Church Planting, Strengthening Churches FOREFRONT of RESTRUCTURING PLAN

Mother’s Day Missions conf. Offering focuses on ‘Relief brings relief and Release’ to families. Page 2 Page 7

APRIL 27, 2013 • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists • VOLUME 179 NO. 9 • BRnow.org Church planting, strengthening churches FOREFRONT OF RESTRUCTURING PLAN

Impacting Lostness THROUGH DISCIPLE-MAKING

By SHAWN HENDRICKS BR Managing Editor | One of the new tactics from the he Baptist State Convention of North Carolina’s (BSC) Executive Committee Baptist State Convention of North Carolina will be to assign strategy approved a plan April 11 to “tear down silos,” streamline the organization and coordinators to eight key “population cen- Tbetter assist churches in making disciples, evangelism and church planting among ters” in order to get the gospel to unreached people groups of every ethnicity and cultural context. people groups. (BSC graphic) The plan includes equipping churches to take ownership of collegiate ministries, and also sending strategy coordinators to work with churches and associations to penetrate “concentrated areas of lostness” through eight “population centers” around the state. See Impacting page 6

N.C. businessman takes risks for the gospel in Central Asia

passed safely in and out of the restricted area. By TESS RIVERS | Baptist Press The two men risked entering to check the o foreigners beyond this status of a well Paul’s team recently installed point,” reads the sign in a and to visit new friends in a nearby village. Paul Hart,* a business Hart’s wife, Amanda,* is glad she didn’t owner, learned “Nremote area of a Central Asian about the spiritual country. know about this little adventure. “He doesn’t needs of an unreached Paul Hart* notices it just as the motorcycle tell me the scary stuff,” she says. people group he is riding blows past. But how did this marathon runner and thousands of miles “They knew I was a foreigner,” the 48-year- seller of high-end Amish furniture from the away through his old entrepreneur recalls. Appalachian Mountains wind up in a war-torn, church “Foreigners are the only ones who wear flood-ravaged region of the world? in Hendersonville. helmets.” It all began with a challenge in a typical *Name changed (IMB Fortunately for Hart, the police were not Wednesday night prayer service at First Baptist photo by working the checkpoint that day, and he and Church, Hendersonville, N.C. Paul W. Lee) his friend – the one driving the motorcycle – See Gospel page 8 2 APRIL 27, 2013 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Couple finds hope through Mother’s Day Offering

North Carolina Baptist Hospital nity Relations at the hospital. rad and Sarah St. Clair of Tay- “After Rev. Yount lorsville, N.C., know what it’s called, I asked the Blike to see many of the things Mother’s Day Of- that were comfortable and familiar be fering committee taken away in an instant. to carefully and The normal life they had known was prayerfully review suddenly torn apart by illness and near Brad and Sarah’s tragedy. needs,” Mullen Sarah had surgery at N.C. Baptist said. “I was privi- Hospital (Wake Forest Baptist Medical leged to call them EDDIE YOUNT Center) to remove painful and dangerous with wonderful tumors. A few months later a terrible car news and say, ‘Sarah’s hospital bill has accident left her with broken bones and been paid by compassionate and mission- a head injury. She was unable to work for minded North Carolina Baptists in the a year. With only Brad working, financial name of Jesus Christ and His love.’” pressures quickly overwhelmed them as Tears streamed down Sarah’s face. waves of medical expenses piled on top “The Mother’s Day Offering was a gift of other bills. A difficult road to recovery from the hand of God,” she said. “After became nearly unbearable. this past year it would have been easy for “It was so frightening with all those us to give up. Then this beautiful thing bills weighing happened. They down,” Sarah said. “They lifted a huge bur- lifted a huge burden “I felt like we were off our shoulders Brad and Sarah St. Clair are thankful for the help received through the Mother’s Day Offering. (NCBH losing hope.” den off our shoulders ...” and we thank them photo) Like many cou- with all our hearts!” to see their needs met in a way that we ‘Touching Lives ples who work hard – Sarah St. Clair “This gift was couldn’t do by ourselves.” With Hope’ to make a living, God coming to us Mullen added, “We are very grate- the St. Clairs fell between the cracks of through North Carolina Baptists and ful to North Carolina Baptists on behalf N.C. Baptist Hospital assistance. They had too much to qualify saying, ‘I still love you and you’re going of the St. Clairs and hundreds of other Mother’s Day Offering for Medicaid or charity care programs, to make it,’” Brad added. “They saved hurting patients and families. “Our gifts Week of Prayer: May 5-12 but not enough to pay the balance of her us financially and gave us hope. What a really are the hands of God’s love, giving Goal: $650,000 hospital bills. way to tell others about Jesus and change people hope and leading them closer to In the midst of their fears, a miracle their lives like they did ours.” Jesus Christ in heartfelt gratitude. Please www.mothersdayoffering.org. Mother’s Day of God’s grace began to unfold. Brad Pastor Yount confirmed, “This was an join me in praying for God’s love to be at Offering materials were mailed to Baptist reached out to Eddie Yount, their pas- incredible blessing for Brad and Sarah, work through the Mother’s Day Offer- churches across the state. tor at Mount Hebron Baptist Church and for all of us. ing. Please give generously and allow His They can be obtained by calling (336) in Taylorsville. Yount contacted Paul By teaming up with Baptists and the grace to reach out through you.” 716-3027 or email Mullen at pmmullen@ Mullen, director of Church and Commu- Mother’s Day Offering, we were able The St. Clair’s story can be seen at wakehealth.edu. Pat Summerall remembered for Christian faith

By TIM ELLSWORTH | Baptist Press Graham said with all the accolades and and drinking buddies. Much of Summer- replaced by a thirst for knowledge about applause that Summerall received for his all’s life was characterized by alcoholism faith and God,” Summerall wrote. He at Summerall stood in the front sports broadcasting work, his walk with and abandonment of his family. was later baptized at First Baptist Church row at Prestonwood Baptist Christ is what mattered the most to him. In 1992, Summerall’s friends and fam- in Euless, Texas. Summerall described PChurch in Plano, Texas, on Eas- “He finished well,” Graham said. “His ily staged an intervention on his behalf, emerging from the water and said he ter Sunday, next to his wife Cheri, as the faith was strong in Christ and he was encouraging him to get professional help had surfaced to a new world: “[F]or the congregation sang “The Old prepared for eternity. His com- for his alcohol problems. He chafed at first time in my life, I knew what people Rugged Cross.” mitment was stronger than the idea and burned with anger through- meant about being ‘born again.’” “I looked over there at Pat, ever. Even though he was bat- out the intervention. Finally, Brookshier “I had already accepted that Jesus and big tears were streaming tling illness and the personal read a letter from Summerall’s daughter Christ was the Son of God who died for down his face,” Prestonwood challenges of aging, he was Susan. “I hadn’t been there much for my our sins. Now, I felt I was truly part of his Pastor Jack Graham said. “Of joyful and constantly engag- kids, but Susan’s letter made it clear that family. I felt ecstatic, invigorated, hap- all the times I’ve watched ing people with his life and his I’d hurt them even in my absence,” Sum- pier, and freer. It felt as though my soul him on television, of all the testimony.” merall wrote in his autobiography, Sum- had been washed clean.” times I’ve heard his voice, my After 10 years in the NFL merall: On and Off the Air. “I was numb to greatest memory is going to as a kicker, Summerall spent most of it, sad to say. Yet, her final words Kivett’s - Your Source for Renewal Kivett’s - Your Source for Renewal be remembering Pat with his PAT SUMMERALL more than 40 years calling made my knees buckle: ‘Dad, the few eyes lifted up to heaven, tears NFL games, most notably with times we’ve been out in public together Complete Renovations • Refinish Complete Renovations • Refinish soaking his face, singing ‘The Old Rugged analyst John Madden. Prior to Madden, recently, I’ve been ashamed we shared New Pews • Steeples • Stained Glass New Pews • Steeples • Stained Glass Steeple Cleaning • Baptistries Steeple Cleaning • Baptistries Cross.’” Summerall teamed with analyst Tom the same last name... .’” Summerall, the famed NFL broadcast- Brookshier. Summerall accepted Christ Summerall began weeping tears of www.kivetts.com www.kivetts.com KIVETT’S INC. KIVETT’S INC. er, died April 16 in Dallas of cardiac arrest later in life. His partnership with Brook- regret and reluctantly agreed to enter The Largest Family Owned The Largest Family Owned at age 82. He had been in Zale Lipshy shier extended beyond the broadcast rehab. It was a decision that changed Church Furniture Manufacturer in the US Church Furniture Manufacturer in the US

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1-800-334-1139 • Clinton, NC 1-800-334-1139 • Clinton, NC APRIL 27, 2013 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 3 Longtime Graham associate, George Beverly Shea, dies

