JoyWorks Missionary camp book

Children from Arkansas Baptist Former Arkansas Baptist writes churches participate in JoyWorks, book about her experience as a a worship and arts camp. missionary to Brazil. page 6 page 6

Volume 110, Number 13 Telling the story of Arkansas Baptists since 1901 June 30, 2011 Church planting, people groups highlighted Missions focus of SBC Annual Meeting PHOENIX – Southern Baptist Convention mes- International Version (NIV) 2011 Bible transla- sengers meeting in Phoenix June 14-15 heard bib- tion. lical pleas for Southern Baptists to join a church The resolution passed nearly unanimously. The planting movement in North America and to resolution’s text said that because of “inaccurate adopt an unengaged people group around the gender language,” messengers “cannot recom- world. And messengers responded. mend the 2011 NIV to Southern Baptists or the More than 1,000 pastors and larger Christian community.” their wives packed a North Ameri- ABN on the Web It “respectfully request(s) that can Mission Board (NAMB) pas- For expanded coverage, LifeWay” not sell the new NIV tors’ luncheon to learn about the in its retail chain. entity’s new Send North America including video, go to Messengers also passed the church planting strategy. www.arkansasbaptist.org. following resolutions: On the final night of the con-  supporting the Defense vention, hundreds of messengers of Marriage Act. flooded the front of the meeting hall at the end  affirming the historical, biblical concept of the International Mission Board (IMB) report, of hell, in reaction to Rob Bell’s “Love Wins” having signed cards pledging to lead their church book. to embrace an unengaged people group.  condemning the actions of those who pro- Both mission board reports featured a commis- test funerals, burn the Koran and pray for the sioning service, with Southern Baptists meeting deaths of public officials. their newest missionaries. The main focus of the convention was on ful- The convention’s resolutions, which touched filling the Great Commission, both in North on hot-button theological and cultural issues, American and around the world. once again made news. “With less than 4 percent of our (Southern In a surprising move in the convention’s final Baptist) churches directly engaged in church session, messengers overruled the Resolutions planting, we’ve got to do better,” NAMB Presi- Messengers enter the Phoenix Convention Center for the 2011 Committee by at least a 2-to-1 margin and voted dent Kevin Ezell said at the NAMB luncheon. SBC Annual Meeting. For more coverage, see pages 7-10 to consider a resolution, promoted by messenger Tim Overton, that was highly critical of the New See SBC WRAP page 3 Sports Crusaders use basketball to teach the Bible

Jessica Vanderpool Not bad for a basketball camp. Arkansas Baptist News On the other side of Arkansas, children in Wal- nut Ridge are experiencing another Sports Cru- Two shrill whistles pierce the air, echo- saders basketball camp at First Baptist Church, ing off the walls of the gym at the Rose City Boys Walnut Ridge. & Girls Club/Police Athletic League Center in First Baptist Pastor Mark Harris explained, “As North Little Rock. In response, a chorus of voices a part of the Sports Crusaders ministry, the col- shouts out, “De-fense!” and children get in posi- lege students who lead the camps teach the kids tion. more than soccer or basketball – they also teach It is a drill the children know well by the fourth Jesus. On one day of the camp, they present the day of the Sports Crusaders basketball camp. But gospel plan of salvation, and every year we see kids they’ve learned a few other things as well. They come to know Christ, including this year.” know who Adam and Eve are. They know what Children attend Sports Crusaders camp. sin is. And they know why Christ came to earth. See CRUSADERS page 14 Centerton FBC serves Phoenix community Caleb Yarbrough families. Ministries based at the center include “Our goal behind it is to Arkansas Baptist News nutrition assistance, a food pantry, a job search create a community center program, a pregnancy center, a sobriety clinic where people can come PHOENIX – As thousands of Southern Baptists and a clothing bank. Two churches – The Bridge in and get the services arrived in the desert for the denomination’s an- and The Puente – also meet at the facility. and help they need, a nual meeting, a group of 50 students and adults The center’s director, Tim Lesher, moved to holistic ministry,” he from Arkansas came for an entirely different Phoenix 10 years ago as part of a church plant. It said. “We work with a reason. was through that church plant that Lesher first lot of different organi- First Baptist Church, Centerton, conducted a got involved with the Rio Vista Center. After fall- zations. We don’t aim to day camp all week at the Rio Vista Center in one ing in love with the people in the surrounding recreate the wheel, but of Phoenix’s neediest neighborhoods. community and the Rio Vista Center’s ministry, just to work with others Started in 1974, the Rio Vista Center provides Lesher said he and his wife decided to become emergency food boxes for low-income Phoenix part of the center’s full-time staff. See CENTERTON page 11 2 To p St o r i e s June 30, 2011 Immigration resolution hotly debated

PHOENIX – A resolution on immigration and rest of the 22-paragraph resolution, which calls on the gospel, coming during a convention partially churches to take the gospel to all people, “regard- focused on ethnic issues, had the most floor de- less of country of origin or immigration status.” bate. Referred to by some as a “humane path to citi- By a 4-to-1 margin, Southern Baptist Conven- zenship” for illegal immigrants, by approving the tion messengers adopted the resolution, which resolution messengers recognized the importance includes key language asking “our governing au- of keeping the door open to sharing Jesus Christ thorities to implement, with the borders secured, with immigrants coming to the United States. a just and compassionate path to legal status, Arkansas Baptist State Convention Executive with appropriate restitution measures, for those Director Emil Turner echoed the messengers’ sen- undocumented immigrants already living in our timents, following the vote. country.” “Arkansas Baptists have a long and rich his- That sentence was nearly struck, but survived tory of ministering to immigrants, and we will on a ballot vote of 51 to 48 percent. The resolu- continue to do so,” said Turner. tion gained more support when the Resolutions “Most of us believe that secure borders are fun- Committee proposed adding a sentence that says damental for a sound immigration policy and for the resolution “is not to be construed as support national security. Ultimately, sharing the gospel for amnesty for any undocumented immigrant.” is more important than any other consideration Mostly overlooked in the controversy was the for us.” SBC messengers participate in a ballot vote. SBC immigration resolution clarified Richard D. Piles, pastor of First Baptist “I know that the reporting on the resolution is being Church, Camden, and a trustee of the Ethics misconstrued, and I want to let as many Arkansas and Religious Liberties Commission (ERLC), Baptists as possible know that, even though the feels it is important for Arkansas Baptists to un- resolution is vague, it does not advocate amnesty.” derstand the immigration resolution approved by messengers at the Southern Baptist Conven- Richard Piles, pastor tion Annual Meeting in Phoenix does not ad- First Baptist Church, Camden vocate amnesty, but rather a desire to reach the lost. with this generous opportunity to earn legal sta- “I know that the reporting on the resolution tus, should be deported immediately. is being misconstrued, and I want to let as many “This is not amnesty. Amnesty is what Presi- Arkansas Baptists as possible know that, even dent Carter gave the draft dodgers who came though the resolution is vague, it does not advo- home from Canada with no penalties, no fines, cate amnesty,” Piles said. and no requirements whatsoever. Piles shared with the Arkansas Baptist News “There is neither the political nor economic excerpts from a report on illegal immigration by will in the U.S. population for forcibly round- ERLC President Richard Land. Richard Piles (right) and his wife, Christy, attend the Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary alumni luncheon ing up 12 million people — many of them who In the report posted on the ERLC Web site, have children who are American citizens — and at the 2011 Southern Baptist Convention Annual Meeting in Land states: shipping them back to their country of origin. “As Christians, we must think through the Phoenix June 15. Politics and public policy are the ‘art of the pos- question of illegal immigration not only as con- side the country first, while offering no amnesty sible.’ The reality is that it is not feasible for the cerned citizens, but also as compassionate Chris- for lawbreakers. United States government to attempt to deport tians. As citizens of the United States we have “Proper reform should consist of a program 12 million people. There has to be another way a right to expect the government to fulfill its that provides an earned pathway that requires an to resolve this issue. divinely ordained mandate to punish those who illegal immigrant who desires to remain legally “The reality is that we have been, and are, a break the law and to reward those who do not in the U.S. to undergo a criminal background nation of immigrant settlers, and the descen- ... (Rom.13:1-7). check, pay a fine, agree to pay back taxes, learn dants of such settlers, who braved oceans and “As U.S. citizens, we have a right to expect the to speak, write, and read English and get in line many obstacles to come to this matchless land of federal government to enforce the laws regarding behind those who are legally migrating into this opportunity to become Americans. Whether our who may cross our borders. Border security is a country in order to apply for permanent resi- ancestors came early, or late, we are Americans, question of national security, domestic safety dence after a probationary period of years. They whatever nationality may be used to describe and tranquility and the federal government ful- must also acknowledge and pledge allegiance to our heritage before we arrived. We should, and filling its divinely mandated responsibilities to America’s governmental structure, the duties of we will, always have room in this great nation enforce the law. citizenship and our core values as embodied in for those who are willing to embrace the Ameri- “I favor a measure that includes controlling the Declaration of Independence. People who can dream and the American ideals that both the borders and enforcing immigration laws in- fail background checks or who refuse to comply inspired that dream and define it.” Ethnic diversity report; Luter’s election media focus PHOENIX – A landmark report on attention to appointing individuals was defeated by a margin of 3-to-1. nic Southern Baptists to get more ethnic diversity was the focus of na- who represent the diversity The Executive Committee involved in the convention in this tional media attention during the within the Convention, and report, delivered after a two- “history-making moment,” saying, Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) particularly ethnic diver- year study, cites the “need to “This is the time.” Annual Meeting in Phoenix, as was sity.” be proactive and intentional Ethnic diversity, said SBC Presi- the election of New Orleans pastor It also encourages the in the inclusion of individu- dent Bryant Wright, is “vitally im- Fred Luter to first vice president. committee in charge of the als from all ethnical and ra- portant to the future of the church He is the first African American to annual meeting to reflect cial identities within South- in America.” hold the post. the ethnic diversity of the ern Baptist life.” Wright said, “We have not reflect- The SBC Executive Commit- convention in the meeting During a press confer- ed what is happening in America in tee’s report encourages the SBC program. ence, messenger Paul Kim, both the makeup of our churches, president, when he makes his vari- A motion that would have Luter who made the 2009 motion but especially in the leadership in ous appointments, to “give special struck the ethnic diversity language that led to the report, urged eth- our convention.” www.arkansasbaptist.org To p St o r i e s 3 Frank Page urges unity, support for CP

