July 7, 2014

STIRRINGS AT BETHESDA
A Weekly Publication of Bethesda Baptist Church
July 7, 2014

Upcoming Activities

1. Bethesda Academy, Monday, 6:30 p.m.
2. Business Meeting, Wednesday, 7:00 p.m.
3. Sunday School, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
4. Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
5. Discipleship Training (“The Attributes of God”), Sunday, 5 p.m.

Special Prayer Requests

* Pam at home recovering from knee replacement surgery.
* Bill, father of Walkers’ son-in-law, in hospital with blood clots in his lungs.

Congratulations!

Since there will NOT be a newsletter next week, here are the birthdays for the next two weeks:

* Caitlin Brook, Monday, July 7
* DiAndre Wordlaw, Monday, July 14
* Denise Hall, Tuesday, July 15
* Rich Norvell, Thursday, July 17
* Ellen Brook, Friday, July 18

Coming Sunday…

This Sunday brother Curtis McClain will fill the pulpit in my absence. Please keep him in prayer as he prepares to preach the Word.
“The Gospel is not advice; it is power!”

Julie and San Diego

If you want to send Julie any gift cards, just plan to mail them directly in the next week as I, Debbie, will be out of town. She could use Chick-Fil-A, Taco Bell, or Target cards. Send them to:

Julie Brandel
Campus Crusade for Christ
824 Santa Clara Place Unit #2
San Diego, CA 92109

The Bethesda Academy

It’s never too late to join our Monday night study of the book of Revelation. We are studying the seven letters to the seven churches from chapters 2 and 3. Come join us tonight (Monday) at 6:30 p.m.

Spurgeon Speaks

“When we preach Christ crucified, we have no reason to stammer, or stutter, or hesitate, or apologize; there is nothing in the gospel of which we have any cause to be ashamed.”

Swimming Fellowship!

Saturday, July 26 is a swimming fellowship for everyone even if you are not swimming! The fun begins at 2 p.m. at the home of David and Christy Diamond. Check future bulletins and newsletters for specifics but mark your calendars now!
“It (the Gospel) is a means made use of by God in quickening dead sinners, enlightening blind eyes, unstopping deaf ears, softening hard hearts, and making of enemies friends; to which add, the manner in which all this is done, suddenly, secretly, effectually, and by love, and not force.”
John Gill

BUSINESS MEETING

The second Wednesday of each month is our church business meeting. That means we will all gather at 7 p.m. this Wednesday to discuss the business of the church. Come out and be a participant.

Pastor’s Postscript
Bethesda family,

As you probably know by now, Debbie and I will be out of town next Sunday. We had planned on visiting my sister in northeast Indiana this past January. But, at the last moment, we had to postpone the trip due to weather. So we are leaving this Thursday and will return late next Tuesday.

In my absence Dr. Curtis McClain of Missouri Baptist University will preach. I encourage you to be present, lift him up in prayer as he proclaims the Word, and enjoy the spiritual meal he provides you next Sunday.

Finally, there is another matter that has been on my heart for some time (long before I came to Bethesda). Expressing my thoughts will result in a longer newsletter but I pray you take the time to read it.

And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, 1 John 2:3-4

Here are two critical verses from God’s Word which, in my humble opinion, many who profess the name of Jesus in our day need to carefully ponder. What follows is my translation with emphasis on the verbal forms in the two verses.

And by this we are presently and constantly knowing that we have come to know him once and forever, if we are presently and constantly keeping his commandments. Whoever is saying “I have come to know him once and forever” and are not keeping his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him.

In verse 3 John gives us the positive key to having assurance of our salvation. “To know him once and forever” is a statement implying a permanent relationship with Christ, i.e., salvation. If our lifestyle reveals we are consistently keeping the commandments of Jesus then we may have confidence that we are, indeed, His children.

But in verse 4, John presents the other side of the equation. If someone is claiming they possess salvation (“I have come to know him once and forever”) but they are not living a life which consistently keeps the commandments of Jesus, John says that person is a liar. Furthermore the truth is not in him. I believe that last remark means this liar is a false professing individual. He does not have God’s Spirit (the Spirit of TRUTH) dwelling in him. He is NOT saved.

Professing Christians, examine your life. Are you consistently and continuously keeping the commandments of Christ? If not then John says you should NOT trust your profession of faith. If you know Christ has commanded you to do something and you refuse then you are disobedient. And if that disobedience is habitual, you have not been born again. You are not saved. You are under God’s wrath.

What are “His commandments”? They are the 10 commandments, yes. They are the two great commandments given by Christ, yes. But they are all the commandments Christ has given in the New Testament. Here are a few:

1. Repent of your sins.
2. Trust (believe) Jesus.
3. Be baptized.
4. Join with a local church.
5. Be filled with the Spirit.
6. Worship together with fellow believers.
7. Share the Gospel with others.
8. Study the Word.
9. Pray without ceasing.
10. Give (time, money, service).

