My wife and I recently contacted a company concerning some investment opportunities. We strolled into this company via their internet website. You know the drill. We filled out the form, hit the send button, and received an automatically generated email response.

Within twenty-four hours of our initial contact with this company, a gentleman named Aaron telephoned us. He wasn't the least bit pushy, but he was certainly interested in us. "I see you are interested in an IRA." "Have you had an opportunity to use some of the educational tools on our website?" "Did you find it helpful?" "Can I have a specialist contact you to outline the steps you would take to start investing in that direction?" "What is a good time for you?" "Do you have any additional questions?" "One more thing before we say 'Goodbye.' Would you like me to send you a reminder email for your 5PM telephone meeting on Tuesday?"

I was impressed with Aaron. He promptly and personally contacted me. He was intentional without being intense. He was focused without being pushy. He was well informed about his company and the products they had to offer. Yes, I know he makes his living by selling his company's investment products. That's when it struck me. Those of us who are followers of Christ believe that he makes a life whole. Jesus in us transcends the realm of making a living, he makes our lives! He is the source of light and life!

How many people come strolling onto the Martin Bluff Church campus longing for something far more important than a temporal investment opportunity? Are you extending a red carpet kind of welcome to everyone you encounter on campus? Yes, you! The fields are white unto harvest and every time our building doors are open God is extending opportunities for us to be his ambassadors. At Martin Bluff Every Member is a Minister!

Willow Creek Church/ DuPage

Thursday, November 15th, 2007

Spent the late morning and early afternoon travelling to the Chicagoland area. Northwest Flight 932 touched down at O'Hare International Airport one hour behind schedule. I had expected to arrive at 4PM with plenty of time to fight Chicago's rush hour traffic in order to attend a Willow Creek New Community service in Wheaton at 7PM. Could I make it to Wheaton Academy the location of Willow's satellite church service by 7PM?

Fighting rush hour traffic made worse by road construction, I made it to the service at exactly 7:20. Upon entering the Wheaton Fine Arts Auditorium, I heard the praise band. I thought to myself, "This is going to be an awesome experience!" The lobby was pulsating with the energy of the praise music spilling out of the worship center. I was shocked as I rounded the corner to see 3 huge screens and 3 massive speakers serving as the conduits for the music. The praise team was wrapping up their final song as I was getting settled into my seat.

The screens went blank and the music stopped as a gentleman took the stage. I don't know who he was. He had some announcements and he walked the people assembled through the Thanksgiving Holiday schedule. Speaking of the people assembled , there were about 75 in attendance. This satellite church with a budget of 1.6 million dollars, had at most 100 people in the midweek service designed to teach devoted followers the Scripture. The man talking finished up, by saying, "Here's Randy Frazee, let's listen"

All at once the screens and the speakers came back to life projecting the image and the voice of Randy Frazee, a Teaching Pastor at Willow. He wasn't with us. He taught this message last night at the main campus. We were watching a recording. I found my mind momentarily racing with questions, but I took a mental pause and asked God to speak to me through His word and His messenger. "Thank you Father that I have no responsibilities in this place. They're all being taken care of by someone else. Quiet my heart, teach me." And, He did!

The title of the lesson was " Full Out: Run with Passion and Purpose" and the text 1 Corinthians 15:38-58.

35 But someone may ask, “How will the dead be raised? What kind of bodies will they have?” 36 What a foolish question! When you put a seed into the ground, it doesn’t grow into a plant unless it dies first. 37 And what you put in the ground is not the plant that will grow, but only a bare seed of wheat or whatever you are planting. 38 Then God gives it the new body he wants it to have. A different plant grows from each kind of seed. 39 Similarly there are different kinds of flesh—one kind for humans, another for animals, another for birds, and another for fish.

40 There are also bodies in the heavens and bodies on the earth. The glory of the heavenly bodies is different from the glory of the earthly bodies. 41 The sun has one kind of glory, while the moon and stars each have another kind. And even the stars differ from each other in their glory.

42 It is the same way with the resurrection of the dead. Our earthly bodies are planted in the ground when we die, but they will be raised to live forever. 43 Our bodies are buried in brokenness, but they will be raised in glory. They are buried in weakness, but they will be raised in strength. 44 They are buried as natural human bodies, but they will be raised as spiritual bodies. For just as there are natural bodies, there are also spiritual bodies.

