'A Crazy Leap'

SBC name change: what might happen? Mark your calendar! Iowa pastor Dave Miller shares some Learn more about upcoming Baptist State insight on the challenges of the SBC Convention events through “Year-at-a- name change committee and predicts the Glance.” Events planned should help your possibilities of a change. Page 16 church and its ministries. Pages 10-11

FEBRUARY 18, 2012 • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists • VOLUME 178 NO. 4 • BRnow.org

South African couple follows New Orleans ‘A CRAZY LEAP’ call to U.S. pastor to get By Sara Shelton

ORWICH, Conn. (BP) – No one un- Armstrong Easter Offering® (AAEO). heard SBC leader derstands doing whatever it takes The offering helps fund Pillay and other about Nto reach people for Christ better missionaries like him who are serving the nomination than Shaun Pillay. Born and raised in for Southern Baptists in North America. need, South Africa, he and his wife, Deshni, With a goal of $70 million, this year’s I just By GARY D. MYERS| Baptist Press arrived in the United States in 2007 as AAEO theme is “Whatever It Takes.” felt newlyweds. Having sold their posses- Pillay was called to missions at a God red Luter, pastor of Franklin sions to finance their move, they brought missions conference in Birmingham, telling me, ‘Shaun, you go.’ And I said, Avenue Baptist Church in New only two pieces of luggage, a Bible, their England. “I remember one speaker say- ‘Yes, Lord, I will go wherever you FOrleans, will be nominated for wedding album and a resolve to follow ing, ‘We need you to come to Europe send.’” president of the Southern Baptist Con- God’s call wherever it led them. and America. Our churches are dying,’” God sent Pillay and his wife to the vention (SBC) by David E. Crosby, pastor “It was a jump, a crazy leap,” Pillay Pillay said. He was surprised when he small town of Norwich, Conn., a far cry of First Baptist Church in New Orleans. explains. “Everything was so differ- heard of the need for missionaries in from the home they’d known in South “Fred has been among Southern ent here but Jesus remained the same the United States. Even more surprising Africa. With a population of 40,000, Baptists for more and He saw us through. Every morning was the fact that he knew God was call- the city is full of history and diversity. than 20 years as when we woke up we knew that this is ing him to be one of them. Once marked by money and influence, a pastor. He has where God wanted us to be.” “I never thought of it to be honest,” it is now equally marked by economic taken a church Shaun and Deshni Pillay are among Pillay said. “We hear of all that God is struggle, homelessness and drug use. that was at death’s five North American Mission Board doing in Africa and other places like “We looked at the homeless popula- door to the largest (NAMB) missionaries featured as part that, but it’s sad to see tion, the drug problems in Norwich and worshipping con- of the annual Week of Prayer for North what’s going on in just knew there needed to be a light in gregation in the American Mis- places like Europe the city,” Pillay says. state of Louisiana sions, March and America “We had compassion as Jesus did, among Southern 4-11, 2012, with regards looking on the multitudes and seeing Baptists,” Crosby said. and An- to church. them just waiting like sheep without a FRED LUTER nie When I shepherd.” “He has been Since their arrival, this has been the a great evangelist goal of Shaun and Deshni: to lead and and has baptized thousands of people love the people of the community just through these years of ministry.” Luter, the SBC’s current first vice president, told his congregation Jan. 29 See Crazy leap page 4 he is willing to be nominated for president of the Southern Baptist Convention. Crosby cited Luter’s diligence and de- termination as a pastor, Bible expositor, evangelist and spiritual leader as charac- teristics that qualify him to lead Southern Baptists. Luter’s family life – his love for his wife Elizabeth, and his two children, Kimberly and Fred “Chip” III – is a

See Fred Luter page 7

NAMB missionary Shaun Pillay, right, pastor of Cornerstone International Church in Norwich, Conn., prays with Tim Cable, a new believer and member of Cornerstone. Pillay Q & A with Fred Luter and his wife Deshni, above right, came to the United States from South Africa. (Photo by Peter Field Peck) See page 6 BR design by Carly Conley 2 FEBRUARY 18, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists N.C. churches share Lottie Moon offering updates

By SHAWN HENDRICKS| BR Managing Editor High Point, $121,300; First Baptist funds,” Davis told his congregation that Godwin Heights Baptist Church in Church, Cary, $115,314.83; Henderson- averages around 720 in worship each Lumberton – another similarly sized lthough the focus on missions ville Baptist Church, Hendersonville, week. “These are not the days to be congregation of about 160 people – gave giving is beginning to turn $108,000; First Baptist Church, Durham, drawing back. The needs of the world $10,300, which is $300 over their goal. Atoward North America with the $107,974.70; and First Baptist Church, have never been greater.” Center Road Baptist Church of Blad- Annie Armstrong Easter Offering, many Charlotte, $100,000. At press time, the church had raised enboro – a church of about 100 people – North Carolina Baptist churches are $49,572.85, which is more than enough to beat their goal of $6,300 by giving $9,903. sharing their 2011 Lottie Moon Christmas One year’s support support one family. Offering results. Other churches around the state also The cost of ministry While each church has their own ap- shared their offering results and their ‘The best plan’ It’s this support that helps ministry proach – year-round giving, fundraisers passion for international missions. Brushy Fork Baptist Church in North efforts around the globe. Every penny or a big push in December – the focus In early December Scott Davis, pas- Vilas – that averages about 130 people in given to the offering is used to support on helping the gospel reach the ends of tor of Pitts Baptist Church in Concord, worship – shattered their goal of $4,000 IMB missionaries. the earth remains the same. The offering presented an IMB (International Mission by raising $8,500 for international mis- For example, one Southern Baptist supports the work of nearly 5,000 IMB Board) chart to the congrega- sions. The past two years the worker in a European city, shared how (International Mission Board) mission- tion. The chart showed that the church has given an average of the offering supports his work at a refu- aries overseas. The national goal for the average dollar amount it takes $1,500. gee center that feeds people both physi- 2011 Lottie Moon offering is $175 million. to support one IMB mission- Pastor Toby Oliver credits cally and spiritually. About 500 refugees ary family each year is about the results partly to “heavily visit the center each week. Top-giving contenders $48,000. publicizing” the offering. They According to IMB figures, rent for Last year, 18 of North Carolina’s Bap- Davis encouraged the con- also invited an IMB couple, the center is $1,840 per month. A bag of tist churches ranked in the Top 200 for gregation to keep that amount serving in Hungary, to share groceries provided to refugees is $7. Each the 2010 Lottie Moon Christmas Offering. in mind as they gave their 2011 about their overseas work. hot meal costs less than a $1. A complete Some of those top-giving churches offering. Because of economic “We saw the impact that Bible in the local language is a little more shared their results for the 2011 offering. challenges in the community, TOBY OLIVER [the offering] makes across than $16. The Lottie Moon offering helps Those reports included: Calvary Bap- Davis said the church decided the world and what we can make all of this possible. tist Church, Winston-Salem, $504,855; to keep their goal at $35,000, which was do to spread the gospel,” said Oliver, a For more examples go to imb.org/main/ Parkwood Baptist Church, Gastonia, the goal for 2010. But he encouraged bi-vocational pastor who also works in give/lmw/. To learn more about the offer- $289,986.06; Mount Vernon Baptist them to give above the $39,497 raised the insurance. He became the church’s pastor ing, go to imb.org/offering. Church, Boone, $235,798.26; Hickory year before. in August of 2011. “I believe the Southern (EDITOR’S NOTE – Laura Moore, editorial Grove Baptist Church, Charlotte, “We’ve had missionaries ready to go, Baptist Convention has the best plan to aide for the Biblical Recorder, and figures $132,200; Green Street Baptist Church, but they [couldn’t] because of a lack of give to missions,” he said. from imb.org contributed to this story.) FEBRUARY 18, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 3

OPPORTUNITY CORNER Nominations still needed The Baptist State Convention of North vacancies; Region 8: three vacancies; Carolina Committee on Nominations has Region 9: four vacancies; Region 10: two Call 2 Ministry targets next generation ized location to store medicine. The bags extended its deadline for recommenda- vacancies. Other vacancies: seven slots are insulated so temperature-sensitive At Anderson University in Ander- tions until April 19. There are still Board (including one unexpired term) for the medicine can be transported to doctor son, S.C., March 2-3, the Call 2 Ministry of Director vacancies in these regions: Committee on Convention Meetings; appointments or the hospital. Included is conference will provide vocational guid- Region 2: three vacancies; Region 3: three three vacancies on the Committee on a “My Med List” chart to allow patients ance and inspiration to next generation vacancies; Region 4: seven vacancies Resolutions and Memorials; and four to keep a list of medicines being used. of spiritual leaders. The event is open to (includes three unexpired terms); Region vacancies on the Historical Committee. Each bag costs $3. A minimum of 100 high school, college or seminary students 5: one vacancy (includes one unexpired Visit recommend.ncbaptist.org. Contact bags must be ordered at one time. gearing up for a Christian-related voca- term); Region 6: three vacancies (includes Cynthia King at (800) 395-5102, ext. 5501, Send checks to NCBAM, Attn: Red tion. Students will be able to meet with one unexpired term); Region 7: three or [email protected]. experienced ministry leaders, including Bag Order, P.O. Box 338, Thomasville, NC missionaries and Anderson University 27361. Include name, complete shipping faculty members. Speakers also include address, contact phone number, email CHURCH NEWS Jeff Iorg, Kerry Jackson and Foster and the quantity ordering. Christy. Registration is $40 and can be Call (877) 506-2226 for more informa- done online at call2ministry.com. Call (888) tion. 765-4487. Campers host ‘old time’ camp meeting North Carolina Campers on Mission is College students learn leadership holding “The Old Time Camp Meeting” March 30-April 1, college students with evangelist Jonathan Lotz, grandson are welcome to Camp Caraway in Sophia of Billy Graham, April 20-21 at 7 p.m. for the Spring Leadership Conference, nightly. Join N.C. Campers on Mission at “Strength in Leadership.” Hosted by the Denton Farm Park in Denton. Registra- North Carolina Baptist Student Ministry, tion is required. it will be focused on leadership develop- Visit nccampersonmission.org or request ment. Students will participate in praise a form from Denton Farm Park at (336) and worship, breakout sessions, hands- 859-2755. on experiences and fellowship. Matt NCBM to host men’s outdoor weekend Orth, ministry director at Crossroads Worldwide, will be the speaker. Men’s Outdoor Weekend, May 18-19, Contact Rick Trexler at the Baptist will be a time of worship and fellowship State Convention for more information: around the campfire at Camp Caraway in (919) 395-5102, ext. 5560, or rtrexler@ Sophia. Men will also learn about effec- ncbaptist.org. Visit ncbaptist.org. tive men’s ministry in church as well as opportunities to learn archery, fishing, Deep Creek Baptist Church, Wadesboro Red Bags offer churches way to help seniors shooting, gun safety and more. Space is Members of Deep Creek Baptist Church in Wadesboro cut wood to help build a house for a family who lost The North Carolina Baptist Aging Min- limited to 130 participants, and the event their home in a tragic fire Oct. 27, 2011, in Patrick, S.C. The fire claimed the life of Cliff Light, 28, who died istry is looking for churches, individuals cost of $74 is due April 27. while trying to rescue his family. Deep Creek continues to work alongside St. John Free Will Baptist in Patrick, and groups to help get Red Bags into the Register at baptistsonmission.org. Con- S.C., to rebuild a home for the family, using trees from the property of St. John’s church. community. tact Mark Abernathy for more informa- Emergency responders are trained tion at [email protected] or (800) to look for Red Bags. It offers a central- 395-5102, ext. 5607. AROUND THE STATE Submissions Staff changes BOB COATS has been called to Carolina Pines Baptist Church, Raleigh, The Biblical Recorder is pleased to publish staff changes, church news and JEREMY PACKARD has been called as pastor. Coats has served several other events with a statewide interest. Please send information at least two to Temple Baptist Church, Raleigh, as churches, and most recently served at months in advance of any item you want to submit for opportunity corner their minister of students. This is Pack- Fuquay-Varina Baptist Church in Fuquay or immediately following an event. Send to [email protected] or Biblical Recorder, ard’s first church staff position. Varina. P.O. Box 1185, Cary, NC 27512. Call (919) 847-2127. Eastside Baptist Church, Shelby, has License called JESSICA MELTON as children’s minister. Melton has previously served Bethlehem Baptist Church, Jackson- Fruitland Baptist Bible Institute as children’s minister for another church ville, licensed GREG HEATH to preach Enroll now for New Quarter on April 3, 2012 from Greater Cleveland Baptist Associa- the gospel. He is currently a fifth-grade • Preparing the “God Called” to minister since 1946 tion. teacher. • Study in a rich spiritual atmosphere • Earn an associate’s degree in Religion • Our graduates are serving churches all across the S.B.C. • Visit our beautiful campus near Hendersonville, N.C. • “Evening Classes” now available – Tuesday & Thursday • For more information call (828) 685-8886, or write: David Horton, President, Fruitland Baptist Bible Institute 1455 Gilliam Road, Hendersonville, N.C. 28792 Owned and operated by the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina 4 FEBRUARY 18, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Easter’s coming: Time to prepare for Annie Armstrong offering

