Years Serving Churches
MAY/JUNE 2007 News and information for ministry from LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention Contents
Volume 53 • Number 3 May/June 2007 Commentary From my perspective: The passionate pastor...... 4 Survey: Standout churches — why are they great?...... 6
Articles Waggoner named new LifeWay VP...... 11 Facts & Trends celebrates 50th anniversary...... 12 50th anniversary of Facts & Trends • 12 Carolinian is soul winner extraordinaire...... 16 Threads connects disconnected generation...... 22 Tough questions part of Threads appeal...... 24 Church’s young adults dig into tough sayings...... 25 Music legends, leaders meet at Hymnal Summit...... 27 Worship Project is volunteer’s answered prayer ...... 29 VBS musicals present kid-friendly theology...... 30 True Love Waits expands work in Africa...... 33 Five vital signs of healthy leadership...... 36
Healthy leadership self-examination...... 38 Nell Kerley, extraordinary evangelism • 16 LifeWay-related events at SBC...... 39 Worship KidStyle lets kids worship as kids...... 40 Ridgecrest celebrates 100 years of ministry...... 42 Trustees elect new VP, hear from divisions...... 43
Resources For you from LifeWay...... 46
Threads • 22 Coming in the July/August issue: • LifeWay Research examines ‘church switchers’ • LifeWay Stores names manager of the year • New event takes women deeper into God’s Word
How to get Facts & Trends absolutely free: Write us: Facts & Trends Hymnal summit • 27 One LifeWay Plaza Nashville, TN 37234-0192 Phone us: (615) 251-3698 E-mail us: [email protected] Visit Facts & Trends on the Web: Our site: www.lifeway.com/factsandtrends LifeWay’s news site: www.lifeway.com/news
Phone numbers, Web addresses and content referenced in articles were verified at the time of printing.
VBS music • 30 Our purpose To support you in ministry by connecting you with LifeWay’s “Biblical Solutions for Life.” To help you carry out your calling more effectively as you read news and feature stories, information about trends that impact the church, ministry tips and an introduction to new LifeWay products. Whether you’re a pastor, church staff member or lay leader, you’ll find ways to enhance your ministry. Our format Facts & Trends is published six times a year by LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. True Love Waits 5 vital signs of grows in Africa • 33 healthy leadership • 36 Facts & Trends is a free publication. Our people Polly House, editor; Katie Shull, graphic designer; Kelly Davis Shrout, Brooklyn Noel, Jenny Rice, Chris Turner, writers; Kent Harville, visuals specialist; Shirley Richardson, Web editor; Russ Rankin, editor in chief; Rob Phillips, director, communications department. LifeWay trustee report • 43 May/June 2007 From my perspective
The passionate pastor
ever underestimate the influence of a great pastor. That statement summarizes to a degree the research you will find on the following pages ofFacts & Trends. There isN much talk in the Southern Baptist Convention about evangelism and how effectively we are following Jesus’ commands to reach people with the gospel. Our denomination and other denominations are seeing declining church memberships and a general ineffectiveness for reaching people for Christ. Basically, we were charged with a job and we are not getting the job done. But there are bright spots and that is the subject of this issue’s LifeWay Research findings. Twenty-two churches in the SBC met specified criteria (defined in the following article) for what constitutes evangelistically effective churches. Nineteen of those churches agreed to participate in a one-on-one interview survey to explore why they were effective. What each research team found was that the most common element in these churches is how strongly the senior pastor sets the tone for an emphasis on evangelism. It is a passion and a priority. What is equally evident is the humility with which these men Thom S. Rainer, president and CEO, lead their churches to reach the lost souls in their communities and LifeWay Christian Resources around the world. It is in humility where we must all begin if we are of the Southern Baptist Convention going to exponentially improve our effectiveness in seeing people come to Christ.
Subscribe LifeWay President Thom S. Rainer writes LifeWay@Heart, an occasional e-mail message addressing trends and ministry ideas. Add your name to the LifeWay@Heart mailing list by going to www.lifeway.com/form_heart.asp. On the form, type in your e-mail address and name, then click the “Join List” button.
Facts & Trends Never underestimate the influence of a great pastor. It is too easy to become isolated in our churches and see them as a refuge where we We recommend can get away from the increasing rawness of our culture. Church was never meant to be a retreat center, but rather a triage center and a critical care unit for the spiritually ill. • Effective Evangelistic Churches by Thom S. A great pastor with passion for practicing emergency care can guide church members Rainer to look outward. Not only does he turn their eyes to the fields, he leads them into the • God’s Potters: Pastoral harvest. Leadership and the Of course, these pastors are Shaping of Congregations “It is in humility where we following the leadership of Jesus by Jackson W. Carroll who exhibited incredible humility • Preaching with Passion must all begin if we are going and a passion for the spiritually by James T. Draper Jr. lost. I am not saying there are only • The Issachar Factor by to exponentially improve 22 pastors who fit the bill in the Gary McIntosh and SBC; there are more – lots more. Glen Martin our effectiveness in seeing And there are other reasons why churches effectively reach people, These and other resources people come to Christ.” but pastoral leadership is key. Never are available through underestimate the influence of a customer service at — Thom S. Rainer www.lifeway.com and great pastor to infuse a passion for (800) 458-2772 and from the lost. LifeWay Christian Stores at www.lifewaystores.com In His service, and (800) 233-1123.
Never underestimate the influence of a great pastor. May/June 2007 Standout Churches Encouragement for evangelism by Libby Lovelace
LifeWay Research studies 19 ‘Standout Churches’
ver the past several years, a number of leaders in the SBC and the broader evangelical world have sounded Othe alarm that churches are becoming less effective in evangelism. Indeed, baptisms among Southern Baptist churches have numbered fewer than 400,000 each of the last five years, and 2005 saw the lowest total since 1993. With that in mind, LifeWay Research conducted research related to evangelism, deciding to investigate churches that were effective in reaching people for Christ and baptizing them.
Facts & Trends LifeWay Research standout churches
With input from LifeWay President Thom Rainer, the research area looked at churches that met the following criteria: • baptized at least 26 people per year for 10 consecutive years • overall worship attendance growth during the same 10 years, and • a membership to baptism ratio of no more than 20 to 1 Out of more than 43,000 churches in the SBC, 22 met that criteria. Of these, 19 agreed to have several staff members and lay leaders participate in a process of one-on- one interviews. (Figures came from data reported in the Annual Church Profile, based on information sent by churches to their respective state Baptist conventions, then compiled by LifeWay.) So what exactly do these standout churches have in common? 1. Pastor sets the bar The most common element is the essential role of the senior pastor. Each research team was Pastor struck by how strongly the pastor sets the tone of “Our entire staff has been together at Miles Road the church. All pastors indicate evangelism is of for 13 years. I have followed leadership advice utmost importance. “Focus” and “intentionality” are from President Reagan – cast your vision, then sur- common words used when referring to the intent to keep evangelism a major priority. round yourself with good, “These pastors do more than stress the importance talented people and let them of evangelism, they lead by example as they are do their jobs. I don’t personally passionate about and involved in sharing Christ both from the pulpit and through personal micromanage my staff and interaction with the unchurched and lost,” said Brad have never needed to.” Waggoner, LifeWay’s vice president for research and ministry development. – Pastor Jim Palmer, Those interviewed describe the pastors using Miles Road terms such as “highly relational,” “personable,” Baptist Church, “caring,” “passionate,” “humble,” “strong leader,” “ a Summerville, S.C. shepherd,” and “very authentic.” “This is strikingly similar to the findings in the book Good to Great by Jim Collins as he looked into the leadership of great companies,” Waggoner said. “Collins concluded that great leaders are driven, yet humble. The pastors of the churches studied appear to be similar. They love God, love their flock and are compassionate for lost people. They are resolutely committed to reaching lost people, yet lead with a spirit of humility, authenticity and relational warmth.” Nearly all the churches describe their polity as pastor- or staff-led and are characterized by a strong sense of teamwork. Staff members indicate their pastor is effective in creating an empowering environment in which the staff has input and are treated as important May/June 2007 “Our deacons deliver an information packet to every visitor immediately after the morning to the team. A common term used to describe the leadership style of the pastors is “shared leadership.” worship service. Sometimes they even beat the Even laypersons view themselves as part of the church visitors home! That, plus the leadership team. intentional welcome time Interviews indicate the churches have taken on the during the service lets vision, priorities and values of the senior pastor. Staff and lay leaders find it easy to follow the pastor. There our visitors know they are high levels of trust in these pastors. are important to us.” It is interesting that the average tenure of the pastors of the churches included in the study is 15 years. As – Pastor Tommy Taylor, noted in Surprising Insights, a book by Thom S. Rainer, London Bridge there is a strong correlation between pastoral tenure and Baptist Church, church health and effectiveness. Virginia Beach, Va. 2. Church atmosphere Another commonality of these long-term evangelistic churches is the overall atmosphere and tone of the Church atmosphere Church church. These churches are consistently described as “exciting,” “dynamic,” “energetic,” “upbeat,” “friendly,” “welcoming,” “warm,” and “positive.” “Clearly these churches possess an environment conducive to reaching people for Christ,” Waggoner “We don’t have any real cute buzz words about said. “The members of these churches are enthusiastic about their church, and are quick to invite their evangelism. We don’t have a walk forward invitation unchurched friends to visit. In the interviews we every Sunday. It’s very much a process. asked if the church encouraged the ‘invest and invite’ We don’t hammer a high pressure invitation on concept popularized by North Point Church in Atlanta. While some did not recall hearing or using this exact non-Christians. Most of our terminology, all of them quickly affirmed the worship evangelism training is just services were key to reaching people and that members were highly motivated to invite others to attend.” done from the pulpit, 3. Evangelistic appeal where periodically The presence of a consistent evangelistic appeal is we will teach it in another common factor. Pastors indicate they seek to our week-to-week include the gospel in most, if not all, of their sermons. messages.” They stress the importance of preaching the gospel and providing opportunities for lost people to respond. More than two-thirds indicate they offer a public – Pastor Guy Melton, Church of invitation at the end of every service. The others invite Pembroke Pines, inquirers to fill out a decision card. Pembroke Pines, Fla. “In these long-term evangelistically effective churches,
Evangelistic appeal it would be rare for an unsaved person to visit without being exposed to an appeal to consider the offer of Facts & Trends salvation,” Waggoner said. LifeWay Research standout churches
4. Intentional outreach Intentionality in evangelism is another common attribute among these churches. The pastors are focused on reaching people for Christ. Whether it’s through focusing the content of sermons, planning the worship services, or Intentional outreach simply the nature of church programming, it is clear “At Halloween we turned a day of darkness into that everything is designed with outreach in mind. Evidence of this intentionality can be seen in a Festival of Life and attracted more than 6,000 the frequency of a visitation or follow-up strategy people to Highlands Fellowship – and this in a town employed by almost all of the churches. All but four are of just 7,700 people. That’s turning your culture for committed to a regular, organized visitation program. While the exact nature and format varied, they are Christ. The town no longer has its Halloween party intentionally organized for weekly follow-up of visitors on Oct. 31; they moved it because everyone was or church prospects. coming to Highlands. The people at Highlands This spirit of intentionality goes beyond visitation. will put up with any inconveniences Many of the churches plan and conduct a variety of events and programs with an evangelistic motive. The and adjust their music pastors and staff leaders are careful not to let the church preferences and styles calendar fill up with random events unless they are designed, at least in part, to reach people for Christ. to communicate to the 5. Not all the same culture in a relevant While these long-term evangelistic churches share way the Good News of Jesus.” common elements, they also have their differences. Most of the differences can be placed into the category – Pastor Jimmie Davidson, of methodology or programmatic emphases. Highlands Fellowship, Preaching: When it comes to preaching, one-third of Abingdon, Va. the pastors indicate they preach topically. Almost half
Location of small group meetings/classes in 19 standout churches 11 – on campus Names: 9 “Sunday school,” 1 “Bible Fellowship,” 1 “Small Groups”
6 – off campus Names: 2 “Small Groups,” 1 “Host Homes,” 1 “Home Groups,” 1 “ House Churches,” 1 “Community Groups” 2 – both Names: 1 “Bible Fellowship Class,” 1 “Community Groups”
May/June 2007 “Preaching that captivates the heart and compels life-changing results is not just accurate and relevant proclamation, but it is communicated with real passion are committed to expositional or textual preaching, and four use other terms to describe their preaching style. of the soul.” “Clearly, the preaching style varies among the long- – Pastor Steve Dighton, term evangelistic churches,” Waggoner said. “The only Lenexa Baptist common element is all the pastors have an evangelistic Church, fervor and provide some sort of evangelistic appeal Lenexa, Kan. during the majority of the sermons.”
