Seminary in Louisville, Ky.; Johnny Churches We Have in the State, I Think Leans

SBC N.C. pastor ANNUAL shares MEETING JUNE 19-20 inspiration SCHEDULE, page 6 behind new book Page 4 Follow on Twitter: @biblicalrecord

JUNE 9, 2012 • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists • VOLUME 178 NO. 12 • BRnow.org Nations, church planting focus of ‘historic’ Believer sees harvest SBC meeting in months of imprisonment Baptist Press By Ava Thomas | Baptist Press

n his final monthly video as president of the Southern Baptist Convention I(SBC), Bryant Wright offers a preview at Pray4SBC.com of the annual meeting in New Orleans, noting that unengaged, unreached people groups and church planting will be the main focuses. “As we prepare for our convention, I want you to know that I’m very excited about coming together with so many of you in New Orleans this year. It obviously will be a historic convention,” Wright said, referring to the anticipated election of the SBC’s first African American president, Fred Luter. Torture, time in jail allows Central Asian The June 19-20 convention also will have Christian to impact inmates, family with faith a clear theme of “Jesus: to the Neighbor- hood and the Nations,” Wright said. “We want to share the gospel of Jesus ad, I think we’re being followed.” Yas- “I’m going to prison today!” Christ in our neighborhoods and our local “Demin* drummed her fingers nervously James* knew the signs. He’d already been mission fields where our churches are plant- on the car door. Her father kept on driving in prison once for his faith in Jesus. That day ed but also realize as we do that we also the familiar route to drop her off at English made it a second. want to go to the nations,” said Wright, class, singing a praise song to Jesus as he In the region where James and his family pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church in drove. live, people bend over backward to show Marietta, Ga. Yasemin turned around and looked back. hospitality. Go to your neighbors’ home, and At last year’s annual meeting in Phoenix, “Dad. We’re being followed.” they spread out a feast for you and heap your more than 600 churches went forward to He sang louder. plate high with special food. Leave your wal- commit to embracing an unengaged, un- “Would you take it seriously?” let somewhere, and people will guard it until reached people group. Not missing a beat, he changed his lyrics you return. mid-verse and belted out a song of his own: See Harvest page 11 See SBC page 7 UNC committee won’t recommend ‘all-comers’ policy World News Service school’s student body. “There seems to be a broad con- experts say offers some of the best protection in the sensus that migrating to an ‘all-comers’ policy would nation for campus religious groups. he committee reviewing the nondiscrimina- not be our recommendation,” Sauls said. “We don’t The current policy has just two clauses. The first pro- tion policy at the University of North Carolina think that’s what’s warranted or needed at UNC.” hibits groups from restricting membership or participa- T at Chapel Hill likely will not recommend the An “all-comers” policy would require religious tion based on age, race and religious affiliation, among school adopt an “all-comers” policy for student organi- groups to accept members and leaders who do not share other factors. The second clause offers an exemption for zations. the groups’ beliefs. Sauls co-chaired the committee of belief-based groups: “Student organizations that select Jonathan Sauls, dean of students at UNC, said the faculty and students formed to review the school’s ex- their members on the basis of commitment to a set of group did not think such a policy would benefit the isting nondiscrimination policy, which religious liberty See UNC page 11 2 JUNE 9, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists

CHURCH NEWS

Providence Baptist Church, Shawboro Diane Ferebee, from left, chair of the Capital Campaign Committee, Pastor Charles Stevens, Building and Greater Cleveland County Baptist Association Grounds Chair Bobby Bell, and Ernie Bray, chair of the Finance Committee burn Providence Baptist Church’s During the Cleveland County Baptist Association’s spring 2012 Bi-Annual meeting 19 people from 13 $1.1-million note on its multi-purpose center. The center consists of classrooms, kitchen, fellowship area, area churches received awards for their participation in Bible study classes sponsored by the association. gym, and bath and shower facilities to promote disaster relief efforts. Construction was completed in 2008, Recipients earned the diplomas (engraved plaques) for attending a prescribed number of Bible study or and the church paid off the note five years early. leadership training classes. Above, front row, from left: Ann Scism, Patterson Grove Baptist Church, Kings Mountain; Patsy Chapman, David Baptist Church, Kings Mountain; Diane Heavner, Putnam Memorial Baptist Church, Shelby; and Elaine Ashley, Westview Baptist Church, Shelby; back row, from left: Ken Grayson, Westwood Heights Baptist Church, Shelby; Barbara Dawkins, Second Baptist Church, Shelby; Helen Grayson, Westwood Heights Baptist Church, Shelby; Betty Hoyle, David Baptist Church, Kings Mountain; Vickie Wyatt, Elizabeth Baptist Church, Shelby; and Ron Wright, Elizabeth Baptist Church, Shelby. Others who received awards but were not available for picture from association churches: David Barrett, Carpenter’s Grove Baptist Church, Lawndale; Howard Harrill, Second Baptist Church, Shelby; Martha Fraser, Poplar Springs Baptist Church, Shelby; Carole Humphries, Beaver Dam Baptist Church, Shelby; Joyce Beam, Elizabeth Baptist Church, Shelby; Shirley Hord, New Prospect Baptist Church, Shelby; and Pat Chapman, David Baptist Church, Kings Mountain. Award requirements are 10 class credits for each level of the training program. Each credit represents 1-3 hours of class Bible study or training. A schedule of classes as well as a Bible reading and prayer list are available online at gccba.org or at (704) 482-3472.

First Baptist Church, Dublin Mission team members from First Baptist Church, Dublin, served Iglesia Nueva Vida in Woodside, N.Y., April 9-14. The church has a partnership with Nueva Vida. The team did repair work on the church’s building as well as painting. Dublin First volunteers, ages 14 to 75, also gave gifts to children in the community and spread the message about the church’s services. The partnership is part of the church’s efforts in 2012 called “Here, there & everywhere” based on Acts 1:8. Each member was asked to commit to serving on a mission team. Dublin First is helping the N.Y. church financially, physically and spiritually.

Durham Memorial Baptist Church, Durham Above, a group from Durham Memorial Baptist Church, Durham, spent its Operation Inasmuch May 5 cleaning and landscaping at Oak Grove Elementary School. Members participated in several community outreach events. Little River Baptist Association Some 800 children, youth and adults enjoyed free crafts, food, music, and games at the Angier Depot May 19. The event – “Kids, Community & Christ” – was sponsored by Angier churches. Several Little River Baptist Association churches took part or helped sponsor the event. Above, local Christian band, Surrounding Jericho, was one of several that played. Angier Baptist Church, which sponsored a similar event on a smaller scale last year, also helped with this year’s event. Other Little River Baptist Association churches participating were: Neill’s Creek Baptist Church and Baptist Fellowship Church of Angier. The association and some of its ministries also participated. Triad Cowboy Church, Archdale At left, children vie for the pig during a “Greasy Pig Race” during a recent rodeo hosted by Triad Cowboy Church, Archdale. More than 1,300 people attended. Almost 100 salvation decisions were made along with more than 50 rededications. Participants enjoyed bull riding, team roping, and a candy scramble for the children. Pastor Doug Davis preached an evangelistic message from horse back. (Contributed photo by Debbie Rich) JUNE 9, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 3

OPPORTUNITY CORNER

Church music conference at Campbell Event examines repentance, judgment At Campbell University on July 16-18, July 28 at Three Forks Baptist Church, OASIS Church Music Conference, Renew Taylorsville, from 9 a.m. to noon, join Do it again Lord! for the Journey, is an experience for mu- others for the America Under God’s Will you not revive us again . . . Psalm 85:6 sic and worship leaders to find refresh- Judgment – A Call to Repentance Con- “ ” ment, renewal and resources. ference. Free to the public, the event Clinicians include Joel Raney, Jane will cover topics such as judgment and In 1904, the country of Wales was at an incredibly low spiritual ebb. Morals were collapsing, crime rates were rising, and churches were left weak and declining. Holstein, Benji Harlan, Kyle Matthews, repentance while examining Romans 1:18- But God was at work calling His remnant back to the three things that always and many others. Learn more and register 32, Isaiah 5:20 and 1 Peter 4:12-19. Speak- precede Great Awakenings – fervent prayer, deep repentance and evangelistic online at divinity.campbell.edu/Oasis/Home. ers are Carson Moseley, Mitch King, Gary passion. As the prayer and repentance began to grow, God poured out His Spirit aspx. Jennings, and Tim McKittrick. For more like a sweeping flood. Evan Roberts was a former coal miner and a major Register by July 1; the fee is $215 a information contact Three Forks Baptist instrument that God used in the revival. Roberts challenged people to put away person. On and off-campus lodging is at (828) 632-7634 or Debbie@threeforksbap- unconfessed sin and doubtful habits, obey the Holy Spirit immediately and available at various rates. tist.org. confess Christ publically. In six months 100,000 people were converted, and the country of Wales AROUND Submissions experienced moral and spiritual revitalization. Today, America is in desperate need of revival and awakening. Could it happen again? Will God mercifully work in a similar way in America? Cry out to God and ask Him to start a revival in you, THE STATE The Biblical Recorder is pleased to your family and your church. publish staff changes, church Staff changes news and events with a statewide interest. ANDREW WHITE has been called as Please send information family pastor of Manteo Baptist Church, immediately following an event, Prayer Points Manteo. White served as interim student or for opportunity corner, send at • Confess any known sin, and set aside any actions that do not pastor at North Main Baptist Church, least two months in advance. represent Christ. Danville, Va. All submissions will be subjected to • Ask the Lord to use you as an instrument for revival. Biblical Recorder styles and guidelines Hephzibah Baptist Church, Princeton, and will be edited. has called CHAD TUCKER as pastor. Send to [email protected] or Biblical Please visit PrayNC.org for information and resources. Tucker was a missional consultant with Recorder, P.O. Box 1185, Cary, NC Dr. Chris Schofield — Office of Prayer & Spiritual Awakening Northside Community Church, Rocky 27512. Call (919) 847-2127. (800) 395-5102 ext. 5514 • [email protected] Mount.

