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MARCH 26, 2016 • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists • VOLUME 182 NO. 7 • BRnow.org Easter’s RETIRED enduring grip on a MISSIONARIES 12-year-old boy honored at By JIM BURTON | NAMB he Easter service drew a packed crowd, so when Calvary banquet T 12-year-old Steve Davis en- tered the auditorium, the only seat he found was at the side of the platform. The crowd didn’t intimidate Davis; By K. ALLAN BLUME | BR Editor he was the first to respond to the invitation that morning to profess faith in Christ. A few minutes later, he was not alone on the front pew where he sat ddressing 33 missionaries at a din- Baptist State Convention of North Caro- to hire missionaries as contract work- to fill out paperwork at First Baptist ner on March 8, Milton Hollifield lina (BSC) and the Woman’s Missionary ers. They will join the BSC’s strategy of Church in Richmond, Ind. A favorite A said, “Even though your place of Union of North Carolina (WMU-NC). impacting lostness through disciple-mak- aunt and uncle also responded to the assignment may be changing, you are The evening was designed to welcome ing, with special emphasis on reaching invitation as did a grandfather whom still Southern Baptist missionaries.” The the missionaries home and invite them to internationals. Davis had only known about a month. audience was part of the 80 International consider using their experience to serve “With what is taking place here in this The following Sunday, each was bap- Mission Board (IMB) missionaries from in ministry positions in the state. state with the growth in population from tized. Six weeks later, his grandfather North Carolina who took advantage of IMB President David Platt recently other countries, you are going to have died. the organization’s Voluntary Retirement reported that 702 missionaries and 109 the opportunity to work with some of Davis has told his Easter testimony Incentive (VRI) or Hand Raising Oppor- stateside staff took the VRI, and 281 mis- the same kinds of people from countries for years. Particularly when he was a tunity (HRO) in the past five months. sionaries and 40 stateside staff took the where you have served, but they are now pastor in Texas, he would announce The missionaries, consisting of 44 HRO, for a total loss of 1,132 personnel. living in North Carolina,” he said. that it was his birthday. Most assumed units, were invited to the dinner at Cal- Hollifield, executive director-treasurer “Although we understand that you he meant his physical birth. vary Baptist Church in Winston-Salem. of BSC, told the missionaries that N.C. would prefer to be in the place of your “I mean my spiritual birthday,” The event was jointly sponsored by the Baptists set up a $500,000 reserve fund See Retired page 13 Davis would say. “This is the day I gave my life to Jesus on an Easter Sunday morning.” Then he would tell SHOULD CHURCHES PROMOTE CONCEALED his story. Davis’ story includes living in a WEAPONS IN WORSHIP? By EMILY BLAKE | BR editorial aide troubled home where his police officer father never attended church and his he shooting of nine black churchgoers last year in ment officials have advocated for tighter gun control. After the mother attended only sporadically. Charleston, S.C., shocked the nation, causing many Charleston shooting, Obama said, “Innocent people were killed Beginning in the first grade when he T congregations to re-evaluate church security measures. in part because someone who wanted to inflict harm had no could walk to church alone, young Some North Carolina congregations encourage members to trouble getting their hands on a gun.” Davis was there most Sundays. obtain concealed carry permits, but others say focusing on pre- Despite the push for more restrictions, the Social Science He simply liked going and enjoyed cautionary measures remains most important. Research Network estimates the number of concealed carry the male Sunday School teachers, In 2015 there were more than 13,000 shooting deaths in the permits across the U.S. has risen from 4.6 million in 2007 to 12.8 whom he recalls sharing the plan of United States, according to the Gun Violence Archive. That million in 2015. salvation each week. number rose by 809 from 2014. Mass shootings also increased In fact, concealed carry courses have become something of a “To me, church was one of the by 51 incidents. trend, and are sometimes offered on church grounds. See Easter page 11 In response, President Barack Obama and other govern- See Weapons page 12 2 MARCH 26, 2016 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Where is ‘the mission field’?

bout a year ago I read the is finished.’ While the logistical issues easy to leave people you have grown to comments of a high profile of transportation, housing, ministry em- love, a place where you felt at home and a A Southern Baptist leader who ployment and health care are all signifi- life that was our passion for so long.” excitedly reported that he had just re- cant, the unseen emotional adjustments They have returned to the Raleigh- turned from “the mission field.” My first are just as important.” Durham area, where they previously thought was, where had he been – New The celebration dinner at Calvary lived, and are starting over. They don’t York, Idaho, Vermont, Houston? Maybe Baptist was very timely for the Cookes. know where they will live. They don’t he was talking about the neighborhoods “My wife, Mary Jo, and I felt warmly re- know where they will work. They don’t around his church. All of those are “the ceived and appreciated by N.C. Baptists know what God has planned. For them, mission field” by the Acts 1:8 and WMU. A lot of hard work coming home was a bigger step of faith definition. Reading further into went into preparing such a than leaving home. the article, I learned he had great reception, dinner and gift They said the dinner meeting encour- traveled to another country. baskets with books, treats and aged them. They met others who share That was “the mission field” in gift cards from WMU groups their vision and passion for reaching (BR photo by K. Allan Blume) his mind. all over the state. We were internationals, and they were pleased is a real effort to involve us in the [BSC] I thought about the sign I see truly honored, far beyond what to learn about opportunities to serve in strategy.” exiting the parking lot of the we deserve. Here is a big thank N.C. “We are praying and seeking the Isaiah was pleased with the amount church where I am a member. you for showing your heart for Lord about where and how to use our of information offered. “I like that they It reads, “You are now enter- missions through the love ex- gifts and experiences to serve Him in shared so much of their research. Milton ing the mission field.” I’ve seen K. ALLAN BLUME pressed to your missionaries!” N.C.,” they said. mentioned the 300 languages that are similar signs at other churches. Editor Marty and Melissa Childers “We were overwhelmed by the gen- spoken in the families of children who I like that sign because it served 27 years in Central and erosity of WMU-NC. We appreciate all go to our public schools, and the 154 keeps the truth in front of church mem- South America through IMB. The Bibli- the effort and care Amy Boone put into different people groups that have been bers. We don’t have to get a passport to cal Recorder featured their story in the making us feel welcomed. She reassured identified.” be on mission for Christ. I am strongly December 5 edition. Melissa said, “We us that we are still missionaries. This is The couple wants to join the BSC as committed to international missions, were overwhelmed by the love and ap- exactly what we needed to hear!” they serve churches. “I think we can plug but overseas is not “the” mission field. preciation we felt at the dinner. We were Isaiah and Josie* were raised overseas. in effectively by coaching churches as Our Jerusalem qualifies. It is first on our truly moved by the gift baskets given by Isaiah’s parents served in Latin America, they work with internationals,” Isaiah Lord’s list. WMU-NC. We know they were given Josie’s were in East Africa. The met at said. “God has called us to cross-cultural With almost 1,000 overseas missionar- with much love.” Southwestern Baptist Theological Semi- work and He has equipped us. He’s not ies returning to North America due to Marty said, “Words really can’t ex- nary in Fort Worth, Texas. For more than done with us. We’re in a new chapter the International Mission Board’s (IMB) press our gratitude for the recognition, 20 years they have lived among Asian in our lives that is building on previous personnel reduction plan, Baptists may but more for the prayers for those of us peoples, working primary with Muslims. chapters. I’m really excited about what be more poised than ever to reach our who are transitioning back to the states. I Josie said the dinner meeting was valu- the Lord is going to unfold in this chap- homeland for Christ. The leaders of the am thankful for the job opportunities of- able. “The vision casting experience from ter here in North Carolina. Baptist State Convention of North Caro- fered through the state convention. Many Milton Hollifield, Chuck Register and “We’re able to come alongside church- lina (BSC) have the foresight to seize the of us could benefit by this, and I believe other N.C. Baptist leaders was very good es and help mobilize, train and equip opportunity. A front page story in this we have something to offer to Kingdom for us. We really appreciate that WMU- multitudes of believers in the churches to issue of the Biblical Recorder tells about a growth here in the Tar Heel state.” NC was so gracious and generous with reach out to these nations that are living dinner that BSC and the Woman’s Mis- When Craig and Charity left the U.S. the basket, and for the prayers people here.” sionary Union of North Carolina (WMU- in 2006 for a career in missions, they sent with that. It was an outpouring of Josie added, “The university students NC) hosted recently. never thought they would be returning blessing that was totally unexpected.” that come to the U.S. will go back to their I spoke with several missionaries at home. Going overseas had been their Isaiah also appreciated the event, countries. Most of these students are the the dinner. I would like you to know pursuit since they married in 1997. After “They treated us so wonderfully. The elite in their homeland and will go back what they shared with me. working in Southeast Asia as church food was excellent; the way the missions into positions of influence. They have a Steve Cooke told some of his story. planters for 10 years, they returned home committee of Calvary Baptist Church chance to hear the gospel and take it to “After 33 years of living and serving over- with their three children – not because of served us meant a lot to us. Steve Hardy their own people. It’s a lot easier to reach seas with IMB, there are many logistical health issues or family issues, but because loved on everybody. It felt like more than them while they are here.” and emotional adjustments required they were willing to take the hand-raising just one night, more than just saying The mission field is here. I hope N.C. to return to the States. I returned two opportunity when financial stress hit thank you for a job well done, because Baptist churches will make use of these months ago, but still find myself think- IMB. they said, ‘Now please come and help trained missionaries. Our neighbors need ing, ‘When I get back to the field…’ The couple said this was the hardest us.’ They’ve already sent us follow-up the gospel. Then reality kicks in. ‘No, that chapter decision they have ever made. “It was not emails to discuss the next steps. There * Names changed

K. Allan Blume, Editor/President Board of Directors: Gerald Stephens, chair; Lee Publication [email protected] Pigg, vice chair; Angela Brady, secretary; Kelli Benfield; Published biweekly on Saturdays by Christina Brown; David Clary; Kevin Clubb; Gene Fowler; Biblical Recorder Inc., 205 Conven- Seth Brown, Content Editor Frankie Gordon; Lisa Harris; Gerald Hodges; Todd Hous- [email protected] tion Drive, Cary, NC 27511, as autho- ton; Chester Jones; Lee Pigg; Rob Pochek; Michael Smith; rized by the Baptist State Convention (ISSN 0279-8182) Dianna L. Cagle, Production Editor Marilyn Thurman; Aaron Wallace; Tammy Weeks; Keith in annual session at Winston-Salem, News Journal of the Baptist State Convention [email protected] Whitfield and Ed Yount November 21-23, 1939. of North Carolina Alison McKinney Liz Tablazon Subscriptions • Individual subscriptions, $15.99 (one year); $27.99 (two Periodicals postage paid at Raleigh, Founded 1833 by Thomas Meredith Business and Circulation Manager years); $39.99 (three years) NC 27676. Advertising Manager (919) 459-5693 • Bulk Plan (10+) $11.50 [email protected] Volume 182 No. 7 (919) 459-5691 • Family Plan, $12.50 Postmaster (919) 847-2127 [email protected] • Club Plan, $13.50 Send address changes to Biblical Fax (919) 467-6180 Emily Blake Kelly Hunter • Single copies, .60 cents each Recorder Inc., P.O. Box 1185, Cary, now.org Editorial Aide Graphic Designer Payable in advance. N.C. sales tax is included. Digital rates: NC 27512-1185. $5.99 (one year); $10.99 (two years); $15.99 (three years). MARCH 26, 2016 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Opinion 3 Live joyfully in light of the resurrection

s we reflect on Christ’s death, burial and When Jesus was crucified, resurrection during this Easter season, I have He took our sin, our shame A been thinking about how our relationship and our unworthiness with with Jesus evolves over the course of our lives. Him to the grave. Though God does not change, as humans, we What a wonderful are subject to fickle emotions. Savior! For example, when we first accept Jesus My friend, do into our lives, we are elated and overcome you realize that you with joy. We often cannot hold back our now have the freedom to go before the Father have been made free. We should always be in awe of the excitement about this newfound relationship. at anytime? Lord’s sacrifice for us and aware of His power working However, after many years of walking with the The death of Jesus took care of the pen- in us. Lord, that initial excitement can sometimes alty for our sin and the resurrection of Jesus I pray that the reality of the resurrection will manifest begin to fade if we do not maintain fellowship took care of the problem of sin. Through His itself fresh and anew in our lives so that it spurs us on to with Him and we do not share Christ with power, we can overcome temptation. share the good news with others. MILTON A. others. HOLLIFIELD JR. My dear brothers and sisters, I urge you to Imagine how different our culture would be if all For some individuals, their relationship BSC executive seize this day. believers lived in such joy of the Lord that they couldn’t with the Lord is no longer novel. However, in director-treasurer As we ponder the fact that we were once help but share about what Jesus has done for them! our day-to-day lives, we should still meditate condemned to die before Christ took our Live each day in the reality of the power made known on the gospel and reflect on the goodness of the Lord, place, I hope that we will take this opportunity to live because of Christ’s resurrection. living life with the joy that He has placed in our hearts. today rejoicing in our freedom in Christ. “But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead We say that we are changed by the gospel, but how May we rekindle the joy of our salvation. May we live dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give often does the reality of the miraculous resurrection today as though it was the very first day of our new life life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you” manifest itself in our lives? in Christ. We were once enslaved to sin, but now we – Romans 8:11. Easter: What about Monday?