These are some of the commandments given by Christ. A person who has been truly born again DESIRES to keep all of these commandments (and more). We are saved by grace not by keeping the law. But once saved, we long to keep our Lord’s commands and we strive to do so.

People in our nation say the church is no longer effective. They claim the church has lost its power. Well, they are partially correct. The church is comprised of God’s people. Unfortunately many of those who are members in our churches are professors only. They have never truly repented. They
have never truly believed. God has not regenerated them and implanted His Spirit into their heart. They are simply trying to live a different kind of life on their own, the kind of life they know “church people” expect them to live. Why would we be surprised if a church has no power when it consists of many members who are unbelievers?

I am grateful that God has called me to be your pastor. However, God has not given me the ability to read hearts. Therefore, I challenge you and exhort you to examine yourself. Are you keeping Christ’s commandments because you long to please your Master? Or does your life reveal that you really have no interest in the things of God and obeying the Lord’s commands?

May Christ give you wisdom as you examine your own soul. And may He bless next Sunday’s service!

June 2, 2014

STIRRINGS AT BETHESDA – A weekly publication of Bethesda Baptist Church

June 2, 2014

CHURCH PICNIC!

Join us for an Outback B-B-Q!

We call our church picnic an “Outback” BBQ because it will be held “outback” of our church building! Our church picnic will be held on Saturday, June 14 beginning at 4 p.m. In case of rain we’ll move the picnic indoors.

Bring your lawn chairs and any type of umbrella you want to use for shade. We are also asking everyone to bring a drink and 2 side dishes. The church will provide hamburgers, hot dogs, and buns and we’ll BBQ them “outback”. If you would like a grilled brat instead, just bring your own and we’ll grill it!

Our picnic will include an inter-generational kick ball game. If you have other ideas (games, etc.) bring them along!

To help us with planning the picnic, there will be a sign up sheet on the table in the foyer. Invite your friends, families, and neighbors!

“Love that looks upward is worship. Love that looks outward is affection. And love that stoops is grace.”
Donald Barnhouse
Upcoming Activities

1. Bible Study & Prayer Meeting, Wednesday, 7 p.m.
2. Deacons’ Meeting, Wednesday, 7:45 p.m.
3. Men’s Breakfast and Book Study, Saturday, 8 a.m.
4. Sunday School, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
5. Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
6. Discipleship Training (“The Attributes of God”), Sunday, 5 p.m.

Congratulations to…

Dennis & Pam DePriest celebrating their wedding anniversary on Saturday, June 7!

Coming Sunday…

We complete the salutation of the Epistle to the Romans in our exposition of Romans 1:7, “The People of the Gospel”.

Spurgeon Speaks

“That is a sweet name for every truly converted man, ‘called of Jesus Christ.’ He has called you personally. He has called you effectually. He has called you out of the world. He has called you into fellowship with Himself—‘the called of Jesus Christ.’”

PRAISE THE LORD!

Yesterday, Georgia Baggett and Glenda Averett presented themselves for membership to Bethesda Baptist Church by transfer of letter! We rejoice that the Lord has led these dear ladies to our fellowship and we welcome them! If you were not able to be here yesterday, make sure you greet them next Sunday and welcome them to our congregation.

Per our church bylaws, their request for membership will be formally voted on next Wednesday, June 11, during our monthly business meeting.

Amendment to the Bylaws

A reminder that we will vote on an amendment to our church bylaws at the June 11 business meeting. This amendment is fairly lengthy (3 pages) and completely replaces section 6 of the bylaws on Deacons. Copies of this amendment are available on the table in the foyer of the church. Of, if you would like an electronic copy, just let the pastor know. If you have questions, please direct them to Pastor Bruce.

Julie’s Mission Trip

Julie is in San Diego on her mission trip. Please keep her in your prayers and consider helping her with the cost of this trip.

Sermon Seconds

I spent a few moments in yesterday’s message discussing grace in general because I truly believe we do not take the time to seriously ponder all that God has done for us. Everything in our life is a result of the grace of God for we do not even deserve to be alive. In verse 5, however, Paul is discussing the saving grace provided by the Gospel. While God’s grace is continually poured out upon us, Paul writes “we have received grace”. He is talking about specific grace we (Christians) have received in the past and the most specific act of grace any Christian can point to is the grace God gave him in salvation!

Let us praise God every day for all He graciously does for us. But especially let us praise Him for the salvation that He purchased for us and provided to us!

Pastor’s Postscript

This past Saturday I had the privilege of marrying my grandson to his fiancé in our building. The service went very well and many of those in attendance complemented the church facility on its appearance both inside and outside! What a tremendous testimony of stewardship this is for each of you and especially our Trustees who have the responsibility for the building. My hat is off to you for all your time and efforts!