Compiled from press reports Association. We are looking forward to that glorious in Chicago. At the time Graham was pastor of Village day when we will all be together again.” Church in Western Springs, Ill. Graham had heard Shea eorge Beverly Shea, the baritone singer known Shea was also a member of the Gospel Music Associa- sing on the other station and enlisted his help with the for his long-time association with Billy Gra- tion Hall of Fame and Religious Broadcasting Hall of hymn program. Gham, died Tuesday, April 16. Fame. He was among the inaugural class of inductees The first crusade they worked together was in Gra- “George Beverly Shea has been one of the closest into the Conference of Southern Baptist Evangelists’s ham’s hometown of Charlotte in 1947. friends my wife, Ruth, and I have ever had,” said Billy “Hall of Faith” in 2008. Shea remained active with BGEA into his late 90s, Graham in a statement. “He, along with Cliff Barrows, “My heart goes out to the entire Shea family,” Gra- singing at Franklin Graham Festivals in Charleston, S.C. was one of the first members of our evangelis- ham said. “I am praying that God’s grace and (2008), and Knoxville, Tenn. (2008) and at Will Graham tic team. I’ve been listening to Bev Shea sing strength will be more than sufficient for Kar- Celebrations in Paducah, Ky. (2007) and Gastonia, N.C. for more than 60 years, and I would still rather lene, his two children – Ron and Elaine – and (2006). hear him sing than anyone else I know.” grandchildren.” “Even though Bev was 10 years older than my father, Shea, 104, of Montreat, N.C., worked with Shea’s musical journey started when he he never acted his age,” said Franklin Graham on bil- the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association was growing up in the choir at his father’s lygraham.org. “He was absolute fun to be with. Bev was (BGEA) for more than 50 years. Wesleyan Methodist church. Born in Win- one of the most gracious and unassuming men I have Shea first sang for Graham in 1943 on a chester, Ontario, Shea went on to record more known. He was always encouraging and supportive, Chicago radio program (“Songs in the Night”) than 70 albums of sacred music. At age 23 he a man of deep faith and strong commitment to Jesus and has carried the gospel in song to every composed the music to one of his best known Christ.” continent and to every state in America. GEORGE BEVERLY solos, “I’d Rather Have Jesus.” Shea was buried on the grounds of the Billy Graham He was nominated for a Grammy Award SHEA Attending both Annesley College (Ottawa, Library in Charlotte during a private ceremony April 22. 10 times. He won a Grammy in 1965 and was Ontario) and Houghton College (New York), Shea is survived by his wife, Karlene, and his chil- presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award Shea worked in radio broadcasting while employed dren from his first marriage, Ronald and Elaine. He was by the organization in 2011. as a clerk in the headquarters of Mutual of New York preceded in death by his first wife, Erma, who died in “He has set an example and has been a role model of Insurance Company from 1929 to 1938. He became a staff 1976. what a Christian ought to be,” Graham said. “His contri- soloist and announcer at WMBI in Chicago between Memorials to BGEA, The Salvation Army, Samaritan’s bution to my ministry cannot be measured in human 1938-1944. Purse and World Medical Mission. terms. Since our organization is like a family, we are all He met Billy Graham in 1943 after he took over a radio Visit the memorial website at georgebeverlysheamemo- going to miss him as one of the spiritual leaders of our program called “Songs in the Night” at WCFL, also rial.org/georgebeverlyshea.asp. AROUND THE STATE OPPORTUNITY Obituaries NORMA JEAN YOUNG, 77, of Hen- Billi Jo Hamilton of Greenville; brothers, CORNER dersonville, died April 5, 2013, at the Mike Mizelle of South Mills, Tim Mizelle Caswell host for Tag youth event in October ED TRULL died April 4, 2013. Elizabeth House. of Colerain, Al Mizelle of Windsor; and A graduate of Pisgah High School and Young married in 1958 in Kentucky 12 grandchildren. Students are welcome to N.C. Baptist Fruitland Baptist Bible Institute, Trull and along with her husband served as an Memorials to: Christian Harbor Baptist Assembly at Fort Caswell, Oak Island, for sang with The Laymen Quartet from 1972- International Mission Board missionary Church, P.O. Box 326, Harrellsville, NC Tag: You’re It!, Oct. 25-27. 1981. to Japan. Fluent in German, French and 27924. Led by Be.Do.Tell student ministries During his ministry he was music Japanese, Young taught the history of of the Baptist State Convention of North director for East Waynesville Baptist Japanese art and Christian art. Her car- Staff changes Carolina, it is to equip Christian stu- Church and pastor at Jonathan Creek toons “From the Field” were published dents to make their lives count, be game Baptist Church and Holly Springs Baptist in IMB’s Commission magazine and in Faith Baptist Church, Archdale, has changers and stand up for what they Church. He has been on the Board of Baptist newspapers. She retired in 1998 to called DAVID WILLIAMS as pastor. believe. Apologetics, leadership training, Directors for the Baptist State Conven- Hendersonville. He previously served at Reeds Baptist and evangelism will be taught in gender tion of North Carolina and the Franklin She is survived by her husband of 55 Church, Lexington. specific groups. Chamber of Commerce. Trull volun- years, Hugh. The cost is $127 for lodging, meals and teered for Macon County Schools, where Memorials to: St. James Episcopal MICHAEL HEREDIA has been the conference. he also was a substitute teacher, and the Church, 766 N. Main Street, Henderson- called as youth pastor at Calvary Baptist Visit bedotell.com or contact Merrie Macon County Sheriff’s Department. He ville, NC 28792. Church, Shelby. This is Michael’s first Johnson for more information at tag@ was also moderator of the Macon Baptist ministry position. ncbaptist.org; (800) 395-5102, ext. 5566. Association and on the Board of Directors HUGH WORTH “DUCIE” MIZELLE, for the Biblical Recorder. 61, died April 11, 2013, in Greenville. Submissions He is survived by his wife of 35 years, He attended Halifax Community College and graduated from Fruitland June Case Trull; daughter, Lisa Martin; The Biblical Recorder is pleased to publish staff changes, church news and Baptist Bible Institute. He also served son, Brett Trull; and three grandchildren. events with a statewide interest. Please send information immediately four years in the U.S. Coast Guard. He Memorials to: Fruitland Baptist Bible following an event, or for opportunity corner, send at least two months in was pastor of Christian Harbor Baptist Institute, 1455 Gilliam Road, Henderson- advance. Because we are a statewide newspaper, events included are Church in Harrellsville from 1997 until he ville, NC 28792. usually beyond the local church level. All submissions will be subjected to died. Biblical Recorder styles and guidelines and will be edited. Send to dianna@BRnow. He is survived by his wife, Rita M. org or Biblical Recorder, P.O. Box 1185, Cary, NC 27512. Call (919) 847-2127. Mizelle; daughters, Wendy Mizelle Pe- terson of Farmville; sons, Randy Mizelle and Chris Mizelle both of Jamesville; stepdaughters, Ginger Dawson of Har- for the latest N.C. Baptist rellsville, Jill Evans of Colerain; stepson Jeremy Dawson of Colerain; mother, news and information Doris White Mizelle of Windsor; sister, 4 APRIL 27, 2013 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists N.C. leaders learn strategies, principles to impact lostness

GCI began as a way to understand why has experienced the most concentrated By MELISSA LILLEY | BSC Communications – and to do something about it. and highest era of population growth s an undergraduate student “We can’t go where Jesus wants us to in its history. From 1970 to 2005, more Jim Slack studied law and was go the same way we’ve been going there. than 35,000,000 people moved into the A headed to Harvard to study If we can’t get out of the church building, country who were not from a Protestant international research law. and witness and use lay people to plant background. After spending several months on a churches, then we can’t get there,” Slack Many of America’s 100 largest cit- special assignment with the Home Mis- said. Phil Frady, director of missions for ies are already composed of more than sion Board (now North American Mis- Slack acknowledged that only through South Roanoke Baptist Association, said 50 percent minority and ethnic people sion Board) following college graduation, the work of God’s Holy Spirit is a church the training would help churches in his groups. Within the next 10 years, Slack Slack never made it to Harvard, but did planting movement possible. However, association reach people who “have not said this would be the case with almost find his way to seminary. churches must be equipped and willing only been far from God, but far from our every one of America’s 100 largest cities. Slack graduated from seminary, and to go wherever God sends them in order churches.” In order to make disciples of all he and his wife headed to the Philippines to reach people. “The GCI training is giving us a fresh people, Slack said leaders must be willing with the International Mission Board “The Great Commission is to make approach to assisting our churches to to help equip other leaders, especially lay (IMB), where they served 25 years. disciples inside each and every people both honor and preserve our current leaders. Slack, now serving as IMB global evan- group,” Slack said. ways of doing church, and bridge the gap “We will never get soul winners by gelism and church growth consultant, is Slack explained that in the Great to a fresh generation of disciple-making teaching them to be soul winners in the also helping lead the Great Commission Commission, the word “nations” means church groups that really help us move classroom. We teach them by doing,” he Initiative (GCI). people groups, not countries or nations. down into the layer of darkness that we said. GCI is focused on helping encourage With that in mind, believers must be are not currently reaching,” he said. “Our Tim Ahlen, GCI executive director and church planting movements throughout willing to make disciples of all people existing churches are working hard, but pastor of Forest Meadow Baptist Church North America. North Carolina Baptist groups, whether they live across the they are only touching the perimeter of in Dallas, Texas, led the training with pastors, church leaders and directors of world or across the street. where light ends and darkness starts.” Slack and challenged North Carolina Bap- missions recently participated in GCI GCI training allows participants to Jarrod Scott, pastor of Green Pines tists to be willing to forsake the comfort- training (Phase 1) at Caraway Conference develop a personalized strategy for reach- Baptist Church in Knightdale, said GCI able in order to reach the lost. Center, where they learned strategies for ing and discipling the people to whom provided compelling evidence for the The good, comfortable things in life – church planting and reaching unreached God has called them to reach. The train- need to adopt church planting strategies. and in church – often become idols that people groups with the gospel. ing conferences are held in three phases: “It was refreshing to really examine lead to a consumer mindset focused on missiology, church planting movement our state with missionary eyes and to reaching and pleasing people inside the What is GCI? strategies and orality. consider what it will take to impact lost- church walls. GCI is an outgrowth of a meeting held In Phase 1, participants learn about the ness among us,” he said. “I left resolved Referring to the parable of the lost in February 2003 in London, England. Great Commission, practical skills for to pray and work differently to see the sheep in Luke 15, Ahlen said the priority The IMB and North American Mission learning where unreached people groups nations know the name of the Lord.” of believers must be impacting lostness Board invited church planting strategists live in their communities, and how to and advancing the gospel. Too often from key urban areas in the United States conduct research about different cultures American trends believers spend all their time with the to explore how the Christian faith was in order to best understand and then While believers are commanded in 99, the saved, and little time with the growing throughout the world, due in disciple various people groups. Scripture to reach the ends of the earth lost. Just as Jesus went after the one lost large part to church planting movements. Phase 2 is devoted to understanding with the gospel, they are also called to sheep, so must believers. Church planting movements occur the church planting movements through- reach their neighborhoods and communi- “How do your strategies reflect that when churches are planting churches out the world, and Phase 3 is focused on ties; their Jerusalem. priority? Does your life reflect biblical within a specific people group or popula- applying oral communication strategies “What we do in our Jerusalem will priorities?” he asked. “When you work tion segment, and doing so rapidly. and storytelling. North Carolina Baptist become our Lord’s starting point,” Slack that out in your life, you’re going to have Southern Baptist leaders learned dur- leaders who participated in Phase 1 train- said. to ask yourself some questions about ing the London meeting that while other ing learned how to see the world through As America’s population continues to your priorities.” areas of the world were experiencing the eyes of a missionary and how to become more diverse, the need to reach To learn more about Great Commis- Christian growth through church plant- develop tools to research the diversity of people groups is more important than sion Initiative training, visit www.mygci. ing movements, North America was not. areas where they live. ever before. Since 1970, the United States org. Bankruptcy judge named dean of Campbell law school

Campbell Communications we are excited to welcome him to this new role.” His judicial work and expertise A native of Davidson County, Leonard is a 1971 gradu- have earned him both state and . Rich Leonard, United States Bankruptcy Court ate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, national recognition. Leonard has Judge for the Eastern District of North Carolina, where he was a Morehead Scholar. He earned a master’s also been active in the classroom. Jhas been appointed as the next dean of Campbell degree in education from UNC-Chapel Hill in 1973, and He has worked as an adjunct University’s Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law. then earned a law degree from Yale Law School in 1976. professor for North Carolina Leonard’s appointment, effective July 15, 2013, fills the He has served as a United States Bankruptcy Judge Central University School of Law position currently held by Interim Dean Keith Faulkner. for the Eastern District of North Carolina since 1992 and (1985-1986; 1995-1998); UNC School “Judge Leonard’s wealth of experience in judicial as Chief Judge from 1999 through 2006. Prior to that of Law (1994-1995); and, most leadership will prove tremendously beneficial to our time, he was a United States Magistrate Judge (1981- recently, Campbell’s law school students and faculty,” said Campbell President Jerry 1992) and Clerk of Court of the U.S. District Court for (2009-present). Wallace. the Eastern District of North Carolina (1979-1992). For Founded in 1976 in Buies Creek, “His commitment to academic excellence and the more than a decade, Leonard also acted as a consultant the Norman Adrian Wiggins J. RICH LEONARD highest standards of legal education will help shape the to the U.S. Department of State to work with judiciaries School of Law relocated to down- future of Campbell Law School for years to come, and in many developing countries. town Raleigh in 2009. APRIL 27, 2013 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 5 Samaritan’s Purse: 100 million reasons to celebrate

