TENTH COMMEMORATIVE ANNIVERSARY EDITION ...men that had understanding of the times, to know what [they] ought to do... I Chr.12:32

Volume 10, Issue 4 Publication of the Global Independent Baptist Fellowship. September 2010

CLEVELAND, OHIO: NOVEMBER 14, 2000 – BIRTHDAY OF GIBF TEN YEARS OF DWELLING TOGETHER IN UNITY A RECORD OF THE FIRST TEN YEARS OF THE GLOBAL INDEPENDENT BAPTIST FELLOWSHIP By Robert Lewis I do not presume to be the historian for the movement this spiritual journey. The more I hear and read, the more I have read about our spiritual family tree and concluded named Global Independent Baptist Fellowship. I realize the matters which gave birth to the Global that there have been people in every generation, since Nevertheless, having promised the Lord that I would go Independent Baptist Fellowship are many and diverse. I Jesus walked upon the earth, who are connected in a broad through any door of service and opportunity He provides, must say, to the credit of all involved, up until this very way with what some call “Baptist Principles.” Those I shall undertake the task of reviewing our history, as moment there has been little-to-no ugly discourse or principles were espoused in the Apostolic Age, endured requested by the editor of this publication. I count it an name-calling. Such deportment, while wrestling over through the Dark Ages, persisted amid the Reformation, honor to do so. passionate issues, can only be realized when men of and continued into the Modern Era. Early adherents to This record on the now ten-year journey of the GIBF is character purpose to keep emotions from governing their those principles were not always known by the name by one (me) who has personally made the trip, and actions. “Baptist,” but in faith and practice they were Baptists. The continues on in it. It has been and is a truly grand Everyone active in the movement is thankful for the name, originally intended to be disparaging, was branded adventure. While traveling together on the ancient amalgamation of scores of God’s people around the world on them by their detractors and persecutors. Then, from pathway, we GIBF sojourners have rejoiced in the into what is called the Global Independent Baptist the time of the Inquisition to today, those gladly identified camaraderie of those who accept the same authority, hold Fellowship. It is an ongoing enlistment in an ongoing as Baptists by name were scattered around the globe. They to the same philosophies and convictions, fight with the lineage. Our philosophies, operations and message were have held sacred those prized Baptist principles and have same weapons, and build with the same tools. set in place long ago by spiritual giants of the past. We paid for them, in many cases, with their own blood. Of necessity I have relied much on the memories, notes have not discovered new doctrine, nor have we invented Primarily, those sacred principles include the following: and conversations of others who have also been a part of new practices in our attempt to raise the standard of the 1) Sole Authority of the Scriptures; 2) Salvation by Grace Lord in our generation. Our desire is to strengthen and through Faith; 3) Baptism for Believers Only; 4) Eternal 10TH ANNIVERSARY GIBF build upon that long-established standard, leaving a Security for True Believers; 5) Autonomy of the Church; clearly-marked path for those who continue after us. 6) Separation of Church and State; and 7) Priesthood of MTG. IN CLEVELAND, OHIO This recounting of the GIBF journey will be the Believer. These are not the only things Baptists believe summarized in four large steps – FIRST, our origins: Our (and not all Baptists agree in every detail on what they do SEPT 20-22 (see details on page 7) Historic Roots: The Baptist Umbrella. believe); but these are the roots of the tree from which we ...continued on page 2 tenth anniversary perspective By Frank Wood, GIBF Nat’l Moderator The Heritage Pulpit Ten years ago this National Moderator. “ANNIVERSARY CONTEMPLATIONS” November, I attended Many people felt, and some still believe, A message by G. Beauchamp Vick (1901-1975) the Friends of that the GIBF was started as a knee-jerk Heartland Meeting reaction to a single issue at Baptist Bible This was the 25th Anniversary Commencement Address at Baptist Bible College hosted by Cleveland College in Springfield, Missouri (our Dr. Vick’s last sermon there before his death the following September. Baptist Church. I disagreement with the ladies dress code). Go with me over a hundred years ago to a scene that was enacted attended the meeting That perception is very far from the truth! in the heart of Europe. It was a number of years after the fateful battle not knowing the significant things that They also accused us of starting a new of Waterloo, which changed the history of Europe and the world. There was a strange would take place that week, other than the fellowship because of a few of our gathering there; the honorees on that occasion were varied in their looks and in their great preaching and good fellowship with “preferences.” As we prepare to celebrate actions. The honorees were called to the platform to face him who had been their many like-minded servants of the Lord. At our tenth anniversary, I would like to make emperor in years past. Some limped up to the platform on wooden legs; some had a the meeting, the Friends of Heartland clear that the GIBF was started and patch over one eye; some were unable to salute their former emperor because they had decided to disassociate Heartland Baptist continues to be based upon the Biblical empty sleeves. There was but one thing in common with all these men as they passed by, Bible College from Baptist Bible doctrines that we hold to and the and they received that one thing in common: the medal which their former commander Fellowship International, and we voted to convictions we have that are based upon pinned upon them. It was not a gold or silver medal; it was a simple, plain, iron disk. start a new fellowship which was later those doctrines. The Biblical doctrines that Not pretty in appearance. And on that peculiar, rough, rude medal were just three words: named the Global Independent Baptist were being and continue to be “I Was There.” Those three words were meaningful. Fellowship (GIBF). compromised by many independent Tonight I would cite for you those who were there on another fateful occasion – that In the last ten years we have seen Baptists are the doctrines of personal and famous Texas Hotel meeting (in Fort Worth, Texas). I’m going to ask everyone who was significant growth and progress at ecclesiastical separation, as well as there to stand together with me; will you please?...all who were in that meeting in the Heartland Baptist Bible College, as well as Bibliology and ecclesiology. We believe in Texas Hotel, twenty-five years ago this very week, the third week in May 1950. in the GIBF. We now hold two national maintaining high standards of personal There’s not a hundred left! Some have graduated to higher planes. GIBF meetings each year – one in separation, and we are Baptists who are Each of us who were there whom God has preserved to this good hour can say with February and one in September; and we not ashamed of being called Baptists! We Napoleon’s old guard, “I Was There!” Thank you; be seated. have Global Independent Baptist Missions believe the only scriptural church is a Certainly the scars and sacrifices of those early years have left us with OUR as well as the Global Baptist Times. (There doctrinally-sound Baptist church, and we HERITAGE – a great heritage! We are reminded in the Word of God to esteem the are also several state and multi-state are “closed” in the operation of church heritage purchased for us and handed down to us. We’re enjoined through the inspired fellowships around the country that are ordinances. We also have a strong pen of Isaiah to remember some things: “Hearken to me, ye that follow after aligned with the GIBF). The Annual conviction that the King James Bible is righteousness, ye that seek the Lord: look unto the rock whence ye are hewn, and to the meetings, the missions program, and our God’s preserved Word for English- hole of the pit whence ye are digged.” (Isa. 51:1) Therefore, we emphasize our heritage. paper have been and are being greatly speaking people. Inherent in any successful movement is some intangible-something called “Pioneer blessed and used of the Lord. I am very There are still a great number of Spirit.” What is it? I think there are several ingredients necessary to make up a pioneer glad to be a part of the GIBF, and I doctrinal beliefs we have in common with spirit and our Christian heritage. consider it a privilege to serve as the most other independent Baptists, as well The first I would name is a faith to attempt the impossible. ...continued on page 14 ...continued on page 4 G L O B A L BAPTIST TIMES

