Good News for Today

 Episode 550

AL Baptists Work to Build Camp in Alaska, Empty Historic Church Houses New Congregation & What We Should Learn From Gen Z

There’s a piece of land nestled next to a lake in Alaska, and Tommy Bishop said when he’s there, he thinks of somewhere else. Amanda Hicks knew there were bees inside the building that once housed Chula Baptist Church. Everyone in the small Missouri town knew that. And, what does Gen Z need?

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

Alabama Baptists work to build camp in Alaska

Historic rural church building, empty for five years, houses new congregation

International Mission Board

Where Gen Z gets it right and what we should learn from them

Transcript

There’s a piece of land nestled next to a lake in Alaska, and Tommy Bishop said when he’s there, he thinks of somewhere else.

He thinks about Shocco Springs Baptist Conference Center back home in Alabama, which has hosted camps and retreats for 75 years, and he reflects on the camp’s legacy.

The vision started simply because Cody Schwegel, pastor of Liberty Baptist Church in Craig, Alaska, wanted a place to pitch a few tents.

The vision is to reach the 6,000 students who live within $100 worth of travel expenses from the camp.

They also want to use it for a variety of retreats and conferences for men, women and couples.
They’re hoping to start construction by early summer.
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Amanda Hicks knew there were bees inside the building that once housed Chula Baptist Church. Everyone in the small Missouri town knew that. The old church had been sitting empty for nearly five years, the last of four churches that once served the small community of Chula, Missouri. While it sat empty, bees had made a home inside it, but everyone thought the bees were hiding in the walls.

However, last July, as Hicks, her husband, and a friend ventured into the old church to clean and prepare it for future worshippers, she encountered a surprise. That day, Hicks and her husband got stung multiple times by a swarm of bees, but they also discovered more than 77 pounds of honey hidden in the church.

Residents of Chula have worked alongside members of Calvary Baptist Church from nearby Chillicothe to get the old church building ready for visitors and relaunch it into the community. Nearly five months after reopening the doors, 20 to 25 people now regularly worship at the church.
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Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.

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What does Gen Z need?

What Gen Z Needs From Us:

Authentic Relationships

Gen Z is longing for men and women like you and me to commit to the long, steady work of a relationship. They aren’t looking for quick fixes and right answers as much as they want someone to be able to ask the hard questions and wrestle through their doubts and frustrations.

Grace-fil...

 Episode 549

Florida Church Expands Outreach, Remember Rhonda Kelley & Turning To Prayer

With a recent mission trip to Australia, Fruit Cove Church in North Florida has reached its goal of extending its missions footprint to all seven continents. Author, speaker and a mentor to many, Rhonda Kelley was known for her vibrant spirit and dedication in serving women in the local church, in the seminary classroom, and at the state and denominational level. And, Augustine is credited as having said, “God had only one Son who never sinned, but He never had any sons who didn’t suffer.”

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

Florida church expands outreach to all 7 continents

Rhonda Kelley, pioneer in women’s ministry, remembered as a ‘good and faithful servant’

International Mission Board

Transcript

With a recent mission trip to Australia, Fruit Cove Church in North Florida has reached its goal of extending its missions footprint to all seven continents.

While it’s something the church has celebrated, Jonathan Wilson, the church’s families and missions pastor, will tell you the church still has more to do.

Through a combination of short-term mission trips and partnerships over the past seven and a half years that Wilson has been on staff, the church was able to reach this goal, including the mobilization of 160 people to six continents on 17 trips in 2023 alone. Wilson said he was initially inspired by Tim Maynard, now pastor emeritus at the church, who shared his desire for reaching all the continents.
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Author, speaker and a mentor to many, Rhonda Kelley was known for her vibrant spirit and dedication in serving women in the local church, in the seminary classroom, and at the state and denominational level.

Through the years, she helped expand women’s ministry program at New Orleans Seminary to include women’s ministry specializations and training at every academic level as women serve women in lay ministry, on church staffs, in academia, and other avenues of ministry.

As a writer and editor, Rhonda Kelley’s contribution as managing editor of the bestselling “Woman’s Study Bible,” published in 1995 by Thomas Nelson, helped produce a work that to date has sold more than two million copies.

