Posted: 7/25/03

Bible readings reach out

By George Henson

Staff Writer

VICTORIA–Northside Baptist Church has found a high-tech means of encouraging the timeless discipline of Bible reading.

At the beginning of the year, church members signed commitment cards saying they would read the New Testament through this year.

Some are following a traditional approach and pick up bookmarks at church each month that show daily Bible readings for the month. Others go to the church's website and click the daily Bible reading icon to find the suggested passages.

Still others have signed up for daily e-mail reminders of their Bible readings. Mickey Ewing, associate pastor for music and media, said more than 300 people have signed up for the e-mail reminders.

And now word of the service has spread beyond the church. “People I've never heard of have asked to be put on the list because they've heard about it from someone they are friends with or work with,” he said.

This ministry is not labor intensive, Ewing explained. “My Bible software has an option for generating a daily Bible reading. I just told it what part of the Bible we wanted to read and how many days, and it divided the New Testament for us in that many pieces at logical places.”

The Bible readings take about three minutes a day, he said.

“We're thrilled at how it seems to be working out,” he said.

Posted: 7/25/03

Bikers feel the Spirit
at unique Church in the Wind

By John Hall

Texas Baptist Communications

WHITE OAK–An East Texas congregation loves motorcycles and Jesus. Both loves drive members to spread their faith.

On Friday nights and Sunday mornings, a line of motorcycles stands outside Church in the Wind, where about 40 bikers worship. But that showing is only the beginning.

Empty seats in the makeshift sanctuary signal another positive sign to Pastor Larry “CC” Gower and his congregation.

“I have to praise God our people aren't here,” Gower announced early in a summer service. “They're out spreading the word of Jesus.”

The church continues penetrating a biker culture that often is based on intimidation, fear and harsh punishment. His congregation has served as many as 300 people at a time through its evangelistic outreach, including at motorcycle rallies and runs.

Members do not curse the biker lifestyle but have retained elements of the culture. Many sport worn bandanas, leather vests and elaborate tattoos. They talk about motorcycle mechanics as freely as Bible verses.

The “church of ministers” also maintains the closeness found in many biker clubs, Gower said. People join the clubs to find the love and acceptance lacking in their homes, he explained, so the church aims to turn people's attention to Christ by giving them the support they seek.

The believers connect with their former comrades by continuing existing relationships and boldly sharing their testimonies, the pastor said.

Bikers listen to the testimonies because the Christians speak from experience, Gower said. And the stories have credibility because those hearing them knew the believers before their conversions.

The frankness of their messages is refreshing, said Rick Watson, who leads music at the church.

“We're ordinary people,” he said. “We obviously fail, and we admit our faults. People are attracted to that.”

Gower emphasizes the strength of Jesus and Christianity when he speaks with bikers.

“It's difficult being a Christian,” he said. “Ain't no wimps called to be Christians. When I was an outlaw, I wouldn't go anywhere without my club for backup. Now I have the best backup in Jesus.”

Services at Church in the Wind begin with a few classic rock numbers with spiritual aspects, including Rolling Stones tunes. Then the congregation launches into an extended prayer time, where participants give three or four sermons while asking for prayer or giving praise to God. The congregation joins hands and prays for the requests.

Services usually take a short break after the prayer, and worshippers visit and discuss issues in their lives. Several of the members described the congregation as a “close-knit family.”

The congregation sings several standard praise choruses before Gower gives a message. After the service, worshippers linger for up to a half-hour.

Church support revitalized George Pliler. He first entered the congregation almost a year ago after his wife left him and he lost his job. The church welcomed and loved him from the moment he entered the door, he said.

Since then, he has become a devoted member who proudly wears a large Church in the Wind patch on his leather jacket.

God works “when you get to your lowest point a lot of the time,” Pliler said. “God makes all the difference.”

The caring environment attracted more than bikers. People with no connection to motorcycles frequently visit the church, and several have become members.

“It's very friendly. Everybody loves each other,” said Pat Gower, CC's mother. She did not intend to join the church, she explained, but quickly fell in love with it. “Sometimes the Spirit is very heavy here. You can feel it. I've never felt that in any other church.”

Despite interest from non-bikers as well, outreach to bikers remains the cornerstone of the church. The members remember their destructive former lifestyle and are passionate about helping others find joy in Jesus.

“How could we turn our back on them? They're hurting,” Gower said. “They're holding on to the club instead of Jesus. This place belongs to Jesus. Who am I to tell them they don't belong?”

Posted: 7/25/03

Black caucus dunks 'faith-based' plan

By Hannah Lodwick & Robert Marus

Associated Baptist Press

WASHINGTON (ABP)–As President Bush touted his “faith-based initiatives” to a group of mostly African-American urban leaders, a group of Congressional Democrats and leaders in the Congressional Black Caucus denounced part of his plan as discriminatory.

Bush spoke to a group of about 100 inner-city pastors and leaders of urban faith-based charities who had gathered in Washington to meet with White House officials. He also used the opportunity to link his faith-based plan with needs in Africa, where he recently visited.

“We ought not to fear faith,” Bush said. “We ought not to discriminate against faith-based programs.”

But that same afternoon, in a press conference at the Capitol, Rep. Elijah Cummings, D-Md., chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus, and other Democratic legislators took issue with a Republican bill reauthorizing the Head Start early-childhood education program.

In particular, they opposed a provision in the bill that would allow pervasively religious preschool programs to receive federal Head Start funding while maintaining their right to discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of religious beliefs.

“We can't afford to let our children down,” Cummings said, pointing to six young children from a local Head Start program who came to the press conference.

The issue of employment discrimination with federal dollars has bubbled up in several legislative settings in recent months.

The Bush administration recently announced its official position is that thoroughly religious organizations receiving government grants for social services should retain the same exemptions to employment-discrimination laws as religious groups that do not accept federal dollars. Republican leaders in the House have attached such provisions to several federal spending bills.

Rep. Bobby Scott, D-Va., also a member of the Congressional Black Caucus, said one of the problems faced by opponents of such employment discrimination is that people simply can't believe it is an issue. “The public, they just don't think this is possible in 2003, that this is actually being proposed,” Scott said.

Leaders of the Republican-controlled House repeatedly have disallowed floor votes on amendments offered by Democrats to remove the employment-discrimination provisions from the spending bills.

The bills often are those that re-authorize funding for popular entitlement programs–meaning even if legislators object to the employment-discrimination portion of the bills, they are still reluctant to vote against the whole package. Doing so could become a major political liability in an election year.

The faith-based program–an attempt to expand the government's ability to fund social services through religious providers, including churches and mosques–has been the centerpiece of Bush's domestic policy.

Posted: 7/25/03

Pastor shows school spirit as 'Bleacher Preacher'

By John Hall

Texas Baptist Communications

VAN VLECK–A “bleacher preacher” is leading high school teams to victory and youth to Christ through his unusual outreach.

