SPECIAL EDITION ...men that had understanding of the times, to know what [they] ought to do... I Chr.12:32

Volume 9, Issue 2 Publication of the Global Independent Baptist Fellowship. May 2009 NO GREATER JOY By Frank Wood, GIBF Moderator I have had the privilege of travelling to Arizona “CROSSROADS” twice this winter. The first trip was to the February GIBF Meeting at Cornerstone Baptist A message by R.O. Woodworth (1905-1998) Church in Phoenix. Pastor Terry Randolph and Join me as I read from I Kings belongeth to Zidon, and dwell there: behold, I the members of Cornerstone were wonderful hosts 17: “And Elijah the Tishbite, have commanded a widow woman there to sustain for the national meeting. The music was excellent and the who was of the inhabitants of Gilead, said unto thee. So he arose and went to Zarephath. And preaching was powerful! It was obvious that much preparation had Ahab, As the LORD God of Israel liveth, before when he came to the gate of the city, behold, the gone into the meeting, including a good amount of praying. Thank whom I stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these widow woman was there gathering of sticks…” you, Brother Randolph (and Mickie), for a wonderful time in years, but according to my word. And the word of And in the following verses we are told some Phoenix! the LORD came unto him, saying, Get thee hence, interesting details of this widow of Zarephath My second trip was to Tucson where Pastor J.C. Joiner and the and turn thee eastward, and hide thyself by the meeting God’s prophet for the first time. In verse New Testament Baptist Church celebrated their 50th Anniversary. brook Cherith, that is before Jordan. And it shall 24, the woman finally says to Elijah, “I know that Brother Joiner and his wife, Nita, went to Tucson in 1959 with the be, that thou shalt drink of the brook; and I have thou art a man of God.” goal of starting a soul-winning Baptist church in that city. What a commanded the ravens to feed thee there. So he No higher compliment could be paid to any man. joy it was to hear testimonies from and about the many pastors, went and did according unto the word of the To be called proficient in any of the sciences is a missionaries, and other full-time workers that have been called out LORD: for he went and dwelt by the brook high compliment. To be called a finished scholar, of that great church. It was also good to hear from some dear lay Cherith, that is before Jordan. And the ravens a successful lawyer, or successful doctor is a high people who have had a part in that ministry over the years. Brother brought him bread and flesh in the morning, and compliment. But to be called a man of God is a Joiner is one of God’s choicest servants. He still has a zeal for his bread and flesh in the evening; and he drank of the much higher compliment! ministry and he plans to continue pastoring as long as God gives brook. And it came to pass after a while, that the Special and peculiar times usually produce him the health and the heart to do so. Truly, it was a privilege to be brook dried up, because there had been no rain in special and peculiar men – men of their times. there with my friend as he celebrated this “Year of Jubilee” – a the land. And the word of the LORD came unto Noah and Abraham, David, Moses, Paul. Even milestone in his ministry. him, saying, Arise, get thee to Zarephath, which ...continued on page 2 In a very real way the two trips tie together. Brother Terry Randolph is a product of Brother Joiner’s ministry. Brother Randolph started “For“For asas thethe earthearth bringethbringeth forthforth herher bud,bud, andand asas thethe gardengarden causethcauseth thethe attending New Testament Baptist Church only thingsthings thatthat areare sownsown inin itit toto springspring forth;forth; soso thethe LordLord GODGOD willwill causecause three months after he was saved; and he met his wife, Mickie, there as well. I know Brother righteousnessrighteousness andand praisepraise toto springspring forthforth beforebefore allall thethe nations.”nations.” (Isa(Isa 61:11)61:11) Joiner finds great satisfaction in knowing God has used him to be Terry Randolph’s (as well as many other men’s) mentor and “father” in the ministry. Brother Joiner has had and is still having a II Timothy 2:2 kind of ministry: “And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.” Preachers, let’s never stop investing our lives in those who are coming up behind us. All of our people, from youth through adults, need to be shepherded and mentored to maturity. Much of this is accomplished through our “pulpit ministry;” however, much is also done as we spend time with our people in other settings. Such things as church activities and ministries, work days, and youth camps give us special opportunities to minister to our people. While I am on the subject, I would encourage every pastor to spend some time with your young people at youth camp this summer. Many folk now serving as pastors, missionaries, and in other places of full-time Christian work have surrendered to the ministry while attending youth camp; and many great church laymen have ...continued on page 9 “RIVERS IN THE DESERT” OF ARIZONA WERE SPIRITUALLY THIRST-QUENCHING A Report on the February GIBF Meeting in Phoenix, Arizona

By Bill Rench Monday evening service. “Rivers in the Desert” was the In that first service, after some wonderful theme chosen for the Global special music provided by the Roy Brothers Independent Baptist Fellowship and then by the 40-voice Cornerstone Baptist Winter Meeting, February 16-18, Choir, Brother Bruce Turner, Pastor of 2009, and indeed the theme Westgate Baptist Church in Tampa Florida, set selection proved apropos. Pastor the standard for the preaching to follow with an America?” We were reminded of God’s greater covenant Terry Randolph and the people of excellent message from the theme passage in Isa. 43:19- Cornerstone Baptist Church in purposes and that even when men forsake and fail, God 44:4. He answered the question, “Why would God is ever faithful. We were encouraged to look forward Phoenix went out of their way to provide a river in the desert for such a people as Israel?” provide for all who attended the oasis we needed. The through difficult times in our own nation, to that day The question was a timely one, for it could now be asked when the Lord Jesus Christ will prevail over all His attendance was exceptional – exceeding expectations – of us here in this country – “…for such as people as additional chairs had to be brought in for the opening ...continued on page 4 1 THIS IS A SPECIAL EDITION OF THE GLOBAL BAPTIST TIMES. We have increased our subscription list by nearly 500, this issue only, in a deliberate effort to introduce ourselves and the Global Independent Baptist Fellowship (GIBF) to scores of preachers who may not be familiar with us. And we certainly want those who have heard some things to be sure and get a sampling “from the horse’s mouth” on who we are, where we stand, and what we are about. Detailed specifics on our doctrinal stand and our operations can be found on our website — [www.gibf.org]. Contact information can also be found there. Subscription info for the paper is in the lower left block on this page. We want to not only introduce ourselves but also invite the involvement and encourage the cooperation of men who are of like-faith and practice. We believe there are many separatist Baptists “out there” in search of a band of men with whom they can co-labor – men who stand as they do, with the philosophy and purposes they hold dear. If you are one of those we have in mind, may this be your first “Welcome!” Jump in. Be a part. Make contact with GIBF leaders on both the national and local levels (see the list of some state and regional fellowships included in this edition; attend the next meeting nearest to you and get a taste of what you can expect). You won’t be disappointed.

blessings are experienced, God may also have designed to God. And like a meteor from the skies, Elijah (from TIMES EDITORIAL fellowship to be a need. He did say, early-on, “It is not the city of Tishbi, within the boundaries of the tribe of By the editor good that the man should be alone.” Gad, in the land of Gilead beyond Jordan) suddenly FELLOWSHIPPING IN THE LIGHT I don’t understand those who say they have no need for appeared and demonstrated that he was a man of his time. What a man of God he was! Like Melchisedec – without The apostle John knew about fellowship. He said in his fellowship. To me, a Christian loner or recluse denies father, without mother, without pedigree, having neither first epistle, “…If we walk in the light, as he is in the himself special benefits that God intends. Fellowship holds wonderful blessings! Again, the apostle John beginning of days nor ending of life. Sensational! light, we have fellowship one with another…” would say they are a part of what you should want and Spectacular! Elijah appeared on the scene and He knew about the basis of fellowship. He knew about expect. And they can be expected in each realm of “light demonstrated what God could do with a man who was the blessing in it and the purpose for it. And when walking,” whether it be “two or three together,” a family, fully and completely yielded to Him! banished to Patmos, he came to know the absence of it a church, or sister churches laboring together (which the Elijah was one of the most exemplary characters on (and the assurance that, come what may, we are never light of scripture shows they should be doing). record. Noah and Lot were guilty of drunkenness. altogether alone!). John is saying, too, that fellowship is not merely a Abraham and Isaac were guilty of lying; and Jacob of I think it reasonable to say that John was an advocate of condition, it is an action. It is experienced while fraud. Moses displayed arrogance at the rock of Meribah, fellowship. But he didn’t advocate just any kind. walking. Scriptural fellowship has direction. It’s going and Aaron the priest committed idolatry at the foot of Neither do I. somewhere – that’s that purpose aspect John knew about! Mount Sinai. I could name many others. Oh, of the John was emphatic: scriptural fellowship is based on Clearly, the primary thing any believer or fellowship of worst: David – guilty of adultery and murder; self- “light” and our place in that light. Good fellowship – believers is to be engaged in is that which Jesus called, centered Samson – guilty of cruelty and revenge; and beneficial and productive fellowship, the fellowship “my Father’s business.” And that business is a “Go” King Solomon – guilty of the most reckless and God intends – is that which is in accordance with His thing; it’s an action-thing with a purpose in mind. We stupendous apostasy. And even old Jonah – guilty of Word. know it as the Great Commission. “As my Father hath petulance, disobedience, culpable stupidity, and Scriptural fellowship is, well…scriptural! It is Bible- sent me,” He said, “so send I you.” presumption. based. It is determined by and centered on God-given The objective our Saviour has sent us to achieve is the But this man of God, Elijah the Tishbite, who lived in standards. Scriptural fellowship cares about what we do direction in which we are to be moving; but in the light of one of the rottenest, most corrupt ages in world history, and how we do it. It is just as involved with means as it scripture! And when moving in that direction by way of exhibited a character so pure that some commentaries is with ends. “light walking” we will be found in partnership with think of him as an angel incarnate, caught up to heaven. In the context of First John 1, right walking (“light others. God intends for us to be fellowshipping in the All the records and all the research has failed to reveal walking”) is the apostle’s emphasis; however, he is also light, yes; but He also intends for us to be fellowshipping one spot or one blemish upon his record which would saying, “But this is what you can expect if you walk in a purpose. dim the radiance of his life or pale the splendor of his there: you will find yourself in good company.” God’s I rejoice to say the Global Independent Baptist example. Elijah was a man of God! And being a man of people know that to be true. Nearly every believer has in Fellowship is scriptural in both its place and its purpose. God, he was a man of courage. some place of Christian service met another believer for In turn, there are great blessings that those who There’s a great deal of difference between courage and the first time, even someone of another country or fellowship there experience together. If you’re a pastor, bravery. Bravery is constitutional; courage is acquired, culture, and experienced the instant kinship they have in missionary, or evangelist intent on walking in the “old it’s developed. Many a brave man who has no fear of the Saviour. And the closer the Christ-likeness in those paths,” don’t walk alone. God didn’t intend for you to physical danger has no moral courage. Many of them are who meet, the closer and more instant the kinship. It is walk alone! Walk along together with other men who in the ministry! Moral courage enables a man to do and special – and amusing. walk the same way. Come along with us, Brother. to say what he knows needs to be said and done – and to God designed “light walking” to bring such blessings. As my dear friend, Carl Boonstra, is known to say, say it and do it without any fear or favor. To “walk ye in it” is to experience the strength and “Think what we can do together!” as we move together, in Now, understand, the opposite of courage is not encouragement found there by way of good fellowship. the light, with the assigned objective in mind. cowardice. The opposite of courage is conformity. And “Iron sharpeneth iron.” And to ensure that those according to that definition we have a lot of people who don’t have much courage, in every phase of our society. It reminds me of the young man who was being rebuked “CROSSROADS” by his father for his slouchy, sloppy appearance. His continued from page 1… father said, “Look at that scraggly beard you have. What some in our day: Beauchamp Vick, Noel Smith, and Fred a sight! That long horse-tail hair of yours. You make me Donnelson – all were men of their times. But Elijah was sick!” The son blurted out, “Oh, Dad! You don’t emphatically a man of his times. understand me; I’m a non-conformist! I want to be like David H. Lydick, Editor You know during Ahab’s reign, the time in which Elijah all the other guys!” lived, the people grew utterly corrupt. Old Ahab himself Well, Elijah wasn’t like all the other guys. I submit to Published five times per year by the you, beloved, that when Elijah confronted Ahab, it was a Global Independent Baptist Fellowship was an out-and-out idolater, from the standpoint of both principal and practice. And he married that wicked demonstration of moral courage. He went directly to Ahab and pronounced God’s judgment upon him. He Please address all correspondence to: queen, that wicked woman, the daughter of Ethbaal, king didn’t write him a letter. He didn’t call him on the phone Baptist Times of the Zidonians. She fanatically persecuted the or send a proxy. He went straight to him. And with eyes 2407 Chandler Road East followers of God and the prophets of God; and she flashing fire, he lifted up his voice like a trumpet and Bellevue, Nebraska 68005 sustained and protected the prophets of Baal. She had the altars of God torn down and had others with their said, “As the Lord God of Israel liveth, before whom I e-mail: [email protected] obscene symbols of perdition erected in their stead. And stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these years, but the people were forced to worship at these. Those who according to my word.” And instead of repenting and The Baptist Times is dedicated to facilitate the refused were apprehended and slain. She and her women turning to the Lord, instead of going to his people and GIBF by providing information, edification, and worshipped Ashtoreth, a heathen goddess who was the calling on them to repent in sackcloth and ashes and seek exhortation for independent Baptist pastors, personification of the most forbidding obscenities and God’s forgiveness, crying out to God to forgive, old Ahab missionaries, and full time workers. We sensualities. blamed Elijah. Isn’t that like our generation? You encourage pertinent information, photos, Jezebel ruled her denomination. Four hundred prophets arrest a man today – a criminal – try him and sentence articles, etc. worthy of publication. Information of Ashtoreth sat at her table, put their feet under her table, him, and then what does he do? He blames the judge, he contained within should not necessarily be and ate regularly there at her table. I said she ruled her blames the jury, he blames the prosecuting attorney and interpreted as endorsement by the Fellowship. twisted religion – with an iron hand. She and Ahab set an everybody else that’s involved. outrageous example. They led the people into the deepest Listen folks, there are many people today who have Annual subscription rates are $15 each; pits of degradation and idolatry and apostasy! brought evil upon themselves by their own sins. They three-year subscriptions are $35. Then came Elijah. will say (perhaps you’ve heard them say), “Whom the Lord loveth, he chasteneth.” And then, too, there are Times Board of Review: My topic today is Bad-tempered Roads – “Crossroads.” Israel was at a crossroads. those who sin and attribute their reproach or their Rich Farinella, Kevin Folger, Dave Hardy, suffering to slander or to envy or to “the diabolical plot Dan Smith, and Bob Stevens A leader – a bold, fearless leader – was needed to stem the tide of apostasy and to turn the peoples’ hearts back of the devil” (I read that one in the newspaper). Few are those who will take responsibility for the consequences

