Ohio Baptist
April 2011 Volume 59 No. 2
Messenger New International Mission Board President Thomas (Tom) D. Elliff was elected International Mission Board president March 16 by IMB trustees meeting in Dallas. Elliff, a longtime pastor, Southern Baptist Convention leader and former missionary, will lead one of the largest evangelical missions entities in an era of rapid change at home and around the globe. Go to www.scbo.org for a more detailed report. (IMB) PHOTO
The Big Apple Adventure VBS 2011 The 2011 Vacation Bible School season is officially under way! It all started on March 11-12, 2011, at First Baptist Church Kettering with The Big Apple Adventure Vacation Bible School Institute. Hundreds of workers from churches all across the state filled the auditorium on Friday night to move with the music of Jeff Slaughter and the Big Apple Adventure! The energy in the room was electric, and it would set the tone for the rest of the weekend. On Saturday more people joined the hundreds already there for a full day of training in VBS. Core training along with dozens of electives were offered throughout the day. There was a strong emphasis in the area of evangelism with several classes offered. Also discussed was the importance of FOLLOW-UP after Vacation Bible School is over. Another thing that was done this year for the first time was a public recognition of pastors present. It is great to see pastors that are involved in VBS and see it as a great tool to reach their community. The day ended with Jeff Slaughter and a one hundred voice kids choir! With the help of Doug Morgan and Jeff Christmas they pulled off the best VBS musical yet. The kids brought the house down and raised the roof at the same time. Broadway would have been proud! Now the ball has dropped and a new VBS season is here. We need everyone trained and ready for the best year ever! If you were not able to make this VBS Institute, please check your associational calendar or go to www.scbo.org and click on the regional VBS clinic site. There you will find a regional clinic near you. If you have questions please feel free to contact us at 614827-1826 and ask for Wendy Hammock, Ministry Assistant. to the Bible Teaching/Leadership Resource Group. Thanks for making the start of the Big Apple Adventure the best ever.
Wow, the excitement generated at VBSI this year is already making a difference in our church. People are so excited, we had a leadership meeting Sunday evening and already have our first staff meeting scheduled in two weeks. Everyone has come back from the event ready to go. We are so thankful to you and the state staff for all you do. We are expecting to break all our previous records for VBS attendance and children getting saved. God has already set the wheels in motion for us, we had decided to call a tax business here in town and ask to borrow a costume of the statue of liberty. Sunday evening a young lady came to our church said she had seen our sign and decided to give us a try as we were getting to know her a little better it came out that she works for this very company as none other than the statue of liberty. The hair was standing up on my arms as we told her the story of wanting this costume for our float not only can we use the costume she will wear it and ride on the float, is God not the awesome-est. He had it all worked out before we even made one phone call God is good. Thank you again.
Blessings, Dwayne Lee, SCBO/VBS State Director
In Christ Love, Brandy Dunbar, Faith Baptist Church, Lambertville, Mich
Cooperative Mission Program Day April 10, 2011 Messengers to the annual meeting of the Southern Baptist Convention voted to observe Cooperative Program Day April 10, 2011. Resources are available to help you. “A Closer Look” and “Meet Southern Baptists” are available from the SBC Executive Committee. You may order these by phone 1 866 722 5433 or mail 901 Commerce Street Nashville, TN 37203. Another resource is the “SBC Cooperative Mission Program” that is available on the website of the State Convention of Baptists in Ohio. Additional resources were mailed to every Ohio Southern Baptist congregation the first of this year. Please find a way to observe Cooperative Mission Program Day in your church. The Cooperative Mission Program is the basic support system for one of the most effective missionary movements in the history of Christianity. Let’s keep it going.
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Homegoing of Claude Stevens Go to www.scbo.org for additional information on Claude Stevens. Search “Homegoing” for the obituary.
Homegoing of Charles Cobb
Broad Street Property Sold Broad Street Property Sold March 15, 2011. Go to www.scbo.org for story.
Go to www.scbo.org for additional information on Charles Cobb. Search “Homegoings” for the obituary.
Come join us for the 2011 State Bible Drill Competition Saturday, April 30th, 2011 at the Reynoldsburg Baptist Church. Register by April 22nd, 2011 by contacting Ashley Stickel at the State Convention Office at ashley@scbo.org.
