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FROM THE INSIDE OUT Metanoia builds on community assets
Islamic terrorism: Separating myths from realities
CHRISTIANS ASK SCIENTISTS WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT NATURE?
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 1 3/14/17 5:28 AM OUR MISSION THE MISSION of Nurturing Faith Journal is to provide relevant and trusted N information, thoughtful analysis and inspiring features, rooted in the historic Baptist tradition of freedom of conscience, for reflective Christians seeking to F live out a mature faith in a fast-changing culture. J BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jack Glasgow, Zebulon, N.C. (chairman) Cathy Turner, Clemson, S.C. (vice chair) OUR TEAM Nannette Avery, Signal Mountain, Tenn. Kelly L. Belcher, Asheville, N.C. EXECUTIVE EDITOR Edwin Boland, Johns Creek, Ga. John D. Pierce Donald L. Brewer, Gainesville, Ga. [email protected] Ronnie Brewer, Bristol, Va. Kenny Crump, Ruston, La. Doug Dortch, Birmingham, Ala. CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER CHURCH RESOURCES EDITOR Wayne Glasgow, Macon, Ga. David Cassady Julie Steele Frank Granger, Athens, Ga. [email protected] [email protected] Cynthia Holmes, St. Louis, Mo. David Hull, Watkinsville, Ga. MANAGING EDITOR CREATIVE DIRECTOR Bill Ireland, Ooltewah, Tenn. Jackie B. Riley Vickie Frayne Becky Matheny, Athens, Ga. [email protected] [email protected] Bill McConnell, Knoxville, Tenn. Tommy McDearis, Blacksburg, Va. Andrew McGill, Chattanooga, Tenn. CONTRIBUTING EDITOR / CURRICULUM WRITER CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER Cynthia Wise Mitchell, Birmingham, Ala. Tony W. Cartledge Jannie Lister William T. Neal, Stone Mountain, Ga. [email protected] [email protected] Roger Paynter, Decatur, Ga. Ron Perritt, Baton Rouge, La. Charles Schaible, Macon, Ga. ONLINE EDITOR / CONTRIBUTING WRITER BOOK PUBLISHING MANAGER Tamara Tillman Smathers, Rome, Ga. Lex Horton Bruce T. Gourley Charlotte Cook Smith, Winston-Salem, N.C. [email protected] [email protected] Carol Boseman Taylor, Rocky Mount, N.C. Jim Thomason, Anderson, S.C. DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Sarah Timmerman, Cairo, Ga. John F. Bridges Lydia Fields Monica Vaughan, Greensboro, N.C. [email protected] [email protected] Laurie Weatherford, Winter Park, Fla. Clem White, St. Petersburg, Fla. * * * PUBLISHER EMERITUS EDITOR EMERITUS DIRECTORS EMERITI Walker Knight Jack U. Harwell Thomas E. Boland R. Kirby Godsey Ann B. Roebuck OUR COLUMNISTS Guy Rutland III Mary Etta Sanders The Lighter Side – Brett Younger Mel Williams Winnie V. Williams Theology in the Pews – John R. Franke Nurturing Faith Journal (ISSN 1072-7787) is Questions Christians Ask Scientists – Paul Wallace published bimonthly by: Baptists Today, Being Church in Changing Times – Center for Healthy Churches Subscription rates: 1 year, $24; 2 years, $42; 1 year groups of 25 or more, $18; 1 year groups Diggin’ It – Tony W. Cartledge of less than 25, $24; 1 year Canada, $42; 1 year foreign, $100. Periodical postage paid at Macon, Ga. 31208 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address correc- Nurturing Faith is a trademark of the autonomous, national publishing ministry Baptists Today, Inc., a 501(c)(3) tions to: P.O. Box 6318, Macon, GA 31208-6318 charitable organization founded in 1983 and guided by an independent Board of Directors. Baptists Today, Inc. and its subsidiary Nurturing Faith, Inc. produce Nurturing Faith Journal, Nurturing Faith Bible Studies, Nurturing All rights reserved. Faith Books, Nurturing Faith Experiences and other resources. Daily news, blogs and other timely information, along with teaching materials and other resources, are available at nurturingfaith.net.
NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 2 3/14/17 5:28 AM MEDIA: GOOD BOOK KEEPS THE FOCUS ON LARGE, IMPORTANT BIBLICAL THEMES INSIDE By John D. Pierce VOL. 35, ISSUE 3 51 MAY / JUNE 2017
THOUGHTS DIGGIN’ IT 9 To whom are we listening? Collateral discovery By John D. Pierce By Tony W. Cartledge 50
18 Theology in the Pews: Peace on Earth 13 Solar farm powers NC congrega- By John R. Franke tion’s ministries
19 Our time is now 14 Pew: Americans warming up to By Amanda Tyler most religious groups
43 E"ective theological education 14 Church-sponsored Boy Scouts fosters healthier churches groups react to transgender By Matthew Tennant decision
54 Roberto Clemente’s ‘problem’ 15 Jews support burned Florida is ours, too 44 mosque, $18 at a time By John D. Pierce 15 Catholics, Jews mark history of the RELIGION AND THE menorah together AMERICAN PRESIDENTS FEATURES James A. Garfield (1881) 38 Robert Parham led Baptists, others to engage ethical issues 4 FROM THE INSIDE OUT: Metanoia builds on community INFORMATION 40 Melissa Rogers: Religious organi- assets zations can engage government By John D. Pierce 10 Prayer Breakfast organizer quietly properly influenced DC powerbrokers 42 Syrian Baptist churches minister, 41 Physician to refugees to be honored for human rights work grow amid war 11 Scientists ponder how to talk to the faithful about climate change 46 Islamic terrorism: QUESTIONS CHRISTIANS Separating myths from realities 12 Lydia Fields expanding social By Bruce Gourley ASK SCIENTISTS media for Nurturing Faith What does the Bible say about 56 Historically significant church nature? celebrates 200 years 12 Baugh Foundation gift supports By Paul Wallace By Bruce Gourley new publishing collaboration 60
Cover photo by John Pierce. Bill Stanfield (left) and Willie Brown are part of Metanoia, a nonprofit community development corporation bringing positive change to North Charleston, S.C., from the inside out. See story on page 4.
Worth Repeating ...... 8 Lighter Side ...... 20 Classifieds ...... 38 Editorial ...... 9 Recognition & Remembrance ...... 38 Reblog ...... 54
NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 3 3/14/17 5:28 AM North Charleston police o#cers chat with Bill Stanfield following a lunch break at The Macon. The newly opened café along the city’s once-vibrant Reynolds Avenue is a community development initiative of Metanoia. Fro! th" insid" ou# Metanoia group builds on community assets
STORY AND PHOTOS opment organization that seeks to maximize was funded through grants and individual BY JOHN D. PIERCE assets within local settings on the south side giving. After lunch, Bill met with local of North Charleston. bankers about funding for other projects. ORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. Learning to leverage the financial — The Macon, a newly opened COLLABORATION resources necessary for community develop- N café, is creating a buzz with its Bill Stanfield, a Baptist minister and the ment, he said, can be added to the growing tasty breakfast and lunch offerings. Locals, CEO of Metanoia, pointed toward the list of “things I didn’t learn in seminary.” including some North Charleston police ceiling of the tidy restaurant and noted that The café is an example of the collab- officers who stopped by for lunch, expressed earlier one could see all the way to the sky. orative efforts that shape the ongoing good appreciation for the good food and comfort- The owner gave the abandoned building to work of Metanoia. The space is leased to able setting. Metanoia in 2009. Duvall Catering for $1 per month with an This reclaimed building along once “I think he got the better end of the “open-book policy,” said Stanfield. vibrant but long-struggling Reynolds deal,” said Stanfield with a smile. The rent will increase along with the Avenue is a sign of hope — as are other The once vacant building that drew profit margin — and the agreement calls businesses, numerous homes, a new squatters and illegal activity has been for employees to be hired from within the school, a shared garden and other commu- restored and put to good use. Behind the community. nity-enriching places throughout the café are large spaces where entrepreneurial Attractive light fixtures donated for the Chicora-Cherokee neighborhood. youth arrive after school to screen-print café stem from a partnership with a local The café is but one of many initiatives shirts and make jewelry they sell online. lighting company that employs 40 persons of Metanoia, a nonprofit community devel- The building, which also houses volunteers, from the neighborhood.
4 Feature
NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 4 3/14/17 5:28 AM LAYERS Brown, a former local baseball star who While “faith is the fuel in the tank for played professionally for several years. a lot of people who work here,” there is no “It’s like making lasagna,” said Stanfield, He and his wife, Patricia Brown, coercion, said Bill. He refers to the bibli- in describing Metanoia’s strategic, holistic who serves as administrative assistant for cal parable of the sower, saying: “We want development efforts in this Low Country Metanoia, were married in 1970 at home Metanoia to be good ground for people to community — as well as the various sources plate in West Palm Beach’s Memorial grow in faith.” of funding and other resources that under- Stadium, where Willie played for the affili- His connections throughout the area gird each project. ate of the Montreal Expos. are deep and wide now. He meets monthly And the first “layer” of many that make Mentoring is a major initiative of with the mayor’s chief of staff to maximize up this successful approach to community Metanoia — from helping students with opportunities for enhancing the commu- development is the most important one: the their homework and monitoring their nity’s infrastructure and empowering its often-overlooked assets within the neigh- grades, to teaching leadership skills and how neighbors. borhoods. to make and handle money responsibly. “About every job someone does here, Those assets, rather than exist- “We don’t give away anything,” I’ve done before,” he said. “There’s no such ing problems, are Metanoia’s focus, said Stanfield explained. “You have to bring thing as a typical day here.” Stanfield. He, along with his wife Evelyn something to the table.” Oliviera, moved into North Charleston’s For example, Individual Develop- LESSONS Chicora-Cherokee neighborhood in 2002 ment Accounts are established for those in — and have since expanded their family to Fifteen years have passed since the young middle school to begin saving money for urban ministry couple moved into this include two sons, ages 7 and 10, who were college. For each dollar raised and saved by adopted from Ethiopia. neighborhood that had experienced the student, Metanoia invests three dollars economic decline and rising crime. They Support from the Cooperative Baptist toward the educational experience. Fellowship of South Carolina allowed got involved in community organizations “Communities like this often have lots and local schools, and spent a lot of time them a full year to get acquainted with of services provided but few opportuni- their neighbors and to build relationships listening. ties,” said Stanfield. Rather than a charity Their asset-based approach, he said, of trust. Success, they knew, would not mindset, Metanoia has an investment come from outsiders purporting to bring provided an advantage. mindset, he said. “Investors look for poten- “When you look at people from a solutions to perceived problems. tial and expect a return.” Those human and financial invest- deficiency standpoint, you’re always going The church building with the tall steeple to be disappointed,” he explained. “You ments continue to pay off in Metanoia’s once housed a large Southern Baptist congre- mission to build leaders, establish quality look for their strengths, their capacities, and gation. Now it is home base for the offices are willing to work with those.” housing and generate economic develop- and many programs of Metanoia. Stanfield ment — recognizing that the best expertise As a result, Metanoia has become a serves as an associate minister of the predom- major vehicle for bringing together the is found within the community. inantly African-American congregation. The organization’s name is a translit- resources that has allowed the community eration of a Greek word defined in a variety of ways such as “reformation,” “spiritual conversion,” “change of heart” or “a positive transformation.” In North Charleston, it also means “pushing forward to something better.”
MENTORS A young leaders program was the first official programming. Now approximately 75 school children head over to St. Matthew Baptist Church for Metanoia’s afterschool programs. Eager mentors, some having come through the program years earlier, greet the Metanoia CEO Bill Stanfield children. Volunteers include students from says the nonprofit community development corporation is the College of Charleston who are trans- community-based, asset-driven ported from the campus and back by Willie and rooted in faith.
Feature 5
NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 5 3/14/17 5:28 AM to begin to experience renewal. And along quickly note the successes too. Clearly, position is still funded through the Cooper- the way a lot of learning has taken place. Stanfield is trusted and respected by his ative Baptist Fellowship of South Carolina’s “The key lesson I learned is that it’s a many neighbors for helping lead the slow anti-poverty initiative. marathon and not a sprint,” said Stanfield, but sure changes that continue to take place The most gratifying moments, who follows the sage advice he was given: in this Low Country community. however, come from a simple, single word “Don’t go crazy over your victories or go in However, he pushes back on any narra- that he loves to hear, said Stanfield. That is, the tubes about your losses.” tive that depicts him in heroic terms. “when people in the neighborhood refer to Stanfield recalled visiting the late “It’s important how we portray Metanoia as ‘we.’” minister and social activist Gordon Cosby ourselves to the neighborhood,” he said. at the Church of the Savior in Washington, “We are servants more than fixers — follow- GOOD SIGNS D.C., years ago, and hearing him say: “One ing the model of Jesus.” This North Charleston neighborhood of the things you’ll be doing down there is Metanoia now has 10 full-time remains a mix of great successes and getting used to failure.” staff plus several part-time workers and continuing challenges. A new school has “He was right,” said Stanfield, noting numerous volunteers — and a budget of opened, and Metanoia is hopeful of acquir- that his calling is foremost to be faithful, approximately $1.5 million dollars, allow- ing the old school building to repurpose. not necessarily successful. That perspec- ing for ongoing community development. An urban farm grew out of a master tive, along with careful attention to his own “Charleston is a good place to raise gardener’s good work with the community spirituality, keeps him energized about his money,” said Stanfield. garden project. Yet Stanfield says a grocery calling to this work. Funds come from a variety of sources store is needed in the neighborhood as well. Yet anyone who sees the obvious results including the United Way, various grants Regardless of the need, the starting of Metanoia’s deep investments here would and individual charitable gifts. And Bill’s question is always: “What does the commu-
6 Feature
NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 6 3/14/17 5:28 AM nity have itself to help solve this problem?” Funds for a new recreation facility with sports fields are in the mix for this “commu- nity between two rivers” that currently has no public pool. New and refurbished housing contin- ues to spread throughout the community. Personal home ownership was an early prior- ity for Metanoia. But, after the mortgage crisis, the emphasis shifted to Metanoia acquiring property to ensure affordable rental housing if and when the commu- nity — as Stanfield suspects — becomes a popular place to live again. “We’re ideally located,” he said, noting that revitalization is also tied to a sense of safety. One area where Metanoia built or refurbished housing won a national award for crime reduction. Metanoia has acquired about 15 lots for future development — and several houses are now under construction. “Getting control of sites ahead of gentrification is important,” he said, expressing a commitment to what he called “gentrification with justice.” Bill is generous with what he’s learned over the 15 years since he and Evelyn — who now teaches Spanish and does education ministry at a historic Charleston church — bought a house on Success Street and began the journey of “relational over transactional” community development. As a result, Metonoia has become a “demonstration project” to show how distressed communities can channel resources to build “from the inside out,” and Stanfield is often asked to share those lessons with others. When doing so, he confesses that the experiences over the past 15 years have impacted him personally. “It’s easier for me to be here in this neighborhood than in the neighborhoods YOUNG LEADERS – A leadership-based after-school program for elementary school students was that think I’m a hero [for living here],” he Metanoia’s first initiative. Now some former students have become mentors alongside other volunteers including students from the College of Charleston. said. “It’s changed me; I’m at home here.” Through the many years of growth, ups and downs to see what can result from money for college, to the widening spread Metanoia has stayed true to its three stated such faithfulness. of safe and attractive housing, to a sparkling core values: being asset driven, community Amid the remaining evidence of urban new school, to a great new place to grab a based and rooted in faith. decline are many good and hopeful signs delicious Panini and remember what used It takes a good dose of faith to move however — from the steady march of school to happen right there. into such a community and invest so deeply. children to after-school programs, to youth It’s all about pushing forward to And it takes even more to stay through the learning entrepreneurial skills and saving something better — from the inside out. NFJ
Feature 7
NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 7 3/14/17 5:28 AM “My shoes squeak louder when I’m making hospital visits.” Worth —Mike Gregg, pastor of Royal Lane Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas (Facebook) Repeating
“The dysfunctional marrying and religious bigotry. Instead, “There are now more full-time of Christianity to Ayn Rand’s fight such bigotry by recognizing senior pastors who are over the Atlas Shrugged is as much of that righteous faith has never age 65 than under the age of 40. an oxymoron as the equally guaranteed righteous action.” It is urgent that denominations, dysfunctional fusing of Islam to the —Alan Levinovitz, assistant professor of networks and independent rage-filled theology of vengeance religion at James Madison University (Time) churches determine how to best adopted by some Islamists.” motivate, mobilize, resource and deploy … younger pastors.” —UCLA law professor “… 57 percent of white evangelical Jhaled Abou El Fadl (ABC) Protestants thought it was very —David Kinnaman, president of the Barna important to be Christian in order to Group that released a new study in March on “The Aging of America’s Pastors” (BNG) “If we defend the rights of people be American.” to construct places of false —Religion reporter Julie Zauzmer referencing worship, are we not helping them a Pew Research Center study on what “I’m excited to provide a platform speed down the highway to hell?” residents say it takes to truly belong in for more informed discourse about one’s country (Washington Post) religion.” —Pastor Dean Haun of First Baptist Church of Morristown, Tenn., opposing Southern Baptist —Diane Moore, director of Harvard Divinity agency support for the First Amendment “That awe, wonder and beauty School’s Religious Literacy Project that o"ers rights of American Muslims (BNG) promote healthier levels of a free online course to promote religious literacy (Hu"Po) cytokines suggests that the “When a people grow up where things we do to experience these religious liberty is a given, it is hard to emotions — a walk in nature, losing “When we are tempted to think keep them from yawning at the idea.” oneself in music, beholding art — about when the church has been its worst, we need to pause for a —Church historian Walter B. Shurden, who has a direct influence upon health with his wife Kay established a lecture series and life expectancy.” moment and remember when it was its best… We need to recall with the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious —UC Berkeley psychologist Dacher Keltner, Report from the Capital Liberty ( ) co-author of a study published in Emotion when members of the church family journal that found nature, art and religion didn’t simply talk about God’s love; “The government should remember to be among life’s best anti-inflammatories they lived it.” (Knowridge Science Report) that establishments of religion not —Joel Snider, retired pastor and a coach with only harm the consciences of those the Center for Healthy Churches who don’t embrace the favored faith; “It’s a very di#cult political time they also undermine the religion that to raise a prophetic voice in terms the state endorses by sapping its of our response to the political CORRECTION climate that is in America today. independence and vitality.” In the article, “Was John Calvin a Five- So I tried to focus on the church —Melissa Rogers, former executive director Point Calvinist?” by Ben Self (March-April and Christianity as I see it in of the White House O!ce of Faith-based and issue, pp. 46-47), the word “perseverance” America today and how American Neighborhood Partnerships (Brookings.edu) was mistakenly substituted for “preserva- Christianity is wedded more to the tion.” The sentence should have read: flag than to the cross.” “Implying that authentic religiosity, “Many have suggested that preservation Christian or otherwise, is defined —Pastor J. Wendell Mapson of Monumental of the saints, though perhaps inelegant as by the incapacity to do evil is Baptist Church in Philadelphia, speaking a phrase, might have been a more accurate at a local conference of ministers representation for Calvin.” precisely what leads to tribalism (Philadelphia Tribune)
8 Thoughts
NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 8 3/14/17 5:28 AM EDITORIAL To whom are we listening? By John D. Pierce
n a recent road trip my radio dial Religious voices abound and compete Americans feel toward various religious landed on a comedy channel in for attention also. We tend to choose the groups. One consistent factor was that Ohopes of bringing a little cheer to ones that feel best to us. one’s good feelings were tied to the famil- the mindless miles. Since my youthful days Yet daily we encounter people who iarity with persons of that particular faith. of staying up late enough to catch Johnny have something to say to us that is worth That is, the better we know someone, Carson’s nightly monologue, stand-up hearing — although we rarely invest the better we feel about that person’s faith. comedians have been a favorite source of enough of ourselves to know what’s on their The flip side is that our faith is better entertainment and often insight. hearts and minds. understood and appreciated and possibly Comedians play an important role in However, we can learn much — partic- embraced, as well, through meaningful our culture for reasons beyond bringing ularly from those who quietly struggle relationships that include listening — and laughter, which indeed is good medicine. in ways we cannot imagine — when we not just going forth to “hassle people and They often speak truth in ways that more give more ear time and interest beyond make every social situation awkward.” serious proclaimers are unable to do so, or the comforts of our Jesus invested heavily in familiar- at least unable to be heard. own shared experi- ity. He didn’t preach from a hilltop and One comedic voice that caught my ences and beliefs. hide. He engaged those who were social attention was Matt Braunger, whose And, in doing so, outcasts, doubters and critics. He reached routine turned to a critique of Christianity. we learn more about out respectfully to women and embraced So the volume went up on my radio as he ourselves. children warmly. Even his closest followers said: Our charge were a mix of characters. “Jesus didn’t go upon the mount and to proclaim is only We would do well to get better say, ‘Go forth and hassle people and make as effective as our acquainted with service industry workers; every social situation awkward.’” sensitivities to listen. persons of varied ethnic, economic and Hmmm, I thought; I needed to hear Yet sometimes we’re so eager to impart our religious backgrounds; and others whose that. understandings of truth that we fail to see voices we need to hear. We need to listen to There is a spiritual discipline not often and hear how others view us, and the faith Millennials, immigrants and comics. listed among prayer, meditation, fasting we hold firmly. Facelessness over familiarity causes us and so on. It is the need to intentionally Sometimes we need to sit at a different to see people as less than God sees them hear other voices beyond our spiritual and table — to talk to someone who is more and calls us to value them. Often we hear sociological enclaves and to contemplate different than those we know best and only what others say about them — rather what is being said. listen to most often. than attentively listening to them ourselves. We need to ask: Who gets the most Sometimes we need to turn to a differ- Our enclave religiosity — with its time in our ears — and, therefore, minds? ent station — and drop our defensiveness. failure to become familiar with those whose The more daring might even chart listening Sometimes we need to place ourselves in struggles and blessings are beyond our habits over a week. the shoes of those whose experiences we purview — allow for generalized, imper- For many, it would be a favored radio have never known. sonal perceptions of groups of people and or TV personality who stirs up certain By leaving the emotional security of often unfounded fears of them. political passions. Then there’s the group of our religious and political enclaves, we can Perhaps what some of us fear the most buddies who reinforce each other’s prefer- hear unfamiliar voices. And, in doing so, we is that we might hear something that makes ences and prejudices — sometimes at the have a better chance of hearing perspectives sense — and causes us to rethink, even coffee shop or even in Sunday school where and even critiques that we need. realign, our comfortable ways of believ- the conversation moves quickly from the A recent Pew Research Survey ing and living. That, too, would be worth biblical text to a favored soapbox. (reported on page 14) studied how warmly listening for. NFJ
Thoughts 9
NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 9 3/14/17 5:28 AM Behind the scenes National Prayer Breakfast organizer Doug Coe quietly influenced DC powerbrokers
