B ULLETIN THE OPEN BIBLE
THere Are No Secrets
By Matthew Little - President
An experiment was conducted in the Ganges Delta in India, where approximately 60 people are killed by Bengal tigers each year. These predators attack from behind, using the element of surprise when their victims cannot see them. In the experiment, workers in the mangrove forests began wearing masks on the backs of their heads, tricking the tigers into thinking that the humans were still watching them. Over a three-year period, no one wearing a mask was killed, while in contrast, 29 people who did not wear a mask were attacked and killed.
In Luke 8:17, Jesus said, “For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither anything hid, that shall not be known and come abroad.” One of Satan’s strategies is to convince us that things done in secret will remain secret. Many people have been misled into believing that their sins, unseen by others, will dissolve and be left in the past, never to resurface.
It is predictable for the world to fall for this lie; however, many followers of Christ can become distant and calloused in their walk with God, leading them to succumb to this deceptive thinking. Even Moses fell victim to this sin when he killed the Egyptian who was beating a Hebrew. The Scriptures say, “And he looked this way and that way, and when he saw that there was no man, he slew the Egyptian and hid him in the sand” (Exodus 2:12). Moses looked left and right, but he did not look up to the God who was watching it all.
Paul reminds us in II Corinthians 5:10, “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that everyone may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.” When you are tempted to sin “secretly” against others, always remember that God has provided a powerful safeguard to help you resist: full disclosure. Every
God Hears Our Words
By Dr. David Doherty - Academic Dean
It is estimated that the average person speaks about 6,000 words per day. The average teacher speaks between 20,000 and 30,000 words daily. There is great potential to be an encouragement to others through the careful use of words. The opposite is also true. Our words provide a window showing our heart’s content (Matt. 12:34). We will one day give account for every idle word that we utter (Matt. 12:36). A person with a pure heart will speak words of pleasantness (Prov. 15:26). A wise person’s words are gracious (Eccl. 10:12). Some words can pierce like a sword causing much pain and sometimes lasting damage (Prov. 12:18). Job knew the frustration and grief that misguided words can inflict. False or inappropriate words can ruin a ministry, divide churches, spoil a marriage, destroy a testimony and dishonour the Lord. Scripture gives us good counsel by addressing the need to:
thought, intent and action will be laid before Him someday.
Live each day with the understanding that nothing is hidden from God’s knowledge. There is no sneaking past His watchful eye. As Henry Blackaby once said, “The only real assurance against having your sin exposed is living a blameless life.” Never forget that Christ has called us to be the light that dispels darkness (I John. 1:5-7), not to use that darkness to hide our sins.
Staff Itineraries
Mike Grant - May 16-27
I. Use few words.
Ecclesiastes 5:2 is not teaching us to reduce our speaking. It is cautioning us not to be “rash” with our mouths and to realize Who we address in prayer. Words directed to God must not be hasty. Give the Lord pure words from a clean heart. “In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin” (Prov. 10:19a).
II. Avoid flattering words.
Flattering words evidence a “double heart” (Ps. 12:2) and expose the intent to “spread a net” to trip up a neighbour (Prov. 29:5). The words of a flatterer are “iniquity and deceit” (Ps. 36:2,3).
III. Speak faithful words.
The Prophet Jeremiah was instructed by the Lord, “…he that hath My Word, let him speak My Word faithfully” (23:28). God’s servant is to “be holding fast the faithful Word as he hath been taught” (Titus 1:9). This includes a dili-
gence in making known “sound doctrine.” Faithful words include giving a truthful testimony of God’s work in one’s life. Faithfulness is to mark every area in the lives of God’s stewards (I Cor. 4:2). Faithfulness in witness is a Christ-like characteristic (Rev. 1:5) which should challenge all believers to model in life.
The Third Epistle of John speaks highly of Gaius, a man of whom others spoke favourably. Other saints spoke gracious words of him, that “the truth” was in him (v. 3). The Holy Spirit noted his words. May we as Christians mark well our words and please the Lord as we do so. Uganda
Alumni Park
Campus Beautification Project
We are excited to introduce a transformative project that will revitalize the heart of our campus. We plan to create “Alumni Park” in the area next to our KMR Study Centre, dedicating it to our alumni. Picture mature trees beautifully lining the pathways, a charming gazebo for gatherings, and elegantly designed paver stones. Thoughtfully-placed picnic tables and benches will offer spaces for everyone to enjoy fun and fellowship. Vibrant flower beds and shrubs will add splashes of colour, creating an inviting oasis for all.
To bring this vision to life, we are seeking to raise $35,000. Our goal is to create a stunning environment that honours our alumni while providing a delightful space for students, staff, and alumni to enjoy for years to come. Currently, the center of our campus lacks character, and this project promises to be an exciting revitalization that will enhance our campus landscape.
Will you consider partnering with us to realize this inspiring and much-needed initiative? Together, we can transform this space into a cherished gathering spot for everyone.
We’re thrilled to announce an exciting new program! After years of running Vacation with a Vision, we’re launching a new program called Pathways of Purpose, and we want YOU to be a part of it! Imagine making a meaningful impact in just a day or two! Unlike our previous program, which required a full-week commitment, Pathways of Purpose offers greater flexibility for your family or church work group. Whether you can join us for a Saturday or even a day or two throughout the week, we have a variety of projects ready and waiting for your helping hands.
Join us for a fun-filled day where you’ll have the opportunity to dive into impactful projects, share laughter, and enjoy delicious meals while building lasting friendships with fellow believers.
This summer, we are open and flexible to accommodate work groups on the weekends or weekdays that work for them. If your group is eager to partner with us in fulfilling vital projects on our campus, we can’t wait to welcome you. We would love for you to join us for “Pathways of Purpose.” Visit nbbi.ca/path to register or find more information.
FAMILY FILE
HOMEGOINGS
Elizabeth (Betty) Hoover, in Winston-Salem, NC, on February 17, 2025, on her 92nd birthday. Betty taught Children’s Ministries at NBBI from 1982-1992. Her passion was spreading the Good News about Christ, especially to children. She was an excellent artist who taught Bible stories to countless children. Besides her ministry at NBBI, Betty served the Lord at Camp Fair Haven and Child Evangelism Fellowship (both in Maine), Camp Ridgecrest and Salem Baptist Church (both in NC).
Lovis Noyes (’63) in Farmington, ME on March 8, 2025. For nearly 30 years, Lovis worked as a dedicated nurse at Franklin Memorial Hospital in Farmington. She also served at Edgewood Manor for two and a half years and briefly at Pinewood Terrace, always bringing warmth and compassion to her patients. She was also a devoted East Wilton Union Church member, where she actively served on the missions committee.
To Spencer (BTh ’19) & Lily Tapley, a girl, Rose Elle Ruth on February 28, 2025.
To Alex (BRE ’21) and Grace Spearin, a girl, Adeline Kay, on March 3, 2025.