Fuge Faith, Friends & Fun minister to students

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2007 News and information for ministry from LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention Contents

Volume 53 • Number 5 September/October 2007

Commentary • From my perspective: Hope requires urgency...... 4 • Survey: Teenagers’ views on eternity...... 6

Articles • Fuge is largest event at Ridgecrest in decade...... 10 • Campers told to reach out, not sellout...... 17 • LifeWay honors churches for baptisms...... 18 • LifeWay Lessons: new online teaching resource...... 20 • Beth Moore’s A Woman’s Heart updated...... 22 • New study on Psalms of Ascent by Beth Moore released...... 23 • LifeWay offers growing resources on iTunes...... 24 • Legal series: Church bylaws...... 25 • Fly fishermen learn to fish for more than trout...... 30 • Resource tells parents how to navigate cyberworld...... 35 • Going Beyond the ordinary...... 36 • Offering envelopes are time-tested ministry tool...... 38

Resources For you from LifeWay...... 40 Facts & Trends Online features...... 50

Cover and inset: Fuge campers display their new looks after the infamous “messy games.” In this game, the group pummels each other with flour-filled stockings. They soon become covered with the white powder ... and love it! Photo by Guy Lyons. .

How to get Facts & Trends absolutely free: Write us: Facts & Trends One LifeWay Plaza Nashville, TN 37234-0192 Phone us: (615) 251-3698 E-mail us: [email protected]

Phone numbers, Web addresses and content Beth Moore study updated, new study releases • 22-23 referenced in articles were verified at the time of printing. Our purpose To support you in ministry by connecting you with LifeWay’s “Biblical Solutions for Life.” To help you carry out your calling more effectively as you read news and feature stories, information about trends that impact the church, LifeWay Lessons • 20 ministry tips and an introduction to new LifeWay products. Whether you’re a pastor, church staff member or lay leader, you’ll find ways to enhance your ministry.

Fly fishermen • 30 Church bylaws • 25 Our format Facts & Trends is published six times a year by LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Facts & Trends is a free publication.

Our people Polly House, editor; Katie Shull, graphic designer; Kelly Davis Shrout, Brooklyn Noel, Jenny Rice, Chris Turner, writers; Kent Harville, visuals specialist; Shirley Richardson, Web editor; Russ Rankin, editor in chief; Rob Phillips, director, communications department. Offering envelopes • 38 Going Beyond conference • 36 September/October 2007  From my perspective

Hope requires urgency e’re losing our kids. More frightening: we don’t seem to care. W These two thoughts flashed through my mind when I read the research on teens’ confusion about eternity compiled by LifeWay Research and located on the following pages of this issue of Facts & Trends. In the study’s summary, Scott McConnell, associate director of LifeWay Research, says, “It is surprising that only about half the teenagers who attended a Christian church in the last month are depending solely on the grace of Jesus Christ to get to heaven.” Shocking. That means statistically if you have 100 kids in your church’s youth group, 50 of them are confused about the exclusivity of Christ. Fifty teenagers between 12 and 19 do not clearly understand that Jesus is the ONLY path to God and ultimately an eternal life worshiping Him. Every other kid is missing the truth, hope and clarity found in one of the most important passages of Scripture: “But now, apart from the law, God’s righteousness has been revealed – attested by the Law and the Prophets – that is, God’s righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ, to all who believe, since there is no Thom S. Rainer, president and CEO, distinction. For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention They are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. God presented Him as a propitiation through faith in His blood, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His restraint God passed over the sins previously committed. He presented Him Subscribe to demonstrate His righteousness at the present time, so that He would be righteous and declare righteous the one who LifeWay President Thom S. Rainer writes has faith in Jesus.” (Romans 3:21-26 HCSB) LifeWay@Heart, an occasional e-mail message If all we did as ministers and parents were unpack the addressing trends and ministry ideas. Add your truth and theology contained in those six verses, we’d name to the LifeWay@Heart mailing list by take great strides in clearing up a significant amount of confusion for our teens. Why haven’t we shown an urgency going to www.lifeway.com/form_heart.asp. to sound an alarm and address the issue? On the form, type in your e-mail address and name, then click the “Join List” button.

 Facts & Trends Honestly, we don’t do this with adults. In the previous issue of Facts & Trends, I referenced a study I did a few years ago where our research team found that 31 percent of the people leaving church immediately following a worship service were unable to We recommend articulate clear evidence of salvation. I would hazard a guess that many of these are not • The Lost Art of Disciple first-time guests but people who sit in our churches every week. The two studies point Making by LeRoy Eims to passions of mine that have significant implications for the church: evangelism and • MasterLife: Student discipleship. Edition by Avery Willis As we evangelize we must • Basic Student Discipleship engage people where they “As we evangelize we must engage • Bible Promises for Teens spiritually are and answer people where they spiritually are their questions in language and answer their questions in  they understand. Too often These and other we expect people to have resources are available language they understand.” through customer an insider’s understanding — Thom Rainer service at www.lifeway. of “churchy” vernacular. It com and (800) 458- creates confusion. Let’s listen 2772 and from LifeWay and respond with clarity and Christian Stores at www. truth in their context. Jesus is our greatest model for this. He gently led the woman lifewaystores.com and at the well – uneducated, poor, ostracized – to an understanding of who He was. He (800) 233-1123. did this differently than the direct manner in which he addressed Nicodemus – regal, respected, educated, and one who should have known better. The central point in both contexts was Jesus. He used two approaches to arrive at the same destination. But once we have clearly explained the exclusivity of Jesus and have led people to follow Him, we must take them deeper and not leave them at the altar, signed decision card in hand. We must help them move on to spiritual maturity. On the one hand this is painfully obvious, but on the other it is where the church seems to have become most deficient. We will not clear up teens’ confusion or reverse church dropout rates if parents and church leaders do not recover the lost art of disciple making (reference to LeRoy Eims’ book, The Lost Art of Disciple Making, intended). The next generation of believers needs the hope found in the truth and clarity of the gospel, but their hope rests in our sense of urgency. In His service,

September/October 2007  LifeWay Research examines teenagers’ views on eternity by Libby Lovelace

 Facts & Trends LifeWay Research teens & eternity

esults from a recent LifeWay religiosity (26 percent) as their means to get Research study indicate that many to heaven. American teenagers are confused Out of the 69 percent of the teenagers Rabout what it takes to get to heaven. who strongly or somewhat agree they will More than 1,000 teenagers were surveyed go to heaven because Jesus Christ died for in January and February of 2007 by mail their sins, 60 questionnaire and results were compared percent also to an identical survey conducted in 2005. agree that “ I don’t care if Each sample consisted of 12-19-year-olds. they will go I go to heaven.” Results show 69 percent of teenagers to heaven believe heaven exists. Also, a majority of because they – 4 percent of teens strongly agree with the traditional are religious, teenagers surveyed Christian belief in Jesus Christ’s death and 60 for their sins as the reason they will go to percent also heaven (53 percent). agree they will go to heaven because they are kind to others. While many teenagers believe they will go to heaven because of their belief in This indicates that approximately 28 Jesus Christ, one quarter trust in their own percent of American teenagers are trusting kindness to others (27 percent) or their only in Jesus Christ as their means to get to heaven.

September/October 2007  Respondents were allowed to choose more than one category.

Respondents were allowed to choose more than one category. “The central theme of Christianity is the person and work of Jesus Christ – His death and resurrection,” said Scott McConnell, associate director of LifeWay Research. “It is surprising that only about half the teenagers who attended a Christian church in the last month are depending solely on the grace of Jesus Christ to get to heaven.”

Uncertainty about heaven Though the large majority of teenagers believe heaven exists (69 percent), there has been a 6 percent drop since 2005 (75 percent) in the percentage of teens that are sure in their belief of heaven. Only 5 percent of teenagers strongly agree that they do not believe heaven exists. African American teenagers are more likely to believe in heaven than the average teen (81 percent vs. 70 percent). Girls (73 percent) are also more likely to strongly agree heaven exists when compared to guys (66 percent). Twenty-six percent of teenagers don’t know if heaven is in their future, and similar  Facts & Trends LifeWay Research teens & eternity

uncertainty (24 percent) exists among As for outreach activity, fewer teenagers teenagers who agree they will go to heaven are discussing their beliefs with friends because Jesus Christ died for their sins. and inviting them to church activities. Four percent of teenagers strongly agree Twenty-four percent said they had told a with the statement, “I don’t care if I go to friend about their religious beliefs in the heaven.” last 30 days (compared to 30 percent in • Participate in our 2005). Fifteen percent had invited someone online poll. Religious activities and involvement to a church activity in the last 30 days Question: When did (compared to 19 percent in 2005). Many teenagers have attended a church you receive Christ as your Savior? or religious service in the last 30 days “Previous research has shown the vital (60 percent). Twenty percent attended role that invitations and word of mouth • Listen to a podcast a Catholic service, 8 percent attended a have in motivating people to visit church,” with Scott Mc- McConnell said. “As Southern Baptist service, Connell, associate outreach has declined and 28 percent attended director of LifeWay “ ... only about half of the among teens, it is not some other type of Research, and Scott Christian service. Four teenagers who attended surprising that Bible Stevens, LifeWay’s percent indicated they study attendance also director of student attended a religious a Christian church last has declined.” ministry. service of a religion month are depending other than Christian. Age and gender • Also on FTO, read differences Involvement in other solely on the grace of more about what church activities is Jesus Christ to get to Older teens (18- these findings mean much less common 19- year-olds) are less for church leaders. than attending church heaven.” likely than 12-17- Go to www.lifeway. services. Twenty-three year-olds to attend – Scott McConnell com/factsandtrends percent indicated that youth group activities (13 percent vs. 26 to view Facts&Trends in the last 30 days Online. they attended a church youth group social percent), and they activity. Twenty percent attended Sunday are less likely to attend Sunday school (8 school, 14 percent attended a small-group percent vs. 24 percent). Bible study, and 8 percent have been in a Female teens are more active religiously leadership role within their youth group. than their male counterparts. More females When asked about personal religious pray regularly (48 percent vs. 31 percent) activity within the last 30 days, 39 percent and read the Bible regularly (17 percent vs. of respondents said they prayed regularly 11 percent) than male teenagers. and 14 percent said they read the Bible The level of teen participation is also regularly during that time. higher for females than males for church Compared to the 2005 results, there are youth group social activities (26 percent vs. several significant statistical declines. Fewer 20 percent), small group Bible studies (18 teens are attending Sunday school (20 percent vs. 11 percent), and leadership roles percent vs. 24 percent) and small-group in their church youth group (10 percent vs. Bible studies (14 percent vs. 18 percent). 6 percent). n

September/October 2007  2,000 teens make Fuge the largest Ridgecrest crowd in a decade, mark prelude to Centrifuge anniversary story by Kelly Davis Shrout, photography by Guy Lyons

att Overton, a high school senior from Gallatin, Tenn., prepared for a summer afternoon of extreme Msports at Centrifuge camp. As he checked out the location of his next sports gig, someone yelled his name from the sand volleyball court. “I just met that guy several hours ago,” Overton explained. “That’s what Centrifuge is all about – becoming friends with like-minded Christians in a matter of hours. It’s awesome!”