Aaron Young was called to be pastor of Van Vleck's First Baptist Church about a year ago. He began looking for a way to get to know the community and allow residents to recognize him as the new preacher in town.

Before the local high school football season, an idea came to him when he heard students with “bleacher creature” shirts ran around the field before the game to fire up the crowd. If that worked, why couldn't there be a “bleacher preacher” to excite people for Christ, he pondered.

So he had a “bleacher preacher” shirt made, and an identity was born.

He wore the shirt to every home football game and met many people. Soon, people around town began recognizing the “bleacher preacher” everywhere he went.

“I think everyone in Van Vleck liked it,” said Sue Wilkes, a member at First Baptist.

Soon the football team began asking Young to pray before the games. The players quickly seemed to identify him as “good luck” because each time he prayed, the team won. He became their unofficial prayer leader for the season, and they did not lose until he ran late for a bi-district playoff game.

Because of his new ties to the team, Young was allowed to roam the sidelines freely during the game, where he met more students and school officials.

The church, which served few youth when the pastor came, capitalized on Young's efforts and remodeled some of its facilities to better suit the needs of youth, calling it the “Leopard's Loft” after the high school's mascot.

About 50 students attended “fifth quarter” post-game events at the church for fun and fellowship during football season. Excitement in the church grew as some of the pupils entered into a youth program Young was building.

Students were not coming alone but helped the church grow by bringing their parents to church activities as well.

Momentum from the Leopard's Loft activities led the church recently to hire a couple to lead a youth program that will impact the community for years to come. About 20 youth come to the church's activities.

“You can't grow a church without youth,” said Young, a former youth minister. “I've seen that same age group missed out in every church. If you don't get them as teenagers, you probably aren't going to get them as adults.”

Young's ministry stretches outside the church and the field. He also is a community representative on the Van Vleck school board and a junior high school substitute teacher.

Tabitha Wilkes, a former cheerleader at the high school and member of Young's church, described the bleacher preacher as a “sweet, kind” person whose warm heart projects a Christian witness.

Although he has taken on other responsibilities, Young has not left behind his bleacher preacher alter ego. This spring, he has prayed before a Little League game and prior to a crucial high school baseball game.

“It's like my Superman outfit,” he joked. “You only put it on when there's an emergency.”

The shirt and title are a way of meeting people, sharing the gospel and publicizing the church, Young believes. He looks forward to the day people recognize why the church is there.

“Hopefully we won't have to use gimmicks. They will know who we are, what we stand for.”

But for the short term, look for the bleacher preacher to return next year.

Posted: 7/25/03

Baptist Briefs

BWAid appeals for Liberia aid. Baptist World Aid has renewed its appeal for urgent humanitarian aid to be sent to Liberia. The deteriorating political situation unfolding in Liberia over the last three months has made life even more precarious for many Liberians. Liberian Baptists in exile want to work to ensure that much-needed food is provided to help alleviate the acute food shortage in the country. Liberian Baptists have asked that funds be collected to purchase rice at $25 per 100-pound bag. A goal has been set to raise $30,000 and provide 120,000 pounds of rice. Designated contributions for "Liberia Relief" may be sent through the Baptist General Convention of Texas or sent directly to Baptist World Aid at 6733 Curran Street, McLean, Va., 22101.

NAC this week. Girls from six continents will join thousands of teenage girls from across the nation for the National Acteens Convention in Nashville, Tenn., July 29-Aug 1. The theme is "SyncroNations." The meeting will feature general sessions, an interactive global village and community service projects at 70 schools.

ABC creates place for gays. The American Baptist Churches in the U.S.A. has voted to create a regional association designed for gay-friendly churches. The denomination's General Board established Evergreen Baptist Association, which was formed by churches that felt ostracized by the more conservative–and much larger–American Baptist Churches of the Northwest. Many of the congregations opposed the larger group's stance on sexuality issues.

Don't "myth" this offer. Three Baptist history groups have cooperatively produced a series of informational pamphlets challenging what the editors call "popular misconceptions and erroneous stereotypes" about Baptists. Doug Weaver of Baylor University is editor of the series. Associate editors are Charles Deweese and Walter Shurden. The series addresses Baptist views on Catholicism, ecumenism, intellectualism, inerrancy, peacemaking, race, creationism, doctrinal uniformity, social justice, women and state-sponsored prayer. For information, call (800) 966-2278 or visit www.baptisthistory.org.

Posted: 7/25/03

Lesson for Aug. 10

Micah 1:1-7; 2:1-9

Where coveting leads

By Stephen Hatfield

She is 81 years old. She lives alone, having lost her husband some years ago. She has adjusted well to life in the golden years. She has many friends and a wonderful church, and her family, though several hundred miles away, keeps in close touch.

The day she fell in the den, she did not tell anyone. But her secret was not hidden for long. Her network of friends insisted she go to the doctor and call her children. And she did. It seems her house is part of the problem. The two-story rambling home is roomy and family-friendly, but not very safe with its many step-ups and step-downs. Her son-in-law even remarked to her if he was to build a house to “do her in” he would build the house she lives in! So the rails were installed and message is now clear–you must hold on to the rails and be careful, or else.

The Old Testament prophet, Micah, lived during a time when all was not right with God's people. If one were to imagine a people ripe for destruction, then the nations of Israel and Judah fit the bill perfectly. Their “house” was unsafe. How they lived invited disaster. God's message through Micah is clear–you must return to me, live responsibly or else.

Micah delivered a message to God's people, who had years before divided into two nations. He spoke to both nations during his life and ministry. Though names/titles can be difficult to remember, keep in mind the South Kingdom, commonly called Judah, had Jerusalem for its capital city. Samaria was the leading city of the North Kingdom, also known as Israel.

Micah's home was Moresheth-gath, located in the foothills between the Mediterranean Sea southwest of Jerusalem. He lived during the reigns of three South Kingdom rulers: Jotham (742-735 B.C.); Ahaz (735-716 B.C.); and Hezekiah (715-687 B.C.). His prophecies probably came a few years before the destruction of the North Kingdom (722 B.C.) and extended until the time of the Assyrian King Sennacherib's invasion of the South Kingdom in 701 B.C.

One should not take his brief introduction lightly (1:1). The prophet's words are for all God's people, not just the residents of the cities of Samaria and Jerusalem.

Micah reveals God's message in three major themes: First, he indicts Israel and Judah for various sins (chapters 1-3). Second, he describes a future time of hope and restoration (chapters 4-5). And third, Micah predicts the coming judgment as a consequence of those sins (chapters 6-7). His message is clear and simple–your unfaithfulness to God will not go unpunished.

Order in the court

Just as evidence is presented in a court case, the nations stand accused before God. From the high bench of heaven, God himself bears witness against his own people (1:2). Micah serves as the chief prosecutor, speaking on behalf of the Lord.