While I applaud all the Trustees, I do wish to single out two: Rich Norvell and Jon Bounds. Thank you both for all you did over the past couple of weeks to prepare the facility for the wedding. I am grateful.

May our Lord bless your entire week!

Pastor Bruce

May 26, 2014

STIRRINGS AT BETHESDA – A Weekly Publication of Bethesda Baptist Church – May 26. 2014

Julie’s Mission Trip

Julie will be leaving tomorrow (Tuesday) for 10 weeks in San Diego. Keep her and the team in your prayers. After services yesterday I was told some of the team were driving to San Diego and had their cars break down in route. So especially pray for them as they try to get the necessary repairs made and to San Diego in time.

You may still contribute to help with the cost of Julie’s trip if the Lord so leads.

Upcoming Activities

1. Bible Study & Prayer Meeting, Wednesday, 7 p.m.
2. Wedding at Bethesda, Friday & Saturday.
3. Sunday School, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
4. Worship Servicer, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
5. Discipleship Training (“The Attributes of God”), Sunday, 5 p.m.

Congratulations to…

Bruce Walker celebrating ANOTHER birthday on Tuesday.

Coming Sunday…

We continue our look at the salutation to the Epistle to the Romans as we examine “The Provision of the Gospel” from Romans 1:5-6.

Church Picnic!

If you check the June calendar you will see our church picnic is two weeks from this coming Saturday on June 14 (Flag Day) at 4 p.m.

More information to follow in upcoming newsletters and bulletins. Mark your calendars!

Spurgeon Speaks

“He (Jesus) was a Man, therefore He died, but He rose again for He was more than Man—‘declared to be the son of God in power’.”

Amendment to the Bylaws

We will vote on an amendment to our church bylaws at the June 11 business meeting. This amendment is fairly lengthy (3 pages) and completely replaces section 6 of the bylaws on Deacons. Copies of this amendment are available on the table in the foyer of the church. Of, if you would like an electronic copy, just let the pastor know. If you have questions, please direct them to Pastor Bruce.

5th Sunday Q & A Fellowship

COMING IN JUNE: our second “5th Sunday Q & A Fellowship” on June 29. Submit your questions early and mark your calendars!

Sermon Seconds

Paul penned verses 3 and 4 in Romans 1 using symmetry. Let me show you:

v. 3 – “was descended” is a participle meaning “the one having become”; v. 4 – “was declared” is a participle meaning “the one having been marked out

v. 3 – “from David” is a prepositional (ek) phrase meaning “out of seed of David”; v. 4 – “by the resurrection of the dead” is a prepositional (ek) phrase meaning “out of resurrection of dead ones”

v. 3 – “according to the flesh” is a prepositional (kata) phrase meaning exactly what it says. ; v. 4 – “according to the Spirit of holiness” is also a prepositional (kata) phrase with that meaning.

Paul intended for the structure of these two verses to be extremely similar. In doing so, he has communicated some of the greatest Christological (“about Christ”) truth in the Scripture! Yes, His Son is a human (verse 3). Yes, His Son is God (verse 4).

That’s wonderful and awesome at the same time!

WHO is JESUS?

The following is from an article by A. W. Pink

The Lord Jesus was completely God, but he was also completely man. This is something to be believed and not for proud reason to speculate upon. The personhood of Jesus is not a fit object for intellectual diagnosis; rather must we bow before Him in worship. … While then there is much about the person of Christ which we cannot fathom with our own understanding, yet there is everything about Him to admire and love: foremost are His deity and humanity and the perfect union of these two in one person. The Lord Jesus was not a divine man, nor a humanized God; He was the God-man. Forever God, and now forever man. …

The One born at Bethlehem was the divine Word. The Incarnation does not mean that God manifested himself as a man. The Word became flesh; he became what He was not before, though He never ceased to be all He was previously. He who was in the form of God and thought it not robbery to be equal with God “made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men” (Philippians 2:6-7). The babe of Bethlehem was Immanuel – God with us – He was more than a manifestation of God. He was God manifest in the flesh. He was both Son of God and Son of Man. Not two separate personalities, but one person possessing two natures – the divine and the human.

“The resurrection only declared him to be what he truly was.”
James Denney

Pastor’s Postscript

Since our newsletter is usually only 2 pages, I have little space remaining this week. I will be brief (yes, it is possible for me to be brief). Bethesda Baptist, you, the good people who comprise this church, are a blessing to me!

Have a wonderful week and may God grant some of your desires along with all of your needs!

Pastor Bruce

May 19, 2014

STIRRINGS AT BETHESDA – A Weekly Publication of Bethesda Baptist Church – May 19, 2014

LADIES TEA PARTY!

The Ladies Tea Party is this Saturday, May 24, at 2 p.m. The party is open to all adult ladies and you are encouraged to bring relatives, friends, neighbors, and co-workers. There is a signup sheet in the church lobby but, if you are unable to sign the sheet by Wednesday evening yet desire to attend the party, PLEASE contact Debbie Walker and inform her how many will be attending. It is imperative we know how many are coming in order to prepare for the party. A reminder: child care will not be provided.