e all know about Easter not beyond it. Yet, a significant portion through Him.” • We are new creations in Christ (2 Sunday (resurrection) and of the weakness of our churches today All that we do flows from who we are. Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 2:10). W Good Friday (crucifixion). can be found in the relegation of Monday Who we are is found in the Jesus of the • We have liberty in Christ (Galatians Some know about Maundy Thursday to that which is normal, to that which resurrection. 2:4). (Last Supper). is sub-spiritual, even to that For the Christian, the • We are partakers of God’s promise But do you know about Easter Mon- which we consider secular. scriptures know no separation in Christ (Ephesians 3:6). day, the day after Easter? Many I hear in the church of our life in Christ from any • We have believed in Christ and have Known as “Bright Monday” among speak of Monday as the first other part of our life – no sepa- been justified by faith in Christ (Galatians the Eastern Orthodox, Easter Monday is day of the week and of Sunday ration of Easter Sunday from 2:16). regarded in the West as the second day as the last day of the week. Easter Monday. Every day is in • We are one in Christ (Galatians of Eastertide, the 50 days from Easter to More and more I see calendars Christ. 3:28). Pentecost, and in the East as the second that place Monday as the first • We are in Christ (1 Corin- • We are blessed in Christ (Ephesians day of Bright Week (or Renewal Week). day. thians 1:30; 1 Peter 5:14). 1:3). Easter Monday is observed by many This might be true for those • We are redeemed in • We receive God’s kindness in Christ all over the world. Different Christians whose true identity is found WAYLAN OWENS Christ (Romans 3:24). (Ephesians 2:7). observe it very differently. For some, it is in their vocation. Everything Guest Column • We are alive to God in • We are forgiven by God in Christ a most solemn day of remembrance and begins for them anew when Christ (Romans 6:11). (Ephesians 4:32). holy worship. they go back to work, which often is • We are sanctified in Christ (1 Corin- • We are consoled in Christ. (Philip- For others, it is a day to be marked by seen as a chance for rest after a long, hard thians 1:2). pians 2:1). joy and even pranks. weekend. • We have eternal life in Christ (Ro- • We are family in Christ (Colossians Every year, the White House Easter For those, redemption and hope is mans 6:23). 1:2). Egg Roll, a tradition dating back to 1878, found in their jobs. Sunday has become • We have no condemnation in Christ • We find the will of God for us in takes place on Easter Monday. the day of fatiguing self-indulgence that (Romans 8:1). Christ (1 Thessalonians 5:18). For most Baptists, Easter Monday is precedes the renewal found in service to • We are inseparable from the love of • We are workers in Christ (Romans unknown or means little. We attend Eas- a boss and to customers. God in Christ (Romans 8:39). 16:9). ter services, we remember and celebrate But for those of us whose identity is • We are one body in Christ (Romans • Every good thing in us is in Christ the resurrection, we go to bed on Easter found in the resurrection of our Lord 12:5). (Philemon 1:6). Sunday night, and on Monday we resume Jesus, Sunday always will be the first day. • We are approved in Christ (Romans So when the special services are over our regularly scheduled programming. Our renewal, our beginning, our rest is 16:10). and the eggs are put away, when Eas- By Wednesday, most of us hardly remem- found in service to the Lord our God and • We are wise in Christ (1 Corinthians ter Sunday fades into Easter Monday, ber the Easter into which we just put so to our neighbors. Monday is our second 4:10). remember that nothing has changed. much energy. day of the week. Our jobs are what we • We have hope in Christ (1 Corinthi- Every moment of every day of every week Do not hear me recommending that do out of the overflow of our love and ans 15:19). of every year for you and for me is to be we begin Easter Monday observances worship of God and our celebration of • We shall be made alive in Christ (1 lived in Christ. that follow the traditions of the Catholic the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Corinthians 15:22). (EDITOR’S NOTE – Waylan Owens is as- or Orthodox churches. Jesus Christ. • We are led in triumph in Christ (2 sociate professor of church and family ministries Much of the traditions of those To know this and to live out our resur- Corinthians 2:14). and dean of Southwestern Baptist Theological churches are not found in scripture; a rection identity is to understand what • We sit together in heavenly places in Seminary’s Jack D. Terry Jr. School of Church good bit could be considered unbiblical, God means when He says, “And whatever Christ (Ephesians 2:6). and Family Ministries. This article is part of and if nothing else, Baptists are those you do in word or deed, do all in the name of • We receive the salvation that is in the seminary’s Theological Matters initiative, who seek to live by the Word of God and the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father Christ (2 Timothy 2:10). theologicalmatters.com.) 4 MARCH 26, 2016 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Racial unity, prayer, missions, culture at SBC in June pants in two racial reconciliation gather- Board are scheduled for the Wednesday By ART TOALSTON | Baptist Press ings in Jackson, Miss., in November and morning session, June 15, and the two National Conversation on August last year. Floyd, senior pastor of boards will close the annual meeting Racial Unity in Amer- Cross Church in northwest Arkansas, with a special missions presentation on “A ica” will be among the and Young, who leads New Hope Baptist Wednesday afternoon. highlights of the 2016 Southern Baptist Church in Jackson, subsequently were The Wednesday afternoon session Convention (SBC) annual meeting in St. interviewed together by The New York will begin with two panel discussions: Louis, as listed in SBC LIFE’s (sbclife.net) Times and wrote an op-ed at CNN about “The Local Pastor and Church in Ameri- spring edition. racial healing in America. can Politics” and a question-and-answer The racial reconciliation emphasis will Also on Tuesday morning at the SBC period with the presidents of the SBC’s 11 take place during the Tuesday morning annual meeting, Floyd will deliver his entities and the Executive Committee. session of the June 14-15 annual meeting, presidential address and military veter- Delivering this year’s convention sermon as announced by SBC President Ron- ans will be honored for their service. on Wednesday will be Ted Traylor, pastor nie Floyd in the Executive Committee For a second year, Floyd will lead of Olive Baptist Church in Pensacola, Fla. journal. a Tuesday evening session devoted to The theme of the annual meeting will Jerry Young, president of the National prayer, titled, “A National Call to Prayer be “Awaken America, Reach the World” 6-12 and students in grades 7-12 also is Baptist Convention, USA, and Marshall for Spiritual Leadership, Revived Church- drawn from Acts 4:31. available through the website. Informa- Blalock, pastor of First Baptist Church es, The Next Great Spiritual Awakening, Online registration for messengers and tion about the annual Crossover evange- in Charleston, S.C., will be among the and The Future of America.” local hotels can be accessed at SBCAn- lism outreach prior to the annual meet- featured speakers. Reports by the International Mis- nualMeeting.net. Information for preschool ing can be accessed at St. Louis Metro Floyd and Young were key partici- sion Board and North American Mission child care and programs for children ages Baptist Association. Steve Gaines to be SBC president nominee

reports. Bellevue increased that percentage to 3.5 in 2013 By DAVID ROACH | Baptist Press and 3.8 in 2014. Between 2011 and 2016, the church has ennessee pastor Steve Gaines will be nominated increased its CP giving by 278 percent. for president of the Southern Baptist Conven- The church’s Great Commission Giving totaled ap- T tion (SBC), Georgia pastor Johnny Hunt an- proximately $2.5 million over the past two years and is nounced March 9. anticipated to be $1.3 million (6 percent of undesignated “When Steve Gaines shared his prayer journey he receipts) for the congregation’s 2016-17 church year, and [his wife] Donna had travelled, I was touched by his which begins April 1, Hunt said. Great Commission clear call to allow himself to be nominated,” Hunt, pas- Giving is a category of giving established by SBC action tor of First Baptist Church in Woodstock, Ga., wrote in in 2011 that encompasses giving through CP as well as a news release stating his intention to nominate Gaines direct gifts to SBC entities, associational giving and giv- during the SBC annual meeting June 14-15 in St. Louis. ing to state convention ministries. Steve Gaines, pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church near Memphis, “Steve struggled with this nomination as he has Hunt said Bellevue has collaborated with the Interna- Tenn., preaches during the 2015 Pastors’ Conference at the Greater always believed this office should seek the man,” Hunt tional Mission Board (IMB) to lead evangelism training Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, Ohio. He will be one of in 34 countries since 2007 and “at the request of the continued. “With such a passionate desire for spiritual the nominees for the Southern Baptist Convention president’s office. IMB ... has been a strategy church for Jinotega, Nicara- revival in our churches and nation, and knowing him to (Photo by Paul W. Lee) be a man of deep intense prayer, it brings joy to my heart gua, since 2007.” The church also reported a $150,000 to nominate Dr. Gaines.” gift to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering for Interna- of the Baptist Faith and Message in 2000 and chairman During the 11 years Gaines has pastored the Memphis- tional Missions last year and anticipated an equal gift for of the SBC Resolutions Committee. He preached the area Bellevue Baptist Church in Cordova, Tenn., the con- 2016. SBC convention sermon in 2004 and served as SBC Pas- gregation has averaged 481 baptisms per year, according Bellevue is partnering with the North American Mis- tors’ Conference president in 2005. to the SBC’s Annual Church Profile (ACP). sion Board to plant churches in the Northwest and has Gaines said, “I would like to continue [current SBC Previously, he pastored churches in Alabama, Tennes- planted 10 churches in other areas, including work with president] Dr. [Ronnie] Floyd’s emphasis on seeking see and Texas. Native Americans in three locations, Hunt said. God for a spiritual awakening and revival. ... I’ve been Bellevue’s finance committee is recommending Total missions giving for next year is anticipated at 18 praying for an awakening for a long time, and that’s that the congregation give $1 million during its 2016-17 percent of Bellevue’s undesignated receipts, the church really my heart. I want the manifest presence of God in church year through the Cooperative Program (CP), reported, and includes the “Bellevue Loves Memphis” our churches and also in our denomination. Southern Baptists’ unified channel for funding state- initiative, a service evangelism campaign launched by “... I also believe that we’ve got a real problem with and SBC-level missions and ministries. That will total Gaines in 2007. our baptisms,” Gaines said. “We need to get back to approximately 4.6 percent of undesignated receipts, the Through Bellevue Loves Memphis, Hunt wrote, “the personal evangelism and soul winning.” church told Baptist Press. church has demonstrated love for their city through Gaines’ presidential nomination is the second to be As of April 1, 2012, Bellevue began forwarding all meeting practical needs as a platform from which to announced for the SBC annual meeting. North Carolina its CP giving through the Tennessee Baptist Conven- share the gospel. Thus far, they have held 33 workdays. pastor J.D. Greear’s nomination was announced March tion (TBC), the church said. Previously, it forwarded ap- Their volunteers numbering 30,000 have served 106,505 2 and was printed in the March 12 issue of the Biblical proximately $200,000-$340,000 annually in CP through ‘man hours’ on 945 projects resulting in 510 professions Recorder. the TBC, according to ACP data, and designated about of faith.” Gaines is married to Donna and has four children and twice that amount to be forwarded to the SBC Executive Gaines has served as a member of the SBC Committee nine grandchildren. He holds master of divinity and Committee for distribution according to the CP alloca- on Nominations, a trustee of LifeWay Christian Resourc- doctor of philosophy degrees from Southwestern Baptist tion formula, the church said. es, a member of the committee that proposed a revision Theological Seminary. The shift in giving methods resulted in an increase For North Carolina, Greg Poss of Calvary Baptist Church in Winston-Salem and Lori Frank of Biltmore Bap- from giving 1.3 percent of undesignated receipts through tist Church in Arden were named to the SBC’s Committee on Committees. Mark Harris, senior pastor of First CP in 2011 to 2.6 percent in 2012, according to ACP Baptist Church in Charlotte, was named to the SBC Resolutions Committee. Visit BRnow.org for full lists. MARCH 26, 2016 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 5 Christian political advocates target 2016 legislative sessions