10 Facts & Trends Student ministry Centrifuge

September/October 2007 11 12 Facts & Trends Student ministry Centrifuge

While Overton and other Centrifuge “Through the years, participants enjoyed morning Bible studies and afternoon adventure recreation, other the camps have been campers opted for an XFuge missions track that sent them on local ministry life changing for me assignments, such as painting a children’s and they have been home, delivering meals to senior adults and feeding homeless people at a local church. something that I have Jesse Bowling, a member of New Prospect looked forward to Baptist Church in Hurt, Va., participated in the XFuge on Mission track and spent every year.” an afternoon feeding homeless people at – Matt Overton, six-year repeat camper First Baptist Church, Asheville, N.C. “As Christians we are called to out go to the quickly credited the camp staff for the less fortunate,” said Bowling, who was one successful week. “In 1979 when Centrifuge of hundreds of students who chose the began, we never dreamed that we could fill missions track. “If we don’t witness, then we up the whole camp. Now we’ve taken over don’t have purpose.” the entire Ridgecrest campus. The build-your-own camp experience “To have 2,000 kids in one location is a that offers Centrifuge, XFuge and XFuge dream come true,” said Palmer, who added on Mission at one location is a new model that LifeWay’s student ministry team has for the student ministry team at LifeWay. provided camps this summer for more than The inaugural combo camp launched June 85,000 students. 25-30 at LifeWay Ridgecrest Conference The growth of Centrifuge within the Center with a sellout student crowd of last five years has been remarkable, added nearly 2,000. Joe Hicks, LifeWay camp specialist. “I The Fuge camp featured combined remember sitting in the back of Spilman morning and evening performances from Auditorium [at Ridgecrest] during a camp Christian band Big Daddy Weave, The five years ago and thinking to myself, ‘it Skit Guys and messages from Tony Merida, would be incredible to fill every seat in this associate professor of preaching and dean of place.’ When I walked into Spilman for the chapel at New Orleans Baptist Theological first camp worship service for this week and Seminary. saw that there were no empty seats, I knew The triple camp prototype brought in the that this night represented great things largest group to Ridgecrest in more than to come for Centrifuge.” Hicks’ ties to a decade, sparking a fitting prelude to the Centrifuge began in 1979 as a camper at the 30th anniversary of Centrifuge slated for introductory camp in Glorieta Conference summer 2008. Center in New Mexico. “This is the largest Fuge event we have Fuge with a triple threat had in 29 years and I am amazed at how Centrifuge offers an intimate small-group smoothly it has run,” said Joe Palmer, approach to Bible study, team-building director of LifeWay’s student events, who exercises and interest track times such as

September/October 2007 13 photography, jewelry making and adventure recreation. Centrifuge is designed for students entering grades seven through college and “is the staple of LifeWay’s camp ministries that allow group leaders to invest in the lives of the campers,” Palmer said. “For 30 years, Centrifuge has been about relationships and it has been a successful model.” “I trust the Fuge XFuge camps focus on the group-teaching approach and add a missions aspect to the camp week. Mission projects include volunteering in events because they children’s homes, ministering at retirement centers and working with create a spiritual homeless shelters. XFuge also features top youth speakers, popular bands and drama teams. marker for students.” In 2008, LifeWay will offer eight camps featuring simultaneous offerings – Brian Prince, student pastor, First of Centrifuge, XFuge and XFuge on Mission. Three events will be at Baptist Church, Gallatin, Tenn. Ridgecrest Conference Center and five at Glorieta Conference Center. The Glorieta camp will also feature MFuge. “Essentially, we are designing a way for students to experience two weeks worth of camp in one week,” Palmer said.

The camper’s perspective First-time Centrifuge camper Mary Bastin, a high school senior and member of First Baptist Church in Gallatin, Tenn., followed the traditional Centrifuge track that focused on small-group devotions, adventure recreation and staff-led Bible studies. The week at Ridgecrest enriched her spiritual walk with the Lord. “God has shed a lot of light into my life,” said Bastin, who will study music at Middle Tennessee State University in the fall. “Centrifuge has been informative, yet entertaining. The teachers are great and the Bible study group time is very meaningful. I would encourage students to come if the Lord lays it on their heart. “At first I was apprehensive to come because I am the oldest girl in my group, but it turned out for the best because I was able to have many meaningful conversations with others in my own youth group,” she said. Overton, a six-year veteran of Centrifuge camps, said the highlight of the each camp is learning from students from other churches. “It’s also a way to get away from the world and get alone with God,” he added. “Students should realize that they need to get out of their comfort zone and camp is a great way to do that,” he said. “Through the years, the camps have been life changing for me and they have been something that I have looked forward to every year. “Every time I leave Fuge, I want the camp experience to stay with me all year,” he added. “Fuge has been a spiritual booster. I would encourage anyone to come to camp. MFuge is about serving and Centrifuge is about fun and spiritual growth. Both are great.” Overton said the evening sermons on holiness most influenced his spiritual growth. “Holiness is an issue for everyone,” he said. “I realize that as I get older in my group, the younger students look up to me so I

14 Facts & Trends Student ministry Centrifuge

FUGE 2008 dates, speakers set

The 2008 Centrifuge, XFuge and XFuge on Mission camps at Ridgecrest will be: • June 16-21 featuring Rob Turner and Vicky Beeching • June 23-28 featuring Dave Edwards and Rush of Fools • July 7-11 featuring Ergun Caner and Todd Agnew

The 2008 combo camps at Glorieta will be: • June 9-14 featuring Greg Pinkner and Charlie Hall • June 16-21 featuring Jeremy Kingsley and Joel Engle • June 23-28 featuring Tony Merida and Addison Road • June 30-July 5 featuring Tony Merida and Addison Road • July 7-12 featuring Wes Hamilton and Daniel Doss Band

To learn more about the 2008 Fuge camps, visit www.lifeway. com/fuge/register2008.asp.

September/October 2007 15 want to represent Christ the best I can.” Encouraging young people to serve the Lord, Overton cautioned against the ills of comfort, “whether it is at work or at school. I would encourage students to grow in the Lord and step out of their comfort zones. My student minister always reminds us, ‘Greatest is the one who serves.’ Service may not always be fun, but it’s necessary.”

A student pastor’s perspective Following an evening worship service, students from First Baptist, Gallatin, gathered in a conference room to process the day’s events. Before long, students began sharing what the Lord taught them through the sermons and daily Bible studies. Soon, the students began to pray and minister to those in their own church group. That’s what the Fuge experience is about, said Brian Prince, the group’s student pastor. “The students feel safe to share their hearts with one another.” Prince has been involved with LifeWay’s Centrifuge events since 1990. He has been on staff with Centrifuge and has worked as a camp director. Prince now returns to Centrifuge, XFuge and MFuge camp each year armed with dozens of students. “I trust the Fuge events because they create a spiritual marker for students,” he said. “The kids are able to have fun, bond together as a group, and create vivid spiritual memories.” Centrifuge and other LifeWay-sponsored camps offer solid, biblical teaching, Prince added. “As student ministers, we are accountable to the Lord for how we redeem our time with our students. At these camps, our students grow in their faith. Some of them surrender to the ministry, some are called to purity and others make decisions to become followers of Christ. This environment also creates a safe and comfortable way for the students to develop relationships with the staff members.” The future of Fuge The future of Fuge now involves hosting multiple camps at one location, and Prince said the change will require a switch from tradition, but ultimately will be a good model. “Combining the camps will allow all students to experience the benefits of a big event camp, like hearing music from well-known artists and learning from popular speakers.” n 16 Facts & Trends Student ministry Centrifuge

Campers told to reach out, not sell out

ony Merida, associate professor of preaching and dean of chapel at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, nightly exhorted Fuge students to seek out ministries to the needy, poor Tand the unreached in society. The theme of the combo camp week, “The Underground,” served as a metaphor for tunnels or subways that house many of the world’s downtrodden. Merida said he is praying for a generation of Bible-believing, Jesus-following, gospel-sharing missionaries who follow God at all costs. Merida challenged the crowd of 2,000 students to redeem their time on earth. “Don’t throw away your life on the American dream,” he said. “Be filled with spirit and truth.” Merida outlined six ways students can “reach out without selling out,” drawn from verses in 1 Peter. In order to maintain holiness, he said, students should: Tony Merida 1. Realize they are in a spiritual war. 1 Peter 1: 13-14. 2. Embrace their high calling: holiness. 1 Peter 1:15-16. “… for it is written, Be holy, because I am holy.” • Download an 3. Remember they have been redeemed. 1 Peter 1:18-25. interview with Joe 4. Meditate on God’s Word. 1 Peter 2:1-2 Palmer, LifeWay’s director of student 5. Believe that God is better than sin. 1 Peter 2:3. Merida cautioned the events. students and said, “Holiness is not just about saying ‘no,’ but to say ‘yes’ to God. • View a slideshow We need to prefer God over sin because in His presence is the fullness of joy ever of photos from the more. There is a culture that is saying, ‘this is the way to live,’ but God is always event. better than sin.” Go to www.lifeway. 6. Declare and display God’s glory to the world. 1 Peter 2:9-12. “God made com/factsandtrends us alive in Him; abstain from the passions of the flesh and declare His excellence,” to view Facts&Trends he added. Online.

September/October 2007 17 LifeWay honors churches for

by Chris Turner

welve years ago, Marty Souter kept everything he owned in an old box in the park where he lived. One remaining Tbutton held his only shirt closed and ground-in filth covered his only pair of shorts. He didn’t have any pants or shoes, and the loneliness of being estranged from his wife and kids – who were living only blocks away – was unbearable. Life was unbearable. But then he met Jesus.