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Mission:Dignity Sunday is June 24, 2012 Order materials today. 4 JUNE 9, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists N.C. pastor shares inspiration behind new book he Biblical Recorder recently her line of thought. It demonstrates that philosophies and theologies that have led interviewed Rit Varriale, pastor the concept of the separation of church to irresponsible and destructive public T of Elizabeth Baptist Church in and state has evolved into a separation policies. ... The ultimate challenge of this Shelby, N.C., about his book Reforma- of the general religious sentiments of the book is for the Church to speak out [and] tion in Responsibility: A New Ethic for a New people and the public square. If this line act. Era. The book was released in March. He of thought continues to evolve, then the Silence is no longer an option for the shared the inspiration behind the book state will dictate – in the name of human 21st century church. The Church must and why he believes Christians should rights – what the church can and cannot regain its prophetic voice in society. not only read it but respond to the mes- proclaim. The recent passage of the Marriage sage. Nonetheless, the week after reading Amendment in N.C. is a perfect example In the book, readers will discover that the article, I read another article of what the Church can do Varriale is originally from Schendactady, from the BBC news about a when it fulfills its God-given N.Y. He graduated from The Citadel in judge in the United Kingdom mission to society. Charleston, S.C. He was commissioned that ruled in favor of a homo- If readers could pull as an officer in the United States Army sexual couple that was denied Q: one “nugget” or help- and was assigned to the 82nd Airborne lodging at a privately owned ful suggestion from your book Division from 1992-1996. Varriale served Christian bed and breakfast. He what would that be? as a platoon leader and company execu- ruled that the Christian couple Nothing will change tive officer and received the Outstanding violated the equality laws of A: until our way of thinking Leadership award for U.S. Army Ranger Great Britain. RIT VARRIALE changes. Every era has what I it doesn’t mean that it should be obeyed. Class 2-93, the Senior Parachutist Badge, In reading the decision of the call “trigger concepts,” that is, When influential lawyers and judges and the Pathfinder Badge. In 1996, he judge, his reasoning was precisely that concepts that cause people to submit. say that it’s unconstitutional for the entered the ministry. of Mrs. Feldblum. I was deeply moved For example, in the 1500’s, the religious sentiments of the people to He received a M.Div. from Campbell at such anti-religious judicial tyranny. Catholic Church was the most powerful influence politics and public policy, the University Divinity School, a Th.M. from At the time, I was working on two other institution in Europe. … What revolution- people should challenge such rulings on Duke University Divinity School, and a writing projects, but I felt like the Lord ized Europe was the free thinking of the the basis that they are not true. D.Min. from Princeton Theological Semi- said, “Put them down and address reformers. … We need to reform our way of nary. Since 1996 he has served three N.C. this.” I have not touched either of those Men like John Calvin, Philip Melanc- thinking with respect to our rights and churches. Varriale lives in Shelby with projects since January 2011. thon, Martin Luther, Ulrich Zwingli … responsibilities. his wife, Shannon. Go to rinr.org for more Share some thoughts on why stood up and called “time out.” The rights of the individual are im- information about the book. Also visit Q: people should read your book, The reformers were promoting the portant, but they are not more important amazon.com. and how you hope the book will chal- idea that just because the Pope or the than the overall good of society. Thus, Q: What inspired you to write Ref- lenge them. Church says something is biblical doesn’t we need to reform our thinking from the ormation in Responsibility? A: People who are concerned about mean it is biblical or that it has to be belief that God and society are respon- A: In January 2011, I read an article the direction our nation is going obeyed. This was a radical reform in the sible for the happiness of the individual addressing the tensions between should definitely read the book. In order thinking of the people of Europe. to the belief that individual is ultimately religious convictions and civil rights. The to reform our nation, we have to reform Likewise, we need a radical reform in responsible to God and society – start- article expressed the views of Chai Feld- our way of thinking. Reformation is what our thinking today. In our era, the courts ing with one’s family. Hence, we need a blum (President Obama’s 2010 appointee this book is all about. However, the book are the most powerful institution in reformation in responsibility. to the U.S. Equal Employment Oppor- is more than conceptual. Reformation in society. tunity Commission). In her discussion, Responsibility is a call to action. Our trigger concepts revolve around Mrs. Feldblum used the example of a The book is structured for group constitutionality. If the government Kivett’s - Your Source for Renewal Kivett’s - Your Source for Renewal

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1-800-334-1139 • Clinton, NC 1-800-334-1139 • Clinton, NC JUNE 9, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 5 State church leaders to share adoption passion in New Orleans BR staff behind this mission.” “In their book Orphanology, Merida or Matt Capps, adoption used and [co-author Rick] Morton argue that to be an “abstract category” that the church is the most powerful force in Fdidn’t really apply to his life. Then the world,” Capps said. he and his wife, Laura, saw their world “That is an important point if we’re changed forever as the couple from North not only about proclaiming the gospel Carolina adopted their son, Solomon, – but also reflecting the gospel. We have to now 2 years old – from Ethiopia. take serious the problems of the world Even with Capps’ personal connec- and heed the call to orphan care.” tion to the needs of orphans, he contends Worldwide there are estimated to ministry among those children who do be about 145 million orphaned children, not have parents or are neglected should Capps said. be on the radar of all followers of Christ. “That is about 40 percent of the U.S. “As Laura and I prayerfully decided population … children without parents,” to adopt, the orphan crisis became a life- he said. changing reality,” said Capps, an associ- In North Carolina, alone, there are ate pastor at Calvary Baptist Church in thousands of children in foster care. Winston-Salem. “The number changes weekly,” Capps “Our son, Solomon, is such a blessing Matt Capps, far right, seen here with his wife, Laura, and their adopted son, Solomon, will facilitate the Adop- added. from God. My heart not only overflows tion & Orphan Care breakfast and panel discussion June 20 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New “Where I’m located right now there with love for him, but the reality of our Orleans, La. Breakfast begins at 7 a.m., and the panel discussion starts at 7:15. Russell Moore, Johnny Carr, [are] approximately 800 children in fos- Tony Merida and David Platt will discuss the theological foundation for caring for the fatherless. The event is adoption in Christ sits deep within my sponsored by the North American Mission Board and Together for Adoption. ter care, just in one county.” soul like it never had before.” Matt contends the Southern Baptist Capps will facilitate the Adoption & for Adoption. The purpose of the event, Other panelists include Russell Moore, Convention has the resources and people Orphan Care breakfast and panel discus- said Capps, will be to gauge the interest author of Adopted for Life and dean and a to make a difference with this issue. sion June 20 during the Southern Baptist of Southern Baptists in the topic while vice president at Southern Baptist Theo- “With the amount of Southern Baptist Convention’s annual meeting in New Or- also creating awareness of orphans and logical Seminary in Louisville, Ky.; Johnny churches we have in the state, I think leans. The free event will be held 7 a.m. neglected children. Carr with Bethany Christian Services; and if every church adopted one child,” he to 8 a.m. in Ernest N. Morial Convention The panel will include pastor Tony David Platt, an adoptive parent, author said, “we could pretty much wipe out Center, and is sponsored by the North Merida, co-author of Orphanology and and pastor of The Church at Brook Hills foster care.” American Mission Board and Together pastor of Imago Dei Church in Raleigh. in Birmingham, Ala. There also is an opportunity for “I figured these four would be great to church leaders to minister to couples get on the panel to talk about what is the who have or are planning to adopt. call for us as a convention,” said Capps, “If you’re a church minister thinking who will facilitate the discussion. “How about adoption, or just have a heart for are we supposed to respond as a conven- orphan care, I think this is going to be a tion? That’s the main aim.” good equipping event just to kind of give In 2009, Moore (one of the panelists you a basis of knowledge that you can mentioned above) brought before the work with,” he said. SBC a resolution to promote adoption “It’s been great to see this become and orphan care. The resolution, which something we’re at least willing to talk was overwhelmingly approved, states: about in the convention.” “That we encourage local churches to The first 200 attendees at the event champion the evangelism of and ministry will receive a copy of Orphanology by Me- to orphans around the world, and to seek rida and Morton, and Reclaiming Adoption, out ways to energize Southern Baptists edited by Dan Cruver. SEMINARY GRADUATES

This is a list of North Carolina gradu- Master of Arts in Biblical Coun- ates from four of the six Southern Baptist seling – Edward Franklin Thomas Jr., seminaries. Cameron Golden Gate Baptist Master of Arts in Christian Educa- Theological Seminary tion – Allison Dillard Critcher, Deep Gap Master of Missiology – Meredith Master of Arts in Christian Educa- Brunson, Raleigh tion and Biblical Counseling – Esther The College at Southeastern G. Kim, Raleigh Master of Arts in Intercultural Master of Church Music – Timothy Studies – Hope Lynn Batten, Whiteville; H. Rauscher, Raleigh Lori Annette Isenhour, Charlotte; Tiffany Advanced Master of Divinity – Nicole Lillard, Greensboro; and Jeni Lyn Dustin Kyle Black, Graham Sinclair, Concord Master of Divinity with Biblical Southeastern Baptist Counseling – Dianna L. Cagle, Raleigh; Theological Seminary Jonathan Lee Davis, Charlotte; and Master of Arts in Old Testament – Amanda Elaine Schulze, Mebane Jason Richard Corn, Wendell See Graduates page 12 6 JUNE 9, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists

SBC SCHEDULE

The Southern Baptist Convention is 2:35 p.m. – Golden Gate Baptist Theologi- (First Report) set for June 19-20. The event will be avail- cal Seminary Report, Jeff Iorg 10:25 a.m. – Election of Officers (Fourth) able live at sbcannualmeeting.net. Below is 2:50 p.m. – Election of Officers (First) 10:35 a.m. – Worship through Music a basic schedule for the two-day annual 3:00 p.m. – Committee on Nominations 10:40 a.m. – GuideStone Financial Re- meeting. Report sources Report, O. S. Hawkins 3:10 p.m. – Worship through Music 10:55 a.m. – Previously Scheduled Busi- Tuesday, June 19, 2012 3:15 p.m. – The Ethics & Religious Liberty ness, Bryant Wright Morning Commission Report & Presentation, 11:15 a.m. – Election of Officers (Fifth) 8:00 a.m. – Worship through Music Richard D. Land 11:25 a.m. – Contemporary Worship 8:10 a.m. – Call to Order, Bryant Wright 3:50 p.m. – Executive Committee Report 11:40 a.m. – Convention Message, David Registration Report and Constitution (Part 3): SBC Name Change, Frank S. Page Uth, senior pastor, First Baptist Church, of the Convention, James H. (Jim) Wells 4:20 p.m. – Election of Officers (Second) Orlando, Fla. 8:15 a.m. – Prayer 4:30 p.m. – Southwestern Baptist Theo- 12:15 a.m. – Benediction Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag logical Seminary Report, Paige Patterson 8:20 a.m. – Committee on Order of Busi- 4:45 p.m. – Introduction of New Motions Afternoon ness (First Report) (Last Opportunity) 3:00 p.m. – Worship through Music 8:25 a.m. – Welcome 4:55 p.m. – International Mission Board 3:05 p.m. – Prayer 8:30 a.m. – Announcement of Committee Report & Presentation, Tom Elliff 3:10 p.m. – Presentation of Outgoing Of- on Committees, Credentials, Resolutions, 5:55 p.m. – Benediction ficers, Frank S. Page and Tellers 3:15 p.m. – Presentation of New Officers, 8:35 a.m. – Introduction of Motions Wednesday, June 20 Frank S. Page 9:00 a.m. – Worship through Music Morning 3:20 p.m. – Business 3:50 p.m. – Previously Scheduled Busi- 9:05 a.m. – Local Arrangements Commit- 8:00 a.m. – Worship through Music Committee on Order of Business ness, Bryant Wright tee Presentation 8:10 a.m. – Prayer (Fourth Report) 4:05 p.m. – Committee on Resolutions 9:10 a.m. – Crossover Evangelism Report, 8:15 a.m. – Business Election of 2013 Convention Sermon (Final Report) Kevin Ezell Committee on Order of Business Preacher, Alternate Preacher, and Music 4:30 p.m. – The Southern Baptist Theo- 9:15 a.m. – Woman’s Missionary Union (Third Report) Director logical Seminary Report, R. Albert (Al) Report, Wanda S. Lee 8:35 a.m. – Election of Officers (Third) 3:30 p.m. – Southeastern Baptist Theolog- Mohler Jr. 9:25 a.m. – Executive Committee Report 8:45 a.m. – Committee on Committees ical Seminary Report, Daniel L. (Danny) 4:45 p.m. – Worship through Music (Part 1), Frank S. Page Report Akin 4:55 p.m. – North American Mission 10:25 a.m. – Worship through Music 8:55 a.m. – Worship through Music 3:45 p.m. – Recognition of Past SBC Presi- Board Report & Presentation, Kevin Ezell 10:30 a.m. – LifeWay Christian Resources 9:05 a.m. – Midwestern Baptist Theologi- dents, Bryant Wright 5:55 p.m. – Benediction Report & Presentation, Thom S. Rainer cal Seminary Report, Robin D. Hadaway, 11:00 a.m. – Traditional Worship interim president 11:15 a.m. – SBC President’s Address, Bry- 9:20 a.m. – New Orleans Baptist Theolog- Attn: Church Planters, Campus Pastors, ant Wright ical Seminary Report, Charles S. (Chuck) Multi-Site Churches and Launch Teams 11:55 a.m. – Benediction Kelley Jr. 9:35 a.m. – Previously Scheduled Busi- Afternoon ness, Bryant Wright The One-Day 1:30 p.m. – Concert of Praise Combined 9:55 a.m. – Committee on Resolutions Conference choirs and orchestras with Nelson Searcy 1:40 p.m. – Prayer Launch 1:45 p.m. – SBC Historical Library and Learn How to Launch Large, Launch Quickly and Reach the Unchurched Archives Report 1:50 p.m. – Business Committee on Order of Business (Second Report) Friday, July 13 | 9:30am – 4:30pm Referrals/Introduction of Motions Royal Plaza Hotel | Walt Disney World, Orlando, FL 2:05 p.m. – Executive Committee Report You Will Learn: (Part 2), Frank S. Page • A proven, practical strategy to LAUNCH YOUR NEW Led by Nelson Searcy Lead Pastor, CHURCH larger and healthier than you thought possible. The Journey Church • Time-tested principles for RAISING THE FUNDS you’ll need to start strong. • The key elements to staying focused on GATHERING THE UNCHURCHED. • Who you should include on your INITIAL LAUNCH TEAM and HOW TO RECRUIT THEM. Based on the book • Plus much more, including a Q-and-A time to get answers Launch: Starting a New Church From Scratch to your specific questions! by Nelson Searcy Only $49 for one or $79 for up to three people (before July 1)! REGISTER NOW: www.ChurchLeaderInsights.com/Launch Prefer to Register by PHONE? Call Kimberly at 1-800-264-5129 Ext. 1 HURRY – ONLY 76 SEATS LEFT! JUNE 9, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 7

SBC Continued from page 1

“Now that number is almost up to in what it means to be a follower of Jesus because they were presented during the seat at so much of that really has been a 1,200 churches along with all of our semi- Christ,” Wright said in the video. day, he said. wonderful privilege,” Wright said. naries and some of our Baptist colleges. Messengers will hear a report from “So if you can be there, we’d love to He expressed gratitude for those who So God is working in local churches to the task force that studied the idea have you as a part of that convention to prayed that he would stay close to God give that local church a sense of respon- of changing the name of the Southern take part as we come together and hope- and to his family throughout his time as sibility of embracing a people group that Baptist Convention. “We are now recom- fully renew our commitment to reaching president and said God has answered has not heard the gospel,” Wright said. mending a descriptor versus a legal name and discipling this world for Jesus Christ those prayers. Wright added that he Last year 3,800 people groups were change – Great Commission Baptists – as Christ has commanded us to do,” is looking forward to taking a sabbati- classified as unengaged and unreached, that we hope will become synonymous Wright said. cal from his role at Johnson Ferry upon Wright said, but contacts now have been with who we are and how people think of Also in the video, Wright thanked completion of his presidential term. made with about 400 of those people us and our mission and our purpose as a Southern Baptists for the privilege of “The timing will be perfect at the end groups. convention,” the president said. serving as president for two years and of this time to get the batteries recharged “As a matter of fact, Johnson Ferry “By being at this year’s convention said the experience has been “tremen- and to have some time to reflect and also had its first trip to engage one of those you’ll have an opportunity to be a part of dously energizing” and “tremendously look with great anticipation to the future unengaged people groups in northern that very important decision.” exhausting.” years of ministry here at Johnson Ferry,” India this past spring. I know many of the Wright recommended people dress “I’ll always be thankful, though, for Wright said. churches are in that process,” he said. casually for the convention, expecting just seeing how vast is the work for (EDITOR’S NOTE – Compiled by Baptist Also at the New Orleans conven- warm, humid weather in New Orleans. Christ’s Kingdom that Southern Baptists Press assistant editor Erin Roach.) tion, an emphasis will be placed on the “We also will be having our conven- are engaged in, and having a front row unreached areas of the United States tion sessions during the day, and hav- and Canada, such as metropolitan areas ing no night sessions gives you freedom where the North American Mission Board to fellowship with your friends and plans to plant more churches. family members and enjoy some of the N.C. pastor to nominate SBC “So many of our seminary students are great food that’s there in New Orleans,” passionate about church planting, and as Wright said. 2nd VP nominee more and more churches are engaged in By eliminating evening sessions last Baptist Press Pressley, in his statement to Baptist church planting, we will see a multiplica- year, Wright noticed greater participa- Press, described Hankins as “an innova- tion process that I think really will re- tion by messengers. ississippi pastor Eric Hankins tive young leader in the pursuit of the verse the trend over time of seeing more More people were in attendance for will be nominated for second Great Commission. Eric was involved in people baptized, more growth within the International Mission Board and vice president of the South- the founding of the One8 church-planting our convention as people are discipled North American Mission Board reports M ern Baptist Convention (SBC) by North network and he serves on its leadership Carolina pastor Clint Pressley during the team today. SBC’s June 19-20 annual meeting in New “This network combines all of the best Orleans. new ideas about church planting with a Hankins, 40, has been pastor of First convictional Southern Baptist doctrinal Baptist Church in Oxford since 2005. stance and denominational affiliation. Pressley, pastor of Hickory Grove Baptist One8 is a distinctively Southern Baptist Church in Charlotte, listed several rea- church-planting network. Guys involved sons in a statement to Baptist Press why in creating and leading that sort of thing he intends to nominate Hankins for the ought to be the leaders of our denomina- SBC’s second vice president. tion, in my opinion.” Among them: “Eric loves the South- The One8 Network is on the web at Be sure to check ern Baptist Convention enough to work www.one8.org. within the convention to help it to honor Pressley also referenced Hankins’ out our website the Lord as best as we can.” Pressley father, David Hankins, executive direc- wrote. tor of the Louisiana Baptist Convention, “This is, I believe, a factor of high stating, “The primary responsibility of for the latest importance in evaluating candidates for the second vice president is to assist our SBC office. Eric pastors FBC Oxford, president in any way that he requires. N.C. Baptist news Mississippi, and his church gives 12% Eric will serve well alongside Dr. Fred through the Cooperative Program. If you Luter,” the New Orleans pastor who, to and information love the SBC, then Eric is the kind of guy date, is the lone nominee for SBC presi- you want to see in leadership.” dent. Before serving at First Baptist in Ox- “[T]here’s already a good relationship ford, Hankins was senior pastor of Gallo- between the Luters and the Hankinses,” way Avenue Baptist Church in Mesquite, Pressley said, adding, “Eric’s not the Texas, from 2000 to 2005 and pastor of kind of guy who’s going to wind up Gillsburg (Miss.) Baptist Church from on CNN for having done something to 1997 to 2000. embarrass the convention while holding Hankins earned a Ph.D. in theology office. That’s important.” from Southwestern Baptist Theological Pressley also stated that “Eric is my Seminary in Texas in 2007, a master of friend and I know him to be a godly divinity in biblical languages from New leader that loves his family, the church Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in and the Great Commission.” 1997 and a bachelor of arts degree in reli- Eric Hankins and his wife Janet, have gion from Louisiana College in 1994. two school-age sons and a daughter. 8 JUNE 9, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists ‘A constant presence’ N.C. churches, associations ready to partner long-term in Toronto