extensive statewide pro-life canvassing efforts through In line with their ongoing commitment to the sanctity By SETH BROWN | BR Content Editor November, in partnership with Susan B. Anthony List, in of life, the ERLC will keep track of the House Energy s the state and national legislative branches of the hopes of electing a pro-life president of the United and Commerce Committee’s Select Investigative Panel government move forward into their 2016 ses- States.” on Infant Lives. A sions, evangelical public policy organizations The Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission A series of undercover videos released by the Cen- are preparing to represent and inform Christians about (ERLC) of the Southern Baptist Convention recently ter for Medical Progress in mid-2015 revealed Planned the issues that matter most. released its 2016 Legislative Agenda, outlining specific Parenthood’s practice of collecting and selling aborted The Christian Action League (CAL) has focused its pieces of legislation and important issues to watch at the fetal parts. attention on opposing the sexual orientation and gender national level. As a result, the congressional committee was formed identity ordinance recently passed in Charlotte, N.C. The ERLC is opposing the Equality Act (S. 1858/H.R. to gather information from abortion providers and pro- The law potentially allows sexual predators to visit the 3185), which is similar to the controversial Charlotte curement organizations about the controversial practice. bathrooms or locker rooms of their choice, endangering ordinance, but applies nationwide. The ERLC believes the committee findings will “create women and children. The Frank R. Wolf International Religious Freedom new legislative space” for future pro-life bills. It would also place Christian business owners and Act of 2015 (H.R. 1150) is a bill supported by the ERLC. Predatory lending practices are also a concern for others who oppose the practice in danger of legal It would create new government offices and commit- the Southern Baptist public policy organization. Payday consequences for not opening gendered bathrooms to tees to help ensure the priority of international religious loan providers often target poor communities and exact self-identifying, transgender individuals. freedom and, among other requirements, direct the interest rates up to 400 percent. The ERLC partnered The controversial non-discrimination policy is ex- Commission on International Religious Freedom to with other faith groups to form the Faith for Just Lend- pected to meet swift resistance in the North Carolina publish a periodic list of persons imprisoned, detained, ing Coalition (lendjustly.com) to provide information and General Assembly, said Gov. Pat McCrory in an email to disappeared, placed under house arrest, tortured or resources about unjust practices in the financial services The Charlotte Observer. CAL is currently asking lawmakers forced to convert religions. industry. to call a special session to address the ordinance before A related bill would require the investigation and en- Other statutes are described in the legislative agenda it goes into effect April 1, according to executive direc- forcement of sanctions against North Korea and anyone as well, such as Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protec- tor Mark Creech. The North Carolina Values Coalition is cooperating with the North Korea if credible informa- tion Act (S. 2066/H.R. 3504), the Child Interstate Abor- also focusing on the Charlotte ordinance, but that’s not tion were discovered related to weapons violations, tion Notification Act (S. 404/H.R. 803), the Protecting all, said spokeswoman Kami Mueller. human rights abuses or censorship. Adoption Act and the Sentencing Reform and Correc- “Our goal for every session is to ensure legislation The ERLC is also lobbying the Broadcasting Board of tions Act of 2015 (S. 2123). is passed that protects the family unit, preserves the Governors to fund Internet firewall circumvention tech- Each of the evangelical public policy organizations sanctity of life, and preserves the right that all North nology that would allow people censored by authoritari- also sponsor events throughout the year to equip evan- Carolinians have to live and work according to what an governments to access information and communicate gelicals to promote and protect their values in the public they believe,” said Mueller. “We will also continue our with others without threat of punishment. square. Johnny Hunt event aims at teaching how to steward influence BSC Communications swer some questions about what he’ll be one good book outside the context of portant to “finish strong” and leave a sharing at the conference. your preaching ministry every month. godly legacy? ohnny Hunt, pastor of First Bap- Make it something you become account- tist Woodstock of Woodstock, Throughout your ministry, you able to other guys about. Make sure you I am looking forward to teaching JGa., will conduct a leadership Q: have sought to equip and en- are growing; you can’t transfer to others A: on finishing strong. It is a new conference titled “Stewardship of Influ- courage pastors and leaders in the lo- that which you do not possess. God must lesson that I have started teaching at our ence,” on Thursday, April 28 at Life Com- cal church. What are some biblical and be active, alive and working in your life; Revitalization Conferences. It is really munity Church in Jamestown. practical ways we can grow as leaders? touching you for you to be able to touch talking about the fourth quarter in our During the one-day event, Hunt and others. lives and how we can stay focused and John Mark Clifton with the North Ameri- I believe that one of the great ways how these can be our greatest years. can Mission Board will share how to A: that pastors will grow in biblical The title and theme of this Basing it primarily on Proverbs 19:20, we steward influence as a pastor and church and practical ways is by discipling others. Q: conference is “Stewardship of should seek advice and counsel that we leader. I spend an hour every week – after read- Influence.” How would you define and might be wiser in our later days. We are The event is open to pastors, staff and ing 12 chapters of God’s Word – with describe “Stewardship of Influence?” more equipped to lead now than we have lay leaders. five other guys. We meet to highlight ever been. God has been preparing us for Hunt will also conduct a special ses- what we heard and attempt to explain it God has made all of us stewards, what He has prepared for us. Now we sion for pastors age 55 and up on finish- by being able to speak biblically. We see A: and a steward is to be found faith- should be at our best, but we should stay ing strong. Registration for the event is how God’s Word applies (to our lives), ful. You cannot lead people that you have on guard that we finish strong and leave $15 and includes lunch. More information and what our response should be to what no influence over. It has been said that a legacy of a Christ-honoring life that is available at ncbaptist.org/events. we read. leadership is influence. others will be influenced by when we are Hunt recently took some time to an- Also, leaders are learners. Read at least I will define and describe what this gone. looks like in a disciple’s life in our conference together in the revitalization What do you hope attendees time, but suffice it to say, whatever influ- Q: take away from this event? ence God has given me, am I stewarding it well to influence others to join me in It is my hope that every person my journey with Jesus? A: that comes will leave being able to identify where God has given them the Prior to the conference, you will most influence and how they can steward Q: be conducting a special session that influence in a way to greatly influ- with pastors who are 55 and older on ence and affect the lives of others. I look “finishing strong.” Why is it so im- forward to being with each of you. 6 MARCH 26, 2016 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists

Erin Davis wants to bring young NATION BRIEFS women All Together in N.C. Harvest event sees 25,000 professions of faith (Southern Baptist TEXAN) Overflow crowds swelled Arlington’s AT&T Stadium BSC Communications for Harvest America, a North Texas evangelistic event months in the making. Fol- lowing an evening of worship and a call to follow Christ as Savior by California me- rin Davis is the founder of Graffiti ga-church pastor Greg Laurie, more than 25,000 professions of faith were reported. Ministries and is also a popular Hundreds of thousands in 123 countries also tuned in for the March 6 event via ra- Espeaker, author and blogger. Da- dio, television, Internet stream or remote broadcast at 7,200 host locations, crusade vis has addressed women of all ages na- organizers reported, adding that 750 local churches were involved in bringing Har- tionwide and is passionately committed vest America to Texas. More than 350,000 attended or viewed it at a host location to sharing God’s Truth with others. She or via webcast. and her husband, Jason, work with youth Groups from Southern Baptists of Texas Convention (SBTC) churches joined the and families at their church in Southwest 82,000 in attendance inside the stadium and out to hear Laurie’s message of hope Missouri. Together, they have two sons, and salvation from scripture. SBTC churches also numbered among those providing Eli and Noble. nearly 5,000 counselors and volunteers that evening. Davis will be one of the keynote Event organizers reported that 6,300 in attendance responded to the gospel speakers at Embrace’s upcoming young invitation issued by Laurie. Additionally, more than 18,000 professions of faith women’s conference titled “All Togeth- were made at host locations and 1,042 more were made through the online webcast, er.” She recently took time to answer bringing the total number of professions of faith to more than 25,000. some questions that provide a preview of Watch the archived webcast at harvestamerica.com/texas-2016/home.html. what she’ll be sharing at the conference on April 22-23 at Life Community Church Jerry Bridges completes pursuit of holiness in Greensboro. Registration information (WNS) Author Jerry Bridges died March 6 after suffering a heart attack the previ- can be found at ncbaptist.org/alltogether. ous morning in Colorado Springs, Colo. He was 86. be women joining us at this event with Bridges was known for writing books encouraging readers to pursue holiness Why is the involvement of a wide variety of gifts and talents and and a gospel-centered life. His direct and simple style conveyed truth to thousands. Q: young women important to the abilities, and I hope they all leave ready Bridges was raised in a Christian home but didn’t accept Jesus until he was an church today? to surrender them all for the sake of the 18-year-old college student. He spent two years in the Navy after college, serving as Kingdom. an officer during the Korean War. Three years after receiving a medical discharge for The involvement of young women hearing loss in his right ear, Bridges began working as an administrative assistant for A: has been important to the church Why should young women at- The Navigators. in every era. Since the time when Jesus Q: tend this event? After serving with the organization for 10 years, Bridges resolved to work for The laid the foundation for the church during Navigators for the rest of his life. During his more than 50-year ministry, he worked His time on earth, women have played I hate to sound like a broken as administrative assistant, office manager, secretary-treasurer, vice president for a vital role. Plus, Paul teaches that every A: record, but I want you to attend corporate affairs, and finally in staff development with the Collegiate Mission. believer is critical to the health of the this event because the church desperately Bridges married Eleanor Miller in 1963. Together they had two children: Kathy body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12). We needs you. in 1966 and Dan in 1967. Eleanor died in 1988 from non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, only can’t afford for anyone to sit the bench, I want to look you in the eye and tell three weeks after the couple’s 25th wedding anniversary. Bridges married Jane Mal- especially a group as passionate, talented you how vital you are to the earth-shak- lot, a longtime family friend, in 1989. and faithful as the young women I know. ing mission of the church. I want to pat In 1978, NavPress published Bridges’ first book: The Pursuit of Holiness. More than 1 In this era of cultural change where you on the back for the Kingdom work million copies of the book have sold since then. Bridges continued to write, produc- God’s truth is in question, it’s all hands you are already doing. I want to look ing more than 20 books throughout his life. In addition to The Pursuit of Holiness, on deck. We need all believers to con- ahead to the future with you and dream his most popular works include The Practice of Godliness, The Discipline of Grace and tribute to the God-ordained ministry about what God can do with a room full Respectable Sins. of the local church, including young of young women passionate about His In all his works, Bridges preached the centrality of the gospel to a Christian’s life. women. truth and His church. Marriage & family’s Gary Smalley dies What do you hope attendees What are some of the benefits (Baptist Press) Gary Smalley, a self-effacing yet prolific author and auditorium- Q: take away from what you share Q: you have seen in building rela- packing speaker on marriage and the family, died March 6 in Branson, Mo. at “All Together?” tionships with older ladies? Smalley authored 60-plus books with 6 million in sales. He taped numerous vid- eos, led conferences in churches across the country and joined with other authors First, I hope they fall in love with Women teaching women is God’s and speakers in various projects, such as resources to help people find freedom from A: the church. She is, after all, the A: idea. We see it clearly outlined in pornography and other sexual sin by the ministry Freedom Begins Here. bride of Christ. He loves the church so Titus 2:3-5. And while it’s great to have In addition to Norma, his wife of 52 years; sons, Greg and Michael; daughter, much, warts and all. I want to impassion friends who are in our same stage of life, Kari; and seven grandchildren. young women to ditch a consumer men- we have so much to gain from the next tality toward church and see her as the generation. Personally, I have gleaned Archivist Taffey Hall named SBHLA director beacon of truth God designed her to be. so much wisdom and encouragement (SBTS) An archivist with more than a decade of experience researching Baptist I also hope they catch a vision for from my older friends. I can’t imagine life history has been named the new director of the Southern Baptist Historical Library their vital role in the church. There will without them! and Archives (SBHLA), the Council of Seminary Presidents has announced. Taffey Hall, previously the library’s archivist, will replace Bill Sumners as SBHLA director when he retires in July after nearly 30 years as the library’s director. Hall earned her doctor of education from Tennessee State University, master of arts from Middle Tennessee State University, and bachelor of arts from Tennessee Wesleyan College. She has been a member of Brentwood Baptist Church in Brent- wood, Tenn., since 2005.

