Church Planting Factory Brunson and Pages 6–7 Brunson, His Wife, Veronica, They Also Hosted Dozens for Montana — in 2014, His Family and Their Children

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What’s happening Alabama Baptist family shows love of Jesus in Big Sky Country in Nigeria, why we By Grace Thornton lation of Livingston claims did. That first year, we did all Over the past six years, should care and The Alabama Baptist Christianity, which was a bit manner of community proj- the area has been a sort of how we can help hen Darryl of a “shock to the system” for ects.” church planting factory Brunson and Pages 6–7 Brunson, his wife, Veronica, They also hosted dozens for Montana — in 2014, his family and their children. of missions teams — many Chris Baker, who at that moved to Liv- from their home state of time served as director of W ‘Started from scratch’ ingston, Montana, to plant a Alabama — who could show missions for Clarke Baptist church in 2016, they didn’t “We didn’t know anybody the area a kind of love they’d Association, moved with know exactly how that pro- in town, so we started from never seen before. Before the his wife Kim and family to cess would look. scratch,” he said. “We just Brunsons moved to Montana, plant Summit Life Church But they did know one started serving in the commu- he served as pastor of Tib- in Whitefish, Montana. thing — the community was nity and meeting people, go- bie Baptist Church. He also going to need to see what the ing to coffee shops and hang- grew up at Grove Hill Baptist Broken heart love of Jesus looks like. ing out. Anything that could Church, and his wife grew up Brunson brought a mis- Less than 10% of the popu- put you in people’s way, we at Tompkins Baptist Church, sions team from his church Grove Hill. the following year, and Mobile health (See ‘Extravagant,’ page 9) clinic reaches patients physically, spiritually Page 8

Tent revival to be held in Pell City Oct. 4–8 at Eden Westside

Page 17 Photo courtesy of Darryl Brunson Darryl and Veronica Brunson and their children (from left) Jake, Tucker and Rivers left Alabama in 2016 to join a church-planting effort in Montana. PAGE 2 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / SEPTEMBER 10, 2020

CONNECT Evans returns to TAB as “If ye continue in My word, then ... ye shall know the truth, and the truth with us! special assistant to the editor shall make you free.” John 8:31–32 (ISSN 0738-7741; USPS 011-080) recurring theme we see here helps with research, project manage- © The Alabama Baptist, Inc. at The Alabama Baptist and ment, systems and ef ciency efforts, is published weekly except for one week in July and December by The Alabama Baptist, TAB Media is that when marketing, prep for the TAB Talks Inc., at 3310 Independence Drive, A Birmingham, AL 35209. Phone: 205-870-4720. God leads a staff member away for a podcast and various presentations Statewide phone: 800-803-5201. season, He often brings them back. Website: www.thealabamabaptist.org for Editor Jennifer Davis Rash. Email: [email protected] Recently that happened with Mag- “We are so excited to have Mag- or [email protected] facebook.com/ Periodicals postage paid at Hattiesburg, Miss. gie Walsh Evans, who rst gie back on staff at TAB

thealabamabaptist came to TAB Media as a Media,” Rash said. “She ANNUAL TAB SUBSCRIPTION RATES summer intern in 2012, then captured our hearts when Includes print, digital, app and full web access rejoined the staff as an of- she was here as a student Group Rate per subscriber per year — $16.25 (Check with your church or group to nd out if ce assistant in June 2014 intern and then showcased it has a TAB group account) before becoming part of the just how much she can Individual — $34.95 per year (50 issues) editorial team that October shine as she embraced and eventually becoming as- multiple areas of the work JENNIFER DAVIS RASH sistant editor. when she came on staff EDITOR-IN-CHIEF @TABMediaGroup Cynthia Watts Carrie B. McWhorter She left in 2018 to be a EVANS full-time.” Executive Assistant Content Editor

part of the team at Gooch Evans said she’s thank- Maggie Evans Janet Erwin Family Dental in Birmingham, ful God opened the door for her to Special Assistant Copy Editor where she worked as nancial coor- come back. Debbie Campbell Grace Thornton Director of Special dinator. And she added the “Evans” “The organization has expanded Communications Assignments Editor

in 2019 when she married Sam, who and evolved so much since my rst Linda Harrison Margaret Colson Director of Human Special serves in a consulting role with TAB tenure here, and this opportunity to Resources Assignments Editor instagram.com/ Media through his business, Rhythm be a part of the growth is really ex- James Hammack Hannah Muñoz Creative. citing,” she said. “I can’t wait to see Digital Services Digital Editor TABMediaGroup Manager Now Evans is back as special as- how the Lord uses TAB in the com- Lauren C. Grim Sarah Gill Creative Services sistant to the editor. In that role, she ing seasons.” (Grace Thornton) Digital Services Manager Associate Amy Hacker Jessica Ingram Creative Services TAB appreciates volunteer Tommy Ellison Event Coordinator Associate Annette Brown Melanie McKinney Guest Services Advertising Manager

Haley Piersol Pam Holt youtube.com/ Tommy Ellison Client Coordinator Outside Sales Rep came onboard as Deb Lowery Susan Stevens TABMediaGroup a volunteer at TAB Financial Assistant Outside Sales Rep in April, helping Richard Maddox Freelance and guest out with our TAB Computer Services contributors News podcast by reading the NEWS SERVICES Explore the Bible Baptist Press (BP), Associated Press/Religion News Service (AP/RNS), Morning Star Sunday School News (MS). lesson each POSTMASTER week. Ellison is Send address changes to: a member of The The Alabama Baptist Baptist Church at 3310 Independence Drive Birmingham, AL 35209 tabonline.org/podcasts McAdory. Photo courtesy of Tommy Ellison ADDRESS CHANGE Send old and new addresses, and name of church to: Subscription Department 3310 Independence Drive Birmingham, AL 35209 Allow two weeks.

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The Alabama TAB Accredited member of Evangelical Baptist Online Council for Financial Accountability newspaper website ‘Nation’s Top Regional Christian Newspaper’ 1999, 2004, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, TAB Media TAB Digital 2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 as judged by Associated Church Press, Baptist The crossword puzzle podcasts interactive content Communicators Association, Evangelical Press can be found on page 15. Association or Religion Communicators Council SEPTEMBER 10, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 3 OPINION

By Jennifer Davis Rash MY President and Editor-in-Chief [email protected] RASHIONALE @RashionalThts Celebrate grandparents every day and a little extra Sept. 13 randparents, we where you are struggling — and who could use someone with tion for being a grandparent — celebrate you this let them share their memories. spiritual maturity to pour into however that is defined in your month, especially You may hear some of the their lives. Pray for God to make family — may not always be ap- the tremendous role same stories over and over, but I your heart sensitive to those who parent, but be assured your legacy you play in the lives promise those are the ones you need a grandparent. will outlive you. Gof your grandchildren. will always treasure and may end And for the grandparents rais- You may not always understand And for the grandchildren out up telling your own children and ing their grandchildren, know we all the lingo swirling around with there, be sure to take a little time grandchildren one day. realize your situation moves to an the grandkids, and their decisions with your grandparents at least For the grandparents, you have entirely different level. may definitely concern you. But monthly, if not weekly. a lifetime of lessons to share and I can’t begin to understand the don’t give up. The best gift you could give have been given a tremendous op- complexity of what that means Pray diligently for each grand- them for Grandparents Day is a portunity to speak wisdom into for you, but I do know it takes child by name and situation, and phone call or visit where you fo- the lives of these precious ones you to hero status. Be willing to pray for God to show you what to cus on a real conversation. you also get to spoil. share with your support system share and when to share it — and Share what’s happening with For those without grandchil- how they can pray and help. exactly how to best invest in and you — what’s going well and dren, there are plenty of kiddos The appreciation and recogni- love each child. FROM THE GRANDPARENTS AT TAB ...

Grandchildren of TAB team members range in age from ‘on the way’ to having kids of their own Linda Harrison Janet Erwin Richard Maddox singing, smelling the beach on vaca- From Winna and Graddy From GeeGee and PawPaw From Pop and Mimi tion, tasting ice cream and experi- To: Lily, 13; Parker, 11; Gabby, To: Meredith, 2, and Micah, 4 To: Audrey, 13, and A.J., 2 encing special surprises. This per- 10; Brynlee, 10; Conner, 9; Addy, months “We hope to instill in A.J. a love spective gives us a view of a glass 7; Baylee, 6; and Gwenie, 6 “I want them to know that if they for God’s Word so that he will more than half full and not taking “My prayer for my grandchil- will seek God, He will let them acquire skill in the art of godly God’s bountiful blessings, including dren is that they learn who they find Him (2 Chron. 15:15). He is living. As he grows and learns, we His presence, for granted.” are in Jesus. That He will be their the God who ‘sees’ them and loves love to point out to him the ways Margaret Colson best friend. To watch them grow them.” God works in his life and provides From Mo and Pop spiritually has been a grand gift for him each day. We will con- Pam Holt To: Clayton, 5; Haley, 4; Caroline, for me and my husband. It is a tinue investing in Audrey’s Chris- 3; Molly, 2; Ellie, 1; Benjamin, 6 gift we cherish every day.” From Mem tian growth by encouraging her to To: Great-grandchildren: Colton, months and baby boy on the way stand firm in her aithf as she has “Above all, I want my grandchil- Annette Brown 10; Hadley, 3; and Ainsley, 1; and entered her teenage years.” dren to know three truths: God’s love From Honey and Bear grandsons: Josh and Clay is unwavering; His peace and joy, To: William, 2, and baby girl on “These are the light to my life that Cynthia Watts which are beyond human understand- the way I treasure each day. First, and most From Lulu ing, are possible in our lives; and His Grant, 18; Jade, 18; Lauren, “We hope to instill the love of important, I want to instill in them To: faithfulness inspires us to hold un- God, family and country. Thank that they are so loved by me and 18; and Dade, 6 swervingly to our hope in Him.” God for His mercy and grace are hopefully will feel that love even “I hope that I can instill an ‘at- renewed each day. Also 1 Thes- after I’m gone from this earth. I titude of gratitude’ in the hearts Debbie Campbell salonians 4:11–12: ‘... and to want them to enjoy the fun we have of my grandchildren. My heart’s From Nan and Pop make it your ambition to lead a together, the adventures we have desire is that this gratitude ap- To: Jackson, 11, and Bryson, 9 quiet life: You should mind your and the love we show to each other plies to all of life’s gifts — not “Our greatest goal and joy is to see own business and work with your and to others, especially to the ani- only our relationship with Jesus both boys following Jesus as young hands, just as we told you, so that mals. And most important, to thank Christ, but also for the love of our men and to instill in them integrity, your daily life may win the re- God daily that He gave each of us to family and friends, what we glean honesty and a love and concern for spect of outsiders so that you will each other for many reasons to love at church, the songs we hear, see- all people. Above all else, follow Je- not be dependent on anybody.’” throughout their lives.” ing the sunsets, hearing the birds sus, not the crowd, Matthew 6:33.” PAGE 4 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / SEPTEMBER 10, 2020 OPINION