The Ohio Baptist Messenger (ISSN 0472-7096) is published every other month by the State Convention of Baptists in Ohio; 9000 Antares Avenue; Columbus, Ohio 43240-2011. Periodicals Postage Paid at Columbus, Ohio. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Ohio Baptist Messenger; 9000 Antares Avenue; Columbus, Ohio 43240-2011. Jack Kwok, Ohio State Convention Executive Director-Treasurer, Editor; Linnett Snodgrass, Administrative Assistant; Spangler Production & Design, Publication Layout. Published every other month for members of Southern Baptist churches in Ohio. Subscriptions provided out of each church’s Cooperative Program gifts. Member of Baptist Press, news service of the Southern Baptist Convention.
OHIO BAPTIST MESSENGER APRIL 2011 - 3
OHIO SOUTHERN BAPTIST DISASTER RELIEF May 6 & 7, 2011
May 13 & 14, 2011
May 20 & 21, 2011
LifePoint Church 1400 6th Street Findlay, Ohio 45840
Sydney Baptist 1322 East Court Street Sydney, Ohio 45365
Chillicothe Baptist 14000 State Route 104 Chillicothe, Ohio 45036
CHILD CARE CHAIN SAW COMMUNICATIONS (HAM RADIO) FOOD SERVICE MUD OUT SHOWER/LAUNDRY
Friday 6:00 PM Registration 6:30-9:30 PM “Involving Southern Baptists in Disaster Relief” Saturday 7:15 AM 8:00 AM 12:00 PM 12:30 PM 3:00 PM
Continental Breakfast Unit Training Lunch Provided by DR Food Service Evangelism Training Dismissed
Background check information will be requested during this session. All volunteers must have a background check performed. “...Giving a cup of cold water in Jesus’ name” from Matt: 10:42
Training for new volunteers Friday and Saturday Cross-training for current volunteers on Saturday DR clothing sales DR Badges will be issued or updated as needed Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age (21 years of age for Child Care unit)
To Learn More contact Ministry Evangelism Assistant
Serving in Southern Baptist Disaster Relief requires membership at a
Sam Kelley: (614)309-9751 skelley@scbo.org
Southern Baptist Church
CPR Training will be available for those already trained in Disaster Relief. This requires pre-registration at a cost of $ 20.00 per person for the CPR class only!
Volunteer and Trainer sleeping rooms are available in the church Friday night. Bring a bed roll and personal items.
Disaster Relief is a ministry of the SOUTHERN BAPTIST COOPERATIVE PROGRAM and RAY ROBERTS STATE MISSION OFFERING
Disaster Relief Annual Report for 2010 Many of you took part in the “Buckets of Hope” for Haiti project. A total of 155,000 buckets were collected and delivered to help the people of Haiti. Thank you for your continued commitment to caring for and serving others. God Bless you.
Listed below is a record of activity of 2010.
Professions of Faith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,642 Chainsaw Jobs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 292 Showers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4,297 Ministry Contacts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72,272 Mud out Jobs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,610 Laundry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,065 Gospel Presentations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25,743 Repair Jobs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 290 Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Volunteer Days . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32,556 Roofing Jobs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Patients Seen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32,386 Children Cared For . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 596 Meals Prepared . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 272,963 Water Purified (gallons) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4,308
Southern Baptist Disaster Relief Response to Ohio Floods in Auglaize County Go to www.scbo.org “News” section for story on Disaster Relief Response to Auglaize County Floods in Ohio.
Who Should Volunteer? The SBC disaster relief organization is multi-state, multi-racial, and multi-talented. However, they have some elements in common.