The opening argument

In his opening argument, Micah powerfully describes God's right to judge both nations. Who can ignore the one whose presence causes all of creation to take notice (1:3-4)? Some scholars think Micah portrays the mountains melting and the valleys splitting as a reference to the coming destruction of many pagan shrines, which dotted the Judean and Samarian landscape.

The accused

Why this judgment? The heavenly court convenes becauseof the sins and rebellion of God's people (1:5). The name “Jacob” is another reference to the North Kingdom of Israel. The cities of Samaria and Jerusalem should have stood as examples of faithfulness. Yet, in both instances, these cities stand accused for leading the people astray.

The complete destruction of Samaria is foretold (1:6). The great city, built on a hill (1 Kings 16:24), will be crushed and thrown into its surrounding valley.

The key evidence

Micah, the prosecuting attorney, introduces Exhibit I, the key piece of evidence against God's people–idolatry. The breaking of the first and second commandments–no other Gods and no idols (Exodus 20:3-4)–is the common thread of destruction running from Genesis to Revelation. The acceptance of pagan practices was “business as usual” for both nations. To ignore God's primary command was incredulous to Micah.

The people felt they were not guilty of idolatry, always claiming to be faithful to God. Leaders would explain the presence of pagan shrines, which dotted the land, as simply accommodating and adapting to the surrounding culture. After all, the Lord was still in his temple.

This callous ignorance was the result of not knowing God's word. When the Lord said "no other gods," he did not intend to be No. 1. If there is a No. 1, then logically there will be a No. 2 and so on. The people were not to put God first in their lives–he was to be their only priority.

In today's world, one is often challenged to get right with God and put him first. Perhaps one of the reasons idolatry is alive and well on planet Earth today is due to this same misunderstanding of the first and second commandments.

Micah's misery

The prosecutor does not find joy in his accusations. The remaining verses of this chapter depict the prophet as he mourns the coming consequences of choices made. He appears as a wandering mourner, wailing the lament of the nations. As he travels through the land, he makes several plays on words when mentioning some of the surrounding towns.

For example, when speaking to the residents of Beth-le-aphrah, a village in the foothills between the Judean mountains and the Mediterranean coast, Micah says “roll yourself in the dust” (1:10). The root meaning Beth-le-aphrah literally means “house of dust.”

Rich man, poor man

This sorry state of affairs was not the result of a poor economy. Both Israel and Judah had experienced days of prosperity during Micah's lifetime. With the attention of Assyria turned toward other conquests, both nations had the opportunity to pursue growth in economic, political, social as well as spiritual areas.

But such times are a two-edged sword. Over time, the rich became richer and the poor became poorer. The much-needed stabilizing factor that a middle class provided disappeared.

Working farmers had their lands seized by unscrupulous businessmen. Judges were bribed in the courts. An exile of sorts was already taking its toll on society as families were forced from their homes. This wreaked havoc in many of the towns surrounding the great leading cities of Samaria and Jerusalem. Disease and poverty spread like wildfire (2:1-5).

Micah presents another accusation against Israel and Judah–the breaking of the 10th commandment–no coveting (Exodus 20:17). If idolatry is the father of all sin, then coveting is the eldest child. The hunger for more and more can become so consuming that one's moral compass fails. At first, the coveted object is the idol. Then later, the desire itself to own and possess becomes the idol/god. Society in Israel/Judah had advanced to this later stage, and Micah's voice was not to be silenced.

In addition to breaking the commandments, Micah does not fail to point out God's law concerning the rightful ownership of land. Except for the Jubilee Year (Leviticus 25:10-17), land was to be the permanent inheritance passed down through the family.

Throughout his speech, Micah is interrupted by objections. Those accused demand his silence, attempting to stop the proceedings. In response, Micah adds more fuel to the fire. Adding insult to injury, these oppressors, desiring to have more things for themselves, took unsuspecting people to court and through a corrupt system of justice swindled even veterans who returned from war (2:8). The wealthy took advantage of even the most vulnerable in society–women and children (2:8-9).

The idea of “what goes around comes around” is seen in the ironic punishment that awaits these greedy landowners. One day the tables will turn and those who have stolen will be powerless to protect their holdings. They will be cut off from the promises/blessings of God's people (2:4-5).

Micah's knowledge of the law is evident. The nations have not offended the prophet's sense of right and wrong. He is not defending his own opinions in these matters. He clearly outlines what God requires and allows the evidence itself to demand a guilty verdict. Micah's message stands against even false prophets who used their authority to oppress the disadvantaged.

Micah, as prophet/prosecutor, presents a chilling picture of a society crumbling from within. The Assyrian empire did its part to complete the destruction from without–Samaria would fall in 722 B.C.

Putting the house in order

Hope remains. Although the nations will be taken into captivity, a “remnant” will remain safe and will eventually return (2:12-13). God appears as the Shepherd who gathers his people and as the King who leads them home.

Like concerned children who want their mother's house to be safe, so Micah longs for God's people to put their own house in order. A house ill equipped for safety can only bring disaster for those who live within. Likewise, a life based on wanting and getting more and more things, especially at the expense of others, will bring heartache and turmoil to all around.

Micah describes a society sick from within. He has spoken in generalities so far, but he is about to name names, single out specific groups, for evil always has a face. The opening argument continues in chapter 3.

How much better to obey willingly than by compulsion!

Questions for discussion

In what ways do people covet today?

In light of Exodus 20:3-4, give several examples of idolatry as it is evidenced in today's world.

Should Christians today be concerned with issues of social justice and welfare? Why or why not?

How does God punish the sins of a nation today?

In light of Leviticus 25:10ff., what is the purpose and significance of the year of Jubilee?

How can we apply the meaning of the year of Jubilee in our world today?

Stephen Hatfield is pastor of First Baptist Church in Lewisville.

Posted: 7/25/03

Lesson for Aug. 17

Micah 3

When leaders sell out

By Stephen Hatfield

Parents, teachers, coaches, managers and ministers all seek to motivate people to action. Bookstore shelves are filled with titles that define and describe techniques to get the most out of people. A leader desires to do the right things and say the right things in order to reach a goal.

If the ultimate goal is “right living” before God, then how does one reach it? Some say working the right angles and pushing the right buttons are important in motivating people to do what is right. At times, encouraging words are proper. Many will say, “Don't preach at me.” Indeed, there is much to be said for positive reinforcement. People need to be built up, not torn down.

Yet, at other times, the positive can be learned from the negative perspective. The darkness of one's life must be seen for what it is–darkness. The wound must be treated, and this process can be painful.

Micah 3 stands as a classic example of negative teaching which demands a positive response. The scene is a courtroom. Micah, the chief prosecutor, levels serious accusations against the North (Israel) and South (Judah) Kingdoms. God himself is the judge. Micah's case against the nations is “open and shut.” The condemning evidence is a lack of leadership, both political and religious. The prophet continues his opening argument, identifying the ones who are responsible for this desperate situation.

Evidence against

political leaders

The governmental leaders of the nation have failed. The context suggests that “heads of Jacob and rulers of the house of Israel” refers to the South Kingdom of Judah. Though confusing, the name designations of both kingdoms are used interchangeably.

