>> This is the October 2013 issue containing the November Bible Study Lessons

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32 DEACON MINISTRY Conversations, networking, renewal Beauty & SOUL Helena calls for hope 8 MEDIA October 2013 Vol. 31, No. 10 FAITH & DUCKS baptiststoday.org 12 John D. Pierce Executive Editor [email protected] Benjamin L. McDade Executive Vice President [email protected] Julie Steele Chief Operations Officer [email protected] Jackie B. Riley Managing Editor [email protected] Tony W. Cartledge Contributing Editor [email protected] Bruce T. Gourley Online Editor [email protected] PERSPECTIVES David Cassady Remembering Gary Eubanks 5 Church Resources Editor By John Pierce [email protected] Terri Byrd Figuring out God 7 Contributing Writer By John Pierce Vickie Frayne Does your church need Millennials? Art Director 30 By Emily Hull McGee Jannie Lister Customer Service Manager Healthy congregations value evaluation 31 [email protected] By Larry McSwain Kimberly L. Hovis FEATURE Marketing Associate [email protected] IN THE NEWS CHILDREN’S SABBATH Lex Horton Baylor Alumni Association votes down proposal 14 October observance offers Nurturing Faith Resources Manager meaningful experiences [email protected] Southern Baptist military chaplains By Terri Byrd Walker Knight, Publisher Emeritus told to avoid gay weddings 14 Jack U. Harwell, Editor Emeritus Study claims religion can harm economy 41 14 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Seminary debt saddles many ministers 15 Donald L. Brewer, Gainesville, Ga. (chairman) MEDIA Cathy Turner, Clemson, S.C. (vice chair) Feminists call Western Wall platform Nannette Avery, Signal Mountain, Tenn. Mary Jane Cardwell, Waycross, Ga. a “sun deck” 15 D.C church Jack Causey, Statesville, N.C. recalls the Persecuted Coptic Christians still hoping Anthony D. Clevenger, Pensacola, Fla. real Butler 13 James M. Dunn, Winston-Salem, N.C. for peace 15 Jack Glasgow, Zebulon, N.C. Frank Granger, Athens, Ga. Religious diversity increasing at the office; Cynthia Holmes, St. Louis, Mo. so are pitfalls David Hull, Huntsville, Ala. 38 Fisher Humphreys, Birmingham, Ala. Andrew McGill, Chattanooga, Tenn. FEATURES Quotation Remarks 6 William T. Neal, Stone Mountain, Ga. Roger Paynter, Austin, Texas Why do Baptists consider missions Kathy B. Richardson, Rome, Ga. Editorial 7 Charles Schaible, Macon, Ga. a high priority? 40 Macon Sheppard, Clemson, S.C. By Bruce Gourley Reblog 16 Walter B. Shurden, Macon, Ga. Charlotte Cook Smith, Winston-Salem, N.C. A conversation with Giles Blankenship, Classifieds 28 Jim Strawn, Dunwoody, Ga. Leo Thorne, Valley Forge, Pa. worship leader, winner of international In the Know 28 Sarah Timmerman, Cairo, Ga. songwriting contest 42 David Turner, Richmond, Va. By John Pierce Baptists and the Civil War 29 Tom Waller, Alpharetta, Ga. Clem White, St. Petersburg, Fla. Lighter Side 39 Vickie Willis, Murfreesboro, TN Cynthia Wise, Birmingham, Ala. Cover photo by John Pierce of the levee along the Mississippi River at Donna Wood, Macon, Ga. Helena, Ark., home of the annual King Biscuit Blues Festival and where An autonomous, national hope is spread all year. Story on page 8 news journal since 1983 READERS SERVICES

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A TRIBUTE Remembering Gary Eubanks: Friend, former Board chairman

“Before we had Google, we had opportunity. Then he would always ask: “What do you want from me?” granddad,” Catherine Eubanks- Usually, it was his wisdom and support Carter said she once told her son. — and the assurance that I was not headed in the wrong direction or even reaching the right peaking at a memorial service for her decision alone. He was helpful in practical and father, Gary F. Eubanks, Aug. 30 at philosophical ways. S First Baptist Church of Marietta, Ga., Our friendship grew with each visit, and Catherine described him as “an independent many times I drove away from Marietta with thinker” who “knew a little something about a much lighter load because of my time with everything” and was “not only knowledgeable, Gary. but wise.” During more recent visits, words didn’t Gary was a successful attorney and come easily for Gary. But he wanted me to businessman who put family above personal share about what was happening in our pub- ambition, she said. He was always at the din- lishing ministry — although he had greater ner table and whatever activities involved his personal concerns. His quiet assurance always family. showed through. Gary’s death on Aug. 27, at the young age Gary, as did his family, faced this chal- of 68, followed a 17-month struggle with brain lenging journey with such strength and grace. cancer. He and his loving and caring wife, when Gary faced his illness with courage. He never complained about unfairness, but Virginia, were remarkably faithful and hopeful “I learned the depth of his faith,” said only said of his illness: “It is what it is.” through this painful journey. James, “… and found such an inspirational I reminded those gathered to honor Their son, James, assumed fuller lead- figure in my father.” his memory that the illness that took Gary ership of the family property management Jim Fleming, a longtime friend and too soon, however, “is not all that is.” The business a bit sooner due to his father’s illness. retired president of Kennesaw State University compassion, trust, deeper relationships and However, the transition was already in pro- Foundation, spoke of Gary’s personal integ- stronger faith forged over the last year and a cess and, like everything Gary did, was well rity and respect throughout the community. half stand as lasting testimonies and sources of planned and executed. Whether in Rotary Club, business circles or hope for the days ahead. James said the best of many lessons he any other sector, Gary was held in high regard, Pastor Bill Ross, my seminary classmate, learned from his father came last summer he said. assured those drawn by love and appreciation My own reflections honoring Gary’s for Gary that the separation we feel from him memory focused on his effectiveness as an is real and worthy of our grief. However, the Gifts to Baptists Today exemplary Christian lay leader. promise of God is that nothing at all — not Many times, when Gary was chairman of even death — can ever separate us from God’s the Baptists Today Board of Directors, I would love because of what Christ Jesus our Lord has IN MEMORY OF GARY EUBANKS request his wise counsel. He always made time done (Rom. 8:38-39). Joel and Nannette Avery and would introduce me to the latest good Prayers continue for Virginia, Catherine, Ann T. Beane food on or near the Marietta Square. James, and the many family members and Sarah E. Bernadec A quiet and unassuming person, he lis- friends who experience that separation — James G. Fausett tened while I did most of the talking about yet celebrate the good life of Gary Franklin Joy Class, First Baptist Church a challenging situation or an emerging Eubanks, a child of God and faithful servant. BT of Marietta, Ga. Manning Properties William Neal Gary, as did his family, faced this challenging journey with such Sonja P. Poor Julian and Elaine Sheldon strength and grace. He never complained about unfairness, but Note: These memorial gifts were received only said of his illness: “It is what it is.” prior to publication deadline. Additional gifts will be acknowledged in the next issue.

October 2013 Perspective | 5 “If you allow your church to be a gathering of special interest groups, then your ministry will be built quotation around keeping them happy. Or, keeping them apart. And, promising them attention that you then spend your life trying to fulfill.” remarks —Ed Stetzer, president of LifeWay Research and founding pastor of Grace Church in Hendersonville, Tenn. (Christianity Today) “If I went back to college today, I think “As a Muslim, I refuse to give up Islam I would probably major in comparative to the Islamists. So should others who religion, because that’s how integrated believe in a deeply pluralistic Islam of the it is in everything that we are working sort my Indian-born grandparents taught. on and deciding and thinking about in It is the only path to peaceful resolution life today.” of inevitable religious differences, within

—Secretary of State John Kerry at the department’s Islam and with other faiths.” “We are islands in a world full launch of the Office for Engagement with Faith-Based —Qanta Ahmed, author of In the Land of Invisible of increasingly adrift people. We Communities (White House Communications) Women: A Female Doctor’s Journey in the Saudi are places of solace and hope, Kingdom and a Templeton-Cambridge Journalism community and hospitality for “This is a classic example of how Fellow in Science and Religion (RNS) people who are too smart to believe measles is being reintroduced.” “I have had two stints at Mercer in 22 in God and pretty convinced —William Schaffner, an infectious disease expert at years, and I have never seen anything they don’t need the church — the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, after a animate our alumni base and our until they do.” visitor who had traveled abroad brought the virus to Eagle Mountain International Church in Newark, community like football has. It’s —Pastor Amy Butler of Calvary Baptist Church Texas, led by televangelist Kenneth Copeland’s exceeded our expectations by volumes.” in Washington, D.C., on today’s congregations daughter Terri Pearsons, who has previously been (ABP) critical of measles vaccinations (RNS) —Larry Brumley, senior vice president for marketing communications, on Mercer University’s return to “We have a mission not only to educate intercollegiate football after a 72-year hiatus (ABP) but also to love and care for the poor and neglected.” “Every day is a gift, with no promise of tomorrow. The challenge is for us —Jesus Romero, Spanish professor at Baptist to discover meaning and purpose University of the Américas, on the new on-campus “When I first saw this, I thought it Immigration Service And Aid Center (ISSAC) that early on, and to spend our lives was a headline from The Onion.” he’ll direct with support from the Baptist General investing ourselves in consequential Convention of Texas (mysantonio.com) —Tony Jones, former coordinator of and influential acts of service rather The Emergent Village, after learning that a than trivial pursuits. We have the Values Voter Summit breakout session named “Both my parents always modeled a opportunity to grow in faith, to build the Emergent Church movement as one of three very authentic faith for me.” relationships, to explore the beauty channels, along with Communism and Islam, of creation, to engage in a meaningful that Satan is using to bring down America (RNS) —Leah Anderson Reed, recently ordained to ministry by First Baptist Church of Ahoskie, N.C., where work, and to contribute to the well- she serves as chaplain and minister with youth, on being of others along the way.” following her parents, Anna and LaCount Anderson, into vocational ministry despite seeing the ups and —Pastor Barry Howard of First Baptist Church of downs of the calling throughout her life (ABP) Pensacola, Fla. (ABP)

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6 | Perspective October 2013 Editorial By John Pierce Figuring out God

For many conservative Christians the substitutionary atonement — with some SBC the Bible. God is portrayed in a variety of ways theory of substitutionary atonement is leaders using the issue to justify the fundamen- from one who destroys disobedient masses to talist siege of the convention three decades ago a most-gracious and loving father who runs to more than just one way of explaining and the need for them to keep guarding the meet a disobedient child at the curb. salvation based on Christ’s death and res- doctrinal gates. And yet, a great deal of mystery remains. urrection. It is no less than the Gospel. The whole episode brought to mind some In fact, acknowledging the mystery of God well-crafted words by my favorite writer. One may be one of the most important things we ny other way of interpreting the cross scene in Pat Conroy’s novel South of Broad can learn about God. than the death of Jesus as payment for has his characters driving So is God revealed? Yes, and most clearly A the debt of sin is considered heretical. high into the Appalachian in the life and teachings of Jesus — through Sacrifice is the only valid explanation — which Mountains and pass- whom the mystery of salvation comes. explains why several Southern Baptist leaders ing little white churches Yet this revealed God is not a fully responded so forcefully to one editor’s sugges- “where they worship a figured-out God — regardless of how strongly tion that God is more loving than vindictive. fiercer Christ.” one might defend a particular way of explain- Editor Bob Terry of The Alabama Baptist, Culture, education ing Christ’s death. referencing a Presbyterian hymnal debate, and personal experiences For me, excusing those whose religious and wrote that while he loves the hymn “In Christ impact a person’s under- political hostilities (and ours) put Jesus on the Alone,” he doesn’t sing the line “the wrath of standing of the nature of cross in favor of a wrathful and trapped God with God was satisfied.” God. And even those who insist most strongly no recourse but execution is not my best under- “Some popular theologies do hold that that their particular view of God is the one standing. Enduring the cross out of incomparable Jesus’ sufferings appeased God’s wrath,” wrote valid, biblically-based version have formed love seems to be the clearer message. Terry. “That is not how I understand the their perspectives with great selectivity and Such love is mystery and grace beyond our Bible…” through particular lenses. understanding but within our experience. But Accusations flew and clarifications The Bible paints many pictures of God then, a grace too wide and a love too deep can followed. Most were staunch defenses of — from meek to mean, active to absent. It make some Christians very defensive. depends on where you look — and what you’re A figured-out God is so much more man- looking for. ageable and easier to defend. And it sure beats Both God’s judgment and lavish love trying to live with the radical love and accep- show up in various literary forms throughout tance exhibited by Jesus. BT

Culture, education and personal experiences impact a person’s understanding of the nature of God.

October 2013 Perspective | 7 !" #$%& '()*+) Beauty & SOUL Arkansas town along the Mississippi calls for hope

HELENA-WEST HELENA, Ark. Catherine and Mollie direct Together for Hope Arkansas, a Cooperative Baptist —Mollie Palmer spent the sum- Fellowship initiative and long-term com- mer of 2008 in Helena, Ark., mitment to work with people in the nation’s poorest counties in order to affect change serving through Student.Go, the and break the cycle of economic disparity. Cooperative Baptist Fellowship’s UNDENIABLE BEAUTY missions program for students. Phillips County, Ark., is “undeniably beauti- left the Delta at the end of that sum- ful,” said Catherine. She notes that Mark mer but I just couldn’t stay away,” Twain once called Helena, “one of the pretti- “Isaid Mollie. “I just didn’t find any- est situations on the Mississippi River.” thing that felt as right as being here did.” The area is rich in Civil War history (as So after leaving for work elsewhere, the a Union town), civil rights history (where the Arkansas State University journalism grad Elaine Race Riot by sharecroppers occurred returned to Helena for a longer investment in 1919), and music history. Helena has of her life. been called “The Main Street of the Blues.” Catherine Bahn felt the pull of the Natural beauty also abounds. Delta as well. “We talk a lot about how unique Helena “The beauty and soul of the place cap- is, and how many assets are present,” Mollie ture you, but relationships anchor you here,” added. said Catherine, who also holds a journalism Unlike most flat Delta towns, Helena (Top) Mollie Palmer spends time with some girls degree from Arkansas State. “Like all places, sits at the southernmost tip of Crowley’s during a literacy camp this summer in Lakeview, Ark. Photo by Catherine Bahn. (Above) The city pool in Helena isn’t always easy to call home. We Ridge, giving it hills and turns that are rare, Helena-West Helena, Ark., was brought back to life have the same joys and sorrows as the next she noted. It also sits right on the Mighty by volunteers and a generous gift from First Baptist town. This place possesses a mysterious grit Mississippi. Church of El Dorado, Ark. Photo by John Pierce. about it.” “There is so much to take in,” said

8 | Feature October 2013 Mollie. “The things that make it our ministry Miller’s leadership during the three-year setting aren’t necessarily unique — high pov- FIRM FOUNDATION process resulted in more than $500,000 in erty and unemployment, failing schools, all the ooperative Baptist Fellowship field donated materials and labor. other ‘on paper’ things that people know about personnel Ben and Leonora Newell a place — but the people I’ve met here, their Cmoved to Helena, Ark., in late 2001. was built on the bypass around Helena. It gifts, and the way God chooses to use them are They served for 10 years, while raising has a community garden around it and is unique and really beautiful.” their children, Lucas, Nate and Gabriela designed to accommodate various vendors. there, and shaping the Together for Hope RECIPROCITY engagement. Wheels” was formed using a bus donated Ray Higgins, coordinator for CBF of One of Together for Hope’s guiding principles by First Baptist Church of Huntsville, Ala. Arkansas, pointed to some major footprints is reciprocity, said Catherine. - the Newells left on Helena and Phillips “We focus on mutual exchange and mutu- opment initiative to inspire the creativity County: ally beneficial relationships where both local and empowerment of women. The jewelry- and outside partners have gifts, skills and abili- making co-op (deltajewels.com) returns - ties to teach,” she explained. “Not only do our half of each sale to the artist — and has town Helena. outside volunteers teach in our community, expanded into other creative expressions. they have opportunities to learn from our local burned-out Helena Community Center community.” “Ben and Leonora built wonderful rela- to provide programming for children, As an example, Catherine points to the tionships across racial lines, connected with youth and families. Leonora started an annual swim camp that ends each year with leaders in the city, worked with churches “Imagination Station” and a library there. a celebration that includes a choreographed and brought churches into the All Church dance by local youth. Challenge, and created construction-type Arkansas and a generous gift from First “For the first time our local youth taught projects in the area for people’s homes,” said Baptist Church of El Dorado, Ark., along our outside volunteers the dance this summer,” Higgins appreciatively. “They also brought with support from the city, the new Helena she said. “Every afternoon our youth would an outgoing, faith-sharing, evangelistic gather our most willing volunteers to teach and City Park Swimming Pool House came to presence to their work.” reteach motions, encourage them, and connect Many student interns have served effec- in ways we’d never witnessed.” house into a pavilion and renovated the pump house. tively through the years as well, along with Catherine said she can close her eyes numerous volunteers who assist Together and see the youth standing in front of the for Hope staff. Helena is impacted by these volunteers and teaching each movement with that brings volunteers from CBF partner many and varied investments of lives and confidence and patience. churches into Helena during the summers, love. “Witnessing our youth, who many only was launched. Hayes Barton Baptist Church “Now Mollie and Catherine are build- see as a poverty statistic, share their knowl- in Raleigh N.C., has participated all 11 years ing on the Newells’ work and creating new edge and gifts with others filled my soul and with Kate Hall leading the swim camp. community development projects of their affirmed scripture,” she said. “We are all part own,” said Higgins. of one body, we all have a role, and we are all Light Baptist Church, was introduced to Those efforts include literacy training for essential to the body of believers.” Russell Miller, a deacon at First Baptist Church of Mountain Home, Ark., who led children and youth development activities the construction of a new 14,000-square- for teens — along with serving as excellent IT’S PERSONAL foot church facility in downtown Helena. Christian influences and examples. BT Catherine was born and raised in Jonesboro, Ark. She first visited Helena about 10 years ago Catherine Bahn enjoys and “started falling in love — with the place, time with Jaylon during a its people, its beauty.” summer camp program. “Folks here often talk about how Helena Photo by J.V. McKinney. gets under your skin; you can’t shake it,” she said. “And they’re right.” Despite the many social challenges, said Catherine, the people of the merged town of Helena-West Helena are the greatest attraction. “Along my journey I’ve met countless souls who continually reshape my world,” she said. “When people ask why I’m here, why I decided to transplant myself in the Delta, I simply give them a list of names — Solomon, Zay, Nikki, Ms. Mary, Will. That’s it. Nothing

CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

October 2013 Feature | 9 Joseph Whitfield, a Helena-West Helena native and student at Colby College in Maine, is a pop- ular swimming instructor during the annual All Church Challenge. Photo by J.V. McKinney.