2 GIBM SERVICE OFFICE Christ (the church) and then takes his/her place helping to sending work. REPORT fulfill its commission (see Acts 2:41). It was important that the Church of Antioch know that Fourth, there is a teaching responsibility – “…teaching the Holy Spirit had called the missionaries it was to send. By Dick Webster, them (each convert/disciple) to observe all things God affirmed it. When a church recommends its GIBM Director whatsoever I have commanded you.” This is a missionaries to other churches for support, it must know commandment – that the church train or “disciple” all the those missionaries are called of God to that certain THE PLACE OF THE baptized converts. This is an essential part of God’s “whereunto.” SENDING-CHURCH, Part 1 instruction to the church – on the same level, but in a Notice that the Church of Antioch fasted and prayed for systematic order, with evangelism! their missionaries. Prayer must be a priority for a sending God has given the authority and responsibility for Finally, Jesus promises that He will be with us church (and for supporting churches)! Make sure the worldwide missions to the local church. (And believing, baptized, church-member disciples in the great needs of your missionaries are ever before the church so scripturally, there is no other kind but “local.”) endeavor; He will be with us until the end of the age (or they know to pray for them. Independent Baptists should know that all authority for end of time) – the Church Age, because the Great And then there was a very tangible action taken: they sending missionaries is vested in the church, and that any Commission is a church operation and responsibility. laid hands on them. This has a two-fold purpose. (1) It missionary clearinghouse or mission agency ministry And that last phrase is to help us recognize just how long is a statement or illustration of the church identifying should possess no authority of its own over the we are to be about this privilege of missions: “until the with the missionary and his call. It tells the world that missionary. Regardless of common secular beliefs, end of the world.” this servant and his work is an extension of that church’s traditions, or evangelical trends (which have tremendous Once we church folk fully comprehend the charge given ministry. (2) The authority to “Separate…for the work” influence these days), Biblicists must recognize and us, we must then understand that everything done for in the regions beyond is given by the church to the honor church autonomy and authority. Understand, too, missions is to be directed and led by the Holy Spirit. Acts missionary. The church missionary has the authority to that this authority bears great responsibility. Individual 13: 1-4a, illustrates this very well. “Now there were in “go” and to make disciples, to baptize and train converts, churches will answer to the Founder Who commissioned the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and and to start churches. them with that responsibility. teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, This principle and practice has been prevalent within In their place of accountability I think it good for and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been the church since Acts 6, when deacons were selected and churches to review the specifics of their charge. The brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. As they hands were laid on them to give them authority in their particulars, of course, are recorded in Matthew 28:18-20: ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, place of service. The apostles identified with the deacons “And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I and with their ministry of caring for the physical needs of is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, have called them. And when they had fasted and prayed, widows and others within the church. This, of course, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the and laid their hands on them, they sent them away. So gave the apostles the time needed for prayer and the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed…” ministry of the Word. them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded The Holy Spirit is the One Who calls. But look again to the Church at Antioch. Take special you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of The Holy Spirit first calls the church (again: God’s plan notice of the terminology in Acts 13, that the church the world. Amen.” operates under the authority vested therein). The church “sent them away.” The church helped them to get where First, all power (both ability and authority) comes from is to minister “to the Lord.” The importance of a church they needed to go. I believe that help included and by the Lord – “But ye shall receive power, after that ministering “to the Lord” is beyond measure. Too many financially helping them. But it involved more than just the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be churches spend all their time ministering to each other financial assistance. Antioch released them from their witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and to other people; but there is to be, first and foremost, ministries in the church there and sent them out in and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” a commitment to what God says and wants. In obedience to God’s call, doing whatever they could and (Acts 1:8) Jesus said, “…without me ye can do nothing.” Colossians 1:18 we are told that our Saviour, as Head of should to enable their missionary ministry. (John 15:5b) the church, should “in all things…have the preeminence.” In the next issue of the Baptist Times I will continue to Second, and clearly, the assigned objective is for each The Church at Antioch sanctified themselves so as to describe the responsibility sending-churches have to their church to spread the gospel to all nations. In Acts 1:8 our minister unto the Lord. missionaries by offering some practical ways they can Lord describes it to include “the uttermost part of the Now this is the good part: the Holy Ghost then told the assist them in their work. earth.” Not one soul is to be left out! church to separate Barnabas and Saul for the specific Until then, may God bless you as we continue in our Third, baptizing converts was commanded by our Lord purpose of missions. God called the church to be a labors together to reach “the uttermost part of the earth” and incorporated under that authority aspect as an sending church. Anything accomplished by a sending with the good news that Jesus saves! ordinance. Baptism is a church ordinance! It is through church is done through the power of God. It only makes water baptism that a believer is placed in the body of sense that the Holy Ghost would call the church to do this of their own actions. God a mighty God?) And that must have been some modernism, liberalism” (I’m paraphrasing a little bit) During all this time, Jezebel was killing every prophet spectacle there on Mount Carmel, that beautiful high “why, the whole world will be against you.” The little of God she could get her hands on. It was an awful state point overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. (I hope fellow drew himself up to his full height and said, “Then of affairs. I guess she’d got about all of them except the someday, if you haven’t seen it, you’ll be able to see it.) I’m against the whole world!” And surely you’ve read of hundred prophets that Obadiah, who was the governor of There they gathered – old Ahab with his group of that old seventeenth century Scottish Covenanter who the king’s palace and a righteous man, had hidden in attendant fanatics on one side, and the prophet of God on made hay in the daytime to earn his living and preached some caves and had fed with bread and water. Isn’t that the other side, standing alone. I like to think maybe the gospel at night. When that drunken executioner took a far cry from the lifestyle of some ministers today, Elijah made a grandstand entrance. I can imagine old five whacks to cut off his hands above his wrists, he held including that man in his prayer tower down in Tulsa? Ahab looking around and saying, “Where is he? He’s the them up with blood rolling off his elbows and said, “I’m How many “ministers” would we have in this country if one who said he wanted us all to meet here. Why isn’t he glad I can give these hands for my Lord, whose hands they all had to live in a cave and eat bread and water? here? He’s a coward! Why didn’t he come?” were nailed to the cross for me!” How many preachers or Bible college students would we Then Elijah steps in. What a sensation! What Oh, listen, dearly beloved, it’s not necessary for me to have? anticipation was there that day. recount the noble events from the lives of Savonarola, or Now don’t misunderstand me, I don’t have anything Elijah is a type of all of God’s true servants today who Hubmaier, or Huss, or of Whitefield or Luther. Did not against a preacher having the good things of life, or have to stand alone, and if necessary, stand alone against the founders of Baptist Bible Fellowship once stand enjoying a prosperous life. Certainly we have as much the world! They who preach to please people, they’ll against another form of religious tyranny with its baneful right to it as anybody. I’m against these folks who go always live at ease in an amicable compromise with the blight? They stood for something and they stood against around singing, “Just give me a little cottage in the corner world and the flesh and the devil! But the child of God, something. They stood for constitutional liberty; they of the Promised Land.” I hope you get one, brother! I’m the prophet of God, has to set his face like a flint against stood against dictatorship. They stood for that which looking for a mansion! Jesus said, “I go to prepare a the mobs and tyrants who softly murmur, “Peace, peace,” tended to expansion and progress and improvement; mansion for you,” no little cottage in the corner of – when there is no peace! against a centralization of power. They stood for a anything! (And if my wife has to share the mansion with This was true of Noah in the days of the Flood – missionary endeavor which was God-honoring and me, I hope I have six bathrooms!) everybody thought he was a fool. It was true of the Christ-exalting; against a program that was nothing but Well, the conditions in Israel were dreadful when Elijah mighty prophet Isaiah who was mocked as a babbler in window dressing, just enough to entice people to send confronted Ahab. And Ahab said, “Art thou he that Jerusalem and finally sawn asunder. It was true of their money (which was many times used for other troubleth Israel?” Old Elijah the Prophet shot back at Jeremiah, that mighty man of God who was rejected, cast purposes). Men like these men, and like Elijah, were him and said, “I have not troubled Israel; but thou, and into a miry dungeon pit, and finally murdered in exile. It men of their times. In spite of malicious slander and thy father’s house, in that ye have forsaken the was true of John the Baptist, who was accused of being a cruel, licentious harassment and persecution, men like commandments of the LORD, and thou hast followed devil and was beheaded in Herod’s filthy prison. It was these demonstrate that they who be for us are more than Baalim.” “You’re an old reprobate idolater,” he told him. true of all the apostles. It was also true of our beloved they that be against us! And I think Elijah said a few more words than what we Paul; he paid the supreme price for standing. “And Now, think with me for a moment. (Some folks won’t have on record. having done all, STAND!” Beloved, since the day Paul’s agree with what I’m going to say; or you’ll agree but will I don’t believe Ahab could believe his ears. He just blood licked the guillotine to this very hour, it has been think I ought not say it. Well, God didn’t talk to you stood there awed before the moral, sublime courage of true of every prophet of God who has stood firm for the about this message, He talked to me!) This younger this man of God. And then Elijah said something (this Word of God and has preached uncompromisingly God’s generation needs to know some things. They need to account always amuses me). He said, “Get all the people, blessed and holy truth! know that the most deadly attacks made against them will and especially the prophets of Baal – the prophets of the It was true of the church fathers—Polycarp, Justin, and not be made by a snarling and a furious world! They will grove, and get them all up on Mount Carmel.” And Ahab Ignatius were killed by wild beasts and by fire. It was be made by men who insist on ruling or ruining. That obeyed him. Just previous to this He was looking to kill true of that little preacher Athanasius. One day he was was a key issue to the controversy which gave birth to our Elijah; but now he does what Elijah tells him to do. (Isn’t told by a friend, “Athanasius, if you keep exposing ...continued on page 4

