Pastor Chris' Blog

Proverbs 31 Man

2012-01-31T05:29:00.000-08:00

Proverbs 31 is often referred to as the "Proverbs 31 woman". And yet, the proverb was specifically written to a man when originally given. It was a mother giving instructions to a son. So, as I read it this morning, I reflected on each verse for myself personally as a husband. The result is a list that I believe every husband can learn from.

Proverbs 31 for men:

To be the kind of husband God's called you to be and she wants:
v. 3 - Avoid sexual immorality (solely give yourself to her)
v. 4-7 - Avoid alcohol (and other addictions)
v. 8-9 - Defend the defenseless (Be a man with a heart)
v. 10 - Value your wife
v. 11 - Trust your wife
v. 12 - Notice her Kindess
v. 13 - Notice her hardwork
v. 14 - Thank her for good cooking
v. 15 - Provide her help
v. 16 - Allow her to pursue her dreams
v. 17 - Compliment her physical beauty
v. 18 - Affirm her decisions
v. 19 - Admire her clothes
v. 20 - Support her ministry and spiritual gifts
v. 21 - Appreciate her gifts to you
v. 22 - Brag about her
v. 28 - Bless her and praise her
v. 29 - Encourage her
v. 30 - Support her spiritually growth
v. 31 - Reward her

Also, may we not chase our wives on to the roof of the house either! (Proverbs 21:9, 25:24)

Pastor's Ponderings - 2/5/12

2012-01-27T09:26:00.000-08:00

(In First Baptist newsletter The Visitor)

For the next few weeks we will be looking at what it means to be a member. Over the years, I have found that people often overlap or confuse the following three subjects. And yet, they are very different from each other.

Christian – This is a person who has professed their faith in Jesus. They believe that Jesus came, died, and literally rose again from the grave. They believe He alone is the Son of God who saves sinners who believe in Him. This person is a part of the family of God. They can never be separated from the love of Christ and the family of God once they have truly been saved. They are baptized to publicly witness to their faith in Christ.

Church Member – This is a person who is a Christian and has chosen to identify with a local group of believers. They agree to actively support the efforts of the local church through their involvement, prayer, financial support, using their talents/gifts, etc. A member, by nature, is “active” in their church. A member can only be removed by either joining another church, requesting their membership to be dropped, or being church disciplined.

*Note, only Christians are allowed to become a member of a local church. But, a person can be a church member and NOT be a Christian. If they, unknown to the church body, have never truly repented and believed on Jesus, then they are not born again. Church membership doesn’t save anyone, only Jesus can.

Sunday School Member – This is a person who has agreed to be put on the membership list of a Sunday School class. They do not have to be a member of the church or even a Christian to join. Anyone can be a Sunday School member. Those who are either not Christians or who rarely attend are still kept on the membership list as prospects the class can minister to. Ideally, names on the Sunday School list are never removed unless requested by the individual themselves.

*Being a Sunday School member does not make you a Christian. It also does not make you a church member. Sunday School is a ministry that seeks to reach the lost and disciple the saved.

These three areas are vital parts of the church’s message and mission. Understanding them is important so that we are clear in our message and mission. So, let me end by asking you three questions:

1) Are you a Christian? If not, believe in Jesus and be saved.

2) Are you a church member? If not, settle question #1 first and then join a local church in order to grow and serve.

3) Are you a Sunday School member? If not, join one today. It is a great way to learn more about the Bible and to get to know the people of God.

Godspeed,

Chris

No Greater Joy

2012-01-23T07:32:00.000-08:00

This past Sunday I had the joy of baptizing my son Elijah. The night before, Eli sat down with his mother and I and shared his testimony. She wrote it down verbatim as he spoke and I read his testimony right before baptizing him. This is what he said...

"Before I was a Christian, I felt like something was missing, but I never knew what it was. Then I felt like I was being departed from God, and I became a Christian because I thought it was time to be a Christian.

Then I asked God to be my Lord and Savior. A - Admit that you are a sinner - a sinner is someone who does bad things, like for one thing, someone who disobeys their parents. B - Believe that Jesus is your Lord and Savior. C - Confess to God that you are a sinner and ask Him to forgive you.

Now that I am a Christian, I feel like I am going to heaven, and I feel very safe. And I don't feel like anything is missing."