NAMB leaders are saying Baptists NAMB recently launched the “Send semester missionary program or the US/ By MIKE CRESWELL| BSC Communications must adopt a “whatever it takes” ap- North America” strategy, seeking to mo- C2 program. Easter is getting closer, so it’s time to proach to both missions involvement and bilize congregations and church planters NAMB works with more than 3,000 prepare for the Annie Armstrong Easter support, in order to make a significant across the continent in an all-out push to Southern Baptist chaplains, including Offering for North American Missions. impact on our continent’s lostness. start more churches. military chaplains, among others. NAMB North Carolina Baptists will join with The 2012 Annie Armstrong offering Missionaries will focus efforts on also operates many other ministries, such Southern Baptists across the United goal is $70 million, which will be used for major urban areas such as New York City, as lay renewal, Christian apologetics min- States in contributing to this offering. missionary support, church planting and where millions have no knowledge of the istry, sports evangelism, resort missions It provides major funding to the North evangelism. gospel. and disaster relief. American Mission Board (NAMB), whose These offering funds and those pro- The Baptist State Convention of North This strategic offering was named for approximately 5,000 missionaries serve vided by churches through the Coopera- Carolina has committed to partner in Annie Armstrong (1850-1938) because across the U.S. and Canada. tive Program account for the majority of several areas, including New York. More of her ministry of encouraging missions For promotion materials, visit an- NAMB funding. than 700 volunteers served there during support. niearmstrong.com and download videos, Southern Baptists already start more 2011 through the Convention’s Office of A native of Baltimore, Md., Armstrong clipart and other resources. These ma- than 100 new churches each month Great Commission Partnerships. helped organize the Woman’s Home terials are also distributed by Woman’s across North America, which is more North Carolina Baptists can use mate- Mission Society in Maryland. She later Missionary Union. The theme for the than any other church group is doing. rials from the Annie Armstrong website helped organize the national Woman’s offering this year is “Whatever It Takes,” Yet, thousands of additional churches are to lead entire congregations to support Missionary Union and served as its first based on the account in Mark 2:1-5 of needed to reach the estimated 259 mil- this offering. corresponding secretary. how a sick man’s friends broke through a lion people across the United States and One good approach is to lead families She took that “corresponding” part of roof so they could lower him down to be Canada who have no personal relation- to observe the Week of Prayer for North her title seriously. healed by Jesus. ship with Jesus Christ. American Missions March 4-11. In 1893 she sent out nearly 18,000 Baptists can learn about missionaries letters that she wrote by hand or by they’re supporting as these missions ser- typewriter as she rallied Baptists to get Crazy leap Continued from page 1 vants struggle to reach people for Christ behind missions with their pocketbooks and start new churches in challenging and their prayers. as Christ does. They started Corner- Weeks after Holland’s salvation, the two places like Toronto, Canada; Norwich, Annie Armstrong’s “whatever it takes” stone International Church in an effort ran into a group of policemen who knew Connecticut; and Clovis, New Mexico. approach to missions remains a great ex- to give the “sheep” in the community of Holland as the drug dealer and trouble- Young people can learn how they, ample of what Baptists can achieve when Norwich a place to gather and grow in maker he was before his conversion to too, can help start churches by serving they embrace missions with a similar Christ. And it has been from the moment Christianity. They hadn’t seen him in in one of NAMB’s programs, such as the commitment. they opened the doors. months and Holland took the opportu- David Holland arrived at Cornerstone nity to explain his absence from the legal International Church as a carpet cleaner, system as the direct result of his new- hired to help spruce up the building found presence in Christ. before the church’s launch on Easter “The men were obviously moved,” 2007. Notoriously known as a drug dealer Pillay recalls. “They said, ‘I wish all the and in trouble with the law in Norwich, drug dealers in the city would come to David was worn and searching when he know your Jesus if this is the result.’ arrived to work at Cornerstone that day. They knew for sure that David was a Never one to pass up an opportunity changed man.” to build a relationship, Shaun stayed For Pillay, this exchange was just a with David as he worked and spent the small step in changing not just one life, afternoon talking and sharing with him, but also the entire city of Norwich. ultimately inviting him to Cornerstone’s Though the work is slow, he recognizes launch that Sunday. that every conversation, every seed “David was in the congregation that planted is a victory in the name of Christ Easter Sunday when we launched our and looks forward to more stories like church,” recalls Pillay. “As we were Holland’s in the years to come. wrapping up, he came forward and The Pillays have set up “proclamation accepted Jesus Christ. It was a huge points” around the city – locations where moment in his life and the life of our they can share the gospel and study the church.” Bible with Norwich residents. Shaun’s Just last year Holland became the first most recent Bible study meets in a local deacon at Cornerstone International barbershop owned by a former drug Church and is working alongside Pillay dealer. One by one, Jesus is transforming to reach the city of Norwich for the name the city of Norwich. of Christ. “God put Shaun right there in “Whatever it takes to reach these my life,” Holland says, “and he’s seen people, whether it’s leaving our home- me through so much. He’s a good man, a land or going to a place where we don’t man of God. And everybody I introduce know anybody,” Pillay said. “Whatever him to just falls in love with him and his it takes to share the love of Jesus Christ, passion for the people and the city of that is what we’re here to do.” Norwich.” (EDITOR’S NOTE – Sara Shelton is a writer Holland’s transformation has not only for the North American Mission Board. Visit an- been a testimony to the power of God niearmstrong.com or BRnow.org for more but also the influence of Pillay in the city. resources about the offering.) FEBRUARY 18, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 5 N.C. Baptists ‘ramp up’ efforts to help wheelchair bound BR Staff homes because they cannot get down one Volunteers needed “There are many seniors or two steps.” Moss and Gregory, along with other or many Americans who are con- For years N.C. Baptist Men have built event coordinators, hope to see more trapped in their homes fined to a wheelchair, simply leav- wheelchair ramps around the state, but than 300 ramps built during Fing their homes can be a daunting keeping up with the demand the one-day event. Right now because they cannot get task. Without a wheelchair ramp it can hasn’t been easy. there are about down one or two steps.” be nearly impossible. “I average one or two re- 20 teams signed North Carolina Baptist church groups quests a week for ramps,” said up. – Sandy Gregory and other volunteer teams will have an Gaylon Moss, who directs Coordina- opportunity April 28 to help those with disaster relief efforts and tors encourage games such as bowling. Those who sign this need. volunteerism for N.C. Bap- groups to hold up online before April 1 will have an op- For the first time N.C. Baptist Aging tist Men. fundraising portunity to win one of four $750 awards Ministry (NCBAM) will join forces with “It’s a great way events to raise money for for ramp supplies. Those who sign up by Operation Inasmuch and N.C. Baptist for North Carolina needed supplies. Building one ramp can March 1 will have two opportunities to Men to promote a one-day event, called Baptist churches to impact others for run between $1,000 and $1,500. One win. The drawing will be held April 2. Rampin’ Up! The effort focuses on vol- Christ by providing a legitimate need.” decking board is about $8. unteers building wheelchair ramps for Right now NCBAM, has a list of 50 Suggestions for fundraising include: How to get involved homes throughout the state. people who have requested wheelchair bake sales, car washes and youth service To find out more information about “This is an example of Baptists at their ramps. Coordinators with Rampin’ Up!, auctions that feature babysitting, house how a church group or ministry can get very best … when they work together,” however, encourage groups to find other cleaning, yard work, or groups can host a involved with Rampin’ Up! go to ram- said Sandy Gregory, director of NCBAM. individuals in their community who need special dinner event. Other ideas include pinup.org or ncoperationinasmuch.org. 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By KAREN L. WILLOUGHBY| Baptist Press called one year in the early 1990s. I didn’t know him when he called, wo weeks into a church-wide but I will never forget it. He said 21-day session of prayer and Franklin Avenue was first in the Tfasting, Fred Luter came to the state in baptisms and he’d like me conclusion that God wanted him to allow to come up and receive an award his nomination for the Southern Baptist at the evangelism conference, ‘and Convention’s (SBC) presidency. I’d like you to preach,’ he said. After 30 years as a follower of Jesus After that, Wayne would give my Christ and 25 years as pastor of Franklin name to different ones and before Avenue Baptist Church in New Orleans, you know it I would be preaching Luter said he became convinced that God at different evangelism confer- had brought him to such a juncture in his ences and state conventions across Christian life. the country. “I wanted to make sure this was not Did you always sense God something I was doing out of the flesh, Q: had such things in store something I was doing out just of popu- for you, or did all this ‘just hap- larity, notoriety,” Luter said. “I wanted pen?’ it to be of God. I prayed about it, and I think all of this just kind my wife – her relationship with God is A: of happened. I had no idea. just one I truly admire and respect – was I’d never pastored before, never praying for me, and others in the church. preached before. I’ve been faith- “It was last Friday, [Jan. 27] the week ful to God, faithful to the Word of before the fast was ended. My wife and God, faithful to my wife, faithful I were talking and I said, ‘Baby, I think to my church and I believe God God wants me to do this,’ and the only Fred Luter, aboard a helicopter after Hurricane Katrina, points to the flood-ravaged Franklin Avenue Baptist Church in rewards faithfulness. Why me out thing she asked me was, ‘Are you sure?’ New Orleans where he is pastor. (File photo by Norm Miller) of all the thousands and thousands It was really clear to me this is what God of preachers in this city and state was leading me to do.” depending on God to help us fulfill the Since news broke at last year’s and nation? I just believe it’s not because Baptist Press (BP) spoke with Luter Great Commission and the Great Com- Q: meeting that you would con- I’ve accomplished so much; I just believe about his reasons for allowing his name mandment. That’s what He’s called us sider allowing your nomination as SBC it’s because of the faithfulness of God, to be placed in nomination, about his to do and that’s what I hope to lead this president, what comments by fellow and that He has honored me because of leadership of Franklin Avenue Baptist convention to do during my time as our SBC leaders and by friends have been my faithfulness. Church, and about his thoughts on president. most significant or most encouraging How did you learn to be faithful? the Southern Baptist Convention. The Q: Even with just your nomination, to you? Q: How did you become faithful? following questions and answers are what message do you hope it They’ve been saying, ‘Fred, it’s When God saved me He drasti- adapted from the interview. sends to the SBC and to the nation? A: time. Many of them feel God has A: cally saved me. When I got saved Did any special word from the The thing I hope it sends to the just raised me up for this time to speak and gave my life to the Lord, it was such Q: Lord confirm this? A: SBC is that if you’re faithful to not only a message of the Word of God an impact on my life that I wanted to A passage of Scripture that my God and faithful to God’s Word, that to our convention, but to the folk who share this with everybody I knew. That’s A: wife shared with me from Isaiah God will be faithful to you. That’s what’s are not part of our convention about the how I started doing street ministry in 66 and verse 2 really spoke to me about happened here. I’m from the Lower direction this convention wants to go as the Lower Ninth Ward. I wanted all my this situation. ‘Has not my hand made all Ninth Ward, and Mom and Dad were far as reaching all peoples. I think this partners and friends to get saved and to these things, and so they came into be- divorced when I was a kid. But through will say to a lot of young preachers across know the Jesus that I knew and how, if ing?’ declares the LORD. ‘This is the one the 30-some years I’ve been a believer America who are Asian, African Ameri- God could change my life, God could I esteem: he who is humble and contrite and the 25 years I’ve been a pastor, I have can, Hispanic that hey, this convention change their life, and because I was out in spirit, and trembles at my word.’ And I been faithful to God, faithful to the Word is not just saying this. They’re putting there on the street corners, out there in said ‘wow.’ And she said, ‘That’s you, sir; of God, and faithful to their money to their front of people, I knew I had to do more that’s you, Fred.’ That’s the one. She gave my wife. “... because I was out mouth. This conven- than just talk the talk. I had to walk the me that from the Lord and when I read it I just believe God tion is truly open to walk. I said, ‘Wow, that’s a blessing.’ has allowed this there on the street ..., all people. I would have to be faithful. When If you are elected, what do you [nomination] to hap- out there in front of Describe the you’re in the ‘hood, people know when Q: envision as your key emphases pen for such a time Q: rise in aware- you’re fake. Then when I came to the or key messages to Southern Baptists? as this. It is nothing people, I knew I had to ness of you by SBC church, I said, ‘God, if You can do this in What do you see as the greatest chal- I was looking for. It leaders. How did it my life, I figure You can do this in the life lenge to the SBC in the short-term? was not on my bucket do more then just talk come to pass that of this church.’ That’s why I wasn’t really This convention has been one of list, so to speak, but the talk.” you preached the concerned when they told me the history A: the top conventions in the world I think God ordained annual sermon at of the church: dying, on its last leg. I as far as our primary mission of evange- this because of the – Fred Luter the Southern Baptist said, ‘If God could resurrect my life, He lism and discipleship. My goal and vision fact that what we’re Convention in 2001 could resurrect the life of this church.’ is that we would get back to being that dealing with right now through the con- when it was last in New Orleans? So I went there just being faithful to God, convention we’re known for. Through vention is trying to make the convention It happened as a result of our bap- faithful to preaching and teaching and the years we’ve kind of gone off-track diverse. A: tism record. We started growing living His Word. with some things and that has allowed us I think this will speak not only to as a church and as a result leading our (EDITOR’S NOTE – Karen L. Willoughby is to not make evangelism and discipleship our convention but to our country and association in baptisms, and from there managing editor of the Baptist Message, news- our main focus. My prayer is just that throughout the world that this conven- our Louisiana Baptist Convention (LBC). journal of the Louisiana Baptist Convention, we get going back in the right direction, tion is serious about reaching all people. Wayne Jenkins [LBC evangelism director] and a correspondent for Baptist Press.) FEBRUARY 18, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 7 Haiti relief: 2 years of care, thousands of changed lives