45 The Scriptures tell us, “The first man, Adam, became a living person.”^[h] But the last Adam—that is, Christ—is a life-giving Spirit. 46 What comes first is the natural body, then the spiritual body comes later. 47 Adam, the first man, was made from the dust of the earth, while Christ, the second man, came from heaven. 48 Earthly people are like the earthly man, and heavenly people are like the heavenly man. 49 Just as we are now like the earthly man, we will someday be like^[i] the heavenly man.

50 What I am saying, dear brothers and sisters, is that our physical bodies cannot inherit the Kingdom of God. These dying bodies cannot inherit what will last forever.

51 But let me reveal to you a wonderful secret. We will not all die, but we will all be transformed! 52 It will happen in a moment, in the blink of an eye, when the last trumpet is blown. For when the trumpet sounds, those who have died will be raised to live forever. And we who are living will also be transformed. 53 For our dying bodies must be transformed into bodies that will never die; our mortal bodies must be transformed into immortal bodies.

54 Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die,^[j] this Scripture will be fulfilled:

“Death is swallowed up in victory.^[k]
55 O death, where is your victory?
O death, where is your sting?^[l]”

56 For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. 57 But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.

58 So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.

Randy opened his talk with the questions posed by Paul in verse 35, “How will the dead be raised? What kind of bodies will they have?” In order for a plant to grow, Paul explains, A seed must first be placed into the ground. From that seed a new and living plant grows! When we die, our bodies are placed in the ground! . . . . to be continued.

Exhaustion Abounds!

We live in a 24/7, globally connected age. In the 50's Chicago may have been "The City that Never Sleeps," today we live in a world that never sleeps! Our endless quest to do more in less time with less sleep may result in short term spikes in productivity, while exacting a dear price over the long haul. What are we to do?

At the risk of sounding simplistic, I suggest embracing the "Sabbath Principle" and following the example of Jesus.

The Sabbath Principle:

By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. 3 And God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done. (Genesis 2:2-3, NIV)

The bible reads that "on the seventh day he (God) rested from all his work." In the creation narrative we see "rest" built into the created order. We need to observe regular times of "Sabbath Rest." Our rest needs to be more frequent than the annual family vacation and our rest needs to include elements of very intentional Godward worship. After reading that God rested on the seventh day we read that God made the seventh day "holy." God literally set the seventh day "apart." He made it a special day. Are you engaging in the discipline of the "Sabbath Principle?"

The Example of Jesus:

Before emabrking on His earthly journey of intense ministry, Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness for a 40 day fast (Matthew 4). He was alone, communing with his Father. Throughout the Gospel of Matthew we read of Jesus' compassion for people and their overwhelming response to Him. We also read of him getting into a boat and leaving the crowd. Surely there were people who needed him and there was much work to be done, but he got into the boat and left. We sometimes need to get into our "boat" to spend time with God. We need to get into our "boat" and spend some time alone. Yes, much needs to be done, but so much more can be accomplished by our Father through prayer. In Matthew 14 we read, "After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone." After an intense season of ministry Jesus retreated by himself to spend time with God.

If Jesus (the God-man) "retreated" often, we probably need to retreat more!

Are you following the example of Jesus?

I think we would accomplish more and have more energy to do it, if we'd observe the Sabbath Principle and follow the example of Jesus.

The Four "P's" of Deacon Ministry at MBBC - The Person, The Purpose, The Priority, and The Practice of a Deacon

1. THE PERSON: Who can be a Deacon?

A person meeting the scriptural qualifications as set forth in 1 Tim 3:8-13 and Acts 6:1-7.

1 Tim. 3:8-13

In the same way, deacons must be people who are respected and have integrity. They must not be heavy drinkers and must not be greedy for money. ⁹They must be committed to the revealed truths of the Christian faith and must live with a clear conscience. ¹⁰Before they are appointed as deacons, they should be given other responsibilities in the church as a test of their character and ability. If they do well, then they may serve as deacons.

¹¹In the same way, their wives must be respected and must not speak evil of others. They must exercise self-control and be faithful in everything they do.

