness like prisoner Paul.

By the way, plan now to join us for Oklahoma Baptists’ Annual Meeting at First Baptist Church of Broken Arrow on November 10. Our 2020 theme: Unhindered.

Sword & trowel: Amused to death Brian Hobbs Editor of the Baptist Messenger @BrianGHobbs

Netflix, the entertainment giant that has more than 190 million subscribers worldwide and whose stock soared during the pandemic, recently lost at least a few customers.

Some social conservatives chose to cancel their Netflix membership over the company deciding to stream the scandalous movie, “Cuties,” which is being (rightly) criticized for graphically depicting a culture that sexualizes preteen girls.

Considering reports on how much streaming and overall screen time account for the average American’s daily life—an average of nine hours per day, according to one report—the step to cancel Netflix is a significant step for many.

This cultural moment serves as a reminder of just how much we live in a media-dominated society, in which wisdom and good judgment are increas-

ingly required. It also serves as a reminder that we are shaped by the very amusements and entertainment media we choose.

Some far-sighted people saw this media-saturated culture and its effects coming. As far back as 1985, educator Neil Postman was discussing, not only problematic content, but the very effects that media can have.

In his classic book, “Amusing Ourselves to Death,” Postman writes, “The information, the content, or, if you will, the ‘stuff’ that makes up what is called ‘the news of the day’ did not exist—could not exist—in a world that lacked the media to give it expression. I do not mean that things like fires, wars, murders and love affairs did not, ever and always, happen in places all over the world. I mean that lacking a technology to advertise them, people could not attend to them, could not include them in their daily business.”

He added, “Such information simply could not exist as part of the content of culture. This idea—that there is a content called ‘the news of the day’—was entirely created by the telegraph (and since amplified by newer media), which made it possible to move decontextualized information over fast spaces at incredible speed. The news of the day is figment of our technological imagination… We at-

tend to fragments of events from all over the world because we have multiple media whose formats are well suited to fragmented conversation.”

Although Postman was talking about TV media, much of what he says applied to social media and the Internet. Another one of his warnings we are seeing played out on social media is, “You cannot do political philosophy on television. Its form works against the content.”

We are trying to drive a five-ton truck over a oneton bridge, to borrow an analogy. No wonder we are living in times marked by distraction and disintegrated lives.

But Christians can rise above such things. For those of us prone toward too much screen time and entertainment media, I recommend three things: 1) Set up a filter; 2) Set time limits; and 3) Find other and better things to do with your time.

In one of his New Testament letters, the Apostle Paul instructs believers to make “the best use of your time because the times are evil” (Eph. 5:16). Whether it’s smartphone use or streaming service, now is the time for Christians to re-examine our media habits, so we don’t end up amusing ourselves—and the people we are called to reach for the Lord—to death.

Voices | September 24, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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Rite of passage: S P O R T S & Jeopardy!

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& MISSIONS M I N I S T RY Walker Moore

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

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As they were growing up, my children thought I should be a contestant on the television show “Jeopardy!” It is easy to sit on your couch and answer the questions, but being in front of a live audience is only for the smart and brave of heart. I only qualify in one area.

S FIED S Iseason L A Sone CDuring of my life, I was doing some extended mission work in Illinois. After speaking at the church, I would fly home on Monday morning. To get back to Tulsa, I had to change planes at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago. While I waited for my flight, the television in the departure lounge would be tuned to “Jeopardy!”

I likeV “Jeopardy!,” S I don’t like “Jeopardy!” I like it O I C E and when people give the wrong answer, because I don’t know it either, and somehow, I am comforted that I’m not the only one who doesn’t know. I also take some comfort that it wasn’t me who flubbed an answer on national television. I don’t like it when a contestant answers an impossible question, like the day a contestant said, “Alex, I would like ‘Bible’ for $1,000.”

Since I have been through more than 50 years of Sunday school and about 13 years of Vacation Bible School, in addition to being a faithful Royal Ambassador, I knew I should have a good shot at getting this one right. Then Alex Trebek said, “The mother of Abraham’s children Zimran, Jokshan, Medan, Midian, Ishbak and Shuah.”

Before Mr. Trebek could finish the question, one contestant was pushing his handheld button as hard and as fast as patient in control of a morphine drip. His answer, “Who is Keturah? Alex, you might not know this, but Jokshan became the father of Sheba and Dedan according to Genesis 25:3.” And Alex commended him for his correct response.

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LT U R E U C & S W E N I sat there stunned, thinking, “When did Abraham take on another wife? How does this guy know that Jokshan was the father of Sheba and Dedan?” The only thing I could think of to help me feel better was that I must have missed that day in Sunday school.

I began to notice something. The “Jeopardy!” episode I watched in the morning in Chicago was broadcast that same night in Tulsa. So I began to pay attention to the answers, and each time I flew home, I had my sons watch “Jeopardy!” with me that evening.

When the question came up about Abraham’s children, I leaned over to my boys and said, “That’s an easy question: Who is Keturah?” And my boys would look up at me as though they had a wise and holy man living in their home. In fact, they were impressed with my mastery of such a vast range of information—everything from the writings of Thoreau to early Russian history.

However, all good things must come to an end.

First, my sons noticed that we only watched “Jeopardy!” when I flew back from Chicago. And once when I was joking around, I gave the answer before the question was asked. Being the brilliant children they were, they figured out what I was doing, and the scam was up. I have to admit it was fun while it lasted.

This brings me to what I really want to ask you.

Where do your children go to find answers? The very essence of being a child is learning about the world around them. They ask questions like, “Where do babies come from?”, “How big is God?”, “Where do animals go when they die?” or “What do I want to be when I grow up?” Life is full of questions, and where your child goes to find the answers will, in many ways, determine their worldview.

You see, the enemy wants your child to find answers in the wrong place. He wants your child to learn about sex from an adult movie or magazine. He wants your child to learn about life from television shows and unrighteous people. The enemy is ready to give your children an answer to any question they have, and that answer will always be contrary to the Word of God. It will also be destructive to your child’s life.

Don’t ever forget that the enemy is out to “kill, steal and destroy,” (John 10:10b), and that includes your children’s thought processes and value systems. It is your God-given duty to guide your children to the proper places when they have questions. Help them discover the answers to life in the Word of God. Help them find godly influences that can help mold their lives, and then they will win the game of life.

“Now Alex, I will take Bible for everything my children are worth.”

Strengthen: Observations of churches in a pandemic James Swain Oklahoma Baptists’ Associate Executive Director, Church Relations Group @fcjames

In the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic (late in March, which seems likes years ago), author Andy Crouch wrote an article raising the question if the pandemic was a going to be a blizzard, winter or short ice age. We now know six months into this “long winter” that it was definitely not a blizzard, and we pray not the beginning of an ice age.

We are all too familiar with the challenges COVID has brought to our world, but I do not think COVID caused these challenges as much as it magnified them. Most of the problems being faced were already there, and the pandemic has simply exposed and escalated them.

These challenges have been particularly evident in the church and appear to be causing a great deal of pressure on pastors and church leadership. Here are few observations and suggestions regarding how we walk together in the body of Christ.

First, my observation is that people are not as much frightened of COVID as they are frustrated by it. The time spent with much of life shutdown, the disruption to normal patterns of life and the

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uncertainty of the future has people on edge.