Not all the same Style of Worship: As indicated earlier, the most common characteristic is an environment of excitement and passion. Almost everyone interviewed indicated there is a real sense of God’s presence during the worship services. The majority of the pastors use “contemporary,” “informal,” and “casual” to describe their style of worship. Three of the pastors say their worship
Participating churches 1. Atlee Community Church, Mechanicsville, Va. 14. Mandarin Baptist Church, Los Angeles 2. Biltmore Baptist Church, Arden, N.C. 15. Miles Road Baptist Church, Summerville, S.C. 3. Cedar Creek Church, Aiken, S.C. 16. NorthPointe Community Church, Fresno, Calif. 4. Church of Pembroke Pines, Pembroke Pines, Fla. 17. Northside Baptist Church, Wilmington, N.C. 5. Clements Baptist Church, Athens, Ala. 18. Seoul Baptist Church, Houston 6. Fellowship of the Rockies, Pueblo, Colo. 19. Sarasota Baptist Church, Sarasota, Fla. 7. First Baptist Church of Oviedo, Oviedo, Fla. 8. Highlands Fellowship, Abingdon, Va. 9. Hopewell Baptist Church, Gainesville, Ga. 10. Jersey Baptist Church, Patas- kala, Ohio 11. Lenexa Bap- tist Church, Lenexa, Kan. 12. Lindsay Lane Baptist Church, Athens, Ala. 13. London Bridge Baptist Church, Virginia Beach, Va.
10 Facts & Trends LifeWay Research standout churches
We recommend service is blended in terms of music. Only one pastor uses the term “traditional” to describe his church’s worship. • Ministry Gifts Inventory by Michael Miller Four of the churches consider their worship services to be “seeker driven” or “seeker targeted.” Of these four, one pastor describes his church as a “Willow Creek type church,” • The Creative Leader by Ed Young and another one indicated his church is a “Saddleback model church.” • Why Churches Die: Evangelism Training: Another notable difference is the aspect of formal evangelism Diagnosing Lethal Poisons training. Half the churches use formal training programs such as FAITH, while the other in the Body of Christ by half is split between occasional classes and the pulpit to train believers in evangelism. Mac Brunson and Ergun Small Group Strategy: The small group strategy of the churches varies. Eleven use on- Caner campus Sunday school as their primary fellowship groups, while six meet in off-campus • On Track Leadership: Mastering What Leaders small groups, and two have a mix of on- and off-campus groups. Most of those interviewed Actually Do by John indicate their small groups, whether Sunday school or in-home, are at least theoretically Kramp “open” (evangelistic in focus). • Smaller Churches “When looking at both the similarities and differences of these long-term evangelistic Healthy and Growing: churches, what can clearly be celebrated is that the churches in this study can be a great Extraordinary Ministry by source of encouragement to any pastor, staff member or lay leader who dreams and prays Barry Campbell to be part of a church that is effective in reaching lost people,” Waggoner said. “Scripture These and other resources promises that the gospel is powerful to save. We are called to be ambassadors of Christ. are available through We are commanded to preach the message of reconciliation. As we can see in the leaders customer service at www. lifeway.com and (800) of these evangelistically effective churches, passion, commitment, focus, and intentionality 458-2772 and from can lead to celebrating the regeneration of many souls.” n LifeWay Christian Stores at www.lifewaystores.com Trustees name Brad Waggoner to lead and (800) 233-1123. new research and ministry development division rad Waggoner has been promoted to the new position of vice president for research and ministry development. The action came during the final session of LifeWay’s semiannual trustee meeting, Feb. 12-13. BWaggoner has broad-ranging responsibilities in his new position, directing LifeWay Research as well as overseeing the E.C. Dargan Research Library, LifeWay International, ministry development, and strategic projects. He also is theologian in residence, serving as a resource provider for LifeWay employees, and academic liaison with Southern Baptist seminaries, colleges and universities. “Brad is uniquely qualified for each of the roles he will fill,” LifeWay President Thom Rainer said. “He is a seasoned researcher, a minister, teacher and dedicated Brad Waggoner is husband. I know personally of his ability and his love for the Lord. I believe his LifeWay’s vice president appointment to this key spot will be one more step in helping position LifeWay as a leader of research and n in providing biblical resources that help spiritually transform lives and cultures.” ministry development
May/June 2007 11 50 years … for the churches by Polly House n 1956, when LifeWay was known as the Sunday School Board, President James L. Sullivan realized he had no means of mass communicating with the Southern Baptist churches the SSB Iserved. As a result, he decided to create the Newsletter. The first edition rolled off the press with the January 1957 issue. continued on page 14
12 Facts & Trends Facts & Trends 50th anniversary
Facts &Trends covers from each year it has been published.
May/June 2007 13 continued from page 12 In his column, titled “Facts & Trends,” Sullivan wrote, “The need of a monthly journal has been felt for some time, which would put into the hands of pastors, educational directors, ministers of music, and those persons closely related to religious education work in the churches, an accurate and terse interpretation of the Sunday School Board’s life and work.” Sullivan saw that other agencies had publications that served that purpose, such as the Foreign (now Illustration that accompanied International) Mission Board’s The Commission, and the Dr. Sullivan’s columns Home (now North American) Mission Board’s The Home Mission Magazine, but the Sunday School Board did not. It only had promotional publications available to its specific departments of work. That was fine, he said, but the SSB needed an “over-all institutional perspective publication.” In 1966, the Sunday School Board’s 75th anniversary, the Newsletter was renamed Facts & Trends, the name taken from Sullivan’s column. In the beginning, the Newsletter was primarily informational. Much was told about upcoming meetings, personnel changes and such. But as the SSB and Facts & Trends grew, so did some of the issues that it spoke to. Graphic from name Then & Now change issue, 1966
1961 – The LifeWay Con- 1962 – Six LifeWay Stores ference Centers (Assemblies) (Baptist Book Stores) offer celebrated improvements Spanish-language products. and boasted, “The general result will be most pleasing and practical.”
2006 – The Hall of States was dedicated in September. It was the 2007 – LifeWay’s International first new building at department offers products in 83 countries and Glorieta in 30 years. training in 136 countries worldwide. All LifeWay stores 14 Facts & Trends carry Spanish-language products. Facts & Trends 50th anniversary
Facts & Trends transitioned from newsletter to magazine format in 1998. Stories began to be more church-centered and less inwardly focused – showing how the products and services LifeWay offered were making a positive impact on churches and individuals. While LifeWay is still committed to sharing information, the way it is shared has changed. Readers can get information about and register for upcoming training and enrichment events on LifeWay’s Web site, www.lifeway.com/events. New releases from B&H Publishing Group and LifeWay Church Resources are still listed in Facts & Trends, but in an entire section instead of just in a column’s space. And, with almost 2,000 employees, reporting staff changes is no longer feasible. This year, Facts & Trends also introduced its Web version – Facts & Trends Online. In 2002, the decision was made to change Facts & Trends’ Facts & Trends editors 45-year tradition and expand the subscription list to include • Howard Foshee – 1957-1959 (James L. lay leaders, bringing the current subscription list to 65,000 Sullivan, president) people, mostly Southern Baptist. Even so, after 50 years, the subscription rate for Facts & Trends is still the same – free. • Harold Ingraham – 1959-1962 (James L. Sullivan, president) LifeWay President Thom Rainer said, “Our mission here at LifeWay Christian Resources is to provide biblical solutions that • Gomer Lesch – 1962-1977 (James help spiritually transform lives and cultures. The best way to L. Sullivan and Grady C. Cothen, keep up with the constant flow of ministry resources and ideas presidents) is through Facts & Trends. For 50 years Facts & Trends has been • Lloyd Householder – 1977-1978 a direct link between churches and LifeWay and as it celebrates (Grady C. Cothen, president) its 50th anniversary, it is more informative than ever. My hope • Linda Lawson – 1978-1980 (Grady C. is that it will continue for many years serving churches, helping Cothen, president) them be the Bride of Christ.” n • Jim Lowry – 1980-1991 (Grady C. Cothen and Lloyd Elder, presidents) • Frank William White – 1991-1993 1981 – 60 different prod- (Lloyd Elder and James T. Draper Jr., ucts were available for VBS. presidents) Approximately 3 million children participated in 1981. • Chip Alford – 1993-1999 (James T. Draper Jr., president) • Polly House – 1999-present (James T. Draper Jr. and Thom S. Rainer, presidents)
Read what former Facts & Trends editors have to say about their time at the helm of the magazine at Facts & Trends Online at www. lifeway.com/factsandtrends.