By SHERRIE NORRIS | Special to the Recorder

ne hundred million down and 100 million more to go. O That was the international message of hope as thousands of people from around the world converged in Orlando, Fla., April 6 to help Boone-based Samaritan’s Purse’s Operation Christmas Child celebrate a milestone. Nearly 10,000 dignitaries, musicians, children, administrators and volunteers gathered at the Orange County Convention Center and celebrated the ministry’s 100 millionth shoe box, which was filled and distributed during Operation Christmas Child’s 2012 gift-giving season. “It’s something God has done and we want to give him the glory,” said Franklin Graham, president and CEO of Samaritan’s Purse. Graham began the world’s largest Christmas-gift project in 1993 as a way to help children with basic needs and to offer a message about Jesus Christ. Vol- unteers fill shoe boxes and Operation Christmas Child delivers them annually throughout the world. About 500 OCC volunteers from 102 countries and about 1,500 from across the United States also attended the celebration in Orlando. The African Children’s Choir performs April 6 during the special celebration celebrating Operation Christmas Child’s 100 millionth box being In that group was Mary Damron, one of the first vol- sent in Orlando, Fla. (Samaritan’s Purse photos) unteers for OCC in the United States. Damron helped launch the shoe-box project when around the world met in conference “to fellowship, ultimately came to faith in Jesus Christ after a journey she collected boxes in West Virginia and drove them to plan, pray, celebrate and look at the challenge that lays that started when they heard the gospel alongside their Boone. She later accompanied OCC to Bosnia where she ahead as we contemplate the next 100 million shoe shoe box. They are now filling shoe boxes for other helped distribute shoe-box gifts. boxes.” children around the world. Helping with the celebration in Orlando were well- “Hundreds of millions of children have yet to hear As it has been for two decades, the impact of those known entertainers, including three-time Grammy the word and to respond,” but to reach those children, shoe boxes in 2012 was significant. Shoe boxes were Award winner Michael W. Smith, Grammy nominee he said, more shoe-box gifts than ever before will be sent to 105 countries last year, and Harrelson said OCC Matthew West, country and bluegrass legend Ricky needed “and more people will need to be praying.” has had the privilege of sending boxes to more than 154 Skaggs, along with Dennis Agajanian, the Tommy “The opportunity to bring together people from all countries and territories during the past 20 years. Coomes Band and the African Children’s Choir, com- over the world to celebrate the milestone – and to truly Ross Rhoads, whose Calvary Chapel in Charlotte posed of children from Uganda who attend an English praise God for what he has done to allow Samaritan’s was one of the first churches in the United States to be school and perform internationally. Purse and Operation Christmas Child to touch and im- so-privileged by packing shoe-box gifts during the mis- Actress Shari Rigby served as master of ceremonies pact children around the world – was a great privilege,” sion’s start-up, offered a prayer, celebrating the Lord’s for the celebration. he said. “It was like being a part of heaven – of what it’s “hand of blessing upon Operation Christmas Child in In addition to celebrating a job well done, the mes- going to look like when all tongues and tribes of every collecting 100 million shoe boxes.” sage throughout the event was that OCC is also a job nation are gathered together, as referred to in the Bible. Skaggs reflected on his travels with OCC, including well begun. It was amazing.” his 1995 trip to war-torn Bosnia during which he distrib- Those involved with the event, including OCC vice Also amazing is the High Country’s connection to the uted shoe-box gifts. president Jim Harrelson, gave credit to the Lord’s faith- international effort, Harrelson said. The singer shared memories of seeing Russian-made fulness through the years for the project’s success. “Right here from Boone, N.C., the world is being cargo planes being loaded with the boxes and think- During the week before Saturday’s celebration, impacted, one shoe box at a time,” he said. ing how wonderful it was that they were being used to Harrelson said, OCC leaders and key volunteers from Also at the celebration were Livia Satterfield and Ted bring blessings instead of bombs. Foreman, who grew up “Knowing that those planes were made to deliver in Romania and Russia, missiles against the U.S and meant for destruction, and respectively, and were knowing how the hand of God was being used to take each given “a spark of gifts and the love of Jesus Christ around the world – hope in their orphaned that’s a God I can serve, right there,” Skaggs said. hearts,” when they re- “One hundred million shoe boxes have been col- ceived a shoe-box gift. lected, but it comes down to the one – the one child Livia said her “big- receiving one gift, receiving one opportunity to come to gest priority” – hair know Jesus,” said Randy Riddle, OCC director. clips – was included in “We’ve got to have faith like a child if we’re willing her box. Ted’s favorite to believe and trust in God,” Graham said. “God wants item was a washcloth, to heal your heart.” his own towel that he “Every shoe box is an opportunity for the Lord Jesus did not have to share Christ to wrap his arms around a child,” he said. with other children in For more information, visit samaritanspurse.org. A worshipful atmosphere and a worthy cause brought together people from all over the world to celebrate his orphanage. (EDITOR’S NOTE – This article originally appeared in The Operation Christmas Child’s 100 millionth box being distributed. Livia and Ted both Watauga Democrat.) 6 APRIL 27, 2013 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists

Impacting Continued from page 1

The new structure would eliminate 16 positions – 10 “There’s been a disconnect be- legiate Partnerships to build a “network of churches of which would come from campus ministries. But the working together” and empower them to build a pres- convention also would add 11 positions, which would tween evangelism ence on more campuses. leave a net loss of five positions. While Cooperative “We believe this is the best way to increase ministry Program giving in N.C. is off to a slow start – nearly and discipleship. on campuses,” Hollifield said. “There are churches I 20 percent below budget – Hollifield noted that the know [that] will take the lead on this. I want … students restructuring plan was not a result of economic chal- [Discipleship] is the to be in those churches … that are surrounding the cam- lenges, but a genuine desire “to stop the bleeding of mandate for every pus.” the loss of people [who are] being led to the Lord, but “Our job is going to be to provide training, leadership they’re not being discipled.” church member. ... … still doing some of the summer things where we offer “There’s been a disconnect between evangelism and them the missions opportunities and that type of thing,” discipleship,” said Milton Hollifield, BSC executive In the large degree, added John Butler, executive leader of Business Services director-treasurer, in an interview. we’ve missed it.” and a member of the strategy committee. “[Discipleship] is the mandate for every church mem- With more than a 100 campuses in North Carolina, ber. … In the large degree, we’ve missed it.” – Milton Hollifield there are many churches with a strong desire to get “We’ve been satisfied with some programs and some involved in campus ministry, said Davis. efforts” added Brian Davis, BSC executive leader, “but dition to Trexler, the team would include: Sammy Joo, “We’ve had calls from churches where they’ve said, there’s a philosophy of disciple making that’s got to who would work with international students in the Tri- ‘We have a college in our town. How can you help us? pervade what we’re doing.” angle area; and Tom Knight would work among interna- How can you train us? How can you resource us?’” he The Executive Committee’s approval will go before tional students in Charlotte. Two positions remain open said. “And the response has been ‘Sorry, we don’t have the Board of Directors during their meeting in May. If for the western and eastern parts of the state. a position that we can fund there.’ That’s the wrong approved by the Board, the strategy will be presented • Lynn Sasser, executive leader of Congregational response. We exist to serve the churches, to help re- to N.C. Baptist messengers during their annual meeting Services group, would become the executive leader source, to help train them, to help prepare them. And in November. The new structure wouldn’t go into effect of a new group called Evangelism and Discipleship. this … arrangement of structure allows us to do that.” until January of 2014. The Congregational Services group and Evangelization group will no longer exist under the new structure. The Population Centers What’s different? new group would be divided into a Disciple-making The other more visible change will involve sending The following is summary of recommended changes Team and Church Strengthening Team. out strategy coordinators through eight “population in the proposal. • Brian Upshaw, team leader of the Church Ministry centers” to help develop strategies to get the gospel to • Brian Davis, BSC’s executive leader, would become Team, would lead the Disciple-making Team. His team unreached people groups. associate executive director-treasurer. would include: Ashley Allen, Embrace and Women’s “North Carolina has changed,” Hollifield said, ac- • Russ Conley, who is senior consultant for Leader- Evangelism and Discipleship; Merrie Johnson, Youth cording to his written report for the Executive Com- ship Ministries, would become team leader for eight Evangelism and Discipleship; Marty Dupree, Adult mittee. “Over 230 languages are spoken in our public strategy coordinators who will work with churches and Evangelism and Discipleship; Rick Hughes, Adult Evan- schools; but there is not a gospel witness in each of associations through the “population centers.” These ar- gelism and Discipleship; Guillermo Soriano, Hispanic these languages. eas that have a high concentration of “lostness” include Evangelism and Discipleship; Cheryl Markland, Child- “The convention, and I mean the convention in its Asheville, Hickory, Charlotte, the Triad and Triangle hood Evangelism and Discipleship; Eddie Thompson, fullness – churches, associations, convention staff, aux- areas, Fayetteville, Wilmington and Greenville. Family Evangelism and Discipleship. iliary, institutions, and agencies – must recognize that • Michael Sowers, senior consultant for the Office • Antonio Santos, senior consultant for Hispanic simply serving the white English speaking residents of of Great Commission Partnerships (GCP), would serve Church Development, would become the team leader our state is a dying proposition.” as a strategy coordinator for the Triad area. The senior for the Church Strengthening Team. His team would Davis contended some may view the new strategy consultant position for GCP will remain open and could include: Neal Eller, senior consultant for Stewardship; as a smaller version of NAMB’s Send North America be filled in the future. David Moore, senior consultant for Pastoral Ministries; campaign that focuses on reaching cities. But it’s not the • Frank White, senior consultant for Anglo/African Ken Tan, senior consultant for Leadership Development; same. “A major distinction between what we’re doing American Church Planting, would be a strategy coordi- Bob Foy, senior consultant for Church Renewal; Don- and what NAMB is doing … [is] they’re focusing primar- nator for the Charlotte area. His current position will be nie Wiltshire, senior consultant for Special Ministries; ily on church planting,” Davis said. “We’re focusing eliminated. Kenny Lamm, senior consultant for Worship and Music. on strengthening existing churches in those areas and • Rick Trexler, team leader for Campus Ministry, Though many of the roles mentioned will remain sim- planting new churches.” would become team leader of Collegiate Partnerships. ilar, for some they will change significantly. Of the five In recent years, Davis said there have been some who The Campus Ministry team would no longer exist under main groups within the convention – Administration & have contacted the BSC looking for assistance in plant- the new structure, and a newly designed team would Convention Relations, Business Services, Congregation- ing a church and needing advice on the best location. work more closely in partnership with churches. In ad- al Services, Church Planting & Missions Development, “Our response has been, ‘We’re not telling you. ... and Evangelization – the plan would trim them to four, You need to discern where God would have you to go,’” “We want to help strengthen which would include the new team led by Sasser. Of the Davis said. “Now we’re gong to say we have eight areas 22 ministry teams, the new plan would drop those to 18. where we are concentrating some of these efforts.” churches across the “It’s a significant streamlining of the organization,” said And the plan will involve churches of all sizes in all entirety of the state. Davis, who chaired the strategy committee that devel- areas of the state. oped the strategy upon which Hollifield has built the “I think about these eight concentrated areas of But we [also] can’t new structure. population in North Carolina [and] how much it would impact spiritually the rest of the state if we could be ignore where we Campus ministry more effective in evangelizing and discipling those have these concen- One of the most visible changes would involve equip- people in those areas,” said Hollifield. ping churches to help make more disciples on N.C. col- “We want to help strengthen churches across the trations.” lege campuses, while reducing the Baptist State Conven- entirety of the state,” added Davis. “But we [also] can’t tion’s presence on campuses. ignore where we have these concentrations. It’s not – Brian Davis Under the new structure, Trexler would lead Col- either or; it’s a both and approach.” APRIL 27, 2013 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 7 ‘Relief and Release’ focus of N.C. missions conference