By HOLLY MCCRAE| Baptist Press partnered with Florida Baptists and local Haitians to build 46 homes and 800 tem- PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – Smiling porary shelters. through her tears, Madam Maris thanks They also helped provide medical care and kisses the Southern Baptist volun- for 130,000 patients. teers as they hand her the keys to her Even today, volunteer medical teams new home. continue to see 800 to 1,000 patients a For nearly two years, the 70-year-old week. There also are efforts underway for Haitian woman has lived in a tent. She North Carolina Baptists to help build a lost her husband, two nephews, her arm clinic north of Port-Au-Prince. They hope and her home in the Jan. 12 earthquake to complete the clinic by the end of the that rocked Haiti in 2010. Now, she and year. her niece have a chance to start over. “That was our bigger thrust,” said Theirs is one of many new beginnings Gaylon Moss, who directs N.C. Baptist Southern Baptists have helped provide Men’s disaster relief ministry. since the 7.0-magnitude quake, which “We’re looking at a long-term part- killed 230,000 people and left millions nership with Haiti that will transition more injured, homeless or both. To date, into different phases,” he added, “but Southern Baptists have given more than we’re looking for a long-term presence in $11 million in aid. Many have volunteered While Southern Baptist volunteers set up an outdoor medical clinic to help earthquake survivors in Port-au- Haiti.” their time and skills to help Haitians Prince with ongoing needs, a Haitian believer, left, leads waiting patients in a time of worship. In the two years For those interested in signing up for recover. since a 7.0-magnitude earthquake hit Haiti, Southern Baptist disaster relief efforts have helped thousands of future medical projects in Haiti, go to At first, Southern Baptist aid work- Haitians rebuild their lives. baptistsonmission.org or contact N.C. Bap- ers focused on the most pressing needs tist Men at (800) 395-5102. – medical care, food and basic shelter – for housing captured the attention of communities. IMB (International Mis- that would serve as a witness to the love Southern Baptist relief planners. They sion Board), Baptist Global Response, the ‘A cooperative effort’ of Christ. But they also sought more long- developed a project called “Rebuild Southern Baptist Disaster Relief Network Through ongoing Southern Baptist term solutions to help Haitians break Haiti,” a joint effort involving Haitians and Florida Baptist Convention all have relief efforts, an estimated 16,800 Hai- the cycle of dependency that keeps them and Southern Baptists. contributed to the effort. tians are now in stable homes. Many of mired in extreme poverty. By the time the housing project ends these were built on original foundations, Since the quake destroyed or dam- this spring, Rebuild Haiti will have N.C. Baptists aged millions of houses, the vast need constructed about 2,800 houses in 30 North Carolina Baptists also have See Haiti relief page 12

Fred Luter Continued from page 1 model for Southern Baptist ministers, Crosby said. Membership grew to around 5,000 and each Sunday the two congregations grew close and began to participate The fact that Luter is African American would make church draws nearly 7,000 worshippers. in ministry together. The churches joined together for his election a historic moment for Southern Baptists, Deeply involved in Southern Baptist life, Luter has men’s ministry, the women’s Bible studies and Vacation Crosby said. served in leadership roles on the local, state and nation- Bible School. Though Franklin Avenue moved back to its “Our election of Fred Luter as the first African Amer- al level. The New Orleans Baptist Association (NOBA) restored facility in April 2008, the two pastors and their ican president of the SBC will send a great, hopeful, and the Louisiana Baptist Convention have tapped him congregations remain close. powerful message to our city, our culture, our conven- for numerous leadership positions, and he served as a “We are still doing some of those things together,” tion and our country,” Crosby said in an interview. “For member of the committee that worked on the revision of Crosby said. The men’s and women’s groups from both many, it will make them rethink who Southern Baptists the Baptist Faith and Message 2000. churches still gather for prayer, fellowship and Bible are, and it will help us reach the new diversity that we “Fred Luter’s support of our local association is study. Franklin Avenue also is involved in First Baptist’s find in our cities. stellar,” Crosby said. “We could not do what we do efforts to reach the Songhai people in Accra, Ghana. “For Southern Baptists to elect Fred Luter heralds a without him or Franklin Avenue Baptist Church.” “Fred and I have grown to love each other. I have a new era of inclusion – of working together in our diver- Crosby commended Luter for his pastoral leadership great respect for him as a man of God and expositor of sity,” Crosby continued. “It is a statement that people of following Hurricane Katrina. Franklin Avenue’s build- the Word of God to his people,” Crosby said. “I think all ethnic groups make up the Southern Baptist Conven- ing was inundated with water and most of the church’s Fred Luter is a great example of evangelism, family life, tion and are honored.” members were displaced, but Luter’s commitment to pastoral care and leadership and we need him now.” Luter, who often calls himself a “street preacher from the congregation never wavered. New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary President the Lower Ninth Ward,” has made a significant mark “Fred returned to New Orleans to continue his min- Chuck Kelley, a longtime co-laborer with Luter in New on Southern Baptist life. A popular preacher at confer- istry even though I am confident he could have moved Orleans, affirmed Crosby’s nomination of Luter. ences and seminaries across the country, Luter became on to other places and pulpits,” Crosby said. “Slice off any aspect of a pastor’s work, and Fred Lu- the first African American to preach the keynote ser- “But his heart was drawn here and he demonstrated ter does it well,” Kelley said. “Look at him as a leader, mon at the Southern Baptist Convention in 2001. At last the faithfulness of a pastor who cares for his flock. and his work in the aftermath of Katrina is the stuff of year’s annual meeting in Phoenix, Luter became the first “He met with his people who had evacuated to other legend. Check his calendar and you will find him active African American to serve as the convention’s first vice places and he wanted to start meeting with his congre- at every level of SBC life, including the grunt work of president. gation here in New Orleans, but the building took on committee meetings no one even knows he attends. In- Known for boldness in proclaiming the Bible, Luter is seven feet of water. There was no part of the facility that vite him to preach and everyone will remember him and a native New Orleanian who became pastor of Franklin was able to be used,” Crosby said. want him back. He is as Southern Baptist as Southern Avenue in 1986 at a time when the church was fading Crosby offered space at First Baptist. Franklin Av- Baptist gets.” as its surrounding neighborhoods were in transition. enue met there for worship at 7:30 a.m. every Sunday (EDITOR’S NOTE – Gary D. Myers is director of public rela- Under his leadership the church was given fresh life. for nearly two and a half years. During that time, the tions at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.) 8 FEBRUARY 18, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Komen reverses course, says Planned Parenthood still eligible

By TOM STRODE| Baptist Press investigation, a Komen spokeswoman had said in a Jan. last year, AP reported Jan. 31. An analysis last year by the 31 report by the Associated Press. A House of Repre- pro-life American Life League found 18 among Komen’s usan G. Komen for the Cure revised a policy sentatives committee began an investigation of Planned affiliates, numbering about 120, had given PPFA centers Feb. 3 that it had recently used in deciding to Parenthood in September. grants totaling nearly $630,000 in the 2009-10 fiscal Sstop funding for Planned Parenthood, leaving In its Feb. 3 statement, Komen said it would amend year. the impression it had reversed itself on future grants to the criteria “to make clear that disqualifying investiga- Government funding of Planned Parenthood dwarfs the country’s No. 1 abortion provider. tions must be criminal and conclusive in nature and not Komen’s giving. PPFA and its affiliates received $487.4 The statement issued by the world’s leading breast political.” million in government grants, contracts and reimburse- cancer organization did not guarantee Planned Par- “We will continue to fund existing grants, including ments alone in 2009-10, the most recent year for which enthood affiliates would continue to receive funds, those of Planned Parenthood, and preserve their eligi- statistics are available. however, only that they would remain eligible for such bility to apply for future grants, while maintaining the Money for PPFA and its affiliates helps support an grants. ability of our affiliates to make funding decisions that organization that performed 329,445 abortions in 2010. Komen’s action – after three days of a deluge of meet the needs of their communities,” according to the That was more than one-fourth of the lethal procedures Planned Parenthood-fueled criticism – was received by Komen statement. Komen also apologized to the public in the United States for the year. many pro-life advocates as a distressing setback fol- for “recent decisions that cast doubt upon our commit- In defending its grants to PPFA affiliates, Komen lowing so closely on the Jan. 31 report that the breast ment to our mission of saving women’s lives.” had said the funds were not for abortions but for breast cancer charity would no longer give money to one of A Komen board member told The Washington Post screenings and breast health education. Planned Parent- the abortion rights movement’s leading the new statement does not mean hood, however, does not offer mammograms, a further organizations. Planned Parenthood definitely reason reportedly used by Brinker to defend Komen’s One thing seemed certain after days will receive money in the fu- defunding decision. Komen has said grants to PPFA may of widespread news coverage of Komen’s ture. pay for mammograms at other sites. original action and the reaction – many Cecile Richards, president of Pro-life leaders decried Planned Parenthood’s tactics more pro-lifers now know the breast Planned Parenthood Federation in fomenting an uprising against a private charity. cancer foundation has given to Planned of America (PPFA), portrayed Ko- Charmaine Yoest, president of Americans United for Parenthood and may continue to do so. men’s announcement as a return Life and a breast cancer survivor, called the campaign As a result, pro-life advocates’ donations to Komen and to the previous relationship. “an ugly and disgraceful shakedown that highlights participation in its popular five-kilometer fundraising “In recent weeks, the treasured relationship be- Planned Parenthood’s willingness to pursue a scorched- runs/walks that draw more than 1.6 million participants tween the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation and earth strategy to force compliance with their pro-abor- each year likely will decline. Planned Parenthood has been challenged, and we are tion agenda.” Southern Baptist leaders who had applauded Ko- now heartened that we can continue to work in partner- “It is unfortunate that donors to [Komen] are now men’s defunding of Planned Parenthood expressed their ship toward our shared commitment to breast health confused about their association with the nation’s larg- disappointment at the latest development. for the most underserved women,” Richards said in a est abortion provider,” Yoest said in a written state- “I am extremely disappointed that the Susan G. Ko- written release. “We are enormously grateful that the ment. men Foundation would cave to the political pressure of Komen Foundation has clarified its grantmaking crite- Life Decisions International (LDI) publishes a boycott the radical pro-choice movement,” said Richard Land, ria, and we look forward to continuing our partnership list of organizations that give to Planned Parenthood president of the Southern Baptist Ethics & Religious with Komen partners, leaders and volunteers.” and seeks to persuade them to stop those donations. Liberty Commission. “It shows that underneath it all Komen affiliates gave about $680,000 to PPFA centers That list includes Komen. they share the culture of death mentality of the pro- choice movement. Pro-life Americans, now the majority in the country, will have to take that fact into account as California court strikes down Prop 8 they choose how to allocate their charitable contribu- tions.” By MICHAEL FOUST| Baptist Press so, the People of California violated the Equal Protection Thom Rainer, president of LifeWay Christian Re- Clause.” sources, had said Feb. 1 the Southern Baptist entity SAN FRANCISCO – A federal appeals court Feb. 8 But the ruling was not the home run gay groups had might reconsider its relationship with Komen in light of struck down California’s Proposition 8, handing gay hoped it would be, and its impact could be limited the charity’s defunding of Planned Parenthood. In De- groups a big win while avoiding the larger question of to California, meaning it might not affect the 28 other cember, LifeWay pulled from Walmart and other stores whether the U.S. Constitution guarantees gays nation- states with constitutional amendments defining mar- copies of a special pink-covered Bible that partially ben- wide the right to “marry.” riage in the traditional sense. Reinhardt – a nominee efited the cancer charity after learning of its connection The outcome by the Ninth Circuit Court of Ap- of President Carter – called the decision “narrow” with Planned Parenthood. peals was not a huge surprise, as the three-judge panel and said it was not answering the broader question of “I am deeply disappointed with today’s announce- seemed inclined during oral arguments to overturn Prop whether states ever can define marriage as between a ment from Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation if 8, which defines marriage as between one man and one man and a woman. it means a reversal of Komen’s decision to stop funding woman and was passed at the ballot in 2008. But it was Already, supporters of proposed constitutional mar- Planned Parenthood,” Rainer said in a written state- a landmark decision and marked the first time an ap- riage amendments in North Carolina and Minnesota are ment Feb. 3. “I renew my strong encouragement of Ko- peals court in the U.S. has ruled that same-sex couples using the ruling as evidence that their states need to men’s leadership to end that relationship permanently, in a state have a right to “marry.” The ruling will be ap- adopt such an amendment. North Carolinians will vote and restate LifeWay’s commitment to not be involved, pealed and could end up before the U.S. Supreme Court. on an amendment in May, Minnesotans in November. even indirectly, with Planned Parenthood.” The 2-1 decision affirmed a 2010 lower court ruling by “The proposed amendment protects North Carolina Komen’s latest announcement – which came from its Judge Vaughn Walker, now retired. from being in the same position as California by not board of directors and Chief Executive Officer Nancy “Proposition 8 serves no purpose, and has no effect, granting any legal recognition of same-sex relationships, Brinker – said the charity was “distressed at the pre- other than to lessen the status and human dignity of which could be overturned by an equal protection argu- sumption that the changes made to our funding criteria gays and lesbians in California, and to officially reclas- ment,” Tami Fitzgerald, chairwoman of Vote for Mar- were done for political reasons or to specifically penal- sify their relationships and families as inferior to those riage NC (VoteforMarriageNC.com), said in a statement. ize Planned Parenthood. They were not.” of opposite-sex couples,” Judge Stephen Reinhardt “Every day that goes by is another day when a judge can Komen decided to abstain from future funding of wrote for the majority. “... By using their initiative decide to substitute his values for those of North Caro- Planned Parenthood affiliates because of its new policy power to target a minority group and withdraw a right linians. We need the marriage protection amendment to that bans grants to organizations under government that is possessed, without a legitimate reason for doing prevent that.” FEBRUARY 18, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 9 ‘Scriptures Come to Life’ during 20/20 conference

