ADULTS 4 CHRIST

OUR CLASSROOM WAS BAPTIZED SUNDAY

2012-02-12T13:31:00.015-06:00

Hallway outside clssroom

Looking toward Joe's seat

When we arrived at church this morning we found our classroom flooded with 2 inches of water because of a broken water pipe. Our class was relocated to the sanctuary where Wayne Ashworth did an excellent job under the circumstances.There was another class in the balcony which made it difficult to hear.

Rob Darnell did the opening prayer and Kim Morrow passed out Valentine cards for us to sign for the Grace Manor residents. A small flood wasn't going to distract us from our purpose for being here. ...

Praise Be To God in 2012!

Looking toward back of classroomfrom Brenda's seat

CLICK ON PHOTOS TO ENLARGE

"LOVE IS KIND"... 1 CORINTHIANS 13:4

2012-02-11T10:52:00.004-06:00

CLICK ON PHOTO TO READ PRINT

Kindness is a natural application of love because it makes one feel loved. It is the ability to be accepting when everything within you wants to be rejecting. It is a strategy for forgiveness when you are wronged or when someone takes advantage of you. When your trusting spirit has been violated, you still love by being kind; you stop fighting, and you start forgiving.

Kindness means you are pleasant to be around because your countenance is inviting and shows interest. It is as much an attitude as anything, and it is the ability to see beyond the immediate to the potential. Kindness means you go out of your way to love someone. People who are unlovable become prime candidates for your kindness. A family member, a friend, and even a stranger who is far from God, deep down desires unconditional love and kindness.

Therefore, kindly love people through difficult situations. Serve those who are experiencing financial difficulties, for example. Kindness is king for followers of King Jesus, so love with kindness and watch them come around and embrace Christ. Kindness kills sin and sadness, and brings to life love, forgiveness, and hope. Allow Jesus’ loving kindness to flow through you, for kindness toward the needy honors God (Proverbs 14:31). Kindness resides where love is applied, because love is kind.

GOD LISTENS

2012-02-03T20:42:00.005-06:00

You can talk to God because God listens. Your voice matters in heaven. He takes you very seriously. When you enter his presence, the attendants turn to you to hear your voice. No need to fear that you will be ignored. Even if you stammer or stumble, even if what you have to say impresses no one, it impresses God—and he listens. He listens to the painful plea of the elderly in the rest home. He listens to the gruff confession of the death-row inmate. When the alcoholic begs for mercy, when the spouse seeks guidance, when the businessman steps off the street into the chapel, God listens. Intently. Carefully.
The prayers are honored as precious jewels. Purified and empowered, the words rise in a delightful fragrance to our Lord. “The smoke from the incense went up from the angel’s hand to God.” Incredible. Your words do not stop until they reach the very throne of God.
Then, the angel “filled the incense pan with fire from the altar and threw it on the earth” (Rev. 8:5). One call and Heaven’s fleet appears. Your prayer on earth activates God’s power in heaven, and “God’s will is done on earth as it is in heaven.”
You are the someone of God’s kingdom. You have access to God’s furnace. Your prayers move God to change the world. You may not understand the mystery of prayer. You don’t need to. But this much is clear: Actions in heaven begin when someone prays on earth. What an amazing thought!
When you speak, Jesus hears.
And when Jesus hears, thunder falls.
And when thunder falls, the world is changed.
All because someone prayed.

ENCOURAGE A FRIEND

Message Forwarded by: Ret. Captain Dave Roberts

JESUS COMMANDS BAPTISM FOR HIS CHILDREN

2012-02-01T12:32:00.007-06:00

( click on photo )

Baptism is a bold declaration of a personal belief in Jesus Christ. It is an outward expression of an inward conversion. Baptism is symbolic of an individual Christian (normally a new believer) burying their old way of life and coming alive in Christ. Jesus commands baptism for His children. He knows the accountability, the encouragement and the love that accompanies this act of obedience.

Who is a candidate for baptism? If you have placed your faith in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior your next step is to follow the example of Jesus and be baptized. He modeled the way of humble submission—when as the Son of God—He insisted on being baptized by another. Baptism identifies you with God’s forever family of faith.

What happens if a believer is not baptized? You don’t miss heaven, but you miss the blessing of hearing your Heavenly Father say, “This is my child in whom I am well pleased.” Baptism brands you a Christian—a follower of Jesus Christ. Your public display of gratitude and glory to God will help another make a private commitment to Christ. It is a formal declaration of your dependence on Jesus for grace and forgiveness.

BEGIN A NEW LIFE

2012-01-24T20:07:00.001-06:00

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Then at the right time and place He created you.

"The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything, because he himself gives all men life and breath and everything else. From one man he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. 'For in him we live and move and have our being.' As some of your own poets have said, 'We are his offspring.' (Acts 17:24-28)

Christianity is not just a religion; True Christians experience a deep personal relationship with the Creator God of the universe. All other religions of the world have one thing in common they are attempting to reach God by their own efforts and traditions. Only the God of the Bible reaches out to people in love. He has provided a way for you to be united with Him. The way is through His Son, Jesus Christ.