Upcoming Activities

1. Bible Study & Prayer Meeting, Wednesday, 7 p.m.
2. Ladies Tea Party, Saturday, 2 p.m.
3. Sunday School, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
4. Worship Service & the Lord’s Supper, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
5. Discipleship Training (“The Attributes of God”), Sunday, 5 p.m.

We Welcome to Our Membership…

Bobby Henson was approved as a member of Bethesda Baptist Church based on his statement of faith and his testimony of Biblical baptism. Welcome to Bethesda, Bobby! Please add Bobby to your church directory:

Bobby Henson
1205 Shirley Ridge Drive
St. Charles, MO 63304
636-486-2160
rhenson003@att.net

Recent Prayer Requests

* Cynthia Wordlaw’s need for a kidney.
* The Mueller family
* Alicia’s mother
* Meghan Bartner
* Zachary Mueller
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Marilynn Norvell
* Debbie, recovering from foot surgery
* Prayer for the conversions of the lost, especially those in our community
* Praise to the Lord for our visitors
* Our church and need for revival

Julie’s Mission Trip

Julie leaves next week for her mission trip to San Diego. She will give us a brief update on this trip as part of Sunday morning’s worship service. You may still contribute financially, if you so desire, by writing a check to Bethesda Baptist and note that it is for “Julie’s Trip”.

Congratulations to…

Alicia Mueller, celebrating a birthday on Friday, May 23 and Nick Brandel, celebrating a birthday on Sunday, May 25. . Happy Birthday to each of you!

Also, congratulations to Rachelle Brandel who graduated from UMSL with a Bachelor of Arts in English and in Modern Languages (Japanese). Well done,

Rachelle!

Coming Sunday…

We continue our look at the salutation to the Epistle to the Romans as we examine “The Person of the Gospel” from Romans 1:3-4.

Church Directory Updates & Corrections

Pam DePriest’s e-mail address is pdepries@att.net .

If you have corrections or updates, please send a note to the pastor. We will issue a new directory later this year.

Spurgeon Speaks

“Notice, Brothers and Sisters, how reverent the Apostles were to Holy Scriptures. They had no doubt about its Inspiration! They quoted the Old Testament and delighted to make it a kind of basis for the New Testament…”

Sermon Seconds

My sermon yesterday was on the promise of the gospel of God, focusing on verse 2 of Romans chapter 1. Obviously, the key phrase in the verse is “he promised beforehand”. These 3 English words translate one word in the original which comes from the word: proepaggellomai. This word is found only here and in 2 Corinthians 9:5. It is a compound word actually composed of 3 words.

* aggellomai – to proclaim (aggelos is one who proclaims a message; this is the Greek word for “angel”)
* epi – “upon”; “to proclaim upon” (epaggelomai) is to make a promise.
* pro – “before”

So, in the case of the gospel of God, it is the promise of God made long before Christ came to fulfill the Gospel.

Pastor’s Postscript

While our numbers were very low yesterday, I thought our worship together was quite uplifting and certainly glorified God. Aren’t you glad Jesus told us it only takes 2 gathered in His name for Him to be present and not 200?!

For some I know this has been a challenging week. In such times it is critical you lean upon God and not trust your own judgment. Search His Word and open your heart and mind to His direction. May God grant you wisdom and may you trust Him more and more each passing day.

God has called me to be your pastor and has guided the church to elect 4 men to serve as your deacons. If at any time we may be of assistance, please give us a call.

May the Lord bless Bethesda Baptist!

Pastor Bruce

May 12, 2014

STIRRINGS AT BETHESDA, A Weekly Publication of Bethesda Baptist Church

LADIES TEA PARTY!

LADIES, you are invited to a Ladies Tea at the church on Saturday, May 24 beginning at 2 p.m. Please invite your mothers, daughters, sisters, neighbors, friends to join you at this event. All ladies are welcome but, for obvious reasons, we need a very accurate head count. Please sign the signup sheet in the foyer during the coming week and/or contact Debbie Walker and let her know how many will be attending. This event is for all adult ladies. No child care will be provided.

Upcoming Activities

1. Ladies Book Study, Tuesday, 6:30 p.m.
2. BUSINESS MEETING, Wednesday, 7 p.m.
3. Sunday School, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
4. Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
5. Discipleship Training (“The Names of God”), Sunday, 5 p.m.

“Not what we must do but what God in Christ has done for us is the most prominent part of the good news.”
William Hendriksen

Julie’s Mission Trip

Julie leaves for her mission trip to San Diego in two weeks. If you wish to contribute, please write your check to Bethesda Baptist and note that it is for “Julie’s Trip”. By the way, Julie will personally provide us with information on her upcoming trip during our worship service on May 25.