Full stories available online at BRnow.org. MARCH 26, 2016 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 7 ‘More children, more food,’ says Baptist Children’s Homes

to Trevor and Tabitha, siblings who were never sure By BLAKE RAGSDALE | Baptist Children’s Homes when, or if, they would be able to eat before coming hen it comes to feeding the boys and girls into BCH’s care. They often went hungry according to living at Baptist Children’s Homes of North Tabitha. W Carolina (BCH) it boils down to simple “We didn’t really get to eat three meals a day or eat math: more children served means more food needed. every day for that matter,” Tabitha recalls. “We ate Every April, BCH asks community friends and whatever we could.” churches across the state to collect nonperishable food, The brother and sister depended on soup kitchens, gift cards and other supplies as a part of the nonprofit’s school lunches or church meals in order to get by. “Food Roundup.” “One time, we went a week or so sharing a jar of pea- The child care organization, which provides residen- nut butter and that was it,” Tabitha says. “But that was tial services to North Carolina children in need as well normal to us to go without food for a certain amount of as developmentally disabled adults, uses donations from time.” Before Trevor and Tabitha came to Baptist Children’s Homes of North the food drive to provide 700,000 meals and snacks each Circumstances changed greatly when they came to Carolina, they often went without food. “One time, we went a week year to the residents in its care. live at BCH. According to Tabitha, food was no longer a or so sharing a jar of peanut butter and that was it, “Tabitha said. concern. With the number of children living in BCH’s state- (BCH photo) wide homes rising 24 percent between 2013 and 2015, “We actually got to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner BCH president Michael C. Blackwell says the Food every day and sit with each other at the dining room “I like to help the people who come to unload Roundup is more important than ever. table and it was great.” food,” Trevor says. “The increase in BCH’s population speaks directly The Food Roundup, which takes place throughout “They get to meet us and see the smiles on our faces – to the tremendous needs of children and families in our the month of April, gives the community a hands-on and we get to thank them. It just means a lot.” state,” Blackwell explained. way to help the children. BCH provides a list of needed Blackwell says the community’s willingness to give That number will rise again in 2016 since there are al- items and collection points throughout North Carolina to the food drive also means a great deal to BCH as a ready plans to open an additional where anyone can deliver con- whole. children’s residential cottage by tributions. The goal for the food “Giving to the food drive allows us to free up funds mid-year at BCH’s Mills Home drive is to collect a minimum of that benefit our residents in other areas of care. But the campus in Thomasville. $350,000 worth of non-perishable most important reason is the smile it brings to our chil- The nonprofit operates loca- food items, supplies and gift dren’s faces,” he says. tions in 20 North Carolina com- cards. “These boys and girls have been let down in so many munities. Once the food is collected, ways. Through the food drive, they see people they can “With more mouths to feed, food drive volunteers box the count on who genuinely care about them.” we want to ensure that through items and additional volunteers For anyone interested in participating in Food the aid of the community we are pick up the collections and deliver Roundup, items from the needs list can be collected able to provide for every child them to BCH’s many locations. In and delivered to statewide collection points throughout that turns to us for help,” Black- the past, businesses such as Two April. well says. Men and a Truck out of Charlotte Drop off times for collection points will vary. Many of the children BCH serves come from diffi- and Wilmington, have lent trucks and labor to assist To obtain a copy of the needs list and statewide col- cult circumstances such as family dysfunction to more with delivery. lection point locations, including each point’s contact extreme situations including abuse, neglect and aban- Often times, volunteers load up their own vehicles information, visit bchfoodroundup.org or contact Food donment. to deliver the food to BCH, which is very meaningful to Roundup coordinator Alan Williams at (336) 474-1277 or The annual food drive is particularly meaningful the children. [email protected]. BSC Executive Committee hears reports at March meeting into certificates of participation with to the North Carolina Missions Offering BSC Executive Director-Treasurer By CHAD AUSTIN | BSC Communications the North Carolina Baptist Foundation to date in 2016 total more than $160,000. Milton A. Hollifield Jr. provided com- he Executive Committee of the to enhance the convention’s investment Executive Committee President Brian mittee members with an update on the Baptist State Convention of returns. Kinlaw announced several appointments special $500,000 allocation approved by T North Carolina’s (BSC) Board of During the financial report, Director of to the board’s articles and bylaws special the board in January to work with former Directors met March 4 at Caraway Camp Accounting Services Beverly Volz report- committee and budget special commit- missionaries from the International Mis- and Conference Center for the first time ed that the convention has received more tee. sion Board who are returning to North since new members were elected to the than $4.4 million in Cooperative Program Kinlaw appointed John Compton Carolina from the field. committee at the January board meeting. funds through the first two months of of Mountain View Baptist Church in Hollifield said convention staff has The committee heard ministry reports 2016, which is up slightly over the same Hickory, George Hunnicutt of Mill made contact with several missionaries and approved a handful of motions dur- time period from 2015. Creek Baptist Church in Monroe, and and will be meeting with others who ing the meeting. Volz also said giving to the Lottie Jeff Broadwell of Green Springs Baptist will be settling in North Carolina to learn John Butler, executive leader for the Moon Christmas Offering and the Annie Church in Parkton to serve on the articles more about their skills and expertise as BSC’s Business Services Group, reported Armstrong Easter Offering are up more and bylaws committee. a way to evaluate potential opportunities that the sale of the former Baptist campus than 15 percent and 12 percent, respec- Compton will serve as the committee to work with the convention on special ministry facility at North Carolina State tively, from the same time period in 2015. chair. ministry projects. University has been completed. The facil- Through the end of February, the BSC Kinlaw appointed Tony Honeycutt of “We want to move as rapidly as we ity sold for $860,000, and proceeds from has received more than $8 million in gifts Big Rock Creek Baptist Church in Bakers- can on this to help these missionaries and the sale will be earmarked for collegiate to the Lottie Moon offering and more ville, and Randy Moore of First Baptist to help us reach the nations of the world ministry efforts. than $226,000 to the Annie Armstrong Church in Spring Lake to serve on the that are here,” Hollifield said. “We praise The committee also approved a motion offering. budget special committee. God and give Him glory for (this oppor- recommended by the investment com- BSC Associate Executive Director- Honeycutt will serve as the committee tunity), and we are excited about being mittee to reinvest the BSC’s reserve funds Treasurer Brian Davis reported that gifts chair. able to make a difference.” 8 MARCH 26, 2016 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists

Church aims to be fort in the nation’s capital

By JIM BURTON | NAMB it came to the gospel message,” Randles ack Randles believes that the nation’s capital said. “When we needs another fort, and he’s willing to build moved here, it was Zthat fortified structure. the exact opposite. The fort he envisions will not look anything like We prayed for 25 the military installations that protect the hub of people. God sent us America’s government – this fort will be a church. over 100.” The young west Texan set his heart toward They now prac- Washington during his senior year at Oklahoma tice what he calls State University where he studied sociology. He “M&M evangelism” committed to God in prayer to “do whatever you because Washing- want me to do.” Randles had prayed that before, tonians can have a but this time was serious about obedience for the hard shell that must first time in his life. melt before reveal- “That day the Lord cast a vision for a place I’d ing their soft, gentle never been and for people I’d never met,” Randles side. said. “I felt drawn to Washington, D.C.” Waterfront During the next several years, Randles worked Church launched on ministerial staffs of several large Texas churches August 10, 2014, while attending Southwestern Baptist Theological Zack and Autumn Randles are leading a church plant in Washington, D.C., with their children, Lulu, 5, at the Courtyard Seminary. He regularly led mission trips to the na- Jack, 4 and Harper, 2. The Randles are North American Mission Board 2016 Week of Prayer Missionar- Marriott Navy Yard. tion’s capital with his wife, Autumn. In 2005 with ies. Visit anniearmstrong.com. (NAMB photo courtesy Zack Randles) By Easter Sunday 42 students, “The spirit just fell in a way that I had 2015, Waterfront not experienced before. We knew that we would to action was the second one. He wanted to bury Church had 150 in attendance. Randles baptized 15 come back here.” his father first. people in the first eight months of the church – 11 What he didn’t immediately know was that com- “The second guy in the story, Jesus has a mission of whom were adults. Randles calls Waterfront the ing back would involve church planting. set aside just for him,” Randles concluded. “It’s bridge between politics and poverty. Though the strategic and timely.” neighborhood is now upscale, homeless people are A ministry legacy Randles then understood God to say, “Trust me, still in the area. “A homeless man walked in late,” Randles grew up in the pastorates his father and do the mission I’ve called you to do.” Randles said of one Sunday service. “He sat next to served. Jon Randles was a pastor and an evangelist His father became sick before Randles left Texas. a congressman.” who served the Baptist General Convention of Texas A month after arriving in Washington, the diagnosis Waterfront is mixed culturally, ethnically and as their director of evangelism. When the senior was pancreatic cancer. There was no turning back, economically, Randles said. Members range from Randles served existing churches as pastor, those but his heart was clearly back home. Capitol Hill workers to military to hot dog sales churches typically experienced much growth. But As Zack and Autumn poured themselves into people at the nearby ballpark, and the congregation his father never planted a church. starting Waterfront Church, they wrestled with is not necessarily a young one. “My dad was my absolute hero,” Zack said. “It’s how best to support Jon. For Zack the answer was “We don’t sell ourselves as the young-person very rare. It was not always this way. It’s very rare to to preach. His dad had said to him, “If a Randles church or the southern-gospel church,” Randles find someone who is your dad, best friend and hero can preach, he should preach.” said. “We sell ourselves as the church that really all wrapped into one. He was an incredibly godly The flights between Lubbock where his father does care about our community and wants to share man.” was and Washington where he was planting a the gospel message above all else.” Zack was already following in his father’s steps church, and the emotional roller coaster, stretched Planting a church in Washington hasn’t been by preaching at events for the Fellowship of Chris- him. cheap. Waterfront’s five-year budget is $1.3 million. tian Athletes, something his father did for years. So His father died April 1, 2015. Several days later, An acre of land sells for $10 million. Annie Arm- if the Lord wanted him in Washington, there surely after preaching an Easter message in Washington, he strong Easter Offering® and Cooperative Program would be an existing church calling him. returned to Lubbock to preach his father’s funeral funds helped Waterfront launch. “I had been filled with so much pride that I had to about 2,500 people in attendance and several In spite of the cost, Waterfront’s leadership plans to take over a pre-existing church,” Randles said. “I thousands more via a live stream of the service. to have a permanent presence in the capital. thought people planted because they couldn’t plug “That was the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” “Our goal is to establish a fort,” Randles said. into an existing system. I was incredibly wrong.” Randles said. “Planting a church is a close second.” The goal for the 2016 Annie Armstrong Easter Of- God was calling the younger Randles to a city fering is $70 million. To learn more about the Week that many churches had recently abandoned for the Building the fort of Prayer, the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering and suburbs. During his trips there, he determined that The Randles felt God’s call to plant along a how your church can be mobilized to push back if his calling was to pastor in Washington, he would revitalized area between the Potomac and Anacostia lostness in North America, visit anniearmstrong.com. have to plant the church. The “follow me” passages Rivers, less than a mile from the capital and just two To read about the other 2016 featured missionaries, of Luke 9 helped bring him to that realization. blocks from major league baseball’s Nationals Park. visit anniearmstrong.com/missionaries-2016. Of the three people Jesus encountered that day, “In the years we came here to do short-term mis- (EDITOR’S NOTE – Jim Burton is a photojournalist and Randles realized that the only person Christ called sion work, we met brick wall after brick wall when writer living in Atlanta.) MARCH 26, 2016 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 9 Our Lottie Moon story