They can’t yell at their boss, better not yell at their spouse, but don’t seem to mind speaking harsh words to their pastor or another member of their church family.

I’m heartbroken at some of things that I have heard said to pastors and fellow church members in the past months in person and on social media. Here’s a suggestion, try praying for your pastor or fellow church member before pointing out the problem or passing judgment on them.

There may be something that legitimately needs to be addressed, but I want to make sure I do it with the right motive and in the right spirit. Prayer prepares my heart for that conversation, and the Lord often convinces me just to wait before I say anything.

Second, being the pastor of a church is a difficult job in the best and easiest of times, but it is especially hard in this season. I don’t know of a pastor who took a “leading during a pandemic” class in seminary. The reality is, there is no playbook for this situation, and pastors, rightfully, feel very ill equipped to lead in this season.

Pastors can never please everyone, but today, it is becoming increasingly difficult to please anyone. In more than 30 years of ministry, I have never seen anything as polarizing as the opinions regarding our response as a church to this season.

Most pastors are treading very lightly as they seek to lead the church in uncharted waters. Here

September 24, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | Gospel Ministry

are a couple of suggestions to consider. Remember that there are no quick and easy answers to the issues of our day. Make every effort to extend grace and mercy to your pastor and support him.

Make an intentional effort to encourage your pastor. A kind note, pat on the back and encouraging words will go a long way to lift him up. I promise you, he needs it now.

Third, when we emerge from the thaw of the COVID winter or ice age, will the church recognize or realize what God was trying to show us in this season? Some people have talked about God wanting to use this time to call the church to revival and prepare us for His return. I don’t disagree with either of those ideas, but I’m afraid we have been more focused on the storm than its significance.

Personally, I fear that I have spent more time and energy on responding to the crisis than being responsive to Christ. I am concerned that I have been more focused on regathering people in buildings than praying for revival in the body of Christ. In recent days I have been reminded of this great Biblical principle: without repentance there will be no revival.

We are eager for God to restore, but I’m not sure that we have practiced repentance. I’m praying that the Lord would continue to break my heart and the hearts of people—that we turn from trusting in what we can do and rely on Him. I’m convinced God is using this to gain our attention, and I pray we will respond with humble obedience.

& MISSIONS M I N I S T RY

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

Momentum Worship Night uplifts students PLE & O E X P O B L O C H TO WS 1

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>> PHOTOS: BRIAN HOBBS 1) “We cannot allow ourselves to be successful in one area—such as school or work,” said keynote speaker Tom Richter to young adults, “and be a failure in the most important area—your spiritual walk, your connection to God;” 2) Times of worship and singing were shared, as the Summit OK Collective led music; 3) Prophet Bailey, campus minister at Langston University, shared Scripture during the worship service.

VOICES

>> by Brian Hobbs EDITOR

YUKON—From managing homework load to navigating campus COVID-19 protocols, today’s college students are faced with numerous unique challenges this fall.

On Friday, Sept. 11, more than 700 college students and young adults from across the state came together for something else unique: a powerful worship event.

The 2020 “Momentum Worship Night,” presented by Oklahoma Baptists’ collegiate ministries and hosted by Yukon, Trinity, was designed as “a nextgen worship gathering for college students and young adults.”

Cris Lowery, collegiate ministries director for Oklahoma Baptists, emphasized that COVID-19 protocols and precautions were in place for the event, and that he was encouraged by the participation.

“Momentum was a great night of worship and challenge for young adults and leaders,” Lowery said. “The worship was amazing, and the speaker, Tom Richter, did a masterful job of keeping students’ attention while delivering great spiritual truths. it was truly an experience to remember.”

As the keynote speaker, Richter, pastor of Cullman, Ala., First, spoke from the Book of Proverbs and emphasized that college students and young adults have different areas of life, professional/academic, social and spiritual.

“Right now, you live in no fewer than three ‘places’ at once,” he said. “You are a student. You have friends and social media. And you have your spiritual life. We cannot allow ourselves to be successful in one area—such as school or work—and be a failure in the most important area—your spiritual walk, your connection to God.”

John Wilkerson, campus minister at Oklahoma State University (OSU) said, “It seems that God always uses Momentum to make a point of what He is doing in our students hearts here at OSU. This year we had students come to faith, repent of sin patterns, make fresh commitments to follow Him and even one feel a call to ministry.”

More than 40 attendees reponded during the decision time. Times of worship and singing were shared, as the Summit OK Collective led music. While social distancing was observed during the events, students were able to share fellowship, and a meal was offered.

While events and happenings, on and off college campuses, continue to be hindered by issues related to COVID-19, the students did not let their worship of the Lord be hindered. That’s the kind of momentum that will make a difference in the lives of students for many years to come.

MISSIONS VOLUNTEER TIES

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OKLAHOMA

Ongoing 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

Training:

Pre-registration is mandatory.

Classes are limited in size.

Masks must be worn, and temperatures will be taken.

Oct. 17—Newcastle, First-1650 N. Main, 73065 Nov. 7—Madill, First-210 S. First St., 73446 Visit okdisasterhelp.org to register

Chaplaincy: Oct. 23-24 Critical Incident Stress Management, Baptist Building 8 a.m.-5 p.m. $45, To register email mvanzandt@ oklahomabaptists.org

Pray for North American Missionary Jerry Davidson

Pray for International Missionary Shawna Davis

Jerry and his wife Gwen started Frontier Native Church in Anchorage, now in its third year. Pray for native Alaskans to be drawn by the Holy Spirit to Creator God.

Shawna and Daren Davis have served in Africa since 1997, leading the work in sub-Saharan Africa countries. Pray for transformed lives and healthy churches.

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

Missions & ministry | September 24, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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Oklahoma Baptists’ Board approves abbreviated annual meeting, conducts other business /// PREVIEWED ON COVER

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1) Hance Dilbeck reveals the theme and plans for the 2020 Oklahoma Baptists’ Annual Meeting; 2) “One husband and wife who were served asked, ‘Why are you here helping?’” said Don Williams recapping Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief efforts, “That was an open door to share the Gospel, and they both professed Christ;” 3) Amy Cordova presents information on the Edna McMillan Oklahoma State Missions Offering.

>> PHOTOS: BRIAN HOBBS

>> by Staff Members of Oklahoma Baptists’ state convention board of directors gathered on Sept. 15 at the Baptist Building in Oklahoma City, to meet, pray, hear ministry and financial reports, as well as finalize plans for the upcoming annual meeting in November.

2020 Annual Meeting set for Nov. 10 in Broken Arrow In a unanimous decision, board members approved a plan to change the 114th annual meeting from a two-day meeting to an abbreviated, oneday meeting.

The 2020 Annual Meeting of Oklahoma Baptists, which was previously scheduled for Nov. 9-10, will take place only on the afternoon of Tuesday, Nov. 10 at Broken Arrow, First (100 W. Albany Street).

With the decision to alter the meeting, Oklahoma Baptists’ convention becomes one of dozens of Southern Baptist state conventions to change annual meeting plans in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic; multiple state conventions have cancelled or postponed their annual meetings.

The newly-approved schedule will feature times of preaching and essential business, including officer elections. The annual pastors’ conference and various fellowship events and meals previously scheduled have been cancelled.

