2020-11-12

Informing and Inspiring Oklahoma Baptists Since 1912

BAPTISTMESSENGER.COM • NOVEMBER 12, 2020

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CO N T E N T S : Page 3 | Voices Sword & Trowel: Acky Breaky Hearts Urgent Prayer for Desperate Times:

Oklahoma Baptist DR respond to major ice storm

Encourage: The basics of Christian citizenship

>> CHRIS DOYLE

You are likely reading this article a few days after the 2020 election. For reasons related to the Messenger printing schedule—my too busy schedule—I am writing this a few days before that election. This provides an opportunity for me to write a non-partisan article. I am writing this without any idea of who will be our nation’s president in 2021. No matter who is in office, what are the basics of Christian citizenship?

Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief (DR), under the direction of Don Williams, state DR director, is covering the state after a major ice storm late October caused damage in numerous areas.

As of Nov. 4, DR has received more than 600 requests for assistance in areas including Anadarko, Cushing, Enid, Oklahoma City and Ponca City. Four staging areas have been established in Enid, Lawton, Oklahoma City and northeast Oklahoma. /// SEE PAGE 2

>> HANCE DILBECK

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Oklahoma Baptists launch statewide united November prayer effort >> BRIAN HOBBS

BROKEN ARROW—Beginning on Nov. 10, at the 114th Annual Meeting, Oklahoma Baptists began a multi-week united prayer effort. The effort is called “Urgent Prayer for Desperate Times” and focuses on several key areas, including praying for pastors, churches, unity, healing, gratitude and missions.

“God’s Word tells us to make everything a matter of prayer, to pray without ceasing,” said Hance Dilbeck, executive director-treasurer for Oklahoma Baptists. /// SEE PAGE 7

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To comment on articles, visit www.baptistmessenger.com

>> BRIAN HOBBS

Page 4 | Gospel Ministry Rite of Passage: Christmas Pie >> WALKER MOORE

Page 5 | Missions & Ministry Falls Creek hosts 10th annual Fall Back event with COVID protocols >> CHRIS DOYLE

Page 7 | Feature Churches link arms in response to California fires >> CHRIS FORBES

Page 10 | Church Toolbox 9 things to do when God’s people frustrate you >> CHUCK LAWLESS

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Oklahoma Baptist DRMrespond to major iceS Pstorm ORTS & ISSIONS & NT Y /// PREVIEWED T RCOVER I N I SON

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>> by Chris Doyle

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MANAGING EDITOR

Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief (DR), under the direction of Don Williams, state DR director, is covering the state after a major ice storm late October caused damage in numerous areas.

As of Nov. 4, DR has received more than 600 requests for assistance in areas including Anadarko, Cushing, Enid, Oklahoma City and Ponca City.

Four staging headquarters have been established in key areas of Enid, Lawton, Oklahoma City and northeast Oklahoma.

Williams said teams are prioritizing requests involving elderly and limited access to and from homes due to fallen trees.

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O O L B OX T H C R U H C 1) DR volunteers are responding to more than 600 requests for assistance; 2) a DR volunteer consoles a man affected by the ice storm >> PHOTO: CHRISTI CAPSHAW

“Many DR volunteers are from S E Drecovering F Istill A S S Iafter work done C in L Louisiana recent hurricanes,” Williams said. “We will work until every request has been fulfilled, and we will answer all requests.”

Williams said out-of-state DR teams will come to assist from Missouri, Tennessee and Texas.

LT U R E & CU W Srecovery E with For those needing N help from the ice storm, visit okdisasterhelp.org to submit a request. The website also provides more information on DR.

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NOV 26

JAN 10

Thanksgiving Day

Oklahoma Baptist Symphony Concert

NOV 29-DEC 6

Week of Prayer: Lottie Moon Christmas Offering

Info: Week to pray for the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering

DEC 25

Christmas Day JAN 1

New Year’s Day JAN 7

Singing ChurchWomenWest Concert Info: 7-8:30 p.m., Clinton, First oklahomabaptists.org/ worship-music

WEB-EXCLU

Info: 6-7:30 p.m., Fort Gibson Field House oklahomabaptists.org/ worship-music

JAN 14

Singing Churchmen Concert Info: 7-8:30 p.m., OKC, Southern Hills oklahomabaptists.org/ worship-music

JAN 17-18

Youth Evangelism Conference Info: Falls Creek Baptist Conference Center oklahomabaptists.org/yec

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

Registrations top 5,200 for IMB Future of Missions simulcast LESLIE PEACOCK CALDWELL | OCT 31

Participants from 48 states and 30 countries connected with IMB leaders, missionaries and a panel of experts Thursday, Oct. 29, to address the global, cultural and spiritual realities that are impacting the future of missions. The two-hour simulcast was broadcast in five languages: English, Spanish, American Sign Language, Korean and Mandarin Chinese.

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FIRST-PERSON: Fulfilling the Great Commission through the Cooperative Program RONNIE FLOYD | NOV 2

Jesus died for every person in every town, city, state and nation. His call to us is to present the Gospel of Jesus Christ to every person in the world and to make disciples of all the nations. None of us can do this alone, and no church can do this alone. Jesus’ call to each of us is overwhelming, but it is not impossible. How will we accomplish what Jesus is calling us to do?

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

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

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PUBLICATIO

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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: 41,837. 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. November 12, 2020 • Volume 109, Number 21.

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 | Messenger Intern thamilton@baptistmessenger.com

VOICES

Encourage: The basics of Christian citizenship Hance Dilbeck Oklahoma Baptists’ Executive Director-Treasurer @Hance_Dilbeck

You are likely reading this article a few days after the 2020 election. For reasons related to the Messenger printing schedule—and my too busy schedule—I am writing this a few days before that election. This provides an opportunity for me to write a non-partisan article. I am writing this without any idea of who will be our nation’s president in 2021. No matter who is in office, what are the basics of Christian citizenship?

The New Testament speaks to our duties as citizens in four key texts: Matt. 22:21; Acts 5:29; Rom. 13:1-7; and 1 Tim. 2:1-7. In his first letter to young Timothy, Paul lays out the basics for Christian citizens. Allow me to summarize a few relevant points: Be thankful. Paul calls us to gratitude. In verse one of 1 Timothy chapter two, he says we should be praying with thanksgiving. Now, reflect on Paul’s context. Paul was in prison for preaching the Gospel. He had been beaten with rods, stoned, received the 39 lashes (5 times!). If any man had a right to be bitter it was Paul. Yet he writes to call the church to give thanks as they pray for their leaders.

I don’t think Paul was grateful for Caesar. He was not calling Timothy to give thanks for the injustices involved in Roman rule. He was, however, reminding young Timothy that even in tough times we have much for which to give thanks The opposite of giving thanks is grumbling. It is altogether appropriate for Christian citizens to engage our leaders, debate the issues and defend our rights.

We should be careful as we do so to never lose that basic Christian virtue of gratitude. Followers of Jesus ought to be people who are always giving thanks.

Be loyal. Christians are to be loyal citizens. Of course, we can never render to Caesar that which belongs to God. Our ultimate loyalty is always to Christ as King. However, as much as possible, we are called to support our government leaders as we live godly, dignified, peaceful lives. Christians should be easy to govern. We are people who respect public servants, participate in the public square, pay our taxes, obey the laws of the land and always pray for our leaders.

Tertullian lived in the second generation of the church. He once wrote, “For the Emperor, the Christians pray for long life, secure dominion, a safe home, a faithful senate, a righteous people and a world at peace.”

We should be vigilant to carefully judge ourselves as Christian citizens before we run to find fault in our government leaders.

Focus on advancing the Gospel to all. This paragraph of Scripture in 1 Timothy is dominated

by the word “all.” Pray for all; God desires all to be saved; Jesus died as a ransom for all. Since Jesus is the one and only mediator between God and men, He is the way for all people to be saved. Even when Paul writes about the duties of Christian citizenship, his true passion is the advance of the Gospel to all.

