Toll free 800-803-5201 Vol. 185, No. 5 www.thealabamabaptist.org January 30, 2020 Informing. Inspiring. Connecting. INSIDE

Serving God in the marketplace and in the church Pages 6-–7

Photos courtesy of Mallory Friese

‘Father’ of Ala- Main photo: Soul Caffeine volunteers bama Baptists Brent and Angie leaves legacy Middleton dispense of cooperation free coffee and hot Coffee, community, chocolate to Hurricane Page 8 Michael victims. Small photos: Soul Caffeine hosts a latte art missions, ministry competition. Soul Caffeine Coffee House serves with people, not profi t, in mind By Lanell Downs Smith Coffee House in Daphne. missions organizations and tomers already paid enough Correspondent, The Alabama Baptist Today the coffee house is a nonpro ts, helping to build the for their coffee. But they soon hat began as a gathering place where coffee local community outside the discovered that people wanted dream to com- is served with attention to the store’s walls. to give. They decided to put bine coffee and detail of the drink and to the out a tip jar, agreeing to gather W community life of the customer. People wanted to give funds to support missions and with missions and ministry “[Soul Caffeine] has given Soul Caffeine owners didn’t ministries, families and indi- Open Doors USA became a reality in 2015 when releases 2020 us the chance to really get begin by asking for tips. Friese viduals. friends Eric and Mallory Fri- World Watch List to know so many people and said they felt that their cus- (See ‘Daphne,’ page 14) ese and Gabe and Lynne Hol- their stories, and by extending Page 15 loway opened Soul Caffeine them warm service and loving- ly crafted drinks, we are hop- “... We are hoping to show them ing to show them how valued how valued they are, not just as To watch the videos from this week’s they are, not just as customers issue, visit our YouTube channel but as people,” said co-owner customers but as people.” “TAB Media.” Mallory Friese. Funds collected in a tip jar MALLORY FRIESE are donated to local ministries, co-owner, Soul Caffeine Coffee House PAGE 2 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / JANUARY 30, 2020

OUR EXTENDED ALABAMA BAPTIST TAB News volunteer reader FAMILY shares voice with listeners “If ye continue in My word, then ... ALABAMA BAPTIST ye shall know the truth, and the truth STATE BOARD OF MISSIONS on Shipp has been putting calling The Alabama Baptist/TAB shall make you free.” John 8:31–32 1-800-264-1225 | www.alsbom.org his voice to good use for a Media to inquire if they would be Offices: Prattville (ISSN 0738-7741; USPS 011-080) Leadership: Rick Lance, executive director long time. interested in some guest readers for © The Alabama Baptist, Inc. D is published weekly except for one week in “I’ve been singing in church their podcast. July and December by The Alabama Baptist, ALABAMA BAPTIST CHILDREN’S HOMES choirs since I was 10 years old,” he “On my wife’s encouragement, I Inc., at 3310 Independence Drive, & FAMILY MINISTRIES Birmingham, AL 35209. Phone: 205-870-4720. 205-982-1112 | www.alabamachild.org said. “I just enjoy singing gener- gave them a call,” he said. Statewide phone: 800-803-5201. Website: www.thealabamabaptist.org Main office: Birmingham ally.” He’s now been Email: [email protected] Leadership: Rod Marshall, president and CEO or [email protected] Most recently he’s reading on the week- Periodicals postage paid at Hattiesburg, Miss. ALABAMA BAPTIST sung in the choir ly TAB News podcast HISTORICAL COMMISSION at Lakeside Baptist since April 2019. ANNUAL TAB SUBSCRIPTION RATES 205-726-2363 | www.abhconline.com Includes print, digital and full web access Office: Birmingham Church, Birming- It’s something he re- Leadership: Lonette Berg, executive director ham. He’s received ally enjoys. He said Group Rate per issue — $16.25 (Need at least ve in your group to qualify) feedback from music activities like that ALABAMA BAPTIST Individual — $24.95 per year with 3-year plan RETIREMENT CENTERS directors and fel- are “informative and 800-264-1225, ext. 329 | www.abrc.org low choir members exercise a person’s Main office: Prattville through the years and ability to think and JENNIFER DAVIS RASH Leadership: Ray Burdeshaw, acting president EDITOR-IN-CHIEF tried to get better at present himself to THE BAPTIST FOUNDATION OF ALABAMA Cynthia Watts Janet Erwin singing. others.” Executive Assistant Executive Editor 334-394-2000 | www.tbfa.org Offices: Montgomery “I love singing, That’s something Debbie Campbell Carrie B. McWhorter Leadership: Barry Bledsoe, president even if it’s just to the Director of Content Editor SHIPP Shipp values in Communications radio,” he said. Grace Thornton SHOCCO SPRINGS life — his mother Bill Gilmore Special BAPTIST CONFERENCE CENTER But one year Shipp instilled that in him Director of Sales Assignments Editor 256-761-1100 | www.shocco.org decided to try something a little from when he was small. Linda Harrison Margaret Colson Location: Talladega different. Director of Human Special Leadership: Russell Klinner, executive director “My mother stressed to me about Resources Assignments Editor “I did a little narration, and I de- using the Golden Rule — she told Melanie McKinney Hannah Muñoz cided I liked it,” he said. Advertising Manager Digital Editor ALABAMA CITIZENS ACTION PROGRAM me you never have to apologize for 205-985-9062 | www.alcap.com He liked the challenge of making using the Golden Rule,” he said. Pam Holt Jessica Ingram Sales Production Manager Offices: Birmingham words engaging and understand- Representative Leadership: Joe Godfrey, executive director able, pacing them and using in ec- ‘Dignity and respect’ Lauren C. Grim Susan Stevens Creative Services tion well. He was good at technical So he tries to use his words well Sales Manager ALABAMA WMU Representative 334-288-2460 | www.alabamawmu.org things — he served in the Air Force when he talks about anything — Amy Hacker Annette Brown Offices: Prattville Creative Services and Air National Guard, and he religion and politics included. Guest Services Leadership: Candace McIntosh, executive director Associate worked for about 50 years design- “People should be treated well Sarah Gill James Hammack Customer Relations ing software and hardware for dif- in every conversation you have,” Digital Services JUDSON COLLEGE ferent companies. Shipp said. “My wife and I try to Deb Lowery Manager 800-447-9472 | www.judson.edu Financial Assistant Location: Marion Now retired, Shipp oated an live by that — that you should treat Haley Piersol Leadership: Mark Tew, president Richard Maddox Digital Services idea one night over dinner with his others always with courtesy, dig- Computer Services Associate wife, Iris — he had thought about nity and respect.” (Grace Thornton) SAMFORD UNIVERSITY NEWS SERVICES 205-726-2011 | www.samford.edu Baptist Press (BP), Associated Press/Religion Location: Birmingham News Service (AP/RNS), Morning Star Leadership: Andrew Westmoreland, president News (MS). 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Accredited member of Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability Photo by Debbie Campbell TAB President and Editor-in-Chief Jennifer Davis Rash (left) speaks during the Jan. ‘Nation’s Top Regional 20 meeting of Baptist Active Women, a missions fellowship in Cleburne Baptist Christian Newspaper’ Association that began more than 40 years ago. Rash shared about TAB’s ministry 1999, 2004, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, efforts with the 24 women gathered, recounting the many changes she’s been part 2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018 as judged by Associated Church Press, Baptist The crossword puzzle of during her 24 years with the ministry, which she joined at 24 years old — meaning Communicators Association, Evangelical Press can be found on page 17. she has now of cially spent half her life serving Alabama Baptists through TAB. (TAB) Association or Religion Communicators Council JANUARY 30, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 3 OPINION

By Jennifer Davis Rash MY President and Editor-in-Chief [email protected] RASHIONALE @RashionalThts Interesting exercise to draw a line down the middle of your story tepping into this new through the years ll my heart spent two years serving with the show and podcast hit the air- year and new decade and make me even more grate- International Mission Board as waves, and in 2019 a visually brought a signi cant ful to be part of the broader Ala- an editorial assistant with Ca- impaired cartridge and new milestone for me per- bama Baptist family. ribbean Christian Publications glossy magazine were added. sonally. focused on the English-speaking S But how did I get here? Caribbean. Granted, technology advance- I’ve now spent half my life ments allowed for much of the serving Alabama Baptists Drawing a line down the mid- God provided intense opportu- expansion to take place, but it through The Alabama Baptist/ dle of your story can be an in- nities for me to grow spiritually, also took vision, courage and TAB Media — and I can’t think teresting exercise. For me, there professionally and relationally training to make the moves. of anywhere else I would have are two sets of 24 years. during those two years. When rather been. the term ended, I found my With the various new elements 24-year-old self at TAB with no Early years in the picture, it could be easy to I joined the TAB team on Jan. idea where that would lead. let the print product slide away, 1, 1996, at 24 years old, and but the focus on the newspaper In the rst set, you will nd on Jan. 1, 2020, I celebrated 24 Reecting on my current mid- continues to be an important my growing up years on a farm years with TAB. point marker and these past 24 part of the team’s work. in Phil Campbell, Alabama — a years at TAB helped me realize Countless people have poured rural community in the north- just how many strides have been west corner of the state. We plan to continually polish into me through the years, and made by a variety of different the 177-year-old weekly news- many continue investing in my team members who were under During those years I thought paper currently entrusted to our growth, something I truly trea- the direction of Bob Terry for care. It has won more than 250 sure as a big believer in mentor- the norm for all children was to most of those years. What a gift national awards in less than 25 ing and cross training. grow up in a safe, loving envi- to get to tag along for the ride. ronment with plenty of food and years, and we are determined to keep it among the best available. A quick look back over the parents who taught life skills years shows clearly how God and a strong work ethic. Second half was working all along the way. We also are excited to intro- Experiencing life outside Since 1996, the TAB team has duce a trickle of new glossy What I thought was a short- those early years has taught me moved from focusing on one magazines being produced by term position while completing many people didn’t have that product — a weekly newspa- TAB for special events and spe- my studies at Beeson Divinity opportunity and what a privi- per — to becoming a full media ci c emphases. School at Samford University leged upbringing I had. group with multiple daily dead- quickly became home and the lines in 2020. Coming to the airwaves will obvious place where God had Also in my rst set of 24 be more podcasts available on called me to serve. years, you will nd two years The rst webpage came along the TAB Media channel as well spent studying at Northwest in 2000 and a fully functioning as more growth in the audio Community College and another website in 2004. TAB found its digest version of TAB for the ‘If God called me ...’ two years spent studying at the way onto social media platforms visually impaired. University of Alabama. in 2007–2008 and then launched While I had no idea how the the digital version of the print calling would work itself out And while I grew up in church publication in 2010. Going forward nor what all would appear along and part of a large extended the path, I trusted that if God family of believers, it wasn’t Augmented Reality was added And our online presence called me to do it, He would until my sophomore year of col- to the mix in 2015 and lasted for through social media (Face- guide me step by step — lege that I truly gave my heart a few years, along with several book, Twitter, Instagram, You- and He has been faithful. and life to Christ. attempts at live streaming and Tube), web resources and the video newscasting. digital version of the paper will He has provided continuous It also was during college that no doubt continue to adapt to opportunities to learn and grow, I surrendered to a call to full- A robust new multilevel web- that constantly changing realm. and He has put many amazing time Christian service, which site was developed in 2016 mentors and co-workers in my led to a search for what that along with the debut of a new What changes will we see in life to teach me along the way. meant. logo and rebranding effort. the next 24 years? I’m not sure, but I’m con dent we are ready The deep friendships formed After college graduation, I In 2018, the TAB News radio to gure it out step by step. PAGE 4 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / JANUARY 30, 2020 OPINION