¹²A deacon must be faithful to his wife, and he must manage his children and household well. ¹³Those who do well as deacons will be rewarded with respect from others and will have increased confidence in their faith in Christ Jesus.

Acts 6:1-7

But as the believers rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings of discontent. Those who spoke Greek complained against those who spoke Hebrew, saying that their widows were being discriminated against in the daily distribution of food. ²So the Twelve called a meeting of all the believers.

"We apostles should spend our time preaching and teaching the word of God, not administering a food program," they said. ³"Now look around among yourselves, brothers, and select seven men who are well respected and are full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom. We will put them in charge of this business. ⁴Then we can spend our time in prayer and preaching and teaching the word."

⁵This idea pleased the whole group, and they chose the following: Stephen (a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit), Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas of Antioch (a Gentile convert to the Jewish faith, who had now become a Christian). ⁶These seven were presented to the apostles, who prayed for them as they laid their hands on them.

⁷God's message was preached in ever-widening circles. The number of believers greatly increased in Jerusalem, and many of the Jewish priests were converted, too.

2. THE PURPOSE: What is the Purpose of the Martin Bluff Baptist Church Deacon Ministry?

To under the direction of the Pastor express the love of Jesus Christ to the church family and the greater community in practical ways.

What Scriptures should guide a Deacon in service?

Jeremiah 22:16

He made sure that justice and help were given to the poor and needy, and everything went well for him. Isn't that what it means to know me?" asks the Lord.

Matthew 25:35-40

For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. ³⁶I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.'

³⁷"Then these righteous ones will reply, 'Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you something to drink? ³⁸Or a stranger and show you hospitality? Or naked and give you clothing? ³⁹When did we ever see you sick or in prison, and visit you?' ⁴⁰And the King will tell them, 'I assure you, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!'

James 1:27

Pure and lasting religion in the sight of God our Father means that we must care for orphans and widows in their troubles, and refuse to let the world corrupt us.

James 2:20

. . . faith that does not result in good deeds is useless.

3. THE PRIORITY: What priority should a deacon give his ministry?

We live in a demanding age. The most precious commodity in our day is time. We must prioritize the use of our time. A person who accepts the office, ministry and responsibility of deacon is committing first to Christ and then to the church. The commitment will demand the investment of time. A deacon should expect to make a minimum investment of 4 hours per week outside of the Sunday morning worship hour to perform the ministry of deacon.


4. THE PRACTICE: What Are Some Practical Ways in Which Deacons Serve Christ and His Church?

Deacons support the ministry of the Word, work to maintain the unity of the church, and care for the physical needs of the church.

MBBC Deacons take responsibility:

For seeing that the sick, the grieiving, the aged, and the infirm receive spiritual and physical comfort;

For leading the hospitality ministries of the church;

For attending to the normal care and maintenance of church properties;

For receiving, holding, and disbursing a fund for benevolence, and for reporting from time to time on the use of such funds to both the Pastor and the church;

For attending to the accommodations for public worship;

For assisting in distributing the elements during the Lord’s Supper; and

For serving in other specific capacities as the church has need.

Join God's 110 Team

Together, we embarked on a monumental faith journey almost three years ago through our Building for His Future initiative. We believed God was calling us to make room for our neighbors, coworkers, family members and friends. So much has transpired over these past three years. We have participated time and again in God's grand plan of redemption as He has taken men and women, boys and girls who were ^"dead in their trespasses and sins" and made them "alive together with Christ" (Ephesians 2:1 & 5)— by His grace we have seen many saved. We launched our very first church-wide small group emphasis - 40 Days of Purpose - with over 100 people participating. We began our Upward flag football and cheerleading outreach effort. Our ministry to children ages birth through 5th grade on Sunday mornings has more than tripled in size! We lived through the worst natural disaster in American history and we moved into a brand-new, beautiful, state of the art 17,000 square foot worship center with an office and a preschool suite as well as several classrooms. The list could go on! Through it all, God has been faithful.

As far as we have come, much remains to be accomplished. Our mission as a church family is "to turn seekers of God into servants of Jesus Christ." Accomplishing our mission is arduous work. Those far away from God must be evangelized. New believers need to be discipled. Leaders are to be raised up and unleashed to do ministry. Healing is to be administered to the hurting. Every Christ-follower at Martin Bluff is to be equipped "for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God" (Ephesians 4:12&13).