Identity politics dominates the public debate today. Media pundits and pollsters appeal to interest groups and endlessly divide people based on sex, race, class, region, age, education— you name it!

This is an appeal to self-interest over the common good; us against them.

As followers of Jesus we are interested in one particular group of people—ALL. It is not us against them. All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. Jesus gave Himself as a ransom for all. We know that only Jesus can give people the character they need to govern themselves as a stable, strong nation. A people who are spiritually sick cannot be morally sound for very long.

Unfortunately, too many people in our pews seem to be more passionate about advancing their political agenda than advancing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Our one compelling issue ought to be souls—the souls of men, women, boys and girls. All! Oklahoma Baptists, the best thing we can do for our country is to focus on these basics. If we would be thankful, be loyal and be zealously committed to sharing the Gospel with all, most everything else would come into place.

Sword & trowel: Achy breaky hearts Brian Hobbs Editor of the Baptist Messenger @BrianGHobbs

I heard of a church sign mistake in which the church’s outdoor message board read, “We love hurting people.” They meant to say “We love people who are hurting.” As 2020 nears its close, you do not have to look far to find people who are hurting.

While each calendar year is marked by disappointments, mishaps and sadness, 2020 has had more than its share of such. We see brokenness all around us in society. Fortunately, as Christians, we can choose to see brokenness as an opportunity.

What do I mean? Hance Dilbeck has said, “There are a lot of broken people in Oklahoma. Jesus teaches us to embrace brokenness as an opportunity for the Gospel.”

Dr. Dilbeck calls us to think about the Scriptures that say: “And the book of the prophet Isaiah was handed to Him. And He opened the book and found the place where

it was written, ‘The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He anointed me to preach the Gospel to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim release to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free those who are oppressed, to proclaim the favorable year of the Lord.’ And He closed the book, gave it back to the attendant and sat down; and the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on Him. And He began to say to them, ‘Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing’” (Luke 4:17-21).

Where the world saw people as enemies or “lowlifes,” Jesus saw people as lost, poor, captives, blind and oppressed. We need God to give us a perspective on other people like His Son has. Amid troubled times, Christians can and should become ambassadors of reconciliation, healing and peace.

Yet, perhaps it’s your own heart hurting today. What can fix that? Could a redo on this calendar year fix it?

No. Can simply 2021 coming along fix that? Perhaps, but there are no guarantees.

In fact, the only guaranteed help for a broken heart is the love of God, which gives a “peace that passes all understanding” (Phil. 4:7). If you yourself are hurting, I would encourage you to find healing by becoming a comforter yourself.

Consider the words attributed to Francis of Assisi: Lord, make me an instrument of your peace: where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy.

O divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console, to be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.

For it is in giving that we receive, it is in pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.

Amen.

Whether the aching heart you know of is someone else’s or your own, may God Himself minister to you and through you today and beyond. Lord, please help us…

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

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& Rite of passage: Christmas pie SPORTS T N AINME

& MISSIONS M I N I S T RY Walker Moore

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

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Love stories are some of the greatest expressions of the human experience, from Romeo and Juliet to Mark Anthony and Cleopatra. For those of you who aren’t into the classics, may I remind you of Belle and the Beast or E D S and Prince Charming. If Iyour I FCinderella S Smove CLA those don’t stone-cold heart, don’t forget Lady and the Tramp.

It was the late ’50s. America was just recovering from World War II, and money was still scarce. A small country school in Oklahoma wanted to make sure each student would at least get one present for Christmas. To make this happen, the school had asked V each family I C EtoSmake a pie, which they would O auction off at their annual pie supper. The money raised would be used to buy and place Christmas presents underneath an old-fashioned Christmas tree. After the students gave their Christmas program for their parents, each one would receive a special surprise.

On the day of the pie supper auction, the mother of the young and beautiful 15-year-old Vi had spent hours making a chocolate pie. This was not today’s run-of-the-mill pie in a box, but a chocolate pie made from scratch. The crust was created in a bowl with flour, salt, shortening and water, then rolled out with a rolling pin, stretched over the pie tin and ever so gently pushed into the bottom of the pan.

With the experience of a skilled baker, Vi’s mom used her fingers to pinch the edges up to make that crimped crust whose main job was to keep

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the whipped meringue in place. These old-time pies have a heaviness that surprises you when you pick PLE & one up. Vi’s mom Oout P Elaid a big piece of red celloCH NEWS HUR phane andCplaced the pie in the middle. Grasping each of the four corners, she pulled up the cellophane and tied a big ribbon. Just as a frame enhances a picture, Vi’s pie U LT U R E C S &and was tastefully N E Wmade attractively displayed.

Young Vi had heard that a tall, lanky 16-yearold farm boy named Don had been bragging to his peers that he was going to bid and buy whatever she brought to the auction. He wanted to get this young lady’s attention, and he thought she might take notice if he were the highest bidder. Don’s pals got together and decided they were going to run the bid up and see how high their good buddy would go.

The night of the auction, the auctioneer brought out Vi’s pie. The bid was $1, then $2. Quickly, it jumped to $5, then $6 and $7. Young Don began to sweat as his friends kept outbidding him. The price jumped to $20 and then $30. Who ever heard of a teenager in the late ‘50s paying that kind of money for a chocolate pie? But Don, determined to get this young lady’s attention, kept on bidding.

Next, the bid hit $40, and Don begin to think that if it went much higher his dream of buying Vi’s pie would end. Then the bid went to $45, and young Don knew he didn’t have much left in his pocket.

But he decided to go all in, and he called out “$50!”

The room went silent as Don waited for one of his friends to keep running up the bid. Before anyone else could speak, the auctioneer yelled out, “Sold!”

Vi told me, “That night, Don not only took ownership of the pie, but also my heart.” Don and Vi have now been married for 60 years and have three sons, eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

They have served faithfully in their church, where Don is also an elder.

To our family, they are known as “Mr. Don” and “Aunt Vi.” They live only a few blocks from us, and Mr. Don owns the 1929 Model A car that he let my grandkids climb all over.

You don’t have to go to Hollywood or to the library to find a great love story; these stories live next door to you or sit in the pew behind you.

Last Saturday, our doorbell rang. I opened the door to find Mr. Don and Aunt Vi standing there. Vi was holding a heavy chocolate meringue pie wrapped in cellophane and tied off with a Christmas ornament and a note telling us the story of the chocolate pie.

As our family sits around the table this Thanksgiving and spends time going around the room, with each person telling what we are thankful for, I am going to tell them I am thankful God has put Mr. Don and Aunt Vi in our lives. This dear couple has taken ownership of our hearts. “I thank my God every time I remember you” (Phil. 1:3).

How do we become peacemakers?

Sarah Wooten Oklahoma Baptists Youth Ministry Associate @swooten1400

Over the past few years, and even more so in recent months, I have watched as the political debate in this country has brought out the ugly side of most people, and I confess, at times, in me too.

Everyone is convinced they are right and the other side is wrong.

Unfortunately, this fighting has also found a stronghold in our churches. Brothers and sisters so determined to be right, they have forgotten our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the devil (Eph. 6:12). We seem to have forgotten that those with a differing opinion from ours are image-bearers of Christ and deserve to be treated with civility, and beyond that, loved.

How do we love our neighbors? I do not pretend to have all the answers, but I do believe that as followers of Christ we should start by being peacemakers.

Please understand that I am not saying believers should not be involved in the fight to right wrongs and correct injustice, but are we trying to win a fight, or are we trying to bring peace? These are two very different things. So how do we become peacemakers?

First, we should be a praying people. How different would the world look, if we spent time on our faces before the Lord for those we see as the enemy? I find it very hard to throw stones at peo-

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ple when my hands are lifting them up to the Lord.

Pray for salvation for the lost; pray for freedom for those who are oppressed; pray for wisdom for those whom you believe are deceived; pray for wisdom on how to voice your opinion/belief in a way that glorifies God and brings honor to Him. Pray for wisdom. Just because we think we are right, doesn’t mean that we are. Pray about everything (Phil. 4:6).