Well said Eli. Well said.

Soli Deo Gloria!!

Pastor's Ponderings - 1/29/12

2012-01-20T12:57:00.000-08:00

(In First Baptist newsletter The Visitor)

I remember it like it was yesterday. My brother and I had just been baptized and we were standing at the door to enter the sanctuary. The door opened up right beside the pulpit. I hesitated to go in because I didn't want to disturb the service. Then an older gentleman who was helping those who had just been baptized came up behind us and said, "Boys, you can go right through those doors anytime you want. You’re family now." I never forgot the moment.

I was part of the family. I was a "member". It has been a joy to be called a part of the family of God and the local church ever since. There have been ups and downs but that's always the case with family. But, since that day I have learned that there are many who honestly don't know what it means to be a member of the family of faith. They aren't sure what it means to be a member of the church. Many, after professing their faith in Jesus, being baptized, and becoming a member are then left on their own to figure out the rest. Many simply walk away and are never seen again.

Are you a member? Do you know what that means? Starting in February we are going to take a look at what being a member is all about. We are going to look at a movement that God started that changed the world. And it’s a movement that is still going on today. And it can change the world again. It is the movement called the church. Are you a member?

"Now you are Christ's body, and individually members of it…"

1 Corinthians 12:27 (NASB)

Chris

Something's Just Not Right

2012-01-19T06:03:00.000-08:00

"Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God." Colossians 3:16 (NASB)

What Scripture has been on your mind lately?

What song has been stuck in your head lately?

I'm learning that when I lack both for a prolonged period of time it is a sure sign that something isn't right in me spiritually.

Also, when I don't pray.

If you find yourself going through a rough patch, a word from God, a spiritual song, and some time in prayer may just be the key to carry you through.

But, if you find that your mind rarely turns to Scripture or that there is no song in your spirit or that you can't/won't/don't pray...your spirit isn't right. A time of repentance would be good. You have lost your focus and wandered off the narrow path we are called to.

Usually, when elements like these are missing in our life there is a root issue. Their non-existence is a symptom of a bigger issue. Pray for the Spirit to point out what it is and unclog your spiritual pipes. Then the water of life will flow through you freely until it springs up into a song, a verse, and moment of prayer.

By the way, here is the song that has been in my head lately. It also has a missionary message with it.

30 Second Timeout: Decisions, Decisions

2012-01-18T07:34:00.000-08:00

When you face those "what should I do" moments...

Marital Secret?

2012-01-17T08:29:00.000-08:00

Is there a secret to marital happiness? From all the storylines and headlines I see on the internet, it is an often discussed subject.

So, is there a secret?

Not really. I believe the "secret" is right out there for any to know and have. The ultimate secret is that Jesus must be the center and the Lord of the marriage. We must realize that our wedding vows were not just made to each other but to God concerning each other. We vowed to Him. If we start there and grasp that, we have a good start.

But, after that, I believe that the "secret" to marriage is summed up in the following list. It's not exhaustive by any stretch but it's what I've picked up from God's word and from experience in marriage.

Pray a lot.

Laugh a lot.
Touch a lot
Talk a lot.

Listen a lot.

Face time a lot.

Forgive every time (Matthew 18:21-22).

Listen....if ANY of those are lacking, make it a focus. I am convinced that not one of those can be diminished and things be healthy. Do whatever it takes. If any of those areas are uncomfortable things for you to do (for example, you aren't a "touchy" person), seek some help and advice on how to stretch yourself and mature in that area.

"You husbands in the same way, live with your wives in an understanding way..." 1 Peter 3:7 (NASB, emphasis mine)

I believe both husband and wife must purposefully pursue understanding each other and be a lifetime student of each other.

Finally, I would say this - my marriage isn't about me. It isn't about my happiness, my needs met, my ambitions realized, etc. It is about His glory and about holiness. My marriage is about bringing glory to God and about becoming more and more like Jesus. (1 Corinthians 10:31, Colossians 3:17, 1 Peter 1:14-16)

I have to confess that I married quite well. I found a woman of God with whom I still look at with awe often. So, she makes it an absolute joy to be married.