By SHAWN HENDRICKS | BR Managing Editor

or Chris Simpson, helping people whose homes were caught in Fthe path of a hurricane or other natural disasters is about far more than removing debris. “That tree is important to get out of their yard, or that mud is important to get out of their house, but the most important thing is sharing the gospel of Je- sus Christ,” said Simpson, a volunteer for North Carolina Baptist Men’s (NCBM) Disaster Relief Ministry. He and his wife, Lori, have served with Baptist Men for about nine years. Simpson shared his testimony during the 39th annual N.C. Baptist Missions Conference April 5-6 at Calvary Baptist Church in Winston-Salem. The conference featured a variety of speakers, global ministry reports, breakout sessions and music from Dove Award winning artist Meredith Andrews Meredith Andrews leads and her band. The theme for this year’s worship during the North conference was “Relief & Release: The Carolina Baptist Men’s Hands of Christ.” Missions Conference “Jesus cared about hurting people April 5-6. (BR photo by and He used both hands,” said Richard Shawn Hendricks) Brunson, executive director of NCBM. “Think for a minute the things Jesus day of the conference. Nasser, speaker, author and pastor of did: He fed the hungry. He healed the “That really touched me. And I said, Christ City Church in Birmingham, Ala. sick. He raised the dead. He offered grace ‘God in New York City, give me your “I think there are some people in this and forgiveness to the woman at the toughest assignment. Give us the tough- room … you are so caught up with God well, the woman caught in adultery and est neighborhoods, the most difficult [someone has to] … tell you how broken the dying criminal on the cross. If we’re places.’” the world around you is,” Nasser said going to reach people today, we have to Field shared about one woman who during the final session of the conference. really love them and began attending Nasser shared stories of orphans, we have to also of- “That tree is important Graffiti church after poverty and prostitution that are all too fer Jesus’ relief and N.C. Baptist Men common in the world today. release.” to get out of sent teams to help “There are 183 million [around the Meeting physical her and others in globe who] don’t have a place to call needs can overcome their yard ... need. home,” he said. “Are you aware?” many barriers, said but the most “Keep it up,” “You know King James Version of ev- Taylor Field, pastor Field said. “People erything, but you don’t know [anything] and director of Graf- important often can’t hear the Dana Hall, former president of the North Carolina about what’s going on in your world,” he Baptist Men, received the organization’s Layman fiti Church in New gospel until they can said. of the Year Award during the recent meeting. Hall York City. thing is see the gospel. … In “It’s time … for us to beg God for the is a member of University Hills Baptist Church in times of crisis rela- ability to say, ‘God let me be rooted in The church has sharing Charlotte. (BSC photo by Mike Creswell) helped start about 30 tionships matter.” your Word, but let me be aware of what’s churches and more the gospel “No one is ever make a difference in the lives of others, going on in my world.’” than half a dozen changed by a pro- said Terry Rae, director of Africa for “If less than one percent [of Chris- Graffiti ministries of Jesus Christ.” gram,” he added. Christ in Johannesburg, South Africa. tians] would own that, orphanages throughout the city. – Chris Simpson “It’s from relation- Too many Christians don’t take a stand would be empty tomorrow,” he said. In recent months, ship.” for Christ when they have the opportuni- “[About] 36,000 people today will die of Baptist Men has Helen Keller, ty. “So many of us are chameleon Chris- starvation … That ought to matter to the helped Graffiti with Hurricane Sandy re- Mother Theresa, Martin Luther, William tians,” he said. people of God.” lief efforts. “North Carolina Baptist Men Wilberforce and Abraham Lincoln are “When we’re with ungodly people “Awareness brings responsibility,” he call and they say, ‘Give us your toughest people who are extraordinary examples we change color and blend in. Nobody added. assignment,’” said Field on the second of those who were used by God to help knows that we stand for the Lord Jesus “Awareness brings ownership. It’s not Christ. … We need to be outstanding for the government’s job. … It’s the people the Lord so that when people see us they of God’s job. … Wrap that gospel in a see the hands and the love of the Lord sandwich. Have a position to fill? Advertise Jesus Christ.” “When your heart belongs to God Most Christians, however, keep you’re going to go ‘God will you break in the BR (919) 459-5691 themselves cocooned away from helping my heart for what breaks yours.’” solve society’s messiest issues, said David Visit baptistsonmission.org. 8 APRIL 27, 2013 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists

Gospel Continued from page 1

The challenge that means digging a well or teaching “The pastor wanted to talk about [the children. church’s] adopted unreached people Other times it includes talking about group,” Hart recalls. how to build a successful business. Re- As soon as he heard the name and gardless of the specific project, Hart re- location of the people group, which num- counts story after story of the hospitality bers roughly 50 million, the Holy Spirit offered him in local villages and of shared gave Hart “a very clear word.” conversations over cups and cups of tea. Since that Wednesday night, Hart is The picture he paints isn’t of violence doing whatever it takes to reach this peo- and mistrust but friendship and loyalty. ple group, including praying, researching “Our people group [could] be de- and eventually visiting them. Since 2007, scribed with one of their own proverbs: he has visited the region four times and ‘They make the best friends and the twice worked among those from this worst enemies,’” Hart says. “They are ethnic group living in other areas of the passionate and loyal. They love roses and world. poetry. “I never doubted a calling to them – “They live in a land that is very harsh. not that I knew what that calling looked It’s very hot,” he says. like,” Hart says. “I didn’t know what it Electricity is sporadic, “but it’s a meant, but there was a definite calling to beautiful country, a beautiful place, a Paul Hart* studies the Quran and other Islamic texts in an effort to understand and pray intelligently for that people group.” beautiful people.” the Central Asian people group with whom he works. *Name changed (IMB Photo by Paul W. Lee) Amanda doesn’t share that same call- Of course, in a region as volatile as this ing. Sitting beside her husband of 27 Along with Hart, she studies the reli- admits. “But he kept assuring me that’s one, the Harts realize that access may be years in that Wednesday night service, gious texts and customs of the people so where the Lord want[ed] him.” restricted at any time. she doesn’t doubt that God’s calling she can pray intelligently on their behalf Over time, the Harts have come to Visas may be denied and letters of “grabbed hold of his heart.” – she becomes almost fiery discussing understand that for now their callings are invitation withdrawn. Amanda knows, But Amanda, a published writer and media stereotypes of the people. Even the different. though, that her husband will continue artist, is not yet ready to sell their small, briefest conversation reveals that she is as Both recognize that neither is more to support and work among this people mountaintop farm, leave her chickens fervent an advocate for the people group nor less obedient or “spiritual” than the group regardless of his personal level of and goats behind and move across the as her husband. other. Their callings may be different, but access to Central Asia. world to live among this people. In fact, “It’s made me more aware,” Amanda their passions are the same – for an un- “He’s going to continue to want to she admits, she really doesn’t even want says. reached people to come to faith in Jesus. work with this people group wherever he to visit – in spite of her husband’s urging. “It’s not that they have rejected [the So, while Hart goes, Amanda prays. can get to them,” Amanda says. “If they “He wants me to go so bad,” Amanda gospel]. They don’t have access to [the She prays for the people. She prays for her shut him out [so that] he can’t go (to the says. “I’m not comfortable yet going to gospel] … They’ve never even heard about husband. She prays for herself. She also region) anymore, then he’ll go where he Central Asia. As soon as I get a word Jesus.” enlists others to pray. As the overseas vis- can.” from God, then I [will] go, but that hasn’t its continue, she has come to see prayer Until that time comes, Paul will keep happened yet.” The danger as her primary responsibility, no less than going, and Amanda will keep praying. But that doesn’t mean Amanda is any No, it isn’t the people that scare her, the calling to go that God has impressed For information on how you can be- less supportive of Paul’s ministry to the Amanda says. She is more than willing to upon her husband. come a marketplace messenger, visit imb- people, whom she has grown to love. As work personally with this ethnic group “When he’s over there, I’m praying, gsm.org or email [email protected]. she listens to her husband’s stories from in other – safer – places anywhere in the and I’ve got everybody I know praying, his visits, she’s come to see them as “real world. Quite simply, she explains, she too,” Amanda says. Pray people” and to embrace his new friends fears the dangers of traveling to that par- “I think prayer is the most powerful • For church leaders to train market- as her friends, even though she’s never ticular region of the world. tool we as Christians have. We are linked place professionals to pursue the Great met them. Her fears are well-founded. Known for to the power of God Himself through Commission within the global workplace. assaults, kidnappings and prayer.” • For business professionals to under- assassinations – particularly While Amanda recognizes the dangers stand their workplace as a mission field targeting Westerners – the inherent to her husband’s security, Hart — a place where God has placed them to region is among the “Top brushes those concerns aside. be intentional in proclaiming His Good 10” in kidnap for ransom, “Danger is relative to me,” Hart says. News. according to the U.S. State “I’ve never felt threatened. I’ve never • For students who are prepared Department and commercial feared for my safety.” spiritually and educationally to enter the security companies. He recognizes, though, that dangers to global marketplace in health care, busi- This level of violence local believers are very real. Very few, if ness and engineering, ready to fulfill the combined with politi- any, are followers of Jesus. Great Commission. cal instability and natural “Any association with a Westerner can • For effective partnerships between disasters offers a trifecta of put [local believers] at risk,” Hart ex- IMB personnel and like-minded market- legitimate reasons to stay plains. “So a lot of times we let the local place professionals around the world. away. believers seek us out because we really • For Southern Baptists to recognize As a result, Hart’s deci- can’t pursue them. We can’t put them at the movement of God’s Spirit within the sion to go in spite of the that kind of risk.” global marketplace and to place them- risks initially weighed heav- selves under His leadership wherever He Paul Hart* feeds the chickens at his N.C. mountaintop home. His ily on his wife. The commitment has placed them. wife, Amanda,* supports her husband in his mission endeavors to “When he first went over Hart focuses, instead, on coming View video at http://vimeo.com/63577563. Central Asia through prayer. *Names changed (IMB Photo by Paul W. there, I was pretty much alongside villagers, building relationships (EDITOR’S NOTE – Tess Rivers is an IMB Lee) a basket case,” Amanda and meeting human needs. Sometimes writer.) APRIL 27, 2013 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 9 Southeastern Seminary Top 50 churches for baptisms in N.C. (2012) Baptisms showed a decrease in North Carolina for the year 2012. Churches reported 20,665 baptisms last year, which represents a 15.2% drop in baptisms when compared to the 24,376 baptized enrollment reaches 2,999 in 2011. The Summit Church more than doubled in baptisms over the previous year. Seven of the churches in the previous year’s top 10 were in the top 10 again. dents to view lectures from top-ranked By K. ALLAN BLUME | BR Editor Ranking Church name, location Baptisms & SEBTS Communications staff professors at no charge. Enrollees include lay leaders who learn Bible truths with- 1 The Summit Church, Durham 895 he Board of Visitors and Board out earning a degree. No credit is given 2 Elevation Church, Matthews 689 of Trustees met at Southeastern for MOOC courses. 3 Biltmore Baptist Church, Arden 479 T Baptist Theological Seminary for The MOOC student receives the same 4 Journey Church, Raleigh 310 their biannual meeting April 15-16. Board information, resources and content as 5 Word Tabernacle, Rocky Mount 201 members heard reports, talked with stu- the student who physically attends the 6 First Baptist Church, Indian Trail 199 dents, prayed for the seminary and made Southeastern campus. Akin said, “Our 7 Cleveland Community Church, Clayton 195 important decisions to shape the school’s first class we offer is biblical interpreta- 8 Hickory Grove Baptist Church, Charlotte 190 future. tion or what we call here at Southeastern, 9 First Baptist Church, Jacksonville 173 Daniel Akin, Southeastern’s president, ‘hermeneutics.’ We expected maybe 500 10 Daystar Church, Greensboro 146 announced, “As of right now, enrollment individuals to sign up. The official count 11 New Hope Baptist Church, Denver 118 is at 2,999. Once we get that one student, today is 2,634 students and our plan is 12 Prospect Baptist Church, Albemarle 116 it will be the first time we have ever to continue adding more classes in the 12 Temple Baptist Church, New Bern 116 passed the 3,000 mark at Southeastern. future.” 14 High Rock Baptist Church, Salisbury 97 Our on-campus enrollment is stronger The board was asked to pray for Akin, 15 Calvary Baptist Church, Winston-Salem 95 than it has ever been.” who will be preaching the convention 15 Vertical Church, Lumberton 95 Akin reported on Southeastern’s Mas- sermon at the Southern Baptist Conven- 17 Carmel Baptist Church, Charlotte 93 sive Open Online Course (MOOC). The tion’s annual meeting in Houston on 17 Arran Lake Baptist Church, Fayetteville 93 online program began earlier this year Wednesday, June 12. 18 Pleasant Garden Baptist Church, Pleasant Garden 90 and has become a popular way for stu- See Southeastern page 16 18 Lee Park Baptist Church, Monroe 90 18 Bethlehem Baptist Church, Gastonia 90 22 Apex Baptist Church, Apex 86 23 Faith Baptist Church, Youngsville 80 24 Hopewell Baptist Church, Monroe 78 24 Celebration Church, North Wilkesboro 78 24 Mud Creek Baptist Church, Hendersonville 78 27 Saint Paul Baptist Church, Charlotte 75 28 High Rock Community Church, Lexington 72 28 Mount Vernon Baptist Church, Raleigh 72 30 Nations Ford Community Church, Charlotte 71 31 Pine Ridge Church, Haw River 70 31 Bay Leaf Baptist Church, Raleigh 70 33 Village Baptist Church, Fayetteville 70 34 Charity Baptist Church, Kannapolis 68 35 Providence Baptist Church, Raleigh 66 36 Starting Point Church, Raleigh 65 37 Englewood Baptist Church, Rocky Mount 64 37 Life Community Church, Jamestown 64 39 North Asheville Baptist Church, Asheville 62 40 Dellwood Baptist Church, Waynesville 59 41 Westover Baptist Church, Kings Mountain 58 41 Northside Baptist Church, Wilmington 58 Embracing leadership 43 Osborne Baptist Church, Eden 57 44 Salemburg Baptist Church, Salemburg 56 Ladies gathered April 11-12 for LifeWay’s YOU Lead/Embrace Leadership Training in Greensboro. 44 Brevard Community Church, Brevard 56 From left, Ashley Allen, director of Embrace Women’s Ministries at the Baptist State Convention of 46 Centerview Baptist Church, Jacksonville 55 North Carolina, Rhonda Kelley, wife of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary’s president, and Chris Adams, senior lead women’s Ministry Specialist at LifeWay Christian Resources, field questions 46 Center Grove Baptist Church, Clemmons 55 about women’s ministry. There were more than 180 ladies representing almost 70 churches from 48 Lawndale Baptist Church, Greensboro 50 three states that were trained. The two-day equipping time was scheduled just before the weekend 49 Living Water Baptist Church, Hendersonville 49 Source: Annual Living Proof Live Beth Moore conference, also in Greensboro. (Embrace photo) 50 Blackwelder Park Baptist Church, Kannapolis 48 Church Profile Bible Studies for Life offers preview lessons

