Smbc new member orientation workbook

THE NEW MEMBERSHIP ORIENTATION MANUAL

REV ISIAH JOSHUA, JR SENIOR PASTOR

Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church (2010)

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Dear New Member:

It is my privilege to welcome you to Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church. Indeed, we are thankful to the Lord and Master for leading you this way. Yes, the Lord God is a mighty good leader. In fact, He led the late Sister Vernie Jean Hunter to encourage the creation of a New Members Orientation program.

As a new member, you are invited to provide feedback on the instruction that is being provided for you. Our goal is to provide an effective and efficient orientation process for you. Remember, we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.

At the conclusion of your training, it is my hope that you will have found the New Members Orientation Class most beneficial in assisting you with establishing a most concrete spiritual foundation. May the peace and love of Jesus Christ be with you always.

Welcome to Shiloh!

In Christ Jesus,

I. Joshua, Jr., M. Ed. Pastor, Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church Plano, Texas

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Dear New Member, As a newly united member with the Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, we invite you to participate in the New Member Orientation Classes. The Orientation involves eight (8) sessions conducted each Sunday at 9:45 AM in the Conference Room, Room #104. Following the eighth session, we invite you to join a Sunday School Class that coincides with your age group.

Listed below are the session titles and the facilitators for each session. New Member Orientation classes are held during our regular Church Sunday School period. Sessions run continuously and you may begin at any time. We only ask that you ensure that you have participated in each session for each has a designated subject matter. If you miss a particular week’s session, you may attend that session upon its next offering. A certificate of completion will be provided to each person having successfully completed each of the eight (8) required sessions.

We look forward to seeing you in the New Member Orientation Classes and hope you will decide to attend Sunday School Classes immediately thereafter.

NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION CLASSES Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 6 Week 7 Week 8

Salvation Eternal Security Baptism Communion The Body of Christ Obedience in Giving Church History and Org Structure Faith

Min. Andrew White Min. Levi Young Min. Levi Young Min. Levi Young Deacon A. Patterson Deacon I. Jones Deacon B. McDonald Deacon B. McDonald

Sincerely,

Minister Mancil Carroll Minister of Christian Education Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church

Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church (2010)

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Purpose The purpose of New Member Orientation is to do the following: 

Equip each member with the tools to properly articulate their faith

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Identify the spiritual elements necessary to provide new members with full knowledge of what we believe and the Biblical basis of our faith

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Provide new converts to Christ and members with a functional awareness of their faith and the fundamental beliefs of the church they have joined

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Establish a full understanding that the fundamentals of the Christian faith serve as the structural foundation of the Christian Church

We want all members to feel they have joined a family. As a part of this family, we encourage you to participate in and have a positive effect on all activities of Shiloh while uplifting our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

We believe, with a strong foundation and faith in the Lord, nothing is impossible.

This orientation process will enhance your faith and permit each of us to grow spiritually; we invite you join and participate.

Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church (2010)

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The Genesis of Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church Reverend Sutton E. Griggs, Reverend Keen and Reverend John Coleman founded the Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in 1884, all members of the Northwestern District Association. Shiloh’s first pastor was the Reverend John Coleman. Reverend Hartmon and then Reverend G.B. Williams followed Reverend Coleman. Reverend Stewart was the fourth pastor of Shiloh.

In 1908, a church building was erected to house the expanding congregation.

The fifth pastor, Reverend Adair served the congregation from 1912 to 1914.

Reverend Winston, who served until 1916, succeeded him. The Reverend A.L. Russell assumed the pastorate of Shiloh in 1916 and served until 1920. Shiloh continued to grow under each of their terms of leadership.

The older church building was raised and a new and larger structure was constructed in 1918 under the administration of Reverend A.L. Russell.

Following Reverend Russell’s departure in 1920, the church was without a pastor for two years. There were many evangelists who came to preach during this time. Among them was Reverend Harper, who arrived in 1922. This young gospel preacher came to Shiloh by way of Arkansas. He was found to be very honorable and a man of noble character.

During Reverend Harper’s ministry, the Church also experienced some turbulent times that resulted in the suspension of the Deacon Board for an extended period of time. Reverend Harper continued to provide spiritual leadership for the congregation and devised alternate means for the Deacon Board to Two additional classrooms, an carry out some of its responsibilities. office and two restrooms were added to the church during this time. Reverend Harper provided most of the labor for these additions.

Between 1960 and 1962 the membership of the Church had grown beyond expectation. It was suggested to Reverend Harper that the church call a seated Board of Deacons to handle the business affairs of the Church. The Church appointed a new group of deacons, along with a few elder deacons from the previous board. Many of the newly appointed deacons were active members of the Church’s Brotherhood.

The Deacon Board immediately began to study the feasibility of building a new facility. A building committee was selected, a treasurer for the building fund was appointed and contact was established with contractors to draw up plans. The result of this effort is the old Church structure located at 1310 Avenue I; Plano, Texas. It was completed March 7, 1964. The facility served as the place of worship for the Shiloh congregation for 37 years.