he Biblical Recorder is sharing some church reported more than $604,000 has been taught by David Platt in mid-October. The IMB put guilt in the people to give, but just to make of the stories about the Lottie Moon received for the 2015 offering. website says, “Missions Intensive is a gathering the need known and let them respond.” T Christmas Offering (LMCO) from “The people of Calvary sense God is doing of senior pastors and church leaders prayerfully churches across the state. The money raised something good and new as the IMB reset oc- seeking God concerning His global mission and Englewood Baptist Church, Rocky Mount goes to support the International Mission Board curs,” Peters said, “and it is our desire to put all the local church’s role in that mission.” Last year Englewood Baptist Church gave (IMB) and its missionaries around the globe. of the weight and resources of Calvary behind “We left the intensive deeply convicted that their largest ever Lottie Moon offering. Accord- Other stories were printed in the Feb. 13 issue. this effort. Especially encouraging was our even though we are heavily involved in gospel ing to Senior Pastor Michael Cloer the church’s This list represents the five churches that have young families’ commitment to participate and work around the world, we were not giving gifts totaled $112,485.08. “However, we did not members on the IMB Board of Trustees. sacrifice for this year’s offering.” The church ourselves to Act 13 prayer. We plan to host at receive it one month,” he said. “Every Sunday of leaders are in the process of evaluating the goal least four days of prayer and fasting throughout the year we show a missions video, pray for a Calvary Baptist Church, Winston-Salem for their 2016 LMCO, with plans to raise their the year,” Long added. different UUPG, and receive our regular offering News of the financial struggles of the IMB, commitment to new heights. Peters serves as a On Dec. 20, the church launched the LMCO including our Lottie Moon gifts. We encourage combined with the urgent desire of Calvary trustee of IMB. offering. The total offering is approaching our people to give to Lottie Moon year-round members to share the hope of the gospel, led $575,000 for the year. and they do.” them to give their largest gift ever towards in- Parkwood Baptist Church, Gastonia Long said, “The day of prayer and fasting One couple serves overseas out of the ternational missions, according to senior pastor The second largest LMCO gift among North and the generosity through God’s people at congregation, and the church is in the process Rob Peters. Carolina churches in 2014 was given by the Parkwood are evidence of what Hudson Taylor of sending an additional couple. They directly Calvary Baptist Church has consistently led people of Parkwood Baptist Church. That said, ‘God’s work done in God’s way will never support another couple from the church through the churches of North Carolina with the largest amount was $446,945.39. But the 2015 gift lack God’s supply.’” Long serves on the board IMB as Great Commission Global Connect mis- LMCO for many years. The church’s gift of has exceeded the previous year by more than of trustees of IMB. sionaries to South Asia. “While we are directly $585,366.62 was the second largest gift from $100,000. supporting this family, we did not decrease, but all Southern Baptist churches in 2014. The Jeff Long, Parkwood’s senior pastor, said, First Baptist Church, Durham we increased our Lottie Moon giving,” Cloer “We called the church to a day of prayer and Eighteen years ago Andrew Davis accepted said. fasting on Dec. 16 for the purpose of asking the call to pastor First Baptist Church in Dur- God what He would have each of us to give to ham. At that time the typical annual LMCO was Coats Baptist Church, Coats the offering, to pray for the workers and part- $25,000 each year. In 2015 the church’s goal Bobbi Ashford is a member of Coats Baptist nerships that we are involved with around the was $150,000. When the offering ended their Church. She is also serving her fourth year as world, and to ask Him to send people from our gifts totaled $153,000. an IMB trustee. She said the church is in the congregation to the nations.” “Because of the urgency of missions and the process of searching for a pastor but set the The challenge to hold such a day came from need of finances at IMB, the church wanted to LMCO goal at $30,000 in 2015. The church the Missions Intensive hosted by the IMB and respond generously,” Davis said. “I don’t try to gave a little more than $34,000. 10 MARCH 26, 2016 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Is there hope for American politics? t’s not just about what you say, but how you say tics, a short list of hot-button issues and bumper sticker clude any substantial mention of socialism. To be sure, it. Many people learned that important lesson very slogans come to mind. Ashford and Pappalardo expose most evangelicals won’t take issue with the omission. Iearly in life, probably after mumbling a half-hearted the shallowness of that mindset, opting instead for a In fact, most people probably won’t even notice, but a apology to a sibling or childhood friend. Maybe it was a robust worldview that draws deeply from scripture and growing number of millennials would benefit from the mother, grandfather or teacher that leaned in historical Christian thought. discussion. with a knowing glare, “You can be right – and They walk a well-paved road between the Capitalism isn’t a forgone conclusion for scores of wrong – at the same time.” equally treacherous ravines of a theocratic so- young Americans, and according to recent polls, social- We all know what the expression means. ciety and a public square that’s been emptied ism appears to be a popular alternative. Readers born Our attitude, tone and willingness to see of all religious belief. It’s a position marked in the 1990s entered adolescence as the misdeeds of things from another’s perspective are unspo- by civility toward opposing viewpoints, while Wall Street capitalists made headlines in late 2008. They ken yet important aspects of communication. retaining a healthy dose of Christian convic- lived their teenage years in a housing crisis, accompa- Despite their simplicity, these values are often tion. nied by a difficult economic recession that left many difficult to uphold, not only for children, but In short, they offer a way forward that college graduates with large student debt and few jobs. adults too. helps identify what God intends for politics They are now showing up in voting booths as a socialist Bruce Ashford, provost and professor of SETH BROWN and public life, what has gone astray in those presidential candidate steps onto the national political theology and culture at Southeastern Bap- Book Review areas and how Christians might reshape the stage. Status quo capitalism hasn’t offered many viable tist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, conversation in ways that solutions for this generation and and Chris Pappalardo, lead researcher and writer at honor Christ. In their words, “This they’re looking for alternatives. The Summit Church in Raleigh-Durham, issue a call to is an act of love for our neighbors, Socialism can no longer be rediscover this age-old lesson in their book, One Nation an act of obedience toward our King ignored in American politics, and a Under God. and an act of eschatological hope.” reasonable discussion of econom- The helpful little volume couldn’t have come at a Specific political topics govern ics and wealth should include the better time. As the increasingly crude 2016 presidential the second part of the book, such as topic. Despite the minor omission, election cycle continues, many people long for political marriage and sexuality, race rela- the overall value of the book is not rhetoric that’s less caustic and abusive. tions, war and peace and immigra- diminished. The book’s subtitle gets right to the point: A Christian tion. Their treatment of each subject One Nation Under God is a hope for American politics. The authors aren’t promoting is well-done, given the book’s competent primer for any Christian mere diplomacy or political correctness, but a uniquely relatively short length, and their wanting to grow in godly virtue Christian way to act in the public square. positions will be familiar to most and political prudence as he or she evangelicals. enters the public square. Many pas- A Christian vision tors and church leaders will find it Beginning with a theological overview of scripture, A humble appraisal useful as a tool for helping believers the authors build a framework for engaging politics that They fairly present multiple develop the intellectual and moral incorporates biblical perspective, theological accuracy, perspectives on each of the given rigor to sustain true hope, despite gospel urgency, cultural awareness and godly virtue. topics, with one conspicuous the state of American politics. They divide the material into two broad categories, exception: the chapter on econom- Ashford and Pappalardo do a separated by an interlude. Ashford and Pappalardo use ics and wealth. Although brief, the material adequately great service to the church by reminding us that, re- the first portion to outline the major aspects of Christian covers the personal dynamics of wealth and poverty, gardless of the accusations and insults of demagogues, political thought. This section alone is worth the price addressing issues like greed and dignity, before target- we must “calmly and confidently proclaim the true of the book. The latter half delves deeper into specific ing economics at a larger scale. story of the world.” topics in American politics. Ashford and Pappalardo promote capitalism as the (EDITOR’S NOTE – Seth Brown is content editor for the When many American Christians think about poli- reigning biblical economic theory and chose not to in- Biblical Recorder.) Upcoming trip to embrace living life on mission for women tion, to henna parties, where participants By EMILY ROJAS | BSC Communications drew biblical art on their arms using hen Donna Elmore went to henna. New York City on a mission “My favorite part is seeing women W trip in the fall of 2014, she who go on this trip realize, ‘I’m not sup- learned the importance of following God posed to be about just being on a mission faithfully. trip, but this should be my life,” said During a routine bus ride in the city, 2012, Wendy Mitchell also saw the im- the Metro New York area is especially Ashley Allen, who leads the Embrace and a Muslim woman sat in the seat next to portance of being flexible to God’s lead- great. The Metro New York area includes Women’s Evangelism and Discipleship her. The two began a conversation, which ing in the midst of our circumstances. 22 million residents – and less than 3 ministries of the Baptist State Convention eventually turned into a discussion about One Sunday, due to a rerouted subway percent of those residents have a relation- of North Carolina (BSC). “I should live the gospel. Even when the entire group system, the group missed their stop to go ship with Jesus Christ. “God has definite- my life on mission – the same things that had to change buses, Elmore and the rest to church, and instead decided to wor- ly brought the nations to us,” said Becky I’m doing here, I can do in North Caro- of the team remained with the woman, ship God together in a nearby park. Richardson, who has participated in the lina.’” sharing the good news of Jesus with her. “We sat there on the bench, Ashley Embracing NYC trip in the past. “In New If you or your church would like to This fall, Embrace and Women’s (Allen) read Matthew 9:37-38, all while York City, you have the opportunity to know more about Embrace and Women’s Evangelism and Discipleship will sponsor looking out over Manhattan,” Mitchell reach so many people groups. You just Evangelism and Discipleship, please vis- another mission trip to New York City. said. “It was truly amazing and gave me have to be willing and obedient.” it ncbaptist.org/embrace or contact Ashley The trip is scheduled for Sept. 15-18. The an increased desire to serve the Lord in In the past, Embrace mission trips to Allen at [email protected] or (800) 395- cost is $550, and the deadline to apply is that city.” New York City have included everything 5102, ext. 5559. To find more information May 4. While there is a unique need for a from ESL (English as a second language) specific to the NYC mission trip, please While on the NYC Embrace trip in gospel presence in all cities, the need in lessons that included a gospel presenta- visit ncbaptist.org/embracingnyc. MARCH 26, 2016 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 11

