CONSIDER THIS JOURNAL OF THE BAPTIST MISSIONARY ASSOCIATION OF MISSISSIPPI

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1 JOURNAL OF THE BAPTIST MISSIONARY ASSOCIATION OF MISSISSIPPI MARCH 15, VOL. 67 NO. 6 Department Workers To Hold Information Meeting National Directors To Share Information in Laurel on March 27 by Don Brown, editor A meeting with the directors of three of our national departments and Public Relations Director David Watkins is set for First Baptist Church of Shady Grove, Laurel on Wednesday, March 27. The meeting will begin at 10:00 a.m. This meeting is the result of a conversation this editor had with Dr. John David Smith, Executive Director of Missions for the BMA of America. Bro. Smith and I spoke concerning my editorial in the March 1, 2013, issue of the Mississippi Baptist. The editorial is available at the end of this message. I wrote the editorial after learning of a similar meeting held at Farley Street Church, Waxahacie, Texas. The directors were invited to a meeting to share information concerning the current progress and plans on integrating the work of the departments of the BMA of America. Dr. Smith, Steve Crawley (director of LifeWord), Scott Attebery (Director of DiscipleGuide), and David CONSIDER THIS God doesn't want to give you the wings of a dove to fly away He wants to give you the wings of an eagle to soar over your problems right where you are. Watking (BMAA Public Relations Director) are scheduled to attend. We want to encourage all of our pastors and any other interested individuals to attend this meeting. The directors are interested in sharing and answering questions concerning this process. It is hoped that this meeting will help us to better understand the future of our associated work. NOTE: Information released by the Department Directors on their vision for the future is included in this issue. Joint Recommendations Regarding Integration Involving National Departments From the Missionary Advisory Committee and the Lifeword Board of Directors Department Directors Share Information by Don Brown, editor from March 1, 2013 issue of Mississippi Baptist BMA of America Department Directors met with Texas pastors on Thursday, February 28, at Farley Street Baptist Church in Waxahachie, Texas. Directors John David Smith, Steve Crawley and Scott Attebery joined BMAA Public Relations Director David Watkins for a round table discussion concerning current integration efforts and future plans for the association. This writer applauds this effort. Our directors (Smith and Crawley) have been talking about "integration" for a couple of years. Many still do not understand exactly how this new organization of the departments will work. The benefits of working together for a common goal (which of course is the purpose and goal of our Association) is understood, but this new path is foreign to a great many who are use to our traditional mode of operation. Our association has spent large amounts of money in recent years on new facilities for Missions, LifeWord and Publications. The plan is to centrally locate these departments in the LifeWord building in Conway, Arkansas. This will no doubt necessitate relocating personnel and disposing of some valuable assets. The goals of our directors are to be commended. I do not know the outcome of the meeting in Texas. I feel it should be a productive one. It seems it would be advantageous to hold similar meetings in other geographical areas to allow those interested to be a part of the discussion. Time is short. Our annual meeting is only 7 or 8 weeks away. The Missionary Advisory Committee and the Lifeword Board of Directors offer the following recommendations to the churches of the BMAA regarding the integration of the BMA Department of Missions and Lifeword Media Ministries: That each department remains distinctive and autonomous, be led by separate executive directors, and be governed by separate boards, with neither director nor board having jurisdiction over the other. That the executive directors lead the departments with a common vision and operate with a cohesive ministry plan that increases the effectiveness of both organizations. That the two departments both work from the existing Lifeword facility in Conway, Arkansas. That the Department of Missions and Lifeword Media Ministries seek professional legal counsel to arrange the most prudent structure for jointownership of the property. That the existing Lifeword facilities be modified to accommodate the integration. Specifically we recommend that we: Redesign the front architecture of the building and add approximately 4,400 square feet for additional offices and meeting rooms. Modify existing offices to maximize the use of interior space. Remove the wing on the north side of the white building on Lifeword's campus to enhance the aesthetics of the remodeled property. Redesign the parking lot and landscaping to accentuate the aesthetics of the new facility. Authorize the production team to develop a logo for the BMA of America and place it on the outside of the building. Place the logo of each department in the foyer of the facility. Share the operational costs for maintaining the facility based upon cost drivers recommended by the accounting team and approved by the respective boards. Note: If approved, donors are in place to fund the modifications and additions to the Conway site, allowing completion without the use of the continued on page 2

2 2 March 15, 2013 Mississippi Baptist S-H-A-R-P-E-N 2013 Theme: The Importance of the Word of God March 23rd, Creek Baptist Church (Laurel) 9:00 am Registration (Worship led by Justin Bynum) 10:00 am Session 1 "Know The Word" (the importance of Bible study) Brad Stephens 11:10 am Session 2 "Share the Word" (the importance of Bible teaching) 12:10 pm Lunch 1:30 pm Group Discussion 2:45 pm Session 3 "Live The Word" (the importance of Bible living) 3:30 Final Thoughts (All worship led by Justin Bynum) Larry Geraldson Kelby Johnson March 30th, Baptist Church (Fulton) 9:00 am Registration 10:00 am Session 1 "Know The Word" (the importance of Bible study) Gary O'Neal 11:10 am Session 2 "Share the Word" (the importance of Bible teaching) 12:10 pm Lunch 1:30 pm Group Discussion 2:45 pm Session 3 "Live The Word" (the importance of Bible living) Kelby Johnson Director BMA of Mississippi SUMMER CAMPS 2013 I am very excited to invite you to Junior Camp and Senior Camp for We have decided to go back to Waukaway Springs this year for both camps. Many of our churches have enjoyed this