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Masks off: Cast off pride to find community To love Jesus means no ex- By Myriah Snyder be vulnerable, and from my per- and cared for. I felt overwhelming cuses are offered that allow us theropetab.com spective, I’d have to obliterate the acceptance. to give way to fear and anger recently moved into the base- Myriah this family knew and loved. The next day, I walked upstairs because “these days are so ment of my senior pastor’s fam- That was a high price for me, so I after work needing to unload from hard.” Godly love responds to Iily home for a short transitional waited and considered my options. my day. And they listened and gave surrounding chaos quite dif- period. Would they still love me after me advice, with the exact same ferently. Consider Jesus. The greater the crisis, the more These people loved me, but I I took off my carefully curated amount of respect they had before. clearly His love is displayed. knew that there was a lot they mask? My vulnerability hadn’t changed didn’t know about me. This last Bob Adams Would they still be so supportive me in their eyes. I think it just week, though, I began to realize Retired pastor of my ministry/calling/career? made them care more. that I can leave here this fall with Would they be scared if I ugly I realized what was holding me a savings account due to the dis- cried in front of them? back from genuine community was counted rent and a better idea of All my insecurities surrounded pride. And that makes God’s list of what a two-parent, ministry home me as I texted and asked if we Happiness is discovered most detestable sins multiple times looks like. could sit down and talk. when we sympathize with (see Isa. 2:12; James 6:4; Prov. Or I could leave their home And, you know what? All those those around us who suffer. strengthened spiritually and set up insecurities were lies from the en- 8:13, 16:5). Confessing and forsak- Hardened hearts are resistant to thrive. emy. As I poured out my heart, I ing that was my first step. to God’s blessings, but when But to do the latter, I’d have to felt loved, understood, supported We’re all at the point in this pan- our hearts are tender toward demic where we’re sick of masks, others, they are also receptive whether we’re for them or against to God’s care and concern. them. This mask though — the Sympathizing with others Letters to the Editor polished Christian seeking people’s helps us discover happiness. approval — is one God has called David Jeremiah want to praise Pastor Bryan was not allowed to be present. Pastor and author ITaunton for his “Your Voice” This has been wrong on all lev- us to remove (Gal. 5:16). article in the Aug. 6 issue of The els — being allowed to do some Wouldn’t it just be so nice if we Alabama Baptist regarding re- things but not visit loved ones on could find safe spaces to remove strictive visitation limits in hospi- their death beds or visit demen- these spiritual masks? The condition of our hearts tals and nursing homes during the tia or Alzheimer’s patients. I’ve will set the tone for all our COVID-19 pandemic (tabonline. heard so many awful stories. EDITOR’S NOTE — Adapted relationships — including our org/taunton). I look at this peti- It’s as if Pastor Taunton’s words from theropetab.com. Myriah Sny- relationship with God. tion as an answered prayer. were taken out of my mouth and der is a regular contributor to The Rope, a blog for college students Tony Dungy My stepdad had to have surgery printed. I’ve said over and over Sports analyst and and young professionals. Snyder in August after three ER visits in how inhumane this whole process former NFL coach two weeks and doctor’s appoint- has been. is associate editor of The Chris- ments that my mom couldn’t go I’m so thankful there is a peti- tian Index, the newsjournal of the to with him. He can’t hear well tion. Something has to change Georgia Baptist Mission Board, a nor understand what the doctors and be done soon. two-time graduate of the University are doing or saying. Lynn Dobbs of the Cumberlands and a member Troubles are often the tools My mom is his advocate but Deatsville, Ala. of Roswell Street Baptist Church in by which God fashions us for Marietta, Georgia. better things. Henry Ward Beecher American clergyman Share online or email [email protected] SEPTEMBER 10, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 5 OPINION Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord TAB staff your God is with you wherever you go. members help double our JOSHUA 1:9b reach I’m sending a gift subscrip- Teenagers want to be a part of The Apostle Paul had the right Fear is an emotional default for tion to a pastor whose church something important and significant. idea. “Let us stimulate each other to us. It is an emotion we don’t like has been through a lot in the They rally to causes they believe love and good deeds” (Heb. 10:24). to feel and one that can disable us, past couple of years. I hope it in. We need to take that desire and Could this be the end goal of rela- rob us of faith, and throw us into a will encourage him to know direct it to Kingdom work. Help tionships? To stimulate others to never-ending prison of chaos. … even more that his church is your students find places to serve live the character of Jesus’ love that When we are on the battlefield of part of a bigger body of Christ within your church. Teach them to makes for excellent people interac- fear, we can’t shove it away or stuff followers that are all in this identify their skills and desires, then tion? What are some ways to en- it neatly in a back drawer. Until we together. show them how they can use those courage strong relationships? courageously confront our fear and Grace Thornton strengths to serve. ... Giving students 1. Hear. Really hear what people back it up with God’s Word, we can Special assignments editor a place to serve will help them real- say to decipher what they mean. never be free of the pit of perpetual ize they are active participants in the 2. Trust. Let loose of the fear of fear. When we are courageous and kingdom of God, and it will make it being hurt. face the fear by backing it down I found out about a long- easier for them to remain connected 3. Honesty. Tell the truth if you with God’s word, there is a particu- time reader who had lost to the church even when they gradu- want to hear the truth. lar power that Scripture unleashes touch with us after changing ate from the student ministry. 4. Give. Invest yourself in people. that backs the enemy down. churches and now lives on a Jarrod Horne A true connection with God in- It is a huge victory that God has fixed income. I purchased a Minister of students and forms human relationships. He’s the fashioned for us, and it is ours if we subscription for her so she can discipleship glue for meaningful people bonds. will believe Him for it. be reconnected. Sixth Street Baptist Church Darryl Wood Cindy Evers Jennifer Davis Rash Alexander City, Ala. via Facebook Tifton, Ga. President and editor-in-chief

I’ve been inviting friends on Facebook to like TAB Media’s page. And recently, while on vacation, a salesman asked where I worked. After match the tone of the text. If it’s tion near you. No-where-near! @shanepruitt78 I described TAB, he handed shocking, I want it to feel shocking. Getting ready for @NOBTS If the tomb couldn’t stop Jesus, me his phone and asked me If it’s encouraging, encouraging. If preaching class. neither can 2020. to sign him up online. When it’s sobering, sobering. I want the I didn’t purchase anything, Spirit’s tone (and not mine) to be he said, “Can I still get the @dandarling the tone of every message. @Blackwell_Kevin There is so much going on in the I long for the day when I no lon- paper?” I assured him that he country — turmoil and tumult. I’m ger have to see the word “decline” would receive the paper. personally convicted this morning @brocraigc related to Southern Baptists. I pray Finally, I asked my daugh- that times like this should drive us “A godless world is a lawless that post-COVID, the SBC will see ter and two friends, “Are you to our knees in prayer rather than world. Anarchy comes in when the a surge in baptisms, attendance and getting TAB?” They weren’t, our keyboards with opinions. We fear of God goes out; and all the spiritual vitality. but they asked to get subscrip- need to pray for our country. mischiefs you can imagine, and tions. much more, rush in like a flood.” Cynthia Watts — C.S. Spurgeon @richardblackaby Executive assistant @haines_matt Every day of political turmoil, God’s word is not a tool to be pandemic, social and economic used to advance our political agen- @macbrunson upheaval and worldwide violence On Facebook, I sent a di- das, it is a light given to illuminate Pastors if you hold the word of that passes, we are closer to Jesus’ rect message to several of my our path and lead us to Christ, our God in your hand and you actually return than we have ever been. friends inviting them to like only true hope. preach it: our page. It was so easy — —you may have larger churches it only took 5 minutes! close to you @drtonyevans Maggie Evans @nathanrose33 —you may have more popular Sometimes God lets you hit rock Special assistant When I preach a passage I attempt preachers around you bottom so you will discover that He to make the tone of my sermon —but you will have no competi- is the Rock at the bottom. PAGE 6 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / SEPTEMBER 10, 2020

How to help persecuted Nigerian Christians ow can you help persecuted Christians a Hworld away in Nige- ria? Here are some sugges- tions from religious freedom advocates. 4Pray (Open Doors USA): Pray for Christians who live under constant threat of attacks by Islamic extremists. Ask God to protect them and give them hope and peace. Pray for Fulani militants and other extremist groups like Boko Haram. Pray that God will touch their hearts with the truth of the gospel. IMB photo Awareness matters Pray for pastors and church Strategic leaders who are helping rebuild communities and restore their churches after violent attacks. 4Activate and Educate (Lela Gilbert, Family Research Council): importance Contact U.S. government Nigeria critical link between Africa and the world, watchdogs say officials to urge sanctions and the appointment of a special By Martha Simmons government persecution against Despite the abject poverty that envoy to Nigeria, a move that Correspondent, The Alabama Baptist both Muslims and Christians and 40% of Nigerians endure — espe- olicymakers and news me- would improve documentation generally framed the violence as cially Christians who are denied of violent acts against Chris- dia are loath to view on- something perpetrated by both many jobs and resources because of going violence in Nigeria tians and spur more concrete sides — a tit for tat between Fulani their faith or are forced out of their action from the U.S. govern- as religious persecution, homes and off their land — Nigeria P herders and Christian farmers com- ment. instead framing the conflict as cul- is Africa’s premier economic pow- peting for resources. Educate others about the tural or even the result of poverty erhouse. The country is geographi- The U.S. has addressed the vio- situation in sermons, through and famine due to global warming. cally immense, rich in petroleum lence primarily through diplomatic speakers and in articles for lo- That’s according to Lela Gilbert, dialogue, interfaith dinners and reserves and involved in extensive a senior fellow for International cal newspapers, church news- conferences, and sponsoring train- global enterprises. Religious Freedom at Family Re- letters and social media. ing sessions for journalists “to help search Council, a fellow at the Africa’s bellwether 4Stay informed (current reduce bias in their reporting and Hudson Institute’s Center for Re- Eventually, Gilbert warns, the news and recent analysis): prevent tensions from becoming ligious Freedom and author of a events scarring Nigeria will impact Morning Star News — further inflamed.” recent FRC report on Christian per- the rest of the world. morningstarnews.org/region/ secution in Nigeria. But less talk and more action are To illustrate that, Gilbert quoted sub-saharan-africa/nigeria/ what’s needed, contends Gilbert, well-known singer and human World Watch Monitor — Violence on two sides who is pushing for cuts in foreign rights activist Bono, who in 2016 worldwatchmonitor.org/coun- Last December, the U.S. State aid and other U.S. sanctions against commented, “There’s so much tries/nigeria/ Department reported that the Secre- the Nigerian government, which strategic importance in Nigeria — Family Research Council tary of State had placed Nigeria on has done little to stem the violence that’s why it’s odd that there’s not — frc.org/issueanalysis/the- the Special Watch List “for having or protect Nigerian Christians. more focus on what’s happening. crisis-of-christian-persecution- engaged in or tolerated severe vio- It is in the interest of not only It’s pathetic. If Nigeria fails, Africa in-nigeria lations of religious freedom.” Christians but also the world at fails. If Africa fails, Europe fails. U.S. State Department — However, in that same report, the large to pay attention to what’s go- And if Europe fails, America is no tabonline.org/nigeria-report State Department cited Nigerian ing on in Nigeria. longer America.” SEPTEMBER 10, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 7 It’s complicated Nigerian violence sparked by history, grudges, poverty and religion By Martha Simmons acts committed against Christians — Correspondent, The Alabama Baptist are often “getting a bad rap” in news hile some religious media accounts for religious perse- freedom advocates cution when the fight can actually characterize the be traced to longstanding personal Wviolence in Nigeria in grudges unrelated to faith, Smith very black-and-white terms — noth- said. ing short of Muslim persecution of Still, religious ideology is a wedge Christians — a Southern Baptist sharply dividing Nigerians and pit- representative who has seen it first- ting region against region, neighbor hand says it is more complicated. against neighbor, father against son. “It’s a very complex environ- ment,” said Alabama-based repre- An either/or choice sentative Daniel Smith, who with Nigerian tribes typically adopt his wife, Donna, just marked their either Christianity or Islam exclu- 15-year anniversary on the missions sively, Smith said, and battles erupt field, all but one year of it in Africa. “because some girl marries into the “Christianity and Islam certainly wrong family, say a Christian girl are factors,” Smith said in a recent marries a Muslim and is forced to interview with TAB Media. “But convert.” Such religious conversions,