Jesus says to you, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” (John 14:6) Jesus the Christ is the only true path for unity with God. Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. (Acts 4:12)

PRAYERS FOR CLASSMATE

2012-01-18T13:20:00.001-06:00

Please add Wayne Ashcroft to your prayer list. He found out that he has to go on insulin for his diabetes. Plus something is wrong with his liver, so he had to have a liver scan. The liver scan showed everything is ok...no fatty liver or damage. They tested for all types of hepatitis...all negative. He was taken off of 3 other meds. He goes back n 4 weeks. Hopefully, all levels will be stabilized. We appreciated your prayers!

Love in Christ, Melody Ashworth

THE IMPORTANCE OF PRAYER

2012-01-15T19:51:00.000-06:00

In the 6th chapter of Ephesians in the 18th verse we read words which put the tremendous importance of prayer with startling and overwhelming force:
“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.”
When we stop to weigh the meaning of these words, then note the connection in which they are found, the intelligent child of God is driven to say,
“I must pray, pray, pray. I must put all my energy and all my heart into prayer. Whatever else I do, I must pray.”
The Revised Version is, if possible, stronger than the Authorized:
“With all prayer and supplication praying at all seasons in the Spirit, and watching thereunto in all perseverance and supplication for all the saints.”
Note the alls: “with all prayer,” “at all seasons,” “in all perseverance,” “for all the saints.” Note the piling up of strong words, “prayer,” “supplication,” “perseverance.” Note once more the strong expression, “watching thereunto,” more literally, “being sleepless thereunto.” Paul realized the natural slothfulness of man, and especially his natural slothfulness in prayer. How seldom we pray things through! How often the church and the individual get right up to the verge of a great blessing in prayer and just then let go, get drowsy, quit. I wish that these words “being sleepless unto prayer” might burn into our hearts. I wish the whole verse might burn into our hearts.
Torrey, R. A. (1900). How to pray (6). Chicago; New York [etc.: Fleming H. Revell company.

COST OF FOLLOWING CHRIST

2012-01-14T13:30:00.009-06:00

We read in Romans 1:20 that there is enough evidence to convince everyone that God is Creator, so much so that we are condemned if we do not believe. Then why do only a few people follow Christ for a lifetime? Why do some appear to follow for a time and then fall away? What prevents us from following Jesus wholeheartedly? Why do many of us prefer to build on the sand rather than the rock?
It can't be that we don't know about Him. With all the technology available today, the archaeological research confirming the people and places of the Bible, the immense volumes of writings of believers explaining their faith, and the exegetical study of the words of the Bible - it's as if we know so much, yet believe so little.

Many today respond to Jesus with a lack of commitment. They believe with their mind, but not their heart. They are skeptical about who He is. They are not willing to give up themselves to follow him. They are willing to follow some of His commands, but not willing to sacrifice their own needs or wants. Many prefer to hold on to parents/children, money, siblings, jobs, or material items.

Whose goals and aspirations direct your daily living? God's or your own carnal, self-centered desires? If today is the day for God to judge how youv'e spent his money, lived your life, and spread his word, are you prepared for the verdict? Many people will stand before God's throne someday and say, "Lord, in You name we cast out devils, we healed the sick, we did many wonderful works for You." But they built their houses on sand. They're actions did not match up with their words, they said one thing in public and lived their lives in greed and materialism. They cried, "Lord, Lord!" throughout their lives - coming to Him for relief, for power, and for rewards. They were busy for Him, they gave money for someone else to do his works and filled themselves with a false sense of "having done their part" but they never stopped long enough in His presence to really get to know Him.
They never understood that he wanted them, not their money, advise, or stuff. Just them filled with a love that flows from a totally abandoned heart.

WHATS IN A NAME?

2012-01-02T11:22:00.034-06:00

"Here we are in a month named after the Roman god Janus, a personification of the start of the new year. This particular Roman god had two faces so that he could look ahead toward the future and back at the past at the same time. As we get rid of an old year and look forward to a new one, some like to worry. a few try to be a little like Janus. We know through experience what we did wrong and what we did right, and hope to do better this year.

Some people make ambitious new year’s resolutions; others just take a deep breath and hope for the best.

As Christians, we realize that hope is only available by faith in Jesus Christ. We draw closer to him through his word, prayer, and obedience. We were created in his image, and our thoughts and works should reflect just that and not some Roman god or other idol. So to address the question,"WHAT'S IN A NAME?", the answer is "not much", unless it's the name of Jesus.

So as Christians, our new years resolutions should never take the place of prayer and both should always be focused on Him.

Praise Be To God in January 2012

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2012-01-01T00:00:00.001-06:00

ATTENTION: WEBSITE ISSUES!