retreat center in the past. Waukaway offers a great camp environment including solid facilities, amazing food, exciting fun in the water, and helpful counselors. It is located in Vossburg, which is off I-59 between Laurel and Meridian. For more, see JUNIOR CAMP: May (Monday - Wednesday) Junior Camp is for children from grades 1 through 6. We have had younger children attend in the past and this is acceptable as long as there is a parent present. The speaker for Junior Camp 13 will be Bro. Rick Clark. Bro. Rick is the Pastor at Lone Oak Baptist Church in West Point. Bro. Kelby Johnson will be the worship leader. SENIOR CAMP: July (Monday - Wednesday) Senior Camp is for students from 7th grade to college. The speaker for Senior Camp 13 will be Bro. Dwight Lindsey. Bro. 3:30 Final Thoughts (All worship led by Dwight Lindsey) *Choose the time and location that fits your schedule! Kevin Clayton Tracy McMillen Dwight is the former BMA of Mississippi State Youth Director and currently the Interim Music Minister at Bethel Baptist Church in Fulton. Bro. Kelby Johnson will be the worship leader. THEME Our theme this summer is "What is our only hope in life and death?" We will look at various Scriptures including Romans 14:7-8 and respond to that question by saying, "That we are not our own, but belong, body and soul, both in life and death, to God and to our Savior Jesus Christ." We will focus on four truths during camp: God made us. God owns us. God saves us. God keeps us. COST The total cost for camp is $100 per person. The $100 will cover 3 days, 2 nights of camp, 5 meals, 2 days of swimming, and help offset other costs. A $50 per person Junior Camp deposit is due by April 1 and $50 per person Senior Camp deposit is due by June 1. Registration To register, contact Bro. Kelby Johnson by at kelby@gracechurchna.com, call , or visit the BMA of Mississippi Youth Facebook page for more. Please contact us as soon as possible so we can reserve adequate space. Department Integration from page 1 church's budget offerings or the use of debt. That the departments centralize the following services and that the associated costs for each function be allocated using Activity Based Costing methodology, which would ensure that each department is charged only for the applicable activities related to that organization: Accounting Human Resource Services Information Technology Production / Creative Services Development That the Executive Directors share in the leadership and day-to-day management of the centralized service teams. That the Executive Directors and the accounting team ensure that there is no co-min- CHURCH NEWS ITEMS Big Creek Association sets revival April 7-10 The Big Creek Association held an association wide revival in 2012 and it was a great success. Churches came together for joint revival services and the Lord blessed with great attendance, good Kenneth Bobo music and preaching and a closer fellowship within the association. Building on that success the churches of the Big Creek Association will again join together for a 2013 Revival. Bro. Kenneth Bobo will be the speaker with special music and a combined choir led by Bro. Bryson Haden. The theme verse for this year s meeting is found in Romas 13:12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand... The schedule of services is as follows: Sunday Evening, April 7, 6:00 pm at Big Creek Baptist Church, Soso Monday Evening, April 8, 7:00 pm at Temple Baptist Church, Laurel Tuesday Evening, April 9, 7:00 pm at Lebanon Baptist Church, Laurel Wednesday Evening, April 10, 7:00 pm at Parkview Baptist Church, Laurel Our sister churches are invited to come and join us for this time of worship. Tombigbee Asso.Report The Tombigbee Association met March 7,2013 at Greenwood Baptist Church. A gracious meal was served by the host church. We were opened in prayer by Bro. Gary Smith. Special music was brought by the men at Greenwood Church singing How Great Thou Art. A great message was brought by Bro. gling of funds between the departments and that each department continues to be audited separately on an annual basis. That the Association authorize the Missions Advisory Committee and the Executive Director of Missions to negotiate the liquidation of the Little Rock office and property at the highest possible price. That the Association endorse the name change of the Lifeword Foundation to BMAA Foundation (the name change was approved by the Lifeword Foundation board and the Rick Clark, The Gloriousness of God taken from I Chronicles 16: We had 46 messengers with 8 churches represented with 3 visitors. Missionaries Bob Burch & Bobby Elliott brought good progress reports with good attendance & offerings received. Missionary to be speaker at revival First Baptist Church, Bay Springs, Mississippi, will be holding a revival meeting April 17 21, The services Wednesday through Saturday will begin at 7:00 pm & Sunday at 11:00 am. Bro. Mike Poirier, BMAA missionary to Canada, will be bringing the messages. Please pray for the meeting, Mike Poirier then come visit with us, expecting to receive a blessing. Harmony Association Report The March meeting of the Harmony Association was held March 8 at Providence Baptist Church in Amory. The meeting opened with congregational singing and special music. The welcome was given by Pastor Scott Johnson. Bro. Johnson brought the evening message from Matthew 13: entitled Pearl of Great Price. After the evening worship the association cared for business. Eight churches were represented with 41 present. Minutes and Treasury reports were read and approved. Bro. Ricky Johnson gave a report on the upcoming camp. Next months meeting will be at Shady Grove Baptist with the church being responsible for the program. Bro. Elvis Garcia was elected as alternate speaker. Reports were given from missionaries Bro. Elvis Garcia and Bro. Bobby Elliot. The congregation of Providence Baptist are to be commended for the delicious food and fellowship prior to the meeting. Bro. Mike Smith, Moderator Tony Marolt, Reporter Lifeword board). (Note: Although the Foundation has functioned to serve only Lifeword since its inception in 1998, its purpose, as defined within its Articles of Incorporation, allows it to serve any department of the Baptist Missionary Association of America.) That the boards of directors for other BMA entities also consider future feasibility studies to determine how all departments and agencies within the association may work together to enhance the stewardship of the church's resources.