By DIANNA L. CAGLE| BR Assistant Managing Editor

ore than 900 people attended the 20/20 Collegiate Confer- Mence with the theme “The Scriptures Come to Life” Feb. 3-4 at Southeastern Baptist Theological Semi- nary (SEBTS) in Wake Forest. Each of the main speakers – Danny Akin, D.A. Carson, Tullian Tchividjian and Tony Merida – spoke in Binkley Cha- pel about the importance of the Bible, its authority and how to integrate it into life. “[The Bible is] true whether you en- counter it or not,” said Akin, Southeast- ern’s president, to the students Feb. 3. “It’s true whether you believe it or not.” Danny Akin, from left, president of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary; Tony Merida, lead pastor of Imago Dei Church in Raleigh and associate professor of He shared how preaching at Southeastern; Bruce Ashford, dean of The College at Southeastern; Tullian Tchividjian, pastor of Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; and Andy Davis, pastor of First Baptist Church in Durham, participate in a panel Feb. 4. (SEBTS photos) Christ reacted to and interacted to how he could inherit eternal life, he “If there ever comes a time in your life that you with scripture. Re- said “it is deeply disturbing [the expert ferring to Matthew in the law] really thinks he can achieve become convinced this book is full of errors, realize 5, Akin said Christ [eternal life] all by himself.” believed that all Carson went on to share the story of two things: You’re saying Jesus was wrong. You’re DANNY AKIN scripture pointed the Good Samaritan. Looking beyond to Him, and He Luke 10, Jesus is saying you know better than Jesus.” believed that all scripture was perfect. the greatest Good – Danny Akin “If there ever comes a time in your life Samaritan, said that you become convinced this book is Carson, emphasiz- begin the second day of the conference sor of preaching at Southeastern, closed full of errors,” Akin said, “realize two ing the importance and answer questions about scripture, its out the two-day event, offering four chal- things: You’re saying Jesus was wrong. of looking at the truth and application to daily lives. lenges on proclaiming the Bible: You’re saying you know better than scripture in con- “The Christian life begins by the Word • Proclaim Christ from the storyline of Jesus.” text of the verses of God,” Davis said. “We have to contin- scriptures. Following Akin, D.A. Carson shared around it and the ue to take in God’s Word ... to sustain us. • Proclaim Christ as a five-tool min- “something strange” he learned in his entire Bible. We’ve got to be feeding on God’s Word ister of the Word – a steward, herald, almost 40 years of teaching the Bible: that D.A. CARSON Jesus clearly every day.” prophet, theologian and sage. while his students didn’t learn most of “expects His fol- Tullian Tchividjian, pastor of Coral • Proclaim Christ to mature people in what he taught them, they did remember lowers to behave as He Himself does. Ridge Presbyterian Church in Fort Him. what excited him. For though we are saved by grace alone Lauderdale, Fla., and a visiting profes- • Proclaim Christ by His mighty “Feed your soul so that you will through faith alone, if it’s real grace and sor of theology at Reformed power. always be excited about the gospel,” real faith, they’re never alone,” Carson Theological Seminary, followed Merida recommended the said Carson, research professor of New said. “Where there’s real grace and real the panel session. Tchividjian Bible as the best book on how Testament at Trinity Evangelical Divinity faith, there is real change.” is convinced most people read to preach and teach the Bible. School in Deerfield, Ill., and author. Some of the main plenary speakers the Bible “wrongly.” He challenged participants Referring to Luke 10 where Jesus is joined with Andy Davis, pastor of First “It is possible to read the to “make the hero of the Bible confronted by a man seeking the answer Baptist Church in Durham, on Feb. 4 to Bible, study the Bible, memo- the hero of every message.” rize portions of the Bible and Merida said he admired miss the whole point. In other Paul because he was “so words it is entirely possible to wrapped up in the person of read the stories and miss the Jesus.” TONY MERIDA Story … miss Jesus.” If they wanted to kill Paul, So many treat the Bible as if Paul would say “so what, I’ll it is a self-help book or a “divine fortune be with God,” Merida said. cookie,” Tchividjian said. If they decided to let Him live, then “God becomes a supporting actor Paul dedicated his life to Christ. In the in our story instead of the other way face of torture, Paul looked forward to around,” he said. the reward he would receive. “Many pulpits across the land preach “We operate under someone else’s the Christian not the Christ. authority,” Merida said. “I don’t know how we got to the point “We’re not giving advice. We are giv- that the Christian is the focus of the ing news: the tomb is empty; the throne is Christian faith.” occupied. As long as you are proclaiming Tony Merida, lead pastor of Imago Dei Christ you will never run out of mate- Church in Raleigh and associate profes- rial.” 10 FEBRUARY 18, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists

Material provided by the Baptist State Convention “Prayer is the of North Carolina key indicator of the passion of a redeemed YEAR-AT-A-GLANCE heart to worship God and work for His harvest.” Milton Practice A. Hollifield Jr., executive Pray2Go ncbaptist.org/pray2go Renew ncbaptist.org/renew director-treasurer Fervent Prayer A statewide kingdom-focused prayer gathering featuring Mel Blackaby, president, Concerts of Prayer, Long Island City, N.Y.; and Jay Wolf, senior pastor, First A Northeastern North Carolina Prayer and Spiritual Life Summit April 27-28: Corinth Baptist Church, Elizabeth City senior pastor, First Baptist Church, Jonesboro, Ga.; Roy Fish, professor Baptist Church, Montgomery, Ala. March 6-7: Fruitland Baptist Bible Institute and Mud (800) 395-5102 ext. 5513 • [email protected] 1 emeritus, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Gary Frost, Creek Baptist Church, Hendersonville. (800) 395-5102 ext. 5513 • [email protected]

“IECS is not the latest thing

Embrace Women’s Ministry embracenc.org IECS ncbaptist.org/iecs that pastors often hope for in a silver “Worthy of the Calling” is the theme for the 2012 leadership training events. These Is your church doing everything possible to be intentionally evangelistic so that people have the opportunity to hear and respond bullet, but it encourages us to develop a events are for women called into leadership roles in their local churches and associations to the gospel? The Intentionally Evangelistic Church Strategy can help your church become more effective in evangelism by holistic plan and strategy to coordinate for ministry in evangelism, discipleship, missions involvement and leadership. Highlights “A disciple is focusing on evangelistic leadership, evangelistic prayer, assimilation, personal evangelism, and event evangelism. our often disjointed and disconnected include local mission projects and a special prayer time for Central Asian peoples. one who abides in Christ (800) 395-5102 ext. 5557 • [email protected] efforts in evangelism and ministry.” (800) 395-5102 ext. 5559 • [email protected] and does the things that Jesus did. So Jerry Cloninger, senior pastor, we must worship God, we must be involved Tabernacle Baptist April 20-21: Woodlawn Baptist Church, Conover with guest speaker 2 in His evangelistic mission, and we must come Culture Reach ncbaptist.org/culturereach Church, Raleigh Promote Evangelism Alicia Wong, assistant professor, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary together in community to nurture our faith October 26-27: Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary with guest and worship God more.” Lynn Sasser, During its opening weekend, “Courageous” – a film about what it means to be a godly father – was the top-grossing box office new film and Disciple-Making speaker Bobbye Rankin, former IMB (International Mission Board) missionary executive leader, congregational and also hit the number one spot in DVD sales nationwide. Alex Kendrick, main actor, will speak February 27 in Winston-Salem about and wife of Jerry Rankin, former IMB president services popular culture, media and evangelism during the statewide evangelism conference. (800) 395-5102 ext. 5563 • [email protected]

Looking at your church in 3-D ncbaptist.org/3D A healthy church is a called-out, covenant community of Christ-followers who are creating a disciple-making culture Church Renewal Journey ncbaptist.org/crj Marriage & Family ncbaptist.org/family in which lives are changed by the power of God. Learn how your church can be strengthened through a Christ-centered Strengthen Your church can schedule a church renewal weekend anytime during the year. Strengthen your church by strengthening the families in your church. Come process that will help you discover where you are and where God is leading your church, develop a strategy to get The weekend is a process of awakening, equipping, commissioning, empowering learn biblical, practical principles about parenting, marriage and ministry. there, and resource you to deliver that strategy. (800) 395-5102 ext. 5632 • [email protected] Existing and sending church members into a lifestyle of ministry and evangelism. (800) 395-5102 ext. 5644 • [email protected] Churches March 20: First Baptist Church, Rocky Mount April 19: Hopewell Baptist Church, Monroe (800) 395-5102 ext. 5569 • [email protected]. 3 September 13: Southside Baptist Church, Greensboro October 4: First Baptist Church, Swannanoa

Vision Trips ncbaptist.org/gcp NCMO ncmissionsoffering.org Plant New April 16-18, 24-25, August 23-24: Some communities in need churches to help plant churches that will in turn plant The September North Carolina Missions Offering focusses on “Radical Transformation: 2011 helped start 89 new churches across the state. These new churches the Greater Toronto Area have no evangelical witness. Only churches. Sign up for a vision trip and come see for yourself Hearts, Lives, Communities.” In addition to serving as the primary support of the ministries are reaching people with the gospel. Plan now to support church Multiplication three percent of people in New York City and less than 2.5 how church planting can help push back spiritual darkness. of NC Baptist Men, this offering helps fund the BSCNC’s church planting ministry, which in planting. (800) 395-5102 ext. 5539 • [email protected] 4 Churches percent in Boston know Jesus Christ as Savior. These cities (800) 395-5102 ext. 5536 • [email protected] Reach North More and more people from all over the world continue For example, since 2004, the Convention has helped start Multicultural Young Leaders Summit Carolina’s to move to North Carolina. More than 230 languages about 24 Asian Indian churches, seven Chinese churches, Hispanic Young Adult Conference are spoken in North Carolina. Tens of thousands of three Cambodian churches, three Japanese churches and ncbaptist.org/myls ncbaptist.org/hyac12 Asians have settled in the state. The BSCNC helps start International 11 Filipino churches. The nations need to hear the gospel, March 16-17, September 21-22: Caraway Conference Center. June 1-3: NC Baptist Assembly at Fort Caswell churches for people from the international community. Community and God has brought the nations to this state. (800) 395-5102 ext. 5628 • [email protected] (800) 395-5102 ext. 5563 • [email protected] 5 “A lost and dying world waits to hear the life-saving “We want to see the T people effectively reached message of Jesus. It is time for us as a Equipping Events ncbaptist.org/gcp Embrace Find it Here: Expanding the Kingdom finditherenc.org through the generations. We want family of faith known as North Carolina Learn how your church can prepare to embrace an unreached, unengaged people group. Six billion people in the world, 258 million people in North America and 5.6 million people in North Carolina Baptists to put our words into actions.” to engage this people group until the Unreached are lost and will not spend eternity in heaven with Jesus Christ. Throughout the world are 3,800 unengaged, May 1- 2: Impact Your World, First Baptist Church, Charlotte. Great Commission is fulfilled; until Chuck Register, executive leader, September 17-19: Southeast Asian Peoples USA Training, Old Town Baptist Church,Winston-Salem. and Unengaged unreached people groups. This year’s Find it Here emphasis is about missions mobilization and getting the gospel church planting and missions they are making disciples who are to those who need to hear it. (800) 395-5102 ext. 5571 • [email protected] Read about Old Town’s journey to embrace the T people: ncbaptist.org/gcp. making disciples.” Mark Harrison, 66 development (800) 395-5102 ext. 5536 • [email protected] People Groups missions pastor, Old Town Baptist Church

Baptist Campus Ministry baptiststudent.org Youth ministry bedotell.com The 48 full time, part time and volunteer Baptist campus ministers, as well as the more than 2,000 students involved in BCM, need your Only four percent of the nearly 823,000 teenagers who live in North Carolina are Christians. The BSCNC wants to help reach youth for prayers and support as they seek to grow in Christ and impact their campus with the gospel. (800) 395-5102 ext. 5560 • [email protected] Christ, and help equip your church to impact lostness among next generation leaders. (800) 395-5102 ext. 5566 • [email protected] “Family Portraits” International Student Conference Day of Prayer for Collegiate Ministry Student Ministry Lab: Fall Retreats: Engage April 13-15 at the NC Baptist Assembly at Fort Caswell Wednesday, October 24 April 21, First Baptist Church, Garner October 26-28 & November 16-18 at the NC Baptist Assembly at Fort Caswell. Young7 Leaders Bring a young leader to annual meeting! ncbaptist.org/am2012 Next Generation Missional Leadership Journey ncbaptist.org/gcp Invite a young leader to attend the annual meeting with you and members from your church. Please note the location change for the 2012 annual meeting. This is a three-year journey that helps encourage and challenge high school students to become the next generation of mission leaders. The 2012 annual meeting will be held November 12-13 at the Greensboro Coliseum Special Events Center. (800) 395-5102 ext. 5501 • [email protected] Applications are due May 1. (800) 395-5102 ext. 5536 • [email protected] FEBRUARY 18, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 11

Material provided by the Baptist State Convention “Prayer is the of North Carolina key indicator of the passion of a redeemed YEARYEAR-AT-A-GLANCE AT A GLANCE heart to worship God and work for His harvest.” Milton Practice A. Hollifield Jr., executive Pray2Go ncbaptist.org/pray2go Renew ncbaptist.org/renew director-treasurer Fervent Prayer A statewide kingdom-focused prayer gathering featuring Mel Blackaby, president, Concerts of Prayer, Long Island City, N.Y.; and Jay Wolf, senior pastor, First A Northeastern North Carolina Prayer and Spiritual Life Summit April 27-28: Corinth Baptist Church, Elizabeth City senior pastor, First Baptist Church, Jonesboro, Ga.; Roy Fish, professor Baptist Church, Montgomery, Ala. March 6-7: Fruitland Baptist Bible Institute and Mud (800) 395-5102 ext. 5513 • [email protected] 1 emeritus, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Gary Frost, Creek Baptist Church, Hendersonville. (800) 395-5102 ext. 5513 • [email protected]

“IECS is not the latest thing

Baptist Campus Ministry baptiststudent.org Youth ministry bedotell.com The 48 full time, part time and volunteer Baptist campus ministers, as well as the more than 2,000 students involved in BCM, need your Only four percent of the nearly 823,000 teenagers who live in North Carolina are Christians. The BSCNC wants to help reach youth for prayers and support as they seek to grow in Christ and impact their campus with the gospel. (800) 395-5102 ext. 5560 • [email protected] Christ, and help equip your church to impact lostness among next generation leaders. (800) 395-5102 ext. 5566 • [email protected] “Family Portraits” International Student Conference Day of Prayer for Collegiate Ministry Student Ministry Lab: Fall Retreats: Engage April 13-15 at the NC Baptist Assembly at Fort Caswell Wednesday, October 24 April 21, First Baptist Church, Garner October 26-28 & November 16-18 at the NC Baptist Assembly at Fort Caswell. Young7 Leaders Bring a young leader to annual meeting! ncbaptist.org/am2012 Next Generation Missional Leadership Journey ncbaptist.org/gcp Invite a young leader to attend the annual meeting with you and members from your church. Please note the location change for the 2012 annual meeting. This is a three-year journey that helps encourage and challenge high school students to become the next generation of mission leaders. The 2012 annual meeting will be held November 12-13 at the Greensboro Coliseum Special Events Center. (800) 395-5102 ext. 5501 • [email protected] Applications are due May 1. (800) 395-5102 ext. 5536 • [email protected] 12 FEBRUARY 18, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Midwestern seminary president resigns