The Bethesda Academy

The Academy will resume on Monday, June 9 at 6:30 p.m. as we begin a study of the book of Revelation. Mark your calendars and plan on attending.

Recent Prayer Requests

Congratulations to…

Meghan Bartner, celebrating a birthday on Friday, May 16. Happy Birthday, Meghan!

LADIES Book Study

This Ladies will meet for their final session in their current study this Tuesday, May 13, at 6:30 p.m. Don’t miss it, Ladies!

Coming Sunday…

We continue our look at the salutation to the Epistle to the Romans as we examine “The Promise of the Gospel” from Romans 1:2.

Spurgeon Speaks

“I do not think that we are called to have anything to do with party politics, or social problems, or any such questions—we are set apart for this purpose—‘separated unto the Gospel of God.’ There are plenty of people who can attend to those things better than we can. If we mind our own business, or rather, if we mind our Master’s business, we who are ministers will have quite enough to do.”

Sermon Seconds

Yesterday’s text, Romans 1:1, is only 10 words in the original. They easily divide into the 4 facets I presented in my message on the preacher of the Gospel. “Paul” presents the human identity of the preacher who wrote the letter and, with the mention of his name, one immediately reflects on his
reputation both before and after his conversion. “a servant of Christ Jesus” points to his rank as a preacher. He is a servant or slave of His master, Jesus Christ. “called to be an apostle” delineates his responsibility as the preacher. God has called him to the office of Apostle, the authoritative representative and messenger of Christ. Finally, “set apart for the gospel of God” reveals his
role as the preacher. He has been set apart for one specific task: the good news of God, namely, the person and work of Jesus Christ.

The phrase “set apart” translates one word which means “appointed”. The word is in what is known as the perfect tense in Greek. Paul has been set apart; it is a completed action. Yet this action has results which continue into the future. I see in this phrase (along with Galatians 1:15) Paul’s
understanding that his appointment is from God’s eternal plan.

The phrase also has what is known in Greek as the passive voice. Paul was set apart; he did not doing the “setting”. Rather, it was done to him. Clearly Paul is referring to God’s actions. Paul was not seeking God or Christ. He was not seeking to be an officer in the church of God. But God had different plans for him. As a result, we are the benefactors of a great blessing: the possession of the book of Romans written by this Apostle for Christ!

Pastor’s Postscript

I trust all the mothers had a great Mother’s Day. You are well deserving of our honor and recognition for all you have done over the years for us and for the children. May God richly bless you ladies in the years to come for your faithfulness to Him!
And may God bless Bethesda Baptist Church as we continue our mission to magnify and glorify the name of Jesus Christ throughout our community and to wherever the Lord sends us!

Have a wonderful week!

Pastor Bruce
636-233-0645
TheSaxonHus@hotmail.com
Church phone: 636-447-2121
Church web site: www.bethesdabc.org

May 5, 2014

STIRRINGS AT BETHESDA
Weekly Publication of Bethesda Baptist Church
May 5, 2014

LADIES Book Study

Ladies, you have two more sessions in your book study. Plan on being there this Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.

Upcoming Activities

1. Bethesda Academy, Monday, 6:30 p.m.
2. Ladies Book Study, Tuesday, 6:30 p.m.
3. Bible Study & Prayer Meeting, Wednesday, 7 p.m.
4. Deacons’ Meeting, Wednesday, 7:45 p.m.
5. Sunday School, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
6. Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
7. NO Discipleship Training this Sunday.

Julie’s Mission Trip

Julie is about to leave on her 10 week mission trip to San Diego. If you wish to contribute, please write your check to Bethesda Baptist and note that it is for “Julie’s Trip”.

The Bethesda Academy

This evening at 6:30 p.m. we begin our final three nights of our study of “future events” in the Academy. We start a very high overview of the prophecy recorded by the Apostle John in the book of Revelation and compare it with our observations concerning the future we have made from other books. Join us tonight (Monday) and be a part of our group.

Recent Prayer Requests

* Cynthia Wordlaw and her family in the death of her mother. Also Cynthia’s need for a kidney.
* Elijah Mueller
* Alicia’s mother
* Meghan Bartner
* Zachary Mueller
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Marilynn Norvell
* Debbie, recovering from foot surgery
* Prayer for the conversions of the lost, especially those in our community
* Praise to the Lord for our visitors
* Our church and need for revival

Congratulations to…
Jon and Kate Bounds celebrating a wedding anniversary on Sunday, May 11. Happy Anniversary!

“When peace like a river attendeth my way.
When sorrows like sea billows roll.
Whatever my lot thou hast taught me to say,
‘It is well, it is well with my soul.’”
Horatio G. Spafford

Coming Sunday…

“The Preacher of the Gospel” from Romans 1:1 is our text for this coming Sunday as we begin a new
adventure in the Scriptures. This journey will last for some time, nevertheless, we will see many interesting (and important) truths along the way.