3 March 15, 2013 Mississippi Baptist 3 Southeastern Baptist College 4229 Highway 15 North Laurel, Mississippi 39440, (601) Serving Christ With a Biblical World View In A Christian Atmosphere Online Courses It comes as no surprise that online learning is common in education today. Online education is the only option available for non traditional students who have to juggle a busy schedule of work, home, and other responsibilities. One recent survey revealed that over 6 million students take courses online annually. That number is almost one third of the total number of students enrolled at degree-granting post-secondary institutions in the USA. This figure comes Joseph Harris Interim President from a survey taken by the Babson Survey research Group in 2011, so the figures may be even higher when the next survey is conducted. The number of our online course offerings has grown this year and we now offer 28 courses in three divisions of study. When recruiting, we constantly hear a valid reason for not attending SBC - time and distance. With online courses available, this obstacle has now Available Online Courses DIV. OF GENERAL AND CONTINUING EDUCATION STUDIES BU-131 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER APPLICATIONS BU-132 BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS BU-338 ECONOMICS II-MICROECONOMICS BU-434 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT EN-131 ENGLISH COMPOSITION I EN-132 ENGLISH COMPOSITION II EN-231 WORLD LITERATURE I EN-232 WORLD LITERATURE II HI-431 HISTORY OF CHRISTIANITY PY-131 INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY SO-131 INTRODUCTION TO SOCIOLOGY DIVISION OF BIBLICAL STUDIES BI-232 BIBLE MANNERS AND CUSTOMS BI-332 BIBLE GEOGRAPHY NT-131 NEW TESTAMENT SURVEY NT-437 PROPHETIC BOOK (REVELATION) MI-331 INTRODUCTION TO MISSIONS OT-131 OLD TESTAMENT SURVEY OT-435 OLD TESTAMENT POETRY OT-436 ISAIAH, JEREMIAH, AND LAMENTATIONS OT-438 THE MINOR PROPHETS TH-431 CHRISTIAN DOCTRINE I TH-432 CHRISTIAN DOCTRINE II DIV. OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES CHRISTIAN EDUCATION CE-431 METHODS OF CHRISTIAN TEACHING CM-331 HOSPITAL MINISTRIES CM-332 WORSHIP CM-431 PRINCIPLES OF COUNSELING PT-331 PASTORAL MINISTRIES been removed. We encourage busy people to take advantage of this opportunity. Now BMA people anywhere can take courses at SBC and fit it into their schedule. More online courses are constantly being added. Make plans now to enroll online for the upcoming summer semester or the Fall 2013 semester. Re-certification for Mississippi School Teachers It is now possible for any teacher in the state of Mississippi to receive re-certification through online courses from SBC. Teachers in public and private schools have to be recertified by the state of Mississippi every five years. Re-certification can be completed through certain courses at Southeastern which are approved in the supplementary endorsement area by the Mississippi Department of Education. Six hours in Bible or business can be taken, then the teacher can go to the Mississippi Department of Education web site, download their form and check Bible or Business as their supplemental endorsement area. This form can then be sent to Jackson for re-certification along with the SBC transcripts of the courses taken. As mentioned before, now is a good time for teachers to plan and take their re-certification courses online through SBC this summer. Southeastern is a four year institution accredited by the Mississippi Commission on College Accreditation, by the Association of Biblical Higher Education and approved by the US Department of Education as a Title IV school, which means students are eligible to participate in the Pell Grant program and veterans can receive VA benefits. Personal Thoughts Concerning my recent surgery, I am still recovering and have not been able to get back in the office yet. However, after Spring Break this week, I plan on returning half days, if the Lord wills it. I am still limited in mobility and travel. Thank you so much to all for prayers and concern. Master s Builders Complete 120th Project by Nelda Malone-reporter RVs began arriving at New Liberty Baptist Church, Emmet, Arkansas, on Friday, February 22. The Master's Builders were ready to start work on a new building addition which would house 4 classrooms, office, storage room, bathrooms, and also serve as an enlarged fellowship hall. They would also enlarge some existing classrooms. The parking lot was filled with 19 RVs as the work began on the 25th. Included in this number were two new couples on their first job with The Master's Builders. C.J. and LaDonna Cooper of Jonesboro, Arkansas and Marvin and Gina Leake of Hattiesburg, Mississippi. We are so thankful that the Lord has sent us these new members. We also had two members of The Nailbenders for Jesus group. John Bradford and wife Sharon of Damascus, Arkansas and John Criley and wife Dot of Chidester, Arkansas, came to help with this project. There were always 7 or 8 men from New Liberty who joined in on the work on the building and the Lord blessed with speedy work and wonderful fellowship. Several of the ladies of New Liberty were there every day helping to feed this group of men and their wives. The New Liberty workers include Pastor James Cox and wife Carol, Tommy and Barbara Peck, Bill and Glenda Watts, Richard and Lori Snell, Bro. Buddy McKamie and Margarette, Johnny and Eva Jo Shoppe, Randy Peck and Richard Cunningham. Tommy Peck provided wonderful, home cooked BBQ that we all enjoyed, which included wild hog! Thank you to all the ladies of the church for seeing to us all so well! As the job neared completion, Bro. James Cox said that he was "amazed and so thankful" for the work that was done there. "We had a slab on Saturday and 6 days later, we have a building!" This was the 120th job for The Master's Builders, which began their ministry in We enjoy wonderful fellowship as we gather together at each job. The Lord strengthens our men to be able to do their work and we all are strengthened and encouraged by just being together. If you feel you would enjoy this ministry, we would love to have you join us. If your church has building needs or you have questions, you can contact: John Mangum, Office Coordinator for The Master's Builders at or cell or Eddie Sikes, Field Coordinator at or cell CALENDAR OF EVENTS Sharpen Leadership Conference March 23, 2013 Big Creek Church, Soso South Senior Adult Conference March 26, 2013 Big Creek Church, Soso Sharpen Leadership Conference March 30, 2013 Bethel Baptist Church, Fulton BMA of America April 22-24, 2013 Norman, Oklahoma Missions & Evangelistic Conference May 3, 2012 First Baptist, Bay Springs North Senior Adult Conference May 10, 2013 Mt. Pleasant Church, Fulton BMA of Mississippi Midyear Meeting May 20-21, 2013 East Fulton Church, Fulton