2007 – VBS offers 140 prod- ucts for workers and students for Game Day Central and Jungle Jaunt. May/June 2007 15 With 2,000+ prayers of salvation Nell Kerley is still going strong written by Polly House, photography by Kent Harville
16 Facts & Trends Evangelism With 2,000+ prayers of salvation in everyday life Nell Kerley is still going strong
Kerley is a soul winner extraordinaire. he is a 74-year-old “I’ve been a Sunday school teacher widowed great- forever,” Kerley said, “but until just a few years ago, I had never shared with anyone grandmother with what it takes to go to heaven. Can you S believe that? I just never had. I bet there are diabetes, arthritis, non- a lot of people in our churches like that.” Hodgkin’s lymphoma, In 1998, at age 66, Kerley decided to make a change. Her church, Bethel Baptist no kneecaps, screws in Statesville, N.C., offered LifeWay’s FAITH Sunday School Evangelism Strategy holding her ankles in training and she enrolled. “I needed to learn place, and absolutely no how to witness to people,” she said. “Learning to share Christ with people was shame when it comes to the best thing I ever did,” Kerley said. More leading people to a saving than 2,100 salvations later – 2,171 as of March 30, 2007 – she isn’t slowing down. relationship with Christ. Near fatal accident From her quick sense of humor and easy “So,” Nell Kerley asks, laughter about most things, no one would “what’s your excuse?” ever suspect the serious health issues Kerley endures. Kerley and her late husband, Sam, were severely injured in an automobile accident in 1975. “Both of us nearly died,” she said. “Our legs were crushed. Sam was thrown through the windshield and I had to pull him back in. I remember talking to God asking Him to take us together. We were both ready. “But, just as plain as anything, I heard God telling me, ‘No, Nell, I’ve got some things for you to do yet.’ So I told Him He’d have to do some miracles.” Both the Kerleys were in Iredell Memorial Hospital in Statesville for six months, undergoing multiple surgeries and therapy. Sam eventually had one leg amputated. Nell’s legs were wired and screwed together May/June 2007 17 Above left: Nell Kerley and her shattered kneecaps replaced with Hospital missions and Chaplain Tom artificial ones. However, multiple staph Kerley has ongoing health issues related Sherrod share a passion infections necessitated their removal. Her to the accident. She’s been in the hospital for hospital ministry. husband eventually died of complications time and time again for surgeries on her Above right: Nell of kidney disease. Kerley and Michael feet and legs, and several times for other “It was hard, so hard. Many times I didn’t Voelske, a deacon at broken bones she sustained from falls. Bethel Baptist Church, want to keep going,” Kerley said. But she “After all,” she quipped, “you can’t walk were on the same remembered what God said: “Nell, I’ve got good when you don’t have any kneecaps!” some things for you to do yet.” FAITH team when her Through the years, Kerley developed a evangelistic fervor was First convert warm relationship with hospital chaplain birthed. Like Kerley, FAITH opened a new ministry Tom Sherrod. As she was able, she would Voelske said learning to opportunity for her. “On our first FAITH accompany him on his rounds, talking to share his faith opened visit, our team went to a home to visit people about the Lord. his eyes to the needs of a man and his wife. The couple didn’t lost people around him. “She has such a gift for evangelism,” want to pray to receive Christ, but I knew Sherrod said. “She loves to talk to people, Danielle, the 15-year-old daughter, had and they love to talk to her. She can take been listening. I told my group that I the simplest conversation and bring it wanted to talk to her. So I just asked her, around to talk about a person’s salvation.” ‘Danielle, you’ve heard all we said tonight. Kerley had quite a ministry, sharing Wouldn’t you like to give your life to the the plan of salvation with other hospital Lord?’ and she nodded and said, ‘Yes, I patients and staff. As a licensed practical would.’ So we prayed and she received nurse and former employee at the hospital Christ.” herself, Kerley had a special relationship Kerley said that first salvation was like a with the nurses. She recalled one particular drug to her. “I just couldn’t wait to do it incident with great humor. again.” 18 Facts & Trends Evangelism in everyday life
Nell Kerley, left, led Kathy Borders, a nurse at Iredell Memorial Hospital, and her hus- band, Ivory, to receive Christ.
“One night, I was in the hospital, hooked up to all kinds of IV bags, and I had to go to the bathroom. I called for a CNA (certified nursing assistant) to come help me since I couldn’t manage by myself. “She came in and we got me to the bathroom. I was sitting on the commode and thought, ‘You know, she can’t go anywhere. She’s a captive audience!’ So right there, in the bathroom, I asked her, ‘Honey, do you have a church? Would you like for me to tell you about the Lord?’ “And, you know what? She gave her heart to Jesus right then and there!” Kerley laughed at the memory. “I guess if you’ve got the nerve to witness to someone in the bathroom, you can witness anywhere!” Kathy and Ivory Kathy Borders is a nurse at Iredell Memorial. Six years ago during one of Kerley’s hospital stays, Kerley attempted to talk with Borders. “But I told her I was too busy to talk right then,” Borders said. “I really wasn’t. I just didn’t want to talk to her. I was scared. She asked me if I’d come back later, though, and I told her I would. “When Nell told me about Christ – how He loved me so much that He died for me – and that all I had to do was accept that love and His sacrifice and invite Him into my heart, I felt this completely unnatural and wonderful peace just flood over me,” said Borders. “I had never experienced anything like that before. Never.” Later, Kerley had the privilege of leading Border’s husband, Ivory, to the Lord as well. “Nell told me I needed to get in church, so I did,” Borders said. “I joined Higher Ground Baptist Church and now I do all sorts of things from singing to working with the children to working with the women. Ivory and I love our church and our pastor. Life wouldn’t be like this if it weren’t for Nell.” May/June 2007 19 Special song Kerley has a special song, one she said expresses her feelings about what she does: “Must I Go, and Empty-Handed?” from the 1956 Baptist Hymnal.
Must I go, and empty-handed, Borders even changed jobs at the hospital so she Thus my dear Redeemer meet, could be active at Higher Ground. “I always worked on the floor,” she said. “I love working directly with the Not one day of service give Him, patients. But, I changed to working in the operating Lay no trophy at His feet? room so I can have my weekends off and go to church. Nell will never know what she did for me. She changed my life.” (Refrain): Must I go, and empty-handed? “Oh, honey,” Kerley said, giving Borders a hug, “it Must I meet my Savior so? was the Lord who took hold of you and changed your Not one soul with which to greet Him: life, not me.” Baptist Center Must I empty-handed go? Kerley found another place of service at the South Yadkin Baptist Association Baptist Center, where each Not at death I shrink or falter, Tuesday for the past seven years Kerley has shared the For my Savior saves me now; plan of salvation with people who come to the center’s clothes closet and food pantry. But to meet Him empty-handed, “They have to come see me before they can get their Thought of that now clouds my brow. things and leave,” Kerley said. “I have led so many of the people to the Lord there. It’s wonderful. So many of them have just never had it explained to them how to Oh, the years in sinning wasted, become a Christian.” Could I but recall them now, Of course, not everyone says yes I would give them to my Savior, “I had two girls come in and they just laughed the To His will I’d gladly bow. whole time I was telling them about Jesus,” she said. “They told me they’d just as soon go to hell [than] give up their men. Oh, ye saints, arouse, be earnest, “I told them that was their choice, but I could Up and work while yet ‘tis day; guarantee they wouldn’t be laughing when they got there,” she said. Ere the night of death o’ertake thee, “I can talk boldly to people,” Kerley said. “I know Strive for souls while still you may. how people live. I didn’t just come off the Mayflower!” Sandra Harrison, whose husband, Ron, serves as “Must I Go, and Empty-Handed?” Charles C. Luther, 1877. director of missions for the South Yadkin Baptist Copyright: Public Domain. Music: George C. Stebbins. Association, has a special bond with Kerley. Copyright: Public Domain. “I love Nell,” said Harrison, who serves as ministry Visit www.lifeway.com/factsandtrends to listen to an director for the association. “I asked her once how she audio file of this hymn from Facts & Trends Online. manages to get these strangers to open up and talk about their personal lives to her. Don’t they get mad?
20 Facts & Trends Evangelism in everyday life
She just laughed and said she didn’t care if they did. They needed to hear the truth.” Kerley said many of the people who come to the Baptist Center aren’t married, but are living with someone. Usually there are children in the home. “That’s not right and I tell them it’s not right,” Kerley said. “But I don’t just condemn them. I tell them what’s going to make their lives better. Most of the time when I tell them how to become Christians, they are open to it and will pray with me. I tell those women to get married or get rid of the live-in. I tell the men to marry those women and take care of those children. Most of the men have never heard that they are responsible for the spiritual leadership of their homes. I like talking to the men. I think it’s easier to lead a man to the Lord than a woman. It’s easier to talk straight to men.” Nell Kerley volunteers Kerley is also adamant about telling everyone she leads to Christ about the importance of at the South Yadkin church membership. At the Baptist Center, she has a form she fills out on every person she Baptist Association talks with. She gets contact information and spiritual information, and then gives the form Center each Tuesday. to Ron Harrison who arranges for a church to follow up with the new convert. She shares the gospel “People need to be in church,” Kerley said. “These new Christians can’t make it on with people who come their own. It’s too easy to slip back into their old ways, but if they’ve got a good church to in for assistance with support them as they grow, they’ll be fine.” food and clothing. Bill Fay Bill Fay, author of Share Jesus Without Fear, published by LifeWay, and Kerley have become “share partners” through the years. “Bill read about me in something and called me,” Kerley said. “I’d read Share Jesus Without Fear so knew who he was. I was tickled to get to know him. He’s a fine man. “I tease him that he will give out my phone number to anyone he hasn’t won to the Lord yet and have me take a run at it,” she said. “Do you know, because of Bill Fay, I have talked to his barber, a Playboy bunny, and a man in prison who murdered two people? Yes! And I We recommend led them all to the Lord! Oh, and the bunny is in another line of work now.” For however long • FAITH Strategy, various resources Kerley’s smiles and laughter are contagious. The joy of the Lord bubbles out when she • Share Jesus Without Fear sees people receive Christ. “I look at these people I talk to and see people that Jesus loves by Bill Fay and died for,” Kerley said. “They just don’t know it. And I get to tell them! I get to tell • Outreach Teams that Win them how they can go to heaven! There is no greater privilege in the world than that. If – G.R.O.W. Manual by God can use an old woman like me, He can use anybody. For however long I have, I’m Jerry Tidwell going to keep talking.” n
May/June 2007 21 Chris Ediger (left) and Michael Kelley Threads – Photo by Kent Harville New initiative designed for a disconnected generation by Jenny Rice
ow do you develop Baptist Sunday school curriculum for a generation of people who cringe at Hthe words Baptist, Sunday school and curriculum? Thread by thread, piece by piece. Heartbroken by the declining statistics of baptisms in Southern Baptist churches and after a heartfelt conversation with a fledgling young church member, LifeWay employee Jim Johnston was suspicious that today’s church was missing the mark in ministering to young adults. After leading a team in nine months of research, Johnston’s suspicions were confirmed.