FROM PAGE 9 first day,” she said. “We had more lost-and- no longer just about teaching kids to swim; more, nothing less. God made the introduc- found items than ever before, and volunteers it was about creating a space where teenag- tions and continues to show me enough grace were more engaged with each other and their ers could serve and grow in leadership skills to sustain me along the way.” cell phones than their kids.” through the mentorship of outside leaders,” Mollie said it didn’t take long for her to Mollie said they realized that the local said Mollie. “We now offer volunteer opportu- fall in love with Helena during her summer youth volunteers lacked the training they nities for many of these teens year-round and internship five years ago. “God sent me people needed to be successful camp volunteers. So have been blown away by the way service has who changed my life.” longtime volunteers and staff rallied together changed them.” And God continues to send people to to support them. Also investing heavily in the daily lives of Helena, said the co-directors of Together for “By the end of the day, we’d seen a drastic Helena’s people — and future leaders — are Hope Arkansas. Both local and short-term difference and by the end of the week, the way these two young women with a strong and volunteers contribute heavily to making a posi- I saw the All Church Challenge had totally clear calling to serve. tive impact on this unique and hopeful Delta changed,” said Mollie. “While most of our Mollie, who grew up in the Little Rock community. ACC volunteers are committed to Helena area and previously worked for the Girl Scouts, long-term and have relationships with the enjoys cooking and entertaining — as well as SWIM & MORE children they see each year, they still go home “taking the Helena kids out on the town.” at the end of their week and are gone for 51 Catherine previously worked as com- Together for Hope hosts a two-week missions weeks before they return.” experience each summer involving congrega- munity outreach coordinator at Our House But the newly trained, young local volun- tions from outside of Helena called the All Shelter in Little Rock and interned as a teers could make a positive impact all year. Church Challenge. Programming includes a reporter with the Roma Press Agency in “Our local youth are a part of the commu- swim camp for 200 kids, a literacy camp for Kosice, Slovakia. nity; they are people that our swim camp kids another 50 kids, various construction projects She has done a good bit of writing about see in school, at the grocery store, at church,” and other volunteer tasks. community development in Phillips County, said Mollie. “They are there as role models and In 2011 there was a shortage of volunteers Ark., but is better known locally for teaching mentors year round for the kids in their own for the second week of swim camp, Mollie children how to throw a Frisbee. community, which is a great thing for those recalled. “Mollie and Catherine’s calling to Helena kids, but also changes the way that the youth “We had a great first week, but we were and leadership with Together for Hope Arkansas volunteers see themselves, their community, concerned about being able to serve as many has been one of the clearest and most amazing and their ability to contribute.” kids as we had planned to,” she said. “Instead answers to prayer in my life and ministry,” said of taking that as our only option, we recruited Ray Higgins, CBF of Arkansas coordinator. LARGER PURPOSE volunteers from our local youth camp.” “They have the passion, vision, talents The 15 teenagers from Helena, who While teaching the lifesaving skill of swim- and skills, and the sensitivity to God’s Spirit served alongside our outside volunteers, weren’t ming is important, the annual summer and people’s hopes and needs, to make this a particularly helpful initially, she confessed. experience has taken on a larger purpose. presence-of-Christ experience, physically and “Frankly, they made a bit of a mess the “Suddenly the All Church Challenge was spiritually, in the community.” BT

10 | Feature October 2013 NEW RELEASES from Faith BOOKS

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beliefs about God in the Bible? Bible’s many references to God subject for scientists to study? and violence? - life, and space lead us to adjust prehensive view of God and some of our beliefs about God? human destiny from the Bible? priate for the modern world? God by reason apart from the Bible? do some more thinking about God? had about the basic nature of God? EXPLORE THESE AND OTHER CHALLENGING QUESTIONS in God’s goodness and unlim- on “Ways of Thinking about God” ited power with the evil in the under the guidance of former world? pastor-professor, E. B. (Ben) Self. Media

By Sarah Pulliam Bailey, Religion News Service

FAITH & DUCKS

show capitalizing on Southern Christian stereotypes has snowballed into success, Awith faith and duck hunting creating a recipe for a ratings sensation on Duck Dynasty. The A&E show drew nationwide attention after its season premiere attracted 11.8 million viewers, becoming the most-watched reality pre- miere in history by topping series such as Jersey Shore and Jon & Kate Plus 8. The show drew more viewers than the highest viewed episodes of Breaking Bad and Mad Men combined, and would be the most-watched show if it aired on NBC. The show, which follows the extended troubles. a communications professor at Pepperdine Robertson clan that runs the Duck Com- The Robertsons attend White’s Ferry Road University, a school associated with Churches of mander Company in Louisiana, is best known Church of Christ in West Monroe, La., part of a Christ. for the gun-toting family’s Southern drawls, “Restoration Movement” fellowship of 13,000 “There hasn’t been such a beloved unruly beards, camouflage wardrobe and reli- U.S. congregations that generally teach that depicting of Southern charm since The Andy gious faith. baptism by immersion at the “age of account- Griffith Show,” said Detweiler, who grew up in “There’s a risk that someone could watch ability” is integral to salvation. Charlotte, N.C. the show and think all Christians are like that, Phil Robertson told The Christian Chronicle The show finds a smart way to combine but that would come from a place of igno- that he and his sons Alan and Jase preach the family, food, faith and really long beards, he rance,” said Jennifer Wishon, a correspondent same message of faith, repentance and baptism said. for the Christian Broadcasting Network. wherever they’re invited. “There are a lot of complaints about “They’re just guys from Louisiana who like Hundreds of people have shown up at the the reality TV genre, but there are far more to make duck calls and hunt, and that doesn’t family’s church, said pastor Mike Kellett. “I tell Christians portrayed on America as a result,” represent the interests of all Christians.” people, ‘If you want to put your eyes on them, Detweiler said. “The beard gets longer and the CBN invited members of the come to church!’” he said. ratings keep going up. They’re laughing all the Robertson family to this year’s White House Alan Robertson co-ministered with Kellett way to the bank.” Correspondents’ Dinner, where comedian for seven years before deciding to join the show The Robertsons can also be found on an Conan O’Brien briefly poked fun, saying they for its fourth season. He and his father, Phil, array of merchandise, including bobbleheads, were invited because the guys from Storage Wars still serve as elders. Friends and relatives esti- T-shirts, and Uncle Si’s plastic tea cup. weren’t available. mate that Phil Robertson, who had a following “For years, Hollywood missed a lot,” Alan Wishon said that Willie and Korie for his revivalist-style gospel preaching, has bap- Robertson said. ”It looks like they’re taking Robertson were also invited to President tized more than 300 people. advantage of us, but we’re taking advantage of Obama’s private reception at the dinner, and the “We’re kind of the John the Baptists of the them to get the gospel preached.” president told them he watches the show on Air 21st century,” Alan Robertson said. “It’s how you The show likely strikes a chord because the Force One. imagine, with the wild hair and the locusts.” Robertsons can control their image within the “Our faith is the main part of our lives, but At the end of each show, the Robertsons reality TV genre, said Larry Eskridge, associ- it’s better to be subtle,” said Alan Robertson, join in prayer together, something visitors note ate director of the Institute for the Study of the beardless fourth brother of the clan. “We as they come through the church. American Evangelicals. don’t want to make it like ‘The 700 Club for “I think there are a lot of families that wish “The Duck Dynasty fan is laughing and Rednecks.’” they would gather around the table and pray praying with the Robertsons instead of laughing The Robertsons have taken their message like that,” Kellett said. “I think it hits a nerve.” at and gawking at them,” Eskridge said. “I think on the road; Alan and Phil Robertson filled in While Breaking Bad has gotten most that scores nicely with the audience to see folks for Rick Warren at Saddleback Church, sharing of the press attention, Duck Dynasty has from that subculture poking fun at themselves about the patriarch’s alcoholic past and marital won the ratings race, said Craig Detweiler, as opposed to outsiders doing it.” BT

12 | Media October 2013 Media

By Adele Banks, Religion News Service

Real ‘Butler’ was quiet man of steady faith WASHINGTON — Eugene Allen to keep his mouth shut about the goings-on inside the White House as well as the civil admitted that another young couple (the served eight presidents as a White rights struggles roiling the nation. Obamas) had indeed entered the White House House butler, and his legendary Church members recalled that Allen, like who possessed the Kennedy magic.” the fictional Cecil Gaines, was fairly reticent. Allen acknowledged that he was especially career is the inspiration for Lee “He loved that job, was committed to it,” fond of the Reagans, who invited him — in Daniels’ The Butler, a film starring said fellow trustee Dolores Causer of his White real life and in the movie — to a state dinner House job serving eight presidents. “But he before he retired in 1986. Oprah Winfrey, Jane Fonda and a host never really would discuss anything other than “He often talked about how nice they of A-list Hollywood talent. to say he loved his work and he enjoyed each were to him,” recalled church member Marion and every one of them.” Washington, who knew Allen when he was ut members of The Greater First The writer of the four-page obituary in promoted to maitre d’. Baptist Church knew the man who died Allen’s funeral program, however, gained some In the movie, Cecil and Gloria Gaines are B in 2010 by other titles: usher, trustee, insights into his thoughts about working with portrayed as a Christian couple, with a crucifix and a humble man of quiet faith. U.S. presidents: over their bed and a devotion to the Bible. “The attributes that made him a great Director Lee Daniels, a Philadelphia butler made him a great usher,” said Denise best dressed President.” native who grew up in the oldest black Johnson, an usher at the predominantly black Episcopal church in the country, said it was D.C. church where Allen was a member for six decision to send troops to enforce school important for the movie to include religious decades. desegregation in Little Rock, Ark., “an espe- elements. He fought to include a scene depict- Those qualities were both external — cially admirable act.” ing a church fundraiser for the Freedom black suits and white gloves — and internal Riders in which a choir sings “Woke Up This — a dignified, soft-spoken manner. rights “would be the jewel in his crown.” Morning with My Mind Stayed on Freedom.” Parishioners recalled Allen as a peace- “You can’t tell a story about the civil rights maker, someone who never raised his voice. Nixon’s demise and ultimate resignation.” movement without the gospel and gospel music,” His devotion to service extended far beyond he said. “You just simply can’t. It’s impossible.” the public and private rooms of the White in the Saturday Night Live impersonations of Wil Haygood, who wrote the 2008 House to the doorways and kitchen of his (Gerald) Ford, calling him the best athlete in Washington Post story that first brought Allen’s church. the White House in his time.” story to light, said it was more than chance In African-American churches, that allowed him to bring public the usher is a special role bestowed attention to Allen’s otherwise private on highly regarded members. Allen career. joined others to open doors to “There was a higher force that visitors and pass out fans and offer- led me to Mr. Allen’s front door,” ing plates. He also would roll up said Haygood, who made dozens his sleeves and help prepare fish of calls before tracking down Allen. and chicken at church fundraising “He had a landline. If he would have dinners. had a cell phone, I would have never “He was not only a servant found him.” there,” said Robert Hood, an associ- Now, he said, after Allen ate minister, of Allen’s White House worked quietly behind the scenes work. “But he was also a servant while presidents from Truman to doing the work of the Lord.” Reagan were in the limelight, the The movie hit theaters in roles are reversed. August with Allen portrayed as “To me, in a way, it’s almost the fictional Cecil Gaines (Forest biblical: The last shall be first,” Whitaker), married to Gloria said Haygood. “He’s not working (Winfrey). The movie spans his Eugene Allen, the man who inspired Lee Daniels’ The Butler, is pictured in this 2006 photo from the 126th anniversary program of his church’s usher in the White House theater, serving personal journey from segregation to board. He is the farthest left person in the third row from the front. Photo popcorn. He’s the star on the big integration, during which he tended courtesy of Greater First Baptist Church in Washington, D.C. screen.” BT

October 2013 Media | 13 Baylor Alumni Association votes down proposal

Baptist Standard 31 and that the alumni association board of and the alumni association would terminate directors endorsed Sept. 3. However, that fell the agreements by mutual consent. ACO, Texas — Approval of 170 votes short of the two-thirds required. In addressing the group, BAA President an agreement that would have Under the terms of the agreement, the Collin Cox framed the vote in terms of three W disbanded the Baylor Alumni 17,000-member Baylor Alumni Association choices—approve the transition agreement and Association fell short of the two-thirds vote — which operated 35 years outside univer- maintain an independent alumni voice through required. sity control — would have dissolved, and the the Baylor Line Corporation, enter into costly At a Sept. 7 called meeting in Waco university-sponsored Baylor Alumni Network litigation over use of the “Baylor” name or sur- Hall on the Baylor campus, 55 percent of the would have assumed all activities related to render and retain nothing. alumni association members present voted to alumni. Last year, the Baylor Alumni Network In both an open forum and the 30 min- approve an agreement that would have dis- held about 850 events in 150 locations world- utes dedicated to debate during the alumni banded the 154-year-old organization, allowed wide that involved more than 35,000 alumni association’s business session, numerous speak- Baylor University to assume all alumni- and supporters, the university reported. ers retraced a long history of escalating tension engagement activities and created the Baylor Baylor University gave notice May 31 it between the group and the university’s admin- Line Corporation to preserve what proponents unilaterally would terminate contracts and istration and board of regents. called “an independent alumni voice.” license agreements with the Baylor Alumni More than 10 years ago, the university Alumni association members voted 830 Association on Sept. 8. However, the letter developed its own alumni services office— to 669 to approve a transition agreement from Charles Beckenbauer, Baylor general the Baylor Alumni Network—and began Baylor’s board of regents and the Baylor counsel, said, if the association voted to imple- publishing its own magazine for alumni and Alumni Association officers agreed upon May ment the transition agreement, the university donors. BT

Southern Baptist military chaplains told to avoid gay weddings

(RNS) — The agency that commissions response to the military’s repeal of the “don’t same-sex wedding on his base. Col. Timothy Southern Baptist military chaplains says no ask, don’t tell” policy and the Supreme Court’s Wagoner initially assured his NAMB superiors Baptist chaplain will be allowed to perform, decision this summer to strike down the that his quotes were misunderstood. He later attend or support a same-sex wedding either Defense of Marriage Act. resigned his Southern Baptist Convention on or off base. “A lot of our chaplains were asking for endorsement and was re-endorsed by the The Southern Baptist Convention’s North clarification,” said Mike Ebert, spokesman for Cooperative Baptist Fellowship. American Mission Board released guidelines the NAMB, which is based outside Atlanta. Ebert said that Wagoner’s case was the on Aug. 29 stating that endorsed chaplains will “We wanted to clearly articulate in writing for only one he knew of where a Southern Baptist- not “offer any kind of relationship training or the Department of Defense that these are our endorsed chaplain had left the chaplaincy over retreat, on or off of a military installation, that expectations.” a gay wedding. Southern Baptists have nearly would give the appearance of accepting the Last year, an Associated Press article 1,500 endorsed chaplains serving in the U.S. homosexual lifestyle or sexual wrongdoing.” included mention of a 20-year Southern military, more than any other denomination or The updated guidelines were issued in Baptist Air Force chaplain who attended a faith group. BT

Study claims religion can harm economy (RNS) — Too much religion can harm a soci- The study cites the Bible to show how ety’s economy by undermining the drive for Judaism and Christianity turn upside down the financial success, according to a study in the belief that the highest possible income leads to journal Social Psychological and Personality Science. the highest possible happiness and psychologi- The study of almost 190,000 people cal adjustment. from 11 religiously diverse cultures is raising It quotes biblical examples such as Jesus’ eyebrows among some of England’s religious teaching, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, leaders for suggesting Judaism and Christianity for theirs is the kingdom of heaven,” from have anti-wealth norms. Matthew 5:3. said Michael Nazir-Ali, the former bishop of Written by academics at University of The academics conducted their inter- Rochester in the Church of England. “The Southampton in England and the Humboldt views in 11 countries: Austria, France, worship of money is the root of all evil and not University of Berlin, the study found that Germany, Italy, Poland, Russia, Spain, Sweden, money on its own.” religious people in religious cultures reported Switzerland, The Netherlands and Turkey. The authors said they received no finan- better psychological adjustment when their “What the great faiths condemn is the cial support for the research authorship and/or income was low. irresponsible use of wealth, not wealth itself,” publication of the article.