Second, we should never ‘weaponize’ our faith. The Christian social media world has been filled, as of late, with polarizing voices claiming “you cannot love God, and believe (insert belief here)” or “you cannot be a follower of Christ and vote this or that way.” Not only is language like this wrong, but it is also a distraction. The enemy is using this to distract us from our task.

I have many brothers and sisters all over the political spectrum—some I agree with and others I do not. But we do agree on this key fact: Jesus is the hope of the world, not a political party. When we weaponize our faith, we tend to hurt fellow believers and push nonbelievers away from Christ instead of bringing them to Him. Let’s use our platforms to champion truth, push light into dark places and glorify the Lord. If you disagree with a fellow believer, have a conversation, in person. I have found that hard conversations are better in person, in real-time, without a character count limit, and the masses chiming in.

Third, and honestly this one can be the hardest, we

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

should be slow to speak (James 1:19). Are we so focused on winning the fight that we forget what it is costing us? If in our quest to win we hurt our brothers, damage our witness or cause the Gospel to be discredited is it worth it? Is winning worth losing a friend? A brother? I would say no, no it’s not.

If we cannot speak with grace and from love, it may be best for us to just stay quiet. In the words of the famous “theologian” Thumper, “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.”

As I said, there are times that we must speak up.

Scripture tells us to put on the armor of God, so that we may withstand the schemes of the devil (Eph. 6:11). Interesting fact, the only offensive part of the armor, is the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God. Are we fighting our battles by being grounded in the Word of God, or do we let emotions and the need to be right/win get the best of us?

My prayer is that I become a person of peace. A person that speaks truth from a place of love, and a desire to glorify God, not a desire to win. A person known by my desire to be a peacemaker, a daughter of God for, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” (Matt. 5:9).

& MISSIONS M I N I S T RY

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

Falls Creek hosts 10th annual Fall TBack event with COVID protocols PLE & O E X P O B L O O R C H ON COVER CH /// U PREVIEWED

>> by Chris Doyle

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MANAGING EDITOR

DAVIS—Fall Back Weekend turned 10 years old as Falls Creek Baptist Conference Center hosted the annual event, Oct. 16-17. With 1,200 people in attendance, Fall Back was the largest event at Falls Creek since the COVID-19 pandemic started.

Andy Harrison, director of Oklahoma Baptists Conference Centers, said Falls Creek prepared well in advance for Fall Back, making sure attendees followed a list of COVID protocols.

“We required masks and social distancing in all indoor venues, which included the Tabernacle, 1917 Café and public restrooms,” Harrison said. “In openair locations and in cabins, it was recommended to wear masks and social distance. We also recommended that church groups wear masks while traveling to Falls Creek and talk to cabin owners to make sure that cabins were sanitized.”

Harrison said Falls Creek leadership made sure no staff members had been exposed to anyone who had COVID. “All of us were COVID free,” he said.

Fall Back featured three worship sessions in the Tabernacle. Worship through music was led by Rivers worship band. Christian artist Fedel also gave a Friday night concert in the Plaza.

Wade Morris, a regular speaker at Falls Creek, was the preacher at Fall Back. He talked to students about going through the pandemic and handling school differently.

“I have been praying that God would do huge things here,” Morris said. “I know that we live in a very weird time. I know we are in the middle of this pandemic.

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1) Fall Back speaker Wade Moore preaches on 1 John; 2) Worship band Rivers lead a time of worship through music at Fall Back. >> PHOTOS: CHRIS DOYLE

Some of you are in school. Some of you are in virtual school. Some of you are doing at the same I C EbitSoutboth V Oa little time. Everybody seems of rhythm, but in the end, Jesus has stayed the same the entire time. My hope and my prayer is not only that we have the chance to meet here, but that God would move in a way that when we leave we would say ‘Jesus is still good.’”

Morris preached from 1 John in Fall Back’s opening session. He said John’s message was Jesus is the atoning sacrifice “not only for our sins but for the sins of the entire world.” The reason for John to write his first letter, Morris said, was to help Christ’s followers discern the true Gospel message against the message of false teachers.

“John was writing to say, ‘The message I was telling you about Jesus 30 years ago is the same message that is true today, and it’s going to be the same message that is true for all time,’” Morris said.

Harrison said many students did respond to Morris’ appeal for making decisions for Christ. He also appreciated Morris sharing the Gospel and encouraging students to respond.

“Wade always does a really good job,” Harrison said.

“He’s gifted as an evangelist and able to stick to the Scripture, exegete it well and then ‘run to the cross.’”

Each session featured times of invitation for students to make spiritual decisions. Youth pastors and church leaders stood in the aisles of the Tabernacle, as students would come to them for counseling.

“Our prayers were always focused on having the event so that we could see the Gospel advance,” Harrison said. “Not having that throughout the year has been difficult. That’s what we are there for.

During the first invitation and response time, there were several people who indicated they spoke to their sponsors about salvation. I heard from several group leaders who said they had kids who were saved and several made decisions.”

Overall, Harrison and Falls Creek leadership were happy with the results of this year’s Fall Back. Falls Creek plans to host Fall Back next year and will continue to work with state youth pastors in planning the event. For more information visit fallscreek.org.

MISSIONS VOLUNTEER TIES

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Ongoing opportunities for volunteers: Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, OKC and Community Food Bank of Eastern OK, Tulsa—both locations, call 405/972-1111 (Many Oklahoma Baptist churches receive food from them for local food pantries) Arms Around Broken Arrow—food pantry, clothes closet - 918/258-7714—hugh@armsaroundba.org Lake Texoma Baptist Resort Ministry—Pete Richards, Director, 580/579-1671 or thehelm2034@gmail.com

DISASTER RELIEF

Campers on Mission:

Campers on Mission is a fellowship of Christian campers who share their faith while camping or doing mission activities. They work on projects in Oklahoma and across the U.S. For more information email mvanzandt@ oklahomabaptists.org.

Cherokee Baptist Assembly, Cherokee—918/506-5482 or cba_tahlequah@yahoo.com

Pray for Oklahoma Missionary Seth Bevers Seth is Baptist Collegiate Ministries Director at Western Oklahoma State College in Altus. Pray that the BCM will continue to have an impact on the campus of WOSC.

Pray for International Missionary Albert Hesskew Albert and his family have served in Krakow, Poland since 2008 as International Mission Board missionaries. Pray for continued growth of the church in Krakow.

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

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

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New name, same purpose: Foundation prepares for another 75 years of service with a name change to WatersEdge /// PREVIEWED ON COVER >> by Mike Schueler

WATERSEDGE VICE PRESIDENT, MARKETING AND COMMUNIC ATIONS

After serving and strengthening Oklahoma Baptists for nearly three quarters of a century, the Baptist Foundation of Oklahoma has a new name.

Since 1946, the Foundation has inspired generosity and multiplied giving that has resulted in hundreds of millions of dollars flowing to Kingdom-impacting ministries across the state. Now, the nonprofit Christian financial services organization is laying the groundwork for the next 75 years as it shifts to a new brand: WatersEdge.

“We’ve outgrown our name,” said WatersEdge CEO Robert Kellogg. “The word ‘foundation’ is simply too limiting—it doesn’t accurately describe the broad suite of financial services we’re able to provide to individuals, families, churches, ministries and institutions. Besides, few know what a ‘foundation’ is anymore. It’s a vague word that doesn’t resonate, especially with younger generations.”

The new WatersEdge brand serves as an umbrella for the organization’s two branches—“WatersEdge Advisors” and “WatersEdge Ministry Services”— each focused on one of the two primary groups the nonprofit serves: donors and ministries. WatersEdge Advisors meets the needs of donors, assisting individuals and families with charitable giving solutions that maximize tax advantages and multiply gifts to ministry. These services include estate planning, endowment, donor-advised funds, charitable gift annuities, charitable trusts and other giving solutions.

