2021/May/13

Informing and Inspiring Oklahoma Baptists Since 1912

BAPTISTMESSENGER.COM • MAY 13, 2021

SOUTHERN BAPTISTS BAPTISTS ANTICIPATE ANTICIPATE SBC SBC SOUTHERN ANNUAL MEETING, MEETING, SEND SEND CONFERENCE CONFERENCE ANNUAL /// SEE PAGE 6

CO N T E N T S : Page 2 | News & Trends Falls Creek preview: Equipping for every good work >> TODD SANDERS

Encourage: Pray for 3,000 professions of faith at Falls Creek

OBU Prison Divinity Program brings inmates hope, purpose

Rewired reappears at Falls Creek

>> HANCE DILBECK

>> CHRIS FORBES

Oklahoma Baptists, let’s ask God for 3,000 students to be saved at Falls Creek this summer.

The Bible consistently challenges us to ask. Jesus said, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you” (Matt.

7:7). Asking expresses our humility and our faith in God. Asking also clarifies the desires of our hearts. What do we want the Lord to do for us? Let’s ask Him.

LEXINGTON—Forty men at the Lexington Correctional Center are enrolled in a study course that is bringing hope and a sense of mission. They began a new degree program aimed at equipping inmates for ministry inside the walls of Oklahoma prisons.

The Prison Divinity Program (PDP) offered through Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU) is a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies.

DAVIS—Falls Creek Conference Center hosted the Rewired Men’s Conference, April 24, after a one-year absence due to the COVID-19 pandemic causing a cancellation in 2020. The usual two-day weekend event met just for a day, but the nearly 700 men in attendance exceeded expectations.

Rewired also reported 386 digital passes were purchased, which allowed men to gather in other locations to watch Rewired programming.

/// SEE PAGE 3

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>> CHRIS DOYLE

Page 3 | Voices Sword & Trowel: Equality Act & religious liberty >> BRIAN HOBBS

Page 4 | Gospel Ministry Rite of Passage: Prepare your children for self-reliance >> WALKER MOORE

Page 5 | Missions & Ministry CrossTimbers 2021 set for Gospel impact >> STAFF

Page 10 | Church Toolbox 12 things a church should know about its pastor >> CHUCK LAWLESS

Page 12 | News & Culture Q&A: Pastor perspectives ‘The Black Church’—Part 2 >> STAFF

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Todd Sanders Falls Creek Program Director Oklahoma Baptists’ Youth Ministry Partner @toddasanders

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Tim. 3:16-17).

Many people have stories of significant, life-altering moments associated with a week of camp at Falls Creek. It is a beautiful thing to see the Holy Spirit touch hearts, change lives, save souls and grow people in Christlikeness.

Life transformation and spiritual growth have always been, and continue to be, primary aims of Falls Creek Youth Camp. Investment opportunities to deepen faith abound in the numerous options available to students and leaders while on grounds.

The daily schedule provides times of solitude, group Bible study, corporate worship and study, prayer emphases and equipping opportunities.

Student breakouts and growth opportunities cover subject matter in three areas—spiritual life and disciplines, life application and current cultural topics. These targeted sessions range in topic from basic discipleship for new believers and preparation for emerging ministry leaders to bibliO N L I N EEBreakcal overviews and leadership N E W development.

E CONT NT outs, which are ever-growing EB-EXCLUSinIVpopularity with W campers, reinforce spiritual disciplines and provide an environment for maturity.

In addition to breakouts, churches receive daily content centered on the summer theme. Content is offered in a number of formats to help suit the needs in engaging their group in spiritual develop-

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tunities to deepen faith—including times of solitude in the Word ; 2) students at Falls Creek have access to learn about many mission opportunities.

ment. This year at Falls Creek, youth will explore the character and S Enature VOIC of God by looking at God’s Glory. While exploring Rom. 11:33-36, students will study the depth, sufficiency and eternality of God. In addition with the traditional, spiritual anchors of daily corporate worship services and morning Bible studies, missions education and mobilization provide even more moments of growth for students and adults. Three mission venues provide information and immediate obedience opportunities. Summer staffers at these venues connect with students to pray for the nations and help students consider how the Lord might use them to advance the Gospel around the world—here, near and far.

Students also have access to representatives from the International Mission Board and North American Mission Board to hear about longer-term and perhaps even career mission opportunities

Oklahoma Baptists Board of Directors Meeting

MAY 22-23

Oklahoma Student Worship Choir Ministry Weekend Info: May 22, 8 a.m.May 23, 5 p.m.

Guymon, Grace Southern oklahomabaptists.org/ student-worship

Info: Baptist Building

MAY 29

Native American Leadership Team Meeting

Info: Baptist Building; contact 405-942-3800 Ext. 4517

MAY 30-JUNE 5

Associational Children’s Camp Info: Falls Creek Conference Center; accok.org

MAY 31

Memorial Day

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

OBU announces return to normal operations for Fall 2021 KENNY DAY | MAY 3

Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU) will return to normal campus operations beginning June 1 for the summer and upcoming fall 2021 semesters, OBU announced April 30. With the announcement, OBU signaled the end of altered campus operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The announcement includes a return to the traditional fall schedule, with classes beginning Aug. 19 and Welcome Week kicking off Aug. 14 on move-in day.

PUBLICATIO

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EVENTS

Dilbeck to be named among 2021 Southwestern Seminary distinguished alumni ALEX SIBLEY | MAY 4

Roy J. Fish, Thomas J. Nettles, and D. Hance Dilbeck will be recognized as distinguished alumni of Southwestern Seminary at the seminary’s Alumni and Friends Luncheon during the Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting in Nashville, Tenn., on June 16.

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

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N E W O NE CONTENT

WEB-EXCLU

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Disaster Relief Training

Info: $20, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Okarche Training Facility okdisasterhelp.org

through Southern Baptist mission entities. As always, mission-sending receives a significant spotlight at Falls Creek.

Students are not the only benefactors of development opportunities at camp. Adults can even get into the spiritual growth conversation as they are able to engage in prayer, practical training and spiritual encouragement each week. This weekly adult leadership investment is another example of the great attention given to develop people spiritually at Falls Creek.

What a privilege, as Oklahoma Baptists, to see God call people to salvation, obedience and ministry service year after year. What a blessing to be part of the continuing work God does during Falls Creek Youth Camp. Pray for the summer of 2021.

Ask God for earthly and eternal impact through the many spiritual growth opportunities NE L Iprovided.

NE N E W O NELCIONTENT

MAY 25

DR-Equipment and CPR Training

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>> PHOTO: MESSENGER ARCHIVES 1) Falls Creek Youth Camp offers numerous oppor-

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Info: $15, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Muskogee, Southeast okdisasterhelp.org

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May 13, 2021 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | News & Trends

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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: 41,714. 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. May 13, 2021 • Volume 110, Number 9.

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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

VOICES

Encourage: Pray for 3,000 professions of faith at Falls Creek Hance Dilbeck Oklahoma Baptists’ Executive Director-Treasurer @Hance_Dilbeck

Oklahoma Baptists, let’s ask God for 3,000 students to be saved at Falls Creek this summer.

The Bible consistently challenges us to ask. Jesus said, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you” (Matt. 7:7).

Asking expresses our humility and our faith in God. Asking also clarifies the desires of our hearts. What do we want the Lord to do for us? Let’s ask Him. Todd Sanders is the program director for the eight weeks of youth summer camp at Falls Creek. He recently wrote, “Nothing eternally good or worthwhile happens in life, and certainly not through the ministry of Falls Creek Youth Camp, without the moving of the Holy Spirit.” We need to hit our knees this spring and ask for an extraordinary move of the Holy Spirit at Falls Creek in the summer of 2021. Father, give us 3,000 professions of faith!

It was heartbreaking—gut wrenching— to see the summer of 2020 pass without Falls Creek Youth Camps. The Lord’s work in those eight weeks of camp impacts the lives of students in ways that bears fruit around the world and strengthens our churches for a generation. Would our Father give us now an extraordinarily fruitful summer to follow the “drought” of 2020?

Southern Baptists are striving to turn a corner when it comes to baptizing teenagers. Across our nation, we have seen a disappointing decline in the number of 12 to 17 year olds coming to faith in Jesus Christ. More than half of our churches go year after year without baptizing a single student.

Would God begin a fresh new student revival this summer at Falls Creek? Our Falls Creek Summer Youth Camps could lead the way in the turnaround of this decline. Let’s ask God for 3,000 life-changing encounters with Christ at Falls Creek this summer!

On Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings, in private devotions and public worship, in prayer rooms, at church altars and on the way to work—let’s ask Him. Let’s keep on asking. I believe our Heavenly Father will delight to give us this good gift.

Oklahoma Baptists, let’s ask God for 3,000 students to be saved at Falls Creek this summer.

Father, we ask you to exalt the Name of Jesus as Your Holy Spirit moves with power to draw 3,000 students to profess their faith in Jesus this summer at Falls Creek. Bless the preaching of Your Word, bring a clear strong Gospel invitation night after night, move with power in each cabin and conversation. Use the preachers, youth pastors, sponsors, cooks, staff and even students to bring lost teenagers to a saving knowledge of Jesus. Let the angels in heaven rejoice and Big Bertha, the bell at Falls Creek, ring 3,000 times this summer. O Father, give us 3,000 souls this summer at Falls Creek.