“While we are disappointed that COVID-related factors have inhibited our plans to meet as we typically do, we believe the 2020 meeting, though shortened, will be uplifting and unifying for our pastors and churches,” said Oklahoma Baptists President Blake Gideon, who serves as senior pastor of Edmond, First.

Hance Dilbeck, executive director-treasurer for Oklahoma Baptists, added, “The theme for our convention meeting is ‘Unhindered,’ based on the last verse in the Book of Acts. While the 2020 year has presented unparalleled challenges for our churches, we know the Gospel of Jesus Christ will advance unhindered, as we embrace brokenness as opportunity for the Gospel.”

Gospel advance in ‘challenging year’ Addressing board members, Dilbeck said, “This has been a most unusual year. Our pastors and churches have remained faithful to God’s calling. You (as board members) have served well, and I want to thank you on behalf of all Oklahoma Baptists.”

Dilbeck and board leaders discussed the 2020 finances of Oklahoma Baptists, and also the 2021 Cooperative Program allocation, which was set at $23.1 million.

“Thanks to leaders on our board and staff—and thanks to the continued faithful and generous giving of Oklahoma Baptists—we were able to maintain financial stability in 2020. We streamlined our convention budget,” Dilbeck added.

Affiliate and ministry updates Presidents from the four affiliate organizations addressed board members, including Oklahoma Baptist University President Heath Thomas, Baptist Foundation President Robert Kellogg, Baptist Village Communities (BVC) President Bill Pierce and Oklahoma

Baptist Homes for Children President Greg McNeece.

Pierce shared how BVC has faced unprecedented challenges with COVID-19. He shared stories of how key staff stepped up and demonstrated “faith amid fearful times,” as virus outbreaks affected multiple villages. “The Lord was faithful through it all,” Pierce said.

Reports were presented from various Oklahoma Baptists staff, including Associate Executive Directors Alan Quigley and James Swain, as well as Todd Sanders, Don Williams, Cris Lowery and Bob Mayfield.

Williams, director of Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief, shared updates about relief efforts in Lake Charles, La., in the wake of Hurricane Laura. With hundreds of people served through chainsaw debris clean up, thousands of meals and chaplaincy efforts, DR volunteers are serving people amid this crisis.

“One husband and wife who were served asked, ‘Why are you here helping?’ That was an open door to share the Gospel, and they both professed Christ,” Williams said.

Lowery, who serves as state director of Baptist Collegiate Ministries (BCM), shared how the Lord has brought salvation to many students, including more than 20 students at the University of Oklahoma BCM through recent outreach efforts.

Several board members joined the meeting via virtual conference call, while others attended in person. The next meeting of the board is scheduled for March 9, 2021.

Gideon led board members to pray for ministry happening across Oklahoma, as all joined in.

IMB’s MedAdvance meets virtually for 13th annual event /// PREVIEWED ON COVER >> by Caroline Anderson IMB WRITER

RICHMOND, Va.—On Aug. 7-8, healthcare professionals, students, church leaders and state and associational leaders attended the International Mission Board’s (IMB) MedAdvance conference.

Participants learned about the IMB’s work in healthcare missions and how they can use their professions to partner with IMB healthcare workers.

This is the 13th year the IMB has hosted MedAdvance, and because of COVID-19, it was the first year the forum was hosted virtually. Last year’s MedAdvance met at Oklahoma City, Quail Springs.

Due to the pandemic, healthcare is a critical topic for many people. MedAdvance provided an avenue for discussions about how healthcare can be used to meet global needs, while sharing the Gospel.

Participants joined the conference from across the U.S., signing in from California to New England.

Hosting the event virtually allowed more people

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to participate who would not have traveled to an in-person event. The virtual event also broadened the audience—151 of the 358 registrants were new contacts to the IMB. The number of participants is thought to be higher because of groups who gathered to watch the event. The sessions were also posted online and were viewed by others.

IMB President Paul Chitwood shared a message during the first of MedAdvance’s three sessions.

“Every single day, from a long list of causes, 154,937 people die who have given no indication of their belief in the Gospel. Many of them have never even heard the Gospel,” Chitwood said. “But like the news-breaking reporters, whom we hope to hear someday soon announcing a cure to COVID-19 and a vaccine that is ready for distribution, as Christ-followers, we have even better news to share.”

Chitwood remarked that, at the time of the event, 400 communities were receiving COVID-19 aid from IMB workers.

MedAdvance participants had the opportuni-

September 24, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | Features

ty to hear examples from overseas IMB healthcare workers, including a healthcare strategies consultant who shared about the need to rethink church planting to find creative ways to access hard-toreach people.

With the advent of COVID-19, telemedicine has become more accepted, both in practice and in the vernacular, as a viable means of meeting health needs.

Doctor’s visits, prescription refills and basic tests can be conducted through telemedicine. This trend was discussed as a means to open doors to mission work.

Thousands of people live far away from medical care, due to geography or proximity to conflict zones, and telemedicine is a means of serving communities in need of medical care. Telemedicine has the potential to provide—and is already providing—avenues for both national and Southern Baptist church planters. The avenues include meeting the physical needs of the people they are serving among and providing an entry point for ongoing conversations.

Baptist Village ministry marches on —despite pandemic /// PREVIEWED ON COVER

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>> by Jason Davis

BVC DIREC TOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

“Serving God…Serving you…Serving together.”

This is Baptist Village Communities’ (BVC) unwavering theme. It is BVC’s calling—in spite of the challenges life presents.

The COVID-19 virus has affected millions of people and numerous businesses. The aging services field has been greatly impacted. Now more than ever, senior adults need ministry. They need to have purpose. They need to know they are loved.

Near the beginning of the pandemic in March, Bill Pierce, BVC president, called Chris Finley, BVC director of chaplain services, and said, “Chaplain, even though chaplains can’t go in the health centers and assisted living centers right now, I don’t want you and the other chaplains to do less ministry; I want you to find ways to do even more ministry.”

Finley got to work. “As a chaplain, we are called to the ministry of presence, which starts with handshakes and hugs,” he said. “When these caring gestures were prohibited by the COVID-19 virus, chaplains had to think outside the box and become creative in finding ways to minister without being present. But we were determined that, although ministry was challenging, ministry would continue.”

“One of the obvious ways to minister was through mail,” said Steve Williams, Baptist Village of Owasso chaplain. “Sending cards and letters of encour-

>> PHOTOS: PROVIDED 1) Chaplain Chris Finley shares a hymn with two Baptist Village of Oklahoma City residents during a porch visit; 2) Berry and Nancy Norwood are Baptist Village of Okmulgee residents and Village chaplains. Berry also serves as senior pastor for Preston, First. The Norwoods worked with their church members to have food boxes brought to Baptist Village residents. They also conduct regular porch devotional visits with residents.

agement became an everyday activity. Next came phone calls. Keeping residents and their families informed became paramount, as we made 200 to 500 phone calls to individuals each week.”

Williams and the team also found ways to help residents grow spiritually and physically. “When the pandemic started, in-person Bible studies and worship services were discontinued,” he said. “However, we have our own in-house TV channel where we can reach all 500 residents on campus. By utilizing our smart phones, we have been able to record and broadcast Bible studies and daily devotions on the TV channel.”