But, even if that were not the case, it doesn't change the goal of marriage...His glory. The Bible never promises a perfect marriage. I am called to stay faithful and to glorify Him, no matter what, in my life and marriage. Not run off looking for "myself" and seeking my own "happiness"...that's idol worship. That's when I am on the throne and not Christ.

So, is there a secret to marriage?

Jesus...but, the secret has been out for a while. We just have to embrace it.

Pastor's Ponderings - 1/15/12

2012-01-17T07:58:00.000-08:00

Forgot to post this last week.

(In First Baptist's newsletter The Visitor)

So, they say the numbers have gone down. And yet, I find no room for rejoicing.

January 15^th is Sanctity of Human Life Sunday. I’m not normally prone to preach sermons simply because someone has declared that day as “such and such” day. But, this year I feel compelled to. The need is too great. So, what numbers have come down? The number of abortions that Planned Parenthood Federation of America performed in 2010 went down. It dropped 2000 from the year 2009. Keep in mind that they still performed 329,445 abortions in 2010. My heart weeps.

Abortion isn’t the problem. Let me say that again. Abortion is not the problem. It is the heart of America and the heart of the church. We live in an anti-child culture that sees children as an inconvenience, wallet suckers, and unwanted.

I want them.

And God does as well. And the church needs to stand up and demonstrate more that it does as well. Jesus loves the little children. I’m so glad. I was one once. And you were too.

The issue of abortion is just the beginning….but, I’ll save that for my Sunday sermon.

Please join me as we look at life and the Author of it. My hope and prayer is that we can save more lives and not only that, help heal those who have been impacted by these issues.

Whether you’ve had an abortion, are a father who lost a child through abortion, survived one, or knows someone who has been impacted by it, God loves you….passionately….and He wants to set you free…completely.

Sanctity of human life includes yours. Come for the healing….

Pastor's Ponderings - 1/22/12

2012-01-13T13:41:00.000-08:00

(In First Baptist's newsletter The Visitor)

Sunday, January 22nd, will go down as one of my greatest. On this date, I get to baptize my son Elijah. There is simply no greater joy. For quite a significant amount of time, Eli has peppered us with questions and declared his faith. He has insisted that he be allowed to be baptized because he believes in Jesus.

As a pastor, I am always careful when talking with children about the gospel. I multiply that by ten when it is my own kids. As "pk's" they are being raised not only in a Christian home but in a home where the church is our life. They are literally saturated with the gospel on a regular basis. So, I am mindful that it would be easy for my children to go through the motions without really understanding or without heart. In fact, I probably err to much on the side of caution. For example, a few Sundays ago Eli responded during the invitation on his own intiative and approached me. It was the third time Eli has "walked the aisle" to make it clear that he understood and he strongly desired to declare his faith in Jesus. After our youth minister Steve talked with Eli and affirmed he understood, I figured it was time. I couldn't be more thrilled!

And yet, what about you? The truth is, all I shared in the first paragraph is true for adults too. How easy is it to go through the motions, say the right things, and not have clear understanding or heart? Too easy I'm afraid. I've often said that evangelism begins in the pew. There are many in our churches, who have attended for years, that have not truly professed their faith in Jesus. Have you? If not, I invite you today to follow Eli and his witness. Take a step of faith and believe in Jesus. Then take the first step of obedience by publicly declaring your faith in Him by being baptized.

The water will be ready on the 22nd. :)

Colorful Worship

2012-01-06T07:57:00.000-08:00

"After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could count, from every nation and all tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, and palm branches were in their hands; 10 and they cry out with a loud voice, saying, "Salvation to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb." Revelation 7:9-10 (NASB)

John looked and saw standing before the throne of God:
every nation - he saw a mosaic of the Gentile races, he saw various colors
every tribe - he saw various Jews from each tribe
every people - he saw a diversity of people from every background
every tongue - he heard a multitude of languages worshipping as one

When the redeemed of God stand before Him in unison one day, we will still retain our diversity but we will be in unity. In our new bodies (the old body made new but the color still shows through), we will stand red, yellow, black and white (and every shade in between) and worship the Creator of us all.

Our color is not our pride or our shame, it is the creativity of God to His glory. We have an artist for a Creator. We have a creative Creator. Our color demonstrates His power. But, it also tests us to see if we will love those "created in His image" (Genesis 1:27) or show favoritism. If we show favoritism, we are "committing sin" (James 2:9).