PHOENIX – Southern Baptist Con- “Christ-like selflessness is our his press conference, inviting Kevin participate. It was the first conven- vention (SBC) messengers meeting only hope,” he continued. Ezell as NAMB president, Tom El- tion for each of the four men to in Phoenix June 14-15 witnessed Page also urged Southern Baptists liff as IMB president and Page as serve as a president, and each one dozens of leaders standing togeth- to take the “1 Percent Challenge” SBC executive committee president had a unique emphasis during his er in support of a historic unity — leading their churches to increase to sit on the platform with him and respective report to messengers. pledge. gifts to the Cooperative Pro- SBC Executive Commit- gram by 1 percent-of-budget IMB, NAMB assignment changes approved tee President Frank Page in- point. Doing so would lead troduced an “Affirmation to $100 million more for PHOENIX – Recommendations unreached and underserved people of Unity and Cooperation” Southern Baptist ministries from the SBC Executive Commit- groups within the United States pledge that was signed by enti- and worldwide missions, tee to change the International and Canada.” The current minis- ty leaders, state executives and including funding for 380 Board (IMB) and North American try assignment focuses IMB work ethnic fellowship leaders. more IMB missionaries, Mission Board (NAMB) program outside the U.S. and Canada. The document had five Page said. assignments were approved by mes-  Rewriting NAMB’s mission core points, with the heart of Page SBC President Bryant sengers during the opening session statement and ministry assign- it being a pledge to “walk in unity Wright endorsed the unity pledge. of the SBC Annual Meeting June ment. The new mission statement as brothers and sisters in Christ.” “Coming back to the authority 14. refocuses NAMB on partnership During the Executive Committee of Scripture was a correcting point The recommendations related with churches, associations and report, the leaders stood onstage to- that had to take place (in the SBC), to the “Great Commission Resur- state conventions in “mobilizing gether with Page. but the mission is to fulfill the Great gence” report adopted at the 2010 Southern Baptists as a missional “Our convention is fracturing Commission,” Wright said. “I think annual meeting in Orlando, Fla.: force” in North America. The new into various groups, some theologi- this was the most unified conven-  Amending the IMB ministry ministry assignment consolidates cal, most methodological,” Page told tion around the Great Commis- assignment to allow the organiza- nine points to six and rearranges its messengers. “Sometimes there is an sion that I have experienced. People tion to “provide specialized, de- priorities. Where appointing mis- honest difference of opinion, but came here with anticipation of that fined and agreed upon assistance sionaries was the first assignment, often there is self-centeredness that unity.” to the North American Mission planting churches now heads the frequently mirrors our own culture. Wright practiced unity during Board in assisting churches to reach list.

Crossover 2011 Wright re-elected to second term PHOENIX – Bryant Wright, pastor of the Atlan- Luter received 1,558 (77 percent) votes to Ong’s ta-area Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, was 441 (22 percent). re-elected president of the Southern Bap- In three elections without opposi- tist Convention over Wiley Drake, pastor tion, Eric Thomas, pastor of First Bap- of First Southern Baptist Church, Buena tist Church in Norfolk, Va., was elected Park, Calif., who nominated himself. The second vice president; John Yeats, direc- vote was 2,274 (95 percent) to 102 (4 per- tor of communications for the Louisi- cent). ana Baptist Convention, was re-elected Fred Luter, pastor of Franklin Avenue recording secretary; and Jim Wells, direc- Baptist Church, New Orleans, was elected tor of missions for the Tri-County Baptist first vice president over Rick Ong, a mem- Wright Association in Nixa, Mo., was re-elected ber of First Chinese Baptist Church, Phoenix. registration secretary. Ark. Baptists named to SBC committee PHOENIX (BP) – Grant Rackley, First Baptist people to serve on the SBC’s boards, commis- Church, Van Buren, and Jeff Crawford, Grand sions and committees. They will present their Jared McMillan (left), a graduate of the University of Arkansas Avenue Baptist Church, Fort Smith, are among report to the 2012 SBC Annual Meeting in New at Monticello and Paul Dailey, stand at attention during the 70 Southern Baptists from 35 state Baptist con- Orleans. presentation of the colors just before the “horse whisperer” ventions named to serve on the 2011-12 South- The committee, announced during the SBC (Dailey) enters the rodeo ring. The elder Dailey’s Wild Horse ern Baptist Convention (SBC) Committee on annual meeting in Phoenix, is made up of two Ministries, based in Trout, La., participated in Crossover 2011, Nominations. people from each state convention, with at least an evangelistic event that is held prior to each Southern Baptist The Committee on Nominations nominates one layperson. Convention Annual Meeting.

“It’s a new day,” Ezell said. “It re- report, spotlighted the need to em-  More than 1,100 Arizonans SBC WRAP ally is. Pastors, we’re not going to brace unengaged people groups, but made professions for Christ during continued from page one make it harder for you. Associations said, “This convention has been one the pre-convention Crossover 2011 and states, we’re not (going to make long sermon. … There is not one evangelistic effort. it harder on you either). We’re going thing I could (say that messengers  Paul Thompson, one of the 10 “We must do better. We are going to make it easier.” have not already heard).” Baptists held in a Haiti jail in 2010, to do better.” David Platt, a Birmingham, A lost world, Elliff said, needs appeared before messengers during Churches, not NAMB, plant Ala. pastor, preached the conven- churches who consider it unaccept- the Executive Committee report, churches, said Ezell, adding that over tion sermon, quoting statistics on able that there are people groups telling them, “I have never been so the next couple of years, NAMB will the world’s unreached peoples and “who do not have somebody delib- proud to be a Southern Baptist as develop church-planting coalitions telling messengers, “This is not a erately” trying to engage them with I was in the 19 days in a lonely, yet in 25 urban areas around North problem for the International Mis- the gospel. God-filled, prison cell in Haiti.” America. He said the coalitions will sion Board to address. This is a “Really, all there’s left for me to  Ezell promised that, under his be made up of local pastors, church problem for every pastor and every do is to give the invitation,” Elliff watch, future financial stewardship planters and representatives of state local church to address.” Other said, moments before hundreds at NAMB will demand “accuracy, conventions and associations, along convention speakers, including sev- of messengers came forward hold- transparency, effectiveness and ef- with partnering pastors and state eral during the Pastors’ Conference ing cards that said, “I will lead my ficiency, not smoke and mirrors.” convention leaders from elsewhere. and SBC President Bryant Wright, church to embrace an unengaged, Next year’s meeting will be June The coalitions will develop local himself, during his sermon, made a unreached people group.” 19-20 in New Orleans. strategies for planting new churches similar point. In other matters during the an- Compiled from ABN staff and Bap- in their area. IMB President Tom Elliff, in his nual meeting: tist Press reporting. 4 Op i n i o n June 30, 2011 ‘Kingdom footprints’ in the desert hen I read the final at- is now to reach a lost and dying W tendance numbers for the world. Southern Baptist Convention The methods Southern Baptists (SBC) Annual Meeting in Phoenix, use to do church, start new church- I couldn’t help thinking back to es and undertake mission endeav- one of the last annual meetings I ors is changing at a rapid pace due helped manage as public relations to cultural changes in society. But director of the Missouri Baptist our message is unchanging: “Jesus Convention. said to him, ‘I am the way, and the “SBC attendance was 4,800? truth, and the life; no one comes to That can’t be right,” I thought. the Father but through Me’” (John “If I remember 14:6, NASB). correctly, we had Southern 4,200 at a meeting Pr e s s i n g Baptists tackled held at the Lake some pretty impor- of the Ozarks in On tant issues at the Missouri one of convention, such as the last years I was our stance on illegal there.” Tim Yarbrough immigration. It is But the at- good to know that tendance figure messengers consid- for the Phoenix convention was ered the issue so important as to correct. The 2011 SBC Annual debate it and clarify the Southern Meeting will go into the books as Baptist position. See related story one of the least attended in nearly on page 2. A great evangelical 70 years. denomination like ours should do Some say the numbers were low everything it can to win the lost due to two important reasons: 1) to Christ. And while Southern We aren’t fighting about anything; Baptists can’t condone illegal immi- ness of reaching these 3,800 people to hold the office of first vice and 2) Phoenix is just too far west gration in our country, we must be groups, “They are unengaged for president. for Southern Baptists to travel. compassionate Christians who are a reason. A lot of them are up on And finally, Southern Baptists I hope they’re right because I commanded to “love our neighbors a really high mountain in a really left significant “kingdom foot- sure wouldn’t want it to be any- as ourselves” (Matt. 22:39). closed country. ... Let’s get this prints” in the desert with more thing related to apathy or perceived It was good to see Southern thing done.” than 1,100 Arizonans making irrelevance, because the work of Baptists taking seriously the task to Also during the annual meet- professions of faith in Jesus Christ Southern Baptists is more relevant reach the unengaged, unreached ing, Southern Baptists affirmed during pre-convention Crossover and important today than possibly people of our world – in spite of new strategies to plant churches evangelistic efforts. any other time in history. difficulties and obstacles. Tom in North America, called for unity I’d say there are at least 1,100 I can say that with confidence Elliff, newly-elected president of and cooperation and affirmed a new believers who would believe because we are closer today than the International Mission Board, landmark report on ethnic diver- the Southern Baptist Convention we were 70 years ago to the second said in urging Southern Baptists to sity – demonstrating real change by in Phoenix was relevant indeed – coming of our Lord and the time get serious about the kingdom busi- electing its first African-American throughout all eternity.

Member commitment statement may be interpreted by the into our comfortable priority list. ABN Letters Policy congregation that there is a discon- Interestingly, I see little emphasis I think most of us are concerned nect between God and church. If on the first priority, much on the Send letters to the editor about the direction of commitment the family is getting together this second, while the third is virtu- to [email protected], of most church members. Most Sunday, then that is better than ally ignored. The evidence of this fax to 501-372-4683 or mail churches would prefer not to pub- church because is proven in the to Arkansas Baptist News, 10 licize the percentage of attenders it has a higher commitment Remington Dr., Little Rock, AR to actual membership. Only new ranking. If the Le t t e r s of our church 72204. works have a great ratio, but so children are in- membership. The Letters should be typed would centuries old congregations volved in sports, t o t h e e d i t o r statement, God – doublespaced, and they must if they started over with only those then we take family – church, be 300 words or less. Letters present. I am curious about the the family away is like many quips must be signed and marked “for impact of a popular statement from church or can’t make it back that need to be better defined. I publication.” concerning “priority.” How many for Sunday evening, but that is OK pray that our membership would Letters may be edited for times have we heard our leaders because it’s ranked second. Notice grow in our concept of corporate, style. A letters policy state- say, “God first, family second and that “worship” is not a “church” as well as private, worship, that we ment is available on request. church third?” On the surface, this concept. We don’t talk about might see the connection between Opinions expressed in letters sounds very “holy” and is extremely church as being worship because God and church. are those of the writer alone, palatable. Could it be that we have that would connect it to God and Glen Ennes, Retired, ABSC and publication should not be created some of the problem? This that would throw a monkey wrench Republic, Mo. considered an endorsement.