2011-12-10T10:52:00.002-06:00

WE ARE HAVING ISSUES WITH SOME OF OUR PAGES. IT APPEARS TO BE A PROBLEM WITH ONE OF OUR PROVIDERS. HOPEFULLY IT WILL CORRECT ITSELF SOON, IF NOT I MAY HAVE TO REDESIGN THOSE PAGES AGAIN. THIS IS THE FIRST PROBLEM OF THIS TYPE WE HAVE ENCOUNTERED SINCE THE WEBSITE WAS LAUNCHED.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2011-11-19T10:30:00.001-06:00

Thanksgiving prayers were first uttered by God's people in the Old Testament and God ordained a specific sacrificial offering for thanksgiving. David, the psalmist, wrote many Thanksgiving devotions and Paul the apostle taught that we are to always pray and give thanks to God in all circumstances. When we use the Bible for devotions and for prayers, we are following after the hearts of men and women who led exemplary ideals for worshipping God. This November, if looking for good lessons to share with family or for prayers to pray during the holidays, turn to the Bible and find inspiration that turns a heart towards gratitude and finds the peace that much of the holiday season is promoting.

THE BIBLE

2011-11-05T15:11:00.000-05:00

The Bible is a collection of sixty-six documents inspired by God. These documents are gathered into two testaments, the Old (39) and the New (27). Prophets, priests, kings, and leaders from the nation of Israel wrote the Old Testament books in Hebrew (with two passages in Aramaic). The apostles and their associates wrote the New Testament books in Greek. The Old Testament begins with the creation of the universe and closes about four hundred years before the birth of Jesus Christ.

The History of the Old Testament

• Creation of the universe

• Fall of man

• Flood over the whole earth

• Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Israel)—fathers of the chosen nation

• The history of Israel begins

• Exile in Egypt—430 years

• Exodus and wilderness wanderings—40 years

• Conquest of Canaan—7 years

• Era of Judges—350 years

• United Kingdom—Saul, David, Solomon—110 years

• Divided Kingdom—Judah/Israel—350 years

The details of Old Testament history are explained in the 39 books, which are divided into 5 categories:

• Return and rebuilding the land—140 years

• The Law—5 books (Genesis–Deuteronomy)

• History—12 books (Joshua–Esther)

• Wisdom—5 books (Job–Song of Solomon)

• Major Prophets—5 books (Isaiah–Daniel)

• Minor Prophets—12 books (Hosea–Malachi)

NEW CLASS MEMBERS

2011-10-09T17:41:00.006-05:00

ADULTS 4 CHRIST

Our recent class visitors are now our newest members.
Everyone needs to welcome:

Wayne and Melody Ashworth

CHRISTIAN DEATH SENTENCE

2011-09-28T14:36:00.001-05:00

An Iranian pastor who has refused to renounce his Christian faith faces execution as early as Wednesday after his sentence was upheld by an Iranian court.

Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani, who maintains he has never been a Muslim as an adult, has Islamic ancestry and therefore must recant his faith in Jesus Christ, the 11th branch of Iran's Gilan Provincial Court ruled. Iran's Supreme Court had ordered the trial court to determine whether Nadarkhani had been a Muslim prior to converting to Christianity.

Nadarkhani, a pastor in the 400-member Church of Iran, has been held in that country's Gilan Province since October 2009, after he protested to local education authorities that his son was forced to read from the Koran at school. His wife, Fatemeh Pasandideh, was also arrested in June 2010 in an apparent attempt to pressure him to renounce his faith. She was released in October 2010, according to Amnesty International.

Father Jonathan Morris, a Catholic priest in the Archdiocese of New York and an analyst for Fox News Channel, said Nadarkhani's case is "unmistakable evidence" that Iran is executing Christians simply because they refuse to become Muslims.

Morris continued: "Will President Obama, and the free world, allow the United Nations to continue in its cowardly silence on this matter?"

CLASS BOOTH FOR "COUNTRY FAIR"

2011-09-24T08:52:00.003-05:00

The Grace Baptist Annual Fall Picnic is on October 16th this year. The theme is " Country Fair". Sunday School Classes are responsible for coming up with an activity or booth that they will maintain during the party. Adults 4 Christ will have a pitching booth. Prizes will be given out such as cupcakes, cookies , or candy bars (while they last) to anyone that can throw a strike from an appropriate distance. A "TOP GUN" award will be given to three people. The people who throw the fastest recorded strike from the 3 age appropriate mounds will receive a trophy. A softball mound (35ft) and 2 baseball mounds (46ft (60ft) will be provided. Adults can win a prize but are not eligible for "TOP GUN" trophies.

CHRISTIANITY WITHOUT DISCIPLESHIP

2011-09-12T19:57:00.002-05:00

I've been haunted by a quote I read recently by Detrich Bonhoeffer:

“Christianity without discipleship is always Christianity without Christ.”

This statement is up-front in saying that without discipleship, Christianity doesn’t exist, because following Jesus activates the Christian faith.

Sadly, non-discipleship “Christianity” dominates the thinking of the American church.
Many Christians are walking around with a “grace and forgiveness only” theology.

Dallas Willard once said “We have not only been saved by grace, we have been paralyzed by it.” How will you change this mindset with yourself and the people God has entrusted to you?