14 | Information October 2013 Seminary debt saddles ministers Persecuted Coptic (ABP) — When Congress overwhelmingly Christians still approved a measure recently to relieve spiral- ing student debt, churches probably didn’t hoping for peace realize the problem hits closer to home than expected — many pastors are leaving (RNS) — Former Archbishop of seminary and divinity school with tens of Canterbury Rowan Williams took Britain’s thousands of dollars in loans. Christian community to task recently when “It’s becoming a huge issue,” said he said that Western Christians need to Bill Wilson, president of the Center for “grow up” and stop claiming they are perse- Congregational Health. “I’ve heard of totals cuted just because they are sometimes made approaching $60,000. I had one resident who to feel uncomfortable about their faith. showed up with $40,000 in debt between “When you have any contact with real school and credit cards.” persecuted minorities you learn to use the Theological educators characterize the word persecuted very chastely,” he said. trend as troubling. A 2005 paper by the Persecution has undeniably become Auburn Center for the Study of Theological the plight of Christians in Egypt, where, Education — grimly titled “The Gathering the same week that Williams made his Storm” — found more than half of master of comments, more than 30 churches were divinity students in 1991 had not borrowed attacked — many of them burned to the for their seminary education. By 2001, only 37 Auburn center told the Huffington Post in 2012. ground — and the Coptic patriarch, Pope percent could make that claim. An official at one Baptist seminary, who Tawadros II, suspended weekly public About 1 percent of master of divinity grad- asked not to be identified, said a recent gradu- events due to safety concerns. Since then, uates had borrowed $30,000 or more to fund ating class revealed the depth of the issue. Of the toll of churches that have been ran- their theological education in 1991; 10 years 57 graduates, 21 had no debt, six owed less sacked or worse has risen to more than 90. later 21 percent had borrowed at that level. than $20,000, another six between $20,000 And yet, many of Egypt’s Christians It no longer is unusual for seminary grad- and $50,000, eight between $50,000 and have refrained from claiming they are perse- uates to leave school with $70,000 to $80,000 $90,000 and 11 more than $100,000 — all cuted in recent days. in debt, Sharon Miller, associate director of the acquired while at the seminary. BT As the largest and one of the oldest in the Middle East, Egypt’s Christian commu- nity has significance far beyond the country’s Feminists call Western Wall prayer platform a ‘sun deck’ borders. It is a bellwether for other religious minorities, not just Christian, in both Egypt (RNS) — Israel’s Minister of Religious Affairs and the greater region. reached out to Reform and Conservative Jews Tradition holds that Christianity came after unveiling an expanded prayer platform to Egypt around 42 A.D. when the Apostle near the Western Wall in late August. Mark founded a church in Alexandria, now But while the non-Orthodox leaders wel- officially known as the Coptic Orthodox comed the new platform that can accommodate Church of Alexandria; its line of patriarchs up to 450 worshippers, a group of Jewish femi- has been unbroken since. By the fifth nists called it nothing more than “a sun deck” century, the majority of Egyptians were designed to marginalize anyone who is not Christians. It wasn’t until several centuries Ultra-Orthodox from praying at the Wall. after the Arab conquest of 641 that Islam A recent court ruling said the feminist Naftali Bennett, the religious affairs became the country’s predominant religion. group, Women of the Wall, should be allowed minister, called for “a new page in the Israeli- To get a sense of what an integral part to pray in prayer shawls and phylacteries in the Diaspora relationship” in his letter to leaders of the Egyptian national fabric Copts are, main women’s section, which is separated from of the Reform and Conservative movements, one need only look at the name itself; the the men’ section by a partition. Women at the whose institutions and clergy have no official word Copt is based on the ancient Greek Wall staged a sit-in at the Kotel when the plat- status and receive virtually no government word for Egyptian. Today, this homegrown form was announced. It would like women to funding. minority, which traces its roots back to the pray in the women’s section at the Kotel. The temporary prayer platform at Pharaohs, makes up an estimated 10 per- The Reform and Conservative move- Robinson’s Arch, near the southern part of cent of the population in Egypt. ments sought reassurances that the government the Western Wall, serves as a government- For the most part, Copts and Muslims would implement the so-called Sharansky Plan, designated place for mixed gender, non- say they live together peacefully. And which, if approved, would create a permanent Orthodox prayer. The government permits yet, the fault lines revealed in recent days prayer space accommodating thousands of only Orthodox prayer at the northern part of have been present since the beginning of worshipers, as opposed to the temporary plat- the Wall, called the Kotel, a remnant of the Christian-Muslim relations in Egypt. BT Jewish Temple. form that accommodates hundreds. BT

October 2013 Information | 15 Reblog

Selections from recent blogs at baptiststoday.org

One less character

By Tony W. Cartledge in at age 81. Rae went back to church a few times after Rae, as a girl, with Tony’s y cousin Rae Stribling died recently, her diagnosis, but decided that she didn’t want a father (top) and uncle Tom and one of God’s most unique people funeral. She talked her son-in-law into building Mhas made the transition from corpo- her a pine box coffin of reclaimed wood from an texts. Only one of the stories was true, and that rality to memory. old cotton gin, and was specific that she wanted was a mini-biography titled “How Rae Got the Rae was my grandmother’s sister’s daugh- the word “cotton” stamped on it as a reminder Voodoo.” ter and a favorite of her Aunt Van (short for of how hard she had worked in the cotton fields It was told with her encouragement, and Savannah), who bequeathed to Rae the gift as a young woman. was perhaps one of the more unbelievable of removing warts. Rae got such a kick out of She gave her children instructions to hold stories in the book. I used it to introduce a med- people believing she had the power of dewarti- a “viewing” at which she’ll be laid out in one of itation on the so-called “witch of Endor” who fication that she cultivated a reputation as a her favorite party dresses with full makeup. She called up the spirit of Samuel for King Saul in “voodoo woman” who could cure various ail- told them to “clean up and wear your dancing 1 Samuel 28. Both Rae and the ghostwife who ments or make an unwanted husband disappear shoes,” wanting the occasion to be more cele- assisted Saul used approaches that many would like an ugly wart. bratory than mournful. A large crowd attended, consider sketchy, but their intentions were good. I’ve always been skeptical about the warts, but I don’t think the party materialized. I don’t know if there will be more warts in but scores of people in Lincoln County, Ga., She was cremated afterward, so there’s no Lincoln County now, but there will be one less swear that Rae charmed their unwanted protu- grave to visit. But if Rae gets a chance to be the colorful character. I suspect tales about Rae will berances away. one making visitations as a ghost, she certainly grow taller, however, and it’s unlikely that she’ll And I was never sure whether Rae believed will. be forgotten. her own voodoo business or just enjoyed the I once published a book of sermons (Telling I, for one, will often recall one of God’s attention. Alas, no amount of voodoo could Stories) that consisted of original short stories to most singular gifts to the world, and am grateful counteract the brain cancer that finally did her set the mood for getting into particular biblical to have known her. BT

themselves are not what make a Bible holy. How to destroy the Bible “It would be a good thing to make it useful, and one way to do that is to recycle By John Pierce of other world religions to whether the latest it,” Jacquelyn Sapiie, library services supervi- despised political leader is the anti-Christ sor for the American Bible Society, told The A fellow church member came into the referenced in Revelation (or Revelations, as it’s Newton Kansan, according to ehow.com. coffee shop this morning. often called when such questions arise). “Recycling is an honorable act, and that is “Didn’t see you yesterday,” she said. But none of that was needed. He wanted fitting for a book such as a Bible.” “I was in Jasper, Ga.,” I replied. to know the proper way to dispose of a mostly Respecting a damaged copy of the Bible is “What were you doing up there?” destroyed Bible. a good thing. I’m glad this man was concerned “Preaching at First Baptist Church. The His late wife loved old copies of the enough to ask rather than simply throwing the pastor retired recently.” Bible and was often given them as gifts. His well-gnawed pages into the trash. We chatted a bit more, but I had outed new dog thought one of the old Bibles made But, of course, there are other less literal myself to the larger caffeinated gathering. It a good chew toy. So rather than hiding its ways to destroy or dispose of the Bible — by was too late to vaguely say, “I’m in publish- words in his heart, he hid some of its pages in ignoring its clear message of love and grace ing.” Or to outright lie — “I sell Volvos” his stomach. or by cherry-picking isolated, out-of-context — as I’ve done on long flights. Not having a good answer at hand, I verses to weave into a defense of one’s per- As I approached the door to leave, a man suggested he check with the American Bible sonal agenda that reflects nothing of the life who overheard the conversation stopped me. Society or just search online for “How to and teachings of Jesus. “Are you a minister? I have a question.” properly dispose of a Bible.” The Bible, in all of its literary diversity, My Monday morning mind raced to Curiosity led me to my own search. really addresses just two subjects: how we are retrieve long-stored information in order to Some sources suggest burial of a severely to relate to God and to one another. Those address whatever theological issue would fol- tattered Bible. Others recommend recy- two matters deserve our primary attention — low — from the problem of evil to the validity cling, noting that the pages of paper and ink and daily recycling. BT

16 | Perspective October 2013 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 BIBLE STUDIES richness of the biblical texts for honest learners.

Teaching resources at nurturingfaith.net

For adults and youth HOW TO USE THESE BIBLE STUDIES November lessons in this issue 1. Order a copy of Baptists Today news journal for EACH MEMBER of the class. The Bible Lessons are found only here. 2. Teachers can go to nurturingfaith.net to access all Latter Prophets, Future Dreams of the free resources needed for presentation. Simply click on “Adult” or “Youth.” Habakkuk 1:1-2:4 – When Things Look Bad … NOV. 3, 2013 Teaching the Lessons

After reading The Bible Lessons by Tony Cartledge Haggai 1:15b-2:9 – I Will Fill This House with Splendor starting on page 18, teachers can access NOV. 10, 2013 helpful teaching resources (at no charge) at nurturingfaith.net. These include: Malachi 3:13-4:3 – With Healing on His Wings * Tony’s video overviews NOV. 17, 2013 * Adult teaching plans by Rick Jordan * Youth teaching plans by Jeremy Colliver * Tony’s “Digging Deeper” notes and Jeremiah 23:1-8 – Poor Shepherds and Grand Hopes ”The Hardest Question” NOV. 24, 2013 * Links to commentaries, multimedia resources and more Youth Lessons are on pages 22–23. How to Order The Bible Lessons in Baptists Today are copyrighted and not to be photocopied.

* O rders may be placed at baptiststoday.org or Adult teaching plans by Rick Jordan of the 1-877-752-5658. Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of North Carolina are available at nurturingfaith.net * The price is just $18 each for groups of 25 or more — for a full year — with no additional costs. Thanks, sponsors! * All online teaching resources are available at no These Bible studies for adults and youth are sponsored through generous charge and may be printed and used by teachers of gifts from the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship (Bo Prosser, Coordinator of the Nurturing Faith Bible Studies. Congregational Life) and from the Eula Mae and John Baugh Foundation. Thank you!

© Nurturing Faith Bible Studies are copyrighted by Baptists Today. DO NOT PHOTOCOPY. Order at: baptiststoday.org | 17 Habakkuk 1:1-2:4

with Tony W. Cartledge

Nov. 3, 2013 Hab. 2:4 – When Things Look Bad … “Look at the proud! Their spirit is not o you ever get depressed right in them, while watching or reading the but the righteous Dnews? Whether it’s gridlock in live by their faith.” Washington, bankruptcy in Detroit, violence in Chicago or poverty on your street, trouble abounds. Are you ever inclined to complain that God has left humans to our own devices and refused to step in to rescue us from ourselves? Today’s lesson is the first of four texts involving national despair and prophetic hope. Three lessons come from the relatively obscure books of Habakkuk, Haggai and Malachi — all members of the “Book of the Twelve” Psalms (13:1-2, 74:10-11, 79:5, 89:46). Habakkuk wasn’t necessarily look- (Hosea – Malachi), better known as the Queries such as “Why do you make me ing for a timetable, but he wondered if “Minor Prophets.” see wrongdoing and look at trouble?” God had any plans to address the cur- Habakkuk’s prophecy is undated, suggest that Habakkuk fully felt the rent situation in which “judgment comes but appears to fit best in the context of burden of his prophetic office. The forth perverted.” the late seventh and early sixth centu- prophet seems afraid that God has aban- God’s initial answer is found in ries BCE, a time when the resurgent doned the people, allowing violence, vv. 5-11, verses not included in the Babylonians had conquered the ruling strife and contention to dominate the lectionary text but essential for our Assyrians and extended their reach to the land (v. 3). The end result is that “the understanding. In essence, God chal- smaller nations of the Levant, including law becomes slack and justice never lenged Habakkuk to look beyond Judah Judah. prevails” (v. 4a). and see what was happening in other Habakkuk appears to be describing nations, how the Chaldeans were wreak- Complaint #1 the unhappy conditions in Judah. There ing destruction across the landscape and (1:1-11) had been great hope among the prophets trusting their military might as if it were that reforms following the (re)discovery a god. We know nothing about Habakkuk of the book of the law during Josiah’s Like the lawless people of Habak- except for the superscriptions of 1:1 and reign would have lasting effect, but kuk’s own country, the Babylonians had 3:1, both of which describe him as a Josiah was killed in an ill-devised battle become their own law: “their justice prophet. His references to temple mat- with Pharaoh Neco in 609 BCE, and the and dignity proceed from themselves” ters and the inclusion of a hymn suitable reforms had lapsed. (v. 7). for temple use have led many scholars Central to the law was the impor- The Babylonians believed in their to suggest that he may also have been a tance of showing compassion and care innate power and self-direction, but God priest. to one another – especially to other declared “I am rousing the Chaldeans” Habakkuk’s opening words are a Hebrews – but when the law became (v. 6), clearly for God’s own purposes. lament: “How long, O Lord?” (v. 2). numb or paralyzed (the literal mean- The clear implication is that the fierce Similar complaints are found in the ing of the word translated as “slack”), Chaldean army would become the instru- the wealthy and powerful were free to ment of divine discipline; that those Additional background information run roughshod over the poor, exploiting who rejected the law of God would fall online where you see the “Digging them and taking their land, a common victim to the remorseless “justice” of the Deeper” icon concern of the prophets. Babylonians.

18 | © Nurturing Faith Bible Studies are copyrighted by Baptists Today. DO NOT PHOTOCOPY. Order at: baptiststoday.org Resources to teach adult and youth classes Complaint #2 the verse, the main intent is clear: are available at (1:12-2:1) Habakkuk is to write what he sees in Habakkuk’s second complaint begins nurturingfaith.net such a clear way that others can read it, in 1:12-17 and concludes with 2:1. The understand it, and respond to it. prophet cannot understand why God has instructions before delivering the actual Habakkuk is kept waiting through not yet judged the Babylonians, since response. v. 3, which speaks of the revelation “your eyes are too pure to behold evil, God put Habakkuk on alert that as something yet to come. Habakkuk and you cannot look on wrongdoing” he would in fact receive a vision, and wanted God to judge the evil Baby- (v. 13a). Note Habakkuk’s boldness in that he was to “write the vision; make lonians and to do it now. God insisted implying that God’s actions are contra- it plain on tablets, so that a runner may that judgment on evil would be sure, dictory to the divine nature. Do you ever read it” (v. 2, NRSV). but could not be rushed or demanded by pray that way? This verse is subject to multiple humans, even prophets. It would happen Though well aware of the Hebrews’ translations and thus exceedingly dif- in God’s own time. shortcomings, Habakkuk still regarded ficult to interpret. The NRSV follows The vision, when it finally arrives, his countrymen as more righteous than a “billboard” approach, assuming that is short and simple. One can look at the the violent Babylonians. Brashly, he Habakkuk was to write the vision proud (the word could mean something asked “Why do you look on the treach- on large tablets, perhaps of wood, in like “swelled up”) and see that “their erous, and are silent when the wicked such plain fashion that even someone spirit is not right within them” (v. 4a). swallow those more righteous than running by would be able to read the Wrong-spirited people will eventually they?” (v. 13b). message easily. It is likely that few fall, as v. 5 indicates: “the arrogant will With language reminiscent of the of Habakkuk’s contemporaries could not endure.” creation story in Genesis 1 – and per- read, but if a large sign had been posted In contrast, the righteous are called haps as an intentional plea for God to beside the road, its meaning would to live in faithfulness to God’s way, take better care of Israel’s human cre- quickly become known. which makes for a right spirit. These ations – Habakkuk complained that the “Make it plain” does not require few words are the most remembered Babylonian armies collected victims like the sense of writing in large letters. piece of Habakkuk’s prophecy, as Paul fishermen using hooks and nets, trust- When the word is used elsewhere in picked up the Greek translation of the ing in their implements of war as if they scripture, it deals with explaining or verse and made it a cornerstone of his were gods. writing a clear message that people can doctrine of salvation by faith. Like Job, who persistently que- understand (Deut. 1:5 and 27:8). In Habakkuk’s prophecy, however, stioned the lack of justice in his Some translations assume that the the emphasis is not on faith as a system misfortune, Habakkuk was plagued with engraved tablets would be of a more of belief, and the word should be trans- the question of theodicy, wondering if normal size, but written so clearly that a lated as “faithfulness” rather than God was truly just after all. As Job dared reader’s eyes could quickly “run” across “faith.” God’s call is not for the to challenge God with words such as the text: “so one may easily read it” Hebrews “to have faith” in the sense of “Answer me!” (Job 31:35), Habakkuk (HCSB). believing that God exists or agreeing announced he would “stand at my watch- A few interpreters have regarded that God’s way is best. The call is for post and station myself on the rampart” “run” as a metaphor for life, just as one’s the righteous (who already believe) to while waiting for God to answer his “walk” is used to indicate daily behav- live faithfully, believing that God is also complaints. ior. “That the one who reads it may run” faithful. The “watchpost” located “on the (NAS95, similar to the KJV) might be “To live,” then, is both a command ramparts” was probably a designated understood as “that one who reads it may and a promise. The righteous are called place on the outer wall of the temple live” according to God’s way. to live with faithful integrity that honors complex. It may have been an observa- A final approach is to regard the God despite the negative circumstances tion point for keeping track of goings-on verb “run” as a reference to a messenger that surround them. Arrogant folk who in the city or beyond, or it may have or runner who is sent to proclaim a mes- oppress others are bound to fall, but been more like a special prayer room sage through the land. Understanding the those who live faithfully are on the path where people went in hopes of receiving verse this way, God would be instructing to enduring life. a divine vision. Habakkuk to write the vision plainly so a As we bemoan the state of the messenger could easily read it, then run world or suffer painful days, are we Waiting for an answer off to deliver the message. The NIV, for able to trust in God and remain faithful (2:2-4) example, has “make it plain on tablets so through it all, trusting that justice will Suspense builds for the reader. As that a herald may run with it.” be done, albeit in God’s own time? Habakkuk stubbornly waited, God gave Whatever nuance we apply to Habakkuk would hope so. BT