22 Facts & Trends Young adults Threads Bible study
“This is a generation in need of hope,” seem unorthodox. Threads team member Johnston explained. “They have been Valerie Hancock believes that churches through things like 9/11, school shootings, trying to use conventional methods world events, layoffs from companies. They for reaching a younger generation have know stability and safety don’t exist. They contributed to the decline in effective feel disconnected from the church. We young adult ministry as “churches have couldn’t ignore the need anymore.” assumed that this generation is the same as Johnston began a LifeWay initiative ones before.” called Threads, a community of young The Threads team recognizes the need for adults creating Bible studies a new approach. and resources for other “This generation “We aren’t blowing up young adults by weaving doesn’t want the churches and starting together pieces such as over,” Johnston said. “We community, worship, service watered-down are intentionally building and intergenerational surface church in things that attract this relationships. answers on how age group.” “The New Testament to live the While Threads materials church was an example of and methods can be We recommend the body of Christ woven Christian life.” classified as “out of the • No Perfect People together,” Johnston said. — Jim Johnston box,” Johnston and the Allowed by John Burke “They lived together, met Threads team are adamant • The Tough Sayings each other’s needs, and about maintaining biblical of Jesus by Michael people were being saved. That is the goal of integrity in all its materials. Threads – individuals woven together. The Kelley “This generation doesn’t want watered- pieces may not be perfect; there is mending • InTransit: What Do down surface church answers on how to live in the torn places.” You Do with Your the Christian life,” Johnston said. “They Wait? Threads released its first two studies on are saying, ‘Show me what you mean in the Jan. 31 – InTransit: What Do You Do with Bible. Then let’s have a two-way discussion These and other Your Wait? by Mike Harder, and The Tough about what it means.’ They want to dig in resources are available Sayings of Jesus by Michael Kelley. the Bible themselves to see what it says.” through customer service at www.lifeway. Using supplemental audio and visual Johnston and the Threads team are com and (800) 458- resources, iTunes playlists, online optimistic about the future of the younger 2772 and from LifeWay articles, blogs and journals, the adaptable adults and their passion for God and for Christian Stores at discussion-oriented Bible studies encourage His Kingdom. authentic biblical community among young www.lifewaystores.com “God is already working,” Johnston said. adults ages 18-34. and (800) 233-1123. “Threads is not just a way to initiate change For those who are used to traditional in this generation – it is an effort to provide Sunday school curriculum, Threads can materials where God is already working.” n
For more information about the new resource, visit www.threadsmedia.com. May/June 2007 23 Threads uses tough questions as a springboard to deeper faith
esus came to earth to bring mercy, approached him about developing the series peace and love. He also made into a study for all young adults. controversial statements and asked “This study is in line with the Threads J tough questions. mentality that young adults want to be Michael Kelley seeks to understand both challenged spiritually,” Kelley said. “They sides of Christ. don’t want to gloss over Scripture but Kelley, an editor in LifeWay’s leadership instead want to use their faith to act as a and adult publishing area, is the author springboard to ask questions and engage of The Tough Sayings their intellect.” of Jesus, one of four As a young adult himself and through studies offered by his ministry experiences, Kelley has seen Threads, a community a younger generation hungry for depth in developing Bible their Christian walk. studies for young “So much of the world lives on the adults through surface,” he explained. “Young adults are LifeWay. looking for depth – depth in life and depth While teaching in their experiences with Jesus. They know at a Nashville-area there have to be deeper places to go, but to young adult event get there they have to be willing to ask the called Refuge, Kelley tough questions.” developed a sermon While trying to understand Christ more series based on four fully, Kelley also encourages young adults to passages of Scripture appreciate a level of mystery where God is in which Jesus spoke The Tough Sayings concerned. about salvation to of Jesus leader and “I believe we all have a God-given sense of the rich young ruler (Mark 10), made a participant guides, mystery and appreciation for wonder about controversial statement to the Canaanite as well as other Christ,” he said. “Even though people are woman (Matthew 12), discussed the supplemental material seeking answers, they need to understand unforgivable sin (Matthew 12), and offered including iTunes the complexity of God. Everything Christ a contradiction of who He was (Matthew playlists, blogs and said was tough, but some sayings were more 10). e-newsletters, are difficult to understand than others.” “Dealing with these questions on my available at www. Kelley believes there are consequences own has made me realize how small my threadsmedia.com. when doubts and fears about God are not understanding of Jesus was,” Kelley said. expressed, but repressed. “After I answered the questions, more questions were raised. Addressing them has “When circumstances challenge our led me to a deeper walk with Christ and beliefs, if you haven’t asked those tough given me a bigger picture of Jesus.” questions, those fears and doubts bubble over. Those circumstances become a catalyst When the Threads ministry team to make what you believe your own.” n learned of Kelley’s work, they immediately 24 Facts & Trends Young adults Threads Bible study Threads uses tough questions Threads in action as a springboard to deeper faith Gladeville Baptist young adult ministry digs in to The Tough Sayings of Jesus hen Chris Ediger began his new position as a leader for “up/rooted,” Wthe young adult ministry at Gladeville Baptist Church in Gladeville, Tenn., his “flock” consisted of a half dozen people and his time consisted mostly of developing Sunday school lessons. One year later, Ediger has seen the Gladeville young adult ministry develop into a tight-knit group of 25 focused on growing in their Christian walks through community with fellow believers and by digging deep into the Word of God. With the recent release of The Tough Sayings of Jesus from the LifeWay’s Threads ministry line, Ediger, who is also an Internet producer at LifeWay, can spend more time on ministry opportunities outside of Bible study lesson development. “I used to spend most of my week preparing to teach on Sunday mornings,” Ediger said. “There weren’t many resources for this age group, so I would either take a book I was reading and adapt it for a Sunday school lesson, or I would take small group resources and massage them for young adults. “Occasionally there would be a book with discussion questions in the back that we would use. But most of it all had to be reworked for this Top (l-r): Blaire Durham, Ashley Brown Photos by Kent Harville age group.” and Robert Post chat before class. As a bivocational minister with a wife and three Above: Members of the up/rooted group. young children, Ediger was excited about the
May/June 2007 25 Threads material and its ability to free him with a simple answer, it encourages for more time with family. He also had fakeness. These things can’t be easily to spend building personal relationships explained. within the young adult ministry. “The material lends itself to a lot of A young adult himself, Ediger discussion,” he said. “We need that extra understands the desire to be challenged in week to think on it, then talk more when Bible study. we come back together, hopefully coming to some resolution. Even then, we don’t necessarily tie everything up neatly.” For Gladeville member Ashley Brown, the The Tough Sayings of Jesus discussion format is exactly what she is looking for in a Sunday morning Bible study. Her desire in class is to be “forced to think.” “During the week you have so many superficial conversations,” Brown explained. “It is wonderful to be able to discuss something that is challenging. It is nice to be reminded that we are not always going to be able to come up with an answer.” Mandy Maxwell is a young married adult at Gladeville. After struggling with a consistent time of personal Bible study, The Tough Sayings of Jesus study has enhanced Photo by Kent Harville her study of the Scriptures. Chad Streeter, a “We used to come in on a typical Sunday “My personal walk with Christ is member of the morning and open the Bible, raise a few something that I’ve always struggled with,” up/rooted class at questions, answer those questions, and then she said. “It seems like I make time for Gladeville Baptist leave,” Ediger explained. “We can’t do that everything else but I rarely make time to Church, talks with The Tough Sayings of Jesus.” just sit and study God’s Word. with fellow class “This study has been a great way for me member Chris Instead, Ediger spreads the lessons over to dive deeper into God’s Word and spend Wilson. two weeks. The first week, he opens the topic in a large group and then the class time learning. I usually race through the breaks into small groups for discussion. The Scriptures and don’t really digest what is young adults leave class and think about it being said. These ‘tough sayings’ have made for a week and return the following Sunday me stop and think and want to learn more to finish studying that topic. about what God is really trying to teach me. It has made me want to be more devoted to “We always leave with questions,” Ediger Him.” n said. “If you try to answer these situations 26 Facts & Trends LifeWay Worship Hymnal Summit Music legends and leaders come together for Hymnal Summit written by Polly House, photography by Kent Harville
LifeWay Worship invited 100 music leaders to the Hymnal Summit to give their input on criteria for selecting hymns, worship songs and praise choruses for the 2008 hardback hymnal.