Pastor Willie Dalgity, seen here with his motor- cycle, is not your typical pastor, but then Set Free is not your typical church.

18 Facts & Trends Top 200 church baptisms

“I was desperate and had nowhere to turn,” he said. “But someone told me about Set Free Church and it was there that I asked Jesus into my heart. It changed everything.” Set Free. It’s the name of the Yucaipa, Calif., church and its vision for ministry. Pastor Willie Dalgity started Set Free a number of years ago with the intention of going to the most destitute living in the hardest places. As a result, Set Free was recognized June 11 by LifeWay’s pastoral ministries department as one of the Southern Baptist Convention’s leading churches with 728 baptisms in 2006. “We just try to be obedient to Jesus’ command The 200 churches to go and share Good News,” Dalgity said. “We recognized accounted for meet people where they are and minister to their physical needs, but then take them deeper into 47,195 (13 percent) of all Scripture. We take seriously the command to disciple as well as evangelize.” SBC baptisms in 2006. Set Free was one of 200 churches recognized at the 2007 SBC annual meeting in San Antonio. The churches account for 13 percent (47,195) of all SBC baptisms in 2006. There were two categories: Total baptisms and baptisms by churches under 400 members. Florida had 39 churches that made both lists. There were 25 states represented, four churches that baptized more than 1,000 people and two that baptized more than 2,000. “I’m moved knowing that there are thousands of people out there who recently have come to Christ because of all you’ve done to do the work of an evangelist,” said Tom Hellams, LifeWay’s vice president of executive communications and relations. LifeWay President Thom Rainer used the Apostle Paul’s letter to Philemon to encourage those assembled to continue doing the work of evangelists. After telling a story of the unique circumstances surrounding the first person he baptized at a small rural church, Rainer said, “Everybody here has a story of people from the most unexpected opportunities in the most unexpected places. The important thing is a faithfulness to share the gospel.” Rainer said that as he looked around the room, he was encouraged by the focus exhibited by the churches represented when there were thousands of churches within the denomination that had not baptized anyone. He said focus – not being distracted by any particular crisis – was one thing Paul maintained. “If we aren’t focused on sharing the gospel then everything will fall to the wayside because the following generations will not know Christ,” he said. Paul was also “other-centered,” Rainer added, explaining that Paul knew it would have been helpful for Onesimus to stay, but that it was still best for him to return to Philemon. Finally, Rainer said, Paul counted the cost of evangelism. For the complete lists “Research shows that 75 percent of unchurched people want to hear something about of the top 100 churches Jesus Christ while at the same time Christians are becoming less interested in sharing the in each category, go gospel,” he said. “We are becoming evangelistically apathetic at the very time people are to www.lifeway.com/ most open to the gospel. Your commitment to sharing the gospel is appreciated and I factsandtrends. thank you.” n

September/October 2007 19 LifeWay Lessons is new online teaching resource unday school teachers for adults and students have a new online resource that is not only biblically solid, but also easy to use. SLifeWay launched LifeWay Lessons (www.lifewaylessons.com) in early June. The adult lessons are adapted from LifeWay’s adult curriculum: • Life Answers: Bible study for young adults, including parents of preschoolers • Life Truths: Bible study for parents of children and teens • Life Values: Bible study for adults dealing with the “empty nest” life stage • Life Lessons: Bible study relevant for adults of all ages • Explore the Bible: an eight-year systematic study of all the Bible books Christina Crawley, a LifeWay biblical and instruction specialist, adapts the adult LifeWay Lessons and serves as editor of LifeWay Lessons. Student lessons are adapted from the Life Focus curriculum line. LifeWay’s Alice Stegemann and Barbara Hammond serve as editors of the student resource. “[LifeWay Sunday School director] David Francis asked that we develop compelling lessons that could be used online,” Crawley said. “That is what we have done. They are sound; they are brief; they are easy to follow and use as a teaching plan.” Crawley said LifeWay Lessons “put the power in the hand of the ultimate consumer. The lessons are written to be almost intuitive. They are adapted in such a way that it is for everybody, at any stage of life.” Downloadable resources include PDFs that can be copied as they are, along with Word documents that can be downloaded and then edited to meet specific needs. The teacher is in control of the materials. Francis said, “Flexibility is the main benefit to teachers. If they’ve come home Saturday evening from a vacation or business trip, they can just click on the site, download the PDF version of the lesson, and with a minimum

20 Facts & Trends Online Bible study LifeWay Lessons

of preparation be ready to lead the class. Or, in a normal week when they have adequate preparation time, they can completely customize the lesson by downloading the RTF (rich text) versions of the commentary and teaching plans into their word processing program, and edit their plan so that it includes only what they intend to say, ask and do. Plus, it fully integrates with our print resources.” Because the online and print resources integrate so well, a class has the option of using both the online lessons and the printed learner’s guide, based on learner preference. Each quarter of lessons will be available for at least two full quarters. When the 2007- 08 winter quarter launches, 2007 fall will be available until the 2008 spring quarter launches. This gives customers an opportunity to make purchases after the quarter has ended. Sample downloads and more information about LifeWay Lessons can be found at www.lifewaylessons.com. n Make your move smooth Even good changes can be challenging. Make the transition to LifeWay Lessons easy by following this checklist. • Inform teachers of the new way their curriculum will be delivered. • Collect e-mail addresses of teachers/leaders and substitutes. • Collect teachers/leaders’ curriculum choices. • Collect quantities of any learners who will still want the printed piece. • Remind teachers/leaders not to delete the e-mail they will receive from LifeWay Lessons. The sender will be “do not reply.” They may even need to check their spam folders. If they delete this e-mail they cannot register or get to their purchased curriculum. • Remind them to bring a copy of their teaching plans and learner handouts to teacher/leader training meetings. • Create/suggest a process for reproducing copies of the learner handouts. You may not want a long line of teachers or your administrative assistant making copies on Sunday morning. For more ideas, suggestions and information about LifeWay Lessons go to www.lifewaylessons.com. September/October 2007 21 Christina Crawley LifeWay releases updated version of Beth Moore’s first video Bible study ifteen years ago, Beth Moore construction of the Tabernacle as well as its stepped on a stage and began her representation of Jesus Christ. Incorporating ministry to thousands of women daily personal study with weekly video Fwith the taping of her first video Bible study guides, A Woman’s Heart begins with the – A Woman’s Heart, God’s Dwelling Place. history of mankind from the Garden In June 2007, LifeWay released an of Eden and leads up to the Israelites updated version of the study and a revised wandering in the wilderness. workbook, along with new video sessions Moore fondly recalls her preparation for of Moore recorded at her home church in the initial study – released by LifeWay in Houston. The theme of the study – the 1995 – which she considers her “maiden Tabernacle in the Old Testament – remains voyage into in-depth Bible study.” the same, although Moore promises Bible “Nothing in my Bible study experience study participants a “fresh word.” has ever shown me the beautiful blend “I had the privilege of studying between the Old Testament and the New every single bit of the video work Testament like the study of the Tabernacle,” and sessions from scratch,” Moore Moore said. “God used the study of the said about the update on the A Tabernacle to completely captivate me. Woman’s Heart introductory He drew me into the Holy of Holies and DVD. “I want you to know, in revealed Himself in ways to me that rocked case you have done this with us my entire world.” before, that it came all new to Recognizing that her earlier Bible studies me out of completely brand- were notorious for extensive homework new research and a whole new requirements, Moore “tightened up and experience with Him.” refreshened” the participant workbook The 10-session interactive while the outline and principles remained Bible study leads participants unchanged. n through a detailed study of the

22 Facts & Trends Women’s ministry LifeWay to release new study on Psalms of Ascent Psalms of Ascent by Beth Moore “ he Lord will protect your coming other musical performers live in the video and going both now and forever,” segments to teach participants new worship recites a Jewish woman traveling songs and lead praise during the sessions. Ton the dusty road to Jerusalem for the Cottrell leads worship at LifeWay’s Living Passover Feast. Proof Live events featuring Moore. “Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion. It cannot be shaken; it A short study on a large topic remains forever,” speaks a Jewish man Moore previously wanted reverently ascending the steps of the temple. to develop a study on Psalms, “Rescue me from my enemies, Lord; but was uncertain of how to I come to You for protection,” cries out cover such an extensive book a Jewish man on the journey home to of the Bible. Jerusalem after a long exile in Babylon. “This is the first time I’ve What words are these people commanded written an in-depth study to speak along their separate journeys? on the psalms,” Moore said in the introductory session The Psalms of Ascent of the study. “Until now I haven’t had a clue how to In November LifeWay will release Stepping approach a book of 150 Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent, chapters in a time frame a new in-depth Bible study by Beth Moore. that wasn’t too demanding The six-week study will guide participants for participants. through daily homework and weekly video “When God introduced me to this sessions focused on Psalms 120-134, also compilation of 15 psalms and began to known as the Psalms of Ascent. Moore’s show me its place as a ‘psalter within a studio set for the video sessions are the psalter,’ I couldn’t wait to throw myself into south steps of the temple in Jerusalem, to it,” she added. where hundreds of Jewish people and priests recited these specific Psalms of Ascent. In the introduction of the study, Moore expressed appreciation for the psalms and Spoken by God’s people in the Old what they have meant to her in her walk Testament during specific events, such as with Christ, referring to them as “constants journeying to Jerusalem or walking up throughout [her] entire life.” the temple steps, these psalms hold great significance in revealing more about God “I’ve turned to the psalms many times and a personal relationship with Him. when I’ve had feelings that needed biblical expression,” Moore said. “Sometimes The daily personal study in Stepping Up I needed a way to word overwhelming delves into topics such as redemption, gratitude and praise to God. Other times For more information worship, God’s blessing and knowing the my sorrow desperately needed an outlet for on Moore and other Lord as shelter and keeper. expression. Even when I’ve been afraid or resources written by her, Different from her previous studies, angry, the psalms have invited me to safely visit www.lifeway.com/ Moore focused on the worship aspect of pour out my heart to God.” n bethmoore. the study by featuring Travis Cottrell and