LESSON FOR NOVEMBER 3, 2013 | 19 Haggai 1:15b-2:9

with Tony W. Cartledge

Nov. 10, 2013 I Will Fill This House with Splendor

ave you ever been involved in a church when there was a build- Hing program going on? Whether it’s the construction of a new building or the renovation of an old one, capital improvement projects tend to consume a lot of time, energy and money. Both buildings and renovations can also spark opposition. Some people don’t like change, others argue that it’s not a good time, and there are always those who quibble with design elements Haggai 2:5b – from interior molding to the style of the “My spirit abides among steeple. you; do not fear.” Building projects can be discouraging – but also terrific times of cooperation, the temple, a task that had begun more who remembered the former temple camaraderie and community growth. than 15 years earlier, but had not been complained that the new building would If Haggai were living today, he completed. In his first sermon, Haggai be too small or less grand than its pre- could find work as a motivational castigated the people for building decessor. speaker or church building consultant. paneled houses for themselves while As the complaining became infec- He knew how to read the needs of his allowing the temple to remain in ruins. tious, Haggai addressed the situation congregation, and speak to the heart of Economic struggles and opposition with his second sermon (2:1-9), this the matter in a straightforward way. from neighboring provinces had halted time offering words of encouragement all progress on rebuilding the temple, and hope. A discouraging time and as the people focused on their own Speaking to the king, the high (1:15b-2:3) needs, the state of the temple grew to priest, and the people, Haggai asked The book of Haggai is unique among seem less important. “Who is left among you that saw this the prophets because, rather than being a Haggai declared that rebuilding house in its former glory? How does it disjointed series of undated oracles, it is the temple was a necessary indicator of look to you now? Is it not in your sight a straightforward third-person account of faithfulness to God and thus a doorway as nothing?” (2:3). Haggai’s preaching, with each sermon or to future hope and blessing. For once, At first glance, it may appear that speech precisely dated. All of Haggai’s a sermon was an unqualified success: Haggai was being critical of the build- sermons are related to the second year of we learn that “The LORD stirred up ing efforts, complaining that the project the reign of Darius I, which would have the spirit” of Zerubbabel the governor, was too small. More likely, however, been 520 BCE, though we have no way Joshua the high priest, and “the remnant he was reminding the people that they of knowing if his preaching was limited of the people,” so that “they came and were doing good and important work, to that year. worked on the house of the LORD of and should not be dismayed by nay- Haggai’s earliest preaching (1:1-11) hosts, their God” (1:14). sayers who acted as if the project was related to the importance of rebuilding About a month later, however, as worthless. the hard work of clearing the site and We should keep in mind that Additional background information laying a new foundation was under- Haggai’s sermon would have taken online where you see the “Digging way, the people became discouraged. place 66 years after the former temple Deeper” icon Furthermore, some of the elderly folk had been destroyed, and very few

20 | © Nurturing Faith Bible Studies are copyrighted by Baptists Today. DO NOT PHOTOCOPY. Order at: baptiststoday.org Resources to teach adult and youth classes people in that day lived to be 70 years Haggai’s prediction that the glory old. Even those who had seen the are available at of the second temple would exceed temple would probably have been chil- nurturingfaith.net that of the first came to pass, in a sense, dren when they saw it, and may have more than 500 years later. Herod the remembered it as being far grander than Great, known for his impressive building it actually was. An amazing promise projects, undertook a decades-long reno- (2:6-9) vation of the temple that expanded its An encouraging word As Haggai sought to inspire confidence courts, raised its height, paved the courts (2:4-5) and to spur the people on in the task of with marble, and covered the exterior Haggai encouraged the people with rebuilding the temple, he proclaimed a with white marble and gold. allusions to the Exodus and with direct God-given vision of hope. One day soon, This was not really the fulfillment speech. Addressing the governor, the he said, God would “shake the heavens of Haggai’s promise, however. Like high priest, and “the remnant of the and the earth and the sea and the dry the eschatological promises of Isaiah, people,” Haggai encouraged each one to land” (2:6) – cosmic upheavals pointing Ezekiel, Daniel, Zechariah, Jesus (Mark “take courage” (NRSV), literally, to “be to a new age God would bring. 13, Matthew 24, Luke 21) and the strong” (2:4). But the created order would not be Revelations of John, this promise looks The words are reminiscent of God’s the only thing shaken. Haggai declared to a future age when God brings history commands to Joshua after Moses died. that God had told him “I will shake all the to a close and brings heaven to earth. Three times in the space of five verses, nations, so that the treasure of all nations Haggai’s hope of peace also reflects God told Joshua to “be strong and cou- shall come, and I will fill this house with the words of Isa. 2:2-4 and Mic. 4:1-4, rageous” (Josh. 1:5-9). The third of splendor, says the LORD of hosts” (2:7). both of which anticipate the nations those has close parallels to Haggai’s As Jerry Lee Lewis would say, streaming to Jerusalem in a harmonious speech. “Be strong and courageous,” there’d be “a whole lotta shakin’ goin’ new age when weapons of war will be God commanded Joshua. “Do not be on”! converted to tools for farming. frightened or dismayed, for the LORD All of the world’s treasures, Although the last age has yet to your God is with you wherever you go” whether silver or gold, ultimately arrive, some would argue that Haggai’s (Josh. 1:9). belong to God. Haggai saw a time when promise has been fulfilled in a meta- After calling on the people to “be all such treasures would be returned to phorical sense, as the crucifixion of strong” and to “work, for I am with their rightful owner, as if the lands sur- Christ (accompanied by a shaking of the you,” Haggai added “My spirit abides rounding Jerusalem were to be rolled earth, according to Matt. 27:51) opened among you; do not fear” (2:5b). In into a cone and shaken so that all the the doors of salvation to people of all both texts, the antidote to fear is the world’s riches would fall upon the nations. presence of God’s spirit, which was not temple complex (2:8). In this view, the literal flow of silver dependent on the presence of a temple. As a result, the “latter splendor” of and gold into a physical temple becomes Prior to the exile, the people of the temple would be greater than the for- an even more valuable stream of people Jerusalem had often pointed to the mer glory remembered by the old hands from all nations coming into the church, temple as the symbol of God’s pres- who had seen the first edition (2:9a). enriching the community of faith to the ence with them, but Haggai wanted the What is more important, however, is the glory of God in a way that goes beyond people to know that God’s Spirit was closing promise of the oracle: “and in any edifice of human construction. present and working, even though the this place I will give prosperity, says the Haggai’s pep talk to the people of temple remained unfinished. LORD of hosts” (2:9b). Israel may speak to modern believers, Christian believers also have assur- There is no guarantee that faithful- as well. As Haggai’s audience stood ance that God’s Spirit has come to live ness leads to wealth, and this verse surrounded by the fallen stones of their in the hearts and minds of believers. should not be used as a proof text for the ruined temple, it is easy for us to be dis- Jesus’ many promises concerning the “prosperity gospel.” The word translated couraged by the disarray we see in the Holy Spirit, along with the stories of as “prosperity” by the NRSV is shalôm, world, the nation or the church. We can Pentecost (Acts 2) and of God’s Spirit a rich word that describes a state of be dismayed by the state of our homes, being poured out on Gentiles believers wholeness or well-being, and is often our families or our finances. (Acts 10), are two important reminders translated as “peace”. If Haggai were here, he would call that we are never alone. The coming magnificence of the us by name and tell us to be strong, to No matter how discouraged we may temple could be a testimony of the keep working, and to not be afraid. We feel or how dire our circumstances may people’s love for God, but the promise of can do that because God’s Spirit is with seem, God’s Spirit is present with us peace and well-being was a testimony of us, leading always forward toward the and enables us to press ahead. God’s love for the people. day when all is at peace. BT

LESSON FOR NOVEMBER 10, 2013 | 21 Youth lessons are made possible through the generous YouNovember 3 — November 24,th 2013 support of the Eula Mae and John Baugh Foundation. Seriously?! NOVEMBER 3

Habakkuk 1:1-2:1-4 Habakkuk pleads to God for answers. Think About It: He doesn’t necessarily want to know when When times are tough, do you rely on your o you ever hear news and think, “There they will come, but that God will do some- own strength or do you continue to have is no way! I can’t believe this is hap- thing to restore justice and make things faith in God’s strength? Dpening.” And the longer you look, right. Habakkuk raises his voice for those the more you think about it, the more you who, because of their position in life, fear to Google to find information, the more flus- raise their voices. Make a Choice: tered you are by the situation. God answers the cry from Habakkuk It’s nothing new to have a feeling of and tells him to look beyond his country to Hope or despair? These are two choices shock and awe about what is going on in notice what is happening in nearby lands; when life becomes difficult. As followers the world around us. Habakkuk felt the the Chaldeans are conquering and will come of Christ we know God brings newness and same way, and as a priest had no qualms after those who continue to commit these life. How will you choose to be hopeful speaking out to God. injustices. when life becomes difficult? After the book of the law was redis- But Habakkuk is not a patient man and covered, Habakkuk had hope that needed continues to complain. God instructs him to changes would come to the land — bring- write about the coming conquerors so that Pray: ing fairness and justice. But these hopes the entire nation can see. Habakkuk is to God of hope, help us to remember your care were lost when King Josiah was killed, and call the people back to faithfulness in this for us when times are difficult. Forgive us thoughts of compassion evaporated. The time that seems hopeless, because God is when we forget you are at work for justice rich and powerful went back to their old indeed faithful. in our world. ways — taking advantage of others.

Motivation Matters NOVEMBER 10

Haggai 1:15b-2:9 but is moving at a snail’s pace. Haggai Think About It: reminds the people of the good and impor- How is your world a mess? Do you dwell otivational speakers usually fall tant work they are doing and encourages in the problems, or do you look ahead and into one of two categories: 1) really them to forge ahead. work forward with expectation that God Mbad or 2) really good. The really bad He quiets the naysayers by remind- will help you to make things better? motivational speakers seem to be stuck in ing them that the work is not too small the past, try too hard to be funny, and try because they are working out of their to pull on your heartstrings. The really good faithfulness to God. He builds up his people motivational speakers seem genuine and by comparing them to those who had been Make a Choice: focused, and they seem to be talking only to part of the Exodus, giving them the same What is the driving force in your life? Is it you when you are in a room full of people. charge that was heard then: “Be strong a search for success or a hope for wealth, When they are done, you would run through and courageous.” or is it the spirit of God that is within you? a brick wall for them. Haggai was one of the Haggai’s speech reminds the people One of these will fail you, while the other is really good speakers, and his pep talk to the that there is no need to fear, since God’s never ceasing. people of Israel can still motivate us today. spirit is among them. He describes a Like any motivational speaker, Haggai God-given vision of what is to come: a is brought in when the crowd needs a little wonderful day when God will restore their Pray: push to get them going again. The rebuild- land and riches. There should be no surprise God, we come to you tired and troubled. ing of the temple had begun 15 years ago that the temple turns out to be miraculous! Renew our energy and empower us to bring your hope and change to the world.

22 | Youth Youth Lessons by David Cassady and online youth teaching resources (at nurturingfaith.net) by Jeremy Colliver build off of the Bible lessons by Tony Cartledge.

Good Things! NOVEMBER 17

Malachi 3:13-4:3 for the future. When you turn the page and Think About It: begin to read the story of Jesus, Malachi’s How does the hope for God setting things ow many times have you heard prophecy seems fulfilled. right help people to make it through tough the saying, “Cheaters never win”? For those hearing Malachi, it may not times? Can you think of someone who lives HSometimes we hear it when we feel have been so easy to see the hope in his this way? like we’ve been wronged; when we’ve done prophecies. They were a mixture of judg- the right thing and still not come out on ment and hope, with the judgment seeming top. We may laugh at this phrase because nearby while the hope seemed far away. Make a Choice: it is overused, but also because it seems Malachi claimed hope’s certainty for those Malachi speaks to an issue we face today: like cheaters actually do win. They seem to who would remain faithful and honor God. What do we expect from God? Do we follow get the trophies, the money, the fame and Malachi also didn’t shy away from God for what we can get from God? Or, do the ease of life that comes with winning. highlighting those who would receive judg- we follow God because we know it will lead Malachi says something similar to his listen- ment. He spoke out against those who spoke to a better world for everyone? ers, but then he follows it up with “… and against God. He spoke out against those who here is how you win as well.” challenged God. He spoke out against those Malachi is the last book of the who questioned the wisdom of obedience. Pray: Christian Old Testament. It is the last voice Malachi understood that these were natural Offer to God the tough places in your life, we hear before we read the story of Jesus. responses, but he saw the danger in these and give thanks for the hope God provides. It seems appropriate to be the last book as attitudes. Ask to be useful in bringing God’s hope to Malachi preaches of God’s work preparing others.

Shepherds that Lead NOVEMBER 24

Jeremiah 23:1-8 letting the kings know what he thinks Think About It: about them or what God thinks about We all will have the opportunity to lead he only time most of us think about them. Instead, Jeremiah accuses the kings others at some point in our life. What type shepherds is during the Christmas of scattering their flock because of their of leader will you be? Toward what will you T season — perhaps when we see the poor leadership. He informs the kings that lead others? porcelain figurines of a nativity set or the God will remember their inaction and live shepherds in a play. We just don’t have that there will be consequences for their a reason to think a lot about shepherds in choices. Make a Choice: modern life. We do, however, think about Jeremiah also brings a message for those who are our leaders. the people that had been forgotten. He Whether or not you see yourself as a leader, Certain names and faces automatically lets them know that they will be gathered you can still be like a shepherd to others, pop into our minds when we hear the word back together and that their future will be offering care, support and protection. How “leaders.” There probably wouldn’t be many brighter. When they are gathered, there will will you choose to live? shepherds on our lists, but “shepherding” be a shepherd king who will lead them and might be a characteristic we would use care for them. This king will rule with justice to describe great leaders. When Jeremiah and righteousness and be from the line of Pray: spoke to the leaders of his day, the kings, David. God will restore the promised line to O God, we thank you for those in our life he reminded them of this sort of leadership the throne and with him the salvation of who have shepherded us, and we seek your and what it meant for their kingdom. Israel. will as we shepherd others. Jeremiah doesn’t waste any time

Youth | 23 Malachi 3:13-4:3

with Tony W. Cartledge

Nov. 17, 2013 With Healing on His Wings Malachi 4:2a – “But for you who revere my name the sun of righteousness shall rise, o you ever get frustrated because with healing in its wings.” you work hard and try to do Dwhat is right, but see others who are less ethical but more prosperous? Malachi confronted a people like that, and others who had gone a step further: they concluded that there was no point in following God if their religious prac- tice did not also bring tangible rewards. It’s not uncommon for people to approach faith with the attitude of “What’s in it for me?” Truth be known, many of us became Christians or joined the church precisely for that purpose, wanting to gain heaven and avoid hell. When tragedy strikes or hard times come, we may think God is treating during a time of spiritual drought, call- is part of the verb in Hebrew (3:13). us unfairly and lose faith because we ing on the largely secular and skeptical Literally, it reads: “they are strong (or expected divine protection or material residents of Judah to be faithful to hard, harsh) against me, your words.” wealth. Many believers lean toward the God. His favorite way of doing this is The TEV and the NLT try to catch the “prosperity gospel” that is particularly through “disputations” that challenge meaning by paraphrasing it as “you prominent among charismatic televi- the people with both judgment and have said terrible things about me.” sion preachers, believing that God has hope. Malachi mimicked the people’s chal- promised material wealth in this world Although God’s promises may have lenging response: “Yet you say, ‘How if only we are faithful enough. seemed slow in coming, Malachi argued have we spoken against you?’” (3:13). A surface reading of Malachi – that they were certain – but intended The heart of the issue is found in especially the famous passage about only for those who remained faithful this charge: “You have said, ‘It is vain tithing in 3:10 – has contributed to and honored God properly. In his short to serve God. What do we profit by this, but Malachi has much more to say book, Malachi puts particular emphasis keeping his command …?’” (v. 14a). about what we should expect from God. on showing faithfulness to God through The prophets Haggai and Zechariah worship and support of the temple, had predicted that times of great bless- Charge and response through respecting marriage vows, and ing would result from rebuilding the (3:13-15) through practicing social justice. temple, but the temple had been rebuilt Malachi is not the latest book in the Old In today’s text, Malachi speaks and the anticipated age of prosperity Testament to be written, but its canoni- directly to people whose murmuring had not come. cal position puts it as the last book in revealed a bad attitude toward God. Meanwhile, the people had seen the “Book of the Twelve,” the last of He called them out, warned them of arrogant aristocrats prosper and even the prophets and the last word in the impending judgment, and urged them to “put God to the test” with no ill effects Old Testament. be more like the steadfast few who con- (v. 16). The implication is that some Malachi stands as a lone messenger tinued to worship God faithfully. were brash enough to openly challenge Malachi charged that the people God to punish them for their bad behav- Additional background information had “spoken harsh words” against ior – but weren’t zapped by lightning or online where you see the “Digging the LORD. Though it appears as an stricken by disease. Deeper” icon adverb in translation, the word “harsh” So, the people wondered: “What’s