Kelley served also as managing editor for “The Study Bible for Women,” published by Holman Bible Publishers in 2015, as well as managing editor for the companion titles “Women’s Evangelical Commentary” for the Old Testament and the New Testament.
She passed away over the weekend after a long battle with cancer. She is now home with Jesus.
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Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.

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Augustine is credited as having said, “God had only one Son who never sinned, but He never had any sons who didn’t suffer.” The pain of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane was horrific. He gathered His closest friends and confided, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death; remain here, and watch with me.” And going a little farther he fell on ...

 Episode 548

Celebration of New Missionaries, Nicaragua’s Crackdown on Catholic Church & Steps for Starting New Groups

62 new missionaries were commissioned last week by the International Mission Board. The celebration took place in Phoenix, Arizona. In a concerning turn of events, the situation for the Catholic community in Nicaragua has deteriorated. This year alone, nineteen priests have been forcibly expelled. And, Lifeway discipleship expert Ken Braddy offers tips on starting new groups in your local church.

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

New, returning missionaries evidence of Southern Baptist presence among the lost

Nicaragua’s crackdown on Catholic Church spreads fear among religious groups

International Mission Board

5 steps for starting new groups

Transcript

62 new missionaries were commissioned last week by the International Mission Board. The celebration took place in Phoenix, Arizona. The IMB has thousands of missionaries spread across the globe.

IMB President Paul Chitwood said, ““As lostness grows, so must our response.“ Our mission force must grow. Our generosity must grow. Our prayers for the lost must grow. And our willingness to send our very best to the nations must grow,” he added.

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In a concerning turn of events, the situation for the Catholic community in Nicaragua has deteriorated. This year alone, nineteen priests have been forcibly expelled. Reports of harassment and sacred spaces being violated are escalating, leaving rural communities bereft of worship and vital social services.

The crackdown extends beyond Catholics, affecting evangelical groups as well, as President Daniel Ortega’s government intensifies its grip. The repercussions? A silence that’s growing deeper, voices of dissent disappearing from even the sanctity of the pulpit.

Martha Patricia Molina, a lawyer and recent recipient of the U.S. International Religious Freedom Award, reports thirty church desecrations in just the past year. Fear has become a barrier even to reporting such attacks, with those seeking justice facing hostility instead of help.

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Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.
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Lifeway discipleship expert Ken Braddy offers tips on starting new groups in your local church.

He says:

1. Know your possibilities

This first step is all about seeing the possible future of your group ministry. During this first step, you identify what underserved people groups you could reach if your groups agreed to franchise themselves. Check to see where you have “gaps” in your Bible teaching ministry.

2. Enlarge the organization

Once you know how many groups need to start, make sure you have the support structures – like childcare – in place to support them.

3. Enlist and train leaders

New le...

 Episode 547

American Jews Feel Unsafe After Israel Attack, John Cooper Has Something to Say & God Faithfully Keeps His Covenant

Nearly 80 percent of American Jews felt less safe after the October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel, and fearing antisemitism, many changed their public behavior, the American Jewish Committee (AJC) said Feb. 13 in its new report on antisemitism. John Cooper, the lead vocalist and bassist of the rock band Skillet. Cooper has penned “Awake & Alive to Truth,” a book that explores themes of truth and personal conviction. And, a Lifeway Bible study says, “Wedding ceremonies typically include the exchanging of vows. A couple declares their commitment to each other by saying, “I do.” God established marriage as a covenant. It is a formal commitment before God.

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

American Jews feel less safe after attack on Israel, advocacy group finds

John Cooper has something to say, and thinks you do too

International Mission Board

Bible Study: God faithfully keeps His covenant

Transcript

Nearly 80 percent of American Jews felt less safe after the October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel, and fearing antisemitism, many changed their public behavior, the American Jewish Committee (AJC) said Feb. 13 in its new report on antisemitism.

Specifically, 78 percent of American Jews said the attack made them feel less safe here because of their Jewish identity, and 46 percent changed their behavior afterwards, the AJC said in releasing its findings. The 46 percent was an increase from the previous year’s 38 percent.

The American public in general is becoming more aware of antisemitism, the survey found, with 92 percent saying antisemitism affects society as a whole and that all of society is responsible for combatting it. 
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John Cooper, the lead vocalist and bassist of the rock band Skillet. Cooper has penned “Awake & Alive to Truth,” a book that explores themes of truth and personal conviction.

