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Arkansas Baptist Newsmagazine, 1980-1984 Arkansas Baptist Newsmagazine
6-30-1983
June 30, 1983
Arkansas Baptist State Convention
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On the cover The dangers of civil religion by l arry Braidfoot
One of the greatest dangers both to' gov political leaders is the mampulation o f reli ernment and to au then tic religion is civil gious leaders and programs for political religion. Civil religion is a mixture of reli purposes. gion and politics which !erves the interests In the Unitl•d States, rel1gious liberty and of the state In c•vll rel igion. organized reli separation of church and state help the gion is used as a means of generating sup churches maintain the1r independence. port for political positions. pprova l is While--clear delineation of these principles sought from religious leaders to justify ac is difficult. thi independence is necessary tions of the state. The religious insti tutions for freedom of religion to be preserved. assume a role of secondary importance in Efforts frequently are made to get reli· supporting the iniliatives and actions of gious grol1ps to vote in blocks on the basis political leaders. of certain iss ues which are generall y Civil religion is idolo1try which gives chosen fo r their emotional appeal to spe higher loy01 lty to some ideo logy or political Cia l iniCrcst groups. Protestants. Catholics. institution than to the l o rd God. Any per and Jews are all sometimes viewed by poli· son who gives grea ter allegiance to some t1cians as groups likely to vote 10 mass for thing other than God is pra c ticing idolatry. the candidate who ascerta.ns what select Idolatry is living life in a way that gives issues sway the m Relig1ous groups who Cod's place to something else. accept such overtures a re agreeing to t;e This week 's cover addresses the Chris The spirit of nationalism can become a manipulated tian's responsibility to w01k for justice in dominating ideal that subordinates religion Civil religion neglects the poor and pow· society. as God commanded in the Book to the role of supporling a particular politi· erless members of society. Civil religion of Amos. An article by Larry Braidfoot, cal system or ideology This generally ha~ views with apathy those who are poor and general counsel and director of research pens in times of war. In World War I. Cer· therefore powerless In the Bible, these are for the SBC Christian Life Commission. mans and Englishmen and Frenchmen and widows, orphans, and strangers. Today, writes (in an article on this page) about Americans all went to battle confident that there are many new kinds of orphans - or unbiblical paths in the pursuit of public Cod was supportihg their positions in the phans of war. of neglec t, and of divorce righteousness. war. Cod is not tha t diverse in his commit· and separat1on, as well as of death. The ments and his loyalties weak may be the sick, the hungry, or the Civil religion compromises Jnd trivializes non-white members of our society, the prophetic role o f Christia nity. Any posi Ci\11 l religion wants little to do with those tion which seeks to mute the prophetic who are powerless They a re dirty, smelly. voice, rooted in clear biblical values. op and have problems. They are of va lue a t poses authentic Christianity. Civil religion times o f voting and for taking pic tures. intermingles religion and politics so that Otherwise, things go better if they stay with In this issue the prophetic message is compromised. their "own kind." Civil religion encourages then eliminated. society to focus on the powerful. the Clergy and involved Christians who give wealthy, and the respectable. More SBC news 8 their support to political leaders fr equently o greater test of Christian influence on Reports from the auxiliary meetings pre-. become their defenders. The prophetic role society can be found than in that society's cef!ding the Southern Baptist Convention in tends to be forfeited quietly and gradually. treatment of its poor and powerless. Chris Pittsburgh. plus Arkansans named to boards It can be lost through pride resulting from a tians live with the Cod-given mandate to and committees, complete coverage of the visit to the White House or from a meeting feed the hungry. to give drink to the thirsty, annual meeting. Southern Baptist journalists with an important government official to give clothes to the naked, to visit those are the writers. Christians who are involved in the political in prison. and to preach the gospel to the process have an obligation never to give poor (Matt. 25 :31 -46) Double lessons 12 their political support in a manner that Authentic Christianity is compelled to Sunday School lessons lor July 3 and Jul y 10 would forfeit their rig ht to speak the pro abide by th is mandate; but civil re ligion re are included in this issue since there will be phetic word of demand or judgment. jects iL no July 7 publication. Civil religion manipulates re li gion for the Any governme nt which does not respond purposes o f political leaders. A danger of a to this mandate has not been penetrated by close rela tionship between religion a nd . the transforming power of the gospel.
No issue next week News about missionaries july 7 will be one of three weeks th is year when there is no issue of the ABN. The next issue of our 49 in 1983 will be july 14. Mr. and Mrs. Orvell Bryant Jr., missionar to Brazil. have arrived in the States for fur· ies to the Windward Islands, have com Iough (address: Rt. 7. Box 364. Fayetteville. pleted furlough a nd returned to the field Ark. 72701). A Texan, he was born near (address: Box 621, Kingstown, St. Vi ncent}. Wills Point and grew up in the Terre ll area. He is a native of Spearsville. La .. and she is The former Barbara Evans, she was born in the forme r Suzan Ward of ElDorado, Ark . Hazelvalley, Ark .. and lived in Wichita and They were appointed by the Foreign Mis· near Haysville. Kan.. while growing up. sion Board in 1977. They were appointed by the Foreign Mis· Mr. and Mrs. J. N. Burne tt. missionaries sion Board in 1966. Page 2 ARKANSAS BAPTIST NEWSMAGAZINE The cure for worry The editor's page J. Everett Sneed
Most of us have, at one time or another, been caught with problems. These are: (1) to blame God; (2) to have a up in senseless worry. Some worry about their financial situa stoic or "grin and bear it" approach; or (3) to have a vital tion while others worry abo ut the well-being of their fami relationship with God which sustains us in the very midst ly. Some worry about things they consider to be of major of difficuhy. God wants us to depend upon him in such a imporlance while others worry about everylhing. Yet, jesus way that we will not be over-anxious about the events of admonished all who worry anxiously and gave the cure fo r life. Actually, a major problem can be one of a person's best the problem. opporlunities for spirilual growth if he properly relies upon The word "worry'' in English conveys very accurately God. the idea Christ dea l! with in Man hew 6:25-34. Worry may In Mallhew 6:25-34, Jesus lim three ways for a person be defined as a feeling of anxiety, trouble, or uneasiness. to overcome worry. First, we are to recognize that God is The Greek wife who wrote her husband, " I cannot sleep the giver of life and, if he gives us both physical and spiritual night or da y because of the worry I have about your life, we can trust him for the smaller th ings (Man. 6:25). Jesus welfare;' gives insight into the word our master used. Jesus illumated this with the birds and the flowers. He pointed was not suggesting th at we have no concern fo r our loved to the providential care of the birds who fulfllltheir nature ones, but he was saying th at we should not be full of care. by trusting and laboring. Man Is encouraged to follow this , Very practically, worry cannot change the events of the simple example. past or help the future. All the opporlunilies of yesterday Nowhere does the scripture condone idleness or are gone. This is not to say that a person should disassociate laiiness. Jesus himself worked in a carpenter's shop until himself from the past, bu t it can only be used as a spur or he was 30 years of age. The thrust of Jesus' teaching is that guide for the future. we are to work as though it all depended on us and to trust Worry about the future is especially useless. Often we God as though it all depended on him. worry about things which never materialize. Planning for Perhaps the greatest problem or modern man is a lack the future is good, but worry provides no help. Someone of trust in God. When we recognize that he Is a God of love, has said, " The biggest troubles you will ever face are the power and care, it will do much to eliminate our worries. ones that never come:• Worry about the future is wasted God can do for us what we cannot do for ourselves. efforl, because the future is sel dom as bad as our fears. jesus said, secondly, that his followers were to overcome Worry, however, is worse than useless, as it can be very worry by concenlrating upon the kingdom and ils advance harmful. Both hear! anacks and stomach ulcers may resuh (Matt 6:10). Such activity will produce love which will drive from worry. MedicalteSIS seem to indicate th at individuals out worry. who laugh most live longer. Without question, th e person Finally, Jesus said that we are to def~at worry by living who is relaxed and worry-free lives more joyously. Worry one day at a time (Man. 6:34) . The J"'vs had a saying. " Do can even affect a person's judgment and make his decisions not worry about tomorrow's evils for you know not what less reliable. today will bring forrh. Perhaps tomorrow you will not be Worry is not caused, primarily, by external cir alive, and you will not have to worry for a world which will cumstances. Two people can have exactly th e same condi not be yours." tions and one be absolutely serene and secure, while the There are most likely worse sins than worry, but few will other will be troubled frantically. Worry or peace comes disable a person more. As we follow the principles laid down from the hear!, not from outer circumstances. by our Lord on this maHer, we can have a happier, more There are three basic ways in which a person can deal productive life.