Sermon Seconds

One interesting thought on yesterday’s text is Paul’s use of the word “all”. Remember, in the context of this 3rd chapter of 2 Thessalonians, Paul has dealt firmly with those who have ceased working and, instead, are “sponging” off the church. In chapter 2 he had to correct some false teaching on the 2nd coming. In other words, there were some “problem children” among the members of the Thessalonian church.Yet, in his closing prayer, Paul omits no one from his request, not even those with whom he has corrected in this letter.

* Verse 16 teaches the Lord gives us peace at ALL times.
* Also, He gives us peace in EVERY (the word “all” in the Greek) way.
* Then, Paul requests the Lord be with you ALL (yes, even the disobedient members).
* Even in verse 17, Paul notes that his signature (sign) is the same in EVERY (again the word “all”) letter.
* Finally, in verse 18, Paul requests grace be with you ALL

Five “alls” in 3 verses: I think Paul has made his point! I don’t know about you, but I am glad that he uses “all” and that “all” includes me! Does “all” include you? Do you know Jesus Christ? Have you professed Him as Lord?

Spurgeon Speaks

Charles Haddon Spurgeon is considered the greatest English speaking Baptist pastor in history. He pastured the Metropolitan Tabernacle in London for almost 4 decades in the 19th century. The building would hold 7000 folks every Sunday to hear him preach the Gospel. Here are two quotes from Spurgeon I read this week while preparing to preach on 2 Thessalonians 3. I didn’t use them in my sermon but thought you might enjoy them.

“Numbers of professors are very fretful, excitable, agitated, hasty and fickle. It should not be so, Brothers and Sisters—you ought to have more weight about you, more Grace, more solidity. Your soul’s affairs are all right, are they not? All is right forever—everything is signed, sealed, and delivered—the Covenant is ordered in all things and sure, and everything is in Divine hands for our good. Well, then, why not let us be as happy as the angels are?”

“So whenever a Providence puzzles you, take it as a sign that the Lord does not mean you to understand it—and be content to take it upon faith. When curiosity and other restless things are gone, peace is enjoyed.”

Pastor’s Postscript

Since this edition is almost full, let me say I will pray for you this week that the Lord of peace may give you peace at all times and in every way! May you truly be blessed this week!

April 28, 2014

Stirrings at Bethesda

Weekly Publication of Bethesda Baptist Church
April 28, 2014

Julie’s Mission Trip

You still have time to financially contribute to support Julie’s 10 week mission trip to San Diego. She will be leaving in a month or so. Even if you cannot give, please pray for her and the team.

LADIES Book Study

Three more weeks remaining in the Ladies Book Study. You meet again this Tuesday evening at 6:30 p.m.

Upcoming Activities

1. Bethesda Academy, Monday, 6:30 p.m.
2. Ladies Book Study, Tuesday, 6:30 p.m.
3. Bible Study & Prayer Meeting, Wednesday, 7 p.m.
4. Bethesda Men Breakfast & Book Study, Saturday, 8 a.m.
5. Church Council meeting, Saturday, 9 a.m.
6. Sunday School, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
7. Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
8. Discipleship Training, Sunday, 5 p.m.

The Bethesda Academy

Tonight (Monday) we complete our review of the Gospels concerning future events. Our next stop will be the book of Revelation where we will conduct an overview of the end of time. Plenty of time to join us for the remainder of this study. We meet Mondays at 6:30 p.m.

Recent Prayer Requests

* Cynthia Wordlaw and her family in the death of her mother. Also Cynthia’s need for a kidney.
* Elijah Mueller
* Alicia’s mother
* Meghan Bartner
* Zachary Mueller
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Marilynn Norvell
* Debbie, recovering from foot surgery
* Prayer for the conversions of the lost, especially those in our community
* Praise to the Lord for our visitors
* Our church and need for revival

Congratulations to…

Tom Wildgrube celebrates a birthday on Saturday, May 3. Happy Birthday!

“Exemplary conduct serves as a constant reprimand to wrong doers and is an incentive for them to turn from their delinquency.”
Robert Thomas

Coming Sunday…

“Peace and Grace” from 2 Thessalonians 3:16-18 will close out our exposition of Paul’s second letter to the Thessalonians.

Sermon Seconds

The 3 verses we examined yesterday are interesting from a number of points of view. One of those has to do with the vocabulary the Apostle uses. In verse 13, Paul instructs us not to weary doing good. The words “doing good” comes from a compound Greek word, kalopoieo, and is used only in this verse by any New Testament writer.

In verse 14, we are told to “take note” of any believer who is disobedient. The phrase translates a single word, semeioo, which was used to describe signing for a formal notice. Like kalopoieo, it is also only used here in Scripture. The noun form of the word, semeion, is often translated “sign”. In fact the word is used repeatedly by John in his Gospel to describe the signs of Jesus. John saw the Lord’s miracles not from the perspective of their power or from wonder but as a pointer to the worker of the miracle, namely Jesus. These signs “marked” Him as the Incarnate God.