Micah's question in 3:1 needs no answer–the political leaders know better. They hold places of leadership because they know what is required. Not one of them can plead ignorance.

The figures of speech in 3:2-3 are powerful and tragic. History documents the savage treatment of people by evil regimes that rob, maim, rape, murder and oppress. But such things happening in Israel/Judah were unthinkable and unbelievable. These duly elected and trusted leaders took innocent lives and destroyed them. Micah's words are chilling: “You break their bones and chop them up as for the pot and as meat in a kettle” (3:3).

Governmental leaders fully expected to receive God's blessing in spite of these atrocities. Their skewed perspective could no longer accept the truth that disobedience leads to separation from God.

Evidence against

religious leaders

The corruption within the nation did not exist just within political life. The lack of spiritual leadership completed the tragic state of affairs among the people. The prophets used their authority to feed their own mouths and fill their own pockets. To those who submitted to their evil demands, these “false prophets” would show favor. To those who did not, “they declare holy war (3:5).”

These false prophets may have fooled the people, but now they stand before the judgment seat of God. One day their charade will be exposed for what it is. Those who have misused their God-given authority will find themselves in darkness. They will be ashamed. They will be embarrassed, for God will not answer them.

Micah's authority

In contrast to the lack of spiritual leadership among Israel/ Judah, Micah stands as one “filled with power–with the Spirit of the Lord” (3:8). He speaks not for himself, not with his own authority. Micah is conscious of the hand of God upon his life and message. Unlike the deceitful, double-talk of others, Micah's words are hard to hear–for the truth is difficult to accept. But his refusal to back down is the very evidence of God's presence in his life.

Micah's words are God's words. He is not “the pot calling the kettle black.” His mission is to reveal the complete lack of integrity and leadership within both nations.

Truth and consequences

The coming judgment is no illusion. Samaria fell in 722 B.C. at the hands of the Assyrian Empire. Jerusalem did not fall until 586 B.C. when the Babylonian ruler, Nebuchadnezzar, desecrated the temple upon his arrival in the city.

The prophet Jeremiah, speaking to the rulers of Judah almost a century after Micah's lifetime, quoted 3:12 in his warning to the leaders: “Micah of Moresheth prophesied in the days of Hezekiah king of Judah; and he spoke to all the people of Judah, saying, 'Thus the Lord of hosts has said, “Zion will be plowed as a field, and Jerusalem will become ruins, and the mountain of the house as the high places of a forest”'”(Jeremiah 26:18).

Micah's life and words influenced the following generations. Though his message may have been forgotten by most, Jeremiah knew the wisdom of his counsel. He paid close attention to the past and reminded the king in his own day, Hezekiah, of the necessity of obedience. As a result, during Hezekiah's reign, the nation of Judah experienced a revival of sorts.

Two interesting observations emerge from Micah 3. First, the leadership vacuum within Israel/Judah had its roots in coveting, the greedy desire for more and more material things. When people in power misuse their authority, usually it is for the purpose of personal gain. The situation in Israel/Judah was compounded because governmental leaders and religious leaders conspired together to oppress the people. One of the benefits to society where church and state are separate is an atmosphere where God's spokesmen are free from obligation to the state.

Second, these greedy, unscrupulous leaders oppressed people and bribed the judicial system. Spiritual guidance was sold as a commodity (3:11). Before prayers were offered, cash was demanded. All the while, they presumed upon the Lord by expecting his divine protection: “Is not the Lord in our midst? Calamity will not come upon us” (3:11).

When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness at the beginning of his ministry (Matthew 4:1-11), Satan tried to talk Jesus into jumping from the pinnacle of the temple in Jerusalem. The evil one quoted Scripture as he taunted Jesus. The Lord refused, quoting Deuteronomy 6:16, “You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.” To put oneself in danger and then to expect God to come to the rescue is foolish at best. The leaders within Israel/Judah arrogantly called upon God to protect their own interests.

Lessons for today

Leaders lead in one direction or the other. Those who have authority will influence others. The question is where leaders take those who follow them. Desperate days demand strong, capable leaders who will govern and influence with integrity and honesty. A sick society, usually, is a symptom of ineffective leadership.

Understand and protect the separation of church and state. One of the reasons people of Israel/Judah found themselves in such trouble was a lack of accountability among their leaders. Political and religious lines should never become so blurredthat collusion between the two allows innocent people to suffer.

Beware of the temptation to presume upon God. Many Christians think nothing of placing themselves in an awkward, if not dangerous, position and then piously praying for God's protection. Consider the one who brags about driving excessively over the speed limit, then praying for God's help when the tire blows out and control of the car is lost. Jesus made it very clear that there is enough danger in everyday life. To deliberately put oneself in more danger is sin.

Remember consequences follow choices. One of the hardest lessons for believers is the truth of Micah's words regarding choices made. The leaders within Israel/Judah chose to deceive and oppress. Though they were free to choose their actions, they were not free from the consequences of their choices.

People today face the same situation. Too many times, blame is laid everywhere but where it truly belongs. One of the watershed verses in the Bible is Joshua 24:15: “Choose for yourselves today whom you will serve.” Make no mistake–we are free to choose, but what we choose we will serve. People suffer from addictions and illnesses caused by choices made in the past. Joshua's words remind us we are born to serve something or someone. The question is who/what will we serve?

Know the power of the negative. Not all of God's word is spoken from the “thou shalt not” perspective. Too many times, people have ridiculed the Christian life by saying it is a life with a checklist of “dos and don'ts.” Nothing could be further from the truth. When God says, “Thou shalt not,” he is not trying to oppress his children. He is protecting us from actions and things that can harm us.

For example, “Thou shalt not commit adultery” is not God hurting us but his way of protecting husbands, wives and families. The negative leads to the positive.

The court in recess

Micah completes his opening argument before the heavenly court. His speech is filled with accusations. He tells the truth; he minces no words. His harsh words are meant to heal a situation, which, if ignored, will destroy the nations of Israel and Judah. Will the leaders/people take his words to heart and change their ways? History tells us no, but God has a plan to bring his people back.

Questions for discussion

Do you respond best to negative or positive messages when someone is trying to motivate you to action?

What standards of conduct should political leaders be expected to maintain?

What standards of conduct should religious leaders be expected to maintain? If different from political leaders, explain your reasoning.

How do people presume upon God today?

Posted: 7/25/03

Lesson for Aug. 24

Micah 4:1-8; 5:2-5

Peace can come from the pieces

By Stephen Hatfield

In the midst of turmoil and destruction, peace is always a possibility. Micah chapters 4-5 describe the potential for peace and restoration of the nations of Israel and Judah.

These chapters stand between two courtroom scenes where God judges his people. Chapters 1-3 describe a courtroom scene, where the prophet presents his case against the nations of Israel and Judah before the judge of the entire universe–God himself. Chapters 4-5 describe the restoration of a remnant after the destruction of the nations. Finally, chapters 6-7 return to the courtroom scene where Micah presents the “closing arguments.”