Sword & trowel: Equality Act & religious liberty Brian Hobbs Editor of the Baptist Messenger @BrianGHobbs

If you have followed national news of late, you may have heard about the “Equality Act.” What is it? And why are many Southern Baptists and others calling it a serious threat to religious liberty?

According to the Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), “the essence of the ‘Equality Act’ is its addition of ‘sexual orientation’ and ‘gender identity’ as protected classes to already existing federal nondiscrimination laws. This would prohibit employers, preschools, and even religious schools and organizations from making choices based on basic biology, bodily privacy, and their beliefs about the nature of marriage. It would apply to every single recipient of federal financial assistance (including every public school and almost all colleges and universities).”

ADF then said, “Though ‘nondiscrimination’ sounds good in the abstract, that is not what this bill is truly about. The bill actually poses a devastating and unprecedented threat to free speech, religious freedom and the progress that women have made toward true equal treatment in law and culture.”

The ADF went on to say that the “Equality Act” is “a deliberate attempt to force people of faith— good people who serve everyone—to promote messages and celebrate events that conflict with their sincere beliefs. The ‘Equality Act’ would also threaten the equal treatment of women and upend the bedrock understanding of male and female in our law and culture.”

Albert Mohler, president of Southern Seminary, who is not prone to hyperbole, called the “Equality Act” the “greatest threat to religious liberty in American public life in decades.”

In a recent interview with the Baptist Messenger, U.S. Senator James Lankford explained his opposition to the Equality Act. While the act already has been passed by the U.S. House of Representatives, and while President Joe Biden has promised he would sign it into law, the bill has not been voted upon in the

U.S. Senate. To hear the interview with Sen. Lankford, visit baptistmessenger.com/religious-liberty-watch.

What is perhaps most shocking about the “Equality Act” is there are no religious liberty protections offered for organizations. That means any institution or organization that will not get on board with the emerging and ever-changing definitions of gender and sexuality face a threat to their mission and even very existence.

What should we do? Whenever a proposed policy comes along that threatens religious liberty, Christians must do our part to speak against it. Moreover, churches must make sure we are prepared for challenges ahead, with help from groups like ADF. Finally, we must redouble our prayer efforts, asking God to give wisdom and favor to those in leadership seeking to do the right thing.

In the end, “the ‘Equality Act’ gives people of faith an ultimatum: Change your faith-based practices or face government punishment,” as the ADF has stated.

While Christians can and should be ready to take a stand for the Faith and face the consequences, we can and will oppose such efforts to wipe away religious liberty with one Congressional Act.

Voices | May 13, 2021 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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Rite of passage: PrepareSyour children for self-reliance & PORTS & MISSIONS Y M I N I S T RWalker Moore

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

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I have enjoyed each season of our sons’ lives. I enjoyed the early stages of them learning to walk, talk and become miniature human beings. I enjoyed their elementary school years, watching them do sports and put on school programs. I enjoyed seeing them get married and then makingFusIgrandparents.

E D S But the least favorite I when S was C L AforSme season they went off to school.

When both of our boys were in college and living on their own, they thought they were self-reliant. Now you must understand that “living on their own” and “self-reliant” are misnomers. My definition and my sons’ definition of “living on your own” and “self-reliant” don’t even come close to one another. V I guess E San older dictionary.

O I IChave Yes, they were living out of the house, but not on their own, and yes, they did know how to find food—even though that included frequent raids back home. Instead of going to the grocery store like every other self-reliant human being, they thought our house had a blinking neon sign out in front that read “FREE FOOD.” Somewhere they learned that if they came by the house with sad, pitiful looks on their faces, Cathy and I would feel sorry for them—and they were right. The only thing they lacked were T-shirts dis-

MENT N T E R TA I N E playing 1 John 3:17: “If anyone has material posses-

sions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?”

Since we were good and hopefully godly parents who had the provider instinct, we always put & loaded up their L Ethey together care packages, P E O Pand S mixed feelcars, driving away with big I had NEW C Hsmiles.

UR C Hthe ings. We liked fact that the boys still needed us, but deep down inside, I also wanted them to be self-reliant. There is a sense of satisfaction that comes when you can provide for yourself—and a greater one when you can provide for others.

During those college days, the only time I got a call from the boys was when they T U R Esomething.

Lneeded U C & S W E Very seldom did they use their money to call and see N if their dad was having a good day. When they first moved out, these calls always had to do with the need for some domestic information. Once, one of my sons called home wanting to know what to do with his car.

I asked him what was wrong. He said, “It doesn’t run.”

“Why doesn’t it run?” I asked.

“I don’t know. That is why I am calling you!”

“How would I know why your car isn’t running?

I live 450 miles from your car. Why don’t you have your car towed to a mechanic so they can tell you why it isn’t running?”

“That’s a good idea! Thanks, Dad.” Click.

If you are the parent of children about to live “on their own,” be prepared to answer these questions: “How can you tell when an egg goes bad?”

Suggested response: “When something starts pecking its way out of the shell, the egg is probably past its prime.”

“How can I tell when the yogurt is bad?”

At this point you need to go ahead and answer about three more questions just to save the minutes on your phone.

“Milk is spoiled when it starts to look like yogurt.

Yogurt is spoiled when it starts to look like cottage cheese. Cottage cheese is spoiled when it starts to look like regular cheese. OK?” “OK.” “There are some other important things I need to tell you. Any canned item that has become the size or shape of a softball should be disposed of—carefully. Fresh potatoes do not have roots; branches; or dense, leafy undergrowth. Flour is spoiled when it wiggles. Now you know everything I know about food. Good night, son!” Click.

The sad news is that many of our children will not become self-reliant and must move back home.

There is a new term for this generation—the Boomerang generation. A recent study showed that 60 percent of all college graduates have plans to move back home under their parents’ support.

Many of today’s children have lost the skills of independence and self-reliance. In fact, many adults expect their parents to help them take care of their children and pay their bills. When I finished high school, I knew my days of dependence were numbered. The problem is that this same expectation has not been cast into this generation.

There was one thing that I really liked about my sons coming home from college for the summer: I got to see my food again!

Finding rest in the middle of busyness Amy Petersen Ministry Wives Ministry Partner for Oklahoma Baptists @amyruthpetersen

It’s hard to believe that summer is almost here.

The months of June, July and part of August offer time to rest and relax, to recuperate from the busy year, and to go on vacations with the family. So often, by the time that mid-August rolls around, I am exhausted from all my “resting” and ready for the school year to begin again.

Life is busy. We are wives, husbands, fathers, mothers, sisters, brothers, daughters, sons, neighbors, leaders, Sunday school teachers and business people. We are stretched and pulled in so many directions with each season of life having its own recipe for busyness.

Many things vie for our time and can leave us feeling weary and worn out: kids, sports, school work, house, parenting, your marriage, doctors’ appointments, ministry events, cleaning and cooking, grocery store shopping, Bible studies, a hurting friend or neighbor and chronic illness— along with all the have-tos and want-tos of life.

We all probably know we need time for rest.

But the difficulty comes when we are scooped up with the busyness of life and wonder, “How do I rest when life keeps going?”

When I think of being weary and needing rest, I am reminded of Jesus’ words and His life-giving truth in Matt. 11:28-30: “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

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Rest is more than being physically still. One definition of rest is to “recover strength.” Slowing down, taking a vacation, building times of rest into your week, getting seven hours of sleep at night are all healthy components of recovering strength for physical rest. But physical rest doesn’t always translate to internal rest. I can be lying in bed at night, but my mind may be racing through all the things I didn’t do that day and what I have to do tomorrow. I can be physically still, but internally, I may be running a mental marathon.

Rest is found in Jesus. It is important to get physical rest. But nothing gives our soul rest like Jesus does. In Him, we are deeply loved, so there is no need to try harder or be better. Rest. In Him, we are completely known and valued, so there is no need to prove our worth by hiding our weaknesses. Rest. In Him, we are provided for, so there is no need to overthink or manipulate the circumstance. Rest. Deep soul rest is found in Him, simply because of Who He is.

Coming to Him is easier than it seems. We make rest more difficult than it should be. Jesus’ rest isn’t delivered in a to-do list or a three-step plan. His rest doesn’t come in gritting it out or trying to get to the other side of busy. Deep soul rest can be found in the middle of your weariness and burdens by coming to Jesus.

Here are a few suggestions: • Reading the truth of His Word • Praying and pouring out worries, concerns and all the tasks at hand • Worshipping with songs that glorify Jesus • Confessing brokenness and admitting your need for Him • Surrendering and believing His plan is better than your plan • Obeying as you choose to do the things He calls you to do Even in the busyness of life, as you come to Jesus, you will find rest for your soul. It’s a promise.

And God is faithful to all His promises.