By MELISSA LILLEY | BSC Communications to get to the point where we will have teams come up at least quarterly, so we ne year after launching a have a constant presence there,” Clark partnership in Toronto, North said. OCarolina Baptists are respond- “If I can help tie smaller churches ing to the need to come alongside church with larger churches, they can make an planters and engage in long-term partner- impact as well. The excitement will then ships. spread.” Yet, with a population less than 2.5 Through the Office of Great Commis- percent evangelical and only 40 South- sion Partnerships, global impact net- ern Baptist churches serving 5.5 million works are being established across N.C. people, a lot more help is needed. A local church or association that serves Through its Office of Great Com- as a global impact network serves as a mission Partnerships, the Baptist State missional center, helping connect other Convention of N.C. (BSC) partnership local churches and associations with with the Canadian National Baptist Con- partnering churches. vention (CNBC) is focused specifically on Three churches in Rowan are already the Greater Toronto Area. The partner- committed to partnering in Toronto with ship encourages N.C. Baptist churches Scott Rourk and Rendezvous Church. to plant a church in Toronto, or to join Rourk is on his third church plant in groups of N.C. churches in partnering Toronto, all in very different and diverse with a specific Toronto church plant. settings. Dan Collison, director of Toronto Mike Sowers, left, senior consultant for the Office of Great Commission Partnerships at the Baptist State The Rendezvous church plant in mid- Church Plant- Convention of North Carolina, joins in a prayer for Jason and Kimberley McGibbon, church planters in Toronto. town, in the Forest Hill neighborhood, ing and southern (BSC photo by Melissa Lilley) is an area with affluent, working profes- Ontario lead church they leave the planter just as he really Hamilton now has a growing arts com- sionals who are mostly unchurched. planting catalyst begins to hit his stride. munity and many young families and new The Rendezvous plant in the Parkdale for CNBC and the Collison said an effective mission team residents. neighborhood, however, will reach North American moves a church plant forward three to Before serving as church planters in mostly immigrants of various religious Mission Board, has six months down the road. Hamilton, the McGibbons attended The backgrounds. learned that build- “An effective mission team is a team Sanctuary Church in Oakville, which is “Our goal as a church plant is not just ing relationships that comes back,” he said. “When mis- about 30 minutes north of Hamilton. to plant a church, but to reach a city. Our and serving the sion teams come to a location only once, When The Sanctuary decided to plant hope is to plant 10 Rendezvous churches DAN COLLISON community are the they drain more energy out of the field a church in Milton, the McGibbons went within the next 10-15 years in Toronto. In best ways to create than they contribute.” to Milton to help with the plant. And order for us to do that we need church opportunities to share the gospel. The second year a team comes they when that congregation knew God was planters for each and every one of those “Canada has always been secular. No help push momentum forward, by the leading them to plant a church, McGib- church plants,” Rourk said. one gives a second thought to what the third year things are falling into place, bon knew God was calling him to be the Clark is praying for partnerships to church may say about a particular topic and after that “it’s friends helping more church planter. also lead to revitalization among North or issue,” he said. than a project being accomplished,” Col- “We heard God clearly say, ‘Who are Carolina churches. “I have a lot of “This forces us to begin understand- lison said. you waiting for? If you’re going to be a churches that think they are missional ing, on a much deeper level, how to be Churches are encouraged to help the church that plants churches, what are because they give to the Annie Armstrong people of faith and how we communicate church plant until it has planted a church you waiting for?’” Easter Offering, and the Lottie Moon the gospel. You develop a stronger, prac- of its own. About 12-16 people meet in McGib- Christmas Offering, and support the Co- tical understanding of how the church Effective mission teams are also teams bon’s home every Tuesday. He is praying operative Program, and have a missions represents the gospel to the community.” that serve with the right “posture.” for more house fellowships to be estab- speaker. But they are not living mission- “They come and fit themselves into the lished and for the church to love its com- ally,” he said. Effective partners strategy of the church planter,” Collison munity and engage it with the gospel. “I’m hoping they will see the differ- Toronto church planters need partner said. McGibbon knows church planting ence between talking about missions churches in order to serve their commu- requires sacrifice. “Our sending church and giving to missions, and committing nity and reach people for Jesus Christ. Hometown ministry could have used a children’s minister themselves physically to doing missions,” However, Collison urged potential Jason McGibbon is a Toronto church five years ago. They gave up paychecks to Clark said. “And I hope that will make partners to remember that church plant- planter ready to partner with North keep church planting going,” he said. a difference in their own personal lives ing in Canada can be very different than Carolina churches. McGibbon grew up with Christ. in the United States. in Hamilton, near the western end of the Now is the time “We’ve got to get beyond waiting on “In Canada, it usually takes 8-10 years Niagara Peninsula and Lake Ontario, and Just as McGibbon answered God’s someone else to do it. If God has im- for a church plant to become fairly self- for the past year has been working with call to go, so are churches from Rowan pressed on you to do it, there’s no reason sustaining,” he said. The Hamilton Fellowship’s church plant. Association. Director of Missions Ken to sit back.” “The American statistic is 3-5 years, at About a quarter of the 550,000 people Clark went to Toronto last year and again To learn more about opportunities in most.” in Hamilton live below the poverty line. this year to learn how to help involve his Toronto, visit www.ncbaptist.org/toronto, This reality makes long-term partner- Hamilton includes many refugees and association in Toronto church planting. necpcoalition.com or contact Michael Sow- ships all the more critical. If churches Muslim residents. Although once a “blue “Our plan as an association is to be- ers: (800) 395-5102 ext. 5654, msowers@ pull out too soon, after a couple of years, collar” town centered on steel mills, come a global impact network. We want ncbaptist.org. JUNE 9, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 9 101 new missionaries appointed by IMB By LAURA FIELDING | Baptist Press their four children, will serve in sub- During their first year of service, Saharan Africa. they were forced to spend 90 days in a ate and Joanna Whitmire* told They are two of 101 International Mis- neighboring country due to visa issues, God they would go anywhere sion Board (IMB) missionaries appointed Aaron had to have emergency surgery Nif He called them to missions. May 23 during a service at Brentwood and two family members back in the U.S. “It’s not like He’d ever call us to Africa,” (Tenn.) Baptist Church in conjunction died. During those trials, Sheila said they they thought. with the IMB board meeting. Forty-one doubted their call and just wanted to But He did. of the missionaries have served previous return home to California. “We had a heart that was, in theory, terms, bringing the current missionary But when they were able to go back to open to whatever God wanted to do – we count to 4,919. Many of the appointees their country of service, God had truly wanted to be in His will, but for what- recounted that their call to be God’s solidified their call to that country. The ever reason … Africa was this big, black heart, hands and voice to unreached Meyers family will return to Europe to hole that was just not a place that we people groups overseas was a matter of serve. would consider,” Nate said. After the obedience – no matter the cost. Whitmires, both from South Carolina, at- Laura Moritz interprets for Deaf members of the About the meeting tended a Catalyst conference three years From fear to joy congregation as new missionaries share stories of Scott Holste has been elected as vice ago, however, their outlook changed. Both Mike and Rachael Kim’s* parents obedience to God’s call during an IMB missionary ap- president for global strategic mobiliza- “God really just hit us with the real- immigrated to California from Korea to pointment service May 23 at Brentwood (Tenn.) Baptist tion. He will direct a new initiative with Church. (BP photo) ization that our hearts had been hard in give their children the “American Dream” Christian leaders in business and market- that area and that we didn’t love who He – a better education, good jobs and lots Rachael was fascinated – and horrified – place professions across the world. loved,” Joanna said of what she and her of money. God gave Mike and Rachael by missionaries’ stories, which led her to Marketplace professionals include husband experienced at the conference another dream – to share the gospel with associate missions with suffering, hard- Christians living or traveling overseas, for young Christians held regionally three those who have never heard. ship and martyrdom. as well as students preparing for careers times a year. The Whitmires, along with Raised in a Southern Baptist church, While in high school, a missionary such as international business, medicine spoke at her church about the number of and law. unreached people groups, and Rachael’s David Steverson, IMB vice president heart became burdened for the lost. for finance, reported that total income After a short-term missions trip to South in 2011 was down $42 million from 2010. America, she felt God’s calling loud and “Almost every category in the 2011 finan- clear. Mike did not submit so easily. He cial statement is less than the year be- did not want to leave the comfortable fore,” he said. Receipts for the 2011 Lottie lifestyle his parents had worked so hard Moon Christmas Offering were tabulated to provide for him. “My biggest fear in by May 31 but a report on the results had life was becoming a missionary,” he said. not been released before presstime. Dur- But on a missions trip during college, ing the trustee meeting, national WMU Mike was troubled when he saw people president Debby Akerman presented a worshipping false gods. For the first time check for $10,706 to the offering on be- in his life, he became angry with God half of two annual endowments. – how could He let these people who had never heard of Him go to hell? Who New officers would God send to tell these people Trustees elected new officers for about Jesus? God clearly answered that 2012-13: chairman, David Uth, pastor of it was Mike’s own task. “My biggest fear First Baptist Church in Orlando, Fla.; first has become my greatest joy – just sharing vice chairman, Richard Landry, a physi- the gospel and taking it to people who cian from Trinity Baptist Church in Lake Serving Churches since 1928 have never heard,” he said. Charles, La.; and second vice chairman, The Kims, along with their two chil- John Edie, executive pastor of Second dren, will serve in East Asia. Baptist Church in Springfield, Mo. Jana Brown, a retired schoolteacher from Feels like home Peavine Baptist Church in Rock Spring, In high school, Aaron Meyers* ques- Ga., was re-elected recording secretary. tioned his faith. When he miraculously Nine trustees were honored for com- Savings survived a car accident, he created his pleting terms of service including two own reasons for why he lived. But after from North Carolina: Elizabeth Harris another wreck nine days later landed and Tim Locher. him in the hospital, he began to seriously The IMB’s next appointment service Service think about his life – and his faith. will be Sept. 12 at First Baptist Church in “I didn’t really experience life until I Hendersonville, N.C., during the trustee almost experienced death,” Meyers said. meeting Sept. 11-12 in Ridgecrest, N.C. “In that moment, I said, ‘God, whatever Both will be held during Emeritus Rec- Security You want me to do, wherever You want ognition Week, Sept. 7-13, at LifeWay’s me to go, I’m willing.’” Ridgecrest Conference Center. Missions is what God laid on his *Names changed. heart. Years later when he and his wife (EDITOR’S NOTE – Laura Fielding is a PO Box 9346 Columbia, SC 29290 Sheila* were serving in Europe as short- writer for the International Mission Board. An- 1-800-922-5332 www.smcins.com term missionaries, their call to missions other BP story was used to include information was severely tested. about the actual IMB trustee meeting.) 10 JUNE 9, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Budget, NAMB, annual meeting at forefront of BOD BSC Communications, BR staff “I’m afraid the world is having a greater impact on Our name is Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center.” the church than the church is on the world,” Hollifield Since the hospital began in 1920, McConnell said, it uring a regularly scheduled meeting May 22-23 said. “None of us knows how much longer we have on has continued to improve and excel in patient care and at Caraway Conference Center, the Baptist this earth, and we don’t know how much longer it is research. About 300 of its physicians were recognized DState Convention of North Carolina (BSC) before Christ returns. in the 2011-2012 “Best Doctors in America” publication, Board of Directors heard reports and testimonies related “Let’s come to Greensboro with a sense of expectan- and U.S. News and World Report ranks the Medical to finances, this fall in Greensboro, the North American cy that God is going to do something great.” Center among the nation’s best hospitals. Mission Board (NAMB) and of how God is using N.C. Baptists for Kingdom impact. Great Commission Partnerships Committee Reports Although Cooperative Program funds are Michael Sowers, senior consultant for the Office Burwell Stark, a layperson from Richland Creek $11,289,455.98, which is 1.5 percent behind last year at of Great Commission Partnerships, challenged N.C. Community Church in Wake Forest, was appointed to this time, the Convention continues to operate “in the Baptists to consider the worth, and not the cost, when serve the unexpired term of Greg Barefoot on the Chris- black,” according to a report by Beverly Volz, direc- it comes to becoming strategically involved in mission tian Life and Public Affairs Committee (CLPA). tor of accounting services. The Board will vote on the efforts in North America and beyond. CLPA committee chair Jarrod Scott also thanked the proposed 2013 Cooperative Program budget during its N.C. Baptists have participated in two vision trips Board for supporting the marriage amendment, which September meeting. this year in Toronto and Boston. Spots are still open for passed by an overwhelming margin May 8. Milton A. Hollifield Jr., BSC executive director-trea- the August trip to New York City. “It’s the churches that spoke up,” he said. “We thank surer, updated the Board on the three staff committees Other upcoming events include safety/security train- the Lord for this grassroots work.” helping study and make recommendations regarding the ing Oct. 2 in Cary. There also will be Southeast Asian In the coming months the committee will make avail- Vision Fulfillment Committee report. The communica- Peoples Training Sept. 17-19 in Winston-Salem. For more able on its blog (blog.ncbaptist.org/clpa) resources to help tions and church planting/existing churches committees information visit ncbaptist.org/gcp. A new church plant- churches reach out to people involved in a homosexual have completed their work, and the strategic developing website necpcoalition.com is available to help connect lifestyle. ment committee’s work is underway. A report to the N.C. churches with church planters in partnership The chairman of the Business Services Committee Executive Committee is expected to be ready by August. areas. reported a change in the expansion plans for the conference center at Caraway. Original plans included a NAMB update one-story facility with detached housing units beside it. Hollifield also shared an update related to changes However, after consultation with the architects, the new in the cooperative agreement between NAMB and BSC. facility will be constructed as a three-story unit. This Each state convention is in the process of negotiating will allow the meeting rooms and housing accommoda- new agreements with NAMB since it announced that it tions to be under one roof. This committee reported this would redirect more of its funding to church planting change will result in significant cost savings. efforts outside of the South. The Christian Higher Education Committee reported The cooperative agreements in each state have tra- that the tentative start date for the Fruitland Baptist ditionally included allocations for supporting church Bible Institute scholarship is fall 2013. The two-year planting and evangelism programs in state conventions scholarship would be awarded to Fruitland students as well as associations. The cooperative agreements who, upon graduation from Fruitland, desire to contin- have also included allocations for individuals who are ue their education at one of the educational institutions jointly funded employees. There are nine jointly funded affiliated with the BSC. A maximum of two students employees on the BSC staff at this time. at each affiliated institution would be eligible for the While the new cooperative agreements vary from scholarship. state to state, NAMB intends to reduce funds available for jointly funded staff, evangelism and other efforts. Miscellaneous Business Though NAMB will continue providing the BSC fund- The Board approved two motions during the miscel- ing, most of the funds will now be designated to church John McConnell, chief executive officer of Wake Forest Baptist Medical laneous business session. Phil Addison, pastor of Stony planting. Center, shares about the changing landscape of health care with the Point Baptist Church, brought a motion that will give Baptist State Convention of North Carolina Board of Directors. Stressing Hollifield clarified that there are no plans to eliminate Mark Creech, executive director of the Christian Action the importance of medical care, McConnell also emphasized the “Bap- any of the jointly funded positions at the BSC. tist” part of the center’s history. (BR photo by K. Allan Blume) League, opportunity to address the Board at least once “We have reallocated dollars in the portion of the a year. Cooperative Program budget that remains in state,” North Carolina Baptist Hospital The Board approved the Biblical Recorder’s governing Hollifield said, “and that has allowed us to retain all our Paul Mullen, church and community relations direc- documents, which have been updated to be consistent jointly funded staff.” tor for N.C. Baptist Hospital (part of the Wake Forest with those of the BSC. Last year, Fruitland Baptist Bible Baptist Medical Center), reported that Baptists have Institute in Hendersonville also updated their docu- November meeting given more than $580,000 this fiscal year to the Moth- ments to be consistent with the BSC. The Recorder’s Regarding the Convention’s annual meeting Nov. er’s Day Offering, which helps patients in need pay their governing documents will go before the Convention in 12-13 in Greensboro, Hollifield urged Board members to hospital bills. November to be approved. begin preparing now. This year’s theme is “Awaken,” It’s a time of rapid change in the medical field, said The Board also passed a motion for Fruitland’s Board based on Romans 13:11-14. John McConnell, chief executive officer of Wake Forest of Directors to consider whether or not they should “The committee that helps plan this meeting has ex- Baptist Medical Center. He shared his appreciation for request the Convention to forgive Fruitland’s remaining pressed such a concern and burden to see a great move- the ongoing relationship that the hospital has with the $900,000 debt after construction of its chapel. ment of God take place when we gather in November,” BSC, noting the Center’s Baptist heritage is an impor- Branton Burleson of Christ Covenant Baptist Church Hollifield said. “But we must do spiritual preparation tant part of its DNA and culture. in Hendersonville made the original motion to ask the before that.” “The landscape of health care and health reform is Convention to forgive the entirety of the chapel debt. Hollifield asked the Board to consider hosting times increasingly complex,” he said. Perry Brindley, pastor of Mount Zion Baptist Church of prayer in their church or association for spiritual “In the midst of this complexity and change we are in Canton, later made the motion to refer the matter to awakening, and to utilize opportunities such as a church grateful that some … truly important things remain Fruitland’s Board of Directors. renewal weekend to help prepare for November. For stable. First and foremost … is our commitment to faith The next Board of Directors meeting at Caraway will more information go to ncbaptist.org/crj. that forms the basis for who we are and what we do. be Sept. 25-26. JUNE 9, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 11