Subscribe to Arkansas Baptist News. Individuals Send letters to the editor to tim@arkansasbap- Resident Family Plan), $8.75 per year (Group Plan), send a $11 check to the address below for a year’s tist.org or to the fax number above or the mailing $11 per year (Individual). Arkansas Baptist News, P.O. subscription. Churches take advantage of special address below. We prefer letters typed doublespaced, Box 552, Little Rock, AR 72203; phone 501-376- rates: $7.75 per year (Every Resident Family Plan), and they must be 300 words or less. Letters must be 4791; toll-free 800-838-2272; email: abn@arkansas- Volume 110, Number 13 USPS08021 $8.75 per year (Group Plan) by calling 800-838- signed and marked “for publication.” baptist.org. Member of the Association 2272, ext. 5153, or in the Little Rock area, call 376- Letters may be edited for style. A letters policy Periodical Postage paid at Little Rock, AR. of State Baptist Papers 4791, ext. 5153. statement is available on request. Opinions ex- POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Arkansas Submit news, features, photos or story ideas by pressed in letters are those of the writer alone, and Baptist News, P.O. Box 552, Little Rock, AR 72203. Tim Yarbrough, editor phone, email, fax or regular mail. Call 800-838-2272, publication should not be considered an endorse- Board of Directors: Erby Burgess, Arkadel- Lisa Watson, associate editor ext. 5153, or in the Little Rock area call 376-4791, ment. phia, president; David McCord, Mena, vice presi- Jessica Vanderpool, assistant editor/ ext. 5153. Email stories or suggestions to abn@ar- Advertise in the Arkansas Baptist News by calling dent; Jimmy Albrecht, Monticello; Dan Brawner, office manager kansasbaptist.org or fax 501-372-4683. Mail stories 800-838-2272, ext. 5155, or in the Little Rock area Harrisburg; Brett Cooper, Walnut Ridge; Lyndon or suggestions to the address below. The Arkansas call 376-4791, ext. 5155. Finney, Little Rock; Carol Foster, Paragould; Carl Becky Hardwick, business manager Baptist News is not responsible for unsolicited manu- The Arkansas Baptist News (ISSN 1040-6056) is Garvin, Omaha; Shaun Hair, Crawfordsville; Kay Nelle O’Bryan, advertising representative scripts, articles or pictures and does not guarantee published bi-weekly by the Arkansas Baptist News- Hardin, North Little Rock; Ricky Keen, Little their use or return. Photos will be returned if accom- magazine, Inc., 10 Remington Drive, Little Rock, AR Rock; Troy Sharp, Desha; and Jeff Thompson, www.arkansasbaptist.org panied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. 72204. Subscription rates are $7.75 per year (Every Fort Smith. www.arkansasbaptist.org Op i n i o n 5

Baptists Ask The SBC and the ABSC man applied for a job as a lumberjack. Unlike the SBC declined in total baptisms again as a denomina- Is there anything of A other men, he was small and wiry. The foreman tion, the ABSC stood out as the state convention that which Christians can be laughed at him and questioned his ability. The man has increased in baptisms each year for the past several certain regarding the just said, “Give me a chance to show you what I can years. Why? Our mission is clear. do.” Second, his mission was literally cutting-edge. last days? He walked over to a small tree, and with one swing While at the SBC meeting, there was a great challenge of the ax, the tree came down. He to start new churches, to reach out to ecause eschatology can be went to a larger tree, and again, people of different ethnic and cultural B both mysterious and sensa- with one swing, the tree came Pr e s i d e n t ’s backgrounds and to be unified. At the tional, many Christians com- down. He went to a larger tree e r s p e c t i v e ABSC, we are already doing these things pletely avoid the subject. It is, and a larger tree with the same P with effectiveness. New church starts however, an important topic to results. Impressed, the foreman and restarts are taking place all over study because much of Christian asked, “Where in the world did our state as we reach out to Hispanics, theology hinges upon it. There you learn to cut trees like that?” Clay Hallmark cowboys, Millennials and others. While are three cer- The little man replied, “Well, sir, our state is diverse, we are characterized tainties about do you know the Sahara Forest?” by an overwhelming sense of unity that the last days, The foreman looked at him and said, “I don’t mean directly contributes to our effectiveness in evangelism although the to correct you, son, but don’t you mean the Sahara and mission efforts. details are sub- Desert?” The little man said, “Well, sure, it is now!” Finally, his mission was confident. I left the annual ject to debate. Going to the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) meeting in Phoenix more confident than ever that the First, Annual Meeting in Phoenix, I felt a lot like the little ABSC is on the right track and that we are leading everyone dies. lumberjack. The Arkansas Baptist State Convention others who are following our example. Our conven- When sin Gore (ABSC) is certainly not the largest state convention, tion’s cooperation with the SBC through Cooperative entered the world, death was especially among all the old, mainline conventions, but Program dollars is almost unmatched. Our commit- its penalty (Rom. 5:12). While I left Phoenix knowing the ABSC was being effective ment to international missions, disaster relief efforts death is certain, believers have and influential in many areas of our denomination. In and evangelism are setting the standard in the SBC. debated what happens immedi- fact, we really are a lot like this lumberjack in several Our pastors and state convention staff are leaders we ately after it. Some believe the ways. look to in guiding the future shape of our denomina- person will enter a coma-like First, his mission was clear – cut trees. I can tell you tion. Together, we have many reasons to praise the state for a period of time, a type that our mission in the ABSC is clear. Our state exec. Lord. Let’s continue moving forward and not “grow of “soul sleep,” so to speak. makes sure that our mission of “more people going weary in doing good (Gal. 6:9).” Others believe individuals will to heaven and less people going to hell” is clear and is Clay Hallmark is pastor of First Baptist Church, Marion, go to purgatory to eliminate communicated throughout our convention. While the and president of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention. their sins. Still others accept an instantaneous resurrection, in which the person is immediately Our greatest need in God’s presence. t surprised me, but it was something I had been million. If a similar movement happened in our day Second, Christ will return. I looking for and praying about for the last 40 years. (and it can), we could see 10 million people come to Because Jesus proclaimed His Recently, the Lord graciously manifested Himself at Christ in the next two years. imminent return (John 14:1-3), our church. A normal service erupted into 4 hours of The Baptist churches in Virginia, in a similar move- Christians emphatically believe confession, repentance, brokenness, salvation … glory. ment a few years before, had been in continual decline. He will come back. Theologian It is hard to describe how precious and powerful this So, they fasted, and prayed and obeyed. In the next Millard Erickson notes that day was as the people didn’t “quench the Spirit” nor months during the second Great Awakening, they Jesus’ return will be personal, “despise” what the Lord was saying (1 Thess. 5:19-20), reported a 1,400 percent increase in their churches. physical, visible, unexpected and but responded instantly to whatever Churches that had seen no baptisms triumphant. While no Christian the Lord told them. were recording hundreds of new doubts Jesus’ return, there is That meeting led to another gath- Gu e s t Viewpoint believers. This was no program, nor a debate on how and when He ering on Monday night that erupted scheduled emphasis. It was God visiting will return. A spectrum of views Bill Elliff into the same outpouring for more directional pastor His people. Samuel Davies, president exists about the rapture, tribula- than 3 hours ... and again the next of Princeton University and leader in tion, the millennium and the night – and the next – and the next The Summit Church, NLR this revival, reported that he watched symbolism within the books of for five continuous weeks. The Lord pastors who had preached for years Daniel and Revelation. has taken us now to a marvelous new with little or no results preach the same Third, God will judge ev- place by His mercy, and its effects are messages and hundreds of people were eryone. Jesus spoke often (e.g., continuing among us. saved. He said, “The gospel became al- Matt. 25:31-46) of a time when One of the most beautiful things mighty and carried everything before it.” the righteous will receive eternal was the number of people who were The recent reports at our convention life (heaven) and the wicked saved and baptized during this divine indicated that we are in unquestionable will receive eternal punishment activity. Baptismal waters were spon- decline. This is not unusual as you study (hell). Though the descriptions taneously stirred night after night as the Bible and church history. But in the of both realms vary among evan- 65 people – some newly converted, first 150 years of our nation’s history, gelical Christians, the fact is that some clearing up their baptism in pastors and people knew what to do judgment is certain; in fact, it proper steps of obedience – publicly at such a moment. They prayed. They has already begun (Rom. 6:23). proclaimed their faith in Christ. In fasted. They cooperated aggressively Because most eschatological the same season, an identical move- with God. They met the first Monday arguments focus upon theologi- ment was happening in several other of every month for prayer. The pastors cal uncertainty, individuals find churches. One church spontaneously gathered for prayer. The churches in a the debate rather confusing. baptized 18 people in one Sunday community would often come together However, these three facts – the morning service. quarterly for prayer. They cried out to certainty of death, the return of There are 600 churches in Central the Lord for His mercy and grace, and Christ and the judgment of hu- Arkansas. I recently calculated that if 500 of these they did not stop praying until He came. And He al- manity – are clear and obvious could experience a similar outpouring of God’s Spirit, ways did in response to the fervent intercession of His enough that everyone should we would see 32,000 people baptized in a little over a children. carefully consider where they month. I have come out of this recent season of grace with stand in regard to a holy and You may think this is incredulous … but it has hap- fresh faith to believe Him for national revival. This just God. pened often in our nation’s history. In the 1858 Prayer faith was strengthened recently as I met with 75 revival Revival, 10,000 people were being saved every week leaders from around the nation, who gave unusual re- in New York City alone over a two-year period. Ten ports of God’s activity in response to desperate prayer, Ken Gore is chair of the Williams Bap- thousand one week, 10,000 the next, 10,000 the next particularly on college campuses. tist College department of Christian and on and on for two glorious years. Over 1 million You would not neglect the cries of your children. ministries. people came to Christ in a national population of 30 Would God? June 30, 2011 6 Ba p t i st Li f e Arkansas Baptist children participate in JoyWorks Jenny Redfern Arkansas Baptist News