Chaplains John and Ruth King regularly assist with dining services at Baptist Village Lake Texoma. Ruth says she helped in the kitchen by preparing meals, and then she and John delivered them to residents.

A highlight on nearly every Baptist Village campus has been parades. Residents distance outside while families and friends drive by in their cars.

Big smiles, waves and encouraging signs are exchanged by both families and residents.

Many campuses employ porch and courtyard visits and devotionals. Chaplains meet at a distance with residents outside their front doors. Courtyards have also been the site of outside hymn sing-

MedAdvance participants learned about how telemedicine we’re already doing has led to new betelemedicine kits are being used overseas. One lievers, so that’s going to get you to disciple-makIMB healthcare worker shared a story ing, and obviously when a group disciples, about an 11-year old girl who lives you’re going to form a church.” more than 46 miles from the closNaylor, who served as a medical est clinic. missionary in India, was recently The girl had frequent seiappointed distinguished profeszures, and her family went to a sor of missions in the Roy J. Fish local church to ask for prayer.

School of Evangelism and MisHer father was a witchdoctor, sions at Southwestern Seminary.

MedAdvance participants but none of his incantations were not viewed as merely concould halt the seizures. Loference attendees; they were cal church planters had been seen as a potential pool of voluntrained in how to use an EEG telemedicine kit, and they were teers and future short-term, midable to diagnose her condition >> PHOTO: IMB.ORG Rebekah Naylor, global term and long-term professionals and supply medicine. The girl is healthcare strategies consultant for the who will join IMB’s 300 healthcare IMB, prays during a MedAdvance session. now seizure-free, and she comworkers currently on the field.

“Healthcare professionals are mitted her life to Christ.

Several MedAdvance participants expressed in- unique in that we can cross every possible barrier: terest in hearing more about how they could be geographical barriers, cultural barriers, econominvolved with telemedicine and virtual mobile ic barriers, and we get to a spiritual conversation, even within minutes,” Naylor shared with MedAdmedical clinics.

Rebekah Naylor, IMB’s global healthcare strategies vance participants. “We need to remember that consultant, said she sees telemedicine as a potential Jesus commissioned us both to preach the Good expansion of the IMB’s healthcare strategies that can News of the Kingdom and to heal sicknesses.”

MedAdvance participants took a global virtual tour lead to the advancement of the missionary task.

“It can give access; it helps with entry; it gives op- as they heard about health and wellness projects in portunity for evangelism,” Naylor said. “Some of the Central Asia, clean water projects in Brazil and medi-

alongs. Chaplains and residents help deliver meals, groceries, medications and much more. One Village even found a way to have a resident baptism on campus. There are many other examples of ministry taking place throughout the state; too many to mention.

A particularly special example of the importance of ministry involved a resident couple. The couple was forced to quarantine due to the virus, with the husband eventually being hospitalized with no visitors. Unable to see family and friends, he desperately needed fellowship, prayer and encouragement. The Village chaplain was able to drop off devotionals at the door, make weekly phone calls and encouraged other residents to call with prayer and words of support. The couple later said that, if the chaplain and other residents had not reached out to them during their time of crisis, they do not know if they would have made it through.

“Baptist Village Communities has seen many challenges over the last several months and will likely see more challenges in the days to come,” Pierce said. “But through it all, God has provided.

He is providing healing, and He is steadfast. He will undoubtedly see us through. Praise the Lord!”

For more information on Baptist Village Communities visit baptistvillage.org.

cal clinics in Sub-Saharan Africa. Healthcare strategists from the IMB’s nine regions of service gave an introduction to their region and shared needs and ways personnel are meeting healthcare needs.

Volunteers play a pivotal role in IMB healthcare strategies, and throughout the MedAdvance conference, participants were invited to join IMB workers in completing the Great Commission.

MedAdvance participants learned how volunteer medical teams in Eastern Europe were able to see 4,000 patients and 75 people made professions of faith and are attending church.

“We have more than medicine, and we have a message that saves, and Jesus is our Lord,” the IMB worker shared.

All participants in MedAdvance walked away with clear steps of how to be involved in or support healthcare missions. Fifty-eight participants expressed an interest in future short-term volunteer projects, 31 expressed interest in mid-term or long-term positions with the IMB. One participant wrote in an evaluation survey, “This evening session set my heart ablaze with interest in becoming a medical missionary.”

Next year’s MedAdvance conference will be in Fort Worth, Texas, Aug. 5-7. The conference will be live, but discussions are underway to stream sessions.

To learn more about IMB healthcare strategies, visit imb.org/healthcare.

Features | September 24, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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Broken Arrow, Clearview hosts A pastor’s podcast E R S U D T E L I U F I CLASS NE WS & C tutoring workshop, Oct. 9-10

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>> PHOTO: SCREENSHOT

INDIAHOMA—Scott Patton, pastor of Indiahoma, First, has a podcast titled “Go Bold Network.” He has cover numerous topics and has special guests joining his podcasts. Patton recently featured Dennis Easter, a pastor and chaplain, who had a near death experience as a result of a flood in Cache.

Easter shares his story about driving home from Lawton when he receives a call from his daughter, Cindy. “We can’t get to Momma,” Cindy cried. Easter’s home is on the outside banks of Cache Creek, and flood waters were all around the house with his wife Katey inside.

Easter’s grandson, Dillion, and several friends swam to a nearby post oak tree and planned the rescue. With the help of a 30foot cross, Dillion previously made from a tree, they were able to rescue Katey from the flood.

To hear more about this miraculous story, visit goboldnetwork. net and search for “Post Oak Miracle on Cache Creek.”

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BROKEN ARROW—An 11-hour in-person Tutoring Children and Youth (TCY) Workshop is scheduled to be at Broken Arrow, Clearview, 22942 E 96th Street. The dates and times are Friday, Oct. 9, 5:30-9 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 10, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

More students than ever may be needing tutoring help because of the recent interruptions of the usual school schedule. A tutoring ministry is a great community outreach for a church or individual.

The TCY Workshop is interactive and fun, and includes how to: tutor a student in reading and other school skills, help students who have learning differences, write a lesson plan, begin and administer a tutoring ministry and most importantly, share your faith through tutoring.

Participants receive a Tutoring Children and Youth Manual, which is a wonderful resource, and a certificate upon completion of the 11 hours of training.

Registration cost is $35, which includes the manual. For questions or to register, contact Andrea Kelley at akelley@oklahomabaptists.org or 405-942-3000, ext. 4322.

The deadline for registration is Monday, Oct. 5.

Prayer march in OKC, Sept. 26 In support of Franklin Graham’s Prayer March in Washington, D.C., a prayer march around the Oklahoma State Capitol is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 26 at 11 a.m.

Participants will meet at the south steps of the State Capitol Building.

Organizers of the prayer march are seeking churches to participate. For more information call 405/920-6900.

September 24, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | People & Church News

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Campers on Mission has annual DS LT U R E C L A S S I F I E rally in Shawnee NE WS & CU

PEOPLE IN THE NEWS HALL DEATH. Bethel Mae Hall, 89, died Sept. 7. Funeral services were M AFirst. She was OFlat, H Sept.