WatersEdge Ministry Services focuses on the needs of churches and ministries, providing practical financial solutions that grow resources and minimize the burden of ministry finance. These services include church loans and investments, ministry accounting, asset management, online giving and more.

If the WatersEdge name sounds familiar, it’s because the Foundation has been preparing for this change for more than three years. The transition first became public in January 2019, when the Foundation moved the majority of its church-focused services to the WatersEdge Ministry Services brand. That success laid the groundwork for the Foundation to transfer the remainder of its services to the WatersEdge Advisors brand Nov. 9.

“Our new name may be one of the worst-kept secrets in Oklahoma Baptist life, and that’s intentional,” said Shryln Treadwell, WatersEdge Advisors president. “We have been wrestling with this decision for years. We’ve explored numerous options, sought counsel from dozens of Oklahoma Baptist leaders, including both donors and pastors across the state, all while covering every step of this process in prayer. It’s not a choice we made lightly, but

we know it’s where the Lord is leading us.”

Rebranding isn’t new to Baptist life. In 1997, the “Foreign Mission Board” changed its name to the International Mission Board, later adopting the acronym IMB. The “Sunday School Board” followed suit in 1998, changing its name to LifeWay Christian Resources. In 2004, the “Annuity Board” rebranded to Guidestone Financial Resources. Closer to home, the “Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma” became Oklahoma Baptists in late 2019.

These changes help organizations respond to growth, meet challenges or explore new opportunities, and mirror the Lord’s practice of changing names to set apart His people for a specific purpose.

“Our move to WatersEdge is no different,” Kellogg said. “For the past 75 years, the Lord’s hand has been on the Foundation. We’ve been blessed with tremendous growth that has allowed us to help Oklahoma Baptists channel hundreds of millions of dollars to advance the Gospel. And now we find ourselves at a crossroads when many Baptist organizations need greater financial support than ever before. We’ve been called to meet that need; we’ve been set apart for that purpose, and the WatersEdge name reflects that truth.”

Kellogg stressed that though the Foundation’s name has changed, its commitment to serving and strengthening Oklahoma Baptists has not.

“Our leadership and our staff are the same,” he said. “Our partnership with Oklahoma Baptists and our allegiance to the Southern Baptist Convention remain unchanged. The only thing that’s changed are the limitations that the Foundation’s name placed on the work that God is calling us to do.”

In addition to offering new services, the WatersEdge brand also opens doors for the Foundation to expand who receives those services, including likeminded ministries and Baptist organizations outside Oklahoma. As one of the largest ministry-based lenders in the Southern Baptist Convention, the Foundation has provided loans to Baptist churches across the country for more than a decade.

“I frequently receive calls from Baptist pastors outside Oklahoma who have heard about our

church loan program and want to know if they can apply,” said Jerry Vaughan, WatersEdge Ministry Services president. “Many mistakenly assume we either can’t help or aren’t willing to help because we have ‘Oklahoma’ in our name.

“But I’m grateful I can tell them ‘yes,’ because Oklahoma Baptists are Kingdom-minded people.

We want to see the Gospel advance, not only in our state but across the country and around the world. Why do we send Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief teams to states like Texas, Colorado and Louisiana when there is a hurricane, fire, flood or tornado? Because God’s Kingdom is bigger than Oklahoma. That same truth drives us to serve other Baptist churches and ministries, especially in states where fewer churches mean the state’s Baptist convention isn’t able to offer the same number of services that WatersEdge is blessed to provide to Oklahoma.”

Kellogg added that expanding the Foundation’s client base out of state also allows the Foundation to improve services within the state. “Growth means we can continue to lower fees and develop new services, like Ministry Accounting,” he said.

“But serving and strengthening Oklahoma Baptists will always be our primary purpose, whether we’re known as the Foundation or WatersEdge.”

Learn more about the Foundation’s new name and get answers to frequently asked questions at WatersEdgeServices.org/newname.

To discover how WatersEdge can help you and your church multiply your God-given resources, visit WatersEdgeServices.org or call 800/949-9988.

The story behind the ‘WatersEdge’ name ideas. Then came what I truly believe was divine inspiration. A Foundation staff member suggested the name “WatersEdge.” She Why WatersEdge? It’s a question I anticwas struck by the many miraculous ipate I’ll answer many times in the combiblical events that happened at ing months. or near the water’s edge, from When the Foundation began the Moses parting the Red Sea to rebranding process more than three Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan years ago, we knew we wanted a River. But it was the passage of name rooted in Scripture. There were Christ calling His first disciples a lot of ideas tossed around—some in Luke 5 that resonated most. good, some not. We even hired conYou know the story. After borsultants and branding experts to rowing Simon’s boat to teach a PHOTO: WATERSEDGE Robert Kellogg help. Everlast, True Vine, Reverent, Up- >> crowd gathered on the shore shares insight to the new name shift and Invok were among the re- WatersEdge. of the Sea of Galilee, Jesus asks jects. The Foundation nearly became him to take the boat into deep “Lamplight,” but despite the obvious water and drop his nets. Sispiritual implications, we eventually decided that mon, who had already spent the night fishing and name wasn’t right, either. caught nothing, reluctantly agrees. But this time, By this point we were frustrated and out of when Simon and his partners, James and John, at>> by Robert K. Kellogg

WATERSEDGE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

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

tempt to bring up their nets, they are so full of fish the men’s boats began to sink.

“Then Jesus said to Simon, ‘Don’t be afraid; from now on you will fish for people.’ So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed Him” (Luke 5:10-11).

This is the real miracle of this story—not the nets full of fish (which was also certainly miraculous)— but a man’s life so shaken by an encounter with his Savior that he was willing to leave everything at a moment’s notice to follow Him. Jesus called Simon to something radically different, changing not only his eternal but earthly destiny.

It’s that kind of change that drives WatersEdge. Our purpose is to financially empower donors and ministries to transform lives with the Gospel. If the Lord is calling you to make a Kingdom impact through your giving or your ministry, I invite you to partner with us.

Together, we can be the hands and feet of Jesus to a lost and dying world.

Oklahoma Baptists launch statewide united November prayer effort /// PREVIEWED ON COVER

>> by Brian Hobbs EDITOR

BROKEN ARROW—Beginning on Nov. 10, at the 114th Annual Meeting, Oklahoma Baptists began a multi-week united prayer effort. The effort, called “Urgent Prayer for Desperate Times,” focuses on several key areas, including praying for pastors, churches, unity, healing, gratitude and missions.

“God’s Word tells us to make everything a matter of prayer, to pray without ceasing,” said Hance Dilbeck, executive director-treasurer for Oklahoma Baptists. “By joining our hearts in prayer, Oklahoma Baptists will call on the Lord to do what only He can do, amid challenging times.”

Oklahoma Baptists are being encouraged to focus on the three upcoming Sundays in November (Nov. 15, 22 and 29) as part of the prayer emphasis. The prayer emphasis dovetails with the International Mission Board’s Lottie Moon Christmas Offering week of prayer, Nov. 29-Dec. 6.

Bible bookmarks with prayer points and verses were made available to Oklahoma Baptists at the Annual Meeting, as well as online. The prayer points are designed to be used during a worship service and in personal prayer time.

The following information reflects the prayer points and materials: Pray for Churches and Pastors (Nov. 10) Pray for Churches 2 Thess. 1:11-12 Pray: That the Lord would make us worthy of His calling.

That God’s power would equip us for every good work.

That we would glorify the name of the Lord.

That we would serve according to His grace.

Pray for our Pastors Gal. 6:9 Pray: That they would not grow weary in their work.

That they would faithfully shepherd the flock of God.

That they would faithfully share the Word of God.

That they would not give up.

Pray for Healing (Nov. 15) Psalms 147:3 Pray: That God will restore health to those who suffer from COVID.

That God will comfort those who grieve the loss of a family member or friend.