September/October 2007 23 Technology iTunes LifeWay offers growing number of resources on iTunes by Brooklyn Noel ndividuals searching for everything a LifeWay Christian Store or shopping on from Bible studies by Beth Moore to LifeWay.com, still will be available. Vacation Bible School songs to choral While choral music comprises an Itracks from LifeWay Worship need look no abundance of the content LifeWay offers on further than their iTunes account. iTunes, the most popular items continue to In 2006, LifeWay began placing be Bible studies by Moore such as Jesus, the downloadable audio files on iTunes, the One and Only and Daniel: Lives of Prophecy, world’s largest catalog, that features more Words of Integrity, the study that launched than five million songs and nearly 1,000 LifeWay’s women’s area in iTunes. television shows and movies. “Daniel included a required listening “iTunes is the easiest and most customer- component, so it pushed it [availability on friendly way to get music to our customers,” iTunes] into being,” said Faith Whatley, said Aaron Linne, a customer experience director of LifeWay’s church ministry technician at LifeWay. “It allows us to reach training and events. “This allows women to beyond regular channels to meet people’s have to access to materials even if they aren’t needs.” near a small group, if they missed a class or Today, LifeWay offers want to do the study in their own time.” more than 500 tracks Linne said LifeWay will continue to on this popular audio expand its offerings via iTunes during the repository, and that list is coming months to include additional VBS ever-growing. tunes, Bible study options and additional This fall, for instance, songs from the worship bands featured choir directors and during LifeWay’s various Fuge summer members will even find camps. rehearsal tracks from Whatley added that while video elements LifeWay’s music area of Moore and other Bible studies already are To access LifeWay’s diverse on iTunes, which available at LifeWay.com/women, she hopes content on iTunes, search for the already houses several LifeWay will one day offer those video title or author of the materials or Christmas choral elements on iTunes. visit www.lifeway.com for more releases including Phil “It’s important to reach that audience information. Barfoot and Dave that is so tech-savvy,” Whatley said. “We’re Williamson’s “The Joy finding that people like being able to pick of Christmas” and “Finding the Christmas and choose what they want.” Star,” a children’s piece by Jeff Slaughter. In addition to the files available for “This is another step in our goal to purchase on iTunes, LifeWay offers an provide churches with the resources they array of free informational podcasts such need, in the formats they need, so that as StudentCAST, which addresses youth their ministries are equipped to lead their ministry; Inside LifeWay, the official congregation to authentic worship,” news podcast of LifeWay; and Firehose, said Mike Harland, director of LifeWay a collection of podcasts relating to young Worship. Harland added that the familiar adults. n options of obtaining music, such as visiting 24 Facts & Trends Administration church bylaws Church bylaws: Are yours adequate for today’s ministerial challenges? by Steven Lewis e live in a litigation-happy society. Assuming your church is safe from lawsuits is a set-up for W disaster. While many suits are unjustified factually or legally, way too many suits against churches are appropriate because of inadequate ministerial practices. The very good news is that the majority of such lawsuits are preventable. One of the most important documents a church can have in its “legal arsenal” is a church ministry plan set forth in a clearly written, proactive set of bylaws drafted specifically for churches in America today. With churches that have been involved in internal turmoil or litigation, the quality of their bylaws is important. Churches face a higher risk of being dragged into extensive and expensive litigation, having their ministry greatly disrupted and being ordered to pay damages or suffering a variety of serious consequences when their bylaws are inadequate. If your church’s bylaws are not current and properly written, your church has opened itself up to some of the following serious consequences. Consequence #1: The risk of serious errors increases. Many churches don’t perform some necessary functions simply because they don’t know that the tasks are required or the risks of not doing them. Churches can get into significant trouble when they don’t understand that they should pay overtime, have workers’ compensation insurance for their employees, do background checks on certain workers, comply with copyright rules, avoid improper

September/October 2007 25 political activities, and implement you think a jury would do to that are adopted. Bylaws are a ministry numerous policies governing subsequent hiring church on the operating plan that recognizes what property, transportation, discipline first rumor of misconduct? each church participant brings to and other matters. Churches have Proper bylaws incorporate the church and utilizes the spiritual been sued or suffered government an understanding of such gifts, talents and resources God has intervention because of their failure legal, business and government brought to the church. – albeit ignorantly and unwittingly regulatory issues. Regardless of Proper bylaws help churches – to comply with these legal duties. how much church leaders want to achieve the excellence Christ Churches cannot achieve their avoid such issues, these issues are deserves in His body’s core God-ordained tasks if they hide in integrally involved in a church’s ministerial operations. Most pastors fear. They have legal duties they core ministerial operations. need support and freedom to have to fulfill to manage their achieve the potential of their role as ministerial operations properly. A the spiritual leader of the church. church can unwittingly delegate This demands that pastors focus on responsibilities it didn’t even know “Assuming your their true calling and delegate many it had. One church delegated the tasks they now perform. duty to respond to an employee’s church is safe from Giving up those tasks is not only sexual harassment claim to an lawsuits is a set-up a blessing for the pastor but also a untrained group of leaders. blessing for the members who step Predictably, this group did a very for disaster.” into valuable roles of service. Using poor job as they “handled” the – Steven Lewis these servants’ gifts and talents and matter. in accordance with God’s calling One year later – after the church helps churches have more power thought the situation was resolved and impact. – the church found itself in front of Bylaws should define these critical a jury. The employee told the jury functions and delegate accountable Consequence #3: how the church had failed to act individuals. Church members The church may waive on the sexual harassment claim and who are trained and competent to important rights. how the staff member, determined serve on personnel committees, Churches have important by the church committee to be risk management teams, property “potential but unactualized” rights innocent, had raped her. The jury and transportation committees, by merely inserting them in their decided that the church had failed and other essential teams can bylaws. A church’s bylaws can its responsibilities and awarded dramatically reduce the risks that authorize the church to refuse to the employee $2 million for her churches face. hire employees or select leaders actual damages. Additionally, the Consequence #2: unless theses people are Christians jury ordered the church to pay an Incredible ministry who personally agree to the church’s additional $4 million in exemplary opportunities may be doctrinal statement and agree to damages as an example to warn missed. live in accordance with the bylaws’ other churches to handle their doctrinal statement. Pastors, staff, employees and ministerial affairs better than this Churches can require all church church members can serve God church had. employees and members to agree with more power and wisdom to allow the church to complete After the jury had awarded a $6 than they currently do. Church disciplinary processes, effectively million judgment against his former bylaws are not just a document waiving potential claims for church, this same staff member was lawyers charge you to prepare that defamation or violations of privacy. hired by another church. What do the church files away after they 26 Facts & Trends Administration church bylaws

Bylaws can require that most potential convince a judge that it’s better not to get lawsuits be resolved through internal involved in an internal church dispute. Christian mediation. If a member or Everyone wins when churches conduct leader is sued, the bylaws can require that their ministries in a way that gives the law the church protect them from individual no reason to intervene. Proper bylaws set liability and pay their legal fees. up enforceable barriers and disclaimers that If these rights aren’t adopted by the minimize the risk of judicial intervention. church, protections the church could have Member-approved mandatory Christian are probably waived and unavailable when mediation clauses may prevent members really needed. from suing their church. Some courts may require the church to prove its members Consequence #4: knew that such provisions were in the The document may create bylaws and agreed to be bound by them. obligations the church doesn’t otherwise have. If bylaws are old and outdated or if multiple copies exist, a church may have Courts can force a church to do whatever trouble proving which of several versions are the church “says” it will do in its bylaws, valid. The current copy of the bylaws must even if the law would not otherwise have be signed and dated; and it must properly required the church to do what it agreed reflect the proper church name. to do in its bylaws. Church bylaws easily can grant more “rights” to employees or Make it a major goal by the end of 2007 impose more obligations on itself than to update your bylaws. Get started now. it is legally required to. A poorly drafted Review them and prayerfully prepare to lead your church to achieve greater excellence indemnification policy can require a church Editor’s note to pay damages caused by an employee that in its ministries as you implement this the church might otherwise not have to pay. important operating document. Always The content of get competent legal help to make sure your this article is for It’s better to limit the bylaws to more church is protected. n general, informational essential policies and include more detailed purposes only and ministry plans in operating policies. This article is derived from a resource manual Steven Lewis has written for churches is not intended to Churches should include a disclaimer that constitute advertising, the church intends to follow the policies, to help them operate with excellence. After earning his master of business administration invite an attorney- but that the policies don’t create rights that client relationship or are legally enforceable against the church. and law degree from the University of Oklahoma in 1984, Lewis was called to the serve as a source for Consequence #5: ministry to serve as an attorney for churches. legal advice. Neither Improperly written bylaws can As president of Church Excellence, Inc., a you nor your church “invite” judicial intervention. ministry designed to help churches achieve should rely upon any information contained Bylaws explain a church’s doctrinal beliefs, excellence in their core ministerial practices, he in the article for any ministerial practices and church/member has studied church ministerial practices and purpose without relationship issues to members and non- written about and led conferences on church seeking legal counsel members. Bylaws set forth the process of legal leadership issues for the last two decades. from a duly licensed resolving internal church issues as they He and his wife, Kim, are the parents of three attorney competent to arise. A review of the bylaws can quickly children and members of Henderson Hills practice law in your tell a judge whether a church knows what Baptist Church in Edmond, Okla. jurisdiction. it is doing. Ones that are well written can

September/October 2007 27 advertisement Fly fishing retreat teaches fishing for men story by Jerry Higgins, photography by Kent Harville

om Blackwell had never been fly fishing before. But, here he Twas, standing knee-deep in the Tuckasegee River near the Great Smokey Mountains National Park in North Carolina, flicking an “Olive Wooly Bugger” gently across the crystal clear river trying to entice a trout. Blackwell’s efforts were rewarded as his fly pole bent with the weight of a feisty trout, which jumped and flailed in and out of the rippling river in the struggle that ensued between man and fish. This time, man won. Blackwell wasn’t the only person on the river flicking the fly rod through the air and watching the green line whip around him toward the water on this perfect spring day.

