2022/July/14

Informing and Inspiring Oklahoma Baptists Since 1912

BAPTISTMESSENGER.COM • JULY 14, 2022

/// SEE PAGE 6

CO N T E N T S : Page 2 | News & Trends Court’s term delivers wins for life, religious liberty >> TOM STRODE

Page 3 | Voices Sword & Trowel: Life after Roe

Connect: Be on guard! >> TODD FISHER

I took the recent holiday weekend to start clearing our new (to us) property where we have recently moved. It’s not a big place, one acre, but a part of it is really grown over with small trees, vines, brambles, etc.

Since there isn’t that much area to clear, I decided not to wear my more “heavy duty” work clothes and instead opted for short-sleeve shirt, shorts and tennis shoes. I also left the bigger, gas-powered chainsaw in the shed and grabbed the battery-operated one instead. /// SEE PAGE 3

CrossTimbers is on a mission for missions >> LORI COATS

DAVIS—“We are here to accomplish a mission.” This is the crystal clear vision of staff members at CrossTimbers Children’s Mission Adventure Camp.

Each year, third–sixth grade campers from across Oklahoma come to either Davis or Grand Lake and spend four days at either of the two CrossTimbers campgrounds. From all walks of life and for a multitude of reasons, they come, but when they leave CrossTimbers, one thing is certain: they all understand the importance of fulfilling the Great Commission.

Indian Falls Creek to celebrate 75 years, July 31-Aug. 4 >> CHRIS DOYLE

One of Oklahoma Baptists most heralded events is celebrating 75 years at the end of this month.

Indian Falls Creek (IFC) started in 1947 with 333 campers coming to Falls Creek Baptist Conference Center that year. In recent years, IFC has averaged more than 3,000 campers coming to the encampment near Davis.

IFC will meet July 31-Aug. 4 and will attract Native Americans from across Oklahoma. /// SEE PAGE 7

/// SEE PAGE 7

>> BRIAN HOBBS

Page 4 | Gospel Ministry Rite of Passage: Miraculous healing >> WALKER MOORE

Page 4 | Gospel Ministry Just Joe: Buzzards and the little things >> JOE LIGON

Page 5 | Missions & Ministry Falls Creek campers bless Hope Pregnancy Ministries through offering >> BRIAN HOBBS

Page 10 | Church Toolbox 6 reasons we’re often surprised when God answers our prayer >> CHUCK LAWLESS

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I N I S T RY GOSPEL M

ENDS NEWS & TR

Court’s term delivers wins for life, religious liberty & S RTS & ION ISS

>> by Tom Strode

BAPTIST PRESS WASHINGTON BUREAU CHIEF

WASHINGTON (BP)—The U.S. Supreme Court delivered deeply consequential victories for the sanctity of human life and religious freedom in its completed term, advocates for both causes said in assessing the justices’ work.

The justices issued their final opinions Thursday, June 30, to close a 2021-22 term in which they eliminated near the end two high court standards from five decades ago that were long opposed by prolife and/or many religious liberty advocates.

On June 24, the Supreme Court overruled the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision that largely controlled its decision-making on the issue and ushered in an abortion regime that produced a death toll estimated at more than 63 million preborn babies. The justices also reinforced during the term their recent pattern of rulings that safeguard both free exercise of religion and equal access to public benefits for faith-based organizations. They crowned a series of such opinions with a June 27 decision in which they all made clear the court’s test regarding government establishment of religion instituted in a 1971 case was dead.

“The opinions the justices released in this Supreme Court term demonstrated a commitment to protecting our foundational, Constitutional rights to free speech and free exercise,” Southern Baptist public policy specialist Chelsea Sobolik told Baptist Press. “Additionally, they handed down a landmark pro-life decision that allows states the ability to take steps that will end abortion—a monumenE I Nfervently O N Lhave tal decision that countless Christians NEW T N E CO ENT prayed for.

EB-EXCLUSIV W No decision proved as significant for Southern Baptists and other pro-lifers as the justices’ long-awaited reversal of the Roe decision, which struck down state restrictions on abortion. By a 5-4 majority June 24, the court overturned both Roe and the 1992 Planned Parenthood v. Casey ruling O isN IN that affirmed it, sending policy decisions onFthe IO T A IC L B U sue back to thePstates. About half of the 50 states

Mare soon expected to enact aborhave enacted or I S T R Yor at some stage tion bans throughout M I Npregnancy of pregnancy.

“Roe was egregiously wrong from the start,” Associate Justice Samuel Alito wrote in the court’s unequivocal rejection of that opinion. “Its reasoning was exceptionally weak, and the decision has had damaging consequences.”

B OX O OinLDobbs C H Tcame The watershed v. Jackson H U Rdecision C Women’s Health Organization, a case regarding a Mississippi law that prohibits the abortion of preborn children whose gestational age is more than 15 weeks.

The high court pronounced the death of the Lemon test, which was based on a standard offered in the 1971 Lemon v. Kurtzman opinion, in its June 27 ruling that the post-game, D S prayer of a I Emidfield F I S S A L C high school football coach did not violate the First Amendment’s ban on government establishment of religion. According to the now-discarded Lemon test, a law was required to have a secular purpose, not primarily promote or restrict religion and “not foster an excessive entanglement with religion” to avoid a violation of the Establishment Clause.

In the court’s 6-3 opinion I C EinSKennedy v. BremerO V ton School District, Associate Justice Neil Gorsuch said the court “long ago abandoned Lemon and its (government) endorsement (of religion) test offshoot.” In a dissent joined by two others, Associate Justice Sonia Sotomayor said the court had now overruled Lemon “entirely and in all contexts. It is wrong to do so.”

Instead of the Lemon test, the court has for years emphasized in its Establishment Clause decisions an “analysis focused on original meaning and history,” Gorsuch wrote.

In the term’s other rulings seen by most religious freedom advocates as victories, the Supreme Court: —Ruled in a 6-3 opinion the state of Maine offended the First Amendment’s guarantee of the free exercise of religion by prohibiting faith-based schools from participation in a tuition-assistance program. Carson v. Makin, issued June 21, was the latest in a series of decisions in recent years in

NE N E W O NELCIONTENT

EVENTS JULY 15-18

CrossTimbers Session 10

CrossTimbers Conference Center Camp pastor: Justin Ford crosstimbers.org

JULY 18-22

Falls Creek Week 7

Falls Creek Conference Center Camp speaker: Scott Pace oklahomabaptists.org/ youthcamp

JULY 19-22

CrossTimbers Session 3 Grand Lake Assembly Camp pastor: Jake Adams crosstimbers.org

JULY 22-24

CrossTimbers Session 11

CrossTimbers Conference Center Camp pastor: Joe Ligon crosstimbers.org

SIV WEB-EXCLU JULY 23

Hispanic Women’s Conference

Sapulpa, First 9 a.m.-2 p.m. eborunda@oklahomabaptists.org

JULY 25-29

Falls Creek Week 8

Falls Creek Conference Center Camp speaker: Shane Pruitt oklahomabaptists.org/ youthcamp

JULY 25-28

CrossTimbers Session 4

Grand Lake Assembly Camp pastor: Keith Wiginton crosstimbers.org

JULY 31-AUG 4

Indian Falls Creek

Falls Creek Conference Center Camp pastor: Jay Mule indianfallscreek.org

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

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Saddleback, pastors, Baptists & the Bible TODD FISHER | JUNE 24

In the recent Southern Baptist Convention Annual Meeting, there was debate and a number of questions surrounding the issue of Saddleback Church and women as pastors. I’ve had a number of Oklahoma Baptist pastors contact me asking for comment and clarity, so I thought it might be helpful for me to address the situation.

PUBLICATIO

N INFO

EVENTS

Why pastors need hobbies AARON EARLS | JUNE 25

Half of pastors say they struggle with time management, according to Lifeway Research’s Greatest Needs of Pastor study. A previous Lifeway Research study found 71 percent of pastors say they’re on-call 24 hours a day, and 63 percent report their role is frequently overwhelming.

With all this in mind, the only thing surprising about 47 percent of pastors saying they find it challenging to take time for hobbies or interests is that more don’t say the same.

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

July 14, 2022 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | News & Trends

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which the high court has ruled states may not NT E exTA I N M E Rinstitutions clude religious individuals when it E N Tand makes public benefits available to all. It also clarified the Free Exercise Clause bars such discrimination on the basis of not only religious status but on the basis of the use of such benefits.

—Decided unanimously May 2 the city of Boston E& O PtoLfree violated the First Amendment’s speech P Eright S W by prohibiting the flying of the Christian flag when E N H C R U H C it permitted other groups to fly their flags on the City Hall plaza. In Shurtleff v. City of Boston, the justices said the policy also constituted discrimination based on “religious viewpoint.”

—Supported in an 8-1 ruling March 24 a condemned Texas inmate’s request to have his SouthRE ern Baptist pastor lay hands on andC pray T Ufor Laloud U & S W E N him when he receives a lethal injection. The justices said in Ramirez v. Collier the prisoner “is likely to succeed in showing (the state’s) policy substantially burdens his exercise of religion” by barring his pastor from ministering to him as requested.

Southern Baptists’ Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC) signed onto friend-of-the-court N N U A L briefs A in support of the parties that prevailed in the O I NallinFthe Gbrief E T IInNthe church-state cases, as well MasEDobbs.

Dobbs case, ERLC urged the justices not only to uphold the Mississippi law but to reverse Roe. In other abortion-related actions during the term, the high court: —Ruled in an 8-1 decision March 3 that Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron will be allowed to defend the state’s 2018 ban of dismemberment or D&E abortions on unborn children who are still alive.

Cameron had sought permission after another state official declined to continue defending the law.

—Decided in December 2021 the Texas ban on the abortion of a preborn child whose heartbeat can be detected may remain in effect while it is being challenged in court. The justices returned the case to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. The law, which has been in effect for all but N Edays since N L Itwo E W Oabortions Nprohibits Sept. 1 of last year, early T as ONTasEN XCLUSIVE C five to six weeks B-Epregnancy.