Interpreters of the Bible have differing opinions concerning the origin and location of these two middle chapters. Were they an original part of the book or added later? No evidence suggests the book of Micah has undergone any rearrangement of its contents or additions of any kind. To study the book as it stands is the best approach.

Pieces of the puzzle

Like pieces of a puzzle, one must examine the words of these chapters and seek to fit them into history and faith. Consider two pieces of Micah's puzzle.

First, Micah 4:1-3 is found almost word for word in Isaiah 2:2-4. Isaiah and Micah were contemporaries, and no doubt their messages were similar in content. While Isaiah related solely to the nation of Judah (South Kingdom), Micah related to both Israel and Judah. The issue of who wrote first does not weaken the message of hope found in their words.

Second, scholars have long debated the dating of 4:10: “Writhe and labor to give birth, Daughter of Zion, Like a woman in childbirth; For now you will go out of the city, Dwell in the field, And go to Babylon. There you will be rescued; there the Lord will redeem you from the hand of your enemies.”

Did Micah prophesy concerning the nation of Judah and identify its conqueror as Babylon or was this verse added years after the prophet's lifetime? Micah well could have foreseen the collapse of the city of Jerusalem and the exile of the Jews to Babylon, which occurred in 586 B.C., as well as the beginning of the remnant's return in 538 B.C. Prophecy is both forth-telling and fore-telling. In speaking the truth, the prophet Micah was also telling the future.

Peace within the puzzle

Though sincere, Bible-believing people may differ over the “pieces” and how these chapters should be interpreted, all Christians can find hope in these powerful passages. The two focal texts for this present lesson are especially meaningful for those who find themselves far from God and wonder if he really does forgive and restore. Consider the “peace” one can find within the “pieces” of Micah's puzzle.

Our God reigns

When God calls all things to their proper end, his kingdom will reign over the entire universe (4:1). Jews living in exile, who read these words, knew all was not lost. People who are lacking faith today also should remember God is in control, and someday all people will see his mighty power. The phrase “in the last days” (4:1) describes the time of God's perfect kingdom. Though one cannot pinpoint its date, God has promised the arrival of this time. See also Isaiah 2:2; Jeremiah 16:15; Zechariah 14:9-11; Malachi 3:17; and Revelation 19-22.

No more war

The “hammering of swords into plowshares” (4:3) will someday be a reality. Who would not look forward to the time when never “again will they train for war” (4:3)? Israel/Judah lived under the threat of invasion. In current times, wars fought on the other side of the globe are viewed “live.” God's plan for the future erases the threat of all war.

Faithful living

The most ardent readers of Micah's prophecy were probably Jews who lived in exile, far from home. They knew well the price of disobedience, for they were living out God's judgment far from their homeland. They also knew well the faithfulness of God and the strength found in “walking in the name of God” (4:5).

A Savior for the world

Micah 4:1-4 has its ultimate fulfillment in the coming of Christ. He is the one who will bring all the promises of these verses to pass.

A Savior will be born

Micah appears to describe the total destruction of the family line of David. The historical narrative of 2 Kings 24-26 details the demise of kings Jehoiachin and Zedekiah. When Nebuchadnezzar besieged Jerusalem, he slaughtered the sons of Zedekiah. One might assume from this devastating episode that the Davidic line had come to its end and God's promise that one would be born in his line who would reign forever was never to be fulfilled.

Matthew knew Micah 5:2-5 well. In his account of the birth of Jesus the Christ, the tax collector turned disciple quoted the first lines of 5:2, identifying this verse as a 700-year-old prophecy concerning the Lord's miraculous birth.

Micah's words offer another glimpse of this future king: “His goings forth are from long ago, from the days of eternity (5:2).” This would be no ordinary king.

The Apostle John, in his Gospel, beautifully describes one of the significant doctrines of the Bible–the pre-existence of Christ: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God” (1:1-2).

Pagan philosophers had written of the impossibility of identifying anything significant surrounding the beginning of time. A barrier could not be penetrated; a door could not be opened at the beginning of creation. Looking through the eyes of faith, John could go back to the genesis of time and space and open the door of creation to find Jesus, who existed from the beginning. One would trace this eternal king's origins not to David, but to God. Though pre-existent and eternal, Jesus entered human history as the infant son of Joseph and Mary.

God can work

in every situation

Israel/Judah will suffer for the time being. Their sins will not go unpunished. They will face exile and tremendous hardship at the hands of Babylon. Yet God will allow these things to happen to prepare them for a brighter future (5:3).

A Savior who shepherds

Here Jesus is pictured as the shepherd, who protects and guides his people. The good shepherd cares, leads, protects and saves his sheep. The Old Testament often depicts God as one who shepherds his people, as in Psalm 23.

A Savior who brings peace

Micah 5:2 begins: “This One will be our peace.” Micah described this important task of the coming Messiah, centuries before his birth. In one of Christ's final discussions with his followers, he said: “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful” (John 14:27).

Because of Jesus' first coming, people can know his peace and salvation. Because of his future return, people can know his kingdom of peace will last forever. The first readers of Micah's prophecies were Jews who lived in the Exile. Reading with eyes of faith, they had the opportunity to know their punishment and exile would prepare them for brighter days ahead.

God works

in unexpected ways

Perhaps the most remarkable lesson from these chapters is that God works in ways people do not expect. Micah leads one to reasonably expect God to reveal himself in the line of David. The details of this revelation confound and confuse. Who would think the coming, eternal king who brings peace would be born in a seemingly insignificant village? Yet Bethlehem, identified by its county seat of Ephrathah, was the place of his birth. Who would choose a hard-working young carpenter and his equally young wife to provide a home for the King of kings? Yet Joseph and Mary are God's choice to be the parents of Jesus. People should not be surprised when God time and again chooses to appear and to work in unexpected ways.

J. Vernon McGee, in his “Thru the Bible” commentary, has an interesting take on this Old Testament book. He maintains that if Micah 1-3 focuses on announcing future judgment for past sins, then chapters 4-5 describe future glory based on past promises. Micah reminds the people God has a plan, and his plan is best, and his plan will ultimately come to pass.

Believers in today's world should pay careful attention to Micah's words. Though the historical situation is far removed from our present day, the lessons remain the same. God, though patient and loving, demands and deserves the obedience of his people. We are free to choose, but we are not free to choose the consequences of our choices.

People who go through times of exile in personal living can take heart that such times can bring us closer to God. And those who live on our side of the cross know the victory has been accomplished in the birth, life, ministry, death, burial, resurrection and future coming of the one of whom Micah spoke.

What about all those confusing pieces of Micah's puzzle? Christ is the key piece that allows one to put all the pieces together.

Questions for discussion

Which nation was commonly known as Judah?

Which nation was commonly known as Israel?

Which nation fell to the Babylonian empire and in what year did it fall?