3 Lydick of Midlands Bible Baptist “RIVERS IN THE DESERT” Church in Bellevue, Nebraska, spoke “CROSSROADS” continued from page 1… from 2 Chron. 36:12-21 on the continued from page 3… enemies! judgment of Israel when they had movement. The controversy didn’t rage around doctrine. On Tuesday morning, GIBF National abused God’s mercies and had It raged around principles. Moderator Frank Wood, Pastor of misused his prophets till there was “no A lot of folks deplore controversy. Well, let me tell Whittier Lane Baptist Church in New remedy,” and how God used a you, beloved, souls are saved in controversy. They had a Castle, Indiana, gave the “wake up heathen, Persian king to bring revival little controversy in Jerusalem the day three thousand call,” with a message from Habakkuk to Israel. He pointed out how God is souls were saved! And they had a little controversy a day 2:1-5 “The Just Shall Live by His doing a work even in the midst of despicable times, and or so later when five thousand souls were saved. Fact is, Faith.” He exhorted us to preach the that we must be careful not to get so consumed by what- the church makes better headway against a world that personal nature of biblical faith, and he reminded us faith is that we lose sight of what-can-be by the hand and help hates it than against a world that trifles with it. I’ll take is not presumption, though it sometimes looks like it. We of our Lord. open hostility any day over half-hearted endorsement! were admonished to be certain of God’s guidance in our Following Brother Lydick was Evangelist Billy Ingramt Wise-up, Friends: the devil’s not fighting the church own steps of faith. Bro. Wood said, “God will either of Falls Baptist Church in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, today, he’s joining it! He’s not opposing Christianity, he’s deliver you out of your problems, or he will deliver you who carried on that theme – that of the prospect for professing it! in them.” Amen! revival being especially good in difficult times such as No real preacher of the Word of God goes through life Following Bro. Wood were presentations by Henry America faces today – even amid political and financial without becoming embroiled in controversy, without Benach and the International Board of Jewish Missions, upheaval. Bro. Ingram preached from Ezra 7: 9-10 being criticized and harassed and even persecuted by and Bro. Bruce DeLange and the ministry of Fellowship concerning the hand of God upon us, and he wove dozens nominal Christians and the devil’s crowd. Jesus said Tract League. Each of these ministries was a great of scriptures together into a tapestry of truth that left us “Blessed are ye when men shall revile you, and persecute example of the “substance” of faith Bro. Wood preached all desiring more of God’s hand moving in our behalf. you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, about. Marshall Stevens, venerable Pastor of Calvary Baptist for my name’s sake.” He said, “Rejoice – Rejoice! – and Pastor Troy Dorrell from Eastland Baptist Church in Church in American Canyon, California, brought the be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for Tulsa, Oklahoma, spoke next from the passage in John so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.” 7:37-39. He pointed Oh, I thank God Elijah wasn’t afraid of controversy. out that the “rivers of And don’t you forget, beloved, there were a lot of good living water” ought to people on Mount Carmel that day, a lot of preachers that be flowing out of us! were in sympathy with Elijah; no question about it. “Overflowing” we Maybe those one hundred prophets that Obadiah hid in should be with this two caves were there. If they were, they were “middle- Water touching the of-the-roaders” like we have today. “If Elijah wants to dry lives of folks without Christ. Bro. Dorrell challenged final message of the Wednesday morning session from face Jezebel’s persecuting despotism,” they would say, us to be sure we are drinking from the right fountain and John 18:1-14. He called us to the example our Saviour “let him. It’s up to him. But I don’t want to lose my that we don’t mistake ministry busyness for a genuine gave by going through His desert experience, and where pension. I’ve got a son in college.” They were those closeness with our Saviour. He found water. The Lord Jesus’ resort in such times was cowardly neutrals who faced both ways. And for love of Before lunch, pastors co-laboring together in the GIBF the respite of prayer and their own ease, they didn’t dare speak out. met briefly regarding the work of both the Global Baptist fellowship with the Father. The other day I heard my pastor say something that Times newspaper and Global Independent Baptist The Fellowship Meeting really started me thinking. He said, “God is not silent.” Missions (GIBM). concluded on Wednesday My, doesn’t that open up a can of worms? “God is not Pastors were encouraged to help in the support of the evening with the preaching of silent!” God speaks. Has God spoken to you? Baptist Times. The response was enthusiastic and the Pastor Dean Herring of South Truth, somebody has said, is outraged by silence. February Offering goal was far exceeded, eliciting from Valley Baptist Church in Kuna, (There’s many a man who is proud of his right to say what Editor David Lydick some ecstatic utterances and Idaho. Bro. Herring spoke he pleases, and wishes he had the courage to do so – exuberance seldom seen in that staid and collected from 1Kings 13:1-6 some married men!) But the silence on Mount Carmel Midwesterner. More on the Times Offering can be read challenging us preachers to didn’t disturb or dissuade Elijah. No, sir! He challenged in other parts of this edition of the paper. conduct ourselves in such a the people, “How long halt ye between two opinions?” In addition, Bro. Dick Webster, GIBM Director, gave a way that the honorable And you notice they never said a word. The sin of good report on the very purpose for our fellowship description “man of God” can remaining silent when there should be a rigorous protest together – that of world missions. legitimately be applied. He makes cowards of people. God is blessing our endeavors. Over drove home the truth of how Well, the people made no answer, and Elijah laid down $1.3 million has been communicated easy it is to change our stand once a his proposition. You know the story. And those prophets to missionaries working with GIBM. preacher begins to move off the “old of Baal, they had to accept his challenge. The people said It is rewarding to see what we can paths,” making alterations based on “That’s fair enough.” And so they put the wood on the accomplish as we labor together! comfort, convenience, and expedience altar, cut up their bullock and put it on there, and then Tuesday evening we were helped by rather than on the truth of God’s Word. they began to pray, “O, Baal, hear us.”“O, Baal, hear a great message delivered, in his This “Rivers in the Desert” Fellowship us.” inimitable fashion, by Bro. Sam meeting was truly a time of refreshing! All morning long they cried, “Baal, HEAR us!” And Davison, Pastor of Southwest Baptist There was Spirit-filled preaching; uplifting look over there at old Elijah. I like Elijah! I want to see Church in Oklahoma City. The text was Ezekiel 37:1-14, and well-done special music; warm, abundant, and him when I get home. He had a sense of humor. He and he preached on some “Weird and Wonderful Things!” gracious hospitality; and just a blessed time of kinship stood back and said, “Cry a little louder, boys, your god’s Bro. Sam preached a stirring message about that valley of and fellowship. “Thank you,” Brother Randolph and gone to sleep! Oh, you’re not crying loud enough; maybe dry bones and the fact that Ezekiel was obedient to Cornerstone Baptist Church for the memorable, he’s gone on a trip! You may have to wait till he gets preach the Word given him, even though his audience spiritually thirst-quenching time together! back.” He just kept that up; he was having a good time. was but a collection of Controversy didn’t bother him – he enjoyed it. So then dead, dry bones. Here they began to cut themselves, abuse themselves, and the the preacher showed us blood began to flow down their naked bodies. And do God responding to the you know what? The people standing by said, “Aren’t attitude of Israel that all they sincere? My! He’s a sincere man.” Then Obadiah’s hope was now lost. But prophets would say, “Elijah, you’ve gotta win them with God is not done, and LOVE.” Most of that crowd doesn’t know what love is! when He is done we’ll all know that the LORD He is But then it was Elijah’s turn. I think he probably God! We were reminded that “deadness” needs to be looked like John did there at the Jordan. He wasn’t in confronted by God’s Word being preached, and that God priestly garb or “soft raiment.” No seminary degree; and still desires to make Himself known, which He does by nary a piece of literature. He didn’t have any prestige. the preaching of His Word. He didn’t have the backing of any college or university. Wednesday’s preaching schedule was begun with one of He was just one man. But – BUT! – one man and God! the most dynamic messages of the week. Pastor David Those prophets of Baal cried out all that afternoon and there was “neither voice…nor any that regarded.” There was no fire. Oh, they had organization! They had education and college degrees. They had robes – boy, don’t forget those robes! They had influence. They had the backing of the government! But they didn’t have any fire! They didn’t have any results. No results! There was a big sermon preached, but no results. (Years ago a young student asked me, “Brother Woodworth, do you think I ought to put more fire in my sermons?” I said, “No, you ought to put more of your

4 “The fact that I believe in the New Testament independence of New Testament churches does not mean that I am an ecclesiastical anarchist. In this lunatic world today everybody has got to go from one fool extreme to the other - exactly what the Devil wants. With apologies to Horace Greeley, it is good to know that a lot of independents are self-made men: it relieves God Almighty of a lot of responsibility.” — Noel Smith “Jesus was not only good at drawing big crowds but also at whittling them down.” — Dave Hardy “If you is what you was, you ain’t.” — John Jasper “What the church needs today is not more or better machinery, not new organizations or more and novel methods. She needs men whom the Holy Spirit can use - men of prayer, men mighty in prayer. The Holy Spirit does not flow through methods, but through men. He does not anoint plans, but men - men of prayer!” — E.M. Bounds “Do I hear someone say, ‘But still you must submit to the conclusions of science’? No one is sermons in the fire.”) talking about is the kind you have for the Lord – and for more ready than we are to accept the evident facts We do need fire in our sermons; but we need fire like your wife even. If somebody comes in and insults your of science. But what do you mean by science? Is Elijah got – fire from heaven! wife, what do you do? Serve him pink tea? There are a thing called ‘science’ infallible? Is it not science The man of God then prepared his altar and sacrifice, some people who would say “Oh, you win him with ‘falsely-so-called’? The history of that human and he prayed this prayer: “Lord God of Abraham, Isaac love.” I say, I’d take a shotgun and blast his brains out! ignorance which calls itself ’philosophy’ is and of Israel…” Do you get the significance of that? And if you don’t believe I’ll do it, you try it. absolutely identical with the history of fools, “Abraham,” a promise-keeping God; “Isaac,” a miracle- Who’s first in your life? Christ? – or these perverters except where it diverges into madness.” working God; “and of Israel,” a prayer-answering God. of the Bible who are going around like leeches? Listen, — Charles Haddon Spurgeon “Lord God of Abraham, Isaac and of Israel…Hear me, O the solemn obligation of every true fundamental Baptist LORD, hear me that this people may know that I’m a toward men who profess to be Christians and yet pervert, ...continued on page 12 great leader – that this people may know that I’m a great warp, and distort the truth is to “come out from among preacher.” No; he didn’t say that! He said, “Hear me this them – and BE YE SEPARATE!!! The Holy Spirit of God churches, sends out missionaries, builds schools, and day that this people may know that THOU ART THE said that, I didn’t! In First Corinthians 5:9 He exhorts us wins souls – as Baptist Bible College graduates have LORD GOD, and that thou hast turned their heart back not to associate with such people. And in verse 10 He been doing for 37 years. again.” tells us that He is not talking about unbelievers who live Oh, God, don’t let us forget the importance of this I think there are sixty-some words in that prayer. And in sin. He makes that plain in verse 11 – He’s talking school and the training ministry. Where would we have look what happened. The fire fell! Elijah had results about a Christian brother who walks contrary to the Word been these last 37 years if it hadn’t been for a school like when he preached – something happened when Elijah of God. It can’t be any plainer than that. And in Second this one? I tell you the spirit and credibility of our preached! And if something doesn’t happen when we Thessalonians 3:6, God, through the pen of the Apostle fellowship rises or declines according to the quality of preach, there’s something wrong with us. Something’s Paul, commands us in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ the preaching. And I hope we never forget the wrong somewhere; we better find out what it is. Elijah to “withdraw…from every brother that walketh importance of a training ministry that trains ministers to saw fire fall – from Heaven! disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received be real preachers of the Word. We better heed the Now, listen folks. I didn’t spend a lot of time on that of us.” You can’t make it any plainer. warnings against the trends of our day – not just hear and story because you’re so familiar with it. But here’s the I want to be kind; I really do. But how in the world, let it pass by. We better heed the clear admonitions of thing I want to get to. Say what you like, but we’re facing in the light of these verses, can I have fellowship with God’s Word! the same test today. There are those who call themselves anyone who is not a fundamental Baptist? To me, there In this day of nominal and complacent fundamentalists, fundamentalists – even fundamental Baptists – who now is no way. we must have men who are grounded in and unashamedly fraternize with the modernists, who advocate peace at Now go down to verse 14. Paul says if anyone refuses committed to the Word – to God’s Word, not man’s word. any price, who refuse to “come out from among them,” to obey what we say in this letter, note who he is and stay We need men who will unapologetically preach God’s and who care chiefly to maintain their self-defined away from him. (I’m paraphrasing.) STAY AWAY Word! Without men of this type what can we hope to “ministries” and newly-defined philosophies. FROM HIM! Don’t have anything to do with him. accomplish? What will happen? Put’er down, Brother: I won’t hobnob with just (I’m very careful about wishing people “God-speed.” I was around long before we had any schools. I know anything that wears a Baptist label or calls himself a I think we sin in our benedictions many times. Boy, in what it was like. I was on the road trying to get churches Christian. I’m for fellowship. God knows I’m for my benediction I specify who I’m benedicting!) to support our missionaries, what few we had. I know fellowship, but not at such a price, believe me. Let me say this in closing: Never in the history of the how it was. I knew churches that really needed a pastor I believe a desire for fellowship is commendable; it human race have we needed sound, separated Bible and couldn’t find one. We didn’t have anybody. Believe certainly is. Blessed are all those who can preserve and colleges more than we need them today. Never in the me; I know how important a sound, separated school is. promote it! But I’m telling you, beloved, unity between history of the human race have preachers been as Stop and think about it. The men of God whose names a fundamental Baptist and a modernist or humanist, yes, compromising as they are today. Never in the history of are written large in our history and who have dynamically or a charismatic or a Pentecostal is impossible! It is just the human race have preachers been so corrupt morally influenced their generation have been preachers IMPOSSIBLE! It’s as clear as the sun at noonday: no and doctrinally; never have they been so manifestly grounded in the Word, able to preach the Word of God union can exist between “two opinions.” The God of the incompetent as they are today. We have preachers of all with power. This is what has built, from a human fundamentalist is one God. The god of the modernist is kinds departing from the faith, distorting the gospel, and standpoint, our college and our Fellowship. What we another. The Christ of the fundamentalist is one Christ. fellowshipping with anything or anyone who calls need today, beloved, is not more or better machinery, not The christ of the modernist is another. The Bible of the himself a Christian. more organization, not more novel or sensational fundamentalist is one Bible. The bible of the modernist Beloved, hear me: we are at a crossroads. We’re at one methods. What we need today is men of God who are is another bible. You see, these things are one thing to a of those bad-tempered roads, believe me. preachers! Let me tell you, the Holy Spirit doesn’t come fundamentalist and they’re another thing to a modernist. No question could be of greater import than this: Shall on methods; He comes on preaching. He doesn’t flow Which God is the Christian’s God? Which Christ is we let the hostility of the world, shall we let the through machinery; He flows through preaching. He the Christian’s Christ? Which Bible is the Christian’s charismatics and the Pentecostals, shall we let the doesn’t anoint plans; He anoints preaching – the mighty Bible? Which church, which mission, which salvation is humanists and the modernists scare us into becoming a preaching of the gospel! I can hardly keep from naming the Christian’s church, mission, and salvation? To those diplomat on good terms with the world, the flesh and the some preachers; but I better not. You young boys get who have ears to hear today, beloved, there’s a Voice devil? Or shall we make a HEAD-ON around men who are truly “men of God” – get around saying “This is the way, walk ye in it,” (as spoken through COLLISSSSSION against this godless age?! preachers and preaching. Get what you can from them. one of the greatest prophets perhaps of all time – Dr. We need men made of the stuff of which the prophets Real men of God are a dying breed. (Elisha savored his Isaiah). were made. We need men like old Apollos who “mightily time with Elijah.) Get everything you can from them, Now listen, folks, I don’t mean to be unkind. I think convinced the Jews, and that publickly, shewing by the while you can get it. we need to be kind, and we need to do everything we can scriptures that Jesus was Christ.” Such is the kind of I just wish Mr. Vick were here today. I better stop. to help a brother. We hear a lot about “love” these days, preaching that has “subdued kingdoms, wrought but a lot of it is nothing but hogwash – sickly righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of sentimentality – that’s about all it is. The kind of love I’m lions...” It’s the kind of preaching that establishes