WEinto

PUBLICATIO

N INFO

The Baptist Messenger (ISSN 07449518) 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: 39,271. Individual subscriptions are available upon request. 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. July 14, 2022 • Volume 111, Number 13.

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 >> Lori Coats | Subscriptions/Assistant lcoats@baptistmessenger.com >> Chris Forbes | Staff Writer cforbes@oklahomabaptists.org >> Tori Hamilton | Art Director thamilton@baptistmessenger.com

A N N UA L NFO MEETING I

VOICES

Connect: Be on guard! /// PREVIEWED ON COVER

Todd Fisher Oklahoma Baptists’ Executive Director-Treasurer @eToddFisher

I took the recent holiday weekend to start clearing our new (to us) property where we have recently moved. It’s not a big place, one acre, but a part of it is really grown over with small trees, vines, brambles, etc.

Since there isn’t that much area to clear, I decided not to wear my more “heavy duty” work clothes and instead opted for short-sleeve shirt, shorts and tennis shoes. I also left the bigger, gas-powered chainsaw in the shed and grabbed the battery-operated one instead.

I quickly discovered that I was very ill-prepared for the task ahead of me! As soon as I started, I encountered the gnarliest stuff I’ve ever dealt with in clearing brush (and I’ve cleared a LOT of brush in my life). I couldn’t help but think of a lesson…

What I encountered was Allegheny Blackberry. There were vines and vines of it everywhere. At

>> PHOTO: FACEBOOK.COM

Allegheny Blackberry that Dr. Fisher discovered while clearing out his new property.

first, I was so excited when I found all this blackberry growing on our property (dreams of cobbler!).

I then discovered the thorns that grow all over these vines. They have very fine tips and seemed to me to be more angled than rose or greenbrier, so they really grab you—and hurt! I kept pulling

the vines off of me as they lodged into my shirt and skin. Not fun.

Later that evening I learned of another downside to these blackberry vines when my legs started itching—chiggers! Apparently they love these vines as much as I had grown to dislike them.

This whole encounter made me think of sin.

The fruit of sin is alluring and deceptively appears to be a sweet treat to satisfy a longing or satiate a curiosity.

Many times we think the “small” sins won’t hurt us or others. We approach them unprepared, shoddily clothed in thoughts of our own righteousness or goodness rather than the full armor of God. We often think “small” sins couldn’t do much damage so we proceed haphazardly. But we soon find we are entangled and torn up by sin, no matter its “size.”

Paul instructs us in Rom. 6:23, “The wages of sin is death.” And like the chiggers, we discover sin has lingering consequences unforeseen to us at the moment. Be on your guard, not just for the “big” sins, but the “small” ones as well.

The fruit of all sin is deadly, dangerous, and destructive. “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (1 Pet. 5:8).

Sword & trowel: Life after Roe Brian Hobbs Editor of the Baptist Messenger @BrianGHobbs

In my years serving as editor, I have written about the issue of abortion and for protecting unborn life on many occasions. Today, as I write about the same topic, it is amid a new day for the unborn in this country.

We find ourselves, by the grace of God, in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court overturning the infamous 1973 Roe v. Wade decision. Justice Samuel Alito composed the court’s majority opinion in the Dobbs v. Jackson case, which effectively overturned Roe and also Planned Parenthood v. Casey.

He said, “We hold that Roe and Casey must be overruled. The Constitution makes no reference to abortion, and no such right is implicitly protected by any provision in the Constitution. Roe was egregiously wrong from the start. Its reasoning was ex-

ceptionally weak, and the decision has had damaging consequences.”

Amen to that. Indeed Roe was wrong from the start, and it unleashed abortion on this country, tragically costing tens of millions of preborn lives and harming untold women in the process.

Oklahoma Baptists’ executive director Todd Fisher, in the hours that followed the historic decision said, “Christians have been praying and working for 50 years to see this day in our nation. I am grateful to God and overjoyed at this historic decision! There is still much work to do among the states and to double our efforts in loving and caring for mothers, fathers and children, but today we humbly rejoice over this decision!”

Dr. Fisher is right. This is a moment to rejoice and thank God. According to credible news reports, some 26 states are poised to radically curtail or altogether eliminate legalized abortion, including right here in Oklahoma. That means the lives of countless unborn boys and girls will be spared. He’s also right that this is a time to re-double our longstanding efforts toward ministry.

Thankfully, Oklahoma Baptists have been a leader in crisis pregnancy support ministry since the

1980s. Through Hope Pregnancy Centers and ministries like them—some 40 evangelical-based ministries across Oklahoma—we are well positioned to continue to serve the unborn and women in need with the love of Christ and the Good News. Moreover, Oklahoma Baptists have also become a leader in the areas of adoption and foster care, which are vital to the continued needs and this conversation.

Jesus said, “The thief comes to steal, kill and destroy, but I have come that they may have life and life abundantly” (John 10:10). In this moment after Roe, we recognize that stark juxtaposition of death versus life.

The late, great pastor Adrian Rogers said the blueprint of Satan—to kill the babies—was seen on display many times: in Pharoah’s Egypt; in Herod’s evil order during the time of Christ; and with the abortion industry in modern times. Certainly the thief of legalized abortion has killed and destroyed.

But thanks be to God, Jesus has come to offer life and life abundant!

Today, we rejoice as Roe is no more. Tomorrow, we set about the work of making sure there’s life for all after Roe.

FEEDING

&LEADING

A PODCAST FEATURING TODD FISHER & ANDY TAYLOR

02: SBC ANNUAL MEETING WRAP UP

Hear Todd Fisher and Andy Taylor talk about significant moments from the recent annual meeting of Southern Baptist Convention in Anaheim.

Listen at www.oklahomabaptists.com/podcast or on...

Voices | July 14, 2022 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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ENDS NEWS & TR

I N I S T RY GOSPEL M

Rite of passage:S PMiraculous healing ORTS & T N TA I N M E

& MISSIONS Y M I N I S T RWalker Moore

Author & Messenger Columnist Email | walker@back40.org @WalkerDeanMoore

O O L B OX CHURCH T Kids are smart. In fact, I believe they are the smartest people in the world. Victoria, my three-year-old niece, called me at the office the other day. She didn’t want to talk to my wife, just me. When I asked how she was doing, our little princess told me she S what was wrong and wasn’t feelingI good.

I asked D F I Ehurts.”

S tummy A S“My C Lsaid, she She then proceeded to tell me that she felt worse yesterday but was a little bit better today.

Uncle Walker, the great healer, immediately shifted into ministry mode. The empathy poured forth as this “softy” told her I was sorry to hear about her poor tummy. By the time we finished our conversaE Swas already feeling better. Then tion, I could I Cshe V O tell I asked to speak to her mom, who said, “What was that all about? She wasn’t sick yesterday and she’s not sick today.” All Victoria wanted was to get her Uncle Walker’s sympathy, and she did. Kids are smart.

Our youngest son had a similar experience when he was attending middle school. My wife and I had to visit the school for a parent-teacher meeting.

As we walked down the hallway, the school nurse stopped us. “I’m worried about your son’s diabetes,” she said.

ENTER

I inquired what had caused her concern. She told us that his low blood sugar episodes were coming more and more frequently, so she had been seeing him every few days. Whenever he felt shaky, he showed up at the nurses’ station and asked for a O P LlieEon&a cot and visit with spare candy bar.PHe Ewould W Sit took quite a her while he ate. Sometimes, sheEsaid, N URCH CH while for him to improve enough to go back to class.

I didn’t know how to tell her that Caleb didn’t have diabetes, just a creative mind and a not-so-holy hunger for candy bars. By the way, God healed him of diabetes the very next day! Miracles never cease.

Kids are smart. This wasn’t the first time our son E took experienced a miraculous Another LT U R & C Uhealing.

NEW place during oneSof my mom’s visits. Now, Caleb dearly loved his Grandma Moore. That Monday morning when he got up, he came to the breakfast table looking like a victim of the world’s most contagious disease. He walked slowly, head slumped to his chest. He breathed deeply and stared listlessA L checked, but he ly into his cereal A bowl.

N NHisUmom showed no evidence of fever. I N F O T I N G If it had been filmed, E Econtinued.

The CalebM Show that morning’s performance would have earned an Academy Award. He soon announced that since he was feeling so bad, he probably should not go to the school that day.

My mom, a very wise woman (who had raised four boys of her own) told him she was equally concerned for his health. She agreed that he should stay home from school. For one nanosecond, we witnessed his elation at grandmother’s agreement.

Caleb knew: what Grandma wants, Grandma gets.

Everything was going according to plan.

According to plan, that is, until Grandma prescribed a day of complete bed rest. Caleb never saw that second part coming. Sure, he wanted to stay home with Grandma Moore. No, he didn’t want to be locked in his room under a blanket. Now he had to figure out a quick Plan B for his little drama.

With his last ounce of strength, he dragged his weary body all the way back to his bedroom. A few minutes later we heard him shouting like a TV evangelist, “It’s a miracle, it’s a miracle, I’ve been healed!”

He emerged from the bedroom fully dressed, smiling and ready to go to school.

Kids are smart. They don’t forget a thing. Mom and Dad, that’s why it’s so important for you to teach them the Bible while they are young. Deut.

6:4-9 says that we should give our children daily instruction in the Word of God: “These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your heart.

Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”

Now is the time to capture and lead your children to have a heartbeat of obedience to His Word. Now is the time to live out loud the truth and reality of what it means to be a true follower of Jesus Christ.

If what you say doesn’t match up to what you do, they’ll know, because kids are smart. I pray for a miraculous healing in your home . . . today.

“Train up a child in the way he should go, Even when he is old he will not depart from it” (Prov. 22:6).

Just Joe: Buzzards and the little things Joe Ligon Senior Associate Executive Director for Oklahoma Baptists @marlowpreacher

I was thinking the other day. I have noticed when I start thinking those who know me best seem to get a little fidgety. And, oddly enough, it doesn’t seem to matter what I am thinking about. I start thinking. People get the fidgets.

