Stirrings at Bethesda

The Weekly Newsletter of Bethesda Baptist Church

February 3, 2014

Recent Prayer Requests

* Elijah Mueller, that the present treatment will be successful
* Alicia as she is nearing her due date
* Alicia’s mother
* Brenda Koelling
* Meghan Bartner
* Zachary Mueller
* Cynthia Wordlaw, need for a kidney
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Marilynn Norvell
* Debbie Walker, recovering from foot surgery
* Our church and need for revival

Upcoming Activities

1. Bible Study (Brief Books) & Prayer
Meeting, Wednesday, 7 p.m.
2. Deacons’ Meeting, Wednesday, 7:45 p.m.
3. Sunday school, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
4. Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
5. Discipleship Training, January Bible Study,
Sunday, 5 p.m.

January Bible Study

We are halfway through our January Bible Study of the book of Colossians. It’s not too late to join us this Sunday evening at 5 p.m. Not only do we study the Word but we also have a good time of fellowship!

“Thanksgiving is our recognition of, appreciation for, and gratitude to God for who He is and what He has done and is doing for us.”

Making Valentines

Our ladies will join together at the Walker’s home on Monday, February 10 at 6:30 p.m. to make some valentines. These will be given to residents of a local retirement center. Debbie will have salad available. Please give her a call to see what you might bring.

“Hey, Men…”

“When you come home from work exhausted and just want to crash in front of the TV, you lay your life down to engage with your wife in a meaningful way. When you’re eager to get back into a book you’ve been reading but see that your wife is troubled, you lay your life down to stop and help here process whatever is weighing her down. When your wife is sick, you lay your life down to adjust your plans, give her the care she needs and pick up any house and family responsibilities she’s not able to cover. This is the kind of sacrifice that lovingly serves your wife, but also brings glory to God as it steadily chips away at your self-centeredness and remakes you into His image.”
Randy Stinson & Dan Dumas

This Sunday’s Message…
“The Righteous Judgment of God” from
2 Thessalonians 1:5-10

Valentine’s Day Fondue Party

Let’s gather together in fellowship hall on Saturday, February 15 at 5 p.m. to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a fondue party! Christians may celebrate this “day of love” since we recognize the love we have for our partners, family, and one another is because of the love of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ towards us.

There is a sign up sheet in the foyer. Please sign up to contribute to our party. If you would like to bring something other than what is on the list, simply contact Debbie or Karla and talk with them.

Mark this date on your calendar!

Upcoming Bible Conferences

* Southern Baptist Founders Conference Midwest 2014: Necessary, Sufficient, Effective, & Irresistible
February 25th & 26th, beginning at 1pm on the 25th at First Baptist Church St. Peters.
Featured speakers: Chad Brand, Tony Mattia, Terry Chrisope, Slade Johnson
For more info: http://www.founders.org/conferences/2014fcmwbs.pdf

* Together for the Gospel: Unashamed – Considering the Task of Evangelism
April 8 – 10 at the KFC YUM! Center in Louisville, Kentucky
Featured speakers: Ligon Duncan, Al Mohler, Mark Dever, John MacArthur, David Platt, John Piper
For more info: http://www.t4g.org

Pastor’s Postscript

In my reading this past week, I ran across a list of the symptoms of our generation’s wrong thinking on the local church. Let me share them with you:

* Christians can think it’s fine to attend a church indefinitely without joining;
* Christians think of getting baptized apart from joining;
* Christians take the Lord’s Supper without joining;
* Christians view the Lord’s Supper as their own private, mystical experience for Christians and not as an activity for church members who are incorporated into body life together;
* Christians don’t integrate their Monday-to-Saturday lives with the lives of other saints;
* Christians assume they can make a perpetual habit of being absent from the church’s gathering a few Sundays a month or more;
* Christians make major life decisions (moving, accepting a promotion, choosing a spouse, etc.) without considering the effects of those decisions on the family of relationships in the church or without consulting the wisdom of the church’s pastors and other members;
* Christians buy homes or rent apartments with scant regard for how factors such as distance and cost will affect their abilities to serve their church;
* Christians don’t realize that they are partly responsible for both the spiritual welfare and the physical livelihood of the other members of their church, even members they have not met. When one mourns, one mourns by himself. When one rejoices, one rejoices by herself.

What do you think on the subject?

May Christ answer all your needs this week.

January 27, 2014

STIRRINGS at BETHESDA, the weekly newsletter of Bethesda Baptist Church

January 27, 2014

Recent Prayer Requests

* Pam and her family in the death of her father
* Brenda Koelling
* Meghan Bartner
* Zachary Mueller
* Alicia Mueller’s mother
* Cynthia Wordlaw, need for a kidney
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Marilynn Norvell
* Debbie Walker, recovering from foot surgery
* Steve Brook and meeting with ordination council
* Our church and need for revival

Upcoming Activities

1. Bible Study (Brief Books) & Prayer Meeting, Wednesday, 7 p.m.
2. Men’s Breakfast & Book Study, Saturday, 8 a.m.
3. Church Council, Saturday, 9 a.m.
4. Deacon Ordination Council, Saturday, 10:30 a.m.
5. Sunday school, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
6. Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
7. Discipleship Training, January Bible Study, Sunday, 5 p.m.