That we, as Oklahoma Baptists, will be able to gather for worship,

camps, retreats and trainings without fear of health risks.

That the Lord will provide a solution to the Pandemic.

Pray for Gratitude (Nov. 22) 1 Thess. 5:16-18 Pray: That we would be thankful for the salvation offered in Jesus Christ.

That we would, privately and publicly, give thanks to God

for His manifold blessings.

That we would be grateful in times of plenty and in want.

That we would learn to be a people marked by humility and gratitude,

without complaint.

Prayer for Unity in Gospel Advance (Nov. 29) Pray for Unity Eph. 4:1-3 Pray: That we would live worthy of our calling.

Pray for a spirit of humility and gentleness.

Pray for opportunities to encourage one another.

Pray for unity of the Spirit and bond of peace among our church family.

Pray for the Nations Rev. 7:9 Pray: For missionaries and their families.

That many people would come to Christ and stand firm in their faith.

That church plants would flourish.

For believers in Oklahoma to have boldness to share the Good News.

The 2020 Lottie Moon Christmas Offering Week of Prayer is Nov. 29-Dec. 6. Visit www.imb.org/lottie-moon-christmas-offering-resources for more information. For complete information and for downloadable materials, visit oklahomabaptists.org/ urgentprayer.

Urgent Prayer for Desperate Times: A UNITED CALL TO PRAYER FOR OKLAHOMA BAPTISTS For information and resources visit oklahomabaptists.org/urgentprayer

Churches link arms in response to California fires >> by Chris Forbes STAFF WRITER

SANTA CRUZ, Calif.—On Aug. 16, Pastor Drew Cunningham awoke to an urgent 1:30 a.m. text from Tyler Hurt, his associate pastor. A family of eight Cunningham knew had been evacuated because fires were coming through the Santa Cruz Mountains, and they had nowhere to go.

It was the beginning of a mega fire that would cover 86,000 acres, destroying more than 1,200 homes, ravaging 40 percent of the area’s redwood forest and displacing about 77,000 people.

Quickly, the pastors jumped into action providing sleeping bags and mattresses for the family, letting them sleep in the church sanctuary.

“The next morning the staff huddled together,” Cunningham recalled. “We said, ‘These aren’t going to be the only people that are evacuated. How can we serve people in the name of Jesus?’ Immediately we started making phone calls and posting on Facebook, letting people know that if they needed help that we were available.

“We converted all of our Sunday school rooms, offices, fellowship hall and sanctuary into hotel-like accommodations,” he explained. “We set up house plants, inflatable beds, got games for kids and started taking people in—pets and all. We had two cats, a dog and a bird at one point as well.”

The church took in 38 people who needed emergency accommodations, caring for them, feeding them three meals a day for 16 days. “Most importantly, we were able to pray with and share the Gospel with each of these people,” he said.

Cunningham, a native Oklahoman, also reached out to his home church, Edmond, Henderson Hills, to help coordinate a response from Oklahoma Baptists in the days ahead to meet the needs of Santa Cruz families who lost their homes.

“We heard from people who were in the Paradise and Santa Rose fires that it takes about two to two and a half years before people are able to build back to where they were before the fires,” he said. “We want to step into that however we can and allow people to see the tangible body of Christ

1) The Santa Cruz church took in 38 people who needed emergency accomodations; 2) the fires covered 86,000 acres, destroying more than 1,200 homes and displacing 77,000 people. >> PHOTO: PROVIDED

at play in this situation. This is a huge opportunity for us to link arms with churches from Oklahoma to do that.”

Mike Wall, Henderson Hills’ pastor of global and local outreach, said his church is working with Cunningham and the Santa Cruz church in meeting the needs of the California community. Groups coordinating with Henderson Hills will be clearing burned debris and sharing the Gospel with people.

“I would like to say how grateful I am for Oklahoma Baptists’ help with getting the word out and allowing the opportunity for others to be in prayer for the ministry that is being done now and will continue to be done in Santa Cruz,” Wall said.

On Oct. 22, the first group traveled to Santa Cruz, consisting of 12 from Henderson Hills and from Weatherford, First, partnering in relief efforts. Seth Odam, youth pastor for Weatherford, First and trip leader, gave details about the work the group accomplished.

“The team primarily did clean-up for a family who lost their entire home in the Santa Cruz fires in August,” Odam said. “We filled two 40-foot dumpsters full of rubble—one filled with metal and the other filled with ash and broken glass. Along with that, the team placed 45 hay wattles around the properties of surrounding neighbors to prevent their property from washing away during the rains this winter.

“I was surprised how fast a bunch of young Oklahoma students could work!” Odam continued. “The

team worked incredibly well doing all of the physical labor, but also in being sensitive to the loss of the family by trying to salvage anything that may have personal value,” One special memory from the trip, Odam recalled, was that “amid all the rubble, we found a glass nativity scene given to (the family) by a grandmother, and they were incredibly thankful that we were able to save it.”

Odam said the group accomplished exactly what they set out to do in clearing the site of the debris. “Not only was a physical need met for the family, but (the clean-up) also opened the door for Drew to connect and build relationships with the unbelieving neighbors. Our splash made an immediate impact, but we set into motion two-plus years of ministry for Santa Cruz Baptist Church as they continue to serve the community like Jesus would,” he said.

“It’s such a huge blessing to be able to work with somebody like Drew,” Wall said, “for our churches to walk with them, to help them, to do things so they can be the church there and just provide more ‘boots on the ground,’ especially in a time of need.”

For more information about Henderson Hills’ response to the Santa Cruz fires, contact Mike Wall at mwall@hhbc.com.

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

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Word of encouragement: Church member E R S D LT U CLASSIFIE NE WS & CU appreciates new pastor EDITOR’S NOTE: The following submitted article was written by Vicki, a member of Holdenville, Calvary. Others are encouraged to send a word of encourE Spastors for possible publication.

I Ctheir VO agement about Email baptistmessenger@okbaptist.net.

My name is Vicki Adkison, and I am a member of Holdenville, Calvary. Our pastor is Forest Weast, and his wife is Pat. He became our pastor just as the pandemic hit.

Our county was very fortunate as to not have any COVID-19 cases for the longest time. Our church is small but so rich in love and faithful Christian people. We met as long as we could in person, but the time finally came that churches should not have in-person services. It’s hard to close the doors of the church, but our members’ health was being put at risk.

Forest figured out how to preach the Word to us by posting on our church Facebook page. My heart goes out to him and Pat during this time, but they have gone far and above their ministry to shepherd us during this time.

It was hard—and still is—to try and get know his congregation and keep in touch. He continues to give a devotional every morning.

We opened back up in May but now due to COVID-19, we are back online. Being small and an older-age group, we decided to go back online since some members tested positive.

Forest and Pat are easy to talk to and are always praying for us. So many of us have health issues, but we’re trying to hang in there with our pastor

Coming Event

Oklahoma City, Portland Avenue is hosting the Texas Country Boys Nov. 22 at 6 p.m. The country gospel group recently toured nine Ukrainian cities playing to packed-out auditoriums and sharing the Gospel. The Nov. 22 concert will help support a mission tour in the spring of 2021. For more information call 405/942-5539.

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

and his wife. They’ve been so faithful and helpful to us these months. I can’t imagine being in a new church at this time and trying to get to know us. We thank God that He sent us Forest and Pat Weast. He loves to sing too, as well as being a great preacher and pastor.

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Committees to serve D S Oklahoma Baptists W S & C U LT U R E CLASSIFIE NE The following persons were appointed to serve on various committees for the 114th Annual Meeting at Broken Arrow, First.