have their operations established on Bible truth, and then, relevant” even though that definition evolves from time TIMES EDITORIAL knowing their nature, give vigilant attention to holding to time. Their misguided perception of success and By the editor fast that position, while routinely charging those coming notability equates to popularity and financial after them to do the same. As Peter admonished, those achievement. They want to be liked, be loved, be full, and ADMONITION TIME who are faithful must be alert to the perpetual danger; the have all. How they achieve their end is of little concern to Due to the occasion commemorated in this issue of the destroyer is ever on the prowl. them. paper, and preparations for the upcoming national Lest at some point a “spiritual virus” attacks our now Baptist people – Biblicists – will abstain from the lure Fellowship meeting in Cleveland that will do the same, I ten-year-old togetherness (God forbid!), we involved of popularity, prestige and power, knowing that these have given much time recently to recounting the events of must never excuse or apologize for hot, gun-barrel- things corrupt. Many leaders of the movement from ten years ago. I have read page after page of articles, straight Bible preaching that calls to account, points to which the GIBF separated, Baptist Bible Fellowship meeting minutes, correspondence, and other accounts of the truth, and warns of our nature. (May such preaching International (within which there still remain many that time. It has been both rewarding and distressing to ever characterize our local, regional and national friends and co-laborers), encouraged us separatists to review the experiences; those days seem almost surreal meetings!) Such stern admonitions are always fitting and “wait for the right time” to break from the Fellowship, now. Praise God for all He has done to bring us out and should be encouraged and welcomed! No one – even the though they themselves did not know when the right time bring us through! sound, separatist, steadfast Global Independent Baptist was. Some have yet to discern it. The men who have While in the midst of those events a decade ago, one Fellowship, nor the autonomous churches that compose it declared themselves separate from the BBFI did not thing that made a lasting impression on me then was that – is immune to the natural penchant for leaving “the good separate for personal gain, popularity, or prestige. Nor even we independent, Bible-believing, fundamental, way, wherein they should walk.” was it their intent to merely create chaos and confusion. “nary a piece of literature” Baptists are not immune to the “Onward Christian soldiers” – hold your formation! – What the men who finally separated from the BBFI spiritual viruses affecting so many realms of “on to victory!” came to recognize is that every generation faces its own Christendom. Many of us were smug; we thought “what challenges concerning doctrinal steadfastness. goes around” would not “come around” to us. It will. It “TEN YEARS...TOGETHER IN UNITY” SECOND, for the record, there is a need to state Why did! continued from page 1… We Came Out: Separation From Apostates. As Biblicists (and we relish identifying with New have blossomed. There has been a long history in the BBFI of hand- Testament heroes), how could we not apply New Admittedly, there are people today who carry the name holding with churches that were “similar” or nearly alike. Testament admonitions regarding our own nature? There Baptist, but do not know why. They have lost connection In other words, there were those in the movement who are several such admonitions, but how about this with their roots by way of bad influences and corrupt were almost Baptists or Baptists in name only. (The men exemplary one? – (II Peter 3:1b-3, 17) “…[B]eloved, I information. Sadly, in too many Baptist circles, the who make up the GIBF came together on doctrinal issues now write unto you; in both which I stir up your pure historical and doctrinal connection to our spiritual as if there had been a divine sifting of the BBFI minds by way of remembrance: that ye may be mindful of forefathers is a blurred reading. leadership.) From time to time squabbles broke out over the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, Years ago I sat in a meeting on a college campus with the preservation of inspired scripture, closed and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord several preachers who had questions for the school’s communion, and Baptist baptism. By the late 1990s it and Saviour: knowing this first, that there shall come in president as to why there was not a Baptist History course seemed the prevailing BBFI leadership was determined the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts…Ye taught at that Baptist school. The discussion was to squelch the voices of any conservative element. therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, productive, but there was a philosophical chasm between Conservative/separatist men returned home from beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the what was being taught in the classroom and what those national meetings wondering whether there was any point wicked, fall from your own stedfastness.” The fact is concerned pastors believed. One of the pastors at the in participating further. Yet they did continue temptations to drift are “common to man.” The prophet meeting, Bruce Turner, wrote on the chalkboard three participating, using their strengths and influence in an Isaiah said our nature, like sheep, is to go astray. If left to things that must be in effect if a person or a church is to attempt to stop liberal trends among BBF brethren and in ourselves we drift, we don’t draw. And Peter said in be considered “Baptist’’ in the historic sense. They are: the Fellowship-approved Bible colleges. another passage that in order to stay drawn we must be 1) THE NAME BAPTIST. Those who shun the Baptist Note these words: sober and vigilant. name cannot be Baptists. The name itself is a clear “In 1928, the Baptist Bible Union of America added the For many of us who finally broke from the “broad identification with a specific doctrinal heritage and following “explanatory clauses” to their statement of faith: way” and liberal way chosen by the Baptist Bible practice. Paul told Timothy, “Be not thou therefore 1) By ‘THE HOLY BIBLE’ we mean that collection of Fellowship, there was a time of bad-taste and resulting ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his sixty-six books, from Genesis to Revelation, which, pause. The disgust at what came around to a movement prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the as originally written, does not merely contain and once known for its strong stand gave hesitation and gospel according to the power of God; who hath saved convey the Word of God, but IS the very Word of question to any involvement with the formation of us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to God. 2) By ‘INSPIRATION’ we mean that the books another “Fellowship.” Maybe an organized, collaborate our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, of the Bible were written by Holy men of old, as they effort at fulfilling the Great Commission was bad to which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world were moved by the Holy Spirit, in such a definite begin with? began…” (II Tim. 1:8-9). There was a distinct position way that their writings were supernaturally inspired No. Clearly, as dear Bro. Bob Lewis routinely points Timothy was to openly identify with: Grace precepts, and free from error, as no other writings have ever out, New Testament apostolic operations were Paul’s practices, and Christ’s purpose. For whatever been or ever will be inspired. May we suggest that the collaborate and organized. The pattern is scriptural. reason someone or some assembly surrenders the following statement added to the above statements could The problem is not the manner of operation; it is the identity, they also surrender the correlated authority. It is have prevented our present problems: 3) By human element involved. The answer to the problem is also said there may be some Baptists today who do not ‘PRESERVATION’ we mean the Old Testament in Hebrew, and the New Testament in Greek, being for men (the human element) laboring together to first know they are Baptists. This is a giant myth which has immediately inspired by God, and by His singular care become a means for false brethren to creep into our ranks and providence kept pure in all ages, are therefore undetected. Most ecclesiastical/denominational authentic; so as in all controversies of Religion, the designations do not come from the Bible. However, the church is finally to appeal to them. Had our name Baptist is older than even the term “Christian” or fundamentalist forefathers of this century added the “believer.” Baptists come from a Bible lineage; they are above doctrine of Bible Preservation to their defense of inherently connected. It is a doctrinal line. John the Bible Inspiration we would not face so much confusion David H. Lydick, Editor Baptist’s converts were taken by Christ Jesus and today. These twin doctrines cannot be separated in organized into His first church, before His crucifixion defense of Bible Christianity. We are not saved by original Published five times per year by the and before Pentecost. There is no need to be embarrassed autographs, but by a preserved Bible. We do not preach from original autographs, but by a preserved Bible. We Global Independent Baptist Fellowship or ashamed of the name of a people who, in every are not edified by original autographs, but by a preserved preceding generation, have a historical and doctrinal Bible. We do not preach from original autographs, but Please address all correspondence to: connection. Baptist Times from a preserved Bible. Our faith depends not on original 2) THE PRACTICE OF BAPTISTS. Those who claim autographs, but on a preserved Bible. Our witness to 2407 Chandler Road East to be Baptists but do not practice as the scripture teaches others is not from original autographs, but from a Bellevue, Nebraska 68005 cannot be Baptists. Standing against the false doctrine of preserved Bible. The foundation of our Christian faith is resting upon the Bible that we hold in our hands, not in e-mail: [email protected] pedo-baptism (infant baptism) caused Baptists to be despised during the Inquisition and on into the some original autographs.” (Quote from The Word of The Baptist Times is dedicated to facilitate the Reformation. A literal interpretation of scripture and, in God on Trial - by Robert J. Barnett) GIBF by providing information, edification, and turn, a literal application of scripture often found From colonial times until the Baptist Bible Union exhortation for independent Baptist pastors, Baptists characterized simply as that: Literalists and document was produced in 1928, the limbs on the Baptist missionaries, and full time workers. We Biblicists. tree, particularly in America, grew from the Philadelphia encourage pertinent information, photos, 3) THE DOCTRINE OF BAPTISTS. Those who add to Confession of Faith which was adopted by the articles, etc. worthy of publication. Information or take from the Word of God cannot be Baptists, for Philadelphia Baptist Association and printed by contained within should not necessarily be Scripture alone is the “rule for faith and practice” by Benjamin Franklin in 1743. interpreted as endorsement by the Fellowship. historic Baptist people. To some it may seem radical and When there is a large caravan of people on a long and old-fashioned to dogmatically hold to the doctrines and difficult journey, there will be those who leave the Annual subscription rates are $15 each; practices of the past. But we, the “otherwise-minded,” caravan at different points, and others who join it long three-year subscriptions are $35. would rather call it faithfulness! after it started, much like the ever-changing membership In these modern times, folks too often want change of a large metropolitan church. This writer joined the Times Board of Review: simply for the sake of change. They clamor to be the grand caravan of Baptist people in the early 1960s. At Rich Farinella, Kevin Folger, Dave Hardy, biggest. They want the most, the best. They must have that time there were thousands of men who believed in Dan Smith, and Bob Stevens what others have, even if they do not work as others have the doctrines and practices of the Baptist Bible worked to gain the reward. They aim to be “culturally Fellowship International. It was their “vehicle” of choice. The BBFI had a clear doctrinal statement, as far as it 2 G L O B A L BAPTIST TIMES went. However, the BBFI never clearly addressed the can walk in the old paths, so I will; and I will be happy trends. The Quebecers, along with men from Nebraska, Authorized Version (“King James”) issue, Baptist about it! For those in the Baptist Bible Fellowship who Iowa, Montana, Washington, Kansas, and Missouri now baptism, or the matter of “closed” communion. But were committed to the old paths, the die was cast. favored forming a new movement. During the Tuesday preachers believed then, as many still do now, that the Primarily due to circumstances related to the campus night after-service “brainstorming,” Bob Stevens of Rock BBF was anointed by God in 1950 to be the greatest facilities, a BBF-approved school, Pacific Coast Baptist Forest, Quebec, together with others, appealed for movement of independent Baptists in modern history. Bible College in San Dimas, California, under the safeguards to prevent any new Fellowship from becoming Most who participated in the Fellowship believed in those leadership of then-President Terry Randolph, relocated to institution-focused rather than Great Commission- doctrines (now considered by many in the BBFI to be too Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, in the summer of 1998. Since focused. narrow). Many BBFI leaders held to those doctrines, its founding on the West Coast in 1967, PCBBC had been Nearly all the pastors in favor of reorganizing into a though they were not delineated in any doctrinal mostly supported by pastors and churches in that part of new movement were supportive of Heartland Baptist statement. When issues came up at Fellowship meetings the country. Its struggles amid the same separatist/liberal Bible College in Oklahoma City. In unison they that seemed to this writer to be somewhat askew of stated issues during the same period are a story of its own. That expressed that neither it nor any other school should purposes, I would say to myself, “That won’t work; wait story is told in detail in a book, The History of a Miracle become the driving force of a (new) Fellowship. But no until the preachers find out.” Well, the preachers did find by Dan Lydick. When the school moved to Oklahoma action on a new Fellowship took place at that time. out, and, to my dismay, I began to witness the bulk of the City, a new name was chosen: Heartland Baptist Bible Over all, the meeting in Bellevue was refreshing. It Fellowship becoming more and more tolerant toward College. featured and enjoyed good preaching. Speakers included liberal philosophies and practices – matters which most Pastor Kevin Folger of Cleveland, Ohio, had gotten Jeff Ables, Sam Davison, Larry Dohmen, Merv separatists found unacceptable. It seemed the only involved with the college during its relocation. He was Goodrick, Richard King, Granville LaForge, Mario modifications made to questionable operations within the very excited about what God was doing in the school and Monette, Bob Stevens, Mike Szekely, and Dan Thornton. Fellowship were made in the wrong direction, creating through the move. Heartland had made a clear stand as a Missionary offerings were also received. The meeting more discomfort for the uncomfortable. So, the time separatist Baptist school. In turn, because of the growing was three days of sweet, profitable fellowship. came for those resisting liberalism to leave the caravan. dissatisfaction over conditions at Baptist Bible College 1999 was a significant year. Historic determinations There are many good men who have not left the BBFI, and in the BBF, many separatists had begun gravitating to were formulating. hoping for a turnaround; but for those who did leave, the Heartland. Several state fellowships further east had By the year 2000, sentiment was boiling on both sides machinery had gotten too encumbering and the applied and been accepted as a part of the Western States of the division within the BBF. The national leadership leadership too liberal. Some churches began receiving BBF (a subdivision of the national Fellowship) so as to continued to pursue progressive, evangelical attachments, members from merely “baptistic” churches; that is, get involved with the school. Brother Folger had been and the Friends of Heartland (the officially-designated assemblies claiming to be like Baptists, but not wearing elected to the Heartland BBC Board of Directors, and group of HBBC supporters) were intent on holding to the the name. Music and church service decorum took on then to the Executive Board in 1998. It was in those board “old paths.” worldly styles and methods. Some churches began to meetings that the directors received information Following the November ‘99 Friends of Heartland “correct” the Bible and defend the use of modern regarding what was going on at the national level with the Meeting in Nebraska, another meeting, expressly called translations. Along with these errors came the practice of BBFI and its relationship with Heartland. Disconnects to confer about the prospects of organizing nationally, permitting non-members to participate in the church between Heartland and the BBFI were fast developing. was hosted once again by David Lydick at Midlands ordinance of communion. It cannot be clearly determined Everyone sensed that a separation was inevitable at some Bible Baptist Church. Bruce Turner was asked to chair where BBF leaders or the rank and file of the Fellowship point. the February 21-23, 2000, meeting. Marshall Stevens was stood on these issues in 1950. For the most part, some On November 8-10, 1999, Pastor David Lydick and appointed to take the minutes. Those present were: Turner issues (i.e. worldly manners, Bible versions) were not Midlands Bible Baptist Church in Bellevue, Nebraska, and Stevens, David Brown, Jim Carpenter, Sam Davison, issues even faced back then! I did discover that many hosted a “Friends of Heartland” meeting – a promotional Rich Farinella, Kevin Folger, Dennis Fountain, Bob Gass, who followed the leadership were not the kind of Baptists gathering of pastors and churches in support of the Merv Goodrick, Dan Lydick, David Lydick, Mario I had read about in history books. Their departure from Oklahoma City school, which was at that time a BBF- Monette, Kevin O’Brien, Terry Randolph, T.J. Smith, verbalized, if not printed, Fellowship purposes had a approved college. The three-day event registered 96 Bob Stevens, Russ Tyree, and Gary Williams. It was the profound effect on the colleges and missionary preachers in attendance – preachers from across North first meeting in which there was a consensus indicating a candidates. Succeeding Baptist Bible College graduates America. Forty-five of those men met in a special need to “come out and regroup” as a new movement. An and BBF missionary candidates demonstrated less and Tuesday afternoon session, moderated by Bro. Dave assortment of issues was discussed at the meeting less of an affinity with the doctrinal peculiarities and Hardy, to discuss issues and recent events confronting regarding need, doctrine, philosophy, and the separatist philosophies of historic Baptists. The term those involved with the BBFI. Preachers who voiced their composition of a scriptural, collective endeavor for the “progressive” became identifying among the liberal opinion on matters of concern demonstrated a singleness cause of missions. element, deceiving many young men into thinking it was of heart, with no animosity offered by anyone. During the next several months, other ad hoc or special a good thing to move farther from the roots of historic Everybody spoke and listened respectfully. Some stated brainstorming and organizational meetings were held, Baptists. This led to more and more conflict. An absence that they believed a conservative majority of the BBFI helping form the direction and set the stage for an official of unity in doctrinal positions, practices, philosophy, would eventually halt the liberal movement of the break from the BBFI. However, the final constitution of purpose, and more began to surface. Substantive fellowship’s leadership and institutions. Others believed an organized movement was a slow and sometimes differences were becoming apparent to all. Ultimately, the growing number of churches which were frustrating matter of development. (Not until May 2005, there had to come some sort of resolution. compromising had a strong foothold and that their trends was there finally a written, ratified Guideline Covenant The “leaven” of doctrinal diversity was played down at and momentum were growing. It was believed such formally establishing the entity and operations of the first. The differences and related concerns were conditions made a BBFI return to separatist, “old paths” Global Independent Baptist Fellowship.) overlooked “for the good of the whole;” they were even positions extremely unlikely. Some were for the creation Initially, as mentioned, a good number of men who scoffed at by some. Well-meaning friends urged those of a new fellowship, noting that the scriptures exhort who were dissatisfied to “stay in the boat” and help “fix” it. There were sincere attempts made to see the Fellowship revive and return; but specifically Baptist Bible College (the entity around which everything BBFI is centered) and its administration and faculty continued to oppose efforts at reform. It became obvious that Satan’s purpose was (and is) to spoil all that is holy, pure and righteous. The good Fellowship had become frozen by division – both in where to stand and how to resolve the division. It should be noted that the Southern Baptist February 21-23, 2000 Consultation Meeting in Bellevue, Nebraska Convention, the World Baptist Fellowship, Baptist Bible Fellowship, and the Global Independent Baptist God’s people to come apart from false teachers, not identified with Heartland BBC were hesitant about the Fellowship (and many others) were all born out of waiting for them to change. Most assessments of the formation of another Fellowship. Though they agreed controversy. Many of the same men who made long afternoon meeting believed, however, that a majority of with the need to separate from the BBF, they believed the speeches about staying in for the good of the whole are the men there preferred to wait – at least for the time- Friends of Heartland was enough. For some time, the same men who themselves had broken away from being. therefore, due to the grief experienced with the BBF, some other group. (They seem to have forgotten!) To After the services that Tuesday evening, several pastors many preachers who ultimately formed the GIBF were “stay the course for the sake of unity” has never been a who were clearly in favor of a new fellowship met to content simply working together in Oklahoma City virtue possessed by men with passion and energy for entertain beginning the process in earnest. The establishing the college there. Still, the need for having truly-held beliefs. Neither is it always a virtue to cut and Washington BBF and the Montana BBF had already an organized, unified effort around world-wide missions run. But that is the wonderful thing about independence voted to disassociate from the BBFI. During the most- – separate from the college – was something a growing and fellowship. Fellowship is voluntary. No one can take recent BBFI National Fellowship Meeting at Westland number felt strongly about. you where you do not want to go. No one can make you Baptist Church in Denver, Colorado, September 27-29, in In September 2000, Pastor Kevin Folger hosted a stay when you want to leave. One well-known BBF a well-organized denominational power-play, Nebraska fellowship meeting at Cleveland Baptist Church in leader had hoped that we separatists might be able to oust and Western Iowa pastors had their representative on the Cleveland, Ohio. Many preachers in attendance were the liberal side, rather than the separatists leaving the BBFI Committee of Forty-five dismissed and replaced fired up about the liberal trends now open and prevalent Fellowship; but he then lamented, “Baptist history is not with another Nebraska pastor and his so-called in the Baptist Bible Fellowship. At this meeting a blank in our favor.” Cornhusker State Fellowship (Nebraska pastors piece of paper was placed on a table in the church foyer. There will always be men somewhere who count it a sympathetic to the liberal leadership). Pastors from A request was made that all who wished to participate in sacred privilege to continue walking in the old paths. An Quebec, Canada, had suffered a similar disenfranchising forming a new Fellowship list their names on the paper. old gentleman recently said, “If you think you can’t, you by the national Fellowship in Denver – a move to subvert There was a great deal of interest. Only a few names can’t; and if you think you can, you can.” Well, I think I their influence and opposition regarding the current ...continued on page 9