o matter how pretty a song is, if Feedback needed the theology isn’t right, it doesn’t The summit served as a means to get belong in the new worship feedback from music practitioners on hymnalN – digital or print. criteria for selecting the hymns, worship So said participants at the Hymnal songs and praise choruses to be included in Summit, hosted by LifeWay Worship Jan. the hardback hymnal to be released in 2008, 12-13 in Nashville, Tenn. and in the 1,000-song digital hymnal to be Mike Harland, director of the LifeWay released shortly thereafter. Worship, welcomed the 100 participants, The group attended sessions on telling them they had been invited because educational resources, hymnal selection of the specific expertise they brought to the criteria, hymnal components and products, summit. theological review, Web portal function, “We have music professors from all of and worship song selection criteria. In each our Southern Baptist seminaries and 21 session, opinions were offered on what of our Baptist colleges, as well as church was needed to make the Worship Project a musicians and worship leaders and local usable and successful tool for churches. music industry leaders,” Harland said. “We “I want you to know that your presence also have invited people who worked on the and input is invaluable to this project,” 1991 Baptist Hymnal and our own LifeWay Harland told the group. “We have not come people who are devoted to this project.” here with a lot of preconceived ideas about
May/June 2007 27 worship resource will be a revolutionary development for my seminary students. “It will allow them maximum flexibility in their worship ministry, enabling them to be more effective, and will allow them tremendous new opportunities to involve others in the worship ministry,” Davis said. Tom Hellams, LifeWay’s vice president of executive communications and relations and a former music minister, said, “This Mike Harland, upper will be a tremendous benefit to church right, led an informal “If evangelism doesn’t starts and those churches with just five discussion group on to 10 members. On the other end of the hymn selection during come as a result spectrum, it will also be of such great use to the Hymnal Summit. of our worship those large churches with hundreds, or even thousands of members.” experience, I would At the closing, each group reported question that worship from their sessions. Jon Duncan, state music director for the Georgia Baptist experience.” Convention, gave a list of criteria from – Mike Harland the theological review session. All of the selected music needed to be Christ- what we are going to do. What you tell us is centered, biblically sound, relevant, going to help shape the project’s direction.” Trinitarian in scope and distinctive. Project priority Remarkably, similar criteria were reported from each of the other sessions, with the Harland reminded the group that at the hymn and worship song session attendees core of all the churches do, musically or adding that the songs needed to be singable otherwise, evangelism must be kept in and memorable. mind. “If evangelism doesn’t come as one of the results of our worship experience, I Past and future would question that worship experience,” Harland said he sees this project as one he said. that “reaches back to our history and John Davis, professor of church music at reaches forward to our future.” Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary He specifically mentioned attendees such and one of the summit participants, was as Buryl Red, Wesley Forbis, Jim Gibson optimistic about the project. “Based on and Bob Burroughs as giants of church what I have seen so far, and providing music, whose contributions and opinions that the innovations being contemplated are still much coveted for the Worship are included, I believe this new hymnal/ Project. At the same time, he sought the 28 Facts & Trends LifeWay Worship Hymnal Summit
advice and counsel of young worship leaders like Travis Cottrell and David Moffitt, who not only are leading worship, but also are writing new songs for worship. He added that having music production legends such as Phil Barfoot and Greg Nelson, who also serves as the project’s creative director, added a fresh perspective and insight into features that are essential both within and outside the Southern Baptist audience. “This project is going to be one that will touch lives for years to come,” Harland said. “What we do here and the music we select for inclusion will impact the Kingdom of God. It will draw people to Him. None of us take this responsibility lightly.” Music selected for the project will cover a variety of musical styles, but the substance of the music will determine any song’s inclusion. Harland said, “During one of the sessions, Dr. Lloyd Elder [former president of the Baptist Sunday School Board, now LifeWay] made an observation that sums up the criteria for the selection process. He said, ‘We don’t need to aim for balance, we need to aim for fundamental truth.’” n
Project is called ‘answered prayer’ Kim Hardy’s frustration level is going down and her thankfulness to God going up! Hardy, a volunteer worship leader from Westland, Mich., was one of the 100 people attending the Hymnal Summit. “As someone who loves to lead worship, I am very much aware of the frustrations that can take place in the planning and preparation of a service. I have spent many hours in song selection, as well as working with musicians who may or may not be able to play a particular song. On countless occasions I have prayed to God for help concerning these issues. “This hymnal and Worship Project will not only help relieve my frustrations, it is also going to bring enhancement to the worship environment. Consequently, this project will help put the right worship tools in the hands of people who need them the most. “To put it simply, something like this has been long overdue. And now that it is here, I can say praise God for answered prayers! n
For updates on the project, go to www.lifewayworship.com.
May/June 2007 29 by Polly House
VBS musicals: Good theology that stays in a kid’s heart
Jeff Slaughter, upper left, has written the VBS music since 1996. Upper right: The VBS 30 Facts & Trends music for 2006 and 2007 is presented to participants of the VBS Preview in Nashville. Photos by Kent Harville VBS music kid friendly theology
eading worship in different churches around the country, working in Centri-Kid camps each summer and being L around so many children helps Jeff Slaughter keep his Vacation Bible School music fresh and age appropriate. Slaughter, a musician and composer from something.’ But we wound up at the same Nashville, Tenn., writes kid-friendly lyrics food line, so I made some comment like, with deep truths, sets those lyrics to music ‘You hungry, too?’ or something. The guy that kids can sing, and then adds sign got his food and sat down, but I still felt language and choreography to give kids a like God wanted me to talk to him. So, I whole musical experience. walked by his table and asked if he wanted And, he does all this in two weeks! some company and he said, ‘Sure.’ “I get the VBS theme and the Scriptures “We started talking about where we from the people at LifeWay, then I have were going and what we did for a living. about two weeks to get it all written so the I told him I wrote Christian music and I writers of the VBS materials will have it,” was mostly involved in writing music for a Slaughter said. program called Vacation Bible School. LifeWay publishes two lines of Vacation “Then this guy got a big grin on his face Bible School materials. This year’s themes and said he’d been to Vacation Bible School are “Game Day Central: Where Heroes are when he was a kid. Then, he started singing Made!” and “Club VBS: Jungle Jaunt.” the theme song from the Good News Stampede. I said, ‘Hey, I wrote that!’ Then “I try to write music that will appeal to he said, ‘No way!’ the 5th and 6th grade boys,” Slaughter said with a laugh. “If I can connect with “Then I said, ‘So you’re a Christian too!’ them, then I figure all the kids will like it. But, he said, ‘Not anymore. I’ve sort of The younger kids look up to those guys given up on that.’” and if they think the music is cool, so will Slaughter said his heart broke for the everyone else.” young man. “I told him, ‘God has not left Slaughter has been writing VBS music you. He is still holding you in the palm since 1996, when he wrote the music for of His hand. What do you think the odds Links are that out of all the people in all the 1997’s “Wild, Wonderful, Good News All of the VBS music airports that we would wind up sitting at Stampede.” After 11 years, he’s had time to written by Slaughter see some kids to move into adulthood. the same table talking about Vacation Bible is available for download School? I think God has given us a divine He was in the airport in Minneapolis last on iTunes. Other appointment.’ So we talked until we both year when he noticed a young man in his music resources by had to leave.” Slaughter are available at early 20s walking near him. They both went Slaughter said that experience reminded www.lifewaystores.com. to the food area to grab a quick meal before For more information getting on their next flights. him again how God uses VBS – and his about VBS, go to music – to penetrate the lives of so many “It was funny, but God was telling me www.lifeway.com/vbs; kids all over the country. “He had drifted to talk to this young guy,” Slaughter said.” for more information away from Jesus, but that song was still about Slaughter, go to I was thinking, ‘No, I don’t want to. I there in his memory almost 10 years www.jeffslaughter.com. don’t know him. He’ll think I’m weird or later.”n
May/June 2007 31 Camps, concerts, retreats— students come and then they go… to college, to work, to find themselves. But how often do they go on to a stronger relationship Join us along with other student ministry leaders with God? on a strategy that focus from across the country at the LifeWay Student Ministry Conference—together we’ll develops students, not just student ministry.
LifeWay Student Ministry Conference August 23-25 | Pigeon Forge, TN | $145 September 11-13 | Panama City Beach, FL | $145
Register at www.lifeway.com/students or
give us a call at 800.254.2022. Promo #CR00085E True Love Waits Africa True Love Waits receives funding to expand work in Africa rue Love Waits International has received $950,000 through “Some leaders in LifeWay’s A Defining Moment Tcampaign to begin the first phase of Uganda say that this expanding its abstinence-until-marriage message in six African countries. turnaround has literally In announcing this expansion, LifeWay saved a generation.” President Thom Rainer said, “Although HIV/AIDS is a concern worldwide, the — Jimmy Hester most concentrated and high-risk area continues to be the continent of Africa, where the life expectancy in some countries has dropped from age 42 to as low as age 30,” Rainer said. “We are very pleased to make this announcement because we believe Photo by Kent Harville True Love Waits can be the answer for the Through the efforts of leaders in AIDS epidemic on the entire continent.” communities touched by the problem of sexual activity among the youth population, Since its introduction in Uganda 13 years Hester noted that True Love Waits can ago, True Love Waits has been a catalyst fight AIDS and other sexually transmitted for bringing people together to address the diseases; unplanned pregnancies; and a AIDS problem and spread the message of number of emotional, social, psychological, biblical purity to schools, youth groups, A Defining Moment and spiritual problems by helping young is a new $29 million communities and other places. In the people change their attitudes and behaviors philanthropic campaign years that followed, Uganda’s HIV/AIDS related to sexual expression. initiated by LifeWay infection rate dropped from 30 percent to Based on methodologies developed in Christian Resources to about 6 percent of the country’s 25 million touch the nations for people. Uganda, True Love Waits will establish an ongoing relationship with a key national Jesus Christ. In addi- “Some leaders in Uganda say that this tion to True Love Waits champion in each African country who, in turnaround has literally saved a generation,” International, the cam- turn, will build a hierarchy of teams within said Jimmy Hester, co-founder of True Love paign is raising funds the country. These teams will utilize a Waits. “We believe that expanding True for a new translation of proven verbally based, culturally appropriate Love Waits to other parts of Africa has the the Mandarin Chinese teaching approach to carry the message of potential of dramatically lowering the HIV/ Bible; a Leadership True Love Waits. LifeWay Student Ministry Conference AIDS infection rate in those countries as Training Institute that will train 10,000 pas- August 23-25 | Pigeon Forge, TN | $145 well.” “This is an intentional effort to learn from the experiences in Uganda and apply those tors and staff in effective September 11-13 | Panama City Beach, FL | $145 Larry and Sharon Pumpelly, the Southern principles to other African countries, taking leadership, ministry and Baptist missionaries who introduced True into account cultural differences that exist personal life skills; and Love Waits in Uganda in 1994, are working between these countries,” Hester said. n discipleship training in with Hester and the LifeWay True Love Cuba, India and Kenya. Waits team on the multicountry expansion.