Credentials Committee Heath Tucker, chairman, Edmond, WaE SBradshaw, Elk City, First; I CMatt VO terloo Road; Eric Costanzo, Tulsa, South Tulsa; Ray Earley, Durant, Silo; Richard Forney, Tulsa, New Joy Fellowship; Misael Gonzalez, Owasso, First; Monty Hale, Washington-Osage Association; Garry McNeill, Durant, First; Michael Staton, Mustang, First

Resolutions Committee Matt Brown, chairman, Norman, Bethel; Mark Boyd, Frisco Association; Vern Charette, Coweta, First; Rick Frie, Jenks, First; David Hooks, Oklahoma City, Bryant Avenue; Smokey Hurst, Sapulpa, First; Pam Lang, Yukon, Surrey Hills; Rob Lindley, Oklahoma City, Northwest; Doug Melton, Oklahoma City, Southern Hills; Dale Roland, Tulsa, Concord Community; Stefan Valdez, Sayre, First; Cameron Whaley, Tulsa, Aspen Park

Nominating Committee Mike Scrivani, chairman, Bartlesville, Highland Park; James Bond, Stroud, First; Teresa Brady, Wilburton, First; Shelley Brown, Atwood, First; Trevor Bulls, Boise City, First; Debbie Cruce, Tulsa, First; Harold Gaches, Lawton, First West; Janet Hays, Perry, First; Nick Johnson, Snyder, First; Mauricio Mejia, Oklahoma City, Northwest; Danny Ringer, Great Plains Association; Scott Watkins, Kingfisher, First; LeRon West, Tulsa, Gilcrease Hills; Pete Wilson, Broken Bow, First

Tellers Committee Mark DeMoss, chairman, Oklahoma City, Capitol Hill; Preston Collins, Union Association; James Poulain, Holdenville, First; Chris Wall, Owasso, First; Jason Yarbrough, Glenpool, First

Association name change

Concord-Kiowa Association voted unanimously to change the association’s to Western Oklahoma OKU D name U S Baptist Association at their recent annual meeting. The new website is gowoba.net, and Director of Missions Terry Rials’ new email address is terry@gowoba.net.

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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PEOPLE IN THE NEWS ADUDDELL-PEAVLER DEATH. Joy Aduddell-Peavler, 87, died Oct. 18. FuA 23 at BagO MOct. H neral services were A L K O E H T gerley Funeral Home in E Edmond. She IV H C R A T S I T B A Pserved as a devoted pastor’s wife of Hoyt Aduddell, as they served six Oklahoma churches from 1958-93, including Luther, First; Tulsa, Crusaders; Harrah, First; Lawton, Cameron; Tulsa, Olivet; and Oklahoma City, Wilmont Place.

She was a member of Edmond, Vintage where her son Mark is pastor. She is preceded in death by her first husband Raymond Hoyt Aduddell and her second husband Jim Peavler. She is survived by her children, Steve Aduddell, David Aduddell, Mark Aduddell, Carolyn Copeland and Debbie Wilson; 15 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

BLACKMON DEATH. Roye Leylon Blackmon, Jr., 86, died Oct. 11. Funeral services were Oct. 15 in Crockett, Texas. He served in the ministry of Christ for 64 years, serving in areas of education and music. Oklahoma churches where he served include Oklahoma City, Putnam City; Broken Arrow, First; and Oklahoma City, First. He also served Capital Association as director of church development from 1993-98. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Peggy; his children Renee Peters, Debbie Rowley; Becky Ragan; and Randy Blackmon; seven grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

WORTEN DEATH. Harry “Von” Worten, 88, died Oct. 17. Funeral services were at Tribute Memorial Care in Norman. He and his wife Marge served as International Mission Board missionaries in Indonesia for 24 years. He was a faithful member of Norman, First and was involved with Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief and with Union Builders. He is survived by his wife of more than 60 years, Marge; his children Vance Worten and Stephanie Croft; and seven grandchildren.

ORDINATION. Kenny Mossman was ordained to the Gospel ministry at Oklahoma City, Emmaus on Oct. 18.

ORDINATION. Carl Valentine was ordained to the Gospel ministry at Pink, First on Oct. 11.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS NEW CONGREGATION. Oklahoma City, Thrive Community is now meeting. Tyler Barnes is pastor.

REVIVAL REPORT. Vinita, Trinity, Oct. 4-7. Five professions of faith in Christ. Kim Schmidt, evangelist; Ethan Croyle provided music; Jesse Kincade is pastor.

REVIVAL REPORT. Miami, Mound Valley, Oct. 25-28.

Two professions of faith in Christ, two additions by baptism. Kim Schmidt, evangelist; Richard Heatherly provided music; Stephen Hunter is pastor.

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Allen retires, serving 17 years at Lindsay, First

Lindsay, First celebrated with Pastor Randy Allen andhis wife Dawn in his retirement Aug. 30, after serving the church for 17 years. During the morning service, several testimonies from church members were given of how Randy and Dawn impacted their lives through their ministry. A reception followed the service.

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

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9 things you do when God’s DS CLASSIFIE people frustrate you

EMP LOYMENT LT U R E U C & S W E N

>> F/T PASTOR: FBC Soper, OK is seeking a BI/VO or F/T Southern Baptist Pastor. Parsonage is available. Health insurance benefit provided. Please send resume to: office@ FriscoBaptist.com or to: ATT: Pastor Search Committee, P.O. Box 68, Soper, OK 74759. >> F/T PASTOR: RBC in Blanchard, OK is seeking a F/T Pastor. Responsibilities include planning/conducting worship, ministry support, counseling & other administrative & pastoral duties. Send resume & sermon links to: ridgecrest@pldi.net.

VOICES

>> BI/VO YOUTH PASTOR: FBC Salina OK is asking God for someone who loves seeing youth become strong followers of Jesus. If you’d like to help us with that, please send a resume to: pastor.steve@salinafbc.com. Compensation includes a house with utilities. >> F/T PASTOR: Paradise Valley Baptist Church, North of Lawton, OK, is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Send resume & cover letter to: Paradise Valley Baptist Church, ATTN: Pastor Search Committee, 4974 NW Meers Porter Hill Rd., Lawton, OK. 73507. >> F/T PASTOR: Lakeview Baptist Church in Salina, OK is seeking a Pastor. Lead church body, provide spiritual instruction & strategic leadership. Not responsible for doing all work, seeing it’s done properly. Min 1 yr exp. Send resume to: P.O. Box 308, Salina, OK 74365.

ed others, too—so leading them to change will likely take time. Be patient.

5. Understand that some church members have never been discipled. They may EDITOR’S NOTE: The following article was even be in leadership positions, but that previously featured on chucklawless.com. doesn’t mean they’ve grown much in Christ.

They may actually still be babes in Christ— It happens. In fact, it might have hap- which helps explain their actions. pened for you this past weekend. The peo6. Have an honest conversation with ple of God can be problematic at times, and the person. It’s almost impossible to deal we get frustrated with each other. Here are with issues if we never talk together. Schedsome options when that’s your situation: ule a time to talk, and prayerfully and lov1. Honestly evaluate whether you’re ingly share your concerns. You might be part of the problem. We often are, but surprised that some folks welcome honest we’re unwilling to take responsibility. Some- critique to help them grow. times we need others who love us much to 7. Approach this conversation with help us see ourselves properly. question marks rather than exclamation 2. Seek to determine if you’re reading points. That is, seek dialogue before you the situation properly. In some cases, we make accusations. You might learn someget frustrated over a situation we’re simply thing that helps you better understand the misreading. We then unnecessarily respond other person. You might even realize you in the wrong way—evidenced by our frus- were just wrong (see #2 above). tration. Be careful about assuming motive 8. Decide up front not to let your frusbehind any act. tration become controlling to you. That’s T H Ehappens when we let frustration eat at F R O Mwhat 3. Pray for the problematic person/ G it up, and we then make it B LOgive S never ER people. And, I don’t mean some kind We I N Gus. DofS LimR O W precatory prayer that God might “get them.” an idol in our lives.