Good News Neighborhoods

May 13, 2021 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | Gospel Ministry

FOR OUR

The Cooperative Program allows churches everywhere to work together through generosity, so that every church can support local missions while also having a global reach. Through the Cooperative Program, your church funds and sends missionaries around the world, trains pastors and ministry leaders, plants churches, and changes lives for eternity.

OKLAHOMABAPTISTS.ORG/CP

& MISSIONS M I N I S T RY

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CrossTimbers 2021 Hset for Gospel impact PLE & O E X P O B L O TO 1

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1) Children enjoy the daily worship services at CrossTimbers: 2) CrossTimbers’ theme this year; 3) The ropes course is one of the many fun activities at CrossTimbers. >> PHOTOS: MESSENGER ARCHIVES

>> by Staff The 2021 CrossTimbers Children’s Missions Adventure Camp season is around the corner, with plans in place for the Davis and Grove (Grand Lake) camp locations.

CrossTimbers, a three-night, four-day encampment designed for boys and girls grades third through sixth, is the children’s mission camp owned and operated by Oklahoma Baptists.

The stated mission of CrossTimbers is “to support local church efforts to reach lost children in their communities and to raise up a generation of kids with an authentic walk with God who actively serve others with missional living.”

Charlie Gatton, who serves as CrossTimbers program director, has seen firsthand the opportunities to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with children from across Oklahoma.

“Each session, a different camp pastor will teach CES O Iwhat campers and staff V about the Bible says and how it applies to our lives,” Gatton said. “Our theme this year is ‘I MUST’ from John 3:30, ‘He must increase, but I must decrease.’ We will work through what it means to become a Christian and how, as we grow in Christ, we become more like Him and less like our old sinful self.”

Camp activities at the Davis location includes a ropes course, rock wall, zip line, target sports and more, with similar activities at the Grove campus. All children who attend CrossTimbers will have the opportunity to learn biblical principles for worship, missions, evangelism and life. They can create and strengthen relationships with God, family and others, as well as experience nature in a fun and safe environment.

Every day, students participate in chapel, which includes times of worship through music and a sermon from the camp pastor for that session. In

2021 CROSSTIMBERS DAVIS SCHEDULE

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CrossTimbers Session | Camp Pastor | Session dates

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On-going opportunities for volunteers: Baptist Village Communities: Ada—Tracy Scheer, 580/332-6004 Broken Arrow—Monty Baggett, 918/355-0099 Cleveland—Gary Ligon, 918/358-2575 Cordell—Dennis Dawson, 580/832-5831 Elk City—Cathy Henderson, 580/225-5555 Grove (Honey Creek)—Gary Mishler, 918/786-2223 Hugo—Jerry Unruh, 580/326-8383 Madill (Lake Texoma)—Matthew Wood, 580/564-3776 Miami—Shane McGhee, 918/542-7124 OKC—Chris Finley, 405/721-2466 Ext. 2115 Okmulgee—Sherri Powell, 918/756-5377 Owasso—Nathan Purifoy, 918/272-2281 Ext. 102 Entrusted Hearts by Baptist Village (home health care)—Shannon Ryan, 405/942-3000 Ext. 4685

addition, Gospel lessons are reinforced throughout the day.

“Our Missions Team will show campers how they can be missionaries, through hands-on mission experiences, crafts and tastes,” Gatton said.

Camp Staff facilitates camp-wide games and a block party, as well as the campers’ favorite, the “Sock Wars.”

“It always amazes me how God uses the experiences of our staff to minister to kids who are going through similar things,” he added. “We are praying that we see hundreds of kids trust in Jesus, and other kids adjust their lives to be more like Christ. Some will even recognize God’s calling on their life.”

To see more information or a full camp schedule, visit crosstimbers.org.

DISASTER RELIEF

Training:

Aug. 28—Ponca City, First, 218 S. 6th St., 74601 Sept. 25—Owasso, Central, 9001 N. 145 E. Ave., 74055 Oct. 30—DR Facility, 7180 NW Expressway, Okarche 73762 Visit okdisasterhelp.org for the most recent information and to register.

Campers on Mission: National COM Rally—June 9-11 DuQuoin, Ill. Okla. Fall Rally—Aug. 31-Sept. 3 Shawnee For more information email mvanzandt@oklahomabaptists.org

Session 1—Eric Fletcher, pastor of Eufaula, North Fork—June 1-4 Session 2—Les Scheer, childrens pastor at Sulphur, Crossway—June 7-10 Session 3—Joe Ligon, Oklahoma Baptists senior assoc. exe. director—June 11-14 Session 4—Rick Cordova, pastor of OKC, Bright City—June 16-19 Session 5—Jacob Steward, childrens pastor at OKC, Southern Hills—June 21-24 Session 6—Nick Atyia, pastor of Seminole, First—June 26-29 Session 7—Randall Whittall, mission pastor at OKC, Southern Hills—July 5-8 Session 8—David Skinner, childrens pastor at OKC, Cherokee Hills—July 9-12 Session 9—Bobby Kelly, Oklahoma Baptist University prof. of religion—July 14-17 Session 10—Blake Gideon, pastor of Edmond, First—July 19-22 Session 11—Barry Williams, next generation pastor at Ada, First—July 23-26

2021 CROSSTIMBERS GRAND LAKE SCHEDULE CrossTimbers Session | Camp Pastor | Session dates

Session 1—Clint Morgan, childrens pastor at Broken Arrow, First—June 28-July 1 Session 2—Andy Taylor, pastor of Broken Arrow, Arrow Heights—July 7-10 Session 3—Colby Sorenson, childrens pastor at Chickasha, First—July 12-15 Session 4—Doug Melton, pastor of OKC, Southern Hills—July 16-19 Session 5—Mark Dance, Oklahoma Baptists regional ministry partner—July 21-24

Sam’s Best Buys variety store

After 76 years retirement.. store closing new department items most at or below cost new selection of big & tall summer clothes to 8xl skiwear deals, outdoor gear-stay tuned for tools & gi gear Pray for International Missionaries Sub-Saharan Africa Pray for Oklahoma Baptists serving with the IMB throughout Sub-Saharan Africa.

Their names and even the number of them are withheld for security reasons.

Last year, 3,982 Sub-Saharan Africans were baptized and 111 churches were started.

Pray for Oklahoma Missionary Joe Ligon Joe serves as senior associate executive director for Oklahoma Baptists, providing oversight for the day-to-day operations as well as the conference centers, overseeing the support services group, and much more.

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

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Missions & ministry | May 13, 2021 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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Southern Baptists anticipate SBC Annual Meeting, Send Conference /// PREVIEWED ON COVER

>> PHOTO: PROVIDED Those

scheduled to speak during the 163rd Annual Meeting of the Southern Baptist Convention, June 15-16, include, left column from top, Ronnie Floyd, J.D. Greear, Paul Chitwood, Kevin Ezell, O.S. Hawkins and Willy Rice. The 2021 Send Conference, June 13-14, will feature right column from top, Tony Evans, David Jeremiah, Michael W. Smith, Vance Pitman, Gregg Matte and Benjamin Watson.

>> by Staff with Baptist Press reports NASHVILLE, Tenn.—The 2021 Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) Annual Meeting, set for June 1516, is expected to draw thousands of registered messengers and guests from across the nation and globe.

The 163rd Annual Meeting of Southern Baptists will take place at the Music City Center in downtown Nashville and will feature times of preaching, music, convention business sessions, reports and more.

“The SBC Annual Meeting is a time for Southern Baptists to come together and celebrate how God is moving in and through our convention and churches,” said Ronnie Floyd, CEO and president of the SBC Executive Committee.

He added, “It will be a time for Southern Baptists to reconnect with one another after missing out on a gathering in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

With more than 100 ancillary meetings, events, and gatherings throughout the week, Southern Baptists will walk away encouraged, equipped and mobilized for Kingdom work. Hotel reservations must be made by May 17, in order

to be guaranteed convention rate. Visit sbcannualmeeting.net to make a reservation.

Speakers for the 2021 Annual Meeting include current SBC President J.D. Greear, International Mission Board (IMB) President Paul Chitwood, Ronnie Floyd, Guidestone’s O.S. Hawkins, North American Mission Board (NAMB) President Kevin Ezell, among others.

Messengers to the annual meeting will hear reports from each of the SBC seminaries, various SBC entities, and conduct officer elections. On Wednesday, Willy Rice, senior pastor of Clearwater, Fla., Calvary will deliver the convention sermon.

Hance Dilbeck, executive director-treasurer for Oklahoma Baptists, urged pastors and others to pray for this year’s gathering of Southern Baptists.

“Pray for the Southern Baptist Convention meeting. We encourage you to attend and participate. Pray, pray, pray that God would give us unity and direction, wisdom and godliness, as we gather together in Nashville,” Dilbeck said.

Visit sbcannualmeeting.net to view SBC Annual Meeting schedule and other details including lodging availability.

Send Conference to bring Southern Baptists ‘Together on Mission’ The 2021 Send Conference, which happens immediately prior to the SBC Annual Meeting, also will take place June 13-14 at the Music City Center in Nashville.