Questions to consider:
1.What is your understanding of discipleship? Compare it to how Jesus discipled.
2.Are you pursuing and practicing discipleship as a follower of Christ or have you settled for “grace and forgiveness only” theology?
3.Are you using the doctrine of justification by faith and God’s grace to teach that people don’t really need to follow Jesus to be Christians?
Mark Satterfield Blog

ALL ARE BROTHERS AND SISTERS

2011-09-11T20:37:00.000-05:00

It is an interesting fact that Jesus never tried to 'convert' people. When he healed the Roman centurion's servant, for example, he did not demand that the centurion become one of his followers. He simply commended him for his faith: 'Not even in Israel have I found faith as great a this' (Lk.7:9). Jesus did not try to convert the gentile Syrophoenician woman, but simply told her that her daughter would be cured (Mk. 7:24-30).

Rather, Jesus entered into dialogue with people of other faiths, sharing his story with them, reaching out to the mystery of God active in their lives. He was never coercive; nor should we be. The Good News of Christ's life, death and resurrection should give wings to the feet, and voice to the tongue. Christians of all denominations are called upon to share the Good News with one another, because they simply cannot bottle it up, not because they don't respect others' beliefs or think that other people cannot be saved. We cannot truly pray to God the Father of all if we treat people as other than sisters or brothers, for we are all created in God's image. Treating people in this respectful way fosters reconciliation and peace among peoples everywhere.

GOOD NEWS

2011-08-27T22:28:00.002-05:00

The good news is, God’s pencil has no eraser. Before you breathed your first word, God knew how you would respond to His offer of grace. According to His foreknowledge, He wrote your name in the book of life. And there it shall remain forever. Jesus said it this way:

My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow me; and I give eternal life to them, and they shall never perish; and no one shall snatch them out of My hand. —John 10:27-28

Stanley, C. F. (1990). Eternal security : Can you be sure?. Nashville: Oliver-Nelson Books.

A BLIND SPOT IN AMERICAN CHRISTIANITY

2011-08-09T17:45:00.013-05:00

What is the difference between someone who willfully indulges in sexual pleasures while ignoring the Bible on moral purity and someone who willfully indulges in the selfish pursuit of more and more material possessions while ignoring the Bible on caring for the poor? The difference is that one involves a social taboo in the church and the other involves a social norm in the church.

We look back on slave-owning churchgoers of 150 years ago and ask, "How could they have treated their fellow human beings that way?" I wonder if followers of Christ 150 years from now will look back at Christians in America today and ask, "How could they live in such big houses? How could they drive such expensive cars and wear such nice clothes? How could they live in such affluence while tens of thousands of children were dying everyday because they didn"t have food and water? How could they go on with their lives as though the billions of poor didn't even exist?"

Is materialism a blind spot in American Christianity today? More specifically, is materialism a blind spot in your Christianity today?
Surely this is something we must uncover, for if our lives do not reflect radical compassion for the poor, there is reason to question just how effective we will be in declaring the glory of Christ to the ends of the earth. More pointedly, if our lives do not reflect radical compassion for the poor, there is reason to wonder if Christ is really in us at all. In the end will your wealth serve to be a blessing for you or a millstone around your neck?

DAVID PLATT - FROM THE BOOK "RADICAL"

BRENDA ADDRESSES DROUGHT CRISIS IN AFRICA

2011-07-31T18:53:00.011-05:00

Help African Drought Victims Meet Critical Needs

Millions of children and families are being affected by a severe drought in East Africa. Many children under the age of 5 are dying from malnutrition.

DROUGHT RELIEF ASSISTANCE

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Brenda shared this immediate need with our class and called for a vote regarding our desire for an Adults 4 Christ response. Per the class vote $100.00 was sent this week to Compassion International for additional support for Beletech, our class sponsored child in Ethiopia, during the worst drought Ethiopia has seen in years.
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Once again proving that from our small classroom we can impact the other side of the world.

CLASS CELEBRATES ROACH WEDDING

2011-07-26T15:26:00.003-05:00

Kim Morrow put together plans for our class to meet after church on Sunday 7/24 at the Cock Of The Walk near Opryland to celebrate the Roach Family Wedding. There was a great turnout including friends we haven't seen in a while. From all appearances there were many gifts for Matt to take home and share with his wife after she got home from work. Adults 4 Christ wish the newlyweds the best, we love Frank and Debbie and are blessed to have them in our class.

LATEST PRAYER BUTTONS FOR CLASS CAMPAIGN

2011-05-09T16:44:00.021-05:00

Brenda has a new button that is slightly larger and easier to read to kick off our Class Prayer Campaign. This latest class Mission received a boost recently when Bro. Andre' mentioned it from the pulpit during a Sunday service. If you want to help support this prayerful cause, just see Brenda Steakley. Please remember to wear the button at church to show the Coleman family how much we love them and support them in prayer. You can bet each family member will be on the lookout and each button they see will touch their hearts and provide maybe a little comfort while Cody is away.
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IMPORTANT: Printed at the bottom of the button
under PRAYER WARRIOR is "Psalm 138:7". That
scripture is printed below.
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.......................Though I walk in the midst of trouble,
.......................You will revive me; You will stretch forth
.......................your hand against the wrath of my enemies,
.......................And your right hand will save me. .
..........................................Psalm 138:7.......NAS Version

RADICAL: WHO DO YOU REALLY WORSHIP?