5 Getting to Know God’s Servants TIMES: I remember a story you once told about going into the service and being shipped overseas. You THE TIMES INTERVIEW: Dr. Roy Thompson spoke of reading your Bible. Tell a little bit about that and what impact that made on you? Editor’s note: It is interviews like this one that have THOMPSON: A good foundation is important, and at made this feature in the Baptist Times so well received. that time I was laying the foundation in my Christian life. We get kudos on “The Times Interview” regularly. To me, Aboard ship, we didn’t have anything to do; the Navy did this part of the paper is not only enjoyable and everything. We just ate and then were free to do informative, it is instructive! Living at this time in church whatever. So, I found a little place in the front of the ship history, when so many independent Baptists seem to have where they stored canvas and other things. The trip to lost their way, it is helpful and reinforcing to hear a Germany took about twelve days. I had a little New clarion call from one who has been “down the road,” Testament, and I would go to my spot and read. having both the experience and success to speak Sometimes I would skip lunch and just read until supper. knowledgably – and influentially. Dr. Roy Thompson is As I recall, I read through the whole New Testament such a man. I think it fair to say that God “chiseled him THOMPSON: After being discharged from the Army (at about 11 times in those twelve days. That was my out of a rock,” and, in turn, he has convictions that are fifteen years-old), I returned to Dayton, Ohio. I was foundation and what stabilized me for the two years I rock-solid. He has the respect and admiration of scores again living on the streets, but sleeping at my dad’s place. would spend in Germany. of folk who know him. As is said of other such faithful My brother had a job with a newspaper, so I went to work men is what can be said of Roy Thompson: his works do there. I was living a very corrupt, drunkard’s life. TIMES: You already mentioned that Akron Baptist follow him. My mother went to live with my sister and her husband Temple had a big influence in your life. Please talk Thanks to Bro. Kevin Folger for doing the interview in Akron, Ohio. They had been more than social drinkers about the church, and, of course, Dallas Billington work. The article will be in two parts; Part 2 will be in but not quite alcoholics; however, their lives changed and the impact he had on your life and ministry. the coming July issue. Learn and heed as you read – and when they got saved. When I went to visit them, they THOMPSON: As I said, my father was a drunkard; and enjoy! were teaching Sunday school at Akron Baptist Temple. I he died a drunkard. As a result, I never really had a was just there for a day or two, but Akron Baptist Temple father. He was very abusive. He never said, “I love you,” BAPTIST TIMES: Thank you, Dr. Thompson for was having a revival with B.R. Lakin, one of the warriors but he said, “I hate you,” and “You never should have taking this time for our benefit. I am glad you are of the faith. My sister begged me to stay and go to church been born.” Because of that, I looked up to Dallas able to be here today, and I am looking forward to this with them one night. Of course, I tried to weasel out of Billington as a father figure, both emotionally and time together with you. Please begin by telling us a it by saying that I didn’t have any proper clothes to wear, spiritually. I wished I’d had a father like that. He was a little bit about your early life: where you were born; but she persuaded me to go. That was the night that strong man. where you grew up; and what it was like as a child in changed my life forever! I was seated in that big When God called Dallas Billington into the ministry, he your home. auditorium with 3000-4000 people. He didn’t know it, was married, had a child, and worked at the rubber ROY THOMPSON: I was born in 1933, in Grand but Dr. Lakin preached to me; he didn’t preach to anyone factory. God used him in such a marvelous way. Rapids, Michigan, where I lived until I was seven and else. I was about ten or twelve rows back from the front, His presence was something. He was a big man, but he half years old. but it seemed as if his finger reached right to me. He I was a “Mel Trotter boy.” The Mel Trotter Rescue preached on the Great White Throne Judgment, and God Mission fed and clothed my brother, my sister, my got a hold of me and I went to the altar. I didn’t really mother, and me, because my father was a drunkard. know why I was going, but I just knew I was a no-good, Although Dad had a good job, all his money was wasted dirty drunk, so I went. on booze. In the early part of 1940, my father was given The altars were lined with people. It was 1952 – days a job transfer to Akron, Ohio, and he then transferred of revival in this country. Altar workers would come up again about a year later to Dayton, Ohio, which is where and put their arms around one who had come forward, I was raised for the most part. showing them something from the Bible. I felt a man’s My mother and I became “street people” even before arm on my shoulder. I’d never felt one kind touch in my that term really existed, I think. My brother and sister got life. Dr. Jim Moore, who I didn’t know at the time, was married early, so it was just me, my mother and father. the associate pastor. I had on dirty clothes, and I My dad didn’t pay any bills, so we had to live on the probably stood out in that crowd. But he looked at me streets, which meant sleeping on the streets, eating the with all my dirt, paying no attention to my bad breath or best we could, and begging. I’m ashamed to say that we anything else. He showed me from the scriptures how to was tenderhearted. Sometimes I would go soul-winning even did a little stealing; we did whatever was necessary be saved; and that night I got saved. with him; I’ve seen him talk to a business man who was to survive. Those were the early years of my life. Then I never went back to Dayton. I stayed in Akron and well-dressed and put his hand on that man’s shoulder and when I was only fourteen years old, I went into the lived with my sister and brother-in-law, got a job, and my weep. To me he was the weeping prophet. He was military. I “borrowed” my brother’s birth certificate. I spiritual growth began. Akron Baptist Temple started a strong, tough, and hard, but at the same time he was soft. went in under his name, and it was quite confusing. In Bible college called the Akron Baptist Temple Bible Jesus and the Word of God are the examples for serving the military I took up the habit that I hated in my father; College. Right away I felt that God had something for me God, but you also need figures in your own life to look I started drinking. My true age and identity were to do, so I enrolled. God immediately took the liquor and up to. Dr. Billington was mine. He was a strong eventually discovered and I was discharged from the immorality away from me; but I struggled with influence in my decision to start a church and do Army. I went back to the streets where I began living an cigarettes. They were my crutch. When I went to enroll something many thought impossible. I don’t think there immoral and drunken life. I don’t even like to think in the Bible college, I had a pack of cigarettes in my is any man who had a stronger influence on me than about those days and the things that I did. I rejoice that pocket. On the enrollment form it asked questions like Dallas Billington. We preachers should never look down God chose not to have as good a memory as I have, “Do you use alcohol or tobacco in any form?” If I said on a twelve, thirteen, or seventeen year-old boy. They because when I got saved He forgave me and forgot all “yes” and was honest, then I wouldn’t be accepted. If I may be tough, hard, and unproven, but there’s potential my sins. said “no,” I would be a liar. I had tried to quit; I knew it there. Like Christ, Dallas Billington saw potential in was wrong. So, right there at the table where I was filling people. out the forms with that pack of cigarettes in my pocket, I TIMES: I don’t know how old Akron Baptist Temple looked to God and said, “Lord, I promise you, I will throw them away when I leave here. I want to go to this was when you showed up there, but it was obviously a college.” I walked out of there and threw away the pack, church that God was using in a powerful way. Most- and I have never smoked another cigarette. likely it was one of the great influences on church That’s when God began to change my life. It was there planters of that generation. What was it like in those that I met my best friend, Larry Clayton. We formed a days at Akron Baptist Temple? little team to go out and represent the college and preach THOMPSON: As I recall, the church started in 1933, so the gospel. I remember one time when we had a meeting it would have been about twenty years-old when I came. on New Year’s Eve at the Dayton Baptist Temple. I was That time in America was a revival era – during the Great supposed to preach that night, but I really didn’t know a Depression and then the war (World War II). There were thing about preaching. They gave me half an hour. I had a lot of problems in the country then – much like today; a lot of material but I only preached about twelve however, I think back then people looked to God for minutes. That was my first sermon. solutions rather than to technology or government. In TIMES: When you were growing up and life was During the Korean War, in April of 1953, I got a draft spite of Dallas Billington’s lack of education, Akron really tough, were there any churches that ministered notice. When I arrived at boot camp, I met one Christian Baptist Temple seemed to be innovative in reaching to your family or helped in any way? boy out of our whole company of 220 men. I was scared people. If a family had a car back then, they only had one. Akron Baptist Temple was one of the first, if not the THOMPSON: We went to the City Mission in Dayton, to go back in the Army because that was where I started first, to start a city-wide bus ministry. They would rent Ohio, and they helped us some. There were times when drinking. I was a young Christian and didn’t have any city buses (which didn’t run much on Sundays) and go God would bring us together with some Christians and foundation. This boy and I volunteered to go to Korea out and run the regular city bus route. People rode free. they would be helpful with food or clothing or things like because we felt that we could win boys to the Lord in fox Thousands would come and they built one of the largest that. In Dayton there was a place called the Christian holes. But like the government is known to do, the Army Sunday schools in the world because an uneducated but Tabernacle. It was an interdenominational church and sent this young man and me to Germany and the rest of compassionate Kentucky boy loved God and believed the they ministered to us. It was then that I got a little taste our company went to Korea. Bible. They averaged about 7,000 in Sunday school for missions, for giving, and for salvation. attendance, with big days going over 10,000. TIMES: Tell about your conversion to Christ.