it tends to be a little bit more nu- Wikimedia Commons photo Smith said, can provide “the impetus anced.” for absolute mayhem.” Regardless of the trigger for the with the people and build in ways a very passionate prayer for safety,” Nigerian Christians are not with- incidents, the only solution is for- that they can actually minister to the he said. out sin in all this, he said. giveness, he said. communities that sponsor those at- Although Nigeria is Africa’s most “The Christian community shuns tacks.” economically important nation — these Muslim-background people Cycle of violence The Smiths returned to Alabama blessed with significant oil reserves because they’re Fulani,” Smith said, “The problem in Nigeria is it’s in April, having spent the previous and international businesses — the and recalled hearing one Nigerian just a cycle of violence,” Smith said. year in Nigeria. The Smiths began abject poverty suffered by most of Baptist minister in an official public “It just spirals out of control. The their missions career in Nigeria and its citizens and the intense competi- meeting casually saying some “hor- only real tangible thing to do is to hope to return there in the near fu- tion for resources are key drivers ribly racist” things about the Fulani. turn the other cheek and make posi- ture. in the pervasive violence plaguing Despite the dangers, Smith said, tive steps to show love to the people “We started off in Nigeria when Nigeria. “There is a movement of people who have hated us. we were just a couple with no kids,” “The violence and banditry are coming to Christ among the Fulani. “I’ve been working with a num- he said. “We lived in a little mud hut not usually motivated by religion,” It’s very underground. They are typi- ber of local Baptist leaders there with no electricity or running water, Smith said. “The bandits will often cally abandoned and persecuted by whose villages have been attacked farming by hand, getting up to the target Christian leaders because they their own family. It’s common for by mercenaries — homes, churches sound of bleating goats in the morn- know that their churches will pay. physical violence to be done to them and clinics burned to the ground, ing.” There are kidnappings all the time by somebody close to them.” lootings, rape, murder,” Smith said. After those first few months in of pastors and pastors’ wives. These The viciousness of such violence “We’ve worked with Baptist Global Nigeria, the Smiths were sent to bandits will kill people who don’t can be “jaw-dropping,” Smith said. Response, recently renamed Send France to study French so they could pay up. That makes being a Chris- He recalled meeting with a group of Relief. We would work with the lo- serve in French-speaking West Af- tian minister in Nigeria a very risky Nigerian Christian converts sitting cal leaders to write project requests rica for the next 13 years. proposition.” around in a circle. Without fail, each to provide not only humanitarian When they returned to Nigeria last one told a story of something hor- and food relief, but also to rebuild year, the Smiths saw much of the Constant fighting rible done to him or her at the hands homes, buy sewing machines, buy same poverty and violence that had Villages often hire mercenary of that person’s own family. grinding machines and so on, so plagued the country nearly a decade soldiers — typically unemployed or “I met a guy who had a big scar people could rebuild businesses. and a half earlier, only more so. under-employed angry young men right across his forehead because his “We conduct trauma healing Smith said representatives must be — to kidnap people for ransom or dad or his brother attacked him with workshops, walking victims through much more careful now when they seize territory or property, he said. a machete,” Smith said. “He sur- a biblically based program that will travel, going to villages only in day- Herders fight farmers. Muslim vived and is doing great things for help them to find healing and for- light and not staying too long. tribes attack Christian tribes, and the Kingdom.” giveness and eventually move on “There’s too much chance that vice versa. Fulani herdsmen — a with their lives. And we’ve been you would be an easy target. Every predominantly Muslim group EDITOR’S NOTE — Names have getting the local leaders to work time we travel on the roads, we give blamed for a recent spate of violent been changed for security reasons. PAGE 8 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / SEPTEMBER 10, 2020

Mobile health clinic reaches TAB MEDIA patients physically, spiritually By Grace Thornton a multispecialty clinic — they pro- The Alabama Baptist vide primary care as well as optom- wo years ago, Linda Perdue etry, wound care, women’s health, went with her church’s 55+ minor surgery, x-rays, EKGs and Tgroup to help clean one day lab diagnostics. at Victory Health Partners. They can also offer low-cost op- And in a way, she never left. tions for referrals to specialists like “I saw what they were doing, and orthopedic surgeons. Kimberly A. I just fell in love with it,” said Per- Theology 101 Garrett, director of Victory Health due, a member of Partners, said that’s BIBLICAL THEOLOGY FOR PEOPLE IN THE PEW Cottage Hill Baptist a big part of how Church, Mobile. sponsorships have Biblical Mysteries “So, I reached out “come together to to their volunteer solve a community coordinator to see problem.” Godliness how I could get in- “We are rst By Jerry Batson, Th.D. holiness.” Not only was the Holy volved.” and foremost a Special to The Alabama Baptist Victory Health Christian ministry. Spirit active in accomplishing His Partners, a clinic he de nition of a mystery resurrection, but also angels were We’re able to pray typically reads as something aimed at providing present as witnesses. The angels with our patients dif cult or impossible to affordable care for at the tomb were the very rst and share our faith understand or explain. The community mem- witnesses to that resurrection. with people from TBible labels a number of differ- bers without medi- With His saving death and all walks of life, ent truths as mysteries. However, cal insurance, is victorious resurrection as un- beliefs and back- the biblical meaning of a mystery “like a family,” she dergirding truths, the good news grounds,” Garrett is something that would not be said. of Christ began to be “preached Photo courtesy of Victory Health Partners said. “In sharing known unless God revealed it. It got started in Linda Perdue, a member of among the nations,” a ministry our faith with kind- Thus, a biblical mystery is some 2003 when Dr. Cottage Hill Baptist Church, that continues to the present ness and compas- aspect of God’s revealed truth that Robert D. Light- Mobile, was named a United Way hour in the missionary outreach sion and through humans would not be able to un- foot and his wife, Heart of Gold award winner Sept. of churches and denominations, 2 for her volunteer work at Victory our actions, we’ve derstand through earthly means. Tami, returned from thereby extending the truth of Health. Perdue is one of a number seen testimonies This week’s focus is on one of medical missions what God is like to all nations. of area Baptists who lend a hand and stories of God these — the mystery of godliness. trips and decided to at the medical ministry. working through In light of the biblical meaning of start caring for the Revelation this place. People the term mystery, we might think The response to the mission- underserved in their own commu- have heard about Jesus here for the of the mystery of godliness as the nity too. Now Victory has grown ary message has resulted in Him rst time. It’s just amazing.” revealed truth of what God is like. being “believed on in the world.” into a partnership of hundreds of Perdue said she’s watched rst- The verse that speaks of this is That millions have turned in faith volunteers, medical providers and hand how the clinic makes an 1 Timothy 3:16. In this passage, to Christ in the course of church churches. impression on its patients. Talking godliness points to what God history is further attestation to the And that includes Perdue. about it brings tears to her eyes. is like as revealed in Jesus. The truth of what God is like: He is re- “I started out working one day “Just recently, I had an older verse elaborates on this in a series vealed as the loving, seeking and a week, but now I work Mondays lady tell me as she was leaving of assertions about Christ. and Tuesdays,” she said. how much it meant that saving Father of Jesus Christ. “I greet patients, check our staff treated her Incarnation The crowning attestation of For more God’s hidden truth now revealed them in — whatever information, visit like a real person even The rst statement points to His needs to be done.” victoryhealth.org. though she didn’t have incarnation, in which God moved was the ascension of Christ when On the clinic’s rst insurance,” Perdue said. to make Himself known by de- He was “taken up in glory.” The day in 2003, they saw “It’s a blessing to get to claring that He was manifested in cycle was thereby completed. 12 patients. Now they see around work here and help reach them not the esh. This truth was attested God has acted to make Himself 19,000 annually from all over the only physically but spiritually. I on the occasion of Jesus’ baptism. known. Such is the mystery of Gulf Coast region. It’s grown to be love it.” The voice from heaven af rmed, godliness fully revealed! “This is my beloved Son.” The next declaration in 1 Jerry Batson is Timothy 3:16 draws attention to a retired Alabama “In sharing our faith with kindness and compassion Christ’s resurrection by saying Baptist pastor who also has served as and through our actions, we’ve seen testimonies He was “vindicated in the Spirit, associate dean of seen by angels.” Romans 1:4 Beeson Divinity and stories of God working through this place.” says of Christ that He “has been School at Samford declared to be the powerful Son University and professor of several Kimberly A. Garrett of God by the resurrection from schools of religion the dead according to the Spirit of during his career. director, Victory Health Partners SEPTEMBER 10, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 9 ' E x t r avaga n t Provision' Heart for sharing gospel in Montana continues to grow among Alabama Baptists (continued from page 1) “It’s cool,” Brunson said. “God God broke his heart for the lost has de nitely done a work in re- there. cent years in the heart of Alabama “We were over here one of those Baptists for Montana.” days and prayer walked Livings- After their rst summer in Liv- ton, and we stood on the hill over- ingston, the Brunsons were able to looking the town. Two of my dea- gather a group for Bible study and cons and I prayed a meal and from for the next church there launched planter,” he said. worship gatherings “Six months later, for Expedition we realized it was Church in May us.” 2018. They’ve And in late baptized 13 so 2019, Morris Hill far, including six — then pastor of recently baptized Mount Vernon in the nearby Yel- Baptist Church, lowstone River. Thomasville— But when the and his wife, Bar- pandemic hit, it Photo courtesy of Chris Baker bara, moved to St. brought Brunson’s Chris and Kim Baker and their sons Andrew (left) and Samuel moved from serving in Clarke Baptist Association to plant Summit Life Church in White sh, Regis, Montana, to plans for the year Montana, in 2014. Since then, other Alabamians have joined them in Montana. replant New Day Photo courtesy of Darryl Brunson to a grinding halt. Fellowship. Darryl Brunson baptizes a new “We had a huge Along the way, believer in the Yellowstone River. year planned, and That meant the community vides support and counseling for others from Ala- COVID-19 wiped wasn’t getting the exposure to so foster families and foster chil- bama also have lived and worked that out,” he said, noting that 24 much salt and light, something dren, and they’ve made progress in the area or joined in the work by missions teams had been forced that had opened up avenues for toward buying a refrigerated box bringing missions teams. to cancel their plans to help out in conversations in the past, truck for a local food For one, Kyle and Marisa Rosas Livingston this year. “Our teams Brunson said. pantry and covering the and Bruce and Jessica Crockett — also bring money with them to do So he got another idea For more cost of a service dog both with Scottsboro connections projects, and we put that back into — he posted on social information for a young girl in the — planted Gateway Church in the community. We didn’t have media asking friends and about church who has autism. nearby Columbia Falls. that this year.” family back home to help #50for50, visit “God has truly been raise $50,000 for com- facebook.com/ amazingly faithful,” munity needs for his 50th ExpeditionMt. Brunson said. “We have birthday. He called the ef- prayed for His favor fort #50for50. with people we meet At press time, Brunson had and for churches and individu- raised more than $46,000, around als to partner with us. He has $34,000 of which came from Ala- answered that prayer again and bama Baptist churches and indi- again.” viduals. He asked for Alabama Baptists With the money — all of which to pray for “God’s extravagant goes straight to the community — provision” to keep showing love Expedition Church has been able to their community so that they to give $20,000 to meet needs at a might build relationships and see local elementary school. They’ve the gospel spread. also been able to help Yellowstone “No one loves Livingston like Boys and Girls Ranch, which pro- Jesus does, and we believe that the church should re ect that love,” Brunson said. Morris and Barbara Hill (bottom) and others from their church replant For more information about in St. Regis, Montana, join in a #50for50, visit facebook.com/ Morris and Barbara Hill Facebook photo community Fourth of July parade. ExpeditionMt. PAGEPAGE 1010 // THETHE ALABAMAALABAMA BAPTISTBAPTIST // SEPTEMBERSEPTEMBER 10,10, 20202020 SEPTEMBER 10, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 11 Alabama Baptist STATE BOARD OF MISSIONS Alabama Baptist STATE BOARD OF MISSIONS