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Distracted by phones, people miss message Although missionaries have By Pastor Michael J. Brooks less visits for the church when I Many public schools have institut- very different life experiences Siluria Baptist Church, Alabaster competed with blaring televisions. ed cellphone policies. For example, and challenges, they are still ecently I visited with a lady One training program many of us one local high school decrees cell like us — they are people who recuperating in the hospital took back in the day suggested try- phones must not be visible in class are desperate for connection. Rfrom a very serious illness. ing to sit between the person and unless teachers give permission for As friends, family and mem- While she told me about what the television, or saying, “I’m inter- research. The policy is for a reason. bers of local churches, we she had faced and how God rupting your program — can I come We’ve seen the diminishing of need to give them a listening brought her through, one of her back later?” verbal skills among our youth. A re- ear for connection and com- adult children never looked up Now, of course, a viewer can click cent survey suggests that for the rst munity. There is no way we from her phone. “pause” or “record” and not miss time, Americans now communicate could ever fully understand As I prepared to offer prayer, I anything. But we have new competi- more online than face-to-face. what they have experienced wondered if I should, for the rst tion today — the cellphone. Research shows people are prone on the missions eld, but it time ever, ask the daughter to put Statistics say 96% of Americans to be more direct, often angrier and doesn’t mean we can’t try. her phone away so we could pray. It own one. An estimated 81% of those less grammatically precise online Skyler Womack reminded me of the times we used to are smartphones. No one is ready to than in person. In this way, online Minister of Missionary Care say, “Can we turn the television off return to the wall phone or the party communication can be like an anon- Houston’s FBC so we can pray together?” line, but it’s sad that common cour- ymous survey. Years ago when home visits were tesy is often elusive when it comes Many churches have instituted more common, I remember count- to phone usage. policies too, posting announcements in their programs about turning off electronic devices or asking minis- Identity is something that ters to request this. our Creator alone can bestow Letters to the Editor Funeral directors also make this on us. As we journey through In the Jan. 9 “My Rashionale” reading plan, The Bible Recap request before services in their cha- this life, we may catch glimps- column, you listed quali cations with Tara-Leigh Cobble by D- pels. I conducted a funeral last year es of who we are — sinner, for ministers as a nonessential Group. in which a participant’s phone rang servant, manager or consumer of the faith. However, the New The chronological Bible read- three separate times before he got — but these are only broken Testament has rather speci c ing plan is accompanied by a the idea to switch it off. images in a dim mirror. Our quali cations for ministers in 7–9 minute daily podcast in However, cellphone use is hard to true selves ... will only be re- vealed when we are fully with Timothy, as well as in other which Cobble recaps each day’s police in churches. Many use smart- God. books. reading. Each time we start a phones as their Scripture, enjoying Skye Jethani David Branham new book, she links to the corre- 30 or more translations and a larger “With: Reimagining the Mount Olive, Ala. sponding Bible Project video. font with a single click. Way You Relate to God” This plan makes the Bible so But it’s wrong to frivolously text I loved the recent articles on understandable. I did it last year, or visit Facebook while hymns of The Bible Project and Bible and I’m doing it again this year praise are sung and the word of God reading plans for 2020. because I learned so much. proclaimed. When we do that, our I have been watching videos I highly recommend it! priorities are askew. God’s work done in God’s from The Bible Project in con- Sarah Gill Smartphones are wonderful tools, way will never lack God’s junction with my daily Bible TAB customer relations but like other tools, they must be supplies. used courteously and responsibly. Hudson Taylor 19th century Christian Share online or email [email protected] missionary to China JANUARY 30, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 5 OPINION Let God’s promises shine on your problems. CORRIE TEN BOOM Writer, Holocaust survivor

Ministry can become an idol if Pray for our churches and volun- Whether our issues are theo- you let it. God hates idols. God de- teers [in Puerto Rico] that as oppor- logical, cultural, methodological or stroys idols. I prayed for divine bal- tunities to share the gospel open up, personal, always choose to honor ance before I said yes to this assign- we take them. I keep reminding our God in everything — including the ment. I don’t have to be the vessel volunteers that though we are here way we conduct ourselves online. Samford University photo preaching every Sunday, teaching helping to meet needs, our hope is to Defaming, demeaning or degrading Andrew Westmoreland is every Bible study or solving every be able to have the chance to share others is unbiblical and unchristian president of Samford University. problem. That’s where equipping the gospel. in every way. Choose to bless others leaders comes into play. Love them Jonathan Santiago with your words and actions. A good day well and serve them well, and they Send Relief missionary Ronnie Floyd, president and CEO will love and serve others well. Puerto Rico Executive Committee of the at work Pastor Dwayne Rembert Southern Baptist Convention have no recollection of Flatline Church at Chisholm As brothers and sisters in Christ, where I encountered the Montgomery we are to, as Philippians 2:4 says, There’s no place God cannot give I quote nor of the author, but consider others better than our- the victory. Don’t ever feel like several years ago these lines Forgive us for allowing our busy- selves. So what hurts you should you’ve hit a dead-end wall. God is stuck with me: “The day is ness to squeeze You out of our hurt me and what hurts me should able to give victory anywhere, any- over, and I am leaving the of- schedules and lives. Give us a pas- hurt you. time we look to Him and ask. ce with a tremendous sense of sion to know You better. Pastor Derwin Gray William “Dub” Henry Jackson Jr. accomplishment. What have I Shirley Crowder Transformation Church (1924–2020), Texas achieved?” Facebook Indian Land, S.C. Pioneer of partnership missions Through the years I’ve real- ized that I do not gain a sense of accomplishment by return- ing hundreds of email mes- sages or sitting through endless meetings, although these are important pieces of work that require my active participation. As adults we learn, sooner or @DBoneSnyder from @SEBTS has added to how I @TrevinWax later, the discipline demanded Got a call today from a former think and prepare. Women, let me The church is the public truth of our jobs, regardless of our student of mine, informing me of encourage you to pursue continual of Jesus Christ, and also the pub- vocational calling. his recent call into full-time minis- theological training. lic goodness and public beauty of But what does constitute a try. If you are a student pastor, keep God’s plan of redemption. — Kevin tremendous sense of accom- Vanhoozer plishment for me at the end of up the investment. You may not see @randyalcorn much reward in the present, but you a day? I can answer that ques- may get calls like that in the future. God tells us to prepare for eter- tion in three points. nity by using our short todays to @MattSmethurst First, to be faithful. Faithful exchange earthly treasures for heav- There are only two ways of dying. in relationships to others and We can die in faith or we can die in @SWBTS enly ones. In heaven we’ll worship faithful to God. our sins. — R.C. Sproul “Our institutions, our ministries, God with people of every tribe and Second, to listen. Listen- our churches must model ways nation. We’ll say thanks to them and ing for needs and concerns, for stories of triumph and for that we are able to be builders of they’ll say thanks to us for acts of @LifeWay the soul, not destroyers of the soul; echoes of wisdom in the voices faithfulness done for Christ. “As you’re looking to recruit lead- places where there is real hope and ers in your church, understand that of those I encounter. healing for the hurts.” you need a process. This process is Third, to act. Sometimes one — @AdamGreenway @micahfries your leadership development path- small action, produced through Leading through any changes or way as you begin your small group faithfulness and in response to listening, offers enough inspi- strategy requires relational capital. journey.” — @SteveGladen @LoriMMcDaniel ration to sustain me through Teaching is not a new thing for It is imperative that you develop endless meetings and address- me. But as I’m getting ready to strong relationships across the con- @Summerchele71 ing the demands of an over- speak at @brainerdbaptist women’s gregation to lead well. Spend time “We can’t be new creations if ev- owing inbox. conference, I’m very aware of the on relationships as soon as possible erything stays the same.” —Andrew Westmoreland richness my seminary education when you get to the church. — Bob Goff PAGE 6 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / JANUARY 30, 2020 BIVOCATIONAL/COVOCATIONALpastors Serving God in the marketplace and in the church

Common calling offers benefits of financial stability, greater community awareness By Margaret Colson Serving in his position with The Alabama Baptist BSCLN for almost two years, ike Perrigin works Understanding bivo/covo ministries Wright has been a part of discus- as a machinist at the sions regarding the terminology de- University of Ala- od has called all of us to bama Baptist State Board of Mis- scribing ministers who work other bama and has pas- Gunique paths within His sions. “A bivocational pastor of- jobs in addition to their ministerial tored Chapel Hill kingdom. No two pastors ten is hoping to grow that positions; he offered “multivoca- MBaptist Church, a 150-year-old-plus are alike. No two minis- church to a point that it’s tional” as yet another descriptive congregation in rural Fayette Coun- tries are alike. going to be fully funded, term. ty, for a little more than ve years. When it comes to bivo- but a covocational pastor “In my experience,” he said, Jason Harris is a distributor of cational and covocational knows he’s going to con- “there is very little difference (in the Western wear to stores throughout ministries, one of the key tinue to be a lawyer and terms). I have spoken to different the southeast and recently was or- things we need to remem- a pastor or an accountant individuals who espouse different dained and accepted the pastorate of ber is not every pastor and a pastor. He’s going de nitions, but it always boils down historic Greenwood Baptist Church, is hoping to become a to share his time.” to individuals supplementing their BARNHART just across Alabama’s border in the full-time pastor, said Rick For more information, income through an alternate means Florida Panhandle, a small church Barnhart, director of the contact Barnhart at 800- along with their ministry position.” with members coming from Ala- of ce of associational missions 264-1225 or rbarnhart@alsbom. From his perspective, he said, bama, Florida and Georgia. and church planting for the Ala- org. (TAB) “Those who do the work don’t re- Grounded in Scripture ally care what you call them just Both ministers serve as bivo- director of the Bivocational and pastor. Some were schoolteachers, as long as they are called and rec- cational pastors — serving their Small Church Leadership Network some were doing other things and ognized for their work within the churches while also working secular (BSCLN). In Alabama, an estimated others were painting houses ... but Lord’s kingdom.” jobs. It’s an approach grounded in 55% of pastors are bivocational. that’s who poured into me. That’s Bene ts and challenges the Scripture, with the Apostle Paul The impact of Southern Baptists’ who really taught me the impor- While some have observed a described as a tentmaker in Acts 18. bivocational pastors is far-reaching. tance of the inerrancy of the Word, decrease overall in the number of And it’s an approach that has long In June 2019, Ronnie Floyd, presi- how to witness and share my faith. been embraced among Southern dent and CEO of the Southern Bap- men called to small church pastoral ... Thank you for what you have ministry, Wright said he sees an Baptists. While no “exact numbers” tist Convention (SBC) Executive done to help people like me.” are available, an estimated 50 to Committee, told a group of bivoca- increasing number of young min- Today, the term “bivocational,” isters who intentionally choose the 65% of churches, “with a probable tional pastors who gathered during long used to describe these min- error of up to 10%,” are served by the SBC annual meeting in Bir- bivocational path as their means of isters, is in some circles being re- doing ministry. pastors who also work in secular mingham, “My entire life as a child placed by the term “covocational.” jobs, said Joe Wright, executive and teenager, I had a bivocational “They are not bivocational be- Brad Brisco, director of bivoca- cause a speci c church requires it, tional church planting for the North but they see it as a way to achieve American Mission Board (NAMB), doing meaningful ministry while said the “language of covocation being invested within the commu- IN ALABAMA, AN ESTIMATED pushes against the temptation to nity which surrounds their place of compartmentalize different aspects ministry,” Wright said. of our lives.” Brisco believes ministry leaders 55% OF PASTORS Brisco believes “all vocations get to know community members contribute to God’s redemptive mis- better when they get out of the ARE BIVOCATIONAL. sion.” “church bubble.” Secular employ- JANUARY 30, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 7 ment is one way to do that. Wright ni cant challenge facing bivocation- agrees. al/covocational ministers is time. “The number one bene t re- Bivocational/covocational min- ported by bivocational pastors is a isters can feel time pressures in ac- closer daily relationship with lost complishing all they want to accom- people through their work in the plish in their churches, in caring for social marketplace,” said Wright. their families and in mentoring and Perrigin, who was recognized discipling others, Wright said. for his faithful service as a bivo- Perrigin understands the chal- cational pastor by lenge of time. He NAMB at the 2019 and his wife have SBC annual meet- “The number one two special needs ing, said serving as children, and his a bivocational pas- benefit reported by commute to his job tor is a “blessing.” bivocational pastors is a at the University Through his job at of Alabama takes the University of closer daily relationship a chunk of his pre- Alabama, he gets to cious time each day. meet a lot of peo- with lost people through “I don’t want to Photo by Marc Ira Hooks ple, he said, and at shortchange the North American Mission Board (NAMB) President Kevin Ezell (left) informs his church, he gets their work in the social church or God,” Mike Perrigin, bivocational pastor at Chapel Hill Baptist Church, Fayette, and to preach.” Build- he said. Still, after his wife, Kim, the June mortgage payment they made would be their last. ing relationships marketplace.” ve years he has The announcement that a donor had paid off their home was made at the and preaching are found his rhythm. NAMB Send Luncheon during the 2019 SBC annual meeting in Birmingham. two joys in his life, Joe Wright “It seems always to he said. executive director work out,” he said. work and train others for ministry. speaks with denominational leaders, A second bene t Bivocational and Small Church However, even “I’ve learned that God does not “They almost universally answer of bivocational/ Leadership Network the challenge of send us to do all these jobs our- that they see bivocationalism [as covocational min- limited time among selves but to train others to do opposed to full-time ministry posi- istry is nancial bivocational pas- them,” he said. tions] increasing in the near future. independence, which may give tors has the potential to strengthen With the rising costs of living cou- ministers greater “freedom to speak churches and lay leaders. Pastor Joe Looking ahead pled with the increasing numbers of prophetically without the threat McKeever, speaking to bivocational With its strong roots biblically smaller-attendance churches, this of losing their primary nancial pastors at the 2019 SBC annual and in Southern Baptist life, bivo- strategy of nancial support within stream,” Wright said. meeting, said his time as a bivoca- cational/covocational ministry is church leadership must by necessity With such bene ts, the most sig- tional pastor taught him to delegate here to stay, Wright said. When he increase in the future.” Covo church planting creates opportunities hurch planters often come to who has a clear calling in the mar- words, it is becoming a rst option, church. ... It is not until [people] C the role of pastor differently ketplace that they never intend to not a last resort,” Brisco wrote in actually incarnate into the local than others in ministry, which leave. They know God has called a blog post, “What is covocational context that they begin to under- may be one reason bivocational/ them to be a teacher, mechanic, church planting?” stand the values and interests of covocational ministry graphic designer or doctor, In his book “Covocational Church the people. It is dif cult to really is common among this and they desire to weave Planting,” Brisco writes, “Covoca- love and serve the people God has group. that calling into the plan to tional church planting creates oppor- sent us to from a distance,” Brisco For some church plant- plant a church.” tunities for leaders in the congrega- wrote in a blog post, “Covoca- ers “their hope is that Bivocational/covocational tion to use their God-given tional Church Planting.” the church will eventu- church planting provides talents to create a culture “Without a doubt” ally be able to provide nancial stability for the of participation rather than bivocational/covoca- the nancial support for church planter, the new one of spectatorship.” tional church planting the planter to leave his church and the church And, he adds, “per- will become increas- bivocational job to focus BRISCO planting entity, accord- haps the most signi cant ingly prevalent in the full-time on the church ing to Brisco. But among bene t of planting as a coming years, Brisco plant,” said Brad Brisco, director both bivocational and covocational bivocational leader is that said. of bivocational church planting church planters, holding a second it gives the planter greater “As we live in an for the North American Mission job is about more than a paycheck. opportunities to connect increasing missionary Board (NAMB). relationally with people in context, we will have For others that’s not the case. First option the community.” to plant more and more “A covocational church planter The decision to serve bivocation- Secular employment helps min- churches with bivo/covo planters. is one whose primary vocation is ally comes from the “conviction that istry leaders get out of the “church I think it will become one of the in the marketplace and [who] at bivocational church planting actu- bubble,” where they might spend best missiological and nancial the same time is called to start a ally provides a more desirable way most “of their time talking with strategies for church planting.” church. A ‘covo’ planter is one to plant a new church. ... In other church people about things of the (Margaret Colson) PAGE 8 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / JANUARY 30, 2020