6 TIMES: After and try to figure things out financially. I had a family to your service in support, but when we got to Cleveland I had to borrow LOCAL AND REGIONAL the military, I money to pay the first month’s rent on a little apartment. GIBF-RELATED FELLOWSHIPS know you arrived My pastor, Dr. Billington, had a funny philosophy: he (the following are some – there are others, too – around at Baptist Bible said, “Go out and work for it. We’re not just going to give the country to which a warm welcome is offered to any College in 1955. it to you.” So we came to Cleveland, found a place to preachers/churches who stand where we do.) What are some of live, and started knocking on doors. Your dear the things about grandfather, Bro. Kevin, gave us the house he lived in for Global Independent Baptist Fellowship of Ohio your Bible our first meeting place. The rest is history. (meeting usually the 1st Tues. of the month – college training Feb, Apr, Jun, Aug, Oct, Dec) TIMES: After you started Cleveland Baptist Church, that continue to contact info: the growth was quite rapid in those early years. What Pastor Daniel L. Wolvin, Moderator impact you today. would you say was the key to that growth? North Columbus Baptist Church THOMPSON: Well, again, it was the men of God and THOMPSON: I think part of the key was that we were 3728 Snouffer Road, Columbus, OH 43235 their influence. I think God always uses men to build living in a different era. Churches were growing. There (614) 764-7374 / [email protected] other men. When I went there, I thought there weren’t any wasn’t any wide-spread mockery against Christianity or Missouri Valley Concord of Independent Baptists other preachers in the world like Dallas Billington or denigration of fundamental, Bible-believing people. It (Iowa, northern Kansas, Nebraska, Minnesota, South Dakota, and B.R. Lakin. But when I got there I met other great men, was easier. Bus ministries were thriving. There weren’t northern Missouri) men like G. B. Vick, Noel Smith, and Bill Dowell. They (meeting usually the 1st Fri. of every month) so many things to distract. Computers and home were soul-winners. They were powerful preachers, and contact info: entertainment industries weren’t around. It was a good powerful leaders. Pastor Mike Davis, Coordinator time. People answered the door and were friendly; they In those days, we were in the midst of a movement, a Lighthouse Baptist Church weren’t so worried and afraid. I think such conditions as movement to fulfill the Great Commission. Baptist Bible 300 Ralston Road, Waterloo, IA 50703 those had something to do with it. (319) 239-6519 / [email protected] College in Springfield, Missouri was built for training In truth, for any successes a church may experience, all preachers and missionaries. The college began in 1950. Indiana Global Independent Baptist Fellowship credit goes to the Lord. The Lord builds a church or it’s By 1955, as I recall, there were about 450 students (meeting the 2nd Tues. of each month @10am. Also participate in a built in vain. enrolled, and it was growing. The emphasis was on tri-state meeting - Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana - each October) contact info: In the next issue (coming in July) Brother Thompson starting churches. I’m not sure of the exact numbers, but Pastor Allen Pierce, Moderator as I remember, we had about 130 students in my class will speak to matters like, “Loose Fundamentalism,” Northern Park Baptist Church when I started, and when we graduated in 1958, we had Standing Alone, Pastoral Transitions, and Avoiding 598 N. Meridian Street, Greenwood, IN 46143 almost the same number. Of that number, 90 were male Pitfalls in the Ministry. Don’t miss Part 2! (317) 881-2098 / 412-0846 / [email protected] students and 40 were female students (and all the girls Global Independent Baptist Fellowship of Texas were training to be pastors’ wives or missionary wives (meeting every other month on Mon. evening and Tues. morning) and/or church secretaries). Of those 90 men, all but two contact info: or three testified that they were going out to start a Pastor Dennis Webster – Moderator church. That required some sacrifice, but they had a Pastor Chad Spence – Vice-Moderator pioneer spirit. Pastor Charles Trull – Treasurer Pastor Don Smith, Garrett Baptist Church – Secretary At Bible college I was taught that each generation has THE FLORIDA BAPTIST the responsibility to reach its own generation. (I often PO Box 1008, Garrett, TX 75120 say that I am thankful to God for preachers who are COLLEGE REPORT (972) 875-1101 / [email protected] willing to use me still today, a seventy-five year-old By Pastor Bruce E. The Independent Baptist Fellowship of the Carolinas man.) Times change and men change; but God never Turner, President (meeting the 2nd Tues. of each month) changes – nor do the spiritual needs of men. We have contact info: large, successful churches all over America, but I don’t “Labourers” and Laboring Pastor Steve Triplett, Moderator think we are doing what we were doing back then – Together Fellowship Baptist Church 11416 Albemarle Road, Charlotte, NC 28227 starting new churches. Old churches that once were alive It has been a thrill to watch our (704) 545-9668 / [email protected] and vibrant too often die; some of them go modernistic, students develop and grow. As is some go liberal. We have to get back to fulfilling the true with other colleges, our young people come to us The Northeast Regional Global Independent Baptist Great Commission again – soul-winning, sending out from a variety of backgrounds and at differing levels of Fellowship (meeting in the New England states the 1st Thurs. eve. and Fri. of missionaries, and starting churches at home. That’s what maturity. Though at times it is a challenge to deal with a scriptural ministry is all about. April and November (2 per year) conditions related to immaturity, it is also a joy to watch contact info: TIMES: You graduated from BBC in May of 1958 as immaturity gives way to maturity. Pastor David Davis, Moderator and immediately loaded up your car with your wife No doubt this world is in a grave condition and in great Grace Baptist Church and two children to go to Cleveland, Ohio, to plant the need. It seems we cannot prepare enough Christian PO Box 738, Vernon, CT 06066 Cleveland Baptist Church. What led you to workers – at least not fast enough – to meet the ever- (860) 872-3831 / [email protected] growing need. However, that is the only answer to the Cleveland? Washington Independent Baptist Fellowship need. Jesus said, “Pray ye therefore the Lord of the THOMPSON: Young men out of Akron Baptist Temple st harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his (meeting the 1 Mon. eve. /Tues. morn. each month) were going away to Bible college and coming back to contact info: places all over Ohio, starting churches. There were many harvest.” We must pray for God’s call to be heard and answered. We must be committed to training those who Pastor Rick Wilder, coordinator in and around Akron. I had it in my mind to go out and Olympia Bible Baptist Church answer the call – training them to be the best they can be start a church. I wanted to preach. I could have gone into 704 Delphi Road SW, Olympia, WA 98512 evangelism or missions, but, in any case, I wanted to for the Lord’s work. (360) 570-9876 / [email protected] preach. But I did want to start a church; I guess it was One goal in such training is to help young “labourers” fall in love with the Word of God, and in turn, as they Montana – Northern Idaho GIBF because of the influence that Dr. Billington and Akron st Baptist Temple had on me. read and study the Word of God, to fall in love with the (meeting the 1 Mon. eve. /Tues. morn. each month) Cleveland was one of the largest cities in Ohio, and it God of the Word. Regardless of the substance or the contact info: Pastor Kim Earhart, Chairman was only 35 miles from Akron. At that time, it was a method of training, God’s servants cannot be life- Clark Fork Baptist Church difficult drive from Akron to Cleveland; it took an hour changers if they are not intimate with the One Who changes lives. Keeping a fresh desire to study God’s PO Box 176, Plains, MT 58959 and a half. I wondered why nobody went to Cleveland. I (406) 826-3608 / [email protected] had wondered that even back when I was in the military. Word, maintaining a personal purity and a fervent spirit I could name fifty cites in Ohio where men had gone and of service must be taught and, to the degree it is modeled started some very successful churches; but no one had by staff, it must be caught. Florida Baptist College seeks to produce graduates who know what they believe and A big thank you goes to each pastor who has sent gone to Cleveland. When I came back from Germany students. We truly appreciate your trust in us and we love there still wasn’t anyone planting a church in Cleveland. why they believe it. Further, it is our desire that the truths we teach be written in the heart of each student and lived the fine “labourers” you have sent our way. How It seemed they’d gone to every place but Cleveland! I rewarding and encouraging it is to have your confidence went away to Baptist Bible College and the whole time I out in an obedient and sacrificial life of service to God. This has been a great school year. We have enjoyed to prepare them for the harvest fields of the world. prayed and thought about Cleveland. At that time, Clearly, FBC is a co-laboring thing! Cleveland was known as the sin city. some growth numerically and spiritually. And it is now exciting to wind down toward graduation, which will be A number of churches regularly visit our campus. It is God was working in my heart through different a joy to have you here. If we can assist anyone with circumstances, and I never stopped thinking about May 7, 2009. We would like to invite you to come and take part in our commencement services. The Class of arrangements for a visit, please give us a call. Everyone Cleveland. When I graduated, still no one had gone can visit our website at www.floridabaptistcollege.com or there. It was the headquarters of the World Council of 2009 will include the first graduates to have completed a full four-year course of study at Florida Baptist College. find our link at www.westgate.org. Churches, and the city was full of modernism and In closing let me ask for your prayers for our summer liberalism. John R. Rice once said that Cleveland was the Our graduation services will also emphasize the college’s May offering which has a goal of $20,000 and tour group, “Anchored”, which will be traveling from graveyard of evangelism. All those things kept working New England to Florida. Pray for their safety as they on my mind and in my heart, so I decided I was going to will be used to improve the quality and size of our college cafeteria. Let me share our sincere thanks for those who travel and for the salvation of souls as they minister. Cleveland. I talked to Dr. Noel Smith about it, and he We are glad to be part of the Global Independent gave me great encouragement. He said it would be hard, have chosen to support Florida Baptist College on a monthly basis and for those who pray regularly for our Baptist Fellowship, co-laboring with likeminded pastors, but to dig my tent poles deep. So that’s what we did. missionaries, evangelists, churches and colleges. We I guess I didn’t have a lot of sense. I didn’t sit down administration, staff and student body. And to those who share annually in our May offering, we are very grateful. pray daily for your success in His service.