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group of 150 churches has grown to approximately 2,400 “ANNIVERSARY CONTEMPLATIONS” So – a willingness to fight – we need to take our stand, churches, many of which are the greatest churches the continued from page 1… not only on religious issues (certainly that has the sun shines upon anywhere on Earth’s surface. Baptist priority), but we need to fight the good fight on every Certainly, from a human standpoint, we in those early Bible College has grown from 107 students on moral issue that comes along. Wherever the devil sticks days did attempt against overwhelming odds that which September 5, 1950, to 2,384 this school year. Baptist his head up, we need to cut it off! to human eyes would appear impossible. During these Bible Fellowship began with just a handful of There are many Americans today who think Roman twenty-five years (and we speak of it as nothing to boast missionaries, and they’ve grown to 472 missionaries Catholics are the only ones fighting abortion. It used to of, but something to render grateful thanks to Almighty preaching the gospel on 47 major mission fields of the be that fundamental Baptists were in the forefront of God for) we’ve seen more progress under the good hand world, spreading the Good News that men don’t have to every battle over great scriptural or moral issues. We of our God in a shorter period than any Bible-believing go to hell – a remedy’s been found in the shed blood of must let our voice be heard on these issues before us movement in modern American church history! Jesus Christ! today. I remember one of those early Graduation Fellowship Financially, we thank God for the liberality of the Isn’t it a peculiar thing that these sickly sentimentalists meetings – (we were in High Street, Dave [speaking to churches and pastors of our Fellowship, as manifested are so afraid that they safeguard the rights and privileges Dr. David Cavin, seated behind him]...we didn’t have yesterday. When this movement began in September of dirty, lowdown gangsters, murderers, and rapists? these facilities back then). And there as a little company 1950, we had the magnificent sum total $11,000. Now They have softened our laws and eased up on the of graduates passed in review across the platform on you can look around the campus of 35 acres (grown from punishment affixed thereto, but yet they advocate the Class Day, they were telling everyone where God had the original 5) and see facilities valued at approximately murder of unborn infants and deny the scriptural standard called them. John Rawlings was sitting at my side; and $10 million! “This is the Lord’s doing; it is marvelous in of capital punishment! These are strange, strange people! you know, he isn’t exactly a sentimentalist! He’s a realist. our eyes!” Then from the thirteen graduates in 1951, we “Inconsistency, thou art a jewel that dost adorn the shirt But as he turned to me his eyes were brimming with now have nearly 500 sitting here before you. front of every modernist.” tears. (Do you remember that? [speaking to Rawlings]) Yes, speaking entirely from an unbiased standpoint, God give us a willingness to fight, to stand – “and And he said, “Beauchamp, these kids would charge hell we’re great! We’re somebody. From a religious having done all, to stand.” with a bucket of water.” I said, “That’s exactly what we’re standpoint, we’re the greatest thing going in religious We used to fight the liquor issue. (John, remember trying to instill in them!” I trust that spirit shall never circles today. You can search the wide-world over, and in what a good time we had there in Tyler, Texas? [speaking cease among the graduates of Baptist Bible College. my opinion you’ll not find a better movement. Therefore, to John Rawlings] I really enjoyed it. We licked the Yes, we attempted the impossible, and we did it on we thank God for His blessings. thunder out of that liquor crowd in those days.) faith. But wait a minute! With our added blessings and We used to fight on every issue – not only willing to The second necessity, if we are to have and maintain greatness, inevitably greater responsibilities fall upon us. name issues but to name specific sins! Too many of us this spirit and Christian heritage, is a willingness to “For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be have become like the preacher President Calvin Coolidge endure hardships. much required.” With all of our greatness, we’re far, FAR heard. He went to church one day when his wife was Our beginnings were rather humble. We either had to from perfect. I say again: WE’RE FA R FROM unable to go. When he got back she asked, “What did the sacrifice, endure, and do without…or quit. Today, too, I PERFECT! We MUST guard against those spiritually preacher preach on?” And he said, “Oh, sin.” She said, hope that spirit will never fade – our willingness to debilitating tendencies which will prevent us from “What’d he say about it?” He answered, “Oh, he was sacrifice to get the job done! For “no man, having put his reaching our full potential. against it!” hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the What are the dangers against which we must guard? We need not only to fight sin in the abstract but to kingdom of God.” Well, I’d name one “a failure to innovate.” Satisfaction name specific sins, and warn men of the inevitable There must be a willingness to endure hardships. Too with the status quo is soul-deadening! It’s murder to any consequences thereof. We used to hear fundamental many young preachers today won’t accept a pastorate institution or movement. Now our message doesn’t Baptist preachers name sin, and name sinners. That’s unless the “deal” is good. They want a Mark IV change, but we’re constantly looking to improve the right! automobile; they insist on a luxury parsonage, a spread of that message, beginning in our “Jerusalem” Some of you preachers are afraid to mention the name retirement plan, a stock option, a cut on Holy Land tours, unto the uttermost parts of the earth! We should of Billy Graham. With some of your people, you could two secretaries, an expense account, and more exotic constantly review the means by which we may improve question the virgin birth of Christ and they’d never bat an office furniture than Temple Baptist Church has ever had! the spreading of the gospel. eye, but if you say a negative word about Billy Graham, Well, that wasn’t the old-time picture of a fundamental We’ve innovated academically, operationally, and you’d have a riot on your hands! That shows how Baptist, was it? practically. I think that’s all helpful. And, yes, we have uninformed many so-called Christians and fundamental I think the real heroes of our Fellowship have been other plans. (Somebody said, “What are we going to do Baptists are! those who have gone out in a wilderness of sin and driven when we pay off the debt?” We’re going to start building I say we need to name sin specifically, and, if down their stakes deep, staking a gospel claim on a again!) necessary, name the sinners. certain territory to which God had led them. One innovation which we hope will materialize is Now I hope I don’t violate the laws of good taste or There must be an endurance of hardship in order to see something driven home to me during a recent trip to the propriety, but if so, here goes anyway! a work survive. Such endurance cannot be Orient – the necessity of our missionaries to properly We greatly appreciate and honor the powers that be. overemphasized in this day of soft living on the part of communicate in the language of the native people with We’re enjoined to pray for those in authority. And I average Americans. Some present students have even whom they work. We’re thinking, planning, hoping, and greatly appreciated, as did you, the proclamation issued come to expect the relative luxury of BBC today: air- praying now for an enlarged Foreign Language by the governor of this state to make this week, over the conditioned cafeteria and classrooms, married student Department. I believe it would save our missionaries at entire State of Missouri, “Baptist Bible College and apartments, athletic facilities, intramural and least one entire term of service if they know the language Baptist Bible Fellowship Week.” I think that was good. intercollegiate sports, well-prepared food in the cafeteria, before they get to the field. It may cost more for our But that doesn’t mean we have to agree with everything and more. And still they gripe – just like some of you college, but it would save ten times that much toward the Governor [Christopher] Bond espouses! Again, I don’t earlier graduates griped in the old days when you didn’t expense of having our missionaries adequately want to violate the laws of good taste, but: Governor have near as much. communicate the gospel in the language of their people. Bond, when you push for the enactment of the ERA Yes, I remember those old army barracks. They were But wait a minute, our plans and innovations are [Equal Rights Amendment], you’re wrong! You’re wrong sneered at. Some folks said they were full of germs conditioned upon the added support of the pastors and morally, and you’re wrong spiritually! because they were once a hospital; but I never heard of churches of our Fellowship. (I’m trying to put the baby in And incidentally, I respect President Ford, our anyone getting sick from them. I remember wading your lap!) Michigan President. I think he’s a sincere man facing a through ankle-deep mud to get from a dormitory to a Ye s , we must plan and innovate – we’ll either innovate hard job. I appreciated the nice message he sent down classroom; and what a celebration there was when we or stagnate. There’s no standing still. here to us; that was great. On the other hand, I wish finally scraped up $300 above the necessary weekly But, there’s another thing we must guard against: a President Ford would keep his wife from exercising payroll to put in three-foot wide walks to keep us out of failure to maintain our Baptist, fundamental pressure on legislators in Missouri and other States to that mud. That was quite a day! distinctives. pass the ERA! I wish you’d exercise a little more I’m glad we don’t have to wade through mud now. I’m Historically, fundamental Baptists have been different. scriptural authority over your wife! (He says he’s born glad we don’t have to endure some of those things About the only law I remember of physics is the again, and I think he is; I certainly hope he is. But he anymore. But if we ever lose the willingness to do so, if definition of energy – the definition of power is the lacks a lot from being a fundamental Baptist!) it’s necessary, then we’ll die as an army of the Lord! No measure of difference; and that applies just as much to All right, we’ve discussed briefly our great heritage, matter how much people have, it seems the more they the spiritual as to the physical. We don’t win the world by and that’s important; but another important thing is, let’s gripe. Old Dr. Bob Jones, a real friend of this institution trying to dress like them and talk like them and act like preserve it! from its beginning – he used to tell his students, “Don’t them! Some of our young pastors and youth leaders could Not only would I give attention to our great heritage, you come around here griping!” He said, “Some of you take special note there. You don’t have to look like a but to OUR HARVEST. And you know that “harvest” kids will gripe when you get to heaven; you’ll go up to an hippie in order to reach hippies! You don’t have to look means increase. God has blessed and increased our archangel or the Lord Himself, and say, ‘You know, my like a child of the devil in order to reach children of the forces. Figures in part have been given you several times crown doesn’t fit!’ or ‘My golden slippers are too tight’ devil! I say our spiritual power is largely dependent upon this week, but we need to engrave them on our hearts, or something else!” Yes, the more we have the more we the measure of difference we have from the world. coupled with a gratitude for the Lord and His blessings. want; isn’t that right? Oh yes, our looks are different from what they used to Approximately 150 churches (which we had in the Then there’s a third necessity for the preservation of a look like among the old-time, typical fundamentalist beginning), most of those churches were weak. I pioneer spirit, and that is a willingness to fight! Baptist preacher. Traditionally, the old-time Baptist remember a youth camp in Turner Falls, Oklahoma. The Bible enjoins us to “Fight the good fight of faith.” preacher was a lean, long, hungry, rugged individual not Several of us got together and began to count up – there (Incidentally, how in the world am I going to fight the afraid to pick up a shovel or a hoe – or a gun if necessary were only 4 churches and Sunday schools in that 150 devil looking like Mother Hubbard?! Some of you guys – or whatever else to get the job done! He would lead [which composed the beginnings of Baptist Bible help me get this thing off, will you?! And it’s hot, too!) people by example to work for the Lord, and not say, Fellowship] that had an average attendance of 500. I say, [Referring to his graduation robe. He shed the robe to a “You go ahead and do it.” weak, small; many of them were infant churches. That standing ovation from the graduates]. Today’s typical Baptist preacher can’t leave his

4 G L O B A L BAPTIST TIMES parsonage without ten different kinds of deodorant of the Baptist Bible College…and it will be as long as I The groundwork has been done. having been applied! (Now that’s not altogether bad!) have anything to do with this school! There’s a picture in the old Moravian hymnal When he gets up in the morning he takes a shower with Yes, I’m afraid we’ve even differed in priority. Let’s portraying three great heroes of the Reformation. That rose-scented soap and then rolls on lemon-flavored stick to the Old Book. picture shows Wycliffe, “the Morning Star of the deodorant; he brushes his teeth with mint-flavored We’ve studied briefly our Heritage, our Harvest; and Reformation,” taking the torch; it shows Huss lighting it; toothpaste; he gargles with some cherry mouthwash; he now OUR HELP. (This is a good outline whether it’s a and it shows Luther holding it high. sprinkles his feet with lilac foot powder; he washes his good message or not!) Graduates of 1975: the torch has been taken, and the hair with strawberry shampoo; he shaves with lime We need to keep constantly before us the fact that torch has been lit. Before long, the present pastors of this foamy and slaps on peach cologne; then he sprays his hair though we have had some small measure of success, it’s Fellowship will be handing that torch to you. Are you with apple blossom hair spray. When he walks out of his not we that did it, but GOD! “The Lord hath done great going to let it fall to the ground or are you going to lift it home to do mortal combat with the devil and the forces things for us, whereof we are glad!” “This is the Lord’s high? I believe our Fellowship is facing a new day, a of evil, he looks like a china doll and smells like a doing; it is marvelous in our eyes!” rising sun. fruitcake! He gets into his Continental, turns on the air “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence In the last chapter of the Book of Joshua, we read these conditioner, slips in a tape of the Imperials Quartet, and cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which significant words (and I think they’re applicable): “And as he drives along he sings with them, “I’m satisfied with made heaven and earth. He will not suffer thy foot to be Israel served the Lord all the days of Joshua, and in the just a cottage here below!” moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. Behold, he days of the elders that overlived Joshua.” Just across to I say again, we don’t even look like old time preachers that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The the opposite page, in the first chapter of the Book of did! Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy right Judges, we read those same words: “And Israel served the That brings me to another point – we don’t sound like hand. The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon Lord all the days of Joshua, and in the days of the elders old-time preachers did. That’s right; the old songs we by night. The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he that outlived Joshua.” What a faithful man Joshua was to used to hear and sing with such fervor would put iron in shall preserve thy soul. The Lord shall preserve thy going keep a nation bowing at the altar of Jehovah, walking in your blood and a ramrod up your back! They were a out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for the precepts of God’s Word for two whole generations. course in systematic theology with a message to ponder evermore.” [Psalm 121] Dr. Bob Jones, in the closing days of his ministry, as we sang the words. Yes, my friends, this doing is of the Lord. For “Except looked into the future and he feared, like any “How firm a foundation ye saints of the Lord, is laid the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it: conscientious man of God would. He feared for the time for your faith in His excellent Word! except the Lord keep the city the watchman waketh but in his influence would wane and he wouldn’t be there at the What more can He say than to you He hath said, you, vain.” The Lord is our help, our redeemer, our all! school to safeguard everything he thought needed to be who unto Jesus for refuge hath fled! Whatever good is seen around Baptist Bible College, the safeguarded. So he said something like this: “According The soul that on Jesus hath leaned for repose, I will Lord deserves the credit – certainly not Beauchamp Vick, to the laws of nature I won’t be with you always. When not, I WILL NOT [pounding the pulpit] desert to its foes! not even these men and women who we’ve tried to God calls me home, if I ever look over the precipice of That soul, though all Hell should endeavor to shake, assemble into the best group of qualified, spiritual, heaven and see Bob Jones University dipping its colors, I’ll never, no, never, NO, NEVER forsake!” consecrated, and dedicated teachers that any school compromising in its doctrine and in its practice; if I see We don’t hear songs like that much anymore in our affords anywhere in America. They don’t deserve the compromise and liberalism and modernism being taught fundamental Baptist churches! credit. This is the Lord’s doing! Yes, HE is our help! in these halls, and the Word of God questioned and the We go from one fool extreme to the other and skip the Then I want us to consider for just a moment OUR name of Christ dragged in the mire, then I’m going to go middle. Some songs emphasize the beat of the so-called HORIZON. (Our Heritage, our Harvest, our Help; and up to the Lord and I’m going to say, ‘Lord, would you just “gospel rock.” (As far as I’m concerned they ought to now our Horizon.) excuse me for a little while? I’ve got a job to do.’ I’ll leave the word gospel out of it!) It sounds like the On the occasion of convening the Constitutional come down here, and there won’t be one single stone left extenuated beat of a tom-tom in a pagan dance in the Convention, the wisest statesmen the thirteen struggling of these buildings here on this territory!” African jungle. And if it’s not that, then they go to the states could afford had assembled yonder in Philadelphia. My friends, according to the laws of nature, those of us other extreme and have long-haired, stiff, high-brow They met in old Independence Hall. For two weeks those whom you’ve called founders of this institution will not music that’s as mechanical as an alarm clock and as cold representatives, jealous of their own particular region, be here if another twenty-five years comes and the Lord as a dog’s nose – it doesn’t reach the hearts of anybody quibbled and quarreled about the wording of this, that, Jesus tarries His coming. If the time ever comes when there! Then there’s the crowd who’s got to have one of the and the other. Not a scratch of a pen had been made, doubts are distilled, and when question marks are put songs in the Top Ten of popular gospel music – such signing any important document. Not a single resolution behind the Word of God, and when the gospel of Jesus sentimental, syrupy slush and mush as “Moonshine over was passed. They were wrangling; they were fussing and Christ – the saving Gospel of Blood Redemption – fails the old country church yard;” or “Little Willie’s gone to fighting. In the midst of that, old Benjamin Franklin to be proclaimed, those of us whom you’ve called Heaven, so tell mother I’ll be there.” I say we sound arose; and though he had taken a bath in Voltaire’s founders, will join Noel Smith and Fred Donnelson and different from what we used to! atheism when he was our ambassador yonder in France, others, and we’ll walk up and say, “Lord, would you just My friends, our song services as well as our preaching yet old Ben Franklin arose and said something like this: excuse us for a few minutes? We have a task to perform!” needs to get back to sound Bible principles and stay “Mr. President,” (addressing George Washington who there! was chairing the occasion), he said, “I’m an old man. My Yes, I’m afraid in too many cases even our preaching hairs are white with the frosts of many winters. I’ve has changed a little bit. There’s now a difference in watched through these years the hand of God in dealing delivery. It used to be you could tell a fundamental with individuals and with nations. Sir, I am persuaded Baptist preacher even if you were blindfolded! that no nation can be successfully launched without NOT TO BE OVERLOOKED AMID And there’s a difference in context. Preachers, how seeking and obtaining the help of Divine Providence. I long has it been since you preached a sermon on hell? I move, therefore, Mr. President, that every time we come THE CELEBRATION don’t mean just referring to it in passing; I mean when together, that we open the session in prayer asking God to In the course of our ten-year journey, the Global have you preached a straight-out sermon on the burning guide in every detail.” Independent Baptist Fellowship has lost the fires of an everlasting hell and held the congregation over And the last time I was there (I hope it’s still there), in fellowship on “this side” with some dear soldiers it so close they could smell the brimstone? We have too old Independence Hall, there’s a picture on the wall – a who were an essential part of what we have now many people like Paul described: “There is no fear of picture showing our forefathers kneeling upon those enjoyed for the first decade of a new century. These God before their eyes!” But it’s OUR fault if there’s no broad twelve inch wide planks; and there George folks are missed. The reunion we will one day fear of hell before our people! We need to preach and Washington stands with his face raised to the God Who rejoice in with those who have gone Home before sound forth as never before the necessity of repentance, alone can make nations great, and those men petitioning us makes our fellowship, kinship, and laboring- and speak against every sin that the devil sponsors. for His Divine help and guidance. Soon thereafter came together here that much more appreciated. Thank As long as God gives me health and strength, I purpose forth the document which is the greatest treatise of law, God for those who serve together today and for to preach a sin that’s black, a life that’s short, a death equity, judgment, and government that earth knows these listed (and others) who served with us in the that’s certain, a hell that’s hot, an eternity that’s long, a anything about! past – and upon whose shoulders we now stand. judgment that’s sure…and call sinners to a redemption And there while that was going on, after God had ART WILSON that’s Blood-bought! prospered them, old Franklin arose again and said, “Sir, JERRY BRINKMAN Sometimes our preaching is even different in origin. I’ve been looking at a picture there on the wall. I see there FLOYD SCHEXNAYDER Today it’s become fashionable to use many different the half of a sun. The artist has shown just half of the sun KATHY FARINELLA versions of the Bible. In some quarters, it’s even become because it is outlined against the distant horizon. I’ve KEVIN O’BRIEN fashionable to question and correct the Bible – that been trying to determine whether or not that is a rising or WALLACE GIDEONS English Bible which has been the source of the greatest a setting sun. But now, after these blessings and RICHARD WORSHAM revivals the earth ever knew. This Bible has been more accomplishments, I believe a new day is dawning. I KEN EASTMAN influential in the preaching of the gospel and souls saved believe that is a rising sun for our country.” FRANK EARHART than even the original manuscripts were, because they My friends, I believe a new day is dawning. I believe NITA JOINER didn’t last very long. I’m not a crank on the subject, but the second quarter of a century [of the Baptist Bible RICHARD GRAVES I still believe we need to shun such expressions as we Fellowship] should see the rising of a new sun and of LUKE ONLEY come across like: “You know now, that does not appear in greater accomplishments. Yes, I believe our greatest FRED MORTON the original documents,” or “This verse is not found in sermons are yet to be preached; our greatest churches are LES AINSWORTH the oldest manuscripts,” or “This could be more properly yet to be built; our greatest mission work has yet to be HARRY STRACHAN SR. rendered as such-and-such,” trying to improve the Bible! accomplished; our greatest student body is yet to be NORMAN LAFLEUR Listen! This King James Version, our English Bible – assembled; our greatest offerings have yet to be given; ROY THOMPSON the Bible of our fathers and mothers – is the one that has our greatest influence is yet to be felt; our greatest come floating down to us upon the blood of Christian victories are yet to be won; and perhaps, perhaps, our martyrs, our forefathers! It has been, I say, the ONE text greatest sacrifices are yet to be made.