January Bible Study

Our January Bible Study of the book of Colossians is now in chapter 2. Plenty of time for you to join us this Sunday evening at 5 p.m. as we continue our examination of “Christ is All You Need”.

This Saturday …

Several activities are taking place at our church this Saturday which need special attention.

1. The men will meet at 8 a.m. for our monthly breakfast and book study. We were snowed out last month and will, therefore, discuss the last 2 chapters of Dr. Whitney’s book this weekend. Bring your breakfast and any suggestions/interests you may have for a new study and enjoy some fellowship.

2. Our church council meets at 9 a.m. If you are on the council please plan on attending our first quarterly meeting of the year. If you are unable to do so please arrange for someone else to represent you. All church members are welcome to attend.

The primary mission of the church council is to plan upcoming events so one group’s schedule does not impact another’s schedule. This coming quarter will involve the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering (NAMB activities) and Easter weekend observances.

3. The deacons will meet with brother Steve at 10:30 a.m. concerning his election to serve our church as a deacon. Please be in prayer for Steve and this group that the Lord’s will be faithfully accomplished.

“We exist by His grace, we continue to live by His grace, we are redeemed by His grace, we are regenerated by His grace, we are justified by His grace, we are sanctified by His grace, we are preserved by His grace.”

Sermon Extras & Pastor’s Postscript

Our text yesterday was fairly straightforward. There are no unusual words in the original text nor verbs used in some special way. As I shared with you, I had thought of “jumping over” these verses to 3 & 4 but was then convicted by the Lord to preach on them instead. The Lord used the word “church” to grab my attention and draw me back to this part of the text. Many people no longer see a value in the local church. They choose not to unite to one. Others divert all their Christian efforts to “para-church” organizations, essentially making them their church.

Here are a few words from the great Baptist preacher Charles Spurgeon on joining a local church.

It seems to have been the custom in the earliest times for persons who had been converted to Christ to join themselves with the church of Jesus Christ.

From that fact, I feel persuaded that they did not conceal their convictions. It is a strong temptation with many to say, “I have believed in Jesus, but that is a matter between God and my own soul, there is no need that I should tell this to others. Can’t I quietly go to heaven and be a Nicodemus, or a Joseph of Arimathea?” To which I reply, Yes, you can quietly go to heaven, and we hope you will do so, but that is a different thing from being cowardly and ashamed of Christ. We will not object to your being a Nicodemus if you will go with him when he carries spices to the grave of Jesus; and you may be a Joseph of Arimathea if you will attend him when he goes boldly to Pilate and begs for the body of Jesus. Neither of these two brethren were cowards after the cross had been set up before their eyes, neither were they ashamed to identify themselves with the crucified Christ. Follow them, not in the infancy of their love, but in its more mature days. Remember, dear friends, the promise of the gospel runs like this, “He that believes in his heart, and confesses Christ with his mouth, will be saved.” Do not, I charge you, neglect half of the command!

It is quite clear, too, that believers in those days did not try to go to heaven alone. However, there has been a great deal said in these days about simply being a Christian and not joining any particular church, this is clearly a piece of hypocrisy, and in all cases a mistake.

This idea of not joining any one particular church, and instead simply belonging to the “church at large” is often advocated in the name of unity, and yet it is clear to everyone that it is just the opposite of unity, and is intended to put an end to all visible church fellowship. The good people mentioned in our text immediately join the church of the Living God in Jerusalem. I dare say that even in those days, had they criticized the church, they would have found faults in her, certainly within a few weeks there were great faults that had to be remedied; but these converts felt that the group of Christians at Jerusalem was indeed the true church of Jesus Christ, and, therefore, they joined it. All of you can find true churches of Jesus Christ if you choose to look for them. If you wait for a perfect church, you must wait until you get to heaven; and even if you could find a perfect church on earth, I am sure they would not admit you to their fellowship, for you yourself are not perfect. Find those people who are nearest to the Scriptures, who hold the truth in doctrine and in practice, and are most like the apostolic church, and then join them, and you will be blessed for it. Consider the matter, and reflect that if it would be right for you to remain out of church fellowship, it must be right for every other believer to remain in the same condition, and then there would be no visible church on earth at all, and no body of people banded together to maintain and teach Christian commands and practices. Christian fellowship, especially the celebration of the Lord’s Supper, and the maintenance of an evangelistic ministry, would become an impossibility, if no one openly declared the Savior’s cause. Act then according to your duty, and if you are a Christian, join with Christians; if you love the Master, love the servants; if you love the Captain, unite with the army, and join that regiment of it which you think adheres the closest to the Master’s word.”

The full text of this message, “Additions to the Church”, may be read here if you have further interest:
http://www.spurgeongems.org/vols19-21/chs1167.pdf .

May the Lord grant you a terrific week!

January 20, 2014

STIRRINGS at BETHESDA, the weekly newsletter of Bethesda Baptist Church

January 20, 2014

THANK YOU!