Racism is often redefined today to fit the agenda of the one using it. I believe God's description of it in James 2 is best, since His word is inerrant and perfect. It is about attitude and behavior toward those of a different nation, tribe, people, or tongue. Racism is not a different opinion or perspective. Racism is not a semantical mistake or political policy. It is a heart issue that shows in our actions and words.

You may not understand the world or culture I live in. You may not even like it. That doesn't make you a racist. The sin of favoritism is when you act/speak sincerely from the heart in a way that seeks to mock, belittle, shame, neglect, etc. simply because someone is of a different economic status, race, tongue, etc.

That is never to be named among the saints of God.

Someday, we will stand as one before a throne. And we will not gawk or stare at the diversity around us. We will focus as one on the glory before us.

Hard to understand...

2012-01-05T06:47:00.000-08:00

"and regard the patience of our Lord as salvation; just as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given him, wrote to you, 16 as also in all his letters, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which the untaught and unstable distort, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures, to their own destruction." 2 Peter 3:15-16 (NASB, empasis mine)

Amen to that Peter! Scripture, at times, is hard to understand. Either the thought is too deep or the command too challenging and we struggle to understand why we must obey it. But, this is GOD's word and His thoughts and ways are much higher than mine (Isaiah 55:9). I shouldn't expect that I'll always be able to easily grasp the deep mind of God. But, even when I don't understand or I find it hard to accept, I know I can trust Him. Because of God's infinite goodness and holiness, I know that His thoughts and ways are best.

I am called to, "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth." 2 Tim 2:15 (NASB) That's going to take time, study, prayer, and a willingness to hear. I must wrestle with the hard truths of Scripture and obediently follow them.

When I do, and I experience the blesssings of obedience, I increasingly find it hard to understand why other's don't....

May the words of my mouth.....and keyboard....

2012-01-04T13:21:00.000-08:00

"Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my rock and my Redeemer." Psalms 19:14 (NASB)

A conversation today prompted me to share this thought.

Read the following verses and ask yourself this - Does my facebook, twitter, blog, etc. violate these commands from God's word?

"Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear." Ephesians 4:29 (NASB)

"But immorality or any impurity or greed must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints; 4 and there must be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks." Ephesians 5:3-4 (NASB)

Often we are guilty of not evaluating our tweet, post, email, etc. in light of God's word. But, keep in mind that, "But I tell you that every careless word that people speak (or tweet, post, etc.), they shall give an accounting for it in the day of judgment. 37 "For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned." Matthew 12:36-37 (NASB, italicized my addition)

May our lips (and pens and keyboards) glorify the Lord Jesus in all things.

Blessings,

Chris

Pastor's Ponderings - 1/1/12

2012-01-04T13:08:00.000-08:00

(In First Baptist's newsletter The Visitor)

This past week the voting began to elect candidates for president of the United States. As I pondered that, I was reminded that you and I have been "elected" as well. We were chosen by God to be ambassadors for Him. "We are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God." (2 Cor 5:20, NASB)

That means that you and I have been chosen to be a representative on behalf of God to the world around us. Each and every one of us is a missionary placed in the mission field we live in.

What a privilege!! What a responsibility!! We've been sent to share the message of Jesus with others. Jesus said, ""Peace be with you; as the Father has sent Me, I also send you." (John 20:21, NASB)

In the coming year, I will challenge us as a church to adopt the mission field God has placed us in and to seek to fulfill our call to be ambassadors for Him. Begin praying and asking God how He might use you.

On Sundays, we will continue our series through the book of James studying "Living Faith" and how it impacts our lives. In February we will start a short series titled "re:member". We will look at what it means to be a member of God's church and the reason we should consider joining up. You won't want to miss it. Here is what is coming in the days ahead.

January 8th - am - There's Always Tomorrow, Right?

- pm - Miserable Rich

January 15th - am - Sanctity of Human Life Sunday

- pm - Peru Mission

Look forward to worshipping with you.

Godspeed,

Pastor Chris

Pastor's Ponderings - 12/25/11

2011-12-16T12:03:00.000-08:00

(In First Baptist's newsletter The Visitor)

Merry Christmas! And Happy New Year! Let me start off by saying “thank you” for all the cards, goodies, and extra blessings you have poured out on my family during this Holiday Season. FBCQ is truly a church filled with dear saints filled with the Spirit of Christ. May the Lord bless you tenfold in return.