When will all wars cease?

How has God worked in ways you least expected? Explain the circumstance.

Have you ever experienced a period of exile in your own life? What did you learn from this experience?

Posted: 7/25/03

Lesson for Aug. 3

Hosea 14

Return to the Lord in repentance

By Sam Dennis

One of my favorite movies growing up was “The Wizard of Oz, ” but, alas, this TV fare always aired on Sunday night– which was an impossible time for me. Why? Well, our family always left for church just as the scarecrow was being torn apart by the witch's flying monkeys (or whatever they were).

But one night (maybe it was a night when Bruce McIver was out of town, or a night my Training Union lesson leader was gone, or a night Dad just let things be) we got to stay home and watch the whole thing. When I saw the movie's ending for the very first time, I was mesmerized as Dorothy clicked her “ruby red slippers” and chanted, “There's no place like home.” I nestled into my own bed later and agreed. For there really was no place like home, I thought (no pun intended for those positing faithful Sunday night church attendance yet today).

Since those days, I have come to realize that home is more than a place–it is a state of the heart. As we come to chapters 12-14 of Hosea, Israel was set for finding this out too. As a people, Israel had known a home made up by their own land but had lost in this knowing their real home in the heart of God. Ephraim (Israel) had become unfamiliar with Yahweh's ways. Chapter 11 ends with God declaring of them, “Israel (Ephraim) has surrounded me with lies” and “deceit” (11:12).

First steps back

Even though Israel was now a stranger, God was setting the stage for their return home. To see this, we should be aware of the greater context from Hosea 11:11-13:16. As was pointed out in lesson 2 (see July 13, under, “A Turn for the Worse,” paragraph 1), it is not wrong to see in Hosea a “back and forth” rhythm which is part of the book's entire length, moving from judgment to salvation and back again–and something true in these verses as well. To come home, Israel must first realize they are not home.

As it is helpful to see the rhythm of the book's “back and forth” methodology, it is equally helpful to see its chronology too. Though definitive dates are more difficult to nail down in Hosea's later chapters, there are things yet apparent so that we may sense in it the progression of time in Israel's fall and fate.

For instance, Doug Stuart points out that chapter 1 is the earliest datable part of the book as it “predicts Israel's very demise by means of the names Hosea gives his children, 'as God has commanded him', during the 750s.” He continues, “By chapter 5, the Syro-Ephramite war of 733-32 B.C, is under way (5:8-10).” And, further, “by chapter 11, the retrospective portion of the book has begun.” His point being that when chapters 13 and 14 come around, it is near the end of Hosea's long and faithful ministry, or at the months just prior to Samaria's fall at the hands of the Assyrians in 722 B.C.

So chapters 12-13:1 relate once more the sins of Israel, which have grown over the course of Hosea's ministry. Now Israel has sinned greatly, and these verses spell this out in images of futility. They (Ephraim) “feed on the wind,” pursuing “the east wind all day,” which is a reference to herding, but a kind of herding that is useless in its pursuit of “winds” not catchable.

Also, they are guilty of unholy alliances–making a “treaty with Assyria” and sending “olive oil to Egypt” (v. 1). For this they are warned they will no longer be Israel but Jacob (12:2-6). Jacob became Israel when he humbled himself and prayed (v. 4), but now, Jacob (the deceiver) has returned, losing his namesake and, in this sense, becoming disowned. Return must involve penitence–“you must return,” perseverance–“maintain love and justice” and patience–“wait for your God always” (v. 6).

Next, worse than being Jacob, they are Canaanites (the Hebrew word “Canaan,” meaning “trader,” is translated in the NIV text as “merchant”). As traders, they have become rich by oppressing the poor (12:7-8). But these riches will not be enough to buy deliverance from God's wrath (12:8). Israel will again live in poverty, and their history will be reversed (12:9). Next, they have refused to honor their father's name (12:10-14). By spurning the prophets, they rejected God (12:10) and finally, the prophetic word (12:14).

God's warnings of punishment (Hosea 13:2-16)

God now describes what their punishment will be for their actions. These verses may be confusing because the prophecies combine elements of past, present and future.

For instance, the oracle contrasts Israel's past and present sinful attitude (13:2, 6 and 15); God's past and present faithfulness (vv. 4-6); leading to the implication that the rebel nation deserved to die in the near future (vv. 3, 7-14). But suffice it to say, verses 2-16 in their entirety are a punishment/indictment tracing Israel's history from its glorious past to its future as nothing.

The pathos felt in the opening of this oracle is astounding, “when Ephraim spoke men trembled; he was exalted in Israel” (v. 1). But now, now he is guilty of Baal worship, “and died” (v. 1). So the punishment of Israel is measured, whether in the past, present or future, as so: (1) They will lose their place of eminence (vv. 1-3); (2) they will lose their Savior, and will meet him again as avenger (vv. 4-8); (3) they will lose their king (vv.9-11); and (4) they will lose their hope (vv. 12-16).

And, though there typically is only a sampling of sins in prophetic oracles (more often one or two), likewise there is more often only a sampling of punishments listed as well. Hosea 13:2-16 breaks this mold. I have listed at least four in general above, but one can argue for more, even six, as Stuart does.

God's call to return

(Hosea 14)

The death of Israel is contrasted against the last chapter of the book, chapter 14, which describes the alternative to judgment–repentance, reconciliation and renewal. I can't help but wonder at the prophet, perhaps fully engaged as doom was approaching, yet still with a message of hope. In this, Hosea is a model for our present times and circumstances.

So, as an alternative to judgment, Hosea calls the people to repentance (14:1-3). It is the only way. As they stumble, they must look up rather than down (14:1), and put their intentions into their words (14:2-3). How? With a request to God: “Forgive all our sins” and “receive us” “that we may offer” to you (v. 2). So, repentance includes the request of the sinner, but also a pledge, which is “the fruit of our lips” (v.2), and Hosea reminds that repentance includes a confession (14:3). It is a confession as to who they are; they are “fatherless” (14:3). And as to what they will not do, such as “say… our gods to what our hands have made” (14:3).

Beyond repentance, there is reconciliation and renewal (14:4-8). In reconciling Israel to himself, God will make their relationship secure (14:4) and pour out his blessings upon them (14:5-7). The prose is sublime: “I will be like the dew to Israel” and “he will blossom like a lily” (v. 5), and we see invigoration.

The uses of fruit images are of excellent application. As to “lily,” it is used elsewhere only in the Song of Solomon, where it is found a total of seven times, showing a special connection between this passage and the Song of Solomon. And what are the fruits of true repentance? Life becomes beautiful (the lily); life becomes sturdy–“he will send down his roots; his young roots will grow” (v. 5), life becomes fruitful and useful–“his splendor will be like an olive tree” (v. 6), and life becomes fragrant–“his fragrance like a cedar of Lebanon” (v. 6).