BY ADELLE M. BANKS Under Coe’s leadership, the founda- mentor and guide to anyone, regardless of Religion News Service tion turned its focus to people-to-people party or faith, who wants to deepen his or relationships, whether those were members her relationship to God.” oug Coe, who died in February of Congress, the military or the business Cromartie said Coe received criti- at age 88, was the well-connected world. cism from the right and left for not being D organizer of the annual National In a 2008 book, The Family, author political. Prayer Breakfast and a spiritual mentor to Jeff Sharlet said Coe was viewed “with a “Doug was a very apolitical man when many politicians. mixture of intimacy and awe” by members he got with people,” Cromartie said. “He He was the longtime head of the Inter- of the organization. would meet with anybody if it would mean national Foundation, a secretive Christian “Doug Coe, they say — most people he’d get a chance to talk about Jesus to organization known as The Fellowship refer to him by his first and last name — is them.” and The Family, that was responsible for closer to Jesus than perhaps any other man And his efforts to avoid politics carried bringing together politicians, diplomats alive, and thus privy to information the rest through to his determination to avoid and presidents since Dwight Eisenhower of us are too spiritu- “Christian” terminology. to Washington each year on the first ally ‘immature’ to “His view was [that] the word ‘Chris- Thursday in February. understand,” wrote tian’ was often a turnoff word because Even through this year’s gather- Sharlet, who lived people associated it with politics of the right ing, at which President Trump spoke, for a month with the or of the left,” Cromartie said. “He felt like Coe remained out of the limelight at the group. it obscured the larger message of Jesus so breakfast and its related events to which Sharlet wrote he just didn’t like the word ‘Christian’ and politicians and religious leaders flew in from that the foundation’s he used to humorously say ‘Jesus wasn’t a across the globe. hospitality facility on Doug Coe Christian.’” “In a town where powerful people are a historic property in Sharlet predicted that Coe would be constantly trying to increase their name Arlington, Va., was a “refuge for the perse- more influential than conservative Christian cuted and the afflicted,” from Supreme leaders such as Pat Robertson and James recognition and their brand, Doug Coe Court Justice Clarence Thomas after Anita Dobson. was the opposite of that,” said Michael Hill’s accusations of sexual harassment to “Dobson might be able to muscle his Cromartie, director of the Evangelicals in James Watt, President Reagan’s secretary of way on an individual vote or in an individ- Civic Life program at Washington’s Ethics defense who was surrounded by controversy ual election, but Coe and the Family’s and Public Policy Center. “He was a man around his appointment. influence is going to be much longer term, who liked to work behind the scenes, who Outside of the annual national gather- much more enduring,” he said. did not call attention to himself, who was a ing, Coe fostered additional prayer sessions In a statement about his death, Coe’s sort of a pastor to people in power.” with Democrats and Republicans — some family said he continued even at the end of When Coe was named to Time of whom resided together at a C Street row his life to move the focus away from himself magazine’s 2005 list of 25 influential house in southeast Washington — and and toward a favorite verse from the Gospel evangelicals — and called “The Stealth meetings with global leaders that were of Luke that reads “for the harvest is ready, Persuader” — he tried unsuccessfully to sometimes called into question. but the laborers are few.” persuade the editors to remove his name In a 2008 interview, Sharlet said Coe’s “Doug begged us not to make his and then declined to provide a photo. organization had for decades been “playing passing about him, but rather continuously A Medford, Ore., native, Coe was matchmaker between American power and showed us how to make it about Jesus,’’ the recruited to Washington in 1958 by Chris- foreign dictators.” family said. “His wish was that this family tian leader Abraham Vereide after working But Hillary Clinton, in her book Living of friends around the world would each with the Young Life and the Navigators History, was among those who praised Coe: gather with one or two in their small group ministries. He and Vereide developed the “Doug Coe, the longtime National Prayer in their own location at their next regularly precursor to the foundation that Coe led Breakfast organizer, is a unique presence in scheduled time, and continue the prayer after his mentor’s death in 1969. Washington: a genuinely loving spiritual from Luke 10:2 that was his life focus.” NFJ
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 10 3/14/17 5:28 AM Head$ & Hearts Scientists ponder how to talk to the faithful about climate change
BY LAUREN MARKOE community of being in this together. And a Northeastern University professor who Religion News Service for many people … faith communities often studies communication and public opinion provide exactly that.” in science policy debates. OSTON — After sessions on gravi- She called it “connecting our heads to “Religion is more than just a belief tational waves, nuclear forensics our hearts.” system; it’s also a community,” he said. B and artificial intelligence, one of the The annual conference of the American “Churches are among our most powerful, world’s largest general science conferences Association for the Advancement of Science most important engines for civic engage- invited attendees to hear from an Episcopal took place in February as more scientists ment and public participation.” priest. were engaging in Evangelicals, several studies have Fletcher Harper preached on climate public policy debates shown, are also more likely than other change, and how to get a vast segment of in response to the Americans to doubt climate change. NFJ the world’s population to pay better atten- election of President tion to what scientists know but many Trump, who has —Lauren Markoe of Religion News Service others doubt: that the problem is worsening called climate change is a recipient of the 2016 AAAS Science for and portends disaster. a hoax and, as a Religion Reporters Award, part of an initia- “My entreaty for scientists is to be able candidate, promoted tive to facilitate communication between to speak publicly about why you care,” said the debunked idea Fletcher Harper religious and scientific communities. Harper, executive director of GreenFaith, an that vaccines are interfaith nonprofit that aims to galvanize linked to autism. religious people to safeguard the environ- Hayhoe and Harper offered several ment. “It’s vital not to soft-pedal the dangers ways of framing the science to make it more that we face. … A great deal is at stake.” palatable to the faithful. At a time when many Americans were Invoke the environment as a gift — in church, Harper and the academics on a the religious response to a gift is gratitude, Sunday panel about “leveraging religious but also responsibility, said Harper. Then, support for climate policy” explained why he said, talk about the world as “out of Decorate your home, church and how scientists should pursue religious balance.” or o!ce with the compelling people as allies. “That kind of metaphor is most images of award-winning Most people are people of faith, said familiar to people who are practitioners of photographer Bruce Gourley. panelist Katharine Hayhoe, a climate the dharmic traditions (such as Hinduism scientist and committed Christian who is and Buddhism), but it also resonates very Images are available in many sizes considered one of the most effective voices consistently through Muslim teachings as canvas prints, framed prints, metal explaining the consequences of global and writings and it resonates certainly for prints, wood prints and more. warming to the religious. Christians and Jews.” Nurturing Faith subscribers receive Since three-quarters of Americans “It also has the advantage of connect- a 15% discount by using the and an even larger percentage of the global ing people with their everyday experience,” Discount Code “YNMTSZ”. he added. population belong to a religious group, and http://brucegourley.photography since religion is how so many understand “When they realize that it’s 50 degrees their world, it’s incumbent upon scien- at 7 o’clock in the morning in Boston in tists to describe the sobering and difficult the middle of February, it’s not hard for problem of climate change in religious people … to agree with the fact that perhaps terms, she said. something is out of balance.” “For long-term sustained action, we Also adding to the value of the religious need hope. We need love. We need encour- as allies in the climate change debate is their agement. We need that sense of shared organization, said panelist Matthew Nisbet,
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 11 3/14/17 5:28 AM Lydia Fields does HEALTHY CHURCH RESOURCES social media for Nurturing Faith Baugh Foundation gift supports new publishing collaboration ACON, Ga. — Nurturing Faith, the expanding publishing minis- ACON, Ga. — “Finally, a being developed and prioritized, will M try of the nonprofit Baptists series of resources for local be made known soon, said Wilson and Today, Inc., has tapped independent M churches that are pragmatic, Pierce, expressing appreciation for the graphic designer Lydia Fields of Gainesville, effective, based upon actual experience growing collaboration and the generous Ga., to develop and implement a compre- and user-friendly!” said Bill Wilson, support of the Baugh family. hensive social media strategy. She is a visual president of the Center for Healthy “Thanks to the generosity of the arts and public relations graduate of Berry Churches, following news that a gift Baugh Foundation and the collabora- College and received from the Eula Mae and John Baugh tive endeavors of the Center for Healthy a Masters of Chris- Foundation will support the develop- Churches and Nurturing Faith, the tian Ministry from ment and publication of new and needed coming years will see a series of relevant Mercer University’s resources for churches during a time of tools and resources become available to McAfee School of significant change and envisioning. a wide audience,” said Wilson. “This Theology. In collaboration with Nurturing innovative venture brings together three “Lydia knows Faith publishing, the Center will produce organizations that love the local church social media strategy a series of books and supportive materi- and are dedicated to seeing it thrive in and our audience als addressing a variety of pertinent the 21st century.” very well,” said John topics for congregations — drawing on Jackie Baugh Moore of the Baugh Pierce, executive editor and publisher for the experiences and insights of pastoral Foundation said the project will provide Nurturing Faith. “She brings exactly what practitioners who are ministers, consul- hope and health to congregations and we need to make fuller use of available tants and coaches. pastors. communications to advance our expanding “For years the Center for Healthy “This exciting and timely collabo- work.” Churches has provided a column in ration between the Center for Healthy A grant from the Eula Mae and John Nurturing Faith Journal and, more Churches and Nurturing Faith will be Baugh Foundation supports this needed role recently, we published together the excel- a top resource for lay leaders and clergy that will further the content and mission lent book Weaving Strong Leaders,” said seeking to grow healthier congregations of Nurturing Faith with an active and Nurturing Faith editor and publisher and to lead through times of envision- engaging social media presence that uses John Pierce. “We will rebrand that ing and transition,” she added. “You will emerging platforms to connect subscribers, book as the first in this series aimed recognize many of the writers as leaders raise awareness of available resources and squarely at strengthening ministers and with personal knowledge and extensive engage readers on a daily basis. congregations.” experience in church leadership and “We want more people to know more Forthcoming resources, which are congregational life.” NFJ of what we are providing,” said Pierce. “And we want more engagement from those who use, value and benefit from the varied Nurturing Faith products and services.” To receive an occasional update from Nurturing Faith via email — with our promise to not overwhelm you or share your information — send your email address to [email protected], telling Lydia to “Put me on the list.” “And be sure to click, follow and friend us,” said Lydia. The various social media can be found at nurturingfaith.net. NFJ
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 12 3/14/17 5:28 AM Sunny surprise: Solar farm powers NC congregation’s ministries
BY JOHN D. PIERCE
MOUNT OLIVE, N.C. — It is not unusual for land to be bequeathed to a congregation that the donor loved. What is unusual, however, is for such land to provide solar energy that fuels the church’s current and expanding ministries. irst Baptist Church of Mount Olive, N.C., a town best known for F producing pickles out on Cucumber very positive impact for the city and county. than ‘business,’” said Atwood. “Our church Boulevard, has two solar farms on donated Clean operation, no noise, great tax base for culture has changed for the better in the land — and new resources for mission the city and county.” sense that people have embraced the concept endeavors that otherwise would still be a Broader exposure from media coverage of an asset-based approach toward the dream. “skyrocketed publicity for both the church resources and ministries God has entrusted “We’re still in the visioning stage of and clean energy,” said church trustee to us.” exploring how the solar income can directly Angelo San Fratello, who helps share the As a result, the congregation is taking impact, or sponsor, specific new ministries story in civic, corporate and educational a fresh look at its resources, he said, includ- in the coming years,” said pastor Dennis settings. ing existing buildings and properties, “and Atwood, noting that initial revenues The two tracts — 130 acres in one asking, ‘Are we maximizing their use in addressed some budget needs as well as and 56 acres in the other — came to the order to further the kingdom of God?’” increased giving to statewide mission causes. church several years ago among other gifts Both the congregation and the commu- “The presence of solar income has also from the estate of James Everette Joyner. nity are widely supportive of this unexpected enabled our congregation to continue vital They remained farmland until a renewable yet beneficial venture that would never have ministries in our community such as Meals energy company contacted the church in been a part of the congregation’s long-range on Wheels, a food pantry, utilities assistance 2011 about establishing the solar presence. planning, church leaders said. for families, and our annual ‘Warm the By 2015, nearly 20,000 solar panels were in “Overall the public response has been World Day’ that provides free coats, jackets place — bringing energy and the resulting very positive and supportive,” said Atwood. and blankets to many of our neighbors…” resources for ministry. “As long as First Baptist is committed to he added. “We’re not looking to make “I consider the solar farming venture being a generous, missional church, there money and increase ‘business,’ but to lever- to be a matter of good stewardship rather will be positive support.” NFJ age all our assets and spiritual gifts in a way that will impact people’s lives for the sake of The place to go between issues of the Nurturing Faith Journal is the gospel.” The positive use of the land is good for the public image of church, already known NURTURINGFAITH.NET for its many contributions to the commu- > Blogs, breaking news, and the latest books, resources nity, said trustee Charles McLendon. and experiences from Nurturing Faith “We were the first to have solar farms, > Daily religion news from around world, handpicked at a time when they were never heard of in by online editor Bruce Gourley this part of the country,” said McLendon. > Teaching resources, including video overviews and lesson “I think [the community] can see it as a plans, for the Nurturing Faith Bible Studies by Tony Cartledge
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 13 3/14/17 5:28 AM Pew: Americans warming up to most religious groups
BY JOHN D. PIERCE to rate each other warmly while atheists and evangelicals continue to see each other So how do Americans feel toward various more negatively. religious groups? Evangelicals are less definitive than A recent Pew Research Center survey and not as well known as some other raised that question and found that, in groups. In fact, there was a noticeable general, Americans have more positive drop in the percentage of persons saying feelings toward religious groups now than they knew at least one evangelical. That they did in 2014. decrease may also be tied to the number Evangelicals were the only group to of persons who previously identified as not see an increase — remaining at 61 on evangelical but stopped using the designa- the 100-point “feeling thermometer” used tion due to political connotations. by Pew. Mainline Protestants moved up Overall, 44 percent of Americans feel from 62 to 65. Jews and Catholics also rose very warmly toward evangelical Christians in the study with improved scores from 63 and 38 percent put them in the middle of to 67 and 62 to 66, respectively. the scale. Cooler feelings about evangeli- Buddhists jumped from 53 to 60, and cals are held by 18 percent. Hindus from 50 to 58. The coolest feelings Of those surveyed, 28 percent were toward Muslims and atheists, though identified as evangelicals. When these self- both groups saw significant increases. described evangelicals were removed from Atheists had the largest gain, rising the results, about one-third (32 percent) of from 41 to 50 on the scale. Muslims conducted in January. According to Pew, the remaining non-evangelical Americans jumped from 40 to 48 while still recording the survey found wide variation in the rated evangelicals rather warmly. the lowest score in the survey. ratings that U.S. religious groups give one Regarding all the religious groups These findings came from the Pew another. identified in the study, personal familiarity Research Center survey of 4,248 adults For example, Jews and Christians tend increased good feelings. NFJ
Boy Scouts alternative sees uptick after transgender decision
BY ADELLE M. BANKS inquiries. “Where many people would say Participating boys, called “Naviga- Religion News Service that they’re leaving Boys Scouts, we have tors” and “Adventurers,” have outdoor many others that are saying that the Boy adventures, earn badges and can seek the ince the Boy Scouts of America Scouts left them.” Horizon Award that Trail Life considers decided to accept transgender New Trail Life troops have to go a parallel to the Eagle Scout rank. Many S youngsters, there appears to be through a chartering process that can take of the troop numbers correspond to Bible growing interest in an alternative group weeks, but several indicators suggest its verses. — although the BSA does not require numbers are about to swell. The BSA, which has nearly 2.3 troops chartered by houses of worship to “We’ve pushed a few employees from million members, said it has received accept children who do not identify with part time to full time and pushed some letters of support since its decision from a their birth gender. from full time to overtime to handle the range of religious organizations — which Nevertheless, the website of Trail inquiries from troops around the country charter the majority of Scouting units. Life USA, which bills itself as a Chris- that are looking for an organization that’s R. Chip Turner, former chairman of tian alternative, has had trouble keeping more aligned with the original timeless BSA’s Religious Relationships Commit- up with the people checking an online values of Boy Scouts,” Hancock said. tee, said congregations that run units locator map for troops across the country Trail Life began in January 2014 still are responsible for membership since the late-January announcement. and has moved from a virtual office to the guidelines: “Faith groups chartering Boy “We’ve seen tremendous response,” 127-acre campus of a former boys home Scout units need to realize that the latest said Trail Life CEO Mark Hancock in Belton, S.C. Most of its troops are change only impacts them as they choose in reference to the surge of membership based in evangelical churches. for it to do so.” NFJ
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 14 3/14/17 5:28 AM Jews support burned Fla. mosque, $18 at a time BY KIMBERLY WINSTON and “yod” equals 10. Together they form the Religion News Service Hebrew word “chai,” which has a numerical value of 18 and means “life.” fter a Florida mosque was torched Karim’s local mosque, the Islamic in an arson attack in February, a Society of New Tampa, which had its A local Muslim noticed something exterior damaged by an arsonist, is just odd about donations made to a repair fund one beneficiary of a new wave of interfaith he launched. support amid increased hostilities toward Instead of the round numbers Adeel religious and ethnic groups. Karim expected — $25, $50, $100 or more Other examples include Muslim — the donations were in multiples of $18 Medals at the 2009 Maccabiah games feature military veterans offering to help guard — $36, $72, $90 and more. the Hebrew chai symbol. Photo courtesy of Jewish sites from vandalism and Jonathan Creative Commons/BAWSWIM “I couldn’t understand why people Greenblatt, head of the Anti-Defamation were donating in what seemed like weird Fisher …. Jews donate in multiples of 18 as League, an anti-Semitism watchdog group, amounts to the cause,” Karim wrote in a a form of what is called ‘Chai.’ It wishes the receiving a standing ovation after stating Facebook post. recipient a long life.” that if U.S. Muslims were forced to register “Then I figured out after clicking on Specifically, each Hebrew letter has a with the government, he would register as a the names Avi, Cohen, Goldstein, Rubin, numerical value; the letter “chet” equals 8 Muslim, too. NFJ
Catholics, Jews mark history of the menorah with first joint show
BY JOSEPHINE MCKENNA been stolen by invading vandals in the Religion News Service sacking of Rome in the fifth century. Nevertheless, it was during the OME — A 2,000-year-old stone Roman Empire that the menorah became block unearthed by archaeologists a strong cultural and religious symbol for R from an Israeli synagogue in the Jews, appearing on graves, sarcophagi and town of Magdala will be featured in the first- catacombs on the outskirts of the city. ever joint art exhibit mounted by the Vatican The exhibit, which runs May 15 to Museums and Rome’s Jewish community. July 23 at both the Vatican Museums and The block, featuring a relief of a the Jewish Museum of Rome, features 130 menorah beside two jugs, will be part of an items, including paintings, documents and exhibit titled “Menorah: Worship, History candlesticks. and Myth,” tracing the history of the seven- community. “We have some great works of art, branched symbol of Jewish faith (not to be “This is an interesting initiative from including six or seven bronze candlesticks confused with the nine-branched candle- a cultural point of view and its ideological which also show the Christian tradition holder used during the Jewish holiday of symbolism,” said Di Segni. “Although the of the menorah,” said Arnold Nesselrath, Hanukkah) and its influence on Christian menorah is essentially considered a Jewish deputy director of the Vatican Museums. art and artifacts. symbol, it also has a history in the Christian “Many Christian churches simply pointed The exhibit was announced in Febru- world.” to their Jewish roots this way.” ary by Cardinal Kurt Koch, head of the But the joint initiative of the two faiths Nesselrath said the exhibit was impor- Vatican body responsible for promoting will do little to solve the mystery of what tant to show how religions can work Christian unity; Rome’s chief rabbi, Ricca- happened to the original menorah stripped together and challenge perceptions of rdo Di Segni; and officials from the Vatican from the Second Temple in Jerusalem by religious conflict. Museums and the Jewish Museum of Rome. marauding Roman soldiers and carried back “Fundamentalism is not inherent in Koch welcomed the initiative, saying to ancient Rome in 70 AD. religion,” Nesselrath said. “We want to do it underscored the spiritual heritage of the Depicted in the Arch of Titus relief this exhibition to show we can do something Catholic Church and the positive interfaith inside the Roman Forum to mark the positive together and there is a long history dialogue between the Vatican and the Jewish conquest, the menorah is thought to have of 2,000 years of mutual reference.” NFJ
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 15 3/14/17 5:28 AM
NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 16 3/14/17 5:28 AM a great publisher nurturingfaith.net
NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 17 3/14/17 5:28 AM THEOLOGY IN THE PEWS Peace on Earth By John R. Franke
ne of the hallmarks of Protestant- Ephesians asserts that the establishment making every effort to maintain the unity ism is the idea that the church is of this inclusive community is part of the of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” O always being reformed according salvific mission of God to establish peace Returning to the question at the to the Word of God. The advance of knowl- in the world. This divine plan is intended outset: Where are we headed in the process edge, changing circumstances and new to bring unity to that which is currently of continual reformation? The short answer experiences require the continual reforma- scattered and fragmented in order to restore is peace and harmony — in the church and tion of the church. harmony to creation. in the world. Our work is never fully completed in In Ephesians 2, For the church in the context of the spite of our best efforts. While we don’t Paul lays the ground- ancient world, it meant peace between Jew arrive, it’s helpful to ask: Where are we work for the impor- and Gentile. For the church in Christian supposed to be headed? The apostle Paul tance of the unity in Europe, it meant peace among competing points us in the right direction: peace, unity this new community Christian communities. For the church and harmony. called the church that at the outset of the third millennium, it In 1 Corinthians 12, Paul employs the he urges in chapter means peace among the religions of the metaphor of the body made up of many 4. Peace and unity world. Apart from such religious peace, different parts functioning together in are required because there is no hope for the peace God intends mutual interdependence for the common through Jesus Christ the two groups, Jew and for the earth. good. In Ephesians 4, Paul pleads with the Gentile, have been made one and … The call to continual reformation church to live a life of unity and peace. means responding to the Word of God in The reason for Paul’s insistence on broken down (v. 14). relation to our particular circumstances. this way of life is connected to his under- In 1517 talk of pursuing peace among the standing of the gospel. He views the human of two, bringing peace to the world (v. 15). world’s religions would have been unthink- condition as one of alienation from God able (in the 16th century the church couldn’t and estrangement and hostility among hostility to death (v. 16). even manage peace between Catholics, humans. In response, God has sent Jesus to Lutherans and Calvinists). In 2017 peace reconcile humans not simply to God, but to have access to God (v. 18). among Christians, Jews, Muslims and each other for the sake of peace. Hindus (among others) is imperative; the In Paul’s letters, a focal point of this and aliens to one another (v. 19). future of the planet may depend on it. activity is the relationship between Jews and Through Christ and the Spirit, Jews This doesn’t mean giving up Christian Gentiles and the salvation that the gospel and Gentiles are members together in the commitments, but it does mean establish- proclaims brings peace among them. In family of God. ing respectful and hospitable relations with fact, Paul is more focused on this horizon- The good news of the gospel is peace our religious neighbors for our mutual tal dimension of salvation then the vertical. in the world and the end of the violence benefit. When we participate in such work, The spirit is given to the church to empower and hostility that destroys life and leads to not only do we continue the reformation of it for participation in God’s mission to death. This is a fundamental part of the the church, but our salvation — and that of establish a new community that transcends message of salvation. The church is called the world — draws near. NFJ the divisions that so easily divide and cause to be a sign, instrument and foretaste of hostility and suspicion among humans God’s peaceable kingdom. Hence, Paul made in God’s image. exhorts the church “to lead a life worthy of —John R. Franke is theologian in In the New Testament this vision of the calling to which you have been called, residence at Second Presbyterian Church in new community is focused on the inclu- with all humility and gentleness, with Indianapolis and general coordinator of the sion of the Gentiles in the family of God. patience, bearing with one another in love, Gospel and Our Culture Network.