24 | © Nurturing Faith Bible Studies are copyrighted by Baptists Today. DO NOT PHOTOCOPY. Order at: baptiststoday.org Resources to teach adult and youth classes the point of being so obedient? It’s vain contributed to the concept of hell that to serve God!” Those were harsh words are available at developed later on, but here it describes indeed – the word translated “vain” is pre- nurturingfaith.net an immediate obliteration, not an eternal cisely the same term used to warn against flame in which souls continue to suffer. taking God’s name in vain in the Ten While the wicked are slated for Commandments (Exod. 20:7, Deut. 5:11). the names of the righteous, though some destruction, those “who revere my Maybe they had kicked the dry think it refers to a book of instruction, name” have much brighter prospects. ground at harvest time or taken stock of recording the words and deeds of the For the faithful, Malachi said, “the sun their dwindling supplies and wondered righteous from which others could read of righteousness shall rise, with healing whether it was worth taking yet another and learn. in its wings,” bringing such joy that the sacrifice and more tithes to Jerusalem To those who remained faithful, God-fearers would skip about like young when they hadn’t seen any payoff for Yahweh renewed the covenant prom- calves released from a stall to stretch their faithfulness. ises of old, declaring that they would be their legs (4:2). Maybe we have done the same God’s “special possession” and would be Malachi’s depiction of God is sur- thing. Most of us don’t expect God to spared at the time of judgment, “on the prising: Israel’s neighbors all worshipped make us rich, but we do tend to have day when I act” (3:17). the sun, and in Egyptian art the sun god unwritten expectations that God will The word for “special possession” was typically portrayed as a winged disk. provide some modicum of care for us. is covenant language. It appears first in Biblical writers typically avoided solar When we face an unexpected tragedy, Exod. 19:5, where God told Moses that imagery for God in order to avoid any lose a job, face divorce, get really sick Israel could enter into a covenant that confusion, but Malachi boldly adapted or have trouble paying the bills, we also would make them God’s “treasured pos- the image to his own purposes in his may think that God has let us down session out of all the peoples,” a “priestly promise of a better day. and wonder what’s the point of pray- kingdom and a holy nation.” The image of the wicked turning ing, attending worship or supporting the When the author of 1 Peter claimed to ash and the righteous leaping like church financially. that God’s covenant extended in a new calves maintains the metaphor but takes While such a response is under- way to Christian believers, he reflected on a more human aspect in the closing standable – even natural – Malachi both Exod. 19:5-6 and Mal. 3:17 in say- verse, which promises that the righteous considered it to be dangerous. ing “But you are a chosen race, a royal would tread on the wicked who had once Fortunately, it wasn’t the only priesthood, a holy nation, a people of walked all over the poor, for they would response. his own, so that you may proclaim the “be ashes under the soles of your feet” virtues of the one who called you out (4:3). Revering and remembering of darkness into his marvelous light” Like several other biblical writers, (3:16-18) (1 Pet. 2:9, NET). Malachi extends the notion of blessing A word of hope enters with the next To people who were frustrated by a and cursing from this age to the next. If verse. Not everyone had given up on state of affairs in which evil men pros- things seem topsy-turvy in the present, God. There were still some “who revered pered while the faithful saw no reward, with the wicked prospering while the the LORD.” The word “revered” is the Malachi promised that a day of judgment righteous see no reward, one has only to common word for “fear” (as in the KJV), would come in which the wicked would wait until the judgment, when God will but it can also carry the meaning of be destroyed and the righteous pre- set all things right. respect or honor. served. “Then once more you shall see Believers who cling to the prosperity “Those who revered the LORD the difference between the righteous and gospel will not find this promise to be spoke with one another,” Malachi said the wicked,” he said, “between one who very satisfying. Those who serve God for (3:16a). We’d like to know what they serves God and one who does not serve higher purposes, however, may be more talked about, but Malachi does not tell him” (3:18). willing to accept trials and tribulations. us. Perhaps they spoke to encourage each They expect no special favors in this life, other, or to plan some strategy for keep- Judgment and healing but trust in God for a brighter future. ing faith alive or encouraging others to (4:1-3) A text like this should leave readers repent. Malachi called up metaphorical lan- thinking about their own faith and what Whatever they said, it was pleasing guage to describe the impending they expect from God. Do we worship to God, who listened in on their conver- judgment, when “all the arrogant and all God for what we can get out of it, or do sation and had a “book of remembrance” evildoers” would be like stubble burned we follow Jesus because we believe it is written to record those who honored and in an oven, leaving “neither root nor right and will help to make the world a thought upon God’s name. This may branch” (4:1). better place? refer to a divine judgment book bearing The reference to fire may have What are you thinking? BT

LESSON FOR NOVEMBER 17, 2013 | 25 Jeremiah 23:1-8

with Tony W. Cartledge

Nov. 24, 2013 Poor Shepherds and Jer. 23:4 – Grand Hopes “I will raise up shepherds over them who will shepherd them, and they shall not fear any lon- olitical leaders can have a huge ger, or be dismayed, nor shall any influence on the health and be missing, says the LORD.” Pwell-being of the people in their countries. The news is replete with examples of heartless dictators who think nothing of killing their own citi- zens, or elected leaders who cater to lobbyists or special interest groups who line their campaign coffers with cash. On the other hand, some leaders truly care for all their constituents and work toward a just and prosperous society. For good or bad, political leaders are the shepherds of society. On a hot day in the rocky hills of Gilead several years ago, I watched Shepherds both bad and good Notice an interesting switch in lan- a local shepherd go about his work (vv. 1-4) guage: While v. 2 charges the reckless with a flock of shaggy goats. It was a shepherd-kings with scattering and driv- bit disconcerting, given that the man Today’s text begins with a summary statement about the country’s run of inef- ing the people away, in v. 3 Yahweh was wearing desert camouflage army speaks of bringing them back “out of all fatigues along with sandals and a flow- fective kings. Jeremiah pronounces woe upon them, describing the kings as shep- the lands where I have driven them.” ing white headdress that set off his Jeremiah’s terminology suggests dark face and bushy beard. He carried a herds “who destroy and scatter the sheep” of God’s pasture (v. 1). that, while God had driven the people shepherd’s crook no taller than a walk- into exile, it was done in part because the ing stick, and when he wanted to draw Jeremiah’s words drip with sarcasm. If he had spoken them today, he would kings had inspired them to grow increas- an outlier closer to the herd, he would ingly corrupt, setting an example of throw a rock to the other side of the probably use his fingers to make “air quotes” while speaking of “the ‘shep- injustice or irreligion that the people had wandering goat, chasing it back. followed, to their ruin. I don’t know if he was a good shep- herds’ who ‘shepherd’ my people Israel” (v. 2). Even when things looked bleak, the herd or a bad shepherd, but he appeared prophets typically held to the hope that to be doing an effective job. The oracle of judgment against the derelict rulers whose “shepherding” had a “remnant” of faithful people would That was not the case with a string remain, and would be restored to their of kings over the ancient nation of not only scattered the sheep but also driven them away is found in a pointed homeland in Israel. Thus, the oracle of Judah, and the prophet Jeremiah called judgment gives way to three oracles of them to task for it, describing them as wordplay: the shepherds had failed to “attend” to their flock with care, and so salvation. shepherds who scattered the flock rather In the first (vv. 4-5), Jeremiah pro- than uniting them. God would “attend” to them with a suit- able punishment. claimed a day when God would gather the But God would also attend to the scattered children of Abraham, described people as the kings had not. Jeremiah as “my flock.” They would be free not promised that God would gather the scat- only to return home, but also to “be fruit- Additional background information tered remnants of the flock and bring ful and multiply,” an apparent reference online where you see the “Digging them home, where they would be fruitful to both creation (Gen. 1:28) and to earlier Deeper” icon and multiply (v. 3). promises made to the patriarchs Abraham

26 | © Nurturing Faith Bible Studies are copyrighted by Baptists Today. DO NOT PHOTOCOPY. Order at: baptiststoday.org Resources to teach adult and youth classes and Jacob (Gen. 17:1-8, 20; 28:3; 48:4). Something like “may God do so and This gives to the promise a significance are available at so to me if I don’t do such and such” bordering on the cosmic: a day when nurturingfaith.net would have followed. The oath calls the God’s fondest hopes for both Israel and deity to witness a firm promise, with for creation would be realized. the understanding that the oath-taker At that time, Jeremiah promised, God would “be saved” and “live in safety” expected divine punishment if he or she would raise up shepherd kings who would (v. 6a). failed to fulfill his or her promise. care for the people in such a way that they The new king, Jeremiah said, would Instead of swearing by the God of would no longer be afraid, be dismayed be named “Yahweh is our righteous- the exodus, however, Jeremiah saw a or go missing (v. 4). ness” (“the LORD is our righteousness,” day when people would begin their oaths NRSV). The name, tsidqe–nu in with “As the LORD lives who brought A righteous branch Hebrew, may have been intended as a out and led the offspring of the house of (vv. 5-6) wordplay on Judah’s last king, whose Israel out of the land of the north and out With v. 5 we come to a separate oracle, throne name was Zedekiah (“Yahweh is of all the lands where he had driven them one that does not speak of multiple righteous”). …” (v. 8). kings, but of one coming king who will Jeremiah may have been implying Some Jewish and dispensationalist rule with justice and righteousness. The that the coming righteous Branch would interpreters see the re-establishment of metaphor also shifts from that of a shep- be a righteous or legitimate king in a way the State of Israel in 1948 as a fulfillment herd to the sprouting of a new branch. that Zedekiah never was. of the concluding promise “Then they The same oracle appears again in Haggai and Zechariah would later shall live in their own land.” 33:14-16, with minor differences, and have high hopes that Zerubabbel, a We should be careful in making such the prophecy is portrayed as a direct descendant of David who was serv- an assumption, however. Only a small word from God: “The days are surely ing as governor when the temple was fraction of the world’s Jews live in Israel, coming, says the LORD, when I will rebuilt, would prove to be the “righteous and one is hard pressed to identify the raise up for David a righteous Branch” Branch.” He never became king, how- secular State of Israel with the covenant (v. 5). ever, and earned no notable distinction people of Yahweh. Such security as the What does David have to do with it? even as governor. residents of that fractious land enjoy is In 2 Samuel 7:1-14, God had pledged to From a Hebrew perspective, the bought largely with the aid of many bil- David that one of his descendants would messianic “righteous Branch” has yet lions of dollars in American military aid, always sit on the throne. The promise to arrive, but for Christians, the promise not the leadership of a messianic king. was to last “forever,” but it included was fulfilled in Jesus, a descendant of The promises found in today’s a provision that those who led Israel David through whom all people – not text look toward a day that has not wrongly would be subject to discipline. just Israel and Judah – can be saved and yet arrived, and that may not arrive in Thus, when the nation went into learn from his wise and righteous rule precisely the form that the prophets exile and no king ruled over Israel, the how to practice true justice. envisioned. prophets were not disheartened, inter- From a Christian perspective, we preting defeat and exile as the fulfillment A new exodus still look forward to a day when the of the stipulation that sinful rulers could (vv. 7-8) promises will be fulfilled in the hope of be punished “with blows inflicted by A third oracle of salvation builds on the John’s Revelation that the present heaven human beings” (2 Sam. 7:14). They previous two, declaring that the gathering and earth will pass away and a “new assumed that the men administering of the peoples from their diaspora would Jerusalem” will replace them, a place in the beating were the Assyrians and the go down in history as an event even more which God and all of God’s people will Babylonians. memorable than the exodus from Egypt. dwell in eternal peace and security. Israel’s theologians, including the In Israel’s corporate consciousness, That day is not yet. In the meantime, prophets, saw the exile as God’s disci- no memory was more indelible than on whatever level we “shepherd” oth- pline for their errant ways, but they held the oft-told story of the exodus, when ers, we are called to practice justice and onto hope that a day would come when God sent Moses to lead the descendants attend compassionately to the needs of God would raise up a descendant of of Jacob from their captivity in Egypt God’s people. As we trust God to deal David – a shoot from the stump of Jesse (Exodus 3-12). The event so identified with the wicked in God’s own way and (David’s father) who would “reign as Israel with Yahweh that it could be used God’s own time, our calling is to give king and deal wisely,” and who would as the first part of a common oath for- attention to the “righteous Branch” we “execute justice and righteousness in the mula: “As the LORD lives who brought believe has come, choosing to live as land” (v. 5b). the people of Israel up out of the land of Jesus lived and love as Jesus loved, As a result, both Judah and Israel Egypt …” bringing the hope of heaven to earth. BT

LESSON FOR NOVEMBER 24, 2013 | 27 Classifieds In the Know

Senior Pastor: Temple Baptist Church in Gwen Brown died Aug. 27 at age 59. She his hometown newspaper, the Columbus Raleigh, N.C., seeks a pastor with a church- was founding pastor of Cornerstone Church (Ga.) Ledger, and was part of a team whose planter mindset desiring to help revitalize the in Snellville, Ga., a Cooperative Baptist coverage earned a Pulitzer Prize in 1955. congregation and expand its reach into the com- Fellowship congregation she began as a munity and beyond in accordance with the Great Commission. We conduct primarily traditional home Bible study in 2005. She was a gradu- Paul Mullen is minister of congrega- services with some contemporary elements. ate of Mercer University’s McAfee School of tion care at Ardmore Baptist Church in Temple is mission-minded; supports missions Theology, where she taught spiritual forma- Winston-Salem, N.C. locally and globally; and is active in the Raleigh tion as an adjunct professor, and president of Baptist Association, North Carolina Baptist State Baptist Women in Ministry of Georgia. Jeff Summers will end an eight-year pastor- and Southern Baptist conventions, Cooperative ate of Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Baptist Fellowship, and Woman’s Missionary Union. We have a strong commitment to the Dock Hollingsworth is pastor of Second- Ga., the end of October to become pastor of priesthood of the believer, autonomy of the Ponce de Leon Baptist Church in Atlanta, New Hope Baptist Church in Daytona, Fla. local congregation, separation of church and coming from Mercer’s McAfee School of state, and soul competency. Our church ordains Theology where he was assistant dean, Sandra Talton retired after 19 years as min- men and women as deacons, and both men and assistant professor of leadership and super- ister of worship, music and arts at Ardmore women hold leadership positions. We average vised ministry, and executive director of the Baptist Church in Winston-Salem, NC. 100 in Sunday school attendance and 150 in wor- ship. The congregation desires a pastor especially Center for Teaching Churches. gifted in preaching, teaching and pastoral care, John D. W. Watts died July 21 in Penny with a passion for reaching the lost. Also, the David Hughes has retired as pastor of Farms, Fla. He and his wife, Lee, were successful candidate should relate well to all age First Baptist Church of Winston-Salem, Southern Baptist missionaries for 25 groups. A seminary degree is required, with a N.C., after 22 years. On Oct. 1, he years. He taught Old Testament at the minimum of five years in a successful pastorate preferred. Send letters of interest and résumés will become executive director of the International Baptist Theological Seminary to Pastor Search Committee, Temple Baptist Transforming Center. in Ruschlikon, Switzerland, where he was Church, 1417 Clifton St., Raleigh, NC 27604. also president (1963-1969). He also served Deadline for submission is Nov. 1. Tripp Martin is pastor of First Baptist on the faculties of Serampore College in Church of Auburn, Ala., coming from India, Fuller Seminary in California and Youth Pastor: Trinity Baptist Church of San Vineville Baptist Church in Macon, Ga. Southern Baptist Seminary in Kentucky. His Antonio, Texas is interviewing candidates for the extensive work as a biblical scholar included position of youth pastor. We are prayerfully seek- Claude McBride died Aug. 23 in Athens, publishing several books and contributing ing a talented, mature, and passionate minister Ga., at age 81. He was pastor emeritus of to others. He also served as Old Testament who loves middle and high school students and Athens’ Milledge Avenue Baptist Church editor for the Word Biblical Commentary. their families. For more information, see trinity- baptist.org. Please send résumés to lhollon@ where he served for 20 years beginning in trinitybaptist.org or to Les Hollon, senior pastor, 1964. A University of Georgia alumnus, Melissa Willis is minister with children Trinity Baptist Church, 319 E. Mulberry Ave., San he worked in alumni relations and, at the and families at Central Baptist Church of Antonio, TX 78212. request of football coach Vince Dooley, Bearden in Knoxville, Tenn., coming from served as the team’s chaplain for decades. Ardmore Baptist Church in Winston-Salem, Associate Minister to Chowan University: Early in his career he was a journalist with N.C., where she served for 12 years. BT Candidates should possess a Master of Divinity or equivalent degree and have at least two years ministry experience with university-age students. The successful candidate will demonstrate a Minister of Music and Worship: Shades heart for ministry, excellent interpersonal skills Crest Baptist Church, a 1200-member CBF/SBC Gifts to Baptists Today (both written and oral), counseling abilities, congregation in Birmingham, Ala., is seeking an experienced minister to lead a multi- and the ability to plan and implement ministry programs and lead small groups effectively. faceted music and worship ministry. SCBC values Multicultural experience is a plus. Send letter of traditional worship that is blended with contem- In honor of application (including salary requirements) and porary elements in order to honor God and meet E. Leon and Martha T. Smith the needs of people. The successful candidate current résumé to Human Resources, Attention: from Dr. and Mrs. M.G. Delbridge Campus Minister Search, Chowan University, should have a graduate degree in music, experi- Murfreesboro, NC 27855 or to hintoj@chowan. ence in leading a music program including In memory of edu. Application review begins immediately and fully graded choirs and orchestra, and a commit- Katherine Elizabeth Tisdale Pittard continues until the position is filled. Interested ment to serve on a pastoral team. If interested, from Roger B. Pittard candidates are urged to visit our website, send résumé and cover letter by Nov. 15 to In honor of chowan.edu. Inquiries will be kept in strictest [email protected] or to Search confidence. Chowan University, an EOC, encour- Committee, Shades Crest Baptist Church, 452 Baptists Today staff ages women and minorities to apply. Park Ave., Birmingham, AL 35226. from Ruth T. Andrew

28 | Information October 2013 !" !*-+) .$-*/)", Online Editor In their own words

AND THE AMERICAN

Chattanooga is the major focus of the 150 years ago unworthy sons of worthy sires, if, in this crisis in our existence, we withheld our war this month as the Union solidi- ! support, influence, and sympathy from fies control of the city and environs October 1863 our Government. 2. That it is our duty, both as against the backdrop of infighting citizens and Christians, to speak boldly among opposing Confederate officers. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens our sentiments with regard to the causes in every part of the United States, of the existing rebellion, that ministers eanwhile, Southern Baptist news and also those who are at sea and should speak boldly on the subject, and editors and pastors sing the praises those who are sojourning in foreign that those who take offence at such utter- Mof the revivals taking place within lands, to set apart and observe the last ances are unworthy of a place in the the Confederate Army. The Central Baptist Thursday of November next, as a day Christian church. Association of Alabama’s Coosa County meets of Thanksgiving and Praise to our 3. That we, the members of this and, like many other Baptist associations of the beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Convention, as patriots, as Baptists, and South this fall, affirms army missionary work: Heavens. And I recommend to them as Christians, do express our unquali- that while offering up the ascriptions fied support of our National and State …. great good has been, and is now justly due to Him for such singular Governments, in their efforts to suppress being accomplished through the labors deliverances and blessings, they do the present rebellion. of our missionaries and colporteurs in also, with humble penitence for our 4. That we have occasion for the armies o f the Confederate States national perverseness and disobedience, gratitude, that not only the full apos- in awakening our noble soldiers to commend to His tender care all those tolic proportion of eleven-twelfths of the their great spiritual interests, and who have become widows, orphans, Christian ministry among us are truly enabling them to enlist in the service mourners or sufferers in the lamentable loyal Government supporters, but that of the King Emmanuel … civil strife in which we are unavoid- the mass of the piety of our churches and ably engaged, and fervently implore the the intelligence of our country occupy the Special prayer meetings also take place in interposition of the Almighty Hand to same position. some churches. Local church delegates to the heal the wounds of the nation and to 5. That the recent victories at the Mississippi Baptist Association resolve: restore it as soon as may be consistent ballot-box should be accepted with with the Divine purposes to the full thanksgiving to God, as exhibiting the That this Association do most earnestly enjoyment of peace, harmony, tran- loyalty of the people, and as an evidence recommend the churches to meet on quility and Union. of the continued blessing of God on us as the first Lord’s day in every month at a nation. ten o’clock to offer up special prayer for This proclamation is the beginning of an 6. That in the President’s Proclam- the success of our cause and the spiri- annual national Thanksgiving observance. ation of Emancipation, made valid by tual welfare of our armies. the exigency which called it forth, and Many Baptist congregations of the North in his recent declaration to abide by it, The United Baptist Association of North embrace Lincoln’s call. The Pennsylvania we see the progress of Christ’s kingdom, Carolina expresses other sentiments shared by Baptist Convention passes the following which will proclaim liberty to all the many Confederate Baptists: resolution, invoking Baptist principles and earth. Christian duty: 7. That we urge the churches Resolved, That we as an Association throughout the Commonwealth to fully endorse the cause of the Southern Whereas, Our national Government observe the last Thursday In November Confederacy; and we advise all our grew out of Baptist polity, exemplified by next, according to the recommenda- brethren to discountenance desertion men of whom Roger Williams was the tion of the President, as a day of public and to inculcate the principle that type at the North, and a little Baptist Thanksgiving to God. resistance to a tyrant is loyalty to God. church near the residence of Thomas Jefferson, from whom he declared he The appeals to God South and North will God is also on the minds of the public and obtained his first ideas of Republican only grow in the coming months of war. BT Baptists of the North. U.S. President Abraham Government, was the type at the South: Lincoln issues a Thanksgiving Proclamation to Resolved, That we should be der- —For a daily log of “This Day in Civil War be observed on Nov. 26: elict to our principles as Baptists, and History,” see civilwarbaptists.com.