On May 3, 2015, Conecuh Baptist Association held a dedi- cation ceremony for a historical marker set in place on the prop- erty. The marker is in memory of Alexander Travis, who was instrumental in the constitu- tion of several Southern Baptist churches in Conecuh County, as well as other churches in the surrounding counties and into Florida. Pictured are (l to r) Joey Rodgers, associational missions director for Conecuh Associa- tion; Lonette Berg, executive director of the Alabama Baptist Historical Commission (ABHC); Eugenia Brown, local historian and former director of missions for Conecuh Association (she held the rst full-time position); and Frances Hamilton, former ABHC representative who began the process of creating the marker (she died a little more than a year after the dedication).

Photo courtesy of Conecuh Baptist Association ‘Inspiration for our future’ ‘Father’ of Alabama Baptists leaves legacy of church planting, cooperation n 1835, First Baptist Church, behind the door and listened as Tra- sionaries,” said Berg, who told his people were inuenced for Christ be- Montgomery, was not in a vis prayed a passionate prayer for story to those present at the Alabama cause of Alexander Travis’ life and good spot. Church members repentance and unity. Devotie was so Baptist State Convention annual his legacy,” Berg said. were not getting along with moved that he came out from behind meeting in Daphne on Nov. 12. their pastor, James H. Devo- that door and walked down the aisle Travis started at least nine church- ‘Solid foundation’ Itie, and they’d written letters to ve with tears in his eyes and prayed for es, including Murder Creek Baptist Joey Rodgers, associational mis- sions director for Conecuh Associa- pastors to see if anyone would come a restoration of fellowship.” Church. It’s now called Belleville tion, said the legacy of a man like help them with some good old- And that’s just one way Travis Baptist Church, Evergreen, and it fashioned conict management. helped change Alabama’s spiritual Travis is “a solid foundation for our celebrated its 200th anniversary last present-day ministry.” Only one person responded — climate. In fact, in a lot of ways he year. When Travis died in 1852, he Alexander Travis. “Some may think of church plant- helped mold it from the ground up. had been a minister of the gospel for “He was a skilled peacemaker,” ing as a new concept, and yet that is said Lonette Berg, executive direc- Settled in Alabama 40 years, and he was buried in the what Alexander Travis did 200 years tor of the Alabama Baptist Historical Alabama wasn’t even a state when old cemetery of Beulah Baptist, an- ago,” Rodgers said. “He found dark Commission. “He made his way from Travis rst arrived in 1817 from other church he had served as pastor. places that needed light and started Conecuh County up to Montgomery, South Carolina. It would be two He’s now known as the father of a church to provide that light. I have and in order to maintain neutrality, he more years before that happened. Baptists in Alabama, and his story is heard that the past is the foundation refused to stay at the home of either He settled into south Alabama as a told on a historical marker right out- of the present, and that may be true; group. He stayed in a hotel.” farmer, circuit riding pastor, church side the Conecuh Baptist Association but I also believe that the past is the When Travis got there, he called a planter and associational moderator. of ce. inspiration for our future.” (Grace meeting to let everyone share his or When he made his rounds to “Hundreds, perhaps thousands of Thornton) her side of the story. But when that preach on the weekend, he would was done, the arguing was over — it strike out on foot if he could — his was time to talk to God. horse needed to rest from the week “[Alexander Travis] found dark places that needed “He called a prayer meeting, and of plowing. light and started a church to provide that light.” James Devotie said he wasn’t going “He was one of the messengers at to go to that meeting — but he did,” our rst state convention and was ap- Joey Rodgers Berg said. “He went and he stood pointed as one of our rst state mis- associational missions director, Conecuh Baptist Association JANUARY 30, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 9

Edmondson sees ministry as TAB MEDIA chance to be ‘peaceful mediator’ By Grace Thornton and I enjoy mentoring younger min- The Alabama Baptist isters.” en Edmondson says God has He says he never could have imag- taught him a lot of things over ined where the journey would take Bthe years, but one of them him when he surrendered to God’s is this — every church has unique call years ago. But he always knew it needs. And the biggest mission of an was a yes — and he says it also was associational missionary is to help a yes for his wife, Geraldine. Theology 101 each church deal with those needs. Together they committed to the He can remember one night while road God had laid out for them, and BIBLICAL THEOLOGY FOR PEOPLE IN THE PEW he was serving as director of mis- with con dence in his call, Edmond- sions for Limestone Baptist Associa- son drove down to Howard College What’s New? tion — a role he took on in 1999 — (now Samford University) from his when he went to preach at a church home in Gadsden one weekend to that had let its pastor go the tour the campus. A New Name week before. Finding a faculty member “The vote was 50 to 51 By Jerry Batson, Th.D. these terms to His followers in still at work, he asked if she Special to The Alabama Baptist John 15:14–15: “You are My to dismiss the pastor,” Ed- could enroll him. n thinking about new things in mondson said, noting that friends if you do whatever I com- “She said, ‘Well, since the opening weeks of this New mand you. No longer do I call you the split vote showed the you’re so adamant, I’ll give Year, Theology 101 has called state of the church. “They servants, for a servant does not you the admissions test,’ ” attention already to a New know what his master is doing, weren’t united on what they Edmondson said. “Then af- ICovenant, a New Commandment but I have called you friends.” needed.” ter she graded the test, she and a New Creation. This week So he got to work help- EDMONDSON asked me why I wanted to the focus turns to a New Name. Christians ing them pull things back come to school, and I told The impetus for this stems from It was years later that Jesus’ together. At their request, he her I wanted to get an educa- the statement in Acts 11:26: “And friends and followers began to be helped them rewrite their church’s tion. She told me I de nitely needed the disciples were rst called called by the new name Chris- constitution. one, but with my enthusiasm, she Christians in Antioch.” tians. Having taken note of the And as he served as their interim transformation of Christ’s follow- was going to recommend that they Until this notation, other names and they worked together, slowly ers in becoming new creations in let me in.” were attached to those associated Edmondson began to help them see Christ, onlookers labeled them They did — and it only made with Christ. One such name was where reconciliation might be need- as Christ-followers or Christ-like Edmondson’s con dence in his call disciples. This designation, of ed in the church. ones. This new name was an apt stronger. Years later when he inter- course, came to have a distinctive “I saw grown men go across the description of what was happen- viewed for the Limestone Associa- use for the 12 who were called aisle with tears in their eyes and ask ing to those who chose to commit tion position, he was certain it was apostles. However, the term dis- forgiveness from other church mem- themselves to Christ as the prom- where God was leading him. ciple also had the broad meaning bers,” he said. “When they voted on ised Messiah and Savior. “They asked how sure I was God of a student. their next decision after that, the vote This new descriptive term took was calling me there, and I said, ‘You Often in the Gospels the persons was 100%.” hold and has continued to be used can interview 100 men, but I know who crowded to hear Jesus are re- Through his 60 years of ministry what God’s will is for me,’ ” he said. for these two millennia. — a decade of bivocational pastor- ferred to as disciples or interested Sadly, some labeled as Chris- ates, 30 years of full-time pastoral Miracle moves of God learners. Luke 6:17 speaks of “a tians bear very little, if any, re- work, 20 years at Limestone Associ- He got the job and he saw God crowd of His disciples.” semblance to Christ. If following ation and 10 years of supply preach- move. While Edmondson was there, Followers Him at all, they are doing so only ing — Edmondson felt that God not only were churches reunited, Another name for those who at a great distance or somewhat con rmed over and over the need for he helped plant Clements Baptist associated with Christ was sim- half-heartedly. him to serve as a peaceful mediator. Church and Lindsay Lane Baptist ply followers. This designation Perchance we need in spirit to At one church where he was Church — stories that also involve applied to many interested or revisit Antioch and recapture that called, he was asked to tackle the miracle moves of God, he said. intrigued individuals who gath- older name so today’s Christians issue of helping to reunite a splin- “In all of the years, I never ques- ered around Him as He moved become known as committed tering youth program. At another, tioned the call of God,” Edmondson from place to place preaching and disciples. he was asked to shepherd a young said. “He is so faithful — what a teaching the good news of God’s minister who was resisting the staff’s Savior.” kingdom. Of course, it t at a Jerry Batson is leadership. One day, that young man Now after the loss of his wife in deeper level those who embraced a retired Alabama came to him in tears and said God recent years, he said he’s walking and embodied Jesus’ message Baptist pastor who also has served as had shown him he needed to get his through the valley of the shadow of about being “the Way, the Truth associate dean of spiritual life back on track. death — but he’s still doing ministry. and the Life” (John 14:6). Beeson Divinity “This journey, it’s been a bless- “I get to share what God has done Two other terms also became School at Samford ing,” Edmondson said. “Everywhere for me wherever the door opens. And apt designations for those follow- University and professor of several I went, I tried to simply say, ‘I’m He has been good,” Edmondson said, ers, namely friends and servants. schools of religion here as your servant; what are your giving glory “to the only wise God, Jesus Himself applied both of during his career. needs?’ I want to love them well, our Savior.” PAGE 10 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / JANUARY 30, 2020 AlabamaAlabama BaptistBaptist STATESTATE BOARDBOARD OFOF MISSIONSMISSIONS

ONEMISSION:TheGreatCommissionONEPROGRAM:TheCooperativeProgramMANYMINISTRIES:GreatCommissionMinistries

1 Peter 3:15

2020 STATE EVANGELISM CONFERENCE

Songwriter “I H W ?”