Let'IIM'S to the eodhof •preuing OOinions.,. kwkML l.AIItwl ~ ~ 1)'P4Id ~ Md mu• be lignecl IAnlf• mull not contain more lhM 350 _,.,.and mu• not OIUIM IN ctlar~r ol ~• · Thtrm1.111 tlem~ "ll:w publiCIIlon " ,.,..,. tubmlned tcw pubtlc•ll.lon wll 1M,.""'*' only wft., ~W\Ied bt' • tlfolftPe4, ..,.. Mkifn.M
Arkansas' Th ird largest publication , OMtN ol tMmblfl ol AtUnld thureMI witt 1M ~ In bMt totm wMn lntotm.ttton le meeting the information needs of Arkansas Baptists Neefved ~ lll!et than 1 1 1 4ty~ after th• 411'1 of MMI\, VOLUME 82 NUMBER 26 M...ntiNng 111111 on requelil 0ptn1oM DptHMCI In eigne
June 30, 1983 Page 3 letters to the editor I.RS delays rule on clergy housing Check out titles by urry Chesser Thank you for ~· our timely and insightful WASHINGTON (BP)- The Internal Rev House to exempt ministers from the revenue editorial on "Churches and doctor's d~ enue Service has delayed the lune 30 ef· ruling has 75 cosponsors from, both parties, grees." You have spoken dearly and ac fective date of its ruling eliminating the but apparently faces an uphill battle in win curately to one of the most critical is ues in double tax benefit for ministers buying ning approval from the Y{ays and Mearu church life today. their own houses. Committee. May 31 the.)RS put off until Jan. 1. 1985. As one who has an earned doctorate. I An aide to Rep. Stan Parris, R·Va., implementation of Revenue Ruling 83-3 who am deeply disturbed by the proliferation of introduced H.R. 1905, said sponsors are which d isallows ministers a federal income " degree mill" degrees in the ministerial confident of House approval if th'ev-can get tax deduction for any portion of mortgage ranks. Recently a friend of mine asked for the bill out of committee. ' advice on what to say in a ceremony in interest or real estate taxes for which they which he was to present a doctor's degree received a tax~empt housing allowance. That may be a tall order, according to a to the young pastor of a small church. I re A delay date until1988 had been urged Ways and Means staff person who call.ed plied I thought the school involved usually by Southern Baptist Annuity Board Presi· the IRS position on the ruling "entiJl!lv cor· conferred the degree upon a successful · dent Darold H. Morgan in a letter to IRS rect'' and suggested ''there would be no candidate. Apparently this young man had commissioner Roscoe L Egger Jr. and by overwhelming interest on the part of the received his "degree" by correspondence representa Nes of several religious groups tax writing committees to take the legisla· and wanted some sort of formal ceremony • during a recent meeting with Treasury De- tion up." partment officials. to assure public recognition. I told him to In addition to the double housing benefit The new effective date applies only to tell the young man that having a doctor's for ministers, the 1963 ruling also elimi minis-ters- who OYined and occupied or had degree did not imply privilege, but a great na ted double breaks for veterans and ·a contract to purchase a house before Jan. er responsibility. scholarship students. In a letter to House 1983. the date IRS announced the reve 1 There are a number of problems inherent 3. colleagues, Parris warned if IRS ' iS success nue ruling. Ministers who purchased or in this mockery of education. In the first fu l in taking this benefit from clergy. mili purchase residences after 1983, plac~ such a degree is not worth the paper Jan. 3, will tary personnel may find themselves subject remain subject to the original June .30 ef it's written on. In the second place. it raises to a similar rulin.s in the near future." expectations which the individual is often fective date. not capable of meeting. This serves to The 19aJ revenue ruling revoked a 1%2 While the Annuity Board has no official damage the credibility of all ministers with ruling which specifically allowed ministers position on the revenue rUling or the pen~ doctorates. Finally a number of people who to deduct mortgag·e interest and property ing legislation, Morgan said, " If Southern hold such degrees eventually become em taxes even though they received a tax· Baptists have 'strong feelings about reYenue. harassed about the less than honest nature exempt housing a llawance. IRS said reversal ruling 83-3, denying ministers tax deduc· of their " claim to fame" and have to deal of the 1962 position was part of an effort to tions for interest and real estate taxes, they with that problem. apply consistently the tax cC>9e's provision need to let· their congressmen and IRS Com. You r comments on honorary degrees disallowing double tax breaks. missioner Roscoe Egger know of their were well taken. However. it should be add Meanwhile, legislation introduced in the views." ed that often politics play a more impor tant role in the conferring of such degrees than does individual performance. The bottom line is let every church be ware of those who come bearing titles MK Prayer Calendar Check them out very carefully. - Ed North, Bl ytheville Home and foreign Missionary Kids who allend college on the Margaret Fund The bookshelf Jul y 1 John (G reg) Wilson (5. Braz il) OBU Box 360. Arkadelphia, AR 71923 Embaixadores do Rei 11 Vi nce Eve rhart (Korea) OBU Box 55, Arkadelphia, AR 71923 16 Kenny Garvin (Uganda) 110 N. 5th Street. Apt. 5. Arkadelphia. AR 71923 by Alvin Hatto n This book tells the story of a West Texas boy who became excited about the organi zation of Royal Ambassadors and made it missionary notes the ideal and chief occupation of his life. Here is told his early life in Abi lene. Mr. and Mrs. Aaron M. Remington. mis age. She is the former laVeta Pierce of Texas, his experiences as a Counselor dur sionaries to Portugal. may be addressed at Belle Pl aine. Kan . They were appointed by ing college and seminary days, and later his Juncal101, 97&0 Pr aia da Vitoria. Tercei ra. the Foreign Mission Board in 1970. work as State Royal Ambassador Secretary Azorea. Portugal. Born in Prairie Grove. Mr. and Mrs. Albert R. Hodges, mi ssion in Arkansas (1946-48). Ark., he also lived in Texas and Ca lifornia aries to Upper Vol~a. have arrived in the The main purpose of the book, however, while growing up. She is the former Mary States for furlouch (address: Southeastern is to tell the story of the beginning of Roya l Unger of Elk Creek, Mo. They were appoint Baptist Theological Seminary, Wake Forest. Ambassador work in Brazil (1948), and the ed by the Fore ign Mission Board in 1977. N.C. 27587). He was born in Breckenridge, constant growth of the work . Mr. and Mrs. William l. Sergeant. mi s Texas. and also lived in Alpena. Ark .. while A d is tinct part of this story is the pur sionaries to Taiwan, have arr ived in the g r ov~o•ing up. The former Karen Atwood. she chase and development of the Royal Am States for fu rl ough (address: 516 Lindell was born in Paragould, Ark ., and lived in bassador Camp, Sitio do Sossego, located Ave .. Fayetteville, Ark . 72701). He was bol-n several states whi le growing up. They were near Rio Dourado. About 100 miles from in Marshall town, Iowa, but moved with hi s appointed by the Foreign Mi ssion Board in the city of Rio de Janeiro. family to South West City, Mo., at a n earl y 1978. Page 4 ARKANSAS BAPTIST NEWSMAGAZINE by Don Moore On the moral scene.=====::;:=:======You'll be glad Can you legislate morality? by John Finn to know Is it true, as a state t.o the drug industry Since drug misuse In representative said to jures the health of the living a.s well as of ... Our first two spe me during the 1983 the unborn (child abusel and injures, maims cial projects churches legislature, that "you and k1ll.s the innocent it is a moral prob have seen great re-" can't legislate mor· lem sulls! What a lOY it IS a Is" I Drug m1suse contnbutes to the breaking to report that our One of the most up of homes, removes moral restraints, and BSU students who frequently directed produces poverty and suffering On such have gone mto these complaints against matters the church and ministers must be c hurches that had no the Christian Civic concerned and stand up for the paS5age of bo1pi1Sms Ia t year Foundation of Arkan laws to allev1ate the problems have seen remark sas, Inc . a norrprof· The l1quor traffic keeps Ins is ting that able results The f1rst it organization con- Finn ministers should not dascu.s.s political issues church has had no cern ed with problems caused by alcohol and quest1ons •n the pulp•t C1PKially where Vacat•on B1ble School Moore and other drugs, pornography and gam· the industry IS mvolved It ls frequently '" ten years and no bapusms last year They