Acts 2:41-47 describes the life of the local church. When you look over that passage you also see a description of First Baptist Church of Decherd. Verse 41 says that they “continued steadfastly…” The ministry of FBC Decherd has continued for over 110 years. Throughout those years there has been many ups and downs. However,…
Over the past several years I have found myself in the middle of many theological discussions. These discussions were not brought on by myself, but rather, from people that crossed my path. I firmly believe in a sovereign God who guides the steps of men. Therefore, I do not believe that the people that comes…
Our local association newsletter had a section recently that listed six secrets of a turnaround church. Thom Rainer, president of Lifeway Christian Resources, conducted a survey of churches that were in decline and experienced a great turnaround. From that survey these six things were evident in every church that made a turnaround: They became highly…
In my personal Bible reading, I have been reading the book of Exodus. In Exodus 25-28, we see the instructions that God gives to Moses in regards to building the tabernacle. Just a first glance of these chapters can be nonexciting to say the least. However, there are some very valuable real-life lessons that we…
I answered God’s call on my life to vocational ministry when I was 18 years old. I was so certain of what God wanted me to do that I immediately went to Bible college and started serving anywhere a door was open. I went to Bible college to pursue training in Biblical Studies and Youth…
A study of the book of First Timothy takes us now to the final three chapters of the book. In these chapters, we find very practical encouragement and instruction concerning life in the local church. Dangers to be aware of (4:1-5). These verses describe a great apostasy that comes in the later days. We are…
As we continue our walk through the book of First Timothy, we come now to some basic and practical instructions for the local church. Paul shifts his focus from warnings concerning false teachers to the church and its responsibilities and duties. The priority of prayer and evangelism (2:1-8). Prayer must and should be a top…