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 18 3/14/17 5:28 AM Our time is now By Amanda Tyler
everal events targeting religious and violence directed at religious minorities to exercise their religion. When a Muslim minorities for harm raise serious — particularly Jews and Muslims — over woman decides not to wear a hijab publicly S concerns for me about religious the past several months is as much a threat out of fear, or a Jewish mother withdraws liberty. A rash of bomb threats at Jewish to religious liberty as any law passed by her son from a religious preschool because community centers, the desecration of Congress or executive order signed by the of terrorist threats, none of us has religious graves in Jewish cemeteries, harassment president. freedom. We should demand nothing less and bullying of Muslim neighbors, and Not only must law enforcement and than absolute religious liberty for all. vandalism of mosques present challenges political leaders fulfill their respective Finally, we must affirm pluralism over to our national experiment of freedom for a duties to investigate and prosecute criminal diversity. Harvard University’s Pluralism religiously diverse people. acts and to denounce bigotry, but also we as Project defines pluralism as “the energetic In response, people of faith, especially citizens and co-sustainers of our democracy engagement with diversity” — requiring Baptists, have a unique opportunity to live must not abandon the important roles we “real encounter and relationship.” In other out our commitment to religious freedom play in protecting religious liberty. words, loving our neighbor isn’t enough to for all. So what is our achieve pluralism. We must also know our From our beginning we Baptists have response as those who neighbor. fought for religious liberty, not just for care deeply about Befriending a Muslim or Jewish ourselves but for believers of any faith or religious freedom? person, encouraging interfaith partnerships no faith at all. Some of this was born from As I see it, we and projects in our community, or even experience, when Baptists were “the other” have three critical just endeavoring to learn more about the in their European communities and then in ways to safeguard reli- experiences of others will move us in the the colonies. gious liberty for all right direction. It also comes from our understand- in these challenging Our Jewish and Muslim brothers ing of soul freedom — the idea that each times. and sisters are inspiring models for us. person has been uniquely created as a child First, the Scriptures teach us to choose After some called for a “Muslim registry,” of God — and that no person, not even love over apathy. Jesus left us with the Jonathan Greenblatt of the Anti-Defama- the king, should attempt to interfere with Greatest Commandment, a single love tion League declared “this proud Jew an individual’s relationship with God. For imperative with two facets: loving God with will register as Muslim.” In the wake of the past eight decades the Baptist Joint our whole self means loving our neighbors vandalism of a Jewish cemetery, Muslims Committee has carried on that historic as ourselves. The Good Samaritan shows contributed tens of thousands of dollars in commitment, defending and extending us that loving our neighbor requires that donations to help repair the damage. religious liberty for all. we render help to someone in need, rather As church historian Walter “Buddy” Religious liberty is secured in the than passing on the other side of the road. Shurden has said, “It is easy to holler United States by the First Amendment’s We must be upstanders, not bystanders. freedom when you are the one who does guarantee that “Congress shall make no Our second call is for freedom, not not have it. It is a more principled position, law respecting an establishment of religion, toleration. As George W. Truett preached however, to cry for freedom when you are or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.” from the steps of the U.S. Capitol nearly in the majority but now lift your voice on The BJC has been serving as a watchdog on a century ago, “Our (Baptist) contention behalf of new minorities.” all of government to ensure that the state is not for mere toleration, but for absolute Baptists and others of principle, our neither impedes nor promotes religion and liberty.” He explained, “Toleration is a time is now. NFJ its practice. concession, while liberty is a right. Tolera- Our focus is rightly on holding govern- tion is a gift from human beings, while ment accountable, but religious freedom liberty is a gift from God.” —Amanda Tyler is executive director of also can be jeopardized by acts of individu- Right now some of our neighbors are the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious als. The dramatic surge in hate rhetoric barely being tolerated, much less left free Liberty in Washington, D.C.
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 19 3/14/17 5:28 AM THE LIGHTER SIDE Just wondering By Brett Younger
ear friends were visiting from Georgia. They had been in D Manhattan for three days and were excited to tell us all about it. “We went to Kinky Boots. What a show! Have you seen Kinky Boots?” “No, I haven’t been to Kinky Boots.” “I’m surprised you haven’t seen it. It’s wonderful. We went to the Seth Meyers show. Have you been to Late Night?” “No, I haven’t gotten to Seth Meyers.” “He’s so funny. If I lived here, I’d go all the time. We had Junior’s Cheesecake. Don’t you love it?” “I haven’t had it yet.” for a movie ticket. than we let on. We have felt more than we “You’re kidding. Last night we saw I know that jaywalking is really just can describe. Sally Field. We got her autograph and had walking. By a certain combination of words on a our picture made with her. She looks great. I know New Yorkers are not supposed page, by the way paint is placed on a canvas Who’s the biggest celebrity you’ve seen?” to go to Times Square on New Year’s Eve, or notes on a score, we have been moved “Carol saw B.J. Novak.” but I am confused as to whether I should because those words, colors and music “I don’t know who that is.” have been to the Statue of Liberty by now. I speak to us of something beyond. “Most people don’t.” am getting mixed signals. We sense the holy in the distant stars, My friends think I am a bad New I know that the best way to live in the sudden brilliance of a tree that has been Yorker, because I have not had my picture New York is with a sense of adventure. Or on our street for years and in what happens made with Sally Field. I have been in Brook- maybe my hometown is making clear what to a cup of coffee when the cream goes in. lyn for less than a year, and I want to think I should have already known. The best way People have been transformed by I am doing okay. to live anywhere is with a sense of wonder. reading a single poem by Wordsworth, I know that if I ever do see a celebrity, In the comic strip Peanuts, Snoopy’s listening to a symphony by Bach or seeing I am not supposed to have my picture made brother Spike is sitting with his back against a painting by Monet. For some of us it is with him or her. a cactus, writing a letter: “At night the sun less often Wordsworth than John Grisham, I know the Louis Vuitton bags for sale goes down and the stars come out, and then less often Mozart than Adele and less often on card tables on the street are probably not in the morning the sun comes up again. It’s Monet than Dilbert, but we keep looking for legit. so exciting to live in the desert.” what lifts our spirit and makes our lives holy. I know not to stop at the Jehovah’s We get used to sunrises, sunsets, If we open our eyes, epiphanies — Witnesses’ information table. mornings, evenings, the moon and the stars. moments of God’s presence — lie like I know “Excuse me” is not a popular We get used to music, art, friends, family, unopened gifts at every turn of the road and phrase. joy and sorrow. We get used to the wonders every stage of the journey. As we exercise I know that what I used to call a conve- that surround us. our sense of wonder, we realize that the God nience store is a bodega, and pie is almost We should not pass through our one beyond us is also in our midst. Live with a always pizza. and only earthly life and miss its glories. sense of awe. Listen carefully. Pay attention. I know that you should give tourists We need a sense of awe or we miss what is Just wonder. NFJ directions — even if you are not sure where most real. For most of us there have been they are going. moments when a word was spoken and we —Brett Younger is the senior minister of I know that $14 is a reasonable price heard more than a word. We have seen more Plymouth Church, Brooklyn, New York.
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 20 3/14/17 5:28 AM LESSONS FOR MAY / JUNE 2017
™ BIBLE STUDIES
The Bible Lessons that anchor the Nurturing Faith Bible Studies are written by Tony Cartledge in a scholarly, yet applicable, style from the wide range of Christian scriptures. A graduate of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (M.Div) and Duke University (Ph.D.), and with years of experience as a pastor, writer, and professor at Campbell University, he provides deep insight for Christian living without “dumbing down” the richness of the biblical texts for honest learners.
IN THIS ISSUE IN THE NEXT ISSUE ATTENTION TEACHERS: HERE’S YOUR PASSWORD! Forward Living Forward Progress > The updated Nurturing Faith web site May 7 July 2 Genesis 22:1-14 (nurturingfaith.net) provides a fresh Acts 2:42-47 The Closest Call look and easy access to the Teaching Signs and Wonders Resources to support these Weekly May 14 July 9 Lessons. Subscribers may log into Acts 7:55-60 Song of Songs 2:8-13 the online resources (video overview, Faithful Unto Death A Time for Love lesson plans, Digging Deeper, Hardest July 16 Question) by using the current May 21 Psalm 119:105-112 password: nurture. Acts 17:22-31 A Lamp and a Light A God Unknown > Simply click the “Teachers” button in July 23 the orange bar at the very top of the May 28 Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24 homepage. This will take you to where John 17:1-11 A Life Exposed you enter the password (nurture) and The Lord at Prayer access the Teaching Resources. You July 30 will find the current password on page June 4 Psalm 128 21 (this page) in each issue of the John 7:37-39 A Blessed Man journal for use by subscribers only. A Pentecostal River Aug. 6 Forward Progress Psalm 17:1-7, 15 Adult teaching plans A Prayer for Justice by David Woody, June 11 Minister of Faith Psalm 8 Aug. 13 Development at Not Quite Angels Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28 Providence Baptist Selling Joseph Church in Charleston, June 18 Aug. 20 S.C., are available at Genesis 18:1-15 nurturingfaith.net Not Dead Yet Genesis 45:1-15 Making Peace Youth teaching plans June 25 by Jeremy Colliver, Genesis 21:8-21 Aug. 27 Minister to Families Not Long Alone Exodus 1:8-2:10 with Youth at Smoke Saving Lives Rise Baptist Church in Stone Mountain, Ga., Thanks, sponsors! These Bible studies for adults and youth are sponsored through generous gifts are available at from the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship (Bo Prosser, Coordinator of Organizational Relationships) nurturingfaith.net. and from the Eula Mae and John Baugh Foundation. Thank you!
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May 7, 2017 ment. Early believers are portrayed Acts 2:42 as coming entirely from the Jewish “They devoted themselves to the community: the people who heard the Acts 2:42-47 apostles’ teaching and fellowship, Spirit-empowered believers speaking Signs and Wonders to the breaking of bread and the prayers.” their own languages may have been “from every nation under heaven,” but ave you heard about the pretty young Irish potato who wanted following Pentecost, not to depict a No doubt, the days following to marry newsman Walter model church. H It would be a mistake for us to - Cronkite, but his parents opposed the ing of the scriptures and listening to the wedding because Cronkite wasn’t think we must pattern churches of our disciples recount Jesus’ core teachings. a Russet, a Golden, or even a sweet era after the halcyon days following Luke focused mainly on Peter’s evange- potato? He was just a “common tater.” Pentecost, but we would also err if we listic preaching, but we may assume the Most people don’t like to think of ignore the characteristics that made the apostles also recounted ways in which themselves as “common.” Sometimes early Christian movement so distinct Jesus had reframed the Jewish law and we may remark on someone’s mis- and powerful that it has persisted – called for an ethic focused on love for behavior with “That’s so common.” in a wide variety of forms – for two God and for one another. Wealthy or famous people often avoid thousand years. - having to associate with “common Luke mentioned four notable cha- sary, not only to orient new believers to people.” Jesus’ teachings, but also to keep them In contrast, New Testament adding a few details in vv. 43-47. He on track through continued reminders noted that the early Christians devoted of what it means to follow Jesus. common folk who lived in an uncom- For the new Christian community, mon relationship with each other: they it was important to understand how chose to share a common fate, eat - at a common table, and to support a had born fruit in the person of Christ. common treasury. themselves to prayer. Modern believers should likewise Would this surprising movement Devoted to teaching last? Yes! We still gather as the church of Christ, as people who are continuing Luke says the early believers were not be Jewish and we don’t live under to be saved and to learning to follow “devoted to the apostle’s teaching.” the covenant instituted at Sinai, but the Christ. Whether the trademarks of Where else could they turn? Jesus was roots of our faith grow from Israel’s no longer with them, so they had to story. Just as knowing the story of our another matter. rely on the disciples’ memory of Jesus’ own family background contributes to Acts 2:42-47 is often described as teaching in addition to their Spirit- our self-identity, being in touch with a portrait of the early church, but we empowered preaching. There is little our spiritual ancestors promotes a more should keep in mind that no organiza- distinction between “teaching” and well-rounded image of who God has tion had yet been formed. Luke’s intent “preaching” at this point: both were called us to be. was to portray behaviors marking the mass of new believers in the early days instruct new believers. Devoted to fellowship The samples of their teaching/ Luke noted that “Awe came upon Additional information at preaching that Luke provides show that everyone, because many wonders and nurturingfaith.net - signs were being done by the apostles”
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 22 3/14/17 5:28 AM ness of real people all around us, and being Jewish, but celebrated Jesus as healings or other surprising acts, but their very real needs. If the Spirit of perhaps the biggest miracle to emerge God is in us, the call to community will hopes. Thus, “they spent much time from Pentecost was a new sense of be there, too. together in the temple,” and did so “day fellowship that bound together Jews by day.” “from every nation under heaven” in Devoted to breaking bread Prayer is an important element of common cause and common concern. A sign of the early believers’ newfound private devotion, but there is something The Greek word for it is koinonía, sense of community was their notable - a term that came to be used as a prime interest in eating together. Indeed, the ence of praying in community, within description for people who lived in a focus on time spent together over food close fellowship of mutual apprecia- recalls the many scenes in which Jesus lead such prayers should be careful to tion and generous sharing. “All who enjoyed table fellowship with others, recognize the sacred character of the believed were together and had all particularly with people who were moment, and not trivialize prayer with things in common,” Luke said, “they considered too “common” to eat with trite phrases that do not speak to the would sell their possessions and goods upright folk. needs of the people, or offer polarized and distribute the proceeds to all as any Luke’s characterization of this as prayers that may please some parish- ioners but alienate others. Prayer is a This is the point at which modern has led many to suppose that this is a crucial building block in the construc- readers breathe a sigh of relief that reference to the Eucharist, and that may tion of a strong faith community. today’s church members are not gener- have been part of it, though Will Willi- Early believers were wise to spend mon suggests that early believers may much time in prayer. They knew that The spirit of sharing in the days follow- not have recognized the difference: “In they needed it. Prayer continues to be ing Pentecost may have been less ideal good Jewish fashion, when the blessing a vital force in worship among people than we often imagine, but it still repre- is said at the table, the table becomes a who are oppressed or living closer to sented a sea change in values for many, holy place and eating together a sacred the margins of society or survival. Have as the new believers demonstrated a Acts, Interpretation [John you noticed, however, that the more care for others that went beyond what the law required. It’s likely that the If the Lord’s Supper is implied, the less emphasis we put on prayer? apostles’ teaching had included Jesus’ it must have been observed daily, for We need not read Acts 2:42-47 condensed version of what it means to v. 46 tells us that “Day by day, as they with the idea that it portrays a model live rightly: spent much time together in the temple, of the early church that we should try “I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have version of something to be the best, or loved you, you also should love one and generous hearts.” prototypes to be better than the later another. By this everyone will know Whether or not the Lord’s Supper models. Whether it’s a new car or a that you are my disciples, if you have was included in each meal, eating developing democracy, we like to think together was clearly seen as an outward it will improve with time and effort. Do we still hold to that teach- sign of inner feelings of love and sharing within the community. st of ourselves and our wants before century world needs, but that doesn’t considering others’ needs? Should any Devoted to prayer mean we can’t learn important lessons community member ever go without Luke’s reference to prayer in v. 42 from those early believers. They focused food or medical attention or housing includes the direct article: they devoted on growing in community through learn- when there are Christ-followers who themselves to “the prayers.” This may ing together, sharing together, eating could help? indicate a continued observance of the together, and praying together. If those assigned Jewish hours of prayer. The elements aren’t present in our churches, learning from the apostles’ teaching, new believers continued to worship at perhaps a reevaluation of our priorities we do so in community, with an aware- is in order. NFJ
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May 14, 2017 from those priests and their follow- Acts 7:59-60 ers who did not convert, but who saw “While they were stoning Stephen, the Christian movement as a heretical Acts 7:55-60 he prayed, ‘Lord Jesus, receive threat to Judaism. Faithful Unto Death my spirit.’ Then he knelt down and cried out in a loud voice, ‘Lord, We soon learn that Stephen was much more than a soup-kitchen super- ave you ever gotten off to a do not hold this sin against them.’ visor: “full of grace and power,” he good start with a new job or When he had said this, he died.” “did great wonders and signs among project, only to face an early H obstacle that threatened to derail your how two believers named Ananias spoken Jews from various synagogues efforts? Imagine taking a sales job and Sapphira sold some property and confronted Stephen over his new in a competitive environment where turned over part of the proceeds to beliefs, “But they could not withstand monthly bonuses are based on the the common treasury – but claimed to the wisdom and the Spirit with which amount of business you bring in. You have given it all. Peter confronted them start strong, but then come down with separately over the lie and both of them Stephen in a debate, they conspired a nasty bug that keeps you out of work fell dead, an apparent warning against to have someone falsely accuse him attempting to deceive God. of blasphemy against both God and imagine that you’ve begun a weight- Disquiet again surfaced in Acts Moses, causing such a stir that Stephen loss program that’s going quite well was called before the Sanhedrin. until a family holiday surrounds you prejudice died hard: Jewish Chris- There, false witnesses accused him of with food you can’t resist. Can you get constantly “saying things against this back on track? complained that their widows were being shortchanged in the distri- Despite the charges, Luke reports the Christian movement, which got off bution of food to the needy, while that Stephen’s countenance “was like to such an amazing start that thousands Hebrew- or Aramaic-speaking widows of Jews decided to follow Jesus and high priest offered him a chance to refute were baptized in a matter of days. A the charges. Stephen happily complied, Holy Spirit empowered revival broke who were doubtless stretched thin launching into a sermon designed to out that saw people devoting their lives trying to orient so many new believers to learning about Jesus and enjoying to the faith, called for the appoint- Judaism as well as his belief that Jesus such close communion that they shared ment of seven good people to oversee their resources with one another as they the food distribution while they prophecy, superseding the old covenant ate, worshiped, and prayed together. focused on prayer and preaching. First by offering himself as the ultimate sacri- What could go wrong? chosen among the seven was Stephen, described as “a man full of faith and relating to God through grace. Trouble brewing the Holy Spirit.” (6:1-7:1) The move seemed to quell the Trial by sermon incipient rumblings, and Luke recounts (7:2-53) emerging church is found in Acts that “the word of God continued to Stephen began his sermon with a review spread; the number of the disciples of Israel’s history that seemed calm increased greatly in Jerusalem, and Additional information at a great many of the priests became bristling “Brothers and fathers, listen nurturingfaith.net to me!” Like some modern preach- was more trouble to come, especially ers, he began in a low-key fashion,
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 24 3/14/17 5:28 AM gradually warming up and setting the went to meddlin’,” as we sometimes and began the process of stoning him stage for the close, where he answered say, addressing Judaism’s highest to death. The physical effort involved - in this is evidenced by the note that words that were bound to cause offense. cumcised in heart and ears,” who were Stephen began with God’s call to “forever opposing the Holy Spirit” as cloaks and left them in the care of Abraham and the promise that one day As their Saul, a young but rabid supporter of his descendants would inherit the land ancestors had persecuted “the proph- traditional Judaism prior to his conver- where Abraham lived as an alien before ets who foretold the coming of the becoming enslaved in another country In his dying moments, Stephen for 400 years and then returning to the become “his betrayers and murderers,” people who had received the law but he worshiped. Luke says that he Afterward, God “gave him the prayed “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit” covenant of circumcision,” so that Is there any wonder why Stephen’s before crying aloud “Lord, do not hold Abraham circumcised Isaac, who audience of staunch Jewish leaders became the father of Jacob, the father were upset? “When they heard these Wow. What do we do with a things, they became enraged and into Egyptian slavery, but were later because we don’t see visions of heaven saved from famine when Joseph gained d. as Stephen did? Should we decide to Pharaoh’s favor and brought them to go out and preach a sermon or make a Visions and stones Facebook post that is bound to offend Stephen then recounted the story (7:55-60) unbelievers — or declare our readi- As Luke tells the story, Stephen ness to be martyred for Jesus? and call of the Hebrew hero Moses and - moving to Israel’s deliverance from around him. Caught up in the Spirit, culty identifying with either Stephen Egypt and the wilderness wandering, he declared “Look! I see the heavens or his angry and ultimately murder- where the people rebelled by making opened and the Son of Man standing at ous accusers. Nevertheless, Stephen’s challengers remind us of the danger Why would this be so objection- inherent in allowing our loyalty to gods including the “host of heaven,” able that people in the crowd covered tradition or an institution make us deaf which Stephen supported with a loose their ears and rushed to drag Stephen to the voice of the Spirit. How many of quotation from the Greek translation of Recall that Stephen had just quoted Knowing how important the temple Isaiah’s oracle when speaking for God: about keeping things the way they’ve was to his audience – and believing it “Heaven is my throne and earth is my always been rather than being open to had become too important – Stephen footstool.” Stephen now claimed that new possibilities? he could see into heaven, where Jesus “the tent of testimony in the wilderness” God’s right hand. This would have commitment that may seem alien to us. Jerusalem, but insisted that God did not infuriated those who had seen Jesus We live in a different day and a differ- dwell in a house made by human hands, as a danger to Judaism. The burgeon- citing Isaiah’s critique of people who ing Christian movement appeared to of facing a challenge to be faithful focused on the temple while God had be an even greater threat, and having unto death – but are we willing even said “Heaven is my throne and the earth people like Stephen claim to see Jesus to be faithful unto embarrassment, or is my footstool. What kind of house working together with God could not faithful unto behaving ourselves when will you build for me, says the Lord, or help their case. tempted? Convinced that Stephen was a We’re not called to be Stephen, self-professed heretic, the authorities but we are called to be the best version With his critique of the temple as a dragged him out of the city without of ourselves that we can be. What are foundation, Stephen “quit preachin’ and we waiting for? NFJ