blmg, IS that we ought not be mvolved •n stated that churches and mini ters ought to c;aw eight people saved m the1r survey and politics, on the argument that "morals carr stay out of "wet-dry.. tssues Boble School not be legislated " In our opinion. the "wet-dry" issue lS a The ' econd church had no convers•ons The purpose of th1s column IS to look at moral and political 1ssue Is 11 not a moril last year and reported 12 accepting Chnst both s1des of th1s argument issue when a drinking dnver k11ls a youne '" their Bcble School HO\v exot1ng to see In our opinion a minister Of church should husband •n an automobile accident. leav the lord bless the gospel, use His servants not publtcly endorse a specific political ing a precious young lady without a hw· and wm the lost party or political candidate. The Chmuan band and a little boy and girl without a What •s beautiful to me, •s to see our Civic Foundation is chartered to operate father I BSU, Sunday School, Missions and wi thin the bounds of this principle. According to a recent newspaper article. Evangelism depanments working together But surely those who argue that preach a woman went in to a bar In another state to to do these things. We could not do 11 ers and churches should "not m1x politics purchase cigarettes Wh1le there, she WiiS w1thout the asSIStance and encouragement and religion" would not deny any citizen thrown upon a pool table, stropped of her of our Duectors of Miss1ons and, of course, h1s right under the Constitution to have a clothing and raped repeatedly by men un the support of our people through the c~ vote and a voice in the affairs of govern- der the influence of "booze " I have trou operative Program ment ble believong this Is merely a political mat· ... We are receiving 99 percent of our Tho e of us on both sides of the question ter It IS a moral •ssue and our government budget. Our churches contributions to should be able to agree that politics is nottr has the responsibility of initiating and pass-. world m1ss1ons through the Cooperative mg more nor less than the science of gov ing laws restrainlns men from sinking tO the Program are running 12 41 percent ahead ernment And in a democracy, the business level of beasts of last year This IS great supporll That one of government is the business of the Cit .. Should m1msters d1scuss politiCS 1n the percent shortage will mean each area of zens - all ci tizens. pulpotl Boble students know that the Bible our work w11f be cut back one percent in Some issues are both moral and political speaks of government and the dutiej of ci t~ what they rece1ve next month Thank you In such issues churches and their ministers zenship, and that Cod is the author of gov for your conf1dence and support! have a moral obligation to speak out and ernment So the minister not only has the ... We now ha ve missi onaries in 100 " take s1des " Such issues are abortion. nu· right to deal with political issues from the COU TRI ES Wi th the opening of work in clear disarmament alcohol and other drugs. pulpot - he has the responsibility. He Is Swaziland and St lucia in the Windward pornography, gambling. and "driving under duty bound to exercise this right when a po. Islands and the return of m1ssionanes to the influence." litical issue involves a moral issue Angola we have finally reached that goal. The government has the responsibility to John f inn l1 txecutivt director of the That feels good until I remind myself that ini tiate, regulate, and enforce laws relating ChrlstiJn Civic foun
Page 6 ARKANSAS BAPTIST NEWSMAGAZINE Arkansas all over people by Millie Gi!VABN staff writer
Randall Scott G1<1ndenon and Southwestern Baptist Thoological was ordained to the Seminary. He plans to be married to Aman ·min is tr y June 26 at da Patton, of Tennessee, In Ausust. Gethsemane Church in orth Little Rock. where Greg Mnore he is a stilff member. A has been called a. associate p.tstor of the Pine Bluff native, he is a West Helena Second Chu~<:h with respon graduate of Ouachita sibilities in the areas of music and youth. He Baptist University. He is a graduate of Mississippi College In Clin ton and is a student at Mid-America taught music in the North Seminary. Uule Rock School Oistrid and has served churches Jo rdan C. F. london throughout Arkansas in· 74, died June 11 In Grand Saline, Texas. A eluding ones at Pine Bluff, North Crossett, Ke n Jorda n native of Little Rock, he had worked In deaf Cabot and North lillie Rock . He and his is serving as pastor of Hamburg First Church, minlsteries for the Arkansas Baptist State wife. Janet, have a daughter. lindsey Nicole. coming there from Living.siOn, Tenn. He is Convenlion and for the Southern Boptlst a native of Waynesboro, Miss. He and his Home Mission Board a total of 40 years. Sur Curtis D. Shatley wife, Hilda. have two children, Sheri and vivors include his wife. Mrs. Artie Landon. has joined the staff of Walnut Street Church Steve. three sons and a daughter. in Jonesboro as minister of musidadministra· Gary Martin tion. H e moved there from the Windsor Park David Steele is serving as pastor of the Cauthron Church. Chu rch in Fort Smith . Shatley is a graduate recently joined the staff of Central Church of Memphis State University. He and his in North Little Rock as minister of music and Mark Brownins wife, Dia nna, are parents of four children. youth. A native of Tennessee. he is a has resigned as pastor of the Abbott Chu~<:h Melody. Michelle. Angela and Andy. graduate of both Union University in Jackson following 14 years or service there. briefly Twelve Co rn ers Church Stenhouse and johnnie Darr, direoor of mis missions for Concord Association. Deacons at Garfield ordained thei r pastor. Eldon long. sions for Buckner Association. of the church also assisted. to the ministry May 30. Ordained as deacons were S ~err e l Dodd and Clin t Schooley. Phoenix Village Church Pine Ridge Church in Fo rt Smith o rdained Charles Mitchell and ordained Billy Turpin as a deacon June 12. Cauthron Church Robert Hicks as deacons May 22 . Council Pastor Randy Noles was assisted by C. H. ordained Donald Fosnaugh as a deacon May members were pastor Steve Munson. Moore and Carl Bunch, director of missions 15. Serving on the council were Harold Trueman Moore, pastor of Fort Smith East for Caddo River Association. McConnell, Riley Kelly, Gene Gullick, Glen Side Church and Ferrell Morgan, director of Markhom Strftt Church Little Rock, sanctuary and children's choirs will perform a patriotic production titled "I Love America" july 10 at 6 p.m. and July 11 at 8 p.m. leonard Strrot Church in Hot Springs held a tent revival june 5·12. Pastor Henry Applegate reported Rec Easterl ing of Rogers as evangelist and Clarence Hill of Hot Springs as music director. Decisions included 31 professions of fa ith and thrro od d it ions by letter. The Evanfl"IISm Department of the Arkansas Baptist State Co.,..,ntlon pro vided the tent. Correction A photo appearing on page 8 of the june 23 issue of the ABN, which was sent by the Five families from New lbea, Ll., worked on the educational facilities of the Brookwood school, was not James Church in litt le Rock. Jun e 6-10. The group called '"\blunteer Christian Builders;· in W. Lagrone, a master stalled th e gable ends of the church and put up and floated th e sheetrock throughout of divinity graduate of the facilit y. It is estimated that the donated labor ·wo uld ha~ cost the church a minim um Southwestern Baptist of $2,000. The volunteer's wives assisted in Vacation Bible School during the morn Theological Seminary. ings and cooked a French meal fo r the entire church family on Wednesday evening. The correct photo of These families go to some area to assist in consrrucrion once a year. Those involved Lagrone, the son o( were Mr. and Mr~ 0. L. Joh nson. Mr. and Mrs. Dudley Munsey. Mr. and Mrs. ltllph Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth . l..lgrone Temple, Mr. and Mrs. Ken 1-t?rcher and Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Brathek. Lagrone of Trumann, appears here. June 30, 1983 Pllge7 More f/tuJii--!.rom the Southern Baptist Convention, Pittsburgh, 1983 Biblical authority, inerrancy emphasized by Pastors PITISBURGH, JUNE 13-A battery of integrity of the Word of God." Joining Herrod's defense oi inerrancy was clergymen developed the theme of "Spirit "Spirit anointed preaching.'' Star ley said, lithonic, Ga .