Mission Board vice president for conven- As the former auto salesman told Reflecting on the course of his life, Easter Continued from page 1 tion relations based in Pensacola, Fla. Davis his life story, he broke down in Davis said, “When you come from the repentance for having taken advantage kind of background I come from and you Easter evangelistic services of people, even charging as much as 50 see the direction most other family mem- places where you escape the turmoil in What came natural for Davis on Easter percent interest to some customers. bers have taken, frequently I scratched your life,” Davis said. often is a challenge for some pastors. “He died suddenly two days later,” my head and wondered why am I here By his junior year in high school, even Having the largest crowd of the year can Davis said. doing what I’m doing. When you’re not when his parents had divorced and each be intimidating; many attendees are just In all the years since that Easter Sun- a prophet or a son of a prophet, there are remarried, Davis felt God calling him to spectators and preaching something new day in Indiana, Davis has never lost the times that you just wonder.” the ministry. For his senior year, Davis about Easter each year can be daunting. wonder of salvation. As a college student in East Texas, moved with his mother and stepfather to Families have big lunch plans, so they “I remember when I went forward, my God showed Davis that he would always Southern California and began attending don’t want the service to go late. Add to pastor took my hand and I prayed with have a family of faith. Euclid Street Baptist Church in Anaheim. that any special music and a him for Jesus to forgive my With only a week left in spring se- Both the pastor, Brian Crow, and children’s sermon, and the ser- sins, and I told the Lord that I mester, Davis had no work lined up for youth and music minister, Mark Tullos, vice can become quite crowd- believed in Him as my pastor the summer. He went to his knees and encouraged Davis to be faithful to his ed and veer off the mark. had once explained to me, and prayed fervently. calling. Davis hadn’t come from a family Davis took a different ap- I asked Jesus to come into my Within 30 minutes, he got a call to with strong Christian roots and, to some, proach. No matter the crowd life and save me. Nothing dra- interview for a summer youth position he was a doubtful candidate for ministry. size, he made evangelism matic or earth shattering, just a with First Baptist Church in Mount “If it’s God’s will,” Tullos told Davis, central to the Easter message. simple commitment of my life Pleasant, Texas. “He will make a way.” Besides sharing his testimony, to Jesus. “Those folks took me in and loved me God’s way led Davis to East Texas Bap- he typically conducted bap- “I do remember that, like like I was one of their own,” Davis said. tist University, Dallas Baptist University tisms that included each new Andrew [one of Jesus’ disci- “When you didn’t have a family and they and Southwestern Baptist Theological believer’s testimony. During STEVE DAVIS ples], I told my best friend the become your family, it gives you a differ- Seminary. Eventually, he served churches the invitation, he would relate next day on the way to school ent perspective on the church.” for 32 years as a pastor before returning back to the baptism candidates’ stories. what had happened to me and invited As Easter 2016 approaches on March to Indiana to lead Southern Baptists as Inevitably, someone attending could him to come with me the next Sunday,” 28, Davis encourages pastors to prepare their executive director. An “unforeseen identify. Davis added. “As a result, I have always an evangelistic message – and don’t blessing” in returning to his native state Davis recalls an Easter Sunday in San encouraged every person I’ve ever led to discount the unaccompanied pre-teen was that his father had found a church Antonio when an older gentleman came the Lord to do two things immediately: 1) sitting on the side of the church. God home at Central Baptist in Richmond forward for salvation. The next day when call someone right away who you know might have big plans for him or her just as “and attended faithfully,” Davis said, Davis visited him, he learned that the would be excited to hear that you have He did, years ago, for a 12-year-old who “until he passed away four years ago at man had been in the used car business. made this decision and 2) call and tell was ready to give his life to Christ. 85.” The retiree had heard Davis tell of his your best friend what has just happened (EDITOR’S NOTE – Jim Burton is a writer Today Davis is the North American grandfather. to you.” and photojournalist living in Atlanta.) 12 MARCH 26, 2016 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists

Weapons Continued from page 1

The Biblical Recorder interviewed sev- way to interact with the surrounding ciding to have armed eral North Carolina Baptist leaders that community. security in a church, offer concealed handgun permit courses many factors must to understand best practices for church Gun safety as outreach be considered that security and gun safety. At First Baptist Church of Richlands, a people don’t always concealed carry class was born out of the think about, such as Protective measures interests of members. weapon retention “I take very seriously my role as a fam- “We live in an area with a lot of people during a physical ily protector, and also as a responsible who are in the military and who like to confrontation, and citizen,” said Bobby Blanton, pastor at get outdoors and hunt,” said pastor Gary how responding Lake Norman Baptist Church in Hunters- McAbee. “So it’s just something that police officers will be ville. made sense for the people in our area. able to differentiate “If I can ever offer help to prevent It’s a way to get them into the church, the armed security harm to another citizen I feel it’s my so- and maybe break down some barriers so members from the cial responsibility to do so. And because I they’re willing to come back again.” ‘bad guys.’” enjoy using guns in sportsmanship, I feel He continued, “A few years ago, we May recommend- Classes for concealed carry permits should include safety gear to protect eyes and ears in case of accidents. (Photo courtesy of 2bconcealed.com) a sense of responsibility to be knowl- launched a Sportsman’s Ministry and ed preparing for edgeable in how to use them safely.” sponsored events like a wild game din- scenarios that have Lake Norman is a large church that ner, skeet-shooting tournament, fishing lower risks but higher probability, like trained law enforcement officers in your employs a security officer during corpo- tournaments and camping trips as a way domestic disputes, medical emergencies, community or those who are members rate worship and other large gatherings. of reaching out to the men in our com- child safety and evacuation procedures. of your church, consult with your elders They also have a trained security team of munity as well as those within the church These issues arise more often, whereas and do a lot of research.” Referencing members that includes police officers, who enjoy the outdoors.” active shooter scenarios are less likely. Matthew 10:16, he expressed the desire nurses, firemen and others. Pastor Joel Stephens at Westfield Bap- “The security strategy should aim to for churches to be “wise as serpents and “We don’t want our church to be a tist Church gave similar reasons for the be very holistic,” May said. “Talk to the innocent as doves.” soft target,” Blanton said. gun course held on church property. The security team plans for emergency “Security has not been our main situations involving not only shooter motivator as much as the opportunity to STAYING IN LOVE scenarios, but also medical emergencies, create a bridge out to the community,” procedures for lockdown situations and said Stephens. “It allows our staff to put hat does it take to fall in That’s a big list. more. a face out that represents the church. We love? Apparently, not much And whether we are aware of it Blanton recommended having “a frank give a gospel presentation at every class, more than a pulse. Perhaps or not, when these needs aren’t met conversation with any law enforcement and some participants have since joined W we should be asking, what does it take in our family of origin, we come into in your church, letting them know that our church.” to stay in love? That’s a profoundly a marriage relationship looking for you would appreciate the further utiliza- different question. them. tion of their skill set for the protection of Best practices Staying in love for the Jesus, who knows all the church.” for church security long term should be an in- about relationships – the Pastor William Hannah Jr. of Peace The term for a weaponless group of tense desire for all of us. But very architect of marriage – Baptist Church in Whiteville said, “We people – “soft target” – occurred often is it even possible? While gives us a new model. do want people to be prepared in case of among the pastors interviewed. But when it’s never been easier to fall He said, “A new command- emergency, but we pray it never becomes asked about explicit instructions for in love, our culture makes it ment I give to you, that you necessary to use force.” church members, none said they would almost impossible to stay in love one another as I have loved State-certified concealed carry in- openly encourage nor discourage congre- love. Why is that? you.” structor Justin Hewett said, “I feel having gants to carry concealed weapons. 1. Few people have It forever changes how qualified members of the church commu- “Having several concealed carry observed healthy, long- we approach relationships, nity to protect our church family is para- permitees at the church – preferably law lasting relationships. EDDIE THOMPSON especially marriage. Now mount. I feel churches are [easy] targets enforcement officers – semi-strategically 2. We live in a “do unto love is a verb; it’s action, for criminals and placing ‘good’ people placed throughout the congregation … others” culture. Do unto others what something you do, not something you inside the church with a weapon they are would be my first priority. Having a plan they deserve. Do unto others what feel. familiar with and comfortable with using in place for what to do with the offering they do unto you. Do unto others as Philippians tells us Jesus did is a great idea.” after it is collected is also a major issue in your mood would have it. Do unto nothing through selfish ambition, He Rodney Quesenberry, pastor of Broa- my opinion,” said Hewett. others until they see things your way. esteemed others better than Himself, dus Baptist Church in Concord, high- McAbee recommended evaluating 3. Because of what’s been mod- He looked out for the interest of oth- lighted the need to be vigilant in securing precautionary details such as building eled for us. ers, He never used the “God” card the weekly offering. access, lighting, parking and awareness 4. Because of what we experi- when He could have, He intentionally “Churches are vulnerable because of of one’s surroundings. enced growing up. served, He came in our likeness and their offering plates,” Quesenberry said. Captain Matthew May, who works as Andy Stanley poses this interest- He gave his life away. “Criminals may view churches as soft a police officer in Wake County, affirmed ing question. “What would it take Falling in love just takes a pulse, targets because of the heavy traffic flow the emphasis on greater awareness and for a child to grow up in a nurturing but staying in love takes a plan. and openness to the community. We’ve precaution, rather than focusing on arm- environment, leave adolescence and (EDITOR’S NOTE – Eddie Thompson had people come in asking if we’ve taken ing church members. be equipped to engage in a healthy is a consultant on family evangelism and an offering and then searching through “Obtaining a concealed carry permit long term marriage? They would need discipleship for the Baptist State Convention our offices looking for the plates.” does not automatically mean that some- respect, encouragement, comfort, se- of North Carolina. Contact him at ethomp- Security is a common motivator one is qualified and skilled enough to curity, support, acceptance, approval, [email protected] or (800) 395-5102, ext. for churches offering concealed carry competently use a firearm in a deadly appreciation and attention.” 5644.) courses, but more often they see it as a force situation,” May said. “Before de- MARCH 26, 2016 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 13