October 2013 Feature | 29 Guest Commentary By Emily Hull McGee Does your church need Millennials?

ational news media outlets have been systems to lead real and needed change from how we might engage with marriage equality. peppered recently with reports and within. Nominate them to be deacons and They have even asked that we restructure Nopinions on the churchgoing habits of committee chairs, but be prepared when they our organizational architecture to more effec- Millennials. challenge your church’s sacred cows. tively carry out our church’s mission. Bloggers have rightly identified why this If you believe you need Millennials in In the midst of this change and inevi- 18- to 35-year-old demographic is leaving your church, get ready to have hard conversa- table church conflict that followed, Highland churches of all stripes, citing a need to change tions that will make you uncomfortable about has welcomed five young adults as deacons, the substance of churches instead of their style. injustices they experience. Marriage equality, 50 who serve on ministry groups, dozens Buying Macs for the church office and the plight of the economically or physically who become members each year, and hun- creating a clever hashtag to use about your disadvantaged, racial inequities, the stigma dreds more who connect to our community church on social media sites will show young of mental health, sexual abuse and issues of faith — all from this 18- to 35-year-old people that you’re trying, which is good. Your of sustainability will become regular topics demographic. church might even go through a strategic brought up in Bible stud- And just as much as they’ve challenged process, identifying that unless you do some- ies and asked for during our church, our young adults love it even thing about the “black hole” of people in your Wednesday night adult- more. They are teaching our children the songs pews between the high school seniors and the education planning. of faith and our youth the stories of Jesus. 40-somethings with stable family lives, your If you believe you They are following the gospel to the ends of church’s future is endangered. need Millennials in your the earth, serving the most neglected in our Props to you for noticing! church, familiarize your- inner cities and in Morocco, Romania, Peru However, before you buy better church selves with the realities and India. coffee or even hire someone to create a minis- they’re grappling with, They’re hearing the call of Christ to a try with young adults, know this: Your church such as soaring student life of ministry and bringing their imperfect, must be ready and willing to be transformed loan debts, a crippled economy that directly hopeful selves to the task. They are giving and forever changed by the passions of 20- impacts capacity for independence, a tenuous sacrificially to the church, even if they don’t and 30-somethings if you intentionally invite work/life balance in this demanding 24/7 job always agree with how the money is spent. them in. market, a rocky path through the life-stage They are listening carefully amidst dissent If you believe you need Millennials changes into adulthood and faith questions, to the voices of those who have been here for in your church, prepare for them to ask doubts and raw experiences of suffering that decades. They actually show up at church busi- probing questions about your systems and keep them up at night. ness meetings — imagine that! — and speak organizational structures, advocate for the mar- If you believe you need Millennials in emphatically about our bylaws. ginalized, demand inclusion for all of God’s your church, equip yourselves to risk boldly for It certainly hasn’t been a smooth road, children, and compel the congregation out the the gospel and delight in the Jesus they know and I trust that our path ahead will continue door and toward those who need what Jesus and love. Let them inspire you as they become to ruffle feathers and challenge our church’s came to give. change agents of God’s transforming love in identity. However, this journey is one that If you believe you need Millennials in the world and in your church. Highland dreamed about, prepared for, your church, know that they will ask why you In the nearly four-and-a-half years I have committed to and intentionally invited. do what you do, and you must have an answer served as minister to young adults at Highland If you believe you need Millennials in better than “because we’ve always done it that Baptist Church in Louisville, Ky., our young your church, you are right. And they need your way.” adults have sparked our congregation to revise church just as much. BT If you believe you need Millennials in our membership policy to make room for your church, expect them to want a place members coming from other Christian faith —Emily Hull McGee is minister to young at the decision-making table in all levels of traditions, to create an ongoing presence in the adults at Highland Baptist Church in church life. Make it possible for them to bring impoverished and underserved neighborhood a Louisville, Ky. This column is distributed their critiques of the church into the church’s mile down the street, and to consider actively by Associated Baptist Press.

If you believe you need Millennials in your church, equip yourselves to risk boldly for the gospel and delight in the Jesus they know and love.

30 | Perspective October 2013 Editor’s note: This article in the series “Transitions: Helping churches and church leaders in changing times” is provided by the Center for Congregational Health (healthychurch.org) based in Winston-Salem, N.C.

Healthy congregations value evaluation

By Larry L. McSwain

There was a kind of quiet desparation in educational classes, forums or special events. groups of the congregation, brief computer- If the people attending such gatherings have generated surveys individuals can complete in the voice of the pastor on the no suggestions for improvement, it is unlikely online, or an e-mail response design. telephone call. much energy will be present. If pastoral leaders can affirm this kind Evaluate the staff team. need some help,” he said softly. “We of feedback from all aspects of church life, a Formal staff evaluations abound. A helpful bib- have been working every way we know culture of openness will grow. The perception liography of resources for personnel committee “Ihow to stem the slow decline of our that leaders can “hear” informal evaluations evaluations of staff is available in the book congregation. How do we decide staff realign- will move informal evaluations into a more I have written, The Calling to Congregational ments that make sense for our resources?” direct arena of conversation with pastoral Leadership. Evaluating a congregation or its leaders leaders. If the staff is organized as a team, with poses a dilemma for all involved. On the one A brief week-by-week journal of reaction coaching as a primary approach to growth, hand, how are we to improve if we do not by leaders of each of the events of the week can evaluations should be designed to fit that know how well we are doing? The other side be helpful in reflection model. The coaching process could focus on of the dilemma is determining how much time on needed changes. It can each staff member identifying his or her goals the evaluation process detracts from other also provide a review of agendas. the cumulative changes for spiritual growth, plans for leading in areas Let’s be honest. Few of us like evaluation. made. of responsibility, and commitments to church The same groups of the church who want Formal evaluations goals for the coming year. to evaluate employees may go into overdrive are quantitative. They One model of coaching is more direc- anger at the suggestion someone should evalu- are easier, too. Any con- tive than the typical approach to coaching: ate their work as church members or leaders. gregation that keeps a performance-based coaching. An outcome in a None of this resistance, however, elimi- record of weekly worship workplace provides the content of the coaching nates the need for evaluating what we are attendance; counts participants in educa- relationship. doing. There can be only one real reason tion, fellowship or mission events; and tracks Accountability is a part of employment. for refusing to invest the time, expertise and income each week is engaging in “bottom line” Effective leading includes effective account- expense of evaluation: no accomplishments! evaluation. How one interprets the trends of ability. This kind of coaching allows the most such numbers is crucial. personal process for the employee, shaping the accountability each will give to the lay leader- Evaluate the congregation first. I recommend two forms of congregation- wide evaluations. The first is what I would call ship of the church. Meaningful evaluation of any individual is a “benchmark” evaluation. A summary evaluation of progress for each rooted in the culture of the seedbed of the The best instrument I know for bench- employee will be provided to a personnel team Spirit. Imagine a gardener who never examines mark analysis is the U.S. Congregational Life for feedback and encouragement. The personnel her plants. Gardens need weeding, cultivat- survey, available at uscongregations.org. team should affirm major strengths and growth. ing, watering and fertilizing. So do churches. Its value is the numerical summary of If problems are identified, they should be com- Therefore, both informal and formal evalua- responses generated on the characteristics municated clearly, along with requests for a plan tion processes are in order. of those responding. A computer-generated for improvement within a stated time frame. Numbers are not sacred. Most of the summary of responses is provided that can Missional congregations know where they evaluations within a congregation are feelings, be compared to similar congregations in a are going. They communicate not only their reactions and intuitions. These informal evalua- national sample. mission with clarity, but also demonstrate tions may never be recorded as a statistic. The second form of congregation-wide effectiveness in fulfilling it. What an exciting Healthy congregations find ways to bring evaluation is more difficult. Congregations kind of congregation to serve! BT to the surface informal evaluations. The inclu- that have developed priorities from strategic sion of an open-ended questionnaire in a thinking can design their own processes of —Larry L. McSwain is retired professor worship folder or a response card can provide measuring effectiveness. of leadership at Mercer University’s feedback to worship planners. Those designs might include a survey of McAfee School of Theology and a When have you ever evaluated a team or the congregation, a collection of responses to congregational consultant/coach with the committee meeting? The same process works open-ended questions gathered from small Center for Congregational Health.

October 2013 Perspective | 31 !" #$%& '()*+)

WE YEARN FOR A COMMON SENSE OF MISSION AND PURPOSE — THE KIND“ THAT WELLS UP FROM THE INSIDE AND SPILLS OUT INTO OUR MINISTRY. —Connie Jones ”

Deacons from across Georgia, including (front row, left to right) Robin Briggs and Kenza Gumbs of Cornerstone Church in Snellville and Carey Russell of First Baptist Church of Forsyth, participate in a summit that led to the formation of a Baptist Deacon Network to foster relationships and to provide resources. CBF of Georgia photos by ElizaBeth Ruff. Deacon ministry Lay leaders talking, networking, seeking spiritual renewal

What comes to mind when one deacons are getting some well-deserved atten- the congregation and the institutional health of thinks of a Baptist deacon? tion. In Georgia, events are being held for the church. Is it that longtime church member who conversations among and training for deacons, “Deacons voice a good bit of concern belongs to an exclusive group of men whose and a Baptist Deacon Network is emerging — about numerical decline and spiritual apathy approval is required for every idea or expendi- in hopes of enhancing the spiritual leadership within their congregations,” he said. “There ture to survive? The caring lay representative that deacons provide. is a desire on the part of deacons to work with who shows up to minister in a time of need? “The shape or form the deacon body uses their pastors to address these concerns.” A layperson who uses his or her spiritual is less important than the issue of leadership,” gifts effectively to serve the congregation and said Frank Broome, CBF of Georgia coordina- CONVERSATIONS beyond? A member’s most frequent and direct tor. “What matters is leadership. If the deacon Daniel Vestal, director of Mercer University’s contact with the church family? chair is a good leader, then the deacon body is Baugh Center for Baptist Leadership, led a Depending on the Baptist church, it could likely to do well no matter the form.” session for deacons as part of the Cooperative be any of the above. Broome said deacons are concerned about Baptist Fellowship of Georgia assembly in The roles and effectiveness of Baptist two major issues: the spiritual well-being of November 2012. Interest was so strong that a

32 | Feature October 2013 two-day summit for deacons was planned for Macon, Ga., “and offer creative ways to help the personal, the congregational and biblical April 2013. that happen.” stories are all entwined.” “There was incredible energy at the Jones said that while the “how-to” of lay David Keel, a deacon in First Baptist summit among those present,” said Vestal. ministry is important, faith development and Church of Augusta, Ga., and member of the “They wanted to talk to each other and learn relationship building among deacon groups Baptist Deacon Network steering committee, from each other. They came early and left deserve time and attention. said his discussions with deacons from other late because they experienced meaningful “When it comes to deacon ministry, I churches revealed a shift from administrative conversation.” think those of us who feel called get excited functions to “more of a servant role — which Vestal expressed a deep conviction that the about serving, but we also harbor the hope, if is really how the first deacons functioned.” future of Baptists will be shaped by a spiritual not the expectation, that serving will deepen Some churches, he said, have formed an awakening among laity. and grow our personal faith,” she said. “We administrative committee to handle day-to-day “Some of my best friends in ministry have yearn for a common sense of mission and pur- operational decisions that free deacons to focus been lay leaders…,” he said. “My hope and pose — the kind that wells up from the inside more on ministry. However, that ministry role prayer is that God would work among us in and spills out into our ministry.” varies according to how the deacon group is ways that result in spiritual, theological, ethical The purpose of the network, said Vestal, organized, he said. and vocational formation among Baptist laity.” is to foster and encourage relationships among “Although organized in various ways, the Vestal said it became clear that the Baptist deacons and to provide resources that Deacon Family Ministry is still very active in Deacons Summit was not to be the end of will help them be more fruitful in their church many churches,” said Keel. “Some churches these discussions. and community. have the deacons responsible for keeping in “They were clear that they wanted more touch with all members, some with just the conversation,” he said. “And they showed they DEACONS AS MINISTERS resident or ‘active’ members, and others just were willing to make serious commitments to include the home-bound members.” Susan Broome, also a deacon at Macon’s First continue the conversation.” Giving ministry attention to these persons Baptist Church and a member of the Baptist To that end, CBF of Georgia (cbfga.org) is important, he said. Deacon Network steering committee, said will host sessions for deacons at its upcom- “This can be a valuable and effective some deacons have a deep desire to be involved ing assembly in Augusta, Nov. 3-4. An open ministry, particularly in larger churches where in ministry but question their adequacy for the meeting for deacons will be held at 4 p.m. on it is very difficult for the pastor and ministe- task. Sunday afternoon with workshop sessions rial staff to keep up with all of the members,” “Clearly they understand that being an specifically for deacons on Monday. he said. “This is just one area where I see an effective minister takes time, maturity, flexibil- Interest in these sessions and the ongo- increase in emphasis and deacon involvement.” ity, and tenacity…,” she said. “We must plan ing networking is spilling over state lines with Foremost, Keel said, the effective service our deacons’ service around their strengths so those from beyond Georgia planning to attend. of a deacon is tied to the person’s personal that they are energized and not burdened by spiritual commitment and growth. what we ask of them.” “Although the exact method of service NETWORKING Reasonable expectations are also impor- will differ from church to church, we can be The Deacons Summit, according to Vestal, tant, she said. assured that the most successful service will be revealed a hunger for the spiritual formation “We must assure them that we do not that which we accomplish while being led by of laity and the need for leadership training. expect miracles and that we are not keeping the Holy Spirit,” he said. “We need to remem- While “everybody is busy and congregational scorecards on them,” she explained. “We must ber that being elected a deacon is not an office life is changing,” there is a desire for conversa- listen to each other and be grateful that others we hold but a role we need to perform — tion and learning among deacon leaders, he have gifts we do not, and we must tell our own a role of service for God’s glory, not our own. said. stories so that others can see deacon service as Keeping our focus on Christ, and desiring to As a result, a Baptist Deacon Network was a puzzle that needs each piece to be whole.” serve him as best we can, will make us all formed. With guidance from Vestal, the net- Jones suggested that personal testimony better deacons.” work is led by deacons from various churches remains a good avenue for spiritual nourish- Keel, too, believes the church’s renewal in Georgia. This model may be adapted by ment and community building. might come through its laity. others in the future, he said. “We need to hear from each other what “I feel that today’s deacons, with a “I believe the Deacon Network can play a it means to us personally to serve,” said Jones. renewed commitment of service and obedi- leading role in cultivating a heightened aware- “We need to hear stories from our church his- ence, can be the catalyst God can use to start ness of the need for spiritual development tory that will ground us in the congregation a great spiritual renewal in our churches,” said among deacon bodies,” said Connie Jones, a we represent. And we need to hear the larger, Keel. “That is how I want to serve as a deacon. deacon at First Baptist Church of Christ in biblical story of which we are a part and how That is how I want to be used by God.”