5 G L O B A L BAPTIST TIMES

Getting to Know God’s Servants was not a fellowship of pastors close to me. I had to drive to New Mexico or West Texas – to the fellowships over THE TIMES INTERVIEW: J. C. JOINER there. I felt I needed fellowship; I needed to be preached The value of a man who has put down roots and been faithful to, I needed to be challenged. I believe I still need to serve in one place for fifty-one-plus years is beyond it! description. He is of great value to his Lord, and he is of great But as far as the ministry itself, I don’t believe value to those he has ministered to over that time; and then, he it is much different than it was fifty-one years is of great value to other ministers who can learn from his ago. Basically, it’s still knocking doors, visiting, wealth of experience. Such is the case with Bro. J. C. Joiner. counseling, and winning people to Christ. It still Few men are as widely respected and loved as is this dear demands that when people come to church, that brother. It is an honor to be able to share with our readers the person and insight of this man of God. Thanks to Bro. Terry you be prepared. The need is the same today: that Randolph for doing the interview work. folks hear a gospel message, that they be Enjoy! challenged and instructed, that Christ be exalted, the time of coming to Tucson in 1959 as the beginning of BAPTIST TIMES: Bro. Joiner, We are excited for of course, and that everyone be given an opportunity to my ministry. the privilege to interview you. Thank you for taking respond to God’s voice when He speaks to them (we have this time to share a part of your life with us. TIMES: I know you were instrumental in the early never had a service where an invitation is not given). years of Pacific Coast Baptist Bible College [now J.C. JOINER: Thank you; I am delighted to do so. I Problems have come when churches get away from Heartland BBC]. Could you tell us a little about your appreciate the ministry of the Baptist Times and the good their basic responsibility – that of ministering the Word involvement there? information it provides to our pastors; it is instructive, of God to people. I’m not saying JOINER: Of course I was a very heavy supporter of and I believe essential, so that we might know what’s we shouldn’t take a stand on BBC in Springfield, Missouri (my alma mater), and I happening among the brethren and in our churches. issues; we should, and I do. If served there in many capacities – as a trustee and as a you asked any member of our TIMES: Maybe you could begin by just sharing a director of the BBFI, and so-forth. I was a little church, I believe they could tell little history concerning your early life – how you got concerned in the early days of PCBBC because I felt you where I stand on every saved and how that led to your surrender to full-time some of the brethren in California were starting a school moral and, yes, even political ministry. aimed at competing with BBC more than with a desire to issue being faced today. But I do JOINER: I was born in Clovis, New Mexico, on May train men and women from that region of the country. So not major on those things. My 16, 1931 (I am 79). While in junior high school, my at the beginning of the school, I did not go along with it; responsibility is to preach Christ, to win people to Him, family moved to Santa Fe [New Mexico], where I grew but I did have some very good friends who were and to edify those that are saved. In these fifty-one years, up. I have one sister. I was raised in a Baptist church; I involved. I’ve had three basic messages: get saved; get somebody can remember the Sunday I went forward. But no one Sometime later, Brother Jack Baskin came home from else saved; and live like you’re saved. I believe that sums dealt with me. Shortly thereafter I was baptized and Korea. He had been a classmate of mine at BBC. In fact, up the primary work of a pastor. If you study the New became a member of the First Baptist Church in Clovis. he was the first missionary my church took on to support, Testament, that’s exactly what the early churches were So I thought I was saved. on the second Sunday of our existence. When he took doing. After high school, I received a scholarship to play over as executive vice-president of the school, he came to I will say this: in 2010, it is harder to get into homes to football at the University of New Mexico. I was injured see me and assured me that the school would be a work present the gospel than when I first started. Years ago, while playing, which ended my “football career.” I left of the Lord – that it was not anti-BBC, and that my help even though people were unsaved, they had some Bible college and joined the Air Force in 1951; that took me to was needed. Well, he “sold me” on it, and our church consciousness. Like myself: I was raised in a Baptist Roswell, New Mexico, where I got saved. An airman became a part of the effort to establish the school. In fact, church; I knew a lot of things about the Bible, but I invited me to church – Tabernacle Baptist Church in over the years the greatest investment we’ve had in any wasn’t saved. Folks were like me in those early days, as I Roswell. It was under the preaching of Bro. Howard ministry outside of our church has been PCBBC and knocked doors from 9 in the morning to 9 at night. I Ingram, who was the pastor there then, that I got saved on what is now Heartland Baptist Bible College. would find many prospects and have the opportunity to August 18, 1953. I must say it changed my life! I count TIMES: Not with the intent to make comparisons, follow-up. Now, the biggest challenge is to even get into that as the moment Christ came into my life; I repented but what things do you think should be important in a home to be able to sit down and present the gospel – of my sin and put my faith in Him. Bible colleges today? What emphases need to be most people don’t want you in their house. It is a different At Tabernacle Baptist Church in Roswell was the first made? time. There is no conscious need of God today. The time that I had really come under the sound of Bible JOINER: First of all, when we send young people or attitude is, “I’m OK and you’re OK; you do your thing preaching. Bro. Ingram was a great preacher, a great young couples from our church (and we’ve had over 330- and I’ll do my thing.” Many of those we reach today are church-planter, and he certainly influenced my life. And 340 go out of our church to Bible college to prepare for those with drug or alcohol problems. They at least know it was there in the church that I met my wife, Nita. the ministry), I want them to believe they are where the they have a need. Sometime later we were married, I surrendered to preach, Lord would have them be. But I also want that place to be and we went off to Baptist Bible College in Springfield TIMES: Because you’ve been a church planter, and where the Bible is the primary textbook and the teachers [Missouri] to prepare for the ministry. stayed in one place for over 50 years now, what advice have done the work of the Lord. I want an emphasis on In November of 2008, Nita went home to be with the or counsel would you give to young preachers who church planting and missions as well as a capability to Lord, and on August 8th of this year I married my new desire to plant a church? train for other areas of Christian ministry, church work, wife, Jackie; we’re newlyweds. JOINER: First of all, you need to know that it’s God’s and so-forth. But primarily, the work of a Bible college will. And know too that the place you go is not your own TIMES: Tell us about the places you served after ought to be just that: an emphasis on the Word of God choosing. Even after starting the church in Tucson, I have graduating from Bible college, and what may have led while training men and women to go from school to had invitations to candidate for the position of pastor at you to go to the state of Arizona, and specifically to establish churches and do the work of the Lord – doing some other church; but in all these years I’ve never done Tucson. that which God calls us to do. It’s very simple: it’s the so. It’s not that I wouldn’t, I just never felt that was what JOINER: Well, after graduating from BBC, I went to fulfillment of the Great Commission. That commission is the Lord wanted me to do. And that doesn’t mean Tennessee Temple University. I really appreciated what I to go anywhere and everywhere in the world God would someone else shouldn’t consider it. That’s my point: had in those early days at Baptist Bible College; but I felt, lead you. The Bible training time should better prepare know what God wants you to do. as a new Christian, I needed some more Bible training, so God’s servants to effectively teach and preach the Word I went to Chattanooga, and under the ministry of the TIMES: What do you see as the greatest challenge of God. It should enable them to be proficient in the church and school there, really facing preachers and churches today? Word and help them serve in a way that is conducive to gained a lot as far as my ministry JOINER: The greatest challenge I see is to “stay by the winning people to Jesus Christ. was concerned. stuff.” It’s to see to it that we preach and teach the Sometimes I feel that colleges get on “tangents.” I After graduating there in simplicity of Christ and His truths, and not divert to some believe it to be important that we keep to the Tennessee, my wife and I had an “tangent.” It all comes back to remaining true to the fundamentals of training, keep to the fundamentals of the interest to go west – the fundamentals of the faith. The “tangents” so prevalent faith, and spare ourselves all the disruptions and [American] West was really today are the contemporary manners or trends that have controversies that come when we depart from those booming at that time, during the taken us away from the methods and the work that the things. Over the years, while connected with BBC, 1950s. Nita and I weren’t sure just New Testament teaches. PCBBC, and now Heartland, and several other colleges where in the West; we were open to anywhere from I believe the doctrine of separation is one of the biggest we support, I’ve found it needful to be sure and Albuquerque, New Mexico, to San Diego [California]. issues right now. There is a constant challenge or emphasize “thus saith the Lord,” and avoid the personal Both of us eventually felt like Tucson, Arizona, was the temptation to tone down the message of separation. And preferences we all have, being careful not to judge others place God was calling us to. So, we started the work there clearly making a stand as Baptists is an issue related to and become critical of others. The job of the college is to [New Testament Baptist Church] on March 29, 1959; that that message. We should make no apologies for being a train and prepare people for the gospel ministry, letting was our first service. We had 41 in attendance after two Baptist – I emphasize that often in our church. The them make up their own minds about preferences. But the weeks of visiting; and then, after my powerful preaching, temptation is to think, “Well, maybe we can reach more basics – fundamentals of the faith, standards, and the next Sunday we cut it in half and had 20. [SMILING] people if we lower our standards.” I’m convinced that is separation are essential for a sound Bible college. And if We spent three years meeting in public school buildings, an error. God does not honor preaching that is watered- the Bible college is to be a Baptist Bible college, then it and eventually we were able to buy property where the down. God will not bless a man who compromises in should instill the importance of being Baptist – not just church facilities are now located – a place I believe to be order to reach people. I don’t see our Lord Jesus doing “baptistic,” but Baptist! one of the best locations in Tucson for a church. that. John the Baptist sure didn’t do that; and the Apostle TIMES: In what ways do you feel ministries today So, God blessed in those early days – I believe because Paul didn’t do that. They emphasized the pure gospel to have changed from that of the early days, the days in we were where God would have us start a work. And that see people get saved and then showed them they were a which you planted the church in Tucson? has been the only place I’ve served, except serving as an new person, a new creature, declaring that their lifestyle JOINER: Very simple: when I went to Tucson, there interim pastor part-time while I was in BBC; but I count ...continued on page 9

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a variation of what we might call “unavoidable accidents.” fall, we still enjoy 95% (?). It is defined as an occurrence caused solely by an act of Maybe the Hebrews had some insight, even though they God, not by the negligence or action of any person. An oc- didn’t want to take credit for the fall. Remember, they at- currence is an “act of God” if it happens directly and ex- tributed everything to God. So the next time you are taken The Preacher's Study clusively by the violence of nature, without human aback by the beauty of a fresh snowfall, a full rainbow, a with Bro. Dave Hardy involvement, and could not have been prevented by rea- breath-taking sunset, or when you enjoy watching the first sonable foresight or care. rays of the morning sun, just remember such things are “acts of God.” ACTS OF GOD Lately, tsunamis, earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, tor- nados and volcanoes have captured the headlines. All are In the case of my tornado experience, I am happy to say On Friday, December 5, 1975, I categorized as acts of God. we were benefactors. We were afforded our greatest chal- was sitting at my desk at Eastland In the Hebrew mind of the Old Testament, everything lenge, greatest opportunity, and enjoyed our greatest vic- Baptist Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma. was attributed to God. Good or bad, it was God’s doing. tory. We came back stronger and larger, having Even though it was December, it was That sort of thinking has some merit, but it would be better experienced the hand of God both in the destruction and a warm, humid day with low, active if we could identify those occurrences specifically ordered rebuilding of our church facilities. And, as for me – I got clouds. The clouds were heavy and by God, and others just allowed by Him. a great sermon illustration. I love you, God! had the blackish-green tint that is fa- It is hard to see the good in some things, no matter who mous in Oklahoma during tornado season. It was a little we are or whatever our mindset may be. Even those of us before 5:00 P.M. and I was looking over my sermon notes who consider God to be good at all times have faced situ- MEN OUGHT ALWAYS TO PRAY for Sunday. My plans were to shortly leave for home when ations when the best we could say was, “I really don’t I heard a noise outside resembling a large engine. After know the reason for this.” However, just because we don’t by Leonard Ravenhill sorting through the sound signatures for planes, large know the reason for something doesn’t mean there is no The church has many organizers, but few agonizers; trucks and trains, I opened the back door of the church to reason. Children experience this routinely when their lov- many who pay, but few who pray; many resters, but few determine the source of the sound. ing parents make right decisions for them, which they nei- wrestlers; many who are enterprizing, but few who are The door faced the east, and when I opened it there was ther understand nor appreciate. interceding. People who are not praying are playing. an incredibly loud noise to my right, or south of the In my mind, it doesn’t add-up when people who deny Two prerequisites of dynamic Christian living are vi- church. About one football field away, a tornado was pul- any possibility of Intelligent design go to court over finan- sion and passion, and both of these are generated in the verizing a service station and was headed straight in my cial loss and lay the blame on God for something they be- prayer closet. The ministry of preaching is open to a few. direction. For a moment I was mesmerized. I had never lieve He didn’t create. Laws that govern weather are not The ministry of prayer is open to every child of God. seen a tornado so close. I watched as large pieces of debris completely foreign to other laws God has put in motion, Don’t mistake action of unction, commotion for cre- swirled in the air. I just stood there thinking, “Would you such as gravity. The earth cannot exist without these laws. ation, and rattles for revivals. look at that!” God’s order produces seasons. I love the seasons, as do When we pray, God listens to our heartbeat. Hannah’s Within a minute or so, a still, small Voice suggested I most people. I enjoy the warmth of summer and its water lips moved, but her voice was not heard (I Sam. 1:12- go back in the building or try to escape in the church van. activities, the crispness of fall and her smell of fallen 13). When we pray in the Spirit, there are groanings For some reason my mind processed the tornado as more leaves, the beauty of winter’s snow and the laughter of which cannot be uttered (Rom. 8:26). a nuisance than a danger, so I went back in the church, sat children playing in it. But my favorite season is spring. It’s Tithes may build a church, but tears will give it life. down at my desk, and looked at my notes again. Once the season when green returns. And it is also tornado sea- That is the difference between the modern church and more that same Prompting recommended that I get under son, so I have to admit that I even like the thunderstorms. the early church. Our emphasis is on paying, theirs was my desk. I said, “Lord, have Your will in this matter,” and I have lived in the Texas/Oklahoma region for sixty-five on praying. When we have paid, the place is taken. slid under my little desk. Within the next minute, the build- years and I have enjoyed hundreds if not thousands of When they had prayed, the place was shaken (Acts ing was gone. Not one wall was left standing, but I was thunderstorms. I love the crack of thunder, the swirling 4:31). safe and secure in my “cleft of the rock” under my desk. clouds and especially the smell of fresh water on thirsty In the matter of effective praying, never have so many The destruction of our building that day was attributed soil. It is the smell of life. I am convinced man enjoyed all left so much to so few. Brethren, let us pray. to an “act of God.” “Act of God” is a literal legal term – of God’s creation, without loss, before the fall. Since the