Disaster Relief Volunteers… • Are members of an Ohio Southern Baptist Church. • Need to be persons who combine a number of Christian qualities: patient and caring having a spirit of love and concern and a desire to share Christ with those around them. • Are expected to train and learn about disaster conditions and how to deal with the situations they will face. • Must be willing to follow directions of those in charge. At times there will be disagreements with operational procedures. However, we must remember that we are cooperating with many other volunteer organizations. • Must be willing to provide leadership as needs arise and assignments are made. • Must be versatile and flexible in their work. Team members are called on the basis of tasks that are needed and placed according to needs and talents. • Must be willing to stoop down and pick up more often than they usually do and to reach up and bring down higher qualities than they usually do. • Need to arrange time to be available. If volunteers are called and unavailable on consecutive times, they may lose their qualified status and thus, be removed from the active volunteer directory. • Are requested to train in Christian witnessing in their churches if they have not previously done so. • Must have: Spiritual strength—not wishy-washy in their faith Physical strength—the work is long and strenuous Moral strength—speech, attitude, and actions Persons who consider volunteering for disaster relief should reflect on the qualities summarized above and evaluate their qualifications. If you are interested in this ministry, please contact Sam Kelley at SKelley@ SCBO.ORG or call (614) 309 - 9751
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Cleveland Hope Phase 2 Refocusing Network Change is tough – tough to lead and tough to live through. It is difficult, emotionally expensive, unnerving, and always results in loss. What’s more, thriving in a climate of rapid-fire change is even more demanding. Welcome to the challenge facing the church of our generation. Six churches of the Cleveland Hope Association have chosen to tackle this challenge head on. ReFocusing is a journey of discovery, a quest to discover God’s unique calling for His church in the day and community in which you now live. The process is not a scheme for guiding your church to a pre-determined destination. Rather, this is literally an opportunity to come together and hear from God in a fresh way, and then move into alignment with His purposes and calling. Behind the process are a number of convictions. One is that the Spirit of God is more eager to lead His people than we are to be led. The reFocusing process creates multiple opportunities for the people of the church to listen to God together. Another conviction is that the level of ownership in the outcome is directly related to the level of participation in the discovery process. We have all experienced situations when a boss or leader announced a plan or agenda about which no one had any say. Buy-in and participation suffered as a result. As people, we under-
stand things presented to us, but we own what we discover. The answers your church needs regarding its future are likely present in the lives of your people and the wisdom God has given them. This process involves a large number of the people of the church discovering answers and insights together, every step of the way. A third conviction is that God calls every church to a unique missional ministry. Discovering that calling gives a congregation freedom from the pressure to be like
any other church and the freedom to engage their community in ways that fit how God has been at work up to now. Finally, God calls us to live as missionaries to our own community. Ministry that is “incarnational,” rather than “attractional,” goes outside the church to engage people where they live and bring them the living water of Christ in practical, culturally-relevant ways. The primary focus of our ministry is “them” rather than “us.” Kevin Litchfield, associational missionary, and Pastors Jay Schroder and James Edwards are facilitating the network. Steve Hopkins coaches the process for Ohio Bap-
tists. Pray for these pastors and their wives as they lead their churches through the reFocusing process: Jay & Lillian Schroder, Crossroads; Joe & Judy Jaworski, Village Chapel; Victor & Darina Pilipchuk, Ukrainian Baptist; Darin & Deborah Avery, Bridge Church at Perry; Steve & Rachel Brown, Park Heights Baptist; Jewell & Cynthia Jones, Greater Vision Baptist. ReFocusing is a ministry of the Cooperative Program giving through the State Convention of Baptists in Ohio. For more information contact Steve Hopkins at SteveHopkins@scbo.org or 614-827-1820 or www.scbo.org
West Central 2011 IMPACT Association To participate in a mission project contact Dave Snyder 937-658-2400 wcba@bright.net 1463 Langdon Drive Sidney, OH 45365-6202
OHIO BAPTIST MESSENGER APRIL 2011 - 5
Buckeye Baptist Builders News METRO COLUMBUS-MUSKINGUM VALLEY
Buckeye Baptist Builders Annual (Too Many To Count) Banquet 2011 Builders Request May 2 – 6, 2011 Seneca Lake Baptist Camp 15819 Skyline Dr. Senecaville, Oh 43780 Meals & Lodging Provided Camp Projects May 9 – 13, 2011 Camp ToknowHim Pisgah, Al Contact: Gene Wilcox 937-746-7421 Work on Campgrounds May 16 – 21, 2011 First Baptist Church Lewisburg P.O. Box 225 Lewisburg, Oh 6500 sq. ft Metal Building June 10 - 17, 2011 FBC Westerville 104 S. Spring Rd. Westerville, Oh 45331 500 sq. Ft. New Addition June 10 – 17, 2011 New Covenant Baptist Church 415 East Main St. Enon, Oh. 45323 New Addition Story – 6500 sq. ft.