May/June 2007 33 Coming Summer of 2008 find out more at www.lifewayworship.com
Visit the LifeWay Church Resources booth at the SBC annual meeting for more information about this worship planning Web resource and the 2008 edition of The Baptist Hymnal. 5 vital signs of healthy leadership by Mike Tucker
ital signs help medical vibrant and alive because he had a healthy professionals quickly and perspective. Because Paul surrendered all he effectively assess the health of had to Jesus, he didn’t fear death. He was patientsV under their care. Assessing leaders able to demonstrate courage regardless of in a local church is more difficult. How can circumstances. Paul’s example reminds us church leaders know if they are leading their that spiritual vitality begins with surrender, churches in a healthy way? gains a proper perspective and is lived out in The Apostle Paul was a healthy leader. courage. In his letter to the church at Philippi, Vital Sign #2: we discover five vital signs of healthy Healthy leaders are motivated by a leadership. compelling vision. Paul was consumed by a compelling vision. He understood his mission to share the gospel and nothing could stop him. Even being under house arrest didn’t stop him. In Philippians 1:12 he said: “Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has actually resulted in the advancement of the gospel….” He shared the gospel with prison guards. Healthy leaders are passionate and motivated by a compelling Vital Sign #1: vision. Healthy leaders know who they are Healthy leaders demonstrate and what God wants them to do. Vision spiritual vitality. propels them forward. It’s always about Paul was a healthy leader because he was tomorrow, never yesterday. Healthy leaders spiritually vibrant and alive. In Philippians are “tomorrow people” – reaching, serving 1:21 Paul said: “For me, living is Christ and leading to grasp and obey the vision and dying is gain.” Paul shared the secret God has for them. to spiritual vitality: move from a self- A compelling vision simplifies matters. directed life to a God-directed life. Ministry It cuts through the fog of activity and leadership in the church is not about us. It’s takes hold of us. Healthy leaders with not about buildings, budgets or baptisms. a compelling God-sized vision have no Healthy leadership is all about God’s trouble getting up in the morning. They presence in our lives. look forward to the ministry God has in Paul’s leadership was rooted in healthy store for them. Ministry isn’t a chore – it’s a theology. His leadership was spiritually calling. 36 Facts & Trends Church leaders healthy signs
Vital Sign #3: When leaders are vitally connected to Healthy leaders commit to ongoing others, there is accountability. Healthy learning. leaders surround themselves with people who are willing to hold them accountable. In Philippians 3:10, 12 Paul prayed, Everyone in leadership needs those who “My goal is to know Him and the power love him or her enough to tell him or her Take the Healthy of His resurrection and the fellowship of when he or she has blown it. Without Leadership Self-Exam His sufferings … Not that I have already accountability, pride erodes our ability to on page 38 and evaluate reached the goal … but I make every lead. the evidence of healthy effort….” In this passage Paul said he Vital Sign # 5: leadership in your own wanted to know Jesus. He knew he had more to learn. Healthy leaders serve with a sense life and ministry. of divine empowerment. Healthy leaders look for regular opportunities to “sharpen the saw.” They In Philippians 4:13, 19 Paul declared: “I are lifetime learners who continue to study am able to do all things through Him who and grow. Healthy leaders give time to strengthens me … And my God will supply learning new skills that enhance their ability all your needs according to His riches in to lead. glory in Christ Jesus.” Paul knew that the Vital Sign #4: epicenter of his leadership was Jesus Christ. Paul knew that only when we are totally Healthy leaders are relationally dependent on God and empowered by His connected. Spirit are we genuinely sufficient. Paul cherished his relationship with the Healthy leaders know that when our lives We recommend believers at Philippi. In Philippians 1:3 he are linked with God’s purposes, we share • Spiritual Leadership by said, “I give thanks to my God for every in His resources. Healthy leaders give up Henry Blackaby and remembrance of you.” As a healthy leader their small ambitions because they know Richard Blackaby Paul has established a partnership with God will supply all they need to do His • Called to be God’s this church. It was based on their common will. They look beyond themselves to see Leader (Llamado a Ser experience together. There are times when His grand purpose in their lives. And they Lider de Dios) by Henry leaders must face loneliness, but leadership stimulate others to join them in the greatest Blackaby and Richard Blackaby does not happen in isolation. Healthy adventure of life – serving God and seeing • Jesus on Leadership (El leaders resist the temptation to push or pull. His will unfold before them. Healthy leaders are connected to those they liderazgo de Jesus) by Consider your present ministry. How lead. C. Gene Wilkes do your ministry vital signs compare with • Paul on Leadership by Unhealthy leaders distance themselves these of healthy leaders? Are there areas of C. Gene Wilkes from people. This leads to a lack of your life and ministry in which you want fellowship and accountability that can to improve? Determine today how you can be fatal for a leader’s ministry. Unhealthy become a healthier ministry leader. n leaders let relational problems fester by refusing to deal with them. Repairing Mike Tucker is a LifeWay church consultant relationships is hard and exhausting work in Flower Mound, Texas. but absolutely essential for a healthy leader.
May/June 2007 37 A healthy leadership self-examination checklist Use the following checklist to evaluate the evidence of healthy leadership in your life and ministry.
Spiritual Vitality _____ I spend time each day in prayer and Bible study. _____ I share my faith regularly. _____ I tithe my income through the local church. _____ I make time to renew myself physically each week. _____ I am active and faithfully serve in my local church.
Compelling Vision _____ I know God has something special for me to do. _____ I know my spiritual gifts and am using them appropriately. _____ I am presently serving in my local church. _____ I am motivated by a vision of God’s Kingdom.
Ongoing Learning _____ I regularly commit my time and resources to developing my ministry skills. _____ I attend training events regularly. _____ I schedule personal time each week to refresh and regroup.
Relationally Connected _____ I am in a right relationship with every member of my family. _____ I am in a right relationship with every member of my ministry team. _____ I am part of a peer accountability group. Did you discover some _____ I am investing myself in those I lead. strengths and weaknesses in _____ I am reproducing other healthy leaders. your life and ministry? After completing this questionnaire, turn back to the “5 Vital Signs Empowered by the Spirit of Healthy Leadership” to _____ I serve each day with the expectancy that God will bless my ministry. discover five signs of healthy _____ I have personally experienced the abundance of God’s resources leadership as demonstrated by in my ministry. Paul in his letter to the church at Philippi. _____ I have experienced what can only be described as a “God thing.”
38 Facts & Trends LifeWay events A healthy leadership LifeWay-related events SBC annual meeting at the SBC annual meeting* self-examination checklist Monday, June 11 - Wednesday, June 13 to sign up new subscribers. Booth visitors can register for a daily giveaway of a gym bag packed • LifeWay will provide free counseling for ministers Facts & Trends with surprises. and spouses during the SBC annual meeting in San Antonio. Counseling will be available Monday through Tuesday, June 12 Wednesday. Sessions may be scheduled by calling (615) 476-4672 for a confidential appointment. • The FAITH luncheon for FAITH-trained pastors will be Tuesday, June 12, immediately following • LifeWay, in partnership San Antonio Riverwalk the morning business session, at the Marriott with GuideStone Financial Riverwalk Alamo Ballroom A/B/C on Level 2. Resources, will provide FAITH-trained pastors can call (877) FAITH- health screening at the 98 to reserve space. Tickets can be picked GuideStone Wellness up at the FAITH booth near the registration booth in the exhibit area. Attendees at the luncheon will hear area. This service will be about the new generation of FAITH Strategy. provided at no cost to LifeWay President Thom Rainer speak. Former ministers and spouses. SBC President, FAITH author and the SBC • Come by the Facts & Executive Committee’s Strategist for Global Trends booth in the LifeWay area of the exhibit hall. Evangelical Relations Bobby Welch will give a “Who Facts & Trends editor Polly House and Facts & Trends Let the Dogs Out” charge. Online project coordinator Jenny Rice will be on hand * Event information up-to-date as of April 17.
May/June 2007 39 New LifeWay resource lets kids worship … like kids! by Jenny Rice icture a worship service with Worship KidStyle team leader. Capps has singing, drama, Bible reading … 10 years of children’s ministry experience and science experiments? and currently is pursuing his doctorate in PAdd in arts and crafts and you have the children’s worship. makings of a worship service designed “Throughout the years we have had specifically for the unique worship needs of people call and say ‘My pastor wants us to children and older preschoolers. start children’s worship and there is nothing LifeWay has developed Worship really great out there for what we need,’” KidStyle, a resource available this summer Capps explained. “Worship KidStyle is for churches interested in providing an LifeWay’s solution to meet that need.” interactive children’s worship service. Built for small and large group settings, Worship KidStyle offers easy-to-use and reproducible leaders’ guides and materials that incorporate creative, active worship elements within a biblical context. “This resource is ideal for churches that are unable to meet children’s needs during their current worship services,” said Todd Capps, editor in chief and
“Throughout the years we have had people call and say ‘My pastor wants us to start children’s worship and there is nothing really great out there for what we need.’ Worship KidStyle is LifeWay’s solution to meet that need.”
– Todd Capps, Worship KidStyle team leader
40 Facts & Trends Children’s worship New LifeWay resource lets kids worship … ******* by Jenny Rice ******* like kids! ******* Designed with kids in mind kindergarteners. The children’s edition is intended for elementary school-age children During the Worship KidStyle service, and covers a broad age grouping of children. ******* children will sing and move along with music videos, watch age-appropriate life Easy to use application videos, pray, give their offerings, The creators of Worship KidStyle are ******* learn and apply Bible knowledge, learn key intentional about developing a resource that Bible verses and hear Bible stories. is user-friendly for “The material churches of any ******* is very hands-on size. so the kids aren’t “We field-tested sitting still for long an initial version ******* periods of time,” of the resources Capps said. “It has with 25 churches ******* a lot of excitement of different sizes and incorporates and discovered more experiences that what we ******* geared toward the at LifeWay children’s age levels thought was and development.” easy to use was not necessarily easy to use ******* Each worship session contains music by those in the churches,” Capps explained. videos with choreographed motions, arts “So we went back and reworked the materials to make them as user-friendly as ******* and crafts ideas, life application videos, and other small group activities such as dramas, possible. games, and exploration and discovery. Understanding that children’s worship ******* “The various options are designed to leaders frequently rotate with different Worship KidStyle meet the differing interests of the children,” teachers each week, LifeWay designed preview available Capps explained. the Worship KidStyle materials to be ******* reproducible for as many leaders as Churches interested Designed for children’s worship on necessary. (Due to copyright restraints, the in learning more about Sunday mornings or evenings or Wednesday music and videos are not for reproduction.) *******Worship KidStyle may evenings for special children’s ministries, visit www.lifeway.com/ Worship KidStyle is also compatible “People have expressed frustration over resources that could only be accessed worshipkidstyle for with LifeWay’s Bible Teaching for Kids *******additional information, curriculum. through the computer,” Capps explained. “We took the computer out of the sample lessons and a The preschool edition of Worship classroom and simplified the entire video preview. KidStyle is designed for 4-year-olds and ******* preparation process.” n *******May/June 2007 41 Ridgecrest 100th anniversary LifeWay Ridgecrest Conference Center 100 years and still going strong by Don Beehler rom humble beginnings in a single Centers. “Marriages and entire families log cabin, LifeWay Ridgecrest have been strengthened or transformed, and Conference Center has grown to numerous laypersons have received training beF one of the largest religious conference to better equip them for ministry.” centers in the nation: a 1,300-acre campus Last summer, B&H Publishing Group with 90,000 square feet of conference released Ridgecrest: A Century of Spiritual space and housing Renewal, a 96-page, full- accommodations for color coffee table book more than 2,000 people. that takes readers on a For generations, this nostalgic journey through grand retreat in the time and examines how Blue Ridge Mountains generations of Southern near Asheville, N.C., Baptists and others have has provided a place had their lives changed where people can escape in dramatic ways at from the noise and Ridgecrest. interruptions of everyday Chapters include life to enjoy fellowship testimonials from and experience spiritual well-known Christian renewal. leaders such as Graham “Ridgecrest has been and the late Adrian a center not only for Photo by Russ Rankin Rogers; a look at the inspiration and blessing LifeWay President Thom Rainer volunteers and donors to people that live in speaks at Ridgecrest centennial who make Ridgecrest’s western North Carolina, work possible; and a but to hundreds of thousands of people section that focuses on camps and programs throughout the country,” wrote evangelist for young people. Other chapters relive Billy Graham in a letter commemorating highlights of the past century, examine how Ridgecrest’s 100th anniversary. Graham was Ridgecrest has changed and look at what’s a frequent speaker at Ridgecrest, especially in store for the center’s next 100 years. in the early years of his ministry. Interspersed throughout the book are More than 3 million people have visited stories submitted by people of all ages We recommend Ridgecrest. Some have met their spouses whose lives have been influenced by their • Ridgecrest: A Century of there, while others have developed time at Ridgecrest. Spiritual Renewal friendships that have lasted for decades. “While we continue to undergo extensive This resource is “There are many thousands of pastors, revitalization efforts to ensure Ridgecrest available from LifeWay Christian Stores at missionaries and church staff members remains an attractive and relevant spiritual www.lifewaystores.com who can point to a moment at Ridgecrest haven, the real story of Ridgecrest has and (800) 233-1123. when they committed their lives to Christ always been – and always will be – about or to vocational ministry,” said Byron Hill, people,” Hill said. n national director for LifeWay Conference 42 Facts & Trends LifeWay LifeWay trustees elect new trustee report vice president, hear reports of strong ministry results at semiannual meeting LifeWay trustees meet Feb. 12-13 for their semiannual meeting.
ifeWay’s trustees elected a new vice president of research and ministry development and heard details of Lstrong first-quarter ministry results at their semiannual meeting Feb. 12-13 at LifeWay in Nashville, Tenn.