For the past three years much of the energy of our church has been invested in the constructing of a building. Today, we are in the building! It is time for us to join hands and in partnership with Jesus Christ build His church. Remember the church is not a building, the church is you and me and all the believers who are a part of Martin Bluff. While the building is built, it is not paid for. Many of you participated in the Building for His Future Campaign. In April of 2005 you entered into a 3 year commitment of giving above and beyond your tithes and offerings for the construction of the new facility.

In September we are transitioning from the Building for HIS Future Campaign to the God's 110 Team Initiative. God's 110 Team is a 3 year campaign beginning October 1, 2007 to pay the mortgage for the new building. God's 110 Team members will pledge to pray for the church three times a day and to give three dollars a day for three years. Every one of us can pray at least three times a day for the growth and well-being of our church. Through 1 Thessalonians 5:17 every believer is instructed to "pray continually. " God hears and responds to the prayers of His people. And, many of us can give three dollars a day or more to ensure we meet our monthly mortgage obligation. What is the significance of the number "110?" One hundred and ten units of $3 equal $330 a day. The daily mortgage expense of the new building is $330.

So by setting aside the cost of 2 Cokes, or 1 gallon of gas, or a movie rental every day, you can make a big difference. We built the building as a ministry tool. We have an opportunity to take care of the expense of the building, so that we can focus on doing the work of the ministry. I do hope you will join me on the 110 Team.

September Declared "Catch-Up" Month

As discussed in last Sunday's Church Town Hall meeting, the financial leadership team of the church, Vernie Sullivan, Lee Countryman, Linda Crigler and I, believe the church should strive to have one month's budgeted expenses in reserve. We began the year with $20,000 in reserve. As we have wrapped up the construction project and moved into the new ministry space much of the reserve has been spent. At the end of July the reserve balance was $17,500. The current reserve balance is $2,000.

After reviewing the church's financial statement, Mrs. Wanda McKissack made the motion that September be declared "Catch-Up Month." She recommended the members of the church be encouraged to give above and beyond their regular tithes and offerings to "Catch-Up" the reserve fund. The motion was seconded and was unanimously passed by the members present. The "Catch-Up" goal is $25,000. The church family will receive a "Catch-Up" report every Sunday morning in September. Please clearly designate the "Catch-Up" amount on your offering envelope or the memo line of your check so giving can be accurately tracked.

Please stay tuned for information concerning a church-wide yard sale, bake sale and car wash. The "Yard Sale, Bake Sale, Car Wash Extravaganza" is being coordinated by Linda Bowker, Annisia McBeath, Bobbie Johnston and Linda Swain. The Extravaganza will be a great opportunity to reach out to our community and celebrate what God has done through us.

Rhonda and I continue to thank God that He invited us to participate in what He is accomplishing through His church known as Martin Bluff. Your generous, Christ-like spirit encourages us daily and is making an eternal difference in our community.

Warmly,

Eric

PS. Enclosed you will find a God's 110 Team pledge card. Please fill it out and place it in the offering plate on Sunday or mail it to the church office. You can also drop it off during church office hours or register on-line by clicking the "God's 110 Team Link" found on the home page of our website www.mbbchurch.com.

I'm pro-choice!

God is dressing down His people through the prophet Micah when He asked:

And what does the LORD require of you?

The answer:

To act justly and to love mercy
and to walk humbly with your God.

Therefore, I choose 1. to act justly, 2. to love mercy, and 3. to walk humbly with God.

Like I said, I'm pro-choice! Every one makes choices! Our lives are not determined by fate. Each one of us day by day choose to be just and merciful and obedient or not!

Building . . .

Yesterday, we celebrated a milestone in the life of our church. We dedicated a brand new worship center to the glory of God. We gathered in a building. Because we gathered in a new building, we talked about building. The building we talked about had very little to do with bricks and mortar.

Building a life, building a family, building a church. Every follower of Jesus Christ daily makes choices that impact how well he or she is building. Jesus, as he was wrapping up his sermon on the mountainside said,

"Anyone who listens to my teaching and obeys me is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. [25] Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won't collapse, because it is built on rock. [26] But anyone who hears my teaching and ignores it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. [27] When the rains and floods come and the winds beat against that house, it will fall with a mighty crash." Matthew 7:24-27 (NLT)

Many strive to build their lives and families on thier own. "There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death." (Proverbs 16:25, NIV) Striving to build without God's help is futile. "Without the help of the Lord it is useless to build a house . . . " (Psalm 127:1, CEV).