Also in verse 14 Paul tells us that after we take note of the disobedient we are to “have nothing to do” with him. Once again this phrase is the translation of one Greek word, sunanamignumi. This word is a combination of three Greek words:

* sun = “together with”
* ana = “again, up”
* mignumi = “to mix, mingle”

So the compound word means “to mix up together with”. We might worship together with the disobedient but we are not to get mixed up together with them. In other words, avoid close and intimate associations with those who are living in disobedience to God.

Pastor’s Postscript

This Sunday marks the conclusion of our exposition of the Thessalonian correspondence. These 2 letters mark some of the Apostle Paul’s earliest writings and some of the earliest books forming what we know as the New Testament. There is much within the two books we have not looked at but one can never fully examine all of Scripture. God’s Word is infinite in its depth, as deep as the knowledge of God Himself. We have merely “touched the hem of the garment” with our messages over these two books. So much more awaits our examination and the illumination of the Holy Spirit. For now, though, we move on to other texts given to us by God.

May Christ bless each of us as we strive to learn more of Him from His Word. and may He bless each of you this week.

April 20, 2014

April 21, 2014

STIRRINGS AT BETHESDA

A Weekly Publication of Bethesda Baptist Church

April 21, 2014

Julie’s Mission Trip

Julie’s 10 week mission trip to San Diego is just about a month away. Please keep her and the team in prayer. If you wish to contribute financially towards this trip, simply write a check made out to the church with a note that indicates it is for “Julie’s Trip”.

North American Missions

This Sunday will be your last opportunity to give to the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering for North American Missions. We have met our goal of $1200 but you may still give if the Lord so impresses you to do so.

LADIES Book Study

The Ladies will meet again tomorrow (Tuesday) evening at 6:30 p.m. Come out and join the fellowship and study time!

Upcoming Activities

1. Bethesda Academy, Monday, 6:30 p.m.
2. Ladies Book Study, Tuesday, 6:30 p.m.
3. Bible Study & Prayer Meeting, Wednesday, 7 p.m.
4. Sunday School, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
5. Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m. including the Lord’s Supper.
6. Discipleship Training, Sunday, 5 p.m.

“He is not here. He has Risen!”

The Bethesda Academy

The Academy has 5 more Monday meetings including this evening. Come out and join us as we consider what the Bible says on future events. We begin at 6:30 p.m.

Recent Prayer Requests

* Cynthia Wordlaw and her family in the death of her mother. Also Cynthia’s need for a kidney.
* Elijah Mueller
* Alicia’s mother
* Meghan Bartner
* Zachary Mueller
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Marilynn Norvell
* Debbie, recovering from foot surgery
* Prayer for the conversions of the lost, especially those in our community
* Prayer for those involved in North American missions.
* Praise to the Lord for our visitors
* Our church and need for revival

Congratulations to…

* Karla Repperger celebrating a birthday on Wednesday, April 23. Happy Birthday!

Coming Sunday…

“Final Exhortations” from 2 Thessalonians 3:13-15 plus we will observe the Lord’s Supper.

“He (Ben-Hur) persisted, as men do yet today in measuring the Christ by himself. How much better if we measured ourselves by the Christ.”
Lew Wallace

Good Friday and Easter Services

Thank you to everyone who participated in our weekend services. Both our Good Friday and Easter services were well attended.

I want to publically thank several individuals for their service:

* Bill Savage for his wonderful message on Friday.
* Audrey for playing and for her special music in both services.
* Dennis for leading our singing in both services.
* Jeff for his work in the sound room both days and to Alicia for her help in the morning service.
* Steve, Jon, Christy, Debbie, and Dennis for reading the Scripture on Friday night.
* Our band for leading us in worship with song during the Easter service.
* Sandy for volunteering to read even though she then could not attend on Friday.
* And to those who worked the nursery yesterday morning. I’m not 100% certain who was in there (though I think Tom was one of them!).

How wonderful it is to see God’s people willing to serve Him!

A new Discipleship Training class begins this Sunday at 5 p.m. Why don’t you plan on coming out and joining us for study and fellowship?

Pastor’s Postscript

We praise God for leading Bobby Henson to our church. On Friday evening, Bobby asked to join our church! He is reading through our Constitution and Statement of Faith and then I will sit down and chat with him. He professes knowing Christ as His Lord and has been baptized. If you haven’t already done so, make sure you welcome him to our church.

I have two more messages from 2 Thessalonians to share with you over the next couple of weeks. Then we will prepare for a longer study of another book. Since coming to Bethesda first as an interim pastor and then as your pastor, we have traveled together through 5 of the 66 books of the Bible (Colossians, Ruth, John, 1 & 2 Thessalonians). I am so grateful to God for giving me the opportunity to preach through His Word and intend to continue doing so until I am no longer physically able to do so (and that includes being called home to glory!). I truly believe preaching through books is the best method for proclaiming the Gospel. Such a procedure forces me to address matters I might ignore with another approach. Furthermore, this form of expository preaching keeps us in the context of the author’s writing. We can’t simply pull a verse out of the Word and then say what we want. May our Lord continue to bless our Scriptural journey!