ONEMISSION:TheGreatCommissionONEPROGRAM:TheCooperativeProgramMANYMINISTRIES:GreatCommissionMinistries ONEMISSION:TheGreatCommissionONEPROGRAM:TheCooperativeProgramMANYMINISTRIES:GreatCommissionMinistries

YOU’RE INVITED TO JOIN US FOR THE More Than Ever Week of Prayer for State Missions September 13-20 (or choose any time that works best for your church)

day one day two day three day four GENERAL INTRODUCTION DISASTER RELIEF ALABAMA WMU CHURCH PLANTING Pat Ingram Brian Harper Missions & Ministry Consultant Church Planting Strategist Alabama WMU State Board of Missions

day five day six day seven day eight PARTNERSHIP MISSIONS CHURCH REVITALIZATION DISASTER RELIEF ALABAMA WMU Scotty Goldman Ken Allen Mark Wakefield International Friends Retreat Director of Global Missions Church Health Strategist Disaster Relief Strategist State Board of Missions State Board of Missions State Board of Missions

You’re encouraged to be part of a brief Visit Myers-Mallory.org for Myers-Mallory.org but very important online Call to Prayer for downloadable print and video State Missions via Zoom and Facebook on resources, including the full Wednesday, September 16, at 10 a.m. prayer guide and accompanying Visit alsbom.org for a link to join. Week of Prayer videos.

STATE BOARD OF MISSIONS PAGE 10 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / SEPTEMBER 10, 2020 SEPTEMBERSEPTEMBER 10,10, 20202020 // THETHE ALABAMAALABAMA BAPTISTBAPTIST // PAGEPAGE 1111 Alabama Baptist STATE BOARD OF MISSIONS Alabama Baptist STATE BOARD OF MISSIONS

YOU’RE INVITED TO JOIN US FOR THE More Than Ever Week of Prayer for State Missions September 13-20 (or choose any time that works best for your church)

STATE BOARD OF MISSIONS PAGE 12 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / SEPTEMBER 10, 2020 NEWS stories you should know 3 Liberty University Trafficking operation opens investigation rescues 39 children iberty University is opening an early 40 missing or endangered independent investigation into children have been rescued by LJerry Falwell Jr.’s tenure as presi- Nfederal and state agents during a law dent, a wide-ranging inquiry that enforcement operation in Georgia, will include financial, real estate authorities say. and legal matters, the school’s The U.S. Marshals Service an- board of trustees announced Aug. nounced Aug. 27 that 13 missing 31. children were found and an addi- In a statement, the executive com- tional 26 endangered children were mittee of the board said trustees rescued during the two-week opera- had retained an outside firm to in- tion centered on Atlanta and Macon. vestigate “all facets” of the school’s The missing children were consid- operations under Falwell, and that ered to be “some of the most at-risk it was “committed to learning the and challenging recovery cases” and consequences that have flowed some were likely victims of child Facebook photo from a lack of spiritual stewardship sex trafficking, child exploitation, Around 40 members of East Leesville Baptist Church gathered Aug. by our former president.” abuse and had medical or mental 30 for an outdoor worship service on the church’s front lawn. The Calls for such an investigation health conditions, authorities said. congregation was unable to meet in its building because of water had been mounting since Falwell’s Nine people were arrested on damage from Hurricane Laura. The campus is a host site for Louisiana Baptist Disaster Relief operations. Several teams and vol- departure Aug. 25 from the post charges including sex trafficking, unteers from Alabama Baptist Disaster Relief have been deployed to he had held since 2007. Fallwell parental kidnapping and custodial in- Leesville to assist. Read more at tabonline.org/laura-relief. (TAB) resigned after a flurry of allegations terference, as well as other charges. of improper behavior. (AP) (AP) Headline news from around the Southeast Georgia their work on Aug. 26. “These tornadoes are team and four chainsaw/debris removal teams. Eastside Baptist Church, Marietta, Georgia, another unfortunate stamp on a difficult and chal- These teams are working alongside other relief recently raised $17,000 to help families pay off lenging year for so many already suffering,” said organizations and Baptist disaster relief teams medical debt. Partnering with the nonprofit orga- Dan Glenn, senior pastor at Stetson Church. from other states. Mississippi Baptist leaders an- nization RIP Medical Debt, the church saw those ticipate the need for additional teams will be on- funds escalate, with an average of one dollar pay- Louisiana going, Mississippi’s Baptist Record reported. ing off $100 in medical debt. In Marietta alone, More than 70 Baptist Campus Ministries stu- $1.25 million in medical debt will disappear for dents from LSU, along with 15 adult volunteers, Tennessee 575 families, The Christian Index reported. Alto- have responded with chainsaws and Christ’s Pandemic-related decisions by local school gether, more than $2.9 million in medical debt is love to those whose homes were damaged by the districts on whether to have in-person school or being cleared for 1,516 families. fierce onslaught of Hurricane Laura on Aug. 27. virtual learning have inspired Tennessee Baptist The BCM team included 15 international students churches to find “creative new ways for reaching, Florida from seven countries, Louisiana’s Baptist Mes- teaching and ministering to kids and families,” After twin tornadoes tore a 4.6-mile path of sage reported. said Vicki Hulsey, childhood specialist for the destruction through Deland, Florida, on Aug. 18, Tennessee Baptist Mission Board. Among other seven Florida Baptist disaster relief teams, along Mississippi options, some churches are exploring having with additional volunteers from Stetson Baptist Mississippi Baptist Disaster Relief teams have trained educators available to students during Church, responded by covering roofs with tarps recently deployed to southwest Louisiana in the school hours, offering before- and after-school and removing downed trees, the Florida Baptist aftermath of Hurricane Laura’s destructive path care or opening up rooms for study space, Ten- Witness reported. The 120 volunteers completed in late August. Teams deployed include a feeding nessee’s Baptist and Reflector reported. SEPTEMBER 10, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 13 NEWS Samford nursing Alabama news school renamed OBITUARIES people of Highland Park Baptist Church, amford’s Ida Moffett School of Nursing will Laurelle Stoudenmire — former mission- Muscle Shoals, for the past decade has been be renamed to honor current namesake Ida ary, missions advocate and Alabama Woman’s “one of the greatest joys” of his life. SV. Moffett and former dean Nena F. Sanders, Missionary Union president — died Aug. 20. “During these 10 years, we have experi- who retired in May. The school will now be She was 80. enced some of the most amazing ‘God mo- known as Moffett & Sanders School of Nursing. Stoudenmire worked for many years as a reg- ments’ I have ever known,” Samford University President Andrew Westmo- istered nurse in hospitals in Selma, Thomasville said Pitman, who serves reland announced and Grove Hill. Inspired by her mother’s in- as senior pastor. “At the the trustee-approved volvement with WMU, Stoudenmire began serv- same time, we have walked change Aug. 25 during as WMU director for Thomasville Baptist through some of the darkest ing the university’s Church and Clarke Baptist Association in 1988 valleys I have ever known as fall semester open- and later became an International Mission Board well. Through it all, God has ing convocation. trustee. been forever faithful.” Westmoreland In 1999, when her daughter In the past decade, more called both women and son-in-law were appointed PITMAN than 900 people have made “trailblazers within Photo courtesy of Samford as Southern Baptist representa- decisions for Christ and been the profession” and tives to the Philippines, she and baptized at Highland Park, and missions proj- said “their work will continue to bene t students her husband, Allen, began to ect involvement has increased by 84%. here at Samford and patients around the world.” get more personally involved “Seeing life change happen is all because of The name change honors the legacy of Moffett, in missions. She cofounded His faithfulness,” Pitman said. “I am just hon- whose vision for the nursing school and the role Missionary Parents Fellowship, ored that I have gotten to be a part of it.” of the bedside nurse has transcended nearly 100 STOUDENMIRE then in 2006, the couple was The church celebrated Pitman’s 10th anni- years, according to a statement from Samford. appointed as IMB missionaries versary Aug. 23. (TAB) Likewise, Sanders transformed numerous to Guatemala, where they served for two years. FRANKLIN ASSOCIATION health care systems throughout her career. Under Stoudenmire served as president of Alabama her two decades of leadership at Samford, the Jonesboro Baptist Church, Russell- WMU from 2013 to 2015, and over the years nursing school earned numerous rankings and ville, will celebrate its 100th anniversary she also faithfully served her church and com- recognitions, expanded its degree programs, set Sept. 13 at 10:30 a.m. munity as a Bible study teacher, president of the new enrollment records and pioneered online Hospital Auxiliary and president of the Worth- UNIVERSITY OF MOBILE education at Samford. while Club of Thomasville. University of Mobile recorded its high- Sanders also played a central role in the devel- She is survived by her husband, Allen; daugh- est enrollment in ve years for fall 2020, opment of the College of Health Sciences which ters, Jackie and Judy; sons, Jimmy and Jeffrey; bucking a nationwide trend of declining col- is comprised of the Moffett & Sanders School 14 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. lege enrollments during a global pandemic. of Nursing, McWhorter School of Pharmacy, (Grace Thornton) UM reported a total enrollment of 2,016 for School of Health Professions and School of Pub- CAHABA ASSOCIATION fall 2020, up from 1,989 in 2019. The in- lic Health. In addition to her role as the dean of Ocmulgee Baptist Church, Selma, has crease includes the largest class of graduate the nursing school she also served as the college’s postponed its 200th anniversary celebration pre- students in UM’s history. (UM) founding vice provost. (Samford/TAB) viously scheduled for Sept. 20 until spring 2021. CALHOUN ASSOCIATION Faye Baughn, nancial Persecuted church secretary at Meadowbrook Baptist, Oxford, was honored Christian pastor, church member gelistic meetings. recently for 25 years of service drowned for sharing their faith Hardline Mus- to the church. She is the longest lims warned the KAMPALA, Uganda — A Christian pastor tenured staff member in the BAUGHN Christians numer- church’s history. and church member were beaten and drowned ous times to stop in June by Muslim extremists in eastern Ugan- evangelizing. BIRMINGHAM METRO da, apparently for telling people about Jesus. ASSOCIATION The last warning Pastor Peter Kyakulaga, 25, and Tuule reportedly was Ryan Christmas cel- Mumbya, 22, were killed June 22 while sh- issued June 21, ebrated his 10-year anniversary ing at Lake Nakuwa in Lugonyola village. at NorthPark Baptist Church, the day before Police recovered the bodies from the lake on the two men were Trussville, in August. Christ- June 23. Three suspects were arrested in the CIA map mas currently serves as minister killed on June 22. men’s deaths. of missions and operations. He Uganda’s constitution allows religious free- Christians across the lake in Namuseru vil- dom and prohibits religious discrimination. CHRISTMAS previously served as minister to students. Bill Wilks is pastor. lage saw the Lugonyola shoreline as a mis- The country is predominantly Christian (84%). sions eld. They would cross the lake not only About 12% of Uganda’s population is Muslim, COLBERT-LAUDERDALE to sh along the shore but also to be “ shers of making Islam the nation’s largest religious ASSOCIATION men” by inviting Lugonyola villagers to evan- minority. (MS) Brett Pitman says serving alongside the PAGE 14 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / SEPTEMBER 10, 2020 Someone You Should Know WINTFORD & MARTHA HAYNES