Finally, renewal is represented by verse 8. God is Ephraim's only source. It is he who is “like a green pine tree”; and they are to remember that their “fruitfulness comes from him” (v. 8). The way of return to God is now complete. From repentance to reconciliation and now renewal, Israel is to know her strength is from the Lord. Verse 9 is generally regarded as a conclusion later added to Hosea. It is an exhortation to all who would be “wise” to listen and to give heed.

As Hosea uttered these final words, perhaps the chariots were at Samaria's walls. Regardless, in 722 B.C., his predictions were fulfilled. The Assyrians destroyed Samaria, and its inhabitants were taken into captivity from where their descendants never returned.

Going home

On Sept. 11, 2001, I was on New York's Manhattan Island. Others from Parkway Hills Baptist Church and I had gone there to work with a Southern Baptist missionary, Taylor Field, at the Graffiti Mission on the Lower East Side.

On the morning of the attack, the sky was clear. Earlier, I had been out jogging and, with the city, was readying for a busy, independent and confident New York City-kind of day. But when the sky turned gray, I was caught in the midst of a humanity I did not know but with whom I now had everything in common. For a few frightful days, all of America wondered about their safety and future, but, for us on the isle, we lived it. My “physical home” in faraway Plano could not be reached by plane–I'd have to drive, if I could get a car. And so, in that faraway place, apart from family and church, I looked up at the sky and felt terribly alone. I wanted to be home.

In my prayers that night, I prayed God would protect my family and help them not to worry, and, that he would soothe my own soul. He did, but not in the way I thought he would. The neighborhood, the area I could not leave for fear of not getting back in, became strangely my home as I discovered anew what home really is. For home is the place where God is. Not a place of brick, mortar, nor even family and familiar friends, but where God dwells with us and we with him, and where he is honored and our souls needs are met. For that is a place worth coming home to.

Questions for discussion

In light of our world, how are we to come home today?

Can we expect God requires from us the same steps of repentance he did from Israel?

In this love song from God, try to imagine yourself as his child. How does he know you? How can you know him? What steps can you take to return?

Sam Dennis is pastor of Parkway Hills Baptist Church in Plano.

Posted: 7/25/03

Lesson for Aug. 31

Micah 6:1-8

God's case against his people

By Stephen Hatfield

These concluding chapters of Micah (6-7) focus once again on the courtroom. In chapters 1-3, Micah, the lead prosecutor, outlined his accusations against the nations of Israel and Judah, with special emphasis given to the lack of leadership among political officials and religious leaders.

The focal passage for this present lesson (6:1-8) resembles a written deposition or lawsuit.

God has a “case” against his people (6:1). The mountains are commanded to listen to the “indictment of the Lord” against the nations (6:2). Furthermore, God will outline his “dispute” with Israel (6:2). Throughout this scene, God speaks for himself (first person) at times, while at other times, Micah speaks as God's prophet (third person).

A rhetorical question

God asks a question the people would never be able to answer: “My people, what have I done to you?” The fact is clear–he has done nothing wrong. What God had done was to show patience and loving guidance to the nations. A survey of the evidence would clearly show God had consistently given the people chance after chance to make good choices. He is innocent of any harsh treatment or abuse of the people.

Evidences of love

When the people respond with silence to God's question, he answers them with the truth. He not only has done no wrong, but he reminds them of how he loved and guided them in the past.

God led the people out of bondage from Egypt. This journey to freedom and the possession of the promised land was God's plan and God's blessing to his people. The capable leadership of Moses, Aaron and Miriam came from God, not the popular vote of the people. The people of Micah's day had forgotten these items of evidence.

God reminded the people of what he accomplished through the lives of Balak and Balaam. This story (Numbers 22-24) was additional evidence of God's provision for his people. Balak, King of Moab, tried to persuade Balaam the sorcerer, to pronounce a curse upon God's people. Balaam, instead, pronounced a blessing upon the people and predicted their triumph over all their enemies. Who worked within this situation on behalf of the people? God was at work, yet they rejected his love and guidance.

Shittim served as the last campsite east of the Jordan before the people took the city of Jericho and entered the promised land (Joshua 2:1). There the people received last minute instructions from God on how to live. Gilgal was their first campsite after crossing the Jordan River. At this place they renewed their covenant relationship with God (Joshua 5:3-9). In God's way of reasoning, both of these places proved his willingness to protect and to warn the people of potential hazards along the way. But the people of Micah's day had long forgotten Shittim and Gilgal.

What the Lord requires

Micah speaks on behalf of the heavenly court in these verses. The bottom line is this: What does the Lord require? What must one do to please him?

Micah does not condemn sacrifices offered to God. The sacrificial system was God's idea. But sacrifices offered with lip service with no obedience are worthless. The people have misunderstood the purpose of sacrifice. They propose to buy God's favor by offering excessive and lavish offerings.

Their calloused minds lead them to suggest and to offer even the unthinkable–human sacrifice. Though denounced as an abomination to God (Deuteronomy 18:10), they have long since outgrown their need for God's word in their search for new and better ways.

The heart of the matter

Here stands the watershed verse of the book of Micah. God has made his wishes very clear as to what he desires from his people. The people had asked the wrong questions. Micah ignored their concerns about the best sacrifice and answered the crucial question at hand: What does God want? Three things are desired: (1) To be just, (2) to love kindness and (3) to walk humbly with God.

Be fair

Does one deal fairly in relationships with other people? A person transformed by God will seek to carry out justice in all walks of life. For Micah's day, this meant leaders must cease their swindling ways. They would stop abusing the innocent, and they would uphold the rights of individuals.

In today's world, the church should set the example by caring for those who need help. The church should not leave this task to the government. God's people are to bring the “cup of cold water” in the name of Jesus. When any nation, past or present, allows a system of justice to exploit the poor at the hands of the rich, that nation is treading on dangerous ground.

Be loving

Showing love is one thing. Showing love to those who wrong you is another. The command to love one another crosses all lines of relationships. Love between husband and wife, parent and child, and believer and God all are included here.

The Hebrew word used here is almost untranslatable. This word can mean “love,” “steadfast love” or “to love kindness.” Related to the covenant relationship, these terms describe loyalty even when loyalty is not legally required. If justice does what is right, then steadfast love goes a step further and does what is not explicitly demanded. This love is related to the New Testament concept of “agape” love, the person who loves even when not loved in return. Also see 1 Corinthians 13:4-7.

Be humble

As we walk the path of life, we are to surrender our will to God. The root meaning of this term denotes “strength under control.” A related word, “meek,” has caused many to misunderstand this teaching. The Bible says Moses was a meek man. Meekness does not equate with weakness, though the rhyming of these terms has led many to consider them synonyms.

Jesus pronounced a blessing on the humble/meek in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:5). When Jesus said these would inherit the earth, their reward was not promised because of weakness. The wild stallion broken by its trainer is not weaker as a result. The horse is just as strong as before, but now the rider has control of the reins. The power is harnessed. In the same way, we are to walk with God in such a way that he has control of every aspect of our lives. God does not seek after what we have, but he seeks after us–our very lives.