12LatABurns K O E H T married 63 yearsHtoILoyd “Tiny” Hall T A RasCpastorVofE Burns Flat, T I Sserved B A Pwho First and of Arapaho, First. Together they served residents of Baptist Village of Cleveland, walking the halls and praying with residents. Bethel continued this ministry after Tiny’s death on June 16, 2019. She is preceded in death by her husband and her son Shane Hall. She is survived by her children Michael Hall, Tami Siess and Greg Hall; 10 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

LICENSED. Julio Macias was licensed to the Gospel ministry at Lawton, Immanuel.

VOICES

>> by Carolyn Vanderburg OKLAHOMA CAMPERS ON MISSION

SHAWNEE—The Oklahoma Campers On Mission group met in Shawnee this September for their 2020 Fall Rally.

The featured speaker for the rally was Debbie Inselman, an active chaplain with Disaster Relief. Inselman served 13 years with the International Mission Board in multiple countries. She also taught school for many years in Kansas, Spain, Italy, and Germany before answering God’s call into ministry.

On the last evening, the campers were led in worship by Chase and Josie Gulliver.

After meeting during their freshman year of college, God brought the Gullivers together and began to slowly reveal their calling as worship leaders.

On the last day, camper Ken Hudson shared his testimony as he and his wife, Jan, traveled to Ecuador to visit their grandson serving on the mission field. On this trip, Jan went home to be with the Lord.

The men’s service project at Macomb, Romulus included a complete renovation of the baptistery, choir loft and pulpit platform. Several men also aided in replacing some tile work, doors, removal and replacement of carpet in the education building.

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CHURCH STAFF CHANGES JARED BYRNS is pastor of Lawton, Central.

CASEY DREW is pastor of Medicine Park, First.

CODY HOWARD is pastor of Fletcher, First.

CHUCK KARCH is pastor of Arkoma, First.

JACOB MCCULLOUGH is pastor of Morrison, Hilltop Country.

HENRY MCGUIRE is pastor of Jennings, First.

GAGE SCHEMET resigned as youth pastor of Stillwater, First TOM SMITH is pastor of Perkins, Rockin’ M Cowboy Church HEATH TUCKER is pastor of Edmond, Waterloo Road, beginning in October.

>> PHOTOS: PROVIDED Oklahoma Campers on Mission have worked at several churches this year. Photos are from projects at Macomb, Romulus, as well as from making 73 face masks and 20 lap quilts.

The ladies sewed 73 face masks for Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children and 20 lap quilts for senior communities.

The Oklahoma Camper on Mission is a national fellowship of Christian campers who volunteer to share their faith and the love of Jesus while camping and/or participating in mission activities. They work on local projects around Oklahoma churches and projects across the country. Individuals select mission opportunities as they feel led.

Some travel a little, others travel a lot. Owning an RV is not a requirement. All members and officers are self-supported missionaries working without any expectation of reimbursements or income.

To request a Campers on Mission membership application, call 405-942-3000 ext. 4336 or download a copy at oklahomacom.org.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS REVIVAL REPORT. Sallisaw, Prices Chapel, Aug. 30Sept. 3, three professions of faith in Christ. Kim Schmidt, evangelist; Raymond Esteban is pastor.

ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION. Earlsboro, First is celebrating its 125th anniversary on Sept. 27. Church will be open at 9:30 a.m. for fellowship and picture time. Morning worship service begins at 10:30 a.m., featuring special music and a time of sharing from present and previous pastors. Dinner on the grounds and outdoor activities will follow the service.

Earlsboro, First is located at 306 N. Layton Avenue. For more information call 405/227-7577.

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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.

Anderson Audience Barriers Chitwood Clinic

Conference Coronavirus Diagnose Event Field

Forum Geographical Healthcare MedAdvance Medical

Medicine Naylor News Prescription Richmond

Share Strategies Telemedicine Virtually Witchdoctor

People & Church News | September 24, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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How your church can engage SIFIEDS S A L C your community system? (We financially partner with a local Hope Pregnancy Center.) Are there community-run partnerships where you could bring a “We need to engage our community.” We Christ-like presence? (We are part of a Chamknow we are supposed to “meet them where ber of Commerce program that partners us S they are.” As pastors or church leaders, we with a local elementary V O I CWeE tutor, school. want our churches to be vital pieces of our provide school supplies and support teachcommunities. If someone asked us, “What ers.) If other Gospel-focused, Bible-preaching kind of hole would there be in your commu- churches in your area are engaged in a work, nity if your church disappeared tomorrow?” then work together for the Kingdom.

We want to say the gap would be significant.

2. Could this be a gateway to more These are good and even biblical aspirations. ministry opportunities?

Jesus’ life demands we engage the need Not every ministry produces revival. That we see around us, not just the spiritual, but does not mean they are not worth your time the practical as well. His healing of the sick and energy. There are some things you may and entering into the life of the broken went choose to do (letting the community use hand in hand with His proclamation of the your buildings) just to be a good neighbor.

Gospel. Several months ago, I had the privi- But that small act could yield more opporlege of baptizing a man who gave testimony tunity down the road—opportunity that of how people had entered into the broken- you could never have dreamed would be ness of his life and led him to Christ. In any available to your church. effort to engage our community, this is what 3. How can we be a distinctively Gospel we are looking for: lives changed by Christ. people in this ministry?

Much of what we do, we have learned Life change by the power of Christ is our ulfrom someone else and adapted. Also, we timate aim. So in your ministry plan, spell out are constantly searching for ways to love exactly how you are going to be distinctivePonca City. Therefore, we try to keep close ly Gospel people. If you can’t do that, or an tabs on a couple of basics. ongoing ministry is not doing this, then mayKnowing our church. Who makes up our be it needs to end or never get started. We church? What existing community connec- work with the City in a massive spring cleantion points do we have that could be devel- ing effort. The City helps us identify homes oped into ministry relationships? that need help. We have teams that go work, Knowing our community. Go talk to the but we couple that with teams that share the schools, the mayor, the police chief. Ask Gospel. Letting people see and hear the Gosyour people. Find out where your commu- pel at work in the same moment. nity is hurting. Find the gaps.

One of our volunteer-led ministries has With this knowledge, we can develop stepped up this year. Prior to the pandemministries that make sense for both sides. If ic, this group conducted three worship seryour church desires to do something that vices E every Sunday at local long-term care faT H A few people had a burden to love an F RO the community does not need, you want to Mcilities.

G of our community, found E R S B LO part know up front. Once you get a handle I N Gunder-served S Lthe R Don O W need and what your church can offer, you are people with a common passion and ran with ready to start putting ministry plans in place. it. Even through the COVID-era they have conHowever, before jumping to action, let me tinued to minister by staying in contact and encourage you to ask some questions: providing weekly devotional activity sheets.