Boyd Connally, minister of music at First Baptist Church, Hewitt, Texas, scoops up a 30 Facts & Trends trout during the men’s fly fishing retreat at LifeWay Ridgecrest. Men’s ministry fly fishing

Dale Connally, an accomplished fly not just another fishing trip or another elk Fly fishing retreat fisherman and fellow participant at the hunt. When we do these adventure trips LifeWay-sponsored Fly Fishing Adventures of all kinds, women really seem to endorse retreat, stood nearby and encouraged them for their husbands because they do teaches fishing for men Blackwell. know [their husbands are] going for the “Atta boy,” yelled Connally, who may heart as well.” have been just as happy as Blackwell as they Cruise said the message he wanted the unhooked the fish, held it up for display men to take home was that they should and then let it go back into the gently stop fighting their love of the outdoors and flowing river. instead use it for Kingdom purposes. This scene was played out over a couple “A lot of churches don’t understand of days on four different waterways near men will serve the Lord if they can find a LifeWay’s Ridgecrest Conference Center marriage between their passion and their in North Carolina, which held its first faith. If you give them permission to do Fly Fishing Adventures retreat the week that, boy, you are on it,” he said. “So many before Memorial Day. The event drew men feel guilty because they like to hunt fishermen from Missouri, Tennessee and and fish. I used to until I realized the day North Carolina who wanted to catch “the I turned hunting and fishing into a way big ones” as well as catch inspirational Bible to use my faith, the guilt left me because studies led by Jason Cruise, founder of the I knew I could use it for ministry purposes.” Franklin, Tenn.-based Outdoor Ministry At Ridgecrest and the fishing events held For information on Network. at Glorieta, Cruise leans heavily on the 60 future LifeWay Fly “This is a conference for the heart and years combined experience Connally and Fishing Adventures, the soul,” said Cruise, a former pastor his brother, Boyd, have sharing their love of contact Ron Pratt at in Tennessee before he started Outdoor the sport and of Christ. [email protected]. Ministry Network (OMN) five years ago, the past two as a full-time ministry. “At OMN, our No. 1 gig is teaching pastors and regular Joes in church how to use hunting and fishing as regular ministry methods,” Cruise said.

Catch (fish) and release (guilt) Cruise helped LifeWay organize the Fly Fishing Adventures, first held at Glorieta Conference Center in New Mexico. “I thought it would be so neat if we could host conferences that are unique to men, that speak a man’s language and yet energizes his heart at the same time,” Cruise Boyd Connally, middle, ties a small fly on said. “And the cool thing is that he gets the the leader for Jim Horn of Greenbriar, endorsement from his wife. She knows it’s Tenn., as Charlie Rau settles his line.

September/October 2007 31 Men’s ministry fly fishing

“The cool thing about this for me is that it paused dramatically. “You present … takes me out of my normal ministry area,” present … present. And, finally something a said Boyd Connally, minister of music for little different happens, and you don’t really First Baptist Church of Hewitt, Texas. “This know why. You present and – boom! It’s gives me an opportunity in one of my other there! passions. I love the outdoors so this is a plus “That’s how people are. They go through. for me.” They go through. They go through. And, Dale Connally is associate professor and then something happens. Their heart gets in director of Baylor University’s (Waco, Texas) a place … it doesn’t have to be a tragedy but recreation and leisure services program, and something happens and then they begin to a veteran participant of LifeWay’s Rec Labs. listen. At that point, your story matters.” It was a natural fit for the duo. Both Cruise and the Connally brothers agree that the Ridgecrest location is ideal for Be fishers of men a fly fishing retreat. Cruise picks Bible study topics he says “I was freaked out by the size of the fish,” men – including himself – struggle with, Dale Connally said. such as time management and time out Cruise added, “The Ridgecrest event with God. started out like the Glorieta event in that In “Your Story: The Greatest Story Ever it was smaller until people got word of it. Told,” Cruise told the group their personal The facilities in Ridgecrest are as incredible testimony matters. as they are in Glorieta. At Ridgecrest, you “It’s kind of like running that fly through have five to 10 rivers. This particular event that strike zone. You present,” Cruise you have more waters to choose from in the immediate area. I think it will do well with what it has to offer. “I was surprised at the size of the fish up here,” Cruise said. “I’ve fished mountain streams all my life but, man, there were some big fish up here.” Blackwell said there are a couple of things he will take away from the retreat. “I’ll remember the intense adrenaline rush of catching that first fish,” Blackwell said. “The training I received from experienced fly fishermen was excellent. The Bible studies really gave me a lot of things to think about as I go home. I would do Dale Connally from Waco, Texas, shows off a this again.” n brook trout he caught. 32 Facts & Trends Some Bible studies help people. This one changes them forever.

Actually, God changes people. But for more than 15 years, He’s used Experiencing God to help. This study shows believers how to know God intimately, and encourages them to step out in faith and join Him in His work—with miraculous results. The revised study contains many examples: from Angola Prison inmates earning seminary degrees to the spiritual and economic rebirth of a poor Appalachian community. These testimonies are truly amazing, but God has more work to do. Will you join Him? Order your study online, call 1.800.458.2772, or visit the LifeWay Christian Store serving you.

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range to bottom edge Technology B&H author introduces parents parenting issues to their teens’ cyberworld by Brooklyn Noel er son’s innocent game of online them to totally master all the intricate checkers unexpectedly propelled details of tides of technology. author and speaker Vicki “I’m hearing a real desperation among HCourtney into cyberspace several years ago. parents that they desire … most good With her newest book for LifeWay’s B&H parents desire … to know what’s going on, Publishing Group, Courtney hopes to help to monitor what their kids are doing, to other parents avoid the momentary panic set boundaries; but quite frankly they don’t she felt upon learning that the Internet even know where to begin because the task allowed her teenage son to interact with a is so big,” Courtney said during the Inside faceless opponent thousands of miles away LifeWay interview. during that online game. “They’ve got to jump in, get their feet Vicki Courtney Logged On and Tuned Out is designed wet and really just dismiss those feelings of to offer parents a “crash course of sorts” inadequacy that postpone the inevitable,” on the trends and goings-on within the she advised. “I tell parents [to] get past the technology-savvy culture of today’s teens, fear factor, that feeling of, ‘Well, I’m never Courtney explained during a recent going to catch up so why even bother.’” interview with Inside LifeWay, LifeWay’s Courtney added that while parents may official news podcast. fail to grasp the intricacies of the technology Courtney said her Virtuous Reality their children use, many teens fail to ministry and speaking engagements with fully understand the potentially lasting the LifeWay-sponsored You and Your Girl impact of their words and actions when conferences allowed her ample opportunity communicated via technology’s newest to see that constantly changing forms of channels. technology serve as the main methods of The biggest concern Courtney has when communication for teens. In addition, it comes to teens and technology is their For more information about Courtney, the You ignoring that reality meant “just pushing willingness to share too much personal them [teenagers] out in the world and and Your Girl conferences information. “They [teens] don’t see it as or saying, ‘OK, it’s a virtual free-for-all, let the Logged On and Tuned a problem,” she said, adding that Logged Out, visit www.lifeway. culture mold you and set the rules.” On and Tuned Out offers parents specific com/vickicourtney. “It was really a result of being in the examples of how sharing excessive personal trenches, tackling issues related to virtue, information can produce long-reaching that I began to see that we would be remiss consequences. not to cover technology and the influence “If I don’t step in and start setting some it’s having on this next generation,” ground rules and figuring out what’s going Courtney told the podcast audience. on out there in this World Wide Web of She added that parents need to technology, and even with cell phones and To listen to this understand the technology options and such, then my kids will be molded with the and other Inside activities available to their children, culture’s influence with regard to that. LifeWay podcasts, go but encouraged parents to realize that “If not me, who?” Courtney asks in the to www.lifeway.com/ insidelifeway. promoting their children’s online and book and of Inside LifeWay listeners. n technology-centered safety doesn’t require

September/October 2007 35 Going Beyond the ordinary is goal of women’s conference story by Polly House, photography by Kent Harville plane breaks the sound barrier when it flies faster than 761 miles an hour. When that happens, there is a visible and audible demonstration of that A plane going beyond what is normal. LifeWay author and speaker Priscilla Shirer used that image to illustrate to more than 1,000 women that when Christians go beyond what is “normal,” people will see a visible and audible demonstration of going beyond a casual relationship with God. Shirer was the speaker at Going Beyond, an event sponsored by LifeWay’s women’s ministry training and events area July 13-14 at The Met [Metropolitan Baptist Church] in Houston.

Prayer is powerful “I have asked God to just blow your minds this weekend,” Shirer said. “I’ve asked Him to rain down His glory and His blessing. I want you to boldly pray about what you don’t even pray about anymore, what you’ve just given up praying about – that wayward child, that healing, that marriage. “I believe in the power of prayer,” she said. “One of the things that separates our religion from every other religion in the world is that our God is alive! He’s alive! And we can speak to Him and He will answer us.” Shirer said, “I can’t get my mind around the fact that God’s goal is fellowship with us. He doesn’t want us to have to wait until we get to heaven to experience heaven. He gave us the Holy Spirit and He lives inside us. God is passionate about fellowship with you. He tells us in James 4:8 to draw near to Him and He will draw near to us.’” Top: Priscilla Shirer prays with women during a time of invitation Study the Word at Going Beyond. “Bible studies are wonderful,” Shirer said. “I am involved in studies Above: Women joined hearts and myself, but let me tell you something, sisters. If the enemy can just keep hands in praise and worship. you doing Bible studies, but not studying the Bible, he’s got you in the palm of his hand. The enemy wants you to think those people who do all those studies have an access to God that you don’t. And that is just not true! “If you want to hear God, then you have to go to the Bible.” Calling the Bible the means by which we hear God’s voice, she said, “Anything you think you hear God say or that you think He is telling you that contradicts or doesn’t measure up to the Bible in any way is not from God.” 36 Facts & Trends Women’s ministry Going Beyond the ordinary is Going Beyond goal of women’s conference

Release from bondage Pharaoh lived. “We have been freed from the enemy, but we keep hanging around Shirer used passages from Exodus to show where he lives – in that movie theater, in the women they could be freed from the that unhealthy relationship, in the occult,” areas of bondage in their lives in the same she said. “We tell ourselves that it’s fun, that way the Israelites were freed from their it’s harmless, but it will turn into torture.” bondage from Pharaoh. Third, the Israelites had to be freed from First, the Israelites had to be released from where Pharaoh reigns. “Is there something the bondage of the person of Pharaoh. “We you must give up in order to make the were born with a sin nature,” she said. “We move?” she asked. “Remember the image don’t have to teach our children how to lie. of that plane? When you break the barrier As soon as we are born, we are enslaved. We of sin, there will be a visible and audible can’t achieve freedom on our own. We are demonstration that you have gone beyond freed through Christ. If you are a believer, that place in your life.” n you have been offered freedom on a silver platter!” Second, the Israelites had to be freed from the place where

Going Beyond: Upcoming Events We recommend 2007 • Discerning the Voice of God • Oct. 5-6, 2007 Mariners Church, Irvine, Calif. • He Speaks to Me: Preparing to Hear from God 2008 • Feb. 22-23, The Church at Pinnacle Hills, Rogers, These resources from Ark. Priscilla Shirer are • April 25-26, Hickory available through customer service at Grove Baptist Church, www.lifeway.com Charlotte, N.C. and (800) 458-2772 • Sept. 26-27, First Baptist and from LifeWay Church, Bossier City, La. Christian Stores at www.lifewaystores. For more information com and (800) 233- on go to www.lifeway. 1123. com/priscillashirer.