So… this time I was thinking about buzzards. I suspect most of you have already done that, and some of you may be doing it now. One of the reasons I started thinking about buzzards is I recently had another birthday. I have noticed the older I get, the less I move around. And the less I move around, the more buzzards tend to circle. So, if I were going to give you any buzzard lessons, an important one would be when you are outside, look alive.

But that is really not what got me started thinking about buzzards. What actually got me started thinking about this is I began to wonder what buzzards ate before the fall of humanity in Genesis 3.

Since buzzards tend to eat dead things, and there doesn’t seem to be anything dying before Genesis 3, what were those buzzards eating in Genesis 1 and 2? If I can get up the courage, I am going to talk to my theologian friends about this, but I am concerned they will get a little fidgety.

As I contemplated the dietary habits of buzzards before the fall of humanity, it dawned on me that there seems to be a whole lot more buzzards than there used to be. I haven’t done an official buzzard census or anything, but it seems there is an abundance of buzzards.

Maybe that’s because there is an abundance of road kill these days: opossums on the half shell (armadillos), tenderized venison (deer hit by semi-trucks), skunks,

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raccoons and a variety of other less fortunate animals who didn’t quite make it across the road.

Like me, you have seen it a million times. There is the road kill. There are a few crows hopping around trying to steal a bite. And then there is at least that one buzzard. It used to be when you were driving up on such a crime scene, the buzzard would vacate quickly, and you could just keep on motoring down the road.

But not any longer. Something has changed.

Now the buzzard tends to stay on the road. Now the buzzard tends to stare at you with one beady, red buzzard eye. It is almost like the buzzard somehow knows, if you run over him it is going to rip your car apart all the way to the back seat. Plastic would be scattered all up and down the highway, and you would be out at least a deductible if not thousands of dollars to get all new plastic stuff to put your car back together with.

So, what do we do? We slam on the brakes, start anti-collision maneuvering, and try to decide whether it would do less damage to swerve into oncoming traffic or collide with some stupid buzzard who won’t get off the road. I have no idea how buzzards have decided they have the right of way.

But they obviously have.

But that doesn’t keep me from wanting to run one of them down. Every time I see a buzzard doing buzzard stuff, and there is that little beady, red eye daring me, I find myself wanting to run smooth over the rascal. I can almost imagine black feathers going everywhere. I can

July 14, 2022 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | Gospel Ministry

almost imagine other buzzards wondering if it is OK to eat one of their own. I can almost imagine the arrogance of that little beady, red eye turning to fear right before I ran smooth over him.

But reality takes control and I slow down and avoid the collision. And I make sure I give him the buzzard eye when I drive by because I want him to know how perturbed I really am.

At the end of the day, my issue with buzzards is really not a big deal. But like a lot of things in life, if I am not careful I will get riled up because of these stupid buzzards who have become road hogs. I’d be a lot better off to let the little things in life stay the little things and not waste any energy being upset, angry or vindictive.

Most of the things in life really are little things. If we will leave them alone, they will tend to stay little things. And we will be a lot better off.

& MISSIONS M I N I S T RY

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

Falls Creek campers bless Hope Pregnancy OPLE & E X P O B L O O RCH T C H Uthrough Ministries offering C H U R C H N E W S >> by Brian Hobbs

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EDITOR

DAVIS—As national conversation about abortion and life in the womb reached a peak, thousands of students in Oklahoma were contributing money toward a special offering that will bless mothers facing an unintended pregnancy and their unborn babies.

Every Thursday night during the Falls Creek summer weeks, campers and guests are presented with an opportunity to give toward an offering.

Each year, the offering goes toward a specific missions or ministry cause, and in 2022, the Falls Creek offering is going toward the purchase of new ultrasound machines for Hope Pregnancy Ministries.

The offering also will partially fund Oklahoma Baptists’ GoStudents student missions sending work.

During the offering time, a statistic was announced that “more than 80 percent of mothers who see their baby on ultrasound choose life.” The gifts collected this summer will help place two new ultrasound machines in Hope centers in Oklahoma.

According to Oklahoma Baptists finance office, in the first four weeks of camp alone, more than $50,000 was given by students.

“The student mission offering at Falls Creek provides a great opportunity for students to practically invest in others’ eternities—to advance the Gospel around the world and at home,” said Todd Sanders, Falls Creek program director. “We are excited to work with Hope Pregnancy Centers this summer and allow students to value and support life.”

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CLASSIFIE

CES V O ICenters “Our Hope Pregnancy

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LT U R E NE WS & CU

A N N UA L NFO MEETING I

>> PHOTOS: FACEBOOK.COM 1) Directors from Hope Pregnancy Centers meet with campers in the Wynn Center for World Missions and have been invited to speak in cabin devotion times at Falls Creek; 2) Hope Pregnancy offers a special pin for campers. Pin collecting and trading is a popular activity at Falls Creek.

need us to stand with them in this unprecedented time in our country’s history as they support those in the midst of crisis pregnancy with the hope of the Gospel!” said Brian Baldwin, youth missions and evangelism ministry partner for Oklahoma Baptists. “Also, this year we are mobilizing the largest group of students in the history of GoStudents with more than 350 participants. This healthy missions offering will help both the Hope Centers and also to keep the costs low for even more students to go next summer. “ “Hope is so excited to be a part of Falls Creek this summer!” said leaders with Hope on their Facebook page. “The invitations for directors to speak in cabin devotion times was overwhelming during the first week. The response has been very positive, and the students have been listening intently and asking many deep questions about purity, abortion and life!

“At the end of a cabin devotional, a young lady surrendered her life to Jesus!” the Facebook announcement continued. “We are amazed and humbled to watch God use this opportunity to share Hope with so many students and churches. Please be in prayer for the directors and staff as they navigate a very hectic summer ahead.”

As legalized abortion comes to an end in Oklahoma and other states, many critics have wondered aloud who will be there to help in the midst of a crisis pregnancy and support women and babies.

The resounding answer for Oklahoma Baptists has been Hope Pregnancy Ministries and other Christbased pregnancy support ministries like them.

Thanks to the generosity of students, the Gospel ministry of Hope will be advanced even further, one ultrasound at a time.

MISSIONS VOLUNTEER TIES

OPPORTUN

I

OKLAHOMA

On-going opportunities for volunteers: Tulakogee Conference Center, Wagoner— 918/462-3212— info@tulakogee.com The Spring, a faith-based shelter for women who are victims of domestic violence or human sexual trafficking and their children, Sand Springs—Leslie Clingenpeel, Executive Director—918/245-4075 or Leslie.c@thespringok.org Hospitality House of Oklahoma provides for the physical, spiritual needs of families with loved ones incarcerated in McAlester—918/429-0142 OK Jail & Prison Ministry needs volunteers to go into the jails and share the Gospel each week— 405-917-2242 or ojpm@ojpm.org

DISASTER RELIEF

Training:

Aug. 27—Orientation & Credentialing—8:30 a.m.-12 noon, Poteau, Southside, 505 Holden Ave. Sept. 17—Orientation & Credentialing – 8:30a.m.-12 noon, Wynnewood, First, 1515 E. Robert S. Kerr Blvd.

Sept. 22-24—Chaplaincy Training, 3800 N. May Avenue, OKC; To register email: pjones@ oklahomabaptists.org.

For other upcoming training, visit okdisasterhelp.org.

Pray for Oklahoma Missionaries:

Bertholomew (Prophet) Bailey He is the young adult disciple leader for Oklahoma Baptists

Rick Dominic

Lance Burnett

He is the director of missions for Pittsburg Association.

He is Baptist Collegiate Ministries director at Eastern Oklahoma State

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

Missions & ministry | July 14, 2022 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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No more Roe: Supreme Court overturns Roe v.

Wade abortion decision with historic ruling /// PREVIEWED ON COVER >> by Baptist Press & Messenger staff WASHINGTON—On June 24, the U.S. Supreme Court (SCOTUS) overturned a nationwide abortion regime that lasted nearly half a century and resulted in the deaths of more than 60 million preborn children.

In a high-court opinion, the justices overruled the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision. The justices also invalidated the 1992 Planned Parenthood v. Casey opinion that affirmed Roe. The opinion in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization—a case regarding Mississippi’s prohibition of the abortion of preborn children whose gestational age is more than 15 weeks—returns policy decisions on the issue to the states and marks a long-sought-for victory for the pro-life movement.

“We hold that Roe and Casey must be overruled,” Associate Justice Samuel Alito wrote in the court’s opinion. “The Constitution makes no reference to abortion, and no such right is implicitly protected by any” provision in the Constitution.

“Roe was egregiously wrong from the start,” Alito wrote. “Its reasoning was exceptionally weak, and the decision has had damaging consequences.

“It is time to heed the Constitution and return the issue of abortion to the people’s elected representatives.”

Joining Alito in the majority opinion were associate justices Clarence Thomas, Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett. Chief Justice John Roberts wrote a concurring opinion in support of the Mississippi law but not agreeing with the reversal of Roe. Joining in dissent were Associate Justices Stephen Breyer, Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan.

The Dobbs decision followed the leak in early May of a draft opinion by Alito that indicated the high court would reverse Roe and Casey if the majority at the time remained in support.

With the overruling of Roe and Casey, 26 states, including Oklahoma, were certain or likely to prohibit abortion. It is estimated more than 63 million abortions have occurred since the Roe decision, the National Right to Life Committee reported in January of this year.

Baptist leaders react to historic decision The high court’s opinion was applauded by many Southern Baptist leaders, including among Oklahoma Baptists.

In the hours following the Supreme Court’s ruling on the Dobbs case, Todd Fisher, Oklahoma Baptists’ executive director-treasurer, said, “Christians have been praying and working for 50 years to see this day in our nation. I am grateful to God and overjoyed at this historic decision! There is still much work to do among the states and to double our efforts in loving and caring for mothers, fathers, and children, but today we humbly rejoice over this decision!”