Thank you to brother Carl Schaefer for preaching in my absence yesterday. And thank you to all who helped out! I do appreciate everyone’s efforts.

Recent Prayer Requests

* Pam and her family in the death of her father; also safe travel to Texas
* Brenda Koelling
* Meghan Bartner
* Sali Standley, ill for several weeks
* Special prayer for Zachary
* Cynthia Wordlaw, need for a kidney
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Marilynn Norvell
* Debbie Walker, pending foot surgery
* Steve Brook and meeting with ordination council
* Our church and need for revival

Upcoming Activities

1. Bible Study (Brief Books) & Prayer Meeting, Wednesday, 7 p.m.
2. Sunday school, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
3. Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m. including the Lord’s Supper
4. Discipleship Training, January Bible Study, Sunday, 5 p.m.

January Bible Study

You are still not to late to join in our January Bible Study on the book of Colossians. We begin week 3 and Colossians chapter 2 next Sunday.

Sermon Extras

Not having preached yesterday, I don’t have any “extras” to add to my non-existent sermon. And, since I did not hear brother Carl’s message, I wouldn’t dare provide any extras to it. But I do know he shared with you from Isaiah 6. So, here is my contribution from that text (and I hope I am not sharing something he mentioned yesterday!).

The chapter begins “In the year that King Uzziah died I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne”. Here are two brief observations from this verse.

1. King Uzziah died. Uzziah actually reigned in Judah 52 years and, according to the Word, “did what was right in the eyes of the Lord.” In other words, Uzziah was one of the “good kings” of Judah. Yet, he died. 2 Chronicles 26:16 reads “But when he was strong, he grew proud, to his destruction. For he was unfaithful to the Lord his God”.

Each of us is unfaithful to God at various times of our life. Instead of doing what is right in God’s eyes, we do what is right in ours. That is sin in a nutshell and the penalty for sin is death. So, King Uzziah died.

2. The Lord reigns. The King of Judah is dead. His great reign and rule over Judah has ended. But the King of all Creation continues to rule from His throne in glory. Even now He is seated on the throne.

No matter what tragedy may occur in our lives, even the loss of a good ruler or loved one, God still reigns. The Lord of justice, peace, mercy and grace still sits upon His throne, as Isaiah says, “high and lifted up”!
“The Christian view of history, therefore, is linear, and neither circular nor cyclical. We believe that it will come to a planned end, a grand finale, consisting of the Parousia, the Resurrection, the Judgment and the Kingdom. That these are history’s goal is plain in both Paul’s letters to the Thessalonians. … In particular, the vivid descriptions in the second letter of the coming of Christ … and of the previous appearance of Antichrist … justify the sub-title … A Christian perspective on history.”
John R. W. Stott

This coming Sunday we begin our journey through Paul’s 2nd letter to the Thessalonians!

Pastor’s Postscripts

I look forward to being back with my church family this coming week. On Wednesday evening we’ll continue our look at the book of Jude and then join together for prayer. Next Sunday we’ll begin the exposition of 2 Thessalonians as well as celebrate the Lord’s Supper. In the evening, we continue our look at the book of Colossians as part of our January Bible Study. Plan on being there!

May the Lord watch over you and grant you a very good week.

January 13, 2014

STIRRINGS at BETHESDA, the weekly newsletter of Bethesda Baptist Church

January 13, 2014

THANK YOU!

Brenda Koelling thanks the entire church family for all their prayers, encouragement, and support this past week in the loss of her husband. Special thanks are extended to all who helped with the funeral services and the subsequent family dinner.

As your pastor, I also wish to thank the many folks involved this VERY busy weekend. The funeral service and the baptism included a family dinner and a church fellowship. I want to personally and publically thank those who helped out in one or more ways this past weekend.

* ALL those who contributed food for the Saturday dinner.
* Christi Bartner, Julie Brandel, Rachelle Brandel, Sandy Brandel, Christy Diamond, Karla Repperger, Debbie Walker for serving the food as well as for cleanup activities.
* Jon Bounds, Rich Norvell, and Bob Bobbitt for their work in cleaning, filling, and efforts to repair the baptistry.
* Steve Brook and Tom Wildgrube for hauling hot water to the baptistry.
* Jeff Mueller for running the sound during Saturday services.
* Jimmy Bartner and David Diamond for helping move furniture and aiding in the cleanup as well as other items.
* The Brook family for providing the food for the Sunday fellowship.
* Nolan Brook for being a “trooper”, braving the cold waters of baptism and for allowing me to have the honor of baptizing him!

Please forgive me if I have omitted anyone!

Recent Prayer Requests

* The Koelling family in their time of grief
* Meghan Bartner
* Jon Bounds, lost his voice
* Sali Standley, ill for several weeks
* Special prayer for Zachary
* Cynthia Wordlaw, need for a kidney
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Marilynn Norvell
* Debbie Walker, pending foot surgery
* Steve Brook and meeting with ordination council
* Brother Carl Schaefer, preaching next Sunday
* Our church and need for revival

Upcoming Activities

1. Bible Study (Brief Books) & Prayer Meeting, Wednesday, 7 p.m.
2. Sunday school, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
3. Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
4. Discipleship Training, January Bible Study, Sunday, 5 p.m.