ARKADELPHIA – Arkansas Baptist campers with bright orange shirts gathered onstage the morning of June 16 to perform what they had learned after a week at JoyWorks, a worship arts camp for children who have completed grades 4-6. The camp, which is sponsored by the Arkansas Baptist State Convention leadership and worship team, was held at Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia June 13-16. The performance included sign language with black lights and white gloves, drumming accompa- nied by kazoos and even some interpretive move- ment to a country version of Amazing Grace. Between performances, camp pastors Brian and Vicky Cockerhan, from 2 Talk 4 2, displayed their talents as ventriloquists. The couple brought their puppet friends onstage to share a little of what the children had learned during the week. Camp director Mary Winters said the camp pastor had a huge impact this week and really grabbed the children’s attention. “He (Brian Cockerham) has really made the point over and over that God can use anyone, no matter how small or how young, and if He calls JoyWorks campers (above) participate in the final camp performance. Vicky Cockerham them, they need to be willing to listen and go,” (right) performs a ventriloquist act. she said. Laura Loewer, 10, of First Baptist Church, “I wish all the states had this camp because it’s humming along with kazoos. In the “Movin’ and Brinkley, eagerly related the camp’s theme for the a whole lot of fun,” he added. Groovin’” class, campers learned steps to Amaz- week, “Big, small, little – it really doesn’t matter. Each day the campers attended a different ing Grace. Though Winters did not recommend God can use you.” class that highlighted a different aspect of wor- it for a worship service, she said it was a fun time Winters, a member of Cedar Heights Church, ship arts. for the children. North Little Rock, said after four days of camp, “Our purpose and goal is to teach them how On Tuesday night, campers showcased their more than half of the children had made some to worship God using different kinds of arts, such abilities in a talent show. Winters described it as kind of decision. as sign language, interpretative movement, drum- one of the most memorable events of the week “Seventy-three percent of our children made ming, drama or puppets, as well as teach them and said it was one of the most talented groups significant decisions for Christ,” said Winters. to be the next generation of worship leaders,” she had ever seen. Fourteen received Christ as their Savior for the Winters said. “What amazing gifts God has given this group first time, 11 surrendered to the ministry, 33 Campers used organ pipes and bottles in the of kids, and our prayer and goal is that they will rededicated their lives and 24 made other deci- “Blowin’ and Goin’” class to create their own continue, throughout their lives, using their gifts sions. worship song. Children learned how to use sign and sharing and encouraging … others,” she Austin McAdams, 11, of First Baptist Church, language with white gloves and black lights in said. Ashdown, was one of the 14 children who made worship in the “Fivin’ and Jivin’” class. The JoyWorks dates for 2012 are June 11-14. a profession of faith in Christ. He said his favorite “Drummin’ and Hummin’” class allowed the chil- Contact Jenny Redfern at jenny@arkansasbaptist. part of camp was learning about God. dren to practice making rhythms on drums, while org. Book details couple’s service in Brazil Arkansas missionaries share ‘Misadventures in Travel’ Jenny Redfern pull out, they found that they were to experience in their lifetime. Ed- need to write a book.’” Arkansas Baptist News stuck. wards was 54 when God called her Edwards kept a journal of her With only 50 yards of beach be- and her husband to leave Eastside experiences, with writing a book Former Arkansas BaptistS tween the sea and the truck and the Baptist Church, Cave City, to move always in the back of her mind. Paula Edwards and her husband, tide rising, Edwards immediately to a foreign country, learn a new She said she hopes her book Van, had just finished their mis- began to panic. After a few minutes language and experience a different makes two points clear. The first sionary work mapping of work recruiting help culture. point is that a person is never too out a small town east of from the national men, The couple obeyed the call and old for God to use him. Fortaleza, Brazil, located the truck still would not found themselves mapping out the “(Since) I was 54 when I went on the eastern side of budge. coast of Brazil. The job required down there,” she said, “so many the country near the At- Panicked, frustrated them to travel to remote fishing vil- people say, ‘I am too old to go,’ but lantic Ocean, when they and of little help, Ed- lages, research the evangelical activ- that is absolutely not true. God can saw a sign for a “balta” wards walked away and ity in those towns and determine use you to your very last breath.” or ferry. The balta had began to pray. whether churches were needed. The second point is that they often saved them hours At the last minute, Edwards recounts many of the never once got hurt. of driving before, but with water cresting couple’s experiences in her book, “We never, ever even needed there seemed to be no on the left side of the “Misadventures in Travel.” The for- a Band-Aid,” she said. “The car ferry in sight. truck, the men found mer schoolteacher decided to write broke down many, many times, but When they stopped to a board and managed about her experience at the urging we were never hurt or sick.” question some nationals, to free the truck. The of her language teacher, Vera. Edwards currently resides in the men pointed them in pair decided to drive an “The language was our biggest Bossier City, La., where her hus- the direction of the sign. extra hour rather than challenge,” Edwards recalled. band serves as pastor of Parkview They nudged the truck over a little find the balta. “Portuguese is very difficult. … Baptist Church, Shreveport, La. sand dune but still could not see This is one of many “misadven- Vera kept telling me, ‘Oh, when Contact Jenny Redfern at jenny@ the balta. When they started to tures” the couple never expected you get out of language school you arkansasbaptist.org. www.arkansasbaptist.org SBC 7 2011 SBC Annual Meeting

Elliff urges evangelists Take Christ to ‘unengaged, unreached’ of the world

Tim Yarbrough together than we can apart.” Arkansas Baptist News Finally, Elliff said we must be pre- pared for the Lord’s return. PHOENIX – Tom Elliff, president “When the wind is blowing, of the International Mission Board, even a turkey can fly,” said Elliff, to used homespun humor to share laughter from the crowd. what he feels are important biblical “My prayer,” he said, “is that we truths at the Conference of South- set the table and be ready, should ern Baptist Evangelists (COSBE). the Lord decide to serve it up.” Reminiscing about times with Elliff shared his personal burden his grandfathers as a young boy, El- for the unengaged and unreached liff pointed to activities of the early peoples of the world. He said no church in Acts as an illustration of one currently has a strategy to reach what God expects as His followers the unengaged, except God. “There seek to carry out Christ’s mission are 3,800 of these groups now,” said on earth. Elliff. “I want to have a little fun with “They are unengaged for a rea- you, but you’ll discover when it’s son. A lot of them are up on a re- over, a surgery of sorts has been IMB president Tom Elliff (center) talks with (from left) Arkansas Baptists Tom Cox, Eric Ramsey, Gay ally high mountain in a really closed taking place,” said Elliff, telling the Ramsey and Kay Cox. country,” he said. crowd he wanted to talk to them “Let’s get this thing done. Let’s about “Simon Peter, my granddads “We’re reaping what we have members and guests. “But if there’s quit talking about the fact there are and us. sown,” said Elliff. “And we stand a going to be a generation that follows these unengaged people groups out “This will be a homiletic night- chance of reaping even more if we that is effective in the name of the there. Let’s just lead our churches to mare,” he added, to a roar of laugh- don’t get right about it. The bottom Lord Jesus Christ, it’s going to cost make a commitment.” ter. line is that we’ve got to face reality us something.” Eric Ramsey of First Baptist Elliff said the “bottom line” to that in the end only God will help Thirdly, “It’s the handy tool that Church, Van Buren, and president Southern Baptists should be “get- us. And God doesn’t help those gets used the most,” said Elliff, of Tom Cox World Ministries, ting something done in the name of who help themselves. reminding those present that it is Mountainburg, was among those the Lord Jesus Christ.” “We have to come before Him “your job to stay ‘handy’ to God. … elected as new officers during the He shared five truths he feels are with total abandonment ... confes- Jesus and the disciples got handy to annual COSBE June 12, held prior key to fulfilling Christ’s mission. sion and repentance.” God (in the upper room in Jerusa- to the Southern Baptist Convention “Number 1. What’s in the well Secondly, Elliff said, “Anything lem).” Annual Meeting June 14-15 in Phoe- comes up in the bucket,” said Elliff, worth anything costs somebody The fourth point related to co- nix. Ramsey will serve as director of explaining that what we do with our something.” operation. communications. time on earth will ultimately come Elliff said his grandfather told “Working together – along with to light. him never to buy furniture made seven mules that they had – my ABN on the Web “You may think what you do, with pressboard – only real wood – granddaddy and his sons and those what we do, is done in secret, but because real wood has character. mules could get more done than one For expanded coverage, the things done in secret will be “The fact you and I have the of those mules working (alone) in a including video, go to proclaimed from the housetops,” he privilege of ministry costs somebody year or a lifetime could get done,” www.arkansasbaptist.org. said. something,” Elliff told COSBE said Elliff. “You see, we can do more 8 SBC June 30, 2011 Plight of childhood friend leads to ministry