Newcastle, First Pastor Jeremy Freeman, like many other Oklahoma Baptist pastors, took to social media to praise the Court’s action.

“Today is a reminder of why you never stop praying, laboring, and working for what is right before God!” Freeman wrote in a Facebook post. “Think of the countless prayers that have been prayed. Some have died not seeing the answers to their prayers this side of heaven…but yet, their prayers were heard and in God’s time, Roe v Wade was overturned! Let us keep praying, laboring, and working together >> PHOTO: MESSENGER ARCHIVES Rose Day Rally attendees filled the Oklahoma for what is right before God!” State Capitol Rotunda in 1995. Oklahoma Baptists and pro-life advocates have Scott Patton, pastor of Indiahospoken for the unborn for decades. ma, First, exclaimed “TO GOD BE THE GLORY!” On Sunday, June 26, there were reports of churches in Oklahoma are no longer performing abortions across Oklahoma taking time during services to rec- yet are still referring women for abortions in othognize the moment, with times of celebration and er states. prayer. Bartlesville, First Pastor James Biesiadecki said Pregnancy support ministries stepping up on Twitter, “Yes, our church praised God for overturnFor decades, Southern Baptists have recognized ing Roe this morning in our worship service.”

Sanctity of Human Life Sunday, spoken for the un“My generation was the first generation of Ameri- born; participated in prayer emphases, and helped can kids impacted by the court’s 1973 ruling,” said In- to build an entire network of pregnancy support ternational Mission Board President Paul Chitwood. ministries. Oklahoma, which has approximately 40 “By some estimates, 20 percent of my generation evangelical pregnancy help ministries, is home to and the generations to follow have been aborted. Hope Pregnancy Ministries who has five locations But for nearly 50 years Southern Baptists have re- across the state, as well as a mobile unit. For more mained united in our affirmation of the sanctity of information on helping HOPE and other centers, life and in our efforts to see Roe overturned.” visit obhc.org/hope.

“I am incredibly thankful for the steadfastness of Pregnancy care centers across the United States Southern Baptist churches in holding to the Biblical were told to heighten security over the weekend value of life,” said Willie McLaurin, interim South- in light of the June 24 Supreme Court decision ern Baptist Convention (SBC) Executive Committee that overturned Roe v. Wade. Extremist pro-choice president/CEO. groups like Jane’s Revenge took to the internet to Albert Mohler, president of the Southern Sem- encourage people to join in their violent brigades inary, released a special edition of his daily pod- or start their own. cast “The Briefing” (albertmohler.com/thebriefing) to Attacks on pregnancy support centers were recommemorate the historic decision. ported over the weekend in Longmont, Colo. and By overturning Roe and Planned Parenthood v. Ca- Lynchburg, Va. The centers serve local pregnant sey, the Dobbs ruling sent the issue of abortion back women by providing tests, care, counseling, supto the states. This decision, rather than marking the port, and essentials that carry them through their end of the pro-life movement, will instead launch term and even into the postpartum period. Local a new chapter as advocates turn their attention to investigators are asking for leads in the case. protecting life in state capitals and working to build Newly elected SBC President Bart Barber pointa true culture of life across the nation. ed to the many years of resolutions passed at the “This moment is an answer to prayer,” said Bap- SBC annual meeting by messengers. “These princitist Messenger Editor Brian Hobbs. “For decades, ples have motivated both our consistent support of Oklahoma Baptists have faithfully served in pro-life the pro-life movement and our consistent support work toward the end of abortion and in pregnancy of crisis pregnancy centers, ministries to low-insupport ministry like Hope (Pregnancy Centers). We come families, foster care and adoption agencies, are grateful to the Lord.” and other ministries of mercy to people in need,” With the SCOTUS decision, Oklahoma became he wrote. one of a handful of states whose “trigger ban” law June 24 marks an historic day for America, the took effect. According to reports, abortion centers culmination of many years of prayer and effort.

Pastors connect over fried pies, fellowship time at Falls Creek >> by Staff

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DAVIS—As thousands of campers participate in Falls Creek summer weeks, a new event was added to help Oklahoma Baptist pastors at camp connect with one another.

Todd Fisher, Oklahoma Baptists executive director treasurer, initiated a pastors fellowship every Tuesday afternoon at 2 p.m. at the Mathena Event Center. >> PHOTO: 1) CHRIS FORBES; 2) BRIAN HOBBS 1) From left, Joe Ligon, Oklahoma Baptists’ senior associate ex“This is a time for pastors to spend with one anecutive director; Pastor Rick Frie of Jenks, First; Todd Fisher, Oklahoma Baptists; executive director other and with Oklahoma Baptists’ staff,” he said. treasurer; and Bret Selby, Oklahoma Baptists regional ministry partner, enjoy a time of fellowship at Falls Creek; 2) Fried pies are a regular feature at the Pastors Fellowship at Falls Creek.

“There’s no agenda. We just are enjoying fellowship and some great refreshments, including fried pies!”

“I enjoyed getting together to meet some of the other pastors and see The fellowship will continue through the duration of the summer weeks, some I hadn’t seen in a while,” said Keith Stone, pastor of Tulsa, Lynn Lane. “I as well as during Indian Falls Creek. No registration is required for pastors to also enjoyed spending some time getting to know our new executive direc- attend. For more information, contact Oklahoma Baptists executive office at tor-treasurer better.”

405/942-3800.

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July 14, 2022 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | Features

CrossTimbers is on a mission for missions /// PREVIEWED ON COVER >> by Lori Coats

MESSENGER ASSISTANT

DAVIS—“We are here to accomplish a mission.”

This is the crystal clear vision of staff members at CrossTimbers Children’s Mission Adventure Camp.

Each year, third–sixth grade campers from across Oklahoma come to either Davis or Grand Lake and spend four days at either of the two CrossTimbers campgrounds. From all walks of life and for a multitude of reasons, they come, but when they leave CrossTimbers, one thing is certain: they all understand the importance of fulfilling the Great Commission.

“Campers will always see an emphasis on missions because ‘Missions’ is in the name of the camp,” said Charlie Gatton, CrossTimbers program director. “It’s not just about having a good time—although we do. It’s not really about being adventurous—although we are. It’s about missions. It’s about teaching kids about missionaries and that they are mission1 aries and that all kinds of people from Oklahoma are serving all around the world as missionaries

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telling people about Jesus. We want to teach kids how to tell people about Jesus.”

During each camp session there are three mission stops where campers learn about people, culture, food, language and needs. This year, the missions stops focus on Oklahoma, Cambodia and Belize. While the Cambodia and Belize stops help the campers realize the geographical and cultural differences in people groups and the collective need for Jesus, the Oklahoma stop helps the campers realize the similarities.

Dick Herrin has been coming to CrossTimbers for “at least 15 years” as an adult sponsor with Fletcher, First. He came when his own children were young campers, and now he is coming with his grandchildren. He enjoys the mission emphasis of the camp and says that the mission stops “allow kids to see how other people live.”

“Many kids don’t get to see how others outside of their own hometown or state live or how our offerings through the Cooperative Program are used to help people in other countries.” Herrin said. “It’s a great learning opportunity.”

CrossTimbers staffers are well prepared and inspiring. Harper Stevens from Oklahoma City, Olivet, helps to lead the Belize missions stop and was once a CrossTimbers camper herself. She recently participated in a GoStudents trip to Belize and returned to share with her firsthand knowledge with young campers.

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Dani Corbin from Tishomingo, Calvary felt God call her to mission work while attending Falls Creek.

Now a student at Murray State College she helps lead the Cambodia mission stop. “I plan to continue coming to work at CrossTimbers each summer until God leads me in a different direction,” she said.

Bri Smalygo, staffer from Collinsville, First, works in the Oklahoma missions stop. “A lot of kids really love this mission stop because they think that you have to be an adult or go half way around the world to share the Gospel,” she said.

“This opens their eyes to what they can do right here at home.”

The campgrounds are beautiful. The activities are wholesome and fun, and campers don’t have to look too hard to see God’s handiwork in the nature that surrounds them. It’s a refreshing time to unplug from the electronic world and connect with friends and church members.

So, how does one gauge if their mission is successful?

One camper, a red-faced boy with a ball cap and sweet smile named Aage Brown from Mustang, First stepped away from playing an outdoor game to say it best. “My favorite part about CrossTimbers is missions (the mission stops) and how nice the staff is,” he said. “I know that God expects me to go home and share Jesus with my friends.”

Mission accomplished.

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1) Doug Melton, pastor of OKC, Southern Hills, gives ‘high fives’ to campers before preaching on sharing the Gospel; 2) A camper enjoys kayaking on the creek; 3) Young campers sing before Chapel begins; 4) A sponsor speaks with a camper, helping him make a spiritual decision. >> PHOTOS: 1) LORI COATS; 2-4) TORI HAMILTON

Indian Falls Creek to celebrate 75 years, July 31-Aug. 4 /// PREVIEWED ON COVER >> by Chris Doyle

MANAGING EDITOR

One of Oklahoma Baptists most heralded events is celebrating 75 years at the end of this month. Indian Falls Creek (IFC) started in 1947 with 333 campers coming to Falls Creek Baptist Conference Center that year. In recent years, IFC has averaged more than 3,000 campers coming to the encampment near Davis.

IFC will meet July 31-Aug. 4 and will attract Native Americans from across Oklahoma. Victor Cope, IFC executive director, said many Indian churches in Oklahoma are dedicated to attending IFC. “Our Oklahoma Indian churches are small and located in mostly rural areas of our state,” Cope said.

“The churches may average 25 people or less on any given Sunday. Coming to Indian Falls Creek is a struggle and a major sacrifice for our churches, but each year our congregations choose to return because of what God does at camp. IFC is a place where each camper will be ministered to, no matter what age because Indian Falls Creek is a family camp.”

Jay Mule will serve as camp pastor at IFC. He is the pastor of Geary, Chief Cornerstone, and he serves as director of missions in Cheyenne-Araphoe Association in western Oklahoma.