January Bible Study

Dennis began our January Bible Study on the book of Colossians last Sunday evening. Join us this coming Sunday at 5 p.m. for this interesting look at the Word of God.

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
Matthew 28:19

Sermon Extras

Since my sermon yesterday was on the ordinance of baptism, I thought it might be of value simply to provide my sermon outline and briefly comment on each point.

I. Baptism has a Prerequisite.
When we read the Bible, it becomes clear the teaching of Christ and others on baptism plus the actual examples of the ordinance reveal that only believers in Christ are to be baptized. It is a Believer’s Baptism we practice, not infant baptism.

II. Baptism has a Procedure.
The word itself, the examples in Scripture, and the symbolism contained in baptism demands that it be practiced by immersing the candidate into water in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

III. Baptism has a Purpose.
Baptism does NOT save an individual. The Bible does not teach what some call “baptismal regeneration”. You must first be regenerated then baptized. Baptism demonstrates our unity to Christ in following His example. Baptism provides a picture of Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. Baptism also testifies of our own death to sin, burial of the old man, and our resurrection to walk in newness of life.

IV. Baptism is Prescribed.
Baptism does not save but it is also not optional. Christ commanded it and his followers commanded it. Of all the spiritual disciplines listed in Scripture leading to spiritual maturity, the first discipline to be practiced by the follower of Christ is believer’s baptism by immersion.

“We were buried therefore with him by baptism…”
Romans 6:4

“Baptism is NOT required for salvation but baptism IS required for discipleship. From the teaching of the New Testament, you can not call yourself a disciple of Christ apart from being baptized.”

Pastor’s Postscripts

This pastor sincerely appreciates everyone’s encouragement and help this past weekend. So many things had to come together correctly for both the funeral and the baptism to go smoothly and the people of Bethesda rose to the occasion! While I expressed on the front page thanks for all you did, once again I want to say “Thank You”. I am blessed to have each of you as a member of our congregation and I do thank God for you every day!

Debbie and I will be away next Sunday morning (possibly evening as well). If the weather permits, we plan on visiting my sister in northwest Indiana over the weekend. It’s been a couple of years since we have made the trip and are looking forward to it.

In my absence, brother Carl Schaefer will fill the pulpit next Sunday morning. Brother Carl was the pastor of Bethesda Baptist during the 1990s and often preaches at area churches when the need arises. I’m sure you will welcome Carl and pray for him as he strives to proclaim the Word of the Lord!

One last time, thanks to everyone for your help! May the Lord richly bless each of you during the coming week.

January 6, 2014

STIRRINGS AT BETHESDA

The weekly newsletter of Bethesda Baptist Church

January 6, 2014

Brother Pete Koelling

Brother Pete passed away yesterday morning (Sunday, January 5) around 11:15 a.m. He is now rejoicing in the presence of his Lord.

Please remember to pray for Brenda and the family especially during this coming week.

Recent Prayer Requests

* The Koelling family in their time of grief
* Special prayer for Zachary
* Cynthia Wordlaw, need for a kidney
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Marilynn Norvell
* Debbie Walker, ill
* Steve Brook and meeting with ordination council
* Our church and need for revival

Upcoming Activities

1. BUSINESS MEETING, Wednesday, 7 p.m.
2. Sunday school, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
3. Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m including observance of the ordinance of believer’s baptism.
4. Discipleship Training, January Bible Study, Sunday, 5 p.m.

January Bible Study this Sunday evening at 5 p.m.

BAPTISM FELLOWSHIP

Immediately following the worship service this Sunday, the Brook family invites you to join in the celebration of Nolan’s baptism. Sandwiches, pizza and drinks will be provided. Please plan on attending if you are able.

Pastor’s Postscripts

2014 has arrived and it brought us more snow than we could handle! Since we had no service yesterday, our newsletter will be somewhat abbreviated this morning.

January Bible study will begin this Sunday evening so you have not missed anything to date. Mark your calendars for 5 p.m.

Wednesday evening, January 8, is actually our monthly business meeting. There is more snow in the forecast but we’ll see how things go. I encourage you to be present as we discuss the business facing the church.

When details are available concerning the services for brother Pete, I will send out the information via e-mail and Facebook. We will also contact by phone those families who do not access the internet in order to provide them with the information.

May the Lord bless you this week.

December 30, 2013

Stirrings at Bethesda – December 30, 2013

Recent Prayer Requests

* Pete Koelling, in hospital with pneumonia
* Bounds family, fighting illness
* Audrey Crosby, ill
* Brenda Koelling, relationship with her daughters plus their salvation
* Special prayer for Zachary
* Cynthia Wordlaw, need for a kidney
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Marilynn Norvell
* Steve Brook and meeting with ordination council
* Our church and need for revival

Upcoming Activities

1. NO Wednesday service
2. Men’s Breakfast & Book Study, Saturday, 8 a.m.
3. Deacon ordination council, Saturday, 9:15 a.m.
4. Sunday school, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
5. Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
6. Discipleship Training, January Bible Study, Sunday, 5 p.m.