September/October 2007 37 Stewardship offering envelopes Offering envelopes encourage giving; special colors serve as an extra reminder any churches overlook one of “The packets coming in the mail serves as the most effective stewardship a monthly reminder for members to give,” tools to encourage faithful Baker said. Mgiving – the offering envelope. Implementing a mailing program is only “Offering envelopes have come a long one change Baker made in his offering way,” said Ben Stroup, who coordinates envelope strategy. When Brentwood LifeWay’s envelope service. “They used to Baptist began raising funds for their capital be a black stamp on a plain white envelope. campaign, Baker used a colored envelope to Now you can customize the design on distinguish the capital campaign envelope the envelope, print in color or even order from the typical tithe envelope, a change colored envelopes. There is so much that Stroup recommends. churches can do now to encourage increased “It is much easier to remember to place stewardship in their congregations.” the ‘pink’ capital campaign envelope in Stroup works with thousands of churches the offering plate rather than designate that have seen a growth in giving due to funds on a specific line on your standard changes made in the production and/or envelope,” Stroup said. “Also, everyone will distribution of their offering envelopes. notice the colored envelopes placed in the In the past, churches offering plate during the worship service. traditionally have sent church The use of a colored envelope serves as a members one large box of silent reminder to those present that the offering envelopes in January capital campaign funds are as important.” to last throughout the entire Brentwood Baptist now uses different year. Stroup recommends colors of envelopes for specific stewardship implementing a mailing campaigns, changing the color for the program instead, sending capital campaign versus the missions envelopes directly to members fundraiser in the winter. Baker also decided on a monthly, bimonthly or to leave the capital campaign envelopes in quarterly basis. the offering envelope mix beyond the three- “A mail program has year campaign timeline. The result? An consistently proven to be one of extra $500,000 a year was raised. the most effective methods you Stroup said there are many ways a can employ to increase per capita church can emphasize stewardship membership contribution,” through the simple tool of an offering Stroup said. “The mail program envelope. He added that LifeWay’s also provides a way for the church offering envelope service can help churches to maintain accurate mailing information customize envelopes by assisting with the and serves as a reminder to church members personalization of envelopes or creating to be faithful givers.” custom envelope art. Read more tips for creative offering Jim Baker, associate pastor at Brentwood Churches can learn more about LifeWay’s envelope implementa- Baptist Church in Nashville, Tenn., said offering envelope service and mail programs tion on Facts&Trends his church has seen an average annual by accessing www.lifewaystores.com/ Online. increase of more than 20 percent in giving envelopes or by calling (800) 874-6319. n since deciding to send members packets of 38 Facts & Trends envelopes monthly rather than annually. Medical, Dental, Disability, Life and Accident Plans

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enduring institution • solutions for your challenges successful track record • insurance guided by values Resources for you from LifeWay

overwhelmed by today’s digital world will learn enjoy His presence with the imperative basics each glorious new sunrise. and checkpoints of Releases Oct. 1. ISBN Instant Messaging, reflections on God’s #13:978-0-8054-4646-3. text messaging, social one and only Son will Hardback. $14.99. networking Web sites invigorate and reward n B&H Publishing readers who long to grow Logged On and (MySpace, Facebook), closer and know more Tuned Out chat rooms, photo and by Vicki Courtney about our Savior. Releases video uploading and When CNN and FOX Sept. 1. ISBN #13:978-0- more. Releases Sept. 1. News sought Vicki 8054-4645-1. Hardback. ISBN #13:978-0-8054- Courtney to discuss child $24.99. 4665-4. Paperback. safety and the Internet n $12.99. Breaking Free Day by on-air last summer, the n A Western Jesus Day: A Year of Walking best-selling author knew by Mike Minter in Liberty this urgent issue had to Is the Jesus of modern by Beth Moore become the core topic of western civilization the With 300,000 copies in her next book. Today’s same Jesus found in print, Breaking Free is one children can access the Scripture? Is what we of author Beth Moore’s world from a growing best-selling releases. It understand Him to be n Jesus: 90 Days with number of portable shows readers how to in the United States the One and Only gadgets, and potentially make freedom in Christ and Europe the same by Beth Moore invite a world of a daily as what’s perceived in Best-selling author Beth danger into their reality by Africa or China? How Moore has an amazing lives. Logged identifying can one person pray for a gift for insightful Bible On and Tuned spiritual great parking space while character studies. The Out is a timely strongholds another is praying for just Personal Reflections series wake-up call to in their enough food or safety reintroduces Moore’s low-tech (tuned lives and to survive that day? A most beloved character- out) parents overcoming Western Jesus looks at the driven books, expanding whose high- them Western world’s tendency them into 90-day tech (logged through the to read Scripture through experiences that include on) kids truth of God’s the rose-colored glasses nearly all of the text from use modern Word. Now, of a society that knows her original work, plus computer the perennial little persecution or thoughtful questions and and cell favorite is sacrifice. Here is a book journal space to engage phone available in a to answer the cry for readers throughout this technology convenient day- authenticity being heard special time of study. like second by-day reading from today’s postmodern Jesus: 90 Days with the nature. format, helping culture. Veteran pastor One and Only is the new In simple us find our Mike Minter writes in A presentation of Moore’s language, satisfaction in Western Jesus to those who classic Jesus, the One and moms God, experience have been insulted by Only. These intimate and dads His peace and religious hypocrisy, who 40 Facts & Trends Resources are available from LifeWay Church Resources at www.lifeway.com and (800) 458-2772 LifeWay Christian Stores at www.lifewaystores.com and (800) 233-1123

Replace harmful habits n Kids in Crisis n The Necessary Nine with healthy ones while by Ross Wright by Dan Seaborn reaching out to others in For any mom or dad who When it comes to need, and everybody wins. thinks a certain child is marriage, some things Releases Sept. 1. ISBN just too tough to handle, are just necessary. Dan #13:978-0-8054-4488-9. Kids in Crisis provides Seaborn and co-worker Paperback. $19.99. a sane, workable plan Peter Newhouse are proud have claimed the modern n Sex and the City for successful parenting. to be regular guys turned church lacks relevance or Uncovered Author Ross Wright professional marriage perhaps even abandoned by Marian Jordan culls his wisdom from and family experts. They the Christian faith. “Sex and the City,” an the trenches, having have determined the Releases Sept. 1. ISBN original HBO network more than 20 years of following nine actions #13:978-0-8054-4486-5. series (1998-2004) now experience in the youth will help couples stay Hardback. $19.99. seen in reruns, glorifies care field ranging from married: (1) establish work at psychiatric cherishing attitudes, (2) n Day-by-Day Gourmet the lifestyles of four stylish New York women who institutes to his current pursue financial security, Cookbook role as executive director (3) discover sexual by Graham Kerr hang out in bars and talk bluntly about their sexual of a Christian foster satisfaction, (4) spend Eat better. Live smarter. care agency. Inside his time together, (5) develop Help others. Those are the experiences. However, despite claims that “Sex engaging analysis of child genuine friendship, powerful messages inside development (6) value legendary chef Graham and the City” is ultimately about the longing for a and behavior physical Kerr’s Day-by-Day is the theme attraction, Gourmet Cookbook. Kerr, committed relationship, the glamorization of of identifying (7) cultivate formerly known as “The strengths. emotional Galloping Gourmet,” casual sex and looks can take a toll on young By helping oneness, (8) presents nearly 200 rebellious young guard home recipes that show how to women. In her first book, Sex and the City people focus harmony, use nutrient-dense foods on what they and (9) build to replace calorie-dense Uncovered, she writes, “A painful existence of do well, they spiritual foods. Kerr shares his in turn learn fusion. The popular “double benefit” ‘looking for love in all the wrong places’ is hidden responsibility Necessary Nine concept that applies to by having is written mind, body and soul. behind images of couture fashion, witty dialogue something to for men and and beautiful people. care about, to women and I know this to be true protect and is appropriate because I’ve lived it.” A to share with for couples in former party girl, Jordan others. Releases any season now speaks to women Sept. 1. ISBN of marriage. nationwide about the #13:978-0- Releases Sept. unfailing love that she has 8054-4399-1. 1. ISBN found in Jesus. Releases Paperback. #13:978-0- Sept. 1. ISBN #13:978-0- $14.99. 8054-4431-5. 8054-4669-2. Paperback. Paperback. $12.99. $14.99. September/October 2007 41 Resources just released from LifeWay