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May 21, 2017 and teachers who frequented the place. Acts 17:23 The primary marketplace in Athens “For as I went through the city and Acts 17:22-31 looked carefully at the objects of your worship, I found among them stood watch over the city. A God Unknown an altar with the inscription, ‘To an unknown god.’ What therefore Some listeners accused Paul of was in Athens, studying philosophy. you worship as unknown, this I proclaim to you.” This was Athens, Georgia, where the university campus was no less I impressive to me than its Grecian Paul had no qualms about going toe to consorts, so Paul’s hearers may have namesake would have been to ancient - misunderstood his meaning, interpreting gentsia of Athens. country boys who had come to town. anastasis My primary interest was science, Familiar philosophies however, so I wasn’t as impressed with as the name of a goddess, hence, “Jesus the philosophy professor. and Anastasis.” missionary journey. Having visited Ever eager to hear new ideas, me: “Mr. Cartledge, what is that you several cities in Asia Minor, he and his some of Paul’s listeners took him are sitting in?” Trying not to appear companions crossed the Aegean Sea to to the Areopagus, a council of elder smug, I replied: “I’m sitting in a desk.” the region of Macedonia, where they - “Mr. Cartledge, how do you know spent a tumultuous period in Philippi sibilities. They had originally met on that is a desk?” before moving on to Thessalonica and Mars Hill, a rocky outcrop between “Because I know what a desk is,” I Berea, winning converts along the way. the agora and the acropolis, but in When certain Jewish leaders Paul’s day they met in the Royal Stoa, “Mr. Cartledge, is that really a desk, mounted a campaign against Paul, he an open-air building near the edge of or could it be just your idea of a desk?” took ship and sailed along the coast to Was she serious? It took a while the city of Athens, leaving Timothy and Luke notes that Paul entered for me to realize that she was introduc- Silas to continue the work in Macedo- a debate with the adherents of two ing Plato’s ideas about the difference nia for a short time, presumably in a competing schools of philosophy, the between the ideal and the real: for Epicureans and the Stoics. Both someone who had always taken the philosophies provided belief systems reality I perceived for granted, that was way through the city and was distressed - a new way of thinking. by the many images of gods, which he stood. Loquacious locals enjoyed the All of us want an understanding of bantering of ideas: Luke wrote that reality that makes sense of life. Some synagogues to debate with the Jews “all the Athenians and the foreign- think about it more deeply than others, and Grecian God-fearers, as was his ers living there would spend their of course. In the ancient world, the usual practice, but he also preached time in nothing but telling or hearing Greek philosophers and their students in the agora, Athens’ famous market- views, but an itinerant preacher named heart of Athens: it featured several An unknown God altars and temples, and was a gathering (vv. 22-31) Additional information at place for those who wanted to catch the The gospel Paul preached was clearly at odds with the teachings of the nurturingfaith.net latest gossip, socialize with friends, or debate with the various philosophers philosophers, in which deities played
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 26 3/14/17 5:28 AM only distant roles. Paul proclaimed the that belief into question, arguing that living in ignorance. God might have all people are descended “from one overlooked that in the past, but those a relationship with humans. ancestor” who had been made by God who knew better needed to change As Paul began his defense of the their ways of thinking and acting. Paul gospel, he demonstrated a quick wit Paul’s hearers would not have used a form of the verb , and a masterful use of oratory. He used caught his reference to Adam, but which means to change one’s way of they were familiar with the argument life as the result of changing one’s and seek common ground: “I see how that all humans are related. Paul went thoughts and attitudes: it is commonly on to insist that, for all peoples, God had intentionally “allotted the times Paul’s call for his hearers to move walking through the city, so festooned from honoring images to putting faith with images of various gods, and said of the places where they would live” “I found among them an altar with the in right thinking; there were eternal inscription, ‘To an unknown god.’ What Epicureans considered the gods consequences. All would face a day of therefore you worship as unknown, this irrelevant and the Stoics saw them judgment before Christ, Paul said, who as impersonal, but Paul proclaimed a had come to reveal true righteousness Paul probably knew that the philos- God who wished to be known and was and who had demonstrated his authority ophers generally regarded the Greek gods as either irrelevant or uncon- Paul believed the people of Athens The belief in resurrection, in cerned with humans, but in a brilliant held mistaken beliefs, but he gave judgment, and in a god who cares rhetorical move, he used the presence them credit for seeking deeper under- would contravene both Stoic and of an altar to an “unknown god” as the standing. basis for a sermon on the God they had Philosophical systems grow from yet to meet. a search for the meaning of life, but out of town, and some sneered at his The unknown god, Paul said, is teaching, but others asked to hear him “The God who made the world and apart from God: “For in him we live again. Luke records that a few people everything in it.” Furthermore, “He believed, including a member of the who is Lord of heaven and earth does This would not have sounded strange Areopagus named Dyonisius and a not live in shrines made by human to the philosophers, who were familiar woman named Damaris, who must hands, nor is he served by human with the idea that divinity is immanent have been a woman of some reputa- hands, as though he needed anything, in creation. Seneca, a Stoic philoso- tion in the community. since he himself gives to all mortals life pher known during that period, wrote What might a modern believer “God is near you, He is with you, He - The philosophers would have egy shows that effective evangelism agreed that the gods did not need human temples. Still, Paul’s statement there might be some common ground, If we hope to bring others to accept stood in sharp contrast to the Epicurean Paul moved toward a sharper critique Christ, we need to meet them where argument that life is solely the result of religions that value images of the of random atomic movements, and the gods. He began by quoting one of they are, seek to understand their Stoic belief that the gods determine the the Greek poets, who had spoken current beliefs, and look for points of fates without concern for humans. It of humans as offspring of the gods also challenged the worship practices believe Christ is the true way. of other Athenians who may have enough to create humankind, Paul Paul’s words are also an encour- thought it needful to leave food offer- argued, then surely any human attempt agement to all who live in a pluralistic ings or other gifts at the altars of their to portray a god in gold, silver, or stone world: Christian believers may be in patron gods. a minority, but we can always trust Athenians popularly claimed to Paul’s implication was clear: those that God is near to us, and that we are have sprung from the earth as a separate who thought one could represent a god never alone, for “In him we live and race from other peoples, but Paul called through human craftsmanship were move and have our being.”
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May 28, 2017 the cross to follow. He could not have John 17:3 looked forward to it, but knew that it “And this is eternal life, that they was time. John 17:1-11 may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have What did Jesus mean by asking sent.” God to “glorify” him? That seems out The Lord at Prayer of character for one who was humbly ave you ever been on the edge together. Mark and Matthew imply but voluntary death. We normally of something big, and felt the that Jesus prayed at great length in the think of seeking glory as a negative need for prayer? It may have H garden – so long that the disciples kept thing, as a narcissist seeking to puff been your wedding day, the hours falling asleep – but they mention only up his or her reputation in search of a few words: “My Father, if it is possi- “vainglory.” ble, let this cup pass from me; yet not the end of a long semester. You may though one with God from the begin- have felt certain it’s what you wanted John does not speak as if Jesus set aside heavenly glory to come to go well, but still just uneasy enough to prayed for hours, but records much earth in the form of a man, reveal the feel the need for a serious prayer. more of what Jesus had to say in Father, and suffer for the sake of all Let’s imagine how we would feel people. Jesus knew he would soon die if the big event on the horizon was our the discourse focused on words of and return to the glory of his heavenly throne. a voluntary action to save our friends. in which Jesus spoke to his disciples. In his incarnation as a human, Can we even imagine such a thing? Jesus prayed to God as Father, seeking If we could, we might understand assurance that in the coming days his something of how Jesus felt on the disciples’ hearing, interceding for his mission would be accomplished, his night before his arrest, when he felt followers in a “priestly” fashion. sovereignty would be established, and the need to pray for himself, for his Jesus began the prayer with a the kingdom of God would be born disciples, and for all who would come after them. on earth. Then all could recognize God’s work and those who had come Looking forward … to know eternal life could glorify God, (vv. 1-3) giving honor where honor was due. imagine the queasy feeling Jesus must Jesus’ “High Priestly Prayer.” John have had in his stomach as he looked statement. After watching Judas leave does not speak of Jesus praying in heavenward and prayed “Father, the the upper room, knowing that his fate the garden of Gethsemane, as do hour has come; glorify your Son so had been set in motion, Jesus spoke Matthew and Mark, but inserts a that the Son may glorify you, since fait accom- lengthy farewell discourse between you have given him authority over all pli: “When he had gone out, Jesus Jesus and the remaining disciples after people, to give eternal life to all whom said, ‘Now the Son of Man has been - “The hour has come,” Jesus said. Additional information at His arrest would take place before in him, God will also glorify him in nurturingfaith.net dawn, with a long day of unimagi- himself and will glorify him at once’” nable pain and an agonizing death on
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 28 3/14/17 5:28 AM predestination or “the elect,” as some prayer, he knew that would soon much more than praise or honor. Jesus might surmise, or even to all believ- ers. This part of Jesus’ prayer was commitment to his coming passion, - focused on the disciples, whom God Jesus thought of himself as already had chosen and “given” to Jesus to gone from the world, leaving the surprising fashion: “And this is eternal learn from him and to serve him. life, that they may know you, the only They had proven faithful in receiving prayed for God to protect them – not true God, and Jesus Christ whom you God’s teachings through Christ, to the so much from danger or threats from point of accepting the mind-boggling the outside, but from divisiveness that of eternal life is not the promise of premise that Jesus had come from God might hinder their mission: “Holy lazy days in heaven, but the ability to Father, protect them in your name that know God. The Gospels often portray the you have given me, so that they may In Hebrew thought, “to know” disciples as stubborn, hard-headed, suggests far more than intellectual and slow to learn, but they had Jesus went on to acknowledge comprehension: it is to know God learned. They had taken Jesus’ teach- that the disciples would face opposi- ings to heart, accepted him as Lord, tion from the world “because they personal relationship of communion and “kept his word,” seeking to live as do not belong to the world, just as I he had taught them. can we come to know the fullness and We who call ourselves “Christian” Jesus did not ask that the disciples glory of God, the source of our life. claim to be modern-day disciples. be granted supernatural security from Have we taken Jesus’ teachings as - Looking back … seriously? What evidence is apparent ences that could disrupt their unity (vv. 4-8) in the way we conduct our lives? Does and impair their mission in the world In v. 4 we can detect a subtle shift. our living bring glory to God? Jesus had spoken of himself in the world,” Jesus said, so “I have sent third person in v. 3, but now switches Looking out for others … (vv. 9-11) Think for a moment about your the near-repetitive request for a return With the disciples on his mind, Jesus church, or other churches you have prayed not for the world in general, but known. When has the church known for the disciples in particular, “asking its best days? When has it been least his earthly life and ministry. on their behalf.” They belonged to effective? What characterized the days - God, he said, but had been given to of growth? Were more troubling days ing the work that you gave me to do,” due to human opposition from outside Jesus said, “So now, Father, glorify me yours, and yours are mine; and I have the congregation, or from internal in your own presence with the glory discord that sidetracked its mission? that I had in your presence before the The thought that Jesus had been Is it any wonder that Jesus’ primary prayer for the disciples us to thoughts of their mission. As was “that they may be one”? Surely In his words, “I have made your name Jesus had revealed to the disciples the known to those whom you gave me true nature and desires of God, so the Christian unity, both in our congre- from the world. They were yours, and disciples would be appointed to carry gations, and in our communities. you gave them to me, and they have that same message to the world so Too many of us, for too long, have accepted racial lines, denominational name known” implies a full revelation and to have eternal life. In this, Jesus’ of God’s character, which Jesus had direct prayer for the disciples was for the course, though they are bound delivered through his actions as well indirectly a prayer for all who would to hinder Christ’s mission in the world. as his words. What practical things can we do to We should note that “those you Although Jesus remained present come closer to Jesus’ desire that we all have given me” does not refer to with his disciples as he offered this be one? NFJ
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June 4, 2017 Jesus’ day, Jews would build temporary John 7:37-38a shelters and camp out in them during “On the last day of the festival, the the week-long festival. John 7:37-39 great day, while Jesus was stand- ing there, he cried out, ‘Let anyone Much of John’s gospel is centered A Pentecostal River who is thirsty come to me, and let around Jesus’ visits to Jerusalem, all of the one who believes in me drink.’” which coincided with Jewish festivals, which faithful Jews sought to celebrate entecost. Christians observe it in Jerusalem when possible. every year, some more avidly days of Advent, or from Ash Wednes- The early part of John 7 locates than others. Catholics, mainline P day to Easter. Jews don’t use the term Jesus in Galilee as the feast of Booths/ denominations, and other liturgical folk “Pentecost,” but Shavu‘ot, meaning Succoth drew near. His brothers urged switch their vestments and pastoral “weeks.” The festival, also called him to go on to Jerusalem, but Jesus stoles to red, often with embroidered “Firstfruits,” once celebrated the spring knew it would be dangerous for him, so he insisted that they go without him. Spirit. Male pastors may wear red Israel’s traditions combined an agricul- “I am not going to this festival, for my neckties, and women clergy may break tural holiday with a historical memory: time has not yet fully come,” he said out red shoes. It’s generally a happy rabbinic calculations in the Talmud day. claim that God gave the law to Israel to go, “not publicly but as it were in For churches on the charismatic end of the spectrum, Pentecost can be conversation and debate concern- even more special. Worshipers may So, while Jews memorialize the ing him, Jesus gave up his attempt at feel moved by the Spirit to stand, raise giving of the law on Pentecost, Chris- anonymity: at mid-week he went to the their hands, shout, dance, or even speak tians commemorate the giving of the in tongues. Like the psalmists, their Holy Spirit. People listening to Jesus worship is punctuated with vocal praise and bursts of applause, unlike those Living water teach so forcefully without being a who believe Habakkuk 2:20 should (vv. 37-38a) trained rabbi, but Jesus insisted that his teaching had its source and authority is in his holy temple; let all the earth of the descent of the Spirit on Pentecost keep silence … .” in Acts 2, but is drawn from an account who had criticized him for healing Jews also celebrate Pentecost, in the Fourth Gospel in which Jesus on the Sabbath of hypocrisy, noting though on the day before, seven speaks of the coming of the Spirit. that they circumcised on the Sabbath weeks and a day from the second day of Passover. Greek speakers called it festival, though it was not Shavu‘ot, but He and the crowd also sparred Succoth, otherwise known as the “Feast over whether he should be understood of Booths” or “Tabernacles.” That festi- as the Messiah. Jesus did not claim the Passover. val occurred in the fall, shortly after title outright, but insisted that though Yom the people may have known him and arrival of Pentecost by counting the Kippur his earthly background, they didn’t days, even as Christians may count the and historical elements, celebrating the know the one who had sent him. Some fall harvest while also commemorating sought to arrest Jesus, “but no one laid Additional information at Israel’s 40 years of wilderness wander- hands on him, because his hour had nurturingfaith.net ing, when the people lived in tents. In
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 30 3/14/17 5:28 AM which normally means “side,” though the temple, this time on the last day of three measures of water was drawn it could also be used as a reference to the festival. If his prior teachings had from the Pool of Siloam, which was one’s heart. Some interpreters take it as not created a stir, this one would: “… fed by Jerusalem’s primary water a general reference to the body: NET while Jesus was standing there, he cried source, the Gihon Spring. As the out, ‘Let anyone who is thirsty come to of living water.” me, and let the one who believes in me city through the Water Gate, priests would announce its coming with three may have been shaped by the author’s This translation is one of several ceremonial blasts from the shofar belief that when a Roman soldier options that are discussed more fully pierced Jesus’ side with a spear during in “The Hardest Question” online. blowing a tekiyah teruah debated whether Jesus or the believer another tekiyah Sukkah While water is the topic, we then becomes the source of “the river of When the water cask was paraded are aware that the real subject is the the water of life.” Whatever the inter- into the temple, a priest would ceremo- Spirit, for which the “water of life” is pretation, the clear intent remains the nially carry it up the steps of the large same: Jesus invited all who were spiri- altar, where there were two large there’s no question about who is speak- tually thirsty to come to him and drink, ing, as the narrator adds an obvious and the act of “drinking” from Christ - editorial comment: “Now he said this is connected to belief. In other words, ings, and one for the water ritual. As about the Spirit, which believers in Jesus recognized the human thirst for the congregation watched, the priest him were to receive; for as yet there would pour a measure of the water into was no Spirit, because Jesus was not invitation to receive from him, observ- the bowl. The water would then spew ing that only believers would take out through two small openings near - advantage of the offer. the bottom, creating a fountain effect tunate, as a casual reader might take The story of Jesus and the woman as the water washed over the altar. it to mean that the Spirit did not yet of Samaria comes to mind. When Jesus The ceremony must have been offered her “living water,” she did not imposing and accompanied by A better reading is “for the Spirit was - Sukkah not yet, for Jesus had not been glori- one who drinks of this water will be adds: “Anyone who has never seen thirsty again, but those who drink of “not been given” in hopes of clearing the water that I will give them will drawing, has never seen rejoicing in up any misunderstanding. The point is never be thirsty. The water that I will all his days.” that while Jesus was still physically on give will become in them a spring of earth, the Spirit was not yet come upon The coming Spirit (vv. 38b-39) resurrection, and ascension – when he The Fourth Gospel also records - Jesus speaking of himself as the drum, for it claims to quote scripture Spirit be given to the church. - ence described in Acts 2 became the was probably linked to a symbolic who came to “drink from” him would water ritual that accompanied the above, some interpreters take this as a receive the Spirit in abundant and Feast of Weeks. Tractate Sukkah, reference to the believer, while others from a collection of rabbinic writings think the reference is to Jesus. - known as the Mishnah, describes an Most translations say the river ence” of sensing the presence of Christ’s impressive water drawing and libation Spirit within you? Tongues aren’t ceremony performed each day of the heart,” but the word used is koilía, required: only thirst, and belief. NFJ
LESSON FOR JUNE 4, 2017 31
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June 11, 2017 Psalm 8:1 - “O LORD, our Sovereign, how maj- Psalm 8 estic is your name in all the earth!” Yahweh is a personal, covenant name Not Quite Angels d in English by ne of the great challenges we A majestic God upper-case letters. The word translated (vv. 1-2, 9) the world. For some people, O Have you ever stood beneath a clear word ’adonai, which means “lord,” night sky studded with stars, feeling limited: local culture or parents tell overcome by how big the universe is could be used of human persons in children what their place is, opportu- and how puny we are? As impressive positions of authority, but here clearly nities are few, and people may assume as it is just to look at the stars – which refers to God. from childhood that they will live in English translations don’t convey the same village and watch cattle or into a dome over the earth – those it, but the word translated as “our plant rice until they grow old, with who comprehend even a hint of our their own children following them. current understanding of the universe plural form of the word. Grammarians must feel even smaller. We live in a refer to this as a “plural of majesty,” their parents’ instructions to do well small solar system near the edge of a a way of making God’s lordship even in school and become a doctor or an more emphatic. The term usually engineer; even to marry a person of appears in the singular form, but here their parents’ choosing. estimated 100 billion galaxies in all. the psalmist is particularly interested Those who live in freer circum- The psalmist had no way of in emphasizing God’s greatness, so he stances have more opportunities understanding that the earth is a planet uses the plural. and options, but sometimes feel rather than the center of the universe, Having addressed God by the or that there are untold billions of star covenant name “Yahweh,” the psalm- establish their identity. In America, systems surrounded by other worlds. ist connects divine splendor to the young adults are waiting longer and Still, he didn’t need to know that, any divine name: “How majestic is your longer to get married, have children, or more than we do. A starlit sky is all we name in all the earth!” As high as settle into a career. Many feel lost even need to realize how small we are. the heavens might be, said the psalm- into their 30s or 40s, unsure of who If we consider the size of the ist, God’s glory is elevated even they want to be, what they want to do, universe, and we also believe that higher. or where they belong. God created all things, how could we With verse 2, we come to the most think of God as anything other than or a mate, but it does help us to under- declaration that God can use even the comprehension? Thus, the psalmist praise of infants to silence all foes. The of things – indeed, in the largest scheme of things – in relation to God and the majestic is your name in all the earth! - world. You have set your glory above the cence, but its imagery interrupts the Additional information at Those who recall the familiar a further discussion of that thorny nurturingfaith.net verse for “The Hardest Question” online.