Reverend Harper’s health began to fail and the Church was faced with a very difficult decision. It was very hard to face the reality of his condition. The

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congregation was continuing to grow and the Pastor’s health was impacting his ability to serve. The Deacon Board, under the direction of the Church, approached Reverend Harper about retirement and offered him the position of Pastor Emeritus. He listened very attentively, but graciously refused the offer.

Acting on both concerns for the Pastor and the congregation, the deacons proceeded with the necessary steps to call another pastor to lead Shiloh.

Reverend Harper served Shiloh for forty-four years. In 1966, Shiloh called Reverend C. S. Trimble, who was also a member of Shiloh and someone many felt possessed some of the same positive qualities as Reverend Harper. He was a man of fine character and respected by all that knew him. Reverend Trimble became Shiloh’s pastor during the turbulent 1960s. Texas had outlawed the NAACP and made threats to prosecute anyone who violated the law. When the Chapter in the Plano community disbanded, the Douglass Community Council was organized. Reverend Trimble agreed to become its first president. He was very active in the Council and represented the community on many issues. After serving several on the Council for several years, Reverend Trimble resigned from the council in order to devote more time to the growing Shiloh congregation.

The Church’s bank note was paid in full in June of 1984, and the note burning service was held on October 15, 1984.

Shiloh continued to flourish; educational and evangelical programs were instituted. Prior to his departure from this life, Reverend Trimble recommended that the church proceed in purchasing land surrounding and adjacent to the existing sanctuary. Reverend Trimble also recommended that the congregation consider Isiah Joshua as the new under shepherd to lead the congregation.

Reverend Trimble served as the Pastor of Shiloh for twenty-seven years. He was laid to rest on March 23, 1994.

Upon Reverend Trimble’s death, the Deacon Board recommended that Reverend Isiah Joshua, Jr. serve as Interim Pastor until the pastors search committee completed its work. On September 15, 1994 the congregation called Reverend Isiah Joshua, Jr. to pastor the Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church. Under Pastor Joshua’s leadership the church began to revisit its plans for building a new Worship Center that would include many classrooms, fellowship space and much more. The Pastor offered a challenge to the congregation to play a significant role in the building processes through its participation in the United We Build capital fund-raising program. Through the Program each member would have the opportunity to give sacrificially to the building fund, with the key idea being, Not Equal Giving, but Equal Sacrifice. The campaign was initiated in January 1998 under the direction of Sister Annie Sullivan. The Expansion Committee was established under the leadership of Brother Jasper Rowe and Brother Cecil Starks, who worked tirelessly to plan and design the new facility. On April 25, 1999 the church held the Ground Breaking Ceremony for the new sanctuary.

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On June 3, 2001 the first service was held in the newly erected sanctuary, located at 920 14th Street. Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church is proud of its founding fathers, which always had the insight to see the needs of the church.

Through many discussions that were sometimes heated and sometimes blissful, the church has always found common ground. With faithful, prayerful giving and determination we have entered a new millennium with a congregation spanning 117 years of existence. We have adopted God’s plan. We have set our goals and God has richly blessed us. Now may our response be like that of Paul: Let us press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:14).

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Church Covenant Having been led as we believe by the Spirit of God to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, and on the profession of our Faith, having been baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, we do now, in the presence of God and this Assembly, most solemnly and joyfully enter into this covenant one with another as one body in Christ.

We engage, therefore, by the aid of the Holy Spirit to walk together in Christian love, to strive for the advancement of this church in knowledge, holiness, and comfort to promote its prosperity and spirituality, to sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline and doctrines, to contribute cheerfully and regularly to the support of the ministry, the expenses of the church, the relief of the poor and the spread of the gospel through all nations.

We also engage to maintain family and personal devotions to educate our children in biblical truth, to seek the salvation of our kindred and acquaintances, and to be zealous in our efforts to advance the kingdom of our Savior.

We further engage to watch over one another in brotherly love, to remember one another in prayer, to aid one another in sickness and distress, to cultivate Christian sympathy in feeling and Christian courtesy in speech, to be slow to take offense but always ready for reconciliation and mindful of the rules of the Savior to secure it without delay.

We moreover engage that when we move from this place, we will, as soon as possible, unite with another church where we can carry out the spirit of this covenant and the principles of God’s Word.

Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church (2010)

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General Organizational Structure I.

Local Church Name: Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church A. Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church believes in and practices the scriptural doctrine of cooperation. Shiloh works with other churches in the following manner: 1.

2.

3.

4.

Community Interaction Community service Church Annual Services District, State and National Conventions

B. Mission of the Church Programs 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

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II.