people to give them a try and send us their feedback,” ing for Kids, plus a lot of improvements and enhance- By RUSS RANKIN | Baptist Press said David Francis, managing editor. ments.” s LifeWay Christian Resources prepares to The free sessions are available at LifeWay.com/FallPre- (EDITOR’S NOTE – The Biblical Recorder features Bible launch a new and improved Bible Studies for view. While the new curriculum aims to reach many Studies for Life and Explore the Bible, two Bible studies available A Life curriculum series in the fall, individuals people for the first time, Francis said the 30,000 church- through LifeWay. In each printed issue and online, writers from and churches can preview three of the sessions through es and 1.5 million individuals who already participate in North Carolina share a life lesson to help aid teachers in their free online downloads. “By giving away three sessions Bible Studies for Life each week will see “it’s everything lessons. On the BRnow.org site, the lessons are available under of the new Bible Studies for Life, we are excited for they liked about Bible Studies for Life and Bible Teach- “Resources.”) 10 APRIL 27, 2013 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Family ministry event focuses on gospel, reaching the culture

By MELISSA LILLEY | BSC Communications larger narrative of God’s redemption. Plurals are savvy with technology and They doubt God’s goodness and they de- social media, and consume nearly seven hurches must reach out and fine God from their own viewpoint and hours of media a day. equip a new generation of chil- experiences, she said. With a generation so connected to the Cdren and families, said Michelle Yet, when leaders help families focus world’s ideals, parents and church lead- Anthony, who explained that the foun- on the “upper” story, they begin to un- ers must be more intentional than ever dation for ministry must always be the derstand that everything exists for God’s before in pointing them to the gospel of gospel. glory – not their own – and they are able Jesus Christ. “The gospel is at the center of every- to live in abundant freedom. They recog- thing,” said Anthony, who serves as fam- nize God is sovereign and will one day Church and Family Connect ily ministry architect for David C. Cook, restore all things for His glory. The BSC seeks to help family ministry a non-profit organization that produces “Make the gospel leaders through its Church and Family leadership resources “We are called to teach personal, not a Connect ministry, which is designed to for family ministry rehearsed speech,” help church leaders and parents answer leaders with a strong our children that they Anthony said. “We questions about how to make fruitful desire to make dis- are ambassadors of disciples of the next generation. ciples. can live joyfully and with reconciliation. We “Church and Family Connect offers “Sometimes I confidence ...” have to be ambassa- practical resources to help churches part- missed that, at the dors of what is real ner with parents to build intentional dis- center of why I went – Cheryl Markland and transformative. cipleship,” said Eddie Thompson, who into ministry, is the Are we actually giv- Michelle Anthony explains that the core of any also attended the conference. Thompson ministry should be the gospel. “Our commission is gospel story.” ing our families Jesus? If not, we’re just is a family ministry consultant with the to be living testaments of what Christ has done in Anthony spoke in February during giving them what the world gives them.” BSC. our lives,” she said. (BSC photo) a family ministry conference that was Cheryl Markland, childhood ministry In recent decades too much respon- hosted by David C. Cook in Charlotte. consultant for the BSC, said the confer- This generation, defined as those sibility has been placed on the church Anthony said she has experienced times ence helped her refocus on the truth and born after 1997, is known as the “Plurals” to disciple children, and BSC staff like throughout ministry when her focus power of the gospel. and is the first generation predicted to Thompson and Markland seek to help became programs and not advancing the “Dr. Anthony challenged each of us become pluralistic, meaning no single equip parents and church leaders to Kingdom and sharing the gospel. as parents and leaders to make sure our ethnicity will be the majority. The Plurals work together. “Our commission is to be living testa- families understand their role in God’s are also characterized by an openness For more information about Church ments of what Christ has done in our big story,” she said. and accepting nature to different ideas, and Family Connect, visit www.churchand- lives,” Anthony said. “We get distracted; “As we focus ourselves and our including ideas of faith and religion. familync.org. we get too busy doing things for God, families on God’s desire for us to have a and we get deceived. There is a deceiver, relationship with Him, we can trust Him and he has been deceiving God’s people more fully and look for His hand in the for all of history.” shaping of our lives. Anthony shared with conference par- “We are called to teach our children ticipants, which included several Bap- that they can live joyfully and with tist State Convention of North Carolina confidence that whatever comes our way (BSC) staff, that family ministry begins God already knows and has a plan for our when leaders understand that they lives.” should be living in the “upper” story and not the “lower” story. Understanding culture The “upper” story is God’s story and Ministry leaders must understand the God’s perspective, which is holistic, di- culture influencing families. Anthony vine and Kingdom-focused. The “lower” shared that this generation is often more story is about the here and now, life’s focused on fun and pursuing individual challenges, and the never-ending struggle happiness than pursuing a relationship to find delight and joy in the temporal with Jesus. things of this world. When family ministries try to make “We have a fixation with the lower programs fun, to the neglect of teach- story, and this is where we often find our ing biblical truth, “we play into the very families,” Anthony said. habits that are drawing their hearts away When families focus on the “lower” from God in the first place,” Anthony story they are hindered from seeing the said. APRIL 27, 2013 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 11 Faith abounds at supporting N.C. Missions Offering