So, how do you feel about the year 2011? Do you look back with joy, sadness, regret, contentment, or indifference? Was it a year that you gave your best for Jesus?

As you reflect on that, what is your vision for 2012? What is God’s vision for you for this next year?

During the holidays, take a moment to prayerfully reflect on what your vision is for this new year. Instead of a New Year’s resolution, how about developing a New Year’s vision? A vision on how you can love God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength. A vision on how you can love your neighbor as yourself. A vision on how you can be a witness for Jesus in your home, community, nation, and world.

What is the vision for First Baptist for 2012? Who do we hope to reach? Who do we want to minister to? What goal has God given us for this next year? Every staff member, active church member, volunteer leader and pew warmer ought to give some time to reflect on that.

As we close out the year celebrating the fulfillment of God’s promise to send a Savior, let’s look with joy at what the Savior can do through us this next year. Let’s make 2012 one of the best for this church and this community!

“Where there is no vision, the people are unrestrained, but happy is he who keeps the law.”

Proverbs 29:18

God’s got a vision for us. Do we know what it is? Let’s embrace it and chase it with passionate love for our Savior!

It is a joy to be your pastor,

Chris

Pastor's Ponderings - 12/18/11

2011-12-09T13:23:00.000-08:00

(In First Baptist's newsletter The Visitor)
The Bible is full of gifts. Are you familiar with how many of them are yours? Yes, yours!!

For example: Rest (Matthew 11:28), Wisdom (James 1:5), Provision (Matthew 7:7-11), the Holy Spirit's presence (John 14:16), Understanding (2 Timothy 2:7), Eternal Life (Romans 6:23) and more (Ephesians 3:20)!

Have you unwrapped each one yet? What are you waiting for?

We worship a giving God who calls us to give to others. But did you know He also calls us to recieve? Jesus said it is more blessed to give than to recieve in relation to other people (Acts 20:35). But, He also calls us to recieve much from Him.

For example: Answered prayer (Matthew 21:22), An inheritance (Hebews (9:15), Anointing (1 John 2:27), and the right to become a Child of God (John 1:12)!

Wow! I'm getting excited just typing this stuff.

So, no matter what you find under your tree on Christmas day as you celebrate a birth, don't forget to rejoice in the great gifts that have been provided for you by a death on a tree by the Savior.

We will continue to unpack the Christmas story each week on Sunday morning and evening. We've had a great couple of weeks already (Dude, you hear what I heard last Sunday night? It was phenomenal!) Hope to see you worshipping with us.

Come on over...

2011-12-05T12:46:00.000-08:00

Until further notice, I'd like to invite you to http://firstbaptistquitman.com/ to hear the latest sermon or read the latest happenings in my life and the life of our church.

Gesundheit

Whosoever Faith

2011-11-20T12:25:00.000-08:00

A Living Faith has a whosoever evangelistic heart...

James' Testimony

2011-11-18T13:21:00.001-08:00

Can the brother of Jesus become a believer in Jesus?

Let's Begin

2011-10-24T07:32:00.000-07:00

My newest insert for the Visitor newsletter of FBC Quitman:

Well, if the Lord wills, by the time you are reading this we will have settled in to our new home! It has been a wild month of transition. Last Sunday we had the joy of visiting Elevation Church in Charlotte, NC. Pastor Steven Furtick preached a powerful message on John the Baptist from Matthew 11.

As a family, we've had some time to spend in prayer and to rest. Now, we are ready to begin the new journey God has called us to. October 30th I will start a sermon series titled Living Faith from the book of James. Join us as we look at what vibrant living faith looks like in the life of a believer.

Don't forget that Sunday evening is our annual Fall Festival. I hope you will invite your friends and neighbors to come and enjoy the fun with us. This is also a chance to give to the ministry of the Georgia Baptist Children's Home. A great ministry that ministers to the needs of youth in our state.

Finally, let me invite you to check out my blog at pastorchrishilliard.blogspot.com. I will seek to update it from time to time with sermons, devotional thoughts, church events, and whatever else crosses my mind. We want to get to know you. So stop by the house, shoot us an email, send us a text (not while driving), or catch us in the hallway. We love Georgia's Camellia City!