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TAKING A STAND It is determining not to move away from that something dering in their hearts, let us determine not to become guilty which is worth standing for. Apostasy comes one inch at a of selling out truth for friendship’s sake. By Russell Tyree time, and only firm resolve on the part of preachers and WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO TAKE A STAND? churches will keep it from happening. Without taking a stand, things just continue to slide. Editor’s note: During the struggles within the BBFI that finally It is determining not to move, even though others are Today’s extreme left position becomes tomorrow’s middle culminated in the birth of the GIBF, in 1998 pastors in the Wash- ington State BBF chose to withdraw their state from any identifi- moving away. Friendships and allegiance to organiza tions of the road. If you want a clear picture of that, you need cation with the national organization. Bro. Russ Tyree, who was is no excuse for taking even one step down the road to apos- look no further than the Baptist Bible Fel lowship over the their State Chairman at the time, penned this declaration and ex- tasy. Some will let things slide down that road be cause they last twenty years or so. planation of their action. do not want to offend some one. Let us remember that we We are commanded to stand (Eph. 6:14; II Tim. 4:1-4; II We have come to one of those places in the course of must give our explanations at the Judgment Seat some day. Cor. 6:14-18). I see no need to elaborate on this point. The events when it is standing time. We have watched progres- WHAT TAKING A STAND DOES Word of God is very plain for anybody who is willing to sivism move through our Fellowship for the last few years, It raises a standard for others to see. Standards (flags) receive it. and it seems that almost every day we hear of another have long been used on the battlefield to encourage and The next generation will be irreparably damaged if we church changing its services and methods to be more ap- give direction to discouraged and confused soldiers. Some- don’t. If we let progressivism continue its creeping takeover pealing to the worldly, charismatic, ecumenical crowd. one is standing. There is a cause. And no, not everybody is and let it pass as normal biblical Christianity, we will face While we heed the admonition of our leaders to be tolerant turning back in the day of battle. a coming generation which knows nothing better. They will of this diversity, the poison spreads. While we tolerantly It causes you to stand out from those who will not take a know nothing but pseudo-spiritual charismatic slop as wor- wait, more and more of our churches go down the tube to stand. You cannot hide in the crowd if you are going to take ship. They will know nothing of real Holy Spirit em - eventually be worthless to the real biblical Baptist mission- a stand. But why should that matter to a courageous Baptist powered “fire in the bones” preaching. Anemic, seminar ary move ment. What good would it do to have the preacher? Are we sheep, or men of God with the fire of methodology, soft-soap “preaching” will be all that they largest interdenominational missionary board in the world? the calling of God burning in our souls? know as the power of the pulpit. Their churches will die or WHAT IS TAKING A STAND? It angers those who have decided to move away from metamor phose into something worse than dead. It is determining not to move from a position. In our case their moorings. Those who have pulled down their standard The blood of the martyrs demands that we stand. Nine- it is standing for the King James Bible and the real biblical, and started the move toward the world always want com - teen hundred years of bloodshed and burning flesh has been historical, Baptist faith. These are things which we see to pany on their journey. Standing brings a condemnation of the price paid for the faith and the Bible handed down to be absolutely essential for the preservation of faith upon those who have moved – that’s just the way it is. us. I would have to bow my head in shame if I didn’t have the earth. The rest of the gospel-preaching crowd rode into It causes those who are reluc tant to take a stand to be un- the courage to stand and pass it on – and pass it on intact. town on the bloody backs of our Baptist forefathers and comfort able. Many could be found in this category. While their Textus Receptus, King James Bibles. we have no desire to embarrass good men who are still pon - Church Listing Landmark Baptist Church Pastor Chad Spence P.O. Box 69 Red Oak, TX 75154 (972) 576-3180

Landmark Baptist Church Pastor Don Sumpter 4000 Creighton Rd. Richmond, VA 23223 (804) 643-7711 Table Mountain Baptist Church Fairfax Baptist Temple Pastor Randy Conway Pastor Troy Calvert 16735 W. 63rd Place 6401 Missionary Lane Golden, CO 80403 Fairfax Station, VA 22039 (303) 277-1125 (703) 323-8100 www.tablemountainbaptist.org www.fbtministries.org Bible Baptist Church Temple Baptist Church Berean Baptist Church Cleveland Baptist Church Bible Baptist Church Pastor Douglas Duffett Pastor Chester Thrift Pastor Jeff Ables Pastor Kevin Folger Pastor Marvin McKenzie 32 Adak Ave. 507 E. Norton Rd. 4431 Tiedeman Rd. 12307 Canyon Rd. East 730 Lexington Ave. Fairbanks, AK 99701 Springfield, MO 65803 Brooklyn, OH 44144 Puyallup, WA 98373 (907) 452-1407 Deltona, FL 32725 (417) 833-1529 (216) 671-2822 (253) 535-3165 www.biblebaptistfairbanks.com (386) 668-9171 www.thebereanbaptistchurch.org www.clevelandbaptist.org www.bbcpuyallup.org Crossroads Baptist Church Liberty Baptist Church Celina Baptist Temple Cornerstone Baptist Church Pastor Steve Clayton Pastor Guy Solarek Pastor Rick DeMato Highland Park Baptist Church Pastor Terry Randolph P.O. Box 29 1120 S. Arlington Ave. P.O. Box 911 Pastor Steven Koppelmann 4041 E. Phelps Rd. Indianapolis, IN 46203 7505 Celina-Mendon Rd. (Sierra & Greenmeadow Dr.) Celina, OH 45822 1505 S.W. Barton Phoenix, AZ 85032 (317) 357-2971 (602) 867-2700 Helena, MT 59602 (419)586-3646 Seattle, WA 98106 www.cbcindy.com (406) 458-6300 www.celinabaptisttemple.org Southwest Baptist Church Bible Baptist Church Cornerstone Baptist Church Fellowship Baptist Church Pastor Jason Gaddis Lakewood Baptist Temple Pastor Larry Obero Pastor Don Mitchell Pastor Steve Triplett 1300 SW 54th St. Pastor Dennis Fountain th th 2432 East 18 St. 10701 E. 56 St. 11416 Albemarle Road Oklahoma City, OK 73119 10650 Military Rd. S.W. Suite #1 National City, CA 91950 Indianapolis, IN 46235 Charlotte, NC 28227 (405) 682-1491 Lakewood, WA 98498 (619) 267-3761 (317) 823-6897 (704) 545-9668 www.southwestbaptistchurch.com (253) 584-2500 Lancaster Baptist Church Whittier Lane Baptist Church Heartland Baptist Church Eastland Baptist Church Woodin Valley Baptist Church Pastor Paul Chappell Pastor Frank Wood Pastor Dennis Gruber Pastor Troy Dorrell Pastor Rich Farinella 4020 E. Lancaster Blvd. 1371 Whittier Lane 411 Black Hills Ave. STE 1 1835 S. 129th E. Ave P.O. Box 570 Lancaster, CA 93535 New Castle, IN 47362 Alliance, NE 69301 Tulsa, OK 74108 (661) 946-4663 Bothell, WA 98021 (765) 529-2454 (308) 760-0378 (918)437-4707 www.lancasterbaptist.org (425) 481-1075 www.whittierlanebaptist.org www.sowinginalliance.org www.ebctulsa.org Lighthouse Baptist Church Central Baptist Church Fellowship Baptist Church Christ Independent Baptist Church Eglise Biblique Baptiste Pastor Jim Preston Pastor Bob Nolan Pastor Merv Goodrick Pastor Dave Peterman Pastor Robert Stevens 12140 Indian St. 105 Hummingbird Lane 1515 W. South St. 1618 Womrath St. 971 rue Gibraltat Moreno Valley, CA 92557 LaFayette, LA 70506 Lincoln, NE 68522 Philadelphia, PA 19124 Sherbrooke, QC J1N 2G2 (951) 924-5094 (215) 288-5667 (337) 984-3384 (402) 477-7541 (819) 564-1278; (819) 864-0497 www.mvlbc.com www.cibc1.org Mira Mesa Bible Baptist Church Eastside Bible Baptist Church Open Door Bible Baptist Church Southside Baptist Church Eglise Biblique Baptiste Metro Sud Pastor Willie M. Del Pastor Edward Penner Pastor Kenneth Walters Pastor Mario Monette 9920 Scripps Lake Dr., 101 Pastor Pete Montoro 1229 S. Anderson Rd. 6215 Oliver Ave. S th 3395 Mountainview San Diego, CA 92131 30-85 35 St. Rock Hill, SC 29730 Richfield, MN 55423 St-Hubert, QC J3Y 5N4 Tel: (858) 527-1801 Astoria, NY 11105 (803) 324-0627 WRHJ – 93.1 FM Fax: (858) 527-1802 (612) 869-5821, (H)(952) 884-9044 (718) 728-4410 www.southsidebaptistrh.org (450) 445-6659 Liberty Baptist Church Bible Baptist Church Buckley Road Baptist Church Bible Baptist Church Calvary Baptist Church Pastor Dwight Tomlinson Pastor Kent Hogan Pastor Dan Smith Pastor Jim Parrish 1000 Bison Ave. 800 S. Baker Blvd. Currently mtg. at Old Library Centre 4962 Buckley Rd. 255 S. 21 Bypass (PO Box 266) Newport Beach, CA 92660 Carthage, MO 64836 Droitwich Spa, Worcs, U.K. WR9 8QS Liverpool, NY 13088 Fort Mill, S.C. 29716-0266 (949) 760-5444 (417) 358-4394 Pastor Russ Ivison 024 7631 9880 www.libertybaptistchurch.org www.bbccarthage.com (315) 457-0570 (803) 547-2761

8 G L O B A L BAPTIST TIMES

“TIMES INTERVIEW” endeavored to pay that debt by sending students, attending and participating in those business meetings continued from page 6… monthly financial support, special offerings, crisis which convened at the school.) needed to change. offerings, and some have served as BBFI officers and as There was little organization in the early days. The new officers of BBFI-owned schools. We have no desire to I find that, even among some Fellowship was held together by nothing but desire, make enemies out of men with whom we have had determination, and the prompting of God. The more a Baptist people who come to us friendships. However, as we have heard preached all our from other churches, when I begin person attended GIBF meetings, the more clearly he lives as fundamental Baptists, our loyalty belongs to would see the common burden among the men assembled to emphasize lifestyle changes Christ, His Word and our convictions, before it is given to to accomplish, collectively and scripturally, what perhaps that are associated with true any organization of man.” salvation, it seems to be foreign to Twenty-three HBBC directors and thirty other pastors one church or one pastor would struggle to achieve on them. That is one of the hardest co-signed the letter. their own. things right now – making clear While Bro. Davison was absent from the business The inaugural “Global Independent Baptist and consistent what are right and wrong separation meeting to make his phone call to Bro. Gillming, Fellowship” National Meeting was September 17-19, standards. We just need to hold the Bible standard high, conversation turned to the formation of a new 2001, hosted by Pastor Rich Farinella and Woodin Valley keep it up there, and appeal to people on the basis of the Fellowship. There was much discussion, and finally a Baptist Church in Woodinville, Washington. It was a Holy Spirit convicting their hearts “of sin, and of vote was taken, which carried. A new Baptist movement, grand time of reward and rejoicing! The program of righteousness, and of judgment.” later to be named Global Independent Baptist preachers featured Dave Hardy, Tom McGath, Clarence Patterson, missionary Bob Phillips, Jerry Scheidbach, TIMES: Of all the blessings that have come from Fellowship, was officially formed. Pastor Bruce Turner of Dan Tidd, Bruce Turner, Dick Webster, and Frank Wood. pastoring and serving God, what have been some of West Gate Baptist Church in Tampa, Florida, was chosen Over two years of perplexity, prayer, possibility, and the most rewarding for you? to serve as National Moderator and Pastor Dick Webster persistence had come to fruition, though much structure JOINER: Number one, of course, is winning people to of Liberty Baptist Church in Lewisville, Texas, was work remained to be done. The only dismay to be found Christ – seeing them saved and seeing their lives change. chosen Vice-Moderator. This meeting in Cleveland, Ohio, at that first-ever national meeting regarded the horrific The next most-special is to see young men and women go Nov. 14, 2000, is the birth date of the GIBF. events of 9-11, which had occurred just a week before. out of our church into full-time service – and as a result Brothers Turner and Webster were authorized to enlist Development continued. of that, there’s rarely a place in this country where I go to the help of a few pastors of their choosing to make plans The second national meeting of the new Fellowship hold a meeting that I do not meet people out serving the for national meetings and other needed arrangements in was hosted by Pastor Bruce Turner and West Gate Baptist Lord who used to be members of our church. That is one order to get the new Fellowship underway. The first Church of Tampa, Florida. The meeting was February 18- of the greatest joys; like John spoke of in his epistles – his National Fellowship Meeting, convened exclusively as 20, 2002. The schedule of preachers was: Greg Baker, “children” in the Lord’s work. It is so rewarding to see Global Independent Baptist Fellowship, would not be David Brown, Paul Chappell, Sam Davison, Arlo Elam, lives you’ve had some part in, lives that are manifestly until September 2001. Kevin Folger, Richard King, Robert Lewis, Ken different, still loving the Lord and faithfully serving the The very next month Dick Webster hosted an ad hoc Martinez, Scott Naill, Kerry Nance, Ed Pearson, and Bob Lord. That joy continually multiplies! “steering committee” meeting in Lewisville, Texas – on Stevens. It was here that the “Baptist Articles of Faith” TIMES: Bro. Joiner, thanks once again for taking December 12-13, 2000. Those in attendance were Bro. Webster, Moderator Bruce Turner, David Brown, Robert document was presented to the Fellowship-at-large and the time to share your life and your ministry; I know ratified. It was the first of three primary documents it’s going to be a benefit to other men, and we praise Lewis, Don Mitchell, and Chester Thrift. (There was a very bad ice storm in the Dallas area all during that two- around which the GIBF would ultimately agree to work the Lord for that. together; they were: the Articles; the Covenant JOINER: I’m certainly thankful for the privilege. It’s day meeting – a weather system extending clear up into Quebec, which kept Pastor Bob Stevens grounded in Resolution; and the Guideline Covenant. The Articles always a little awkward to talk about yourself, but I just document was the product of several months of work, give all the glory to the Lord. Every blessing I’ve had is Montreal, unable to attend.) The name, doctrine, purpose, goals, and particulars involved with forming a primarily done by the team of David Lydick and Bruce because of God’s goodness. He has proved Himself to me Turner. (The GIBF is surely partial in our opinion but not over and over. He has answered prayer and graciously new Fellowship were all addressed at the meeting which met in a conference room at the Hampton Inn in ashamed to say the Articles document is one of the best, manifested Himself in our ministry; and I trust He will well-defined statements of faith found among separatist continue to do so. Thank you for the opportunity. Lewisville. For Brother Webster, the significance of the meeting was a demonstrated commitment to the success Baptists anywhere.) of the new Fellowship and the determination to maintain Bruce Turner later hosted, again at his church in “TEN YEARS...TOGETHER IN UNITY” Tampa, April 18-19, 2002, a structure meeting; open to continued from page 3… a “high road” in matters involved with a separation from the BBFI. any interested GIBF-participating preacher. This meeting appeared on the paper, but the inevitable was beginning From the start, the need for a national paper – a was to prepare for the next scheduled Fellowship to be recognized. The ball was rolling. Months of communication tool for the new Fellowship – was business meeting (in May at Heartland BBC) when national tension, personal angst and private discussions recognized. Rich Farinella, with the encouragement of something written-out regarding operations could were coming to a head. some Washington State preachers and especially his wife, hopefully be presented to the Fellowship-at-large. By November, during the annual Friends of Heartland Kathy, took on the responsibility to present a publication Another intention of the meeting was to encourage meeting also hosted by Bro. Folger and Cleveland Baptist for consideration. Bro. Farinella tells of sitting in a support for missionaries who were on the same doctrinal Church, it was a nearly foregone conclusion that a Starbucks coffeehouse with Kathy discussing a myriad of page as the pastors now associated with the new decision would be made to remove Heartland Baptist details concerning the project, running through names of Fellowship. Pastor Turner reported receiving “tons” of Bible College from any association with the Baptist Bible Christian publications and periodicals, when they letters and emails during the process of the discussions Fellowship. Men from around the country began to flow glanced down at the local newspaper – the Seattle Times. regarding current missionaries and any prospective into Cleveland. A great meeting was held there, with To both of them the name fit perfectly, so “Global Baptist mission endeavor the Fellowship might establish. powerful preaching and good fellowship. A business Times” was chosen. It was, in fact, Kathy who conceived In September 2002, the National Fellowship Meeting meeting took place on Tuesday afternoon and, as the design and format of the paper. The cost of the first was hosted by Pastor Dan Tidd and Lighthouse Baptist expected, a motion was brought to the floor that edition was underwritten by several Washington pastors Church in Indianapolis, Indiana. New officers were Heartland BBC be removed from its affiliation with the and their churches. The paper was presented to the chosen: Dick Webster as National Moderator, Dennis BBFI. That motion was quickly seconded and carried Fellowship during its January 2001 business meeting Fountain as Vice-Moderator, and Marshall Stevens as handily. By this time, Pastor Sam Davison of Southwest held during the Heartland BBC Home Missions Secretary. The goal Bro. Webster now sought to see Baptist Church in Oklahoma City was president of the Conference, January 16-18, in Oklahoma City. At that achieved was a missionary service clearinghouse school. It was decided that a phone call should be made meeting the proposed new national paper was approved established and operating within the Fellowship. That to Bro. Kenneth Gillming, Sr., President of the BBFI, and monthly support was raised to continue its goal had remained a burden shared by numbers of men informing him of the decision by the Friends of publication. Bro. Farinella was officially appointed since the inception of the Fellowship. He was authorized Heartland. Editor, and he remained so until sometime after Kathy’s to pursue it. The achievement of the goal, however, along Bro. Davison would also write an open letter to the untimely death in 2003. After serving for a few months as with a written and finally-adopted operational BBFI the next day, formally explaining the reasons for an assistant, David Lydick was installed as Editor of the constitution for the Fellowship would wait another 2½ the action. After listing two BBF “approved school” Global Baptist Times in May 2006. years. status requirements that HBBC believed to be of no During that same business meeting at Heartland in By the beginning of 2004, early aspirations and energy further interest to the school, he then included in the January 2001, what was by then being referred to as the regarding purpose for the movement had seemed to stall. letter the following: “No-Name Fellowship” conducted its first official Intentions to develop a Fellowship missionary endeavor “It should also be understood that there are a growing election of officers. Bruce Turner was elected Moderator; were still waiting. For many men, that yet-to-be-achieved number of independent, fundamental Baptist pastors who Dick Webster as Vice-Moderator; and Dennis Fountain as goal had been the original purpose for reorganizing are very much interested in HBBC, but who are hesitant Secretary. The tenure of officers and other Fellowship separate from the BBF; that vision yet unfulfilled and to get behind the school because of a drift in direction of seemingly un-promoted was perplexing to them. the BBFI. It cannot be denied there is a drift with regard procedures were yet to be determined. So for the time- In May, on Monday night of Heartland BBC’s 2004 to issues of ecclesiastical separation, personal being, all offices were specified with one-year terms. In separation, music, the King James Version, and the addition, possible names for the Fellowship were Graduation Week, a special after-service GIBF meeting whole philosophy of evangelism and ministry, and it is entertained and listed, from which the official name was announced. With the encouragement of several men evident that there is a directional conflict. Global Independent Baptist Fellowship would be chosen who also wanted to see something done regarding a “…It has never been, and is not now, the purpose of at the next meeting, scheduled for May 2001 – once more missions endeavor, David Lydick took the initiative to HBBC to contend with nor criticize other institutions. We to be held on the Heartland campus in Oklahoma City. present a rough draft of a “GIBF Covenant,” including a defend the right of independent Baptists to carry on their (For the first few years of its existence, GIBF spring missions program, to be considered for implementation. business as the responsible leadership deems fit. In that business meetings were held in May at Heartland during He asked Carl Boonstra to sit in and lend his expertise. same spirit, we declare our desire to simply be a Though nothing more than a hearing was given the fundamental, independent Baptist Bible college, and not a its graduation-week activities. The Friends of Heartland matter, it did rekindle a focus on the need. GIBF BBFI college. We acknowledge our debt to the BBFI would meet for their business, and then, after a short pastors of the past fifty years for the education provided. break, the GIBF would reassemble in the same location. Moderator Dick Webster encouraged Bro. Lydick to For up to twenty-five years and more, we have Many preachers got involved with the new Fellowship by ...continued on page 11