1. Is anyone already doing this? Are The aim is clear: simple acts of love they a viable partner? and service making an eternal difference Maybe your town only needs oneA wellS AY Sthe power of the Gospel. How will E through V D stocked, well-run food pantry. Could you be your church engage brokenness, advance a financial partner to someone with a better the Gospel and see lives changed? >> by Michael Taylor

PASTOR, PONCA CITY, FIRST

BA PT ISTS OKLAHOMA H IG H L I GH T E C R U O S E R

CO O PE R AT I V E PR O G R A M VIDEO RESOURCES

R E O PE N I N G C H I LD R E N ’S M I N I S T RY T I P S

COOPERATIVE PROGRAM

OKLAHOMA BAPTISTS’ CHILDHOOD MINISTRY

Help your church learn more about the Cooperative Program through showing one or more videos from the online library at the link below:

Making plans to resume children’s ministry? Use these resources and your city’s guidelines to re-open your childhood ministry in the best way possible!

oklahomabaptists.org/cp

oklahomabaptists.org/childhood

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

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September 24, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | Church Toolbox

F RO M T H E G E R S B LO G WO R D S L I N WS &

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DON’T FORGET THE VALLEY >> CALEB MOORE

In Exodus 34, Moses goes AYtheS mountain. That E Sup V A D does not seem like that big of a deal, unless you think about what came before. He had already gone up once and received the Ten Commandments.

As soon as he came down Moses realized how difficult it is to shepherd people. People are messy spiritually and have a short attentionA span forTthe S things of A BthePfiTrstI Stime, HOM L Acomes God. So when down O Khe H T he breaks Gback I L H IG H E the stone tablet in two and has to go up to get C RESOUR new ones. Pastoring people is difficult because pastors and people are difficult. We’re only human.

The part that I find strange about this whole story, though, is the next part. This time, as Moses comes down from the mountain, his face is shining. He has some sort of Holy Ghost sunburn. He was so close to God that it changed him physically. I have known many people who are close to God, but I’ve never met one person who glows in the dark.

If I were that close to God, why would I ever leave the mountain? I would want to stay there, especially when I knew what frustration was waiting for me in the valley.

To read the rest of Caleb’s blog visit, baptistmessenger.com/dont-forget-the-valley

F RO M T H E E R S B LO G G N I L S D R O To read W more blogs with Jesus in mind, visit www.baptistmessenger.com/blog

D AV E S AY S CHRISTMAS IN…SEPTEMBER? Dear Dave, I know it may be early to talk about A P TonI S T S B A M Christmas, but do you have any advice O H A L OK saving for the holiday season?E—Carlie H IG H L I GH T

R ESOURC

Dear Carlie, It’s never too early to talk about Christmas! I’m glad you’re thinking about things ahead of time. A lot of people wait until December to buy gifts and make plans. That’s fine if they’ve got the money set aside to handle things, but most of them don’t. Then, they panic and turn to credit cards. You don’t want to end up in a situation where you’re still paying off Christmas in April.

If you don’t have anything put aside yet, I’d suggest setting some spending goals now. Taking a close look at your income and living expenses should be part of this. If you’re not doing it already, what I’m talking about here is living on a written, monthly budget. Look at how much you can afford to put toward Christmas each month, make a gift-giving goal amount and stick to it. Along with this, you might consider opening a separate account just for your Christmas savings. Start looking for gift deals now, too. There are end-of-summer sales still going on, and you never know what you might find.

You don’t have to spend a lot of money to have a wonderful Christmas or make the season special for others—even when it comes to giving. Thoughtful handmade items, meaningful photographs set in a frame, or special baked goods are great ways to show the folks in your life you’re thinking about them and how much you care.

Now, let’s talk about next year. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with including a line just for Christmas in your budget each month. Christmas doesn’t sneak up on you. It’s on Dec. 25 every single year. Putting a little money aside all year long might just take some of the stress out of your Yuletide planning.

Good question, Carlie! —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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& ministries of the church. Buchanan First Baptist Church (903) 838-6860.

VOICES

CLASSIFIEDS COLOR KEY:

>> PASTOR: Highland Park Baptist Church in Duncan, Oklahoma is prayerfully seeking a high energy, missionary-minded Pastor. We are a mature, traditional church with a heart for change. We welcome your passion & vision to grow our fellowship.

J OB L ISTIN G V EH IC L E M ISC.

EMPLOYM ENT >> F/T PASTOR: FBC Purcell, OK is seeking a F/T Pastor. Responsibilities include preaching & teaching, counseling, visitation & other pastoral duties.

Include a cover letter, resume w/ references & a sermon link to: fbcpurcelltj@gmail.com. >> P/T MUSIC MINISTER: Fair Baptist in Empire, OK is in search of P/T Music Minister to lead the body of Christ to the throne of God. If you feel lead to be part of a growing church please, send resumes to: fair@fairbaptist.org. >> P/T OR BI/VO PASTOR: Slaughterville Baptist Church in Lexington, OK. Please send resume to: Slaughterville Baptist Church, 10101 60th Street, Lexington, OK 73051. >> BI/VO PASTOR: Addington Baptist Church in Addington, Oklahoma is looking for a BI/VO Pastor. Please submit resumes at: pastor.search@addingtonbaptist.net or mail to: P.O. Box 7 Addington, OK 73520. >> CHILDREN’S DIRECTOR: The Village Baptist OKC Personnel Committee is accepting resumes for a Christ honoring, loving individual to join our staff as Children’s Director. If God has called you to Children’s Ministry, email your resume to: vbcokcpersonnelcommitttee@yahoo.com. >> F/T DISCIPLESHIP/OUTREACH PASTOR: FBC Sapulpa is seeking a F/T Discipleship & Outreach Pastor. Send resume, cover letter and references to: jamie@fbcsapulpa.com. >> BI/VO YOUTH MINSITER: BI/VO Youth Minister for Soldier Creek Baptist Church in Midwest City. Please, send resumes to: soldiercreek@soldiercreek.org. >> BI/VO PASTOR: Sequoyah Baptist Claremore is accepting Letters of Application or Resumes’ for the position of BI/VO Pastor. Letters of Application or Resumes’ may be submitted to: Terry Rader, 11538 E 410 Rd, Claremore, OK 74017 or terryjrader@gmail.com. >> F/T KIDS PASTOR: NewPoint Church in Ponca City, OK is seeking a F/T KIDS Pastor to oversee all aspects of the Birth-5th Grade KIDS Ministry. Email resumes to: kyle@newpoint.church.

>> F/T PASTOR: First Baptist Church, Ft. Cobb, Oklahoma is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Send resume & cover letter to: First Baptist Church, Attn.

Pastor Search Committee Box 87, Ft. Cobb, OK 73038 or email: fbcftcobb@yahoo.com. >> BI/VO PASTOR: Church is seeking BI/VO Pastor. Please email resume to: wagonertwinoaksbc@yahoo.com or mail to: Twin Oaks Baptist, 70076 S. 330 Rd, Wagoner, OK 74467. >> P/T WORSHIP LEADER: Eastern Hills Baptist Church in Claremore, Oklahoma is seeking a P/T Worship Leader who has a heart & passion for leading God’s people in worship. Please send your resume to: kmacken@kamopower.com. >> BI/VO OR F/T PASTOR: Osage Heights Baptist Church is prayerfully seeking a Pastor. Email resume with cover letter to: 1945OHBC@gmail.com or mail to: Attention Pastor Search Committee, 142 Tapp Rd Ponca City, OK 74604. Parsonage onsite. >> F/T PASTOR: First Baptist Church Davis, OK is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Interested candidates should mail a cover letter and resume to: First Baptist Church, Attn: Pastor Search Committee, P.O. Box 297, Davis, OK 73030.