2011-05-04T17:40:00.019-05:00

Put yourself in the shoes of the eager followers of Jesus in the first century. What if you were the potential diciple being told to drop your nets? What if you were the person whom Jesus told to not even say good-bye to your family? What if you were told to hate your families and give up everything you had in order to follow Jesus?
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...This is where we come face to face with a dangerous reality. We do have to give up everything we have to follow Jesus. We do have to love him in a way that makes our closest relationships in this world look like hate. And it is entirely possible that he will tell us to sell everything we have and give it to the poor.
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...But we don't want to believe it. We are afraid of what it might mean for our lives. So we rationalize these passages away. "Jesus wouldn't really tell us not to bury our father or not to say good-bye to our family. Jesus didn't literally mean to sell all we have and give it to the poor. What Jesus really meant was....."
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...This is where we need to pause. Because we are starting to redefine Christianity. We are giving in to the dangerous temptation to take the Jesus of the Bible and twist him into a version of Jesus we are comfortable with.
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...A nice, middle class, American Jesus. A Jesus who doesn't mind materialism and who would never call us to give away everything we have. A Jesus who would not expect us to forsake our closest relationships so that he receives all our affection. A Jesus who is fine with nominal devotion that does not infringe on our comforts, bacause , after all, he loves us just the way we are. A Jesus who wants us balanced, who wants us to avoid dangerous extremes, and who, for that matter, wants us to avoid danger altogether. A Jesus who brings us comfort and prosperity as we live out our Christian spin on the American dream.
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...But do you realize what you and I are doing at this point? We are molding Jesus into our image. He is beginning to look alot like us because, after all , that is whom we ae most comfortable with. And the danger now is that when we gather in our church building to sing and lift up our hands in worship, we may not actually be worshiping the Jesus of the Bible. Instead we may be worshiping ourselves.
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RADICAL: TAKING BACK YOUR FAITH FROM THE AMERICAN DREAM - BY DAVID PLATT

CODY COLEMAN PRAYER CAMPAIGN

2011-04-30T20:03:00.007-05:00

Cody and Missy Coleman's Son, Cody Jr. will be going back to Afghanistan again very soon. It's hard to imagine how difficult it must be to have a child regardless of their age in this kind of danger. Last time Brenda started a prayer chain that our class continued until his safe return. Again Brenda is gathering the troops (prayer warriors) to cover him with prayer with a "CODY COLEMAN PRAYER BUTTON CAMPAIGN". Brenda will have the buttons available in class.
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LETS WEAR THEM UNTIL HE RETURNS THEN SIGN THE BACK AND SEND THEM TO HIM.

WHAT IS EASTER?

2011-04-23T12:42:00.006-05:00

On Easter Sunday, Christians celebrate the resurrection of the Lord, Jesus Christ. It is typically the most well-attended Sunday service of the year for Christian churches.

Christians believe, according to Scripture, that Jesus came back to life, or was raised from the dead, three days after his death on the cross. As part of the Easter season, the death of Jesus Christ by crucifixion is commemorated on Good Friday, always the Friday just before Easter. Through his death, burial, and resurrection, Jesus paid the penalty for sin, thus purchasing for all who believe in him, eternal life in Christ Jesus.

SUNDAY 4/17

2011-04-22T19:28:00.008-05:00

Our class was blessed with 2 visitors to our class today.
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Mark and Wendy Ingram

GOD'S PLAN FOR SHARING

2011-04-04T14:44:00.005-05:00

Sunday, April 3rd, Grace kicked off our GPS mission with a Prayer Walk. There appeared to be about 200 church volunteers ready to go after enjoying a nice lunch together. The Adults4Christ Sunday School Class was well represented, as several members were seen receiving their information packets. It was very windy but the temperature was perfect. It was a great day to share the Lord, pray for our surrounding neighbors, and stretch our legs at the same time. Bruce did an excellent job preparing for this first step.

CHRISTIAN MISSIONS

2011-03-26T20:48:00.004-05:00

Short-term mission work is rapidly growing in popularity for church youth groups and ministry teams. Many Christians agree that mission trips are helpful but admit that lack of preparedness—both cultural and spiritual—can hinder the true mission.

Approximately two million North Americans will go on short-term missions this year. Hundreds of thousands of these are teenagers who will be swinging hammers and pounding nails in places like Juarez, Mexico, and Choluteca, Honduras.

Our greatest need in Christianity is not necessarily for more short-term mission work, but for generating future missionaries and mission supporters through that exposure. This travel guide will direct and challenge you on topics like culture, flexibility, what you do and don’t have to offer, the biblical basis for mission work, relationships on the field, and ways to discover and use your gifts on your trip.

Whether it be short-term or for a lifetime, a missionary’s ultimate goal of reaching people has more to do with building relationships than making contacts. In order to do this, one must endeavor to be wholly like Jesus, who was gentle, pure, and kind; who hung out with the “untouchables”; who valued every individual He encountered; and who taught us how to truly love one another.