“Pastor Mule was a participant at the Gathering of Nations Powwow in Albuquerque, N.M.,” Cope said.

“He got to share Jesus in the Sunday morning worship serving, speaking to 10,000 people, and a million people listened online.”

Emerson Falls, Oklahoma Baptists Native American ministry partner, said IFC celebrating 75 years means a lot to many Native American Christians.

“You have three generations of people who have gone (to IFC),” Falls said. “It’s ingrained in our church culture to go to Falls Creek every year. The fact that it’s been around for 75 years indicates what it means to us.”

Falls remembers previous leaders who were responsible for founding IFC and making the cherished camp an event where God has worked in many lives.

“What I would say that is significant about (celebrating) 75 years is it helps us to honor,” he said.

“When we go back and see how it started, it helps us to honor the vision of people like J.B Rounds, W.D. Moorer, some of the men who helped start Falls Creek, but also (honor) men like Victor Kaneubbe and Lewis Hancock.

Those are two men who encouraged me and my ministry. Victor was influential when I was a young preacher starting out.”

Falls said IFC was instrumental to him and his work among Native Americans for many years.

“As a youth, I went to Indian Falls Creek, but like many my age, I went to play ball, swim and have fun,” he said, “but as it happens, God touched my life in a special way. As a result, I surrendered to the ministry at Indian Falls Creek. My ministry starts there, and God has used me in California, Arizona, Colorado and now back in Oklahoma. And there are thousands of stories like that of people whose lives have been changed because of spending a week at Indian Falls Creek.”

Helping younger campers remember IFC’s heritage will be a part of the activities at this year’s camp, Falls said.

“As we meet, we are going to spend some time talking about past heroes,” he said. “There’s a generation that probably is not familiar with them, so it’s good to bring their names up and celebrate them.”

Falls said there are other aspects that are important when considering IFC has been existence for 75 years.

“It also talks about the consistency of Indian Falls Creek that it’s going to be around for a long time,” he said. “That’s what is exciting to a lot of people. Because it’s a family camp, adults take their family vacation during this week. It says something about the priority of it. Not only that, but churches that don’t have a lot of money invest in Indian Falls Creek. This talks about how significant Indian Falls Creek is to these churches, committing to come every year.”

IFC has hosted an annual golf tournament for the past four years.

Cope said the event raised great support to help churches come to IFC. “The event drew 41 teams, all 18 holes has a sponsor, and the event generated more than $11,000,” Cope said.

Cope also shared why IFC is a cherished time for him.

“IFC is very special to me because 49 years ago, I surrendered to the ministry during the Missionary Hour,” he said.

Both Cope and Falls stressed how IFC has impacted many others.

“It’s important to the overall work of Native Americans,” Falls said. “Many were saved at Indian Falls Creek and surrendered to ministry at Indian Falls Creek. Many churches in Oklahoma are pastored by somebody who surrendered at Indian Falls Creek.

And many churches outside of Oklahoma were started by people who surrendered to ministry at Indian Falls Creek. This says a lot about the impact Indian Falls Creek has had across the nation.”

Visit indianfallscreek.org for more information about Indian Falls Creek.

Features | July 14, 2022 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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Exchange Avenue meets needs, impacts OKC C1L A S S I F I E

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>> by Chris Forbes STAFF WRITER

Oklahoma City, Exchange Avenue recently offered a one-day “Impact OKC” event that offered southside metro residents much needed physical and spiritual help. “Exchange Avenue Baptist Church understands,” a popular post on the church’s Facebook said, “(that) making ends meet is difficult as the cost of goods and services continue to rise. We want to help.”

The 104-year-old congregation hosted the Impact OKC event on June 25, which included a free optometry clinic, free haircuts, offered gently-used clothing, a food pantry as well as prayer, spiritual encouragement and Gospel witnessing. The church reported 10 professions of faith in Christ, and two baptisms have already resulted from the outreach.

“The Lord is moving in a huge way,” Jon Johnston, Exchange Avenue pastor, explained in a recent Messenger Insight podcast. “As we are the hands and feet of Jesus, we can go out and share the Good News.

People can not only see what we believe by our works, but they will hear it as well. When you get both of those together, that’s the double-edge sword.”

Johnston said Exchange Avenue is well positioned for reaching the community. In recent years

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A N N U A L 1) Haircuts were offered at ‘Impact OKC;’ 2) A lady participates in the free optomI N G I N F Oetry clinic at Exchange Avenue; 3) Pastor Jon Johnston shares the Gospel during T E E M church has been in decline ‘Impact OKC.’ Ten professions of faith in Christ were a result of the one-day event. >> PHOTOS: FACEBOOK.COM

the because of changes in the community, and now those changes seem to be the very things that are drawing people partnership that can be done where they can serve to join with the church. a church or become a member of a church where “We are centered just south of downtown. It is a the Gospel is preached and where they can see tanprime location for ministry to happen,” Johnston gible needs being met on a weekly basis.” observed. “Exchange Avenue is between the Stock“Great morning at Exchange Avenue Baptist yards and the Wheeler District. At the moment, we Church at their Impact OKC event!” Executive Dihave a lot of people (in the vicinity of the church) rector-Treasurer for Oklahoma Baptists Todd Fisher, who are underprivileged and homeless.” posted on his Facebook page after attending the While some may view these realities as challenges event. “I saw many of the church volunteers encourand obstacles, Johnston said the church sees them aging, praying with, and sharing the Gospel with as opportunities. Johnston said he believes the op- those present. I am grateful for Pastor Jon Johnportunities are what has attracted new members ston and his church’s desire to care for the people and partners to join the church in reaching out to in their community!” the community.

“As (Oklahoma City) has revitalized, people have startdepartment Men’s big & tall ed moving back into these Family and worker store regular to 10xl, 72in waist summer clothes areas of the city,” Johnston quality explained. “Those people summer hats - g.i. style gear - so much more have brought extra funding and help. People are more interested in our church be- summertime shorts and shirts - selected sizes available cause of the ministry oppor- 2409 S. AGNEW AVE. 73108 OKC, ok we must close tunity they see, there is the OPEN tues. - SAT. 9AM to 5:30 PM

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July 14, 2022 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | People & Church News

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WatersEdge hosts tax seminars

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Ensure your church’s compliance with local, state and federal laws through WatersEdge’s Tax, Internal Control and Legal Issues seminars. These events— T U27RatEOwasso, First and Sept. 29 at OKC, Northwest—are ideal for senior C U LSept. and executive pastors, administrators, financial and human resources staff, as well as lay leaders including finance, audit and personnel committee members. Attend in person or join virtually. For more information or to register, visit watersedgeservices.org/tax-financial-and-legal-seminars.

PEOPLE IN THE NEWS MASSEY DEATH. John Massey, 86, died Friday, June 24. Funeral services were June 30 at SoutheastO MAAmember H A L K ern Oklahoma State University. of Durant, O E H T E V I First, he was a T major benefactor to Oklahoma BapH C R A Does Your P T I SThe Massey Chapel in the R.A. Young A N N UA L B Acauses. tists S E C I VO Tabernacle at Falls Creek Baptist Conference Centers I N G I N F OChurch Have T E E M is named in his honor. He had a long and successful banking career which concluded with him serving as chairman emeritus a Bus or Van of First United Bank in Durant. He was a dedicated and engaged comto Sell? munity leader, involved in many civic and professional organizations and served on numerous boards. He had a passion for education and was a major supporter of his alma mater, Southeastern, as the university’s School of Business is named in his honor. He is survived by his wife DonAmerica’s #1 Church Bus Dealer, Carpenter Bus Sales, wants to buy under-utilized buses or vans, refurbish them, and make them available na; his sons, John Michael Massey, Gregory Massey, Bryan Wandel and to churches looking for transportation solutions.

Berne Kendrick; 15 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.

CONNELL DEATH. Donna Connell, 81, died on July 2. Funeral services were July 7 at Oklahoma City, South Lindsay. She was the wife of Pastor If you have a bus or van you would like to sell, go Jerry Connell of South Lindsay for almost 65 years. She served nearly 30 online to www.carpenterbus.com/buymybus years as a church secretary. She is survived by her husband; her son, Jerry Connell; four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

ORDINATION. John Stottlemyer and Bill Candler were ordained to America’s #1 the deacon ministry at Olive, First.

Church Bus Dealer CONGREGATIONAL NEWS 800-370-6180 NEW AFFILIATES. Leedey, Moorewood Missionary and Okmulgee, www.carpenterbus.com ClearView are now affliated with Oklahoma Baptists.

CHURCH STAFF CHANGES ROBERT JACOBSON has resigned as pastor of Faxon, First.

COMING EVENTS for research to evaluate online discipleship program.* JULY 23-24. Claremore, Washington will celebrate 100 years, July 23-24.

A concert featuring Charles Graham will be 6 p.m. on July 23. A centennial TOPICS INCLUDE: service will be 10 a.m. on July 24. Call 918/341-5196 for more information.

•What is life’s purpose?

JULY 24-29. East Central Association is sponsoring the Up with Je•Is the Bible credible? sus Crusade at Stilwell High School. The crusade speaker will be Lee •Where is God? Brand, 2021 first vice president of the Southern Baptist Convention.

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>> PHOTOS: BOB NIGH

Henryetta, Salem celebrates 80 years

1) Tommy Fowler, left, presents Henryetta, Salem Pastor Scott Wolf with a certificate from the Oklahoma Baptist Historical Commission. The church recently commemorated its 80th anniversary. Fowler is a former member of the church; 2) Fowler also presented a certificate to his mom, Pat Fowler, the church’s eldest member.

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.

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Stilwell, First celebrates 125 years

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Pastor Scott Latta and his wife, Chastity, greet Betty Keeter during Stilwell, First’s 125th anniversary celebration on June 5. Mrs. Keeter, center, has been a member of the church since May 30, 1943. The Oklahoma Baptist Historical Commission presented the church with a special certificate in recognition of the landmark.