By MIKE CRESWELL | BSC Communications the church takes its name is situated just Orleans Baptist Theological south of I-85 near Kannapolis, northeast Seminary in New Orleans, LA, unday by Sunday Pastor Joe of Charlotte. As most towns in the state, before coming to work in the Smith announced the week’s Faith’s population has changed greatly in convention’s Cary office. Snew total for the North Carolina recent years. Register reminds N.C. Missions Offering (NCMO). “Now people from many lands are churches every opportunity When the $3,000 goal was met late in living in our area and some are attending that their state has 5.8 million 2012, members silently cheered. services at Faith Baptist,” said Smith. lost and unchurched people When the total passed $4,000, they However, it took a visiting speaker who urgently need to be were delighted – and cheered some two years ago to put their local situation reached with the gospel and more. into the larger context of North Caro- ushered into strong, Bible- The $4,178 Faith Baptist lina’s changes. believing churches that will Church members Chuck Regis- disciple them for further mis- ultimately gave to ter painted a huge sions and outreach. NCMO last year was a missions challenge Merely adding new significant amount for for Faith members churches is insufficient amid the church, which has when he told them so many lost, Register says; an average Sunday morning attendance of their state’s popula- rather, multiplying churches about 250. tion is one of the will be the only way to reach fastest-growing ones in the nation. The so many: new churches must That the church surpassed their Joe Smith, pastor of Faith Baptist Church, says the church’s support NCMO goal by 39.5 percent was not sur- growth of the Hispanic population in the start more new churches as for the North Carolina Missions Offering is just part of the picture of prising to Smith. state has also led the nation, he said. Fur- quickly as possible. the congregation’s missions giving. (BSC photo by Mike Creswell) Everybody in the church has “bought ther, today’s N.C. population represents Many of the 101 new into” the concept of missions, he ex- a big swatch of the planet’s population: churches Register’s staff helped start front of them brought the need for new plained: Members do missions, pray for more than 230 language/culture groups across the state during 2012 are doing churches even more vividly to members, missions and give for missions. now live in the state. just that. Smith believes. Faith members have come to under- Register is executive leader for the Beyond Register’s message to the Promoting NCMO is only part of stand that their mission field begins just Baptist State Convention in church church’s Baptist Men, Smith took Reg- what’s needed to keep missions alive in outside their front door and extends to planting and missions development. He ister’s printed and digital materials on his church, Smith said. the ends of the earth. served as pastor of First Baptist Church population and the dire need for new One big ingredient was prayer, he The small town of Faith from which in Gulfport, Miss., and taught at New churches and shared it with his mem- said. “We needed to pray that the Lord bers. “It really impacted them to under- would lead us individually in what He stand the growth of N.C.’s population, would have us give,” he said. the number of languages now spoken “A second was promotion. We’ve tried here and the great need for new churches to promote NCMO through everything in our state,” Smith said. we do media-wise: in the church bul- Further, they understood that one letins, in the church newsletter, in our immediate way Faith could help start church Web site. I talked about it from more new churches and also support the the pulpit as often as I could,” he said. many missions projects they took part in Missions participation is the other big through N.C. Baptist Men, was to sup- element to having a missions-minded port the N.C. Missions Offering. church, Smith said. On the church’s NCMO is the main funding source for annual missions emphasis day, Dec. 2 the 14 ministries of N.C. Baptist Men and last year, members marched into the also provides about a third of the Baptist sanctuary carrying flags from 38 nations, State Convention’s budget for starting indicating Faith members have served in new churches. (The Cooperative Program that many overseas countries. provides the balance.) “We have so many people who are Faith has kept its Cooperative Pro- participating in missions trips, whether gram support at 10 percent of its un- partnerships or whatever, that our people designated receipts and supports the feel they are part of the life of our Baptist Southern Baptist international and North State Convention and the life of our N.C. American missions offerings. Locally the Baptist Men,” he said. church supports Rowan Southern Baptist Through Baptist Men, two teams have Association, a fellowship of 40 Baptist served in relief ministry in New Jersey churches in the Salisbury area. and New York after Hurricane Sandy Soon after Register visited Faith, last year; thousands of men and women Smith made contact with Jonas Perez, volunteers have prepared more than who was committed to starting a new 600,000 meals in the two states since last Spanish-speaking church in the town of November. Faith. The church let the Perez group use “We’ve had several people who have a chapel for their services and offered gone to Cuba, some more than once. We other support; he also became one of got involved and adopted a village in about 125 church planters the convention Bihar, India, where Baptist Men have sup- supports on a limited-time basis as they ported wide range of ministries, along are launching new churches. with starting many new churches. Our Seeing a new church birthed right in See Faith page 15 12 Opinion APRIL 27, 2013 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists The way a discussion Mother’s Day about homosexuality should go Offering extends Baptist Press I want to marry my partner. What right do Q: you have to stop me? compassion, hope few years ago I joined leaders of a Christian hen their daughter Kenzie was just three weeks organization in a meeting with executives of Don’t I have a right to express my views and old, Eddie and Tracy Martin learned that she a Nashville TV station. They were preparing A: A vote my convictions? Besides, no one is entirely had a rare form of Down Syndrome. On that to launch a new program catering to gays and lesbi- W free to live as they please. A man in love with two same day, the Martins were told their daughter needed heart ans. We asked them to reconsider. women is not permitted to marry them both. The laws surgery, and she needed it immediately. Among the TV executives was a lesbian. She want- respecting the sanctity of marriage are based on the I can only imagine the worry and sleepless nights these ed to know why Christians couldn’t just accept her conviction that marriage is a sacred covenant between parents must have experienced. With Mother’s Day coming for who she is. It was the only time I recall a man and a woman, and that this is our up in just a few weeks, I cannot help speaking up, and I said something like this: Creator’s design for enjoying intimacy and but think about how Tracy must have “I accept you for who you are, if you ac- raising children. felt, knowing that the life of her new cept me. We are both sinners who struggle daughter was uncertain. with many desires. Some of them are good Some day the laws will change. Not long after Kenzie’s surgery she and some of them are not. The Bible teaches Q: began having seizures, and Tracy left us how to tell the difference. At the end of Maybe so, but that won’t make them her job in order to provide full-time the day, you and I must decide whether to A: right. God’s standards remain the care for her daughter. act on these sinful desires. When we come same because He is a God of supreme holi- Although Kenzie began improving to the point of losing our shame over sinful ness who knows what’s best for us. after her surgery at Brenner Children’s behavior – and actually celebrating it – we Hospital in Winston-Salem, the Mar- find ourselves in deep spiritual trouble.” ROB PHILLIPS MILTON A. Who are you to tell me what’s HOLLIFIELD JR. tins were left with many medical bills, It wasn’t the answer she expected. It nei- Guest column Q: right and wrong? The Bible says BSC executive and they did not have the income to ther confirmed her suspicion of Christian judge not, doesn’t it? director-treasurer pay their bills. malice nor compromised biblical truth. The The Mother’s Day Offering helps meeting ended cordially. A few weeks later the station It does indeed. Do you believe the Bible? If so, people like the Martins climb out of financial pressures and premiered “Out & About.” A: you can look there for God’s standards of right burdens. Every year, North Carolina Baptists give to this The experience raised my awareness that many gays and wrong. offering in order to help North Carolina Baptist Hospital think Christians hate them. Perhaps some Christians patients. do, as evidenced by the self-righteous protestors that Am I going to hell? One day Tracy received a call from Baptist Hospital. The stand on street corners and hoist hateful signs. Q: Martins learned that because of the Mother’s Day Offering, But they do not represent Christianity nor the That’s not my call. And it’s not God’s desire their hospital bills would be paid. Christians I know, who strive to follow the example A: for you. “The Mother’s Day Offering saved us,” she said in a video of Jesus to be soft on people and hard on sin. This is testimony with Baptist Hospital. “This kindness lifted a huge challenging when the people we are called to love cast You must think homosexuality is the unpar- weight off our shoulders. We could see light at the end of us as bigots, hatemongers and hypocrites. Q: donable sin. the tunnel.” The Apostle Peter urges us to always be ready to I have often heard Paul Mullen, church and community give a defense of our faith “with gentleness and re- Of course not. But you make a good point. As relations director for Baptist Hospital, share how much he spect” (1 Peter 3:15-16). So perhaps this is a good time A: Christians speak out against homosexuality, enjoys being able to call or write a letter to someone with to rehearse a hypothetical conversation with a gay they should speak out with equal conviction against this life-changing message: “Your hospital bill has been paid friend, who asks pointed questions. adultery, pornography and other sins that may by compassionate and mission-minded North Carolina Bap-

ensnare all of us. While some sins carry more severe tists in the name of Jesus Christ and His love.” Why do you hate homosexuals? Q: human consequences, all sins grieve the heart of God Last year, North Carolina Baptists gave more than

and led Jesus to the cross, where He bore the penalty $620,000 to the Mother’s Day Offering. Every dollar you give Have I said something to give you that im- for my sins, and yours. to this special offering goes to help individuals and families A: pression? If so, I am truly sorry. In fact, if any pay their hospital bills. Christian expresses hatred toward you, they have But I was born this way. North Carolina Baptist Hospital has a long-standing histo- denied the command of Jesus to love everyone. Jesus Q: ry of providing excellent medical care. The Hospital, which loved people enough to speak the truth to them, how- I don’t believe so. Studies regarding the “gay was started by the Baptist State Convention of N.C., opened ever. He confronted them about their sin while offer- A: gene” show that biological processes may in 1923 with 88 inpatient beds. It is now an important part of ing forgiveness. That’s something we both need. You influence behavior but do not determine it. Sin comes Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, which has more than and I share a sin nature – a natural tendency to live naturally to all of us. But Jesus offers us victory over 1,000 beds and 13,500 employees. independently of God. Jesus calls us to repentance sin and will change our desires. The Apostle Paul I am so grateful for the ministry of Baptist Hospital, and and offers us eternal life. wrote to Christians who once engaged in homosexual your commitment to supporting the Mother’s Day Offering.

acts and other sinful behavior, saying, “Some of you You can watch a video of the Martin’s testimony, as well as Jesus never spoke against homosexuality. were like this; but you were washed, you were sancti- other testimonies, by visiting www.mothersdayoffering.org. This Q: fied, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus website also includes promotional resources you can use in Actually, He did. He affirmed God’s creation Christ and by the Spirit of our God” (1 Corinthians your church. (See story, page 2.) A: of male and female, along with God’s intent for 6:11). I encourage your church to pray about how you would one man and one woman to be joined in marriage for a contribute to this offering. The Mother’s Day Offering is a lifetime (Matthew 19:4-6). Anything outside of God’s (EDITOR’S NOTE – Rob Phillips is director of communica- wonderful way for us to serve as the hands and feet of Jesus, design is sin – and that includes all forms of sexual tions for the Missouri Baptist Convention with responsibility and to demonstrate our love for Him and His love and desire immorality. Jesus also affirmed the truthfulness of the for leading MBC apologetics ministry in the state. Phillips is for all people to know Him as their personal Lord and Savior. Old Testament, which identifies homosexuality as on the Web at www.oncedelivered.net. This column first “And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto sinful behavior; and He called Paul, who wrote against appeared in The Pathway, newsjournal of the state conven- you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my homosexuality, to be an apostle. tion.) brethren, ye have done it unto me.” Matthew 25:40 APRIL 27, 2013 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptist Opinion 13 How do you cure sin? or decades I have listened to the guns will not change one person’s heart. ings are attributed to alcohol. and that every intent of the thoughts morally naive declare, “You can’t These laws put a band aid on the serious • 30 percent of all suicides are attrib- of his heart was only evil continually” Flegislate morality.” It does not wounds of sin, stopping the bleeding uted to alcohol. (Genesis 6:5, NKJ). God acknowledged take a college education to recognize that for a only short time. Soon the problem • 40 percent of all deaths due to ac- man’s problem in the first book of the every law and every ordinance is a dec- surfaces with a different face. cidental falls are attributed to alcohol. Bible and gave the solution in the other laration of someone’s moral code. Even a If we want to discuss the problem of • 45 percent of all deaths in automo- 65 books of scripture. stop sign has a moral reason for weapons, let’s examine some bile accidents are attributed to alcohol. While we acknowledge that govern- its placement. facts. Every year in the U.S., • 60 percent of all homicides are at- ment has a moral purpose, it is powerless It occurred to me that I have an average of 31,390 people die tributed to alcohol. to cure sin. James Madison said, “If men not heard that old mantra in from guns, according to The You see, alcohol is a problem, also. It were angels, no government would be a some time, yet there seems Brady Campaign To Prevent yields far greater casualties every day. But necessary. If angels were to govern men, to be a tidal wave of laws that Gun Violence. That breaks laws alone will not stop the problem. neither external nor internal controls on declare the moral necessity down to 10,950 murders, 19,345 Perhaps politicians are frustrated in government would be necessary.” of health care, gun control, suicides, 730 gun accidents, their search for the cure for man’s sin Government should avoid any attempt “equality,” abortion and immi- and 365 deaths due to police problem. They are like the circus per- to establish a state religion, and work gration. Ironically, the majority intervention. (The Centers for former who keeps ten plates spinning diligently to insure that churches have of the new laws are coming K. ALLAN BLUME Disease Control and Prevention at the same time. He moves quickly the freedom to do their work without from those who have been say- Editor [CDC] reports the number as between each spinning plate to insure intimidation. Both the church and the ing you can’t do that! 31,755 annual deaths.) they don’t fall. He can’t do it forever, so government are essential for balanced Either I missed the seismic shift in leg- On the other hand, the CDC reports eventually, they will all fall. social order. We are all equal at the point islative standards or we have a new “state 100,000 alcohol related deaths each year. We do not oppose reasonable laws of complete failure. The Bible says, “for religion,” justifying the need for laws that That’s three times the number of deaths that have the potential to limit accidents, all have sinned and fall short of the glory reflect the new morality of the state. All by guns. Have you heard any legislative crime, disease or death. We should be of God,” (Romans 3:23, NKJ). the while, most of the Judeo-Christian activity that addresses this moral prob- addressing problems. Lawlessness is not The world is filled with sinners who standards that gave birth to this nation lem? acceptable. But, why are we making a big do not need to be reformed or better are ridiculed or outlawed. Alcohol is a much more pervasive deal over some problems, while ignoring educated as a remedy for sin. The gospel What is really happening here? I problem. So, why is it being ignored? The more serious issues? We can’t be selective is the only hope for sinful man. All Christ believe as sin abounds, the laws that blind eye to the devastation of alcohol is if we are serious about the problem. followers have the responsibility to faith- attempt to control sin equally abound. testimony of the hypocrisy of sin and the I was taken to this scripture passage fully proclaim the grace of God through The unbelieving world does not know greed of corrupt motivations. this week, “Then the LORD saw that the Jesus Christ to every person of every that grace abounds as God’s response to According to the CDC, the facts are: wickedness of man was great in the earth, tribe, tongue and nation. man’s sin. Since law is the only tool un- • 5 percent of all deaths from diseases believers have to deal with sin, they pass of the circulatory system are attributed to OPPORTUNITY CORNER more and more laws. alcohol. Yet, the laws are very selective. They • 15 percent of all deaths from diseas- target the “sin of the day.” If the current es of the respiratory system are attributed National Day of Prayer set May 2 social discussion is about mass killings, to alcohol. then a wave of new laws to control guns • 30 percent of all deaths from ac- The National Day of Prayer (nation- out the nation. Laurie is senior pastor of are put on the table. cidents caused by fire and flames are aldayofprayer.org) May 2 chose Matthew Harvest Christian Fellowship in River- Our problems are much greater than attributed to alcohol. 12:21 as its scripture verse this year: side, Calif., and Harvest Orange County guns. A thousand new restrictions on • 30 percent of all accidental drown- “In His name the nations will put their in Irvine, Calif. hope.” The theme is Pray for America (com- Greg Laurie, chosen to be this year’s mit2pray.com/). A list of events in North honorary chairman, will read a prayer at Carolina and throughout the nation is noon May 2 that will be aired through- available on the main website.