4 4 March 15, 2013 Mississippi Baptist Baptist Missionary Association of Mississippi DEPARTMENTS & COMMISSIONS Mississippi Baptist Paper P.O. Box 8181, Laurel, MS Southeastern Baptist College 4229 Highway 15 North Laurel, MS State Youth Department P.O. Box 4247, Laurel, MS Baptist Children's Home 118 Lowe Rd., Laurel, MS Missions & Revolving Loan Fund 4226 Highway 15 North, Laurel, MS Commission on Senior Adults 4226 Highway 15 North, Laurel, MS History & Archives Commission 4229 Highway 15 North, Laurel, MS Moral Action P.O. Box 88, Mantachie, MS USPS P.O. Box 8181 Laurel, Mississippi Phone PRICE $20.00 Per Year by Mail $10.00 Per Year by CHURCH PLAN $ 1.30 Per Month Don J. Brown, Editor - editor@msbaptist.org Web site Published on the 1st and 15th of each month by the Baptist Missionary Association of Mississippi. Periodical postage paid at Hattiesburg, Mississippi Postmaster: Send address changes to the Mississippi Baptist Paper, P.O. Box 8181, Laurel, MS There are many online services available to the churches of the BMA of Mississippi and America. Each of our national departments have informative web sites available. You may reach all of these from the Mississippi Baptist Home Page at Opinion Page Journal of the Baptist Missionary Association of Mississippi Online Services Available Don Brown Editor In our state work, Southeastern Baptist College and our State Missions Department have their own web sites. These are also accessible from the Mississippi Baptist Home Page. You may access each of these state departments and the commissions and auxiliaries at mississippi.com. There are many other pages with information about our association that are accessible at this site. An Association Calendar is also available. Any group or church that would like to list an activity on this calendar can do so by going the calendar page and filling out a request form. Searching History Service We get inquiries from time to time from individuals who want a copy of an article or some information that was listed in a past issue of the paper. Often the individual does not know the date, or sometimes even the year, that the information they seek was printed. The paper maintains an online resource of previous issues of the paper. These go back to 2005 and are kept up to date through the previous two months from the current issue date. If you desire a copy of a particular issue, it is available online. Note: there are a few issues that we do not have listed. This is due to losing some through computer upgrades and computer crashes, etc. If you want an article written by a particular person or an article that contains information dealing with a church, activity, individual, etc., you may use the search feature and search the entire database of papers for articles. Even if you are not currently looking for something, we urge you to go to the previous issues feature on the left side of our page at and play around to become familiar with this feature. This will help with any future needs you may have. Church of the Covered Dish BY THOMAS TAPP "Mrs. Jones must really like your sermons dear... I heard her say yesterday that every one she heard was better than the next one." Special Emphasis We are always humbled by the support shone for this ministry. This is quite evident when we look at the regular monthly support that our churches provide to underwrite the operation of your Publications Department. Another great blessing is the support our churches and some individuals give during our annual Special Emphasis Drive each January. Funds are still being received, but as of the writing of this article, 30 churches and individuals have given $4, to our 2013 Emphasis Offering. We thank you for your support and assure you that these funds will be put to good use. May the Lord bless you for your generous spirit. Letters From Our Readers Letters reflect the opinion of the writer and not necessarily this publication or the BMA of Mississippi Jackson Church Closes Dear Editor, Creston Hills Baptist Church was organized in the early months of God has worked through that church to bring many souls into His kingdom. The church has had many good pastors through its history. Among those are Bro. Grover Laird (first pastor), Dr. D.N. Jackson, Bro. G.H. Gordon, and Bro. Jimmy Cresswell. The church helped to establish a number of other churches in the Capitol Association. The community where the church was located experienced changes through the years as the youth in the church grew up, married, and moved away. The church also saw many of its member promoted to the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ. In October of 2012, the church voted to transfer the property deeds to the BMA of Mississippi Revolving Loan Fund. The last service at Creston Hills was January 6, Please pray for the faithful members who are now seeking another church home. To God be the glory for the great things He did at Creston Hills Baptist Church! With a grateful heart, Danny Bartlett, pastor Editor Comments - In March 1978, a special session of the BMA of Mississippi was held at Creston Hills Church for the purpose of electing its first full-time editor of the Mississippi Baptist Paper. I was that editor and Bro. G.H. Gordon, pastor of Creston Hills Church, was also chairman of the Trustees of the Publications Department. The meeting was on a Monday. Bro. Gordon had invited me to preach at Creston Hills the previous evening. For this reason this precious church has held a special place in my heart. I was blessed to be a part of Bro. Gordon s funeral service at Creston Hills continued on page 5