Trustees met early in the morning, tive committee will be recommending 1,000-seat chapel complex. By ALLEN PALMERI| The Pathway with the door of the Ambassador Meet- the process that the seminary will use Roberts came to Kansas City after KANSAS CITY, Mo. (BP) – The trust- ing Room at the Embassy Suites Hotel to move forward in a search for a new serving seven years with the North Amer- ees of Midwestern Baptist Theological left open, and after about half an hour president. ican Mission Board (NAMB), where he Seminary Feb. 10 accepted the resigna- Roberts was seen leaving the room. Hadaway, who is an associate profes- served as vice president for the Strategic tion of seminary president R. Philip Roberts then greeted a representative sor of missions, has been with Midwest- Cities Strategies Group. Roberts effective Feb. 29 during a called of Baptist Press before walking down ern for eight and a half years. He also was director of NAMB’s meeting at an airport hotel and named as the hall to another room with staff and He previously served as IMB (Inter- Interfaith Evangelism Department and acting president Robin Hadaway, associ- faculty. national Mission Board) regional leader vice president for urban evangelism and ate professor of missions at the seminary. After saying a quick hello there, ac- for eastern South America, supervising church planting. Roberts, an 11-year president, was fac- cording to someone present in more than 300 missionaries in In the early 1990s he was professor ing questions about misuse of seminary the room, he left that room and Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay. of missions and evangelism at South- resources and verbal abuse of seminary headed toward the front desk Missouri Baptist Conven- eastern Baptist Theological Seminary in staff. Other trustee meetings in years past area. tion Executive Director John Wake Forest, and co-directed the Lewis had revolved around those same ques- By that time trustees were Yeats signaled his level of spiri- Drummond Center for Great Commission tions. fully engaged in executive ses- tual concern after the news of Studies. The resignation was announced in the sion and had closed the door, Roberts’ resignation became Roberts has written several books afternoon by means of a three-paragraph and Roberts was not to be public. from an apologetics perspective, most press release. A morning trustee vote to found. “We just need to be in notably on Mormonism, and is known express lack of confidence in the board’s The resignation was an- prayer for the institution, for in Europe for his pulpit work in inter- executive committee failed, and at some nounced in the afternoon by the faculty, and for the stu- national churches in England, Germany point in the overall meeting there was a means of a press release. Part of dents, for Dr. Hadaway, for Dr. and Belgium. His Ph.D. is from the Free transfer of the chairmanship from Wayne the statement was worded to R. PHILIP ROBERTS Roberts and his family, and University of Amsterdam, and he also Lee of Southlake, Texas, to Kevin Shrum explain that a meeting to con- for all the seminary families,” conducted post-graduate research at of Madison, Tenn., who emerged as the sider the performance of the president Yeats said. Oxford University. sole trustee spokesman for the day’s was “suspended,” and that before that Roberts was elected as Midwestern’s Among the Southern Baptist Conven- events and the interim board chair until meeting, Roberts tendered his resigna- fourth president in January 2001 and tion (SBC) leaders who came to Kansas April. Shrum wound up taking a few tion. The rest of the meeting time in the began serving that February. Among City for the Feb. 10 meeting was Bry- questions from the media in mid-after- morning and afternoon was spent in facility projects during his time were ant Wright, SBC president. He left the noon. In answering one inquiry, Shrum executive session. The press release made the purchase of the Koehn-Myers build- meeting room before Shrum released the said Lee resigned as chairman. no mention of a severance package. ing, construction of housing facilities official statement and had no comment. “He felt like he had done what he Shrum said that Hadaway, as acting and renovation of many of Midwestern’s (EDITOR’S NOTE – Allen Palmeri is associ- needed to do,” Shrum said. “He’s still on president, will serve through the April existing buildings. ate editor of The Pathway, newsjournal of the the board.” board meeting, when the board’s execu- The seminary is currently building a Missouri Baptist Convention.)

Haiti relief Continued from page 7 keeping families who owned land from relocating and focusing on people who had the greatest needs. Missionaries and volunteers donated supplies – such losing their property. These projects also revived local “What we found over and over was they were choos- as benches, desks and chalkboards – to seven struggling businesses and put Haitians back to work. ing orphans,” Palmer said. “They were choosing a lot schools. They also rebuilt damaged buildings, repaired “Almost all the labor was done by Haitians,” said of those we would have given priority to. We saw a real roofs and installed bathrooms so thousands of children retired missionary Carter Davis, who has worked with transition from dependency to more Kingdom values.” could return to school. relief efforts in Haiti since the earthquake. “There was a great support to provide first for the Women’s groups across the U.S. sewed clothes for “This provided income for many and stimulated the widows and mothers with children,” Davis added. orphans while churches and other Baptist organizations local economy by purchasing the materials from local “There was a tendency by some to provide only for the provided food and medicine for needy children. Mis- stores.” church members, but as time went on, I saw more and sionaries and volunteers even started a mini-farm and “It was a cooperative effort,” agreed Jeff Palmer, more [desire to] provide for others [in need] in the com- gardens to help some orphanages become self-support- Baptist Global Response. “Haitian Baptists and [other] munities. This is the concept we stressed to the pastors ing. Haitian workers actually built more of the houses than and churches – to recognize that Jesus cared for every- Despite all that has been accomplished, Haiti still the volunteer teams. But the teams were good for com- one and we need to follow His example.” faces years of recovery. ing down and interacting, sharing their faith, as well as Davis recalled the generosity of one Haitian church “For many people, things are improving and they are just giving encouragement to the local people that ‘Hey, in a town not even directly affected by the earthquake. moving ahead with their lives,” said Delores York, an somebody cares, and they’re coming from the outside to Many of the church members had already taken in International Mission Board missionary in Haiti. “For help us rebuild our homes.’” displaced relatives from Port-au-Prince, but the church thousands of others who are still in tents or make-do Using local materials ensures Haitians can continue wanted to do more. shelters, help has not arrived. There is still a problem of to build and expand these houses after Southern Bap- “The [congregation] asked if we could assist by unemployment and survival on a day-to-day basis. Chol- tists leave, Palmer noted. providing funds for the church to construct houses on era comes in waves, along with malaria, typhoid, TB and “We’ve tried to break the cycle of dependency and land that the church owned and would give to [quake many other diseases.” entitlement by saying to the people who are the recipi- survivors],” Davis said. “We constructed 50 houses on Even though many Haitians remain in need, York and ents of this goodwill and aid [that] they’ve got the same this land.” other workers believe the generosity of Southern Bap- abilities and capabilities,” he said. “The work will go tists will continue to encourage Haitians as they rebuild on, but the Haitians will be the ones to complete it.” Helped in other ways their lives and communities. Southern Baptist workers encouraged Haitian Baptist Although housing was one of biggest needs after the (EDITOR’S NOTE – Holly McCrae is an international cor- churches to take the lead in identifying aid recipients. quake, Southern Baptists helped in many other ways as respondent with Baptist Global Response. Biblical Recorder staff Since resources were limited, these churches began well. contributed to this story.) FEBRUARY 18, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 13 Poll: Many pastors feel lonely, but privileged in role with the statement, “Being in ministry has had a By DAVID ROACH| Baptist Press negative effect on my family.” A majority (58 percent) hough almost all pastors feel privileged to be in strongly disagree. Twenty percent somewhat disagree, ministry, a majority also experience loneliness 15 percent somewhat agree and 4 percent strongly agree. Tand discouragement. “This statistic has to be one of the biggest surprises,” That is the finding of a new survey by LifeWay Re- said Stetzer, who has also served as a pastor. “Pastoring search of 1,000 American Protestant pastors. can be stressful on a family, but contrary to some hyped A full 98 percent agree with the statement, “I feel statistics, most do not believe that being a pastor has privileged to be a pastor,” with 93 percent strongly hurt their family. agreeing. Only about 0.5 percent of pastors disagree “Pastoring is difficult, and family life is a fishbowl, with the statement. Yet more than half (55 percent) also but overstating the challenge and dangers of pastoring agree with the statement, “I find that it is easy to get can discourage pastors and create an expectation of fam- discouraged,” and 55 percent say being in pastoral min- ily disruption – leading to that very problem,” he said. istry makes them feel lonely at times. Pastors in the South (63 percent) are more likely to “Many oft-quoted statistics speak of miserable and strongly disagree that ministry has had a negative effect unhappy pastors, but that’s not what we see when we on their families than their counterparts in the North- actually ask them,” explained Ed Stetzer, vice presi- east (51 percent) or Midwest (54 percent). dent of research and ministry development at LifeWay The study found that 18 percent of pastors have more Christian Resources. “There is discouragement and than 10 close friends in their congregation. Sixteen per- loneliness, but when 98 percent agree it is a privilege to cent have six to 10, 38 percent have three to five, 10 per- be a pastor, we also know there is a great honor to being cent have two and 4 percent have one. Twelve percent of a pastor.” those in congregations with an average attendance of pastors have no close friends in their congregation. Pastors 65 and older are the least discouraged age 250 or more, 17 percent strongly disagree that pastoral “Relationships matter and it appears that pas- bracket. While 30 percent of those 65 and older strongly ministry makes them feel lonely at times. By compari- tors value those friendships – particularly as they get disagree that it is easy to get discouraged in ministry, son, 32 percent with churches of 0-49 and 27 percent older,” Stetzer said. “Older pastors – and I would add, only 19 percent ages 55-64 strongly disagree along with with churches of 100-249 strongly disagree. younger pastors with wisdom – have developed more 13 percent ages 45-54 and 11 percent ages 18-44. “Pastors feel privileged, but clearly the reality of close friendships within their church and are less likely Pastors 65 and older are also most likely to strongly constant service can take its toll,” Stetzer said. “There to be discouraged or lonely. This combination mirrors disagree (39 percent) with the statement, “Pastoral is discouragement and loneliness in ministry. It appears workplace studies that have shown that more friend- ministry makes me feel lonely at times.” Twenty-nine that the larger the church the more present the loneli- ships at work correspond with higher satisfaction with a percent of those ages 55-64 strongly disagree, as well as ness.” person’s job and life.” 21 percent ages 45-54 and 19 percent ages 18-44. The survey had good news for the families of min- (EDITOR’S NOTE – David Roach is a pastor and writer in Ironically, pastors of larger churches are lonelier. Of isters: Nearly eight in 10 pastors (79 percent) disagree Shelbyville, Ky.) Israel inaugurates ‘Gospel Trail’ to follow Jesus’ steps as it’s described in the Bible,” he said. East, many Holy Land Christians have local business owners will provide By MICHELLE CHABIN| Religion News Service Mah and his church group were among emigrated in search of economic stability accommodations and bathrooms. In the GALILEE, Israel – Perched on Tel the first hikers on the newly inaugurated and peace. meantime, visitors need to make their Kinrot, a hill above the Sea of Galilee, Gospel Trail, 39 miles of integrated paths Now that the political situation is own arrangements or request special Winston Mah turned his face toward the leading from Mount Precipice on the relatively quiet, and a record number arrangements from a tour operator. warm sun and took in the tranquil view southern outskirts of Nazareth to the site of tourists are flooding into Israel and Both trails capitalize on the beauty of before him. of ancient Capernaum on the shores of the Palestinian-ruled territories, local the Galilee region. To his right, the Christian pilgrim the Sea of Galilee. Christians are benefiting and emigration One of the only truly green places in from San Diego saw banana groves at Developed by the Israeli Ministry of is slowing, according to government Israel, the hills are dotted with towns the edge of the calm fresh-water lake; Tourism and the Jewish National Fund, statistics. and villages, cows, sheep and olive trees. to his left, on the opposite hill, rose the the project has the enthusiastic support Leading a group of journalists down a Proficient hikers can make the entire majestic Mount of Beatitudes at Tabga, of local Christian leaders, whose flocks section of the trail on horseback, Tourism journey in about four days. where, according depend on the Minister Stas Misezhnikov said the Gos- The Gospel Trail includes the Arbel to Christian tradi- “This is the view Jesus tourist trade. pel Trail “represents a major means for Cliffs, which served as the backdrop of tion, Jesus delivered “It is our hope maximizing the tourist potential” of the many ancient battles; the ancient ruins his Sermon on the might have seen ... It’s a that this trail Sea of Galilee region. of Beit Saida (Bethsaida), a biblical-era Mount. privilege to walk in His will bring many The Gospel Trail isn’t the first fishing village and the birthplace of “This is a unique more Christian Christian-oriented hiking/cycling trail the disciples Peter, Andrew and Philip; experience,” Mah footsteps.” pilgrims to the in the region. The 40-mile Jesus Trail Capernaum, the starting point of Jesus’ said, gazing at a Galilee, where begins in the city of Nazareth, the home ministry in Galilee; and Kfar Kana (Cana), lone fisherman on – Winston Mah Jesus lived and had of Mary and Joseph, and ends at the Sea where Jesus healed the nobleman’s son. the water’s edge. his ministry,” said of Galilee. Though the trails overlap in Also along the route: Migdal/Magdala, “This is the view Jesus must have seen, Bishop Boutros Muallem, the Melkite many areas, the Jesus Trail winds its way identified in the Gospels as the home the path he might have walked, the water archbishop emeritus of Galilee, who at- through more Christian, Muslim and of Mary Magdalene; and the Mount of he walked on. It’s a privilege to walk in tended the trail’s festive opening aboard Jewish population centers and already Beatitudes, where a picturesque church, His footsteps.” a boat on the Sea of Galilee. has an infrastructure. surrounded by greenery and special areas It’s one thing to read about biblical Roughly 150,000 Christian Arabs In the coming months, the for prayer, overlooks the sites related to sites while seated in a church pew back live in Israel, the vast majority of them government hopes tour operators will Jesus’ ministry. The late Pope John Paul home, Mah said. But “it’s another thing in the Galilee region, in the north of the provide itineraries and transportation II held a large Mass on a nearby knoll in entirely to be in the actual place, just country. As elsewhere in the Middle to and from various sites, and that 2000. 14 FEBRUARY 18, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Pastor: CP an old idea that still works well Through their Cooperative Program By MIKE CRESWELL| BSC Communications giving, Holly Springs members support he road out to Holly Springs a wide range of ministries across North Baptist Church in Franklin winds Carolina that includes: starting 125 new Tthrough rolling hills that rule the churches in 2010, the Baptist Children’s scenery across Macon County. A newer Homes of North Carolina, Fruitland Bap- and larger sanctuary sits alongside the tist Bible Institute, a youth program that smaller, original building. reached more than 7,000 young people More than 600 members gather here last year, evangelism and church growth weekly for services led by Pastor Ed Trull ministry, prayer ministry, music ministry, or “Pastor Trull,” as he prefers to be women’s ministry, partnership missions called. and provides other pastor and church Despite the scenery, Pastor Trull is staff support. quick to point out that they are not really The Cooperative Program helps the isolated. North American Mission Board (NAMB) “The world shows up – folks come with about 5,000 missionaries at work on here from all over the world,” he said. evangelism and church planting across Though the church was organized in the U.S. and Canada. 1914, its hip new website indicates Holly It also supports nearly 5,000 IMB Springs is keeping up with the times. (International Mission Board) missionar- Pastor Trull has led his congregation ies who seek to share the gospel among to reach out to new people moving into unreached and unengaged people groups subdivisions that have been carved into around the globe. This support includes six Southern the surrounding pastures and farmland In recent years Pastor Ed Trull has led Holly Springs Baptist Church in Franklin to give about 10 percent of its during the past decade, part of Macon undesignated receipts through the Cooperative Program. (BSC photo by Mike Creswell) Baptist seminaries that equip more than County’s rapid growth that leaders there 13,000 students for church leadership talk about. was no centralized system to help enable Pastor Trull has served on the Baptist and missionary service. But Pastor Trull equally wants his churches to conveniently support many State Convention’s Board of Directors, Those schools include Southeastern members focused on reaching the world causes. and has seen how working together can Baptist Theological Seminary at Wake – the one that lies beyond these hills. It was Baptist forefathers, “those work, just as he has supported Macon Forest. That missions vision explains why guys who are heroes in Southern Baptist Baptist Association, of which Holly Other ministries receive CP support as Holly Springs has consistently averaged Convention life,” who in 1925 developed Springs is a part. well. giving about 10 percent of its undesig- a better way for Baptists to support mul- nated receipts through the tiple ministries, he said. Cooperative Program (CP) “God gave us a vision in recent years. for a way to work together East Coast Men’s Pastor Trull sees CP as and pool our resources to the answer to how Bap- not only reach the next- tists could work together door neighbor but our Bible Conference on missions causes. neighbors on the other “When Southern Baptists were side of the world,” he said. March 9-10, 2012 formed in 1845, we did a lot of good The Cooperative Program also enabled things, but we didn’t know how to sup- churches to fund supporting ministries, Englewood Baptist Church, Rocky Mount, NC port them very well. For about 60 years such as schools and seminaries ... “ev- TOM ELLIFF VANCE PITMAN we struggled with that in a lot of ways,” erything it takes to support that vision TONY MERIDA he said. to reach the world with the gospel,” he Pastor Trull described a time when said. local churches were flooded with repre- “I’m thankful we have the Cooperative sentatives of orphanages, mission boards Program as the avenue we use to get to and other Baptist entities, because there the world with the gospel,” he said.