n Rest Assured remote Alaskan mountain by Nancy cabin during a violent McGuirk nighttime blizzard, it was Rest Assured no less than the voice of offers 90 God that urged him to n Too soul-soothing take a closer look, soon to Blessed for devotionals discover his snow angel. This Mess based solidly Unconscious and more a cholera epidemic wracks by Cindi on Scripture. than half frozen to death, the colony, Temperance Wood Author Nancy was Elizabeth. She was a feels called by God Maybe you’re McGuirk leads beautiful young woman to take the surviving burning the a weekly Bible intent on discovering gold orphaned children candle at both study in Atlanta like so many others in back East to their ends in your attended by that region during the late extended families. But job, marriage, more than 500 women, 1800s. But why Elizabeth the only man available housework, children, so her insights was so drawn to accompany her on finances, an illness, caring are well-tuned to the gold, the dangerous journey for parents or some other to what busy and that she is Thaddeus Brennan, relationship. Maybe it’s moms, singles, would chase it a hard-edged drifter. some of that, all of that students and even through Despite the mismatch, or none of the above. professionals a pounding the intensities of their Whatever the case, only long to hear storm? First trek help the two find God can bring true, from God’s time novelist common ground, perhaps unfailing resolve to the Word. The Jamie Carie enough on which to build messes and stresses. In theme of rest pens a can’t- a lasting relationship. Too Blessed for This Mess, doubles in put-down debut But life and love are Cindi Wood, everyone’s meaning at in Snow Angel, unpredictable. Releases favorite “frazzled female,” the end of a romantic story Sept. 1. ISBN #13:978-0- invites women to join each devotion, with a wherein two lonely hearts 8054-3290-9. Paperback. her for a Bible-based “for the rest of your life” risk everything to find $14.99. study that will lift them challenge that promotes warmth and salvation. n Blindsided “out of the pit, out of the both self-improvement Releases Sept. 1. ISBN by Calvin Miller mud and mire” (Psalm and self-preservation. #13:978-0-8054-4533-6. In Blindsided, long 40) and into a calming, The book also features Paperback. $14.99. esteemed author Calvin empowering relationship a foreword by Billy n A Man for Miller unleashes a with God. Mixed with Graham’s daughter, Ruth modern thriller with humor and depth, Wood’s Temperance “Bunny” Graham, as by Gilbert Morris provocative elements concerns are clear in well as a heart-centering of the supernatural. chapter titles like “Frazzle In 1850, Temperance daily prayer. Releases Peabody, age 32, is a When a Muslim terrorist Friendly,” “Control Oct. 1. ISBN #13:978-0- group infiltrates Seattle Freaks,” “I’m Getting woman who has yet 8054-4541-1. Hardback. to know the thrill of and plots to blow up Old!” and “Committing $14.99. a stadium during a to the Lord.” Releases romantic love. Raised in n the Oregon territory, she Christian men’s rally, Sept. 1. ISBN #13:978-0- Snow Angel: A Novel by Jamie Carie was never allowed to have only a blind priest and 8054-4632-6. Paperback. When Noah Wesley a suitor but now longs to his pet wolf know how $12.99. heard the faint sound have a family of her own. to stop the disaster from outside the door of his After her parents die and happening. Always one to Resources are available from LifeWay Church Resources at www.lifeway.com and (800) 458-2772 LifeWay Christian Stores at www.lifewaystores.com and (800) 233-1123

n A Threat to Justice President his faith. Room by Chuck Norris, Ken Grant and of Marvels Abraham, Aaron Norris his efforts to takes readers and Tim Grayem reconstruct on a silent A Threat to America, spiritual retreat Justice, the Justice with Hudson second Old rides again. where he is playfully West novel Releases swept up in a challenge from Chuck Sept. 1. ISBN dream vision his readers Norris and #13:978-0- of heaven with wildcard friends, finds 8054-4563-3. and given a characters Ezra Justice Paperback. guided tour and great and his elite $15.99. by those he has lost. dialogue, group of special n Room of Marvels Remarkably, Room of Miller’s greater operation by James Bryan Smith Marvels mirrors author message has soldiers having In one tragic blow after James Bryan Smith’s own to do with gone their another, accomplished heart-wrenching season of how to bring separate ways Christian writer Tim loss. Updated with a new a peaceful end to war. just after the Civil War. Hudson lost his mother, cover design and epilogue Releases Sept. 1. ISBN When General Sherman his close friend, and his by Smith. Releases Sept. #13:978-0-8054-4348-6. needs men to combat 2-year-old daughter. Now 1. ISBN #13:978-0-8054- Paperback. $15.99. armed resistances against he’s on the brink of losing 4563-3. Paperback. $9.99.

He Loves. He Gives. We Believe. We Live. 3:16 Max Lucado SALE $17.99 Reg. $24.99 If 9/11 are the numbers of terror and despair, then 3:16 are the numbers of hope. In his newest release, 3:16, best-selling author Max Lucado leads readers through a word-by-word study of John 3:16, the passage that he calls the “Hope Diamond” of Scripture. If you know nothing of the Bible, start here. If you know everything in the Bible, return here. We all need a reminder. 005098517 Visit LifeWaystores.com/316 for more information.

Stores: Shop stores nationwide WAYS Online: Visit us at LifeWaystores.com 3 TO SHOP: Phone: Call 800.233.1123 Offer good 9/11/07 to 10/27/07.

September/October 2007 43 Resources just released from LifeWay

These scholars address then cut, paste and edit the so-called an issue that has a information, essentially “end” of the significant impact on the adjusting the lesson’s New Testament: way Christians should content to meet the Hebrews; approach everyday specific needs of their n The Five James; 1 and 2 evangelism but is often learners. Once registered, Smooth Peter; 1, 2 and ignored: the fundamental teachers can have 24- Stones 3, John; Jude, fact that the Savior who hour access the current by Robertson and Revelation. died on the cross and quarter’s teaching plans, McQuilken Faithful to rose from the dead is the learner handouts, and Bemused by the End: An eternal second person commentaries for each of the constant Introduction of the Trinity. This the curriculum choices rising and to Hebrews introductory Christology they’ve made. The falling of new Through book is written for resources will remain methodologies when he Revelation offers a careful advanced undergraduates available 24 hours a day, 7 began a career in ministry study of these latter and entry-level seminary days a week. Teachers can more than 50 years ago, biblical letters, closely students. Releases Sept. 1. visit the site to download university president examining each one’s ISBN #13:978-0-8054- or print whenever it’s Robertson McQuilken authorship and origin, 4422-X. Hardback. convenient for them. And has since committed destination and audience, $34.99. it doesn’t require a long- his work to enduring purpose and major LifeWay Church term commitment – your ministry principles that themes. Releases Sept. 1. church can try it for a he calls “the five smooth ISBN #13:978-0-8054- Resources quarter with no future stones.” In summary, 2625-0. Hardback. n LifeWayLessons.com obligation. Available these principles are: the $34.99. Here is the same now. Go to www. Bible, the congregation, n Jesus in Trinitarian trustworthy, doctrinally lifewaylessons.com. the Spirit, the plan of Perspective sound Bible study n Fuel2: Owning Your redemption, and the Lord edited by Fred Sanders curriculum you expect Faith, Volume 5: The Jesus. The Five Smooth and Klaus Issler from LifeWay in a brand Doctrine of Salvation Stones is an invitation to Jesus in new digital delivery The latest volume in join in the deep reflection, Trinitarian method that’s this series explores basic evaluation and integration Perspective easy, flexible questions like: How can I of each principle here in features and affordable! be made right with God? order to bless every aspect six highly Includes access Why did Jesus have to of your ministry. Releases respected to Explore the sacrifice His life? Then, Sept. 1. ISBN #13:978-0- scholars from Bible and select 8054-4547-3. Paperback. schools such Bible Studies for $14.99. as Erskine Life resources, n Faithful to the End Theological including the by Terry L. Wilder, Seminary, student resource J. Daryl Charles and Talbot Life Focus. Kendell Easley School of Once registered, In classroom and Theology, users can select scholarly study, the Dallas Theological and download Gospels, Acts and the Seminary and The teaching plans, learner Pauline letters receive far Southern Baptist handouts and in-depth more attention than does Theological Seminary. commentary. They can 44 Facts & Trends Resources are available from LifeWay Church Resources at www.lifeway.com and (800) 458-2772 LifeWay Christian Stores at www.lifewaystores.com and (800) 233-1123

it takes the exploration a what it means to follow LifeWay product to us. God step further, encouraging Christ. It’s geared to help #0-0503-5497, wants His deep discussions through teens understand how $5.95 children questions like, When is God works in their lives n Colossians: to know my salvation complete? and in their world. As Embrace the Him and Was it decided before I students move beyond Mystery welcomes was born whether or not their critical decision to Here is the our I would be saved? and trust Jesus for eternal latest in the questions How do I know for sure life, they will explore MORE series. – even our I am saved? (12 sessions) topics like sin, doubt and There is a fears. How Releases in September. sharing their faith. Using delicate tension and why DVDs and CD-ROMs, an outline of stages in for believers: We He should LifeWay product #0- the Christian walk the feel safe with the ‘knowns’ want to reveal Himself to 0503-5503, $159.95; CD- study helps teens deal in our life and feel us is a profound mystery ROMs, LifeWay product with pressures and crises. somewhat fearful about in itself! Based on the #0-0503-5504, $9.95 Students are reassured the ‘unknowns.’ Study premise that discovering n Student Survival Kit, that there is no danger celebrates the unknown truth through Bible study Revised of losing salvation, but and calls believers to do can be something other by Ralph W. Neighbor Jr. are cautioned about the the same. Though we will than breaking a verse For more than 20 years, danger of missing out never fully understand all down to its smallest part, this classic resource for on Christian growth. the mysteries of God, we the MORE series offers new Christians provides (11 sessions) Released in can dig deep and allow context, experience and a basic understanding of August. God to reveal the mystery other intricacies that all go

LifeWay acquires Tuscaloosa, Ala., store

The Tuscaloosa (Ala.) LifeWay Christian Store celebrated its grand opening June 2-30. Formerly Gospel Supply Christian Books and Gifts, the change in store ownership was announced May 22, 2007. LifeWay Christian Stores Vice President Mark Scott said, “After previously working with Richard Thomason in 1998 with the purchase of the Huntsville store, we were thrilled when he approached us about transforming Gospel Supply into a LifeWay Christian Store upon his retirement. “Richard and his team have done an excellent job serving the Tuscaloosa community. We hope to honor his ministry in the local area through our service to churches and individuals,” Scott added. The Tuscaloosa store is one of 10 LifeWay Christian Stores in Alabama and one of 137 the chain operates in 23 states. To learn more, visit www.lifewaystores.com. September/October 2007 45 When in Romans...