5 March 15, 2013 Mississippi Baptist 5 Church Seeks Pastor Mineral Springs Baptist Church, Taylorsville, Mississippi, is searching for a pastor. Those who feel led should contact Joe Blakeney at or His address is joeblakeney@att.net. Resumes may be sent to the address. Church Closes from page 4 School Days The summer of 1980, we moved to a spot in the road called Watson, Louisiana. It was a great place to live because it was there I discovered that I had a love of the outdoors and was able to cultivate that love into nearly every waking moment. Then something strange and terrible happened that altered my way of life forever - the beginning of the 8th grade school year. I fought this travesty in the local courts and exhausted the appeals process, but my parents never gave in to reason and forced me to attend. Despite my unbroken record of five consecutive years being voted in as Most Likely To Wind Up Single and Lonely For the Rest of My Life (sure, it was a title that started and ended with me), I was nevertheless one of the coolest kids on campus. I m not sure if it was my Hollywood good looks, my witty repoirte, or just an essence that some people are born with, but I did notice that from the first moment that I walked on the school property, all the other guys were threatened by me and wanted to beat me up. That is just the cross I have had to bear. Being a skinny, red-haired, extremely pale, freckle-faced outsider Position Available just a few short weeks ago. Creston Hills Church has been instrumental in sending out preachers of the Gospel and helping to reach out and establish a number of new churches. Even as this church has closed her doors, her ministry continues in the souls reached and the churches she helped to establish. We are thankful for her ministry and that the work she was a part of continues through others. From The Mind of Chuck Lee named Charles Maurice isn t as exciting and debonair as it at first sounds. It did help that I cultivated a friendship with a young man in my Algebra class, I ll just call him Ray, who was way ahead of the rest of the students. He was dumb as a rock, but if I m not mistaken was married and had a child which is not what most eight graders were encumbered with and therefore had other things on his mind besides math, and English, and well he was eighteen and had a job and a family. He also had my back when it came to bullies. Nobody messed with me because Ray was my friend. About midway through the first semester, Ray dropped out of school, but by then he had already beaten up most of my enemies and threatened to return if he ever heard I was stuffed in a locker or given a swirly in the bathroom. I was also known as a ladies man. In fact, I spread this rumor to as many people as I could in the hopes that it would fool one Charlene Appleblossom into liking me. I still remember the day I was able to instill enough courage to finally talk to her. She looked like an angel, or at least what I thought an angel would look like. She had a white dress on, music was playing in the background, and she had a smile on her face. Turned out she was getting married to a future Hall of Fame Quarterback and Ray was nowhere to be found. That did not go well. They say timing is everything and boy are they right! If not for some fancy footwork and a couple of bridesmaids that served admirably as shields against a mean right hook, I might not be here today. Despite the odds, which weren t that good, (Mom and Dad even placed a bet), I graduated high school unscathed from the cruelties of youth on the athletically ill-equipped and socially inept. After all the pomp and circumstance, I decided to go to college. It was either that or go to work and I have allergies that flair up when I get in the presence of sweat and labor. However, without Ray there to protect me, things didn t go so well. How I was picked to room in the same dorm as the football team and their Hall of Fame Quarterback, I will never know. DiscipleWay Scott Attebery, Executive Director scott@discipleguide.org Facebook: Facebook.com/scott.attebery Wax on, wax off Building spiritual muscles one experience at a time In the 1984 film The Karate Kid, an enthusiastic karate student is disappointed when his first lesson involves cleaning and waxing his master s car. Day after day, Daniel questions the point of laborious tasks such as sanding a wood floor, refinishing a fence and painting Mr. Miyagi s house. But when Mr. Miyagi finally begins to teach him karate moves, Daniel is amazed to discover he has developed muscle memory ideal for his new knowledge of karate. Pastors and leaders wanting to disciple other believers could learn from Mr. Miyagi s example, because it is the same method of teaching that Jesus used to train his disciples. Jesus took advantage of daily opportunities to lay foundations for learning before telling his disciples what He wanted them to know. He taught the 12 to rely upon God s provision by involving them in feeding the 5,000. He condemned racism and imparted a vision for missions by introducing them to the Samaritan woman at Jacob s well. He taught them the cost of serving as He washed their feet. He used the imagery of fishing nets and fields of harvest to teach them about ministry. Only after they had observed him at work and participated in his ministry did He begin to explain everything to them. At that point, they were fertile soil for everything he wanted them to understand. In the western world, we teach first, and then do. But this is backward from the example Jesus set for us. Weekly Bible studies may be theologically sound, but lectures alone rarely bear the fruit of life transformation. They simply produce on-time note-takers who know how to speak a Christian dialect. Real-life experiences allow people to develop to the point that they can absorb abstract thinking. For a disciple to fully understand what is being taught, they need an opportunity to see it or experience it first. After that, for the rest of their life, they are tuned in abstractly. Over a lifetime, a disciple s increasing maturity will enable him to think about spiritual concepts more abstractly and be less dependent upon concrete methods of learning. The knowledge he/she has accumulated in the past develops his/her ability to process information in the future. Sofilthy's Attic Fan Letter Well, boys and girls, I want you to know (without sounding boastful) that I received a fan letter! I just want to say that it didn't hurt my feelings at all! I'm sure it helped Bro. Donald Ray Brown's feelings too - to know that at least one person reads The Mississippi Baptist. It got me to thinking that some of you might come across something from time to time that would fit in Sofilthy's Column. Of course, we have to run it by the Editor before we could use it, but he's pretty agreeable about most things. So if you have something that would tickle a funny bone, uplift a person's spirit, teach a lesson or whatever, just Scott Attebery by Barbara White send it on! My address is: sofilthy@bayspringstel.net or if you want to send it snail mail just send it to the paper's address. So scratch around and see what you come up with and just send it on. God bless you for wanting to be a blessing to other folks. AVAILABLE FOR SERVICE Listing of names does not indicate endorsement. This column is for information purposes only. Larry Pierce Bro. Larry Pierce is available for pulpit supply, view of call, iterim pastor, or wherever the Lord Leads. He may be reached at or by emai at dr.larrympierce@hotmail.com.