(ISSN 0279-8182) Volume 179 No. 9 News Journal of the Baptist State Convention (919) 847-2127 OneCry calls people to prayer of North Carolina Fax (919) 847-6939 Founded 1833 by Thomas Meredith now.org On the National Day of Prayer, OneCry to revive the church and transform the K. Allan Blume, Editor/President Board of Directors will be live on hundreds of radio stations culture.” [email protected] Dennis Thurman, chair; Chris Byrne, vice chair; Robert across the nation and around the world, Francis Chan, Matthew West, Nancy Shawn Hendricks, Managing Editor Hefner, secretary; Jo Andrews; Kevin Atchley; Stephen uniting believers in prayer for revival. The Leigh DeMoss, Nick Hall, U.S. Senate (919) 459-5697; [email protected] Burrow; Kevin Clubb; Nathan Finn; Gene Fowler; Rich- event will occur May 2 from 8-10 p.m. Chaplain Barry Black, and others will ard Hicks; Robert Ivey; Charles Love; Jerry Stephens; Dianna L. Cagle, Assistant Managing Editor Cindi Stevens; and Peggy Weiss The website (OneCry.com) says the participate. (919) 459-5698; [email protected] organization “is a movement of believ- Listen live from your home, car, mo- Alison McKinney Daphne Woodall Subscriptions ers who are urgently crying out to God bile device, or online at www.OneCry.com. Business and Circulation Manager • Individual subscriptions, $15.99 Advertising Manager (919) 459-5693 • Clubs, $13.79 (919) 459-5691 [email protected] • Every Home Plan, $12.49 Submissions for Tar Heel Voices [email protected] Elizabeth Tablazon • Church News Service, $11.50 Carly Conley Editorial Aide/Intern • Bulk (10+) $11.50 (letters to the editor) Graphic Designer • Single copies, .60 cents each. Payable in advance. North Carolina sales tax is included. Please send no more than 300 words, along with contact information, to Publication [email protected] or Biblical Recorder, P.O. Box 1185, Cary, NC 27512-1185. Letters Published biweekly on Saturdays by Biblical Recorder Inc., 205 Convention Drive, Cary, NC 27511, as can be anonymous but only with approval by the editor. Each submission authorized by the Baptist State Convention in annual session at Winston-Salem, November 21-23, 1939. Periodicals postage paid at Raleigh, NC 27676. will be subject to style, length and clarity adjustments. Only one letter from the same writer will be published in a 90-day period. Like the Biblical Recorder Postmaster Send address changes to Biblical Recorder Inc., P.O. Box 1185, Cary, NC 27512-1185. fan page on facebook and follow us on Twitter: #biblicalrecord. 14 Sunday School APRIL 27, 2013 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists

May 5 BIBLE STUDIES FOR LIFE May 12 Getting My Most Important Building the Home I Need Relationship Right Focal Passages: Proverbs 31:10-12, provides an example of a godly wife and 15-20, 25-31 mother. The commentator groups the Focal Passages: Proverbs 3:5-8, desires from my heart” (March 17, 1995). virtuous woman’s attributes into the 13-18, 31-35 We were married July 27, 1996. here is much confusion in our three major divisions: (1) trustworthi- One may ask what does your relation- world today. Even as I write ness; (2) responsible; and (3) godliness. have the privilege of being married to ship with your wife have to do with Prov- T this article the Supreme Court is Within these divisions I have identified the greatest and most godly woman erbs 3:5-8? For me, it meant working through the legal- a total of 21 attributes that will help you Iin the world, Beth Wooten. Unfor- everything. In those early ity of same-sex marriage in produce a godly home. These attributes tunately, her “thorn in the flesh,” her days, I lost 20 pounds trying our country. The Boy Scouts are designated for the wife and mother, burden to carry is being married to me. to figure out how to get Beth will meet later this month to but many are applicable to the husband Nevertheless, we will celebrate 17 years of to like me more. I eventually decide if they will drop the or grandparents. They include: valuable marriage this summer. came to a point where I quit ban on gay members and lead- (v. 10); trustworthy (v. 11); godly (v. 12); When I look back at the early stages trying in my own strength ers. Gender identity issues hard worker (v. 13); interesting (v. 14); of our relationship I am reminded how and simply lived out Prov- continue to be a heated topic. selfless (v. 15); wise/thrifty (v. 16); stable much I needed God’s guidance. Even erbs 3:5-6. In other words, I Divorce continues to impact (v. 17); planner (v. 18); resourceful (v. 19); when we were dating I remember try- learned that if I trusted God lives all over America. People compassionate (v. 20); well-prepared (v. ing to figure out if she truly liked me. with every aspect of my life, living together before marriage 21); takes care of herself (v. 22); she is her One night while we were dating I began including my relationships, seems to be the norm for our husband’s best resume (v. 23); knowl- BARTLEY WOOTEN inquiring about the status of our relation- He would guide me every step culture. There is no wonder edgeable (v. 24); righteous (v. 25); intel- Senior pastor, Beulaville ship. After a few questions from me, she of the way. homes are falling apart. In fact, ligent (v. 26); not lazy (v. 27); excellence Baptist Church, most young people have been (vs. 28-29); not superficial (v. 30); and said, “Bartley, I gave Jesus the keys to my Maybe there is something Beulaville heart a long time ago, and when He is in your life that you need to so impacted by secularism God-honoring (v. 31). ready for me to give them to another man give to God. It may not be a they do not have a clue what Perhaps, you know a young wife or I will let you know.” That night I went relationship issue like mine, but perhaps the Bible says about creating a Christ- mother who is seeking God’s wisdom home and wrote in my prayer journal the it is a job situation or financial problem. centered home. Thankfully, our passage on how to have a godly home. I would following words, “I pray Lord you will I’ve learned over the years that if I want in this lesson can take us in the right recommend the study and application of give me the keys to Beth Mackey’s heart – God’s best, I must first be willing to direction. Proverbs 31:10-31 as a starting point. God that I will see evidence of your work. If it make Him the supreme love of my life. Proverbs 31:10-31 is often described is always faithful and will bless her as she is not Your will God I pray you break all Then He will make my paths straight. as the “Virtuous Woman” because it lives out His Word. May 5 EXPLORE THE BIBLE May 12 Be Persistent to the End Look for Qualified Spiritual Leaders

Focal Passage: 2 Timothy 4:1-18 fight, finished the race, and kept the Focal Passage: Titus 1:1-16 pastor is serious business. Paul’s mes- faith. Like Valvano, this was a bittersweet sage to Titus was the same as that given ne of the most famous speeches and emotional time for him. He lamented omeone described the perfect to Timothy (cf. 1 Timothy 3:1-7). Pastors, given in our time was the 1993 those who had abandoned him, men such pastor like this: He preaches also called “elders, bishops and over- OESPY speech delivered by the as Demas, who had put the pleasures of Sexactly 15 minutes, condemns seers,” are to be blameless, one-wife men, late Jim Valvano. Diagnosed with in- the world above Christ, and sin, but never upsets anyone. diligent, firm yet loving fathers, spiri- operable bone cancer in 1992, Valvano Alexander, the coppersmith, He works from 8 a.m. until tually disciplined, humble, generous, and ESPN united to create the Jimmy V who had done him harm. Yes, midnight and is also the jani- hospitable, sensitive, and holy. Pastors Foundation for Cancer Research. Valvano Luke was with him, but Paul tor. He makes $60 per week, are also to know their Bible, and to stead- understood persistence, winning against desperately wanted Timothy wears good clothes, buys good fastly refute those who oppose Christ and all odds, and never giving up. In 1983 he and the restored John Mark to books, drives a good car ... the scriptures. and the N.C. State Wolfpack won the join him as well. There were and gives about $50 per week Paul knew that Titus had his work cut NCAA basketball tournament, defeating a personal belongings that Paul to the poor. He is 28 years old out for him in Crete – it was an extremely Houston University team with two future wanted and needed, but even and has been preaching for difficult mission field. The reputation of professional hall-of-famers, Hakeem more he desired his spiri- 30 years. He is wonderfully the Cretans is found in v. 12, “Cretans are Olajuwan and Clyde Drexler. Against all tual family. Together they had gentle and handsome. He always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons.” odds, Valvano believed in his team. In the traveled the world starting WAYNE PROCTOR has a burning desire to work Further, Paul referred to those who had ESPY speech delivered just two months churches and encouraging be- Pastor, Eure with teenagers and spends opposed him during his time on Crete as prior to his death, Valvano said, “There lievers, and Paul wanted them Baptist Church all his spare time with senior “detestable, disobedient, and disquali- are three things we should do each day: by his side when his physical citizens. fied” (v. 16b). Moreover, those who were laugh, think and let your emotions move journey ended. The perfect pastor smiles all the time steeped in Judaism were the worst of the you to tears. Remember where you came Paul was addressing two issues: the with a straight face because he has a bunch. from, where you are, and where you are legacy of ministry and his own fate. Paul sense of humor that keeps him seriously Parishoners, if you are looking for a going.” He ended his speech stating the knew his legacy would pass through dedicated to his work. He makes 15 calls new pastor, spend much time in prayer motto for the V Foundation, “Don’t give the proven missionary team he had as- a day on church families, shut-ins and for him and his family. Give him your up. Don’t ever give up.” sembled. He needed them to stay on task hospitalized; spends all his time evange- best, allow him to both succeed and fail, In this text the great apostle and mis- when void of Paul’s presence. The latter lizing the “unchurched” and is always in and look at his time with you as a journey sionary Paul saw the end of his life (v. issue was Paul’s own fate. He was deter- his office when needed. worth undertaking. If you already have a 6ff). He knew he had fought the good mined to end well. All joking aside, finding a qualified wonderful pastor, count yourself blessed! APRIL 27, 2013 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 15