Building is hard work, in Proverbs 14:4 we read "Without oxen a stable stays clean, but you need a strong ox for a large harvest." What does that mean? If you want to live a life of significance you must get your shovel out. Life God's way is not about leisure, it is about being purposeful and productive. If your barn never needs mucked out, then you aren't building the life God intends for you.

So, How do you build a life, a family a church?

1. By Surrendering to Christ

SURRENDERING TO HIM ONCE FOR ALL

Romans 10:9 (NLT)

For if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

SURRENDERING TO HIM DAILY

Matthew 6:10 (NASB-U)

'Your kingdom come.

Your will be done,

On earth as it is in heaven.

2. By Fasting From . . .

Ephes. 4:29-32 (NLT)

Don't use 1)foul or abusive language. . .

[30] And do not bring sorrow to God's Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he is the one who has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption.

[31] Get rid of all 2)bitterness, 3) rage, 4) anger, 5) harsh words, and 6) slander, as well as all types of malicious behavior.

3. By Practicing Kindness

Ephes. 4:29&32 (NLT)

Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. [32] Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.

Building God’s Way Happens as we are Empowered by the Holy Spirit! Ask God for the Power to Build!

Luke 11:13 (NASB-U)

"If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?"

Where Are We Going?

Are We There Yet?

Acts 2:42-47

We exist to make fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ who . . .

•Express love to God through worship.

•Bring the lost to Him for salvation.

•Join the membership of His church for true community.

•Engage in a process of developing Christ in self and others.

•Serve one another and the community in His name.

(Taken from the MBBC Purpose Statement.)

Acts 2:42-47
42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.

Fulfilling God’s Purpose, We will Participate in . . .

1. EXUBERANT, INSPIRATIONAL WORSHIP

And day by day, attending the temple together . . . 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. Acts 2:46-47

Sing to him a new song; play skillfully, and shout for joy.

Psalm 33:3

My lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you— I, whom you have redeemed.

Psalm 71:23

[ Hallelujah! ] After this I heard what sounded like the roar of a great multitude in heaven shouting: "Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God,
6 Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting: "Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns.

Revelation 19:1&6

2. EXPECTANT, IRRESISTIBLE INFLUENCE

And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.

Acts 2:47

3. AUTHENTIC, RELATIONAL SMALL GROUPS

And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. . . . and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, Acts 2:42, 44-46

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION

MARTIN BLUFF BAPTIST CHURCH is celebrating the dedication of a brand new, 17,000 square foot, state of the art, 500 seat Worship Center and Ministry Building.

FROM:

Martin Bluff Baptist Church

7417 Martin Bluff Road

Gautier, MS 39553

Contact Person: Eric Smith 228-497-4395 or 228-218-7177

On Sunday, June 24^th at 10:00 AM, Martin Bluff Baptist Church located near the Hickory Hill community of Gautier is celebrating the dedication of a 17,000 square foot, state of the art, 500 seat Worship Center and Ministry Building.

The Martin Bluff Praise Band will launch the celebration with heart-stirring, inspirational worship. The band will set the stage for a motivational, bible saturated message from the Pastor. Pastor Eric Smith stated, “The people of Martin Bluff Church created the new ministry space for everyone! On Sunday, June 24^th at 10 AM we’re going to celebrate, debut, and dedicate the new facility. We’re inviting everyone to come join us on this special day as we experience first hand what God can do through faith!”

The dedication service will begin at 10 AM and it will highlight some of the significant milestones in the history of the church. There will be singing, special video presentations, live interviews and a message. A cookout with hotdogs, hamburgers, and fried chicken will follow the dedication service. Childcare will be available for children birth through 4 years old. Lunch will be provided for all!