Harvest Continued from page 1

“In lieu of an armored car, I’ve seen cars left unat- “He is enduring all things, and all the time more “Finally after years of trying to get him to come back tended with the trunk open and piles of cash inside. No people are coming to faith,” his friend said. “He is torn to Islam, I was at the lowest point in my life. I decided one would dare bother it,” a friend of James said. between two things — his release, and the work God to divorce him, even if it meant I had to leave the kids,” In his country, they take care of each other. is doing there through him. His family is very anxious she said. But share Christ openly, and they may torture you. for him to be out of prison, but he is telling them to be Then she learned she was pregnant. She headed “James has been blindfolded, handcuffed and held patient, because God is doing great things.” straight to a clinic to have an abortion — she didn’t in solitary confinement,” his friend said. “During the Recently his wife, Ashti*, and Yasemin got to visit want to have the baby of an infidel. day, he was confined to a room where there were three him in prison. Tears ran down their faces. “But the doctor said I was too far along to abort, so compressor units blowing hot air on him, and he was “He put his hands on our heads and said, ‘Why are I decided I would have the baby, but that was it,” Ashti not given any water or food.” you sad? God has a purpose for me here and He is not said. Officials interrogated him, asking why he left his finished with it yet,’” Ashti said. She packed her bags and left to live with family until former religion. He prayed for comfort for them then told them he she had the baby. He didn’t see her again until he got “I am on this Way because of Jesus and what He has had a job for them to do. a call while she was in labor. It wasn’t to let him know done for me,” James said. “He said a man had come to believe in Jesus and she’d have the baby — it was to let him know she’d At the beginning of his imprisonment, he was put in wanted his wife to know. He asked James to get us to go decided to come home. During labor, she met Jesus. “All a very small jail cell at night, his hands released just long and share with his wife,” Ashti said. I could see was light,” she said. enough for him to eat a small piece of bread and drink With nerves on edge, Ashti and Yasemin loaded up And now all her children have met Jesus too, which one liter of water. the car and went straight to her house from the prison. has helped greatly with understanding why their father But James didn’t sleep — he stayed awake praying “I didn’t know what we were going to do, how we is in prison. and singing praises, just as he did in the hot room dur- were going to tell her or how we would be received,” But they still struggle with his absence. ing the daytime. Ashti said. “But when we got there, she said, ‘I want “As the trial with James has continued, remaining up- He’s lost nearly 50 pounds since being imprisoned. very much to hear what you have come to tell me — beat has grown increasingly harder,” James’ friend said. But he’s seen a lot of people found — many of them there is light all around you, and I want to know why.’” “His family struggled greatly with sadness and frustra- from places where James could never get access to go Ashti knows the difference Light can make. tion. That being said, however, the Father has been and share. One of them had heard part of the gospel She herself came to faith when she encountered Light working powerfully to strengthen their faith through it message nine years ago, and when he met James in during childbirth, seven years after James had first be- all.” prison, he heard the whole message and believed on the lieved in Christ. And the Father has made such an impact on James’ spot. He was a devout Muslim — even to the point of plan- fellow prisoners that many of them, after their release, “This man had been waiting for nine years to hear the ning terrorism — before someone gave him a copy of the have traveled great distances to let James’ family know rest of the gospel, just wanting to meet someone who Gospel of John. In the middle of the night he felt some- he’s safe, his friend said. “His wife and kids are encour- could tell him. He knew immediately it was God’s plan one call his name, shake him and tell him to go read. aged by the reports from the former inmates, but they to send him to prison,” James’ friend said. “He danced He lit a lamp, got the book from the shelf and started are also dearly missing their dad and spouse.” for joy.” reading while his family slept. The words jumped off the But they know that God put him in jail with those And the guards came and began to beat him. page at him. By the following year, he was a wholeheart- men so that their families could also know the truth, his “He cried out for Jesus to rescue him, and he stood ed follower of Jesus Christ. friend said. “Keep James lifted up so that the spirit of firm,” James’ friend said. “He’s still standing firm with “I had been so angry with him for becoming a be- love pours from him into their lives and his light burns James in prison today.” liever. I tried and tried to get him to return to Islam. I ever brighter every day.” James is seeing more people come to faith in Jesus got my mat out and prayed with the kids in front of him *Names have been changed. Christ during this seven-month imprisonment than in on purpose,” she said. (EDITOR’S NOTE: Ava Thomas is a writer/editor for the the rest of his 20 years as a believer, his friend said. He didn’t change his mind, or his heart. International Mission Board based in Europe.)