Lisa Watson Director Andrea Mullins are lead- Arkansas Baptist News ing a 13-day WorldCrafts tour “with Kaye Miller leads a breakout a mission” to Bangkok and Chiang PHOENIX – Kaye Miller was a session at the National Woman’s Mai, Thailand and Siem Reap and 10-year-old missionary kid in Thai- Missionary Union Missions Phnom Penh, Cambodia Oct. 24- land when she first learned of the Celebration and Annual Meeting Nov. 5. plight of women involved in human in Phoenix. In addition to visiting local tour- trafficking. ist spots, such as a floating market, Miller, who served as nation- centuries-old temples and a working al Woman’s Missionary Union elephant camp, tour visitors will also (WMU) president for five years, led meet WorldCrafts artisans at Thai a breakout session on WorldCrafts, Country Trim and other ministries. a ministry of the WMU, at the 2011 Miller said the tour is “first-rate” National Woman’s Missionary and will allow participants to experi- Union (WMU) Missions Celebra- ence the culture in that part of the tion and Annual Meeting held June world. 12-13 in Phoenix, Ariz. See related But more importantly, partici- story below. pants will meet the women who ac- The Immanuel Baptist Church, tually make WorldCrafts items. Little Rock, member recalled an ex- “I want them to see the person perience in which one of her Thai – and what WorldCrafts brought school friends suddenly went miss- them out of,” said Miller. “I want ing. When she inquired of the fam- to show them the bar where the ily about where her friend had gone, women worked (before they worked no one would talk to her. knocked me upside the head,” she the world. with WorldCrafts). Years later, she discovered her said, noting God reminded her of Today, WorldCrafts is “in coun- “I want it to be so real that they friend had been sold by her father the way her heart was broken for her tries all over the world,” said Miller, come back and want to jump even into prostitution. In time, Miller friend those many years ago. noting the ministry provides a plat- more into the ministry,” she contin- said the woman found freedom Last year, WMU adopted a four- form for missionaries to enter coun- ued. from that life. She is now a Chris- year emphasis called Project Help tries that might otherwise be closed Miller said WorldCrafts provides tian and has worked at The Well, an to raise awareness about worldwide to ministry. “an easy way for a woman in the pew organization in Thailand that seeks human exploitation. Miller said people sometimes to impact a woman across the world to minister to women and children Miller said she has always had a mistakenly believe the women who for Jesus.” involved in human trafficking. heart for women in poverty because make WorldCrafts items work in a WorldCrafts “makes a difference She said God used a chance en- of her experience living on the mis- factory. But that couldn’t be further in a real person’s life,” she contin- counter at a conference on human sion field. She said her mother “mod- from the truth. ued. “Once you see the face (of a trafficking to remind her of her eled” ministry to those in need. “The factory is sitting outside on woman who works with World- childhood friend. Miller’s parents, Harlan and Jo the road … or in a rice field,” she Crafts), you realize it’s not about a “I bought a table runner from a Willis, who were medical missionar- said. “These items are not mass-pro- purse, it’s not about a necklace. It’s Thai girl (at the conference), and ies to Thailand, were part of a group duced.” about a real person.” she said, ‘If you buy this, you will of missionaries who started an orga- Miller said those who purchase For Miller, the trip offers her the buy my sister out of prostitution,’” nization that led to Thai Country WorldCrafts should remember that opportunity for something else – the said Miller, who quickly bought the Trim, a ministry that provides a way each craft is representative of a real chance to once again spend time runner, giving the woman enough for national women to make items person, many of whom are “desper- with her childhood friend. money to purchase her sister’s free- to sell to help provide for their fami- ate” to find a way to make money for “When I get to Bangkok, she’s dom. lies. their children as “an alternative” to who I’m headed to see,” said Mill- At that time, Miller said she was This ministry helped pave the prostitution and human trafficking. er. unaware of any protestant women’s way for WorldCrafts, which devel- For more information about the tour groups that were talking about ops sustainable fair-trade businesses WorldCrafts tour or to purchase WorldCrafts items, go to human trafficking. “The Lord just among impoverished people around Miller and WMU WorldCrafts www.worldcraftsvillage.com. WMU speakers proclaim freedom, good news of Christ

PHOENIX (BP) – Missions leaders Other speakers included Louis presented by WMU in partnership which is given annually to recognize from across the nation “proclaimed” Spears and Jan Lows, NAMB mis- with the WMU Foundation. a Girls in Action alumna who influ- the freedom and good news of sionaries; Don and Diane Combs, Laura Morris of Louisville, Ky., ences the lives of others for Christ Jesus Christ during the 2011 Na- IMB missionaries; Jean Roberson, received the Dr. Martha Myers GA and serves as a positive role model tional Woman’s Missionary Union WMU adult resources team leader/ Alumna of Distinction Award, for girls. (WMU) Missions Celebration and ministry consultant; and Ginger Annual Meeting in Phoenix June Smith, executive director of the Mis- 12-13 prior to the Southern Baptist sion Centers of Houston. RAs begins move back to WMU Convention Annual Meeting. In her first presidential address, PHOENIX (BP) – In a hand-off June 12-13 in Phoenix. “Proclaim!” was the theme for national WMU President Debby complete with a race car pit stop, “We are excited,” Lee said. “We this year’s celebration based on Ackerman of Myrtle Beach., S.C., transition of Royal Ambassadors are in a new arena of partnership Luke 4:18-19. interpreted this year’s theme, “Pro- (RAs) to its 103-year-old for missions education. Tom Elliff, the International Mis- claim!” noting that “from Genesis parent organization is now We love RAs. They were sion Board’s (IMB) president, and to Revelation one hears the distinct under way. born from our hearts, and Kevin Ezell, president of the North sounds of holy proclamation ema- Woman’s Missionary we gave them willingly to American Mission Board, brought nating from God’s Word.” Union (WMU) Execu- the Brotherhood Com- greetings during the sessions at the In a missions focus segment, tive Director/Treasure mission in 1954. We now Wyndham Phoenix Hotel. Gordon Fort, vice president of the Wanda Lee accepted the gladly receive them back. Ezell presented Wanda Lee, IMB’s office of global strategy, fa- “hand-off” of RAs and Thank you.” WMU executive director/treasurer, cilitated a discussion of current mis- Challengers from North RAs, begun by WMU with an oversized Royal Ambassa- sion issues. American Mission Board in 1908, is the Southern dors (RAs) race car to commemo- Judith Edwards of Rio Rancho, President Kevin Ezell at the Na- Baptist missions organization for rate the transfer of responsibility N.M., received the Dellanna West tional WMU Missions Celebra- boys in grades 1-6. Challengers is for RAs back to WMU. See related O’Brien Award for Women’s Lead- tion and Annual Meeting held for young men in grades 7-12. story at right. ership Development, which was www.arkansasbaptist.org SBC 9 Arkansas Baptist elected to Pastors’ Conference post

PHOENIX – An Arkansas Baptist Pastors Conference meeting, held Church, Hampton, Va., is a former Mo.; Bartholomew Orr, pastor of pastor was elected first vice presi- June 12-13 in Phoenix prior to the Arkansas Baptist State Convention Brown Missionary Baptist Church, dent of the 2012 Pastors’ Confer- Southern Baptist Convention An- president and pastor of First Baptist Southhaven, Miss.; and Gregg ence, which will be held in New Or- nual Meeting. Wes George, pastor Church, Lavaca. Matte, lead pastor of First leans prior to the Southern Baptist of First Baptist Church, Rogers, Phillip Burdin, pastor of Baptist Church, Houston, Convention (SBC) Annual Meeting nominated Mason for the office. Morningside Baptist Church, Texas. June 19-20, 2012. Former Arkansas Baptist pastor Valdosta, Ga., was elected John Piper, pastor at Archie Mason, pastor of Cen- Grant Ethridge was elected president as Pastors’ Conference trea- Bethlehem Baptist Church, tral Baptist Church, Jonesboro, of the 2012 Pastors’ Conference. surer. Minneapolis, spoke during was elected to the post at the 2011 Ethridge, pastor of Liberty Baptist Pastors attending the con- the Monday afternoon ses- ference were challenged by sion. Other speakers includ- speakers to take the lead in ed Afshin Ziafat, pastor of personal holiness, evange- Mason Providence Church, Frisco, lism and service to others. Texas; and Ken Whitten, pastor of Speakers in the Sunday evening Idlewild Baptist Church, Tampa, session included Johnny Hunt, im- Fla. mediate past president of the SBC Louie Giglio, pastor of Passion and pastor of First Baptist Church, City Church, Atlanta, and Rick Woodstock, Ga.; Bob Rob- Warren, pastor of Saddle- erts, pastor/church planter of back Church, Lake Forest, Northwood Church, Keller, Calif., spoke in the final ses- Texas; Bishop Peter Ndhlovu, sion of the conference. senior pastor/church planter At the end of the ses- of Bible Gospel Church, Lu- sion, scores of pastors laid saka, Zambia, Africa; and response cards on the main Bob Pitman, evangelist and stage, committing to be seminary professor at Mid- part of planting churches America Baptist Theological Ethridge in America and reaching Seminary, Memphis, Tenn. the world’s 3,800 unen- Monday morning session speak- gaged people groups, in sync with ers included Paul Gotthardt, pas- initiatives of the North American tor/church planter of Life Baptist and International Mission boards. Church, Las Vegas, Nevada; Dar- Cards will be shared with the two Noel, Akin serve on SBC Credentials Committee rin Patrick, pastor/church planter boards for follow-up and strategic Jason Noel, (left), pastor of East Side Baptist Church, Paragould, and Susan Akin (right), a of The Journey Church, St. Louis, planning. member of First Baptist Church, Monticello, served with Don Mayberry, Pleasant Valley Baptist Church, Derby, Kansas, on the Southern Baptist Convention credentials committee at the 2011 SBC Annual Meeting in Phoenix. Garretts attend Messianic event

Hal and Esther Garrett

PHOENIX – Arkansas Baptists Messianic Fellowship is to witness were among those who attended to Jewish people,” said Hal, noting the Southern Baptist Messianic Fel- this can be a difficult task because lowship, which was held June 11 at Jewish people are “scattered” across CrossPoinTempe Church in Tempe, the United States. More about the Ariz., prior to the Southern Baptist couple’s ministry will be featured in Convention Annual Meeting in an upcoming issue of the Arkansas Phoenix. Baptist News. Hal and Esther Garrett, mem- Brent Powell, Black River Baptist bers of First Baptist Church, Hoxie, Association missionary, said the attended the conference and also messianic conference was “uplift- worked at the messianic organiza- ing” and “encouraging.” He and his tion’s booth. family have attended the conference The Garretts have worked among for a number of years. In 2007, he Jews in Arkansas for a number of spoke at the conference when Hal years as Mission Service Corp mis- Garrett was ordained as a rabbi. sionaries. Hal was ordained as a Bruce Stokes, dean of California rabbi within the organization in Baptist University’s school of behav- 2007. ioral sciences, was a featured speaker “Our job at the Southern Baptist at the event. SBC coverage compiled from ABN staff and Baptist Press reports. 10 SBC June 30, 2011 Arkansas Baptists in Phoenix

Baptists from across Arkansas made the trek to attend the 2011 Southern Baptist Convention Annual Meeting, held June 14-15 in Phoenix.