“The Lord’s Supper is a symbolic act of obedience whereby members of the church, through partaking of the bread and the fruit of the vine, memorialize the death of the Redeemer and anticipate His second coming.”
The 1963 Baptist Faith and Message

Sermon Extras

Part of my message yesterday on the Supper focused on the words “unworthy manner” in verse 27. I noted the original word behind this translation (“unworthily” in the King James) was an adverb which actually modifies the verbs in the verse (“eats” and “drinks”) and not the word “Whoever”. Paul is not discussing an “unworthy” person but an “unworthy” observance of the Supper. The original adverb (anaxios in the Greek) may be rendered “in an improper way” further noting our need to make certain we observe this ordinance in the manner the Lord intends.

I challenge each of us to make certain we follow the prescribed method for worshiping our great God as noted in His Word. Let the Word of God not only regulate our life but also our worship!

Questions to Ponder: (1) Are you able to remember what the Lord has done in your life or do you not know Him? (2) What is your reaction when you enter the auditorium on a Sunday morning and see the table prepared for the observance of the Lord’s Supper?
“The Lord ends the need for the Passover, a meal looking forward to Him and His future sacrifice; He begins the Lord’s Supper, a meal looking backward to Him and His completed sacrifice.”

Some Important Items

First, the 12 boxes sent to our soldiers in Afghanistan all arrived! They were received with great gladness and thanksgiving!

Second, our church surpassed its Lottie Moon Christmas Offering goal of $1200. Thanks to each of you who gave for your generosity!

Third, I want to thank Audrey, Julie, and Steve for their assistance in making our Christmas Eve worship service so meaningful. I truly appreciate all your help!

“We are unworthy of this sacred feast, and if unworthiness could shut us out, who would dare to be here?”
Charles Haddon Spurgeon

January Bible Study

Yes, our annual January Bible Study begins next Sunday evening at 5 p.m. during our Discipleship Training hour. Brother Dennis will lead us in this study of the book of Colossians.

Please do your best to attend all the January Bible study sessions in the coming weeks. You will be blessed through the Word of God!

Pastor’s Postscripts

Happy New Year! May our Lord grow you spiritually in 2014 as well as bless you abundantly.

In two weeks (January 12) we will observe the ordinance of baptism with the baptism of Nolan Brook. Also, my message that morning will be on this ordinance. Yesterday morning I shared with you on the Lord’s Supper, a feast which has been argued and debated throughout the centuries since the institution of this ordinance. These debates have not only taken place between various religious denominations but also within denominations including Southern Baptist ranks. This is especially true when it comes to who may take the supper. As I read 1 Corinthians 11, I see Paul attempting to correct the incorrect practice of the supper by the Corinthians. What are they doing? They are, essentially, doing their own thing (see v. 21 – “own meal”). Paul then explains the supper and how it is to be observed. He closes his statement with verses 33 & 34 where he says the church is to “come together” (used twice) to celebrate the Supper. Nowhere in Scripture is any individual commanded to observe the Supper on their own (as they are their baptism).

Actually, if you reflect for a moment on what most churches call the Lord’s Supper, this truth becomes apparent. The most frequent word used by Protestant churches for the Lord’s Supper is “communion”. Why? Because the Supper is intended to be a time of fellowship of believers remembering the Lord and His sacrifice at Calvary. The Lord did not design the ordinance to be observed individually.

May the Lord bless your week. May He bring healing to those in our fellowship who are ill at this time.

December 23, 2013

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Recent Prayer Requests

* Pete Koelling, health concerns
* Brenda Koelling, relationship with her daughters plus their salvation
* Special prayer for Zachary
* Cynthia Wordlaw, need for a kidney
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Marilynn Norvell
* Lottie Moon Christmas Offering
* Our church and need for revival

Upcoming Activities

1. Christmas Eve service, Tuesday, 6 p.m.
2. NO Wednesday service
3. Sunday school, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
4. Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
including the Lord’s Supper
5. NO Discipleship Training
6. 5th Sunday Q & A Fellowship, Sunday,
6 p.m.

Christmas Eve Worship

Come join us tomorrow (Tuesday) evening for a brief worship service celebrating the birth of our Lord. We’ll begin at 6 p.m., sing a few Christmas carols, and read the Word of God before heading to our homes in preparation for Christmas Day!

Gabriel’s Message
(Christmas 2013)

To Nazareth the angel came
Sent from heaven above
Gabriel was the servant’s name
His message was God’s love.

Young Mary was the recipient
Jesus the Heavenly Word
Blessing from God on her was sent
Most favored by the Lord.

The angel spoke, the young girl heard,
“Mary, God gives you grace”
Troubled by the messenger’s word
Her mind began to race

She thought “What does this word imply?”
Her mind could not perceive.
“Fear not”, the angel did reply
Her troubles to relieve.

“For you are the chosen of god
To bring forth His own Son
The Highest’s son will He be called.
He will be the great one.”

Then Mary said, “May it be thus
His will with me be done.”
So the Savior was sent for us
Jesus born, Christmas begun.