Something just happens in our own heart 9. Don’t be a frustration to others. I when we pray for others who bother us. know we don’t always recognize when 4. Recognize that if you’re a church we’re the frustrating ones. We’re much less leader, you’ve probably inherited some- likely, though, to be a frustration when we body else’s mess. Every church has its own strive to follow Christ with all our heart, S and body. issues, and every leader must dealAwith S AYsoul, E mind, V D past, present, and future tense stuff. Some What would you add to this list? of the folks who frustrate you have frustrat>> by Chuck Lawless

SOUTHEASTERN SEMINARY DEAN OF DOCTORAL STUDIES, CHUCKLAWLESS.COM

>> F/T MINISTER: FBC Watonga, OK is prayerfully seeking a F/T Minister to lead an established & well supported student ministry. Email resumes to: FBCWatongaSearch@ gmail.com. More info at: www.fbcwatonga.com. >> PASTOR: FBC Medford is prayerfully seeking a Pastor. Send resume to: FBC Medford, 124 W. Comanche, Medford, OK 73759 or email: fbcmedfordok@gmail.com

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

G U E S T E VAN G E LI S T

OKLAHOMA BAPTISTS’ CHURCH RESOURCES

LOT T I E M O O N C H R I S TM A S O FFE R I N G INTERNATIONAL MISSION BOARD

Looking for a Southern Baptist affiliated evangelist to speak at your fall or winter church events? OCOSBE is the Oklahoma Conference of Southern Baptist Evangelists.

Visit the site below for more information:

It’s that time of year again that Southern Baptist churches begin collecting funds to go to the International Mission Board. Learn more about this offering:

ocosbe.org

imb.org/lmco

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

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

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

DIRT Y CHICKENS >> LORI COATS

I love chickens! As a child growing S my family didn’t S AYtoup, AV Eexposed Dnever raise them, so I was them. However, in 1998, my husband and I decided to raise a few and as they say, the rest is history.

Today, having a few token “yard birds” seems to be the trend, and from looking at social media, it appears that they are the perfect solution if you are needing someTS S I T P A B A M thing to care O build a playground for or preA Hfor, K Lknit Ofor, HT pare a gourmet dinnerRfor.

C E H IG H L I G U O S E R If you don’t believe me just hop on Pinterest and do a quick search about chickens, and you will be laughing and shaking your head in disbelief. It’s very entertaining. Within the first few clicks you will see everything from specialty chicken treat recipes to hand-crocheted fall wardrobes for those chickens who prefer to wear clothes on cooler days. I have even learned that you can purchase a chicken stroller! Who knew?

I’m amazed while looking at the housing and coop pictures. They are so cute but could never keep out any kind of varmint, and I never see any chicken poop! There are never any fallen feathers laying on the ground. The water is sparkling clean, and all of the food is tidy and neatly contained in the feeders. I just keep thinking that either I am a terrible chicken mom or these people are not really raising chickens as the barnyard animals but rather babysitting them. In all the years that we’ve raised chickens (hundreds of them) I have never put a stocking cap on one of them during the winter or build them a new swing set.

Here’s the truth from the coop: CHICKENS ARE DIRTY! They are filthy dirty. Even when you’ve gone to great lengths to make sure that everything in their world is very clean it will only be a short time until it is dirty again. I have to confess, I enjoy looking at all of the funny chicken pictures online, and one day I might even dress one up just for a laugh. But, it’s unrealistic to believe that chickens are tidy pets.

To read the rest of Lori’s blog visit, baptistmessenger.com/blog-dirty-chickens To read more blogs with Jesus in mind, visit www.baptistmessenger.com/blog

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PA S TOR YOUTH MUS I C

>> F/T PASTOR: First Bilingual Baptist Church Abq., NM is now accepting resumes for a F/T Pastor fluent in Spanish & English. Interested candidates send a cover letter & resume to: FBBC c/o Pastor Search Committee, 812 Fruit Ave. NW Albuquerque, NM 87102.

>> F/T PASTOR: FBC Mannsville is seeking a F/T Pastor who preaches the mysteries of God’s Word, boldly proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord, lovingly disciple members to maturity. Send resume to: Search Committee, P.O. Box 67, Mannsville, OK, 73447 or mannsvillefbc@gmail.com.

>> F/T PASTOR: Calvary Baptist Lawton, OK is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Interested candidates should email a cover letter & resume to: personnel@calvarybaptistlawton.org or mail to: Calvary Baptist Church, 715 H Ave, Lawton, OK 7350.

>> F/T WORSHIP PASTOR: First Baptist Church of Alva is looking for a F/T Worship Pastor. Please submit your resume to: cruwaldt@gmail.com.

>> F/T MINISTER OF STUDENTS: The First Baptist Church of Yukon, Oklahoma is seeking a F/T Minister of Students. We are seeking an experienced candidate, with a college education, & passion for ministry. Send resume to: clark@fbcyukon.com or 15 S. 6th St, Yukon, OK 73099.

>> BI/VO YOUTH MINISTER: 40th Street Baptist is asking God for the right person to be our Youth Minister. Please send resumes to: fortiethbc@yahoo.com, call Pastor Josh at (405) 8262654 or mail to: 40th Street Baptist Church, 1801 NW 40th, OKC, 73118.

>> F/T - P/T ASSOCIATE PASTOR: Wallace Avenue Baptist Church of Shawnee is seeking a F/T & P/T Associate Pastor with an emphasis in either worship or student ministry. For more info please contact and send resumes to: Blake@wallaceave.com// wallaceave.com//FB & IG: @ Wabcshawnee.

>> 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.

VOICES

CLASSIFIEDS COLOR KEY: JO B L ISTIN G V EH IC L E M ISC.

EMPLOYM ENT >> BI/VO PASTOR: Dupree Community Baptist Church, Vinita ,OK, is searching for a BI/VO Pastor to lead our small rural church. Please send resume to: Dupree Baptist Church, P.O. Box 1100, Vinita, OK 74301. >> F/T PASTOR: FBC Iola, KS is seeking a F/T Pastor, God-called man. Must be biblically conservative & agree with Baptist Faith & Message 2000. Send resumes to: fbciolapastorsearch@gmail.com or mail to: Pastor Search Team, FBC, P.O. Box 425, Iola, KS 66749 by Jan. 8, 2021. >> P/T OR BI/VO PASTOR: FBC Kiowa, OK is prayerfully seeking a P/T or BI/VO Pastor. Parsonage available. Interested candidates should mail a cover letter & resume to: First Baptist Church, Attention: Ms. Pamela Montgomery, 1033 S. Prairie Rd, Kiowa, OK 74553.

>> SENIOR PASTOR: FBC of Cleveland is prayerfully seeking a Senior Pastor to LEAD, TEACH & PREACH. Please send resumes & a cover letter including references to: fbcclevelandpastorsearch@gmail.com. Applications will be accepted until 11/22/2020. >> F/T OR BI/VO PASTOR: A rural church with parsonage in the Mannford area is accepting resumes for Pastor. Send resumes to: freedomhillbaptistchurch@yahoo. com or 9914 S. Hwy 48, Mannford, OK 74044. >> 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.

>> BI/VO PASTOR: New Life Baptist Church, Broken Arrow, OK, is looking for a BI/VO Pastor. If interested please send resume to: tandrmartindale@cox.net or mail to: 851 W. Norman, Broken Arrow, OK 74012.

>> BI/VO YOUTH MINISTER: Soldier Creek Baptist Church in Midwest City, OK. Please send resumes to: soldiercreek@soldiercreek.org.

>> P/T WORSHIP LEADER: First Baptist Church Sapulpa, OK is seeking a P/T Worship Leader to lead our contemporary service. Please send your resume to: jamie@ fbcsapulpa.com.

>> P/T PASTOR: Enos Baptist Church is in search of a P/T Pastor. Sunday’s & possible Wednesday nights.

Parsonage available if desired. Send resumes to: mikeshipley20@yahoo.com or mail them to: 12223 Snell Rd, Kingston, OK. 73439.