7 NORTHEAST REGIONAL GIBF MEETS IN RHODE ISLAND An edited report by John McLean While society has launched a full-scale attack on the home and on fatherhood, the Northeast Regional GIBF AN OPEN DOOR IN THE Meeting inspired all in attendance to leave godly CONGO “monuments” to both their physical and spiritual An edited report by Robert Mickey Jr. children. Pastor Randy Lewis and the Blackstone Valley Baptist Church in Cumberland, Rhode Island hosted On February 28, 2009, Kenya missionary Robert the April 2-3, 2009 event, and the theme was “What Mickey and two Kenyan pastors made a survey trip to the Meaneth These Stones?” Democratic Republic of Congo. The purpose was to The featured preacher was Bro. Robert Lewis, GIBM further lay groundwork for starting churches there later in Executive Assistant Director, who himself erected a the year. (It was Mickey’s second trip to the Congo. The monument to Christ when he came to Rhode Island in initial trip regarding the effort, accompanied by a U.S. TRI-STATE MEETING 1975 and started Blackstone Valley Baptist Church. Seven years ago, he passed it on to his son, Pastor Randy GATHERS IN WASHINGTON Lewis. The monument continues to point folks to Christ. STATE Other preachers during the meeting were: Pastor Bobby A report by Alicia Lydick Mitchell of Mid-Coast Baptist Church in Brunswick, “Until Then” was the theme of the Northwest Tri-State Maine; Bro. Marty Stevens (son) and Pastor Robert Baptist Fellowship Meeting, hosted by Pastor Duane Stevens (father) of Eglise Biblique Baptiste in Pettipiece of Bible Baptist Church in Spokane, Sherbrooke, Quebec. The meeting was filled with sound Washington. The meeting was held April 13-14, 2009. Bible preaching that was Spirit-filled and edifying. There were 26 churches represented from Washington, Praise the Lord for faithful men who exemplified the Oregon, Montana and Northern Idaho. The key verse for concept of passing on a permanent “memorial” to future pastor and a Canadian pastor, was made in September, the meeting was I Cor. 15:58 and each preacher delivered generations. 2008.) a Spirit-filled message based on the truths of this In route, the Kenyan team stopped in Kigali, Rwanda, passage. Pastor Rick DeMato of Helena, MT, began the “THE EVENT” FOR MEN WHO where Mickey preached in the Cornerstone Baptist meeting Monday night; Tuesday morning preachers were Church, believed to be the only independent Baptist Pastor Dave Brown of Yakima, WA, Bro. Gary Jayne Sr., MET IN QUEBEC church in all of Rwanda. In 1995, there were about one now planting a new work in Long Beach, Washington, A report by Bob Stevens million people killed in the Rwandan Genocide, during and Pastor Rich Farinella of Woodinville, WA. The fifth annual men’s conference, called “Mighty Men which no churches stood for right and, tragically, many Special prayer requests were made by host pastor Bro. of Valour,” was held March 12-14, 2009, at South churches butchered those who sought refuge from them. Pettipiece for the serious condition of little four year-old Metropolitaine Bible Baptist Church of St-Hubert, Testimonies the Kenyan pastors brought from their recent Josiah Herring – the son and grandson of Idaho church- Quebec; Bro. Mario Monette is the pastor. This year’s similar experiences in Kenya were touching to the planters Jason Herring and Dean Herring, respectively, theme was “Sound the Trumpet.” Not one detail was Rwandans; many showed signs of emotion. and grandson, too, of Washington church-planter Val overlooked by the host church. Their spirit of service, the During the service four adults trusted Christ. A Stalnaker. Josiah has a serious form of brain cancer; superb meals, warm hospitality and decorative member of the church, named January, told the Kenyans and there was call for prayer as well as compassion by preparations were wonderful. the place in the Congo they were going was his way of financial help. A total of 98 men were in attendance, representing hometown; he had been praying five years for someone The meeting was a special blessing to all in attendance, sixteen churches from the states New Jersey, New York, to go there and start a Baptist church. He had fled the instilling a determination to plan for the next Tri-State Maine, Vermont, and the province of Quebec (from area when the war started and still had relatives and gathering. which came half the total). An abundance of good music friends living there. He said during the message the was provided by men from the various churches. Friday Lord touched his heart; he felt led to accompany and help afternoon activities included hockey, bowling, assorted the Kenyans on their trip. His pastor gave a hearty DISASTER IN KENTUCKY - games, and/or free time to simply fellowship and relax. endorsement for him to go along, and his help, from Guest speakers for the event were Pastor Doug Fisher beginning to end, was beyond description. He proved The Ice Storm of 2009 of Light House Baptist Church in Lemon Grove, himself a doctrinally-sound, wise servant of God – an A report by Lawrence Richardson California, and Pastor Lou Baldwin of Crossroad angel sent from God to minister to the Kenyan team. Monday, January 26, 2009, began as any other Monday Baptist Church in Bailey’s Crossroads, Virginia. Through this man, much was learned culturally, in Madisonville, Kentucky. The only difference was the Messages like, historically and spiritually concerning the area of the continued weather forecast concerning a winter storm “Three Types of Servants,” “The Pattern of God’s Congo that was targeted. approaching from the west. Throughout the day Working in Your Life,” “The Marks of The Call of God,” Time and time again God prepared things ahead of forecasters kept saying the storm was growing into a “The Importance of Attitude in Service,” as well as time, enabling the survey team to reach out to a neglected major event. Their words fell on the ears of many who others, all “hit the mark.” The final Saturday morning corner of the “dark continent.” did not want to believe the prospects for such a disaster messages were followed by numerous heartfelt Surprisingly, after arriving in the Congo there was a as it turned out to be. testimonies to the life-changing effects of the meeting. group of 25 men waiting who welcomed the team into the About 4 p.m. that afternoon, the rain began. The Many said, country, wanting to know when the teaching could begin. forecast at that point was “freezing rain turning to snow “This has become THE annual event not to miss.” (Many of these were men met and taught during Mickey’s during the night.” But that forecast was wrong. Rain Both speakers have accepted the invitation to return for last trip there.) Meeting arrangements were made and continued the next 48 hours with temperatures below next year’s conference. the first class of about 33 met on a Wednesday. freezing; ice accumulations were from 1?” to 2”. Lessons were taught on salvation, eternal security, and The electricity at Grace Baptist Church (and all over STATE FELLOWSHIP baptism. Other lessons were left for the class to do town) went off about noon on Tuesday and did not come GATHERS IN COLUMBUS, between then and the next planned trip. All of the men back on for 12 days (or later, for some)! Madisonville, there expressed a deep interest in a church being started. other cities and counties were in total darkness; most of OHIO Likely, many of them are not truly saved; but the Holy Kentucky was in darkness. Many had to travel 60 miles A report by Dan Wolvin Spirit will convict and guide them into truth as they hear to find gas and kerosene for generators and heaters. It April 6-7, 2009, forty-two preachers and many other the truth. was worse than many feared. Tuesday night it was guests gathered in Columbus, Ohio, for the bi-monthly The trip accomplished much. There was a meeting with difficult to sleep – war-like sounds were heard all night fellowship meeting of the GIBF of Ohio. North the area chief (government representative) and he was as large tree limbs were breaking under the weight of ice. Columbus Baptist Church and Pastor Dan Wolvin hosted very happy at the plans to come and start a church. Only when there were no more limbs to break did the the meeting. Pastor Kevin Folger of Cleveland Baptist Confirmation was given, being officially permitted to sounds finally stop. All around town was a sight of total Church in Cleveland, Ohio, and Pastor R. B. Ouellette, actively minister in the name of the yet-to-be-started destruction. pastor of First Baptist Church in Bridgeport, Michigan, church. Grace Bible Baptist Church of Nakuru, Kenya, is But things are now returning to normal. The cleanup preached on Monday night and Tuesday morning. Both stepping out by faith, tentatively planning to have a continues, with many trees having to be completely men delivered powerful messages. Everyone left permanent presence in Uvira, Republic of Congo, removed due to the damage. Friends have helped friends encouraged and emboldened in the Word of God. sometime in the month of June, 2009. and people they did not know. Grace Baptist Church The GIBF of Ohio meets on the first Tuesday of prays that folks in Madisonville will understand that, February, April, June, August, October and December at except for the grace of God it could have been much various host churches throughout the state. To be worse. We thank Him for His protection and goodness. included on the mailing list or to receive further information, contact Pastor Wolvin at [email protected] or (614) 764-7374.

8 SHONEBARGER NOW IN THE BAPTIST TIMES “FEBRUARY OFFERING” TOPS $19,000! FIELD OF EVANGELISM “Thank you” seems quite inadequate to describe our gratitude to all who so generously A report by the editor participated in the recent Baptist Times February Offering. Each year at that time we ask for a After nearly twenty-five years of ministry including the special offering to help meet expenses which exceed those met by regular support and subscription pastorate and in prison chaplaincy, Jon Shonebarger has rates. The response to our need was, frankly, overwhelming. The goal of $12,000 was smashed, returned to the place he started. He was called into the as the total has now gone over $19,000!! What a blessing you who helped have been. May God gospel ministry while serving in the U.S Air Force and as richly bless you for your part! To in some way show our appreciation, we are “telling the world” of a member of Midlands Bible Baptist Church in Bellevue, your generosity by listing you here. Once again – THANK YOU! Nebraska. Now in obedience to God’s call into evangelism, Bro. Shonebarger and his wife, Peggy, are Terry Randolph Cornerstone Baptist Church Phoenix, AZ returning “home” to operate their ministry out of and Fidel Hughes East Mesa Baptist Church Mesa, AZ under the authority of the church where he was first Jerry Danforth First Baptist Bible Church Glendale, AZ called. Pastor David H. Lydick rejoices at the privilege Joe Stoppelbein Sunrise Baptist Church Tucson, AZ to work again with one of his first “Timothys;” and he Greg Hardesty Western Hills Baptist Church Glendale, AZ whole-heartedly recommends Bro. Shonebarger to churches interested in using him in his new place of Larry Obero Bible Baptist Church National City, CA service. He can be reached through Midlands Bible Baptist William Hilton Calvary Baptist Church Rio Linda, CA Church – (402) 731-5932; [email protected] and/or Bill Rench Calvary Baptist Church Temecula, CA [email protected]. Chris Chadwick Canyon Ridge Baptist Church San Diego, CA Paul Chappell Lancaster Baptist Church Lancaster, CA Jim Preston Lighthouse Baptist Church Moreno Valley, CA Clifton Mizer First Baptist Church of Englewood Englewood, CO Scott Naill Faith Baptist Church Wesley Chapel, FL Ruben Nance Grace Baptist Church Brandon, FL Mike Higgins Hope Childrens Home Tampa, FL Kerry Nance Southside Baptist Church Tampa, FL Chester Thrift Temple Baptist Church Deltona, FL Bruce Turner Westgate Baptist Church Tampa, FL Kathleen Adams Davenport, IA Charles Stevens Riverside Baptist Church Burlington, IA Dean Herring South Valley Baptist Church Kuna, ID Frank Wood Whittier Lane Baptist Church New Castle, IN Rex Fuller Faith Baptist Church Concordia, KS Bob Adrian Kansas City, KS SPRIITUAL WARFARE Lyn Smith Wichita, KS Kevin Metsinger Shawnee Mission Baptist Temple Shawnee, KS CONFERENCE HELD IN Ron Jones Temple Baptist Church El Dorado, KS COLORADO Bob Nolan Central Baptist LaFayette, LA A report by Keith Bates Jeff Berg Forest Ridge Baptist Church Forest Hill, MD March 6-8, 2009, Penrose Baptist Church of Penrose, Jeff Ables Berean Baptist Church Springfield, MO Colorado, held a Spiritual Warfare Conference, taking Bill Marshall Bible Baptist Temple St. Joseph, MO their theme from II Corinthians 10:4-5. Pastor Keith Carl Boonstra Springfield, MO Bates and the Penrose church believe there is a great need Rex Switzer Springfield, MO for the subject of spiritual warfare to be addressed in Gary Berry Southland Baptist Church Belton, MO churches today. Spiritual warfare is not some Rick DeMato Liberty Baptist Church Helena, MT superstition about lurking demons (though Satan’s Dan Lydick Rocky Mountain Baptist Church Kalispell, MT henchmen are out to destroy everyone), but rather a total Clarence Patterson Faith Baptist Church Kearney, NE commitment to Jesus Christ and a recognition and Merv Goodrick Fellowship Baptist Church Lincoln, NE removal of things in life that prevent total commitment. David Lydick Midlands Bible Baptist Church Bellevue, NE It is an appropriation of Holy Spirit power. Evangelist Jon T. Shonebarger Jr. was the featured Craig Lang Temple Baptist Church Reserve, NM preacher. He was used of God to call attention to Pete Montoro Open Door Bible Baptist Astoria, NY powerful truths in God’s Word and give hope to David Acevedo Primera Iglesia Bautista Brooklyn, NY Christians facing spiritual battles. He preached on Mark Jacobs Anchor Baptist Church Massillon, OH sincerity in Christian growth and the meaning of Steve Clayton Celina Baptist Temple Celina, OH sanctification. He preached about the armor of God. An Kevin Folger Cleveland Baptist Church Brooklyn, OH assortment of issues was spoken to regarding the Wayne Hardy Bible Baptist Church Stillwater, OK Christian’s fight against the world, the flesh, and the Dave Hardy Stillwater, OK devil. At a Saturday morning men’s breakfast, he Troy Dorrell Eastland Baptist Church Tulsa, OK addressed faithfulness in leadership. Heartland Baptist Bible College Oklahoma City, OK Testimonies continue to be given about how people Ival Robinson Southeast Baptist Church Tulsa, OK were challenged by the Word, were convicted of besetting Sam Davison Southwest Baptist Church Oklahoma City, OK sins, and have experienced victory over individual strong holds. Folks have given up smoking, worldly interests, Greg Hawn Tabernacle Baptist Church Altus, OK and have turned from worry, doubt, and fear. Pastor Bob Gass Harvest Baptist Templ Medford, OR Bates recommends the ministry of Bro. Jon Shonebarger, Bob Stevens Eglise Biblique Baptiste Sherbrooke, QC and would especially encourage having a spiritual Jean Deragon Eglise Biblique Baptiste De Shefford Grandby, QC warfare conference. Ken Walters Southside Baptist Church Rock Hill, SC Phil Spencer Eastside Baptist Church Sioux Falls, SD John Dalton Gateway Baptist Church Clarksville, TN Dale Bingham Arden Road Baptist Church Amarillo, TX NO GREATER JOY Bethany Baptist Church Lubbock, TX continued from page 1… Terry Williams Boulevard Baptist Church Burleson, TX Bob Perryman Collinsville, TX been saved and/or have made life-changing decisions at Delbert White Central Park Baptist Church Carrollton, TX camp. The church I pastor has some preachers and Gene Howard Bryan, TX missionaries, as well as several deacons and teachers, Chad Spence Landmark Baptist Church Red Oak, TX who at one time we took to camp as teenagers. It is important that we invest in the lives of everyone – Dick Webster Liberty Baptist Church Lewisville, TX our other college students and young adults, as well as Sam Purkhiser Northeast Freeway Baptist Ch. Crosby, TX those who are training for the ministry. After being a Phillip Frame Pearland, TX pastor all these years, I sure agree with the Apostle John’s Rich Farinella Woodin Valley Baptist Church Bothell, WA words in III John 4 when he wrote, “I have no greater joy David Brown Yakima Bible Baptist Church Yakima, WA than to hear that my children walk in truth.” In the days Kenneth Stertz Omro, WI ahead, may our Lord bless each of us with many faithful “Timothys” who will come out of our ministries.