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People & Church News | July 14, 2022 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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6 reasons we’re often surprised DS CLASSIFIE when God answers our prayer

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>> PHOTO: PATRICK FORE

it’s in the Bible. We talk about it. We read about it (though not enough, as #1 shows us). We hear sermons about it. We might even write about it but still battle unbelief.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following article was Prayer demands faith, and faith is somepreviously featured on chucklawless.com. times hard—and we’re pleasantly surprised when God responds.

The early church had been praying for 4. We’ve prayed prayers—somePeter’s release from prison, yet they were times for a long time—God hasn’t ansurprised when God actually responded swered yet, and the delay hits at our (Acts 12:1-17). The story would be comical if faith. I suspect that the longer we wait for it didn’t so clearly describe us, too. It hap- an answer, and the deeper the need that pened to me, in fact, this week—God an- evoked the prayer, the harder it is to keep swered a long-term prayer, and I was as- trusting that God’s listening. We cling to tounded. Here are some reasons we’re what seems to be diminishing hope—and sometimes surprised when God answers when God comes through, we have not our prayers: been expecting it.

1. We haven’t studied enough of the Bi5. We know our hearts—and we know ble’s stories of answered prayer. God’s al- we’re hardly perfect. Perfection is not a ways been a prayer-answering God. In the requirement for answered prayer, but obescriptures He answered prayers for Abra- dience does matter if we expect God to ham, Moses, Joshua, Hannah, David, Jere- listen (Isa 59:1-2, Psa 66:18). We’re still sinmiah, Isaiah, Hezekiah, Jesus, Paul, and so ful people, however, so we wonder if God many others. When we don’t know the sto- will respond to us. When He does respond, ries, though, we don’t always expect God to we’re surprised. hear us.

6. We don’t always hear of answered 2. We fail to consider the incredible prayers even when God does answer.

T H Eof us are guilty here. Even when God O MMost F Rto truth that God welcomes us coming G our requests, we’re not B LOmeet E R Sindeed His throne boldly (Heb. 4:16). He WANTS S L I N Gdoes D R O W us to come to Him. He’s a good, good Father inclined to let others know of His gracious who wants to give us good gifts for His glo- response. Churches do the same thing ry and our good. Indeed, He gave Himself to when they publish a prayer request list but us that we might have a genuine relation- never update the congregation when God ship with Him! When we forget these truths, answers a prayer. We never hear these testiGod’s answers to our prayers might catch us monies—so it sometimes surprises us when YS off guard. in our lives.

S Aintervenes E God V A D 3. We struggle believing prayer works.

May God help us to be amazed—not surWe know prayer matters because we know prised—when He answers our prayers! >> by Chuck Lawless

SOUTHEASTERN SEMINARY DEAN OF DOCTORAL STUDIES, CHUCKLAWLESS.COM

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

O K L AH O M A BAP T I S T S’ AFFI LI AT E S

Affiliated ministries of Oklahoma Baptists include Baptist Village Communities, Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children, Oklahoma Baptist University and WatersEdge. Visit the following website to know more: oklahomabaptists.org/affiliates

2022 CO O PE R AT I V E PR O G R A M B U D G E T Visit the main page of the Oklahoma Baptists website to download a slide or a poster of the convention’s 2022 Cooperative Program budget. oklahomabaptists.org

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

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July 14, 2022 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | Church Toolbox

Nothing screams summer like A a big, watermelon!

Y Sjuicy N UA L S N E A V A D According to the USDA Economic Research Service, more O NF T I NinGtheIU.S. than 100,000 acres of watermelons E Egrown Mwere in 2020, producing 38 million pounds.

Each year, hundreds anticipate the second Saturday of August, so they can make the trek to the watermelon capital of Oklahoma and celebrate the RushSSprings WaB A P T I SofT the festival is A highlights termelon Festival.

H OofMthe O K L AOne T L I GHexperienced the seed spitting contest.

If H you’ve it, IG Hnever E C R U O S E R you’re really missing out! It’s funny.

Watermelons grow prolifically in Oklahoma, and there are many varieties to choose from. They are comprised of 90-92 percent water (thus the name), so if you want a good crop, consistent watering is essential. Like most cucurbits that do not like to be disturbed by transplanting, watermelons are best started from seed and planted in a compost rich, sandy loam area with plenty of room to spread. They are heavy feeders so monitoring their nutrients throughout the growing season is important.

In the 1990s, commercial growers introduced seedless watermelons to consumers, and since that time approximately 92 percent of all watermelon sales come from seedless melons. Whether its watermelons, grapes or other foods I’ve always been fascinated with the desire for a seedless option.

To read the rest of Lori’s blog visit, baptistmessenger.com/blog-within-the-tiniest-seed RO M T H E

F 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 SELL THE CARS, KEEP YOUR DIGNITY Dear Dave, ISTS BAPT A M My wife and IK are in H our late twenties, and O A L O HT we have two kids. Our combined about IG H LisI G E Hincome C R U O S E R $110,000 a year, but we have $70,000 in loans on two cars, plus about $15,000 in credit card debt. My in-laws have offered to let us move in with them to save money and make things easier while we pay down debt. Do you think this is a good idea? —Adam Dear Adam, In my mind there are only two scenarios where you should even consider taking the in-laws up on their offer. One, is where they’re absolutely wonderful folks and you both have great, healthy relationships with them. By this, I mean there’s a mutual sense of love, respect and everyone knows their boundaries. Even if this is the case, I’d still only consider it for an agreed-upon and very small amount of time.

The second scenario is if taking them up on their offer is the only way you two can accomplish your financial goals. That’s not the case here.

You and your wife can get rid of most of your debt, and take a big step toward gaining control of your income, if you’ll do one thing— get rid of those cars! That’s an insane amount of money wrapped up in cars for you two. If you had a couple of decent, paid-for used cars your lives would be so much different. You’d be in a situation where you could even start putting a little money aside while you paid off the credit card debt. Then, once the credit card debt is gone, you’d have some cash freed up to find better cars.

If I were in your situation, I wouldn’t move in with the in-laws.

I’m sure they’re great people, but I’d keep my dignity and sell the cars, start living on a budget and pay off debt as fast as possible!

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

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Rate: $25.00 flat rate per ad • Deadline: Two weeks prior to publication. Submit a classified ad at www.baptistmessenger.com/advertise on the Classifieds Form desires to see them grow in their relationship with Christ. Send resumes to: mail@whbcok.org or Woodland Hills BC, 313 S Hwy. 76, Newcastle, OK 73065.

CLASSIFIEDS COLOR KEY: PA S TOR YOUTH MUS I C

VOICES

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>>F/T CHILDREN’S MINISTER: FBC Ponca City is looking to expand its F/T Ministry Team. We believe Jesus’ words in Luke 18:16-17 are not a suggestion. We want to invest our resources to help kids meet & follow Jesus. If that resonates, send a resume to: kids@fbcponca.org.

>>BI/VO OR P/T WORSHIP MINISTER: Seeking God’s candidate for our next blended service Worship Minister. Please submit resume & cover letter to: cbcbamusic@gmail.com or Clearview Baptist Church, P.O. Box 140892, Broken Arrow, OK 74014.

>>BI/VO PASTOR: Is needed for Galey Baptist Church. Galey is a friendly, country church. Please send resume to: DMount.quiver@gmail.com.

>>P/T YOUTH MINISTER: New Hope Baptist Church, 1501 N. 43rd St. E., Muskogee, OK 74403 is prayerfully seeking a P/T Youth Minister to lead & disciple youth 6th - 12th grades. Send resumes to above address or email to: NHBC2022YouthMinister@gmail.com.

>>F/T OR BI/VO PASTOR: Oney Baptist Church is prayerfully seeking a Pastor to lead our small, country church. 3 bed, 2 bath parsonage. Please send resumes to: Oney Baptist Church, P.O. box 147, Albert, OK. 73001. Or Email to: gregory.darrel@yahoo.com.

>>P/T MUSIC MINISTER: New Hope Baptist Church, 1501 N. 43rd St. E., Muskogee, OK 74403. Prayerfully seeking P/T Music Minister. Send resume to above addressoremailto:NHBC2022MusicMinister@gmail.com.

>>BI/VO PASTOR: FBC of St. Louis, OK is receiving resumes for God-called, BI/VO Pastor. We are a healthy, stable SBC church. Please send resume to: FBC, P.O. Box 147, St. Louis, OK 74866 or email to: stlouisokfbc@gmail.com.

>>F/T or BI/VO PASTOR: Mary Niblack Road Baptist Church, Ardmore, OK is prayerfully seeking a F/T or BI/VO Pastor. Please send resume to: maryniblackroad@gmail.com.

>>F/T ASSOCIATE PASTOR: FBC Frederick is prayerfully searching for a F/T Associate Pastor of Worship & Family Discipleship.

Please send resumes to: fbcfrederick@pldi.net.

>>F/T YOUTH MINISTER: Jay FBC is seeking a F/T Youth Minister who has a call & passion for ministering to youth. Please email to: fbcjay@yahoo.com or mail to: P.O. Box 304, Jay, OK 74346.

>>P/T YOUTH MINISTER: Duke FBC is prayerfully seeking a P/T Youth Minister who is passionate about God & serving youth. Please send resume or inquiries to: fbcduke@swoi.net.

>>BI/VO OR P/T WORSHIP MINISTER: Seeking God’s candidate for our next blended service Worship Minister. Please submit resume to: gjhg316@aol.com or Oakridge Search Committee, 6103 S. 44th W. Ave., Tulsa, OK 74132.

>>F/T PASTOR: FBC Tecumseh, OK is prayerfully seeking a F/T Senior Pastor. Please see a job description/qualifications & information on how to apply on our website: www.fbctecumseh.org/.

>>BI/VO OR P/T YOUTH MINISTER: Oakridge Baptist is prayerfully seeking a Youth Minister. Please submit resume to: gjhg316@aol.com or Oakridge Baptist Church, 6103 S. 44th W. Ave., Tulsa, OK 74132.