July 11 – 16, 2011 FBC of West Alexandria 6062 Ivy Lane West Alexandria, Oh 45381 New Sanctuary – Single Story
April 8, 2011 6:30 P. M. $5/ Person First Baptist Church 525 S. 30Th Street Heath, Ohio 43056
Aug. 15 – 20, 2011 Loraine Baptist Church 3640 Palm Ave. Loraine, Oh 44055 Demo 2800 sq. ft. Roof Replace Trusses & Shingle Sept.12 – 16, 2011 FBC of Marysville 645 Chestnut St. Marysville, Oh 43040 Install Trusses & Shingles Over Flat Roof Building The above projects have committed to a build as of 3/8/11 and will provide meals & lodging for those needing. For addition information contact: Raymond E. Morris State Coordinator Buckeye Baptist Builders 1-513-593-5130 Raymor1@peoplepc.com
Sweet & Sour Meatballs Chicken ~ Green Beans Potato Bar ~ Salad Bar ~ Dessert
COME AND SPEND THE EVENING Work at Seneca Lake Baptist Assembly Buckeye Baptist Builders will be spending the week of May 2 through May 6, 2011, at Seneca Lake Baptist Assembly. We need your help. There are several projects to be worked on that will help make the facilities more useful this summer camping season. Lodging and food will be provided. The worship and fellowship will be outstanding. Come and support this vital project and experience mission work like you never have before! No, you are not too old for this project. There will be work for you to do. If you are interested in this project and can help, please contact our Builders Coordinator, Ray Morris at: Raymor1@peoplepc.com or call him at 513 593 5130.
The Scioto Valley Evangelism Rally was held at Emmanuel Baptist Church
on Monday, March 7th. The evening began with a good old fashioned Southern Baptist fellowship meal (comprised of salad, fried chicken, vegetables, and dessert). Southern Gospel recording artist Mark Bishop provided the music for the night. North American Mission Board missionary Thomas Hammond preached from Mark 2 and challenged everyone to bring people to Jesus (and 2 persons were saved that night). In addition, several churches were commended for their evangelistic zeal in the association in 2010. Pictured here is Bill Wellman presenting an evangelism certificate to Church Planting Pastor Craig Brumbaugh of Lakeview Baptist Church. In addition, Lakeview received a new 32” LCD TV for their worship sanctuary for having the highest percentage of their resident church membership at the event.
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THE STATE EVANGELISM CELEBRATION Momentum This year’s State Evangelism Celebration took on a new name – Momentum. Momentum offered a broader context of ministry education (evangelism, church planting, and leadership development), and a different format (10 preaching messages, 7 ministry workshops, and 3 luncheons). I pray that for those attending the time was well spent and that participants left the conference refreshed, encouraged, and better equipped to impact your world for Jesus Christ. I want to say a special “thank you” to my evangelism resource team, our program personalities and our worship and workshop leaders. In addition, we at SCBO are blessed to have a great ministry partnership with Cedarville University. I am always grateful for their assistance in planning and hosting this important event. It is a blessing to be on their campus, to interact with their students, to enjoy the use of their first class facilities, and to work with first class committed Christians. In conclusion, let me share several closing thoughts about Momentum 2011. First, there are still some awesome preachers in the land, and we were blessed to have had the opportunity to hear several of them. Second, enhancing and advancing ministry partnerships is an important aspect of what we do here at the convention, and Momentum 2011 helped to facilitate that. Third, I appreciate the compliments and criticisms in regard to the event and the ministry we continue to try to expand and improve upon. Finally, I consider it a great privilege and responsibility to be your evangelism director, to serve on your state staff, to minister in the highways and byways of our state, and to call you brothers and sisters in Christ. It is a joy to serve you but a better joy to call you friends! One last thing, don’t ever forget…
Robert Smith Jr. - Preaching Workshop
There Is Victory In Jesus, Jack Helton
Travis Fryman - Sports Luncheon
Ted Traylor
Ed Newton
Robert Smith Jr.
Rob Turner - Church outside the box workshop
David Francis - Sunday School Leadership Workshop
OHIO BAPTIST MESSENGER APRIL 2011 - 7
m 2011 - Accelerating Churches and Leaders
Gary Frost
Rich Duncan
Dave Ferguson
John Sullivan
Phil Roberts
Prayer
Leadership Luncheon
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Women’s
Missions & Ministries
Upcoming Events
By Cathy Pound
Sparkle, the 2011 Regional Spring Retreat for
southeast Ohio, was held March 5 at First Baptist Church, Athens. Scioto Valley Baptist Association partnered with the State Convention of Baptists in Ohio under the leadership of Jean DiFilippo. Pastor Jim DiFilippo and a team of men from the association hosted the women who were pampered and blessed. Diana Davis, author and speaker, challenged the women to sparkle – to be a light in their world. Diana’s fresh ideas included painting a sparkling stone on a fingernail as a reminder to shine for Jesus. Ohio Southern Baptists, we are His light in Ohio. Women’s Missions and Ministries challenges each of us to be on mission every day, to shine for Jesus, to bring glory to God. Join Us On Facebook!