UNC Continued from page 1 beliefs (e.g., religious or political beliefs) The committee’s recommendation ment. But the court did not rule on have been forced to allow anyone, regard- may limit membership and participation does not represent a change to the cur- whether such a policy could still be legal less of their beliefs about abortion, to be in the organization to students who, rent policy but clarifies what it means in if it included exceptions for some groups a member. upon individual inquiry, affirm that they practical application, Sauls said. but not others. Two weeks after the ADF filed suit on support the organization’s goals and The committee members agreed they Jeremy Tedesco, an attorney with the group’s behalf, the school relented agree with its beliefs.” wanted the UNC campus to remain inclu- the Alliance Defense Fund (ADF), said and granted the exemption. The school adopted the policy in sive and open, with administrators taking he wished more schools would adopt Although the Chapel Hill policy response to a directive issued by a federal a content-neutral and least intrusive UNC’s position and do everything they review committee has finished its work, court in 2005, and administrators de- approach into the individual affairs of can to allow religious groups to exercise it has not submitted its final report to cided to review it after Christian singing student organizations, Sauls said. their beliefs on campus. school administrators. Sauls expects to group Psalm 100 asked one of its mem- In reviewing UNC’s options, the com- “Anywhere they see any restrictive hand over the final recommendations by bers to leave because his views on homo- mittee evaluated about six different types anything they want to strike that out,” mid June. sexuality no longer matched the group’s of policies for official student organiza- he said of schools that have become less Administrators are not bound to ac- stated beliefs. Administrators cleared tions. tolerant of religious groups. cept the group’s recommendation, but Psalm 100 of any wrongdoing, but Sauls Several schools-most notably Vander- “But that is an absolutely neces- Sauls is confident they will take the sug- said committee members want to make it bilt University, in Nashville, Tenn.-adopt- sary component of the exercise of free gestions seriously. easier in future cases to establish whether ed “all-comers” policies in response to a speech.” “The path we chose was a good one,” any discrimination has taken place. 2010 U.S. Supreme Court ruling in CLS v. Tedesco recently won a dispute with he said. “We recognize there needs to be Martinez. the University of North Carolina at “We really studied the issue, includ- an opportunity for groups to coalesce The court ruled that such a policy, Greensboro over its refusal to recognize ing case law and best practices. I think around commonly held beliefs,” he said. which requires all groups to be open to a pro-life group under the nondiscrimi- we began to have an appreciation that “But we need greater clarification about all students for membership and leader- nation policy’s belief-based exemption. there’s a lot more to this than what policy what those beliefs are.” ship, did not violate the First Amend- Without the exemption, the group would you want to have.” 12 Opinion JUNE 9, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists

Use boundaries to deter sin Graduates Continued from page 5 Baptist Press • If married I will not have a meal alone with the opposite sex, other than a spouse or a family member. Master of Divinity with Christian Apologetics – pastor I know well had hidden marital infidel- • If married I will not be alone in an automobile Joel Ted Bradsher, Roxboro; and Jason Mathis, Durham ity for years, but it recently came to light. The with the opposite sex, other than my spouse or a family Master of Divinity with Christian Education – A truth about this is continuing to emerge, but member. Douglas Christopher Price, Raleigh enough of it’s already out there to make me • I will not view pornography. Master of Divinity with Christian Ministry – grit my teeth when I think about it. • I will be careful in answering cards, let- Robin C. Bass, Waxhaw; Larry Chad Bryant, Youngsville; The reason for my strong response is I ters or emails from the opposite sex. Jonathan David Combs, Wilson; James Robert Connelly know what a pastor’s sexual misconduct Today, the way we correspond with people Jr., Wake Forest; Grant Robert Giesler, Concord; Karhl does to a church. My last two pastorates were provides new pitfalls. Texting and Facebook Franklin Grubb, Jacksonville; David Wesley Johnson, at churches that had lost pastors to marital are great tools, but can be dangerous weapons unfaithfulness. At my last church, there were against believers. Technology has given us Thomasville; John Pabon, Fayetteville; Curtis Pixler, members even after 15 years who still had a unprecedented access to anonymity, secrecy Ahoskie; John Marks Sanders, Henderson; and Edward hard time trusting me because of what another and inappropriate content, and its abuse is Franklin Thomas Jr., Cameron pastor had done. bringing down church leaders every week. Master of Divinity with International Church Wounds heal, but scars often last a lifetime. While the pain of these recent events is still Planting – Christopher Matthew Watkins, Winston- KEVIN EZELL God forgives, but a church never forgets when fresh in my mind, I want to encourage fellow Salem Guest Column its shepherd strays. What it does to the body pastors to establish similar guidelines that Master of Divinity with Missiology – Jason Kyle of Christ and to communities who watch from will protect you and your church from the Day, Durham the outside is incalculable. ravages of inappropriate conduct. Master of Divinity with Pastoral Ministry – Aime Heartbreaking incidents like this remind me of why If we’re going to lead healthy Southern Baptist K. Kidimbu, Raleigh; Gregory Earl Lamb, Sanford; boundaries are so critical. When pastors dabble in gray churches, plant healthy new ones and raise up the next areas of how we treat the opposite gender, we’re already generation of church leaders, we’ve got to give them a Micah Lee Lansing, Monroe; Bryant E. Riddick, Fayette- asking to lose the battle. Is it a sin for a married person church they can be proud to help build. ville; and Robert Lee Sledge, Garner to individually visit or lunch alone with someone of the (EDITOR’S NOTE – Kevin Ezell is president of the Southern Master of Divinity with Student Ministry – Eugene opposite sex other than their spouse? This is kind of like Baptist Convention’s North American Mission Board. This article Cha, Charlotte asking whether it’s safe to strike a match at a gas pump. first appeared on NAMB’s “Whatever It Takes” blog.) Master of Theology – Christopher Todd Bishop, Maybe it’s not a sin, but it’s certainly dumb. Manteo; Spencer Brockman Brown, Winston-Salem; Lynette and I have agreed never to do anything in Submissions for Tar Ronald Bradley Harrison, Mebane; Jason Thomas Wilk- relation to the opposite sex that could be called into erson, Elon question, even if motives are pure. And I have asked Heel Voices (letters Doctor of Ministry – Roger Gray Russell Jr., Wilson; North American Mission Board’s missionaries and staff to the editor) Michael Allen Schwalm, Jacksonville; and Scott Michael to follow the same commonsense guidelines. Shoffner, Hickory If you haven’t adopted similar guidelines personally Please send no more than 300 words, along or church-wide, here are some you should consider: with contact information, to [email protected] or Doctor of Education – Kay Ellis Kendall Gelo, Rocky • I will pray for the integrity of other leaders and Biblical Recorder, P.O. Box 1185, Cary, NC 27512- Mount staff members. 1185. Letters can be anonymous but only with Doctor of Philosophy – Alfonza Waldo Fullwood, • I will maintain financial integrity. approval by the editor. Raleigh; and Alexander Ellis Stewart Sr., Henderson • I will not show affection that could be questioned. Each submission will be subject to style, length Southern Baptist Theological Seminary • When counseling members of the opposite sex, I and clarity adjustments. Master of Divinity – Chad Ashby and Brett Barkley will be sure another person is present. Only one letter from the same writer will be Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary • Other than my spouse or another family member, I published in a 90-day period. Master of Divinity – John Bandy, Raleigh will not be at a residence alone with the opposite sex. A father’s greatest desire eing a father is truly one of the celebrate Father’s Day, I hope that we us (Hebrews 12:4-11) to help us grow in the example of your Heavenly Father and greatest joys of my life. When I will take some time to reflect on the spiritual holiness. living out His characteristics before your Bbecame a father I knew I had a goodness of our Heavenly Father. We cannot even begin to fathom the children? responsibility to teach my son about God The Bible gives us so many wonder- depths of God’s immeasurable love for As fathers, our greatest desire should and the gospel. Both Gloria and I wanted ful names for our God, but us. He wants us to know Him be for our children to know their Heav- him to treasure the truths of God’s Word one that has always been very intimately as our Father. This enly Father. In Psalm 145:4, we learn that and to know and love God. I can still meaningful to me is Father. Heavenly Father made the “one generation shall praise thy works remember some of the prayers I prayed The Bible teaches us many greatest sacrifice possible in to another, and shall declare thy mighty for him more than 37 years ago, and I truths about our Heavenly order to demonstrate His love acts.” continue to recognize God’s faithfulness Father. for sinners – He gave His only It is our joy to lead our children to in answering those prayers. We know that our Father son. Christ, and it is our responsibility to Our son is now grown with two sons loves us unconditionally (Ro- For those who trust in Jesus disciple them, so that they can teach their of his own (and you should know that mans 8:38-39) and cares for us Christ for forgiveness of sin, children and their grandchildren, biblical I always enjoy sharing pictures of my (Matthew 11:28-29). God calls His children. Because truth. Remember, even the local church we demonstrated that act of grandsons). We know that our Father MILTON A. cannot take the place of discipleship in Raising our son was one of the great- listens to us (Psalm 5:3) and HOLLIFIELD JR. faith, God has adopted us into the home. This should be a father’s greatest reminders to me of how much our understands our pain (Hebrews BSC executive His family and made us fellow est desire as a parent. Heavenly Father loves His children and 4:15). director-treasurer heirs of His Kingdom. “For ye have not received the spirit of bond- how much I need my Heavenly Father’s The Bible tells us that our As a father, I still have much age again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit strength, guidance and grace every day. Father gives us good gifts (James 1:17; to learn from my Heavenly Father. As a of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.” As the day draws near when we will Matthew 7:11), and He also disciplines father or father figure, are you following Romans 8:15 JUNE 9, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptist Opinion 13 Reformation or Revolution? merica is in trouble. Dramatic A North Carolina pastor is doing just dred years ago, Christianity was the basis believe a prime opportunity is staring us signs of moral decline dominate that. Rit Varriale is the pastor of Eliza- for American cultural values. Now many in the face. A the headlines daily. Jobs are beth Baptist Church in Shelby. In March of our leaders and entertainers push The 126 days from July 4 through Nov. scarce and money is tight. Government he published a book and launched a Christian values into the closet while vig- 6 afford us a window of time to address oversight and red tape is oppressive. The companion website which has the poten- orously promoting the Lesbian, Gay, Bi- the spiritual needs of the United States of emotional climate of the nation is one tial to revolutionize the way Christians sexual and Transgender (LGBT) agenda. America in an unprecedented way. of fear and anger. The politi- approach the cultural wars we ... How did we change so quickly?” I hope pastors will use this time to cal mood is more heated than are battling. The book paints a picture of what speak clearly and biblically on the issues I recall in my lifetime. Church The book challenges us to Varriale calls “The that are destroy- membership and attendance rethink our worldview. We may perfect philosophical “I hope pastors will use ing our churches, are in decline. The nation our be more secular than biblical in storm.” this time to speak clearly our nation and our parents and grandparents knew the way we think. If the practi- Offering a course world. no longer exists. cal content of Varrialle’s book of correction, he and biblically on the is- I strongly encour- There was a time when is applied to our worldview, we shows us how we age you to order Christianity was assumed to be could see a spiritual reforma- must address the issues that are destroying multiple copies of the spiritual and cultural back- tion. sue of individualism our churches, our nation the book and use it bone of our nation. Now Chris- K. ALLAN BLUME Reformation in Responsibility: A and take responsibil- in small groups. If tians are considered by many Editor New Ethic for a New Era is a collec- ity. and our world.” we don’t see a refor- to be enemies of America’s tion of 20 short essays, divided He says, “To find mation in our lives, progress. A few years ago the Huffington into four major themes. that new direction, we have to be humble we might be seeing a Post published an article labeling Chris- The book is an easy read, but you’ll enough to admit that we have failed to revolution in the streets. tians as domestic terrorists. Tolerance likely find yourself stopping to think fulfill our responsibilities to our families, Varriale says it this way, “Make no is the new religion, liberally applied to hard about the material. our society, our environment and our mistake about it, irresponsible indi- everyone except followers of Christ. The It actually addresses the issues from a God. ... Change will only come through vidualism is a societal cancer, and it will religious tone of America is eclectic and biblical worldview in a thought provok- the actions of the people.” destroy our country if the majority does confusing. ing manner. Pastors and church leaders need to not stand against it.” So rather than talking about how bad The first essay begins, “Clearly a ma- know about this book and read it care- (EDITOR’S NOTE – Visit RinR.org to things are, when are we going to take jority of Americans are frustrated about fully. It is a powerful resource for your order copies of the book. It is downloadable for responsibility for our problems and do the direction our nation is going. Our congregation, especially for the next few Kindle or Nook. Also, see page 4 for an inter- something? frustration is understandable. ... A hun- critical months of our nation’s history. I view with Varriale.)