>>P/T ASSOCIATE PASTOR: New Bethel Baptist Church in Byng, OK is seeking a P/T Associate Pastor to spearhead the growth of the young couples segment as well as other duties. Text Jerry at: (580) 399-3623 or send resume to: NBBC, P.O. Box 945, Ada, OK 74820.

>>CHILDREN’S & FAMILY PASTOR: FBC Crescent is prayerfully seeking a Children’s & Family Pastor to love & serve the Crescent community. Parsonage is provided. Please send resumes to: P.O. Box 196, Crescent, OK 73028 or email to: FBCCrescent@aol.com.

>>BI/VO PASTOR: Squaretop Baptist of Anadarko, OK is a small, rural church that is prayerfully seeking a Bible believing BI/VO Pastor with a heart for God & Family. Please send resume to: squaretop.baptist@gmail.com or call: (405) 933-0698.

>>BI/VO PASTOR: Rural east Norman congregation seeks a BI/VO Bible preaching, man of God to lead us.

We are a small unified church with a big vision & a heart for the Lord. 84th & Hwy 9. Kim Vance (405) 397-7884.

Email resume to: randkvance217@sbcglobal.net.

>>EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Ministries of Jesus Executive Director. Provides daily leadership, management & decision making. Ensures successful implementation of MOJ mission/vision.

Leads in fundraising & participates with the Board in developing strategies. Email: jhill@moj.com.

>>BI/VO PASTOR: Twin Oaks Baptist Church Wagoner, OK, prayerfully seeking BI/VO Pastor. We are a small lake church with a desire to serve God. Seeking Bible preaching, Christ follower. Please send resume to: Wagonertwinoaksbc@yahoo.com.

>>F/T PASTOR: Bethel Baptist Church of Anadarko, OK is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Candidates should email a resume to: scot.gpglass@att.net or mail to: Bethel Baptist Church, Attn. Pastor Search Committee, 501 W. Florida, Anadarko OK 73005.

>>BI/VO PASTOR: Richville Baptist Church, small Baptist Church east of McAlester, OK is prayerfully seeking a BI/VO PASTOR. Please submit resumes to: Richville Baptist Church, P.O. Box 1538, Krebs, OK 74554.

>>F/T PASTOR: Blackgum, FBC Vian, OK is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Interested candidates should email a cover letter & resume to: BlackgumBaptistresume@gmail.com.

>>F/T YOUTH MINISTER: Woodland Hills BC is seeking a F/T Youth Minister who loves young people &

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ACROSS

1 Arbiter 37 Fashions 4 Keyboard key out next of to “!”

38 “The ___ the wood” 9 Elicit (Ps. 80:13) 14 Legume 39 Coupe 15 Regions 40 “___ ye for me” (Est. 4:16) 16 Withered 41 “Planteth an ___, and the rain dothwas nourish it” (Isa. 17 David Jonathan’s ___ 44:14) 42 “Upon a pavement of ___, and blue” (Est. 1:6) 43 Nix 45 Behind 46 “Many of the ___. . .became Jews” (Est. 8:17) 48 Not moral nor immoral

>>P/T OR BI/VO MUSIC MINISTER: Meeker FBC is in search of a P/T or BI/VO Music Minister. The current position is for Sunday AM service. Please submit resumes to: mfbcmusicsearch@gmail. com or mail to: Meeker FBC, P.O. Box 300, Meeker, OK 74855. ATTN: Music Search Committee. >>F/T SENIOR PASTOR: FBC Jay is accepting resumes for a F/T Senior Pastor. Please email resumes to: fbcjay@yahoo.com or mail to: P.O. Box 304 Jay, OK 74346. Attn: Pastor Research Committee. >>P/T MUSIC MINISTER/YOUTH MINISTER: Union Valley Baptist in Cookietown, OK is seeking a P/T Music Minister & a Youth Minster. If you feel God calling you to serve as either the Music Minister or Youth Minister, or both, please send resume to: cboydston547@gmail.com.

18 Jews were allowed to ___

9:2) 52(Est. “Wherefore they called these days 19___” “Duke (Est. Aholibamah, 9:26) duke Elah, duke ___” Chron. 1:52) 56(1“Whose heart is snares and ___” 20(Eccl.

Acts out7:26) Haman wanted to ___ Mordecai (Est. 6:4) 5722Ale Costathe ___ 5824“To king ___” (Est. 1:16) 5925Not in Esther “Theymentioned have taken gifts to ___ blood” (Ezek.

60 “___ it was chewed” (Num. 11:33) 61 Map direction 63 God’s name is ___ (Ps. 111:9) (abbr.)

64 Cain’s mother

>>F/T PASTOR: Spring Baptist Church of Sasakwa, OK is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Send resumes to: Pastor Search Committee, P.O. Box 51, Sasakwa, OK 74867.

A N N UA L ING INFO M EFBCE T PASTOR: of Canton, a small rural

>>F/T church in northwest Oklahoma, is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Parsonage, utilities & competitive compensation package provided. Email resume: cantonfbcpastorsearch@gmail.com.

>> F/T OR BI/VO PASTOR: FBC Ryan is seeking a F/T or BI/VO Pastor. Parsonage is provided. Please send cover letter & resume to fbcryan1@gmail.com or to Pastor Search Committee, P.O. Box 519, Ryan, OK 73565. >>F/T YOUTH/COLLEGE MINISTER: FBC in Grove, OK. This is a F/T position with paid health insurance. Grove is located in NE Oklahoma on Grand Lake. Applicants can email a cover letter & resume to: grovefbc@gmail.com.

>>P/T YOUTH MINISTER: Soldier Creek Baptist Church is prayerfully seeking a P/T Youth Minister to lead & disciple our youth group, 6th – 12th grades.

Please send resumes to: soldiercreek@soldiercreek.org.

>>SENIOR PASTOR: Voca Baptist Church in Caney, OK, a rural church of 60-80 people, is seeking a Senior Pastor to lead us in reaching out to a community “white unto harvest”. Email: larrywhite556@gmail.com for detail job description or to send resume with cover letter.

>>F/T YOUTH MINISTER: North Pointe BC, in Edmond (Deer Creek School District), is actively interviewing candidates to lead our small group driven student ministry. Applicants can send a resume & cover letter to: searchteam@northpointe.tv.

>>F/T PASTOR: Eastside Baptist Church in Elk City, OK is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. A parsonage is provided. Candidates should submit a cover letter & resume to: eastsidesec@ outlook.com Attn: Pastor Search Committee.

>>F/T YOUTH MINISTER: FBC Prague, OK is searching for a F/T Youth Minister. Please send resumes to: fbcpyouthsearchcommittee@gmail.com or ATTN: Youth Search Committee, 1500 Bluebell Rd., Prague, OK 74864.

>>F/T FAMILY/STUDENT PASTOR: Associate Pastor of Families with a primary emphasis on Student Ministry. FBC, Mannford, OK. For a job description, inquiries or to submit a resume, please email: fbcmannford@cimtel.net.

>>F/T PASTOR: FBC Hollis is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Parsonage is provided. Please send resumes to: FBC, P.O. Box 589, Hollis, OK 73550 or fbchollis@pldi.net. >>F/T CHILDREN’S PASTOR/DIRECTOR: We are looking for an individual who can help lead our children’s ministry. Detailed info visit https://fbcsapulpa.com/ministry-openings. Send resume to: jamie@fbcsapulpa.com. >>P/T WORSHIP LEADER: FBC, Noble prayerfully seeking Sunday morning Worship Leader. Interested applicants email resume to: stbrasier@aol.com. >>F/T MUSIC MINISTER: South Tulsa Baptist Church is searching for a F/T Music Minister who can lead contemporary & traditional music for all generations. For the job posting & more information, email: pwhite@southtulsa.org. >>F/T PASTOR: FBC Rosedale is prayerfully seeking God’s will. Please send resumes to: 37740 Arkansas Ave, Rosedale, OK 74831 or tracy100@windstream.net. >>BI/VO PASTOR: FBC Roosevelt is searching for a BI/VO Pastor. We have a vacancy for a minister who will challenge & inspire us. Please send resume to: rooseveltfbc@swoi.net or mail to: First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 218, Roosevelt, OK 73564.

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>>BI/VO PASTOR: Spavinaw FBC is now accepting resumes for BI/VO Pastor. Send Resumes to: First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 235, Spavinaw, OK 74366 or email to: fbcspavinaw@gmail.com.

>>F/T WORSHIP PASTOR: Associate Pastor of Worship/Media. FBC, Mannford, OK. For job description, inquiries or to submit a resume email: fbcmannford@cimtel.net.

MIS CEL L A NEO US >>CABIN FOR SALE: Falls Creek Cabin for sale. Cabin has capacity for 25. One side has 11 beds, other side 14. Each side has showers, sinks & toilets. Cabin has a large covered porch. If interested, please call & leave a message or text Mark (405) 756-0966. >>VAN FOR SALE: 15 Passenger, 2005 White Chevrolet G-3500 Express Van, 54,435 miles, 6.0 L V8 engine. Runs well, but van has areas that need paint and it needs a catalytic converter. $4,000. Contact Sam Marvin (405) 677-2640. >>BOOK/CONSULTING: Building a practical church safety organization? Intentional Church Safety by Bevan Collins, 2022 now available from Amazon.com. www. intentionalchurchsafety.com. The author is available for free presentations (NE OK) & additional consulting.

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22:12) 27 Haman ended up with ___ 31 “If thou wouldest ___ unto God betimes” (Job 8:5) 32 “There came a grievous ___ of flies” (Ex. 8:24) 33 Tweak 34 Notions 36 Sugar-free brand 38 East Indian tree 40 Esther’s people ____ (Est. 4:16) 42 Cheek make up 43 Haman was a ___ man 44 “Neither ___ nor drink three days” (Est. 4:16) 45 Imitative 47 “They ___ the beams thereof” (Neh. 3:6) 51 “My doctrine shall ___ as the rain” (Deut.