The book presents an exploration into finding truth in a complex world. Cooper shares insights from his personal experiences and his understanding of faith, aiming to engage readers in a conversation about navigating belief in contemporary society.

Cooper says in “Awake & Alive to Truth” he seeks to address questions about truth, identity, and maintaining faith amidst societal pressures. He invites readers to consider their own beliefs and the foundation upon which they are built, emphasizing the importance of personal conviction.
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Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.

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A Lifeway Bible study says, “Wedding ceremonies typically include the exchanging of vows. A couple declares their commitment to each other by saying, “I do.” God established ma...

 Episode 546

Heroic Missionary Forgotten Over Metal Illness & The Privilege of Prayer

Thomas Jefferson Bowen, a pioneer Southern Baptist missionary to Nigeria in the mid-19th century, significantly impacted Christian missions in Africa. Hailing from Georgia, Bowen ventured to Nigeria in 1850, dedicating himself to spreading the Gospel. And, a Lifeway Bible study titled “The Privilege of Prayer” emphasizing the vital role of prayer in Christian life.

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

Heroic pioneer missionary forgotten over mental illness

International Mission Board

Bible Study: The privilege of prayer

Transcript

Thomas Jefferson Bowen, a pioneer Southern Baptist missionary to Nigeria in the mid-19th century, significantly impacted Christian missions in Africa.

Hailing from Georgia, Bowen ventured to Nigeria in 1850, dedicating himself to spreading the Gospel. His efforts led to the translation of the Bible into Yoruba and the establishment of the region’s first Baptist church.

Despite his achievements, Bowen’s legacy was overshadowed by his battle with mental illness, which eventually forced his return to the United States. This aspect of his life caused his contributions to fade from missionary history, reflecting the era’s limited understanding and stigmatization of mental health issues.

Bowen’s story is a poignant reminder of the personal challenges missionaries often face, emphasizing the need for compassion and support in their endeavors. His life underscores the importance of recognizing and honoring the sacrifices and impact of missionaries, despite the personal struggles they may endure.
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Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.
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A Lifeway Bible study titled “The Privilege of Prayer” emphasizing the vital role of prayer in Christian life.

Drawing on scripture, such as Philippians 4:6 which advises, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God” the study showcases prayer as our direct line to God.

It encourages believers to engage in prayer not just as a daily task, but as an essential, heartfelt conversation with the Creator.

Through examples like the Lord’s Prayer in Matthew 6:9-13, “The Privilege of Prayer” reinforces the message that prayer strengthens our relationship with God, serving as a foundation for a life lived in faith and obedience.

 Episode 545

CVS Employee Fired for Discrimination, Adoption and Foster Care Summit & Developing a Two-Room Strategy for Prayer

In Florida, a legal dispute has emerged involving Gunna Kristofersdottir, a former CVS employee who was fired for refusing to sell birth control, citing her religious beliefs. Prestonwood Baptist Church in Dallas is partnering with Send Relief and other organizations to host an Adoption and Foster Care Summit. And, building on the foundation of open dialogue with God, Kie Bowman introduces us to the second critical aspect of his “Two-Room Strategy for Prayer” the listening room.

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

CVS employee fired for refusing to sell birth control sues, claiming discrimination

Prestonwood, Send Relief, SBTC to host adoption, foster care summit

International Mission Board

How to develop a two-room strategy for prayer

Transcript

In Florida, a legal dispute has emerged involving Gunna Kristofersdottir, a former CVS employee who was fired for refusing to sell birth control, citing her religious beliefs.

Kristofersdottir has sued CVS, alleging religious discrimination for not accommodating her spiritual convictions.

This lawsuit is being closely monitored, as its outcome could influence how religious accommodations are managed in workplaces nationwide…underscores the ongoing debate over employee rights and the extent of employer’s obligations to accommodate personal faith.
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Prestonwood Baptist Church in Dallas is partnering with Send Relief and other organizations to host an Adoption and Foster Care Summit.

This event is scheduled for April 13 aims to empower and educate families who are considering adoption or foster care, highlighting the vital role of the church in tackling the orphan crisis.

Organizers says attendees will benefit from insightful sessions led by experienced leaders and organizations passionately working in the field.