6 6 March 15, 2013 Mississippi Baptist Mississippi W.M.A. President - Jessica Hayden 3208 Hwy 29 North Soso, MS blhaden@gmail.com Northeast District WMA Report The Northeast Mississippi District WMA met at First Baptist, Mantachie, on February 12. This meeting was a combination of Valentine, Missions and Moral Action Banquet. The Family Life Center was decorated beautifully with the traditional colors of red, white and blue. At 6:00, WMA ladies and husbands were served soup, sandwiches, salad, and desserts with tea or coffee. Door prizes were given to those whose names were drawn. Those who did not get a door prize were given a small box of candy with a pad and pin. After all, it was Valentines Day! There were a lot of sweet ladies there. At 7:00, we had the program. Mrs. Anita Akers led the group in the beautiful song, My Country Tis of Thee. Bro. Akers, pastor of East Amory, led the opening prayer. Bro. John Adams, pastor of First Baptist, spoke on Valentine s Day and then he gave a very impressive speech on Moral Action. He talked about the action he and the board members have taken to encourage the Legislators to support Biblical laws. They will march through the halls of the Capitol Building in Jackson on February 26, praying for our state and its leaders. Let s all pray with them and let our leaders know we are against immoral laws such as same sex marriage and abortion. Following Bro. John, Sarah Tolleson sang God Bless America. The business was then called to order by President Stacey Smith. The welcome had been extended by Betty Moody and Mrs. Elaine Smith gave the response. Secretary Martha Duncan red the minutes of the previous meeting. They were approved as read. Shelia McDowell, Treasurer, gave a report. A motion was in order to give Bro. John $ for Moral Action. A motion was in order to give $ to Camp Christie, Colorado, our national project. Our next district project will Corresponding Secretary Mrs. Shirlene Smith 730 Hwy 533, Laurel, MS Dr. John Adams presented work of Moral Action be Freedom Baptist Mission at Burnsville, with Bro. Bobby Elliot, missionary. Martha Reich gave a report on the planning meeting for the Ladies Retreat at East Fulton on May 18. More meetings will be scheduled. Mrs. Barbara White, author of SoFilty s Attic will be the speaker. Gloria Jarrell spoke about their planned mission trip 4 Moms and a Matt. Gloria Jarrell, Amanda Jinning, Jaime Martin, Kerri Wiygul and Matt Taylor are going to Uganda Children s Orphanage. For the closing prayer the group sang together this prayer, God Bless America, led by Anita Akers. There were seven churches represented with a total of 36 members and six visitors. Thank you for being a part of our District meeting. Special thanks to those who helped with preparing for the meeting. May God richly bless you! We are so blessed. Let s continue to pray God Bless America again. Betty Moody, Reporter Ten Mile District WMA Reprot Our Theme is Through the Storm Isaiah 41:10. Fear not; for I am with thee; be not dismayed; for I am thy GOD; I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of MY righteousness. Isaiah 41:10 On January 14, 2013, the Ten Mile District WMA meeting, at the Ten Mile Baptist, Perkinston, was called to order by our President Myrtis Mallett. Ten Mile District Sunbeam and Girls Missionary Auxiliary presentation and Coronations were held. The Sunbeam Motto is Ye are the light of the world Matthew 5:16. Our Program Promoter is Dianna Williams, Assistant Angela Givens. Presentation of Sunbeams was by Paramount Baptist Church and Ten Mile Baptist Church. The Girls Missionary Auxiliary Watchword is Now then we are ambassadors for Christ II Cor. 5:20. Our District Promoter is Paula Prickett with Assistant Jerrica Kirkland. Program Theme was For Such a Time Ester 4:14 with program introduction by Paula Prickett. District Project is as follows: 75% Bro. Sydney Farmer, South Forrest Baptist Church, 25% General Fund State Project is 75% Ukraine Mission Trip, 25% General Fund National Project is 40% Camp Christa, a Children s Ministry of the Navajo Nation, 15% Youth Fund, 5% General Fund We enjoyed refreshments and a great fellowship with Ten Mile Church. Our next meeting will be on April , 7:00 PM at Paramount Baptist Church. Reporter Maria Ochoa Choosing To Honor Others There is a myriad of issues that is making our civilization uncivilized. People have lost respect for others. Many people don t care about how their actions affect others. It is symptomatic of a self-centered, mefirst lifestyle that so many Americans are embracing. The mantra is, I don t care what you think, I have the right to do what I want. If you don t like it tough! Should Christians however, show a different side? Should we care more about respect than rights? Should we not care more about responsibility to God more than what our rights are? Think about this example. A young man sees nothing wrong with wearing an earring in his ear. He is saved. He lives under liberty and not law. However, he is going to go and visit his grandparents, who were raised in a different social time period, and who find a man wearing an earring as offensive. When this fact is called to his attention he says, I have the right to wear an earring. I don t live under legalism, but under grace. I am not bound by a bunch of rules. These older people are just too legalistic. There is nothing wrong with me wearing an earring. If they don t like it, that is too bad. I can do it and there is nothing wrong with it! Ponder in your own hearts for a moment what the young man should do. While he certainly has the right to do it, could he not show respect to his 2013 Senior Adult Conferences South Senior Adult Conference Tuesday, March 26, 2013 Big Creek Baptist Church, Soso Family Ark Ministries Travis Plumlee grandparents by taking the earring out while he is in their home visiting? Some would say that is hypocritical to wear it all the time, and take it out only when he goes to visit his grandparents. He is being deceitful. I only submit this to my readers for you all to think about. Would this not be a beautiful act of thoughtfulness and respect towards his grandparents to remove the earring while in their presence, knowing that it offends them? If they ask him if he wears earrings, he cannot tell a lie. He would have to speak the truth in love towards them. Then, I suppose he would have to decide if he wants to stick around for the sermon that would follow or not. By doing an act of respect for others we cannot control how the other people will respond to the act. Consider a second scenario. A young lady thinks there is nothing wrong with wearing something that is really a fash- continued on page 8 North Senior Adult Conference Friday, May 10, 2013 Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, Fulton 2013 Theme - Heaven s Jubilee