THE SHAPE OR FORM THE DEACON BODY USES IS LESS IMPORTANT “ THAN THE ISSUE OF LEADERSHIP. —Frank Broome ”

October 2013 Feature | 33 THIS CAN BE A VALUABLE AND EFFECTIVE MINISTRY, PARTICULARLY IN LARGER“ CHURCHES WHERE IT IS DIFFICULT FOR THE PASTOR AND MINISTERIAL STAFF TO KEEP UP WITH ALL OF THE MEMBERS. —David Keel ”

PASTOR’S PERSPECTIVE among younger pastors about empowering the laity. Bob Patterson, longtime pastor of First Baptist “Since almost every Baptist church has Church of Warm Springs, Ga., who spoke to deacons, talking about empowerment has to the Deacons’ Summit from his perspective, be deacon related,” he said. “If the pastor and sees two new trends in deacon ministry. One is deacons are committed to a shared servant lead- related to structure and the other to criteria. ership, that will focus on three basic tasks: caring As the issues facing congregations change, for members, serving the community and shar- so must church leadership, he said. And the ing the gospel.” challenges are evolving quickly. As to who will serve as deacon, Patterson “Mark Twain reportedly said in response said two changes are rolling over the church to a question about history repeating itself, landscape. One opens the ministry for more ‘No, but sometimes it does rhyme,’” said Christians to serve while the other narrows the Patterson. “Every church in America faces field. a changing frame of reference. So the ongo- “At a recent deacon-training event, many of ing questions about church life have new the attendees were women,” he noted. “The face perspectives.” of deacon ministry is changing with the addition In the current “hinge point of history,” Bob Patterson, longtime pastor of First Baptist of women. This is a defining decision for most Patterson said, some church leaders see change Church of Warm Springs, Ga., talks with deacons congregations.” as essential while others are “proudly reaction- about providing pastoral care. He told Baptists His congregation’s decision 14 years ago to ary and are deeply committed that any change Today that a decision 14 years ago to elect women elect women to serve as deacons came from a is bad.” as deacons was one of the wisest the congrega- closer examination of the Scriptures, he said. tion has ever made. Most churches, he added, are simply “Women brought new energy and a fresh paralyzed by change and uncertainty. The care- decision made outside of the deacons meeting perspective to the deacon body,” he said. “It was ful and competent leadership of both clergy requires their approval to implement or take to one of the best decisions the church has ever and laity is needed to navigate the current the church for the final decision.” made.” challenges, he said, regardless of how deacon Patterson added that a small but grow- Beyond gender, the other issue is whether ministry is carried out. And healthy relation- ing number of churches takes the Presbyterian the position of deacon is one of honor or service. ships between church staff and lay leaders are model further by electing “elders” to rule and Is the title of deacon reserved for those with essential. disbanding deacons or assigning them a care- longtime church membership, business experi- “The role of deacons has long been a giving role. ence and prominence in the community? disputable part of Baptist church life,” said “Many people, bruised and disillusioned Patterson noted that a popular 1950s book Patterson. “Relationships in the local church by the inner workings of most churches, don’t on deacon ministry warned that churches should may be the single most important key in being want anything to do with leadership,” he said. use spirituality instead of community promi- a healthy Christ-like church. Deacon-pastor “This model suits them fine until an unwanted nence and business acumen in selecting deacons. jokes are only funny in the abstract. In the real direction is taken and they realize they have “Are we starting to expect spiritual maturity world of the local church, conflict between ceded their voice.” from those who serve as deacons?” Patterson deacons and the pastor and/or staff produces Other Baptist churches have assigned asked hopefully. heartache and pain and becomes a major road- deacons the role of helping the pastor, he said. He was encouraged that a session on devel- block to healthy church life.” They provide care for members of the church oping your personal prayer life was well attended Concerning deacons, two basic questions and community, partner with the pastor and during a recent deacon-training event. arise whenever a new generation moves into other leaders in providing servant leadership, “The personal relationship with Jesus that leadership, said Patterson: What is the role of and demonstrate the gospel through their is nurtured only through spiritual disciplines is deacons? And who should be a deacon? lifestyle. being recognized as vital,” said Patterson. “…If “Some deacons function just like the “This is the minority approach,” said this interest among deacons and church mem- Presbyterian Session,” he said. “They ‘run’ Patterson, “but I think the most practical and bers can translate into electing people who are the church. This elect-from-below and rule- the most biblical.” spiritually mature, it would revolutionize church from-above model is gaining popularity. Any Patterson said he hears an excitement life.” BT

34 | Feature October 2013 !" #$%& '()*+)

Taking a team approach A conversation with Tom Stocks, field strategist and deacon team

BT: Many of us have known the “board of Most recently the Team Ministry Plan NO FALLING THROUGH THE CRACKS: deacons” as that small, all-powerful group has arrived to offer deacons an opportunity to Ministry needs are met by a team, not by an of men who “run the church.” Not a dollar match their spiritual gifts and passion to lead- individual who may be tied up with his or her is spent nor a program planned without ing teams of laity to meet the priority ministry own life needs. the vote of this group. How has that model needs of a church. EQUALITY OF SERVICE: In traditional changed in recent decades in many Baptist models, often the well-known and popu- churches? BT: You’ve advocated for and assisted con- lar folks get the “best” ministry. The team gregations in moving to a ministry-team TS: Historically, churches instituted the Board approach meets the need without concern as to model. Why is this a good approach for of Deacons approach centered around the deacons, ministers and the congregation “who” has the need. concept of “running” the church. A softer as a whole? OWNERSHIP: The team writes its own translation of this historical model would be to job description built upon the passion of team describe it as a group who “administrated the TS: The strengths of the Team Ministry members and with excellence as a goal. management of the church.” Approach are evident quickly when instituted BIBLICAL BASIS: Numerous scriptures Whatever description one may use to with laser focus. point to the team approach and use of describe this approach, the image is constant: ONE TASK: Instead individual spiritual gifts. a group of individuals sitting around a table of being responsible making decisions regarding the administrat- for “everything,” this BT: How has the expansion of women ing of the church and often under the guise of approach calls for the deacons impacted congregational life and spiritual leadership. deacon to find his or her ministry? In the 1960s an approach called the passion and spiritual gift TS: In a nutshell it seems that more min- Family Ministry Plan was developed and and lean into it. It allows istry is being accomplished and there’s less released to churches that really was an inten- deacons to do what they administration. tional foray into a truer biblical servanthood do and do it well. Tom Stocks model of ministry. This concept of ministry FOCUSED TASK: BT: What are some of the newer questions called for a deacon to be assigned to care for a It recognizes that one cannot be everything to or concepts emerging in deacon ministry? number of families as ministry. everybody and that expectations are realistic The Family Ministry Plan approach was and reachable. TS: I am beginning to hear some noise regard- great in theory, but in reality many have discov- TEAM APPROACH: Together, everyone ing the necessity of having a diaconate at all. ered it was a set-up for failure. Many veterans achieves more. It allows room for the team to In light of scripture that calls for all believers of this method have given voice to its apparent, make sure the goal of ministry is reached and to be ministers, what exactly is the role of inherent weaknesses: Visits to families in their all responsibility does not fall on the shoulders deacons? homes are unwanted. Many church members of one person. call the pastor or church secretary when a need USE OF SPIRITUAL GIFTS OR BT: If a church asks for your help in defin- arises, not their deacon. Some deacons lack the PASSION: It institutes the biblical reality ing the congregation’s deacon ministry, skill/passion/spiritual giftedness needed in a vast of God gifting servant leaders with divinely what are the most important things you say to the members or ask them? array of ministry opportunities (celebration, endowed gifts and passions. bereavement, nursing home and hospital visita- LAY INVOLVEMENT: This approach TS: What is the goal of your diaconate: admin- tion, small jobs requests, casserole ministry, calls for the solicitation of gifted laity to join istrative or servant leadership or something transportation, prayer, fellowship, etc.). teams led by deacons to allow for more and else? What is your focus? Who will receive the This plan seemingly ends in frustration far reaching ministry, thereby erasing the old ministry of the deacons? What is your mes- for many deacons and a lack of consistency adage that “20 percent of the people do 80 sage? What are you trying to say through your across the deacon fellowship. percent of the work.” deacon ministry? BT

This approach calls for the deacon to find his or her passion and spiritual gifts and to lean into it.

October 2013 Feature | 35 !" +0*$/ "$-&.)*

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is excerpted from a paper written by Carol Younger, writer/editor for the Center for Teaching Churches at Mercer University’s McAfee School of Theology. God’s mission takes deacons

Over the course of church history New Testament, Jesus often used these words seven deacons in each parish, regardless of its in the Gospels to describe a way of acting — size. Each Roman deacon had a sub-deacon. By the role and form of deacon ministry and illustrated their meaning through his own the fourth century the number of deacons grew changes, but the purpose for which God servanthood. The Epistles picked up on the and they became apprentice priests, a low rung word diakonia and applied it to a wide range of in the clerical hierarchy that became a sphere created deacons — to extend Christ’s church activities. of training for the priesthood. ministry into the world while giving the By using the word diakonos in Acts 6, the Women shared forms of deacon ministry. world a picture of Christ as it does so — writer links the office of serving those who In the East they were ordained in services that were neglected to the act of serving Christ by used prayers referencing Old Testament proph- remains essential for the church. continuing the ministry that was Jesus’ focus. etesses. In the West they were not ordained, According to T.F. Torrance, “Only in but were part of an order that involved prayer n Acts 6, when the early church grew restless Jesus (do) we learn what diakonia really is … and caring for widows. and tensions rose among the growing con- For this reason the early church saw delineated By the Middle Ages, deacons were wor- gregation, God created deacons to help the I in the deacon’s office more than anywhere else ship leaders and the role became a step toward church experience the Christ life. God reminded the likeness of Jesus, the servant of the Lord.” ordination for the priesthood. Catholics cur- this young body that Christ and Christ’s servant What today’s church needs, writes rently maintain the historic form of this office ministry are the source and future of its life Torrance in his essay “Service in Christ,” is “a while also opening the role to married men together. massive recovery of authentic diakonia if it is to who may serve parishes as worship leaders, but David Pao, in hold forth the image of Christ before (human) have no authority to preside over the mass. his article “Waiters or kind and is to minister the mercy of God to Preachers” in Journal of the needs of (people) in the deep root of their Biblical Literature, writes Deacons after the Reformation evil and in the real sting of their misery.” that it was not until Deacons in Protestant churches became lay Cornelius’ conversion leaders rather than clergy members after the account “that the con- Deacons in the Catholic Church Reformation. Luther and Calvin emphasized the nection between table When the first deacons served the Hellenist biblical role of deacons as servants, with a focus fellowship and the proc- Carol Younger widows in Acts 6, they were not simply easing on delivering assistance and support to the poor lamation of the Word can tensions and saving time for the apostles. and needy. be understood … It is their status as ‘waiters’ From its beginnings the Church under- By the 18th and 19 th centuries, many that allows the Seven to continue the mission stood that diakonia, according to C.E.B. Protestant churches shifted the responsibilities of Jesus in becoming ‘preachers’ to the outcasts Cranfield in Service in Christ, is “the Church’s of their deacons to include more administrative and the oppressed.” service of its Lord in person — the most inti- and supervisory duties, including overseeing The basic meaning of diakonos in secular mate and personal service of Him that it is the work of the pastor. Deacons often served Greek was “servant,” meaning one engaged in permitted to render.” as a board of directors, sometimes screening menial tasks, particularly food service. While In the third and early fourth centuries, recommendations for the congregation. diakonos and other related terms that refer to the deacons had greater influence in the Catholic “Controversies surrounding that shift are church office of deacon occur five times in the Church. Because of Acts 6 there were only long-standing,” writes Marvin McMickle in Deacons in Today’s Black Baptist Churches (2010, Judson Press). “Our understanding of the role and responsibilities of the deacon in the Baptist church in general and in the black Baptist church in particular has come to a critical crossroad.” Growing congregations, complex ministries, and the ownership of church buildings are a few reasons for this shift in role. What started with a table of Hellenist widows now includes facilities that may even contain a trendy coffee shop. While the shift may seem reasonable, Howard Foshee laments the fact that the term “board of deacons” was ever coined and

36 | Perspective October 2013 suggests this is “foreign to how Baptists should Epting, writing in the Anglican Theological work together.” Review, affirmed a “renewed understanding of According to McMickle, “The historic the place of deacon in the midst of the larger tension between deacon as servant leader and body of Christ, as leader but companion, as deacon as boss of both church and pastor is ordained to an order and not a rank.” alive and at work in black Baptist churches.” Her hope is that deacons will be trained to Such tension in the church could pro- provide leadership in relation to God’s mission, vide an opportunity and context for spiritual and says that the revision of the Prayer Book growth and re-centering. If deacon ministries called the church to new forms of leadership. Acts shift from their biblical model, where will this of service alone were helpful, but not enough. essential witness to Christ now be located in Deacons stand at the intersection between the church? What spiritual opportunities do service and spirituality, she said, which means deacons lose with this shift? making connections between being in love Many churches create new trustee boards with God and sharing that love in concrete to manage consuming financial matters, free- ways. “Making those connections requires a ing deacons to focus on the important work of deep and abiding love for God and for all of diakonia. God’s people.” When churches seek to understand Deacon Renewal the role and responsibilities of the deacon, McMickle added, and “begin with ‘the office,’ Episcopalian Susanne Watson Epting, direc- then they may quickly end up with people tor of the North American Association for the seeking to fill a position that has become asso- Diaconate, describes how deacon renewal in ciated with a certain degree of authority and her denomination was part of a church-wide influence. If, on the other hand, we start the transformation in which Anglicans revised discussion as Acts 6 does — with the need that their Prayer Book, rooted their theology in existed and ‘the service’ to be offered to the baptism and raised the bar of their spiritual community — then the discussion moves to an formation programs. entirely different direction. ‘What can I do for This renewal led to a new kind of deacon, you?’ takes the place of ‘This is what I expect but “new in an old way — more like those of you to do.’” the early church who served to extend the bish- What would happen if every deacon op’s office, who served the poor, who brought meeting in every church began with someone the needs of the community before the bishop persistently asking the kind of question that and the larger church, who aided in distribu- Christ would ask us, or have us ask each other? tion — of money, of food, of other goods, and How would the conversation change the even of communion, as well as proclaiming, agenda of our meetings and the work that we witnessing and interpreting.” plan and do? BT

Baptist Identity Resources: $5 each

A Capsule History of Baptist Principles (Brackney) A Capsule History of Baptists (Gourley) A Festschrift in Honor of H. Leon McBeth A How-to Manual for Your Church’s History (Deweese, et. al.) Henry Clay Vedder (Honeycutt) No Longer Ignored (Deweese & Durso, ed.) Not a Silent People (Shurden) On Mission with God (Durso & O’Brien, ed.) The Baptists (Brackney)

October 2013 Perspective | 37 !" 102(1 .(!3$&, Religion News Service WATER COOLER

Religious diversity increasing at the office; so are pitfalls Faith

he American workplace, like the rest surprising that both nonbelievers and of U.S. society, is becoming more evangelicals shared a heightened sense religiously diverse and that is raising of bias: Nearly 6 in 10 atheists said they concerns about employer accommoda- think people look down on their beliefs, and Ttions for believers — and increasing the odds for nearly 6 in 10 of white evangelicals agreed that uncomfortable moments around the water cooler. discrimination against Christians has become Yet one potential flashpoint among work- as big a problem as discrimination against other ers does not involve new immigrant faiths but religious minorities. rather two indigenous communities: white “There’s a clear sense in the data, especially evangelicals and unaffiliated Americans who among white evangelicals, that other workers’ constitute one of the fastest-growing segments needs are being taken care of and theirs are not,” of the population. said Robert P. Jones, head of the Public Religion A major factor contributing to workplace Research Institute. conflict, according to a survey released on Aug. Jones added that along with their grow- 30, is that evangelicals — whose religious iden- ing numbers, the “nones” are also increasingly tity is tied to sharing their beliefs — are much confident in proclaiming their lack of religious more likely to talk about their faith at work affiliation, which in turn contributes to the than other religious and nonreligious groups. potential for workplace interactions — and related to a failure of companies to provide suf- In fact, half of white evangelical conflicts — over religion. ficient accommodations for believers, especially Protestants said they share their beliefs with David Sikkink, a sociologist of religion at non-Christians. Half of those respondents said co-workers, compared to 22 percent of work- the University of Notre Dame who reviewed that their employers are ignoring their religious ers overall, according to the 2013 Survey of the report, also noted that while most believers needs. Among the other findings: American Workers and Religion, sponsored — as well as nonbelievers — don’t look to the Nearly one-quarter (24 percent) of the respon- by the Tanenbaum Center for Interreligious office as a place to find meaning and direction dents reported being required to work on the Understanding. in their lives, evangelicals often take the oppo- Sabbath or a religious holiday and 13 percent And one-third of evangelicals said they site view and see the workplace as a venue for said they attended company-sponsored events discuss religion frequently, compared to 14 living out their religious identity. that did not include kosher, halal, or vegetar- percent of non-Christian believers, 10 percent “Evangelicals want to be different some- ian options; of Catholics and 7 percent of white mainline how, to take a stand, and to show that God is Less than half (44 percent) of workers said Protestants. Moreover, nearly 9-in-10 white working in their lives through them,” Sikkink their employers had flexible work hours to evangelical employees say they are somewhat said. permit religious observances or prayer and or very comfortable when the issue of religion He said that does not always mean sharing 21 percent said their company had a policy comes up in the workplace. the specifics of their faith, but can instead be allowing employees to swap holidays to Conversely, the research found that non- demonstrated by the way evangelicals deal with accommodate religious observances; believers are reticent to discuss religion and 43 workplace problems, or simply in their focus on Four in 10 workers said their company had percent of them say they feel somewhat or very developing friendships with their co-workers. materials explaining their policy on religious uncomfortable when the topic comes up. Still, the endpoint of such relationships is a con- discrimination, and 14 percent said their “This suggests the potential for work- versation about faith, “and eventually that may employer had programs to teach workers place clashes between atheists and evangelical rub the nonreligious the wrong way.” about religious diversity. Protestants,” the report says. Overall, the incidence of workplace con- On the other hand, while the Tanenbaum The survey, released for Labor Day, was flicts and discrimination over religion seems report says that American companies need to do conducted in March and April by the Public to be a fairly significant issue, according to the more to accommodate religious believers, it also Religion Research Institute, which questioned survey, with one-third of respondents reporting found strong incentives for businesses to adapt: more than 2,000 American adults in both that they have seen or experienced incidents of The survey showed that employees at companies English and Spanish. The poll has a margin of religious bias in the workplace. that were sensitive to religious needs reported error of 2.8 percentage points. The most frequently cited problems were better morale and were much less likely to look Given the findings, it is perhaps not not interactions with co-workers but instead for another job. BT