The Send Conference is a new aspect to the annual meeting of Southern Baptists, as it represents a reformatting of Sunday and Monday from the typical SBC Pastors’ Conference to a Send Conference event hosted by the North American Mission Board and the International Mission Board.

The theme is “Together on Mission,” and along with a primary message from nationally-known Bible teacher, author and pastor Tony Evans, the event will include worship led by recording artist Michael W. Smith, a concert featuring Crowder, NAMB’s Send Luncheon and IMB’s Sending Celebration.

Other speakers during the Send Conference include David Jeremiah, pastor of El Cajon, Calif., Shadow

The Send Conference Schedule SUNDAY, JUNE 13

5:30 p.m.—Kickoff prayer time with Robby Gallaty 7 p.m.—Main session (Kids track available 6-12 years old)

MONDAY, JUNE 14

8:30 a.m.—Women’s track 9 a.m.—Pastors track 9 a.m.—Students track (13-16 years old—Lunch included) 9 a.m.—Kids track (6-12 years old—Lunch included) 11:45 a.m.—NAMB Send Luncheon 1:45 p.m.—Afternoon tracks for pastors and kids 4:30 p.m.—IMB Sending Celebration

Mountain Community; Vance Pitman, pastor of Las Vegas, Nev., Hope; and Gregg Matte, pastor of Houston, Texas, First who will speak during Pastors Track of the conference. The Send Luncheon will feature Mark Richt, former University of Georgia and University of Miami football coach; Benjamin Watson, NFL football player; and Matthew West, Christian music artist.

The 2021 Send Conference is designed to help believers of all ages understand how to carry out the calling in their lives and equip pastors to help church members live out their calling wherever God has placed them.

“We (NAMB) are looking forward to working with Paul Chitwood and the IMB to celebrate all God is doing through Southern Baptist mission efforts,” NAMB President Kevin Ezell told Baptist Press. “It will also be a time of personal challenge to all of us to recommit our efforts to sharing Christ with our friends, family and neighbors in everyday life.”

SBC Annual Meeting Schedule Highlights TUESDAY, JUNE 15

Morning • Celebrating Freedom Observance | J.D. Greear, SBC president, and Gen. Douglas Carver, executive director of chaplaincy, NAMB • GuideStone Financial Resources Report | O.S. Hawkins, president and CEO, Guidestone • NAMB Report | Kevin Ezell, president, North American Mission Board • President’s Address | J.D. Greear Afternoon • Election of Officers • Resolutions Committee Report • IMB Report | Paul Chitwood, president, International Mission Board

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16 Morning

• Send Relief Report • Joint Seminary Presentation and Reports • Convention Sermon | Willy Rice, senior pastor, Clearwater, Fla., Calvary Afternoon • Election of 2022 Convention Preacher, Alternate Preacher and Music Director • ERLC Report | Russell Moore, president, Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission • WMU Report | Sandra Wisdom-Martin, executive director-treasurer, Woman’s Missionary Union • Lifeway Report | Ben Mandrell, president and CEO, Lifeway Christian Resources • Presentation of Officers

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May 13, 2021 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | Features

OBU Prison Divinity Program brings inmates hope, purpose /// PREVIEWED ON COVER >> by Chris Forbes STAFF WRITER

LEXINGTON—Forty men at the Lexington Correctional Center are enrolled in a study course that is bringing hope and a sense of mission. They began a new degree program aimed at equipping inmates for ministry inside the walls of Oklahoma prisons.

The Prison Divinity Program (PDP) offered through Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU) is a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies. The 128 credit hour liberal arts degree will be accompanied with an internship with the prison chaplain.

“All the classes will be taught face-to-face,” said Bruce Perkins, director of the OBU Prison Divinity Program. “It’s a four-year program, and then we have an arrangement with the Department of Corrections, that when they’ve completed their degree, they will be sent out in teams of three and four into the other prison facilities across the state to serve as field ministers. So, in effect, we are raising up our own indigenous missionaries to the prison population.”

Perkins explained that after receiving 172 applications from inmates across the state and interviewing 65 applicants, 40 men were chosen for the program.

“The students in our Prison Divinity Program have been given a wonderful opportunity of hope,” Perkins said. “Some will discover renewed purpose.

Others will find a new depth to their purpose. All will be impacted by this community of learning.

So—although remaining in prison—for the moments we are in the classroom engaging with God’s

Word and God’s world through a Christian liberal arts education, they can lay aside their prison clothes and feast at the table of our King. We also pray that OBU’s presence in the prison brings hope to other inmates— the hope of opportunity but, more importantly, the hope in Christ.”

“The past couple of months, I have prayed often, asking God to give me a way to serve,” said Brett, an inmate who is enrolled in the program. “I feel that this program is a door God has opened especially for me.”

Miguel, another student in the program, agreed.

“My reason for applying to the program is because I know God has a calling on my life,” he said. “I believe this program will help me to be better prepared for my calling.”

One PDP enrollee expressed how he believes God will also use the program to prepare him for ministry in the prison system. “I’ve been in a gang most of my life,” he recounted. “These penitentiaries and my family are full of gang members, people that are hurting, confused and searching for Christ and don’t even know it. With the completion of this degree, I’ll be better equipped to speak to these people, to serve them, guide them to Christ and be a better leader.”

To be accepted in the program, the inmates must have at least 12 years of their sentences remaining. “About half of the 40 men in our program are serving life sentences,” Perkins said. “Despite their backgrounds, God can call them and use them. I try

OBU Prison Divinity students are excited to begin the program and learn how to provide the hope of Christ to other inmates. >> PHOTO: PROVIDED

to encourage them that there are no footnotes in the Bible that says ‘this is true, except for inmates.’

“I have been pleasantly surprised at how the men have come together in unity, as a community, helping one another out,” Perkins continued. “I can tell they are trying to encourage one another. I hear them saying to each other, ’If God can do that for you, I can trust that He will do that for me.’”

Perkins emphasized PDP is externally funded, and the program is one of the recipients of the Edna McMillan Oklahoma State Mission Offering.

“Many of these inmates feel they now have something with purpose and in which they can exercise their minds,” he said. “It’s very challenging, refreshing and rewarding for them to be able to do that, to have something to focus their intellect on. One student said to me, ‘Thank you. I feel human again.’”

To learn more about the OBU Prison Divinity Program visit okbu.edu/theology/prison-divinity.

Rewired reappears at Falls Creek /// PREVIEWED ON COVER >> by Chris Doyle

MANAGING EDITOR

DAVIS—Falls Creek Conference Center hosted the Rewired Men’s Conference, April 24, after a one-year absence due to the COVID-19 pandemic causing a cancellation in 2020. The usual two-day weekend event met just for a day, but the nearly 700 men in attendance exceeded expectations.

Rewired also reported 386 digital passes were purchased, which allowed men to gather in other locations to watch Re1 wired programming.

Bubba Burcham, who serves as Oklahoma Baptists’ men’s ministries consultant and Rewired program director, was pleased with the results of Rewired, especially with how well Falls Creek staff were involved in organizing facilities and logistics with the event. When Rewired’s first session began that Saturday morning, Burcham was already moved by what was taking place.

“God started working on my heart, personally,” he said, mentioning Seth Garrett and his worship band who led times of worship through music. “It brought me so much joy to finally be able to meet again like that. To see a lot of familiar faces and to experience worship—there’s something special about the worship at Rewired. I don’t know what it is, but it is powerful to me.”

The list of speakers for Rewired did not disappoint.

College football coach Mark Richt set the stage by sharing his life story, beginning with his pursuit to be a top college quarterback and playing in the National Football League (NFL). Like many people, Richt believed his identity was in what he did or wanted to do.

“I was a quarterback,” he said. “That was it. That was my identity. When I introduced myself I would say, ‘I’m Mark Richt. I’m a quarterback.’ I would never say ‘I’m a born-again believer in Jesus Christ.’”

Richt shared how God put him on a path for him to realize he was more than just a quarterback. For one thing, whether he was in college or in the pros, there were always players who were better than he was. At the University of Miami, he played behind Jim Kelly who eventually quarterbacked the Buffalo Bills and was inducted into the Football Hall of Fame. When Richt went to the NFL, he fell rank behind John Elway

with the Denver Broncos and then Dan Marino with the Miami Dolphins, two more NFL legends.

Eventually, Richt became a graduate assistant for Bobby Bowden, legendary coach at Florida State University, and started his coaching career, which resulted in successful stints as head coach at the University of Georgia and then at his alma mater, the University of Miami.

Richt told Rewired attendees about a time Bowden, who spoke at Rewired in 2019, shared the Gospel with the team. As a graduate assistant, Richt was convicted by Bowden’s message and made a profession of faith in Christ after that team meeting.

“My life changed dramatically that day,” Richt said.

“My life became simple. I didn’t say it became easy, but my life goal became to live a life pleasing to God. That was it.”

Mike Keahbone, pastor of Lawton, First, preached a powerful message that resulted in many men responding with kneeling to pray or meeting with Burcham to report spiritual decisions.