KEVIN HAMM THIS HOPE

Sponsored by Bob Pitman Ministries & Englewood Baptist Church FEBRUARY 18, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Opinion 15 Writer goes too far in being ‘all things to all people’

proach to church revitalization by mak- To keep this verse in context, you must the thoughts and intents of the heart.” By RICKY BROWDER| Guest Column ing resources, people and suggestions go back at least to verse 19. Verse 13 even goes on to say that “all irst of all let me say that I nor- available for member churches What a paradox: free from things are naked and open unto the eyes mally do not respond to articles to use. It’s up to the churches all men, yet the servant of all of him.” Fin newspapers, especially those to choose to take advantage of men. Because he was free, Paul People do not want to hear that kind of “religious” origin, so I hesitate to these resources. was able to serve others and of preaching because it exposes sin in respond to this one. Having said that, We must understand that to set aside his own rights for their lives. there are some things that cause me great there is NO one shoe fits all their sake. He was a servant of In no way am I suggesting that every concern within this column entitled worship style that should be God with a servant’s heart for time a person is at church they should “SBC [Southern Baptist Convention] forced upon churches. The God, not an ecumenical pawn! be brow beat, absolutely not; but neither needs greater focus on revitalizing dying demographics of the regions We are not to be all things should they get a gentle massage with a churches.” across this great state will not to all people. In fact, in Mat- feather duster every time either. I totally agree that the majority of allow for that kind of thinking. thew 5, the Sermon on the Perhaps a better suggestion to our existing churches are either plateaued or Perhaps that may be contribut- RICKY BROWDER Mount, Jesus speaks of the seminaries would be to have their stu- declining; all the research supports that ing to the problem? Guest Column importance of the Christian dents spend a little more time research- statement. It goes without saying that The problem is far greater influence. Verse 13: “Ye are the ing and studying the sermons of preach- this should cause consternation within than the worship style we may salt of the earth: but if the salt ers like Vance Havner, D.L. Moody, the SBC movement. As autonomous use within a given church. It is my belief have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be Charles Spurgeon, and Jonathan Edwards bodies of believers our churches are not that the problem can be identified in the salted? It is thenceforth good for noth- just to name a few. subject to “rules” statement found ing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden Another suggestion would be tell passed down from “Whether we like it or in the article, “We under foot of men.” these young preachers to stop trying to the denominational must be driven Whether we like it or not, there is be like some of the modern day ministers hierarchy. not, there is conflict together to be all conflict between us and the world. Why? and encourage them to spend more time It was with great between [Christians] and things to all people.” Because we are different from the world, on their knees asking God to make them care and wisdom First Corinthians and we have different attitudes. the preacher/pastor He wants them to be. that the founders of the world. Why? Because 9:22 was referenced I am mighty afraid that we have been Call it modern, post-modern or what the SBC made this as support for this purposely driven to be so seeker friendly ever, but if repackaging the gospel in- clear to all of its we are different from the statement. First of that many churches (or should I say pas- volves compromising the Word of God, member churches. world, and we have all, Paul was not tors) have forgotten that preaching the I’m dead set against it. I have great con- The cooperation that a chameleon who Word of God is abrasive to some. cern that many of these “new churches” we share as churches different attitudes.” changed his message We are reminded of this in Hebrews in 15 to 20 years will turn out to be a flash allows us to pool and methods with 4:12: “For the Word of God is quick, in the pan that could not sustain the emo- our resources for the greater good of the each new situation. and powerful, and sharper than any two tionalism on which they were founded. Kingdom. A great example of this is our Nor was Paul a compromiser who ad- edged sword, piercing even to the divid- (EDITOR’S NOTE – Ricky Browder is chil- mission work and missionaries. justed his message to please his audience. ing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the dren, prayer and discipleship pastor at Rocky I believe we are taking the right ap- He was an ambassador, not a politician! joints and marrow, and is a discerner of Hock Baptist Church in Edenton.) Churches can, should openly support marriage

guest column by Brian Davis (“Is there room part of their overall budget and activities on matters stand to support the amendment, and every pastor for churches in marriage debate? Yes,” pub- such as the promotion of marriage amendments on the should encourage his congregants to vote to protect Alished in the Feb. 4 edition and online) on ballot. This legal standard has been interpreted by two marriage on May 8. the issue of churches and the state marriage separate federal courts to mean that a church Churches must lead the charge on this issue as they amendment in North Carolina correctly stated cannot expend more than 5 to 15 percent of its led the charge in the past on the great moral issues of that churches can and should speak to the bib- overall budget and activities on supporting or history such as independence, slavery, women’s suf- lical basis for marriage but incorrectly stated opposing legislation. frage, ending child labor, and civil rights. that churches should not take an active role in Churches usually never come anywhere Churches and pastors have always been at the fore- urging the passage of the amendment. The law close to this threshold and no church has ever front of the great moral issues confronting our culture. is clear that churches can (and indeed should) lost its tax exempt They have never been afraid zealously advocate in favor of the amendment. status for exces- “Churches must lead the charge to stand for righteousness As a lawyer for the Alliance Defense Fund sive lobbying. and to urge morality in who specializes in representing churches and After all, how on this issue as they led the culture. And today should pastors on these issues, I can assure you that much does it charge in the past on the great be no different. the law allows for churches to actively support ERIK STANLEY cost for a pastor Churches in North Caro- the marriage amendment. Guest Column to stand in his moral issues of history ...” lina have a tremendous op- For example, churches may encourage pulpit and preach portunity to lead the charge their members to vote for a state marriage amendment. a sermon encouraging his people to support the mar- to protect marriage. Churches in other states have not Churches may even expend their resources to support riage amendment? How much does it cost for a pastor been as fortunate. There is nothing legally preventing a state marriage amendment. Pastors may leverage their to urge his people to vote on this most defining issue of churches and pastors from standing together to support influence or their position in the church to support the our time? Any church can support the marriage amend- and protect marriage in North Carolina. state marriage amendment if they so choose. Church fa- ment without fearing that they are running afoul of IRS The only question is, will you? cilities may also be used to support the marriage amend- restrictions. This is one area of the law where no pastor (EDITOR’S NOTE – Erik Stanley is senior legal counsel with ment. should fear the IRS. the Alliance Defense Fund [www.telladf.org], a legal alliance The law on this point is very clear: Under the Internal But it is not enough to simply acknowledge that employing a unique combination of strategy, training, funding, Revenue Code section 501(c)(3), churches are only pro- churches are legally allowed to support the marriage and litigation to protect and preserve religious liberty, the sanctity hibited from expending more than an “insubstantial” amendment. Every church in North Carolina should of life, marriage, and the family.) 16 Opinion FEBRUARY 18, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists The SBC name change proposal: What will happen? By DAVE MILLER| Guest Column that is better. It would have made sense I’m going to take a stab at what I think pressure put on at the Pastor’s Confer- 30 years ago to use the name Cooperative is likely to be the proposal of the task ence and at the convention itself. If he SBC [Southern Baptist Con- Baptist Convention, but that was taken force. I have no inside information, nor something is of God it does not need vention] world was shaken pretty by a certain left-leaning splinter group. am I often good at predictions. But here’s human manipulation. I hope that Bryant Tdramatically last September when That one’s gone. There aren’t a lot of what I think will happen. Wright will just make the proposal, make our president, Bryant Wright, appointed great names left out there. So are the 1) The Task Force will bring a the case and eschew the pressure tactics a task force to study the feasibility of names National Baptist and American recommendation to change the name of that the GCR guys used. changing the name of the SBC. As some- Baptist. the Convention. 8) I hope we can have a reasoned one who lives outside the South, I’ve Suggestions such as “International 2) They have already said that they are discussion, but I suspect that this will favored such a thing for a long Baptist Convention” or “World- not going to remove the name Baptist as become a festival of bloviation. “I’ve been time, so I welcomed this blue wide Baptist Convention” some were concerned they would do. We a Southern Baptist all my life, and they ribbon panel to study the issue. sound great but they actually will be a Baptist Convention or Baptist are trying to ruin this great convention.” They were tasked with an- violate Baptist polity. Baptist Fellowship. “If we don’t change the name, the lost swering four questions: work in other countries is not 3) The greatest likelihood is that will die and America will fall into the 1. Is there value in consid- overseen by the SBC, but is the name will be something like Great dustbin of history.” This discussion may ering a name change? 2. If so, affiliated with it. Our effect Commission Baptists, focusing not on set an all-time record for dogmatic and what would be a good name to extends to the ends of the our region or geography, but on our blustery discussion. suggest? 3. What would be the earth but our organization and mission. 9) I would not put the chances of the potential legal ramifications of authority stops at the borders 4) The recommendation will likely proposal passing at greater than about a name change? 4. What would here. be a “dba” arrangement. We will legally one in three. There is an institutional be the potential financial impli- DAVE MILLER I sure hope they don’t remain the Southern Baptist Convention, momentum and change comes slow. I’m cations? Guest Column come up with something but will be doing business as “Great not saying that opposition to the name- I have no doubt that this silly like GuideStone or Commission Baptists.” This will avoid change is just obstructionist traditional- very capable team will adequately ex- LifeWay. Nothing against those the legal issue of changing the charter ism. I’m just saying that the burden of plore the last two questions. These are organizations, but I don’t want us using and allay some of the financial concerns. proof is on the name-change proponents, not the kind of people who will ignore some name like that. 5) The proposal will narrowly pass the and I’m not sure they will meet the legal and financial issues. But I also ex- Maybe the committee will come up Executive Committee – by the hair on my burden. pect that if there is a desire to change the with something. I hope so. chinny-chin-chin. Several of those guys 10) The Phoenix convention was pretty name, these folks will also find a way to were torqued about the way the proposal tame. New Orleans will be an e-ticket make it happen. What is going to happen? was made, so there may be some resis- ride. (You young whippersnappers can Is there a value in considering a name So, now I will put on my prophet’s tance. But opposing a blue ribbon group either Google that or ask your parents change? I’ve written extensively on my cap and try to figure out what is going to like this will be hard and eventually the what it means.) belief that there is. Others have said that happen. Unless they delay, the report of proposal will pass. Those are Davenac the Magnificent’s there is not. I think that if Bryant Wright the Task Force is due at the Feb. 20 Exec- 6) The Convention in New Orleans insights into the future. What do you and the others did not see that there was utive Committee meeting. The Executive will NOT be poorly attended, and the think will happen? some real value to the idea, they would Committee will act on the proposal, then debate on this proposal will be incredibly (EDITOR’S NOTE – Dave Miller is senior not have undertaken the effort. it will be reported to the SBC Annual lively. pastor of Southern Hills Baptist Church in Sioux That leaves the second question – Meeting [in June in New Orleans], if the 7) I suspect that there may be a full- City, Iowa. He is also editor of SBC Voices, finding a good name. That has always Executive Committee approves it. That is court press as there was for the GCR. As where this was originally posted: sbcvoices. been a sticking point for me. As much not a done deal, many on that committee a GCR supporter, I was bothered by the com.) as I rue the regional focus of our current were upset by the proposal and the way it name, I’ve never been able to find one was presented. Stay tuned for the latest updates Feb. 20 at BRnow.org. Is your church in 3-D?