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TEXAS GIBF MEETS IN WAXAHACHIE

CALIFORNIA PASTOR AND HIS A report by Robert Lewis MEN VISIT KENYA July 26-27, 2010, twenty preachers gathered at Harvest Baptist Church in Waxahachie, Texas, for the A report by Jim Preston monthly meeting of the Texas GIBF. Pastor Paul Sherin and his wife Lisa hosted the meeting. Special music was provided by Harvey Strain, who played the piano and PLOWING AND PLANTING IN trumpet at the same time. Robert Hurst from Healdton, Oklahoma, also sang played his guitar. THE GARDEN STATE Bro. Dick Webster preached on Monday night to a full A report by Kevin DeAngelo house. On Tuesday morning there were three speakers: The “weeping prophet,” Jeremiah, warned Israel to Tracy Curington of Bible Baptist Church, Ardmore, In June 2010, Missionary Robert Mickey drove Pastor return to God or judgment would fall. He told them (Jer. Oklahoma; Chad Spence of Landmark Baptist Church, Jim Preston and two men from Lighthouse Baptist 4:3), “Break up your fallow ground, and sow not among Red Oak, Texas; and Caleb Shipman of Gospel Light Church in Moreno Valley, California, into the Masai the thorns.” Pastor Kevin DeAngelo says, “Since arriving Baptist Church, Mineral Wells, Texas. During the Mara. It is a large, 938 square-mile game reserve in back in New Jersey in 2008, after thirty years of living business meeting several missionaries and church southwest Kenya in the great Riff Valley bordering elsewhere, I believe I have seen what Jeremiah saw in planters were recognized and money was appropriated Tanzania. That evening they stayed in a tent along the Israel in his day. Living in the Midwest for years I got for their work. A delicious lunch was provided by the Tulik River, near one of the well-known Wildebeest ‘spoiled’ – the majority of people there have some church in the spacious fellowship hall. Other preachers in crossings. Nearly two million Wildebeest cross the river knowledge of the Bible. The depth of Biblical ignorance attendance at the meeting were Robert Lewis, Sonny there during the annual migration, an event known as one here is astounding! To me, people in the South and Dense, Raymond Smith, Dennis Webster, Jim Martin, of the seven wonders of the modern world. A large hippo Midwest have a different problem than those in the North Paul Calaway, Harold Wells, Tim Scott, Ron Patterson, was seen swimming just in front of their tent. A Masai and Northeast. Southerners and Midwesterners have been Don Smith, Zack Switzer, Benjamin Leaf, Phillip warrior stood guard, chasing away curious monkeys that ‘gospel hardened’; the people here are ‘religion Sawilowsky, Ben Frandsen, and Ely Guzman. were constantly looking for opportunities to enter the tent hardened.’ Having been in both places, I can say that The Texas GIBF is interested in meeting and helping and steal whatever they could carry away. What got the religion-hardened is a tougher nut to crack!” missionaries and church planters. Contact Don Smith, American pastor’s attention most was a small faded sign Kevin and Tina DeAngelo arrived in the Keansburg, Garrett Baptist Church, Garrett, Texas, for dates of future near the entrance of the camp that said, “WARNING: New Jersey area in May 2008 and started the Zion meetings. LIONS PRESENT.” (That is exactly what Peter was Independent Baptist Church of Hazlet, New Jersey in trying to tell us in I Peter 5:8-9 – “Be sober, be September. Since then they, and others who have helped, vigilant…”) have gone to over 25,000 doors in the five towns around FELLOWSHIP MEETING IN The next morning the men rose early and traveled out the church. Almost every door, within a three mile radius, OMAHA into the tall grass plains. They left the safe, well-traveled has been knocked and an invitation flyer with the gospel A report by the editor road that professional guides take their tourists to see put there. As of early July, the church has seen two elephants, giraffe, gazelle, hyena, zebra, and most other salvation decisions and one person join. Average well-known Africa animals. They travelled down a small attendance is 6-8 in the morning service and 3-5 in seldom-used jeep trail. Grass was almost three feet tall. It Sunday night meetings. Thursday night Bible studies are became more difficult the farther they went. Suddenly, to the best-attended (8-10 attend then). A Bible study in the left (about twenty feet away!), for a split second they Keansburg is also conducted in a high rise apartment saw the golden head of a lion looking for breakfast. In building (3-5 gather there each week). Slow-going is The Missouri Valley Concord of Independent Baptists another second, she was gone, hiding in the grass common in New Jersey; the area has not had the gospel was hosted August 6, 2010, by the West Omaha Baptist watching for a careless victim. Moments later the men preached there in a long time. Church of Omaha, Nebraska, and Pastor Doug came upon a large mud bog. They considered crossing it, This past summer, two young men from Heartland Robertson. Preachers from four of the seven states in the but also considered the possibility of getting stuck and BBC interned with the young church. Jonathan Mislan region with which the Concord identifies were in having to walk back through the tall grass to get help. and Nick Lee were a blessing! Well over 4,000 doors in attendance. It was a great time; West Omaha Baptist Then they remembered the lion! Everyone decided it was Keansburg were knocked (every door there!); and more Church — a young church meeting in a storefront facility time to go back to where they should have been traveling in Union Beach. They also helped the pastor finish — did a wonderful job as fellowship hosts; the church all along. Keyport. It was the second time through these three was packed-out. Afternoon preachers were Pastor Caleb Robert Mickey was saved and called under the towns. Hundreds of people were witnessed to with only Turner of Grace Baptist Church, Washington, Kansas; ministry of Dr. Roy Thompson and Cleveland Baptist two professions of faith! However, a good number of Pastor Jared Shipman of Fairview Baptist Church, Church in Cleveland, Ohio. Kevin Folger is now his people visited the services, and a great list of prospects Kansas City, Kansas; and Pastor Scott Hanks of sending pastor. The Mickeys live in Nakuru, a city about was compiled to follow up on. In order to host the Heritage Baptist Church, Lawrence, Kansas. a two hours west of Kenya’s capital, Nairobi. They have Heartland interns, the pastor’s wife, Tina, spent the The featured evening preacher for the meeting was established numerous self-supporting churches summer in Virginia; the apartment was too small for Bro. Gary Williams. A long-time pastor in St. Joseph, throughout the area, including mission works among the everyone. The boys were “troopers,” never complaining Missouri, Bro. Williams is now ministering to small Masai people. It was Bro. Preston’s privilege to visit and about a living area converted into their bedroom. churches in need. In July he became the interim pastor of preach in several of those churches and ministries during Please keep Garden State Church Planting in your First Baptist Church of Falls City, Nebraska. His work a two-week period in June. He also preached in a church prayers. Pray God would send a man to work with the there is a source of real excitement for the men of started by Missionary Scott Hall while he was in Kenya. DeAngelos. The church-planting pastor desires to see the MVCIB. In the course of the last two-or-so years, God’s The men from the California church helped build and work stand on its own, enabling he and his wife to start hand has been evident in some great strides being made install trusses on the third story of a school building in another work in the most “fallow” state in the Union. in the north-central states region of the country. For one of the large churches Brother Mickey started in anyone interested in the work of the MVCIB, contact Nakuru. One thing that impressed Bro. Preston while MEN’S RETREAT SET FOR Pastor Merv Goodrick of Fellowship Baptist Church of there was not just the number of works Brother Mickey Lincoln, Nebraska; he is the MVCIB Moderator. has started, and the large crowds attending, but the NORTH CENTRAL REGION quality of the leaders he has trained. National pastors and A Report by the editor workers are extremely well-grounded and mature in the The High Plains Baptist Men’s Retreat, held each year faith. Pastor Preston said, “I would be proud to have any near Omaha, Nebraska, is set for Thursday night through Saturday noon, October 7-9, 2010. The retreat site is a of them on my staff. I would feel very comfortable being Dear Brother Lydick, camp facility in the woods just outside Ashland, a member of Grace Baptist Church in Nakuru and calling My wife and I had the privilege of being at the Nebraska. Scheduled speakers are Pastor Troy Dorrell of the national pastor, my pastor.” Northwest Baptist Youth Camp, June 28-July 3, in Eastland Baptist Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and The trip reenergized the American pastor’s love for Cusick, Washington…The camp was directed by Evangelist Dave McCracken of Southwest Baptist missions and provided his church a firsthand account of Pastors Dan Lydick of Montana and Dave Brown of Church in Oklahoma City. Special music will be how their giving is being used to win souls. But he Washington…It was the best Bible camp of my provided by the GloryBound Quartet from Heartland believed the trip also allowed him and his men to be an experience. Evang. Dave McCracken was the Baptist Bible College. All food and lodging is provided encouragement to Brother Robert Mickey, his family, and preacher. (including a Friday night smoked barbeque cookout). The the national workers who seemed thrilled to know Editor Lydick, the July 2010 patriotic issue of the only items needed are bedding, towels, and toiletries. someone from America cared enough to visit them. Global Baptist Times was superb. Retreat fees and other details may be obtained by Pastor Arthur Houk contacting Midlands Bible Baptist Church in Bellevue, Colville, Washington Nebraska ([email protected]; 402-731-5932).

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GOD AND COUNTRY CELEBRATION IN OKLAHOMA The Oklahoma City Redhawks agreed to send their team mascot; local An edited report by Brad Lowrie grocery stores and Rainbow Bread donated the “fixins” for the hot dogs and apple pies; and then there was Chevrolet. Howard Chevrolet of Oklahoma For Calvary Baptist Church in City purposed to be THE Chevrolet sponsor, providing cars, an event tent, Edmond, Oklahoma, the initial patriotic decorations and $500 cash for incidentals. God did “exceeding process began back in fall 2009 as abundantly above all that we (could) ask or think.” Pastor Brad Lowrie prayed about After initial invitation and follow-up letters, honored guests included the 2010 church calendar. It was Oklahoma Supreme Court Justice Marion Opala (who was the only WWII on the pastor’s heart to have a veteran there), the Oklahoma County district attorney, the Edmond mayor, special Sunday, June 27, 2010, to two Oklahoma Highway Patrol officers, two deputy sheriffs, the Edmond fire chief and recognize God and country, five of his men, one county commissioner, a military color guard, and numerous veterans especially intending to honor (each of whom were greeted with a gift packet and a red-white-and-blue ribbon to those who have served in the military. The pastor’s vision for the event was transformed, recognize them as veterans), and other special guests. Special “favor coins” were also however, as God began to lead in the matter. Pastor Lowrie said, “The Lord got hold of minted for the event and given to each distinguished guest who attended. my heart one day regarding the Celebration; it was as clear as if He had spoken in an God blessed the day with a good attendance and crowned the services with one sailor audible voice saying, ‘Go BIG!’” These two words stuck in my heart, and praying and from the color guard, one lady, and one boy trusting Christ as Saviour. planning followed.” Pastor Lowrie has some event materials remaining and would be glad to help anyone Chuck Harding was the guest preacher for the day, and the theme for the event who might want to do something similar in their church. Contact him at became a spin-off of America being “baseball, hotdogs, apple pie, and Chevrolet.” [email protected] for more info or help.