By Leigh Pritchett Cullman County Sheriff’s Q: If there were one thing Correspondent, The Alabama Baptist Department. you could tell your younger MINISTRY: Full-time issions work has taken self about faith, what would volunteers and active MWintford Haynes, 82, Q: Who was or is one of it be? church members and his wife, Martha, 79, to the most influential people A: Wintford: God is faith- 41 states. They are chaplains in your faith life? Why? ful, His love is everlasting CHURCH NAME: with the North American A: Wintford: Mrs. Gray, and you can trust Him all Friendship Baptist Church, Cullman, in East Cullman Mission Board and Alabama who led me to Christ at age the time. Baptist Association Baptist Disaster Relief. For 12. My pastors and teach- Martha: To turn to God their work with Campers ers through the years. As first of all. WINTFORD’S LIFE on Mission, the Cullman a young pastor, director of VERSE: “But they that wait upon the Lord shall couple received the lifetime missions Jack Joyner, who Q: Have you ever read a renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings achievement award and took me under his arms and book or heard a song that as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they were recognized for 45-plus encouraged me. changed the way you think shall walk, and not faint.” (Isa. 40:31) years of membership. Martha: Pastor Jack Col- about God and faith? What Wintford was a pastor for lins. He was a true friend to was it and what did you MARTHA’S LIFE VERSE: “I can do all things 15 years and a bivocational me when I needed one. learn from it? through Christ which strengtheneth me.” (Phil. 4:13) music minister for 21 years. A: Wintford: I was on the He brings his Christian hu- Q: Tell about a “turning way to the hospital to see mor and music to people point” in your life and how my granddaughter, who was gave me assurance to put my ing church with Sunday through his “Laugh with God was involved. in critical condition, and faith in Him that all was go- School, followed by morn- Wintford” ministry. A: Wintford: A message heard the song, “I Found ing to work out because He ing worship service; choir Wintford retired from Lib- preached from Ezekiel 3:16: the Lily in My Valley.” The is in control. practice in the evening fol- erty National Life Insurance “I have appointed you as a song goes, “If you’re down lowed by worship service; Company after 31 years. watchman. Warn the people, and broken-hearted, and you Q: Does your church and Wednesday prayer Martha has taught Sunday and if you do not warn them, just can’t seem to find peace have any special traditions meeting with Bible study. School and Vacation Bible I will require their blood at of mind. You’re searching that mean a lot to you? Our church is truly “The School for 35 years. Martha your hand, but if you will for your answers, but your What are they? End of Your Search for a has been involved in Wom- warn them you have deliv- problems are getting worse A: Wintford: A minister- Friendly Church.” an’s Missionary Union at ered yourself.” God spoke all the time. Just reach your the local, associational and to me through that message hands to Jesus; He’ll take state levels. and the next day, I witnessed you in and break the ties TAB CLASSIFIEDS to one of my friends and that bind. He’ll be your lily Q: Describe the focus of he accepted Christ as his in your valley, and you can Place a classified ad for $1 per word. your ministry efforts: Savior. Several verses have watch Him bloom all the For more information call 205-870-4720, ext. 102, A: The couple organized spoken to me since, like time.” God really spoke to or email [email protected]. the Alabama chapter of Philippians 4:19, knowing me through that song and Campers on Mission in 1972 God will provide, and Isaiah TRAVEL/VACATION SIGNS and served 12 years as na- 40:31, waiting on God to LOG CABIN RENTAL NEED A NEW CHURCH tional Campers on Mission provide, knowing He will. Lake Guntersville area, beauti- coordinators for NAMB. SIGN? ful view and fully furnished. Reliable Signs Services, a full- Discounts to ministers. Log on Wintford helped to organize Q: What has God been service sign company located the East Cullman Baptist teaching you lately? to www.paradisevista.net to see pictures. Call for reservations in Alabama for 26 years, is Association Disaster Relief A: Wintford: With this at 205-540-3600. ready to help you grow your team and served on the Ala- COVID-19, patience to wait church sign ministry. From dig- bama Disaster Relief Task on Him. AFFORDABLE BEACHSIDE ital message signs to traditional CONDOS signs. Reliable Signs handles Force. He is also law en- Martha: To trust Him with Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, the design, fabrication and Alabama. Rent direct from forcement chaplain for Cull- everything, even if I can’t installation statewide. www. Christian family owners. Low- man Police Department and see it. est prices on the beach for over reliablesigns.com. Give Danny, 25 years. Call Donna: 251- Stephanie and the rest of the 656-4935, Don: 251-752- team a call: 1-800-729-6844 DO YOU KNOW A PERSON 2366, Eddie: 205-556-0368 or 205-664-0955. WHO SHOULD BE FEATURED AS or www.gulfshorescondos.com. Giving you something BUSINESS GULF SHORES CONDO Someone You Should Know? 1-, 2-, 3-bedroom luxury FOR SALE NEW & USED to hold on to. beachfront condos and four- Send his or her name, a contact number and the reason you bedroom beach resort house! STAIR LIFTS Lift chairs, power wheelchairs, think he or she should be featured to Someone You Should theropetab.com Booking with the owner di- rectly saves you $$. Call Chris car lifts, scooters and walk- Know, c/o The Alabama Baptist, 3310 Independence Drive, A blog for young adults at 502-459-7600 or email: in-tubs. We service Alabama. Birmingham, AL 35209, or to [email protected]. [email protected]. 1-800-682-0658. SEPTEMBER 10, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 15

Famous Christians from previous centuries By Joanne Sloan Joanne Sloan, a member of First Baptist Church, Tuscaloosa, has been a published writer of articles and books for 30 years. She has a bachelor’s Heroes degree double majoring in history and English from East Texas State University (now Texas A&M– of the Commerce) and a master’s degree specializing in English from the University of Arkansas (1978).

2020 marks 125th anniversary of death of Baptist preacher, writer .J. Gordon (1836–1895) Brown University (then Baptist- mittee of the American Baptist Gordon College and Gordon- was an American Baptist affiliated). In 1863 he completed Missionary Union from 1871, and Conwell Theological Seminary. preacher, writer, hymn Newton Theological Seminary. as chair after 1888. He wrote many books, including composer, advocate for “The Ministry of Healing,” a highly A Becoming a pastor He was a favorite speaker at foreign missions and founder of evangelist Dwight L. Moody’s regarded book about divine healing. Gordon College and Gordon- He married Maria Hale in 1863 meetings. In 1886 he addressed He composed hymn tunes for at Conwell Theological Seminary. and became pastor of Jamaica Plain Moody’s Northfield Conference least 15 hymns. One of his most Baptist Church in Roxbury, Mas- This year is the 125th anniver- when the initial 100 student famous tunes was for “My Jesus, I sachusetts. He had six suc- sary of his death. volunteers launched what Love Thee,” found in Baptist hym- cessful years at the church. He was born on April 19, 1836, became the Student Volun- nals for many decades. Amy Grant, in New Hampton, New Hampshire, In 1869, he became pas- Michael W. Smith, Casting Crowns tor of Boston’s Clarendon teer Movement. to John Calvin and Sally Gordon. Speaking at the 1888 and others have recorded the be- His father, a Calvinist, was named Street Baptist Church loved hymn. and served there until his London Centenary Con- after John Calvin. A.J. was named ference on the Protestant after Adoniram Judson, a Baptist death. The church was de- ‘Victory’ Missions of the World, he missionary to Burma. scribed as “one of the most Gordon became suddenly ill with spiritual and aggressive in became an international influenza and bronchitis and died Conversion experience America.” GORDON apologist for missions. He on Feb. 2, 1895. His last audible He was about 15 years old when Gordon was an influential traveled through Scotland word was “victory.” he had a conversion experience and evangelical leader. An avid promot- to strengthen missions. One of his famous sayings was, was baptized in a stream near his er of foreign missions, he spread In 1889, he founded the Boston “You can do more than pray after father’s mill. The next year he felt the gospel worldwide through his Missionary Training Institute. It you have prayed, but you cannot God leading him into the ministry. traveling, preaching and writing. graduated 50 missionaries in its do more than pray until you have In 1860 he graduated from He served on the executive com- first decade and later evolved into prayed.”