Pastoral Ministries Sunday School / Bible Teaching Church Training / Christian Education Music Ministry Brotherhood / Laymen Women’s Missionary Society Young Adult Ministry / Support Groups Children’s Worship Youth Department

District A. Galilee Griggs District Memorial Association of Baptist Churches 1. The Association a. To bring churches of like faith and doctrine together in a combined effort to better spread the gospel of Jesus Christ through out the world. b. The Association holds its annual session the last week in September. c. There are eighty-seven (87) Churches in Galilee Griggs d. The Association is divided into Zones 1.

2.

3.

4.

Dallas Area Forth Worth Ennis, Temple Area Sherman, Dennison, Plano etc. Area

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2. The Congress a. To provide extended training and teaching to the local church b. To provide in-depth study of all fazes of church work through Sunday School and Training Union. c. Lead persons to participate in mission d. Provide organization and leadership for special mission projects 3. Laymen / Brotherhood a. Teach Missions b. Encourage the participation of men and boys in the missions’ programs and projects sponsored by the Church c. Teach stewardship 4. Young Adult Ministry a. Provide needed Christian fellowship b. Engage in worship, witness, and teaching c. Provide opportunities for growth 5. Children Worship a. b. c. d.

To teach children Bible stories Help children apply Biblical doctrine principles Help prepare children for service in the sanctuary Become involved in local , district, and national activities 1. Youth Department 2. Youth Ushers 3. Youth Choir

6. Ushers a. A personal representative of Jesus Christ b. Meets people on a person to person basis when they arrive at church

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III.

Special Committees These are special people with special talents who arrange special services for the church and community

Every member of Shiloh should be regular in attendance at the worship services and participate in the work of the organization designed for him.

Such attendance and participation will promote Christian growth, give training in Christian work, and open doors of opportunity for service.

IV.

Affiliations A. Texas Baptist Convention State conventions are composed of messengers from cooperating churches within several districts. They support a program of mission as well as support of colleges, hospitals, and children’s home. Texas Baptist Convention provides teaching and training for church leaders and meets in August in Jacksonville.

B. National Baptist Convention USA, Inc. The National Baptist Convention, Inc. is composed of messengers from cooperating Baptist Churches of like faith and doctrine in the United States. It has an annual meeting in June. It has a Foreign Mission Board, a Home Mission Board, and Sunday School Publishing Board that provides literature and church supplies. It has various agencies and commissions. It provides seminaries and supports thousands of missionaries both in America and around the world. The main support for the mission and benevolent work of the convention is through Cooperative Program. (This is a budget plan for dividing mission funds received from churches among the various agencies and institutions.) Support also comes from special offerings.

Study courses are provided from the National to State, District and Local Churches. Certificates may be obtained through these studies done in the District, the State, and National Congress and Conventions. Certificates of accreditation may be obtained in a Local church only if the instructor is certified through the district, state or national.

Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church (2010)

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Salvation Lesson 1

Most people live their entire lives without ever knowing "WHY?" They exist year after year with no idea of God's purpose for their lives. The most basic question a person can ask is, "What is the meaning of my life?"

Everyone wants to be happy. People try many ways: ∙ ∙ ∙

Some look for happiness through friendships Some look for happiness through “pleasure” experiments Some look for happiness through popularity & power

But real happiness comes from understanding my purpose .

WHY 1. GOD MADE ME TO love ME! God says, "I have loved you with an everlasting love!" Jer.31:3 "Even before the world was made, God had already chosen us to be His through our union with Christ ... because of His love, God had already decided that through Jesus Christ He would make us His children ‐ this was God's pleasure and purpose.” Eph.1:4‐5 (GN)

2. WE WERE CREATED TO DEVELOP A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD AND TO ENJOY ALL OF THE REST OF GOD'S CREATION! THIS MAKES US SPECIAL! "So God created human beings, making them in His image. He blessed them, and said, ... live all over the earth and bring it under control. I am putting you in charge." Gen. 1:27‐28(LB) "God richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment." 1 Tim.6:17 3. WHEN WE KNOW AND LOVE GOD, AND LIVE IN HARMONY WITH HIS PURPOSE FOR OUR LIVES, IT PRODUCES TREMENDOUS BENEFITS IN OUR LIVES : 1

This is the kind of lifestyle God intends for us to live!

Jesus said, "I have come in order that you might have life ‐ life in all it’s fullness!” John 10:10 If this is true, why aren't most people really happy?

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WHAT'S THE PROBLEM? Humanity has a natural desire to be selfish and to ignore God's principles for living.

This ignorance to God’s way of living is communicated in our words and lifestyle: ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙

"Look out for #1.”

“I want what I want, when I want it” “Do your own thing."

"If it feels good, do it! Who cares what God has to say about it?"

"It's my life and I'll do what I please!"

THE BIBLE CALLS THIS ATTITUDE: SINFUL .

Sin is a biblical word that means, “to miss the mark.”