GRACE MANOR SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS

2011-02-21T14:52:00.024-06:00

Sunday, February 20th was a great day for our Adults 4 Christ Class. We shared our study time, food and love with the residents of Grace Manor.
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It touched our hearts at how happy they were to see us. Some followed word for word as Joe read our study scripture for the week during his presentation. Some had to show us their rooms and most were eager to share hugs as well. When they took your hand you felt like they didn't want to let go.

It was one of those rare days when you hold on to great feelings of joy and at the same time have to hold back a few tears.

God has blessed our church with Grace Manor, and this was a day when we were allowed to share that blessing with the wonderful people who live there.

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Thank God for Grace Baptist Church for allowing us this great opportunity to share the love of Christ. Thank God for our teachers, Joe and Brenda Steakley for their efforts in leading us thru-out this mission.

Below is a gift our class left for the residents, first to remember Christ and then to remember us and our visit. That morning we left with everything we needed to remember them locked away in our hearts.

REMEMBER TO DOUBLE CLICK ON ALL THE PHOTOS

THE PRODIGAL SON

2011-02-03T20:27:00.003-06:00

The parable of the prodigal son shows the attitude of the self-righteous sinner, pictured by the older son. He quarreled with his father that the younger son had messed up and yet the father had prepared for him the “fatted calf.” Because he considered himself better than the younger son, he could not share in the father’s joy. “My son,” the father said, “you are always with me, and everything I have is yours.” The older son’s hardness of heart made him unaware of the riches available to him in his father’s house. This son complained that he had “slaved all these years.” He had no more love for the father than the younger son; nor did he avail himself of all the good things the father freely provided for him at all times. Both sin and self-righteousness separate us from God. We all require God’s grace, His unearned, unmerited love for us. The father went out to the disgruntled older son. God is He who always continues to seek after us, regardless of the state we are in.

ROOM IN THE INN

2011-01-24T20:33:00.024-06:00

Once again the Adults 4 Christ Class stepped up and did an outstanding job handling their Room In The Inn assignment. There was so much food left over that we could have fed another group. The only thing that we had more of than food was people to help out. We served meat loaf, mashed potatoes, green beans, and rolls. As well as the regular desserts offered by the church our class provided and served Blue Bell ice cream to everyone. Gloves and reading glasses, purchased with money collected at our Christmas Party were given to each person in the group. Rob and Caye Darnell conducted the prayer and worship service.

IMPORTANT NOTE: It’s always amazing when this Class is given an assignment and before they’re done they raise the bar a notch or 2. Thank God for this Mission Project and for Grace allowing us to help.

God is always fair. He will remember how you helped his people in the past and how you are still helping them. You belong to God, and he won’t forget the love you have shown his people.
Hebrews 6:10 (The Contemporary English Version)

2011-01-16T08:30:00.000-06:00

The SBC Day of Prayer is a time of prayer, fasting, and repentance. The goal of this Solemn Assembly is for congregations to "Be still and know that God is God," as a sign of humility and desire to wholeheartedly return to Him. By being still before Him (see Psalm 46:10), we exalt our God and position ourselves to obey the Great Commandment found in Mark 12:29-31 and the Great Commission our Lord gave in Matthew 28:18-20. We have forgotten our first love (Revelation 2:4). We need revival in the SBC. We need God's direction.

WHO WAS LOTTIE MOON

2011-01-15T20:10:00.003-06:00

Lottie Moon - the namesake of the international missions offering - has become something of a legend to us. But in her time Lottie was anything but an untouchable hero. In fact, she was like today's missionaries. She was a hard-working, deep-loving Southern Baptist who labored tirelessly so her people group could know Jesus.

PEOPLE CHANGE

2010-12-31T11:45:00.011-06:00

Life involves many changes and different seasons. We become surprised by trouble when we’re experiencing a pleasant time of life and believe that everything will stay the same. But the only thing that won’t change is change. Just when you think, “Yes, I like this stage of life, I’d like to keep it just as it is,” things will change. We can enjoy the present stage, but don’t depend on it for contentment or happiness.

Only God doesn’t change and knowing that should give us security in life. Circumstances change. People change. But God never changes. We must focus on him, not on life when it comes to security and joy.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE > marksatterfieldonline.com

CLEANING FOR A REASON

2010-12-25T08:39:00.004-06:00

If you know any woman currently undergoing chemotherapy, please pass the word to her that there is a cleaning service that provides FREE housecleaning, once per month for 4 months while she is in treatment. All she has to do is sign up and have her doctor fax a note confirming the treatment. Cleaning for a Reason will have a participating maid service in her zip code area arrange for the service. This organization serves the entire USA and currently has 547 partners to help these women. It's our job to pass the word and let them know that there are people out there that care. Be a friend to someone and pass this information along.

www.cleaningforareason.org/

Verified by Snopes: www.snopes.com/inboxer/charity/cleaning.asp

FLYFAITH: CHRISTMAS PARTY HIT

2010-12-13T10:42:00.018-06:00

We had 36 plus a baby at our class party. Which is a good number considering all those who were sick. After everyone left about 11PM, Brenda and I said to each other as we were going to bed that we wish everyone could have had been here because it was a blast. Everyone got here between 6:30 and 7PM, we ate Italian. David did a fun Christmas team event and then Flyfaith performed for about 45 minutes. I think we collected about $200 for the Christmas family or mission. It was one of our best Christmas Partys ever.
. . . .In His Service - love, Joe

CLASS CHRISTMAS PARTY

2010-11-21T16:37:00.012-06:00

In case you weren't in class Sunday, Brenda is being very secretive about plans for this year's Christmas Party. So just show up with a dessert in hand on Friday December 10th around 6:30-7pm and find out in person what the big deal is. You know it will be fun!