And may Christ overwhelm you with blessings this week! He and He alone is worthy of our praise!

March 24, 2014

LADIES Book Study

The Ladies Book Study begins tomorrow evening, Tuesday, March 25, at 6:30 p.m. in the church’s Fellowship Hall. If you did not sign up but would like to attend, contact Pam DePriest and let her know.

Recent Prayer Requests

* Elijah Mueller – recovering at home
* Alicia’s mother
* Meghan Bartner
* Zachary Mueller
* Cynthia Wordlaw, need for a kidney
* Dennis fighting kidney failure
* Marilynn Norvell
* Debbie, recovering from foot surgery
* Prayer for the conversions of the lost, especially those in our community
* Prayer for those involved in North American missions.
* Praise to the Lord for our visitors
* Our church and need for revival

The Bethesda Academy

The Academy continues its look at future events this evening (Monday) at 6:30 p.m. Come and join us for some study as well as fellowship.

“As it is the business of tailors to make clothes and of cobblers to mend shoes, so it is the business of Christians to pray.”
Martin Luther

Julie’s Mission Trip

Another reminder that Julie is preparing for a 10 week mission trip this summer. Your prayers for her trip are appreciated as is any financial help you may be able to provide. You may give with a check by making the check out to Bethesda Baptist and noting it is for “Julie’s Trip”.

Upcoming Activities

1. Bethesda Academy, Monday, 6:30 p.m.
2. Ladies Book Study, Tuesday, 6:30 p.m.
3. Prayer Meeting, Wednesday, 7 p.m.
4. Sunday School, Sunday, 9:15 a.m.
5. Worship Service, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
6. Discipleship Training (Ruth), Sunday, 5 p.m.
7. 5th Sunday Q & A Fellowship, Sunday, 6 p.m.

“I believe the doctrine of election, because I am quite certain that, if God had not chosen me, I should never have chosen Him; and I am sure He chose me before I was born, or else He never would have chosen me afterwards; and He must have elected me for reasons unknown to me, for I never could find any reason in myself why He should have looked upon me with special love.”
Charles Spurgeon

Bethesda Congratulations for the Week

Happy Birthday wishes this week to:

* Luke Bounds – Tuesday

“You must understand that your faith and salvation rest entirely on God’s election (cf. Acts 13:48). And yet the day you came to Jesus Christ, you did so because of an internal desire — you did nothing against your will. But even that desire is God-given — He supplies the necessary faith so we can believe (Eph. 2:8).”
John MacArthur

Sermon Extras

Part of my preparation for yesterday’s sermon took me to a message preached by the former pastor of First Baptist Church of Dallas, W. A. Criswell. I did not quote from this passage yesterday but I do want to share it with you this morning. Dr. Criswell was an excellent preacher as you will see in how he closes the message.

“To that little flock in Thessalonica—just a little band of feeble Christians in a Roman world of brutality and godlessness and darkness and heathenism—Paul saying to them, “God hath elected you, little flock. It is His good pleasure to give you the kingdom, little flock. Weak lambs, God hath chosen you. Be of good courage. Comfort your heart. Lift up your faces. God hath chosen you.” Oh, what it is to be in the elective will and purpose of the Lord. However the day, whatever the fortune, we are in Him and He is in God and the whole world shall turn for His elect into victory and triumph and glory, both now and for ever. No good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly, that love and trust Him. The world is yours. And in the fortunes of life, if He takes it from the earth before He comes—to face that future in glory and in triumph, to live like a Christian, and to die like a child of Jesus—unafraid, in the glory of the hope and the presence of the Lord.”

North American Missions

We are getting closer to our goal of $1200 for the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering. is $1200. All the monies received towards this offering goes to support North American missions. We will continue collecting to support North American missions through the month of April. Please contribute as the Lord leads you to do..

Pastor’s Postscript

Easter is only a month away. I want you to be aware that we will hold another Good Friday service this year on Friday, April 18. Pastor Bill Savage of St. Clair Southern Baptist Church in St. Clair, MO will deliver the message. I encourage you to add the date to your calendar.

Thanks to all who prayed for me over this past weekend and yesterday morning. I spent most of Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in bed feeling miserable. But the Lord was gracious and enabled me to attend worship and preach the Gospel. I am feeling somewhat better this morning but extremely exhausted. I do appreciate your prayers.

I am also very grateful for the visitors the Lord continues to send our way. Furthermore, yesterday was probably the first Sunday in 2014 where most of our members were able to join together for worship at the same time! Praise the Lord!

May He richly bless your week!