“God is at work in every part of every man that is in this room,” Keahbone said. “Every single man watching online—you have to believe this is not an accident— but God is going to move in such a way so powerfully today and throughout this weekend to where there is going to be a switch that He hits in us that, if we will be obedient, it will change the day for all of us.”

Burcham described the moment that men gathered around him, making life commitments to God. “I am one of them,” he said. “I’m right there with them. I need the healing of the Holy Spirit working in my life just like all these other guys. It’s humbling to think, ‘Hey, they’re coming to me’ when I’m just like them. We’re all living in that same life where Satan attacks you every day, and I am no different than they are, so it’s incredibly humbling for them to come to me and say, ‘Help me.’”

Burcham said they all prayed together and encouraged each other at that moment, praying for God to help them lead their families and be leaders in the church and in the community.

The afternoon session opened with a short film depicting Shamgar in Judges 3:31. The film was

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1) Football coach Mark Richt opened Rewired sharing his life story; 2) Bubba Burcham, top center, meets with men making decisions. >> PHOTOS:CHRIS DOYLE

produced by Gibborim Studios, as Cody Bobay, the studio’s CEO, spoke after the film.

“God created you to be a hero,” Bobay said. “He’s given you the strength of the Holy Spirit inside of you, and it’s your choice to decide what you are going to do with it.”

Rewired regulars are familiar with Bobay and the ministry he founded, SoulCon. Burcham knew many would respond well to Bobay’s presentation.

“Cody challenged men,” Burcham said. “That’s his ‘M.O.’ He’s in your face, not in a disrespectful way, but he wants men to take action and do something to make a change, make a difference.”

Jonathan Evans, son of pastor Tony Evans, concluded Rewired by sharing an experience he had as a player for the San Diego Chargers, playing for coaching legend Marty Schottenheimer. Evans compared a motivational speech Schottenheimer gave about being equipped and prepared to play for the Chargers to a challenge God gives to Christians, referencing Rom. 8:29-31.

“God has set you up, as a man of God, for success,” Evans said. “Christ has already done the hard work.”

Rewired also featured time of fellowship on Falls Creek grounds. Men spread out for lunch across Centennial Plaza and Downing Way, areas at Falls Creek adjacent to the Mathena Family Event Center, where Rewired had its sessions.

“What’s great about Rewired is what happens afterwards,” Burcham said. “Men go back to their pastor and say, ‘I want to do more for the church.’

Or they decide to disciple their kids and be more involved with their families. It’s all of those pieces where God works in the lives of men.”

For more on Rewired Men’s Conference, visit oklahomabaptists.org/rewired.

Features | May 13, 2021 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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O O L B OX CHURCH T

PEOPLE & EWS CHURCH N

OBU commissions students and employees DS C U LT U R E service CLASSIFIE for worldwide N E W S & summer >> by Kenny Day OBU MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR

SHAWNEE—Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU) commissioned more than E S and staff during V O I Cfaculty 100 students, a special chapel service April 28. These students and employees will be serving this summer on Global Outreach trips (GO trips), in internships or at camps.

The commissioning service took place inside Raley Chapel’s Potter Auditorium.

The student body was able to worship together and then pray over these teams of people who will represent the University all around the world.

OBU-sponsored GO trip teams will travel to locations in seven international locations, including Colombia, Ecuador, North Africa, Ethiopia, Uganda and more. A group of 31 students and faculty will travel to Ecuador on a Study Abroad/GO trip, while

>> PHOTO: HEATHER HAMILTON

More than 100 students, faculty and staff at OBU were commissioned April 28 for their mission services this summer.

Global Marketplace Engagement (GME) majors will serve internships over the summer in Puerto Rico, Ecuador and Texas.

In the fall, more GME majors will serve internships in North Africa, Zambia, Mexico and the U.S. Numerous other students and employees will serve in camps,

ministries and outreaches throughout the nation this summer, as well, including Falls Creek, New Life Ranch, River of Life Camp, Camp Sonshine International, the North American Mission Board and more.

A group of students, faculty and GO trip alumni led a worshipful rendition of “Amazing Grace” in several languages, with verses in German, French, Italian, Spanish and English, as well as “Come Behold the Wondrous Mystery.”

Bruce Perkins, assistant professor of Christian education and director of OBU’s Prison Divinity Program, delivered the message. Following his message, students and faculty who will be participating in service this summer began to gather on the steps in front of the stage, as the song, “Let the Nations Be Glad” was sung.

The service concluded with a word of encouragement and commissioning prayer from OBU President Heath A. Thomas.

For more information about Global Outreach at OBU, visit okbu.edu/go.

OBS performs at Bixby, Evergreen >> PHOTO: RANDY LIND

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The Oklahoma Baptist Symphony (OBS) performed May 2 at Bixby, Evergreen. This was the first concert OBS has given since the COVID-19 pandemic began last year.

OBS features 82 volunteer members from every walk of life, each desiring to praise God through the musical skills He has given them. For upcoming performances of OBS, visit oklahomabaptist.org/worship-music.

May 13, 2021 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | People & Church News

PEOPLE & EWS CHURCH N

O O L B OX CHURCH T

Bartlesville, New Harmony DS LT U R E CLASSIFIE NE WS & CU celebrates 100 years

EWS CHURCH N CHURCH STAFF CHANGES KENN LANE is interim pastor at Lawton, Paradise Valley.

DANNY TOOMBS is interim pastor at Lawton, Olivet.

OMA H A L K O E H TCONGREGATIONAL H NEWS IVE C R A T S I T REVIVAL REPORT. B A P Madill, First, April 18-21, 29 profes-

VOICES

sions of faith, six rededications and a new member by letter.

Hance Dilbeck was the evangelist. Randy Kendrix is pastor.

TO SHARE NEWS, PLEASE EMAIL ALL INFO TO BAPTISTMESSENGER@OKBAPTIST.NET >> PHOTO: PROVIDED

BARTLESVILLE—Bartlesville, New Harmony celebrated its 100 year anniversary on April 17-18 with a fellowship dinner Saturday evening and a celebration service Sunday morning.

Certificates were presented to Marge Easton, eldest member of the church at 96, and Della Deen, longest standing member who was baptized in June 1948. Monty Hall, director of missions in Washington-Osage Association, presented the certificates.

Current and previous pastors were in attendance, including, from left to right, Lonnie Hoelscher (2014 to present), Ernie

Margwarth (1968-69), Willard Lyons, Jr. (1986-96), Tom Cox (1998-2008), Bill Dudley (1963-67).

Dudley delivered the message during the celebration service, titled “I love the church.” Hoelscher said the celebration weekend was described by more than one member as, “I felt like I was at a revival.”

“We give God glory,” Hoescher said. “As a result, we had five people join the fellowship that Sunday morning.”

More photos and information on New Harmony’s 100-year celebration can be found at newharmonybaptist.com.

Messenger staff recognized by BCA awards

Members of the Baptist Messenger staff received awards from the Baptist Communicators Association’s 57th Annual Wilmer C. Fields Awards Competition.

Chris Forbes, staff writer, received first place for his Facebook COVID Response: “Encouraging Videos.” The social media feature won in the category Interactive Communications, Social Media: Campaign or Event. >> PHOTO: BRIAN HOBBS Lori Coats, subscriptions and ministry Messenger BCA award winners include, from left, Chris assistant, won first place in Feature WritForbes, Lori Coats and Chris Doyle ing, First-Person Column/Blog Series for her blog “God Himself planted a garden.”

Chris Doyle, managing editor, finished third in Feature Writing, First-Person Column/Blog for his weekly blog feature, Doyle’s Half Dozen.

>> PHOTOS: JANICE BROWN

Woodward, First dedicates church bell Woodward, First dedicated its church bell with a dedication service on April 25. Featured with the bell is the church staff, top from leftOtoKright, Les Castor, worship pastor; Steve Scott, D JoshU Brooks, S Upastor; senior children’s pastor; and Jonathan Chambers, youth pastor. Ruth Upchurch, below, celebrated by ringing the bell.

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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Clark honored by Frisco Association for 20 years of VBS service

Jennifer Clark of Soper, Archey, left, was recognized at Frisco Association’s Annual Vacation Bible School (VBS) Clinic for 20 years of service on the Frisco VBS Assist team, with 15 of those years as Frisco VBS/Children’s Ministry Director.

She and her family have worked tirelessly for the past two decades in planning exceptional VBS Clinics and Children’s Evangelism Conferences in Frisco Association. Mark Boyd, director of missions in Frisco Association, right, presented Clark a frame certificate.

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People & Church News | May 13, 2021 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com

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

12 things a church should S LASSIFIED C know about its pastor

PEOPLE & EWS CHURCH N 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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SIX TAKEAWAYS FROM LAURA PERRY’S VIDEO >> CHRIS DOYLE

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5. His sermon preparation strategy.