OWN-Ohio Women’s Network
Date Event
Location
April 16
Northwest Spring Retreat
Lincoln Heights Baptist Church, Mansfield
April 30
Mission Celebration
West Central Baptist Association
May 13-14
SLBA Spring Retreat
Seneca Lake Baptist Assembly
June 13-17
Kids Kamp 1
Seneca Lake Baptist Assembly
June 20-24
Kids Kamp 2
Seneca Lake Baptist Assembly
June 27-July 1
Girls for Missions Camp
Seneca Lake Baptist Assembly
July 16
Beautiful Feet
West Central Baptist Association
August 1-5
Kids Kamp 3
Seneca Lake Baptist Assembly
August 12-13
Living Proof Beth Moore
Columbus, Ohio
September 16-17
Women’s Fall Retreat
Seneca Lake Baptist Assembly
October 14-15
Mother Daughter Retreat
Seneca Lake Baptist Assembly
November 3
Pastor’s Wives Luncheon
West Central Baptist Association
For more information on these events visit www.scbo.org/wmm
BLOG www.scbo.org/wmm
OHIO BAPTIST MESSENGER APRIL 2011 - 9
ROYAL AMBASSADOR CONGRESS APRIL 8 – 9, 2011 LAKOTA HILLS BAPTIST CHURCH 6300 TYLERSVILLE ROAD WEST CHESTER, OHIO
Boys Mission Camp (RA Camp) June 27 – July 1, 2011 Seneca Lake Baptist Assembly
THEME: “FOLLOWING CHRIST” RACER DERBY CAMPCRAFT COMPETITION TRACK MEET TROPHIES AWARDED Our guest missionaries are Jeff and Barbara Singerman, Missionaries to Benin (West Africa –Appointed on December 12, 1989). They are home on furlough and will be sharing with the boys some of their experiences and showing off some souvenirs from their ministry. Benin is known as “Birthplace of Voodoo”; so they have faced many challenges in their work as church planters, youth ministry, teaching in Bible Schools, and working with volunteers. Recent assignments have increased their territorial role into areas such as Togo, Burkina Faso, and Cote Divoire. They will surely bless us with their testimony of how the Lord has used their lives in ministry. Cost: $ 10.00 per person
Mission Education / Activity camp for boys grades First through Eighth.
STATEWIDE MISSION PROJECT: COLLECT CANNED GOODS, EACH CHAPTER SHOULD COLLECT AND BRING AS MANY CANS OF FOOD AS THEY CAN.
Cost is $130.00 on or before May 31, 2011 and $140.00 after May 31, 2011.
MONETARY DONATIONS ARE ALSO ACCEPTED AND WILL BE COUNTED AS $.50 PER CAN. THE FOOD AND MONEY WILL BE DONATED TO A LOCAL FOOD BANK.
Camp activities will include fishing, archery, missionary interaction, boating, camp-craft, Bible study, and hiking. For general information, please call the Royal Ambassador State Director, Bob Andes (937) 827-1752. For registration, please contact: Sam Kelley at (614) 827-1752 or SKelley@SCBO.ORG.
Need to submit Church News? Send all church news and information to Linnett Snodgrass at lsnodgrass@scbo.org
MEDALS AND PATCHES WILL BE AWARDED. CONTACT BOB ANDES (937) 879-2015 FOR MORE DETAILS.
Help Wanted Nurse Needed for Summer Camps A nurse still needs to be secured to attend and assist the summer camping schedule at Seneca Lake Baptist Assembly. What more rewarding experience could be available than to use your nursing skills and credentials to help at three weeks of Kids Kamps, three weeks of Youth Camps, along with a Missions Week and Family Week this summer. The first camp starts June 13th and the last camp concludes August 5th of 2011. Camps run from Monday noon through Friday noon each week. If you would be available the entire summer or just selected weeks, let Scott Seder know of your availability [ScottSeder@scbo.org or 740-685-5751]. This position does include a small paid stipend.