• pastor Ronald Burke long, Anointed Preaching" from a myriad of " has the touch of God upon it. It avoids no who emphasized that for preachers to perspectives at the annual Southern Baprist subject, compromises no truth, and fears no " Have a \vord from God," it must "come Pastors' Confe~nce here with their emphasis reaction. It has nothing to do with the size from God," which he declared to be on scriptural authority and biblical inerran of th e church and little to do, often times, " inerrant.'' cy drawing th e most audience suppon. with the education of the preacher." Though not mentioning the term " iner The focus on scriptural authority during An even more exuberant response was rancy," former SBC President Adrian P. the two-day even t prior to the start of the given to a pair of speakers who underscored Rogers told the p.lStors that he " makes no Southern Baptist Convention carried over to their belief in inerrancy of sc ripture-an issue apologie -though some say it is controver the election of 1984 officers when conser that has been the focus of a major controver sial and some say it doesn't need to be said vative Charles F. Stanley, of Atlanta, was sy in the 13.9 million member denomination anymore-for believing this Book and stan chosen without opposition to succeed Fred 10 recent yea rs. ding by it." H. Wolfe of Mobile, Ala., as president. " This is a book of God with no mixture " I am going to keep the faith," added Stanley, pastor of First Church and chair of error," declared Ron Herrod. pastor of Rogers, pastor of Bellevue Church, Memphis. man of the SBC Committ ee on Boards. was First Church, Kenner, La .• and conference Tenn. "And, friend. if it is not absolute. it is one of several speakers to address the issue vice president. " It is inerrant and infallible. obsolete." of scriptural authority. It does not contain th e Word of God; it is The pastors chose Fred lowery, pastor of Outlining a prescription for spi rit anointed the Word of God." First Church, Bossier City, La .• as their vice preaching, Stanley drf'\v applause when he Nonetheless, Herrod defined the problem president and Fred Powell. pa stor of Pisgah declared that such proclamation " will never of Southern Baptists as " neglect" not Church, Excelsior Springs. Mo.. sec retclfy· flow from the lips of a man who doubts the " liberalism." treasurer. - larry Chesser WMU bridges past and future PlmBURG, June 13 - In this city of dramatic monologues at each session. recall Parks, wife of Foreign Mission Board Presi bridges, the Southern Baptist Woman's Mis ing the pioneer China missionary's early dent R. Keith Parks, led special prayer times sionary Union built a bridge of its own'. years and her fight through the decades to at the first National Prayer Conference held But it \vas a bridge spanning the years, not rally Southern Baptist support not only for on the Saturday preceding the two-day one of the three rivers for which this steel witness to her beloved Chinese but to a lithe WMU meeting. city is famous. people of the world. Sample was reelected president for the About 1600 attending the annual meeting Since the offering bearing her name was th ird year without opposition. Betty Gilreath of the SBC Women's Auxiliary took a look staned in 1888, almost $600 million has been of Charlotre. N. C. , recording secretary for at the past through the premier of a nf'\v collected in th e annual giving for foreign the past two years, also was unanimously musical miss ions awareness drama ~onoring missions. elected fo r a third term. the father of cooperative Baptist work in this Looking to the future, the WMU witnessed Executive Director Carolyn Weatherford, country, luther Rice. commissioning of 20 church planter appren in her annual report, praised the organiza But they also faced up to some hard tices to start congregations in areas where tion for increasing its national membership realities oftoday's economic trauma as it af no Baptist churches exist in this country and to 1,149,266 women, girls and pre-schoolers fects missions and the people of their chur heard Author Helen Jean Parks of Richmond. in the 24.942 churches. But she reminded ches - and received challenges to enlarge Va., plead for strong intercessory prayer sup that 11.360 Southern Baptist churches still do the scope of their missionary in prayer sup port for th e work underway both at home not have WMU organizations. - Bob pan efforts in the future. and in 100 countries overseas. Stanley The WMU had chosen the theme " Building Bridges," for the session marking its 95th year. With an artist's rendition of a bridge trestle overhead, speakers took par ticipants across the bridges of nf'\v \VOrk, giv ing, and mission action. And in the concluding session at the Stanley Theater, a ff'\v blocks away, an au dience of Southern Baptist view-ed " Journey Home: lottie Moon of China," as speakers explored the bridge of unity. In the president's message, Dorothy Sam ple of Flint, Mich., said "Southern Baptists need unity because of the mission needs of the world, because Southern Baptist have the strategy - Bold Mission Thrust - for winning the world, and because it is our responsibility before Cod to take his love to 1he world: ' Officers for the SBC Pastors' Conference were chosen in Pirtsburgh. Charles Stanley, 'We must be united behind missions," First Church. Atlanta, (cenrer) is president, Fred Lower y. (right) 1st Church. Boss ier Ci she summarized. Sheila Bailey presented ty. La., vice, and Fred Fbwe/1, Pisgah Church, Excelsior Springs, Mo., is secretary treasurer. Page 8 ARKANSAS BAPTIST NEWSMAGAZINE More f/ws.__)rom the Southern Baptist Convention, Pittsbu rgh, 1983
DOM's asked to lead Bruce Powe" 01 Wake FO rest, N., c.. on Campus miniSters faculty of Sou theastern Baptist Theological missions awareness Semin ary; and vice president, Phil Stanberry, eye WOrks minister of education and family at Broad· PlffiBURG, June 13- Southern Baptist PITISB URGH , June C- Foreigr. 1ission moor Church, Baton Rouge. La . -by Marv campus ministers tackled the thorny Issues Board Preside nt Kei th Par ks to ld directors of Knox missions here Monday that they can be a key of women in ministry. world hunger and force in figh ting " missions illiteracy" that health care del ivery, in a two-day meeting threatens the Southern Baptist Conve ntion. Music leadership here. " I am convinced that rank and file stressed at meeting But th e topic that drew the most vigorous members and leaders do not have the solid debate was the nature of Campus Ministry education in missions," Pa rks said. " Th e PITTSBURGH . June 13 - The minister of in the fu ture. music's role as worship leader, educator and danger is that the denomination will Of particular concern to the Associa tion uninten tionally drift to find something creative force shaping South ern Baptists' musical taste was minutely examined dur of Southern Baptist Campus Ministers was besides missions to be the unifying force:· the rela tionship between campus 'WOrkers The 22nd Southern Baptist Conference for ing the 27th annual meeting of the Southern Bapt ist Church Music Conference at First and National Student Ministries, the Sunday Directors of Missions attracted 200 persons School Board's office that often charged the to the First Presbyteria n Church for two da ys Church here. A generous sprinkling of handbell con direct ion of the denomination's ministries to of activities. students. Parks cautioned that associations must be ce rts. choirs. piano preludes and musical dramas spiced the two·day session, which Charles H. Johnson, secretary for SM, more adequately funded if they are to lead addressed the group for the first time since out in promoting missions awa reness. He also featured addresses on the Minister of Mu sic as Educator, the Challenges Facing the his appointment to that post last Ys In FaYTheology and writer- in·residence at Frie nds Universi· ty, Wich ita, Kans., spoke four times. em· phasizing min isteria l discipline forged through six va rieties of fasting, simplified liv· · ing in mini stry, praye r and \\fOrking to ac· complish God's work. ''The disciplined person is the person who can do what needs to be done when it needs to be d~n e: ' Foster said . "Th is is crucial in all of life, but it is never more crucial than in th e life of the spirit." New association officers are presi dent, Officers of th e SBC Campus Ministers lor the comins year will be (from left} R.tyne/1 Gary Ellis, min ister of education in Ge rm an Dyer, Fayelleville, membership; ferry Cain, program; Fred Willy. pres/den~ john Tadlo.ck. town, Tenn ., Baptist Church; president-elect. preS:elect; free/ Harrison, publicJtions and Bobby Waddail, administration. June 30, 1983 Page 9 More f/ltl)~from the Southern Baptist Convention 1983 May I help you with your new or used car needs?