Bruce D. Walker

Sermon Extras

Most people are familiar with the King James translation of the Luke passage. In verse 6, the KJV reads “while they were there, the days were accomplished …”. I really like that rendering more than the ESV which reads “while they were there, the time came…”. The word behind “accomplished/came” is a word meaning “to fill or to end”. It is related to the word “fullness” in Galatians 4:4. God had a specific time for the birth of His Son and that time had come. God’s plan was fulfilled and Mary gave birth.

Actually, this is true of the birth of every person. God has set the time of that birth (see Ecclesiastes 3) and, when His time has been fulfilled (when “the days were accomplished”).

Questions to ponder: (1) Do you ever reflect upon the hand of God in your daily affairs? (2) When the Lord commands (via His Word or via His appointed ministers, e.g., “rulers”), are you prompt to obey? (3) Is your celebration of Christmas centered on the Christ of Christmas?

“But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth His Son…”
Galatians 4:4

Pastor’s Postscripts

A couple of people have asked me where we are going relative to the Sunday morning messages. Having completed 1 Thessalonians and messages celebrating the Christmas season, what is next on the “sermon calendar”?

Well, I am open to any suggestions from the Lord but I still believe He wants us to continue the Thessalonian correspondence by turning our attention to 2 Thessalonians next. However, I do not plan on beginning that brief letter until the third Sunday of January.

That leaves the intervening three Sundays. Reflecting on my time here as your pastor, I recall preaching on the two ordinances of the church only three times: twice on the Lord’s Supper (last in 2011) and once on baptism. Since we are observing the Lord’s Supper this coming Sunday morning, the message will focus on that ordinance. And, since our present plans are to observe the ordinance of baptism on January 12 with the baptism of Nolan Brook, the message that morning will focus on baptism.

On January 5 I’ll present a message summarizing the 5th Psalm. When we began our exposition of John’s Gospel, my goal was to intersperse “chapter messages” from the Psalms at various breaks in the text. I was able to share with you on the first four Psalms but the “break points” in the Gospel were few in number and did not offer us the opportunity to look at other Psalms. So, our first Sunday in January will take us back to the Psalms.

That’s my plan. But, of course, the Lord is the One who has the final say. Whatever He decides will be the best for our church.

As I close the column this week, Debbie and I want to wish a very Merry Christmas to each of you! May the Lord pour out His blessings upon you especially at this time of year.

December 16, 2013

Recent Prayer Requests

* Sali Standley, illness
* Pete Koelling, health concerns
* Brenda Koelling, relationship with her daughters plus their salvation
* Brida’s daughter-in-law, Dawn
* Special prayer for Zachary
* Cynthia Wordlaw, need for a kidney
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Marilynn Norvell
* Gene Schulze
* Lottie Moon Christmas Offering
* Our church and need for revival

Upcoming Activities

1. Open House at the Walkers, Tuesday,
6-9 p.m.
2. Bible Study & Prayer Meeting,
Wednesday, 7 p.m.
3. Christmas Party, Saturday, 5 p.m.
4. Sunday school, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
5. Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
6. NO Discipleship Training.

Open House

You are invited to drop in for a few minutes or a few hours at Bruce and Debbie Walker’s home tomorrow (Tuesday) evening between 6 and 9 p.m. Bring some snack foods to share. Your children are also welcome.

The Walkers live at 233 Cole Blvd. in St. Charles. If you need directions, please call the pastor (233-0645). We do have stairs as well as a dog and two cats!

Christmas Party

PARTY TIME! This Saturday evening, church members will gather in our fellowship hall at 5 p.m. to celebrate the birth of the Savior. We encourage you to come and join the fun and fellowship. Bring a snack food and spend some time with your brothers and sisters. We’ll eat, talk, share, and play games. We’ll close out the evening with some Christmas caroling.

Come out and join us!

Christmas Worship

Our Sunday morning service will focus on the birth of the Lord which we celebrate next week. Join us at 10:30 a.m. for worship.

Also, on Tuesday evening, we will spend 30-45 minutes singing praises to God and sharing His Word as we reflect on the birth of the Savior in our Christmas Eve service. This service begins at 6 p.m.

“… describing a king as righteous meant that he would not only execute justice, govern faithfully, and live with integrity, but also deliver the oppressed and generously support the weak and the poor.”
James Montgomery Boice

Sermon Extras

1. Zechariah 9:9 begins with the word “Rejoice”, “gili” in the original. The definition of the word alone provides great insight into the opening of this verse. First, it is a commandment from the prophet. Not only should we rejoice because our king is coming (in our case, has come and is coming again), but we are ordered to do so. Second, the word means to “leap for joy” and often describes the leaping and palpitation of one’s heart. Certainly no Christian who understands the first coming of Christ and its impact on their life should have any difficulty rejoicing in what Christ has accomplished in their behalf. Furthermore, what true believer does not rejoice over the knowledge that our King is returning as the VICTOR!

2. Most translations read “Behold, your king is coming”. Note how Zechariah draws emphasis on this coming king. The word “behold” (“hinneh” in the Hebrew) is an interjection. It may also be translated “Lo!” The purpose of the word is to act like a pointing finger. Zechariah is pointing his finger at the coming king and calling our attention to his approaching form.