CHURCH NEWS

Instrumentalists perform for Nascar fans Instrumentalists from North and South Carolina gathered in Charlotte April 20-21 for training and a mission project. Sponsored by the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina, South Carolina Baptist Association and Metrolina Baptist Association, the performers rehearsed together Friday and Saturday at University Hills Baptist Church before heading to the NASCAR Hall of Fame to perform outdoors for passersby. At right, instrumentalists perform for NASCAR fans in Charlotte. Bob Lowman, director of missions for Metrolina Baptist Association, was one of the crew sharing the gospel with people who stopped to listen to the concert. The effort was inspired by the BSC’s Find It Here missions emphasis. Camp Kirkland, left, known for leading international orchestra mission trips, was the conductor for the weekend. Foot traffic was supposed to be higher because of the annual car show at the Charlotte Motor Speedway. (BSC photos by Kenny Lamm)

K. Allan Blume, Editor/President Board of Directors Publication [email protected] Gerald Hodges, chair; Richard Hicks, vice chair; Published biweekly on Saturdays by Shawn Hendricks, Managing Editor Robert Hefner, secretary; Jo Andrews; Paul Arnold; Kevin Biblical Recorder Inc., 205 Conven- [email protected] Atchley; J.C. Bradley; Tony Brewington; Stephen Burrow; tion Drive, Cary, NC 27511, as autho- (ISSN 0279-8182) Chris Byrne; Nathan Finn; Dennis Harrell; Cindi Stevens; rized by the Baptist State Convention Dianna L. Cagle, Asst. Managing Editor Dennis Thurman; Don Warren; and Peggy Bass Weiss News Journal of the Baptist State Convention [email protected] in annual session at Winston-Salem, of North Carolina Subscriptions November 21–23, 1939. Alison McKinney Daphne Woodall Founded 1833 by Thomas Meredith • Individual subscriptions, $15.99 Business and Circulation Manager • Clubs, $13.79 Periodicals postage paid at Raleigh, Advertising Manager (919) 459-5693 • Every Home Plan, $12.49 NC 27676. Volume 178 No. 12 (919) 459-5691 [email protected] • Church News Service, $11.50 (919) 847-2127 Postmaster [email protected] • Bulk (10+) $11.50 Send address changes to Biblical Fax (919) 847-6939 • single copies, .60 cents each Carly Conley Laura Moore Payable in advance. North Carolina sales tax is included. Recorder Inc., P.O. Box 1185, Cary, now.org Graphic Designer Editorial Aide NC 27512-1185. 14 Sunday School JUNE 9, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists

June 17 BIBLE STUDIES FOR LIFE June 24 How Do You Treat God? What Is Your Decision? Focal Passages: Malachi 2:7-3:12 instead of wrath. Yet God’s love is not a Focal Passages: Malachi 3:13-4:6 girl might be wearing a new shirt declar- license for sin. The people of God must ing a new owner. Before we knew Christ, hen an enjoyable task show through repentance that they be- hat’s in it for me?” we had a tendency to sell ourselves to the becomes wearisome, we’re long to Him. Israel asked that ques- world’s highest or most influential bid- W probably not doing it cor- Israel showed its lack of repentance “W tion in Malachi’s day, der. When God saved us, our title was rectly. I’ve always struggled to have good by robbing God. Cheating on and many Christians today transferred for the last time. We belong form as a swimmer. Consequently, I’ve your income taxes is easier are tempted to do likewise. to God through the saving work of Jesus. never enjoyed swimming very much be- to conceal than walking out Programs and dreams of pros- We know this not because of a shirt, cause for me it’s work and not relaxation. of the grocery store with a perity can cause us to think bumper sticker, or crossed fingers, but While serving the Lord doesn’t always stolen ham, but it is still theft. that the Christian life is about because of the fruits of new life in Christ. give us comfort or relaxation, it should Christians can attempt to How God and His church can For Israel in Malachi’s day, true believers’ always bring joy to our hearts. If we sink cover their spiritual robbery serve us. Like John the Baptist lives were marked by spiritual discern- into “Gloom, Despair, and Agony, O Me” by saying, “I gave an offering,” (John 3:30), we must make ment and preparation for judgment. They as our Christian theme song, we’ve obvi- when they actually gave God it our desire to give Jesus a rejected wickedness and anticipated ously lost the joy of serving the Lord. Just the unwanted leftovers. We higher place in our lives as God’s reward of His faithful followers. as a flawed piece of glass gives a distorted can rob God through a variety we become less. When we Believers hear the Shepherd’s voice and view, a sinful life will be marked by a of means, including keep- do so, the question becomes, follow Him (John 10:27). Although we warped view of the high calling of serving money, time, or gifts that TROY RUST “What’s in it for Him?” By live in a time that prizes the bigger, better ing Christ. If we take up this attitude we should be used for His glory. Senior pastor, seeking God’s glory our spiri- thing, God continually calls us back to Somerset Baptist Church, must pray with David, “Restore to me the When we meditate on tual priorities are properly the timeless truths of His Word. Mala- Roxboro joy of Your salvation” (Psalm 51:12a). Paul’s plea to present our bod- aligned and we discover that chi’s contemporaries were directed back Malachi declared that God, as a ies as living sacrifices (Romans His glory blesses us beyond to the ancient law of Moses, and told that result of His mercy, would not destroy 12:1), we realize that God owns all we any paltry thing we would seek on our God would once again send Elijah to call His people but would refine them and possess. own. He saved us to glorify Him! God’s people to repentance and restore cleanse them so that they would once Consequently, as Randy Alcorn says, The Bible reminds us as Christians that their broken relationships. John the Bap- again bring glory to Him. Revival would the tithe is the floor, not the ceiling. Any we are God’s own possession (1 Peter tist would come in the spirit and power come via repentance. time we cling to possessions we forget 2:9). As a child of the 80s, I saw certain of Elijah (Matthew 17:10-13), calling God’s As a loving parent, God loves His that the church should be characterized teen girls wearing airbrushed t-shirts people to repentance and rolling out the children even in their disobedience and by self-denial and a willingness to give up with slogans like, “Property of Billy.” red carpet for the Lamb of God Who blesses them with undeserved mercy everything to serve Christ. Amazingly, a few weeks later the same would provide redemption from sin. June 17 EXPLORE THE BIBLE June 24 The Accountability Dare The Loyalty Dare Focal Passages: Joshua 7:1-12:24 us as having a genetic defect – we have a Focal Passages: Joshua 13:1-22:34 earthly master than we do to our precious sin nature given to us by our parents. We Lord and Savior. ou see on a lot of commercial are born with this malignant growth that uring the mid-20th century one True loyalty is not a short-term ar- vehicles a sign that reads, resists anything done to it. The only solu- of the most well-know logos rangement. True loyalty doesn’t hinge Y “How’s my driving?” and tion is to take it seriously and seek the Dwas the one used by RCA Victor upon whether we like what we hear. It is includes a phone number. This is sup- only true course of treatment that will Recordings. It was a picture by an Eng- consistent at all times. posed to keep the driver accountable. I eventually eradicate it. lish artist Francis Barraud of a Today, people base loyalty on what is was reading that in Ireland they have a A person can deny that they dog listening to a recording of convenient for them. If they are happy, number of roundabouts instead of traffic have a malignant growth, how- his owner’s voice. The dog’s content, and having all their needs met – lights. People are very courteous and let ever denial will not change the master had died, and every then they will be loyal. others in. That is, except for one group course of the disease. time they played a record of We all know people, who, when things they call the “white van men.” They drive Denying our sin nature will his master’s voice, the dog are not going the way they like at church unmarked white company vans, and they not change the results of our would go and sit in front of just go down the road to the next one. don’t care what havoc they may cause. destination. It is only when a the gramophone and listen. Soon, things don’t go their way at that Because without a company name or person accepts the diagnosis This is a picture of what one either. logo, they are anonymous. If God were and course of treatment that true life-long loyalty is like. Sadly we can share stories of people to place a sign on your back that asked, change can come about. It didn’t matter that the dog who have been committed servants of “How am I living?” what would people Only when we accept God’s THOMAS MARSHALL couldn’t see his master’s face; Christ after many years of service just say about you? diagnosis can we go to the Pastor, New Hope as long as he heard the voice gave up and quit. Most of the time it is Our culture today (and sadly to say, Great Physician and find the Baptist Church, he would sit and listen. This over trivial issues. Laurinburg even the church) has lost a sense of what final cure. is a vivid and challenging pic- Caleb in our lesson today was prom- sin is. The world is constantly seeking The cure of our disease is ture for those of us who claim ised by Moses an inheritance in the to relabel what the Bible calls sin as an very costly. And there is only one phy- Jesus Christ as our Master. Promised Land. illness of genetic defect. Why? Because if sician capable of providing the cure. God has given us a recording of His He held on to that promise through- the person is “diseased” or has a genetic We must accept the responsibility and voice in the Bible. When we open it’s out the 40 years of wandering. He never defect, then what they do is not their become accountable to God – and His pages we get to hear His wonderful voice lost faith in God, and even after all those fault. They can’t be held accountable for remedy. We are held accountable for the speaking directly to us. years, he stayed loyal to God. Today, find it, can they? choice we make. Accept the cure, or pay Yet it seems that the dog mentioned a senior saint who has stayed loyal and Actually, in a sense the Bible pictures the consequences. above had more sense and loyalty to it’s thank them. JUNE 9, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 15 ERLC trustees reprimand Richard Land, halt radio program

By ART TOALSTON | Baptist Press minating Land’s weekly call-in radio show – the venue the intrusion of politics into the Trayvon Martin case where Land made comments about the Trayvon Martin and his references to President Obama and the Revs. Al wo reprimands have been issued to Richard killing that ignited intense controversy, prompting the Sharpton and Jesse Jackson by name. Land by the trustee executive committee of formation of a trustee ad hoc investigative committee. The ERLC Executive Committee gave a report to its T the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission The ERLC, led by Land since 1998, must “redouble trustees June 1. (ERLC). our efforts … to heal re-opened wounds,” the execu- (EDITOR’S NOTE – The full story can be found at BRnow.org The ERLC trustee executive committee also is ter- tive committee said of Land’s on-air comments about or at BPnews.net. Art Toalston is editor of Baptist Press.) CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