"But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and manifests through us the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him in every place" 2 Cor 2:14 (NASB)

I Spy a Hilliard....

2011-10-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

Where are they!?

My children are big on the I Spy books that are out now. If you aren't familiar with them, it is where you look at a picture and seek to "spy" various items listed on the page. It is sort of the modern day "Where's Waldo" book. They are quite fun to do!

I've felt a little like the objects hidden on those pages lately. I'm not where I was nor where I will be. I'm hidden in the middle. We are still in Charlotte but our minds and hearts are in Quitman. We are eager to make Quitman home. Plus, we can't wait to explore Title Town U.S.A.! :)

In the mean time, I've been praying and pondering about getting started at FBC Quitman. I will begin preaching on Oct. 30th. I plan to preach a series through the letter of James. James is one of my favorite books for at least two reasons. 1) The testimony of the author 2) The pragmatic nature of the message. It really is a letter about genuine faith. Next week I'll share more about the direction of the series. But, for now, you can join me in praying that God would speak mightily through His word.

I hope you are finding time to read His word privately and devotionally. I am currently reading through Jeremiah and Hebrews. Two powerful messages!

We hope to see you soon FBC Quitman family!!

30 Second Timeout: That'll Cost You $0.00

2011-10-19T08:31:00.001-07:00

Jesus paid it all...

Spiritual Retreat

2011-10-17T06:14:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday was my final Sunday at Newell Baptist. It also marked the beginning of a new season of ministry. Though we were sadden to have to say goodbye to dear friends we have grown to love, we also were excited to begin the journey to Quitman. During this time of transition, I will be using some of the time for a spiritual retreat. Some time to simply rest and spend it in worship. I believe spiritual retreats are essential for spiritual health.

In fact, I believe you ought to schedule one weekly. A day off to rest and worship. My day off is Monday and I try to protect that day like it is the holy grail. It is a day to refocus, refresh, and spend with family. I am able to be more effective Tuesday through Sunday because of Monday. Monday is my sabbath day. Which day is yours?

I encourage you to set a day apart to rest. You can even seek to schedule a mini-spiritual retreat daily as well. A 15 or 30 minute "quiet time" in prayer and worship. These moments of rest keep your priorities where they need to be and help you not to burn out.

During my spiritual retreat moments, I'll be asking Jesus for direction in preaching as well. October 30th will be my first Sunday in the pulpit at FBC Quitman. I hope to see you there as we begin this journey together.

Also, don't forget about the Fall Festival that Sunday. Invite a friend and pray that this event helps us connect with many in our community.

Blessings,

Chris

30 Second Timeout: Don't Say It

2011-09-28T06:22:00.000-07:00

What's the reason God can't use you? Guess what....it's not true.

Coming THIS Weekend!!

2011-09-27T11:18:00.000-07:00

A New Calling: email/letter sent to church family

2011-09-26T11:28:00.000-07:00

Dear Newell Baptist family,

As many of you may know, my family and I were absent this past Sunday. In an age where information travels fast with the likes of facebook and blogs, I have chosen to go ahead and send this email out to the members on my email list. There will also be a letter mailed out to all the membership today as well. Over six months ago, God began to lead us to believe that He was calling us to a new season of ministry in a new field. At the time we did not know where that would lead but we were willing to follow the Spirit of God wherever He led. With His leading, this past week we've been visiting with the leadership and the members of First Baptist Church of Quitman, Georgia. After several months of conversation, we accepted the invite to come and meet the members of First Baptist Quitman and to preach in view of a call. This past Sunday the church voted unanimously to affirm God's calling to me as their new pastor. With the deep conviction of God's leading, I have accepted the call to serve as their new pastor.

My time at Newell Baptist has been a tremendous blessing from God. I believe God has a great future in store for His people at Newell and I believe many will be reached with the gospel. I have already begun to pray for the man of His choosing to fill the pulpit at Newell. I will be preaching at Newell the next three Sundays. Next Sunday (October 2nd), I will officially share my resignation and calling to First Baptist Quitman. My final Sunday in the pulpit will be October 16th. I invite you to pray for us as we begin this transition and as we take these next few weeks to fellowship with you before leaving. In all we say and do, may God be glorified and His kingdom advanced.