Doesn’t that remind you of John 1:29? “The next day he (John the Baptist) saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, ‘Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!’” May you and me “point our fingers” at Jesus for those who do not know Him as their King!

Questions to ponder: (1) Can you list some of Christ’s accomplishments on your behalf? (2) Are you rejoicing in the fact that He has come and that He is coming back? Or do you never even think about His comings? (3) Is Jesus your King? If so, are you an obedient servant in His Kingdom?

Pastor’s Postscripts

Let all the people say “Amen!” first for the work of God in the life of young Nolan Brook! Having talked with him on a number of occasions and knowing his parents have shared with him consistently for well over a year, I firmly believe the Lord has saved this young man. Also, let us rejoice further that the Lord has convinced Nolan of his need to be baptized and given him the desire to do so. Baptism is the first act of obedience for any disciple of Jesus. As you heard from Nolan’s own lips yesterday, he wants to be baptized to show the church he has been saved! Amen! We will celebrate Nolan’s baptism soon.

If your family is like ours, it seems every day during the Christmas season brings something else to do. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and overlook the true purpose for our celebration. The birth of Jesus, not the “coming of Santa”, is the true meaning for Christmas. I encourage you to join us on Christmas Eve as we worship our Lord in conjunction with the celebration of His birth.

I pray the Lord grant you a wonderful week and, if He hasn’t done so already, turn your heart to Christ so that Jesus dominates your thoughts, your words, and your actions especially at this time of year!

“Our king triumphs through suffering. His crown springs out of his cross.”
Johann Peter Lange

December 9, 2013

Recent Prayer Requests

* Brook family, illness
* Pete Koelling, health concerns
* Brenda Koelling, relationship with her daughters plus their salvation
* Brida’s daughter-in-law, Dawn
* Special prayer for Zachary
* Cynthia Wordlaw, need for a kidney
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Marilynn Norvell
* Gene Schulze
* Lottie Moon Christmas Offering
* Our church and need for revival

Upcoming Activities

1. Business Meeting, Wednesday, 7 p.m.
2. Sunday school, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
3. Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
4. Discipleship Training, Sunday, 5 p.m.

Ministry to Soldiers

Thank you to all the ladies and families who contributed to filling the boxes for our soldiers fighting in Afghanistan. Bethesda sent 12 boxes full of goodies and, per the United States Postal Services, they should arrive a couple of days before Christmas. I’m certain the soldiers receiving them will be blessed by your generous gifts!

Open House

Bruce and Debbie are hosting an open house on Tuesday, December 17 from 6 to 9 p.m. You are welcome to drop in for a quick visit or stay the entire time. We ask, if you do come, to bring a finger food to share with others. Your children are also welcome.

Our address is 233 Cole Blvd. in St. Charles. Please call the pastor (233-0645) if you need directions. Warning: we do have a dog and cats in case you have allergies and, unfortunately, climbing steps is necessary for entering our home.

Business Meeting

Our monthly business meeting is this Wednesday evening at 7 p.m. Since this is the last meeting of 2013, there are some important items up for votes.

1. We will vote on a by-laws amendment concerning the number of members on our various committees.

2. We will vote on our church budget for 2014.

3. We will vote on the Nomination Committee’s recommendations for officers, teachers, and committee members for the 2014 church year.

I encourage every member to be in attendance this Wednesday evening and participate in the business of the church.

“… seeing Jesus clearly causes us to be deeply conscious of our sinfulness and our unworthiness.”
John Piper

Christmas Party

The Bethesda Christmas Party will begin at 5 p.m. on Saturday, December 21.

Christmas Eve Service

We will have a Christmas service on Tuesday, December 24 beginning at 6 p.m. The service will last between 30 and 45 minutes. Please invite your friends and family to this brief time of celebrating the birth of our Lord!

Sermon Extras

Hebrews 10:12 begins the contrast of the priesthood of Jesus with those of the Levitical priesthood. The ESV translates this verse:

“But when Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God”

Essentially, a “word for word” translation would read something like this:

“But on the other hand THIS ONE a single in place of sins having offered sacrifice unto the continuous sat down at the right hand of God”

1. The emphasis is on “this one” who, based on the context of the entire paragraph, is Jesus Christ, our high priest.

2. The action in the verse is on “this one … sat down at the right hand of God”, emphasizing the completion and victory of his work.

3. He is able to sit down because he has completed the offering of the sacrifice (“having offered”). Specifically, this sacrifice was:

(1) One sacrifice (“single”) in contrast to the many offered by the Levitical priests.

(2) A sacrifice to deal with sins (“for sins”) which the author describes by using a preposition which means “in place of”, i.e., a substitutionary sacrifice.

(3) This sacrifice (and the act of offering it) is eternal in its effect. No other sacrifice is necessary for this one sacrifice has accomplished the demands of God for sin (see verse 18).

Pastor’s Postscripts

I believe some “thank yous” are in order. Thanks to Karla and Jeff for getting our new sign off the truck and to David for putting a tarp around it. Thanks to Rich, Jimmy, and whoever else assisted putting down salt and doing some shoveling yesterday. Thanks to “Broken 4 One” for giving us copies of their latest CDs. Thanks to the members of both the Nominating and Financial Committees for their work in preparing for this Wednesday’s business meeting. I sincerely appreciate all your efforts.