Michael Catt Vance Pitman

Pastor Pastor Related Events] (    ) S  B C H C Feb 23: D M Albany, Ga. Las Vegas, Nev. M  D  Feb 24: R  G  Z C   Brett Kunkle Robert Smith, Jr. M ’ W  SPEAKERS Founder/CEO Preaching Professor L  M  B  D S S H Birmingham C    Tustin, Calif. H P  L  

Don Wilton [ Sean McDowell Pastor Apologetics Speaker and Author F B C S  San Juan Capistrano, Calif. Spartanburg, S.C.

Daniel Crews Andrew Peterson Vocalist Vocalist D  C  M  Nashville, Tenn. Starke, Fla. Kenneth Loomis Worship Leader Frank Jones H  Pianist

MUSICIANS B C F J  M  Montgomery Birmingham ALSBOM.ORG/SEC Rick Lance Sammy Gilbreath Daniel Wilson Executive Director Director, Evangelism Co-Director, Evangelism A   B A   B A   B S B  M S B  M S B  M Prattville Prattville Prattville JANUARY 30, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 11

Surrounded by more than 38,000 fresh owers, Kayne West and the Sunday Service Choir headlined one session of the TAB Strength to Stand youth evangelism conference. MEDIA ‘All about Him’ Kayne West headlines Scott Dawson’s Strength to Stand Conference in Tenn. anye West may “Selah,” “Follow God” and have drawn them, “Closed on Sunday.”

but a crowd of West was joined by the Photos courtesy of Scott Dawson Evangelistic Association K more than 17,000 Sunday Service Choir, which heard the gospel in song led the audience in several Kanye’s heart, but I can tell Service Choir along with ber 2019 when the confer- and sermon at this year’s songs, including “Ultralight you it was all about Him, not Kanye’s pastor, Adam Ty- ence had to cancel previous Strength to Stand Confer- Beam,” “Every Hour” and him.” son, join us for the confer- headliner John Crist’s ap- ence, an annual event of the “Revelation 19:1,” along West’s pastor, ence to tell the pearance after he admitted Birmingham-based Scott with traditional hymns in- Los Angeles- world about to “destructive and sinful” Dawson Evangelistic Asso- cluding “How Great Thou based Adam Ty- Jesus.” behavior. ciation. Art” and “Jesus Loves Me.” son, also spoke Other artists The Scott Dawson Evan- West, one of the most crit- on the story of featured at the gelistic Association has con- ically acclaimed musicians ‘One focus’ the prodigal son. conference in- ducted the Strength to Stand of the 21st century, per- “38,000 fresh owers, “We were so cluded Hillsong conference since 1994 in the formed Jan. 19 during two 12,000 people, 100 choir thankful that Young & Free, Pigeon Forge area, serving services held at the LeConte members, one focus — Je- Kanye West and Lecrae and Jon- more than 250,000 students Center in Pigeon Forge, sus,” Carrie Adams, a mem- his team were athan Edwards. since the conference began. Tennessee. West performed ber of New Harmony Baptist willing to come Dawson re- To watch a video from several songs from his album Church, He in, posted on to Strength to The service included ported that some this year’s Strength to Stand “Jesus is King,” including Facebook. “I can’t speak for Stand this year,” songs from Kayne West’s album ‘Jesus is King.’ 600 attendees Conference, visit TAB Me- said Scott Daw- made decisions dia on YouTube. son, founder of for Christ during the confer- For more information the Strength to Stand Con- ence. about the conference and ference. “It was an honor to West joined the Strength related events, visit strength- have Kanye and the Sunday to Stand lineup in Novem- tostand.com. (TAB) PAGE 12 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / JANUARY 30, 2020 NEWS stories you should know 3 Al Shabaab rebels kill Protections for student 3 Christians in Kenya prayer emphasized omali Al Shabaab rebels killed he Trump administration an- Sthree Christian teachers in Tnounced several moves on northeast Kenya on Jan. 13, calling Religious Freedom Day, Jan. 16, them in dels before shooting them, aimed at supporting the rights of according to a teacher who escaped. religious people, including students The attackers arrived at the school who report their freedom to pray has in Kamuthe as the teachers were been violated. sleeping, ordered them out of their Nine federal agencies joined the rooms and separated the ones who president in af rming “constitution- had come from other parts of Kenya, ally protected prayer” rules in place assuming they were Christian. since 2003 when issued by then- School leaders refused to provide President George W. Bush. the identities of the victims out of Students gathered in the Oval fear of reprisals from Al Shabaab, Of ce shared stories of being told but an area pastor said the victims to hide when they wanted to pray Facebook photo attended his church after coming during noninstructional time and Massive wild res have burned 16 million acres in Australia, and to the area at the start of the school being bullied for discussing their though recent rains have helped in the re ghting effort, the country year last September. observance of the Jewish Sabbath or has another month of summer left. Australian Baptist Ministries and Kenya is ranked No. 44 and Soma- wearing a Muslim hijab. the Baptist Union of Victoria are providing aid to affected churches and residents, including coordinated calls for prayer and giving lia No. 3 on Christian support group The administration also said it through state Baptist associations. An international call for aid has Open Doors’ 2020 World Watch List plans to remove some requirements not been issued, according to Baptist Global Response. (BP) of the 50 countries where it is most on faith-based social service dif cult to be a Christian. (MS) providers. (AP)

— NEWSBRIEFS — — NEWSBRIEFS — Mobile worship pastor, founding people” — before Wolfe called him to help him The terrorists are suspected in the Dec. 26, member of Luke 4:18 Fellowship retires start Luke 4:18 Fellowship in 2008. 2019, murder of a Christian woman and her “We’ve made a lifetime of serving together two bridesmaids as they traveled from Borno to Ed Keyes felt called to music minis- now,” Keyes said of Wolfe. “It’s a wonderful Adamawa for her wedding, ordering the women try as a teenager — he loved singing in thing to have a pastor you can work with as a from a vehicle and beheading them as they pro- the choir and his church leadership be- team.” fessed Christianity, Morning Star News reported gan encouraging him to think about it. In this new season, Keyes and his wife, Jan, Jan. 13. Eight other But even though he loved music, it was never are planning to move to Florida to be closer to Christians also were the driving force behind his their children and grandchildren. killed that day, ac- call, he said. “It’s been a wonderful, wonderful lifetime of cording to Naga “It’s not just about building Williams Moham- songs and music for a service ministry,” he said. “God’s just blessed every- where we’ve been.” (Grace Thornton) med, chairman of — it’s about people, helping the Borno State them grow and learn how to Boko Haram kills Nigerian pastor chapter of CAN. Screenshot by Morningstar News worship and praise the Lord ef- On Dec. 24, Boko fectively,” said Keyes, who re- amid upsurge in violence Haram killed 11 Christian captives in Borno, tired Jan. 19 as worship pastor Boko Haram insurgents killed Nige- Today.NG reported. of Luke 4:18 Fellowship, Mo- KEYES rian pastor Lawan Andimi on Jan. 20. Nigeria is the most violent country for perse- bile. “A worship leader needs to Andimi, who had been kidnapped by cuted Christians, according to the 2020 World be a pastor, a minister, and use music as a way the terrorist group Jan. 3, led a local Watch List released recently by Open Doors to live out that calling.” chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria USA. The list ranks Nigeria at No. 12 among During his ministry, he served 31 years at Cot- (CAN), according to Today.NG. the top 50 countries where it’s hardest to be a tage Hill Baptist Church, Mobile, 25 of those Boko Haram, loyal to the Islamic State, is Christian. years serving with Pastor Fred Wolfe. After that, resurging in northeast Nigeria, with splinter According to Open Doors, Nigeria led the he served ve years at First Baptist Church, groups believed responsible for several deaths world in Christian martyrdoms, with 1,350 con- Opelika — “a great church with such loving since December, according to news reports. rmed, and in Christian abductions, with 224 JANUARY 30, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 13 NEWS

tional and local missionaries. Lunch will be pro- MADISON ASSOCIATION vided. Micah Gandy is pastor. 4Tyler Twombly is the new associate stu- CALHOUN ASSOCIATION dent minister at Whitesburg Baptist Church, Hunts- News 4Calhoun Baptist Association will host a ville. He previously served Church Safety and Security Seminar on Feb. 11 in North Carolina. He and from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at Parker Memorial Baptist near you his wife, Brittany, have one Church, Anniston. Mark Wake eld, disaster re- child. lief and chaplaincy ministries strategist with the AUTAUGA ASSOCIATION Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions, will MARSHALL 4Camellia Baptist Church, Prattville, be the instructor. The seminar is ASSOCIATION will host a deacons/pastors and wives banquet open free of charge to churches 4Sardis Baptist Church, TWOMBLY Feb. 10 at 6:30 p.m. John Temple will be the with existing safety and security Boaz, will host a spring guest speaker and Annel Robayna, associate in teams and churches desiring to revival Feb. 9–12. Bob Pitman will be the the of ce of associational missions and church establish a team. Roger Will - guest evangelist and Ken Patterson will lead planting at the Alabama Baptist State Board of more is associational missions worship. Sunday services will begin at 10 Missions, will provide special music. All active strategist.4Golden Springs a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and inactive deacons, pastors Baptist Church, Anniston, services begin at 7 p.m. For more information and wives are invited. RSVP recently recognized James call 256-593-7762. Mike Goforth is pastor. by Feb. 6 to 334-365-7802 “Sonny” Conaway for 60 years CONAWAY or ksegura@autaugabaptist. of perfect Sunday School atten- MONTGOMERY ASSOCIATION org. Rick Marshall is interim dance. Eileen Mitchell from the Alabama Baptist 4Thorington Road Baptist Church, pastor.4Michael Gillyard State Board of Missions presented him with a Montgomery, will host the Montgomery is the new pastor of Au- plaque from the of ce of Sunday School and dis- Baptist Association Pinewood Derby on Feb. taugaville Baptist Church. cipleship. Roland Brown is pastor. 9. Registration begins at 1:30 p.m. Open to He has served on staff at elementary age children. Michael Trull is GILLYARD Autaugaville Baptist for three COFFEE ASSOCIATION pastor and Neal Hughes is director of 4Calvary Baptist Church, Enterprise, and years as director of ministry missions. First Baptist Church, New Brockton, will host services. He and his wife, Tanya, have four joint revival services Feb. 9–12. Don Graham will children. WEST CULLMAN ASSOCIATION be guest evangelist and Danny Williams will lead 4West Cullman Baptist Association will BETHLEHEM ASSOCIATION worship. Sunday and Monday services will be host The Power of a Praying Church, a con- 4First Baptist Church, Monroeville, will held at Calvary Baptist at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m., re- ference on prayer in the local church, Feb. host an associational children’s missions ex- spectively. Tuesday and Wednesday services will 6 at 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. at the association plosion Feb. 8 from 9 a.m. to noon. The event be held at First, New Brockton, at 7 p.m. Kerry of ce. Director of Missions Dennis Trimble is open to children kindergarten through sixth Mitchell is pastor of Calvary Baptist, and Nathan will speak. For more information call 256- grade. Come hear about missions from interna- Sims is pastor of First, New Brockton. 734-7383.