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 32 3/14/17 5:28 AM A privileged people (vv. 3-5) supernatural beings, created by God, who served on a divine council and did far less interested in a puzzling refer- God’s bidding, often as intermediaries living in the sea had come under ence to babies and enemies, because between heaven and earth. Hebrew The psalm- it is the following question that grabs commonly refers to these beings as ist’s point is that all life, from land our attention: “When I look at your to sea and sky, was subordinated to humankind: the work of God’s hands moon and the stars that you have estab- term “heavenly beings.” We typically was put into human hands. lished; what are human beings that you think of such beings as “angels,” For the psalmist, the notion that are mindful of them, mortals that you and the Septuagint translators read God had not only taken notice of it in this sense, using the Greek term humans, but also given them control of The psalmist struggled with the ’aggelous life on earth, was such an astonishing mindboggling notion that God could notion that he could not resist burst- create something as massive as the English word “angel.” ing into praise once again, closing the heavens and earth and still care for How do we decide? The psalmist psalm by repeating his initial thought: human beings. We can’t know if the - psalmist conceived of God in anthropo- mind, where God spoke to the divine tic is your name in all the earth!” morphic terms, or just happily used the council and said “Let us make human- metaphor, but he used the idea that God kind in our image” before creating How do you think the psalm- humans, both male and female. Thus, ist might have responded if he could see just how greatly humans have as a way of emphasizing Yahweh’s the idea is that humans were created limitless power. If such a God could not only in the image of God, but also be bothered to care about puny, squab- in the image of the angelic assembly. remember that God’s granting humans bling humans, how amazing is that? So, some prefer to translate as But God does care, he concluded, “angels,” while others prefer the more includes accountability as well as because Yahweh not only created common meaning of “God.” authority. God did not put the earth human beings, but also “made them At the end of the day, the meaning into our hands so that we might a little lower than God, and crowned is little different. Humans are not only made by God, but share in God’s image, and overheat its atmosphere. Again, those who grew up reading the and in making them this way God has The psalmist lived in a time when - “crowned them with glory and honor.” the earth’s population was small, air tion: “For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels . . . .” A responsible dominion and animals were not being forced Which is it? Are we to think of (vv. 6-8) ourselves as a little lower than God, The poet’s recollection of the creation could catch a glimpse of what humans or than angels? As usual, the answer have done – and are doing – to the is a matter of interpretation. The word planet, he might not have thought it is , the plural form of a word humankind to “Be fruitful and multi- was such a good idea to put them in meaning “god” that could be translated charge. sea and over the birds of the air and greatness is beyond comprehension, is greater than all gods.” Most of the over every living thing that moves and yet God cares enough for human- time, however, it was used as an alter- upon the earth.” kind to grant them stewardship of nate term for the God of Israel, with the The psalmist has seen such the earth, and to desire a relationship plural form being a “plural of majesty” dominion in action, and praises God with them. When you contemplate designed to indicate that no singular for having given humans charge “over term for god would be adequate. the works of your hands,” putting “all challenges you the most? NFJ
LESSON FOR JUNE 11, 2017 33
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June 18, 2017 Abraham that he would have a child of Genesis 18:14 his own, then led him outside. “Look “Is anything too wonderful for the toward heaven and count the stars, if Genesis 18:1-15 LORD? At the set time I will return to you, in due season, and Sarah you are able to count them,” Yahweh shall have a son.” said. “So shall your descendants be” Not Dead Yet ave you ever gotten news that and as Sîn in Haran. After Abraham’s reckoned it to him as righteousness” seemed too good to be true – father died, however, Yahweh appeared news so good that you could H to Abraham in some unmistakable That promise was followed by a only laugh in disbelief? Maybe you fashion, calling him to worship a new spooky night-time ritual of covenant won a big prize, or were selected for God and follow Yahweh’s leading to a making. God instructed Abraham to - new land. We can only imagine what cut in half a three-year-old heifer and a tion or raise. Maybe someone gave you three-year-old goat, placing the halves Did God appear in physical form, or across from each other, along with a through an inner voice, or an impres- dove on one side and a pigeon on the Today’s lesson tells the story of a other, with a path between them. couple easily old enough to have great- During the encounter, God called As evening approached, Abraham great-grandchildren being told that they Abraham to leave his home and travel fell asleep, “and a deep and terrify- would soon conceive their child. to a new place to be revealed on the ing darkness descended upon him.” No wonder they laughed. I suspect we way. The call was accompanied by Yahweh again insisted that Abraham’s would have giggled, too. descendants would inherit the land, would bless Abraham and make of him and Abraham watched as “a smoking An abandoned hope a great nation, blessing others through between the two rows of animal parts story of Abraham and Sarah, which as a sign of God’s covenant promise. moved on, though he did not yet know Still another promise is found in his destination. After growing up as Abram in the God led Abraham to the land that name to Abraham and Sarai’s to Sarah would later become Israel, repeating northward around the fertile crescent God promised to make Abraham’s Their initial goal was Canaan, but offspring like the dust of the earth, and that Sarah would have a child, after they stopped and settled in the city of to grant them “the length and breadth of the land” for them to live on. This made it clear that the promise involved Abraham presumably would have both progeny and property. Floor Laughing,” but Abraham was: grown up acknowledging the moon Despite God’s promise, years “Then Abraham fell on his face god, worshiped as Nanna in Sumeria passed with no babies in sight. In and laughed, and said to himself, time, Abraham despaired of having ‘Can a child be born to a man who is Additional information at children and prepared to designate a hundred years old? Can Sarah, who nurturingfaith.net is ninety years old, bear a child?’”
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 34 3/14/17 5:28 AM While Abraham was laughing, organized a lavish and hefty meal with comes across as incredulous, as if God God was serious. Something about this dishes of fresh bread, beef, milk, and couldn’t believe that Sarah would promise was different, for it contained doubt. A more literal translation would a new stipulation that Abraham must visitors as honored guests, he “stood be: “Why, this? Sarah laughed, saying obey: he was to begin the practice of by them under the tree while they ate” … .” Yahweh’s description of Sarah’s circumcision and require his children statement is then more detailed and to maintain the custom throughout all emphatic than previously reported. The A wonderful promise narrator had mentioned only laughter at (vv. 9-15) A hospitable man At some point during or after the meal, has Sarah saying: “Indeed, truly, will I (vv. 1-8) the visitors asked “Where is your wife, bear a child when I am old?” Yahweh went on to ask, “Is promise of progeny is repeated, but his wife’s name, or was their knowledge anything too wonderful for the this time in a more personal manner. Abraham had been in the land for more their supernatural identity? than 20 years. Some years before, at Abraham answered that Sarah had Sarah’s urging, Abraham had fathered remained in the tent. This is not surpris- or “to be amazing.” Since wonderful a son by Hagar, his wife’s handmaid ing. Sarah wasn’t hiding or showing pique: it was customary for men to accomplish, it can also mean “to be eat apart from the women, and for the God had other plans. women to remain out of sight. The story tells us that Abraham was encamped at a favorite spot called Yahweh – then declared: “I will surely “the oaks of Mamre,” which was near return to you in due season, and your Hebron, in a hilly area west of the The answer to the question, of Dead Sea. As he sat napping in the Abraham had not yet guessed that his course, is “No.” Nothing is too wonder- doorway of his tent in the heat of a dry visitors were not ordinary people, that afternoon, the old man looked up to statement should have made it clear. Sarah’s tent was close enough - The trio must have been impres- behind the guests for her to overhear ian husband. sive in appearance, for Abraham ran Fearing that God might be angered to meet the visitors, bowed with his by her doubt, Sarah denied having face to the ground, and begged them lost any hope of bearing children, but to rest in the shade and take refresh- not her sense of humor: “So Sarah ments before passing on, “since you laughed to herself, saying, ‘After I have laughter was again the order of the day. grown old, and my husband is old, shall Abraham had laughed out loud and Hospitality was, and remains, Sarah had laughed more quietly, but an honored custom among Middle when the boy was born, they happily Eastern peoples. Even enemies could old age must have seemed ludicrous. Yitzhak receive hospitality and protection if The notion was not at all absurd in means “he laughed.” they sought it. We are not surprised, “God has brought laughter for then, that Abraham received his said to Abraham, ‘Why did Sarah me,” Sarah said: “everyone who hears visitors with warmth and generosity, laugh, and say, “Shall I indeed bear a will laugh with me.” Today we may still - child, now that I am old?” Is anything laugh at the prospect of God granting a gant display. baby to an aged woman, but Christian set time I will return to you, in due descendants of Abraham can rejoice ran to meet the visitors, hurried to ask season, and Sarah shall have a son’” even more in remembering how God, Sarah to bake bread, and again ran to in due season, granted another baby – the herd to select a choice calf. He then In the Hebrew, Yahweh’s response to a virgin. NFJ
LESSON FOR JUNE 18, 2017 35
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June 25, 2017 We read nothing more of their relation- Genesis 21:14 ship for more than a decade, until the “So Abraham rose early in the day when Abraham and Sarah held a Genesis 21:8-21 morning, and took bread and a skin of water, and gave it to Hagar, feast to celebrate Isaac’s weaning. In Not Long Alone putting it on her shoulder, along those days, lacking the baby foods and with the child, and sent her away. nutritional supplements of today’s diet, children were typically weaned near ave you ever faced a major And she departed, and wandered about in the wilderness of Beer- their third birthday. setback that led to a surpris- sheba.” The happy celebration turned sour ing leap forward? Sometimes H when Sarah noticed Ishmael, who we complain that our progress in life feels like “three steps forward and two steps back,” or even worse, “two steps Sarah would soon have a natural Something about Ishmael and what he forward and three steps back.” born son. They both laughed at such was doing offended Sarah, but we can’t Still, an apparent obstacle or a preposterous idea, but in the face be sure what it was. A literal reading of all odds, Sarah gave birth to a boy. advantage. Some of the most success- They named him Isaac, meaning “he son of Hagar the Egyptian, which she ful entrepreneurs crashed and burned in laughed.” had borne to Abraham, playing.” The their early ventures, but learned from Sarah’s good humor did not last, interpretive problem lies in our under- failure to create a better product or a however. We recall that some years standing of the last word, which is a more effective business model. Any before, Sarah had given up on bearing participle formed from the same verb number of people have been rejected a child of her own and decided to use meaning “to laugh” that was the basis or discarded by someone they had her Egyptian handmaid as a surro- of Isaac’s name. gate birth-mother. She encouraged The participle is formed from forward and found greater happiness, Abraham to inseminate Hagar, the plan an intensive stem, which can give it whether alone or with a new and better was successful, and Hagar became nuances ranging from “he laughed,” to matched partner. then “looked with contempt on her and son who were cast from a comfort- Ishmael was innocent of ill will, trans- able camp into a desert wasteland. in kind, treating Hagar so harshly that lating the verse to say that Sarah saw Ishmael “playing with her son Isaac” discovered that they were not alone, Through a beautiful but often- and faced an impressive future. overlooked encounter between Hagar other hand, casts Ishmael’s behavior Trouble in the camp in a negative light, choosing the more (vv. 8-13) only provided for Hagar’s needs in the wilderness, but also promised that her critical shading of the verb: “Sarah son – to be named “Ishmael” – would noticed the son of Hagar the Egyptian recounted the story of how God and grow into a “wild ass of a man” and – the son whom she had borne to two angels visited Abraham’s camp, become the progenitor of uncounted near Hebron, and told him that despite offspring, though he would live at Whatever brought Ishmael to Additional information at God instructed Hagar to return to Sarah’s attention, she apparently could nurturingfaith.net Sarah with a more respectful attitude not bear the thought of Hagar’s son being on a par with Isaac. Forgoing
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 36 3/14/17 5:28 AM their names, she insisted that Abraham assume Ishmael must have been ing to surrogate motherhood rather “cast out this slave woman with her crying, too, for comfort arrived when than trusting God to grant her a child. son, for the son of this slave woman “God heard the voice of the boy” and Given Sarah’s age, we can understand shall not inherit along with my son “the angel of God called to Hagar from that, but in the narrator’s mind, this heaven, and said to her, ‘What troubles puts Sarah in a negative light, a shadow distressing for Abraham on account of you, Hagar? Do not be afraid, for God that emerges more strongly when Sarah has heard the voice of the boy where he begins to resent the results of her own a hard place this created for Abraham, plan and turns against both Ishmael who loved his son Ishmael and did not that though Hagar had hidden her son and her handmaid, who had obediently share Sarah’s insecure jealousy. beneath the bush, he was not hidden allowed Abraham to impregnate her. Nevertheless, the narrator says from God. God told Abraham to go along with The angel instructed Hagar to help feelings about Hagar. She obeys her Sarah and send them away, promising the boy up and lead him by the hand, mistress and accepts her role as a that Ishmael would become the father “for I will make a great nation of him” surrogate mother, but adopts a spiteful of a nation of his own, while the people attitude toward Sarah after becoming to be known as Abraham’s descen- a nearby well, from which she could pregnant. When treated harshly, she dants would be descended from Isaac, runs away, only to return and bear the the chosen son of Abraham and Sarah child, then be forced to leave the camp Both God and Hagar looked after with no more thanks than a loaf of bread Ishmael as he grew, according to v. 20: and a skin of water. In the wilderness, Deliverance in the desert “God was with the boy, and he grew she dumps Ishmael under a bush and (vv. 14-21) up; he lived in the wilderness, and retreats, leaving him to die alone rather So once again, Abraham obeyed his than staying to comfort him in what she wife, sending Hagar and Ishmael into they lived in the wilderness of Paran, the wilderness with nothing more than south of the Negev and close to Egypt, Despite Hagar’s weak moments, a small supply of bread and water. Hagar arranged a marriage for him with she is granted two conversations with They went miles to the south “and wandered about in the wilderness of the last we hear of Hagar. to her and she speaks to God. Indeed, Beer-sheba,” apparently lost. It would It’s also the last we hear from she assigns to God a new name – El Roi not have taken many days for both Sarah. Surprised? – and is the only person in scripture said food and water to run out, and soon Hagar despaired for their lives. The A tale of two mothers encounter, Hagar does not speak, but narrator does not record any speech God provides water and again promises from Ishmael, though he later says that chapter 22, the story of how Abraham that her offspring – like Abraham’s – “God heard the voice of the boy.” came close to offering Issac as a burnt will multiply beyond counting. Ishmael would have been in his While biblical tradition asserts late teens, according to the canonical Abraham was up to, it would surely that the Israelites were descendants of chronology, but the story speaks as if have been the death of her. Indeed, the Abraham through Isaac and then his son he were much younger, using a term typically employed for a small child. in Hebron and the account of how - After their scant provisions were Abraham purchased a burial cave for tors of their own tribes. As Jews look to her – but much time had passed, for “Father Abraham,” Muslims of Middle Hagar “cast the child” under a bush Isaac was 40 years old. Eastern descent also consider Abraham and then went “about the distance of Take note of the ambivalent way to be their ancestor, but through his a bowshot” away, believing the boy the narrator portrays Sarah: he admires would die soon and not wanting to her beauty and her willingness to play Given the current tension many along with Abraham’s tricks. But, he people feel towards those who follow Hagar “lifted up her voice and Islam, it is good to remember that the promise of descendants by resort- Muslims also call Abraham father. NFJ
LESSON FOR JUNE 25, 2017 37
NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 37 3/14/17 5:28 AM RECOGNITION & CLASSIFIEDS REMEMBRANCE Senior Pastor: Azalea Baptist Church, Children’s Pastor: Johns Creek Baptist Norfolk, VA, is seeking a full-time senior Church, Alpharetta, Ga., is seeking a full- Gina M. Brock is associate pastor of pastor. We are a moderate, community- time children’s pastor to lead our robust Ardmore Baptist Church in Winston- minded church with strong military ties ministry to families with children, ranging Salem, N.C., coming from Immanuel whose members come from diverse from birth through fifth grade. Currently Baptist Church in Paducah, Ky. backgrounds. We a#liate with the CBF, CBF the ministry is comprised of more than 200 of Virginia and BGAV. We a#rm the 1963 children on roll, with approximately 125 in Dee Dee Coleman is the first female presi- Baptist Faith and Message, and support both weekly attendance. Candidates must be dent of the Council of Baptist Pastors of men and women in leadership positions. We skilled in organizing, inspiring and leading Detroit and Vicinity. She is pastor of Russell also a#rm that a personal relationship with a large number of experienced volunteers Street Missionary Baptist Church in the city. Jesus Christ is at the heart of Christianity. who are passionate about excellence in Our approach to evangelism and outreach ministry. In addition to providing innovative Will Dyer Jr. is pastor of First Baptist is to develop loving relationships and reflect program leadership, our children’s pastor is Church of Augusta, Ga., coming from First Jesus Christ in our daily lives. The candidate a vital part of a collaborative team of pasto- should hold a degree from an accredited ral leaders. Candidates should thrive in such Baptist Church of Gainesville, Ga., where seminary, and five years pastoral experi- an environment of mutual encouragement, he was associate pastor. ence is desired. Applications can be sent to challenge and support. Interested persons [email protected] or to Pastor Search may email [email protected] to request Lt. Col. Elizabeth Harris-Lamkin retired Committee, Azalea Baptist Church, 3314 E. a detailed job description and/or submit a Jan. 7 after 22 years of military chaplaincy Little Creek Rd., Norfolk, Va. 23518. résumé. service. Endorsed by the Alliance of Baptists, she recently served as senior chaplain for the Robert Parham led Baptists, Georgia Air National Guard. others to engage ethical issues Baptists Today / Ralph H. Langley died Jan. 13 at age 94 in NASHVILLE, Tenn. — “His purpose was Nurturing Faith Huntsville, Ala., where he was pastor emeri- the same as the organization he founded has received gifts tus of the First Baptist Church. He attended and deeply cherished: to help people of faith Mars Hill, then a junior college, before advance the common good,” said Kevin In honor of … transferring to Baylor University. He was Heifner, chair of the among the student leaders of an impact- board of directors of Jim and Pat Travis ful, post-war youth revival movement that the Baptist Center From T. Furman Hewitt spread from Texas across the southeastern for Ethics, following U.S. Other pastorates included Univer- the March 5 death In memory of … sity Baptist in Coral Gables, Fla., Wilshire of the organization’s Bryan Robinson Baptist in Dallas and Willow Meadows founder and execu- From Florence Robinson Baptist in Houston. tive director, Robert Parham. William G. Trawick Peter and Sarah McCurdy of Ridgeway, Parham, 63, founded the Nashville- From Margaret G. Trawick N.J., began missionary service in Costa based BCE in 1991. He grew up in Rica in December 2016. They serve with Nigeria where his parents were Baptist Bob Cates the Federation of Baptists of Costa Rica in missionaries and, after earning college and From partnership with American Baptist Inter- seminary degrees as well as a doctorate in Larry B. Atwell national Ministries. Christian ethics from Baylor University, Elizabeth Dutton Parham worked with the former Christian Kenny and Shirley Crump Jennifer McClung Rygg is pastor of First Life Commission of the Southern Baptist John and Martha Heneisen Baptist Church of Pendleton, S.C. Convention. Janie and Hugh Peacock The mission of BCE expanded under Willis and Glenda Potts Roy L. Thompson died Jan. 8 in Cleveland, Parham’s innovative leadership to include Earl and Carolyn Tillman Ohio, at age 94. He served American Baptist the website ethicsdaily.com and documen- Clement and Carole White Home Mission Societies (formerly National tary films dealing with poverty, racism, Ministries) in several capacities including interfaith relationships, immigration and new church and community development. various issues of justice. NFJ
38 Information
NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 38 3/14/17 5:28 AM NEW FROM NURTURING FAITH
Join young N.W. (Noble Wimberly) Jones and his family on a bold journey from their home in Lambeth, England to settling into the Georgia colony.
Lynelle Mason loves stories — and loves to tell them — especially if they involve her home state of Georgia. Trailblazer is packed with historical details and will be enjoyed by readers of all ages as they join N.W. in exciting and challenging adventures. !MARY JAYNE ALLEN RETIRED MINISTER OF EDUCATION FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, CHATTANOOGA, TENN.
Lynelle Mason truly is gifted in making historical fiction come alive for her readers. Young readers will be captivated by the stories of hardship and perseverance of someone their age living in a very difficult time in our country’s early history. !LAURA M. COOPER ELEMENTARY LITERACY COACH CHATTANOOGA, TENN.