uring my address to our Board This is what our three-year Find it First, you will discover where your blessing of seeing God change lives as be- of Directors last month I shared Here emphasis is all about. In my last church is and where God is leading your lievers create a disciple-making culture. Dwith them that I believe we as column I encouraged you to get involved church. Then, you will develop a strategy Being a disciple of Jesus Christ means a state convention have a single, highly in this year’s Find it Here focus for how to get where God is embracing Jesus’ commands to follow focused, laser-driven agenda, and that on missions mobilization, and I leading. Finally, our staff will Him and to abide in Him. Disciples are agenda is to help the churches of this do pray you are seeking God’s help equip you with resources always becoming more Christ-like as they Convention carry out the marching direction for how your church so you can deliver, or follow allow the power of God and His Holy orders that Jesus gave us in the Great will participate. through on the strategy you Spirit to transform their heart and mind. Commission. Last year’s Find it Here em- develop. North Carolina Baptists, it is not I truly believe our marching orders phasis was discipleship, and we Our staff is dedicated to enough to share the gospel and then walk come from the Great Commission. We want to continue providing you walking with your church away. must go and tell people in our communi- opportunities to build on what through every step of the “3- We must teach people the truths of ties, state, nation and throughout the you did last year and to grow D” process. Their desire is to God and walk alongside them as they world about Jesus Christ. even more in discipleship. MILTON A. partner with you, to meet you mature in their relationship with God. As we seek to be obedient and to This year we are inviting HOLLIFIELD JR. where you are, and to help We must make disciples who will in turn fulfill the Great Commission we must be North Carolina Baptists to BSC executive your church move forward as go throughout their community and the intentional in three areas: evangelism, attend one of the “Looking director-treasurer you seek to become all God world making other disciples for God’s discipleship and missions. We will never at your church in 3-D” events intends. glory. see the Kingdom impact our Lord’s de- (ncbaptist.org/3D). This event will help Our staff is also dedicated to help- “Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear sires if we do not commit ourselves to all lead you and your church through a pro- ing strengthen your church so that your much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.” John three of these efforts. cess to discover, develop and deliver. church can experience the tremendous 15:8 FEBRUARY 18, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptist Opinion 17 Take courage in the battle s an 18-year-old who responded properly considered the ultimate truth of be required to pay for services that they traceptives and sterilization, forbids the to God’s call, I learned that min- God. Unnecessary battles follow. believe to be immoral and disobedient to use of public school facilities for church Aistry can be a series of battles. Some issues should be clear to the God.” meetings, mandates the removal of the Sitting in the office of a Baptist leader believer. Unfortunately, the anti-Chris- Richard Land, president of the cross from government-owned property, in our state, I shared with my respected tian saturation of universalism, relativ- Southern Baptist Ethics & Religious removes prayer from all public meetings friend some great victories I was experi- ism, secularism and liberalism has won Liberty Commission said, “In my opin- and seeks to redefine marriage contrary encing through the preaching the hearts and minds of many ion, a Baptist needs to take a stand on to the biblical model. But it is still the of the gospel. My conversation Christians. Sadly, many believ- this issue. Our Baptist forefathers went same battle against forces of darkness. inevitably led me to say, “There ers do not see the threat of to prison and died for the freedoms that Pastors, we must be bold. We must be is great joy in ministry, but these forces. we have, and now it’s our responsibil- courageous. We can passionately express there are many battles in this Christians in the United ity in the providence of God to defend our convictions, and we can still be war, also.” States are facing unprecedented these freedoms lest they be taken away by civil – which means “Christ-like” in our He quickly chided me for intimidation and opposition government fiat.” context. Church members, you can pray referring to “war” and “bat- from every direction. I have The battle lines are clear. We may for your pastor and stand with him in tles” in the same sentence with never seen so many anti-Chris- be battling a system of man that forces this battle. Finally, “be strong in the Lord and Christian ministry. Songs like tian forces marshalled at one Catholics (and all of us) to pay for con- in the strength of His might.” moment in time. But nothing in “Onward Christian Soldiers” K. ALLAN BLUME and similar references should Editor my lifetime has demonstrated a be removed from all of our more blatant violation of both TAR HEEL VOICES vocabulary, he firmly stated. the US Constitution and basic My shock was surely obvious in my fa- Bible truth than the edict from Health cial expression. “What planet is he living and Human Services Secretary Kath- We should always be about on?” I thought. How can we gloss-over leen Sebelius – with the endorsement the obvious? of the White House – to force religious The Old Testament records the stories organizations to violate their freedom of sharing the gospel of endless battles in the history of God’s conscience in matters of life, health and people. Each one is a model of the battles contraception. The question should not be either/or. close its doors forever? Maybe! However, every believer faces today – both per- As part of the health care mandate, In the guest column (“SBC needs greater if we flip the coin, so to speak, and we sonally and corporately – in the body of beginning next year any organization that focus on revitalizing dying churches” see this as an opportunity, then perhaps Christ. offers health insurance to employees will by Paul Roberts) of the Biblical Recorder this is not the correct course. What if the Paul underscored this reality in be forced to cover contraception, steril- on January 21, the writer was discuss- answer to the challenge for the plateaued, Ephesians 6:10-12, “Finally, be strong in the izations, and abortifacients – no matter ing resources and energy being spent on or dying church is in fact an opportunity Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on what their objections. Outrage is growing church planting versus revitalization of to return to its original dream? Proverbs the full armor of God, so that you will be able to over this mandate – as it should. dying churches. It should not be either/ 29:18 tells us “where there is no vision, stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For The Wall Street Journal stated: “The or, but it should be both/and. The matter the people perish: but he that keepeth the our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but country is being exposed to the raw should always be about sharing the gos- law, happy is he.” against the rulers, against the powers, against political control that is the core of the pel of Jesus Christ whenever, wherever, We live in a changing world, in chang- the world forces of this darkness, against the Obama health-care plan, and Americans and however we can do so. ing communities, but one need remains: spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly are seeing clearly for the first time how Do we have plateaued, or dying people need the Lord. All churches need places.” this will violate pluralism and liberty.” churches? Yes! Should we be planting to see this. Pastors need to have a vi- Yes, battles are real. But sometimes Al Mohler, president of Southern Bap- new churches? Of course we should! sion and a burden for the lost, and must we fail to identify the real enemy. Make tist Theological Seminary, wrote a clear What about our existing churches? Here be brave enough to communicate this no mistake; it is Satan and his demonic analysis of the issue in his blog. is where we face a real challenge, but also to their flock. Every Christian in every schemes. The battles are not political, but In summary, he says, “The edict from have a great opportunity. We look at a church should be committed to that moral. They are not social, but spiritual. President Obama to religious institutions congregation that has aged. Many of its growth: inward and outward. Rather Pastors have a very tough job. In the is this – violate conscience and bend the younger members have moved on. Hope than looking around in our communities process of preaching the truth and expos- knee to the government, or face the con- of church renewal in the congregation is and back yards and saying, “it cannot be ing the enemy, resistance may rise to the sequences.... the Obama Administration dwindling. Now we face a stern chal- done anymore,” we should be praying, surface. People can easily misunderstand trampled religious liberty under the feet lenge that none of us ever hope to face. believing, training, witnessing, and step- what a pastor says and side with the en- of the leviathan state, forcing religious We are posed with the following ques- ping out in faith. emy. They may take a comment very per- employers to do what conscience will tion: does this necessitate the need for Carson D. Hilburn sonally, or they may be so saturated with not allow. Religious organizations such the congregation to disband, and for this Forest Acres Baptist Church, a secular world view that they have not as schools, colleges, and hospitals will church that has served its community to Lumberton

K. Allan Blume, Editor/President Board of Directors Publication [email protected] Gerald Hodges, chair; Richard Hicks, vice chair; Published biweekly on Saturdays by Shawn Hendricks, Managing Editor Robert Hefner, secretary; Jo Andrews; Paul Arnold; Kevin Biblical Recorder Inc., 205 Conven- [email protected] Atchley; J.C. Bradley; Tony Brewington; Stephen Burrow; tion Drive, Cary, NC 27511, as autho- (ISSN 0279-8182) Chris Byrne; Nathan Finn; Dennis Harrell; Cindi Stevens; rized by the Baptist State Convention Dianna L. Cagle, Asst. Managing Editor Dennis Thurman; Don Warren; and Peggy Bass Weiss News Journal of the Baptist State Convention [email protected] in annual session at Winston-Salem, of North Carolina Subscriptions November 21–23, 1939. Alison McKinney Laura Moore Founded 1833 by Thomas Meredith • Individual subscriptions, $15.99 Business and Editorial Aide • Clubs, $13.79 Periodicals postage paid at Raleigh, Advertising Manager • Every Home Plan, $12.49 NC 27676. Volume 178 No. 4 Carly Conley [email protected] Graphic Designer • Church News Service, $11.50 Postmaster (919) 847-2127 • Bulk (10+) $11.50 Daphne Woodall Send address changes to Biblical Fax (919) 847-6939 • single copies, .60 cents each Circulation Manager Payable in advance. North Carolina sales tax is included. Recorder Inc., P.O. Box 1185, Cary, now.org [email protected] NC 27512-1185. 18 Sunday School FEBRUARY 18, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists

February 26 BIBLE STUDIES FOR LIFE March 4 Center of My Life I Long for You Focal Passage: Colossians 3:5-10, 14-15, wanting to enjoy the night-life, Josh Focal Passages: Psalm 42:1-11; 43:1-5 living things, a relationship with the Lord 17-21, 4:5-6 began consuming alcohol and various is vital. drugs, including crack cocaine. Realizing ave you ever been spiritually In Psalms 42-43, the psalmist pas- hat does it mean to have Je- he was an addict, he vowed he would dry or felt distant from God? sionately writes of his desperate hunger sus Christ as the “center” of get clean. Baseball had once been his life, HIf so, you are not alone. Many and thirst for the living God. He praises Wyour life? In these alcohol and drugs had be- people have wondered where Him for his salvation. In times passages Paul exhorted the come his life, and Jesus Christ God is in the midst of adverse of prosperity and in times of Christians at Colossae to have would be the One who would circumstances. The good want, he longs to have his re- a Christ-centered character, give him a new life and set him news is that He is faithful, He lationship with the Lord flour- home and witness. As you on a path of sobriety. As a tes- is present with you, and He ish. The good news is that might imagine, it’s far easier tament to his relationship with wants to have a loving rela- God is not hiding and wants said than done. Josh Hamilton Christ, Josh Hamilton joined tionship with you. You are His us to fellowship, commune is an example of a man who several other well-known child. and dwell at his feet. Jeremiah represents the struggle. professional sports athletes to To me there is nothing like 29:13-14a says, “You will seek Josh was born in Raleigh in share his story through video a glass of ice-cold water to me and find me, when you 1981, and he would later marry testimonials known as “I Am quench my thirst on a hot, seek me with all your heart. I a Raleigh girl. Today, however, WAYNE PROCTOR Second.” Josh knows that he summer day. Do you ever JEFF MEYER will be found by you, declares Josh Hamilton plays baseball Pastor, Eure cannot make it through life thirst for God similarly? If not, Associate pastor of the Lord.” Similarly, in Jer- for the Texas Rangers. He is Baptist Church without Christ being “first” what else in your life have you education, Bay Leaf emiah 33:3 God says, “Call to recognized as one of the very in his life. In 2009, and again allowed to become His substi- Baptist Church, Raleigh me and I will answer you, and best major league players. But recently, Josh relapsed; he ad- tute? We need to drink regu- will tell you great and hidden as a young man, Josh Hamilton came very mitted he had messed up. His confession larly and deeply from Him. things ...” close to losing out on life. Here is part of was “I can’t have alcohol. I got away from Water is the most critical of all nu- Are you thirsty for God? Are you his story. In 1999 he was the No. 1 pick my relationship with Jesus Christ.” He trients. Animals and humans are 60-65 excited about your time alone with Him? in the major league draft. He was paid a also has help from family and Christian percent water. Humans have survived Don’t let the things of this world, even $4 million signing bonus by Tampa Bay. friends, as well as a sponsor. For us who without food for weeks, but most hu- the busyness of ministry, keep you from But it wasn’t until 2007 that Josh Hamil- are Christians, that person is the Holy mans will die of dehydration after only your time with Him. Our lives depend on ton made it as a starter in a major league Spirit. three to five days. Water is the wellspring God. Seek Him often and remember His uniform. Why? With plenty of cash and Like Josh, we can’t make it alone. of life. Just as water is essential for all goodness.