9 THE HEARTLAND It is my privilege to preach in various kinds of meetings A third reason to consider Heartland Baptist Bible BBC REPORT in churches all over America. In places which are far College is the emphasis upon expository preaching. The away from the heartland of America (of which Oklahoma groundwork for sound exposition is laid in the By Pastor Sam Davison, is a part), I get asked one question over and over: “Why hermeneutics class. The men called to preach are taught should I send my child all the way to Oklahoma to go to President in homiletics the importance of preaching the Word, not Bible college?” The inquirer then often names some just preaching from the Word. We teach that the preacher Reasons for Prospective Bible college more regionally accessible. It is a very best fulfills his duty to feed the flock by the faithful good question. exposition of Scripture. While also under the pulpit Students to Consider Us My first response to the question is that I cannot say ministry of Southwest Baptist Church, students will see Pacific Coast Baptist Bible every young person with Bible college interest (whether an honest effort to model what is taught at the school, as College came to Oklahoma City as theirs or their parents’) should come to Heartland. I may, over 90% of the sermons will be expository preaching. Heartland Baptist Bible College in however, present a few reasons why I would challenge A fourth reason to consider Heartland Baptist Bible the fall of 1998. That first year of them to consider our school. College is the combination of staff, faculty, student body, our new location and new name was when Brother Terry The following is only a sampling of the reasons a Bible and members and staff of Southwest Baptist Church that Randolph served his last year as our college president. college prospect might consider attending Heartland make up what I call “the spirit of Heartland Baptist Bible The blessings of God from that move stand as an ongoing Baptist Bible College in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. College.” A perfect place it is not. But the combination testimony to Bro. Randolph’s wise leadership. First, from the college itself and from the pulpit and of godly and happy music, the emphasis upon the On May 11, 1999, I became president of the school. It ministries of Southwest Baptist Church, the student will preached Word, godly standards, and a genuine love for has certainly been a thrilling ten years, and it has been be strengthened in the faith that the gospel of Jesus Christ one another and for souls and for serving makes up what and continues to be an incredible privilege to be and the preached Word has the power to confront every is the spirit of Heartland Baptist Bible College. I can try associated with the growing family of churches and culture and change lives. We do not and will not preach to tell about it; but truly, it has to be experienced. pastors who support Heartland Baptist Bible College. an accommodating message. The need of every culture This column cannot reveal all the reasons we encourage I have not forgotten the fact that many pastors who love on earth is the same – the gospel of Christ. And God folks to consider Heartland Baptist Bible College. I Heartland led their churches to keep Pacific Coast ordained that it be delivered by preaching. We will not could write of music, missions, Christian education, Baptist Bible College afloat when the future did not look teach that the world is only affected as we adapt to youth ministry, our Grad School program and more. And so bright. The tenacity of those men and the churches culture. Righteous changes are to be made by the I haven’t even mentioned the affordable living and job they led was used by God. And their continued transforming power of the message of God’s Word. To be availability in the big country town called Oklahoma involvement and dedication after the college became mindful of the movements in society is obviously City. Heartland Baptist Bible College has been immeasurably important. But for the methods and message to be Come get a first-hand experience with some of the important to the growth of the school. So long as God affected or shaped by those same movements is contrary reasons. We invite one and all to the Heartland Baptist gives me a sound mind, I intend to express gratitude for to Scripture. Bible College Graduation Preaching Conference, May those servants of the Lord. A second reason for a prospective student to consider 11-14. A lineup of preachers is in place and we are ready In March of this year, we held the largest “College Heartland Baptist Bible College is the emphasis on to receive guests from everywhere. We are praying it will Days” event in our Oklahoma City existence. The Baptist distinctives and Baptist history. We are Baptists be yet another Heartland preaching meeting worth interest in Heartland Baptist Bible College has never without apology! We are independent Baptists! If a attending – and worth coming back for! been higher, and for this we praise the Lord! It is our student attended four years at Heartland Baptist Bible As always, I will end by thanking the Baptist Times desire to be involved in the training of men and women College and only accidentally paid attention from time to editor for this space and by thanking God for all of you who believe the Lord has led them to be at Heartland. It time, that same student should still be able to tell a person who love Heartland Baptist Bible College and who is not our responsibility to have the most students of any what a Baptist is and why we are Baptists. We teach that support us with your prayers, money, and students. We independent Baptist Bible college. Our responsibility is a New Testament Baptist church has biblical authority to sincerely believe these are great days in which to serve to do the best job God will enable us to do in preparing administer the ordinances, to fulfill the Great the Lord, and that there are great days ahead for our those whom He sends here. Commission, and to do the work of the gospel. school.

The Preacher's Study ministry effectiveness. Most pastors put in long hours, there are hospital visits to be made. These are great with Bro. Dave Hardy working sixty or more per week if you include church bonding times for the pastor and his people. service times. Some people may question whether When sufficient time has been given to sermon service times should be included, but they wouldn’t if preparation and visiting, other matters can be addressed. THIS MATTER OF ETHICS, Part 3 they were the pastor! Certainly, significant work hours Phone calls can be slipped in or made at certain times In times past, a good work ethic, should be spent at the church, especially in the mornings. each morning and afternoon. Errands, physical work including quality in one’s work, was a It should not be uncommon to drive by the church at around the building, and other matters can fill what matter of personal pride and honor. A 8:00-8:30 AM and see the pastor’s car in the parking lot. spaces are left. Obviously there are exceptions to these job well-done meant more to most It shows that the pastor is up and ready for the day. guidelines, but exceptions must always be exceptions, people than the pay they received for Sometimes the pastor needs to make hospital visits, run and must be few. doing the work. Not doing a job right errands, or call on people. His car will certainly be gone Effectiveness or efficiency in a pastor’s ministry was unacceptable; you didn’t want then; but if he has a secretary she should be informed concerns how well a block of time is used. Random others paying for your mistakes or about where he is and when he will return. It’s not good periods of study are poor at best. Instead, use a proven errors. for the pastor and it’s embarrassing for the secretary method. Some men glean more in two hours than others A good work ethic (one of the most common ethical when people call and she doesn’t know where he is or do in two days. The pastor’s office or “study” should be issues facing each of us) is important in every type of when he will be in. Such conditions may hint of a laid out practically and not for aesthetics. Books should work – not just in trades or skills requiring a use of tools. possible poor work ethic. Whatever the schedule be catalogued and a good filing system should be in Evidence of that is the public disgruntlement in America established as “normal,” it is best for the pastor to be at place. The place of study is a place to work. It’s a shop. (and other industrialized nations) over the economic mess the church when expected, except at those times when Louis Henri Sullivan said, “Form ever follows function.” now affecting us. The work ethic is a key issue at the being away is necessary and/or urgent. Design the study to accomplish a purpose. heart of this malaise. Financial “gurus” either didn’t A greater battle than the number of hours worked is that Efficiency takes second place to priority because it know their job or didn’t do their job, making financial of priorities. Written lists numbered by their importance means nothing to be efficient at the wrong thing. But, decisions that violated common sense and basic are invaluable. Some priorities are ongoing, and in that other than that, efficiency and priority are of a kindred economics. Lesser players, too, did little or nothing to case a daily and/or weekly time can be set aside. The first spirit, and together they make or break the pastor, warn their clients; instead, they only pointed fingers of and foremost priority is time with God and preparation humanly speaking. To not be efficient is to have action blame at the big players. Shirking responsibility is a for the sermons of the week. W.A. Criswell admonished without productivity. It’s like running four errands practice void of ethics and integrity – and it stinks! preachers to give their mornings to God. If church-folk instead of combining four things into one errand. If such practices are a breach of ethics even in the are going to labor at their place of business all morning When a preacher accepts the position of Pastor, he is secular world (and its worship of mammon), how much to pay his salary, a pastor should gladly give that morning accepting a sacred trust. God, Who does everything well, more are they an issue in the realm of God’s things? to the preparation of sermons his “sheep” will hear on is allowing the pastor to stand in His place. The pastor No one should have a better work ethic than the people Wednesday and Sunday. should work long and hard, and he should be productive. of God; this is especially true for a pastor, the man of Next to preparing sermons is time with the people. A He should be able to look back on his labor and see fruit God. His place of service is particularly vulnerable to set number of visits for the pastor each week is a must! and identify his contribution. Things in his place of abuse. The average church in America has 100 or fewer If that time isn’t set aside, evangelism will fall through ministry should be better than he found them. in attendance, which means the pastor is often the only the cracks. Pastors can be guilty of becoming As men of God, let us study to show ourselves full-time employee. As such, he can come and go at will; comfortable when the church is large enough to cover all approved. Let us labor with our might as unto the Lord. he sets his own schedule. the financial needs. If the pastor doesn’t visit, he will Consider a pastor’s work ethic in these three areas: (1) send a signal that it is not important. That is unscriptural number of work-hours, (2) ministry priorities, and (3) as well as unethical. In addition to visiting prospects