Across (Prov. 11:30) 53. German article. 25. Incarnation of 1. And next unto them 27. Bone. (comb. form) 54. And ___ the priest ... Vishnu. Christian Crossword repaired ... ___ the 30. Every wise ___ before the tabernacle 27. He will hate the one Meronothite. buildeth her house. ... at Gibeon. and love the ___. By Janet Adkins Copyright 1994 ©Barbour Publishing Inc. (Neh. 3:7) (Prov. 14:1) (1 Chron. 16:39) (Matt. 6:24) 5. And in the 20th year 32. ___ virgins or lepers. Down 28. Pusher. of Jeroboam king of 33. Norse god of 1. As a ___ of gold in a 29. Craggy hill. Israel reigned ___ thunder. swine’s snout. 31. I will punish the over Judah. 35. Captain of the (Prov. 11:22) multitude of ___. (1 Kings 15:9) “Nautilus.” 2. Are not ___ and (Jer. 46:25) 8. Israeli leader Abba 36. Moses ... came to Pharpar, rivers of 34. Thou hast been my ___. the mountain of Damascus, better? defence and ___. 10. Dropped the first God, even to ___. (2 Kings 5:12) (Ps. 59:16) atomic bomb. (Ex. 3:1) 3. People of Denmark. 37. His ___ had 12. Pale. 38. Continent. (abbr.) 4. Potipherah priest of offended the ... king 13. Digraph. 39. But there was none ___ (Gen. 41:45) of Egypt. (Gen. 40:1) 14. My spirit shall not like unto ___ ... to 5. Those opposed. 39. Commercial. always ___ with work wickedness. 6. No more death, 40. Thy prayer is ___. man. (Gen. 6:3) (1 Kings 21:25) neither ___, nor (Luke 1:13) 16. Rejoice not when 43. Electron volt. (abbr.) crying. (Rev. 21:4) 41. Acid component of thine ___ falleth. 44. Abstain from eating. 7. Mohammad ___. protein. (Prov. 24:17) 46. A swelling. 9. Interjection. 42. So ___ went down 18. Arabian prince. 47. ___ a wise man, and 10. Samantha Steven’s from mount Tabor. 19. Plural suffix. he will love thee. Aunt ___erelda. (Judg. 4:14) 20. Girl. (Prov. 9:8) 11. Reluctant. 45. Sediment. (abbr.) 21. Place. (abbr.) 49. 365 days. (abbr.) 13. ___ Cobb of baseball 46. And she ... bare a 22. Flies high. 50. The sun and the fame. son; and he called 24. He that is now ___ were darkened. 15. German city. his name ___. called a Prophet (Rev. 9:2) 17. Woman’s title of (Gen. 38:3) was before time 51. The heathen ___, address. 48. They were so ___. called a ___. the kingdoms were 18. A fundamental part. (Jer. 24:2) (1 Sam. 9:9) moved. (Ps. 46:6) 21. A drudge, menial. 49. Hear this, all ___ 26. He that winneth 52. Trieste liquid 23. Island. people. (Ps. 49:1) souls is ___. measure. 24. Compass point. 52. Digraph. PAGE 16 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / SEPTEMBER 10, 2020

On November 8,

TAKEfor children in fosterA careSTAND in Alabama.

A teenager reunited with her mother after many PLAN A PRAYER EMPHASIS | We believe prayer is the most years apart. significant gift God’s people can give to our ministry! Visit us online for specific ways you can pray for our ministry to children A young foster child, joyfully reading scripture on and families across Alabama: alabamachild.org/standsunday his church’s live-streamed worship service. SHARE A VIDEO | There are many great stories of how God A teenage girl who came into our care during has worked in the lives of those in our care— stories of re- the COVID crisis, who heard and saw the gospel demption, healing, and restoration. Visit alabamachild.org/ displayed and decided to follow Jesus with her life. videos to view or download a video. PROVIDE AN OFFERING | If your church was unable to These are just a few of the lives impacted this year through meet and participate in your annual Children’s Homes offering Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes & Family Ministries because in conjunction with Mother’s Day, Stand Sunday may be of your support from all across Alabama. On November 8, a great time to remember our children through a special offer- whether meeting in person or online, you and your church can ing. Resources to assist may be downloaded or requested at raise awareness and support for even more children in foster alabamachild.org/abide. care on Stand Sunday, in connection with Orphan Sunday! Listed here are a few ways you can take part. HOST A NEEDS LIST DRIVE | We have a variety of specific needs at our locations across the state, ranging from household More details and resources for Stand Sunday are available at items, cleaning supplies, pantry items, and more. Encourage alabamachild.org/StandSunday. your church to host a drive: alabamachild.org/needslist

*For privacy purposes, photo is representative of children in (888) 720-8805 // alabamachild.org // foster care. SEPTEMBER 10, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 17 Eden Westside to host tent revival in Pell City in October den Westside Baptist follow current state health “It is for people to come Church will host the regulations and take every to a place where they are E “Come to Christ Cru- precaution “to ensure that introduced to Jesus; it’s not sade” tent revival Oct. 4–8 people are as safe as pos- come to a denomination, not from 6:30 to 8:30 nightly on sible.” come to a particular church, the church’s campus in Pell Connell said God planted such as Eden Westside, but City in St. Clair County. the idea of a tent meeting in it’s come to Christ. Anybody Speakers include C.T. his heart in April 2019, and can come. It’s for everyone Townsend of North Augusta, he began to plan, to have an oppor- South Carolina; Scott Daw- never imagining tunity to respond For more son of Birmingham; Steve how different life information, visit to the gospel mes- Gaines of Cordova, Tennes- would look in edenwestside. sage.” see; Ted Traylor of Pensaco- October 2020 due org. All ages will la, Florida; and Johnny Hunt to a global pan- hear the gospel, of Woodstock, Georgia. demic. he said. A chil- Birmingham’s ABC 33/40 “When you look back, dren’s crusade for ages 4 to Chief Meteorologist James there was really nothing go- 6th grade will be held on Spann also will speak at ing on back then that would Eden’s campus inside the the crusade. Musical guests call for something this un- children’s building. Child include Charles Billings- conventional,” Connell said. care will be provided for ley, Jonathan Wilburn and “But God knew what was children 3 years old and University of Mobile vocal going to happen in 2020. ... younger. performing ensemble Voices I am absolutely and utterly A baptism at Lake Logan of Mobile. convinced that this (crusade) Martin will be held at 2 p.m. The tent will accommo- is of God.” on Oct. 11 at Lakeside Park date some 1,600 people, and The purpose of the “Come in Pell City for those who Eden Westside Pastor Jacky to Christ Crusade” is evan- accept Christ at the crusade. Connell said the crusade will gelistic, Connell said. (Pam Childs) PAGE 18 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / SEPTEMBER 10, 2020

SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSONS For September 13 Explore the Bible Bible Studies for Life By Robert L. Olsen, Ph.D. By Jeffery M. Leonard, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Christian Studies, University of Mobile Associate Professor of Biblical Studies, Samford University