Martin Bluff Church is located at 7417 Martin Bluff Rd in Gautier. For additional information please visit the church website at mbbchurch.com or telephone Eric Smith (228) 218-7177 or (228) 497-4395

# # # # # #

Stop -end-

The church is the greatest force for good on the planet earth! The source of the church’s life transforming power is the risen Christ. In Matthew 28:18 Jesus said, “All authority in heaven and earth has been given to me.” Jesus received His authority from God the Father. He received His authority to conquer sin and death as He lived in submission to the will of God. As He faced the most heinous of all deaths, He prayed, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Remove this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what You will” (Mark 14:36, ESV).

Jesus surrendered completely to the will of the Father and was given all authority. God gave His Son all authority for the benefit of the church! In Ephesians 1:22 & 23 we read, “And God has put all things under the authority of Christ, and He gave Him this authority for the benefit of the church. And the church is His body;”

As a church we operate with Kingdom authority as we are completely surrendered to our Leader, Jesus Christ. God is at work assembling His body known as Martin Bluff Church. He has uniquely gifted each member to make a difference. As His church, we should be the greatest force for good in our community! Every member of Martin Bluff is a minister and every ministry matters!

Maybe you’d like to discover your place of ministry through Martin Bluff. Let me tell you what you can do. Approach any ministry leader and ask, “How can I help?” Together, as we are completely surrendered to God’s will for us, we will be a great force for good!

This morning in my devotional reading I came across Psalm 127:1-2,

"1 Unless the LORD builds the house,
its builders labor in vain.
Unless the LORD watches over the city,
the watchmen stand guard in vain.

2 In vain you rise early
and stay up late,
toiling for food to eat—
for he grants sleep to those he loves."

After reading these verses, I thought of the Martin Bluff Church team. Martin Bluff is the church I have the joy of pastoring. Many of us are engaged in the labor of building the Lord's house - the church. Participating in the leadership of a dynamic church can be challenging. According to v. 1, when all is said and done, unless the Lord is working in and through us we work in vain. The Lord builds his house, we don't. Jesus said it like this, "on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it" (Matthew 16:18).

So, building a church God's way is a spiritual venture - Jesus does the building! Yet, it requires much of us. In Proverbs 14:4 we read "Without oxen a stable stays clean, but you need a strong ox for a large harvest." Being fruitful, whether in church or at home or on the clock, is demanding and it is God honoring. So, keep your shovel out because there is some stall mucking to be done! Jesus is going to build His church, we have the privelege of participating!

Your Thorn in the Flesh

After speaking of some incredible privileges granted to him by God, the Apostle Paul speaks of his thorn in the flesh. 2 Corinthians 12:7 To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. 8 Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. 9 But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. The thorn Paul was speaking of was something beyond his control. He is not speaking of some sinful proclivity or besetting sin. Of course, one could presume that the thorn tormenting him could have very easily provided a pathway to sin. Today, as we deal with people in difficult places, we may need to expand the discussion beyond the emotional, spiritual, and ethical dimensions. A thorn in the flesh may be a genetic predisposition toward sinful behavior. The Bible defines the sinful behavior. The predisposition toward a particularly destructive behavior may be in the genes rather than the psyche. So what are we to do? I say we reach out in love rather than judgment. You ask, "What is the loving thing to do?" Extend a cup of cold water in Jesus name. Be willing to walk with people as you model and share God's gracious standard as found in Jesus Christ. Don't jump to conclusions, give people the benefit of the doubt.

From Titus to Joshua

The Question has been asked, "Why did we go from the book of Titus to the book of Joshua in our Sunday morning worship hour?" As we embarked on this New Year, we walked through the book of Titus and received a clear word concerning "Being the Body in the 21st Century." The church at Crete was brand new. Paul left Titus on the island to assist with the good work of strengthening the new church. Titus covers the basics. As the members and friends of Martin Bluff contemplate moving from the structure in which we have worshipped for the past 44 years into a brand new facility it is an appropriate time for us to cover the basics. The physical building is not the church, yet our moving into a much larger and different facility will in many ways make us a new church.

What does a church that strives to be true to the New Testament look like in the 21st Century? For starters, the the well-being of the church in the 21st century is rooted in her leadership. Strong, Spirit-filled leadership in the church was critical two millennia ago and it is critical today. Jesus Christ is the Senior Pastor; he is the head of the church. Ephesians 4:15-16 (NLT) We will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love. With Jesus as the head of the church, the New Testament pattern was for the church to be elder ruled:

Jerusalem: Acts 15:22, "Then it seemed good to the apostles and the elders, with the whole church to choose men and to send them to Antioch."