Trustees approved the recommendation Photos by Kent Harville to establish a vice president of research and Brad Waggoner speaks ministry development and elected Brad expenses well under control. Divisional leaders filed the following reports: to trustees as the new Waggoner to the new position. Waggoner vice president for has served as director of LifeWay Research Church resources research and ministry since 2006 (see “Trustees name Waggoner Vice President John Kramp highlighted development. to lead new research and ministry several new initiatives including: The development division” on page 11 for more Worship Project, a new digital hymnal, information). hardback hymnal and online worship In his address to trustees, President planning portal; and a new eight-year cycle Thom Rainer spoke about three major for Explore the Bible. issues facing LifeWay: integrity and Kramp also reported that a revision openness; LifeWay as a bridge builder; and of Experiencing God will be released in the need to establish a new division called August, the Next Generation of FAITH research and ministry development. will be released in December, and Worship Chief Financial Officer Jerry Rhyne KidStyle, a new children’s worship reported that LifeWay is off to a “strong resource, will be ready this fall. start” in the fiscal year that began Oct. Vacation Bible School’s two lines 1, 2006, with revenues near budget and – “Game Day Central: Where Heroes are
May/June 2007 43 Made” and “Club VBS: Jungle Jaunt” – provide custom printed offering envelopes, have been well received, with almost 2,000 church buses, signs, steeples and other people attending the VBS Previews. products. Kramp said three initiatives his division is B&H Publishing Group addressing more intentionally are ministry Vice President Ken Stephens reported that with African-American churches, ministry B&H sold 2.8 million Bibles last year and with Hispanic churches and ministry to that the Holman Christian Standard Bible baby boomers as they begin moving into was the No. 1 translation in unit sales in their senior adult years. LifeWay Christian Stores during the 2006 LifeWay Christian Stores Christmas season. He also highlighted best- Vice President Mark Scott reported a selling resources like Beth Moore’s Praying successful start to the new fiscal God’s Word Day by Day and Simple year building on strong results Church by Thom S. Rainer and Eric in 2006. In the first quarter Geiger, and announced that the alone, LifeWay Christian Stores Holman Illustrated Study Bible has served 239,000 new households sold more than 95,000 units since and 2,023 new churches. Scott its release in October. praised store associates for their Key product launches for 2007 “servant-hearted service” that include a new line of communion makes each store a “spiritual products called RemembranceWare; oasis” for customers. Jesus: 90 Days with the One Scott highlighted and Only, and a paperback version of the success of “Faith Breaking Free, both by Beth Moore; Now at Home,” an exclusive You’re Speaking My Language by Gary gift line that helps Chapman; The Holman Student Bible; differentiate LifeWay and an Apologetics Bible. Holman Bible from other retailers. He also noted that the Outreach International also reported strong stores continue to serve 154,000 ministers ministry results for 2006 with 300,000 who receive the minister’s discount, Bibles distributed. This year, HBOI plans and have provided significant savings to numerous projects, from single-Bible customers through the LifeWay Rewards donations known as “Sparrow Projects” to program. In addition, the stores have sold, major Bible distribution initiatives. at cost, more than 150,000 copies of “The Finance and business services Invitation” CD that features inspiring Vice President Jerry Rhyne reported Christian music and a gospel message. that the 100,000-square-foot expansion Five new store projects in three states – of the Lebanon Distribution Center was Alabama, Virginia and Georgia – have been completed in March 2006, and the dated completed since September, as well as two operations department will relocate from relocations and one store closing, said Scott. Nashville to the Lebanon facility by Oct. Scott also highlighted the division’s 1, resulting in a significant reduction direct marketing efforts, in which LifeWay of expenses. In addition, LifeWay has participates with third-party suppliers to purchased property adjacent to LifeWay’s 44 Facts & Trends LifeWay trustee report
home office in Nashville and has set aside the land for future use.Business Tennessee magazine has named LifeWay one of the top 20 Tennessee employers and will feature the company in an upcoming edition. Rhyne also updated trustees on the current capital improvements at LifeWay Ridgecrest Conference Center located near Asheville, N.C. The new Mt. Laurel Inn West features 103 guest rooms, five one-bedroom suites, three conference rooms, a fitness center and a new lobby to connect the new wing with the existing Mt. Laurel hotel. Rhyne also outlined the spiritual impact of LifeWay’s two conference centers, where more than 100,000 visitors attend a wide variety of discipleship and training events each year. A decision on whether to move forward with the new convention center at Ridgecrest will be made by June 1. Executive communications and relations Vice President Tom Hellams highlighted recent LifeWay activities that reached out to the Nashville community, including “A Christmas Prayer,” a musical drama featuring author and recording artist Mandisa, presented at the historic Ryman Auditorium; and the unveiling of “There’s Room at the Cross for You,” a bronze statue in tribute to the life and ministry of evangelist Billy Graham, permanently on public display at LifeWay. Hellams also noted some new features in LifeWay’s news and information services, among them weekly podcasts at www.lifeway.com/insidelifeway; LifeWay President celebration of the 50th anniversary of Facts & Trends magazine; and the launch of Facts Thom Rainer speaks to trustees during their & Trends Online, an interactive Web version of Facts & Trends at www.lifeway.com/ semiannual meeting in factsandtrends. February. He also reported that three employee-led mission trips so far this year have resulted in more than 6,500 professions of faith. In addition, LifeWay International now has 628 distributors of LifeWay products in 83 countries. Technology Vice President Tim Vineyard reported on the successful, on-time launch of the Oracle E- Business Suite, a state-of-the-art business system that positions LifeWay for growth in the years to come. “The scope and significance of this project are massive,” he said. LifeWay is now in the post-launch stabilization period. A change management team has identified more than 150 priority issues and has resolved a third of these already. Other business Responding to a motion from the 2006 Southern Baptist Convention and referred to LifeWay that LifeWay undertake research on a number of issues affecting Southern Baptists, the trustees approved LifeWay’s response that it supports the motion and is conducting the requested research through LifeWay Research. Trustees granted LifeWay the authority to exchange property in North Carolina, enabling Ridgecrest Conference Center to acquire a parcel of land near the main campus.n
May/June 2007 45 Resources for you from LifeWay
children as their Blackaby says, children learn “As important from them. as Experiencing This truth is n First Freedom God has been poignantly First Freedom is an to many people, captured B&H Publishing important gathering Experiencing in Raising of messages from a God Together Dad: What recent conference on is a necessary Fathers & religious liberty held at sequel. Christians Sons Learn Southwestern Baptist must make the from Each Theological Seminary. transition from Other by Editor Jason B. Duesing knowing and father-son authors explains, “The purpose doing the will of God as Thom and Art Rainer. of this collection is, first, individuals to knowing It was Art’s idea to write to provide readers an and doing the will of God from a grown child’s introductory look into within a corporate body perspective this tribute to the biblical of believers.” his father’s successes as a and historical God saves parent. Inviting his father foundations of individuals but to write postscripts to religious liberty n Holman Illustrated places them these reflections, another combined Pocket Bible Dictionary in community tender truth emerged. with several The Holman Illustrated with one Dad’s memories about his instances of Pocket Bible Dictionary another – a own performance aren’t contemporary provides the essential community of nearly as rose colored, expression information you need believers. giving those who read the and defense to study the Bible in Experiencing book great inspiration for the a handy, pocket-size God Together to never stop growing purpose of format. This edition is helps churches and learning as a parent. instruction, designed for those who experience the All told, Raising Dad edification and need information quickly, fullness of life as a shares unforgettable encouragement.” but also want in-depth congregation, a manifest lessons about faith, Releases May 1. Product details on a variety presence of God in their friendship, commitment, #13:978-0-8054-4387-5. of topics. Numerous midst, and a love that honesty and priorities. Paperback. $14.99 color photographs, could only come from Releases May 1. Product reconstructions, maps n Experiencing God above. Releases June 1. #13:978-0-8054-4391-2. and charts illuminate the Together Product #13: 978-0- Hardcover. $17.99 text and help you process by Henry T. Blackaby and 8054-4551-0. Paperback. n Comeback Churches information in a way you Melvin D. Blackaby $14.99 by Ed Stetzer and Mike never thought possible. An award-winning book n Raising Dad Dodson Releases May 1. Product from a multimillion- by Thom S. Rainer and Research shows that #13:978-1-5864-0314-0. selling author, now Art Rainer over time, most Paperback. $9.99 available in paperback Parents will tell you they churches plateau and for the first time. Henry learn as much from their then eventually decline. 46 Facts & Trends Typically, they start strong Penned by best-selling n TeenVirtue An “address” is given and experience periods historical authors Peter Confidential for each story with the of growth, then stagnate Marshall and David by Vicki Courtney Scripture reference telling and lose members. Since Manuel (The Light and the Following where to find 1991, the North American Glory) and experienced up her it in the Bible. population has increased youth writer Sheldon best-selling Corresponding by 15 percent, while the Maxwell, each of the editions of special activities number of “unchurched” four books in the series TeenVirtue include coloring people has increased by will introduce a teenage and pages, stickers, 92 percent. To counter character who becomes TeenVirtue connect-the- this trend, authors Ed closely involved with a 2, Vicki dots, word Stetzer and Mike Dodson major event in American Courtney’s searches, verbal surveyed 300 churches history. By story’s end, the TeenVirtue games like “I from across 10 different title character receives the Confidential Spy,” and visual denominations that crimson cross and learns takes an even scavenger hunts. recently achieved healthy valuable lessons about more interactive direction Releases May 1. Product evangelistic growth after God and country. Releases than before by offering #13:987-0-8054-2647-2. a significant season of June 1. Nate Donovan, God-focused answers Hardcover, hidden spiral decline. What they have Product #13:978-0-8054- to real questions sent in with audio CD. $14.99 discovered is an exciting 4395-0. Mercy Clifton, from teenage girls. The method of congregation Product #13:978-0-8054- main topics here are: reinvigoration that 4395-0. Paperback. $9.99 The Future, Guys, Body is shared in the new Development and Sex, book entitled Comeback and Faith. TeenVirtue Churches. Releases May 1. Confidential is a safe and Product #13:978-0-8054- cool pick for their precious 4536-7. Hardcover. $17.99 daughters. Releases June n Nate Donovan: 1. Product #13:978-0- Revolutionary Spy and 8054-4192-5. Paperback. Mercy Clifton: Pilgrim $14.99 Girl n The Ultimate Travel by Peter Marshall, David Time Bible n Mommy, Teach Me Manuel and Sheldon by Stephen Elkins by Barbara Curtis Maxwell The Ultimate Travel Time In Mommy, Teach Me These first two of the Bible retells 40 Bible author Barbara Curtis, new Crimson Cross stories, each with a unique a mother of 12, shares fiction series for readers song, game and activity secrets on how to turn ages 11-15 are inspired by structured around the everyday experiences into the ornate 15th century theme of travel. Readers learning opportunities Spanish cross first given “travel” to various biblical for preschool children. by Queen Isabella to cities through text and Designed as a user- Christopher Columbus illustrations that tell the friendly educational before he sailed on his story while dialog boxes program, this book is great voyage of discovery. also share the message. filled with exercises for May/June 2007 47 Resources for you from LifeWay
This at-home all-new video 8054-4476-6. Paperback. educational presentations. $12.99 resource will As women n Mommy, Teach Me to help any child explore the age 7 or younger Scriptures parents to implement Read by Barbara Curtis become a better, regarding with their littlest ones at more enthusiastic the events home. They will discover A mother can start to give her child a passion for reader. Releases leading up to the building that while playing, June 1. Product #13:978- of the tabernacle, based drawing, and just being books and a lifelong love of reading at home with 0-8054-4477-3. on God’s detailed plans, kids, children Paperback. $12.99 they will find fresh new can also be Mommy, Teach Me to Read. The meaning and significance. practicing LifeWay Church In addition to the new muscle easy-to-learn and fun-to- Resources video presentations (now control, n A Woman’s Heart, on DVDs), the member concentration, follow reading Updated book has been revised, and other programs and activities by Beth Moore reflecting what God has basic skills The original Beth Moore taught Moore in the past that will help presented here offer a video teaching series decade. Regardless of throughout has been revisited and whether you participated life. Releases wonderful way to spend revised, with fresh new in this study when it was June 1. content, richer detail, and first released in 1995, or Product #13:987-0- time with your children.