GOD SENDS speak His word HONOR GOD tant in Scripture Isaiah 6:1–13 to Israel. Isaiah, Exodus 20:7–11; Psalm 145:1–7 that a prohibition now having been What’s in a name? Well, in the against misusing God’s Glory (1–4) purified, did not Bible, a great deal actually. Biblical the Divine Name Isaiah received his calling direct- want to miss out names often capture the character of is included even ly from God, as do all true proph- on serving God, even though his the person they belong to. in the Ten Commandments. Interest- ets. The vision seen here is the message was going to be one of Abraham’s name means “father ingly, the Decalogue’s command calling of Isaiah. This is one of the judgment. He knew most of the of a multitude” or “exalted father,” concerning the Divine Name goes more famous passages in Scripture people hearing the message would both meanings that tell us about the beyond merely forbidding abuse of involving the holiness of God. The not repent and turn back to God. man Abraham would one day be- God’s name. The command in He- seraphim surround God, saying Notice how Isaiah was willing come. “Isaac” is a wordplay on the brew is literally, “Do not take up the “Holy, Holy, Holy,” indicating the to serve God even though the task word “laughter,” capturing Sarah’s name of the Lord your God for noth- emphatic nature of God’s holiness. was daunting and likely frustrating. derisive laughter when she heard ing”; it is a command against invok- Of course, God’s holiness is seen It did not matter to Isaiah because she would have a son and her joyous ing the Divine Name thoughtlessly throughout the Bible, and it is often serving God is what brought him laughter when she finally did. “Ja- or for an empty purpose. seen as one of God’s two main at- satisfaction. cob” is connected in a folk etymolo- tributes, the other being love. This We all should approach serving gy to the word “heel,” reminding us We are to honor God through is very important for Christians to God with gladness, not with grum- of the time he grabbed Esau’s heel our worship. (Ps. 145:1–3) understand in our modern setting. bling and annoyance. and tried to steer him in the direc- As if to underscore why the name In Western societies, we tend to Being chosen to serve God is tion Jacob wanted him to go. of God should be treated with spe- focus on God’s love and mercy of- a great privilege, and Christians A person’s name in the Bible is cial reverence and care, the psalmist ten at the expense of His holiness. should jump at the opportunity. often much more than a title; it is a explains why he is determined to This leads to the next point. Of course, serving God looks dif- statement of a person’s reputation “praise your name for ever and ever” ferent for each person. We cannot and character. This is the reason and “extol your name for ever and God’s Forgiveness (5–7) choose someone else’s calling. God replied so forcefully to Moses ever.” The reason, he insists, is be- Isaiah recognized his unworthi- We need to be obedient and con- when Moses asked God what His cause, “Great is the Lord and most ness to be in the presence of a righ- tent with what God has called us name was in Exodus 3. worthy of praise; his greatness no teous and holy God. When one is to do, whether it is going overseas When God told Moses he was one can fathom.” When the psalmist faced with God, one immediately to a country and people who need the man chosen to set God’s people praises God’s name, he is praising realizes how unworthy he or she is, to hear the gospel, teaching middle free, Moses asked, “Who am I that I God for who He is; he is praising and it results in terror and woe. school in a local school, being a should go to Pharaoh?” God’s reply Him for His greatness. Isaiah was aware of his sinful- mother to children at home or be- was that He would be with Moses, ness, but God cleansed him in order ing a truck driver delivering sup- and that would be enough. We are to honor God through to allow him to speak His word to plies. God had seemed to do very little our testimony and actions. the people of Israel. Each of these is a calling from for the Israelites as they descended (Ps. 145:4–7) It is important for people today to the Lord and needs to be done with into slavery and oppression in The psalmist goes on in verses understand that no matter how good the utmost concern because we are Egypt. Moses’ objection seems to 4–7 to speak not just of who God they may seem, sin has rendered serving God in our calling (see Col. capture this fact as he asked, “Fine, is but of what God does. Here, the each of us unworthy (see Rom. 3:23). then what is Your name?” God re- psalmist assembles a litany of terms 3:23). Many people believe they are sponded strongly — “I AM WHO that flesh out the meaning of God’s “good” or their friend who is not a God’s Persistence (11–13) I AM! You tell them I AM has sent name: “your works,” “your mighty Christian is a good person; there- Isaiah’s ministry would not result you!” — not because Moses had acts,” “your wonderful works,” fore, God will extend salvation to in Israel turning from her sins. In inquired about His title but because “your awesome works” and “your him or her because God is love. contrast, Israel would persist in her Moses was questioning God’s repu- great deeds.” However, holiness means God is sinful ways, bringing God’s judg- tation. He was questioning God’s God’s name is the tangible expres- pure and righteous and cannot be in ment. In spite of all of this howev- character. sion of His reputation. To utter His the presence of sin. The only way er, God would preserve for Himself name is to recall all God has done. for people to be made right with a remnant, a small group of people We are to honor God’s name It is important to note that rever- God is if our sins are forgiven and who would listen to the words of and everything about Him. ence for the Divine Name is not lim- we are deemed righteous. God through His prophet. (Ex. 20:7–11) ited just to the Ten Commandments This happens in Christ alone (see Isaiah’s ministry shows us that The pages of Scripture draw an or even to the pages of the Old Eph. 1:7, 2 Cor. 5:21). Just because we cannot judge the success of extremely strong connection be- Testament. The Lord’s prayer itself someone is “religious” or “a good our ministry by the result; instead, tween God and God’s name. His begins with the words “Our Father, person” in our estimation does not the success is in our obedience to name is treated as a representation who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy mean God will accept that person our calling. I have seen Christians of all God is and all God has done. name.” “Hallowed” is an old English as somehow being righteous. defeated because their ministry It becomes a monument so closely expression meaning “let be holy.” did not meet with the success they connected with God that to mistreat Thus, Jesus’ instruction is that even God’s Call (8–10) hoped for, but we need to keep our the monument is to mistreat God His disciples should approach God God asked, in the presence of eyes on God not on our circum- Himself. The connection between with reverence and continue to treat Isaiah, who was willing to go and stances. God and God’s name is so impor- His name as holy. SEPTEMBER 10, 2020 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / PAGE 19 Media MUSIC reviews Gulf Shores worship leader, UM grad ready for where God leads next By Lanell Downs Smith Walker enjoys writing for Life- Correspondent, The Alabama Baptist Way, which he said has been good ust over a year ago, Blake to him and to the Church. Walker developed a vision “LifeWay is doing what they can for an album he hoped would to put out good, new music. We Jlaunch his songwriting career. are writing songs that can resonate “Generation to Generation,” an with the Church today,” Walker extended play album, debuted in said. January. The four-song project, written with songwriters Dick and ‘Gift of music’ Melodie Tunney, eventually led A recent composition, “Gather Walker to a position as LifeWay in Glorious Light,” was designed Christian Resources staff song- to inspire churches as they reopen writer. after COVID-19, he said. Orchestration and accompani- Growing up, Walker loved to sing ment tracks for the EP are sched- and lead worship, and aspired to uled for release by LifeWay Wor- become a band director. ship in March 2021. He credits University of Mo- Photos courtesy of Blake Walker “I wrote the song ‘Through the bile with nurturing his passion for BLAKE WALKER Valley’ at the end of a long week,” songwriting. It was there he sensed Walker said. “I remember God put- God’s call to songwriting and ble, Voices of Mobile, Walker was as they were in coming together. ting this phrase in my head — you learned that singing and performing prepared for ministry with ample “It was such a joy to see people, may be walking through a valley, are all about reaching people. platform experience. He also sur- to see their smiles,” Walker said. but you’re not walking it alone. You “You’re more than just a number rounded himself with other writers. “They were so excited to come out never walk it alone.” there,” Walker said. “They care It fostered his passion to write from in their cars to worship each week. about you as a person and about the heart, Walker said. It felt right, and I believe we hon- ‘Lord just spoke’ your spiritual life. I’m thankful for In 2018, he sang with the group ored the Lord by doing that.” “I sat down at the piano and the my time at University of Mobile UniVoice in Concert of the Ages at Lord just spoke that song through and for people like Roger Breland the Museum of the Bible in Wash- Future plans me. That’s a song for the Church who took time and invested in me. ington. The production, created by Blake Walker Music has pro- today, (one) we need to hear.” They taught me what it means to the Tunneys and Stan Moser, gave duced two online projects: a band As a LifeWay songwriter, Walker not just get up and sing a song audiences a deeper understanding arrangement of “Everything to composes contemporary and train front of people. As a worship of God with songs that led them Me,” which Walker released in ditional music, some suited for leader, God has given us the gift of through the Bible. college, and Generation to Genera- younger generations and others for music to communicate His gospel.” The group performed at Billy tion, a modern choir book. choirs or orchestras. As a member of the vocal ensem- Graham’s U.S. Capitol memorial And after two years at First, Gulf service and also sang with Michael Shores, Walker wrapped up his W. Smith during his release concert time there on Sept. 6. In a Face- for the album “Surrounded.” book post, Walker said he is thankful for his time there and for the Pandemic challenges friendships he’s made. Walker also recently served as Walker wrote, “God is opening contemporary worship leader at some new and exciting doors for First Baptist Gulf Shores under me, which I’ll share down the road. worship pastor Jim Van Matre. He is Faithful!” Providing safe worship experi- Walker told TAB Media he looks ences, including a drive-up in- forward to watching what God will person Easter service, during the do through the songs he writes for coronavirus pandemic presented a LifeWay and desires to continue new set of challenges for worship leading worship and writing wor- leaders, he said. ship songs. Walker found that worshippers “I’m where God has planted me weren’t as concerned with the qual- and I’m trying to be as faithful as I ity of sound or overall experience can until He opens more doors.” PAGE 20 / THE ALABAMA BAPTIST / SEPTEMBER 10, 2020 Finding freedom Yee Haw: Cowboy Church deems first Cowboy Camp a success By David Moore pated in previous cowboy camps Florida Baptist Witness through the American Fellowship of hen it comes to sum- Cowboy Churches. mer camp experiences, About 70 additional volunteers the teens and tweens helped make the camp possible Wwho attended Cow- including a security team, activity boy Camp at Rafter Cross Cowboy leaders, food team, crafts team and Church in Williston may have quite three nurses and a paramedic. the leg up over their peers. Instead of the more traditional New experiences canoeing, archery and lake swim- Like Vacation Bible School, the ming, cowboy campers were roping camp started each morning with mu- and tying steer, catching greased sic from the band and a short chal- pigs with their bare hands and doing lenge from the pastor. Then camp- a little donkey jousting, shovel surf- ers, separated into herds according ing, steer skiing and more. to their ages, were led to various “This is probably the first one activities throughout the day. Lunch that has ever been done like this in was followed by more activities, Florida,” said Pastor Billy Keith, then dinner and an evening worship Photo courtesy of Florida Baptist Witness who organized the camp with a crew experience. A final hour of fun and A new believer is baptized ‘the cowboy way’ following Cowboy Camp in of volunteers. About 90 students, games ended each day. Williston, Florida. ‘Our whole purpose is for kids to find Jesus,’ said Rafter Cross Cowboy Church Pastor Billy Keith, who organized the camp. ages 8–18, from Williston and the Campers got to try their hands surrounding area, attended. at roping, tying and even painting branding steer. They also roped woodburning and tie-dying T-shirts. uled to take its youth to a cowboy Camp with a twist goats and chased greased pigs. With Throughout the day, campers also camp in Alabama as had been done Cowboy Camp was held over pool noodles in hand, students took were taught about the love of Christ. in previous years. When that camp three days at the church property in part in donkey jousting. They also As the youngsters rotated to each was cancelled due to COVID-19, the Williston, running each day from had fun with water slides and games activity, they were led in an opening church decided to conduct its own about 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. For this like muddy kick ball, wet volleyball and closing prayer, as well as a short camp, said Keith, who helped start event they brought in a camp pastor and tug of war. devotion from the activity leader. the cowboy church back in 2006. and a camp band that had partici- Crafts included leatherwork, “All day long they were hearing about Jesus,” Keith said. “Our whole God-led effort purpose is for kids to find Jesus.” “These kids have been stuck at This year’s theme was Camp home, away from their friends, out Freedom, and students learned about of school. Their lives have been finding freedom through Jesus, like turned upside down,” Keith said. freedom from fear, for example. “We wanted to give them something “Freedom from fear took on a before summer was up. It didn’t whole new meaning for a lot of them seem like anyone else was doing because on the first day they were anything, so we decided we’d let scared to death,” Keith said of stu- God lead this thing and we’d try it.” dents interacting with the animals, The camp was so successful that many for the first time. “But by the organizers have decided to do it second day it was amazing to see again next year. With rave reviews how that fear had dissolved.” from campers, plus changes and im- And before camp was over, 15 provements already planned for next students had made professions of year, organizers are expecting an faith and were baptized the cowboy even bigger crowd. And they like the way in a horse trough. idea of reaching the locals. Several campers and their fami- “Instead of sending our kids off Photo courtesy of Florida Baptist Witness lies have even started attending the somewhere, we feel that it’s impor- Campers at Cowboy Camp practice roping and tying a steer, a popular rodeo church, which is the goal of out- tant that we focus on our own back- event. About 90 students ages 8–18 participated in the first-ever Cowboy Camp reach events like the camp. yard and reach out to our community held in August at Rafter Cross Cowboy Church in Williston, Florida. The church was originally sched- and the surrounding places.” Thursday, September 10, 2020