And while I am thanking folks, thank you to our deacons for all the help they have been to me this past year. Thank you to all the individuals (musicians, ushers, sound room, readers, leaders, greeters) who have assisted with our worship services in 2013. Thank you to our teachers on Sunday morning and Sunday evening plus other days of the week for your diligence and commitment to the Lord and His Word. Plus, thanks to all who have given financially to support our church as well as missions in 2013.

And thank you to the Lord for permitting me to be the pastor of such wonderful people as make up Bethesda Baptist Church! May He bless you this week in all you do!

December 2, 2013

Prayer Requests

* Jon Bounds, illness
* Pete Koelling, health concerns
* Brida’s daughter-in-law, Dawn
* Special prayer for Zachary
* Cynthia Wordlaw, need for a kidney
* Health of Cynthia’s father, mother, and mother-in-law
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Sandy & Rachelle, working many hours
* Dan, health concerns
* Marilynn Norvell
* Gene Schulze
* Mark & Julie Johnson and the situation with their Illinois home
* Lottie Moon Christmas Offering
* Our church and need for revival

Upcoming Activities

1. Women’s Ministry Packing Soldiers’ Boxes, Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. AT THE WALKERS.
2. Bible Study & Prayer Meeting, Wednesday, 7 p.m.
3. Deacons’ Meeting, Wednesday, 7:45 p.m.
4. Men’s Breakfast and Book Study, Saturday, 8 a.m.
5. Sunday school, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
6. Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
7. Discipleship Training, Sunday, 5 p.m.

“Repentance is to leave
The Sins we loved before,
And show that we in earnest grieve,
By doing so no more.”

Ministry to Soldiers

Ladies, you will meet this Tuesday evening at 6:30 p.m. at the Walkers home to pack the boxes for the American soldiers in Afghanistan. There will be Taco Soup for any who are hungry. If you would like to bring anything else to share, feel free to do so.

If you need directions, please call the pastor or Debbie.

Bethesda Church Directory

REMINDER: Church directories are available on the table near the door in the foyer. Please take one for your home. If you see any mistakes, please contact the pastor and let him know what needs to be changed.

Sermon Extras

In verse 19, Peter calls on his audience to repent and turn back (or away) “that your sins may be blotted out”. The word translated “blotted out” means to “wipe off or out of”. It was common in the 1st century for one’s debts to be tracked by making a notation on a wax tablet. When your debt was paid, the blunt end of the stylus was use to flatten out (blot out, wipe away) your debt on the tablet.

When we truly repent of our sins and turn from our sins to Christ and holiness, God blots our debt off the divine ledger. Praise God, your debt is gone!

Questions from the Sermon: I’ve decided to add this section to the “Sermon Extras” article each week. Here are a couple of questions relative to Sunday’s message.

1. What is the primary role of a prophet?
2. How does Jesus Christ fill the role of a prophet?
3. What is unique about Christ’s role as prophet compared to all the Old Testament prophets?

Christmas Party

The Bethesda Christmas Party will begin at 5 p.m. on Saturday, December 21. Please plan on joining us for snacks, games, fellowship, and caroling.

Men’s Breakfast

The men will meet this Saturday morning at 8 a.m. for breakfast and our book study. We will cover chapter 11 in Whitney’s book on “Journaling”. Even if you have not been reading Whitney’s book, bring your breakfast and join us this Saturday!

Christmas Eve Service

Christmas falls on a Wednesday this year so our Christmas Eve service is scheduled for Tuesday, December 24 at 6 p.m. Please join us for this brief but inspiring time of worship as we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

“I once heard it told
Of a prophet who foretold
Many words which were bold
Yet did not live to be old.

You see, the words that he said
Failed and filled him with dread.
So folks threw stones on his head
And now ‘the prophet’ lies very dead!”

Pastor’s Postscripts

Christmas carols are back! Hallelujah! I love singing Christmas hymns since they are so filled with Jesus and the message of the Gospel.

I trust you are using your Week of Prayer guide from yesterday’s bulletin and praying for the missionaries mentioned in that handout. Each of us is a missionary, commanded by God to take the Gospel to all nations. Some are led by God to remote lands to fulfill that commandment such as those listed in the prayer guide. Surely those of us who are brothers in Christ yet remain in their homeland can pray for those called to minister in foreign lands.

Furthermore, we can assist the efforts of these fellow missionaries not only by our prayers but also by our giving. I am not begging or demanding anyone to contribute to financially supporting these missionaries. But I do exhort you to seek the Lord and His wisdom when it comes to this offering. If He leads you to give financially then be obedient. All the money given to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering goes directly to supporting the work of international missions.

And, while we are discussing missions, I encourage each of you to ask the Lord how you might minister in His behalf through our church next year. If you sense the Lord leading you into service in a particular area, please contact the Nominating Committee (Sandy and Debbie) and/or me and let us know.

May the Lord bless your endeavors this week in spreading His Gospel!