The command to “humble yourself” is found time after time in Scripture. In most cases, we are never to ask God to humble us, but we are to take the initial steps in bringing our lives under God's control. Likewise, we are never commanded to “humble someone else.” Each person is to pay attention to his own spiritual walk, not seek to direct the walk of someone else.

A call to remember

These requirements are not new. Micah asserts God “has told you, O man, what is good” (6:8). God had made his requirements clear in times past and his requirements have not changed. They remain the same. The people did not need a new revelation from God. They needed a powerful reminder of what they knew but had forgotten or ignored.

Lessons for today

We all need the strength to face our sin and seek forgiveness from God. What God requires today is no different from what Micah stated long ago in that heavenly courtroom. To sum up in one word what the essence of Christianity has always been and always will be perhaps is best stated in the word “relationship.” Christianity is knowing Jesus. The Christian life is not church attendance, believer's baptism, being good or knowing facts from the Bible. These things are important, no doubt, but they are meaningless when separated from one's love for God.

God has given us his full revelation in the Bible. There is no need to seek anything new. Looking at God's word in fresh ways is one thing. Ignoring God's clear requirements for our lives while looking for some new excuse for our sinfulness is another.

Citizens of Israel/Judah chose to ignore God's will and way. As a result, they experienced God's punishment. Citizens of America choose to ignore God's will and way as well. The consequences of our choices result in heartache, fractured families and dysfunctional congregations. For Judah, the road home was long and hard. What do we expect today?

Thanks be to God for his indescribable love. Micah concludes his case with a reminder that God is faithful to his people: “Who is a God like you, who pardons iniquity and passes over the rebellious act of the remnant of his possession? He does not retain his anger forever, because he delights in unchanging love. He will again have compassion on us” (7:18-19).

Exiled families who sat around the dinner table in Babylon often read Scripture before sharing a meal. Imagine one of these families, gathered for the evening meal reading Micah's closing comments. The father, who had been taken as a baby from his home in Jerusalem, had no memory of the land of promise. But he never doubted its existence. Though the present situation was not the best, God's best was right around the corner. Someday they would go home. God is good.

How much better to obey willingly than by compulsion!

Questions for discussion

If God were to ask you what he did to cause you to stray from him, what would you say?

If God gives second chances, can you describe a time when he extended to you his grace and forgiveness? Explain the circumstance.

In light of God showing his people evidences of his love, what evidences can you look back and see in your life that remind you of God's care and concern for you?

In light of Micah 6:8, give examples of how Christians can seek justice in our world today.

How can Christians practice steadfast love?

Explain what the Bible means when it says, “humble yourself.”

Posted: 7/25/03

Buckner honors Mrs. Criswell's class

By Heather Price

Buckner News Service

DALLAS–Representatives from Buckner Baptist Benevolences presented the first Circle of Care Award to Mrs. W.A. Criswell and members of her Bible class at First Baptist Church of Dallas June 26.

The presentation was made at Buckner Retirement Village in Dallas.

Mrs. Criswell was honored for 32 years of Christian service and volunteerism at Buckner. Each December, her class hosts a Christmas party for the Village residents. The class provides food and music as well as a hand-wrapped gift for each resident.

“We believe there have been 7,500 gifts distributed by this class. That is absolutely phenomenal,” said David Kihneman, executive vice president for Buckner Baptist Benevolences.

The class “contributed to making this a home for the residents,” Kihneman said. “Many seniors do not have family, and (the class) has filled a gap for those folks and made this a special place. They have been a family to them for more than three decades.”

Many residents who have participated in the annual Christmas party attended the celebration. Their gratitude was evident as they waited in line to give Mrs. Criswell hugs.

“It is really a special thing for the residents, and it is a highlight for them,” said Mary Stephens, vice president for Buckner Retirement Services.

Class member Sandy Coates has been volunteering at the retirement village 15 years. She organizes the party, prepares the food and wraps all the gifts.

“This is my biggest gift at Christmas,” she said. “Nothing else matters but doing the party out here at Buckner. This is God's gift to me by ministering to all the people out here.”

Mrs. Criswell received the award presented by Bill Sehnert, chairman of the Village Resident Council.

“We are always blessed when we come,” she said. “It was the high day of our lives, and I'm sure the Lord is looking down from heaven and blessing this. We love you, and we want to do more.”

Posted: 7/25/03

BWA budget goes beyond
bare bones to 'bleeding,' Lotz says

By Trennis Henderson

Kentucky Western Recorder

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil (ABP)–Responding to mounting financial pressure, members of the Baptist World Alliance General Council adopted a zero-growth budget for 2004.

The action during the council's July 9-12 meeting in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, followed an earlier $425,000 reduction in the current year's budget.

The BWA is comprised of 211 member bodies representing more than 46 million baptized believers worldwide.

While the organization has operated with a “bare-bones budget” for several years, General Secretary Denton Lotz told council members: “This is not only bare-bones. This is leukemia. We are bleeding.”

The Virginia-based BWA, already suffering from the weak economy, lost another $125,000 in revenue for next year when the Southern Baptist Convention, its largest contributor, voted in June to reduce its allocation by about a third. Southern Baptist leaders objected to the BWA's decision to admit the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship as a member.

The past year “has been a very challenging year financially,” noted Wallace Charles Smith, chairman of the BWA's budget and finance committee. He said preparing next year's budget required “a great deal of stress, strain, agony and prayer.”

Despite the financial hardships, Lotz said, “We believe God is going to provide for us.”

The projected $1.69 million in revenue includes more than $520,000 from member bodies; $780,000 from individuals, churches and other groups; and more than $300,000 from administrative fees, investments, rental income and other sources.

Major expenses include $1 million for personnel-related costs, $126,400 for publications and media, $118,260 for general office expenses and $89,600 for staff travel. BWA is involved in global evangelism and education as well as work in the areas of religious freedom, human rights and Christian ethics.

Efforts to increase revenue for the alliance include recruiting Global Impact Churches, congregations that contribute at least $1,000 annually.

Leaders also proposed bylaw changes that would expand BWA membership to include individual and associate members. Associate members would include local churches and other Baptist entities such as colleges and seminaries, as well as associational, regional or state Baptist organizations. The proposals will be considered during next year's BWA General Council meeting in Seoul, Korea.

In addition to BWA's operating budget, council members approved a 2003-2004 funding goal of $2.66 million for Baptist World Aid, BWA's relief and development arm.

Paul Montacute, director of Baptist World Aid, noted the funding goal is a significant drop from the current year's $3 million goal. Only $1.2 million was received last year, resulting in several unmet ministry needs.

Among proposed ministry projects for the coming year are $100,000 for hunger relief and $100,000 for HIV/AIDS ministry efforts. Development projects–in Bangladesh, Liberia, Nicaragua and elsewhere–would fund housing for street children, AIDS prevention programs, and water and sanitation projects.