Key word: Unholy

"All of us, like sheep, have gone astray, and each of us has turned to his own way." Isaiah 53:6 2

"If we say that we never sin, we are only fooling ourselves, and refuse to accept the truth." 1 John 1:8 Sin breaks our close relationship with God. Sin separates us from God and causes us to live our lives outside of His will.

"The trouble is that your sins have cut you off from God.” Isaiah 59:2 (LB) "All have sinned and fall short of God's glorious ideal.” Romans 3:23 It looks like this ...

∙

SIN/DEATH The result of these attempts is worthless. The Bible teaches us that our attempts lead to DEATH. A relationship with God is NOT based on anything you DO.

"There are ways that SEEM right to man, but they only end in death."

Proverbs 16:25 When our relationship to God is not right, it causes PROBLEMS in every area of our lives: friendships, school, parents, jobs, finances, etc.

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III. JWT'S THE SOLUTION? Jesus said, "I AM THE WAY, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father, except THROUGH ME!” John 14:6 God came to earth as a human being [in Jesus] to bring us back to Himself. If any other way would have worked, Jesus would not have had to come. “The Way” is through the person of Jesus!

"The wages of sin is death, BUT the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Roman 6:23 JESUS HAS ALREADY TAKEN CARE OF YOUR SIN PROBLEM WHEN HE DIED ON THE CROSS!

"God is on one side and all people are on the other side, and Christ Jesus, Himself man, is between to bring them together, by giving His life for all mankind." 1 Tim. 2:5

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WHY DID GOD SEND JESUS TO DIE IN YOUR PLACE? God did this for YOU because He loves YOU and wants YOU to know Him.

"God demonstrated His love for us in that while we were still separated from God, by sin, Christ died for us.” Rom. 5:8 God has already done His part to restore our relationship to Him. HE TOOK THE INITIATIVE. NOW HE WAITS FOR EACH OF US to individually ACCEPT what He has done for us.

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WHAT DOES GOD WANT ME TO DO? 1. CONFESS THAT GOD HAS NOT BEEN FIRST PLACE IN YOUR LIFE AND ASK HIM TO FORGIVE YOUR SINS.

"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from every wrong.” 1 John 1:9 2. BELIEVE THAT JESUS DIED TO PAY FOR YOUR SINS AND THAT HE ROSE AGAIN, AND IS ALIVE TODAY. "If you confess that Jesus is your Lord, and you believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9 "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name (Jesus) by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12

3. RECEIVE/ACCEPT GOD'S FREE GIFT OF SALVATION. DON'T TRY TO EARN IT.

"For it is by grace you are saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9 Our relationship to God is not restored by anything we do, but on the basis on what Jesus already did for us!

4. ASK JESUS CHRIST TO COME INTO YOUR LIFE AND BE THE DIRECTOR ("LORD") OF YOUR LIFE. "To all who receive Him, He gives the right to become children of God. All we need to do is to trust Him to save us. All those who believe this are reborn! ... not a physical rebirth ... but from the will of God!” John 1:12‐13 "Jesus says, 'Listen! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in ... ‘ ” Rev. 3:30

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ETERNAL SECURITY LESSON 2  "Now That I Am Saved, Can I Ever Lose My Salvation?"

Once an individual has settled the question of salvation as the Bible declares it “by grace through faith In Jesus Christ” it is imperative that he understands how that decision has affected his entire life.

There are only two spiritual families on this earth, God's and the devil's. We were born into the devil's family at the time of our physical birth, and we are born into God's family when we receive Jesus Christ as our Savior. (John 1:12‐13) In this lesson we will discuss the state of the new believer in God's family, and from the biblical facts, settle the question of the eternal security of the Christian. o Study the testimony of the Lord Jesus Himself on this subject.  Jesus Christ promises that,... "him that cometh unto me I will in no wise cast out. " (John 6.37) God will not cast you out of his family under any circumstances.  John 10:27‐29 makes it clear that no man can cause you to lose your salvation, because God your Father is greater than all men.  Okay, God won't cast me out, and no man can take my salvation, but what about myself? Can I do something to lose my salvation? o Salvation Is by grace through faith, and not by works. It is a GIFT from God. No man can lose his salvation on his own, because no man earned his salvation on his own. Ephesians 2:8‐9 o Galatians 3:10 and James 2:10 ‐ tell us if we had to do anything to earn or keep salvation, we would lose it easily. Yet, II Timothy 1:12 assures us it is Jesus Christ who keeps us, not we ourselves. o Galatians 2:21 states clearly that if we could become righteous by anything we do, then Jesus Christ's death was a waste.