February 26 EXPLORE THE BIBLE March 4 Be Positive A Special Baby: Rejoice Focus Passage: Deuteronomy 33:1-5; the Promised Land. Second, such an em- Focal Passage: Luke 1:1-80 Jesus were already in circulation. These 34:1-12 phasis makes Moses to be the hero of the came from the disciples and many other story when, in fact, there is only one hero efore our first child was born, eyewitnesses. n this final lesson in Deuteronomy, the in the story, God Himself. God chose we had chosen not to know the Luke in turn verified them, and pro- focus is on the man, Moses. The lesson Moses. God overcame Pharaoh. God led Bgender. What was important in ceeded to produce a summary report for Ititle is designed to encourage readers His people out of Egypt (though He did our minds was the fact that this child (for a Greek named Theophilus. to be diligent about building it by using Moses). whom we had waited 11 years) Luke provides the most in- a positive, godly legacy. While The point in that story is was a part of us, our family. formation for us on the events this is certainly something to not “be like Moses” but rather When the doctor announced, leading up to and including be desired, it is important for “walk by faith in Moses’ God.” “It’s a girl!” my wife and I Jesus’ birth. us to remember how that re- We see this made clear in were overjoyed. That which We find here God’s mes- ally happens. Hebrews 11. Over and over the we had prayed and waited for senger Gabriel instructing As we read scripture, we writer says “by faith …”: “by – we now saw and held. Mary on being chosen as the are prone to look at certain faith Abel offered …;” “by faith Even greater joy comes one to bring God’s Son into Bible characters and think, “I Noah constructed …;” “by faith over the entrance of God into the world. All of this was wish I could just be like him/ Abraham offered up …” And to time and space in the form of a to fulfill the Old Testament her.” In fact, sermons can be clear, the point is not that baby – God becoming the form prophecies. often lead us toward such a THOMAS MARSHALL RANDY MANN all of these people had faith, of a man. For centuries, the As I pondered this section response. For example, in a Pastor, New Hope Minister of education but rather that they had faith writers of the Old Testament of scripture, I could not help sermon on Moses going before Baptist Church, and evangelism, Wake in God. had given us promises that the but consider how it resem- Laurinburg Pharoah, listeners might be Cross Roads Baptist I want desperately to leave a Promised One, the Messiah, bled an individual’s path to admonished to “be like Moses: Church, Raleigh godly legacy for my children. I would come. receiving Jesus as personal be willing to face those who will only do this, however, by And now the great historian Luke Savior. We first must be presented with oppose God; etc.” calling my kids to walk daily records His birth, life, death, burial and the truth about Jesus. The difficulty with such an admoni- by faith in our great God. I don’t want resurrection so we can know the truth. Often this will lead to sincerely question is twofold. First, Moses was just a them to remember me as a man of great Luke, a traveling companion of the tioning the information given, particu- man with clay feet like us. He had killed strength or who did great things, but as Apostle Paul was a medical doctor, and a larly as it applies to us. As we listen to an Egyptian taskmaster; he couldn’t a man of great surrender to a strong God great example of a first-century historian. God’s message, we must surrender to it, speak well; and he would disobey God, and a man who allowed God to do great In reading Luke 1:1-4, Luke attests to the and when we do, it produces joy in our which would prevent Him from entering things through him. fact that many written accounts about relationship with Jesus. FEBRUARY 18, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 19

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

Pastor Beth Car Baptist Church in Madison, VA, is Associate Pastor. First Baptist Church of Village Baptist Church has two part time A small traditional Southern Baptist currently accepting resumes for full time Kinston, NC, a Southern Baptist church, openings: Singles’ Director & Music church is seeking a Senior Pastor with pastor. Five years ministry experience seeks a full-time associate pastor. The Associate. Please send resumes to 906 S. more than five years proven experience preferred. Graduate of accredited seminary associate pastor is responsible for planning, McPherson Church Rd., Fayetteville, NC shepharding Southern Baptist churches. or Bible college required. Sunday morning coordinating, directing and evaluating the 28303, Attn: Cathy, or e-mail cathy@villagebc. An ideal candidate should have a minimum worship attendance averages 100 and family and education ministries of the church org. of a master of divinity degree from a SBC Sunday School averages 60. For more with concentration on youth and children. seminary and have proven experience information please visit our website at www. Duties also include preaching, teaching, Riley’s Creek Baptist Church: Part-Time ministering to all age groups. Our website bethcarbaptist.com. Resumes will be accepted counseling and visiting. Candidates need Music Minister to plan and direct all music is www.hollyhillbaptist.org. Please send until March 1. Submit resumes to: Beth Car an experience of Christian salvation, aspects of the church under supervision of resume to: Holly Hill Baptist Church, 2818 Baptist Church, PO Box 444, Madison, VA sense of God’s calling to the ministry and the Pastor. 5+ years’ experience desired. Edgewood Avenue, Burlington, NC 27215. 22727, or e-mail bcpastorsearch@bethcarbaptist. definite burden for ministry with youth and Send resumes to [email protected] com. children. The candidate will be a graduate or to 19845 NC Hwy 210, Rocky Point, NC First Baptist Church, Highlands, NC, is of an accredited seminary, divinity school, 28457, Attn: John Ward, Chairman, Minister searching for a full-time senior pastor. FBC Locust, NC, seeking a full time senior or appropriate background from four-year of Music Search Committee. Highlands is a resort and retirement pastor. Must have a minimum of five years university. To apply please submit a resume community. Located on the main street experience, able to minister to all ages, and cover letter by March 7, 2012, to: Search Miscellaneous of Highlands, our church building and effectively lead and teach. Believes the Bible Team First Baptist Church, 2600 Rouse Rd., Marriage Protection Amendment Prayer grounds are debt-free and well-maintained. is totally true and follows the Baptist Faith Kinston, NC 28504 or email: kinstonfbc@ Rally Sunday, March 18, 2pm-6pm; Ridgecrest, Our congregation is mainly senior adults, & Message. Send resume to: Pastor Search embarqmail.com. NC. Lunch and accommodations available; ven- but we have a desire to reach young families Committee FBC, PO Box 159, Locust, NC dors welcome! Contact Sarah at 919-787-0606 and youth. We are traditional in worship, 28097, or email to: [email protected]. Princeton Baptist Church seeking P/T Music or [email protected]. but are beginning to use some contemporary Minister to lead choir and congregational music. We are a friendly, unified, and Denominational music. Send resumes to PBC, 201 South FREE Classical Allen Organ, full AGO pedal biblically based congregation. We are Woman’s Missionary Union of North Pearl St., Princeton, NC 27569. Attn: Music board plus three massive original speakers and completing an intentional interim ministry. Carolina is seeking an Interim Executive Committee or email princetonbaptist@ amplifier. Also includes a 51” bench. Contact: Send resumes to: Pastor Search Committee, Director/Treasurer to direct the work embarqmail.com. Further questions call (919) Pat Williamson, Ocean View Baptist Church, PO Box 625, Highlands, NC 28741 or e-mail of staff, manage budgets, assist with 936-4001. Kill Devil Hills, 252-480-2692 e-mail; mam- them to Carrie Coen: [email protected]. planning and executing events, and build [email protected]. relationships among Baptist churches MINISTER OF YOUTH. First Baptist Church Trinity Baptist Church, seeks a full- statewide. Candidates must possess of Sanford, NC, is seeking a full-time minister Children’s Ministry Murals. Call toll free time pastor to lead our conservative working knowledge of WMU, including of youth. FBC is affiliated with CBF and SBC 1-800-925-3084 and learn how to receive 50% Southern Baptist church that believes the a broad scope of ministry and missions; with a membership of approximately 1,000 discount on a mural. Offer NC-1. www.biblesto- Holy Bible is the inerrant Word of God. be mature in Christian faith and involved and affirms women in ministerial and church rymurals.com. Resident membership is approximately in a local church; hold a bachelor’s degree leadership positions. A master of divinity 200. Seminary degree and references are (master’s degree preferred); and three to and previous experience is preferred but Join Pastor & Mrs. Michael Cloer on their required. Send resumes by February 29, five years of progressive work experience not required. Candidates must have strong 16th Tour of Israel, June 13-23, 2012. For a color 2012, to: Trinity Baptist Church, Attn: Pastor in a related field. Strong management and youth leadership and communication skills brochure call 252-937-9811, ext 230, or online Search Committee, 433 Southland Drive, organizational skills are required, as are and work very well with committees and at www.englewoodbaptist.com/?p=israel. Fayetteville, NC 28311. computer skills. Please send resumes to the church staff. Questions may be addressed to attention of Tana Hartsell at WMU NC, PO Senior Pastor, Dr. Jeff Clark at (919) 774-4220 DO YOU NEED A CHURCH PIANIST? We SEEKING PASTOR. First Baptist Church, Box 18309, Raleigh, NC 27619-8309; or email or [email protected]. Submit resume have piano CDs for congregations to sing by! Williamsburg, Ky., located in a small town to [email protected]. Resumes must be to [email protected] or 202 Summit Hymns, Easter, choruses, & more - FREE near a university, is actively engaged in received by February 20, 2012. Drive, Sanford, NC 27330. DEMO! Special Church Pricing! Worship local missions, including a food pantry, Service Resources: 1-877-977-6800. www.wsr- home repair ministry, care for both the very Church Staff Metro Atlanta Baptist church seeking pianocds.com. young and very old, outdoorsmen ministry, Minister of Children. First Baptist Church, Minister of Spiritual Formation and Center Shot, Upward Basketball, a quilting Statesville, NC (www.statesvillefbc.org) is Families. Please send resumes attn: Mrs. Used books plus Bibles, biblical studies, ministry, and distribution of necessities seeking a full-time minister of children. Susan Lewis at 561 Veterans Memorial Hwy. commentaries, theology, Baptist history, to the needy including coats, shoes, We are a dually aligned, CBF-SBC affiliated SE, Mableton, GA 30126, or via email at counseling, preaching, Civil War, literature, hygiene items and laundry detergent. FBC church, and have both contemporary and [email protected]. art & music. (For Sale: Paschal, History of NC supports missions world wide including traditional services. The candidate should Baptists, 2 volume Set, NEW REPRINT, $69.95) missions supported by Samaritan’s Purse, preferably be a graduate of a seminary or First Baptist Hildebran is seeking a part- STEVENS GALLERY, BOOKS, ART & FRAM- Compassion International, SBC and CBF. divinity school and have experience in time Director of Youth Ministries and ING, 6921 Capital Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27616, The church is seeking new avenues of children’s ministry. Please forward your Activities. Position requires experience 919-876-3030. www.stevensbooksandgallery.com. ministry and outreach. Candidates should resume to FBC Statesville Children’s working with youth and 20–25 hours have a completed master of divinity. Minister Search, 815 Davie Ave., Statesville, per week. Send resume to First Baptist NCBAM needs handymen to weatherize the Pastoral experience desired. Resumes may NC 28677 or to [email protected]. Hildebran, PO Box 220, Hildebran, NC 28637 homes of aging adults – because it’s nice not be emailed to [email protected] or mailed or [email protected]. to have to choose between groceries and heat. to First Baptist Church, 230 S. 5th Street, A nine hundred member CBF and SBC Call North Carolina Baptist Aging Ministry: Williamsburg, KY 40769. affiliated church in Charlotte, N.C., is Millers Creek Baptist Church, a conservative 877-506-2226. seeking a Minister to Children and their SBC church, is seeking a full-time Placing a classified ad Families. This person would oversee birth Children’s/Discipleship Pastor. This pos- NCBAM needs volunteers for the biggest through fifth grade. We seek a creative, ition leads ministries for children from ramp-raisin’ marathon this state has ever Choose one of three avenues: energetic, committed minister who will birth to sixth grade and their families plus seen. Sign up for Rampin’ Up! – an April 28, • Send e-mail to: [email protected] lead our children’s spiritual growth and our coordinate discipleship training. MDiv. 2012, event at www.ncoperationinasmuch.org. • Submit the information via the church’s numerical growth while working preferred but not required. Send resume to Check out www.rampinup.org for more infor- Recorder’s website at BRnow.org with our parents to provide the ministry Personnel Committee, Millers Creek Baptist mation or call North Carolina Baptist Aging • Send a Fax to (919) 847-6939 they need. Please send resumes to Search Church, PO Box 559, Millers Creek, NC Ministry: 877-506-2226. For more information about costs Committee, Pritchard Memorial Baptist 28651, or email: churchoffice@millerscreekbaptist. Church, 1117 South Blvd., Charlotte 28203 or org Share the Biblical Recorder — FREE. Order and deadlines, call the BR office at . [email protected]. three-months free. Contact (919) 459-5693 or (919) 459-5697. [email protected] to make arrangements. 20 FEBRUARY 18, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists S. Baptists protest latest contraceptive decision Marriage amendment By MICHAEL FOUST| Baptist Press companies, and that the coverage still Updates and Resources would be free. WASHINGTON – President Obama “If a woman’s employer is a charity or The Baptist State Convention of North Feb. 10 announced a change in the way a hospital that has a religious objection Carolina has a collection of articles and that employees of religious organizations to providing contraceptive services as information on the marriage amendment will receive free contraceptives that can part of their health plan, the insurance that was compiled by Steve Corts, pastor cause abortions, but it fell far short of company – not the hospital, not the char- of Center Grove Baptist Church in Clem- what is needed to protect religious lib- ity – will be required to reach out and mons. It is available in hard copy or elec- erty, say Southern Baptist leaders. offer the woman contraceptive care free tronically by contacting Brian Davis, BSC Related Event The controversy began when the De- of charge without co-pays and without executive leader for administration and partment of Health and Human Services hassles,” Obama said. Concerned women group hosts March 31 convention relations, at (800) 395-5102, (HHS) in January finalized a rule requir- Religious leaders, though, were not ‘Stand Strong Together’ conference ext. 5506, or [email protected]. ing private insurance plans to cover all pleased, and said the same problems with Concerned Women for America of FDA-approved contraceptives, including religious liberty remained. North Carolina is holding a March 31 Websites “emergency” ones such as Plan B and “It is an attempt to deal with a matter conference – Stand Strong Together – at “ella” that can block implantation and of religious conviction with an account- First Baptist Church in Charlotte, from • Christian Action League – christian- actionleague.org kill the embryo – an action that pro-life ing gimmick,” Richard Land, president 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pastors, church leaders, groups and many Christians view as an of the Southern Baptist Convention’s Eth- ministries and coalitions can be equipped • Christian Life and Public Affairs – blog.ncbaptist.org/clpa early abortion. The drugs would be free ics & Religious Liberty Commission, told and informed on public policy issues, for employees and be covered as part of Baptist Press. specifically the marriage amendment. • Vote For Marriage NC – voteformarriagenc.com the health care law’s goal to offer free O.S. Hawkins, president of Guide- Speakers include Mark Harris, Rep. Ruth preventive services. Stone Financial Recourses, called it an Samuelson, Mark Creech, Mary Frances • North Carolina Family Policy Council – ncfamily.org The HHS rule included an exemption “approach that does not address the Forrester, among others. The conference for most churches, but that exemption issues at hand for Southern Baptists who is free and registration ends March 10. • The Ethics & Religious Liberty Com- mission – erlc.com does not cover Christian colleges and oppose so-called contraceptives that can To receive a brochure invitation or for schools or faith-based hospitals and so- • Family Research Council – frc.org and do cause an abortion.” GuideStone more information, contact Sheri Miller, cial service programs. Obama said Feb. 10 provides health insurance coverage to the state director, at (704) 542-6984 or See related guest column by Erik Stan- ley of the Alliance Defense Fund, page 15. that the burden on providing emergency 60,000 people, including pastors and [email protected]. contraceptives would fall on insurance missionaries.

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