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 39 3/14/17 5:28 AM How-t% guid" Religious organizations can engage government properly
important tone by being unfailingly kind achieve our aims.” STORY AND PHOTO to others, she said, and by teaching their Christian organizations that want to BY TONY W. CARTLEDGE children to be kind. engage effectively with the government must Contributing Editor Rogers spoke of successful collab- focus first on being Christian and following orative efforts between faith groups and Jesus’ teachings, she said — and to be authen- ALLS CHURCH, Va. — Religious government, such as working for the release tically Christian is to be counter-cultural. organizations can and should be of Christian pastors Kenneth Bae and Saeed The business of politics may argue that “the F actively engaged with govern- Abedini from unjust imprisonment in first should be first and enemies should pay, ment representatives, said Melissa Rogers, North Korea and Iran, respectively. Bae was but our teachings are the opposite,” Rogers speaking to the North American Baptist released in 2015, and Abedini in 2016. said, “and we have to be counter-cultural to Fellowship executive committee and fellow It was important that Christian groups be salt and light in the world.” members of Columbia Baptist Church in were praying for their release and clamoring At the same time, she said, Christians Falls Church, Va., in March. for government action on their behalf, she must follow Jesus’ advice to be “wise as Rogers, who previously served as legal said. serpents and gentle as doves,” remaining alert counsel for the Baptist Joint Committee on Similarly, when so they can avoid being used as tools by the Religious Liberty and directed the Center the Ebola virus devas- government. “There is no fake news in the for Religion and Public Affairs at Wake tated West Africa, gospel,” she said. Christians need to honor Forest University Divinity School, worked the president recog- truth and be careful about how their relation- in the White House from 2013-2017 as nized that faith-based ships with government officials develop. special assistant to President Barack Obama groups would be Citing Jesus’ advice to “render to Caesar and executive director of the Office of Faith- needed in the effort to what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s,” Melissa Rogers based and Neighborhood Partnerships. fight the disease, and Rogers said the church needs to do the work Currently, she is a senior fellow in Gover- Rogers’ office was instrumental in coordi- of the church, and not expect the govern- nance Studies at the Brookings Institution. nating them. Later, she helped facilitate a ment to do it. If the state magnifies religious Pastor Jim Baucom of Columbia Baptist meeting between Obama and Kent Brantly, teachings that it likes but downplays things Church said he had often asked Rogers to an American doctor who had contracted it doesn’t like, “we end up with a funhouse speak, but during her time in the high-stress Ebola while volunteering at a clinic in mirror image of our faith.” Baptists, she said, atmosphere of the White House, she had Liberia, but fortunately recovered. must hold faithfully to their historic belief in asked to “just be a regular church member” Obama’s welcoming handshake, church-state separation. and enjoy the church fellowship and worship with media present, helped to counteract Beyond those principles, Rogers offered outside of the daily grind in Washington. unneeded hysteria and the fear some felt five practical suggestions for how religious Rogers spoke briefly of memorable about volunteers who contracted the disease organizations can effectively impact experiences in working for the president, returning to the U.S. for treatment, she said. government. who she described as a genuine Christian In both cases, Rogers said, “We started First, she said, “Don’t wait for an who engages regularly with pastors and on common ground between government invitation,” but be proactive in engaging Christian leaders, talking about how faith and religious organizations; we had the with government. Religious folk are often impacts society. Instead of relying on speech- same goals. We also had a willingness to too modest, she said, but should be more writers alone, she said, he was very active in collaborate and work together, including assertive “because you care about the things developing his remarks for the annual prayer some who weren’t known for agreeing with that truly matter and you are bridge build- breakfasts, inserting scripture texts from the Obama administration.” ers rather than bomb throwers.” memory and wanting to express his personal Both government and faith-based Christians should introduce themselves faith. groups had unique capabilities, she said, to government officials and cultivate Obama and his wife Michelle set an and “we worked together relentlessly to relationships, she said, offering ideas about
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 40 3/14/17 5:28 AM how they can be helpful. Likewise, Christian leaders should be willing to make public state- ments about important issues and share them with government officials. Faith-based groups should also “find a balance between prophetic and pragmatic,” Rogers said. “Should we recommend things we think are likely to be done, or focus more on those that are least likely to be done?” Believers should find a balanced way to do both, she said. People of faith who want to engage the government should also recognize that “a good idea is not enough,” she said. “To be executed by government, it needs to be something that the government can do and that has some support.” Ideas presented by faith groups need to be backed up by supportive information about how they can be carried out. Getting involved with government requires knowing one’s audience, Rogers said, Medical doctor to be honored which means getting to know politicians and their staffs. Politicians generally want to do the right thing, she said, but they are also by BWA for human rights work concerned about their image and want to get Cynthia Maung, a medical doctor thousands of Karen and others from re-elected, “so they look at things through a who has devoted nearly 30 years various ethnic groups have been killed in political prism.” As a result, faith groups who the conflict, and many Karen have fled advance ideas need to make sure they under- to providing healthcare to refugees across the border into Thailand. stand secular ramifications of the idea, and from Myanmar living on the Thai- In February 1989, five months be prepared to counter potential arguments Myanmar border, will receive the after escaping Myanmar, Maung estab- against it. lished the Mae Tao Medical Clinic in a 2017 Baptist World Alliance (BWA) Finally, Rogers said, “Go upstream.” dilapidated building in Mae Sot. Now People run for office because they want to Denton and Janice Lotz Human the clinic has a staff of more than 600, accomplish something, she said. “If possible, Rights Award this summer. delivers up to 15 babies per day, and fits you want your agenda to be part of what they 250 new and replacement prosthetic he award, given for signifi- want to do.” limbs each year. It treats between 300 cant and effective activities That requires “going upstream” to contact and 400 patients daily, or up to 150,000 to secure, protect, restore or political candidates as well as sitting officials, T annually, including refugees, migrant preserve human rights as stated in the because “this helps get issues on leaders’ radar workers and locals. screens at a very early stage.” United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other declara- Also, the clinic trains medical She cited the example of a broad-based interns, nurses and hygienists, and feeds coalition of Christian leaders called the “Circle tions on human rights, will be presented more than 500 people twice each day. of Protection,” who are committed to ending during the BWA Annual Gathering in Maung’s clinical interests in obstetrics hunger and poverty. They ask political candi- Bangkok, Thailand, from July 2-7. and women’s reproductive health have dates on all sides to produce a three-minute Maung was among the displaced broadened to include issues of domestic video of what they plan to do regarding hunger Karen who fled to and settled in Mae violence and human rights. and poverty, and then share the responses with Sot on the border between Thailand Maung, who was born into their members. and Myanmar. Since 1949, the Karen a Baptist Karen family, was named one Whether upstream or downstream, Rogers people, an ethnic minority group in of Time magazine’s Asian Heroes in said people of faith can make a real and positive Myanmar, have been fighting for an 2003. NFJ difference. “Know that your engagement with independent Karen State. Hundreds of government on behalf of people who are suffer- ing matters greatly and can work amazing feats even in today’s world.” NFJ
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 41 3/14/17 5:28 AM Syrian Baptists minister, grow churches amid war
STORY AND PHOTO refashioned into an attractive sanctuary BY TONY W. CARTLEDGE with much more open space inside. When Contributing Editor the new church was dedicated, she said, 600 people packed the building, including For a Baptist church in Syria, stray Baptist leaders from nearby countries and other Christians in Syria who came “to see rocket fire opened more than a if this is true that a church could grow like hole in a wall: it expanded oppor- this in the midst of the war.” When several tunities for mission. bombs exploded nearby during the service, ies left, most of them were closed. One small “My husband told the guests, ‘This is to amal Makkar is pastor of the church in Damascus persevered, however. welcome you.’” Baptist Evangelical Church in Four members who were determined to Church members never determined G Damascus. Born in Egypt, he and keep the doors from closing continued to which forces were responsible for the his Lebanese wife Michelline first moved to meet for 40 years. rockets, “but God used them for good,” Syria in 1997 to start a ministry through In 2008, Makkar’s husband Gamal Makkar said. “Cru,” formerly known as Campus Crusade went to the elderly members with a The church continues to face for Christ. Michelline Makkar and Mouna proposal. Explaining that he was a Baptist challenges. While Michelline Makkar is Gharib, who continues to work with pastor, he offered to serve the church as currently studying abroad, her husband Cru, spoke about challenges facing Syrian pastor, and they accepted. The new partner- Gamal remains in Damascus, leading the Baptists during a March meeting of the ship was fruitful: From 2008 to 2010, church. Many men in Syria have been killed North American Baptist Fellowship execu- Makkar said, the church grew from four in the fighting, and others have undertaken tive committee in Falls Church, Va. to 120 members, and did not slow down. the risky venture of fleeing the country, Life in Syria was not always easy before “Today we have 1,000 members,” she said, hoping to establish themselves elsewhere so the war, Gharib said, but “With the war, “and 600 children.” they can bring their families later. Women everything changed.” She, along with other That created a problem: a good now compose 80 percent of the church residents of Damascus, were “in denial” problem, but a challenge nonetheless. The membership, Makkar said. A ministry team about the war until they saw planes flying sanctuary held just 100 people, and church of 33 persons works to assist the pastor, but over and bombs starting to fall. When a leaders were holding services every day to most have been Christians for two years or rocket lodged in the roof of a fellowship and accommodate the many members. “We less and need training, she said. training center used by Cru, she said, “We needed to widen the church,” Makkar said, Baptists in Damascus are not alone. A prayed and went on, hoping by the next “but we were not allowed to.” Baptist church in southern Syria has 700 week it would be fixed.” Makkar believes God took care of members, Makkar said, mostly of Druze Residents still experience bullets the problem: “God allowed two rockets to descent. Syrian Baptists are praying that whizzing nearby, or hitting a wall and hit the church on a day when no one was three Baptist churches that have been closed dropping at their feet, but they persevere: there.” Two of the walls fell down, she will soon reopen. “That’s how life is,” Gharib said. Cru works said, “and my husband took a hammer to Elijah Brown, General Secretary of the mainly with students, but all young men another wall.” Though workmen were North American Baptist Fellowship, said 10 are required to serve in the army when they hesitant to help, the pastor finished the job Baptist churches currently remain open in reach a certain age. Because of this, despite of demolishing the damaged walls, then Syria, but have no international support. the male-dominant culture, student leader- others joined in to assist with rebuilding, He challenged representatives to become ship has gravitated to women, she said. “It’s which received government approval. In “champions for the incredible work they are challenging. Life is not easy.” the process, Makkar said, “We widened the doing there.” Makkar said missionary work in earlier church so now it can hold 500 people.” “We need your prayers and support, years established a number of Baptist Worship services continued amid the your love,” Makkar said: “Please, take the churches in Syria, but when the missionar- rubble while the church building was being initiative and be with us in this war.” NFJ
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 42 3/14/17 5:28 AM BEING CHURCH IN CHANGING TIMES A column provided in collaboration with the Center for Healthy Churches (chchurches.org) E"ective theological education can foster healthier ministers, churches Matthew Tennant
nce a seminary president began expenses, there will be more resources for subject. They can collect references online a program to reconnect profes- education. and use tools such as Evernote to organize O sors and churches. Each summer, If churches and committed Christians their thoughts. The school and professors professors would serve in a church for three see the value of theological education, they can track their progress. Learning can be months — and the pastors could study and will contribute. When they do, their contri- adaptive instead of prescriptive. Technology rejuvenate in the seminary context. butions can reduce tuition costs. Thus, opens possibilities and breaks down barriers. The president hoped the exchange the next generation of church workers can No longer must students live in would benefit pastors and professors. Yet, afford to continue doing God’s work. proximity to the school and professors. as the story goes, the professors revolted. In Second, theological education will offer Social media supplements human inter- a heated staff meeting the president grew choices. This is a growing trend in seminar- action, but it cannot replace it. The challenge frustrated. He said to a theology professor, ies now. Instead of a few tracks within the is to complement online classes and social “When was the last time you conducted the traditional Master of Divinity program, media with interpersonal exchanges. funeral for an 8-year-old?” seminaries now offer various degrees. Some Getting students involved in church The professor replied, “When was the schools have diploma, certificate and license communities will strengthen churches and last time you read a book of theology?” programs. These help students who feel theological education. But it does not need We each have our own priorities. God’s calling but lack a bachelor’s degree. students to be in the same city as the school. Sometimes an individual’s priorities become The choices do not mean watered- They can connect with churches where they unbalanced. In seminaries biblical scholars down training. Instead, they show live. might overemphasize Hebrew or Greek, responsiveness and sensitivity to today’s Fifth, theological education must not whereas theologians and preaching profes- students. Providing options will allow more end when students earn a degree or certifi- sors focus on their own subjects. people to explore their calling. cate. There is no way to learn everything A thoughtful, thorough curriculum Third, in the future, institutions will one needs to know while in school. Learn- will reduce overemphasizing or underem- offer flexible schedules. Balancing classes, ing must continue after the excitement of phasizing specific subjects. But what is the work and family has always been challeng- graduation day has passed. future? ing. For students, daily classes offer the best When institutions realize the need for Will future ministers and missionar- approach for long-term retention. This is the lifelong learning, they will seek the input ies train in seminaries? Will they stay in best way to understanding complex ideas. of pastors. They can use the input to plan residential apartments for three years of full- Yet in reality, many people do not have that study days and colloquiums. When pastors time study? With ever-increasing student luxury. Evening classes might be the differ- see the value of attending, they will look debt load of recent college graduates, is the ence between attending and not attending forward to them. What they learn will help three-year Master of Divinity degree still for some students. If the class meets once per their ministries flourish. tenable? week, attendance is even easier. Theological education builds a founda- The cost of theological education does Fourth, online classes and modules tion for successful ministry. It should reflect not match the potential future salaries. are here to stay. This fact chagrins old-style the changing needs of the 21st century. What is the answer? professors. The philosopher Martin Effective education can foster healthier First, seminaries and denominations Heidegger says that technology is not a ministers and churches. NFJ must strive to bring the cost down. Seminar- means, but a way of revealing. Technology ies, like churches and other institutions, provides new opportunities for teaching. -—Matthew Tennant is pastor of have expenses. If the school can reduce Students can become immersed in a Kilmarnock Baptist Church in Virginia.
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 43 3/14/17 5:28 AM RELIGION AND THE AMERICAN PRESIDENTS James Garfield (1881) By Bruce Gourley
he last of the log cabin-born presi- Ohio, he returned home and taught again Otherwise the congressman was dents, James A. Garfield was born in at Hiram College. Within a year the college involved in the nation’s financial and tariff T Cuyahoga County, Ohio, in 1831. hired him as president, a position he held matters, serving on various related commit- Fatherless at the age of two, he was raised by from 1857–1861. tees. In this capacity he affirmed the nation’s his impoverished mother on the family farm. Others also recognized Garfield’s talents. heritage of church-state separation, declar- A shy, young Garfield immersed Entering politics, from 1859–1861 he served ing: “The divorce between church and state himself in the world of books. Attending a in the Ohio State Senate as a Republican, ought to be absolute.” local Disciples of Christ congregation with remaining affiliated with the party through- Believing churches should receive no his mother, he also became familiar with the out his career. Meanwhile, he studied law special treatment from government, he Bible. and married Lucretia Randolph in 1858, insisted upon the “equal taxation” of church As a teenager and with the encourage- daughter of the co-founder of Hiram College property. ment of his mother, Garfield undertook and a devout Christian. In the ensuing years Weathering several political financial education at a relatively late age. Distin- they raised a family of five children. scandals during the 1870s, by the end of guishing himself as a student, Garfield later Fervently abolitionist, upon the the decade Garfield emerged as one of the said of his young years: outbreak of the American Civil War, Garfield most powerful congressmen in D.C., a close “I lament that I was born to poverty on behalf of the state of Ohio assisted in the ally of Republican President Rutherford B. … and in this chaos of childhood, 17 years funding and raising of volunteer regiments, Hayes, also from Ohio. passed before I caught any inspiration … a receiving appointment in August 1861 as a In 1880, amid a divided Republican precious 17 years when a boy with a father colonel in the 42nd Ohio infantry regiment. Party and on the 36th ballot of a deadlocked and some wealth might have become fixed He fought bravely in numerous battles, nominating convention, Garfield was in manly ways.” including Shiloh and Chickamauga, obtain- chosen as the party’s presidential candi- About this time Garfield, thus far ing the rank of major general. date. He subsequently defeated Democrat ambivalent about religion, experienced a Concurrently with his military service, and war hero Maj. Gen. Winfield Scott spiritual awakening at a camp meeting. Garfield was elected to the U.S. House Hancock in a close general election contest, Professing faith in Christ, in 1850 he was of Representatives from Ohio in 1862. securing a moderate edge in the Electoral baptized in the Chagrin River and joined Re-elected eight times, he served in the College while winning the popular vote by the Disciples of Christ Church. House until 1880. less than 2,000. Enrollment at Hiram College, a Disci- Garfield’s long congressional service Garfield took office in March 1881 ples of Christ institution, followed. He led him to take positions on many issues against the backdrop of a Republican Party excelled at his studies, and the school hired reflective of the complexities of the post-war still at odds from the bitter election season. him to teach even as he took classes. In era. Although a proponent of black suffrage, The only preacher to ascend to the presi- addition, Garfield, by now an accomplished of the prospect of the political equality of dency, he resigned his position as an elder and compelling speaker, preached regularly African Americans he privately expressed in the Disciples of Christ Church in order in nearby churches. “a strong feeling of repugnance.” to serve the nation. Transferring to Williams College in During Reconstruction he opposed In his cabinet appointments the new Massachusetts, a prominent New England U.S. President Andrew Johnson’s anti-black president sought to heal divisions within school, Garfield graduated as class saluta- agenda, yet in 1871 voted against the anti-Ku his party, albeit with only limited success. torian. Following this positive experience Klux Klan Civil Rights Bill of 1871, oppos- On the foreign policy front Garfield sought in a world wealthier and more sophisti- ing the legislation’s granting to the president freer trade in the Western Hemisphere, the cated than his rural, western upbringing in the right to suspend habeas corpus. construction of a canal through Panama,
This is the 20th in a series of articles by historian Bruce Gourley on the religious faith of U.S. presidents. Gourley is online editor and contributing writer for Nurturing Faith Journal and executive director of the Baptist History & Heritage Society.
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 44 3/14/17 5:28 AM ment is responsible for any violation of the Constitution in any of them. It is therefore a reproach to the Government that in the most populous of the Territories the constitutional guaranty is not enjoyed by the people and the authority of Congress is set at naught. The Mormon Church not only offends the moral sense of manhood by sanctioning polygamy, but prevents the administration of justice through ordinary instrumentalities of law. In my judgment it is the duty of Congress, while respecting to the uttermost the conscientious convictions and religious scruples of every citizen, to prohibit within its jurisdiction all criminal practices, especially of that class which destroy the family relations and endanger social order. Nor can any eccle- siastical organization be safely permitted to usurp in the smallest degree the functions and powers of the National Government.
Otherwise, and although sometimes attending worship at National City Chris- tian Church in Washington, President Garfield said or wrote little about religion while in office, in no small part due to the untimely end of his life. and an expanded military presence and had contended with the Latter Day Saints, On July 2, 1881 an aspiring office strength abroad. or Mormons, a 19th-century denomination seeker, bitterly disappointed by the refusal Domestically, the president focused on birthed in opposition to Christianity and of the Garfield administration to appoint civil service reform, civil rights and educa- characterized by long-running, often violent him to a consular position, mortally shot tion. He appointed a number of African confrontations with local, state and federal the president. Despite the prayers of his Americans, including Frederick Douglass, to authorities. distraught family and millions of other prominent positions in D.C. In an attempt Headquartered in Utah Territory and Americans, Garfield never recovered from to prevent African Americans from becom- openly flaunting U.S. anti-polygamy laws, the wounds, dying on September 19. ing a permanent “peasantry,” Garfield the LDS Church yet claimed religious liberty More than 100,000 Americans viewed proposed a “universal” system of education as a rationale for their acts of defiance. Three the coffin of President Garfield as it lay in funded by the federal government. years prior to Garfield taking office, the the nation’s Capitol rotunda. Afterward Garfield resisted, however, calls for U.S. Supreme Court in Reynolds v. United he was buried at Lake View Cemetery in using government money for religious States had ruled that religious practices were Cleveland, Ohio. education, insisting that “it would be unjust not a defense of criminal indictment. Within weeks of his death a hurried to our people and dangerous to our institu- In his inaugural address of March biography of Garfield was published, noting tions to apply any portion of the revenues of 4, 1881 the newly installed president of the recently-deceased president: “In all the nation, or of the States, to the support addressed ongoing Mormon defiance of the discussions on religious topics, James was of sectarian schools. The separation of the court ruling: the outspoken champion of entire religious church and the state in everything relating freedom,” and “His Christian faith and to taxation should be absolute.” The Constitution guarantees absolute behavior were both open, courageous, Regardless, Congress ignored his call religious freedom. Congress is prohibited from generous and impartial.” for federal-funded universal education. making any law respecting an establishment The second president assassinated Apart from matters of taxation, one of religion or prohibiting the free exercise while in office, Garfield was memorialized other circumstance led Garfield to elabo- thereof. The Territories of the United States by the American public for much of the rate upon the boundaries between church are subject to the direct legislative authority decade, during which time several Disciples and state. For some 40 years U.S. presidents of Congress, and hence the General Govern- churches named buildings in his honor. NFJ
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 45 3/14/17 5:28 AM Panorama of the Great Mosque of Mecca (Masjid al-Haram) in Saudi Arabia. Mythsand realities of Islamic terrorism
BY BRUCE GOURLEY 1975 is precisely three. None of the killers monotheistic religion. was Muslim. And no Americans have been Born in Mecca in Arabia, Muhammad Comprising about 22 percent of killed in terrorist acts by refugees since 1980. became a trader, or merchant. According to the world’s religious adherents, Any given American citizen is far more Islamic tradition, he was a descendant of Islam is second in size only to likely to die from lightning, a dog attack, Ishmael, son of Abraham. hornets or wasps, a home-grown Christian During Muhammad’s time the Middle Christianity. It is also the fastest terrorist attack, choking, drowning, poison- East was comprised of many tribes, including growing religion. ing, pollution, a heat wave, an airplane a variety of Christian sects. He had contact accident, or even an asteroid attack, than by with and was influenced by Christians and lthough American Muslims only a Muslim refugee. Jews, and possibly monotheistic Arabs. number about three million, In addition, violence by American In 609 Muhammad claimed a revela- demographic estimates based on A Muslims at large is also very rare. In 2016 tion from God — the God of Adam, Noah, current growth trajectories indicate that the percentage of murders in the United Islam will likely become the globe’s largest Abraham, Moses and Jesus. Like the biblical States committed by American Muslims faith by the end of this century. prophets, Muhammad preached that only was .3 percent of total murders, a rate far Yet Americans remain largely unfamil- the One True God was worthy of worship. iar with Islam, a lack of knowledge that in below that of non-Muslim Americans. Other revelations followed, and in 622 years since the terrorist attacks of 9/11 has Many Christians, to be certain, do Muhammad established the Islamic faith. created widespread fears. understand that Muslim refugees and The word “Islam” means “submission” to Amid the fear and hatred, perhaps it is Muslim Americans are more peaceful than the will and laws of God, and applies to not surprising that many evangelical Chris- other Americans. Even so, few Christians everyone and everything. All of existence, in tians applaud political efforts targeting strive to understand the Islamic faith and short, is to submit to God, the ruler of all. Muslim refugees, persons often deemed by sort out the myths and realities pertaining Meanwhile, Muhammad continued detractors as likely terrorists. to Islamic terrorism. transcribing the revelations from God. Upon Reality, however, says otherwise. his death in 632, the revelations, considered According to an in-depth study of terror- Muhammad and the Quran the very Word of God, were compiled into ism in America by the conservative Cato Founded by the Prophet Muhammad the Quran. The Quran became the holy text Institute, the number of Americans killed (c. 570-632), Islam followed Judaism of Islam and primary authoritative source of in terrorist acts committed by refugees since and Christianity as the world’s third Islamic law.