Association First Baptist Church of Carthage is seeking a Full-time Minister of Music and Education MINISTER OF MUSIC. West Main Baptist The Robeson Baptist Association is seeking pastor. Jesus Christ is the Head of our church (with emphasis on children) for Rocky Hock Church in Danville, Virginia, is seeking a resumes for the position of Director and guides us through the Holy Spirit’s Baptist Church, Edenton, NC. Seeking full-time minister of music to plan, direct of Missions. The association consists presence. We honor Baptist traditions of college graduate with music leadership and coordinate church music and worship of 69 churches with varying needs and church autonomy, baptism by immersion, training. If interested, see job description at for all ages, to include various music groups, opportunities. There are at least two and the authority of scripture. We are active rockyhockbaptistchurch.org. styles and the fine arts. West Main is a international people groups that need in missions. We affirm women in ministry. growing congregation of over 500 members. the association’s assistance. The person Submit resume to: Pastor Search Committee, Galeed Baptist Church, Bladenboro, We are a moderate, financially stable church chosen for this position should be a mission P.O. Box 824, Carthage, NC 28327. NC, seeks Music/Youth Minister. that is highly committed to missions. We strategist with a heart for people and a Responsibilities include music program, worship in a creative traditional framework. passion for evangelism and discipleship. Lake Lynn Baptist Church, a growing leading choir/congregation in worship, We do not use screens or praise bands, but Resumes may be mailed to DOM Search conservative SBC church located in seasonal music for special events, weekly desire quality, live music that embraces Committee, 2110 E Seventh St., Lumberton, Fayetteville, NC, is seeking a full-time adult choir rehearsal, communicate music many genres. Our minister of music will NC 28358. The deadline for receiving pastor. In the past year, the church has selection with pastor, utilize and cultivate be a person of active faith with a servant resumes is July 1, 2012. grown in membership and is seeking a pastor existing church talent, work with lay leaders spirit, called to congregational ministry, to carry it to the next level. We have three in other music programs and develop music and will be expected to share in pastoral Cullom Baptist Association Warrenton, part-time leaders to include an associate programs that utilize facilities for plays, care to the congregation. Choral direction NC, seeks Director of Missions. Must be pastor, children’s minister, and worship dinner theaters, etc. Youth responsibilities experience and keyboard (organ and piano) dedicated to serving God, passionate for arts director. We are seeking a pastor who include developing a working relationship skills are highly preferred. Send resumes to God’s people and committed to growth. is pursuing, or holds, a master’s degree with lay people to help plan events for 450 West Main Street, Danville, VA 24541 or Association consists of 37 churches. Send in divinity from an accredited seminary youth grades 7-12 and be solely responsible [email protected]. Website: www. resumes: Cullom Baptist Association, PO Box or school of divinity. Please send resume for weekly youth devotion. Duties also westmainbaptist.org. 384, Warrenton, NC 27589 or cullombaptist@ electronically to Lakelynnbaptistchurch@ include organizing youth summer mission embarqmail.com. Deadline July 1, 2012. embarqmail.com. Resume must be received by trips, socials and outreach programs with Winfree Memorial Baptist Church is June 30, 2012. assistance from existing youth leaders. a healthy, growing congregation in Pastor Strong organizational and leadership skills Midlothian, VA, a Richmond suburb. We are Calvary Baptist Church, Shallotte, NC, is Trinity Baptist Church, an SBC church in a must. Candidate should have a BS degree looking for our first full-time Minister for seeking a full-time pastor that is God called Trinity, NC, is seeking a full-time pastor. in music or youth ministry or an equivalent Preschool and Children who will partner and spirit filled for a congregation of 200+ Seminary degree and reference required. combination of education and experience. with volunteers and parents to expand members. Looking for an enthusiastic and Send resumes to [email protected] or Trinity Send resume to Craig Lennon, PO Box 1025, this ministry. Winfree associates with the inspiring leader that can relate to all age Baptist Church, PO Box 9, Trinity, NC 27370 Bladenboro, NC 28320 or cldl@embarqmail. BGAV and CBF. Please send a resume to groups. Requirements include a seminary by July 1, 2012. com. [email protected]. degree and a 5 year minimum of pastoral experience. Please send resume with picture Church Staff Full-time Minister of Music and Music Miscellaneous to Calvary Baptist Church, c/o Brunswick Lillington Baptist Church is seeking a Youth Education for Poplar Springs Baptist Church. DO YOU NEED A CHURCH PIANIST? Baptist Association, PO Box 80, Supply, NC Minister to oversee the youth ministry for Seeking college graduate with music degree Try our piano CDs for churches to sing by! 28462 by July 20, 2012. grades 7-12. The position is 20 to 25 hours and three years experience as minister of Hymns, Patriotic, Gospel, Choruses, etc. – per week depending on demands of job. Job music. If interested send detailed resume Worship Service Resources 1-877-977-6800. Bethlehem Baptist Church is seeking a full- description is posted at www.lillingtonbaptist. by June 30 to MM Search Committee, 3014 FREE DEMO! Special Church Pricing! www. time, Southern Baptist Convention ordained com. Resumes mailed to LBC, PO Box 670, Poplar Circle, Shelby, NC 28152. wsrpianocds.com. pastor. The pastor will preferably have Lillington NC 27546. six or more years of ministry experience Part-time Music Minister needed. Zoar For Sale: 32 - 16ft solid oak pews, very good in a pastoral position. He will ideally have Church Minister of Music. Traditional Baptist Church is seeking a part-time music condition. Can be cut down to your size. some seminary training from an accredited choir/praise and worship leader; bachelor’s minister, traditional or contemporary. Send Lewis Fork Baptist Church, Purlear, NC. Southern Baptist seminary. He must also degree preferred with a minor in music. resume to [email protected], or mail to Zoar 336-838-2481. adhere to the doctrinal statement of The Email resume to glenwoodbaptistchurch@yahoo. Baptist Church, Attn: Search Committee, Baptist Faith and Message as adopted by com or mail to Glenwood Baptist Church, PO 1740 S. Lafayette St., Shelby, NC 28152. Discounted rates for private-owned resorts the SBC in 2000. Visit our church at www. Box 218, Glenwood, NC 28737. at Myrtle Beach OR Pigeon Forge for summer bethlehemonline.net. Please mail resume and and fall of 2012. Respond to: oasisattheocean@ media, if available, to Bethlehem Baptist hotmail.com. Church, Attention: Pastor Search Committee, Placing a classified ad in the 100 Half Moon Church Rd., Jacksonville, Biblical Recorder NCBAM needs grab bars and other fall- NC 28546. Questions may be e-mailed to Choose one of three avenues: prevention devices funded and installed [email protected]. Resumes will • Send e-mail to: [email protected] across the state. Keep aging adults on their be accepted May 15-June 30, 2012. • Submit the information via the Recorder’s website at BRnow.org feet and in their homes. Call North Carolina • Send a Fax to (919) 847-6939 Baptist Aging Ministry: 877-506-2226. ELASTICOAT Church Exteriors & More ... For more information, call the office at (919) 459-5691. “Never Paint Again” Coatings, Lead Paint Certified Cost for Baptist churches and organizations is $1.20 per word, number NCBAM needs window and free-standing fans for aging adults suffering in summer’s Exterior/Interior Painting, Steeple Coatings and stand-alone initial ($1.42 for commercial and non-Baptist entities) with Trusted by Carolina churches heat. We can help you bring them blessed a minimum charge of $35. Classifieds that run in the paper also are carried Excellent references relief. Call North Carolina Baptist Aging 704-553-2633 • www.thelastcoat.com online. Ministry: 877-506-2226. 16 JUNE 9, 2012 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Statement on Calvinism draws approval, criticism

By MICHAEL FOUST | Baptist Press Bobby Welch). The document was titled, Each of the 10 articles includes a state- especially a matter as important as the “A Statement of the Traditional Southern ment of what the signers affirm and what doctrine of salvation, I would prefer that group of current and former Baptist Understanding of God’s Plan of they deny. any collective document to which I affix Southern Baptist leaders has Salvation.” Eric Hankins, pastor of First Baptist my signature be a consensus statement, A signed a statement affirming “For the most part, Southern Baptists Church in Oxford, Miss., wrote an in- developed jointly with those of various what they call the “traditional Southern have been glad to relegate disagreements troduction to the statement at SBCToday. soteriological persuasions, that expresses Baptist” understanding of the doctrine over Calvinism to secondary status along com. He is a signer of the statement. “Its our core commitments to those matters of salvation, with the goal of drawing with other important but ‘non-essential’ purpose is to engender a much needed we hold in common. The Baptist Faith & a distinction with the beliefs of “New theological matters,” the document reads Convention-wide discussion about the Message is such a document.” Calvinism.” in the preamble. “The Southern Baptist place of Calvinism in Southern Baptist At the same time, Page also said he The statement was posted May 31 at majority has fellowshipped happily with life,” he wrote. believes the convention needs a “consen- SBCToday.com and includes a preamble its Calvinist brethren while kindly resist- Frank Page, president of the Southern sus accord,” and he will announce at the and 10 articles, along with signatures ing Calvinism itself ... but some New Cal- Baptist Convention’s Executive Commit- SBC annual meeting [this month] plans from two entity presidents (South- vinists seem to be pushing for a radical tee, said he chose not to sign the state- for putting one together.” western Baptist Theological Seminary’s alteration of this long-standing arrange- ment. “Southern Baptists have always The “Traditional Southern Baptist” Paige Patterson and New Orleans Baptist ment.” The document further asserts “ found a way to work together, within document was widely discussed on Theological Seminary’s Chuck Kelley), [the]vast majority of Southern Baptists the framework of historical Christian Baptist-centric blogs in the hours after it five state executive directors (Georgia’s are not Calvinists and that they do not faith and Baptist doctrine, to support was released. Posts at SBCVoices.com and Bob White, Florida’s John Sullivan, Mis- want Calvinism to become the standard and promote our cooperative enterprises SBCToday.com quickly collected com- sissippi’s Jim Futral, Louisiana’s David view in Southern Baptist life.” of global missions, theological educa- ments. Hankins, Alaska’s Mike Procter), and in “We believe it is time to move beyond tion and benevolent ministries,” Page (EDITOR’S NOTE – This is an edited addition to Patterson, five other former Calvinism as a reference point for Baptist said. “While I fully affirm any group of version of the story to fit this space. The full SBC presidents (Bailey Smith, Jimmy soteriology,” the statement reads, refer- Southern Baptists to express their deeply story along with the document is available at Draper, Jerry Vines, Morris Chapman and ring to the study of salvation. held convictions about doctrinal matters, BRnow.org.)