— NEWSBRIEFS — con rmed, during the list’s reporting period Joe Windle told Alabama Media Group he The case involves a Montana scholarship pro- from November 2018 to October 2019. (TAB) found no wrongdoing because the baptism was gram for private K–12 education that provided not conducted by the school. a dollar-for-dollar tax credit to individuals who Reeltown baptisms draw complaint Windle said he knew about the baptism, donate to organizations that provide scholarship from religious freedom group since he had spoken with Coach Matt Johnson money to students in private schools. Though the scholarships could be used at both The baptism of 26 Reeltown High ahead of time. He said he approved as long as secular and religious schools, almost all the re- School football players on the 50-yard- it wasn’t a team requirement for everyone to at- cipients attend religious schools, which make up line in their football stadium has drawn tend — and that it wasn’t sponsored by school employees. 70% of all private schools in Montana. complaints from a group who pushes Ultimately, the for separation of church and state. “The coach told me it would happen, and I told the coach he couldn’t be involved,” said Montana Supreme After the players were baptized in a tub on Court struck down the eld at their request in November 2019, the Windle, who did not attend the baptisms. “I said that I had no problem with it, to be sure they get the entire tax credit Wisconsin-based Freedom from Religion Foun- program for all dation demanded an two pastors to do it and to be sure that they do it and that (Coach Johnson) stay out of it and private schools, re- investigation. ligious and nonreli- Michael Altman, that’s what we did.” Several other students had their baptisms at gious alike. supremecourt.gov a religious stud- The state said the their churches, Windle said. (AP) ies professor at tax credit conicted with a provision in Mon- the University of Supreme Court hears case regarding tana’s constitution that bars state aid to religious Alabama, said the schools. Montana is among 37 states with simi- Wisconsin group “is Facebook photo public funding for religious education lar “no aid” clauses for religious education. doing its best to call The U.S. Supreme Court heard argu- School choice advocates are asking the Court attention to a practice it nds unconstitutional ments Jan. 22 in a case that could make to revive the scholarship aid program in its en- by trying to take a local story national.” it easier to use public money to pay for tirety. A decision in the case is expected by late Tallapoosa County Schools Superintendent religious schooling in many states. June. (AP, TAB) PAGE 14 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / JANUARY 30, 2020

Daphne coffee house uses customers’ TAB CLASSIFIEDS

Place a classified ad for $1 per word. tips to help area ministries, nonprofits For more information call 205-870-4720, (continued from page 1) ext. 102, or email [email protected]. Since then the tip jar has blessed the Daphne com- lumbiana, Alabama, is seeking munity, funding contribu- CHURCH POSITIONS an assistant director for Church tions to a wide range of SENIOR PASTOR and Community Ministries. Job local, regional and national Woodridge Baptist, a large description, application and SBC church in west Mobile, submission information located organizations and minis- is prayerfully seeking God’s at https://shelbybaptist.org/ tries. leadership as we search for our job-opportunities. Please submit new senior pastor. Located in by Jan. 31. ‘Actively love’ heavily populated west Mobile, Woodridge is positioned for BUSINESS “That’s one of my favor- revival and explosive growth. ite things: being able to If God leads, please submit FOR SALE NEW & USED work at a place where we resumé with references to: STAIR LIFTS [email protected] Lift chairs, power wheelchairs, actively love on people and or Woodridge Baptist Church, car lifts, scooters and walk- our community,” said Angie Photo courtesy of Mallory Friese ATTN: Kerry Woods, Chairman in-tubs. We service Alabama Middleton, the shop’s gen- Soul Caffeine Coffee House owners Eric and Mallory Friese Pastor Search, 2700 Schillinger 1-800-682-0658. eral manager. “Watching so and Lynne and Gabe Holloway opened the business in Daphne Road S, Mobile, AL 36695. in 2015 with the vision to connect people with great coffee. SIGNS many being affected by the PASTOR donations (and) tips of our Fairhope Avenue Baptist NEED A NEW CHURCH Church is seeking a full-time SIGN? customers is a blessing.” traf cking victim, allowing — and free coffee and hot pastor. Send resumés to: Reliable Signs Services, a full- Tip jar funds have al- the victim’s parents to y chocolate — at the Roberts- Fairhope Avenue Baptist service sign company located in lowed Soul Caffeine to help to their daughter’s location dale Coliseum. Church, 8717 Fairhope Ave., Alabama for 25 years, is ready homeless and low-income Fairhope, AL 36532, or email to help you grow your church and bring her home. Soul Caffeine also has to: [email protected]. sign ministry. From digital mes- families in the region with Soul Caffeine’s recent partnered with Dumas sage signs to traditional signs. basic needs through part- MINISTER OF MUSIC & Reliable Signs handles the de- Latte Art Throwdown Wesley Community Center EDUCATION ners like Eastern Shore sign, fabrication and installation helped the to stock apartments at the First Baptist Church, Clanton, statewide. www.reliablesigns. Baptist Church shop bring Sybil H. Smith Family Vil- is seeking a full-time minister of com. 1-800-729-6844 or 205- and the local music and education. Send re- 664-0955. awareness to lage, a nonpro t housing sumés to: First Baptist Church, Family Prom- human traf- community helping home- 210 Sixth St. North, Clanton, TRAVEL/VACATION ise team. cking and less women and families AL 35045 or email resumés to: Everyone raised addi- become self-suf cient. office@clantonfirstbaptist.org. AFFORDABLE BEACHSIDE involved tional funds Soul Coffeine has provided MINISTER OF MUSIC/ CONDOS in the cof- YOUTH Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, for the cause, items like dishes, bedding, Alabama. Rent direct from fee shop has First Baptist Church, Leeds, Friese said. small appliances and tow- Alabama, is seeking full-time Christian family owners. Lowest been blessed Following els, completely funding one congregational minister of prices on the beach for over 25 through per- music/youth minister with years. Call Donna: 251-656- Hurricane Mi- apartment once a year. The 4935, Don: 251-752-2366, sonal involve- coffee shop’s staff works other ministerial duties as chael in 2018, assigned by senior pastor. Eddie: 205-556-0368 or www. ment with many storm with the center, shopping Email resumé to: rbras699@ gulfshorescondos.com. several of the aol.com. Photo courtesy of Mallory Friese victims sought for supplies and helping to LOG CABIN RENTAL outreach proj- Soul Caffeine is a gather- refuge in set up apartments. STUDENT PASTOR Lake Guntersville area, beauti- ects funded ing place where coffee is Daphne, Fri- Thorington Road Baptist ful view and fully furnished. by tips, Friese served with attention to the ‘See a bigger picture’ Church is looking for a full-time Discounts to ministers. Log on ese said. The to www.paradisevista.net to see said. detail of the drink and to Friese said the Soul Caf- student pastor. Please send the life of the customer. coffee house resumés to: michael@trbaptist. pictures. Call for reservations at One of their partnered with feine team is like family, org. 205-540-3600. most touching V60 Commu- working together to support projects involved their work nity Church, which got its each other, and they strive OTHER POSITIONS FOR SALE to extend the same sense with Eye Heart World, an start at Soul Caffeine, and DIRECTOR OF MISSIONS CHURCH BUS organization that combats a local Target store to ll of value and worth to each The Coosa River Baptist Asso- 48-passenger, 1994 Prevost H3-40 for sale. New batteries, human traf cking, she said. the store’s coffee truck with other that they offer to cus- ciation is an association of 66 tomers. churches in Talladega County. good tires. $12,000. 256-543- Coffee house tips were used supplies. Store employees The DOM serves as mission 7300. to purchase airline tickets and church volunteers then Middleton added that strategist, leader of the associa- for the parents of a young distributed the supplies hearing customer’s stories tional body and ministers to the MINISTRIES and offering them a safe churches and pastors of the as- sociation. Ministry experience SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN place to open up has deep- in the local church with active BOOK EXPO “That’s one of my favorite things: being ened her relationship with participation in associational The second annual Southern Jesus and shown her how ministry required. College/ Christian Book Expo will much people really need seminary education preferred. be held at Lakeside Baptist able to work at a place where we actively Email cover letter and resumé Church, Birmingham, on Feb. Him. to: [email protected]. 1 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For love on people and our community.” “It gives me the opportu- more information, search for ASSISTANT DIRECTOR the Southern Christian Book nity to pray for them, love FOR CCM Expo on Facebook or email ANGIE MIDDLETON on them and see a bigger Shelby Baptist Association, Co- [email protected]. general manager, Soul Caffeine Coffee House picture.” JANUARY 30, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 15 World Watch List Open Doors USA: Technology advancing Christian persecution in many nations he use of technol- were detained without trial, ogy is advancing arrested, sentenced or im- Top 20 and strengthening prisoned. Attacks on church- T Christian perse- es and Christian buildings countries where cution, according to Open totaled 9,488. Doors USA CEO David Topping the list for the it’s hardest to Curry. 18th consecutive year is be a Christian “Christian faith is under North Korea, where some 300,000 Christians are per- 1. North Korea attack, and the methods of 2. Afghanistan that persecution are becom- secuted under the regime of ing more sophisticated and leader Kim Jong-un. 3. Somalia thus pose a greater threat,” “If North Korean Chris- 4. Libya Curry said Jan. 15 in releas- tians are discovered, they are 5. Pakistan ing the organization’s 2020 deported to labor camps as 6. Eritrea political criminals or even World Watch List of coun- Unsplash.com 7. Sudan tries where persecution is killed on the spot,” according 8. Yemen most severe. to the Open Doors report. Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Mal- While North Korea claims 9. Iran The World Watch List an- “Driven by the state, Chris- dives, Iraq, Egypt, Algeria, the top spot in overall Chris- 10. India nually ranks countries based tian persecution in North Ko- Uzbekistan, Myanmar, Laos, tian persecution, Nigeria 11. Syria on violence and systemic rea is extreme and meeting Vietnam, Turkmenistan, remains the most physically 12. Nigeria other Christians to worship is pressure in ve spheres of China, Mauritania, Central violent country for Chris- 13. Saudi Arabia nearly impossible unless it’s Christian life: the church, African Republic, Morocco, tians to live in, Open Doors done in complete secrecy.” 14. Maldives community, family, private Qatar, Burkina Faso, Mali, said, with violent Islamic 15. Iraq life and national involve- Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Nepal, extremism especially active ‘There’s hope’ there and spreading to other 16. Egypt ment. Rounding out the top 10, Jordan, Tunisia, Kazakhstan, 17. Algeria Open Doors counted 260 Turkey, Brunei, Bangladesh, areas of sub-Saharan Africa. in descending rank, are Af- Radical Islam is also 18. Uzbekistan million Christians who ex- ghanistan, Somalia, Libya, Ethiopia, Malaysia, Colom- spreading violence and fear 19. Myanmar perienced high levels of per- Pakistan, Eritrea, Sudan, Ye- bia, Oman, Kuwait, Kenya, in Southeast and South Asia 20. Laos secution in the 50 countries men, Iran and India. Bhutan, Russian Federation, with “completely unex- listed, 2,983 who were killed Completing the list, in United Arab Emirates, Cam- for their faith and 3,711 who descending rank, are Syria, eroon, Indonesia and Niger. pected atrocities” including that Christians are build- Easter attacks on churches ing community even in the and hotels. midst of this persecution, In China, which ranks No. and people, even at high 23 on the list, the govern- government levels, are talk- ment has installed surveil- ing about it, recognizing that lance cameras and employs this is a problem,” he said. facial recognition technol- He encouraged Christians ogy to track Christians more to share the persecution list, than ever, punishing them to read the report’s stories of for their Christian lives. individual persecution and “Iran [ranked 9th] is in- to pledge to pray weekly terested in this technology,” for the persecuted church at Curry said, “and you can ODUSA.org/pledge, which imagine how, in the hands offers an app with prayer of an Islamic regime, this requests and reports of an- could be a massive tragedy” swered prayer. for people of other faiths. “We’re asking people to Christian persecution take a prayer pledge, once a “is worse in every theater week, to pray for persecuted around the world,” Curry believers,” he said. “We’d said, but he reported hope love for tens of millions of despite the trends and spik- Christians to be praying for ing numbers. the persecuted church on a “I think there’s hope in weekly basis.” (BP, TAB)