7 March 15, 2013 Mississippi Baptist 7 I Thank God For You I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ; That in every thing ye are enriched by him 1 Cor. 1:4-5a As I travel across the State of Mississippi and visit in our churches and fellowship with our pastors and people, I am repeatedly reminded of how blessed we are. Our fellowship together in the gospel is extremely important. We must strive together for the faith of the gospel in both its defense and confirmation and its furtherance trusting always that he which hath begun a good Larry Geraldson Director work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. As we near the Special Emphasis on State Missions (April May), I want to remind you that I am available to come and give a report, share our vision, and/or preach the gospel to your church. Please feel free to give me a call at Special Emphasis Material On The Way Each church should receive a packet of information which includes posters and bulletin inserts to help promote Special Emphasis for Missions. Our main goal is not monetary, but rather it is a goal to have every church in the BMA of Mississippi join us in prayer. We are asking that each week in the months of April and May, you make your special emphasis an emphasis on prayer. Please pray for the start of 5 new mission projects in the State of Mississippi in Pray that 5 new missionaries will step forward and 5 mother churches will commit to stand with them. This is by far our greatest need. Pray that 12 new churches will commit to take the first step in reproducing themselves. Also, we desire your prayers for the strength and sustainment of the 12 mission projects that are ongoing. Pray for the lost to be saved and the unchurched to be reached. We need your prayers for our missionaries and their families. We are including reproducible bulletin inserts in every packet and hope that every church will use a different one each Sunday during April and May. God is blessing us financially with the projects that we have ongoing. I would mislead you to say otherwise. We continue to have our monthly needs met and we are operating below budget. Your Special Emphasis offering will not serve to get us out of some financial crisis. Every dime sent to us, as a part of a Special Emphasis offering will move us one step closer to starting new projects. So, we trust that you will pray with us and do everything you can to help us start new churches in Mississippi. Building Dedication South Forrest Mission, led by Missionary Pastor Sidney Farmer, is planning to dedicate their building on March 23rd at 2pm. They have extended an invitation to all and I want to encourage you to attend. To God Be The Glory! High Attendance For The Month of February Church Planters Bob Burch 24 Bobby Elliott 49 Justin Rhodes 18 Kelby Johnson 21 Ray Boone 52 Sidney Farmer 38 Hispanic Missions - South Hattiesburg 19 Biloxi 7 Laurel 108 (Pastor Estuardo Marroquin, Coordinator) Hispanic Missions - North Tupelo 29 Oxford 17 Ripley 110 (Pastor Elvis Garcia, Coordinator) African American Missions Indianola 62 Olive Branch 19 Cleveland 27 (Pastor Ed DuVall, Coordinator) Collectively, our missionaries reported 462 new contacts made and 22 professions of faith and 1 that joined by letter in the month of February. Revolving Loan Fund Here is where we stood as of the end of February 2013: Gross Assets = $16,974,742.85, an increase of $1,545, since August 1, We opened 27 new investment accounts this fiscal year totaling $1,166, We have issued new loans this fiscal year totaling $249, If your church has an 55th Annual Missions and Evangelism Conference (May 3, 2013) Sponsored by The Baptist Missionary Association of Mississippi Missions Department Hosted by First Baptist Church of Bay Springs Theme: Arise, Go, Preach Jonah 3:2 10:00-10:30am Music/ Introduction of the Theme/Opening Prayer Jonah 3:2 Harold Floyd 10:30-11:00am We preach the gospel Rom 1:15 Grover Laird 11:00-11:15am Break/Music 11:15-11:45 We preach repentance and faith Matt 4:17 & Heb 11:6 Dr. Kevin Clayton 11:45-1:00pm - Lunch - (During the meal, our Missions Coordinators will give brief reports.) 1:00-1:10 Music 1:10-1:50pm We preach Christ 1 Cor 1:23 Ken Riley 1:50-2:00pm Break 2:00-2:30pm Music - (The Cameron Trio) 2:30-3:00pm We preach security 1 Pet 1:5 A.W. Kirkland 3:00-3:10pm Break/Music 3:10-3:40pm We preach the Word 2 Tim 4:2 Ed Steele 3:40-3:50pm Break/Music 3:50pm-4:20pm We preach sound doctrine Titus 2:1 Dennis Knight 4:20-4:45pm Our journey along the 5 Year Strategy/5 Step Plan (Selected Scripture) Danny Pitts 4:45-5:00pm Break/Music 5:00-5:30pm - We preach to those who are not in church Matt 10:1 & Rom 15:20- Larry Geraldson 5:30pm Banquet Line Begins 5:45pm (During the meal, our Missionaries will give brief reports and new Missionaries will be introduced.) 7:00 pm Dismiss existing loan with a commercial bank, we can refinance your loan and payoff your existing loan. Our current rate of interest on loans made to churches in Mississippi is 4.5% variable. Matching Funds (This opportunity will end April 30, 2013) Missionary Bob Burch has raised (in offerings received and in commitments) $25, of the $50, needed to receive full matching funds. Missionary Sidney Farmer has raised (in offerings received and in commitments) $23, of the $35, needed to receive full matching funds. These matching funds have been made available to help reduce the cost of the building loans at Caledonia and South Forrest. For every dollar raised, up to these amounts, it will be matched and will directly reduce the costs associated with the purchase and construction of their new facilities. So, if you would like to make a special donation to these funds, please send it to the BMA of Mississippi Missions Department designated for Burch or Farmer matching building fund. Visit Our Website and Facebook Page Our website is and our Facebook page is God & Country Rally Set Midway Baptist Church, located on Highway 98 just east of Mclain, Mississippi, will be hosting a "God & Country Rally" on March 21 & 22. Our speaker will be Dr. John Adams, Pastor of First B a p t i s t Church, Mantachie, and director of the BMA of America and BMA of Mississippi Moral Action Commissions. Services begin at 7:00 p.m. each night. Everyone is invited to attend this much needed rally. For more info call or at justincameron@bellsouth.net