>> P/T STUDENT PASTOR: Asher FBC is seeking God’s next servant. The position will be open December 1, 2020. Asher is a town with a big heart for students. Contact Randy Dirrim at (620) 212-3577 or inhisgrace2016@ gmail.com. >> P/T YOUTH DIRECTOR: FBC Amber is prayerfully accepting resumes for the position of P/T Youth Director.

Please submit resumes to: Pastor, P.O. Box 35, Amber, OK or email: jmorris@fbcamber.org. >> PASTOR: Wright City First Baptist Church is accepting resumes for a Pastor. Parsonage available. We are open to both F/T & BI/VO. We will be accepting resumes until November 13, 2020. Please email: johnnycrabtree59@gmail.com. >> F/T ASSOCIATE PASTOR MUSIC & OUTREACH: FBC Lake Saint Louis, MO is seeking an Associate Pastor of Music & Outreach. Visit https://www.fbclsl.org/job-opportunities for more information.

>> CHILDREN’S DIRECTOR: The Village Baptist OKC Personnel Committee is accepting resumes for a Christ honoring, loving individual to join our staff as Children’s Director. If God has called you to Children’s Ministry, email your resume to: vbcokcpersonnelcommittee@yahoo.com. >> PASTOR: Highland Park Baptist Church in Duncan, OK is seeking a high energy, mission-minded pastor to lead our church. We are a mature, traditional congregation with a heart for change. Send resume to: hpbc@cableone.net or 1002 S. 10th St, Duncan, OK 73533. >> F/T ASSOCIATE PASTOR YOUTH, CHILDREN & FAMILY: First Baptist Church Gower, Missouri is searching for an Associate Pastor of Youth, Children & Family Ministries. This is a F/T position. For full description, email: fbgowerpastorsearch@gmail.com. >> F/T ASSOCIATE PASTOR FOR STUDENTS & MUSIC: Warner First Baptist Church, Warner, OK, is prayerfully seeking a F/T Associate Pastor for Students & Music. Please email resumes to: justin@warnerfbc.org.

>> BI/VO PASTOR: Canadian Valley Baptist Church in Yukon, Oklahoma is prayerfully seeking a BI/VO Pastor.

Please submit recommendations & resumes by November 20, 2020 to: pastorsearch@canadianvalley.church or mail to: P.O. Box 851944, Yukon, Oklahoma 73085-1944. >> F/T PASTOR: Crestview Baptist Church in Oklahoma City is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Please send resumes to: office@crestviewokc.org. >> P/T MUSIC MINISTER: Fair Baptist in Empire, OK is in search of P/T Music Minister to lead the body of Christ to the throne of God. If you feel lead to be part of a growing church please, send resumes to: fair@fairbaptist.org. >> F/T DISCIPLESHIP/OUTREACH PASTOR: FBC Sapulpa is seeking a F/T Discipleship & Outreach Pastor. Send resume, cover letter and references to: jamie@ fbcsapulpa.com. >> F/T PASTOR: First Baptist Church, Ft. Cobb, Oklahoma is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Send resume & cover letter to: First Baptist Church, Attn. Pastor Search Committee Box 87, Ft. Cobb, OK 73038 or email: fbcftcobb@yahoo.com. >> BI/VO PASTOR: Church is seeking BI/VO Pastor.

Please email resume to: wagonertwinoaksbc@yahoo. com or mail to: Twin Oaks Baptist, 70076 S. 330 Rd, Wagoner, OK 74467. >> F/T OR BI/VO PASTOR: First Baptist Church Keyes, located in the Oklahoma Panhandle, is seeking a F/T or BI/VO Pastor. Resumes may be mailed to: P.O. Box 153, Keyes, OK 73947 or emailed to: fbckeyes@gmail.com. >> F/T PASTOR: FBC Forgan, OK is prayerfully seeking God’s man. Send resume to: P.O. Box 9 Forgan, OK 73938.

More info see: forganfbc.com or call (580) 461-0857.

CROSSWO

ACROSS 1 Average (Abbr.)

4 His time, a beast of burden 9 Relaxing place 12 49 Down solo 14 He “was dead, and is __ again” (Luke 15:24)

15 Breakfast cereal choice 16 Temple decorators’ embellishments 17 Icy rain 18 Pasta option 19 Boney guy 21 61 Across harvest

>> F/T PASTOR: New Hope Baptist Church, Tecumseh, OK is prayerfully seeking a F/T Pastor. Please email resume along with current sermon video or link to sermons to: newhopesecretary@gmail.com or mail to: 37496 New Hope Road, Tecumseh, OK 74873. >> SONG LEADER: Opportunity to serve the Lord & earn extra money as Song Leader at Willieo Baptist Church located in the Inola area. For more information contact Linda Froman at (918) 341-1605 or send resume to: Willieo Baptist Church, P.O. Box 1304, Inola, OK 74036. >> F/T SENIOR PASTOR: Mammoth Baptist Church, Meeker is seeking a F/T Senior Pastor. Please submit resumes to: P.O. Box 642, Meeker, OK 74855 or email to: mammothchurch@gmail.com. Deadline to submit resumes is November 20, 2020. >> F/T OR BI/VO PASTOR: Mount Hermon Church, located in Jay, Oklahoma is prayerfully looking for a BI/ VO or F/T Senior Pastor who is passionate in sharing the Gospel. For more information or to submit a resume, please email: colewheeler36@gmail.com. >> BI/VO PASTOR: Crown Heights Baptist Church seeking BI/VO Pastor with a desire to reach the lost & disciple the Church family. Located in a challenging area of OKC. Send resumes to: CHBC, 4802 N. Western, OKC 73118. or email: chbc.okc@coxinet.net.

MIS CEL L A NEO US >> BIBLE REPAIR & RESTORATION: Study & family Bibles. Hand sewn, fine stamped leather. McSpadden Book Bindery, 911 W. Benedict, Shawnee, OK 74801 www.mcspaddenbookbindery.com (405) 275-7788.

RD

23 Garment maker would do this 24 __ Father 25 Halt 28 Bethany to Bethlehem (dir.)

31 Observe 34 Squirrels’ stash 36 Cart, perhaps, in Jesus’ time 38 Game caller, for short 40 In His time, bread-makers’ to-do 41 Most tried to __ Roman soldiers 43 Marketplace barter agreement 44 “We __, Abba, Father” (Rom. 8:15) 45 Suffer 46 Lawn-like 48 By __, Jesus’ travel option 51 Excitement in marketplace, e.g.

53 Org. (Abbr.)

54 Bottomless __, hell 56 He had five loaves and two fish 58 Plan 61 21 Across concern 66 Many people in His time 67 49 Down approval 69 Jacob’s brother 70 Repeated 3 times, WWII movie 71 Anointed 72 Beget 73 Jamaican music genre 74 Extremely heavy 75 Believers are to __ an example

DOWN 1 Droops 2 Laborious journey 3 Coin 4 Social level in His time 5 Permits 6 Appearance 7 Eden gal 8 “You have __ of the commands of God” (Mark 7:8 niv) (2 words) 9 Seafarer’s vessel in His time 10 Fisherman disciple, for short 11 Center of rotation 13 Visual communication (Abbr.)

15 Former Russian rulers 20 Sports channel 22 In His time, herb sometimes tithed 25 In His time, head wrap against sun 26 Japanese capital 27 Mine find 29 Hot liquid burn 30 Bundle 32 Orchard sight in His time 33 40 Across need 34 Network TV channel 35 9 Down milieu 37 In His time, many widows did this 39 Angel’s travel option

42 By way of 43 Israelite tribe 47 In His time, donkey owner might do this 49 Musical production 50 Paul’s son in faith, for short 52 32 Down fillers 55 Bible “thou shalt not” 57 Current receptor 58 Automotive oil brands 59 Most women did this in His time 60 Israeli circle dance 61 Gorge 62 Affirmative 63 Sale tag info (2 words) 64 Unusual 65 49 Down feature 68 7 Down formed from Adam’s

LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS

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

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