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A Church Planting Check Up (What’s your church planting temperature?) By Bob Beike Associational Missionary, Muskingum Valley Baptist Association A recent survey by the North American Mission Board revealed that 98.6% of responders agreed that sponsoring new churches is Biblical and that the great commission cannot be fulfilled without starting new churches. Those reBob Beike sults indicate that our theological temperature appears to be a normal and healthy 98.6. In the same survey, 96.2% agreed that churches starting churches is the preferred method of church planting—another healthy indicator. Yet, upon closer examination, there seems to be a serious spiritual abnormality affecting the body’s reproductive process. Somewhere between only 4% and 20% (depending on who’s reporting) of SBC churches are, in any way, involved in starting new churches. That seems a long way from normal and healthy. Our brains are obviously sending theological messages that the body refuses to acknowledge. Why is there such disconnect? And what will it take for church planting to become the habit of all churches and not just the hobby of a few? The problem is no doubt systemic and complicated by multiple issues. However, there are three chronic ailments that if left untreated will continue to retard kingdom growth.
Church planting is not normal for our blind spots and into our mission field most churches, first of all, because of im- requires us to become like the blind man, paired vision. A lack of kingdom focus who was asked by Jesus, “What do you blurs the very purpose of the church. want me to do for you?” The blind man As Jesus stood with His disciples beside responded, “Lord, I want to see!” (Luke the well outside the city of Sychar and 18:41). watched people streaming from the town Heart trouble is another malady toward them, He said, “Open your eyes hampering our church planting effectiveand look…” (John 4:35). Jesus intends ness. If subjected to the careful scrutiny that we really see people; to view them in of the Great Physician, we may discover a way that transcends the physical. But, our hearts have shrunk to the size of our like our physical eyes, our spiritual eyes church rolls, and our heartbeat out of are subject to maladies that prevent us sync with God’s mission. God’s heartbeat resonates clearly, from seeing clearly. in that God so loved People blindness the world that He gave comes in a variety of Somewhere between His only begotten Son, forms. A church’s vionly 4% and 20% that whoever believes sion is often clouded (depending on who’s in Him should not by prejudice. Other perish, but have eterchurches suffer from reporting) of SBC nal life” (John 3:16). tunnel vision, allowchurches are, in any Furthermore, Jesus ing those on society’s prioritized all the law fringe to go unnoway, involved in ticed. Near-sightedstarting new churches. and prophets by insisting that we love God ness is another comwith all our being, and mon affliction in our neighbor as ourchurches. Spiritually myopic churches can’t see beyond their selves. He, personally, resisted the pull own local context, and their mission of His disciples’ agendas, and the press awareness is restricted to those who are of a needy crowd to take the gospel to “just like us.” Still others, ironically, have neighboring towns, adamant that, “This a far-sightedness that enables them to see is why I have come.” (Mark 1:38) Oh, that needs afar off, even on the other side of God would sync our heartbeats with His, the world, yet prevents them from see- and enlarge our hearts to include all our ing needs on the other side of their own neighbors near and far. The third chronic ailment negatively town, or street. Clearly, our vision needs correcting. impacting church planting is spiritual Acquiring a kingdom focus begins on our anemia. That may actually be too mild knees in the word of God. Getting beyond a term, but multitudes of churches are
listless, lethargic, and lack a robust spirituality. Unless they experience genuine spiritual renewal they will continue to exist in a kind of ecclesiastical fetal position. Years of inward focus and lack of regular spiritual exercise has left us weak. Recognizing our condition, repenting of our sin and selfishness, and realigning with God’s will are necessary first steps to spiritual health. Getting outside the walls of the church and into the fresh air of different neighborhoods and communities has a way of raising the fitness level of a church. Personal contact with others, building relationships, and gathering them together to make disciples who will make disciples, can have a viral effect that results in a church planting epidemic—in other words, normalcy. When Jesus scanned the five porches surrounding the pool of Bethesda in Jerusalem, He saw “a multitude of the sick—blind, lame, and paralyzed…” They were all waiting for a miraculous movement of God that would restore them to a normal—98.6 life. He singled out an individual who had been sick for 38 years and asked him one critical question: “Do you want to get well?” (John 5:3-5). How about you? Do you want to get well…really? (For help in developing a vision for church planting, a heart for unreached people groups and a healthier church, contact your associational missionary or your state convention resource teams.)