Arkansans named to SBC boards and committees Dick Layton Buick Several Arkansan were elected to posi san Jack Bettis on the Ch ris tia n life 4601 South Universit y Commission. tions at the SBC Convention in Pittsburgh. Little Rock, AR 72~ Elected to the Committee on Boards for Paul Sande", of Little Rock. will be on th e Ph.: (501) 562-3330 1983-84 were John B. Wright, pastor of First FMB in riJce of James Sawyer. o( Benton. Church. LR . and Harold E. Henson Jr .. a Bernes K. Selph, of Benton, was re--elected layman .:md bank president from Ft. Smith. to the Historical Commission. Kerry Powell. They replace Don Moore. formerly of Ft. of Forrest City, takes the place of Dean mith and currently state executive secretary Neo.vberry Jr .. of Rogers, on the Midwestern and Douglas Br.Jdley, a layman from Seminary board. Jess Odum, of Maumelle, Jonesboro. rotated off the board of the RTVC Jnd was Weekday Early Frank lady, an attorney from Jonesboro. replaced by Jewel R. 1\>1orris, of Ft. Smith . takes the place of Rodney Landes, an El Appointed by SBC President jim my Education Dorado businessman on the Executive Draper to the 1983 -84 Committee on Com Comminee. mittees, which nominates the Committee on Workshop Angus Emerson, of Cabot, takes the place Boards, were Gerald Taylo r. of lillie Rock. of James E. Williams. formerly of little Rock. and Cecil Weller, of Ft. Smith. Th ey replace July 28-29 on the Brotherhood Commission. Joe At· Johnny jackson, of little Rock , and C.A. Geyer Springs chison, of Pine Bluff, replaces former Arkan- Johnson, of Jonesboro. First Church 5615 Geyer Springs Roa d
0 " t '"' I 0 I I 10 I • I 0 I 1 '" I .. I t I I 00 f oo I 0 I I 00 t ,. I t I I " I '"'0 I I
' 1 I 0 t r I : I I ~ 0 I t J o t I t o 0 Little Rock \ I I 0 0 II" 1 I I I I I I 0 I I .. U II >) o \ I t 0 • II 1 I o 0 I 0 o 0 I I t 11" 'I ...... -~---··...... · .. 1 ...... - · -~-- ·..-1.. ~ I • --~nn ~~ I•• •o•-·-~• n IPnn ~~~•• ~"•~ nn ~ "' ' "" •~n •~nn~n~ ~ " ~~ • ;•~~ ~ a• ~~- ~ ~~ " ~ ~~ ::,~ " ~~ n ~~ • Who should attend? Kindcrganen and day care staff Mother·s Day Out staff Pastors and church staff members Next Month in Arkansas WEE commillee members July 1, Christian Citizenship at Siloam Springs. The fifth of seven weeks Other Interested people Co nference, sponsored by the Arkansas of camping (see /uly 4·9 abm'O). Four sessions: Baptist State Com-ention. will address th e Jul y 15-1&, Gi rl s in Act ion Thursday. July 28 - 9:30· 11 :30, Christian's influence in changing society Mother/ Daughter Ca mp at Pa ron. Third 12:30·3; 15. 6:30·8:30 through E,'OVernment on the local, state of three overnight se5sions fo r girls in fi rst Friday. July 29 - 8:30· 12:00 and national levels. through third grades Jnd their mothers. Ju ly 3, Christia n Citizenship Sunday is Provide-s a time away for communication. Special Interest conferences: a suggested day for South ern Baptists to worship. missions study and campcraft. WEE directors/ An / Mother's Day make- a commitment to practice- Christian July 16-20, Girl s in Action Camp at Out/ Meal pla.nning/ Music / Learning citizenship in pursuit of the goal of public Paron. Missions education camping (see centers ITeaching younger righteousness in our nalion. /uly 11·15 above/. preschoolers/ Health and safety/ Jul y 4-8, Girls in Adion/Adeens Camp Jul y 16-23, Arka nsas Ba ptist Asse mbly Program personnel: at Siloam Springs. SiKth of 5(>\.'('n \VCeks of at Paron. Girls who have complete-d the Dr . Jeroline Baker. SWBTS fourth through 12th grades get missions camping (see July 4·8 aboV'O). Pamela Arrington. OBU education and camping activities. Jul y 21·23, Ma rriage Enrichment Dr. Otho Heslerly. U of A Med Sciences Jul y 4-9, Arka nsas Ba ptist Assembly at Re treat at Fairfield Bay. The retreat. spon· Betty Oliver. Pulaski Co. Ext. Agent Siloom Springs. Fourth of seven weeks for sored by the Sunday School Board and Dr . Jo Lyn Jennings. Pulaski Co. Ext. campers of all ages to enjoy worship, state con\'en!ion. is a structured eKperie-n Agent Bible study, re-creation and more in an tial education even t based on biblical away.from·it-all atmosphere. principles for marriage. Kathy Kelley . Park Hill . NLR Lynne McCauley. Geyer Springs 1st, LR July 7, State )oint Committee for July 25·29, Gi rls in Action Camp ar Susie Shumaker. Geyer Springs !st. LR cooperatiW? ministries with National Bap Paron. Third of thre-e weeks of mi55ions Ruth Smith . UALR School ol the Arts tists will meet at the Baptis t Building in education camping (see July 11-15 above). RoS. Jones, Ark . Bap. Child Care Little Rock for evaluation and planning of Jul y 25-29, Mu sic Arkansas at Angie Greer, Henderson State cooperative evenu. O ua chita Baptist UniW?rsity. A conference Jul y 11 ·20, Pioneer RA mission action for you th and adults with a missions Luncheon: tri p to Alaska. Older Royal Ambassadors emphasis which provides rraining in music Thursday, 11 :30- res. by July 22 will \'\rUrk with the Alaska Baptist Comlf!n· th eory. voice and instruments and tion on church consrruction proje-crs. recreation. For more Information July 11·1 2, Mi d·summer retreat fo r July 25-30, Arka nsas Bapt ist Asse mbl y and luncheon reservations student summer missionaries in Hot at Siloam Springs. Th e last of seven weeks Springs will provide- a break fo r the of camping (see July 4·8 aboV'O). call or write Pat Ranon or Pete Peny. stude-nu and the-ir supervisors. Jul y 26-29, Weekday Early Education P.O. Box 552, Unle Rock, 376·4791. Ju ly tt-15 Girl s in Action Camp at Wo rkshop, Geyer Springs First Ch urch, Paron. First of three weeks of missions little Rock. Kindergarten. day ca re and Sponsored by Missions Department education camping for girls in grades four mothers' -da y-ou t staffers and oth ers who and Sunday School Deportment, through six. are interested in any type of weekday Arkansas Baptist State Convention july tt-1 &, Arka nsas Baptist Assembly preschool programs will get ide-as. Page 10 ARKANSAS BAPTIST NEWSMAGAZINE New "Lessons for Living ' writers begin Hughes pew cushions Ar-eta.- ot aUK~*~ Two II('W wn t er~ begin wnt1n1 Sun ().,aiotyCO'ftlotlaiiCICIHuly d•yJchoo ll ~:.ons on thllliiU~ T011v L. WebeiiiVewecan ~rrv.~l totolfootChurchoiO•rdln ...., your church money elle,~ll"'lwltt•nMthelile.andWO
June 30, 1983 3, 1983 lnternat1ona }ephthah: Zeal without wisdom by D. C. McAioo, member Fi " l Church of by Tony Berry, p.1sto r, First Church of Forrest City Dardanelle by D. 8. Boasley, Fi" l Church, Hardy Basic p.>ssago: ludges 11 :7-10, 29-35 Basic pass.Jg ~: Ge n ~si s 1:1,2&;27:7; Psalm Bas ic p.1ssage: Proverbs 1:1·9:18 Focal p.>ssago: Judgos 11: 29-31 6:1 -9; 19:1-4b; 9:4-1& Focal passage: Proverbs 1:7; 3:1-17; 6:35-3& Central truth: We should never make rash Focal passagE': Genesis 1:2&-28; Psalm 8:3-8 Central truth: Walkin g with God in faith or hasty vows. and obedience is the fountainhea d of 1. Jephthah's background. Ce ntral truth: We are God's creation and wisdom. Jepthah was the- son of Gilead by a strange we are created for a meaningful purpose. Of all the guidebooks to successful living, woman who turned him over to GiiE.•ad to The identity crisis is a frustrating period the Book of Proverbs is one of the besl. For rear. Jephthah was resented b')• his legitimate in life. Most p~ople experience the gnawing the next six weeks. we will be studying this bcother. and he went to live in the land of di comfon of SPeking th eir identity and pur book of wisdom litPrature. It contains no Tob. There he seemed 10 apply himself to the pose for being. Our lesson this week speaks prophecy and linle doctrine. but is rather the skills that would best equip him for a militllry to the value of individual persons. We are application of divine wisdom to the various life. Finally the day comes that every wrong God's creation and we .1re c reated for a aspects of the daily life to this evil world. As person longs for. ed meaningful purpose. has been pointed oul. " \'\'hat the Psalms are 2. Jepthah is sought by his countrymen to I would suggest that one prayerfully ac· to the devotional lif£>. the Proverbs are to th£> be their leader (11 :10). practical life." As the elder< of Gilead sought jepthah to cept this Biblical truth. Namely, each in Ours is a very pragmatic age; thus these come back and lead their armies against the dividual is created by r\lmighty God. From writings of Solomon and others. and their king of the sons of Ammon, he made them Genesis. we learn that what Cod created is pra ctical approach to wisdom make these promise that if he was victorious that he good. Creation