10 CHURCH LISTING

ALASKA Lighthouse Baptist Church Buckley Road Baptist Church Victory Baptist Church Pastor Dan Tidd Pastor Dan Smith VIRGINIA Pastor Joe Carson 6950 E. Raymond St. 4962 Buckley Rd. Landmark Baptist Church 2520 E. Tudor Rd. Indianapolis, IN 46235 Liverpool, NY 13088 Pastor Don Sumpter Anchorage, AK 99507 (317) 359-4275 (315) 457-0570 4000 Creighton Rd. (907) 868-7654 Whittier Lane Baptist Church OHIO Richmond, VA 23223 www.VBCAnchorage.com Pastor Frank Wood Cleveland Baptist Church (804) 643-7711 1371 Whittier Lane Pastor Kevin Folger ARIZONA New Castle, IN 47362 4431 Tiedeman Rd. WASHINGTON Cornerstone Baptist Church (765) 529-2454 Brooklyn, OH 44144 Allen Creek Baptist Church Pastor Terry Randolph www.whittierlanebaptist.org (216) 671-2822 Pastor Monte Roe 4041 E. Phelps Rd. www.clevelandbaptist.org P.O. Box 1899 Phoenix, AZ 85032 LOUISANA Marysville, WA 98270 Celina Baptist Temple (602) 867-2700 Central Baptist Church (360) 657-5007 Pastor Steve Clayton Pastor Bob Nolan ARKANSAS P.O. Box 29 Bible Baptist Church 105 Hummingbird Lane Liberty Baptist Church 7505 Celina-Mendon Rd. Pastor Marvin McKenzie LaFayette, LA 70506 Pastor Jim Stanley Celina, OH 45822 12307 Canyon Rd. East (337) 984-3384 2909 S. Pine (419) 586-3646 Puyallup, WA 98373 (253) 535-3165 Cabot, AR 72023 MISSOURI www.celinabaptisttemple.org (501) 941-5235 www.bbcpuyallup.org Bible Baptist Church OKLAHOMA Highland Park Baptist Church CALIFORNIA Pastor Kent Hogan Southwest Baptist Church Pastor Steven Koppelmann Lancaster Baptist Church 800 S. Baker Blvd. Pastor Sam Davison 1505 S.W. Barton Pastor Paul Chappell Carthage, MO 64836 1300 SW 54th St. Seattle, WA 98106 (417) 358-4394 4020 E. Lancasater Blvd. Oklahoma City, OK 73119 Lakewood Baptist Temple www.bbccarthage.com Lancaster, CA 93535 (405) 682-1491 Pastor Dennis Foountain (661) 946-4663 MONTANA www.southwestbaptistchurch.com 10650 Military Rd. S.W. Suite #1 www.lancasterbaptist.org Liberty Baptist Church Eastland Baptist Church Lakewood, WA 98498 Bible Baptist Church Pastor Rick DeMato Pastor Troy Dorrell (253) 584-2500 Pastor Larry Obero P.O. Box911 (Sierra & Greenmeadow Dr.) 1835 S. 129th East Avenue Woodin Valley Baptist Church 2432 East 18th St. Helena, MT 59602 Tulsa, OK 74108 Pastor Rich Farinella National City, CA 91950 (406) 458-6300 (918) 437-4707 P.O. Box 570 (619) 267-3761 www.ebctulsa.org NEBRASKA Woodinville, WA 98072 Lighthouse Baptist Church Midlands Bible Baptist Church PENNSYLVANIA (425) 481-1075 Pastor Jim Preston Pastor David Lydick Christ Independent Baptist Church CANADA 12140 Indian St. 2407 Chandler Rd. East Pastor Vic Rivera Eglise Biblique Baptiste Moreno Valley, CA 92557 Bellevue, NE 68005 1618 Womrath St. Pastor Robert Stevens (951) 924-5094 (402) 731-5932 Philadelphia, PA 19124 971 rue Gibraltat www.mvlbc.com www.midlandsbbc.org (215) 288-5667 Sherbrooke, QC J1N 2G2 www.cibc1.org Mira Mesa Bible Baptist Church Heartland Baptist Church (819) 564-1278, (819) 864-0497 Pastor Willie M. Del Pastor Dennis Gruber SOUTH CAROLINA Eglise Biblique Baptiste Metro Sud 9920 Scripps Lake Dr., 101 411 Black Hills Ave. STE 1 Southside Baptist Church Pastor Mario Monette San Diego, CA 92131 Alliance, NE 69301 Pastor Kenneth Walters 3395 Mountainview (858) 527-1801 (308) 760-0378 1229 S. Anderson Rd. St-Hubert, QC J3Y 5N4 (858) 527-1802 fax www.alliance4christ.com Rock Hill, SC 29730 (450) 445-6659 Liberty Baptist Church (803) 324-0627 WRHJ – 93.1 FM Fellowship Baptist Church ENGLAND Pastor Dwight Tomlinson www.southsidebaptistrh.org Pastor Merv Goodrick Calvary Baptist Church 1000 Bison Ave. 1515 W. South St. TEXAS Newport Beach, CA 92660 Pastor Russ Ivison Lincoln, NE 68522 Landmark Baptist Church (949) 760-5444 St. Johns Ambulance Hall (402) 477-7541 Pastor Chad Spence www.libertybaptistchurch.org Saunders Avenue, Bedworth P.O. Box 69 “Biblical Answers to Life’s Questions” FLORIDA NEVADA Red Oak, TX 75154 Liberty Baptist Church Bible Baptist Church (972) 576-3180 Pastor David Teis Pastor James Johnson 6501 W. Lake Mead Blvd. 280 Riviere Rd. Las Vegas, NV 89012 Palm Harbor, FL 34683 (702) 647-4522 (727) 771-7979 INDIANA NEW YORK Open Door Bible Baptist Church Bro. Dave, Cornerstone Baptist Church Pastor Pete Montoro I greatly enjoy reading the Baptist Times. mailing list. We are trying to introduce Pastor Don Mitchell 30-85 35th St. ourselves to those who may be looking for a 10701 E. 56th St. Here is a small gift to help in putting it out. Astoria, NY 11105 Indianapolis, IN 46235 Thanks for all you do to put forth such a quality “camp” that still stands as we do. I hope to (718) 728-4410 (317) 823-6897 paper. see you at one of our meetings. Notice, too, Your friend, that there is a Texas GIBF listed in this issue; Pastor Bob Adrian I’m quite sure they’d love to have you join in. Kansas City, Kansas Dear Bro. Lydick, EVANGELIST LISTING Thank you, Bro. Bob, for your encouraging words Greetings in the Lord. I pray this email Dr. Larry Clayton Missionary Evangelist Tom Furse and generous gift; but thank you most for your finds you well. A Missionary in Fiji sent me P.O. Box 29 Director- Lighthouse Baptist friendship – I am eternally indebted to the Adrian a copy of your (paper) some months ago. I Celina, OH 45822 Press Ministry Family; I am who I am because of them! praise God for the effort that goes into it and (216) 533-8239 1515 Space Ave. the quality of the articles. If it’s not too much [email protected] Rapid City, SD 57701 GBT Editor, (605) 431-0395 I’ve been getting the Times for some time and trouble, could you please place me on your Evangelist Mike Haxton [email protected] I really enjoy it. I’m sorry that I haven’t written e-mailing list? NW Baptist Home Missions Paper sooner. I believe in everything that you are doing. Thank you and God bless, (Ex-Mormon Bishop) Evangelist Steven H. Ostten Sylvester Chong, Pastor’s Assistant 6201 Tieton Dr. Call: (405) 615-3545 or I’ve pretty well disconnected from (my former Yakima, WA 98908 (405) 262-4801 “camp”) and am kind of looking for a home. Your Albany Creek, Queensland, Cell Phone #: 509-952-3520 Website: www.stevenostten.com meetings have been so far from the Houston area Australia E-mail: [email protected] that it’s been hard for me to attend. May the Lord Evangelist Hal Hightower Declaration Ministries out of Bro. Chong, 21 years of Pastoral Experience Southwest Baptist Church, bless the GIBF. Thank you sincerely for your interest and Revivals, Miss Conf., S.W. Conf. OKC. OK In Jesus Name, kind words. We are happy to oblige your 26737 Gene Dr. Pastor Sam Purkhiser request, as we only send a PDF copy to Lebanon, MO 65536 Evangelist Jon T. Shonebarger (417) 718-4412 Midlands Bible Baptist Church, Crosby, Texas addresses outside North America. May God Bellevue, NE Thank you, Bro. Purkhiser. I believe you are one continue to bless and use you there in the W.L. “Bill” Smith Spiritual Warfare of many with such sentiments – which is the “land down-under.” Global League Of Baptist Conferences/Revivals Evangelism (GLOBE) (719) 371-1577 reason this issue is being sent to an extended 9320 S. Barnes Avenue [email protected] Oklahoma City, OK 73159 (405) 692-7078 Evangelist Billy Ingram [email protected] Preaching for Revival Church Listing rates are $75 per year; www.BillyIngram.org Joe Asbury [email protected] BT Classified Ads Evangelist Listing rates are $60 per Christian Stewardship Ministry (770) 539-2228 year. Please send your information P.O. Box 519 Place your classified Ads here! along with your listing fee to: Hymera, IN 47855 “$4.00 per line, in a 3” wide column; no photos.” Baptist Times - Church/Evangelist Listing (812) 201-5082 2407 Chandler Road East, Bellevue, NE 68005

11 thankful heart produces a “sweet” disposition. TheThe Pastor’sPastor’s WWifeife Fourth, be steadfast. I Corinthians 15:58 – “...be ye continued from page 5… stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of “We’re reading of good churches – some big ones SIX “Bes” (not bees) the Lord…” We live in a results-oriented society. – that were only a short time ago bastions of the FOR A SWEETER LIFE Sometimes we hesitate in our work for the Lord when we fundamental faith with great Bible preaching, do not see immediate results. But First Corinthians 15 glorious God-honoring hymn singing, and By Mrs. Stephanie Tidd encourages believers to keep a heavenly perspective and growing soul-winning programs that now are in Indianapolis, Indiana to not give up or give in. We should do the good we have the throes of division and turmoil, as opportunity to do, knowing that our labor is not in vain. contemporary religious midgets with worldly The older I get, the more value I A person who remains steadfast will hear the “sweet” tastes rage to rid the church of real Bible put on the quality of life as opposed words, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” Christianity. So, from the high end of the to the quantity of life. There is a Fifth, be holy. I Peter 1:16 – “Be ye holy, for I am holy.” Christian culture to the lowest end of fiendish familiar saying about aging: “As Holiness comes as I mirror Christ in my life. My focus suicide-bombing fanaticism, the rage against you ripen, you will either get bitter or sweeter.”My and priorities must be His. Some Christians have a God’s truth goes on. Expect it. Feast on your desire is to see my Christian walk get sweeter and sweeter wrong view of holiness. They see it as a restriction rather Bible. Stand true. Watch. Behold, He comes!! the closer I get to heaven. The following six “Bes” are than the freedom over sin that it is. — Hugh Pyle admonitions and reminders for creating a sweeter daily One evening my husband and I went to dinner with a “You’re not going to have much happen in the walk with our Saviour, the Lord Jesus. couple in our church. The man was the former ‘temple’ unless you get involved in that business of First (it all starts here), be born again. John 3:7 – “Ye bodyguard of an NBA superstar. He shared many stories, ‘house-to-house.’” must be born again.” The foundation of a sweet life is some humorous, but most were very sad. Many young — W.E. Dowell salvation. Paul, the great apostle, acknowledged man’s athletes have given themselves over to drugs, alcohol, sinful state in Romans 7:18, when he said, “For I know and self-gratifying lifestyles. He told how hardened “That’s the argument of flexibility and it goes that in me, that is, in my flesh, dwelleth no good thing…” many have become from their sin. What a contrast as I something like this: ‘The Constitution is over 200 If anything “sweet” is going to be produced in my life it think of those at church with similar pasts who have been years old and societies change. It has to change must come from the goodness of God working in me saved and chosen to live a life of holiness. What a with society, like a living organism, or it will through salvation. A person must be born again to “sweet” smelling savor they have become to our Saviour. become brittle and break.’ But you would have to experience a “sweeter” life. The strongholds of sin bring a person to a life of be an idiot to believe that. The Constitution is not Second, be kind. Ephesians 4:32 – “And be ye kind one heartache and misery. The delights of holiness bring a a living organism; it is a legal document! It says to another…” Too many people, even Christians, neglect person to a life of “sweet” communion and peace with something and doesn’t say other things.” this simple Bible command. God. — Antonin Scalia Not long ago in our local newspaper there was a story Sixth, and last, be strong. Ephesians 6:10 – “...be “The real measure of your wealth is how much about a young man who saw a woman drop her wallet as strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.” This she was getting out of her car. Walking toward the you’d be worth if you lost all your money.” is one of my favorite verses – I call it “my release valve.” —Bernard Meltzer entrance of the store, the man repeatedly called out to the It takes the pressure off. lady without any response. Finally, he ran up to her just We are not commanded to be strong in and of ourselves. “Sadly, we are much more concerned about what as she entered the door and gave her the wallet. The lady man thinks about us than we are about what God Nor are we expected to make things happen through our knows about us.” thanked the man and asked, “That sure would have been own abilities. I am reminded that I am limited, but that — Lou Baldwin an easy few bucks; what made you bring it to me?” The my God is limitless. The story of Nehemiah captures this “There ain’t no ticks like poly-ticks. man replied, “I would hope someone would do the same truth: “the joy of the Lord is your strength.” This for my mother.” Bloodsuckers all.” reassurance makes every day a little “sweeter.” — Davy Crockett When we combine the truth from Ephesians chapter 4 In closing I’d like to share a poem that has become one with God’s law of sowing and reaping, we understand that of my favorites. The author is unknown. “(Like John the Baptist) the man whose little a person who sows kindness will reap a “sweeter” life. sermon is ‘Repent’ sets himself against his age, Third, be thankful. Psalm 100:4 – “...be thankful unto When you can’t, He can. and will for the time-being be battered mercilessly (the Lord), and bless his name.” The Bible teaches what When you are the neediest, He is the most sufficient. by the age whose moral tone he challenges. There When you are completely helpless, He is the most helpful. I think or harbor in my heart will manifest itself in my When you feel totally dependent, He is absolutely dependable. is but one end for such a man – ‘off with his head!’ life. Taking time to meditate on what God has done in my When you are the weakest, He is the most able. You had better not try to preach repentance until life will bring me to a place of overwhelming When you are the most alone, He is intimately present. you have pledged your head to heaven.” thankfulness. Though the degree will differ, all of us who When you feel you are the least, He is the greatest. — Joseph Parker are saved have been lifted up from the depths of sin. The When you feel the most useless, He is preparing you to be used. “I try to take one day at a time, but sometimes words of the songwriter express it well; “If you could see When it is the darkest, He is the only Light you need. several days attack me all at once” where Jesus brought me from to where I am today, then When you feel the least secure, He is your Rock and Fortress. — Erma Bombeck you would know the reason why I love Him so.” A

12

Tampa, Florida Tampa,

West Gate Baptist Church Baptist Gate West

February 18-20, 2010 18-20, February

Tulsa, Oklahoma Tulsa,

Eastland Baptist Church Baptist Eastland

September 21-23, 2009 21-23, September

COMING GIBF MEETINGS: GIBF COMING

MAY 2009 MAY MAY 2009 MAY

SPECIAL EDITION SPECIAL SPECIAL EDITION SPECIAL