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 Okay, God won't cast me out, no man can cause me to lose my salvation, and I can't lose it myself, but Is there anything else that can cause me to lose my salvation? “NO” Romans 8:38‐39 says, "For I am persuaded that neither...”

o "Death" ‐ you can't lose it when you die. o "Life " ‐ you can't lose it while you are alive. o "Angel's can't take it from you. o "Principalities " ‐ evil spirits can't take it from you. o "Powers" ‐ the devil can't cause you to lose it. o "Things present'‐ nothing happening right now can take it away. o "Things to come"‐ nothing in the future can make you lose it. o "Height" ‐ nothing above you can affect it. o "Depth'‐ nothing below you can affect it. o "NOR ANY OTHER CREATURE shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. "

 Why is this? o Because your relationship with God is now a father/son relationship by birth. Review John 1:12‐13. o When you were born physically, there was a record made of your birth called a birth certificate. When you were born again, a record was made. I John 5:11‐13. o Your birth certificate was marked with a seal. Your spiritual birth is sealed by the Holy Spirit of God. Ephesians 1:13, 4:30.

 You will be your father’s son for eternity because you were born of his seed. You could leave the country, disown each other, change your name, and never see him or hear from him or even think of him the rest of your life; but it will never change the fact that he is your father.

 The same is true of your Heavenly Father. You can die, but you can never be unborn. Your birth is fixed forever, both physically and spiritually, and even God Himself cannot change that fact.

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 Basic questions.

o How can I know for sure I am saved?  The epistle of I John is written for this purpose. I John 5:13 says, “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may KNOW that ye have eternal life... “As a new Christian, I John should be a primary focal point to help you grow and to settle this issue. o What if I don't feel saved?  Your salvation is not based on feelings. It is based upon the objective factual truth of the Word of God.  I John 3:20 says, "For if our heart condemn us (we think or feel lost), God is greater than our hearts and knoweth all things."

God knows if you're saved, even if you don't.  b. Titus 1: 2 says. “ In hope of eternal life, which GOD, that cannot lie, promised before the world began”

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JUST BELIEVE WHAT GOD HAS SAID! I John 2:25

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Baptism Lesson 3

1. TO FOLLOW THE EXAMPLE SET BY JESUS .

"At that time Jesus came from Nazareth and was baptized by John in the river." Mark 1:9 2. BECAUSE CHRIST COMMANDS IT.

"Jesus said, 'Go then, to all people everywhere and make them my disciples, baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and teach them to obey everything I have commanded you.'" Matt. 28:19‐20

3. IT DEMONSTRATES THAT I REALLY AM A CHRISTIAN . " ... many of the people who heard Him believed and were baptized” Act 18:8 "We know that we have come to know Him, if we obey His commands."

1 John 2:3

HAT IS THE MEANING OF BAPTISM?

1. IT ILLUSTRATES JESUS’ BURIAL AND RESURRECTION. "Christ died for our sins ... He was buried ... and He rose again." 1 Cor. 15:3‐4 "For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were also raised with Christ.” Col. 2:12 2. IT ILLUSTRATES MY NEW LIFE AS A CHRISTIAN. "By our baptism then, we were buried with Him and shared His death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead ... so also we may live a new life.” Rom. 6:4

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Baptism doesn't make you a believer, it demonstrates that you already believe.

It’s important to understand that baptism does not "save" you. You are “saved” only by your faith in Jesus.

"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith ... it is the gift of God ‐ not by works, so that no one can boast." Ephesians 2:8‐9 Baptism is like a wedding ring ‐‐ it's the outward symbol of the commitment you make in your heart.

III. WHY BE BAPTIZED BY IMMERSION? 1) BECAUSE JESUS WAS BAPTIZED THAT WAY. "As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water.” Matt. 3:16

2) EVERY BAPTISM IN THE BIBLE WAS BY IMMERSION.

(Example) " ... then both Philip and the man went down into the water and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water...” Acts 8:38-39

3) THE WORD "BAPTIZE" ACTUALLY MEANS "TO IMMERSE IN WATER." 4) IMMERSION BEST SYMBOLIZES A BURIAL AND RESURRECTION! "When someone becomes a Christian he becomes a brand new person inside. The old life has passed away and a new life has begun!” 2 Cor. 5:17. WHO SHOULD BE

BAPTIZED?

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1) EVERY PERSON WHO HAS BELIEVED IN CHRIST. "Those who believe and accepted His message were baptized ..." Acts 2:41 "Simon himself believed and was baptized ..." Acts 8:13 "But when they believed Philip as he preached the Good News ... and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women." Acts 8:12

What if I was baptized as an infant?

Some churches baptize infants. At Shiloh MBC we don’t. We only baptize those who have made a decision to believe in Christ’s death as the payment for their sin. In the Bible, men and women baptized following their belief in Jesus.

The custom of infant baptism began about 300 years after the Bible was completed. It’s a ceremony intended to emphasize a commitment between the parents and God on the behalf of the child. During this ceremony, the parents promise to raise their child in the faith until the child is old enough to make his own personal confession of Christ.

At Shiloh MBC, we have a dedication service for infants and children that emphasize the parent’s role in raising a child to follow Christ. Therefore, if you were baptized as a baby, we encourage you to be baptized by immersion as a believer.