Retired Continued from page 1 AROUND THE STATE Obituaries WESLEY SMITH has been called as overseas assignment, we’re glad that God all over the globe, proclaiming to people associational missionary by the Greater has brought you safely back to North who are searching [and] worshiping an HENRY WILLIAM “HANK” GREER, Cleveland County Baptist Association. Carolina. I speak for many when I say unknown god,” he said. 90, died March 6 in Knoxville, Tenn. Previously Smith served as minister to thank you for the years and months that The message identified three scriptur- A graduate of Mississippi State Uni- adults at Boiling Springs Baptist Church. you have invested your life in serving al truths about God that believers should versity, he received a master’s degree in Jesus where He placed you to serve.” always remember. religious education from Southwestern First Baptist Church, Pilot Mountain, Pointing to the illustration of the pot- First, “God is sovereign,” Register Seminary. He served in the U.S. Navy has called ROBERT DIXON as pastor. ter and clay in Jeremiah 29:11-13, Holli- said. “God is Lord of heaven and earth. during World War II. Previously, Dixon served as pastor at field said the Bible teaches that God has a Nothing is outside of His control.” He was a Baptist Campus Minister in West Side Baptist Church, Winston- plan for our lives. God made every nation from one man, Atlanta, Ga.; Berkeley, Calif.; and in North Salem. “Although the personnel reduction so all people were created by the sover- Carolina: North Carolina State University at IMB was a surprise to us,” he said, eign God. and Appalachian State University. He was Retirement “it did not take God by surprise. ... We “That principle alone should drive a a member of Central Baptist Church of KENNETH SIMPSON has announced know that God still has another plan for stake in the heart of any racism we have Bearden, Knoxville, where he taught Sun- his retirement as pastor of Manteo our lives, ... and I hope that the Baptist in our being.” day School, sang in the choir and served Baptist Church after 11+ years as senior State Convention of North Carolina can Second, “God is strategic. Everything as coordinator of disaster relief. pastor. His retirement will be effective be a small part of what God has in His He does, He does for a reason,” said He is survived by daughters, Dianne March 27, 2016. Simpson has previously plan for you.” Register. Beshears, Libby Cunningham and Martha pastored four churches and one mission Among the people groups classified “He sovereignly controls the migra- Johnson; nine grandchildren; and eight church in North Carolina. by IMB as unreached or unengaged, 154 tion of people. He determines who lives great-grandchildren. He was a member of Pitts Baptist of those nations are represented in North where and how long they will live there.” Memorials to: Appalachian Outreach, Church, Concord, where he surrendered Carolina. Hollifield said the needs are North Carolina has approximately 10 190 W. Old Andrew Johnson Highway, to the call of ministry, under the leader- great. The state’s school system reports million residents, he added. More than Jefferson City, TN 37760 or Carson-New- ship of Pastor David Gales. He attended that children go home from school each half, 5.8 million people, do not know man College: Dorothy H. Greer House for Gardner Webb University and Southeast- day and speak more than 300 different Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior. Visiting Missionaries and Scholars, P.O. ern Seminary. Ken was ordained Oct. 22, languages in their homes. One million of the state’s population are Box 529, Jefferson City, TN 37760 or Cen- 1972, when called to Saint Paul Baptist Steve Hardy, team leader for the Office foreign-born residents. tral Baptist Bearden: Disaster Relief, 6300 in Casar. Ken celebrates 44 years in the of Great Commission Partnerships, said “God has strategically brought those Dean Hill Dr., Knoxville, TN 37917. ministry as he retires. there are 244 million immigrants world- people to North Carolina,” Register Ken and wife Jeannie have three grown wide. stated. THOMAS ROBERT “BOB” “TR” children and four grandsons and two About 50 million of those are immi- “He has lifted families, people groups, MULLINAX died Feb. 26 in Greenville, great grand-daughters and look forward grants in United States. Many have come and clans, and brought them to Char- S.C. to spending time with them and traveling to North Carolina. lotte, Raleigh, Greensboro, Asheville – to He earned degrees from Gardner- in his retirement. Ken will be available Amy Boone, executive director-trea- the Tar Heel state. Why did He do that?” Webb College, Wake Forest College and for revivals, pulpit supply and short-term surer of WMU-NC, spoke about the orga- Register said the third truth is, “Our Southeastern Seminary. interims. Contact him at (252) 473-1128 or nization’s ministry opportunities includ- God is salvific. Mullinax served as minister in Bunn, [email protected]. ing the work at Camp Mundo Vista and “That means He is all about salvation. Cary and Laurinburg, N.C. as well as an the coming Missions Extravaganza, April Jesus came to seek and to save that which administrator of higher education for DOUG HILL, director of recreational 1-3 at Ridgecrest Conference Center. was lost. Everything God does, He does the Baptist State Convention of North ministry at Calvary Baptist Church, She also invited the missionaries to so that man might come to know Him Carolina. He also was an assistant to the Winston-Salem, will retire after 31 years consider jobs that are available at the na- intimately through faith in His Son, Jesus president of Meredith College. of ministry. tional WMU office in Birmingham, Ala. Christ.” He is survived by his wife, Rachel In 1985, Hill was asked to be a part of A fellowship event for VRI missionar- Referencing the 154 people groups in Smith, whom he married in 1951; three a new trend in churches, recreation min- ies will be held this June at the South- the state Register said, “God needs some sons, Thomas R. Mullinax, Marc S. Mul- istry. He agreed to devote his time and ern Baptist Convention’s meeting in St. Apostle Pauls to come alongside us and linax and John Bennett “Ben” Mullinax; youthful energy to playing sports while Louis, according to Boone. help us develop strategies, and help us five grandchildren; and one great-grand- intertwining the gospel. Hill and his wife WMU-NC welcomed each couple know how to communicate the gospel to child. Linda have three children and several back to the state with a basket of gener- Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists and ani- grandchildren. ous gifts provided by local church WMU mists. Staff changes groups. “So He has brought you here to help Submissions Chuck Register, BSC’s executive us. ... We need your language skills, we Union Cross Baptist Church, Elkin, leader for Church Planting and Missions need your worldview understanding, but has called TOM PARKER as pastor. Most The Biblical Recorder is pleased to Partnerships shared biblical encourage- more than that, we need your passion for recently he was the senior pastor at Salem publish staff changes, church ment from Acts 17:22-27. the nations in North Carolina. ... Come Fort Baptist Church, Elkin. news and events with a statewide Like the Apostle Paul, the missionar- help us proclaim [the gospel] to people interest. Please send information ies have been “standing on Mars Hills who are seeking and groping after a God JOHN BOX has been called as senior immediately following an event, they don’t even know.” pastor by West End First Baptist Church, or for opportunity corner, send at Former IMB missionaries who took West End. Box previously served at least two months in advance. Kivett’s - Your Source for Renewal Kivett’s - Your Source for Renewal the VRI or HRO and have an interest in Southside Baptist Church, Aberdeen, All submissions will be subjected to Complete Renovations • Refinish contract work Completeon the N.C. Renovations Baptist staff• Refinish Miss. Biblical Recorder styles and guidelines. New Pews • Steeples • Stained Glass are asked to Newcontact Pews Kathy • Steeples Bennett • Stained in the Glass Send to [email protected] or Biblical Steeple Cleaning • Baptistries Steeple Cleaning • Baptistries Bethel Baptist Church, Hertford, has office of the executive director-treasurer Recorder, P.O. Box 1185, Cary, NC www.kivetts.com www.kivetts.com at [email protected] or (800) 395-5102 called GREGORY A. OWENBY as pastor. 27512. Call (919) 847-2127. KIVETT’S INC. KIVETT’S INC. For the past 10 years he served at Grace The Largest Family Owned x5503. The Largest Family Owned Have story ideas? Send to editor@ Church Furniture Manufacturer in the US Visit BRnow.orgChurch for Furniture stories Manufacturer relating in to the US Baptist Church, Marion. BRnow.org.

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April 3 BIBLE STUDIES FOR LIFE April 10 Our Need for Peace Our Need for Purpose

Focal Passage: John 14:1-7 his followers that by trusting in Him, Focal Passage: John 15:1-8 disciples. He talks about being the vine we keep our hearts from being troubled. and them being the branches (John 15:5). pproximately 100 years after There is plenty of trouble in the world, s a kid I used to watch my dad There are at least two key elements the resurrection of Jesus, a but our faith in Jesus allows us to trust in tend to his flowers. It was a in this dialogue that are vital for us to A young man named Justin was the One greater than the world. A little strange to me because my understand. converted. He was a philosophy student Jesus goes on to give two additional dad was (and is) a big guy. The first is that Jesus must be our very and a committed devotee of Plato. When reasons to have peace. To see this large, hulking source for life. That is what the vine is to he turned from his sin and trusted in the First, he promises in John guy tending to roses, tulips, the branches. finished work of Christ, he began using 14:2-4 that he is going ahead of lilacs and rhododendron was The vine is the main source of nutri- his philosophical training to advance the us to prepare a place for us. He peculiar. ents, water and life itself. kingdom of God. is, of course, speaking about But dad loved his flowers. A branch that is cut off from the vine Justin defended the Christian faith an eternal dwelling, which And, apparently, it rubbed off withers quickly, just as the branches of both in debate and in writing. His work reminds us that this life is not on me. my knockout roses do. came to be known as an “apology.” He all there is. While I do not have any- Likewise, we can only thrive when we was not, of course, apologizing for Chris- Second, he promises in John where near the size flower are receiving the life giving nourishment tianity, he was defending it by giving a 14:5-7 that only through know- collection that my dad did, I that Christ provides. reasoned explanation for the faith that ing Him that we can know our have become a bit partial to We must remain in Him. ROB POCHEK Heavenly Father. A second reality in this passage is that we hold dear. Pastor, Raleigh Road knockout roses. God (the gardener – John 15:1) sometimes In a stirring section of his writing, Jus- The picture Jesus paints is Baptist Church, Wilson The first year that I planted tin makes clear that tyranny and threats crystal clear. Our assurance is them I had a bit of a learning has to prune us (John 15:2). against Christians are powerless because rooted in a relationship with curve, helped immensely by Though there is debate about whether of the hope of the gospel. Indeed, he Him; a relationship that means an eternity phone calls to my dad. One of the most “pruning” in this context is cutting back declares to the powers that be, “you may in heaven with the Lord Jesus and our shocking things my dad told me to do the branches or cleaning them, the point kill us, but you cannot harm us.” Where Heavenly Father. That is why Justin could that first fall was to cut the roses back, is the same. God acts on the branch in does such boldness and assurance come say that Christians can be killed but not way back. order to make it more fruitful. from? harmed. I couldn’t believe they would survive, He does this because our being fruitful If we examine Jesus words in John The death of the believer is a transfer but they did. Indeed, they came back brings Him glory. 14:1-7 the source of Justin’s boldness is from this life to the personal, glorious stronger and more vibrant than ever. So, remain in Christ and receive His evident. presence of our Lord. Embracing that In John 15 Jesus shares an illustration pruning with joy, because both glorify In this section of scripture, Jesus tells truth brings us peace. from the world of horticulture with His your heavenly father.

April 3 EXPLORE THE BIBLE April 10 Courageous Integrity Focal Passage: Acts 4:1-13 He continued with even greater bold- Focal Passage: Acts 4:36-5:11 portion of the money for themselves. God ness to declare, “There is salvation in no one enforced this first example of church very Christian likes the concept else; for there is no other name under heaven t was my fifth grade year. I had found discipline because they had lied to Him of spiritual courage. We like it so that has been given among men by which we out a couple of weeks before report and put Him to the test. Emuch that we preach sermons, must be saved” (v. 12). Icard day that I would be making a The early Church had enjoyed the provide training and sing songs about What a difference the Spirit’s power “C.” I had been told on the previous re- favor of the people (2:47) from a distance, being bold for Christ. makes. Peter had been trans- port card day that the punish- but they would not allow lost or spiritu- Unfortunately, such armchair boldness formed from a boisterous ment I had just received would ally immature people to set the standards soon resembles the Cowardly Lion in The coward to a man who loved the be doubled if I came home for the Body of Christ. Most people who Wizard of Oz. gospel more than his life. with another “C.” reject the idea of church discipline claim He could snarl and pounce and sing of The Jewish leaders were When I received my report it is “unloving,” and bad for church courage, but as he prepared to infiltrate amazed by the boldness of card I discovered not one “C,” unity. On the contrary, how can we say the witch’s castle, he asked one thing of Peter and John in light of their but two!” Somehow, in the we love someone while we let them wal- his friends: “Talk me out of it!” lack of education. Most of all, mercy of God, I escaped what low in ungodly behavior? After Peter and John healed the lame they recognized them “as hav- was coming. How can a church be unified as part of man at the Beautiful Gate, Peter preached ing been with Jesus” (v. 13). Although grades are an the body runs toward sin while the other his second sermon. In the midst of his Do we bear the likeness of TROY RUST earthly concern, this story is part runs from it? Such claims to unity bold proclamation, an entourage of Jew- people who have been with Pastor, Florence Avenue one example of the kind of are false. ish leaders interrupted and threw him Jesus? Baptist Church, Oxford standards my parents set for Most established churches cannot and John in jail for preaching the resur- When we strive to “set apart their children. When I fell make these changes quickly, because rection of Jesus. Christ as Lord” (1 Peter 3:15), we will face below my father’s expectations, he said, their members have never been taught Peter, who had failed to be bold at the spiritual warfare. “You can do better! It would be differ- the biblical and practical dimensions arrest of Jesus, stood the next day in the Our boldness in the flesh will wilt in ent if you couldn’t do any better, but of church discipline. However, pastors midst of the most powerful Jewish lead- the heat of opposition, and our Kingdom you can!” The same is true for the local must love the Lord, His Word and His ers and spoke in the power of the Holy plans will be challenged by pressing tem- church. Body enough to lead their congregations Spirit. poral concerns. Ananias and Sapphira pretended to in an intentional process of establishing He boldly proclaimed the power of Only the courage that the Holy Spirit follow the example of Barnabas, and meaningful membership. Remember, the resurrected Jesus and the guilt of the gives empowers us to overcome the cow- claimed to give the church all the income God takes the health and holiness of His Jews in crucifying Him. ardice and poor priorities of our flesh. from a piece of land while they kept a Church seriously, and so should we. MARCH 26, 2016 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 15