Did I misunderstand God’s calling? By Kim Feldner
Swahili to prepare for my time in the African nation I wanted to serve. Before long I was packing my bags and I had never been more certain of my calling in life than heading to Tanzania into what I thought was my future. when I boarded the plane to spend a semester studying It’s funny how God sometimes reveals His plans to abroad in the East African coun- us in the midst of us living out what we believed those try of Tanzania. I was 19 when I plans to be. As my time in Tanzania ticked away, so did took my first trip out of the U.S. my certainty of a life in foreign missions. Slowly God beto serve with a collegiate ministry gan changing my heart and quickly I began to struggle team in India. By the time that with this change. Did I ever really understand what God’s trip was over, my life turned up- call on my life was? Why would God send me all the way side down and I committed my- to Africa only to reveal to me His desire to use me back in self with certainty to a life of serv- the states? Or did He call me here for the simple purpose ing God in international missions. of this revelation? I wrestled with this idea for most of my I returned to school that fall time in Africa, and in the end, boarded my plane home to and began taking the steps to fol- the U.S. with the same certainty in a new calling to a mislow this newfound calling: changing my major to inter- sion field at home. Upon my return, I soon began my work with the colnational studies, applying to study abroad, and studying
legiate ministry of the University of Cincinnati and am in the midst of serving my committed two-year stint as a missionary to the university’s women. My weeks are filled with building relationships with these young women, doing everything from one-on-one prayers to quarterly girls’ nights to jogs in the park. God is lifting up a group of mighty women here at the University of Cincinnati, and I am honored just to be a part of helping them grow in strength and evangelism to their campus. When I think back now on my time in Africa, I see God’s faithfulness in sending me there and bringing me home and now, I can’t imagine being anywhere else. Kim Feldner is a US/C2 missionary serving in Cincinnati, Ohio.
OHIO BAPTIST MESSENGER APRIL 2011 - 11
How are we doing? The church, that is. And how are we doing it? Congregations have long measured success by “bodies, budget, and buildings.” But the scorecard can’t stop there. When it does, the deeper emphasis on accountability, discipleship, and spiritual maturity is lost. Ignoring these details, we see fewer lives transformed, Christian influence wane, and churches thin out – a situation that is all too familiar across North America today. It is time to take heart and rework the scorecard. According to Ed Stetzer and Thom Rainer, authors of Transformational Church, “Too often we’ve highlighted the negative realities of the declining American church but missed the opportunity to magnify the God of hope and transformation.” Based on the most comprehensive study of its kind, including a survey of over 7,000 churches and hundreds of on-site interviews with pastors, Transformational Church takes us to the thriving congregations where truly changing lives is the norm. Churches where: • More people are following Christ • More believers are growing in their faith • More churches are making an impact on their communities
Based on the research findings, the Transformational Church Assessment Tool (TCAT) gives you a snapshot of the perceived present reality based on seven elements: missionary mentality, vibrant leadership, relational intentionality, prayerful dependence, worship, community and mission. This powerful online tool can help you quickly assess where your church is strong now and the areas that need development. The assessment is now available through the SCBO website (www.lifeway.com/ tc/ohio/). We have fourteen trained consultants in Ohio ready to partner with you to develop strategy recommendations for your church. Contact Steve Hopkins (SteveHopkins@scbo. org or 614-827-1820) or Dwayne Lee (dlee@scbo. org or 614-827-1824) for information on how you can enlist a Transformational Church consultant. A ministry of the Cooperative Program giving of Southern Baptist churches in Ohio.
Transformational Teaching Sometimes teaching Sunday School can be as directionless as starting a jigsaw puzzle in the middle and working to the outside if teachers don’t know what they want to achieve or how to achieve it. Real transformational teaching comes when teachers have a clear understanding of what transformational teaching means. Teaching for transformation does not come easily. Consider some important actions that teachers who seek to transform adults must take: Know how your learners prefer to learn. Most people have been exposed to a variety of teachinglearning experiences in school and work. Educators today believe that each person has a preferred way to engage information. Involve learners in learning. Plan your lesson based on what you want learners to do during the session. Plan activities and experiences that call for learners to be involved in some kind of interactive strategy, such as discussion, group assignments, case studies, brainstorming, writing, or other purposeful learning activities. Create a sense of value in your teaching. People today want to receive something for their time. Plan teaching experiences that focus on life needs for the age group you teach. Connect content with personal experiences. Create a good learning environment. People like pleasant surroundings and good facilities. Classrooms need to have good lighting and equipment. Keep room temperatures as comfortable as possible. Keep the room clean and neat. Put away unused items and discard out-of-date materials. Provide a safe environment. Avoid embarrass-
ing people with inappropriate comments or questions. Ask for volunteers rather than calling on specific individuals for answers to questions. Never force people to pray or read out loud without first asking in private if they feel comfortable doing so. Mix things up. Rearrange the room periodically to encourage sitting with different people. Create different subgroups for group assignments. Use two or three different teaching methods each week. Stay connected. People want to be wanted. Each learner should be a VIP to the teacher and other class leaders. Each person should be contacted regularly - weekly is preferred - to see whether someone has a problem, has questions about the content, and so forth. Absentees should be called each week, and visited after two consecutive absences. Never stop learning. Read more about learning styles, teaching methods, how adults learn, and so forth. Grow in your understanding of the Word and how Scripture can change your own life as well as the lives of those God has called you to teach. Whether training events, weekly planning meetings, or other kinds of training experiences, every teacher needs to learn more about teaching adults. The Bible tells us that the Word of God is sharper than a two-edged sword. But weak, ill-prepared, or inattentive teachers limit how much God can pierce into a person’s heart and life. Make transformational teaching a priority, and do so by taking steps to move your teaching to a new level of effectiveness and challenge. The opportunity is before you, and that’s God’s challenge for you today.