1. AS SOON AS YOU HAVE BELIEVED! "Those who believe ... were baptized ... that day!" Acts 2:41

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"Then Philip began with the scripture and told him the Good News about Jesus. As they traveled along the road, they came to some water, and the man said, 'Look, here is water! Why shouldn't I be baptized right now?' Philip said, 'If you believe with all your heart, you may.' The man answered, 'I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.' So they went down into the water and Philip baptized him." Acts 8:35‐38

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The Lord’s Supper Lesson 4

SUPR? 1. IT IS A MEMORIAL.

" ... and when he had given thanks, He broke it and said, 'This is my body, which is for you; eat it in remembrance of me. ‘ " (vs. 24)

2. IT IS A NEW COVENANT.

"In the same way, He took the cup, saying, 'This cup is the new covenant in my blood; drink it to remember me.’ “ (vs. 25)

3. IT IS A SYMBOL OF THE LORD’S DEATH.

"For whenever you eat the bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until He comes back." (vs. 26)

II. WHO SHOULD TAKE THE LORD'S SUPPER?

Only those who are already baptized. (see Mark 14:22‐26)

"For if you eat the bread or drink the cup unworthy, not honoring the body of Christ, you are eating and drinking God’s judgment upon yourself.” 1 Cor. 11:29

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"Therefore whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. A person ought to examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup."

1 Cor. 11:27‐28

You prepare yourself by ...

1. Self‐examination 1 Cor. 11:27

Therefore, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord.

2. Confession of sins 1 John 1:9

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

3. Recommitment Rom. 12:1

Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God ‐‐ this is your spiritual act of worship.

4. Restoring relationships Matt. 5:23‐24

"Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.

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Jesus never said “when” or “how often” believers should observe The Lord's Supper. We take the Lord's Supper on the first Sunday of each month.

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One Body Lesson 5

 The Church Body a)   

The Body of Christ Many members, One body Whole Body Spiritual Body (1 Corinthians 12:1‐6, 13‐14, Galatians 3:28, Romans 12:5, Ephesians 4:12)

 Spiritual Gifts a) Diversity of Gifts (Matthew 25:15, Romans 12:6, 1 Corinthians 4:7, 1 Corinthians 12:4, Ephesians 4:11)

 Doctrine of Spiritual Gifts How a person speaks determines the nature of the spirit within him. His very recognition and reception of Christ is by Holy Spirit. There are differences of gifts, differences of administrations and differences of operations but there is one Spirit, one Lord, and one God. They are gifts given by the spirit of God, used in ministry by the Son of God and energized by the Father Himself.

 Speaking in Tongues For by one spirit are we all baptized into one body. This is not water baptism, but Spiritual baptism. Yes, on the day of Pentecost speaking in tongues did occur but this outward manifestation did not always occur as proof of spiritual baptism (Mark 16:17, Acts 2:4, 10:46, 10:46, 19:6, 1 Corinthians 12:10; 14:5)

Recognition of the Father  The Two Are One.   

No man knoweth the Son save the Father. No man knoweth the Father save the Son and he to whomever the Son will reveal Him. (Matthew 11:27) He was shown to take away our sins and in Him is no sin (1 John 3:5) He that believeth on me believeth on Him that sent me and he that seeth me, seeth Him that sent me. (John 12:44‐45) 17

 

And that He died for all that they which live, live unto Him who died for them and rose again. (2 Cor. 5:15) Make melody in your heart to the Lord giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of Christ Jesus. (Eph. 5:19‐21)

 Be kind one to another (not rude) John 6:46 Matthew 10:37 Luke 2:46 John 5:17 John 6:46

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Obedience in Giving Lesson 6

 Obedience in Giving (Old Testament)  Genesis 28:20‐22  Leviticus 27:30‐34  Malachi 3:8‐10  Proverbs 3:5‐10  Psalm 24:1

 Obedience In Giving (New Testament)  1 Corinthians 16:2  Acts 11:29; Acts 4:31‐35  2 Corinthians 9:6‐7  Hebrews 7:1‐10

 Class Objectives  Equip each member with the tools to properly articulate their faith.  Identify Spiritual elements necessary to provide a full knowledge of what we believe and the basis of our faith in giving.  Provide new converts to Christ and members with a functional awareness of their faith and the fundamental beliefs of the church (SMBC) they have joined.  Establish a full understanding that the fundamentals of the Christian faith serves as the structural foundation of the Christian Church.  Develop Spiritual Gifts in Christian Stewardship.  Encourage participation in church ministries – No longer a spectator.  Encourage studying the Bible with application.