38 | Information October 2013 The Lighter Side By Brett Younger Dear Kate and William: Carol and I know exactly what it’s like to church is a good place to be un-athletic. Your child needs to be around those who have a much anticipated baby. You can- don’t eat crumpets. Churches are filled with not imagine the fuss our church made regular people who will make sure “Your when Graham was born. Everyone Highness” is not spoiled. PG needs to go to church because he showed up to take pictures, queued to needs grandmothers other than Camilla and hold our little bundle of trouble, and great-grandmothers who aren’t the Queen. hung around way too long. (I’m sure Elizabeth is nice, but she didn’t come across as particularly warm in that Helen eople gave us so much stuff. If you are Mirren movie.) like us, then you have more onesies, George needs to be around people who blankies and booties than any one believe in something bigger than the British P Photo illustration by Lesley-Ann Hix child could ever wear. Save it for the next Empire, who pray to the Prince of Peace and one. You’ve discovered by now that rocking worship the King of Kings. Someday your The first days are exciting, but then the your baby is good for your soul. Everything son will have to decide whether to share his grandparents go home. That’s why I waited else seems less important. If you don’t feel tremendous wealth. The church will help him a couple of months to write, until the cam- delighted, frightened and hopeful, you’re not love those who do not have his advantages. eras have been put away. The hubbub is over. paying attention. Don’t pass Baby G off to a The church will help you remember that George is just another baby. The three of you nanny when he cries. You need to be the one to rather than trying to raise a monarch, you are on your own. dry the tears. should raise a child who cares for the needy. You are a young couple suddenly respon- By now you’ve had moments when Someday you may be king and queen, but if sible for a child. You have that in common George makes you crazy. Don’t feel bad when you are not attentive parents you will have with commoners everywhere. The feeling you you aren’t getting along. Glare at him, mutter failed in your most important job. had when you held George for the first time under your breath, change his nappy, share Be assured that God is on your side. God is the same feeling that the mother who is a some Gerber’s and sing an Adele song like it’s a helps every mother and father love their child. BT nursing student and the father who may be the lullaby. manager at Buffalo Wild Wings in a couple of The most brilliant recommendation I can Cheerio and best wishes, years have when they hold their child for the give is to take George to church. I never felt first time. more like royalty than when we took Graham Brett I don’t know much about being a duke or to church for the first time. duchess, but I’ve been a parent for a while and Lil’ G needs to be in Sunday school. our two are turning out okay. I don’t want to Where else will he drink apple juice (some- NOW AVAILABLE seem cheeky or offer dodgy advice (I Googled thing other than tea) in tiny Dixie cups? Do “goofy British terms”), but here are a few you know all the words to “Jesus’ Love Is unsolicited thoughts. Bubblin’ Over”? What would look better on You did well with his name. “George” your refrigerator than your son’s crayon inter- is a fine choice. I’m sure people think you pretations of biblical events? named him after George Washington or Take G-Money to Vacation Bible School George Bush, but my money is on George so he can become adept with construction Clooney. If it’s George Foreman, keep that paper, Elmer’s glue and Popsicle sticks. to yourself. You might tell your friends it’s Young couples need a break, and it’s free George Harrison. He’s from England. babysitting. (Church is, by the way, a great George will soon be the child formerly place to find babysitters and bloody good known as Prince. He’s going to get a nick- hand-me-downs.) name other than “Your Majesty.” Hope it’s George of the Palace needs to play kick- not Boy George, George Michael or Georgie ball with children who don’t care who his Available as a digital download Porgie (which sounds British but not in a good parents are. I’m sure he will be a fine athlete, (ebook) or in print at way). You might want to pre-emptively start but if he’s not great at soccer, cricket or what- calling him G-Man. ever un-American sport he’ll have to play, nurturingfaith.info

October 2013 Perspective | 39 !" !*-+) .$-*/)", Online Editor Answers to Baptist Questions FROM A HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE

due to influence of Calvinism. one of remarkable perseverance and (eventually) >> QUESTION: Carey in 1792 expanded upon Fuller’s amazing successes in the face of prolonged isola- Why do Baptists consider call in the form of a short book whose title tion, hardship, suffering and untimely death. For was both long and provocative: An Enquiry many years, converts were rare. While Adoniram missions a high priority? into the Obligations of Christians, to Use Means focused on preaching and on translating the for the Conversion of the Heathens. In Which written Word, Ann quickly learned the spoken he 404-year-old Baptist story can be told the Religious State of the Different Nations of the language of the Burmese and ministered among within the context of two broad periods World, the Success of Former Undertakings, and Burmese women. When Adoniram was later Tof time: the first 182 years (1609-1791) the Practicability of Further Undertakings, are imprisoned for a period of time in the midst of in which Baptists focused on securing freedom Considered. Therein Carey pointed to Matthew political upheavals, a fevered and isolated Ann of conscience and religious liberty for everyone, 28:18-20 as the theological justification of mis- worked tirelessly to free her husband, even as including church-state separation, and the sions, surveyed missionary efforts of the early she cared for the couple’s infant child. Ann, long following 222 years and counting during which church, listed statistical information for the suffering from disease, stress and loneliness, died the missionary enterprise has been an overriding nations of the world, answered objections to mis- in 1826. Yet her sacrifice was not in vain. Within priority of many Baptist groups. sionary activity, and outlined plans for a Baptist less than a decade, Baptists were rapidly grow- The historical dividing line between these missionary society. ing in Burma, evidencing the great legacy that two periods of Baptist life is revealing. In 1791, Controversial yet timely, many Baptists Adonriam and Ann would gift to the world. Baptists in America secured their long and ardu- soon embraced Carey’s call to action. Months While the methodology and philosophy of ous quest — on behalf of all citizens — for after the publication of his book, Carey formed missions has evolved in the ensuing centuries, freedom of conscience, religious liberty and the Particular Baptist Society for the Propagation Baptists worldwide of the 21st century place great church-state separation. The fulfillment of the of the Gospel Amongst the Heathen (a.k.a. emphasis on missionary work due to the con- quest in America took the form of the First Baptist Missionary Society), of which Fuller victions, courage, work and sacrifices of Fuller, Amendment to the U.S. Bill of Rights, champi- served as the first secretary. In 1793, Carey and Carey and the Judsons. BT oned earnestly by Baptists, that granted religious his family became missionaries in Calcutta. liberty to all and separated church from state. Within less than a quarter-century thereafter, —This series is provided in partnership with the The following year, a British Baptist shoe- Baptist missionary societies flourished on both Baptist History & Heritage Society. Bruce Gourley maker and preacher by the name of William sides of the ocean. serves as executive director of the society and as Carey (1761-1834) shook the theological foun- On the American side of the Atlantic, online editor for Baptists Today. dations of Western Christianity and pointed in 1813 newlyweds Adoniram (1788-1850) Baptists (and other Protestant Christians) and Ann Judson (1789-1826) became the first toward another grand quest: the “conversion of Protestant missionaries from North America The contributions of the the heathens.” Carey had been influenced by to preach in Burma. They had embarked from Judsons to Baptist missions Andrew Fuller (1754-1815), a British Baptist America as Congregationalists, but during their will be the focus of a conference minister who in 1785 had published a pamphlet voyage became convinced of the believer’s bap- on the Mercer Atlanta campus (The Gospel Worthy of All Acceptation) refuting tism. Soon after their arrival on the mission field NOVEMBER 14-16 hyper-Calvinism and calling for the preaching they were baptized as Baptists by an associate of of the Gospel to all people. Prior to this time, William Carey. “The Judsons: Celebrating 200 Years of Protestant missionary activity had been minimal The story of the Judson family became Baptist Missions” is a collaboration of McAfee School of Theology, the American Baptist Historical Society, the Baptist History & Heritage Society, Baptist Women in Ministry and the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship. Conference speakers will provide historical perspective on the contributions of Adoniram Judson, Ann Judson, Sarah Boardman Judson and Emily Chubbuck Judson to Baptist mission work, including education, women’s work and congregational involvement in missions. Go to abhsarchives.org for more information and to register for the conference.

40 | Feature October 2013 !" 4)**( !"*1, Contributing Writer Children’s Sabbath October observance offers meaningful experiences

Pediatric chaplains Paul Byrd and Joe A statue at Haley Farm, a adults brought in a rocking chair and placed it Children’s Defense Fund retreat at the front of the sanctuary. Alica asked Ethel Genau of Children’s of Alabama sat and educational facility in Clinton, Tenn. Photo provided to sit in the chair. in a tent on a hot July afternoon at by Children’s of Alabama. Then the doors to the sanctuary flew open and lines of children with arms full of books, Haley Farm in Tennessee as part of the toys and diapers filed down the aisles to lay the Samuel Dewitt Proctor Institute for gifts around the rocking chair. Child Advocacy Ministry. Adults followed, carrying more rocking chairs and other larger items. By the end of the aley Farm, once owned by Pulitzer Prize service, the sanctuary was filled with items for winning author Alex Haley, is a beauti- the Auburn Day Care Center. H ful 157-acre estate acquired in 1994 by “There were so many items,” said Ethel, the Children’s Defense Fund. The farm provides “that I had to call my son to bring a truck and a retreat-like atmosphere for education, advo- we had to take more than one trip to get it all cacy training, spiritual renewal and worship. back to the center!” While at the Institute, Christians from Two years later, Children’s of Alabama was multiple denominations explored how faith calls the recipient of the same Children’s Sabbath them into ministries that protect and nurture focus in Auburn. children while shaping, guiding and sustaining “As I sat there listening, I nearly wept the ministers who work with and for children. because I had experienced the same abundant Byrd and Genau were attending a session rocking chairs to toys and diapers. grace, gifts, prayers and encouragement from on Children’s Sabbath in hopes of learning In the meantime, Alica Kirkpatrick, then a the hands of the same people,” said Byrd. “This more so they could dream of a way to fur- minister at Auburn’s First Baptist Church, was church and many others like them have truly ther recognize the National Observance of involved with a program she helped start called taken the spirit of Children’s Sabbath to heart. Children’s Sabbath at their pediatric hospital in Partnership for Children. The organization They incorporate the experience into their wor- Birmingham. raises funds to help provide childcare for low- ship service, but they also follow the call to live “We were there to hear the director of income workers. it out in their communities.” the national program for Children’s Sabbath, “We decided to surprise [Ethel] by throw- The observance of Children’s Sabbath can Shannon Daley-Harris, the religious affairs advi- ing a baby shower,” said Kirkpatrick. “As a part go beyond a local congregation, however, said sor for the Children’s Defense Fund,” told Byrd. of Children’s Sabbath, we like to not only cel- Genau. “And we were so surprised when she turned ebrate the worship service but also put some feet “When our new building opened last year, the majority of her time over to a woman from to it.” we held an interfaith blessing, which provided Auburn, Ala., to tell her story.” Alica asked Ethel if she would be willing us with a great number of people who might be Ethel White is the director of the Auburn to come to their Children’s Sabbath worship interested in our initiatives for the Children’s Day Care Center, a non-profit center for the service that October to share about the Auburn Sabbath,” said Genau. “When Rev. Daley- care of children in low-income families. A Day Care Center and the families served. Harris mentioned a children’s hospital having couple of years ago the center received a grant to During the service, Ethel told of children who a service in their atrium, we began to dream of increase the infant care facilities at the center. were nurtured and cared for at the center and such a service in our beautiful new facility.” As they expanded into the new space, Ethel about their parents who really needed affordable A “small, but hearty” observance of had the idea that she should make a list of the childcare in order to work and provide for their Children’s Sabbath at the hospital is set for this items her center so desperately needed. So she families. month, said Genau, with plans for an expanded listed everything she could think of — from At the end of the service, some young celebration next year. BT

The 2013 National Observance of Children’s Sabbaths Emphasis is “Beating Swords Into and Child Poverty.” Designated to be observed October 18-20, the theme comes from Micah 4:1-5. The Children’s Defense Fund offers a downloadable resource, National Observance of Children’s Sabbaths Manual: A Multi-faith Resource for Year Round Child Advocacy, that includes activities and worship guides, at childrensdefense.org/programs-campaigns/faith-based-action/childrens-sabbaths.

October 2013 Feature | 41 !" #$%& '()*+)

YOU ARE there A conversation with winning songwriter Giles Blakenship

Worship leader Giles Blankenship won a contest with his song “You Are There” that led to a recording opportunity in England. Photo by Jeku Arce.

Giles Blankenship graduated from Campbell University in 1995 with a degree in religion and a minor in music. He returned a few years later to attend divinity school.

or 10 years he has served as minister of Regardless of my song’s place at the judges’ The hours crawled by. I was constantly worship at Snyder Memorial Baptist table, God was using the journey beyond any- refreshing my email and the website. About FChurch in Fayetteville, N.C. This past thing I had anticipated and in all the ways I 1:30 that afternoon a volunteer assistant in the summer his song “You Are There” topped had ever hoped that God might use “You Are church office rang my desk and asked if I could Integrity Music Europe’s “Search for a Song” There.” There were opportunities for spiritual take a call. I noticed right away the British competition. conversations, stories from folks hearing the accent on the other end. Giles was swooped away to England to song for the first time, and worship leaders say- I had won the contest. I was shocked, record the worship song that is getting worldwide ing they were going to use “You Are There” in excited, elated, humbled, honored and grateful. exposure. Baptists Today editor John Pierce asked worship “this Sunday.” And there began the whirlwind that would see him about the song, the contest and the trip. At the end of the contest on July 31 the me landing in London that following Friday winning song would be selected by a panel of night, recording on Monday, and flying back to BT: How did you learn about the contest, Integrity Music representatives from the top five join my family vacationing in Myrtle Beach on and when did you start to see winning as a songs with the most Facebook likes. I started Wednesday. real possibility? to see winning as a real possibility when “You GB: I learned about the contest on the day it Are There” was one of the top two songs on the BT: What were the recording session and other experiences like in England? started, July 1. I followed a Facebook link to leader board for most of July. Then I started to see that possibility slip weareworship.com to check out a song by Aaron GB: Les Moir, an A&R director for Integrity away when my song fell to the number six spot Keyes, whose songs I have used in worship. who has been producing and playing worship in the final two days. When the contest closed, I There I noticed a post about a song con- music for years in the UK, oversaw all produc- didn’t know where I stood but I wasn’t holding test. Two things attracted me: One, I really tion. He also met me at my hotel on Saturday out much hope. They would announce the win- appreciated their desire to find and lift up morning to grab a cup of coffee, take me to ner on Aug. 6 via email and on weareworship. worship songs bubbling up from within local the studio and show me around the town of com. It was a long six days! church communities and, two, the contest was Eastbourne. sponsored by the European division of Integrity On Sunday he picked me up to go to BT: What were your reactions when Music, a publisher of worship music whose church and took me out to lunch afterwards. notified that you had won? name and reach around the world is significant. That evening I went with Les and his wife to Some of the worship leaders they partner see his friend’s band and then to a birthday with are my mentors (albeit from a distance) GB: The UK is five hours ahead of us. But gathering. because they are leading worship regularly in when I awoke at 7 a.m. and checked my email The time he spent building our relationship their own local churches. and the website, there was nothing. put us so much further ahead when we got in the

42 | Feature October 2013 studio. The guys in the band were so talented. came together online and in real time to accom- eventually coalesced into something reminis- We started tracking the drums, bass and acoustic plish this, and actual friendships — not just cent of the themes and text from Psalm 139, guitar parts at 11 a.m. By 9:30 p.m. we had a virtual ones — were formed. on which I had been meditating. Immediately, great recording. I can’t wait for folks to hear it. I play on Tuesday mornings at Fayetteville I went back to my office to record those ideas I was most nervous about the interview at Area Operation InAsMuch, an organization and, with Psalm 139 in front of me, began to let Premier Christian Radio in London. I like to that, among other things, feeds breakfast to our it inform the verses and chorus from there. process my thoughts before speaking, but know homeless community five days a week. When I “You Are There” reminds us of God’s con- there’s no room for “dead air” on the radio. It got back from my trip they had all signed a big stant and abiding presence in all seasons of our was pretty exciting, though, because I knew folks poster board that said “We Love Giles!” — and journey. back home were listening to the interview online. greeted me with enthusiastic applause. This contest was designed to see what wor- The search for fish-and-chips was a great There was (and still is) a feeling of, “We’re ship songs are breathing life into the church success. Rhubarb Crumble at the birthday party all in this together!” And I’m so glad we are. at the local level. Of the worship songs I have made a lasting impression. I’ve been meaning to written, there are a few that the church has write back and get the recipe. BT: How did the song come about, and affirmed again and again. After an informal poll Riding the train across the English country- why did you choose it for the contest? on my Facebook page about which of two songs side into London for the interview and taking a I should submit, “You Are There” was the clear GB: In 2008, Lars Gordon was a high school London Black Cab from there made me feel very favorite. student living just up the road from Snyder — well — English. Memorial Baptist Church, where I serve. He BT: When and how can people hear that was learning to play the guitar and would BT: How have your congregation and song and other music of yours? frequently stop by the church to show me the others responded? latest “lick” he was discovering. GB: The new recording of “You Are There” is GB: The response of friends, family and the One time when he wanted to show me his featured on weareworship.com. The original folks at Snyder Memorial Baptist Church newest riff on the guitar, I met him at his home. recording is the opening track on my album, has been amazing. The support has been We sat on a brick wall in front of his house as Planted Here, which, along with my most recent overwhelming. Lars played that melodic hook. I told him to release, The Day Is Dawning, and previous CD’s My song would not have gone before the keep on playing while I chorded beneath it on can be found at gilesblankenship.com. Those judges if not for the late nights of “liking” and my guitar. two albums also can be previewed and down- “sharing” on Facebook. A diverse community I began to mumble a melody that loaded at facebook.com/gilesblankenship. BT

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October 2013 Feature | 43 P.O. Box 6318 Macon, GA 31208-6318