32:2) 53 “Even darkness which may be ___” (Ex. 10:21) 54 Austen book 55 “As Mordecai had written ___ them” (Est. 9:23) 57 “I have given my maid into thy ___” (Gen. 16:5) (pl.)

59 Literary composition category 62 Clean 65 Furrow 66 God put planets into ___ 67 Flat 68 “Their laws ___ diverse from all” (Est. 3:8) 69 Thinks 70 “Kept throughout ___ generation” (Est. 9:28)

it” (Isa. 44:14) 42 “Upon a pavement of ___, and blue” (Est. 1:6) 43 Nix DOWN 45 Behind 1 Drug type 46 “Many of the ___. . .became Jews” (Est. 2 Unkind person 1 Chronicles 8:17) Sarah Lagerquist Simmons 3 Esther lived in the ___ 48 Not moral norDimmoral 4 27th U.S. president W R A P C R A B A L PO EGA S CR Y F ORE 49 5 Eye partE V E N W H I R R H I V E C Put A Rbehind L O bars AM I NO HU E T Dared WE E T V I N YL A L A E N R (Isa. A C 47:2) K O A PED 50 6 “Make Tbare theT___” GN P H E I R O F F E R AR T I F I C E PA PE RS 52 “Wherefore these 7 Telegraphic signal M E Lthey D called HAM M Edays R S___” C ASK PH I L (Est. D I 9:26) S ARM BE F OG 8 BraveryP saved herSpeople R I E T DU E L I S T A “Whose B YSS R A and N ___” S A T(Eccl. 7:26) Lchannel ORD S T AR T NOOK 56 heart is Isnares 9 SportsA R I N K C ED AR H UGH L I AV E F AN 57 Ale 10 Condescend, as to men of low estate (Rom. E SC LORD BOG I E NE ST P L I ED R I SE E A ___” M Y (Est. I R V I N E 58 “To theS king 1:16) 12:16) S H E L L E D I D E A T E C AN T A T A T R EE S EA S SN I P 59 Not mentioned in Esther 11 Vase C H A T T Y J U G G L I N G OBE YS U RS A C PA 60 was 11:33) M “___ A R it H O chewed” U S E (Num. SCO R N 12 Executive Y O director G I A SA PH I D EA A C V E A S S A sea U Leagle COV EY COR P 61 Map direction E S T A L O N 13 European S K Y S T AR S N AME T R AY T SAR A LOE 63 God’s name is ___ (Ps. 111:9) (abbr.)

21 Encrusting Puzzle 25: 1 Chronicles 64 Cain’sPuzzle mother26: 2 Chronicles Ezra 23 Naval rank (abbr.)

Sarah Lagerquist Simmons 25 “The ___, and the pelican” SE BS SC A L P H I T A S P PR E A T E (Lev. 11:18) T U L I P A L D E R ON E S HE BA OU R MA NOR 26 God ___ all Rknowledge AR I S E KA ZOO U SA HOA D OBS A L T A R BO P OB EY POS ES 28 Wager E L I J A H T U R B I D O PU S AT H L E T E M U G___ S I A 29 In the end, Haman SE PA L S AC HED T E N S O L OM O N L OW 30 Mammal A ZU R E D KG MEA T H E created A R T onAsixth L Iday A C U T E A T S G H ST TO I L R O A R T Y D I M A C H E 32 “King Ahasuerus laud a tribute upon. . .the R A T BR AN PRO NE N I T ER E VE E D ___” (Est. 10:1) I G N E O U SP L DI R F L I NG GEORGE K E Y S SM I L I NG L OR D 35 Imbue NB A N EB AC S C YRU S GODS G RofABible B B(abbr.)

Y DOUA L A 36 17th Abook A L A T A B OO I G L OO L AMO E S E DR ES S 37 Fashions MA T EX A L T A I MED S EV EN A PE O F F E R PR E R EN D S N AD A E Eout of theRwood” AM T A I 38 “The L___ (Ps. 80:13) Puzzle 27: 2 Chronicles Nehemiah Esther Puzzle 28: Ezra JUNESarah 23 ANSWERS Sarah Lagerquist Simmons Lagerquist Simmons 39 Coupe 40 “___AyeCforT me”W(Est. T S T A T US A T4:16) UMP T I L D E EDU C E W O an E ___, I A W Hdoth O Onourish SH A Rand P EA AR E AS SER ER 41 “Planteth the rain 71 “He ___ them with a cloud” (Ps. 78:14)

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Recommendations sought for Oklahoma L A N N U Acommittees Baptists’ boards, TING INFO

The Nominating Committee of the convention of Oklahoma Baptists invites Oklahoma Baptists from across the state to recommend persons to serve on the various boards and committees. The committee’s nominations will be presented to messengers at the Annual Meeting of Oklahoma Baptists to be held Nov. 14-15, at Mustang, First.

It is important that consistent information be available for all recommendations. The recommendation form printed with this article may be copied. Accurate completion of the form is requested for each name submitted. Those sending names for consideration may contact any member of the committee; however, recommendation forms must be received by the Nominating Committee no later than Aug. 1. The electronic form can be completed online at oklahomabaptists.org, or the printed form may be mailed to the Nominating Committee, Baptist Building, 3800 North May Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73112-6506, or faxed to 405/942-1339.

Committee members are Brian Waddell, chairman; Nathan Anderson, Jon Bawden, Josh Boles, Sandy Dershem, Tim Green, Brian Hamar, David Hooks, Kent Jaggers, Anita Jones, Cheryl Maloney, Aaron Myers, Aaron Reed, Luis Ruiz, Carole Whitley.

Potential directors and trustees should have a personal history of effort and experience in Christian causes and an interest in promoting the objectives of the organizations to which they are recommended. Knowledge and ability in business are beneficial characteristics for nominees for each board. All board positions are for 3-year terms ex-

M E Enoted. Following are the vacancept as otherwise cies to be filled: Board of Directors of Oklahoma Baptists will have 20 positions on the 60-member board to be filled from 12 associations; all three-year terms. Six three-year At-large positions will be filled. One new director must be a layman. At least one position is open in each of the following associational areas: Arbuckle, Atoka-Coal, Bryan, Capital, Cherokee Strip, East Central, Grady, Kay, Leflore, Muskogee, Union, and Western Oklahoma. To comply with convention bylaws, the number of directors elected from specific associational areas will vary as the resident membership fluctuates, and the number of At-large members will change accordingly from year to year. The constitution specifies that there are to be no fewer than 16 persons who are not ordained ministers of the Gospel serving on the board, including at least eight women and at least eight men.

Board of Directors for Baptist Village Communities of Oklahoma will have seven positions open for recommendation on the 21-member board; all 3-year terms. Three new board members must be ordained or serving in a church-related vocation.

BVC bylaws stipulate that the board shall be geographically representative of the state.

Board of Trustees for Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children will have openings for eight members on the 24-member board; all 3-year terms. To conform to OBHC bylaws, six new directors must be laypersons and two must be ordained ministers or minister’s spouse. There are no geographical requirements, but a geographical balance is desirable.

Board of Trustees for Oklahoma Baptist University will have ten vacancies on the 30-member board; all 3-year terms. Five of the ten new trustees must be laypersons and five must be selected from among the professional clergy (pastors, church staff, directors of missions, etc.) or their spouses. The committee seeks to maintain a balance of members from all areas of the state; however, there are no requirements regarding geographical locations.

Board of Directors for WatersEdge (formerly The Baptist Foundation of Oklahoma) will have six vacancies on the 18-member board; all 3-year terms. To fulfill bylaw specifications, four of the new directors must be laypersons, of which two shall be women. There are no geographical requirements, but a geographical balance is desirable.

Convention Committees: Nominees from all areas of the state are eligible to serve on Convention committees. The Audit Committee will have three vacancies; all 3-year terms. One must be a past convention officer and two must be CPAs. To comply with the committee’s charter, members must meet the following criteria: 1) member of the clergy who is a recent past officer of the Convention; or 2) certified by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, who are experienced in finance, accounting, and/or knowledgeable of tax and regulatory requirements; or 3) must have senior corporate management experience including finance or accounting, or other comparable experience or background. The following positions will also be open: three 3-year terms on the Ethics & Religious Liberty Committee; and three 3-year terms on the Historical Commission.

RECOMMENDATIONS TO COMMITTEE ON NOMINATIONS Any member of an Oklahoma Baptist church is invited to use this form to submit recommendations. The electronic form can be filled out online at oklahomabaptists.org/annual-meeting, or the printed form may be mailed to the Nominating Committee, Baptist Building, 3800 North May, Oklahoma City, OK 73112-6506, or faxed to 405/942-1339.

Recommendations must be received by Aug. 1 Believing this person to be personally committed to the Lordship of Jesus Christ and to the missionary endeavors of Oklahoma Baptists, I recommend: 1. Title: Dr. Rev. Mr. Mrs. Miss 2. Name: 3. Address: City: Zip: 4. Home/Cell Phone: Work Phone: 5. Email address: 6. Approximate age: Male: Female: 7. Occupation: 8. Ordained Minister: Yes No 9. Church membership: 10. City/town where church is located: 11. Association: 12. Involvement in local church: (1) Frequency of attendance (2) Major activity in church (3) Supportive of Cooperative Program

In church:

In convention:

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13. Involvement and work within association:

14. Prior service on state boards and committees:

Check the board, commission, committee or office on which you believe this person could best serve: Board of Directors, Oklahoma Baptists Board of Directors, Baptist Village Communities Board of Directors, WatersEdge (The Baptist Foundation of Oklahoma) Board of Trustees, Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children Board of Trustees, Oklahoma Baptist University Audit Committee Ethics & Religious Liberty Committee Historical Commission Please understand that your recommendation does not assure the person you are suggesting will be presented by the Nominating Committee to the state convention. However, your recommendation will be given serious consideration.

Name:

(Person making recommendation)

Mailing address:

Daytime telephone: Date:

July 14, 2022 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | News & Culture