8 8 March 15, 2013 Mississippi Baptist Choosing To Honor Others continued from page 3 ion trend amongst her peer group at school. Yet, society in general would consider the outfit to be inappropriate dress for the occasion she is going to attend. In this example she is not wearing something that causes men to lust, or breaks the scripture that requires Christian women to dress in modesty. She is simply perhaps dressing in something that is way too casual for the event. She has the right to wear it. But could she show respect to the event, the organization, her family or friends etc., by choosing to dress in something more appropriate. Some might say she is letting other people dominate her life and always having to live by what others think. Still others would say that would be a clear choice of honoring others to do this. She would be putting love and respect for others ahead of her own selfish desires. What do you think? I think it is really a good thing when Christians let their light shine before Laurel Church to Celebrate Anniversary First Baptist Church of Shady Grove, Laurel, Mississippi On Sunday, March 24, 2013, First Baptist Church of Shady Grove, Laurel, Mississippi, will host its 125th Year Homecoming Celebration. All past and present members, family and friends are cordially invited to help celebrate. Rev. Grover Laird, a former pastor, will deliver the morning message beginning at 10:30. Lunch will follow and all are encouraged to stay and enjoy the fine food and fellowship. During the afternoon service, immediately following lunch, other former pastors and music ministers will have an opportunity to briefly share highlights of their ministry at FBC of Shady Grove. There will be time for anyone or any groups to present a musical special, so come prepared to sing. There will be over 250 photos from others and honor others. When in Israel, I may not believe in all the rituals of the temple, but I respect my host and take my shoes off or put on a yarmulke. It s a way of showing honor. I am afraid our society is increasingly without honor towards others. When the majority of a society only care about themselves, only live for themselves, only do what is right in their own eyes, they cease to be a civil society. They instead become a pack of wild dogs. People become ruthless, rude, vicious and mean spirited towards one another. This is unbecoming of a Christian. I pray that in 2013 we have a goal of putting our own desires aside to show honor to our family, friends and others in general. What a way to let your light shine in a society that rarely sees such behavior. We should strive to consider respect above rights. For years I have encountered Christians living wicked lives under the rationalization and justification in their own minds that they live under liberty and not legalism. Yet, when years gone by on display for your enjoyment. A history booklet and a commemorative 125th year bookmarker will be available for all as a keepsake of the celebration. Awards will be presented in the following categories: The male and female in attendance who have been members at FBC of Shady Grove for the greatest number of years (do not have to be consecutive years) The family in attendance who is the most closely related to a charter member. Check your family history to see if you are related to a charter member, you might receive this award. The family with the most generations in attendance. The youngest male and female member present. The family with the most members in attendance. If you would like to present a musical special during the service, please contact Danny Holifield at least one week before the celebration at For more information, contact the church office at or by at fbcshadygrove@yahoo.com. asked, they don t even understand legalism. If you do certain things, or avoid certain things to make yourself more righteous, that is legalism. You can t do that. Christ makes us righteous. Yes, we live under grace, but that does not give us a free license to sin. I have heard it said that all people sin, so I will sin and you can t judge me. What a twisted, perverted and satanic view of the gift of grace in Christ. The scripture will tell us all the truth. Our opinions don t really count. Scripture alone does. Read I Corinthians 8:7-13. We are cautioned against abusing our liberty. We cannot be a stumbling block to the weak. A person has very little of the spirit of the Redeemer in them who would rather have his brother perish than himself be restricted in his liberty. We should be very careful to do nothing that may at times cause a weak Christian to defile their consciences. Even if this is not the case, why can t we show this world more gentleness, honor, respect and kindness? Shouldn t the world see us act different, rather than acting like them, and always screaming, It s my right! 1 Corinthians 8:7-13 Howbeit there is not in every man that knowledge: for some with conscience of the idol unto this hour eat it as a thing offered unto an idol; and their conscience being weak is defiled. But meat commendeth us not to God: for neither, if we eat, are we the better; neither, if we eat not, are we the worse. But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak. For if any man see thee which hast knowledge sit at meat in the idol's temple, shall not the conscience of him which is weak be emboldened to eat those things which are offered to idols; And through thy knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died? But when ye sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ. Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend. We see how rich we are when we add up everyting we have that money can't buy and death can't take away.