Godspeed,
Chris

Salvation According to the Word

2011-09-19T15:10:00.000-07:00

Can Jesus save me from my current problems?

Righteousness According to the Word

2011-09-14T08:51:00.000-07:00

What is righteousness? How can we live it?

30 Second Timeout: Plan Ahead

2011-09-13T17:29:00.001-07:00

What will you leave behind?

Desire for the Word

2011-09-07T09:17:00.000-07:00

Are you still drinking from a bottle?

30 Second Timeout: It's All His

2011-09-07T06:46:00.001-07:00

Are you a good manager of another's possessions?

30 Second Timeout: The Gift of Breath

2011-08-30T07:21:00.000-07:00

Every moment is a gift...

Aligned with the Word

2011-08-23T08:28:00.000-07:00

Whose side are you on? Who do you align with?

30 Second Timeout: You are Safe in His Sovereignty

2011-08-17T07:19:00.000-07:00

Have you considered my servant....?

Fear of the Word

2011-08-16T12:17:00.001-07:00

When we spend time in God's word, a healthy sense of fear should develop.....really? Fear of what?

30 Second Timeout: The Memory of a Name

2011-08-10T06:36:00.001-07:00

Back from vacation with another "30 Second Timeout"!

30 Second Timeout: Light the Way

2011-07-27T07:12:00.001-07:00

Let God's word light the way to travel

Coming to Newell Baptist!

2011-07-26T09:55:00.000-07:00

This Sunday at 6 pm the Singing Men of America will be at Newell. Hope you can come.

http://www.singingmen.com/

Meditating on the Word

2011-07-25T09:03:00.001-07:00

The advantages of meditating on the word of God.

Sermon Outline: Meditating on the Word

2011-07-24T11:02:00.000-07:00

Date: 7/24/11 am @ Newell Baptist

Series: Wonderful Words of Life

Sermon: Meditating on the Word
Text: Psalm 119:97-104

Introduction:

As you become more and more of a student of God's word, you will hopefully find yourself continually meditating on it. Thinking it through.

When we hear the word meditation we often think of some new age religious practice or eastern religion. And it is true that the practice of meditation is a big part of many religions. But, what they call meditation is not always the same thing as how the Scripture uses the term.

So, let's take a look at the advantages to Biblical meditation.

I) Meditating on the Word Gives You Wisdom (98)
II) Meditating on the Word Gives You Understanding (99)
III) Meditating on the Word Gives You Discernment (100)
IV) Meditating on the Word Protects You from Evil (101-102)
V) Meditating on the Word Protects You from Heresy (103-104)

30 Second Timeout: Temptation

2011-07-20T06:32:00.000-07:00

The Power of God's word to fight temptation

Power of the Word

2011-07-19T16:53:00.000-07:00

The Word of God is powerful. It is an eternal established word, one that we should pursue with passion and diligence...

I will seek to put a new sermon on each Tuesday or Wednesday depending on my schedule.

Blessings,
Chris

Waiting on the Word, part 2

2011-07-15T12:11:00.000-07:00

Todays message is part of a series titled "Wonderful Words of Life" that I'm currently preaching. It is a series through Psalm 119. The sermon previous to this one was titled "Waiting on the Word part 1" but, due to recording issues it is unfortunately unavialable.

Hello Friends

2011-07-14T09:44:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm back in the blog world after a quite a long vacation. This blog will primarily be a place to share the messages I preach each week but I will also share thoughts from time to time. My desire is that this will simply be a tool to spread the hope found in Jesus. So, check back every so often and see what the latest word is. I'll seek to at least update weekly with a new sermon. To start things off, I've posted a four part series I preached a few months back. It is a study through Matthew chapter six and the subject of pretending.

I look forward to sharing more if the Lord tarries.

Godspeed,
Chris

Pretend Faith, Matthew 6:25-34

2011-07-14T09:33:00.000-07:00

Pretend Devotion, Matthew 6:16-24

2011-07-14T08:54:00.001-07:00

Pretend Prayer, Matthew 6:5-15

2011-07-13T17:47:00.001-07:00

Pretend Charity, Matthew 6:1-5

2011-07-13T17:45:00.001-07:00