When the church knows the work a pastor does, they’ll pray more for him—and they may be more protective of his study time.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following article was 6. His latest efforts in evangelism. A conpreviously featured on chucklawless.com. gregation needs to know their pastor is trying to reach the lost. Pastor, tell the stories, but do My experience is that most churches want so without drawing attention to yourself. to love and follow their undershepherds 7. His latest efforts in discipleship. Pasas they walk together. At the same time, tors should be pouring themselves into though, I fear the disconnect from pastor to the next generation of leaders. When the pew is sometimes too wide to build a good church knows its pastor is raising up leadteam. In that light, I believe many pastors ers, they’ll think more about the future. need to be even more open to sharing life 8. His prayer needs. We assume church with their congregation. Thus, I list 12 things members pray for their pastor, but they a church should know about its pastor. must do so generically if they don’t know 1. His conversion experience. Pastors the pastor’s needs. Pastor, be willing to often share their story in the hiring pro- share your heart a bit. cess but seldom after getting hired. Con9. His day off. Pastors deserve a day off. sequently, many newer church members His family deserves time with him alone. don’t know these stories.

Pastor, tell your church about your day off 2. His baptism story. Folks who hear and protect that day as much as possible. pastors proclaim the Word ought to know 10. His birthday and anniversary. Conabout this spiritual marker in their leaders’ gregations should have an opportunity lives. After all, baptism is to be a witness. to celebrate with their pastor on these im3. His spiritual disciplines strategy. Be- portant days. In fact, pastor, let your church T H Ethe birthdays of your entire family.

R O Mknow lievers need role models to help themFread O G list. Some church memR SHisB L the Word and pray. The pastor telling reading I N G E11.

D S Lthe R O W church his strategy will give them ideas for bers will want to read along. Others will simtheir own life and increase their confidence ply be glad to know their pastor is reading. their spiritual leader is following God. Still others will begin reading something 4. The latest truth he has learned from because the pastor recommends it.

God’s Word. Pastors should share with 12. His vision for the church. Church their congregations the result of their stud- members want to know their pastor’s goals, ies and show them the joy that is received S AY Sand plans for the congregation. PasV E direction DA through hearing from God. Let them know tor, work with the appropriate staff and teams that all believers should continue growing. to lead the church to buy into that vision. >> 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

R E G AT H E R

2020 C P I M PAC T R E P O R T

Based on input from pastors across Oklahoma, this new web resource offers keys for churches to emerge even stronger after the pandemic.

Discover how Oklahoma Baptists advanced the Gospel last year through Cooperative Program giving from more than 1,750 churches statewide.

oklahomabaptists.org/regather

oklahomabaptists.org/2020cp

A NEW OKLAHOMA BAPTISTS RESOURCE

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

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May 13, 2021 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | Church Toolbox

V E S AY S A D Laura Perry is an amazing woman. Her story first ap-

peared in the Baptist Messenger in 2017 in the article “From transgendered to transformed,” written by Brian Hobbs.

She recently spoke at the Oklahoma R S Women’s G EBaptists’ D S L I NCenter O R Conference Retreat at Falls on April 17. The WCreek video I am featuring in my blogBwas made TasSan introducS A A P T I retreat.

HOM tion for her time at the women’s H O K LtoAspeak G T L Itakeaways Hsix H IG E C Here’s a link to the video, and my will folR U O S E R low: vimeo.com/538152753 1. “Are you trying to look like a man?” The story is as much about Francine Perry, Laura’s Smom, as it is about Y A S E V A D Laura. The video begins with Francine talking about the family and how Laura was “strong willed.” Francine also mentioned, as Laura was getting older, that they saw her some but not often.

After some time, Francine met Laura in Tulsa and noticed Laura had a different look. The firstSphrase that P T I S T asking Laura, B AFrancine A stood out to me inAthe video was M O H L K O HT L I Gresponded “Are you trying to look like a man?” with IG HLaura H E C R U O S E R tears and admitting she was making a change in her life.

To read the rest of Chris’ blog visit, baptistmessenger.com/six-takeaways

ING SMART GIV To read more blogs with Jesus in mind, visit www.baptistmessenger.com/blog

STEWARD GOD’S PROVISION WISELY

When you hear the words “estate plan” what comes to mind? For many, the term conjures up images of advanced age and wealth. But that’s a common misconception. For more than 50 years, WatersEdge has worked with thou- JULIE STANLEY, WATERSEDGE VICE PRESIDENT OF ESTATE PLANNING sands of individuals of all ages and economic backgrounds to create estate plans that protect families and promote God’s Kingdom.

An estate plan is a set of essential legal documents (including a will) that settles critical end-of-life decisions like asset distribution, children’s guardianship, healthcare directives and charitable giving.

Specifically, an estate plan allows you to: • Pass on possessions according to your wishes and values • Leave instructions for your care if you become disabled or incapacitated • Choose a guardian for children under age 18 • Support your church and other charitable causes • Care for family members who have difficulties dealing with money • Provide for loved ones with special needs • Minimize court costs, attorney fees and other legal expenses Why is creating an estate plan considered smart giving? For most of us, the best opportunity to leave a large gift comes when we die, through our estate. That’s why the WatersEdge estate planning experience is tailored for those with a desire to provide for their families as well as give back to the Lord, supporting Southern Baptist ministries working to transform lives with the Gospel.

WatersEdge makes it possible to create a plan at a significant discount by reimbursing up to $500 in legal fees when you leave a charitable gift to one of our ministry partners. When you create an estate plan, not only can you ensure your family is provided for according to your wishes, you can also steward your resources to create Kingdom impact for years to come.

Make your giving smarter with an estate plan! Learn more at WatersEdgeServices.org/plan.

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LT U R E NE WS & CU

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>>F/T or BI/VO SENIOR PASTOR: FBC Barnsdall is prayerfully seeking a F/T or BI/VO Senior Pastor. Resumes may be sent to: First Baptist Church Barnsdall, Attn: Pastoral Search Committee, P.O. Box 939, Barnsdall, OK 74002 or via email at: fbcbarnsdall@windstream.net.

VOICES

>>P/T WORSHIP LEADER/MINISTER: P/T Contemporary Worship Leader & Youth/College Minister at FBC Poteau. We are looking for someone who can start & grow this new ministry area in a church with great facilities & a love for people. Send resumes to: PastorTroyFBCPoteau@gmail.com.

EMPLOYM ENT

>>F/T WORSHIP/MINISTER: F/T Worship Music & Educational Discipleship Minister – FBC Purcell, OK. Accepting Resumes. Please include resume, job history & references. Submit your information to: FBCPurcellMinApp@gmail.com.

>> F/T STUDENT PASTOR: One Church Elk City is prayerfully seeking someone with prior experience to lead & direct an established youth ministry. Send resume & references to: onechurchelkcity@gmail.com. >>F/T PASTOR: Immanuel Baptist Church, Perkins, OK. Please send resume to: PO Box 10, Perkins, OK, 74059 or email: sec.ibcperkins@sbcglobal.net.

>> F/T PASTOR: Sharon FBC in Sharon, OK is prayerfully seeking God’s man for F/T Pastor. Please email resume to: fbc.sharon@yahoo.com or mail your resume to: Sharon FBC, 24008 State Hwy. 34, Sharon, OK 73857.

>>P/T OR BI/VO YOUTH PASTOR: NewPoint Church Ponca City, looking for a P/T or BI/VO Youth Pastor with a heart to reach & disciple 6th - 12th grade students. For full description or to apply, send resume to: kyle@newpoint.church.

>> F/T PASTOR: FBC of Wayne is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor who is Bible based with community commitment & enjoys fellowship of all ages. Please submit resumes to: FBCWaynePSC@gmail.com. >>WORSHIP PASTOR: FBC Josephine is seeking a Worship Pastor that will lead worship services that help lead our congregation toward fruitful relationships with Jesus Christ. This opportunity is in Josephine, TX. Reach out to: worshippastor@fbcjosephine.org for details.

>>F/T MAINTENANCE/CUSTODIAL: Experience with HVAC, plumbing & electrical is a plus. Capable of lifting 50 pounds unassisted. Includes some weekend responsibilities. Apply in person at Bethel Baptist Church 1717 W Lindsey, Norman (Mon-Thu 8:30-4:30)

>>PASTOR: Knob Hill Baptist Church in OKC, OK is prayerfully seeking a Pastor. Please email resume along with current sermon video or link to sermons to: knobhillbaptistchurch@gmail. com or mail to: 2700 SW 59th, OKC, OK 73119.

>>P/T WORSHIP LEADER: Southwest Baptist Church Ardmore, OK is seeking a Worship Leader for services on Sunday Morning & Sunday Night. Send resume or questions to: swbapchurch@sbcglobal. net or call (580) 223-3609. Parsonage is available.

>>F/T ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT: FBC Piedmont, OK is seeking a F/T Administrative Assistant with strong communication skills & proficient in MS Office, working in a collaborative environment with our staff. Send resumes to: personnel@fbcpiedmont.org.

>>P/T STUDENT MINISTER: Parkway Baptist Church, Creve Coeur, MO, is accepting resumes for a P/T Student Minister with a competitive compensation package including benefit options.

Send a letter of interest, resume & statement of faith to: studentsearch@parkwaybaptist.net.

>>SENIOR PASTOR: Marietta FBC is accepting resumes for Senior Pastor. Mail to: Pastor Search Team, c/o Shane Wolfe, P.O. Box 302, Marietta, OK 73448.