“TEN YEARS...TOGETHER IN UNITY” consider at one time, and it was the urgent part of our thinking leaders who can be trusted to say what they continued from page 9… purpose for existence. The document was enthusiastically mean and then stick with what they said. They deserve continue working on a constitution for consideration, received by the Fellowship-at-large. our gratitude and our prayers. Many of them have “taken while announcing that work was being done on a Expectedly, the program as presented in Tampa was it on the chin,” so to speak, for the role they played in the missions program: incorporation papers and “501 (c) 3” ratified in the May business meeting. Dick Webster was formulation of the Fellowship. Bruce Turner was the tax exemption status (operating in the State of Texas) officially appointed Missions Director, and Robert Lewis lightning rod who provided passion and leadership were being filed; further development would be as Executive Assistant-Director. The “GIBM Service necessary to get the caravan moving, and moving in one announced in due course. The special May hearing was a Office” would, for the time-being, reside in the Liberty direction. David Lydick is largely responsible for the needed meeting. Baptist Church facilities in Lewisville, Texas. The current hours of work required to articulate a doctrinal statement In the fall of 2004, at the GIBF National Meeting held Advisory Board continued, though it was divided into which identifies our stand on the great faith issues. He September 20-22 at Harvest Baptist Church of Albany, staggered three-year terms and expanded to include the was also the first to propose and push for a written Oregon, (T.J. Smith, host pastor) the next election of Executive Assistant-Director and the three GIBF covenant agreement for GIBF and GIBM operations. officers took place. Kevin Folger became the new Executive Officers. The first “GIBF-endorsed” Kevin Folger is roundly credited with “getting done” National Moderator; Dennis Fountain and Marshall missionaries were: John and Wanda Cassias (Mexico); what everybody envisioned but struggled to accomplish. Stevens were re-elected Vice-Moderator and Secretary Dave and Lori Frauenhofer (Hungary); Seth and Meagan There were numbers of good men – men of principle – respectively. Dick Webster had established a six-member Mau (Cambodia); Edward and Angela Oster (Argentina); who separated from one “path” to start the journey on a missions Advisory Board, and the following men were Jesus and Patricia Venegas (Mexico); and Rob and Joan new one. Scores of others have provided encouragement, selected to serve: Mario Monette, Scott Naill, Keith Shu- Watson (Missionary Helps). Also in the same business direction, advice and criticism to enhance the common mate, Bob Stevens, Russell Tyree, and Ken Walters. Bro. meeting, both the “Covenant Resolution” and “Guideline goal. Webster was continuing to formulate a missionary Covenant” of the GIBF (the remaining parts of a The current GIBF Officers are: Frank Wood, National clearing house operation, and announced that Robert completed constitution) were first presented, to be Moderator; Terry Williams, Vice-Moderator; and Ken Lewis had been appointed to help in the work. Written ratified at the September GIBF Meeting in Sioux City, Walters, Secretary. Dick Webster and Robert Lewis procedures were not yet ready to be presented before the Iowa – hosted by Pastor Dan Thornton and the Buchanan continue to serve as Director and Exec. Asst.-Director of Fellowship; it was a work still in progress. Avenue Baptist Church. September 21, 2005 became the GIBM and their Board of Advisors consists of Bill Bro. Folger immediately knew his place in leadership official ratification date of the entire document which Marshall, Mario Monette, Kerry Nance, Larry Obero, called for bringing some clarity and establishment to the now defines the entity and operations of the Global Chad Spence, and Bruce Turner. David Lydick continues movement. Shortly after his election, he invited a group Independent Baptist Fellowship. (The complete GIBF as the current Editor of the Global Baptist Times of preachers to meet with him at his church in Cleveland Covenant can be viewed at newspaper. on January 6-7, 2005 – to hammer out the structure and [www.gibf.org/about/covenant].) The GIBF Articles of Faith boldly and clearly particulars for the long-awaited missions endeavor. Fourteen men met together. The gathering included Folger, the recently-appointed mission Advisory Board (Bros. Monette, Naill, Shu mate, Stevens, Tyree, and Walters), Dennis Fountain, Dick Webster, Robert Lewis, Larry Clayton, David Lydick, Gene Piazza, and Bruce Turner. Christine Aichele, a Cleveland Baptist Church secretary, served to record the minutes of the meeting in place of Marshall Stevens who was unable to attend. At this meeting everyone agreed that the purpose of any January 6-7, 2005 GIBF Advisory Group in Cleveland, Ohio GIBF “mission office” was to be that of service to both the missionaries and their sending churches. Missionaries would only be “endorsed” by the Fellowship; “approval” THIRD, it is also important to know Where We Are addresses three issues which many others leave to the was to be vested in the missionary’s sending church. Now: Our Present Commitment. guesswork of a reader. They are these: the “King James Many philosophical and practical issues, pertinent to It should be noted that as far as this author knows, the issue;” Baptist baptism; and closed communion. both the GIBF in general and any missions operation, GIBF does not and never has had a bank checking Heretofore, positions on these doctrinal issues have not were discussed at length. Everyone was convinced that account. The Fellowship is not incorporated. It does not been expressed or made clear in most doctrinal things needed to be “spelled out” in a written guideline own anything, and it has no employees. Such operations statements, though some men have held to them. Perhaps through which the Fellowship-at-large could and would may not be wrong in and of themselves, but for ten years the issues were avoided in order to gain wider agree to work together. this Fellowship has prospered exclusively on doctrinal acceptance; but then what is also avoided is the truth that David Lydick and Russ Tyree were appointed to draft a unity – a unity involving the encouragement to soul- two cannot walk together unless they are in agreement. written constitution for the GIBF, including operational winning, church planting and missionary enterprises. The Global Independent Baptist Fellowship is not on policies for the missions cause: what was by then called Several tools have been developed to advance the the fence concerning any Bible doctrine. And we have no GIBM – Global Independent Baptist Missions. The two stated purpose of the GIBF. One is the aforementioned intention to “moderate” or “tolerate” so as to men were to compose a document with input and review Guideline Covenant, including a statement of faith and accommodate modernists and liberals. We have declared by Bros. Folger, Webster, and Lewis. A final draft would operational policies. Another is the Global Baptist Times in the sunshine who we are, what we believe, and where be presented to the Fellowship for ratification. At last, a newspaper – the communication tool of the Fellowship. we stand. We are not ashamed or tentative about it. We four-year vision was becoming a reality. Finally, Of course, Global Independent Baptist Missions (GIBM) want it known! We hope to encourage others to stand philosophy and passion were becoming organization and personifies everything the Fellowship is about. The cause with us against compromise, inclusiveness, and the drift action. The impact of the Cleveland meeting was of missions is that around which we come together and which seems to characterize this Laodicean Age. In fact, monumental! labor together. as separatist Baptists, we believe “they that be with us are Six weeks later, at the February 21-23, 2005, GIBF In addition, a printed national preacher/church more than they that be with them.” But God help us never Meeting at West Gate Baptist Church in Tampa, Florida, Fellowship Directory is published every two years. to be haughty about it. “The Missionary Enterprise” document of the GIBF was Currently there are nearly one thousand preachers on the Once in a Baptist Times editorial when some formal presented, proposing that it be ratified in the May 11th GIBF email list who have committed to an agreement structure was finally coming to the GIBF (May 2005), GIBF business meeting scheduled at Heartland BBC. with the posted doctrinal positions of the Fellowship. then-Editor Rich Farinella said this regarding our future: Bro. Folger believed presenting only this portion of a There is also an On-line Directory for those who wish to “Let a warning be sounded at this point – we mustn’t have larger, over-all constitution (to be finished later) was use it. the wrong spirit in defending the truth, holding to historic prudent; the missions program was more than enough to The Lord has provided a number of faithful, clear- Baptist doctrine, and striving for purity. If, while taking ...continued on page 13 11 G L O B A L BAPTIST TIMES

GIBM SERVICE OFFICE REPORT will keep the GIBF strong. “Preach the Word” – all of it! that specific church to support the missionary who is sent Preach doctrines that preachers like to hear, and the ones by and under the authority of that church. The “partner By Pastor Dick that may seem controversial. churches” send their support for the missionary to the Webster, GIBM The second thing that will allow our Fellowship to go Service Office. We deposit into the missionary’s Director forward with God’s blessing is to keep a focus on checking account 100% of the support sent, and then we missions. The thing nearest to the heart of Jesus Christ send receipts to the churches that sent the money. We also ASSESSING TEN YEARS was and is missions. One of the last things our Lord said assist the missionary with any stateside transactions or OF GOD’S BLESSINGS before He ascended back to heaven was, “[Y]e shall other needs they may request us to handle for them. At receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon the end of the month we send a report to the missionary The blessings of God on the Global Independent you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, of all incoming support, accounting, and any other Baptist Fellowship have been many. We have prospered and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost services provided. This is all done as a help to the by His continued goodness and guidance, and we are part of the earth.” (Acts 1:8) “Go ye therefore, and teach missionary and the sending and partnering churches. We thankful. all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and in no way usurp authority over any church. Our services I’m convinced the key to having a fellowship that of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to are merely an aid to the churches and the missionary. The works is to establish what we believe. The doctrines we observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: only demands we make are in reference to those doctrinal hold are what make us distinctive, unique – and we and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the standards we have covenanted together to hold high; the purpose to hold those doctrines as our standard: hold to world. Amen.” (Matt. 28:19-20) Those are the orders missionaries we support and serve are expected to believe them, hold them high, and invite others who believe the Jesus gave to the local church! the same things we believe – those standards that have same to join with us. It is a serious mistake to lower The GIBF vision is that we will carry out those orders brought us together as a fellowship. doctrinal standards in order to get preachers to go along. more effectively if we cooperate together. This If we continue with strong doctrinal preaching at our There should never be any portion of God’s Word that cooperation in no way diminishes the authority of our Fellowship meetings, if we continue a scripturally-sound cannot be preached at our meetings. local churches. In fact, with this scriptural concept in missions program, then we can, by faith, continue to While attending a national meeting when I was young mind, the GIBM Service Office was established and enjoy God’s blessings on the Global Independent Baptist in the ministry, I heard Dr. G.B. Vick say that the continues to operate. Fellowship. preaching which comes across the pulpit at fellowship The concept is this: local churches approve their It’s been the blessings of God now for ten years – and meetings will keep the fellowship strong. This is what missionaries and then churches of the GIBF partner with counting!

important as ever ten years later – and they will still be as their excellent work as successive editors of the Global THE HEARTLAND important another ten years from now, if our Lord Jesus Baptist Times. I look forward to every issue, and find it has not yet returned. I also re-read various responses to informative and interesting. I love the interviews! The BBC REPORT our stand and the predictions and analysis of the issues paper is encouraging. we faced during that eventful time. As more time passes, Having said all that, I simply congratulate the four men By Bro. Sam Davison, the more convinced I am that we who separated did the who have served as GIBF National Moderators – the President right thing before God. In my opinion, to delay the leaders of these past ten years – and all those who have actions we took would have constituted compromise. assisted them. TWO NOTEWORTHY I have stated many times, privately and publicly, I The second matter I want to discuss has to do with an would gladly endure the controversy and the pain of those announcement. I wish to inform those receiving EVENTS unpleasant experiences in order to be associated with the Heartland BBC mail that a letter will soon arrive, Normally, my intention in this Friends of Heartland, and to work with the kind of young followed by a brochure promoting the first annual column is to focus on one idea. In this edition, however, men and women who make up Heartland Baptist Bible “Ministry Refreshers Institute” (MRI) to be conducted on I wish to address two separate matters. College. the campus of Heartland Baptist Bible College. The First, it is definitely in order to acknowledge the But certainly, that wasn’t all that happened during that brochure will include subjects to be addressed during the founding of the Global Independent Baptist Fellowship November meeting in Cleveland at the great Cleveland conference. The dates are June 15-17, 2011. As the name ten years ago. For all who were seriously involved in the Baptist Church. With many preachers there also forming implies, the meeting will be about being refreshed in all Baptist Bible Fellowship International during the years the Global Independent Baptist Fellowship immediately areas of ministry. Bro. Dave Hardy and I plan to host the 1997 to 2000, that period certainly stands out as a following Heartland’s move to separate from the BBFI, it conference which will involve others as well. memorable time. seemed as though the flames of controversy were fanned Several years ago, the idea came up in the college’s When it seemed the controversy could not become any even more. strategic planning meetings. Vice-President Jeff Copes more intense surrounding the move of Pacific Coast The GIBF has provided a “vehicle” for good has been relentless in pressing for such a conference Baptist Bible College to Oklahoma City (and renaming it fellowship among scores of preachers. The leaders of the where our graduates and any interested ministry workers Heartland Baptist Bible College), that November 2000 GIBF these past ten years have done an excellent job in may be refreshed while also maintaining a connection meeting of the Friends of Heartland in Cleveland, Ohio, maintaining meaningful fellowship (with a small “f”) with HBBC and its philosophy of ministry. MRI was Bro. proved that it could indeed. When the HBBC Directors without overstressing the Fellowship (with a capital “F”). Copes’ idea, and the title does state its intent very well. signed the letter to separate the school from BBFI- I commend Pastor Dick Webster and his wife, Karen, for We do realize there are many notable and worthy approval and, in turn, so-notified BBFI leaders, internet their labor and heart to serve and assist missionaries. I conferences around the country. This event is interested communications exploded across the land. Actually, I still don’t think anyone questions the heart they have for in REFRESHING those who appreciate the need for it. carry the Nov.-Dec. 2000 issue of the Baptist Preacher in God’s servants we call missionaries. Bro. Bob Lewis is We expect it to be timely and profitable. my briefcase, and from time to time re-read the opening also to be commended for his major assistance and Once again I thank the Baptist Times editor for this letter explaining the termination of our identification diligent labor in the mission work of the GIBF. space. God bless all who pray for Heartland Baptist Bible with the BBFI. I do so to recall the truth that those Surely I speak the sentiments of many when I College. We look forward, with anticipation, to the principles for which men stood back then are as commend Bro. Rich Farinella and Bro. Dave Lydick for coming 2010-11 school year.

proud of the excellence he showed. I took notice of every difficult raising the funds necessary for accomplishment. detail, hoping he would start on time. I was a bit anxious But it is also exciting! It is something special to see what as the time drew near and saw him huddled in the corner God is doing, how He “maketh a way,” and the joy it is to talking with a young man. I mumbled to myself, “You be even a small part of His plan. need to start the service; you’ve been taught this!” About A million thanks to those who have befriended and By Bro. Bruce Turner, then both heads dropped down and the one man trusted us as we forge forward with God’s help. We do apparently began to pray. The service began a few President need God’s help and yours, and we are praying for others moments late because a young man was receiving the who have shown an interest to also get on board with EXCITING TIMES Lord Jesus as his personal Saviour! Brother Marsh, now prayer and support. We promise to continue producing For many, summer is a time of the Spanish pastor at West Gate Baptist Church, was students like Joel Marsh and Aaron Hargis – students relaxation and renewal of vision for doing exactly what he had learned from his dad on the who know what they believe and why they believe it. the future. For those involved in the mission field and from the instructors at Florida Baptist How exciting is that? education of college students, it is a College. As he proceeded with the service, the gospel I assure you, as Chancellor of Florida Baptist College, time of pressure and deadlines. There is no time to rest, was his central theme, and compassion was his approach. the direction will ever remain the same. Our convictions only time to prepare for the new academic year. How exciting it was for me to witness the fruit of sound will stand. Know, too, that direction and those The time, however, is all good. In fact, it is exciting as instruction! convictions also have the full support of West Gate you look back over failures and achievements to Later, I dropped by the office. I heard someone Baptist Church and her new pastor, Brother George Pirt. determine what the future course must be. The times are snorting and stomping out an old-time message. I Some have asked when I will be free to travel. I challenging. The scriptures declare the last days to be stopped to listen for a moment. It was another 2010 preached my last message at West Gate on August 8. I am perilous. Indeed they are! But the darkness of the day graduate. Aaron Hargis is now assisting his father at already booking meetings. You may reach me at gives opportunity for the most influence of the Light. We Solid Rock Baptist Church in Pendleton, Indiana. His [email protected] or (813) 918-6265. are that light! Training servants of God to proclaim that message via the internet was clear and convincing. He Thank you for your prayers and support. These are light is our commission and our ambition. Florida Baptist was walking along carrying a boat oar under his arm and exciting times. We are committed to train faithful College is proud to be a part of the training process. proclaiming, “Don’t drop the oar!” That certainly is servants of the Lord as we watch and wait, excitedly, for At a recent funeral I had the opportunity to sit and central to our instruction – learn what you must and the appearing of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. observe a FBC graduate, Joel Marsh, officiate his first finish the course the Lord has given you. funeral service. Joel was raised on the mission field and Sure, times are tough. It is a challenge for a small graduated from our college just this year. I was extremely college to accomplish all God would have us to do. It is