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 Myths in Giving  What are some? ∙ Under a new covenant – tithing no longer required ∙ Give as God has profited me ∙ Be a cheerful giver ∙ Can’t afford to give a tithe

 Establish that tithing predates the Law ∙ ∙ ∙

Genesis 28:20‐22 Leviticus 27:03‐34 (ownership of the tithe) Malachi 3:8‐10; Hebrews 7:1‐10

 Tithe and Giving ∙ ∙

Tithe is a command from God Giving is any amount above the tithe

 Example of Giving in New Testament ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙

1 Corinthians 16:2 Acts 11:29 Acts 4:31‐35 2 Corinthians 9:6‐7

 What do we mean by “Obedience in Giving?” a) By giving and doing things God’s way.

 What are God’s ways? a) By being a GOOD STEWARD i) Steward – effectively manage the resources with which God has blessed you (us) with. ii) With (4 T’s) 1. Temple 2. Time 3. Talent 4. Treasure b) By Sharing i) Sharing is at the heart of Christian Regligion 20

ii) iii) iv) v) vi) vii)

Without sharing there is no true Christianity Real sharing in Caring!

The richer life in Christ can only come to him/her who has learned to walk the pathway of true Christian Stewardship Giving is not limited to the purse string God has given us talents and time to share with others Money giving can’t be separated from self‐giving and service‐ giving

 So, How do we Give? a) In Tithes and Offerings b) Tithe – 10% of gross c) Offering – freewill, cheerful giver of anything above the tithe

 Possessions should be given obediently a) To be an obedient giver we must give a minimum of a tithe. The Bible say, “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house” (Malachi 3:10) b) Malachi 3:8 says when one gives less than a tithe, he is guilty of robbing God. c) New Testament passage that deal with tithe. (Matt. 23:23; Hebrews 7:1‐10) d) Every scripture in the Old Testament is still true today unless it is changed in the New Testament. There is no New Testament scripture that do away with the tithe: (example of change – Acts 10:1‐16)  Ownership of the Tithe a) Leviticus 27:30, A tithe of everything…belongs to the Lord: it is holy (set apart) to the LORD. b) Psalm 24:1, The earth is the LORD’s and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it. (God owns all the money we possess). c) The Priority of the Tithe: Honor the LORD with all your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops (Proverbs 3:9) i.

God deserves the first and best we can give ii.

First fruits can be more than a tithe, but never less. d) God’s promise when we give obediently

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i.

Malachi 3:10, Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house and prove me herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.

 It all comes down to “Trust in God” a) Proverbs 3:5‐10, Trust in the LORD with all your heart; and lean not unto your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge HIM, and He shall direct your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and depart from evil. It shall be health to your navel, and marrow to your bones. Honor the LORD with your barns to be filled with plenty, and your presses shall bust out with new wine.



Believe that God has given you special gifts…Believe that God is the Source of all Good things. How good are you honoring God? 1. Time 2. Talent 3. Temple 4. Treasure

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General Notes 

 





Malachi 3:11‐12 “And I will rebuke the devourer for our sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine case her fruit before the time in the field, saith the LORD of hosts. And all nations shall call you blessed: for ye shall be a delightsome land.”

God is vitally interested in your finances. He wants to multiply and protect them. But He won’t be able to –unless you open the door for Him to do it How? Through tithing.

When you tithe, you give God the legal right to intervene in your financial affairs, to bless you richly, and to defend you against the destruction the devil brings. When you tithe, you lay a foundation for success and abundance. You establish deposits with God you can draw on when you need them.

But don’t wait until your back is against the wall to start. Begin now. Start developing your faith when things are going well by meditating on the blessing God’s Word promises you as a tither. Learn to act on that Word now, and when satan tries to put you in a financial corner, he’ll fail. His power over our finances will have already been broken. Because you’ve established yourself on the covenant of God, satan will have no chance against you. God will rebuke him for your sake.

If you haven’t yet opened the door and given God a way into your finances, don’t wait any longer. Do it today. Then, when the pressures of tomorrow come, you’ll be prepared and protected by the special privileges that are guaranteed to those who tithe.

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Organizational Structure Lesson 7

 OBJECTIVE: It is the intent of the members of this Church that the Church be one which recognize and worships Almighty God as being the sovereign ruler of the Universe.

Is empowered by the Holy Spirit to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with as many unsaved/lost people as possible throughout the community, the city, the state, and the world in which we live. Is made up of true born‐again baptized disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ who are experiencing a growing knowledge of the Word, a genuine Christian love for both God and other believers within the body of Christ.

Also encourages every member to become more Christ‐like in his or her daily living through a total commitment of like, personality, and possessions to the Lordship of Jesus Christ.

 PASTOR: The Pastor shall be responsible for leading the Church to function as a New Testament Church. The pastor will lead the congregation, the organizations, and the Church staff in performing its tasks. To provide spiritual guidance to the Church, to engage in a fellowship of worship, witness, education, ministry, and application. To proclaim the gospel to believers and unbelievers, to care for the members and other persons in the community.