>> F/T OR BI/VO PASTOR: First Baptist Church Keyes, located in the Oklahoma Panhandle, is seeking a F/T or BI/VO Pastor. Resumes may be mailed to: P.O. Box 153, Keyes, OK 73947 or emailed to: fbckeyes@gmail.com. >> P/T – F/T FINANCE ADMINISTRATOR: Parkview, Tulsa seeks a P/T- F/T Finance Administrator. Bachelor’s degree required. Prefer candidates with church finance experience & a general accounting background. Please send resume with references to: crolen@parkviewbaptist.org (918) 494-3755. >> F/T MINISTER OF WORSHIP/MUSIC: View Acres Baptist Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma is prayerfully seeking a F/T Music Minister. Please send resume to: vabcmusicsearch@gmail.com. >> BI/VO PASTOR: GRAND OPPORTUNITY to reach lost souls for CHRIST in & around Strang, OK. We are currently seeking a MISSION-MINDED BI/VO Pastor at Strang FBC. Send resume or questions to: strangfbc@gmail.com or Strang FBC P.O. Box 165, Strang, OK 74367-0165. >> F/T SENIOR PASTOR: First Baptist Church of Woodward, OK is prayerfully seeking a F/T Senior Pastor. Before Nov. 8th, send resume & cover letter to: First Baptist Church, Attn: Search Committee, jgage@hybriddrilling.com or 202 E. Hanks Trail, Woodward, OK 73801.

>> P/T MINISTER OF MUSIC: Barcelona Road Baptist Church, Hot Springs Village, Arkansas (a retirement community) a traditional/blended worship with choir. Contact Jon Stubblefield at: brbc3pastor@att.net or 501-922-8746.

>> P/T MUSIC MINISTER: St. Louis FBC is prayerfully searching for a P/T Music Minister. Responsibilities would be leading worship Sunday Morning, Sunday Night & Wednesday night. This position would require knowledge in PowerPoint and/or Media shout.

(405) 584-1603.

>> F/T DIRECTOR OF MISSIONS: Pecos Valley Baptist Association in Artesia, NM is seeking a F/T Director of Missions who is willing to lead & encourage the cooperative work of the 32 churches that comprise the association. Please email/ resumes to: pvba@pvtnetworks.net.

>> F/T PASTOR: Calvary Baptist Church Tishomingo, Oklahoma is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Send resume & cover letter to: cbctishomingo@gmail.com or Calvary Baptist Church, Attn: Pastor Search Committee, 9700 US 377, Tishomingo, OK 73460.

>> F/T WORSHIP PASTOR: Cornerstone Baptist Church Greensboro NC - a man of God to lead intergenerational worship & choir. Deep relationship w/Christ; technical music skills; 4-yr degree preferred; 5 yrs working - SBC church. Resumes to: searchteam@cornerstonegso.org.

>> PIANO PLAYER: Piano player needed for Sunday morning worship service at Russell Baptist Church in SW Oklahoma. Remuneration given. Call Ron Myers at (580) 706-0236 or email to: rpma5@swoi.net.

>> F/T PASTOR: We are seeking a F/T Pastor who is rooted & grounded in God’s word, boldly proclaims the Gospel of Jesus Christ, & provides spiritual instruction & strategic leadership to members, staff

>> F/T PASTOR: Whitesboro Baptist Church located in SE Oklahoma is seeking a F/T Pastor. Send resume to: Whitesboro Baptist Church Box 124, Whitesboro, Oklahoma 74577.

15 Microwave, informally 16 He came to save the __ 17 Staring 18 Advanced math class, for short 19 Look “not on what is seen, but on what is __” (2 Cor. 4:18 niv) 21 He calls all __ to repentance

>> P/T OR BI/VO PASTOR: Dupree Baptist, a small rural church at Vinita, OK seeks a Pastor for Sunday services. Please send resumes to: Dupree Pastor Search, P.O. Box 1100, Vinita, OK 74301. >> F/T PASTOR: Sharon First Baptist Church in Sharon, Oklahoma is prayerfully seeking God’s choice for F/T Pastor. Please email resumes to: fbc.sharon@yahoo.com or mail your resume to: Sharon First Baptist Church, 24008 State Highway 34, Sharon, Oklahoma 73857. >> F/T PASTOR: Central Baptist Church in Central High, OK is seeking a F/T Pastor. We are a rural church looking for a God fearing man to lead our congregation. Send resume with references to: Chelsea at cbc.chels@gmail.com. >> F/T PASTOR: Eastside Baptist church in Sallisaw, is accepting resumes for F/T Pastor. We do have a parsonage that is available. Please send resumes to: Eastside Baptist Church, 1120 E. Ida Ave., Sallisaw, OK 74955. >> F/T YOUTH MINISTER: Memorial Heights Baptist, Claremore, OK, 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 74017. >> F/T WORSHIP PASTOR: F/T Worship Pastor position, Woodland Acres Baptist Church is a church in the heart of Tulsa with a history of great music, worship & drama. Resumes will be received online at: worship_pastor_search@wabc.org. >> F/T PASTOR: Mooreland First Baptist church is seeking a F/T Pastor. Please send resumes to: P.O. Box 1000, Mooreland, OK 73852 or smithco@pldi.net. >> HIGH SCHOOL PASTOR: FBC Madill is seeking someone who is called & motivated to reach/disciple high school students (9-12). Tremendous opportunity to use God-given gifts to make an eternal impact!

Email resume to: staff@fbcmadill.org. >> F/T YOUTH PASTOR: FBC Lone Grove is prayerfully seeking a spiritually mature, F/T Youth Pastor. Must have a heart for community & connecting with others. Please send resume to: fbclonegrove@yahoo.com.

>> SENIOR PASTOR: Foss Baptist Church of Foss,

CROSSWO

ACROSS 1 High point 5 Web page 9 Church feature 13 If he takes your shirt, “hand over your __ as well” (Matt. 5:40 niv) 14 Gesture of disdain

Oklahoma is seeking a Senior Pastor. We are in search of someone who needs extra income to their retirement salary. Send resumes to: P.O. Box 24, Foss, OK, 73647. E-mail to: evelynrh45@gmail.com.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

RD

23 Stumble 25 He brings peace to your __ 26 Not (Fr.) 29 He was __ on earth 31 Garden ornament 34 He bids us __ according to His will 35 Cookie aisle product 37 NYC station, for short 39 People __ their cloaks over Jesus’ colt 41 Former flyer (Abbr.)

42 Succinct 43 He came to __ our wounds 44 Use a sewing machine 46 People __ palm branches and laid them down 47 Caleb and eleven others 50 Academic dwelling 51 “All you need to say is...__ or No” (Matt. 5:37 niv) 52 49 Down ingredient, maybe 54 Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, familiarly 56 Wind farm turbine 59 He teaches us to love __ 63 He was called a __ of Jesse 64 Panic 66 Bread spread 67 What Judas may have used 68 Netherland sights 69 Org. (Abbr.)

70 Winter slider 71 Appear 72 “__ have a feast and celebrate” (Luke 15:23 niv) DOWN 1 Freedom org. (Abbr.)

2 Masked mammal, for short 3 Roman Catholic worship service 4 Diminutive suffix 5 Modest 6 Eye part 7 North African capital 8 Christmas beverage 9 KJV’s wild bull 10 Cat’s rumble 11 Winter lodge sights 12 Brain wave test (Abbr.)

