These next few weeks, I will share a few articles on the origin, nature and purpose of associations. First, I will address what is a local association? Associations are self-governing entities made of Baptist churches sharing common faith who engage in mutual support and missions in a geographic area. The association provides avenues for fellowship…
I was in second grade when our whole class had to go and take a vision test. After having difficulty determining the direction the “E”’s where facing, I was sent home with a note for my parents to take me to the eye doctor. Ever since then I have worn glasses or contacts. I remember…
Of all the Christmas stories surrounding the birth narrative of Christ, my favorite is the angel’s announcement of the birth of a Savior to the shepherds (Luke 2:8-20). These lowly herders of sheep, who were on night shift, had a “who would have ever thought” type of experience. Nothing like this ever happens to ordinary…
In Matthew’s gospel the angel comes to Joseph and makes an astonishing announcement that the child his bride to be is carrying is indeed from the Holy Spirit. Referring to Mary he said, “She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”All this took place to…
I love Christmas lights and seeing the creativity people have in decorating their homes and businesses. This year I am participating in the “Liberty Light Show”. This drive-in Christmas celebration put on by Pleasant Valley Baptist Church is a fun and bright celebration that Jesus has come to be the Light of World. [Shameless plug:…
Last Sunday I was privileged to be part of First Baptist Church, Platte City’s celebration of Rusty Savage for 30 years serving as their pastor. This is a wonderful milestone for Rusty, his wife Stephanie and the church. Rusty has been a faithful shepherd to lead God’s people and proclaim the gospel in Platte City…
We all have heard of IQ (Intelligence Quotient) and EQ (Emotional Quotient) that measure our intellectual acumen and ability to relate well to others. As important as these things can be, Jesus had another quotient he said was an identification mark of his disciples, that is, our love quotient. In John 13:34-35 he said, “I…
Years ago I worked as an electrician. I wired buildings and help bring light and power for people to utilize. One principle of electricity is that the more watts, the brighter the light. A 75 watt bulb is much brighter than a 40 watt bulb. In our two counties we must recognize that spiritual darkness…
I recently was at one of our churches and the minister declared, “Thy kingdom come.” and the congregation responded, “Thy will be done.” It was a good reminder that regardless of the political agendas and in the aftermath of a recent election day, it is God who is sovereign over the affairs of our world,…
I am very thankful for the wonderful annual meeting we had last Sunday evening at First Baptist Church of Platte City. It was a time of warm fellowship as we shared a meal together and followed by Christ honoring worship and a time to be encouraged by seeing all the amazing things God is doing…