 DEACONS: The Deacons are to support, encourage, and assist the Pastor and the Church staff in their efforts to minister to the spiritual needs of those within the Body of Christ. The Deacon ministry shall be responsible for the business affairs of the Church. ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙

Review the proposed budget for recommendation to the church Review monthly financial statements from the finance committee Plant facilities and vehicles Distribution of Charitable funds

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 EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT BOARD: Shall consist of the Deacons and five members from the Church. All legal matters requiring Church action may be referred to the executive management for recommendation prior to any action being taken on behalf of the Church.

Inventory all Church assets.

 EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATOR: Any request for use of the Church facilities must be schedule through the Church executive administrator to coordinate with the church calendar. Table and chairs may be borrowed by members of the Church. 972.423.6695

 CHURCH SECRETARY/CLERK Records minutes at all Church business meetings. Maintains membership records.

 DIRECTOR OF MUSIC: Directs all choirs.

 CHRISTIAN EDUCATION: To develop and interpret to the congregation of the Church the Christian Education goals and objectives.

 GALILEE GRIGGS DISTRICT ASSOCIATION: Shiloh is a member of the Galilee Griggs District Association. The association holds its annual session the last week of September. There are 87 Churches in the association. Zone #1 is the Dallas area, Zone #2 is the Ft.Worth area, Zone #3 is the Ennis, Temple area, Zone #4 is the Plano, Sherman/Dennison area.

Shiloh Baptist Church is a member of Zone #4.

 TEXAS BAPTIST CONVENTION: Shiloh is affiliated with the Texas Baptist Convention. Texas Baptist Convention provides teaching and training for Church leaders and meets in August in Jacksonville.

 NATIONAL BAPTIST CONVENTION USA, INC.

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Faith Lesson 8

“But, seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you.” The world’s system is limited, there are no limitations in God’s Kingdom, as long as we operate by faith. Faith is the way to God’s Kingdom. That is why we must understand what faith is and how to use it properly. The just shall live by faith.

 WHAT IS FAITH 1. Now faith is the substance of things hope for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1 2. Faith is an expression of the confidence that we have in God and His Word.

3. Faith is not religion, it is not mental assent, faith is not hope or positive desire. Faith is a spiritual substance. When you have this spiritual substance in you, it communicates to you a certain inner knowing that the thing you are hoping for is certainly established, even before you see any material evidence that it has happen.

4. Faith is always now. Faith changes things not God. 5. Faith establishes our relationship with God. Romans 5:1, Gal 3:11. The only way we can come into a right relationship with God is through faith in what Jesus did for us on the cross.

 WHO HAS FAITH 1. God has dealt to every man the measure of faith. Roman 12:3 2. All men have faith whether they are believers or non‐believers, it depends on what their faith or belief is in. We are Christians, children of almighty God so our faith and trust should be in God and His Word.

3. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son, so that whosoever believth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16. Why are not all men saved? You are saved because you heard, read, or saw something about God that caused you to trust and believe in Him. For by grace are you saved through faith, and that not of yourselves, it is a gift of God. Ephesians 2:8 4. The just shall live by faith. Romans 1:17

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5. Read Romans 5:17 & 18. Our righteousness is found in Jesus and Him along. We are the righteousness of God not by anything that we have done.

It’s not only by our title or position in the Church. Not by how often I come or go to church, sing in the choir or work on the usher board or other Committees, and we should do all of these things. It is our faith and truth in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and what He did for us with His death, burial, and resurrection. It is not about our performance, it is about God and what He has already done for us through Jesus Christ.

 WHERE DOES FAITH COME FROM 1. So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. Romans 10:17. Faith comes by hearing the Word of God preached and by studying God’s Word for ourselves.

2. Faith comes by knowing God: God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit.

3. Faith comes by interpreting scripture correctly.

4. Faith comes by rightly dividing the Word of truth.

5. Faith comes by reading and studying the Word of God. Our Bibles.

 HOW DO WE APPLY OR WALK BY FAITH 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Ask the Father in Jesus name Believe you receive at the time that you pray Confession (speak and talk what you believe, meditate on the Word) Demonstrate (act on what you believe) Expect to receive Fight Glorify and praise God

 SOME HINDRANCES TO OUR FAITH 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Fear Doubt Unbelief Wrong Thinking Condemnation

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 CONCLUSION: God wants each of us through faith to walk in the fullness of what He has already provided for us in His great and precious promises through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We have been given authority, power, and dominion.

Not within our selves or our performance, but through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. As believers in God we are equipped to walk by faith and not by sight. When we walk by faith we express our confidence in God and His Word.

Faith is our victory and how we are overcomers.

Scripture Reference: ∙ Hebrews 11:1‐6 ∙ Romans 5:17‐18 ∙ II Corinthians 5:7 ∙ Romans 10:17 ∙ Romans 12:3 ∙ Mark 4:1‐34 ∙ II Peter 1:4

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