Ephesus: Acts 20:17, "And from Miletus [Paul] sent to Ephesus and called to him the elders of the church."

All the churches James wrote to when he said, "To the twelve tribes of the dispersion": James 5:14, "Is any among you sick? Let him call the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord" (assuming that there are elders in every church).

All the churches in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia that Peter wrote to: 1 Peter 5:1, "So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ as well as a partaker in the glory that is to be revealed."

Finally, all the churches Paul founded on the first missionary journey (and presumably the other journeys as well): Acts 14:23, "And when they had appointed elders for them in every church, with prayer and fasting, they committed them to the Lord in whom they believed."

We should be elder ruled today just as the church was at her inception. Much tradition and teaching contrary to the biblical model has infiltrated the 21st Century Church. We at Martin Bluff have some work to accomplish in this area. Currently our Deacon Team serves in a dual capacity as both elders and deacons. This is not the New Testament pattern. The Deacons were appointed to serve in the practical matters of care and benevolence (Acts 6:1-6) and the elders were appointed to govern or rule, 1 Timothy 5:17 "Let the elders who rule well (or govern or oversee or manage well) be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching."

The message of Titus begins with instruction concerning church leadership and moves into the responsibility of individual members of the church. Every one is included in this teaching; the older men, the younger men, the older women and the younger women. Every believer is to live his or her life in a way that is honoring and pleasing to God and others.

After covering the practical matters of elder rule and individual responsibility, the letter to Titus turns to the central message of the New Testament church and the means by which that message is lived. The message: “The grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all humankind.” The means: “The grace of God . . . teaches us to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts and to live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present age.” The church then and now is to be permeated with the teaching and the modeling of the marvelous grace of God! The grace of God saves and instructs us!

So through Titus we looked at the basics of being the church today. Through the book of Joshua we’re looking at the fact that the Israelites were God’s chosen people of promise then and we as Christ followers are God’s chosen people of promise today. Under Joshua’s leadership the people of Israel were taking possession of what God had long before promised to Abraham and His descendants. Today, through Christ we are to take possession of what God has promised. Back then, God’s people were taking possession of real estate. Today, we, the people of God are his ambassadors representing him and taking possession of those who are his. We do this as we obediently make disciples (Matthew 28:19-20). We also take possession of His incredible promises us as His sons and daughters. Our inheritance in Christ is inexhaustible and never ending!

As we move in to a new worship facility, we must be faithful to His call to proclaim His message. The message with which we have been entrusted is Jesus Christ and Him crucified. The message we have been given is foolishness to those who are perishing and the power of God to those who are being saved. We are to be His witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and to ends of the earth. We are to take possession of what he has promised in Martin Bluff, Gautier, Mississippi and the world!

Join us on the journey of taking possession of what we have been promised!

Who Can Sing in the Praise Choir?

At Martin Bluff, we continue to have the humbling privilege of seeing God work through us. Recently, as I was walking through our new worship center with a young man who recently came to Christ, I thought I heard him ask, "So, how many people do you think will be seated in here?" My reply was, "About 500." He said, "I asked how many people do you think will be saved in here?" Wow, what a great question!As we anticipate more room we'll have more ministry potential. I recently received an inquiry about the criteria for participating in the Praise Choir. Yes, we will have room on the rostrum for a Praise Choir, our Praise Team and a Praise Band in the new worship center. God is good! Amy Longmire is in the beginning stages of assembling a Praise Choir. The question posed by the inquirer: "Is membership a a requirement for participating in the Praise Choir?" As a guiding principle we desire a participant in the Praise Choir to be a member of Martin Bluff.

This year, 2007, we are rolling out CLASS 101, 201, and 301. What are these classes?
CLASS 101 is an introduction to membership at Martin Bluff. In 101 we cover four broad categories:
1) SALVATION - How does someone become a Christian? What is the significance of the Ordinance of the Lord's Supper and the Ordinance of Baptism?
2) STATEMENTS - What do we believe? What is the MBBC Statement of Faith?
3) STRATEGY - what is the purpose of MBBC? What is the mission of MBBC ("Turning seekers of God into servants of Jesus Christ.") ? What steps do the members of MBBC take to achieve her purpose and mission? and
4) STRUCTURE - What are our affiliations? Our relationship to the Jackson County Baptist Association, the Mississippi Baptist Convention, and the Southern Baptist Convention? How is ministry accomplished? How is the church organized?