ABN on the Web For expanded coverage, including video, go to www.arkansasbaptist.org. Marc Reeves (center), pastor, West View Baptist Church, Paragould, and his Tony Buchanan (left), lead pastor, First Baptist Church, Lavaca; and Kenny wife, Loretta, and Danny Baxter (right), executive pastor of music and senior Bailey, executive pastor, First Baptist Church, Lavaca adults at Hot Springs Baptist Church, Hot Springs

Estel Griggs, pastor, Clarkridge Baptist Church, Doug Falknor (left), pastor, First Baptist Church, Fayetteville, and children, Joel and Sarah; Tim Noel, pastor, Trinity Baptist Church, Clarkridge, and his wife, Marcia and Wes George (center), pastor, First Baptist Church, Rogers, and his wife, Lisa, and children, Searcy, at LifeWay Book Store Benjamin and Aaron

Jamar Andrews, Central Baptist Church, Jonesboro, at Southwestern Scott Hill, pastor, Lakeside Baptist Church, Rogers; and Joe Hewgley, former Baptist Theological Seminary Gary Thomas (right), pastor of First Baptist Church, Lowell, and his wife, IMB trustee, Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, Rogers booth Rhonda, with Chris Gary, Upward Sports Arkansas representative

Shawn Allred (left), pastor, First Baptist Church, Bruceton, Tenn., and Emil David Mitchell (right), Bartholomew Baptist Association missionary, and his Steven Tiner, pastor, Levy Baptist Turner, ABSC executive director, at the Ethics and Religious Liberties booth wife, Fran; and John Brittain, Arundel Baptist Association, Maryland Church, North Little Rock www.arkansasbaptist.org Mi ss i o n s 11

Lesher said he has found the best living in food hardship. They often Centerton volunteers also partici- CENTERTON way to show Christ’s love through have to decide between paying bills pated in gospel presentation proj- the center is to meet people’s physi- and buying food. Only 46 percent ects at the Phoenix Rescue Mission continued from page one cal needs. As a result, the center of the adults in the community and the Sunshine Acres Children’s partnered with the City of Phoe- have a high school education,” said Home in Mesa, Ariz. we think are doing a good job.” nix to open its job center. What’s Lesher. On departure from Phoenix, It was through an unlikely con- more, he said The Bridge was the “Our goal is long-term. We know Chastain posted the following on nection that Centerton connected first church in Arizona to partner it isn’t going to change overnight, Facebook, “Many families impacted with Lesher and the center. with the Department of Economic but as we continue to partner with with the gospel. Our team was self- “We had a lady in our church Security to help low-income families other organizations and churches, less and effective. The children were whose sister is the wife of the pas- receive food stamps. The state, in we will begin to make an impact,” hugging our necks as they were leav- tor of the church that we’re staying turn, requested the Rio Vista Cen- he added. ing. So proud and honored to serve at, First Southern Baptist Church, ter’s help in recruiting other church- “We just believe that meeting with such gifted and loving teenag- Scottsdale,” said Aaron Chastain, es to do the same. people’s social needs is the easiest ers.” Centerton’s student minister. “Twenty-five percent of the peo- way to lead in to giving them the Contact Caleb Yarbrough at caleb@ “Their son is the pastor here at The ple living in our community are gospel.” arkansasbaptist.org. Bridge.” It was on a mission trip to Chi- cago last year that Chastain began planning the trip that would bring the group to Phoenix. “We knew that we wanted to go West to a big city. We thought about Phoenix, and then we found out that we had the connection. That made the decision easy,” said Chastain. It wasn’t until later that Chastain real- ized the trip to Phoenix coincided with the Southern Baptist Conven- tion Annual Meeting. He said the church works hard to make missions a priority and to create a culture of service as com- manded by Jesus Christ. “We have a vision of our student ministry, and it comes from the Great Commission ... making dis- ciples. So that anyone, any age, can Mattie Couch (left), a student at Life Way Christian understand,” Chastain explained. School and Ryan Lawrence, a college student, work “That’s our strategy. It’s reproduc- at the registration table. ing disciples to the glory of God. How they’re doing that this week is they’re learning discipleship. When we’re on the bus, it’s constant dis- cipleship. And when they get here, it’s now their turn to go make dis- ciples.” Rachel Morris (above), a student at Gravette High School, Throughout the week, Center- teaches two young girls. ton students and adults ministered to the community surrounding the Rio Vista Center by doing a bit of everything. “This is a combination of a VBS (vacation Bible school) and a back- yard Bible club, and our children’s ministry director at our church, she came on the trip with us, she customized this in about 30-minute rotations – Bible stories, Bible verse 360 Day Camp “Got Faith,” student-led curriculum memory, crafts,” said Chastain. “We have a worship team. … They do one of their elements to kind of kick off things in the morn- ing. While most of the teenagers are doing that, we’ve got a group of guys working on either clothes, or they’re doing the food boxes or food bags and carrying them out to the car.” Lesher said the community sur- The Rio Vista Center rounding the Rio Vista Center is one defined by “generational poverty.” The area is ethnically diverse, with a population that is predominantly African-American and Hispanic. He said the Hispanic population of the area has grown substantially in recent years and is what led to the formation of The Puente three years ago, which Lesher described as the Rio Vista Center’s “Spanglish” Watch a video about the Centerton church’s church – meaning it’s a combina- ministry in Phoenix at www.arkansasbaptist. tion of English and Spanish-speak- org. Photos by Caleb Yarbrough ing people. 12 Ac r o ss Ar k a n s a s June 30, 2011 Women’s health: living up to your age Women have unique health get older, their diets need to include visits. These screenings can be per- increase with age and a fast-paced care needs and play an important more protein and other nutrients formed during routine visits. society. part in making health care decisions and fewer carbohydrates. Some- Something as simple as know- Women get caught in the mid- for their families. How a woman times a multivitamin supplement is ing family history allows women dle, taking care of their families and feels can have a huge impact on her a good idea. Ask your doctor for and their children to know their children and even, in some cases, quality of life. Women need to man- recommendations. health risks and what their parents. Because stress is an age their health – and the earlier A sensible diet and to avoid. It is a good inevitable part of life, especially for they start, the better. Diet, exercise, exercise, coupled with Ba p t i s t He a lt h idea to take the time women, learning how to deal with family history, stress and screenings regular visits to a phy- Valerie Robilio to write one’s family it is key. Set goals for how to handle all play a part in women’s health. sician and appropri- Baptist Memorial history down as part stress. The choices women make in ate health screenings, Health Care of a prevention plan Maintaining health through diet, their 20s, 30s and even 40s can af- can help prevent dis- and share it with a exercise, routine doctor visits and fect them as they age. eases and lead to early physician and one’s screenings, as well as through stress Simple things, such as diet and detection and treatment. Recom- children. management, can positively affect exercise, really make a difference. mended screenings will change with Stress is another factor that af- one’s quality of life. Eating less dessert and changing age, but it is important for women fects women as they age. Relation- Valerie Robilio is senior coordinator the way one selects food can have to receive screenings for their heart, ship stresses, financial stresses and for public relations at Baptist Memorial a huge effect on health. As women bone and breast health at various technological stresses all seem to Health Care Corporation in Memphis. Archives Happy Birthday! 1901-2011 to all the missionary kids attending college who are celebrating birthdays in the month of July. 60 years ago - June 1951 ◆ July 14: Clayton Case, OBU Box 3421, Arkadelphia, AR 71998-0001; Chile. ◆ July 29: Zach Nottingham, OBU Box 4491, Arkadelphia, AR 71998-0001; Namibia.

To advertise in the Arkansas Baptist News, email [email protected], or call 501-376-4791, ext. 5155. www.arkansasbaptist.org Ar k a n s a s 13