14 Elder 20 Funny bone locale 22 Cloistered one 24 “I __ toward the mark for the prize” (Phil. 3:14) 26 He came to light our __ 27 He came to soothe our hearts’ __ 28 Sandal thong 30 Smelled 32 He came to have __ on us 33 Result

36 Razor sharpener 38 Peter and James’s fishing needs 40 Prompted 42 “Thou shalt not __ the Lord” (Luke 4:12) 45 Trains for 48 Sin 49 Menu choices 53 Disprove 55 Sandbar 56 Sheep’s clothing 57 He came to bring __ to the despairing 58 Eden need, maybe 60 Otherwise 61 He came to bring __ to the weary 62 He came to make us __ of God 63 Some Monopoly properties (Abbr.)

65 Sleep stage (Abbr.)

LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS

Classifieds | September 24, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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CLASSIFIE

VOICES

LT U R E NE WS & CU

DS

Want faithful teens and young adults?

Disciple parents

>> by Aaron Earls FACTS & TRENDS ONLINE EDITOR

For being small and on a dead-end rural road, the church I was a member of as a teenager had a fairly large and active youth group.

Only a handful of us had parents who were active in the church at the time. We didn’t see that as that significant until we grew up and saw what happened.

When we looked around on Sunday morning, those who had faithful parents remained faithful Christians. Almost all of those who attended without their parents had left the church.

Despite the perception of many teenagers (and their parents), it is difficult to overstate the importance of parental influence on the present and future religious devotion of their children.

Significant studies from Pew Research and LifeWay Research demonstrate the outsized role parDS S T R Yregularly as a family N I together R EonNpassing M IBible L the • E Read ents play. their faith on to their children.G O S P N E W S & Tplace (10 percent vs. 18 percent) Seven in 10 evangelical parents (71 percent) say Other more indirect actions and attitudes also Evangelical teens devotion follows it is very important their teenager is raised in their parental priorities faith, compared to 51 percent of Catholic and 34 contribute to the likelihood a young adult drops out of church after attending as a teenager.

Pew Research surveyed both American teenagers percent of mainline parents.

Less than 1 in 10 teenagers who dropped out (7 and their parents about religious beliefs and practices.

When thinking about a future marriage, half of percent) pointed to their parent’s divorce as a reaFor around 4 in 5 Evangelical Protestant (80 per- evangelical parents (53 percent) say it is important & NS TS & S I Otheir O Rstopped S Pthey attending church. cent), Catholic (81 percent), and unaffiliatedM (86I S perteen marries someone who shares their faith. son T their parents were still Nsaid Ewho Y M R N T Yet, young adults cent) parents, their teenager shares those beliefs.

Far fewer Catholic (28 percent) and mainline (15 I S I A T N I R E M T N E married when they were 17 were more likely to conMainline Protestant parents are much less likely to percent) parents say the same. tinue attending church than other young adults. have their teenager identify as mainline (55 percent).

Teenagers who said their parents shared the But beyond identification, evangelical teenagers Faithful parents help prevent same religious preference, the same denominaare more likely than their other Christian peers to church dropouts In a study of teenagers raised in the church, LifeWay Re- tional preference, and attend the same church practice their faith and place a high priority on it. less Close to half (48 percent) say religion is very import- search identified several key factors in what predicts teen- were L Eto&drop out.

Plikely O E X P O B L O While it mattered that ant in their lives, compared to a quarter of mainline O who drop out of church versus those that remain.

S both parents attended C H Tagers NEW H U Rteens.

Cpercent) The actions and attitudes of the parent impactC Hchurch, of the dad attending was greatProtestant (25 percent) and Catholic (27 U R CtheHimpact Evangelical teenagers are also significantly more the faithfulness of the teenager as they become a er than the impact of the mom attending. young adult. likely than other Christians their age to say they: Teenagers who dropped out of church are less Likelihoods, not guarantees likely to say their parents: There is no guarantee that faithful parents will raise • Believe in God with absolute certainty a faithful teenager who becomes a faithful adult.

(71 percent) • Provided spiritual guidance Two in 3 teenagers who attended church regular• Attend religious services weekly S U RaEyear ED LatTleast U C & percent vs. 78 percent of those who stayed in church) ly drop out for an adult—that in(64 percent) S L A S S I F I (66 W C E N cludes many who had faithful as • Regularly attended church parents.

• Pray daily (77 percent vs. 83 percent) Parents can only control their faithfulness, not (51 percent) • Genuinely liked church their children.

• Participate in a religious education program (44 percent vs. 59 percent) And the good news is “God doesn’t judge parlike Sunday School • Actively served in the church ents on the actions of their kids. He judges parents (57 percent) (28 percent vs. 37 percent) on their actions toward their kids.”

• Attend religious youth group activities • Regularly discussed spiritual things However, studies from Pew Research and Life(64 percent) VOICES (22 percent vs. 36 percent) Way Research have found parents faithful actions • Prayed together regularly as a family toward their kids leads to an increase likelihood of That increased devotion among evangelical teen(23 percent vs. 35 percent) faithful actions of their kids. agers mirrors a higher priority evangelical parents

DS CLASSIFIE D CO N T I N U E

EMPLOYM ENT >> F/T YOUTH MINISTER: Morris Memorial Baptist Church in Ada is seeking a F/T Youth Minister who is passionate about reaching youth & families with the Gospel. Send resumes to: 16121 County Road 3540, Ada, OK 74820 or email to: david@mmbcada.org.

>> P/T OR BI/VO WORSHIP MINISTER: Clearview Baptist is accepting resumes for a Worship Minister for blended service. Responsibilities: choir, instrumentalists & media. cbcbamusic@gmail.com Clearview Baptist Church, P.O. Box 140892, Broken Arrow, OK 74014.

MI S C E LLA N E O U S

>> F/T WORSHIP & MEDIA MINISTER: Seeking a F/T Worship & Media Minister. This position will also include overseeing the technical side of audio/visual & media. See: www.uhbc.church for more details or call (405) 372-2744.

>> BUS FOR SALE: 26 Passenger Bus, Low mileage 17,600 miles, garage kept, 2006 Ford Econo Bus E-450 Super Duty. $19,500. Duncan, OK. Contact: (251) 591-5214.

>> F/T PASTOR: FBC Forgan, OK is prayerfully seeking God’s man. Send resume to: P.O. Box 9 Forgan, OK 73938. More info see: forganfbc.com or call (580) 461-0857.

>> PEWS FOR SALE: PEWS-PEWS-PEWS 18 - 10ft Padded Church Pews. In Great Condition. $250.00 EACH or best offer! For more information call: (580) 369-2366.

>> DIRECTOR OF MISSIONS: LeFlore Baptist Association is prayerfully seeking a new Director of Missions. If interested, we are accepting resumes until Sept. 30th. Please send ATTN: DOM Search to: rmarrow@lefloreassociation.org, or 106 Flanagan St., STE A, Poteau, OK 74953.

>> PIANO FOR SALE: A beautiful Baldwin 7 ft Grand Piano. Fantastic sound. It is what they call an ebony finish & is absolutely gorgeous. Call or email (918) 565-0135 or ray@brooksidechurchtulsa.com to make an appointment to see & play it. $18,500.

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September 24, 2020 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | News & Culture