is his design. We are his pro· could remain as their leader. There is an old duct. He 10ok the risk of breathing into our writings pertin~nt and challenging to us adage, " Every dog has his day". If you watch nostrils the uniqueness of life. today. the fortunes of life over a number of yea rs, Because Cod created me and purposed The first seven verses of Proverbs provide you will find that this is ohen true. that I relate to him, I can make the follow a general introduction to the entire book. In v.lO \ve note that the elders of Gilead ing " I" suggestions concerning mankind: I Here we have sta ted the author, the object said to Jephthah. " The lord is witness be am Cod"s creation, l arn a gift from Cod of the book, and its great value. In ve rse tween us; surely we will do as you have designed to be a blessing an d not a burden: sev~n . we have the thPme. "'The fear of the said:' I arn a creature of fellowship: I am a vehicl£> Lord is the beginning of knowledge:· There 3. Jephthah is caught by his own vow. through whom God procreates other mainder of the book is development or ex Oudges t 1:29-35) humans; I am God's highest creation; I am position of this idea. After Jephthah camps back tq take com· the thought of God, therefore, I matter. The word " beginning" carries both the mand of the army. he speak5 his words idea of starting point and essence. Of special 6,!1 The Psalmist wrote of man as having a before the Lord at Mizp.>h (v. II). interPst is the appearance of wisdom as significant place in creation . when consider· a After sending messengers to the king of ing the creation of the moon, stars and person in chapters 1-9. the sons of Ammon and determining there heavens. as vast and awesome as they are. The rC\vards and benefits of wisdom are was no avoiding \var, Jephthat-. made a vow he saw that man is of higher value. presented in chapter three. The motivation to the lord (v.31). This vow was that for loyalty and faithfulness is stated in verse Man has been endowed with the gift of whatever came out of the doors of his house four. Proverbs 3:5·6 presents one of the dominion over lower forms of life. Man is first to meet him when he returned from Am strongest promises of the Bible as \veil as the mon, he would give it as a sacrifice unto the higher in value than the sheep, oxen, beast assurance of a victorious life. Lord. of the field, fowl of the air and the fish of Somehow this passage suggests Christ. He In v.33 we not£> that the AmmonitE'S were the sea . is the wisdom of God, who by the Holy given into the hands of jephthah, a nd they Even with such a unique place in creation, Spirit. through the sc riptures is made wisdom were subdued before the sons of Israel. In man is not higher than the angels. Man does to us (See I Cor. 2). Note the other benefits: v.3 4, we find the sad part. As he returned not create; he is either the recipient of that precious merchandise: way of honOr: from battle to his home, M izpah, his only which is created or he discovers it through pleasantness and peace; and, a tree of life! child came out to meet him. God's permissive will. Being true to his word, he kept his vow To miss or avoid wisdom is to invite destruc· Man is a creature of dignity because God with his daughter's permission and she was lion and dpath! One cannot but hea r over· willed it so. Hmvever. with that dignity offered as a burnt offering, after being per tones of the gospel mpssage and the invitia comes responsibility for moral and spiritual mitted to go to the mountains for two · tion to follow Christ in these word s. reflection of our God. We are more than the months with some of her maidens. Th i ti~\MJn lrt.atmc-nt ;, b.atrd on th~ Biblr Boo ~ Study lor tht animals, but \VE' are less than God. Christian Thl1 k-s10n ln'.l~l i1 b.a.wd on thf. l ntnn.atiorul8ibl~ ln.on 5outhnn l.lpti11 Ch~o~rch« c:opyrlaht by thr Sund.ay School for ChrittLu.le..chin&. Uniform Strin. CoP)~ht lnltrn.ation.al self-identity is the result of one's awareness Bo.atd of lht 5o~o~ t hun l.lptht Con•~ntion . Allrithh ttwo~ . Council of (duutlon. U~ b, pnmiulon. that he or she is created in God"s image. I UM'd by ptrmiulon. am Cod's creation. therefore. I have worth. Bus tour New England r1111 roliagc To the degree that I relate myself to God's Out s t a n dln~o=. f(roup p11ckagc! Sllil)" u1 Sept. 2g.Qc1. 7 teaching. I become a person with a purpose. Keller's Country For Free Brochure co ntact: Who am l? I am Cod's creation. Dorm Resort Ralph's Tnn·c( Club, Rt . I. Eureka Springs, Ark., and se:c the Gre1111 Thi' ltuo n h b.awod on tht lift .and Worl. Cu rri(ulum for l'u!!-s_lon ~Ill)' (thru Ocl.) for on lyfS 18 each, in· P.O. Box 914. N. Lillie Rock, AR 721 15 Xluthrrn ll..ilptht Chun:hu. cop}ri,11ht b-; thr Sund• r Sthool cludmg uckcts, lodging. swimnung & meals! Phone: (501) 753-g2so ll.o.ltd of tht Xluthtrn !l.lptht Conn•ntion. All ril! hh ttwn·td. Ca\1501/253·84 18. UM'dby~r"'hWon . Page 12 ARKANSAS BAPTIST NEWSMAGAZINE Lessons for living ?- July 10, 1983 International Life and Work Bible Book Se ries Samson: M an of contrast Wisdom for a good life Contrasts between the by D. C. McAtee, member, First Church, by Tony Berry, pastor, First Baptis t Ch urch righteous and the wicked Forrest City o f Dard anelle Bas ic passage: Judges 13:2-5, 24-25; Ba sic pa s5<1ge: Prove rbs 1:7,20-22; 3:5-8; by D. B. Beasley, Fll'$t Church, H•rd 1&:15-17, 28-29 8:32-36; 12:15-20; 14:30: 22:3 Basic passoge: Proverbs 10: 1-15:33 focal pa s5<1ge: Judges 1&: 15-17. focal pa s5<1ge: Proverbs 1:7, 22: 3:5-8; 13:30; Foca l passage: Proverbs 10:14, 16-17; 11 :2, Ce ntr.1l truth: The devil at1.1ck you Jt 22:3; 8:34-3& will 5, 28, 31; 12:1-3, 10,15; 13:5, 20, 25; 14:9, yo ur strongest poinl. Ce ntral truth: He who receives instruction 21; 15:32-33 I. Samson's background, Judges 13·2-5. and teac hing from Cod gains wisdom, Monaoh, a Danite, and hi s v... ife \\'ert? bar res ulting in the ability to make decisions, Central truth: The contrast between the ren , and the angel of the lord appeared to which lea d to a good life. godly and ungodly is re... oled In their her and informed her that she was w ha ve We are instructed in Matthevv seven that ch.uacter and lifest)ll e:. a son and she was to rear him as a Nazarite. .1 wise. thoughful and organized builder The book of Proverbs emphasizes the ex ~ Neither razor nor shears were to touch his builds his house on a firm foundation. Such ternal expression of the religious life. These h,1ir. MJnoah's wife wa s instructed not to wisdom enables the house to withstand maxim and wisdom sentences exhort us to drink wine or strong drink nor ea t any fierce winds and storms. practice our faith and O\•ercome the dally unclean thing. Th e boy wa s to be a Nazarite · The writer of Proverbs instruds his readers temptations that come In vaned way They to God from the womb and wilSto begin to to learn an essential truth if they expect a express a belief in Jehovah God and hi rule deliver Israel from the hands of the good life. The sure foundation for gaining in· over the universe and, therefore, seek to Philistines. sigh t and wisdom is the result of respect for make his religion the controllmg motive in 2. Samson delivered, Judges 13:24-25. God. life and conduct. As J. B. Tidwell put i1, 1\t the appropria te tim e. the child was The individual who re spects• .allQ ~Ttiey breathe a profound religious concep born, and they called him Samson, which reverences God is one who has. pos [ l idrUr.