Faith Continued from page 11 Land selected as president of N.C. seminary Baptist Press a mutual vision,” he said of the seminary. “For most people have provided money for seven or eight water of my ministry, like SES, I have labored to reach the wells to be dug there; I was there last October,” Smith ichard Land, president of the Southern Bap- lost, to strengthen the local church, and to defend the said. tist Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission faith. Over the years, it has become increasingly clear “I think our people give to missions because they R(ERLC), confirmed to Baptist Press April 11 that to me that the way you spell evangelism, discipleship, have participated in these missions ventures, they know he has been selected as president of Southern Evangeli- missions, and Christian education in the 21st century the need and they come back and tell our other mem- cal Seminary (SES). is ‘apologetics.’ For over 20 years, SES has admirably bers about what they saw and experienced,” Smith The seminary, based in Charlotte, was co-founded maintained a dual commitment to evangelism and apolo- explained. in 1992 by Norman Geisler, longtime seminary professor getics. I look forward to strengthening that commitment The Faith congregation commissions each missions and apologist, and Ross Rhoads, former evangelist and in the years to come and to making SES THE place to go team, whether one person or a whole team, so the trip then-pastor of Calvary Church in Charlotte. for the apologetics training needed to fulfill God’s call- is endorsed and backed by the entire church. A church- According to the seminary’s website, the launch of ing, to equip the saints, to reach the lost, and to edify wide missions fund provides seed money for teams to the seminary stemmed from “Geisler’s concern to de- the saved.” serve, he said. “As a church we gather around them and fend the historic Christian faith” and “Rhoads’ burden Land, 66, announced his retirement from the ERLC pray for them. We call upon people to commit to pray for evangelism.” July 31 of last year. At the time, he scheduled his retire- for them while they prepare to go and while they’re Geisler was the seminary’s first president and dean. ment to be effective Oct. 23, 2013 – 25 years from the gone. Everybody has a part in either holding the ropes Land’s selection was tweeted by Geisler on April 11: date he assumed the ERLC’s presidency in 1988. ERLC from this end or being on the field, serving out the call,” “I wish to commend the Board of Southern Evangelical trustees, on March 26, elected Russell Moore as the SBC Smith said. “I think that makes a lot of difference in Seminary for its excellent choice of a new president Dr. entity’s new president, to be effective June 1. Moore, 41, support,” he said, “because it’s not ‘them,’ it’s us.” Richard Land.” currently is dean of the school of theology and senior While Smith is quite happy with Faith’s 2012 giving In a statement, Land said he would begin his new vice president for academic administration at Southern level for NCMO, he said, “I hope we can do better next position July 1. He also will teach, he said. “We share Baptist Theological Seminary. September!” CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

Pastor Fishing Creek Baptist Church of Wilkesboro, Salem Baptist Church of Apex, NC, seeks Fraley Memorial Baptist Church, Gastonia, Godwin Heights Baptist Church of NC, is seeking a full-time pastor with a part-time Music Ministry Assistant. NC, is seeking a full-time youth minister. Lumberton, NC, is seeking a full-time more than five years pastoral experience Salem offers classical and contemporary We are SBC affiliated and affirm the Baptist Pastor with five or more years of ministry and is a graduate from a Bible college. The Sunday morning worship services. Job Faith and Message. Approx. 30k annual experience and who holds a seminary ideal candidate should have the following responsibilities include coordinating compensation. Job description and belief degree or a master of divinity degree. The qualities: be a God-called man, a gifted and rehearsing Salem’s orchestra and the statements are posted at fraleymemorial.com. ideal candidate should have the following teacher who enables persons to learn contemporary worship band; practicing Send resumes to Search Team, PO Box 775 qualities: an effective communicator and and understand deep spiritual truths, an with the worship team and various music Lowell, NC 28098, or office@fraleymemorial. preacher who works well with the church effective communicator of well-prepared ensembles; and coordinating with the com. family and community; a strong leader who sermons, a person with personal vision and Music Pastor to plan music, drama and promotes a spiritual interest of the church; a well-developed vision for the future of the other worship arts elements. Send resume Neel Road Baptist Church in Salisbury, and a caring individual who is gifted church, and a skilled counselor available to to Salem Baptist Church, 1205 Salem Church NC, is seeking a current seminary student in pastoral care. Interested candidates assist persons with personal and spiritual Rd., Apex, NC 27523-8259, or jolds@salem-bc. or a recent seminary graduate to serve as should submit resumes to: Pastor Search problems. Interested candidates should org. Minister of Student and Family Life. Visit Committee, Godwin Heights Baptist submit resumes to Fishing Creek Baptist neelroad.org to learn more. Church, 704 Godwin Avenue, Lumberton, Church, C/O Robert Stone, 4039 NC Hwy Student Pastor. Christ Community Church NC 28358. Position opened until filled. 16 S, Moravian Falls, NC 28654. We request of Huntersville, North Carolina, is searching Mingo Baptist Church, Dunn NC, seeks full- that resumes be received by May 18, 2013. for a full-time Student Pastor. The candidate time youth pastor to lead and coordinate Mt. Beulah Baptist Church located in should have a personal relationship with the youth and children’s ministry. Interested Wadesboro, NC, is seeking a pastor to Church Staff Christ, a demonstration of strong Christian candidates should be ordained or seeking lead us. Interested pastors please contact Calvary Baptist Church is seeking a Part- character, a clear calling to ministry, and ordination. College and/or seminary Pastor Search Committee, Mt. Beulah time Worship Leader to lead blended music strong communication skills. They should training helpful. Resumes sent to Rev. Louis Baptist Church, 3373 Country Club Road, services. Send resume to: Calvary Baptist also demonstrate the ability to work well Strickland, 1465 Mingo Church Road, Dunn, Wadesboro, NC 28170. Church, 3001 South York Road, Gastonia, with staff members, volunteer leadership, NC, or [email protected]. NC 28052, or [email protected]. and parents of youth. Candidates should Flat Rock Baptist Church seeks full-time have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited Miscellaneous pastor (www.flatrockbaptist.com). We are Southport Baptist Church, a large Southern Bible college or 8 years of ministry DO YOU NEED A CHURCH PIANIST? Try a dually-aligned, moderate/conservative Baptist fellowship in Southport, N.C., is experience. Please submit resumes via e-mail our piano CDs for churches to sing by! Hymns, congregation that supports women seeking a part-time pianist/organist for to: [email protected] with “Student Seasonal, Choruses, etc - Worship Service Re- deacons. Church uses the 1963 Baptist Faith the 11 a.m. service. Compensation starts at Pastor Search” in the subject line. sources 1-877-977-6800. FREE DEMO! Special & Message. Send resumes with CD/DVD $75 per week. Please send your resume and Church Pricing! www.wsrpianocds.com. to Pastoral Search Committee, PO Box 587, cover letter to [email protected]. Mount Airy, NC 27030. NCBAM needs aging adults to GET ALARMED! Attend an alarm installation training in your area and receive free 10-year Placing a classified ad in theBiblical Recorder smoke alarms to install in the homes of aging Choose one of three avenues: adults in your church or community. Call ADVERTISE • Send e-mail to: [email protected] 1.877.506.2226 to learn more. • Submit the information via the Recorder’s website at BRnow.org Biblical Recorder IN THE BR • Send a Fax to (919) 847-6939 Share the — FREE. Order For more information, call the office at (919) 459-5691. a three-month free subscription. Contact Daphne Woodall at (919) 847-2127 or daphne@ (919) 459-5691 Cost for Baptist churches/organizations is $1.20 per word, number and BRnow.org to make arrangements. BRnow.org stand-alone initial ($1.42 for commercial and non-Baptist entities) with a minimum charge of $35. Classifieds also are carried online. 16 APRIL 27, 2013 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists

Southeastern Continued from page 9

At a “Great Commission Banquet,” pus visits. With the new online degree, “Paul was strategic, a panel discussion addressed the semi- no campus presence is required. he knew how to nary’s intense focus on the Great Com- Using Skype to connect with an over- prioritize, and he mission. seas worker, George Robinson, Assistant was an equipper. The panel included Bruce Ashford, Professor of Missions and Evangelism, He equipped and seminary Provost; Chuck Lawless, dean led a discussion with Howard Carpen- trained people to of Graduate Studies; Scott Hildreth, ter* from an unidentified country. engage in radical Director of the Center for Great Com- Carpenter said, “We’ve been able to gospel ministry ev- mission Studies; Nik Ripken, a full-time see the first group of local Muslims from erywhere he went.” international missionary, and Daniel Akin our city baptized ... four brothers. As far In the April 16 who moderated the event. as we know they are the first Muslim be- chapel, 19 mis- Summarizing the discussion, Ash- lievers in our city in all of history.” There sionary units from ford said, “There exists three truths for are very few believers in that region – less Southeastern were Christians. First, salvation is through than 1 percent are Christians. commissioned. Christ alone. Man cannot be saved by “We are praying that the Lord would A “unit” can con- any other name under heaven. Second, raise up a generation of workers, mission- sist of an individual across the globe people do not know aries and local brothers and sisters who or an entire family. the name of Christ. A lost person could would go out and be willing to risk it all Sharing both the leave his or her home, walk for weeks and for the sake of the gospel. … We want to triumphant stories never meet a Christian or see a church. see the book of Acts happen in our state.” and the hardships Third, we as Christians in America, have His team believes churches should not of being a mission- Students, faculty, visitors and board members fill the aisles April 16 at Binkley plenty of money and resources but will only be planted but multiplied by giving ary, chapel speaker Chapel at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. The group was partici- we do what is necessary to preach Christ birth to more new churches. Nik Ripken said, pating in a commissioning service. (SEBTS photo) with our lips and proclaim him with our “When local churches produce other “Whether you are lives?” churches, that’s the sign of health,” he crossing the street or the ocean, the con- on the 19 missionaries and to pray over The Board of Trustees approved a said. “By 2020 we want to see third tent of the Bible must meet the context of them. completely online Master of Divinity generation churches in each one of the the world. He said “Like these future missionar- (M.Div.) degree. Previously, distance- districts of our state. We want to see “Our lives must match up to the Great ies, may we all be willing to die in taking learning students could take a maximum 3,000 church planters trained by 2015.” Commission of Jesus to teach and make up our cross in love so that the gospel of 42 hours of online credits toward their Robinson compared the model of disciples of all nations.” light may go forth to the ends of the M.Div. requirements. The remaining SEBTS students in international ministry At the close of the service Akin invited earth.” credit hours had to be met with on-cam- with Paul’s missionary model. He said, faculty, staff and students to lay hands *Name changed.