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 46 3/14/17 5:28 AM Rooted within the Hebrew Old Testa- precursor of Arabic. In Aramaic he would became known as the Wahhabi tradition, a ment while also embracing Jesus, the Quran have referred to God as “Alaha,” a word that revivalist religion originating in the 1700s reflects the Bible in terms of major themes, in time became “Allah.” and giving birth to Saudi Arabia. In the late religious laws and central figures. Major 1800s, and out of anger over the British themes include (but are not limited to): Sunnis and Shias destruction of many Muslim holy sites in the relationship between God and humans, Following Muhammad’s death Muslims India, Wahhabism developed into funda- forgiveness of sins, prayer, helping the split into two factions over the question of mentalism, initially non-violent and soon needy, honesty, wealth and sexuality. his proper successor, or caliph, a word refer- spreading into Egypt. Many Old Testament laws are ring to a Muslim civil and religious leader. The 1967 Arab-Israeli Six Day War, contained in the Quran, including the Ten Some Muslims supported successors however, led many Islamic fundamentalists Commandments (slightly reworded and not from Muhammad’s bloodline, a traditional to demand the imposition of Islamic law, or in one location) and the concept of an eye means of lineage historically modeled by Sharia, as the source of political and judicial for an eye and life for life. Old Testament many city-states. They became known as legislation into Egypt and beyond. Since that prophets mentioned in the Quran include Shias, or Shiite Muslims. time, many Muslim-dominant nations to Adam, Enoch, Abraham, Ishmael and Isaac. Other Muslims believed that Muham- varying degrees have implemented Islamic In addition, the Quran praises Jesus as mad’s successor should not be limited to law in a merging of mosque and state. a prophet, mentioning him (“Isa” in Arabic) blood lineage but rather should reflect spiri- Today, Sunnis are by far the numeri- 25 times. As in the Bible, Jesus is a messenger tual continuity with the Prophet. Placing cally dominant branch of Islam, comprising and prophet of God, miraculously born of a a predominant emphasis on personal piety an estimated 85-90 percent of Muslims virgin, and performer of miracles. But he is and observance of the Prophet’s customs, worldwide. Most Islamic fundamentalists not the Son of God. And he did not die on they became known as Sunnis. are Sunnis. the cross, but rather ascended into heaven. Despite their differences on the Rejecting the perceived evils of the The eschatology of the Quran is also question of lineage, both Shia and Sunni world, fundamentalists advocate for the similar to that of the New Testament. Jesus, factions in the ensuing centuries developed application of Islamic law in order to purify Isa, will return. There will be a resurrection. militant spinoffs that embraced politics, the world. Within the Islamic fundamental- The End Times will witness the coming of and sometimes violence and warfare, in the ist worldview, both nominal Muslims and the antichrist — Dajjal — a war between spreading of their faith. non-Muslims are infidels. good and evil, and a final judgment. Within a few hundred years Muslim Fundamentalism, in turn, is sometimes In the Quran, Muhammad — like expansion made remarkable inroads into a breeding ground for Islamic terrorism, Jesus — is a prophet. He is the preeminent the Eastern regions of Christendom. or extremism. American national security and the final prophet, or “holy prophet.” Having resorted to bloody militancy since analysts estimate a miniscule .007 percent In time the word “Muslim” emerged the days of Constantine, the Christian of the world’s Muslim population are terror- to describe those of Islamic faith, follow- Church in the late 11th century waged war ists. Most Islamic terrorist activity is in the ers of Muhammad. Muslims worship on Islam for control of the Holy Land. A form of attacks upon other Muslims, often God using the name “Allah,” which is the series of Crusades against Muslims over two in the form of Shia and Sunni conflicts, in ancient Arabic name for “God” and of the centuries ended largely in failure, as Islam Muslim-dominant nations. same origins as the biblical “Elohim” of the remained entrenched in the East. Although most practitioners of Islam Hebrew Old Testament. Centuries following the Crusades, are peaceful, fundamentalist expressions Jesus most likely spoke in Aramaic, a the Sunni militant lineage produced what tend to dominate headlines. Hearkening to
Feature 47
NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 47 3/14/17 5:28 AM the Wahabbi roots of Islamic fundamental- degrees, in many conservative, theocratic shape government. In addition, evangelicals ism, most of the 9/11 terrorists were Saudi Islamic nations, including Afghanistan, are far more opposed to same-sex marriage nationals. Iran, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Yemen than Muslims. and, as previously noted, Saudi Arabia. Additionally, the public fear of and Sharia Law These 21st century theocracies reflect a outcry over the imagined dangers of Sharia Muhammad and the Quran are the starting pre-Enlightenment worldview in which in America mask the fact that our nation’s points for understanding Islam, a diverse religion supersedes science and reason. own theocratic past yet lurks within today’s religion with a major fault line between This political interpretation of Sharia courtrooms. Shias and Sunnis. Believers within both mirrors that of the pre-Enlightenment, According to a study of religion in factions follow Islamic law, or Sharia. Christian theocratic American colonies of judicial proceedings, Christian “judges’ Despite shared roots in the Hebrew the 17th and 18th centuries, whereby Old personal religious beliefs and religious Old Testament, Christianity and Islam have Testament legal codes were the basis of education very often find a place in decisions clashed since the late 11th century. Islamic colonial charters, legislation, laws, judicial they write.” fundamentalism emerged in the 1800s, proceedings, and social and cultural norms. While “courts of the 19th century rarely corresponding to the emergence of Chris- Jewish scholars have long recognized quoted the Bible,” biblical quotes in court- tian fundamentalism in the Western world. colonial use of the Mosaic Code (the rooms since “are much more characteristic” Today, some key American allies are Islamic Hebrew Torah, or first five books of the Old and “a matter of great concern for anyone theocracies in which Sharia is enshrined, Testament) as, in the words of one, “the who believes that judicial decision-making including Saudi Arabia. most potent force in the legislation of early should not be based on comprehensive Functioning in similar fashion to New England commonwealths.” Another doctrines such as religion,” wrote Sanja canon law of the Roman Catholic Church, noted that colonial theocracies often enacted Zgonjanin in New York City Law Review. Sharia is written legal, moral and ethical “a stricter, more fundamentalist observance Sharia, in short, is not a problem in philosophy. Evolving after Muhammad’s than Judaism had ever seen.” U.S. courtrooms. However, another set of death and drawing from the Quran and Today’s Islamic theocratic nations, foreign laws, that of the Old Testament, Sunnah (essentially the collected teach- in other words, reflect the beginnings of remains a tool that many evangelical Chris- ings and sayings of Muhammad), Sharia Christianity in America: the state is united tians are wielding in an attempt to demolish is divine, immutable, comprehensive, with the majoritarian religion, freedom of separation of religion and state and discrim- interpretive in nature, and defines how an religion and thought does not exist, women inate against persons of other religious faith individual Muslim is to conduct his or her are legally inferior and are discriminated or no faith, women, the LGBT commu- life and behave toward others. against, homosexuality is forbidden, and nity, refugees and immigrants, and other It also governs the manner in which many other oppressive measures are forced undesirable persons. Islamic communities, groups, social struc- upon citizens. tures and economic organizations interact. In America, early religious dissent, of Conclusion In short, Sharia is the prescribed which Baptists were at the forefront, eventu- Mythology, in short, shapes the fears and religious path that Muslims follow. For most ally brought an end to Christian theocracy. hatred that many Americans, particularly Muslims, Sharia is a path of peace and good Similarly, Muslim dissent against conserva- evangelical Christians, feel toward Muslims. will, in the same manner that Christianity, tive, theocratic expressions of Islam is today Islamic terrorism in America is a rarity. for most followers, is a peaceful religion. on the ascendancy. Many Muslims do not Rather, in the U.S., Christianity remains far Even so, many American evangelicals approve of harsh applications of Sharia. more violent, discriminatory and theocratic- and conservative politicians are convinced Today, progressive Muslim sentiment minded than Islam. that Sharia poses a danger to the United is more prominent in the United States than In addition, American Muslims, repre- States. Pointing to at least one instance elsewhere. In fact, American Muslims — senting the leading edge of modern Islamic wherein a judge in New Jersey acknowl- many of whom fled or moved to America progressivism that embraces religion-state edged the role that Sharia played in an in order to escape theocratic rule and most separation and freedom of thought, are a estranged Islamic couple’s attempt to following some form of Sharia in their hope for Muslims worldwide. arbitrate their differences apart from a private lives and communities — are more Americans — Muslim, Christian and courtroom, out of fear vocal opponents of progressive than American evangelicals. otherwise — have the opportunity to help Islam have led dozens of states since 2010 Obscured by public fears of Muslims spread freedom throughout the entirety of to introduce or pass legislation banning the are surveys and studies revealing that the Muslim world in the coming decades use of Sharia — sometimes clothed in the evangelical Christians are far more likely by remaining firmly committed to and language of opposition to “foreign laws.” than Muslims to oppose the First Amend- advocating for our national heritage of Such fears, however, are unfounded. It ment’s religion-state separation and to religion-state separation and equal religious is true that Sharia is enshrined, in varying demand that religion — their religion — liberty for all. NFJ
48 Feature
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 49 3/14/17 5:28 AM DIGGIN’ IT Collateral discovery By Tony W. Cartledge
an militants associated with the ago, but were often interrupted and had studied in full, but appears to describe so-called Islamic State be given not yet reached the 7th century BCE palace events from the reign of Esarhaddon. C credit for anything good? Not one that Assyrian records say was built for Archaeologists are documenting what they thing, most of us would say. Sennacherib (705–681BCE), expanded by can on an emergency basis before the hastily Still, their misguided and destructive Esarhaddon (681–669), and later renovated dug tunnels cave in. A full excavation will campaign to blot out priceless monuments by Ashurbanipal (669–627) before being require a more stable political and economic from antiquity because they were associated partially destroyed by the Babylonians in environment. with the worship of other gods — though 612. While it is tempting to speak of the centuries before Muhammed ever had After Iraqi pilfering extremists’ actions as provid- visions of Allah — has led to a surprising troops drove out the ing an unintended boon to archaeologists, discovery. insurgents and retook we cannot speak kindly of the damage After sweeping into power in Mosul parts of eastern Mosul they caused, and can only wonder at what in 2014, the jihadists vented their vitriol earlier this year, treasures they hauled away. Even if some by blowing up a mosque built around the local archaeologists artifacts are recovered, their original context famed “Tomb of the Prophet Jonah” (Nebi informed reporters has been lost and we can learn far less from Yunus) in eastern Mosul. The mound is one for The Telegraph, a them. of two known to comprise the site of ancient British newspaper, The episode does remind us, however, Nineveh, a long-running capital of Assyria. about the tunnels — and what they found of how much lies beneath the ground, In addition to blowing up the mosque when they investigated them. waiting to be discovered in careful and and tomb — which could not possibly have While the looters no doubt hauled authorized excavations. Archaeology is not belonged to Jonah — the plunder-seeking away hundreds of portable artifacts, they just about digging up dusty objects: what outlaws also tunneled into the mound left in place large wall panels, including a we learn from the past can inform our beneath the tomb in search of ancient massive marble cuneiform inscription and future. artifacts they could steal and sell to unscru- a relief sculpture of divine figures using These recent events also reinforce the pulous buyers on the black market. plant fronds to sprinkle the “water of life,” importance of working for peace that not Archaeologists have long known that presumably for the benefit of the king or only allows the important study of peoples other and older ruins lay beneath Nebi other humans. who have gone before, but also celebrates the Yunus. Earlier excavations had begun years The cuneiform text has yet to be lives of those who remain. NFJ
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50 Feature
NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 50 3/14/17 5:28 AM Good Book keeps the focus on large, important biblical themes
A REVIEW BY JOHN D. PIERCE Spoo is conservative in his theology For example, I am amazed at how but avoids jumping from a biblical text to much the theme of justice permeates the The Good Book is a good book about the a popular soapbox — wisely and responsi- biblical revelation and how little attention it Good Book. bly sticking to the larger ideas. For example, received in the biblical teaching, preaching For those not raised on Sword Drills he sees Psalm 139 as more than the anti- and practice that nurtured me. Familiarity and Sunday school, it is an especially abortion rallying cry it has become for many doesn’t always equate with faithfulness. helpful resource for how to approach the modern Christians. The psalmist purpose- We need warnings such as: “Many of Bible, which author Deron Spoo notes can fully and poetically history’s most danger- be intimidating and “notoriously easy to conveys the intense, ous and destructive misinterpret.” intimate and infinite people have been those The pastor of the First Baptist Church love of God. who assumed that God of Tulsa, Okla., is pastoral in his presenta- Spoo’s “big supported their every tion of (as the subtitle claims) 40 Chapters ideas” are thematic, action and agenda.” That Reveal the Bible’s Biggest Ideas. His not the formation of We need insights “guidebook to the Bible” focuses on “signa- some narrow creed such as: “[Jesus] had ture chapters” that provide a framework for aimed at exclusion. the ability to see understanding the larger biblical story as For example, he opportunity in the well as its source. notes that turning most unlikely people; At the outset Spoo affirms that “the the Creation story he gave his attention ultimate benefit of reading the Scriptures in Genesis 1 into to individuals whom isn’t greater familiarity with the Bible but evidence for deter- most people found easy deeper intimacy with God.” mining the age of to ignore.” Spoo, who considers the late Calvin the cosmos distracts We need remind- Miller to be his mentor, takes the biblical from the wonderful ers such as: “We … revelation seriously without taking himself truth in the Bible’s often forget that God’s too seriously. He admits his own challenges first chapter — that love for all people is in living out the biblical faith and confesses “you bear a striking resemblance to your greater than our hatred for even our worst that he often worries “even though the Bible Creator.” Humans were not an accident, enemies.” is peppered with ‘fear nots.’” and were created out of an act of love. We need assurances such as: “In Jesus, The author appears as a fellow traveler The book offers stimulating questions God isn’t talking down to us; God is speak- who discovers and points out guideposts, to encourage reflection and response such as ing with us face to face.” not an elevated expert removed from the related to Genesis 1: “What one action or Spoo’s book provides some good daily struggles of Christian discipleship. In attitude can you change today that will help sermon illustrations — reminding me of his desire to introduce others to the Bible — you better reflect the image of God — your the late, great preacher Fred Craddock’s especially those who might fear wading into true identity?” line that the one who steals from me, steals the unfamiliar waters — he uses contempo- This approach is taken throughout the twice (or more). rary analogies. book. The reader is guided through various But, more importantly, Spoo offers a For example, he compares first grasping texts that reveal the large biblical themes needed reminder that digging with good these signature texts in order to understand worthy of being revisited and repeated. tools makes mining the biblical revelation the larger biblical story to specific music While written with newcomers in an ongoing, insightful and life-shaping that defines an artist. “To understand the mind, those of us raised on Sword Drills, endeavor. NFJ Beatles, it’s essential to be familiar with the Sunday school and two-sermon Sundays are White Album,” he writes. “To know the not exempt. In fact, we may have a greater The Good Book: 40 Chapters That Reveal Eagles well, listening to ‘Hotel California’ is need to read the Bible with open minds and the Bible’s Biggest Ideas by Deron Spoo a must.” hearts. (David C. Cook, 2017)
Media 51
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 53 3/14/17 5:28 AM REBLOG Robert Clemente’s ‘problem’ is ours, too.