~~O n . blJ t put most stress upon the doing of means, like the sun. The Spirit of God began himself to be taugh1 by Almighty God . Jh,e-. " rellglon· in ~II the relations of hfe." to stir in him at Mahanen-dan (the ca mp of fo?lish pers~ns are. those who dt;SpiSe •' • 11ls well to remember that all of Proverbs Dan), between Zorah and Eshtaol. Samson wrsdom and mstructiOn. . ' • : ;~ : \~ritten 'i f\ poetic form, and the most grew to be a man of many contrasts. He He or she who seeks w•sdom t hro~g~ • putstandlQg Oharactenst •cs of Hebrew poetry would demonstrat e mighty power from God reve~enc~ and respect fo_r . G~ . r~CCJV~ ·~a s-the use of couplet lines. Hebrev.t poetry on the one hand and turn and satisfy his G?d s w1sdom . The rece1p1ent· of coq_\; .. did not fT}ake great use of rhythm or rhyme. lustful passions the next. ~v 1 sd?m then seeks to lead ot_hers tq ~~e ~ The pt~vE')'l)s in this ectlon of the book are 3. Samson's downfall, Judges 16:15-17. mquners or lear_ners. The w1s~ man.w1ll be1t tom~eO ., Iargely of wisdom se ntences This passage has been designJted by some open, th e fo~hsh p~rson wJII s hun : an~ ·· whjCh ~ave few immediate contexts. Here as " being asleep in th e lap of the world." d1scard godly rnstrudron. ' ,\vt? have a contrast between the godly and Whatever weakness or strfngth a perso n The pe_r so~ who would lear~ from G?d the' ungodly. and thelf respective lots In life. may have can become a " Delilah'' to th em ,md be wise 1S one who: trusts rn God w1 th • t. • if they ai iO\v it to rob them of their power his total being; acknowledges God in all • . T~e opening verses ~f chapters 10.11 re· with the lord. things and shuns arrog..1nce and self-conceit. mmd us that there are d1stlnct c~nsequences The Philistines used the real live Del ilah The result will be health. To th e degree and outcomes of either the nghteous or to probe Samson's mind and find out where that one trusts God, one's pu rpo.se for be· wicked life. Blessing ~ and rewards from God his weakness wa s, so they could destroy him. ing is happy and blessed. The ultimate resu lt are assur.ed to the WISC. Much has been said After many failures. she finally succeeded. of seeking God's wisdom is: a peaceful mind; con~ernrng self-esteem and the need fo r a It is interesting to note that she did not cut happiness from daily communications with feeh~~ of self·,~Orth .. Adherence to the ad- his hair but called for a man to do it. Th is God; favour of God and th e good life. momt1ons ofth1s sectiOn, an~ pa n lc~la rly to could be called panners in crime. It is this writer's belief that the good life ~he Proverbs In ch apt e ~ 15, w1ll ~o fa_r 1n help- 4. Samson avenged, Jud ges 1& :28·30. results from seeking God's wisdom through mg toward progress_tn this. dtrect1on. The After th ey did bind him, blind him and ca reful attention to Bible readinG.· fellowship apostle Pauls words tn Galattans 6:7 fi t here, and prayer. and are as applicable now as in Bible times. (. make him to grind at the enemies' mill, Sam· so n asks God to give him strength one more Thh lruon it tw~ on lbl' lllr ~nd Wo rfl. Currinrlum lor Thi llf"1W)r'l tn'•tmtnt It b.11td on thf' ltbl•loo~ St11d y ftH ~" time. With his strength, he pulls down th e Soulhtm l'plill Chun:hu, coptrl& hl bt' lh~,Sund'v khool ~ ulhfrn "ptl11 Churdltt June 30, 1983 Page 13 Your state convention at work is a good time in Churc~ ~dministration " II the lord for us." " I really liked to participate in activities wi th my daughters." Chu. :1Vocations Conference August 12-13 " It was very good to have planned quiet times both Friday and An important goal of Bold Mission Thrust deals with ''calling Saturday and prayertime in the cabins." out the c~lled " through an emphasis on church vocation s. This ern- " We liked the quiet time most and the opportunity to be phasis is closely tied tO the projected enrolment increases in our together." seminaries that will eventually lead to more "My daughter and I loved hearing the missionaries speak." trained and committed pastors, staff members, " We liked the chance to visit with 'real live missionaries'." missionaries and others involved in a wide " It provided quality time with my daughter with no intrusions:· variety of church vocations. "We enjoyed the Sing Along." The State Church Vocations Conference, "My daughter liked the craft and the time we shared together." Aug. 12·13. at Ouachita Baptist University, " It was a wonderful opportunity to worship with my daughter." Arkadelphia, will provide Jn opportunity for " It is J very memorable occasion." youth and church leaders to learn more about Meeting missionaries. si nging, quiet times, and recreation a re this exciting area of Christian commitment. a fe"N of th e activities offered at GA Mother· Daughter Camp. But, The conference will be led by Alice Magill, the most important aspect of camp is quality time for mother and Vocational Guidance Specialist, Church Ad· daughter to share together! ministration Department, Baptist Sunday Come join us at GA Mother·Daughter Camp from 5:00 p.m., School Board. Special interest conferences Magill July 15 to 3:00p.m., July 16. For infornlation contact the WMU Of· dealing with \ ..'Ork in the local church. missions, denominational fice, PO Box 552, little Rock, AR 72203 . - Pat Glascock, GA Camp and other areas of work will also be provided. Training fo r pastors, Director · staff and leaders who \\IOrk with church vocations volunteers will f be a special feawre of the conference. 1 Christian Life Council The conference will begin at 1:30 p.m. on Friday Aug. 12, and The unused racket adjourn at 3 p.m. on Saturday. A banquet on Friday evening will be included in the registration fee. Housing on campus will also As this is read, Arkansas Baptists will be in the middle of the be available. 1983 camp and assembly season. Every boy, girl, youth and adull For reservation information contact Bill Fa lkner. Church Train· should participate by attending a camp or assembly. Provision should ing Department, Arkansas Baptist State Convention, little Rock, be made especially for the young by each Arkansas, 72203, phone 376·4791. - Bill Falkner, Associate church and association. God uses camps and assemblies in Stewardship Department unusual ways. Each year many are converted. The budgeting process: ministry action Many others rededicate their li ves to Christ and many surrender their lives to the lord fo r The Bible is a church's authority for faith and practice even in fulltime Christian service. Money that is in· ste.vardship. Where does a church turn after determining its biblical vested providing camps and assemblies by base for the development of Christian stewards? Arkansas Baptists pays many spiritual, eternal In the budgeting process. a church should dividends. Hoo.v has attendance blessed my turn to its ministry opportunities. In some own lifel Thiny six years ago this summer, circles this process is called zero·based while a senior student at Ouachita College. Parker budgeting. Churches often call it program I spent just a weekend a! Siloam Springs budgeting. Ministry action budgeting is a very assembly. My tennis racket was brought along for recreation but it 1 good designation for it helps define the was unused. The reason? First. someone introduced me to th ~ One ministries of the local church . who a year later became my wife. Secondly, I rededicated'·,';,y life Ministry action budgeting encourages to jesus. Wonderful, lasting happenings can occur during camp and churches to ask these four questions : assembly time. I know! What ministries should our church do It may not be too late to take advantage this year of these sum· next year? mer time opportunities. If it is, stan planning, if the lord tarries, to Why should we do these ministries? Walker attend a summer camp or assembly with your family in 1984 . How shall we accomplish these -Bob Parker ministries? Hmv much will these ministries cost, and are \Ye willing to com· Family and Child Care mit that amount of money? . Every church, regardless of size, can use ministry action Say it with a Memorial Gift budgeting. Two brochures, Ministry Action Budgeting and Simplified When death comes to a relative or friend, how do you express Budgeting fo r Ministries, are available at no cost from the Steward your love and sympathyl Many people are doing it through a ship Department. - James A. Walker, Director memorial gift to Arkansas Baptist Family and Child Care Services. Some reasons more people are making memorial gifts are: WMU Precedented in scripture GA Mother-Daughter Camp testimonies The lord's Supper is a worship experience in memory of Jesus' death, july 15·16 is the last GA Mother·Daughter Camp at Camp Pa ron resurrection and second coming. for this year. Why should you consider coming with your lst·3rd Practical in expression grade daughter? Read these mothers' testimonies about their time You r feelings of love and sympathy are expressed in the gift. lt is spent with daughters at the May, GA Mother·Paughter Camp. easily delivered. Th e amount remai~s private. "My daughters and I don't get away alone any other time." ''lt ,is good to meet missionaries on a personal level and for the Permanent in investment returns girls to $ee them as people:· Th e investment in the lives of boys and girls will continue to yield Page 14 ARKANSAS BAPTIST NEWSMAGAZINE Your state convention at work dividends throughout eternity. "We befieve that God h;u given to afl his children gilts of grace Perpetrator of good qualities tha t can be developed and used '" mimstry. Th e inOuence of the person being remembered is kept alive. "We believe that the Holy pirit of