Six Reasons Why Your Pastor BMBA Calendar Visit us online for more events at is About to Quit http://www.facebook.com/ Birmingham.Metro.Baptist. by Dr. Barry F. Cosper Association

n this time of the Covid-19 pan- the community. They long for the HAVE INCREASED SIGNIFICANTLY. Pastors Cohort Idemic, we face extreme chal- “normal” to return. But the normal will Some pastors are receiving far more With Mark Clifton lenges that require churches to reex- not return. There will be a “new nor- complaints than they were before amine itself concerning what God is mal” instead. What is that “new nor- the pandemic. One pastor de- Every Monday on going to do in this challenging time. mal?” We are attempting to connect scribed his experience as five times Zoom The question we have to address with God’s very heart so we can fol- more criticisms now than before the is WHAT CAN WE DO AS A PASTOR low the leadership of the Holy Spirit pandemic. Church members are Join us every Monday at 8:30 AND STAFF TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE to understand how God is leading us worried and weary. Their most con- a.m. OR 8:30 p.m., on Zoom for the IN THE COMMUNITY AS WE MINIS- to make a spiritual difference in the venient target for their dissatisfac- BMBA Pastors Cohort With Mark Clif- TER TO A LOT OF HURTING PEOPLE? community. tion is the pastor. ton, BMBA’s new Interim Director of I thank you in advance for the bold 2. PASTORS ARE GREATLY DIS- 6. THE WORKLOAD FOR PASTORS Church Revitalization. Mark is lead- ministry that you are already doing. COURAGED ABOUT THE FIGHTING HAS INCREASED GREATLY. Statis- ing our Cohort group of pastors God has His hand upon your con- TAKING PLACE AMONG CHURCH tics reveal that since the pandemic through Flickering Lamps - Christ gregation. Thank you for sharing the MEMBERS ABOUT THE POST-QUAR- started, the workload of pastors has & His Church written by Henry and heart of God, along with your com- ANTINE CHURCH. Should churches enormously increased. The pastors Richard Blackaby. passion and love. gather in person or wait? Should have tried to serve their churches as Please RSVP to Marisa Taylor I read an interesting article on churches practice social distancing? they did in the past. Once the pan- at [email protected] or August 31st that caught my atten- I encourage our churches to prac- demic started, the pastors had to call her at (205)599-3245. When tion. Dr. Thom Rainer wrote the arti- tice wearing masks and social dis- become acquainted with the reality you RSVP, please make sure you cle. The title of the article is “SIX REA- tancing. Be proactive and be a part of the digital world as they desired reserve a book for this class. We SONS WHY YOUR PASTOR IS ABOUT of the solution instead of the cultural that the church would continue to hope to see you there! TO QUIT.” I share this article with you problem. The mindset of culture has be ministered to in a highly effec- so you will know how to intercede for made this a political conflict. Many tive way. Surveys also reveal that your pastor and staff. The article is of our churches regularly deal with pastoral care among members has Calling All Golfers! alarming but also informative of our complaints when the leadership increased during the pandemic as Signup for the proper response as churches. May makes decisions for the church. well. BMBA Charity Golf your church be a friend to its staff 3. PASTORS ARE DISCOURAGED Pastors are burned out, beaten Tournament On and pray for them every day. ABOUT LOSING MEMBERS AND AT- up, and downtrodden. May your This period of the Covid-19 pan- TENDANCE. Let me emphasize it is church be God’s love gift to your September 24th! demic is described as one of “great not about numbers only. I would like pastor and his family. Pray for them discouragement.” Is this the only you to consider this scenario. What if daily. Walk alongside him as he seeks The BMBA Annual Charity Golf reason for this period of great dis- half of your friends stopped having to minister to the church family in a Tournamant will be Thursday, Sep- couragement? The answer is no. The anything to do with you? How would highly effective way. tember 24th, at Pine Tree Country pandemic has exacerbated trends you feel? Would you feel isolated I thank each church in advance Club. Enjoy a relaxing day of golf that were already in place. The res- and lonely as well as despondent? for being God’s love gift to your pas- and fellowship for a good cause! ignations could still have happened Several statistical studies have re- tor and family! We have made arrangements for a in the next three to five years. Many vealed that possibly one-fourth of safe and socially distanced golfing of the pastors do not see themselves the members may not return. This is Dr. Barry F. Cosper experience this year. as leaving the ministry but only as a sad scenario. All proceeds from the 2020 tour- moving into a new ministry. The cur- 4. PASTORS DO NOT KNOW IF Associational Mission Strategist nament will go to the BMBA Food rent state of many churches includes THEIR CHURCHES WILL BE ABLE TO Bessemer Baptist Association Distribution Ministry. As you know, continual conflict, negativity, and SUPPORT MINISTRIES FINANCIALLY the COVID-19 pandemic has had apathy. As a whole, many churches IN THE FUTURE. In the early stages a terrible adverse affect on many need revitalization and revival. Let of the pandemic, churches were ex- in our community who have expe- us now look at the six reasons. periencing healthy giving. Church BMBA WMU Annual rienced job loss and many families 1. PASTORS ARE WEARY OF THE members remained faithful in their Meeting is Saturday and individuals are hurting financially. We desire to reach out to PANDEMIC, JUST LIKE EVERYONE practice of giving. The government’s The BMBA WMU Annual Meet- those in our community that are in ELSE. Pastors are not superhumans. involvement of funds for businesses ing is Saturday, September 12, at need of assistance by providing They have strong convictions about and consumers was a great assis- 10:00 a.m. This meeting is a virtual healthy food for their pantries and ministry. During this time of discour- tance and blessing. Now we face a meeting on ZOOM. If you need meals on their tables. agement, pastors miss being among future of enormous challenges. What help logging into ZOOM, please To signup your team, contact Mi- their people, and they miss seeing will be the church’s potential? What contact Marisa Taylor at marisat@ chael Ethridge at michaele@bm- their people. They miss making new will the church do? bmbaonline.org. acquaintances as they minister to 5. CRITICISMS AGAINST PASTORS baonline.org by September 17th. 2211 McGwier Drive Hoover, AL 35226 September 10, 2020 Phone: (205) 822-3240 www.churchonthebluff.org

FROM YOUR PASTOR’S HEART Wed., Sept. 9 God Is Real, No Matter How You Feel 6:30 PM “The LORD has hidden himself from his people, but I trust him Peace. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we lived in a world of Prayer & Bible Study peace? If we define peace as the absence of conflict that will and place my hope in him.” Isaiah 8:17 (GNT) Restricted contact never happen; especially in a time of instant communication. Sunday, Sept. 13 It’s easy to worship God when things are going great in your A building explodes in Lebanon and we see it almost life—when he’s provided food, friends, family, health, and 10:00 AM immediately. People are murdered at a church and we see it happy situations. But circumstances are not always pleasant. Worship Service Only within minutes. A man is shot by police officers and we see the How do you worship God then? What do you do when God Restricted contact actually event. Riots and looting, vicious attacks on peaceful seems a million miles away? people trying to protect what is theirs…it staggers the Wed., Sept. 16 imagination. Can there ever be peace? The answer to that 6:30 PM The deepest level of worship is praising God in spite of pain, question is a resounding “yes”! Prayer & Bible Study thanking God during a trial, trusting him when tempted, Restricted contact surrendering while suffering, and loving him when he seems Jesus said: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do distant.

not give to you as the world gives” (John 14:27 NIV). Did you Sunday, Sept. 20 10:00 AM The writer Philip Yancey once noted, “Any relationship catch that? The peace that Jesus gives is different than that involves times of closeness and times of distance, and in a which the world gives. The apostle Paul expounds on that Worship Service Only Restricted contact relationship with God, no matter how intimate, the pendulum when he said: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every will swing from one side to the other.” situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present Wed., Sept. 23 your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends 6:30 PM That’s when worship gets difficult. all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Prayer & Bible Study To mature your friendship, God will test it with periods of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7 NIV). The world can only offer Restricted contact seeming separation—times when it seems as if he has peace with the absence of conflict and that will never happen. Sunday, Sept. 27 abandoned or forgotten you. God feels a million miles away. Jesus offers us peace in the midst of conflict. He said “in every 10:00 AM St. John of the Cross referred to these days of spiritual dryness situation”! Yes, even in riots and violence God offers us a Worship Service Only and doubt about God as “the dark night of the soul.” peace that will guard our hearts and minds. Restricted contact God called King David “a man after my own heart” (see 1 Samuel But we need to make it even more personal. While the anger Wed., Sept. 30 13:14 and Acts 13:22), yet David sometimes complained about and hatred does, indeed, swirl around us there are many 6:30 PM God’s apparent absence:

personal conflicts that attack us. Many parents experience an Prayer & Bible Study  “Lord, why are you standing aloof and far away? Why do you unruly child; some wives a doubting and stubborn husband. Restricted contact hide when I need you the most?” (Psalm 10:1 TLB). There will be conflicts in the workplace and conflicts in (Above subject to change friendships. Many will encounter financial difficulties, as rules change.)  “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me? Why are you sicknesses, or personal demons of behavior. Even in these so far away when I groan for help?” (Psalm 22:1 NLT). things, no, especially in these things we can experience a peace  “Why have you abandoned me?” (Psalm 43:2 GNT; see also that passes the understanding of the human mind. Psalm 44:23; 74:11; 88:14; 89:49).

I heard a story about a man who was an extreme “worrier”. Of course, God hadn’t really left David, and he’ll never leave His friends and family were all troubled by how worried he you. God has promised repeatedly, “I will never leave you; I will was about almost every facet of life. Then, he seemed to never abandon you” (Hebrews 13:5 GNT). change overnight. This, too, was noticeable and one of his Copied from "Daily Hope with Rick Warren" [email protected] friends asked him about his obvious change. He told him that he had hired a man to worry for him! His friend found that interesting and asked him how much he paid that person. “I Praying in Faith Without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone pay him a million dollars a year.” the man replied. “A million September who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He dollars?” exclaimed his friend. “You can’t afford to pay anyone 16 Pat McGraw a million dollars!” “Well,” said the man with a smile, “That’s rewards those who earnestly seek Him. Hebrews 11:6, NIV 18 Steve Moon for him to worry about”. 19 Terry McDowell Have you based your faith . . . on what someone else has told

26 Andy Barnes you God wants to do for you? on what you have seen Him do Seriously, Jesus says we are to cast our cares on Him. We are to turn things over to Him. That results in a “peace that passes October for another person? on what you think is fair or loving? on understanding”. The peace that Jesus alone can give. 2 Judy Conley what you think would be in the best interest of those involved? 2 Becca Hall on a doctor’s recommendation for treatment? You and I must 6 Alex Lee pray in faith, or our prayer will not be pleasing to God. If your Bro. Tony 6 Holley faith as you pray is based on anything other than faith in God’s McWilliams specific promise given to you in His Word, then your prayer is 8 Tillie Powers on a shaky foundation. So ask God to give you a promise from 10 Andy Kong His Word on which you can pray in faith.

13 Opal Boyd Copyright © 2011 Anne Graham Lotz (AnGeL Ministries) Raleigh, North Carolina, USA. 20 Miguel Colin Used by permission. All rights reserved www.annegrahamlotz.com. 25 Ernest Burgess 25 Camille Upton Pastor: Tony Barber ([email protected]) Contact number: 329-1950, 822-3240, 822-3295 Worship: Duane Terpo ([email protected]) Children’s Ministries Director: Angie Barber ([email protected]) Contact number: 329-1954 Given: 52% Office: Sharron Atkinson ([email protected])