OPPORTUNITY CORNER

The North Carolina Pastors Network, founder and president of WallBuilders, a a state chapter of the American Pastors pro-family organization with an emphasis Join the Baptist State Convention of more! This year’s One Day event will take Network, is hosting “U-Turn: A Roadmap on moral, religious and constitutional North Carolina for a time of training with place in east and west locations. Register for Renewal,” a conference to answer heritage. The event is April 14 from 9 a.m. equipping sessions in Sunday School for the April 9 training at Temple Baptist questions about the biblical role and duty until 4:30 p.m. at Southern Evangelical and small groups, children’s and youth Church in New Bern by April 6. Cost is of pastors in society, culture and leader- Seminary in Matthews. Registration is ministry, worship and music ministry, $20. For more information on speakers ship from a biblical perspective. Keynote $39. Group and student discounts are women’s ministry, evangelism, special and break outs, or to register, visit nc- speakers George Barna, founder of the available. Lunch is included in the price. needs ministry, pastoral leadership and baptist.org/index.php?id=1724. Barna Research Group, and David Barton, Visit Uturnconference.org. CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

Pastor Senior Pastor. Canton First Baptist Church First Baptist Church of Crossnore, North Christ Baptist Church, Raleigh, NC, is seek- Three Forks Baptist Church is searching for is seeking a Senior Pastor. Please review the Carolina, is seeking a full-time Youth Pas- ing a full-time Director of Children & a Pastor. We are a Southern Baptists church profile under the Employment tab at www. tor/Associate Pastor. We are a conservative Preschool to provide leadership for a compre- affiliated with the Three Forks Baptist Associa- canton-fbc.org before sending resume by email congregation and a member of SBC. College hensive ministry, infants through 6th grade. tion. We are a small congregation looking for a to [email protected] by March 31. degree required, seminary degree preferred. Experienced, formal education preferred, pastor with a shepherd’s heart for the Lord’s Position will focus on Youth Leadership and strong organizational and communication work. Please mail resumes to Search Commit- Denomination assisting the Senior Pastor. Applicants should skills. Send cover letter and resumes to Di- tee, 1922 Hwy. 421 S., Boone, NC 28607. The Yates Baptist Association is currently submit a resume to [email protected] rector’s Search Committee, Christ Baptist receiving resumes for the full-time position of or mail to PO Box 370, Crossnore, NC 28616. Church, 400 Newton Road, Raleigh, NC 27615, Cliffside Baptist Church is prayerfully seeking Director of Missions. Please submit resumes Deadline is 4/15/2016. or to [email protected]. Resumes accepted a full-time Senior Pastor for a congregation of by Monday, April 11, 2016. Submit electroni- until April 15, 2016. 90 active members. The candidate should have cally to [email protected] or send Southside Baptist Church, Greensboro, NC, is at least 5 years experience as a senior pastor hard copies to: Attn: DOM Search Commit- seeking a part-time Minister of Music and Part-time Youth/Children’s Minister/Direc- and a seminary degree from a Southern Baptist tee, Yates Baptist Association, PO BOX 52381, Worship. Responsibilities include leading tor position at Lea Bethel Baptist Church, seminary. However, a recent seminary graduate DURHAM, NC 27717-2381. choir rehearsal, instrumentalists rehearsal Prospect Hill, NC. Position is for 15-20 hours without experience but with a passion to serve and morning worship service each Sunday. per week and is to lead these ministries to God would be considered. As an affiliate of Church Staff Knowledge of technology, media, PowerPoint fulfill the church’s purpose. Send resume to SBC of NC and the Sandy Run Baptist Associa- Local church seeking full-time Music Di- and EasyWorship is required. Experience [email protected]. tion we are accepting resumes. Resume and a rector with previous experience. Successful with blended worship is preferred. Email sample DVD may be sent to Cliffside Baptist candidates will possess many of the following: resume to: [email protected] or mail to Trinity Baptist Church of Mooresville, N.C., is Church, Attn: Pastor Search Committee, PO an appreciation for a wide range of Christian SBC, 1001 Greenhaven Drive, Greensboro, NC seeking a full-time Youth Director for a 500 Box 336, Cliffside, NC 28024, or by email to musical styles and genres; highly developed 27406; Attention: Music Search Team. member Southern Baptist church. Minimum [email protected]. keyboard skills; strong verbal & written com- educational requirements: college degree munication and people skills; experienced in South China Grove Baptist Church, China (Bachelor or higher), preferably in Christian Mt. Lebanon Baptist Church is seeking a music selection and choral directing; ability to Grove, NC, is seeking an Associate Pastor of Education or Youth Ministry. Salary will be full-time senior pastor. We are members of provide music at weddings and funerals; com- Students and Families who exhibits a per- commensurate upon education and experi- Randolph Baptist Association, Baptist State fortable with traditional and contemporary sonal growing relationship with the Lord, is ence. Please submit resume and letters of Convention of North Carolina and the SBC. worship; skillful and committed to reaching passionate and capable of executing long-term reference to Personnel Committee, Trinity Mt. Lebanon is a rural church that is conser- out to the larger community; flexible, creative vision for students and families of our church, Baptist Church, 221 Irvin Rd., Mooresville, vative in theology and traditional in worship and collaborative; music degree. Send resume and is focused on encouraging Kingdom NC 28117, or email to [email protected]. style. Candidates should possess a seminary to: Salem Baptist Church, Choir Director, 1982 growth in future generations. Candidates degree or the equivalent from a Southern Salem Church Rd., Lincolnton, NC 28092. must have at minimum a bachelor’s degree Green Street Baptist Church, High Point, NC, Baptist institution and have at least five years in related field and experience is preferred. is seeking a full-time pastor for children of pastoral experience. Resumes may be sent First Baptist Church of Columbus, Missis- For full job description visit SCGBC.com. Send and families. Seminary and at least five years to: Mt. Lebanon Baptist Church, c/o Pastor sippi, is seeking a Minister of Students. resume to Pastor Tony Wagoner (twagoner2@ ministry experience preferred. Contact kristi@ Search Committee, 6434 Mt. Lebanon Road, Experience preferred and seminary degree liberty.edu) or Search Committee, SCGBC, 501 greenstreet.org or send resume to 1701 West- Troy, NC 27371, or e-mail to [email protected]. desirable. Salary range: $50,000 to $55,000. Haney Street, China Grove, NC 28023. Resume chester Dr., Ste. 620, High Point, NC 27262. Please e-mail resumes to [email protected] or must be received before March 31. mail to First Baptist Church, Attn: Minister of Loves Creek Baptist Church, Siler City, NC, ADVERTISE Students Search, P.O. Box 829, Columbus, MS Hillmon Grove Baptist Church, Cameron, is seeking a part-time Minister of Music to (919) 459-5691 39703. Please submit resumes by March 29. NC, is seeking a full-time Youth Pastor to plan, direct & coordinate for blended wor- promote the spiritual, social and emotional ship services. (2+ yrs. experience desired) growth of students grades 7-12. Primary E-mail resumes to: [email protected]. Placing a classified ad in theBiblical Recorder duties are to lead and plan a comprehensive youth ministry to include Bible teaching, Miscellaneous Choose one of three avenues: mission projects, recreation/fellowship and NCBAM needs intergenerational teams to • Send e-mail to: [email protected]. related activities. Annual salary range $35K- build wheel chair ramps during Rampin’ Up! • Submit the information via the Recorder’s website at BRnow.org. $40K. Ministerial degree preferred. Send April 30 and May 7, 2016. Call North Carolina • Send a Fax to (919) 467-6180. resume to [email protected] or Search Baptist Aging Ministry: 877-506-2226. For more information, call the office at (919) 459-5691. Committee, 384 Hillmon Grove Road, Cam- eron, NC 28326. MOVED? Don’t forget to change your address Cost for Baptist churches/organizations is $1.20 per word, number and with the Biblical Recorder. Contact Liz Tablazon stand-alone initial ($1.42 for commercial and non-Baptist entities) with a at (919) 459-5693 or [email protected]. minimum charge of $35. Classifieds also are carried online. 16 MARCH 26, 2016 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists

Capps, Griggs running for OPPORTUNITY CORNER pastor’s conference offices

Pressley said, “Matt is a man I trust. By K. ALLAN BLUME | BR Editor He loves the gospel, he loves the conven- wo names have been announced tion and is fully aware of what goes on at as nominees for North Carolina the state and national levels. T Baptist Pastors’ Conference of- “I think he will do a tremendous The Baptist State Convention of North a church culture, beginning with the pas- ficers. job serving our pastors. He has served Carolina is hosting an equipping track tors and church leaders, that integrates Clint Pressley, senior pastor of Hick- churches of all sizes, and he has seen focusing on emotionally healthy leaders practical tools and skills where spiritual ory Grove Baptist Church in Charlotte, church from all sides – as a staff member, with Eddie Thompson. The training will maturity and emotional health truly are announced he will nominate Matt Capps pastor and denominational employee.” take place April 21-22 at the North Caro- considered inseparable and where our as president elect of the group at its In a similar announcement, Marty lina Baptist State Convention Chapel. The work for Jesus flows out of a life with meeting Nov. 13-14 prior to the Baptist Jacumin, senior pastor of Bay Leaf Baptist first day consists of leadership training Jesus. Cost is $25 for the first day, and State Convention Church in Raleigh, announced he will and the second day is facilitators training $95 for both. To register visit ncbaptist.org/ of North Carolina’s nominate Chris Griggs as vice-president (by invitation only). Learn how to build index.php?id=1841. annual meeting. elect of the pas- Capps, senior tors’ conference. pastor of Fairview Since 2005 Baptist Church in Griggs has served Apex since June as senior pastor 2015, began his of Denver Baptist ministry as an Church in Denver. The Blind Fellowship Retreat is an people. Caraway is fully accessible for intern at Hickory He has an under- annual retreat for people who are blind blind and visually impaired people. Grove, his home graduate degree and visually impaired and their sighted Our speaker this year is Greg Lawson, church. MATT CAPPS from Wake Forest guides. and on Saturday we will have a special He served as University, a mas- CHRIS GRIGGS This year the retreat will be held April musical concert. one of the pastors at Calvary Baptist ter of divinity from 22-24 at the Caraway Conference Center. Cost is $85 for a double room and six Church in Winston-Salem, the brand SEBTS and a doctor of ministry from The retreat provides a weekend of meals, or $120 for a private room and six manager for The Gospel Project at Life- SEBTS. He currently serves as a trustee of fellowship, fun and spiritual growth meals. Way Christian Resources and a teaching the seminary. designed by blind and visually impaired Register at ncbaptist.org/index. pastor at The Fellowship in Nashville, Griggs and Denver Baptist are active people for blind and visually impaired php?id=1616. Deadline is April 8. Tenn. in mission partnerships with the North He is a graduate of Southeastern Bap- American Mission Board and the Interna- tist Theological Seminary (SEBTS) and is tional Mission Board. currently completing a doctor of ministry The church has an average Sunday degree at Gordon-Conwell Theological worship attendance above 500. He is a Seminary. He is the author of one book, regular instructor for the Tar Heel Lead- Hebrews: A 12-Week Study (Crossway, ership Network. 2015). He has written for the Biblical He is married to Tiffany, and they have Recorder and a variety of websites and three children. magazines. He and his wife, Laura, have Jacumin said, “I have known Chris three children. for more than 10 years and have had the Fairview has an average worship atten- privilege to serve with him as a trustee at dance of approximately 300 people. The Southeastern Seminary. We worked to- church gives 8 percent of undesignated gether with the academic subcommittee, receipts through the Cooperative Pro- and I have experienced firsthand his love gram. They engage in mission trips and for the Lord and the church. He loves partnerships both internationally and pastors and will be a great support to the domestically each year. president if elected.”

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