BY JOHN D. PIERCE what was paid to black and Latino players, according to David Maraniss, author of ohnny Pesky, the late Boston Red Clemente: The Passion and Grace of Sox player and manager for whom Baseball’s Last Hero. This biography was J Fenway Park’s right field foul (really, the primary source for this writing. fair) pole is named, said he’d seen but one Recognizing Clemente’s talents, the hitter who could get solid wood on the Dodgers tried to hide Clemente in their ball as well as his friend and teammate Ted minor league system by not playing him Williams. when visiting scouts were in attendance. That person was Roberto Clemente, But the ever-shrewd Branch Rickey — who played 18 years with the Pittsburgh the former Dodgers boss and instigator of Pirates, beginning in 1955. His career and Jackie Robinson’s 1947 appearance — had life ended at the end of 1972. taken charge of the Pittsburgh Pirates and On New Year’s Eve, Clemente, putting acquired Clemente in the Rule 5 draft compassion ahead of caution, boarded a following the 1954 season. faulty cargo plane loaded with supplies for In Fort Myers, the spring training home earthquake victims in Nicaragua. Shortly Years earlier, as a starting pitcher for to the Pirates beginning in 1955, Clemente after takeoff from San Juan, Puerto Rico, the Chicago Cubs in 1942, Hiram Bithorn and other black players were subjected to the the plane crashed in the Atlantic Ocean and became the first Puerto Rican to play in the humiliation of Jim Crow segregation. While the body of the 38-year-old baseball star was major leagues. That was five years before white players and their families enjoyed never recovered. Jackie Robinson “broke the color barrier.” golf, swimming and other resort activities, Four times he had been named But Bithorn had light skin like all the other Clemente was sent to a poor black neigh- National League batting champion. He was players in the majors. borhood where, culturally, he had little in league MVP in 1966 and World Series MVP Slugger Vic Power became the first common other than coming from meager in 1971. Repeatedly, he won Gold Gloves Puerto Rican to play in the American means and the color of his skin. from 1961 to 1972, and often led the league League. But due to his dark skin, he met a The hard-throwing outfielder was shy in “assists” — meaning that his rocket arm different reception. by nature, but his “sense of fairness” took in right field caught many runners trying to While racism is a most serious matter, over, according to Maraniss. He declared take another base. Power was known to confront it with his to himself that he would be “treated as a Clemente was hailed widely for both quick wit. A long-told story from the 1950s human being.” his athleticism and humanitarian efforts. recalls Power entering a diner and being told Some sportswriters described him He received numerous commendations and by the waitress, “We don’t serve Negroes,” as moody, intense or aloof. Clear double was deservedly voted into the Baseball Hall to which he replied: “That’s OK, I don’t eat standards existed: white players who of Fame. Negroes; just bring me some beans and rice.” showed emotion were “fierce competitors” However, his treatment as a young Clemente received similar treatment while darker-skinned teammates would player coming from his native Puerto Rico to earlier professional baseball players with be deemed showboating. Even Clemente’s to the states was far less dignified and truly dark skin, especially during spring train- basket catches, much like those by Willie shameful. When Clemente left the island ing in Florida where black players were Mays, were panned in the press. to play professional baseball in the Los excluded from social activities and forced to After the Pirates defeated the Yankees Angeles Dodgers organization he discovered live in homes or dingy hotels away from the in the 1960 World Series — which featured unexpected discrimination based solely on training complexes. Bill Mazeroski’s dramatic walk-off home run skin tone — something African Americans Also, in the ’50s, white players received — not all the heroes were treated equally. here had long experienced. signing bonuses that averaged six times As Maraniss tells it, the Fort Myers
54 Thoughts
NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 54 3/14/17 5:28 AM Booster Club threw a big welcome luncheon at the start of spring training in 1961 to celebrate the reigning world champions. The big event drew the governor of Pennsyl- vania and the commissioner of baseball along with other dignitaries, along with the Pirates manager and some star players. Clemente — the only player to hit in all seven games of the series — was not on the invitation list. As Maraniss noted, Clemente would not have been admitted into the Hideaway unless he was a waiter or dishwasher. Black Pirates players were also excluded from viewing a film at a downtown theater that highlighted the 1960 World Series — as well as the annual Pirates golf tourna- ment at the Fort Myers Country Club. Wendell Smith, the groundbreaking Clemente and other dark-skinned Court struck down separate-but-equal African-American sportswriter who featured players, who broke into major league baseball school segregation policies, five years after prominently in Jackie Robinson’s story, led in the ’50s, would be forced to stay on the Rosa Parks wouldn’t budge, and four years the public campaign against training camp team bus while the white players enjoyed a after Little Rock’s Central High was forcibly segregation. meal in a nice restaurant. Their food came desegregated. Not mincing words, Smith wrote in later when teammates would bring a burger We must not be naïve or dismissive due the Pittsburgh Courier to and for black or something else back to the bus. to progress that has been made: Racism is stars of the Chicago White Sox who trained Clemente, who was unfamiliar with found not only in our history, but also in in Sarasota: such racial discrimination in Puerto Rico, the present — often empowered by our “Despite all your achievements and saw the practice as insulting — what he politics. fame, the vicious system of racial segrega- considered to be “begging for food.” He Once when asked to name his heroes, tion in Florida’s hick towns condemns you told the other black players that anyone Clemente started with Martin Luther King to a life of humiliation and ostracism.” caught doing such a thing would have to Jr. — affirming King’s philosophy of non- Smith got specific, naming the acts of fight him to get it. violence as the means to social change along discrimination endured by black players in It is gratifying to remember Roberto with the need to give voice to the voiceless. contrast to their white teammates — such Clemente — deemed by biographer Later the two would get acquainted, as living and eating away from the team, Maraniss as “baseball’s last hero” — for with King even visiting Clemente at his farm the inability to catch a cab to the training his gifted athleticism and the altruism that in Puerto Rico. When King was murdered facility, needing special permission to meet brought his earthly life to an early end. in April 1968, Clemente led player efforts with their own manager at the team hotel, But we need to remember as well that to delay the start of the baseball season until and being unable to bring their families racism is ugly, awful, sinful and inexcusable after King’s funeral. to Florida to share in the spring training wherever and whenever it is found. It is not A younger black player for the Pirates, experience. the will of God, yet it is not easily overcome. Al Oliver, considered Clemente a mentor The Pirates camp experience in Fort It lingers and even gets resurrected. and person of sterling character. He told Myers — where Clemente reported — was Maraniss noted that the racial discrim- Maraniss that Clemente “had a problem considered even worse for black players. ination faced by Clemente and his black with people who treat you differently Regarding spring training 1961, teammates in spring training 1961 in Fort because of where you were from, your Maraniss wrote of Clemente: “Here he was, Myers — at the same time the team was nationality, your color, also poor people…” a star player on the world champions of hailed as world champions — came 14 years Well, Jesus had a problem with that baseball, a reservist in the U.S. Marine Corps, after Jackie Robinson broke baseball’s color too. We should all see that as a problem — still treated like a second-class citizen.” barrier, seven years after the U.S. Supreme and give voice to it. NFJ
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Thoughts 55
NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 55 3/14/17 5:28 AM For a schedule of 200th anniversary activities, visit: #caugusta.org/announcements/celebrating-200-years/ Historically significant Augusta church celebrates 200 years
STORY AND PHOTO that propelled America toward inevitable congregation. BY BRUCE GOURLEY military conflict. Throughout the church’s history Thus the future of the nation hinged, missions has remained prominent, the AUGUSTA, Ga. — First Baptist in part, upon the May 1845 gathering at involvement of members mirroring advance- Church in America, founded in First Baptist Augusta, the proceedings of ments in Baptist life at large from raising which have been recited in thousands of funds to supporting distant missionaries to 1638 by Roger Williams in Provi- books, academic papers, classrooms and the current missional emphases. dence, Rhode Island, is indisputably digital publications. In the 19th and early-20th centuries, the the most historically significant Even so, in researching and writing the Augusta church evolved into a congregation th Baptist church in the U.S. church’s 200 anniversary history, A Journey lay-led by professionals representing the of Faith and Community: The Story of the financial, legal, political and philanthropic n argument can reasonably be First Baptist Church of Augusta, Georgia — heartbeat of Augusta. During this time the made that the second most histori- to be released by Mercer University Press and congregation birthed new churches in the A cally significant Baptist church the Baptist History and Heritage Society in city. The 20th century witnessed dramatic in America is the First Baptist Church of August 2017 — I was astonished to discover growth of a church comprised of members Augusta, Ga. Founded in 1817 in relative unpublished, surprising plot twists to the throughout the social-economic strata and obscurity in downtown Augusta not far story of the Augusta gathering. engaged in local ministries. from the Savannah River, in 1845 the Some of these discoveries will be the Regionally, First Baptist Augusta often church became a household name as the subject of a presentation during the annual reflected, and sometimes challenged, south- host of the formation of the Southern conference of the Baptist History and ern religious, cultural and social norms. Baptist Convention. Heritage Society hosted by First Baptist Although frequently accommodating the By splitting from Baptists of the North Augusta, June 1-3. inherent conservative identity of the Deep over the issue of slavery and forming a The conference is one of many events South, the congregation at key points regional convention, Southern Baptists, this year commemorating the anniversary evidenced a prophetic witness. alongside southern Methodists who also and recognizing the church’s historic contri- During the antebellum years of separated the same year over slavery, butions not only to Southern Baptist life, slavery, for example, the congregation presaged the American Civil War. Historian but also to the Cooperative Baptist Fellow- on several occasions sided with Augusta’s C. C. Goen noted that the denominational ship. The Augusta congregation was one of black community in the face of widespread separations represented an “inner civil war” the earliest churches to identify as a CBF white criticism. In the latter half of the 19th
First Baptist Church of Augusta, Georgia is celebrating 200 years of faith and community with the publication of a bicentennial history volume. A Journey of Faith and Community The Story of the First Baptist Church of Augusta, Georgia BY BRUCE T. GOURLEY
Published by Mercer University Press and Baptist History and Heritage Society
Available August 2017 Pre-orders: (706) 733-2236
56 Feature
NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 56 3/14/17 5:28 AM century leading women of the church established one of America’s earliest Chinese Sunday school classes, befriending and ministering to the city’s small Chinese community that often bore the brunt of widespread prejudices. Generations later, the church’s Chinese ministry continues alongside other ethnic ministries. Nationally, even after the founding of the SBC, First Baptist for many years maintained long-standing ties with North- ern Baptists, including the historic First Baptist Church of Philadelphia, arguably the predominant Baptist church of the North in the early 19th century, and the American Baptist Publication Society. In the 1850s the church called a North- ern Baptist missionary as pastor, and in 1893 hosted social gospel advocate Walter Rauschenbusch, one of the most prominent Baptists of the 20th century. Harry Emerson Fosdick spoke at the church in 1910. A number of the congregation’s 20th-century pastors were well known outside of the South. The late 20th century witnessed a shift- ing of many historical strands — local, regional and national. In the 1970s the church relocated to the west end of a rapidly expand- ing city. Following the move the congregation assumed an increasingly moderate theological stance, embraced the ordination of women deacons and ministers, acquired a more diverse membership, dually aligned with the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, and took ownership of an expansive missions ethos at home and abroad. The two-centuries-long struggle of the First Baptist Church of Augusta is concur- rently the story of a congregation, a city, a region, a nation and the world. It is a story of remarkable people and transformational events of a faith community’s journey in striving to follow Jesus Christ, the central focus of the Baptist faith past and present. NFJ
Feature 57
NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 57 3/14/17 5:28 AM
Baptist History & Heritage Society Annual“ Conference June 1-3, 2017*
Biographies and Narratives: Baptist Experiences and Convictions
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS Carol Crawford Holcomb ” Professor of Church History and Baptist Studies University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Bruce T. Gourley Executive Director Baptist History & Heritage Society
INFORMATION / REGISTRATION
baptisthistory.org BH&HS, 151 Broadleaf Dr., Macon, GA 31210 (406) 600-7433
baptisthistory.org
* Begins with Fellowship of Baptist Historians Dinner, June 1, 4:45 p.m. Ends at noon on June 3.
Hosted by First Baptist Church Augusta in partnership with Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of Georgia
NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 58 3/14/17 5:28 AM NURTURING FAITH EXPERIENCE Personal Perspectives on the Civil Rights Movement
Dr. Albert Paul Brinson A Day with Dr. Albert Paul Brinson s a student at Morehouse College, young Albert 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Brinson was one of the organizers of the Atlanta Student Movement and served as communica- Thursday, Sept. 14, 2017 A tion chair for the Appeal for Human Rights Committee. Atlanta, Ga. He appeared on the cover of The Atlanta Journal Visit Atlanta’s historic sites of the Civil Rights Movement with interpretations on March 9, 1960, after being from Dr. Albert Brinson, who experienced the struggles personally, along with arrested for participating in the insights of other guests. Sites include: the well-executed sit-in at an Atlanta restaurant. Throughout the 1960s Atlanta University Center Library he participated in nonviolent Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel protests for human rights Atlanta Student Movement Boulevard including the Birmingham The King Center demonstrations, the 1963 Ebenezer Baptist Church March On Washington, and … and more the Selma to Montgomery March. His pastor and father figure, Dr. Martin Luther LUNCHEON PROGRAM: King Sr., and older brother figure, Dr. M.L. King Jr., were Paschal’s Restaurant mentors in life and ministry. He served as their assistant Transportation on a charter bus provided throughout the day — pastor at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta (1963- 1967). beginning and ending at Second Ponce de Leon Baptist Church, Later he served churches in New York and Virginia 2715 Peachtree Rd., NE, Atlanta. and retired as Associate General Secretary for American Baptist Churches USA. He worked with the South African REGISTRATION: Baptist Convention and NGO to ensure the open elections $125 that resulted in Nelson Mandela becoming president. (includes programming, admission fees, lunch, transportation) This is a unique opportunity to spend time with a living source to learn about the past and continuing struggle for human rights and justice for all.
Itinerary / Registration: nurturingfaith.net/experiences
NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 59 3/14/17 5:28 AM Questions Christians ask scientists What does the Bible say about nature? — Cedric Lazlo, Rome, Ga.
n a sense, nothing. For us 21st-century commanding the earth and the sea to bring people the words “nature” and “natural” forth swarms of living creatures. God does I stand in distinction to the word “super- not create these fish and animals directly but natural” and everything suggested by it: the is assisted by the elements themselves. We spiritual, the non-material, the divine, God, may conclude that God endowed creation miracles. with an ability to produce and sustain life on A common view, shaped largely by the its own accord. Enlightenment, is that nature runs accord- Meanwhile, Prov. 8:22-31 describes ing to set laws that might or might not be the created order as a boundless playground suspended now and again by a divine hand. well suited to Wisdom’s creative imagi- Many who believe in God say such suspen- nation and love for the world. From the sions make room for miracles, and many biblical point of view, this combination of atheists say they never happen at all. steadfastness and inventiveness is an impor- Both views, however, are foreign to BY PAUL WALLACE tant mark of creation. scripture, because the Bible does not recog- Second, creation is promise-filled yet Paul Wallace is a Baptist minister with a nize any distinction between the natural and already jubilant. Scripture often refers to doctorate in experimental nuclear physics the supernatural. Its understanding of the creation with a future orientation. In Isaiah from Duke University and post-doctoral world is not ours. work in gamma ray astronomy, along with the earth holds the promise of redemption; It says nothing about what we today a theology degree from Emory University. the prophet uses a renewed creation as a call nature. It instead talks about creation, He teaches at Agnes Scott College in symbol of Israel’s restoration. which stresses not the world set apart from Decatur, Ga. Faith-science questions for “I will make the wilderness a pool of God (as does the language of natural and consideration may be submitted to water, and the dry land springs of water,” the supernatural), but the relation between the [email protected]. Lord promises in Isa. 41:18, and in chapter world and God. After all, there is no creation 11 Isaiah speaks to Israel of a future in without a creator. These perspectives combine in ways which the wolf will lie down with the lamb This is not to say that the Bible is that seem to fill out a rich and complex and creation will be restored “in all my holy silent about the sea or stars or animals or personality. There are four pairs of contrast- Mountain.” trees. It talks about these things often. But ing traits that mix to form a kind of biblical And in Romans 8 Paul writes of it always understands them to be intimately character sketch of creation. creation as being in travail as a woman connected to God. First, creation is stable yet creative. The giving birth, groaning for future deliverance It refers to them always in a theologi- integrity of creation is evident through- and adoption. cal context and with the assumption, stated out the Old Testament. Beginning with But joy already has a hold on the right up front in Genesis 1, that each and the opening pages of Genesis, we confront earth. This is true not only in the wisdom every created thing is a good expression a cosmos grounded in God’s will, while passage in Proverbs 8 but also in the book of the divine character. It is precisely their 1 Chron. 16:30 is just one of several passages of Psalms, and especially in Psalm 104. This rootedness in God that makes them good. claiming that “the world is firmly estab- song rejoices in all of creation, from the stars In other words, from the Bible’s point lished; it shall never be moved.” above to the birds in their nests to the great of view we may hope to learn something of While some have understood this to sea monster Leviathan. God by looking to creation. When the Bible mean that the earth is not in motion, the It revels in grass, trees, rain, and in mentions creation it is by extension talking larger point is that we can trust the ground creation’s bounty: oil, wine, bread. So the about the divine character. And it mentions beneath our feet just as we can trust God. joy of creation is therefore both already and creation a lot. That is, both creation and the Creator are not yet. So, what does the Bible say about reliable, rational and prone to consistency. Third, creation is benign yet unsafe. For creation? It says a lot, but not everything it Yet the world is given real agency by much of the biblical narrative, creation acts says is neatly consistent with the rest. That God and is itself deeply creative — a creative as a kind of benign backcloth, regarded as is, there is not a single biblical perspective of creation! an ever-present symbol of God’s goodness, creation, but many. In Gen. 1:20 and 1:24 we find God power and providence.
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 60 3/14/17 5:28 AM Elijah is sustained by birds in the Exodus (Moses and the burning bush; the decaying loops. wilderness (1 Kgs. 17:6), Job is healed by a delivery of the law at Sinai, the wander- “Vanity of vanities! All is vanity! The cosmic vision (Job 38:41), and Amos draws ing of the Israelites), Mark 1:4-8 (John the sun rises and the sun goes down, and hurries on images of creation to describe God’s treat- Baptist), and Luke 4:1-13 (Jesus tempted in to the place where it rises. The wind blows ment of the wounds of injustice (Amos 5:24). the desert). So it is that while creation heals, to the south, and goes round to the north… Yet creation is unsafe, particularly at the it also threatens. all streams run to the sea, but the sea is not periphery. The wilderness is a place of uncer- Fourth, creation is personalized yet full… all things are wearisome; more than tainty and danger, both on land and at sea. indifferent. In Genesis 2 a garden is created one can express” (from Ecclesiastes 1). The edges of creation are chaotic and alien. by God especially for us — a tailor-made Similar sentiments are expressed in Eccl. Yet God loves these places and their creatures home for humanity. 12:1-8. Another complexity is added to the (Job 39:41). Meanwhile the Lord spreads out the mix: the Bible views the created order as both The world — called “good” by God heavens like a tent (see Ps. 104:2, Isa, 40:22, made for humans but also strangely aloof to — is often undomesticated and unsafe. It is and Jer. 10:12). This image is an indication our unending search for meaning. at times even hostile; the great sea monster of the habitability of the earth and is a power- Overall, then, scripture develops a view Leviathan, clearly one of God’s creations, is ful symbol of the comforts and protections of of creation that seems more like a personality often described as a force to be overcome (see home. sketch than a scientific treatise. Indeed, the Psalm 74 and Isaiah 27). But in Ecclesiastes things take a dark Bible is pre-scientific. But more important In addition, the wilderness is also a turn. In that book creation exhibits a supreme than this is scripture’s insistence that creation liminal place, a realm at the boundary of the indifference to human needs. The cycles of is a good creation of a loving God and thus known and the unknown, where an unsafe days, seasons, years, and lifetimes come and provides a unique glimpse into the character and mysterious God might be encountered. go without end and without significance. of God. The margins of creation are places of purifi- For the author of Ecclesiastes creation Unfortunately, space does not permit cation, an always-frightening experience. seems pointless. In direct contradiction to us to explore just how well this four-part There are many examples of this in much of the Bible, it is described as renew- personality sketch matches up with tradi- scripture, including Gen. 32:22-32 (Jacob ing nothing, producing little, and ceaselessly tional traits of God. Perhaps that will wait on wrestling with God), much of the book of turning back on itself in a series of closed and another column. NFJ
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 61 3/14/17 5:28 AM Givin& matter$ MAKING A MONTHLY MOVE#UP
BY JOHN D. PIERCE more generous, we would love to have you support this publishing ministry in that way t’s not for everyone, but I have discov- — at the monthly amount you choose. ered monthly giving to be a good thing. To begin the monthly giving process, I It makes my support of Nurturing Faith/ go online at nurturingfaith.net/product/ Baptists Today simpler and more consistent monthly-donation or call (478) 301-5655 — as well as more generous. or send your first monthly gift (and indicate The “simpler” part means that my gifts your intentions) to Baptists Today, Inc., are made at the time I pay my other bills each P.O. Box 6318, Macon, GA 31208-6318. month. This can be done by check or, as I Currently we have 60 individuals or prefer, as a monthly charge on my credit card. giving to this cause. couples (listed below) who give monthly. The “consistent” part means that we For those who support this ministry Our goal is to increase monthly giving to have funds coming in each month to help with faithful annual, biannual or quarterly 200 donors by the end of the year. meet operational expenses. Another advan- giving, thanks! We need and appreciate This will help with ongoing opera- tage is the ability to increase my overall those valued gifts. tions and also increase overall funds needed annual giving by doing so monthly. That For those who might find monthly to support this independent publishing is, I’m more “generous” with my chartable giving to be simpler, more consistent and ministry. NFJ
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Bill and Mary Jayne Allen Colin and Faye Harris Alice B. Ridgeway Ruth T. Andrew Richard Hensley Benjamin Roth Philip and Kelly Belcher Garin Hill Roy and Louise Runyan Jack C. and Eve Bishop Jr. Billy Honeycutt Drayton and Mary Etta Sanders Edwin and Tereasa Boland Russell Honeycutt William Savell Don Brewer Howard and Elizabeth Hubler Charles and Pat Schaible Jack and Pam Buchanan Jeri Jackson Jenny L. Smith Frieda H. Byrd David Jordan Lila C. Stevens Don and Judy Campbell Diane Jordan Tre n t o n C . T h o m p s o n Tony and Susan Cartledge Tom Leuze Ed and Sarah Timmerman Kent Cranford Bub and Jannie Lister David and Christy Turner Ronald Davis Ray A. Marchman Joe and Cathy Turner Doug and Judy Dortch Andrew and Mary McGill Neal and Pam Wacter Walter Draughon III Brad and Cynthia Wise Mitchell Billy C. and JoAnn Wallace Tommy and Carol Dobbins Louise Munro Richard M. Watts Sarah A. Frost William T. and Judy Neal Willena F. Wilbanks Tom and Judy Ginn Ruth S. O’Leary Paul and Mary Ann Williams Wayne and Karen Glasgow John and Teresa Pierce Winnie and Woodie Williams Anne Green Elizabeth K. Reese Scott and Vickie Willis Jody Griffin Kathy B. Richardson Robert and Charlie Faye Wilson
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 62 3/14/17 5:28 AM Leave a legacy; have a lasting influence BY JOHN D. PIERCE Your gift will have a lasting influence, and “Since the 1980s this publi- your generosity will be an encouragement and cation has been a reliable egacy gifts to Nurturing Faith, the example to others who value this cause. resource over the course publishing ministry of Baptists Today of my ministry. Now Nurtur- Inc., ensure a secure and hopeful future NOTE: If you have included Baptists Today, L “ing Faith Journal and Bible for a needed and valued voice. Inc. in your estate plans but wish for the gift We are deeply grateful for those who have to remain anonymous, please let us know. We’d Studies continues to grow as included Baptists Today, Inc., in their estate like to be aware of your gift while respecting a high-quality publication. It plans. We encourage others who value this your wishes. is a pleasure to be a monthly publishing ministry to join the faithful and supporter, and I encour- generous persons who form the Nurturing Please contact us to — let us know … let us age other readers to do the Faith Legacy Society. help … let us thank you! same.” Let us know … (478-301-5655 / [email protected]) BILLY HONEYCUTT If you have included Baptists Today, Inc., in RETIRED DIRECTOR OF MISSIONS your estate plans, or when you do so, please let (704-616-1725 / [email protected]) RUTHERFORDTON, N.C. us know. Contact information follows. (P.O. Box 6318, Macon, GA 31208-6318) Let us help … “As a former pastor and If you would like assistance with estate planning, Ways of leaving a Baptist university administra- we can provide free confidential, professional tor, I learned that reliable help through our collaboration with the CBF lasting influence information made my work Foundation. There are a variety of ways to leave A bequest through a will or trust is the simplest easier. I knew then and now a legacy gift. Want to explore them? way to leave a legacy gift to Baptists Today, Inc. This gift may be a specified amount or a that I could trust Nurturing Let us thank you! percentage of one’s estate. Faith/Baptists Today to keep Your commitment to ensure the future of We are glad to explore other ways your me informed. I am proud to Nurturing Faith/Baptists Today is something good stewardship can have a lasting influence be a monthly supporter.” we want to celebrate — by including your — including memorial gifts, stocks, mutual names in the Nurturing Faith Legacy Society. funds or real estate. Just let us know! NFJ JACK BUCHANAN FINANCIAL ADVISER With blessings come responsibilities KINGS MOUNTAIN, N.C. “We pay for many services BY JOHN F. BRIDGES gifts — in any amount — that increase your on a monthly basis, so it just Director of Development total charitable giving through the year. Third, pray for and encourage the Nurtur- makes sense to support y appreciation for those who make ing Faith staff committed to carrying out this Nurturing Faith/Baptists Nurturing Faith possible has grown important and expanding ministry. Today on a monthly basis. We M even more since becoming direc- Fourth, please tell others about this minis- do so with gratitude for the try and encourage their readership and support. tor of development last year. In talking with inspiring and helpful articles many others, I have discovered a similar deep A gift subscription is a good way to begin. and information in Nurturing devotion to this mission. Stewardship is both a blessing and respon- When reflecting on this important minis- sibility. I am increasingly aware of my desire to Faith Journal — along with try, these thoughts come to mind: help secure the future of those things I believe the Bible study resources for First, thank you for all you do through to be very important. Nurturing Faith is one teachers/learners that we use your faithful and generous giving. This excel- cause that blesses us and is worthy of our each week.” lent work could not be done without the responsible stewardship. commitment of many. Want to talk about how you can begin or MARY JAYNE ALLEN Second, please consider increasing your expand your support? Contact me at 704-616- CHRISTIAN EDUCATOR CHATTANOOGA, TENN. support. One way may be through monthly 1725 or [email protected]. NFJ
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NFJ_MayJune_Interior031317_NAT.indd 63 3/14/17 5:28 AM SEE YOU IN
Nurturing Faith will be present for Nurturing Faith the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship General Assembly, June 28-30, at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta. Nurturing Faith We hope you will be there too. If so, please visit us in the Gathering Place! Mr. Tuck and the 13 Heroes Nurturing Faith is pleased to collaborate with the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship and many of its partners in a variety of ways to better serve congregations. For a complete schedule, registration and more about the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship General Assembly, visit Cooperative cbf.net/assembly. Baptist Fellowship: Reclaiming & Re-Forming Baptist Identity
cbf.net/assembly
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