Church life Hall, will host the third Harmony Gifts may include cash or gift cards during spring commencement Baptist Association Women’s Con- to home décor stores. May 6. Mercer received a Master of First Baptist Church, Fayette- ference Aug. 20. This year’s theme Crossgate Church, Hot Springs, Arts in Christian education. Her ville, will host Singing Men of Ar- is The Walk of a Woman – Pursuing will host Camp Obsessed Aug. 8-12, home church is Cross Road Baptist kansas in concert at 3 p.m. July 10. Holiness, and the speaker is Melinda at Spring Lake Camp near Lons- Church, Little Rock. First Baptist Church, Fayette- Bunyard of Farmington. dale. Camp Obsessed is open to the Richard Foster, pastor of Grace ville, will host the Arkansas Gospel Hardin Baptist Church, Pine public and targets children entering Baptist Church, Camden, recently Mass Choir in concert at 3 p.m. Bluff, will host a missions awareness grades 5-8. The guest speaker will be celebrated his 10-year anniversary at Aug. 14. meeting at 6:30 p.m. July 11, with Ron Tant, and the worship leader the church. First Baptist Church, White Mission Service Corps missionaries is Matt Shull. Registration and fee Mark and Amanda Burgos as speak- deadline is July 17. For applications, On the move ers. visit www.crossgate.org/obsessed. CHERYL E. TURNER First Baptist Church, Heber For further details, call 501-262- B. K. Harris retired as pastor of Springs, will host Gene McDonald 9779. Antioch Baptist Church, Hermitage, as guest musician during its 10:30 and is available for supply preaching a.m. worship service July 3. Milestones at 870-866-5550 or 870-469-8395. Calvary Baptist Association will Lisa Mercer of Little Rock was hold a shower for Calvary Counsel- among more than 200 graduates ing Center to help with decorations at Southwestern Baptist Theologi- Correction and furnishings at 2 p.m. July 10. cal Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas, In the June 16 issue of the Ar- kansas Baptist News, the article Clearance Sale! “Our Churches: West Side Baptist Carpenter Call for a complete Church” listed an incorrect loca- BUS SALES list of our tion for a home church which is Women’s Motivational going the extra mile since 1953 Best Priced Buses! led by one of West Side’s associ- Speaker ate pastors. The home church is Humorist and Storyteller located in Van Buren County. We apologize for the error. For information 337-457-8872 Vans needed for Joplin church 2569 Richard School Road Visit www.carpenterbus.com to Harmony Heights Baptist Church lost Eunice, LA 70535 see over 100 New & Used Buses In Stock. vans in the May 22 tornado in Joplin, We buy buses and welcome Trade-Ins. Mo. The church is looking for two [email protected] 15-passenger vans in good shape. Con- sparrowsnestministries.com tact Charlie Burnett at 417-781-1700 or Call Toll Free: 800.370.6180 [email protected]. Classifieds PASTOR Ozarks and downtown Clarksville are three blocks weekly. Please send resume and, if possible, audio or their resumes to P.O. Box 158, Gassville, AR 72635 or Rural church 12 miles west of El Dorado is seek- from CSBC. Staff includes a part-time secretary, video to [email protected] or 1850 Cash email it to [email protected]. We are located in ing a pastor. A small membership, but very prom- nursery worker and custodian. We are praying for a Road, Camden, AR 71701. Applications accepted North Central Arkansas, close to Mountain Home, ising situation. Will consider bi-vocational or full- God-called pastor who is willing to follow the lead until June 30, 2011. Ark. time. Liberty Association. Send resume to Midway of the Holy Spirit in a variety of possible ministries. First Baptist Church of Bismarck, Ark., is seeking Ebenezer Baptist Church, El Dorado, is receiving Baptist Church, 129 Lynn Fite Road, El Dorado, AR Send resumes to P.O. Box 378, Clarksville, AR 72830 someone to lead our ministry to junior high resumes for a part-time minister of students. 71730, by Aug. 1. or [email protected], or call Dennis at 479- and high school students. Inquiries and resumes If interested, forward resume to Search Committee First Baptist Church of Charleston has begun the 754-8299. may be submitted to [email protected] at Ebenezer Baptist Church, 3408 N. Wyatt Dr., El search for a full-time pastor. Charleston is lo- Tate Springs Baptist Church, located in Arlington, or P.O. Box 147, Bismarck, AR 71929. Resumes will be Dorado, AR 71730. cated 20 miles east of Fort Smith. A beautiful town Texas, is a multi-generational, conservative Southern received through July 8. First Baptist Church of Fulton, Mo., is seeking the looking for a man to lead our loving congregation. Baptist church looking for a senior pastor who can Central Baptist Church in Pine Bluff, Ark., is seek- right person to direct, coordinate, oversee A student pastor and secretary are on staff at this operate in a team approach with pastoral staff. Our ing a full-time worship pastor. We are seeking and continue to develop our worship and time. Please send resumes to First Baptist Church, total Sunday morning attendance is 600-650. Please a man that can lead in a variety of worship styles. We education ministries. Please send your resume P.O. Box 297, Charleston, AR 72933, Attn: Pastor forward resume to Terry Jeffries, pastor of administra- are seeking a man that can lead our people to live a to [email protected], and visit our Web Search Committee, or send email todamonmcken- tion, at [email protected] or directly to the pulpit life of worship as we seek to reach our community site at fbcfultonmo.org. [email protected]. committee at [email protected]. and beyond. Send resumes to P.O. Box 20336, White Oak Grove Baptist Church, located in Van Buren, Rural Southern Baptist church is seeking a full- Calvary Baptist Church of Dardanelle, Ark., is seek- Hall, AR 71612, or email to cbcpastor@cablelynx. Ark., is seeking a bi-vocational youth minis- time pastor who agrees with the Baptist Faith ing a full-time pastor. Sunday school attendance com. ter. For details, call 479-474-6674, or send resume and Message 2000, loves to preach the Word and averages 55-60. Will also consider bi-vocational pas- First Baptist Church of Paris, Ark., is seeking a to OGBC, 4929 Industrial Park Road, Van Buren, AR working with others as we try to minister to the tor. Will be receiving resumes until July 15, 2011. full- or part-time youth minister. Send re- 72956. community by showing the love of Christ to them Send resume to Calvary Baptist Church, P.O. Box 532, sumes to “Personnel Committee” at P.O. Box 567, Immanuel Baptist Church is seeking a bi-vo- and their children. Send resumes and particulars to Dardanelle, AR 72834, Attn: Bob Loyd, or email to Paris, AR 72855 or to [email protected], by cational minister of music and youth. Send Lonnie Waldrop at Twin Lakes Baptist Church, 3899 [email protected]. Aug. 1. Please indicate on resume the desire for the resume to 2201 S. Dallas, Fort Smith, AR 72901, 479- Hwy. 290, Hot Springs, AR 71913. First Baptist Church, Unionville, Mo., a dispensa- full- or part-time position. 782-1009 or visit www.immanuelbaptistfs.org. Hickory Street Baptist Church seeks a Spirit-led, tional, fundamentally conservative church, is prayer- Bi-vocational youth director needed. First Baptist Church, Forrest City, is seeking a bi-vocational pastor to nurture a congregation fully seeking an experienced full-time senior Contact River Road Baptist, P.O. Box 161, Redfield, AR full-time minister of music. If interested, send of approximately 50 people with a vision of growth. pastor. Send resume and detailed doctrinal state- 72132. 501-397-2576, or 870-536-4109. resume to 507 N. Rosser St., Forrest City, AR 72335. Send resumes to 2923 Hickory St., Texarkana, AR ment to 104 N. 15th, Unionville, MO 63565, or email First Baptist Church of Siloam Springs, Ark., First Baptist Church in Carlisle is seeking a part- 71854, or submit by email to rhondasullivan.88@ [email protected]. is looking for a full-time children’s minister time or full-time music minister. Send re- gmail.com. Deadline for submission is June 30. McClendon Baptist Church of West Monroe, La., is to lead an exciting and growing children’s min- sume to First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 25, Carlisle, Clarendon First Baptist Church seeks full-time seeking a pastor. We desire a man of God who pos- istry. Please send resumes and inquiries to Search AR 72024. pastor. Send resumes to First Baptist Church, P.O. sesses godly character, positive relational skills, solid Committee, 2000 Dawn Hill Road, Siloam Springs, AR First Baptist Church of Fordyce, Ark., is seeking a Box 324, Clarendon, AR 72029. biblical faith and a passion for preaching God’s Word 72761, or email to [email protected]. full-time position for worship leader/edu- Cherry Street Baptist Church is currently seek- with a heart that loves the Lord and His people. A Marshall Road Baptist Church is interviewing for cation/senior adults. If interested, please send ing a pastor. CSBC is located in Clarksville, Ark., master’s level seminary degree is desirable. Resumes the position of bi-vocational youth director. resume to 501 North Main Street, Fordyce, AR 71742, a city of 9,600 residents in Johnson County, where can be sent to McClendon Baptist Church, Attn: Pastor Call 501-982-4564, ext. 22, or email sammons2@ Attn: Search Committee. over 19,000 people reside. We have a loving, Christ- Search Committee, 206 Downing Pines Road, West comcast.net. centered congregation and a beautiful sanctuary Monroe, LA 71292, or [email protected]. Danville First Baptist Church, Danville, Ark., is MISCELLANEOUS with a Sunday morning attendance of over 40. Our OTHER STAFF POSITIONS seeking a full-time minister of students. YOUTH RETREAT, etc. – Four log homes, sanctuary accommodates approximately 250. We Cullendale First Baptist Church, Camden, Ark., is Please send resume to Danville FBC, P.O. Box 877, 2.5 acres; walking distance to Magic Springs, Hot also have many classrooms to accommodate growth. seeking a full-time youth/student life min- Danville, AR 72833 or [email protected]. Springs; approximately 6,000 square feet (total). The pastor’s salary is $40,000, plus a two-bedroom ister. Salary based on experience and education. Gassville Baptist Church is looking for a full- Call Patsy: 501-262-1142. ERA Rushing McAdams parsonage located next to CSBC. The University of Current youth program averages 45-55 students time youth pastor. Interested applicants can send Polychron REALTORS. June 30, 2011 14 Ba p t i st Li f e

that along with the fun and structure the camp brings to the children at the club, it also pro- CRUSADERS vides Christian teaching, which many of the continued from page one children lack. New facility being used Harris said they have held Sports Crusaders Learning about Jesus soccer camps in the past, thinking it would “You learn things about basketball and how allow them “to reach into our community with to play,” said 13-year-old Rodneisha Allen, “but the gospel.” This year they chose basketball you also learn about Jesus Christ – how He is camp. He said the church has built “a new fa- our Lord and Savior and how we should only cility, which includes a full basketball court.” serve Him as our only true God.” Will Ward, children’s minister, said, “One R.J. Graham, leader of the Sports Crusaders of the main reasons we built this new build- team in North Little Rock, said the goal is “to ing and this new facility is to bring people get as many kids as we can, to have Jesus come from the community in, and this is one of into their lives.” those strategies, (which) is to have a basketball Graham added, “You know these kids, the camp.” inner city kids, deal with real issues and real In fact, he said a good number of the almost situations that a simple Bible study won’t do. 40 children attending the camp were from the So we want them to know that there is a hope, community. and we want to get as many kids as we can to “Numerous kids that attend are from un- Christ.” churched families, which, of course, provides In fact, Graham said about 15 children ac- an opportunity for us to get into their homes,” cepted Christ at the North Little Rock camp. said Harris. Though Rodneisha was a Christian prior to He added, “We believe the Sports Crusad- attending camp, she said the biggest thing she ers camp is a great tool to make a difference in got from the camp was “learning about God this community for the kingdom. Our hope and how He served to save us and He died on and prayer continues to be that through such the cross for our sins and that we should repent missions and ministries as Sports Crusaders, when we are doing things wrong. more people will discover the love of King “The Sports Crusaders, they’re awesome Jesus and decide to live for Him.” teachers,” she said. “They teach kids about how In North Little Rock, Recco Bennett, unit they should do and how they should respect director for the Rose City center, explained each other and always love one another.” Not bad for a basketball camp. Arshaad Yancy, 9, (right) and Stephen Gilbert, 9 (back right), Contact Jessica Vanderpool at Jessica@arkansas- both of North Little Rock, participate along with others in a baptist.org. Sports Crusaders event. Baptist Youth Day at Magic Springs SAT. AUG 27, 2011 featuring Shonlock & Doug Compton