CLASS 201 outlines disciplines a Christian must engage in to mature in Christ. In the 201 seminar four essential disciplines are studied:
1) Bible Study,
2) Prayer,
3) Tithing, and
4) Fellowship.

CLASS 301 is a seminar through which a member of MBBC understands how he or she is SHAPED to serve God. Every believer has a unique ministry SHAPE. SHAPE is an acrostic for:
Spiritual Gifts
Heart
Abilities
Personality and
Experiences.

In order to lead in a ministry at MBBC a member should complete 301.What about those who were at MBBC before 101, 201, and 301? They are grandfathered in. So, must one be a member to participate? Yes and no. Is the desired standard membership? Yes. Will there be exceptions? Yes.

Thank you for your service to Christ and His church,
Eric

What is the Purpose of an MBBC Deacon

What is the Purpose of the Martin Bluff Baptist Church Deacon Ministry?
To under the direction of the Pastor express the love of Jesus Christ to the church family and the greater community in practical ways.
Who can be a Deacon?
A person meeting the scriptural qualifications as set forth in 1 Tim 3:8-13 and Acts 6:1-7.
What Scriptures should guide an MBBC Deacon in service?
Jeremiah 22:16
He made sure that justice and help were given to the poor and needy, and everything went well for him. Isn't that what it means to know me?" asks the Lord.

Matthew 25:35-40
For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. 36I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.'
37"Then these righteous ones will reply, 'Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38Or a stranger and show you hospitality? Or naked and give you clothing? 39When did we ever see you sick or in prison, and visit you?' 40And the King will tell them, 'I assure you, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!'

Acts 6:1-7
But as the believers rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings of discontent. Those who spoke Greek complained against those who spoke Hebrew, saying that their widows were being discriminated against in the daily distribution of food. 2So the Twelve called a meeting of all the believers.
"We apostles should spend our time preaching and teaching the word of God, not administering a food program," they said. 3"Now look around among yourselves, brothers, and select seven men who are well respected and are full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom. We will put them in charge of this business. 4Then we can spend our time in prayer and preaching and teaching the word."
5This idea pleased the whole group, and they chose the following: Stephen (a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit), Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas of Antioch (a Gentile convert to the Jewish faith, who had now become a Christian). 6These seven were presented to the apostles, who prayed for them as they laid their hands on them.
7God's message was preached in ever-widening circles. The number of believers greatly increased in Jerusalem, and many of the Jewish priests were converted, too.

1 Tim. 3:8-13
In the same way, deacons must be people who are respected and have integrity. They must not be heavy drinkers and must not be greedy for money. 9They must be committed to the revealed truths of the Christian faith and must live with a clear conscience. 10Before they are appointed as deacons, they should be given other responsibilities in the church as a test of their character and ability. If they do well, then they may serve as deacons.
11In the same way, their wives must be respected and must not speak evil of others. They must exercise self-control and be faithful in everything they do.
12A deacon must be faithful to his wife, and he must manage his children and household well. 13Those who do well as deacons will be rewarded with respect from others and will have increased confidence in their faith in Christ Jesus.

James 1:27
Pure and lasting religion in the sight of God our Father means that we must care for orphans and widows in their troubles, and refuse to let the world corrupt us.

James 2:20
. . . faith that does not result in good deeds is useless.

What Are Some Practical Ways in Which I Can Serve Christ and His Church as a Deacon?
Deacons do not exercise a ministry of spiritual authority, but do support the ministry of the Word, work to maintain the unity of the church, and care for the physical needs of the church.
The Deacons should take responsibility:
For seeing that the sick, the grieiving, the aged, and the infirm receive spiritual and physical comfort;
For leading the hospitality ministries of the church;
For attending to the normal care and maintenance of church properties;
For receiving, holding, and disbursing a fund for benevolence, and for reporting from time to time on the use of such funds to both the Pastor and the church;
For attending to the accommodations for public worship;
For assisting in distributing the elements during the Lord’s Supper; and
For serving in other specific capacities as the church has need.