They say the summit is more than just a conference; it’s a call to action for those willing to open their hearts and homes to children in need, offering them hope and a future.
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Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.
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Building on the foundation of open dialogue with God, Kie Bowman introduces us to the second critical aspect of his “Two-Room Strategy for Prayer” the listening room.

After we’ve poured out our hearts in the first room, we step into a space of quiet reflection, awaiting God’s voice. This room challenges us to silence our inner chatter and be still, highlighting the transformative power of listening in our spiritual journey.

Bowman’s insight into prayer as a two-way conversation with God offers a refreshing perspective, urging us to not only seek God’s guidance but also to be receptive to the wisdom He imparts.

In this second room, we learn patience, humili...

 Episode 544

Jewish Americans Reluctant To Display Their Faith, Mobilizing Black Churches To The Nation & Learning From Gen Z

The National Summit on Antisemitism recently revealed a troubling insight: nearly half of Jewish Americans are reluctant to openly display their faith, driven by a fear of rising antisemitism. Keith Jefferson, a retired missionary, is spearheading an ambitious initiative to galvanize Black churches in the United States towards global missions, with a particular focus on Brazil. And, in the Baptist Press Toolbox, Jacki King says Gen Z is making an impact that should be well-noted.

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

Religious freedom impacts economic prosperity, political rights, Johnson says

Retired missionary mobilizes Black churches to the nations

International Mission Board

Where Gen Z gets it right and what we should learn from them

Transcript

The National Summit on Antisemitism recently revealed a troubling insight: nearly half of Jewish Americans are reluctant to openly display their faith, driven by a fear of rising antisemitism.

This significant finding comes at a time when reports of antisemitic incidents are increasing across the United States, underscoring the growing unease within the Jewish community.

The summit, a gathering of leaders from various sectors including faith, government, and civil society, aimed to address this alarming issue. Discussions focused on strategies to combat antisemitism and initiatives to support Jewish individuals in expressing their faith freely.

Efforts are underway to enhance public awareness and create a more inclusive environment that respects and protects the religious expressions of all citizens, ensuring that faith can be practiced openly and safely without fear.
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Keith Jefferson, a retired missionary, is spearheading an ambitious initiative to galvanize Black churches in the United States towards global missions, with a particular focus on Brazil. Having dedicated decades to missionary work, including significant time in Brazil, Jefferson is uniquely positioned to inspire African American congregations to broaden their international outreach.

Jefferson understands the powerful impact that Black churches can have abroad, especially in places like Brazil where there is a rich tapestry of cultural and spiritual life. By sharing their deep spiritual heritage and commitment to compassionate service, these congregations have the potential to make a profound difference.

Through engaging workshops, dynamic speaking engagements, and personal mentorship, Jefferson is igniting a passion for missions in Brazil among these communities. This initiative is not just about spreading the Christian faith but also about creating lasting connections across cultures and empowering churches to contribute positively on a global scale.
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Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource ...

 Episode 543

ERLC’s Brent Leatherwood counters negativity in society; Youth leaders gather for unique training; Prayer that is personal and sacred

Leatherwood says Christians must push back on negative with love and light; Youth leaders gather in Nashville for Lifeway’s innovative leadership training; Kie Bowman teaches about two rooms for prayer within the believers’ heart

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

Leatherwood calls on Christians to count fear and anger

From locker rooms to VR lab, road trip training surprises student leaders

International Mission Board

How to develop a two-room strategy for prayer

Transcript

Leatherwood stated, “In times of uncertainty, it’s our faith that keeps us grounded. It’s our love for each other that overcomes fear and anger.” He called on Christians to demonstrate their faith through actions.

His message included the importance of spreading positivity to counteract negativity. He encouraged being supportive, extending friendship, and offering comfort.

Leatherwood urged individuals to initiate positive change, where faith addresses fear and acts of love counteract anger.

The address was a call to unity and compassion, emphasizing the need to share hope and love, one day at a time, to tackle the challenges posed by fear and anger.

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Lifeway Christian Resources’ Experience Conference in Nashville, gathered youth ministry leaders for training in an innovative way.

 The event took advantage of unique venues, including a virtual reality lab, a comedy club, and the Nashville Predators’ NHL locker room, to offer immersive learning experiences.

Lifeway leaders say the approach aimed to enhance the participants’ preaching and teaching skills, particularly in communicating with teenagers.