God IS our companion in Memorial gifts tie the generations together. ministry. enabling us to se"-e Jesus Chris( to our fullest potential:~ So begms the Brliever's Ministry Covenant, a covenant between Provider of blessings and benefits pastor and congregation expressing their com The giver is blessed for giving. Th e gift is ta x deductible. Boys and mitment to pursuing spiritual grcr.vth . develop girls e njoy I he beneflls or lhe gifl. ing their skills and expanding the ministry or Properly acknowledged their church. Adopting the Believer's Ministry Gifts are acknowledged along wilh a receipt to the giver. The per· Covenant can help to encourage Christians to son's family is notified but the amount is not given. We encourage take more seriously their need to grow and you to join th e growing ran ks of people using memorial gifts to our develop as 1he people of God. The paSior who child care ministry as th e occasion arises. - Homer Shirley, Jr., enters into the covenant with his congrega Director of Development tion will firmly and visibly establish himself in his biblical role as an equipper of the saints. Evangelism The Believer's Ministry Covenant will launch the Developing Believers Emphasis In The Soul Winner Cleansed I he chur<:hes 1his fall . It should be adop1ed by Holfey The message of the Old Testament prophet is still true today, the church on Sunday morning. Sept 25, with discussion and ex· " Be ye clean that bear the vessels of the lord". A Christian has been planation prior to that date. The covenant Is printed in full In the cleansed by th e blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. A Christian continues Developing Believe~s PaSio~s Manual and In Ihe ft!bruary. June and to be cleansed as he confesses his sins and August issues of the Church Training magazine. Churches may secure God forgives him. copies of the covenant suitable as bulletin inserts (rom the state John's statement to th e New Testament Church Training Department. Christian is still true today. "If we will confess Adoption of th e Believer's Ministry Covenant can be a very our sins, he is fai thful and just to forgive us significant act. encouraging both pastor and members to take and cleanse us from all unrighteousness." We seriously the year's special opportunities for learn1ng and grO\Ving. who are Christians know th at we are human. - Robert Holley, Director The lost sinner thinks he should see a Chris Sunday Schoof tia n as a perfect being. Sunday School outreach should be delegated Isaiah had a great experience in the sixth A second factor in growing a Sunday School deals with the ele chapler of his book. He fir>! became God con· ment of delegation. Reaching prospects depends upon the erfec· scious when he came to worship and saw the Sheri tive delegation of outreach responsibilities to workers and Lord " high and lified up . . . lhe seraphims members. Basically I he principal says 1ha1 If . . cried oul hol y, holy, is the Lord .. ." He lhen became self a person works wilh youlh grades 7 lhrough conscious. 9. then that person is responsible for reaching Isa ia h confessed his sins. He stated, " Woe is me, I am undone, youth In those grades. If tJ person works with I am a man of unclean lips". The closer one comes to God, the more adult men ages 30·44, then that person is clea rl y he sees his own sins. God took away his iniquity and purg responsible for reaching adult men in that age ed his si ns as he touched him in love. range. Th e same is true for class members. . He then became other people conscious. He heard the voice Members of a class are responsible for of ~ll!Jr fraying "Whom shall I send, and who will go fo r us1" Isaiah reaching oth'1 rs for their class. This means that didn't\ay, "Send the pastor or the deacon or the Sunday School firs t line responsibilfty is placed on workers teacher:· He said, " He re am I, send me''. and members, not on pastors or staff. No My prayer is th at we as Arkansas Baptists will be mature enough pastor by himself can visit enough to grcr.v his Pike to say, " Here am I, Lo rd , send me". - Clarence Shell, director Sunday School. Growth lakes 1h e efforts of a large number of people. Everyone doing h1s part makes 1he lola! Church Training task easy. I ohen ask groups. " How do you ea1 an elephanl1" The ob The Believer's Ministry Covenant vious answer of course is, "One bite at a time." If every worker and This is the second in a series of articles on Developing Believers, member takes their " bite" then the Sunday School grows. 1he Bold Mission Th ru >l emphasis for 1963·64. Two weeks ago you Workers must understand hO'N important is Is to accept the were introduced to Developing Believers and the five basic stra tegies responsibility of visiting their prospects. Outreach is the priority task to be implemented in the churches beginning th is fall. This article of all workers. Second in Importance Is their responsibility to teach. and the four that follow will in troduce th ese five strategies. We have been instructed to be fishers of men. This means we must 'W e beli~ that salvation in /eus Christ includes a call to minister go '~here 1he fish are. Every worker accepllng I he responslbllhy for to peopfe. outreach in their class is a key to growth. - Freddie Pike Annie Armstrong, Lottie Moon receipts below expected Southern Baptists are not giving nearly as below anticipated receipts needed to reach The percent increase over last year was the much to missions as expected this year. the $25 million goal. lowes! since 1974. The offering provides Receipts to both special mi ssion offerings At the FMB, for th e first time in years, the aboul half I he FMB's yearly budge~ . are below I hose projected by I he Home and goal fo r 1he offering was lowered, from S66 Giving in Arkansas bucked the national Foreign Mission Boards as necessa ry to reach to S60 million . The board recently closed its trend, however. Louie Moon offerings In the lheir goals. books on 1he 1962 offering, which fell S4 slale for 1982 were up S 1()0,000, In early The HMB reported S 13 million in receipiS, million short. reports, loa new high of Sl.4 million. June 30, 1983 Pege.15 Southern Baptists, Barrett to study cities of world RI CHMOND. a (BP) - Southern Bap t•Jns mavin~ to Cltico; ,1nd spcc•f•cs on to consult wrth a ll interested BaptiSt umons ttst have teamed up "Hh a prormnent church-rel,lted tnstitut•on ....1nd mu1istncs and convent ions wtth whrch Southe rn Bap Angl•can rese.Hcher to tudy the world ' ~ B.urcn say .. )Uth dat.l have never before trs ts work overseas to d1scover better stratc 2,200 largC'St c•ucs. a proJeC t that could been colll•ctecl ;mel compiled city by ctty gres for jomtly presenting the gospel to have far-re.1chmg implic.w o ns for evMlgt... ~orc1~n board :ttraW~; • s t CIMk Scanl on everyone in the world before the e nd of the lizatton m an mcreasmgly urban \\Orld belreve" th.H \\lth mcrcasing urbaruzdtion, centurv Davtd B Barrett. a m•ss•onary \\ho SC I\ C~ 6pcc•all, 1n Tlurd World countr•es, the co Barre tt told bo.1rd membe rs and staffe rs as re eMch off•ce ror the Angltclln Church opcr.ll•vc ertort ,,,u v•dd fresh. accurate one concern h<' had with the plan is th.Jt it m Kenva clnd the Anglican Cormnun1on mformataon thcH w1ll ga•e duect•on to strat· rs called a Bapt•st proposal and tha t the world\\ tde. has <1greed to serve ~1s research cg•cs and plans ror cvc~ngc h L nlg cnies proposed pa ruc•pants tn the mee ting repre dtrector for the f\\o-year Foretgn Mis~ion " Nobod) l..nows wh.11 the results are go "ent JU St a tenth of one pe rcent of the Chris· Bo..1rd proJeCt. whtch also w11l m\'olvc mg to be." U~mcll sard m h1 s prcc1se British liclfl world Southern Bapusts' Center for Urb,m Church JCCC'nt l3ut hl' pn·dict;;;. " There MC going to He c tted Wdltnm Carey's "An Enquiry tudtPS 1n Nashville, Tenn be some' crv b•g surpr.scr.. " The stlldv is e'~ Into the Obligation of Chmt•ans to Use Barrett, based m atrob•. Ken\•a. rs best pectcd to be complcw b)' mtd-1985 and the Means fo r the Conversion of the Hectthen" l..nown as editor of the 1,01Q-page " \Vorld resul ts w1ll hl..elv <. pol\\ n posit ion and str;Hc (1792). wh1ch doesn' t use the title " Baptist" Christran Encyclopccha. ·• published in 1982. gy papers for .1 proposed Bclpt•st consu ha· .1nd spea ~ s of Chrrsttdns rath · r than Bap a mas I\ e survey of world Chmtt.1nilv cH· t•on on \\ Oriel ev,tngeliz.:uion tists ''As a result of that. this book has had The tmung of the Siudy .Jnd 1he consuha· enormous mfluence throughout the world r------I I lOll IS Strdi Cl,:I C b C