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are taking it for the first the pastor or Baptist Releases in June. time, A Woman’s Heart other church Theological Member book, LifeWay is available to all women leaders in Seminary. product #0-0508-5765, who desire to know preparation and Participants $7.95; Leader kit, LifeWay God and His Word on a promotion. The will learn to product #0-0503-5517, deeper level. (10 sessions) learner guide is better articulate $69.95 Releases in June. deep in content the basic n Bible Studies by member book, updated, yet easy to Baptist beliefs, Demand for Adults, LifeWay product #0- read. Designed give the biblical Volume One 0507-6821, $14.95; for use within foundation for When Bible study plans Leader kit, updated, the Bible study these beliefs, go awry, these flexible LifeWay product #0- setting or in individual and apply the beliefs to pick-up-and-go DVD 0503-5305, $199.95; preparation. The leader their individual Christian resources are ready to help Audio CDs, updated, guide includes teaching walks. The book includes you recover. Volume One LifeWay product #0-0507- helps, in-depth exposition a leader guide in the back. features six stand-alone 7199, $39.95; Leader notes, and tear-out (6 sessions) Releases in studies on diverse topics guide, updated, LifeWay teaching items for copies. June. from some of LifeWay’s product #0-0507-7200, (4 sessions) Releases in LifeWay product #0- most respected authors: $6.95 May. 0503-5536, $7.95 James MacDonald, Ergun n January Bible Study Adult learner guide, n Connect the Dots: Caner, Ken Hemphill, 2008: God’s Amazing LifeWay product #0- Discovering God’s Henry and Melvin Grace: Studies in the 0503-5374 $6.95; Adult Ongoing Will in Your Blackaby, John Franklin, Book of Romans leader guide, LifeWay Life Chuck Lawless, Charles by Dean Register product #0-0503-5395 by Mike Hurt Colson and Nancy This book focuses on the $8.95; Adult leader pack, It seems that young Pearcey. Each DVD book of Romans and four LifeWay product #0- adults everywhere are contains one session from questions people often ask 0503-5394, $24.95 asking the same questions the author’s video series. about God: Can I believe n Baptist Doctrine – wondering if An information- in God? Is God still active Study 2008: The Baptist God’s will for packed CD- today? Does God care Faith & Message their lives is ROM includes about me? Does God care This study examines a set formula, facilitator helps, how I live? While these each of the articles in the or more like a viewer guides, questions were especially Baptist Faith and Message puzzle. Mike answer keys, pertinent to the Roman and provides biblical Hurt invites and optional Christians, they are still commentary from three young adults discussion relevant for Christians noteworthy SBC leaders: to understand questions. today. The adult leader Chuck Kelley, president that God’s will This is self- pack is designed to assist of New Orleans Baptist is found most Theological profoundly in Seminary; Richard an intimate D. Land, president relationship with Him. of the Ethics and His perfect will for their Religious Liberty lives can be revealed daily. Commission; and The leader kit includes R. Albert Mohler a member book and Jr., president of enhanced CD packed The Southern with useful leader tools. May/June 2007 49 Resources for you from LifeWay
n Hannah’s One Wish: n Daniel: Vidas de A Bible Study for Teen integridad, palabras de Girls profecía (Daniel: Lives by Kelly Minter of Integrity, Words Today’s teenage girls face contained for a thorough of Prophecy, Spanish all sorts of circumstances and effective Bible study. edition) that they can’t change Releases in May. by Beth Moore – divorced parents, LifeWay product #0- Written to encourage taunting mean girls and Williamson’s 0508-1527, $59.95 believers to stand up to unfair teachers. The truth energetic and practical n LifeWay In-depth temptation and to believe is, teenage years can leave arrangements make it Bible Study: James, that God is in control. a girl wondering why God impossible to hear or sing How to Live by Faith in Great for Spanish- isn’t making things better. this Christmas collection a Secular World speaking and bilingual New study introduces without a smile on your The latest release in the study groups who have a students to Hannah – a face. Christian dramatist LifeWay In-depth Bible desire to shape devout woman of God John Plastow collaborated Study series, and influence who wrestled with her to create a brand-new specifically their culture. share of problems. She, feature for those who designed for The first six too, faced enemies who want to present the verse-by-verse sessions focus on taunted her, questioned collection as a musical: a study with the life of the God’s sovereignty, free narration and drama, no designated prophet Daniel. wondered why the wicked available at www.lifeway. finish date. The second were allowed to prosper, com/worshipmusic. At the end of half of the while she did her best to SATB choral book, each session, study contains be honest before God. Product #0-0507- the leader can powerful Includes a leader guide 6822, $8.95; Listening mark the place evidence that for group study and CD, Accompaniment in the study where the the Bible is divine in discussion, as well as CD, Rehearsal tracks, group stopped and then origin, as the historical stories written by teenage Orchestration and pick up there again in details from Daniel’s girls. (8 sessions) Releases CD promo pak are the next session. There time through the second in June. also available. Free are no member books; all coming of Christ LifeWay product #0- online script available that’s needed is the leader are fulfilled through 0503-5498, $10.95 at www.lifeway.com/ commentary, which prophecies. (12 sessions) worshipmusic. can be used to combine Releases in June. LifeWay Worship n n The Joy of Christmas: Imagine: A Christmas lecture and discussion LifeWay product #0- Worship Experience Celebrate the Season formats. The CD-ROM 0503-5135, $16.95 created by Regi Stone and created by Phil Barfoot, contains a PowerPoint J. Daniel Smith, arranged arranged and orchestrated presentation that includes and orchestrated by J. by Dave Williamson, the teaching outline and Daniel Smith, narrations optional narration and discussion questions, by Mike Harland drama by John Plastow as well as articles from SATB/Moderate/50 Biblical Illustrator. SATB/Moderate With genres ranging from minutes LifeWay product #0- Imagine is a Christmas 0503-5518, $24.95 a Broadway-style opener, to powerful ballads worship experience and fun blues, Dave that invites listeners to immerse themselves in 50 Facts & Trends Resources are available from LifeWay Church Resources at www.lifeway.com and (800) 458-2772 LifeWay Christian Stores at www.lifewaystores.com and (800) 233-1123
the joy and Bulletins (pack Joseph, the shepherds and glory of His of 100), Posters the wise men – reminding presence (pack of 10), us that God did want this through true Orchestration news to be personal. Jesus worship. and CD promo was born to you! Familiar, pak are also SATB choral book, contemporary available. Product #0-0507-7030, worship songs n Born to You $5.95; Listening CD, are woven This Day Accompaniment CD together with created and (split track), Kit (includes new music, written by 10 choral books, one Bah Hum Bug” and “The favorite carols Dennis and each listening and Hustle Bustle.” They will and powerful Nan Allen, accompaniment CD and also learn through this narrations to help orchestrated three posters), Bulletins entertaining script how the us all rediscover by Kyle Hill (pack of 100) and CD biblical story of the wise the gift of SATB/ promo pak are also men searching for their Christmas. Moderate/32 available. Christmas star applies to SATB choral minutes n Finding the their young lives. book, Product This musical Christmas Star Choral book, Product #0-0507- will draw created and written by Jeff #0-0507-7016, 6831, $8.95; you close to Slaughter $7.95; Listening CD, Listening CD, God through Unison and 2-part/ Accompaniment CD, Accompaniment the angels’ Easy/40 minutes DVD, Dovetailor, CD (split track), messages given so long Your kids will love Bulletins (pack of 100), DVD accompaniment ago. Listen as the lyrics rehearsing these fabulous Posters (pack of 10), and (split track/click track), and narrations retell these songs, especially the high- CD promo pak are also Rehearsal tracks, messages told to Mary, energy “I Got Bit by the available.
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