Can I believe in God? Is He still active today? Does He care how I live? When God inspired Paul to answer such questions for early believers in Rome, He knew modern Christians would have similar struggles. Believers in your church wrestle with living a successful Christian life. The 2008 January Bible Study, God’s Amazing Grace: Studies in Romans is so timely because that ancient letter is still so timely. Order it for your church today. And when in Romans, lead believers to do as the Romans: discover how God takes lives headed for ruin and saves and transforms them … all because of His amazing grace. Materials for all ages available online and at LifeWay Christian Stores or by calling 800.458.2772.

range to bottom edge

www.lifeway.com/jbs

range to bottom edge Resources are available from LifeWay Church Resources at www.lifeway.com and (800) 458-2772 LifeWay Christian Stores at www.lifewaystores.com and (800) 233-1123

into fully understanding LifeWay product #0- sessions) Releases in in September. the Word of God. (6 0503-5557, $14.95 September. Leader kit, LifeWay sessions) Serendipity n A Trusted Friend LifeWay product #0- product #0-0503-5523, House Publishers. Releases When It Matters Most: 0508-9098, $16.95 $69.95; Member book, in September. Responding with Wise n Chase the Lion LifeWay product #0- LifeWay product #0- Counsel by Mark Batterson 0510-0606, $7.95 0508-1528, $7.99 by Tim Clinton and Pat What if someone n Canvas: Mystery n Cautivado por el Springle suggested that some God- If an art gallery dedicated poder de Dios (Gripped Every day someone turns given opportunities are an entire section of space by the Greatness of God, to your church with disguised as man-eating to display paintings that Spanish edition) a pressing need. Lay lions? No one would dare represented the individual by James MacDonald members refer many of chase after an actual lion lives in your congregation, How can we understand a these people to the staff – the risk is too great. what would people see? love that exceeds our own because they believe Based on Batterson’s book Everyone has a personal capacity? It’s a challenge church staff members In a Pit with a Lion on a story that plays into the that author James instinctively “know” what Snowy Day – larger part of all that MacDonald discussed to do in this situation. Did and inspired God created, in his first study for you know that a church by a fearless and these LifeWay, now available member could actually warrior stories are to Spanish-speaking be the one best equipped named displayed audiences. Designed to to minister to a person Benaiah more inspire a sense of awe for during a time of need? (2 Sam. beautifully in God, MacDonald uses This study is not intended 23:20) who life when they selected passages from to replace training, changed are shared. Isaiah to lead believers to supervised practicum, the course Canvas, a a better understanding of skills or license to provide of his DVD-driven the holiness, sovereignty, expert professional future by small-group awesomeness and other care, but it does help winning a series, seeks attributes that characterize participants develop a battle with to draw those God. As believers learn heart of compassion, learn a real lion – this life stories out to recognize God in to listen and identify the in-depth study includes from individuals. This all His greatness, they root of a problem. Leader personal accounts of risk- second release in the series will naturally respond helps are included. (7 taking, or lion-chasing. explores the intrigue of in worship. (8 sessions) Additional Scripture transformation, the power Releases in October. references, extensive of redemption, the wonder discussion and leader of the Spirit and the depth helps will challenge young of forgiveness – topics adults to chase after the that lead to discussions adventurous life God about how each of these has waiting for each of elements touches the story us. Leader kit includes a God is revealing. DVD member book, a DVD kit includes two DVDs with video clips and an with original short films; enhanced CD with leader one experience guide discussion guide and tools, (also available separately; audio clips, songs and one book per member more. (6 sessions) Releases is needed); six small- September/October 2007 47 Resources just released from LifeWay

whole selves in worship This resource and in everything we do. also features Compiled for students an exclusive or adults, praise band or group setting interview with choir, Made to Worship is suggestions; award-winning a contemporary collection group and musician of songs that allows individual Stephen Mason worshipers to experience activities of Jars of Clay. God in their own way. to “bridge” FLOOD is The powerful song versatile enough list includes both each group n SPIN 360 to use in a number of established and brand- setting. (6 sessions) Developed with the settings from an issues- new worship songs tuned Releases in September. worship leader and team driven Sunday school to the hearts of students. Serendipity House in mind, SPIN 360 curriculum, to a retreat/ Worship leaders have the Publishers. provides the best current camp resource, weeknight option of fine-tuning Experience guide, worship songs, along study or even for sermon the presentation of LifeWay product #0- with the tools needed illustrations. This offers songs, with or without 0510-3005, $6.99; DVD to perform them. With an affordable option, the corresponding kit, LifeWay product #0- each volume of SPIN 360 particularly for small- to drama sketches and 0510-3004, $49.95 you receive a songbook medium-sized churches. Scripture readings, in n and a double CD. The FLOOD, Volume 6: (6 sessions) Releases in four categories: An songbook contains lyrics, Future Skills September. Serendipity Invitation to Worship, The competition for the sheet music, chord charts House Publishers. Congregational Praise, hearts, minds and souls and a newsletter filled DVD student ministry Testimony and Personal of today’s youth is fierce. with great information for kit, LifeWay product Praise. Let them express Culture tends to scream musicians. Disc one of the #0-0503-8444, $79.95; the ways they were Made the wrong message. Youth set contains vocal tracks Leader’s manual, LifeWay to Worship today! leaders from around the as well as being enhanced product #0-0503-8461, Titles include “Made country have told us they with Power Point, Media $14.99 to Worship,” “O Praise Shout, chord charts need something that Him,” “All This for and lyric masters. Disc helps their students dig LifeWay Worship a King,” “Dancing n two of the set contains deeper into the Word Made to Worship: Generation,” “Everlasting instrumental tracks with of God – to learn what Praise and Worship for God,” “My Savior, My and without background it means to live in true Student Choir God” and others. vocals. Volume 41 Christian community. created by Dennis Choral book, Product includes original tracks In six different sessions and Nan Allen, as #0-0507- by artists such as Echoing – 12 short films and recorded live 7197, $8.95. Angels, Joel Engle and introductions by popular at SonPower Split-track Watermark, plus SPIN youth speaker Jeffrey 2007 CD, listening 360 versions of music. Dean – Future Skills SAT(B)/ CD,* rhythm Titles include “Ready to addresses topics such Moderate charts and Worship,” “The Time as discipline, dating, We were CD promo Has Come,” “All We decision-making, each created pak are also Need,” “Jesus Paid It All” handling success, coping, with unique available. relationships and money personalities and others. SPIN 360, – all viewed through that allow us Volume 41, Product #0- the lens of Scripture. to express our 0509-9403, $34.95 48 Facts & Trends Resources are available from LifeWay Church Resources at www.lifeway.com and (800) 458-2772 LifeWay Christian Stores at www.lifewaystores.com and (800) 233-1123

Back issues also are dramas, choral readings, Non-seasonal • Missions Medley available. Call (800) activities for spiritual anthems (“Rescue the Perishing” 436-3869 for more growth, an enhanced and “Send the Light”), n 13 non-seasonal information or visit CD with devotional Product #0-0509-9714 orchestrations from Dan www.lifeway.com/ and journal pages, a • “My Shepherd Will Goeller Music worshipmusic. DVD with worship Supply My Need,” • African-American enhancements and Product #0-0509-9720 Spirituals Medley Children’s Music choreography. • “O God, Our Help in (“Somebody’s Knocking Releases Your kids will have fun as Ages Past,” Product #0- at My Door,” “Swing Low, n Proclaim His Glory: they mature spiritually. 0509-9721 Sweet Chariot,” “He’s Made for Praise, Downloadable chord • “Oh, How I Love Jesus,” Got the Whole World in Volume 13 charts are available Product #0-0509-9722 His Hands,” “When the arranged by Barny at www.lifeway.com/ • “On Jordan’s Stormy Saints Go Marching In”), Robertson madeforpraise. Banks,” Product #0-0509- Product #0-0509-9715 and David Choral book, 9723 • “Fairest Lord Jesus,” W. Patton Product #0- • “Praise to the Lord, the Product #0-0509-9402 Grades 1– 0507-7019, Almighty,” Product #0- • “Guide Me, O Thou 6/Unison $7.95. Enhanced 0509-9712 Great Jehovah,” Product & 2–3 listening • “This Is My Father’s #0-0509-9716 part/Easy CD,* leader’s World,” Product #0-0509- • “Jesus Paid It All,” Proclaim guide, piano 9713. Product #0-0509-9717 His Glory accompaniment, • “Jesus! What a Friend (Made for chord charts, Each orchestration is $75. for Sinners,” Product #0- Praise, e-chord charts To order, call (800) 436- 0509-9718 Volume (download only) 3869 or visit www.lifeway. • “Lead on, O King 13) and CD promo pak com/worshipmusic. includes mini- Eternal,” Product #0- are also available. *Listening CDs are also performance ideas, 0509-9719 available on iTunes.

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Clip and mail to: Facts & Trends, LifeWay Christian Resources, MSN 192, One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37234-0192 or e-mail the same info to: [email protected]. September/October 2007 49 Online Features are available now!

Sco tt Teens’ views on eternity M

c C o • Read “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” featuring n n e

l insights by Scott Stevens, LifeWay’s director of l student ministries, on teens’ views of eternity. • Listen to an Inside LifeWay podcast as Scott McConnell, associate director of LifeWay Research, and Scott Stevens, director of student ministries, discuss the study results.

VBS Photo Contest • View the top 10 photos submitted for the 2007 VBS Photo Contest, including our V winner with the best VBS BS 2 0 0 photo of the year. 7

Your vote counts! • Participate in the Facts & Trends Online poll: When did you receive Christ as Savior?

Teens make a difference at Centrifuge camps

• Download an interview with Joe Palmer, Cent rif ug LifeWay’s director of student events. e im p a • View photos from this exciting c t week of ministry at Ridgecrest What do teens believe Conference Center. about eternity?

50 Facts & Trends . Go to www.lifeway.com/factsandtrends.

Features added throughout the month – keep checking with us!

Logged On and Tuned Out • Listen to an Inside LifeWay podcast featuring B&H author Vicki Courtney as she discusses her latest book, “Logged On and Tuned Out,” which offers parents insight into the trends and goings-on within the technology savvy culture of today’s teens.

Ask Ed Stetzer

t e t z e r • Submit questions to Ed Stetzer, direc- d S E tor of LifeWay Research. Find out more about his role at LifeWay, his RU texting? J2LUK, your teen is. goals for LifeWay Research, his views on relevancy in ministry or whether his Hawaiian shirts should become dress code for all SBC agencies. Have feedback? Offering envelope ministry Submit your views and thoughts on topics discussed in this issue of ini • Read how a Georgia church is na m stry ha Facts & Trends. putting leftover offering envelopes G to good use in support of Ghana About us: Baptist hospital. Facts & Trends readers may now • Read tips for creative offering enjoy special features such as photo envelope implementation. slideshows, audio and supplemental articles with LifeWay’s experts at What’s new? Facts & Trends Online. • Be the first to know about new resources offered by LifeWay Christian Resources and B&H Publishing Group.

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September/October 2007 ISBN: 9-9999-0233-3