>>P/T ASSOCIATE WORSHIP LEADER: Country Estates Baptist Church in Midwest City is looking for a paid P/T Associate Worship Leader for Sunday morning contemporary service & Youth Wednesday Worship. Please call: (405) 732-2201 or send resume to: cebc.infoline@gmail.com.

>>F/T PASTOR: FBC Boswell in Southeastern Oklahoma is seeking a F/T Pastor. Parsonage is available & benefits are provided. Please send resumes to: fbcboswell@gmail.com.

>>F/T CHILDREN’S PASTOR: FBC of Marion, AR is seeking a F/T Pastor of birth through sixth grade children that is sent to welcome & disciple all people to faith in Christ. Send resume to: Kidspastorsearch@firstmarion.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.

>>F/T PASTOR: FBC Davis, OK is fully seeking a F/T Pastor. Interested dates should mail a cover letter and to: First Baptist Church, Attn: Pastor Committee, P.O. Box 297, Davis, OK

prayercandiresume Search 73030.

>>BI/VO OR P/T WORSHIP MINISTER: Denton Baptist Church in Marlow, OK, 9 miles West of Marlow.

Seeking God’s candidate to teach God’s Word & loves people. Parsonage included. Accepting resumes at: dentonbaptistmarlow@g.mail.com. Sets on 5 acres.

>>F/T FINANCIAL SECRETARY: Experience preferred; double-entry bookkeeping knowledge helpful. Duties include general accounting, payroll & other office tasks.

>>MUSIC LEADER: FBC, Elk City is seeking someone that wants to serve God in leading the Sunday morning music. Interested candidates email: Matt@fbcelk.city.

>>PASTOR: Emmanuel Baptist Church in Purcell, OK is searching for a Pastor who will be in adherence to the Bible in overseeing the church. The Pastor shall lead the body of members in fulfilling the Great Commission through discipleship & evangelism. >> F/T WORSHIP PASTOR: F/T Worship Pastor needed. First Southern Baptist Church, Pratt, KS. A Christ-centered, Bible-based congregation of 300400 worshippers in south central KS. Worship style - energetic & contemporary, genuine & Biblical. >> F/T YOUTH MINISTER: Emmanuel Baptist Church of Altus, is prayerfully seeking a F/T Youth Minister. Resumes may be sent to: Emmanuel Baptist Church, Attention: Pastor, 921 East “A” Street, Altus, OK 73521. >> PASTOR: Bluejacket Baptist Church of Bluejacket, OK, a small town Church with a heart for God & community, is prayerfully seeking a Pastor. Parsonage is included. Interested applicants should send a cover letter & resume to: tharris6222@gmail.com. >> F/T PASTOR: Morris Memorial Baptist Church Ada, OK is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Mail or email cover letter, resume & a current sermon video to: 16121 CR 3540 Ada, OK 74820 or email: sreeves@nationallivestock.com ATTN: Pastor Search Committee. >> F/T KIDS & FAMILIES MINISTER: Trinity OKC is seeking an individual to serve in this position.

If you, or if you know of someone who may be interested, please email resumes to: tjackson@trinityokc.com or call our church office for more info. >> BI/VO WORSHIP LEADER: South Lindsay, OKC is seeking BI/VO Worship Leader for blended services. Some experience preferred. Send resumes to: SLBC, 3300 S. Lindsay, OKC 73129 or email@southlindsay.org. >> BI/VO MUSIC MINISTER: Mammoth Baptist Church is seeking a BI/VO Music Minister. Please send resume to: Personnel Committee at mammothchurch@gmail.com or P.O. Box 642, Meeker, OK 74855. >> YOUTH/MUSIC: P/T Youth Minister & P/T Music Director or BI/VO Youth/Music combo: FBC Apache is prayerfully seeking to fill these positions in our church. For questions you can call (580) 5882369 or submit resume to: fbcapache@pldi.net. >> BI/VO PASTOR: Calvary Baptist Church, Pawhuska, OK is accepting resumes for BI/VO Pastor. Please submit resumes to: ATTN: Pastor Search Team, Calvary Baptist Church, 620 E. 15th Street, Pawhuska, OK 74056 or email: pawhuskacalvary@sbcglobal.net. >>F/T YOUTH/COLLEGE PASTOR: Spring Baptist Church (Spring, TX) is looking for a F/T Minister to Youth & College-aged people at

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ACROSS 22 Joshua’s father (Num. 11:28) 1 What drowsiness clothes a man with (Prov.

25 Prophetic 27 Aaron’s name was written on 23:21) Levi’s (Num. 5 Caleb said, “Let us go17:3) up at ___” (Num. 29 Royal 13:30) 30 They of wouldn’t Israel pass 9 Follower Jamaicanlet subculture (Num. 20:21)lady’s bag 14 Small ornamental 31 A cleanof woman “shallstrength be ___” 15 Measure electric current (Num. 5:28) 32 Moses said, “If thou ___ thus with me, kill me” (Num. 11:15) 33 Offenders were to ___ 1/5 more in restitution (Num. 5:7) 34 Drink rapidly 35 “The Lord appointed ___ ___ time” (Ex. 9:5) (2 wds.)

16 Nocturnal, odd-toed mammal 43 Considerate attention (abbr.)

17 Nazarites grow (Num. (Num. 6:5) 45 Fruit of let 27this Down 17:8) 46 Balaam compared Israel to this(Num. 18 Time of day Passover was celebrated 9:11)(Num. 24:9) 49 of tree (Isa.(Num. 44:14) 19 Type Descendant of Gad 26:17) 51 “The was cloud the he died 20 Aaron 123___ yearsupon ___ when tabernacle” (Num. 9:18) (Num. 33:39) 53 Emanations 21 Heavy work shoe 54 Things 55 Type of wood priest used (Num. 19:6) 56 Tree juices (Ps. 104:16) (pl.)

57 “The cock shall not _____” (John 13:38) 58 Last Stuart monarch 60 Swiss-like cheese 61 Raised platform (arch.)

its Klein Campus. Prefer at least two years of prior experience working with students. See job posting at: https://springbaptist.org/jobs. >>BI/VO OR P/T YOUTH PASTOR: Clebit FBC, Clebit OK is looking for a BI/VO or P/TYouth Pastor with a heart for 6th grade to 12th grade students. Please send resume or inquiries to: CLEBITFBC@gmail.com. >> P/T STUDENT PASTOR: Grace Place Baptist Church in Oklahoma City, OK is prayerfully seeking a P/T Student Pastor who loves students & their families & is passionate about reaching & discipling them.

Send resume to: robbyroberson24@gmail.com. >> F/T WORSHIP/STUDENT PASTOR: Pleasant View Baptist Church is seeking a F/T Worship & Student Pastor who is passionate about reaching the community, discipling students & leading in worship. Please send resumes to: pastorandy@pvbcpryor.com or mail to: P.O. Box 111 Pryor, OK 74362. >> BI/VO ASSOCIATE PASTOR/YOUTH MINISTER:Rural Norman Church seeking called candidates for BI-VO Associate Pastor/Minister to Youth.

May send resume to: brandonsburris@gmail.com. >> F/T PASTOR: FBC Washington, OK is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Interested candidates may send their resumes to: P.O. Box 86 Washington, OK 73093 or email us at: office@fbcwashington.com. >> F/T MINISTER OF WORSHIP/COLLEGE: at Emmanuel BC Weatherford, OK. Find job description at: www.ebcweatherford.com. Send resumes & worship video links to: pastor@ebcweatherford.com. >>WEEKDAY CHILDCARE DIRECTOR: FBC Enid, OK is prayerfully seeking a Director for the church’s weekday childcare ministry (6 weeks - 4 yrs. old). Email: fbcenid1@gmail.com to apply. >> F/T ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES SPECIALIST: Baptist Village Communities is seeking someone proficient in Word, Excel, with excellent communication skills, strong attention to detail & confidentiality. Send resumes to: nperry@baptistvillage.org. >> WORSHIP LEADER: North Pointe Baptist Church in Edmond, OK, is seeking a Worship Leader who passionately seeks God & is eager to invite others into God’s presence in worship. We invite interested candidates to send resumes to: searchteam@northpointe.tv.

MIS CEL L A NEO US >>FREE CHURCH PEWS: Padded Pews (burgundy) available for free. Must pick up. Contact FBC Ninnekah at: (405) 224-0324. (20- 12 Foot) (5- 10 Foot) (34- 8 Foot) First come, first served. >>CABIN RENTAL: The FBC Lone Grove has a 120 bed cabin for rent for week 5. The cabin was new in 2016 & is completely modern. Go to Falls Creek website (SKPOPS.org) or our church website to see pictures & location. Rental is $6500.

RD

23 “One ___ five hundred pence” (Luke 7:41) 24 Threescore and twelve thousand were offered to God (Num. 31:33) 26 Container for the ashes of dead 28 Daniel “___ no pleasant bread” (Dan. 10:3) 29 Nevada city 31 Regulates food and health items (abbr.)