NO DIRTY SANTA THIS YEAR!

MONEY WILL BE COLLECTED AND USED TO SUPPORT A CHARITABLE OPPORTUNITY.

. . . . .Love, Joe and Brenda

OPERATION : "EXTEND OUR REACH"

2010-11-13T20:16:00.024-06:00

We presented a mission opportunity to our class on 10/24 that would enable us to "Extend Our Reach" from our classroom to the other side of the world.
As a result, we are happy to introduce our sponsored child, Beletech Nigusse. She is 6 years old and lives in Ethiopia. Please assist us in praying for her and her family. We are excited that God has brought Beletech into our lives and is using us to help this child with her needs.

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In HIS Service,

Joe and Brenda Steakley

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PLEASE CLICK ON PHOTO TO READ

FOR MORE DETAILED INFORMATION CLICK ON "SPONSORED CHILD" BUTTON ON RIGHT

WHO DO YOU LOVE MORE?

2010-11-05T13:32:00.001-05:00

Jesus said, “He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me” (Matt. 10:37). So He demands to be first in the family. It’s only when we love Him more than family that we can really love our families in the highest, purest sense.
If you’re not a believer, you need to acknowledge your need of the Savior. Confessing that you have sinned against God, repent, and call on the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation. Scripture says, “Whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Rom. 10:13).

MacArthur, J. (2005). The fulfilled family : God's design for your family (5). Nashville, Tenn.: T. Nelson Publishers.

FUN ON THE FARM

2010-11-03T18:19:00.003-05:00

The Steakley/Suggs Sunday School Class Fall Harvest gathering proved to be a great combination. Everyone met at the Darnell farm for an ole time church service and singing. A covered dish lunch provided a wonderful finishing touch to a beautiful morning. The food and fellowship were both outstanding. The Church seen on the right is a one room building on a slight hill in the wilderness. The Church and it's location made the service very special.

TIME RUNNING OUT ON CARDS

2010-10-29T21:00:00.000-05:00

Please remember to continue distributing our Class cards as you go about your daily activities. This year long project will end the last part of December. The calendar on the back expires at that time. Please see Joe or Brenda if you need more cards, additional packets are available.

NEW VIDEO

2010-10-28T18:22:00.009-05:00

Please click on the "VIDEOS" button above on far right and check out the sermon video from Bill and Paula's son, Mark Satterfield. This is from First Baptist Hendersonville on 10/17. Clicking on his photo will take you to the same video but with a much larger screen.

CLASS PROJECT: EXTEND OUR REACH

2010-10-24T16:45:00.035-05:00

If you think the Adults 4 Christ Sunday School Class is a quiet, un-involved bunch of middle aged couples, hidden away in a forgotten part of the 2nd floor. Then we suggest you think again! Never a group to shy away from projects that are difficult, lengthy, or expensive. They are a group that doesn't stand around waiting for someone to present projects or missions for their efforts. This class is pro-active and rarely goes for very long without discussing the options for their next adventure. Sometimes participating in more than 1 at a time. Plus they have their own "class business card" and this website, which has had visits from over two hundred foreign countries and received written correspondence from seven.

Joe and Brenda Steakley believe that from their little 2nd floor room, this class can have an impact on the world, and on Sunday 10/24 they presented to their members another opportunity to prove it. An amazing class project that is long term, requires a monthly cash investment, shares Christ, follows scripture, and falls in line with Bro. Andre"s goal of increasing the number of missions for 2011.

SPONSOR A CHILD
26,600 small children die everyday from preventable conditions due to poverty. It would be difficult if not impossible to find another project that would further the misson of our Lord than this one.

Click on the photo for Compassion international's website.

Class Fall Harvest Gathering

2010-10-23T21:18:00.007-05:00

Plans are coming together for our worship time on Sunday, October 31st, at the Darnell Farm!! It will be a fun time of food, fellowship, singing and worship time!!! Nona & Mike's Class will be joining us as well. Of course, children are invited. Make sure you thank the Darnell's for this special time together for our class.

Here are some of the particulars:

IMPORTANT: We will begin at 9:30 and dress caual/comfortable
Coffee, Juice & Donuts will be provided as we arrive for breakfast

After worship time, we will have lunch together. The meat/main course will be provided and everyone needs to bring a side dish or dessert.***** I would appreciate an email letting me know what you will bring in order that we do not have too many of one item or too many desserts. The meat will probably be chicken and/or barbeque.