 The setting in Nashville provided a memorable backdrop for hands-on activities and personalized feedback, underscoring the impact of creative environments in leadership training.

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Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.

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In our fast-paced world, finding a quiet moment for prayer can seem like a challenge. Yet, Kie Bowman offers a compelling solution in his innovative “Two-Room Strategy for Prayer.”

This approach invites us to envision our prayer life as if it were divided into two distinct rooms, each serving a unique purpose in fostering our relationship with the Divine.

...

 Episode 542

ERLC releases new guide on understanding the public policy arena; Sports gambling’s impact on the big game; Gambling preys on the longings of the heart

The ERLC releases a Q&A guide from Andrew Walker to answer basic political questions from a biblical perspective; pastors and church leaders push back against the billion dollar sports betting industry; Barrett Duke says gambling preys on the desires of the human heart

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

ERLC releases guide for political engagement

Church leaders push back on billion dollar sports betting push

International Mission Board

How gambling preys on the longings of the heart

Transcript

The Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC) has launched “The Nations Belong To God: A Christian Guide For Political Engagement,” a guide aimed at helping Christians navigate the complexities of political involvement in light of the upcoming presidential election.

Authored by Andrew Walker of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, this resource answers 40 critical questions on topics such as the Christian’s role in government, the church’s relationship with the state, and principles of voting and justice.

ERLC President Brent Leatherwood emphasizes the guide as a starting point for thoughtful engagement, urging believers to consider their faith’s teachings in the public square.

The question-and-answer formatted guide is designed to be accessible and addresses both the importance of political engagement and the need to prioritize faith principles in such endeavors.

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As the Super Bowl draws near, a spotlight shines on the escalating issue of sports gambling, now legal in nearly 40 states, yet resisted by Alabama and Texas, where faith leaders tirelessly work to uphold a moral stance against it.

With Americans betting a staggering $1.3 billion on the game, concerns deepen over the addictive nature of sports betting and its societal impacts.

Many believers, recognizing the moral and societal dangers, stand firm in their opposition, amidst the fast-growing acceptance of sports gambling nationwide.

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Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.

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In a world where 71% of Americans view gambling as morally acceptable, it’s clear that this activity has woven itself into the fabric of our society. Yet, the allure of quick gain conflicts with the teachings of Scripture, which offers us guidance and wisdom for living lives that honor God.

In a Baptist Press Toolbox piece, Barrett Duke, writes that gambling often preys on our deepest longings—for financial security, entertainment, a sense of importance, or even an escape from our tr...

 Episode 541

Three generations baptized on one Sunday, God is faithful to San Diego church plant & Prayer is key to see God work

A Kentucky church baptizes three generations on one Sunday morning. A San Diego pastor sees God’s faithful work to service members from area bases. God uses prayer to call us to Himself and let us join Him in His work.

Host

Brandon Porter

Resources

Three generations baptized on one Sunday at Kentucky church

California church plant sees redemption in military community

International Mission Board

Prayer gets things done

Transcript

It was a baptism service unlike any other that Belfry First Baptist Church Pastor Mike McCartney has ever been involved in.

McCartney baptized three people – 85-year-old Bruce Collins, his son, B.J., and his grandson, Bo. All three came to faith on the same day in January.

In McCartney’s four and a half years at Belfry and 25 total years as a pastor, Bruce is the oldest person he has baptized, and this is the first time he has ever baptized three generations in the same service.

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A year and a half into church planting, Daniel Carter was ready to quit.

Pillar Church of San Diego, is situated nearby several Navy bases, and the members of his church were being deployed or assigned to different military bases all around the country faster than new disciples were taking their spots.

He and his wife, Rachelle, were left to stare at the empty seats.

But much of what makes church planting in military communities a great opportunity is the same aspect that makes it challenging. Thanks to encouragement from other area pastors and partners and God’s faithfulness they began to see steady growth.

Today, three years into the church plant, the Carters have witnessed dozens of stories of God’s redemption in their broken community.

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Every day, hundreds of thousands of people die without the hope of Jesus. Your faithful prayers will make a difference. That’s why the IMB created a free 18-month calendar, called “Impacting Lostness Through Prayer”. It provides guidance, reminders and encouragement as you pray for individuals and communities who have yet to hear the gospel. Learn more about this free resource at IMB.org/prayercalendar.

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