To view the full report visit www.opendoorsusa. org/christian-persecution/world-watch-list. PAGE 16 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / JANUARY 30, 2020 Alabama Baptist STATE BOARD OF MISSIONS

ONEMISSION:TheGreatCommissionONEPROGRAM:TheCooperativeProgramMANYMINISTRIES:GreatCommissionMinistries

Event and location is followed by SBOM contact person and MARK YOUR extension. For more information CALENDARS on these events, call 1-800-264- 1 IN 4 1225 or (334) 613-2 + the extension, or visit alsbom.org. JANUARY 31-2/1 Alabama Bible Drill Retreat, Shocco Springs, ALABAMA Belinda Stroud, ext. 255 31-2/1 Activators Training, WorldSong, Cook Springs, Laura Glass, ext. 226 CHILDREN FEBRUARY 1/31-2/1 Activators Training, WorldSong, **Listed on January calendar 1/31-2/1 Alabama Bible Drill, Shocco Springs **Listed on January calendar STRUGGLES 9 Racial Reconciliation Sunday, Keith Hinson, ext. 289 11 Minister’s Tax Conference, FBC Decatur, Lee Wright, ext. 241 13 Minister’s Tax Conference, Birmingham Baptist Association, WITH Birmingham Lee Wright, ext. 241 15 Children’s Missions Day, Trish Jackson, ext. 224 16 Hunger Sunday, Jim Swedenburg, ext. 283 18 Minister’s Tax Conference, Mobile Baptist Association, HUNGER. Mobile, Lee Wright, ext. 241 20 Minister’s Tax Conference, Eastern Shore Baptist Church, Daphne, Lee Wright, ext. 241 21-22 Pursue, First Baptist Church, Montgomery, Mike Nuss, ext. 276 21-22 Bivocational Minister/Spouse Retreat, Linda Hicks, ext. 263 22 Renew…a day away with friends, Westwood Baptist Church, Alabaster, Amanda Armstrong, ext. 223 23-24 State Evangelism Conference, Heritage Baptist Church, Montgomery, Lori McGough, ext. 258 23 Disciple Making Ministries Dinner, Heritage Baptist Church, Montgomery, Daniel Edmonds, ext. 285 24 Reaching Gen Z, Heritage Baptist Church, Montgomery, Lori McGough, ext. 258 24 Ministers’ Wives Luncheon, Heritage Baptist Church, Montgomery, Kathryn Helms, ext. 325 24 Sharing Hope Conference for Pastors and Leaders (Hispanic), Heritage Baptist Church, Annel Robayna, ext. 270 27 Minister’s Tax Conference, Calvary Baptist Church, Dothan, Lee Wright, ext. 241 28-3/1 Children’s Honor Choir Tour, North Alabama area, Karen Gosselin, ext. 318 MARCH 1-8 Week of Prayer for North American Missions and Annie Armstrong Easter O‰ering, Laura Glass, ext. 226 5-6 Ministry Evangelism Retreat, Shocco Springs, Talladega, Kristy Kennedy, ext. 311 5-6 Uplink on the Road, State Board of Missions, Prattville, Scooter Kellum, ext. 280 6-7 Complete…A gathering for teen girls, Eastern Hills Baptist Church, Montgomery, Kathryn Helms, ext. 325 7 Central Alabama Spring Library Workshop, Shoal Creek Baptist Church, Deatsville, Marty Woodall, 334-569-3854 8-11 Alabama Association of Baptist Secretaries Conference, Shocco Springs, Talladega, Lee Wright, ext. 241 12 2020 Singin’, Cottage Hill Baptist Church, Mobile, Eileen Mitchell, ext. 221 12 Who’s Your One District Training, Stapleton Baptist Church, Stapleton, Bailee Dixon, ext. 258 15 OneVoice Honor Choir Tour, Southside Baptist Church, Greenville, April Brewer, ext. 279 19 Who’s Your One District Training, Mobile Baptist Association, THE HUNGER OFFERING IS... Mobile, Bailee Dixon, ext. 258 19 The Basics of Church Security, State Board of Missions, HELP FOR THE HUNGRY! Prattville, Mark Wakefield, ext. 267 20-21 Adventure Weekend, Shocco Springs, Talladega, Monica Thompson, ext. 227 For promotional resources, please visit 20-21 Hispanic Worship Retreat/Taller de Adoration, Shocco Springs, Talladega, Annel Robayna, ext. 270 alsbom.org/hunger or call (334) 613-2304. 21 State Disaster Relief Admin Training, Disaster Relief Center, Prattville, Mark Wakefield, ext. 267 21 State Disaster Relief Child Care Training, Disaster Relief Center, Mark Wakefield, ext. 367 22 Substance Abuse Prevention Sunday, Keith Hinson, ext. 289 26 Who’s Your One District Training, Millry Baptist Church, Millry, Bailee Dixon, ext. 258 28 State Disaster Relief Communications Training, Disaster Relief Center, Prattville, Mark Wakefield, ext. 267 28 State Disaster Relief Shower & Laundry Unit Training, Disaster Relief Center, Prattville, Mark Wakefield, ext. 267 30 Who’s Your One District Training, New Vision Baptist Church, Prattville, Lori McGough, ext. 245 JANUARY 30, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 17 Alabamians among recent Baptist seminary graduates labama Baptists ville; Lorraine McAuthor, graduated with de- Birmingham; Derek Alan A grees at the master’s O’Quinn, Tuscaloosa; Jason level or higher from South- Lee Smith, Gulf Shores; ern Baptist theological sem- Heather Shae Watson, Al- inaries in December 2019. exandria; Joshua Van Wilks, The Alabama Baptist was Trussville provided the following lists Master of Arts in Dis- of graduates by the schools. cipleship — William Earl Short II, Clanton 4New Orleans Baptist Master of Arts in Missi- Theological Seminary: ology — Clayton Mullins, Doctor of Ministry — Irondale Timothy John Mathis, Gilbertown 4Southwestern Baptist Doctor of Philosophy Theological Seminary: — Keenan W. Braden, Master of Theological Gardendale; Linda Kaye Studies — Thomas Jestin Little eld, New Brockton; Anderson, Thomasville; Patricia F. Sanders, Helena Jon Gary Buchanan, Arab; Unsplash.com Master of Arts in Pastoral Christopher Lee Weide, Scroggins, Wetumpka Theology and Culture — 4Midwestern Baptist Ministry — Jason Bradley Opp; Master of Theology — Kiah Clay Crider, Auburn Theological Seminary: Stewart, Alexandria Master of Arts in Chris- Kyle Beshears, Mobile Master of Arts in Chris- Master of Theological Master of Arts in Chris- tian Education — Kenneth Master of Divinity — tian Education and Bibli- Studies — Sunhae Chung, tian Education — Spencer Gunter Northrop, Florence Matthew Fowler, Tus- cal Counseling — Jennifer Montgomery Alan Jones, Trussville; Rob Master of Arts in Theology cumbia; Zachary Van Gie- Bagley McCracken, Master of Divinity — Henry Livingston, — Jarrod Reese, Decatur son, Anniston; Philip Mos- Montgomery Michael Fitzgerald, Alabaster Northport er, Oxford; Garrett Walden, Master of Arts in Chris- Master of Theology — Master of Theological 4Southern Baptist Opelika; tian Ministry — Clint Allen Christopher Hanna, Studies — Joshua Michael Theological Seminary: Master of Church Music Barthel, Decatur Birmingham Pendergrass, Prattville Doctor of Ministry — — Allen Roy Knight, Bay Master of Arts in Ministry Master of Divinity — Jimmy Joshua Sammons, Minette to Women — Amanda Lyn 4Gateway Seminary: John Wayne Baker, Mo- Alexander City; Kaleb Till- Bramlett, Clanton Master of Theological bile; Patrick John Finley, man Wimberly, Enterprise; 4Southeastern Baptist Master of Divinity with Studies — Michelle Birmingham; Walter Doctor of Educational Theological Seminary: Christian Ministry — Philip Brizendine, Huntsville Austin Mason, Thomas- Ministry — Brandon R. Master of Arts in Ethics, Doyle McDuf e, Mobile (TAB)

Across 28. ___ did that which be likened unto 17. Glacial snow. 1. Where she is was right in the ___virgins. 24. The strangers shall Christian Crossword nourished for a eyes of the Lord. (Matt. 25:1) ___ away. By Janet W. Adkins Copyright 1994 ©Barbour Publishing Inc. time, and ___. (1 Kings 15:11) 53. Legwear. (Ps. 18:45) (Rev. 12:14) 29. Eldest son of 54. The ___ dwelt 25. Religion. (abbr.) 5. I am ... a __ woman. Judah. (Gen. 38:3) therein in times 26. A son of Gad. (2 Sam. 14:5) 30. Chalice. past. (Deut. 2:10) (Gen. 46:16) 10. ___ and Thummim. 31. God shall ___ them. 55. Thou madest him 27. It is a ___ thing that (Ex. 28:30) (Deut. 7:2) a little ___ than the the king requireth. 11. Father of Kish and 34. Address word. (abbr.) angels. (Heb. 2:7) (Dan. 2:11) Abner. 36. Per. (abbr.) 32. Every. (1 Chron. 26:28) 37. Exist. Down 33. Israel pitched 14. Grain storage 38. Cubic. (abbr.) 1. Is under ___s ... beside ___-ezer. building. 40. The ungodly shall until the time (1 Sam. 4:1) 15. Scottish cap. not stand ... ___ appointed of the 34. The ___ is laid for 16. Jacob served ___ sinners in the father. (Gal. 4:2) him in the ground. years for Rachel. congregation. 2. Angry. (Job. 18:10) (Gen. 29:20) (Ps. 1:5) 3. Silent actor. 35. A symbol. 18. Edge. 42. Moses said, Why 4. Printer’s measure. 38. A little oil in a ___. 19. Pull out the m______ye with me? 6. Exists. (1 Kings 17:12) out of thine eye. (Ex. 17:2) 7. Dreadful. 39. Under. (German) (Matt. 7:4) 46. Sea eagle. 8. In her mouth was 41. Indian princess. 20. ___ in Me, and I in 47. ___ boy! an ___ leaf. 43. Headwear. you. (John 15:4) 48. So he bringeth them (Gen. 8:11) 44. I have. 21. Madame Peron. unto their desired 9. Out of man. 45. O king, he shall be 22. Concerning. ___. (Ps. 107:30) 11. Bird’s beak. cast into the ___ of 23. Half an em. 49. Food from a tree. 12. King of Midian. lions. (Dan. 6:7) 24. For thine is the 50. ___ your heart, and (Num. 31:8) 46. Suf cient. (arch.) kingdom, the not your garments. 13. Scarlet. 51. Data management. power and the (Joel 2:13) 16. The next day we (abbr.) glory, ___, Amen. 52. Then shall the arrived at ___s. 53. ___ everyone that (Matt. 6:13) kingdom of heaven (Acts 20:15) thirsteth. (Isa. 55:1) PAGE 18 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / JANUARY 30, 2020

SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSONS For February 2 Explore the Bible Bible Studies for Life By Douglas K. Wilson, Ph.D. By Dr. Jim Barnette, Professor, Samford University Dean of Christian Studies, University of Mobile Senior Pastor, Brookwood Baptist Church

LOVED John did not WHAT IS GOD’S ANSWER asks Job if he is Deuteronomy 6:1–13 miss this connec- TO SUFFERING? prepared to hold tion between lov- Job 40:1–8; 42:1–6 to his own inno- The Promise (1–3) ing God and lov- cence at the price God promised Moses and the ing neighbor, stat- We often don’t know enough of rejecting the people of Israel a “land owing with ing that believers cannot love God to understand God’s work. justice of God. In his own speeches, milk and honey” (Ex. 3:8). Moses without loving others as well (1 John (40:1–5) Job has been using words that have repeated this promise multiple times 4:20–21). In fact, John goes to great God has answered Job’s charges legal connotations (e.g. “claim of to one generation freed from Egypt, lengths in the chapter to explain how about suffering with questions that right,” “declare guilty,” “declare in- and Deuteronomy contains more love for God and love for others are Job cannot answer. The mere hu- nocent”). references to this promise directed to interrelated. man has neither the knowledge nor Job has been using these words the next generation. The Proclamations (6–9) the experience to comment on the in their most elementary connota- In Numbers 13:27, the men who Proclamation 1: a life of faith and wonders of nature which God the tion: one party must be right and the spied on Canaan con rmed the land obedience. “These words ... are to be Creator has graciously granted him. other must be wrong; one must be was indeed fruitful, as God said, in your heart” (6:6). Believers must Now God asks His challenger what guilty and the other must be inno- with good livestock and good crops. know the commandments. They he has to say. Job’s inability to com- cent. But these Hebrew words have Unfortunately, the majority of the must live the commandments, speak prehend the totality of God’s divine other connotations as well. They spies discounted promises from God the commandments and share the plan is obvious. However, though also belong to the language of gov- to give them Canaan, so they brought commandments. God has every right to lay the man ernance. In His second speech, God a report that the land could not be Proclamation 2: family conversa- low, God is not contemptuous of elevates these terms to highlight taken. They said the inhabitants were tions day and night, at home and Job, nor does He seek to browbeat God’s governance over all creation. giants, and Israel’s army were like away. You must “talk about them” as Job into submission. The tone is cor- It is inadequate of us to reduce the grasshoppers by comparison. a normal part of daily life. Fathers rective but not mocking. ways of the Sovereign God to the A new generation arose, one Mo- have the task of teaching the com- Job’s “answer” in verses 4 and 5 human courtroom. One cannot de- ses was preparing to enter the prom- mandments and leading by example. consists of an admission, a gesture grade God’s rule over the world to ised land. He repeatedly instructed Paul addresses this family steward- and a confession. His admission legal categories. them to listen. It was imperative they ship responsibility in Ephesians 6:4 is a word of humility and wonder. We are to acknowledge God heed the commandments of God and Colossians 3:21. Job deems himself “unworthy” and humble ourselves before (Deut. 5), the promise of God and Proclamation 3: written reminders or “small.” The Hebrew adjective Him. (42:1–6) the instructions which accompanied of God’s words. In a literal sense, magni es the great gap between the The man who had been a contend- the promise (vv. 4–25). one could take on the practice of Creator and the creature. In a ges- er against God is now a worshipper, The Passion (4–5) Hasidic Jews, who wear phylacter- ture of his humility, Job places his humbly confessing his sinfulness In Mark’s Gospel, we read of a ies wrapped with leather straps upon hand over his mouth. Interestingly, and entering into an encounter with scribe asking Jesus about the greatest their arms and head. Mezuzah (boxes this is the same gesture of deference divine forgiveness. command. While we might consider on a door frame) could be installed and respect that Job’s own presence The unveiling of God’s glory leads which of the Ten Commandments is as well. Both practices include utiliz- evoked among members of his com- to an unprecedented experience of the greatest, Jesus knew the scribe ing small boxes, which contain the munity when he appeared among reconciliation with the Lord God Al- was asking about the 613 instruc- words of the Shema (Deut. 6:4–9). them (see Job 29:9). mighty. Job renounces the force of tions in the Torah. Alabama Baptists are more likely Finally, Job offers a submissive his human words and human reason. Jesus answered the question by to carry a copy of the Bible or hang confession: “I have no answer.” Now he has gained a faith that can at quoting Scripture, speci cally Deu- framed Bible verses on their walls. God’s discourse of divine majesty least begin to look upon his suffer- teronomy 6:4–5. Mark 12:30 paral- The Possession (10–13) and mystery has left Job speech- ing from an eternal perspective. lels Matthew 22:37, but only Mark The remainder of this chapter is less. The divine revelation from God More than hearing about God, Job includes Jesus’ inclusion of Deuter- a call to action. Loving God is to Almighty has turned the challenger has seen God, and it has changed the onomy 6:4: “Listen, O Israel! The be lived out. Jesus quoted from the into a humble worshipper. How way he sees himself and the world Lord our God, the Lord is one.” The latter part of Deuteronomy 6 when much more can the God of Calvary around him. Now it is a world that verses belong together. tempted in the wilderness (Matt 4:7, bring any sufferer or challenger Job is not the center of, yet he still Jesus continues His instruction 10; also see Deut. 6:16, 13, respec- to his or her knees in wonder and holds a signi cant place in it. Fur- to the scribe: “Love the Lord your tively). praise? nished with a more complete faith, God with all your heart, with all Remembering God when satis ed We often don’t know enough Job can celebrate life in all of its your soul, with all your mind and by the bountiful provision of God is to understand God’s justice. freedoms and limits, trials and tri- with all your strength” (Mark 12:30). loving God. Answering the questions (40:6–8) umphs, until he “sees” his Creator in With authority as Incarnate God, of children who ask why believers God is not quite  nished with Job, eternal fullness. Jesus added to the text of Scripture do what we do and believe what we as the man needs to reach a more Job has  nally received what he (“with all your mind”) when quoting believe — that is loving God. complete change of perspective. most needed, which is a deeper Deuteronomy 6:5. His instruction Worshipping God, practicing wise God’s second speech begins just relationship with God. God does continued with a quotation of Leviti- stewardship of His belongings and like the  rst, with divine confronta- not always give us a reason for the cus 19:18. Ironically, they are state- carefully discipling our children — tion and command for answers to trials and tribulations we face, but ments, not commands, in both verses that is loving God. Faith and obedi- questions that verify the limits of He gives us the greatest of gifts: — “you WILL love.” ence demonstrate love. Job’s understanding. In verse 8, God Himself. JANUARY 30, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 19 Media MOVIES/TV reviews Eye-opening ‘One Child Nation’ leads January streaming lineup By Michael Foust against their will. Pregnant Correspondent, The Alabama Baptist women were ordered to hat happens abort their babies, and if when a nation they complained were held limits fami- down while the procedure Wlies to one was performed. child in a society that has a Twins were split up, with strong preference for boys? the “extra” one adopted to a Answer: Unimaginable family overseas. horrors. Signs were placed across The new documentary the country reading, “Re- “One Child Nation,” now port anyone who has more on Amazon Prime, takes than one child, get up to a critical look at China’s $120 reward.” One Child Policy through A member of Wang’s own the eyes of director Nanfu family abandoned a baby Wang, who grew up in Chi- girl. She died after several na under the policy before days from malnutrition and moving to the U.S. bug bites. The policy began in 1979 Millions of baby girls and ended in 2015, limiting Photo courtesy of Amazon Prime either were aborted or ‘One Child Nation’ urban families to one child abandoned. Wang inter- and subsequently spark- views one man who says cide. Aside from a brief, as obvious as they are in car. This 1968 musical was ing the abandonment and he was responsible for the out-of-place pro-choice “The Chronicles of Narnia” nominated for an Oscar and deaths of countless baby transporting of 10,000 baby statement from Wang, it’s a lms. is rated G. girls. It also led to a demo- girls to an orphanage — at pro-life lm. 4“Tiny House Nation: 4“Lady and the Tramp” graphic gender imbalance. a pace of ve a day. She No, it’s not Volume 2” (Net- (2019, Disney Plus) — A Wang interviews family interviews a midwife who for children, ix) — It’s a pampered female Cocker members, former govern- says she killed thousands of but it will for- reality series that Spaniel named Lady be- ment of cials, midwives infants. ever change the will challenge friends a homeless mutt, and orphanage experts as “One Child Nation” is way you view your beliefs Tramp. This live-action re- she uncovers a not-so- one of the most eye- China’s gov- about posses- make is rated PG for some hidden history of infanti- opening documentaries ernment and sions as families mild thematic elements and cide, forced abortions and you’ll ever watch. Content the unborn. prepare to live in action/peril. forced sterilizations. warnings include two f- Also worth extra-tiny homes. 4“Aladdin” (2019, Female babies were put words (only in subtitles), watching this TV-PG. Disney Plus) — A street in baskets and placed on the jars of formaldehyde hous- month: 4“The Con- urchin tries to win the heart side of the street. ing deceased unborn babies spirator” (Hulu of a princess with the help Women were sterilized and discussion of infanti- For adults/ and Prime) — A of a genie. This live-action teens woman, Mary Disney remake is rated PG 4“The Lord of the Surratt, is convicted for for some action/peril. Rings” series (Net ix) taking part in the plot to as- — The nal two lms sassinate Abraham Lincoln. based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s Even today, her conviction Meet the novels — “The Return of remains a controversy. Rat- reviewer the King” and “The Two ed PG-13 for some violent Michael Foust covers the Towers” — enter the Net- content. ix lineup. Both are rated intersection of faith and entertainment as a media PG-13 for battle sequences For children reviewer for The Alabama and frightening images. 4“Chitty Chitty Bang Baptist. He also is the The movies contain Chris- Bang” (Net ix) — An in- husband of an amazing tian themes about sin, ventor (played by Dick Van wife and the father of four temptation and redemp- Dyke) takes children on a young children. Photo courtesy of New Line Productions ‘Lord of the Rings’ tion, although they’re not fantastical ride in his ying PAGE 20 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / JANUARY 30, 2020 ‘Sisters together’ Ohio WMU retreat encourages women to pursue deeper relationship with God By Trennis Henderson “If we truly believe the gospel, we WMU photos by Pam Henderson WMU National Correspondent Speaking from 1 Corinthians 15:58, Kristy Carr, senior hub manager at National will live it and we will tell it,” she Woman’s Missionary Union and retreat keynote speaker, told participants, eshing the impact of declared. “We are very relational ‘If we truly believe the gospel, we will live it and we will tell it.’ Woman’s Missionary people. For us to know people, we Union (WMU) and really have to know our Father” to victims of human traf cking and the weekend, including a bon re, Mwomen’s ministries, through such disciplines as prayer, reports of recent missions trips to movie night and even spontaneously more than 110 women from across Bible study, worship and ministry to Kenya and Nicaragua to a ministry breaking into the “OH-IO” cheer. Ohio gathered for the Ohio Baptist one’s neighbors.” wives’ tea and ways to grow in one’s But “the No. 1 thing we hope the Women’s Fall Retreat and Missions On a practical ministry level, the personal faith. women take away is a deeper person- Celebration. weekend included such activities as al relationship with the Lord,” said The weekend retreat, held at Sen- an early morning prayer walk and an ‘Bridge together’ Cathy Pound, Ohio WMU executive eca Lake Baptist Assembly, explored offering for the Joan White Scholar- Ohio WMU president Jean director. “We also would hope that the WMU theme, “Unshakable Pur- ship Fund to help nance women DiFilippo said one of her goals is to this would be a time, especially for suit: Chasing the God Who Chases and girls going on rst-time mis- bridge together women’s ministry women who are so busy with many Us.” Keynote speaker Kristy Carr, sions trips. and WMU. responsibilities, to be able to hear senior hub manager at National Participants also collected practi- “We’re all serving the same God,” His voice in a new way or in a spe- WMU, challenged participants to cal and personal gift items for the she said. “We need to all be working ci c way that speaks to the situation “stand rm” in their faith. Appalachian Backpack Ministry and together with missions, of course, that they’re in right now.” In a pair of messages highlighting designed notecards to send to mis- being one of our central focuses, The annual retreat helps women 1 Corinthians 15:58, Carr urged par- sionaries. but also building each other up in af rm, “we are sisters together,” ticipants to give themselves fully to The women had the opportunity to Christ.” Pound said. “What God is doing is the work of the Lord, “knowing that choose among several breakout ses- The women also enjoyed lighter not only impacting our churches, our your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” sions ranging from how to minister moments of fellowship throughout communities; it’s impacting Ohio.”