ARKANSAS BAPTIST STATE CONVENTION

$29.50 AT THE DOOR SEASON PASSES HONORED DOORS OPEN AT 10:00 AM CONTACT LINDSEY 800.838.2272 or 501.376.4791 ext.5222 or email at [email protected] www.arkansasbaptist.org Co mm e n t a r y 15 Submit to divine discipline hrowing in the towel” is a Jeremiah faced the same discour- round about,” and that he would (Jer. 20:11-13). We have a glimpse Tphrase that comes from the agement, heartbreak and grief that see the terror of destruction and into Jeremiah‘s humanity. One mo- boxing world. The blows are relent- we do. Jeremiah even unloaded on exile. Upon release, ment he says, “I less, the boxer is dazed and stagger- God about all he was going through. Jeremiah struggled Ex plo r e t h e Bi bl e want to quit.” The ing and, physically, he can’t take He was ready to throw in the towel, with God’s call on Ju l y 10, 2011 next he says, “The anymore. The only solution is to but he couldn’t. I believe there his life. He wanted Lord is with me throw in the towel. are two constants from Jeremiah to stop proclaiming David McCord like a mighty cham- At times, the blows of life are so that keep us from throwing in the God’s Word, but pastor pion.” Jeremiah relentless they leave us dazed and towel. he couldn’t because First Baptist Church, Mena was struggling, but staggered, but throwing in the towel One, remember God’s call (Jer. God’s Word was Scripture passage: he was aware that is not an option. Some time ago, I 20:1-9). Jeremiah’s message of de- like a fire burning Jeremiah 20:1-18 God’s presence heard a speaker say that 80 percent struction and exile was not popu- in his heart. Being was ever with him. of the people on Sunday morning lar. Pashhur, the chief officer, had involved in God’s Major life issues are facing major life issues. Seeing Jeremiah placed in stocks because work is not always easy. There are are real, but they can never separate what people go through today, I of his message. Jeremiah told Pash- times when all we have to hold onto us from the marvelous presence of place that number closer to 90 per- hur that his name would become is God’s call on our life. God. So please, don’t throw in the cent. “Magor-missabib,” meaning “fear Two, remember God’s presence towel. Personal checklist he 1960s radio preacher, Lester Dr. Law said he was only there to the law and grace. In Galatians ed by Christ. Paul wondered if they TRoloff, had a famous sermon identify and diagnose the problem. 3:24-26, the law is a schoolmaster. might be under a spell that had en- titled “Dr. Law and Dr. Grace.” The The actual surgery would be done by Its purpose is to point toward the slaved them to their past practices. premise was that a man was sick Dr. Grace, a young, handsome doc- justification found through faith in A preacher asked an old farmer and went to Dr. tor with a gentle, Christ by providing an understand- about his soul. “Don’t worry about Law for treatment. Bi bl e St u d i e s Fo r Li f e loving demeanor. ing of the impossibility of living the me,” he said. “I don’t drink, smoke, Dr. Law, a rough, Dr. Grace was law perfectly. Paul states that if a per- cuss or chew and don’t go with gnarled old physi- Ju l y 10, 2011 the only one with son could live the law to the letter, women who do.” The preacher re- cian, diagnosed Lynn Riley the skills to give then salvation could be achieved, plied, “I’m glad to hear that, but him with a bad Evangelism and Church a new heart. The but personal sin prevents perfect I have a coon dog that doesn’t do heart. The man Growth Team, ASBC doctors were in obedience. any of that either. I want to know if asked for a list of Scripture passage: practice together, The Galatians had placed their you’re living for Christ.” things he could do Galatians 3:1-3, 10-14, 19-26 one diagnosing trust in Christ but had fallen back As you serve daily, don’t confuse to avoid surgery, the problem, the into the legalistic practices of their a list of do’s and don’ts as righteous- but Dr. Law said other providing past. Various translations of verse 1 ness. Revel in the freedom to love nothing short of a new heart would the cure. call them “foolish,” “stupid,” “crazy” and serve provided through God’s do. When asked when the old doc- In Galatians, Paul used another and “thoughtless” because of their grace. You’re more valuable than tor would perform the transplant, picture of the relationship between refusal to claim the freedom provid- even the best coon dog. Keep your behavior in line e started buying fishing equip- Judah. If not, “this house will be- mitment to the Lord. The moment Two, know whom you serve. The Hment, then he bought a new come a desolation” (v. 5). Not only Judah “forsook the covenant of the second half of Jeremiah’s answer, boat, then a new truck to pull the would the king’s house become a Lord” (v. 9), the in verse 9, says the boat. “One thing leads to another.” desolation, so would Jerusalem. door opened for Ex plo r e t h e Bi bl e reason why Jerusa- We don’t like hearing how one The abuses of society in verse 3 idolatry and abuse lem would fall was event leads to another and then an- were the result of a greater problem. in society. Chris- Ju l y 17, 2011 because of idola- other because sometimes the end The beginning point of their prob- tians are bombard- David McCord try. result is not particularly positive. lem was forgetting the covenant ed daily with the pastor Maybe it is time Jeremiah 22:1-9 is a prime ex- they made with God and turning to messages of secular First Baptist Church, Mena that Christians ample of how one thing leads to idolatry (v. 9). society. took a good, hard, another. Jeremiah receives a word Forgetting God, turning to idola- The moment we Scripture passages: honest look at our- from the Lord for the king of Judah. try, abuse in society; one thing leads neglect our commit- Jeremiah 22:1-9 selves and asked, In verse 3, numerous abuses were to another. Judah’s woes always ment to the Lord, “Who do I re- taking place in society. came back to forgetting God and the door opens for ally serve and bow Jeremiah told the king that, if idolatry. There are two valuable les- secular values to creep in. Stay fo- down to?” We all know the Sunday he would “do justice and righteous- sons from this passage. cused on your commitment to the school answer, but what is our daily ness,” they would see restoration in One, stay focused on your com- Lord. life answer? Know whom you serve. Personal relationship s a student, I served for two knew that they could depend on me call me Daddy. If you’re a parent, that we have become heirs of God, A years as a dormitory director to take care of them and also keep you don’t need any further explana- which includes the privilege of call- at the Baptist col- them in line. tion of how that feels. ing God “Abba,” loosely translated lege I attended. More than 25 My “boys” from college could “Daddy.” Our relationship with There were three Bi bl e St u d i e s Fo r Li f e years later, I am still expect certain things of me, but it God has nothing to do with us, but other dorms on Ju l y 17, 2011 greeted from time was built on an institutional set of with the sacrifice of Christ. campus, and the to time as “Mom,” rules. When college ended, so did Many of the decisions and life- other directors Lynn Riley usually spoken by the expectations, and I don’t think styles our daughters embrace reflect were all older Evangelism and Church a 50-something any of them expect to be included the family they were raised in. The women, who were Growth Team, ASBC preacher or busi- in my will. values of our family are evident in called “dorm Scripture passage: nessman and usual- My daughters and I have a much their activities. The Apostle John mothers.” Natu- Galatians 4:1-7; 1 John 1:5-9, 3:1-3 ly in the middle of a different relationship. They can ask reminds us that, as sons of God, we rally, the guys in crowd. Hearing that for and expect much more because I are expected to “walk in the light” my dorm dubbed nickname brings am their dad. They have to do noth- because that’s what children of God me “Mom,” complete with an intra- forth some great memories, but ing to earn my love, and nothing do. The paradox of faith is that we mural jersey with that title on the there’s another name that overshad- can happen that will sever that fa- are free to walk in the light only back. It was a great atmosphere, and ows even those sweet memories. It’s ther/daughter bond. when we personally yield our lives to this day, they are my “boys.” They when my two daughters smile and Paul reminds us, in Galatians 4, to a heavenly Father who loves us. Arkansas Baptist News Volume 110 Number 13 June 30, 2011 P.O. Box 552 Little Rock, AR 72203 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED 2011 SBC Ark. in Phoenix Coverage of the 2011 Arkansas Baptists SBC Annual Meeting participate in the in Phoenix. SBC Annual Meeting. PAGE 1 PAGES 7-10 Ne w s Di g e s t NBC nixes ‘Under God’ from Pledge ‘Bivocational pastor movement’ urged WASHINGTON (BP) – NBC omitted the phrase PHOENIX (BP) – Small churches and bivocational “under God” from the Pledge of Allegiance during an pastors are a Great Commission powerhouse, a North opening video in its coverage of the U.S. Open golf American Mission Board leader told the Bivocational tournament June 19 and then apologized on-air after Small Church Leadership Network during the SBC receiving criticism. Annual Meeting in Phoenix. The patriotic-themed opening to the network's “Everything that we’re doing is to reposition the tournament coverage showed elementary school chil- North American Mission Board to get behind local dren reciting the Pledge. churches, because you are the pacesetters,” Aaron The quick-moving segment mixed in video of the Coe, NAMB’s vice president for mobilization, told children citing the Pledge with video of military per- several dozen small church and bivocational pastors sonnel raising a U.S. flag. During the controversial at the BSCLN luncheon June 14. portion, the children can be heard saying “one na- “If you add up all the 50 largest mega-churches, tion,” and after a video of a soldier saluting the flag is add up total attendance and they all moved to New seen, the children finish: “with liberty and justice for York City, you’d only be reaching 8 percent of the all.” Seconds later, the children could be heard repeat- population there,” Coe said. “The only way it's going ing the same phrase, again with NBC omitting “under to get done is through people who will rise up and God, indivisible.” step out.” Immediately, golf fans began expressing their out- rage on Twitter and Facebook. Baptist associations: ‘a biblical model’ PHOENIX (BP) – The future of the Baptist associa- Ariz. victims thankful for DR help tion is on solid footing, a Southern Baptist leader said, SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (BP) – As Arizona’s Wallow because the organization of churches within regional Fire moves past 50 percent containment, Southern groups is based on a biblical model. “The future of the Baptists are transitioning from relief to recovery work association is bright,” Ken Hemphill said. “I believe and preparing to assist victims of the Monument Fire it's a biblical model,” therefore “survival is solved.” in the southern part of the state. “The question is, will it thrive or survive?” Hemp- In response to the fire, Southern Baptist disaster hill asked at the June 12 plenary session of the South- relief workers deployed a shower unit to a shelter in ern Baptist Conference of Associational Director of Lakeside, Ariz., but ceased operation of the unit last Missions at North Phoenix Baptist Church, prior to week when the shelter shut down. the Southern Baptist Convention Annual Meeting

Larry Hyde, Arizona disaster relief state coordina- June 14-15. Yarbrough Caleb by Photo tor, told Baptist Press that he left the shower unit in Hemphill, who has served as the Empowering King- FBC, Centerton, place though, in case it is needed during recovery dom Growth strategist for the SBC Executive Com- efforts. mittee, addressed about 80 directors of missions. meets needs, shares Christ Subscriber services The Arkansas Baptist News offers subscription plans at $8.75 per year (print) and $5 (digital). three rates for the printed edition and three rates for the ■ Individual subscriptions may be purchased at the rate in Phoenix ABN Now, the digital edition: of $11 per year (print) and $6 (digital). ■ The Every Resident Family Plan offers churches a Changes of address by individuals may be made with the premium rate when they send the ABN to all their resi- address label to the left. PAGE 1 dent households. Resident families are calculated to be at When inquiring about a subscription by mail, please least one-fourth of the church’s Sunday school enrollment. include the address label. Individuals also may call the ABN Churches who send only to members who request a sub- at 501-376-4791, ext. 5153 or toll-free in state at 800-838- scription do not qualify for this lower rate of $7.75 per year 2272. Be prepared to provide code line information printed (print) and $4 (digital) for each subscription. on the mailing label. ■ The Group Plan allows church members to receive a Individual subscriptions for both editions may be pur- discount when 10 or more individuals send their subscrip- chased at www.arkansasbaptist.org. Please call the ABN of- tions together through their local church. Subscribers pay fice to discuss church plans. Find us on and as ArkBaptNews