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“TEN YEARS...TOGETHER IN UNITY” presence of God. In the meantime, our mandate is to continued from page 11… take the gospel to every city and town – to “every creature” in the entire world. It is not our place to decide neces sary stands, leadership holds to those stands in a which soul most needs saving, or which country is most proud or cocky attitude, we’ll damage our cause as much ripe for harvest. Every preacher has a favorite “window” “Let me be clear. We wish the best for Baptist Bible as any hypocritical or counter-productive tactic around. from which to view the lost world. The fact is all souls Fellowship. For those of us who have supported BBF May God grant to us a humble striving as we earnestly need salvation. Jesus said, “The field is the world.” The missionaries, we will still support BBF missionaries contend in today’s battle lines. If ever there was a need for Holy Spirit has been promised to empower us and guide based on the same doctrinal test we have always used. men who had understanding of the times, it is today.” The us to those who will be saved. We must take all the We have sought only to rally around the beliefs and point couldn’t be better stated. gospel into all the world. convictions we learned from the founders of the BBF. The GIBF currently convenes two times per year for Those who have served (and who presently serve) as We thank them for grinding these scriptural truths national meetings – in February and in September. Local, GIBF National Moderator have all been strong mission- into our hearts. However, we are not ready to regional, and national meetings are all distinguished by minded pastors. Each has forged ahead keeping the moderate any doctrinal positions – including the passionate, fiery Bible preaching. GIBF meetings are “a missionary enterprise the high priority of the doctrine of separation. We are not accepting of the breath of fresh air” for anyone with a love for Bible truth, Fellowship. The strong emphasis in recent years for new tolerance we are asked to embrace. We seek not vision, and conviction. If you aspire to hold to the “old stateside church planting, and the number of young to be in competition with anyone. The Baptist Bible paths,” then in GIBF meetings you will meet pastors, people being trained for Fellowship has fifty years of wonderful evangelists and ministry, will surely accomplishment. Many of us are the products of missionaries of like culminate in more soul- Baptist Bible College. We will still be friends with passions as you. The winning and missionary- those men who will have us. We will still support dates and locations for sending. It has never been a sound missionaries of the BBFI. We will still pray for national meetings are goal of the GIBF to become God’s hand to be upon them. We insist that the time always published well the world’s biggest, fastest has come for us to take a stand. We may be a ‘tiny in advance. Most growing, or most minority,’ but let it be known that we are united by the churches that host sensational anything. Such strong bond of doctrine and a determination to reach GIBF meetings record visions reek of vanity. the world for Christ.” and reproduce the As we continue along the – Bruce Turner, Jan. 2001 messages that are ancient path, none should preached. Attendance “As soon as I saw or thought I saw that error had stoop to counting successes. become firmly established, I did not deliberate but at the meetings November 13-15, 2000 “Frinds of Heartland” Meeting at Cleveland Baptist Church Soul-winners do not get “paid quitted the body at once. Since then my counsel has continues to grow. been ‘Come out from among them.’ I have felt that no per soul,” nor are there mortal heroes to be worshipped There is no Fellowship “membership,” but rather some protest could be equal to that of separation.” – no matter how “successful” he or she may be. Each key scriptural principles that simply bring us together: 1) – Charles Haddon Spurgeon servant will be fitly rewarded at the Judgment Seat for We make no distinction between pastors, missionaries or faithfulness to their Master, to their place of service, and “It is natural to man to indulge in the illusions of evangelists. All preachers who identify with our doctrinal hope. We are apt to shut our eyes against a painful to the “old paths” of righteousness and Bible truth. position may participate in any Fellowship discussions truth and listen to the song of that siren till she GIBF goals must be as virtuous as is its doctrinal and/or actions conducted at the two annual meetings. 2) transforms us into beasts. ...Are we disposed to be of statement. We make no distinction between foreign and home the number of those who having eyes, see not, and It has oft been said, “Anything man-made will having ears, hear not?” missions, as no such distinction is found in the Bible. 3) ultimately fail.” History proves that statement true. – Patrick Henry We do not operate as an alumni association for some Generation after generation of organizations, and even school, though many Fellowship preachers are “Friends “Some Christians who once championed sound churches, demonstrate that men with ulterior motives of Heartland” or supporters of some other Bible college. doctrine beat a retreat once in a while, and then from may move into leadership positions. Over time, selfish stratospheric heights announce that they do not 4) It is not our place to “approve” missionaries for the goals and carnal methods can creep in and ultimately ‘stoop to controversy.’ When a man contends for the work God has called them to do; it is the job of their faith in New Testament style, he does not stoop! ...It corrupt sound institutions. The human element brings sending church. The intent of the GIBM Service Office is is a day of diplomats, not prophets. It is nicer to be an inevitable consequences. But for as long as possible we to be just that – a ministry serving the needs of mission- appeaser than an opposer. It is the day of Erasmus, must spiritually resist the natural condition; we must minded churches and their missionaries in the white- not Luther; of Gamaliel, not Paul.” purpose to humbly submit to Lordship on a daily basis, unto-harvest fields of this world. Dick Webster, Robert – Vance Havner keeping focused on our calling and His cause. Perhaps Lewis and the Service Office staff are currently working “If an institution, mission board, school, or man is one day it will be us “turning over in our graves,” but by with 24 missionary families serving on 17 fields of wrong, it is the duty of those possessing divine love God’s grace may we be men who will “stand in the gap” service. These families have 44 children, so our to tell them so. True love is not silent while God’s while we are living. May we “having done all, stand,” people are being led astray. True love does not hold its “missionary family” is a total of 92 souls. Missionary and may we instill in those coming after us a peace in order to provide more “cooperation” and photos and contact information is available at “unity.” Love shoots straight from the shoulder. If a determination to do the same. [www.gibf.org/missions]. thing is wrong, it’s wrong. If controversy is necessary “The future is as bright as the promises of God.” The The cause of world-wide missions is promoted and it will not be shunned.” door is open for additional, faithful, visionary, and preached as Executive Assistant-Director Robert Lewis – Ernest Pickering compassionate people to join themselves to this caravan (yours truly), representing GIBM, ministers in and for “You can choose your sin, but you can’t choose your while it is still on course. Opportunities are great, and churches in their work in the states and around the world. consequences.” they are numerous. But time is short; laborers are few. LAST, with the future in mind, permit me to describe – Rocky Harrill God help us to be “making a difference” while we still Where We are Going: Our Hopeful Destination. This can – for His glory! journey for Bible-believers ultimately ends up in the very “Very few established institutions, governments and constitutions... are ever destroyed by their enemies until they have been corrupted and weakened by their friends.” – Walter Lippmann EVANGELIST LISTING “In encouraging young men to come out as missionaries, do use the greatest caution. One wrong- headed, obstinate fellow would ruin us. Humble, Joe Asbury quiet, persevering men, men of sound sterling talents Christian Stewardship Ministry Evangelist John Aldrich (though perhaps not brilliant), of decent P.O. Box 519 508 Freedom Rd. accomplishments, and of some natural aptitude to Hymera, IN 47855 Edmond, OK 73025 acquire a language; men of amiable, yielding temper, (812) 201-5082 (405)340-8109 willing to take the lowest place, to be the least of all and servant of all; men who enjoy much closer Missionary Evangelist Tom Furse religion, who live near to God, and are willing to Dr. Larry Clayton Evangelist Hal Hightower suffer all things for Christ’s sake without being proud P.O. Box 29 21 years of Pastoral Experience Director- Lighthouse Baptist Press Ministry of it – these are the men (we need).” Celina, OH 45822 Revivals, Miss Conf., S.W. Conf. 1515 Space Ave. – Adoniram Judson (216) 533-8239 26737 Gene Dr. Lebanon, MO 65536 Rapid City, SD 57701 [email protected] (417) 718-4412 (605) 431-0395 “Resolve to perform what you ought. Perform [email protected] without fail what you resolve.” – Benjamin Franklin Evangelist Mike Haxton W.L. “Bill” Smith Evangelist Steven H. Ostten Northwest Baptist Home Missions Paper Global League Of Baptist Evangelism Call: (405) 615-3545 or (405) 262-4801 “You’re entitled to your own opinion; but you’re not (Ex-Mormon Bishop) (GLOBE) Website: www.stevenostten.com entitled to your own facts.” 9320 S. Barnes Avenue 6201 Tieton Dr. E-mail: [email protected] – Daniel Patrick Moynihan Yakima, WA 98908 Oklahoma City, OK 73159 Declaration Ministries out of Cell Phone #: 509-952-3520 (405) 692-7078 Southwest Baptist Church, OKC. OK “I asked Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell for a [email protected] definition of “moderate,” and he said, ‘He is simply a middle-of-the-roader.’ I replied, ‘Honorable Senator, all I’ve seen in the middle of the road is dead BT Classified Ads chickens, dead skunks, and a yellow stripe.’” Place your classified Ads here! – Al Wells “$4.00 per line, in a 3” wide column; no photos.”

13 G L O B A L BAPTIST TIMES

I have come to admire one of the great “first ladies” in TENTH ANNIVERSARY PERSPECTIVE our nation’s history, Abigail Adams. She was frequently continued from page 1… TheThe PPastor’sastor’s WWifeife sick as a child, and that sickly nature carried over into her as with some Evangelicals (salvation by grace, eternal adult life. When her husband became U.S. Vice-President security, pneumatology, eschatology, etc.). However, we serving with President Washington, her health again are not inter-denominationalists or non- BEING KEPT IN “PERFECT PEACE” became an issue. It was so poor that she had to stay home denominationalists, nor are we part of the “progressive By Mrs. Denise Folger much of the time. However, she would not let the church movement.” We are independent, fundamental Cleveland, Ohio difficulty of sickness discourage her. She said, “I will not Baptists. As was the case with our Baptist forefathers, our forget the blessings which sweeten life.” Biblical convictions about some important Bible This year, 2010, started out on a When her husband, John Adams, became the second doctrines have caused us to separate from those who do down-turn. My husband suspected it President of the United States, he was often gone from not hold these convictions. We do not view everyone with would not be a good year for us home, and she was left for long stretches of time to care a doctrinal difference as our enemy. We are glad for personally. He pointed to the fact that for her three sons and one daughter. She schooled her everyone who preaches the gospel and wins souls; there were three dear people we children, took care of the farm, and even opened her however, for the sake of doctrinal purity and the future loved who were dying, and he home to the homeless. She truly was an incredible propagation of sound fundamental Baptist churches, we believed that each of them would woman! Her son, John Quincy (who would become the have separated ourselves from those who have departed soon be gone from this world. His sixth U.S. President) recalled as a seven-year-old boy from some of the fundamental doctrines. predictions proved true. watching minutemen gather in the Adams’ kitchen Many have asked, “What is the unique relationship of On December 21, 2009, my mother went through melting down some of his mother’s pewter spoons to the GIBF and Heartland Baptist Bible College?” They major brain surgery to remove a non-malignant tumor the make bullets for the war. have observed that there are other good independent size of a fist. The surgeon was very pleased with the As I read about her life, Mrs. Adams’ testimony Baptist colleges, but none have the relationship with the outcome, but the surgery took a toll on her. Her recovery encouraged me to realize the blessings the Lord gives me GIBF that Heartland has. To me the answer is a simple was a slow and grueling process with setbacks along the day by day. It is so easy to complain and feel sorry for one. It has to do with the origin of the GIBF: it was way. About forty days after the surgery, she took a turn ourselves. Certain circumstances and experiences of life started at a Friends of Heartland meeting by men who for the worse, and the Lord in His mercy took her home can be discouraging; however, we must realize God is support Heartland Baptist Bible College. As far as I to be with Him. We were sad at the loss, but so thankful good to us. He is at work in every circumstance and issue know, the doctrinal statements of Heartland and the GIBF to know she is with the Lord. we face. He works in us by leading and directing our are exactly the same, and the philosophy and direction of Several years ago, Dr. Harry Strachan, Sr., a dear every step if we will just let Him. Trusting God in each the school and the Fellowship are the same as well. Up to retired pastor from Canada came to help with the Bible circumstance is something I have to continually work on, this time every Moderator of the GIBF was at the meeting institute at our church. For a number of years he worked but life goes so much better when I simply let Him have in Cleveland ten years ago and has also served as a alongside us and was a blessing and encouragement to complete and total control. director of Heartland (not necessarily at the same time our church and the young men and women who attended Ladies, let us encourage ourselves in the Lord by they were Moderator, nor by rule or design.) That will, no the Bible institute. On January 4, 2010, the Lord took trusting our Saviour, even at times when circumstances doubt, change some day, but I hope the relationship will him home. We knew “Doc” was dying of cancer, but the make life seem bitter and hard. Let’s do what the Psalmist continue as long as the doctrine and philosophy of both Lord took him sooner than we expected as a result of a exhorts: “Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in entities continues to be the same as they are today. There heart attack. him; and he shall bring it to pass.” (Psalm 37:5) are many good men in the GIBF who are involved with Then just a few weeks ago, early on Monday morning, Hardship notwithstanding, an internal and overcoming and support other good independent Baptist schools. I am June 14, our beloved former pastor, Dr. Roy Thompson, joy is a Divine promise for our lives as we walk with the for each one of them, and I pray that together we will was taken home to heaven. He lost his final bout with Lord. “Behold that which I have seen: it is good and impact our country and our world with true Baptist cancer. He had grown physically weaker over the last few comely for one to eat and to drink, and to enjoy the good fundamentalism. years. He had battled through three separate rounds with of all his labour that he taketh under the sun all the days My prayer is that we will be used to raise up another leukemia and each time seemed to win, but this time the of his life, which God giveth him: for it is his portion. generation or more that will reach many for the Lord and Lord called him home. Every man also to whom God hath given riches and start biblical Baptist churches, as well as continue to Sometimes life can be very difficult. It may not be wealth, and hath given him power to eat thereof, and to build the ones already established. As a fellowship we death (although that is probably one of the hardest things take his portion, and to rejoice in his labour; this is the have some reasons to celebrate, but we also have much to for us to deal with). It may be some other difficulty to gift of God. For he shall not much remember the days of do in the years ahead! struggle through. In times like these, we must remember his life; because God answereth him in the joy of his what God said in Hebrews 13:5, “I will never leave thee, heart.” (Ecclesiastes 5:18-20) nor forsake thee.” It may not seem like He is there with us in the midst of some trial, but remember, too, that God “Lord, thou knowest all things; thou cannot lie. We must trust Him at His word even when we knowest that I love thee. cannot see; and we must know He is doing the right thing in our lives because He is God and He always does the Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.” right thing! (John 21:17b)

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Lewisville, Texas Lewisville,

Liberty Baptist Church Baptist Liberty

February 21-23, 2011 21-23, February

Cleveland, Ohio Cleveland,

Cleveland Baptist Church Baptist Cleveland

September 20-22, 2010 20-22, September

COMING GIBF MEETINGS: GIBF COMING SEPTEMBER 2010 SEPTEMBER