Sunrise on Vesper Hill at Seneca Lake Baptist Assembly Thursday, January 30, 2020

Church Guests: Being Grandparenting BMBA Matters Seminar Calendar Visit us online for more events at Gracious Hosts Friday, February 28 http://www.facebook.com/ by Dr. Chris Crain & Saturday, February 29 Birmingham.Metro.Baptist. Association Dawson Memorial Baptist Church od’s Word commands us to and ushers know where people of all 1114 Oxmoor Road BMBA/BBA G“be hospitable” (Titus 1:8). A ages are supposed to be at all times. Birmingham, AL 35209 guest’s experience at your church in I have found church greeters in clus- Ministers the first few moments dramatically in- ters talking about Saturday’s football Guest Speaker: Conference fluences whether they’re coming back game. On occasion, I have encoun- Larry Fowler, Founder of the Legacy Coalition or not. You never get a second chance tered greeters with a coffee cup in All BMBA and BBA pastors and to make a first impression. After visiting hand, unprepared to offer a hand- Register at dawsonchurch.org/ ministers are invited to join us for this more than 150 churches in the past shake. Not good! Greeters should ItMatters time of fellowship and inspiration. three years--some of those churches be on point at all times during their dawsonchurch.org We enjoy lunch together at a local on several occasions--I can sympa- service—always looking for people to restaurant following the meeting. thize with church guests. It would be welcome and assist. Feb 3 - Matt Mason, pastor of challenging for an unchurched person 4. A worship guide, social media The Church at Brook Hills, Location: to walk into an unfamiliar building and account, and website that has been Hunter Street The Baptist Church at McAdory encounter people they have never proofread for clarity by a person who Feb 10 - Dr. Bob Weber, pastor met to hear about a God with whom is not in your church: Make sure the Orchestra Festival of Valley Creek Baptist Church, Lo- they may not have a relationship! next steps for guests are mentioned. cation: Birmingham Metro Office Growing up in Jasper, Alabama, “See Susie if you would like to register Saturday, February 22, 2020, Feb 17 - Dr. David Eldridge, our home was a place where guests for the women’s discipleship group.” from 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m., in the pastor of Dawson Memorial Bap- would drop in unannounced. Often, Who is Susie? “To sign up for A.I.M. Hunter Street Baptist Church tist Church, Location: Birmingham visits would begin on the front porch, Weekend, meet in the S.S. Depart- Worship Center Metro Office move through the living room, and ment A for information.” What do all of Hunter Street Baptist Church Feb 24 - Alabama State culminate at the kitchen table with the initials mean? Make sure that you Evangelism Conference, Loca- sweet tea and conversations. Rela- write with the guests in mind. Develop 2600 John Hawkins Pkwy Hoover, AL 35244 tion: Heritage Baptist Church in tionships develop around the table. a promotional piece with information Montgomery Likewise, the church has a responsi- customized for church guests—espe- Mar 2 - Eric Roberts, pastor bility to help gather people around cially for parents of small children. There is a $15.00 registration fee per person. of FBC Hoover, Location: The the table of fellowship. “Pursue hos- 5. How to give, join, sign up, or par- Station Church pitality” (Romans 12:13). I offer five ticipate in the church or any activity Please register at hunterstreetworship.org/register. Mar 9 - Tim Hassler, pastor of essentials to help a church be a more should be explained clearly in print Bellview Baptist Church, Loca- gracious host to guests. and from the platform, when pos- We would love for you and your tion: Birmingham Metro Office sible. Did you know that most people Mar 16 - Landon Byrd, pastor Five Essentials for Being Gracious under 50 NEVER touch a checkbook? instrumentalists to join us on Satur- day, February 22, 2020. of Westmont Baptist Church, Lo- Hosts to Church Guests How do you expect them to give cation: Birmingham Metro Office regularly to your church’s ministry? Richard Kingsmore is the Clini- cian. Richard will lead us in all of Mar 23 - Dr. Michael Frazier, 1. Signage: Bathrooms, class- Online giving and text-to-give for pastor of Grace Covenant Bap- rooms, and other areas are marked. churches have never been easier. the music and will challenge us spiritually as well. The entire group tist Church, Location: Birmingham Many church buildings were con- When I was growing up, we always Metro Office nected without a master plan. Sig- had a pitcher of sweet tea in the refrig- will be together all day. There are no breakout groups. We will pro- Apr 6 - Pat Buckner, pastor of nage can help people navigate erator. Guests were always welcome. Shady Grove Baptist Church, Lo- around the facility. In my opinion, a Be prepared for guests. Guests to your vide drinks and snacks for you, throughout the day. (Please bring cation: Integrity Baptist Church church guest should never have to worship services and activities don’t Apr 20 - Ollie Gunn, pastor of ask, “Where is your restroom?” know what’s going on, and they’re a music stand, if you have one!) Lunch is on your own. There are Wilkes Baptist Church, Location: 2. A well-marked welcome cen- probably anxious. Being a gracious Birmingham Metro Office ter/security post: Consider posting a host puts guests at ease. Can’t do all a variety of great restaurants in close proximity to the church. Apr 27 - BMBA Executive “guide” who will take people where of this right now? Start where you can! Board, Location: Birmingham they need to go. Does your church Also, we are planning to do a concert at the Riverchase Galleria Metro Office have a natural starting point for peo- With sincere gratitude, May 4 - Dr. Danny Wood, pas- ple who have never visited? Guests in the mid-afternoon. It is 10 min- utes from the church. tor of Shades Mountain Baptist may not enjoy being greeted pub- Church, Location: Pleasant Ridge licly during the service, but they love If you have any questions, please contact Gay Palmer, Baptist Church to be greeted personally. May 11 - Dr. Mac Brunson, 3. Trained greeters: These men, HSBC Orchestra Director, at [email protected]. pastor of Valleydale Church, women, or families will greet every- Dr. Chris Crain, Location: Valleydale Church one—not just guests. Trained greeters BMBA Executive Director 2211 McGwier Drive Hoover, AL 35226 January 30, 2020 Phone: (205) 822-3240 www.churchonthebluff.org

FROM YOUR PASTOR’S HEART Wed., January 29 6:00 PM Fellowship Meal While reading an article about a recent pro-life 7:15 PM Choir gathering in downtown Birmingham I was again accosted by Sunday, February 2 one of the biggest lies about pro-lifers that is espoused by the 8:15 AM Prayer Time pro-abortion community. Someone commented (and many 8:45 AM Deacons’ Mtg. others agreed) him: “pro-lifers only care about babies in the 9:00 AM Bluff Perk womb and don’t care about them after they are born.” I have 9:45 AM Sunday Bible heard that so often, and it is one of the things that makes the Study hair on the back of my neck stand up. Here is what I messaged 11:00 AM Morning Worship LADIES CARD-MAKING MINISTRY that person and those that agreed with him: 5:00 PM Children’s Cmte February meeting will be, Tuesday the 4th, at 6:30 PM in the Tuesday, February 4 Fellowship Hall. Let Angie know you are coming. “Where do you get your information? Who tells you 6:30 PM Card Making that? You are either willfully spreading a lie or are seriously Ministry misinformed by someone. The fact of the matter is that I Wed., February 5 Give Your Best monetarily support, through our church and other means, The 6:30 PM Prayer & Bible And whatever you do, do it heartily, Study as to the Lord and not to men. Colossians 3:23 Alabama Baptist Children’s Home and Family Ministry that provide both temporary and permanent homes across the state 7:15 PM Choir A man recruited a group of friends from his church to help him for children in distress. They provide foster care in families all Sunday, February 9 paint his two-story house. There was a small section of trim on over Alabama. They provide licensed and professional 8:15 AM Prayer Time the upper level that was hard to get to and which couldn’t be 8:45 AM Leadership/ counseling to children and to families. The gifts we give them seen from the ground. So the fellow on the ladder called down, Outreach are above and in addition to our taxes. “Do we need to paint that little piece of trim?” 9:00 AM Bluff Perk We support physically and monetarily the Green 9:45 AM Sunday Bible The owner said, “Yes.” Spring Ministry in Birmingham. That Christian ministry Study provides food for any and all that are hungry. We monetarily “But no one can see it,” the man on the ladder protested. 11:00 AM Morning Worship and physically support the Alabama Baptist Disaster Relief Noon Youth Cmte. Mtg. “God can see it,” came the answer. The trim was painted. Teams that have boots on the ground proving food and needed Tuesday, February 11 The answer reflected the heart of Colossians 3:23: Paint your relief to areas affected by tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, and SUNSHINERS own house as if you are painting God’s house. If we cut corners other natural disasters…often before the government can get Wed., February 12 their act together. This is above and in addition to our taxes. in our own life, we are admitting that we might think it’s okay 6:30 PM Business to cut corners when serving God. From the days of the Exodus Our own church has a benevolence fund and as we Meeting on, Israelites were taught to bring God their very best as help families one of our primary concerns is the children 7:15 PM Choir affected by whatever the need is. We help families without Sunday, February 16 sacrifices. An animal “without blemish” is mentioned 44 times in the Old Testament in order to drive home the point. God concern for race, religious background, or sexual orientation… 8:15 AM Prayer Time deserves our very best. we don’t ask because we care about the children involved. This 9:00 AM Bluff Perk is above and in addition to our taxes. 9:45 AM Sunday Bible Whatever you do today, do it as if you are working, cooking, In addition to those I and our church support there are Study driving, playing, or serving God Himself—for truly you are. countless other ministries supported by pro-lifers such as The 11:00 AM Morning Worship Live your best, act your best, and think your best each day, for Jimmy Hale Mission, the Bethany House, Firehouse Ministries, 5:00 PM Church Council there may be no tomorrows. Unknown the Boys and Girls Ranches…and we cannot overlook The 6:00 PM Publicity Cmte.

Salvation Army. Many, many, churches also have food closets Copied from today’s Turning Point by David Jeremiah / DAVIDJEREMIAH.ORG and clothing ministries. Host for Bluff Perk

So I want to challenge those of you who keep February 2 spreading the lie that we pro-lifers don’t care about children Team 1 If you have any LARGE paper sacks you would donate to the after they are born, in addition to your taxes what church, please bring and leave at the back foyer. organizations and ministries do you monetarily support that Thank You! help children after they are born?”

Would you believe that not one person responded? Not January SUNSHINERS one person highlighted anything they had personally done. 31 Marlene Adams February 11, 2020 Not a single person took up the challenge. If there is a heart February 10:30 A.M. that is hardened against children after they are born it does not 11 Cole Shackelford beat in the body of those of us that celebrate and protect life in Valentine Luncheon 12 Robert Burgess the womb. Don’t let people get away with spreading such lies. 14 Mary Evelyn Bring your favorite salad Share the truth with them. 14 Lisa Parker or dessert. Tea—crackers 14 Roger Upton 15 Allen Pan Games - Door Prizes

Say good things about your savior and your church! 17 Larry Tims Coordinating—Judy Knight & Pat McGraw 22 David Burg Bro. Tony 23 Ruth Helms Pastor: Tony Barber ([email protected]) 26 Diane Rasberry Contact number: 329-1950, 822-3240, 822-3295 Worship: Duane Terpo ([email protected]) Children’s Ministries Director: Angie Barber ([email protected]) Contact number: 329-1954 Given: 124% Office: Sharron Atkinson ([email protected])