34 People did this with the quails (Num. 11:32) 37 Paul ___ not speak of some things (Rom. 15:18) (past tense) 39 Father of Gaddi (Num. 13:11) 40 “Hast thou not heard long ___” (2 Kings 19:25) 41 “Let her not be as one ____ (Num. 12:12) 42 Israel was this to God (Isa. 45:4) 44 Son of Pedahzur (Num. 1:10) 47 The Lord’s servant is to be ___ to teach (2 Tim. 2:24) 48 Eliasaph was his son (Num. 3:24) 50 Levites did this to lamps 51 American College of Surgeons (abbr.)

52 Tile design 56 If one spreads, the person’s unclean (Lev. 13:8) 59 Son of Kohath (Num. 3:19) 63 A Native American tribe 64 Border of Moab (Num. 21:13) 66 College head 67 Wilma Flintstone’s husband 68 South African ethnic group 69 Among 70 “Eloi, ___ sabachthani?”

(Mark 15:34) 71 This savor pleases the Lord (Num. 15) 72 “Every ___ inheritance”

(Num. 33:54) 73 Former Soviet Union (abbr.)

DOWN 1 The spies searched Zin unto here (Num. 13:21) 2 “Our years as _ ___ that is told” (Ps. 90:9) (2 wds.)

3 “I will ____ thee with mine eye” (Ps. 32:8) 4 Joseph’s brothers addressed him this way in Egypt (Gen. 43:20) 5 Priests were appointed to do this to the vessels (1 Chron. 9:29) 6 De __ (from the beginning) 7 Gadfly 8 Active volcano 9 Rapid Transit Authority (abbr.)

10 Moses’ brother (Num. 2:1) 11 Eject forcefully 12 “Son of man, take thee a _____” (Ezek.

4:1) 13 Dry 21 Hebrew letter often added to many place names (John 1:28) 22 Joshua’s father (Num. 11:28) 25 Prophetic 27 Aaron’s name was written on Levi’s (Num. 17:3) 29 Royal 30 They wouldn’t let Israel pass (Num. 20:21) 31 A clean woman “shall be ___” (Num. 5:28) 32 Moses said, “If thou ___ thus with me, kill me” (Num. 11:15) 33 Offenders were to ___ 1/5 more in restitution (Num. 5:7) 34 Drink rapidly

Classifieds | May 13, 2021 | The Baptist Messenger |

35 “The Lord appointed ___ ___ time” (Ex. 9:5) (2 wds.)

36 Why do the heathen do this? (Ps. 2:1) 38 Entrances or passages (arch.)

39 “The Canaanites dwell by the ____” (Num. 13:29) 43 Considerate attention (abbr.)

45 Fruit of 27 Down (Num. 17:8) 46 Balaam compared Israel to this (Num. 24:9) 49 Type of tree (Isa. 44:14) 51 “The cloud ___ upon the tabernacle” (Num. 9:18) 53 Emanations 54 Things 55 Type of wood priest used (Num. 19:6) 56 Tree juices (Ps. 104:16) (pl.)

57 “The cock shall not _____” (John 13:38) 58 Last Stuart monarch 60 Swiss-like cheese 61 Raised platform (arch.)

62 God gives this in season 65 Moses told his father-in-law, “Leave us ___” (Num. 10:31) 67 Common illness SMO WA V E CO AH I R I D P A R A N

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Q&A: Pastor perspectives ‘The Black Church’—Part 2 VOICES

ing, regarding issues that were taking place in the Black culture.

EDITOR’S NOTE: In a previous ediI remember discussions about urtion of the Baptist Messenger, Wal- ban renewal and changes that were ter Wilson, Oklahoma Baptists’ African taking place on our side of town. I American Ministry Partner, offered his would later move to Mount Rose Bapperspective on the past, present and tist Church under the leadership of future of what has been called “The the late Dr. A.D. Phillips. He served as Black church in America.” In part 2, Wil- pastor for 50 years while leading the son continues to interview various Afri- Northwest Creek District as a modcan-American pastors in Oklahoma on erator, being president of the Martin the topic.

Luther King Commemorative Society and staying engaged with what was Walter Wilson: Pas- going on in the community. I would tor Tiller Watson, you always see involvement from the passerve as pastor of St. tors whom I knew initially through Paul Baptist Church ministry connections. in Tulsa at a strategic These pastors carried a prophetic place and time. Can you mantle as well because they would talk about the impact of the Black also inform us of the results of things. church and some opportunities you If we chose not to stay aware and obsee going into the future? serving about the things that were taking place around us, in a real Tiller S. Watson III: sense, they charged to us to be inSince my younger volved and to do something in the years, I have always space that we occupied. seen the Black church In the present, our determinaas a place of informa- tion must be the same—to keep our tion, a place of encour- hearers informed about movements agement and a place of that are taking place around us and inspiration. I grew up at Friendship to charge them to be involved and Church, then pastored by the late to bring the change that we believe Dr. L.L. Tisdale. During that time, I needs to happen. was about 10 years old or so, and I The dialogues that have taken place remember that oftentimes he would among people regarding community provide the church with necessary efforts, whether it be in response to information on Sunday morning be- the murder of George Floyd or Brefore his sermons. onna Taylor or other unjust killings, I also remember the announce- or our participation in the voting proS ment clerk would inform us of events H cess, must hapE Wconversations Nthese C R U H C that would take place in the weeks to pen inside of the Black church for this come. It seemed as if the atmosphere organization to remain relevant to at the church I grew up in, I saw the this generation and to have and mainpastor being outspoken and uplift- tain a place in society. >> by Staff

OMA T H E O K L A H HIVE C BAPTIST AR

CONGR ATUL ATIONS CL ASS OF ‘21!

As college seniors from Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU) and other universities around the state are about to graduate, prayers go up to the Lord for the entire Class of 2021.

In this Baptist Messenger archive from June 22, 1921, an article appeared that talked about the mission that the class of ‘21–meaning, 1921–would have been part of as students at OBU.

The article states, in part, that “Oklahoma Baptist University must stand as a mighty spiritual as well as intellectual force.”

As today’s OBU graduates “stand proudly on Bison Hill,” we recognize that purpose and divine calling still rings true today as it did 100 years ago.

Congratulations to all Class of ‘21 students! God bless you!

Do you have Oklahoma Baptist history such as Falls Creek testimonies, historical church stories, or photos of a past Baptist event? Send them to baptistmessenger@okbaptist.net!

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For the Black church to move into tomorrow, we must continue to build upon the foundation that has been laid by the churches of our youth. We must maintain our focus on justice, being involved in our local municipalities, encouraging education and then acquire representation. If those elements continue to be a part of our Gospel conversation inside of our churches, then the Black church will remain relevant, and a force for the Gospel and for good in the times ahead.

Walter Wilson: Teron Gaddis, you have an important ministry at Greater Bethel Baptist Church in Oklahoma City where you serve as pastor. Can you talk about the significant challenges and opportunities facing the Black church today?

Teron Gaddis: Thank you brother, yes. Jesus told Peter, “Upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”

I have thought a lot about the Black church because of recent events. I have been asked by many, “Where is the church?” The church is where it has always been. The church is performing the Great Commission. The church is preaching, teaching, baptizing and evangelizing. One of the reasons I believe people are asking where is the church is because the world has set expectations on the church that God did not command.

When we look at the Black church of times past, they trusted God and God alone. Because of the hardships they endured, God was truly the source of their strength. When times were rough in the cotton fields, they prayed and sang songs to God. They believed in God in both word and action. While the slave master made them weak, God made them strong.

Fast forward to 2021 and what do we see? Many Black churches have lost their dependence on God. There

May 13, 2021 | The Baptist Messenger | www.baptistmessenger.com | News & Culture

is more of the world in the church to attract people while souls are lost.

There is less of a concern for bringing people to Christ and more emphasis on making churches comfortable for people. This was never the Black church. The Black church stood on the Word. The Black church of yesterday was not infiltrated by politics. Instead, through the power of God they prayed and asked God for direction, and He led them to victory.

Please know I am not saying this is true for all Black churches. This is true for Black and Anglo churches. We have used our pulpits to push political agendas and made the Word of God fit where we want it to fit. Sunday mornings are packed in the Black church when all the pomp and circumstance is going on and a small number attending Bible study and prayer meeting. The Black church has more people in attendance at musicals than Small Group. Who is to blame? I am not here to place blame on anyone. I am here to say God is calling for the church to return to Him. He wants to be lifted up, not the preacher, the teacher, the singer nor anyone else.

The Black church and all other churches appear to have a heart problem. Because God is the only One who can change a heart, the Word of God must be at the forefront. Christianity must be lived out and not just spoken of. For more than a year, God allowed a global pandemic to come into the world. He sat every one down to expose the truth of the church. The questions I have for everyone reading this article are, “Are you closer to God or the same? Has your church returned to God?” If the Black church continues to depend on everyone and everything other than God, the world is in for a world of hurt. The world is in the shape it is in right now because God has not been at the center.

Walter Wilson: Thank you brothers for sharing these perspectives.

To view this feature or Part 1 online visit baptistmessenger.com.