12 - OHIO BAPTIST MESSENGER APRIL 2011
Press toward the Mark Mission Ohio is the coHe Lives operative effort of Southern I serve a risen Savior; He’s Baptists to proclaim “He in the world today. Lives” to the 7th most popuI know that He is living, lated state in the union. We whatever men may say. are seeking to reach at least I see His hand of mercy, 1,000,000 believers in 2,020 I hear His voice of cheer, Jack Kwok, Ph.D. congregations by the end of And just the time I need Him Executive Director2020. He’s always near. Treasurer The Cooperative MisHe lives! He lives! Christ State Convention of Baptists in Ohio sion Program of Southern Jesus lives today! Baptists supports Mission He walks with me and talks Ohio and over 10,000 miswith me along life’s narrow sionaries around the world. Southern way. Baptists observe Cooperative Mission He lives! He lives! Salvation Program Day April 10, 2011. Reto impart! sources are available to help you. “A You ask me how I know He lives? Closer Look” and “Meet Southern He lives within my heart. Baptists” are available from the SBC The singing of “He Lives” always Executive Committee. You may order moved me as a young Christian. Even these by phone 1 866 722 5433 or mail though I seldom hear it sung today, it 901 Commerce Street Nashville, TN continues to thrill my soul. When the 37203. Another resource is the “SBC music director would slow down the Cooperative Mission Program” that chorus and finish it with a thunderous is available on the website of the State Convention of Baptists in Ohio. Addicrescendo, it was electrifying. In 1932, Alfred Henry Ackley, the tional resources were mailed to every author of “He Lives,” encountered two Ohio Southern Baptist congregation experiences in close succession. He the first of this year. shared the gospel with a Jewish man Southern Baptists are missionary who resisted his witness by saying, people because of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. “He Lives” “Why should I worship a dead Jew?” Soon after this, Ackley heard a is the reason for everything: who we liberal radio preacher announce, “You are and what we do. To hear Him know, folks, it really doesn’t make any say “Well done” in obedience to His difference to me if Christ is risen or Great Commission is the desire of our not.” These two successive experienc- hearts. Let’s press toward that mark. es motivated him to answer with the “He Lives” hymn.
For information about the State Convention of Baptists in Ohio and more Baptist Press news, go to our website www.scbo.org.
How to become a
Christian If you are not a Christian, have never surrendered your will to the Lord Jesus, let me share briefly how you can make this life changing decision. GOD WANTS YOU SAVED. First, you must believe that God loves you and wants you to have peace in your heart and an everlasting life (John 3:16). Second, you must recognize that you are a sinner, that you have done things which have displeased God and that you have separated yourself from Him (Romans 3:23; 6:23). Third, you must believe that Jesus came to this earth, was actually God in the flesh, lived a perfect life, and yet went to a cruel cross, dying for your sins, paying once and for all the penalty of sin (I Peter 2:24). However, it’s not enough just to know these three things. Many of us knew them for years before we ever gave Jesus our lives. Fourth, you must personally ask Jesus to come into your life and forgive you of your sins (Revelation 3:20). You can pray this prayer now and if you mean it with all of your heart, Jesus will come in just like He said. He cannot lie. Dear Lord Jesus, I know that I am a sinner. I’m really sorry for my sins, Lord. I ask you now, Lord Jesus, to come into my heart, forgive me of my sins, take control of my life, and make me the kind of person You want me to be. I now receive You into my heart. Thank You for coming in. I will follow You all the days of my life. In Your name I pray, Amen.