DIRECTIONS TO DARNELL FARM:
From Grace Baptist Church take I-24 North to exit 35
Go right off exit on to 431 for exactly 1-1/2 mile and turn right on Greenbrier Road
Go exactly 2 miles and turn left on a dirt road
Go to the end of the dirt road, circle the pond, cross the creek and church is up on the hill

Obviously, you probably need truck, SUV, etc. We can work this out and meet someone at church for those that do not have access or cannot not ride with someone. Look forward to hearing from everyone and hope everyone can attend.

. . . . . . . . .In Christ, Brenda

LADIES NIGHT OUT

2010-10-13T18:35:00.017-05:00

SIPS AND STROKES HUGH SUCCESS
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From the sound of things, Kim Morrow deserves a big pat on the back for setting up what appears to be the best night out ever for our class ladies. Paula Satterfield's excitement was evident as she explained how enjoyable and fun the evening had been. She is ready to go back! Her work of art is displayed in this article, and as you can see it is signed by the artist herself. A larger photo that shows off the detail of her brush stroke technique and her vivid color selection is available for viewing on Ebay. (Matching frame is extra)

BRO. ANDRE' RECOMMENDED READ

2010-10-12T20:41:00.006-05:00

Radical : Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream

WHAT IS JESUS WORTH TO YOU?

It's easy for American Christians to forget how Jesus said his followers would actually live, what their new lifestyle would actually look like. They would, he said, leave behind security, money, convenience, even family for him. They would abandon everything for the gospel. They would take up their crosses daily...

BUT WHO DO YOU KNOW WHO LIVES LIKE THAT? DO YOU?

In Radical, David Platt challenges you to consider with an open heart how we have manipulated the gospel to fit our cultural preferences. He shows what Jesus actually said about being his disciple—then invites you to believe and obey what you have heard. And he tells the dramatic story of what is happening as a "successful" suburban church decides to get serious about the gospel according to Jesus.

Finally, he urges you to join in The Radical Experiment —a one-year journey in authentic discipleship that will transform how you live in a world that desperately needs the Good News Jesus came to bring.

... CLICK ON BOOK ...

100TH ANNIVERSARY CLASS ASSIGNMENT

2010-10-10T16:57:00.009-05:00

Our class along with several others are requested to make sandwiches for the Reception on Sunday 10/17.
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Here is what is needed:

Pimento cheese, egg salad, chicken salad, tuna salad, or ham salad. Please cut the sandwiches into 1/4ths. Each class is asked to use a minimum of five loaves of bread.

Bring your sandwiches to the gym before Sunday School.

A NEED FOR DAILEY VICTORY

2010-09-22T20:06:00.004-05:00

We face a daily struggle. But we also can experience daily victories. Our Lord calls us to live one day at a time. We will not have a single, definitive showdown with the devil in our lives—a time in which he is defeated and will never come back to accuse or torment us again—but we can experience a daily victory over the devil. We can say no to the temptations he presents today. We can use our faith to defeat his assault against our minds, bodies, and spirits today. We can pray against his efforts to destroy us today. A string of daily victories makes for a victorious life!

Stanley, C. F. (1997). Overcoming the enemy. Nashville, Tenn.: T. Nelson Publishers.

GRACE PICNIC CUPCAKE CHALLENGE

2010-09-20T18:19:00.012-05:00

ATTENTION: CLASS BAKERS!
Please bake one dozen cupcakes (or more if you like) and bring them the day of the Grace 100 Years Picnic. One of your cupcakes will be judged in one of the following categories as determined by the judges. The remainder cupcakes will be enjoyed by everyone during the day's activities.

. . . . . . . .CATEGORIES TO BE JUDGED:

Best tasting
Best decorated
Most unusual
Theme Based: 100 Years of God's Amazing Grace-The Legacy Continues (tough one)
Best in Show

. . . . . . . .Prizes will be awarded so participate!!!!

. . . . . . . . . .......... Thanks, Brenda

LADIES NIGHT OUT TUESDAY 10/12

2010-09-18T19:22:00.011-05:00

Sips n Strokes

It is finally here. We will be venturing to our newest outing - Sips & Strokes in Hendersonville on Tuesday October 12 at 6:45 pm. This is a two hour painting.

Believe me you DO NOT have to be able to paint to do this. My sisters & our daughters did it in July & we had a blast. I know that Leanne & Pat Hale have done it as well. So if you are a little hesitant please talk to someone that has done it. The class is from 7 - 9. The fee of $25 is a real bargain since you will go home with a real masterpiece. I know we needed a bodyguard when we left since there were individuals who wanted to steal my masterpiece in the parking lot. Luckily Kenny came by with my camera to take pictures of us & he was there to make sure no one took our treasures.

You pay at the door. I will have to reserve the spots in advance, so please give me a tentative "yes or YES" (NO will not be accepted) so I can give them a good head count to reserve our spot.

Debbie Roach suggested we eat beforehand at Whichwich right around the corner from Sips n Strokes.
Looking forward to it. Please let me know if you have questions.
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Kim Morrow 310-3594

CLICK ON PHOTOS AND GO TO THEIR WEBSITES

THINK ABOUT IT

2010-09-06T09:00:00.001-05:00

Why should God let you into heaven? If your answer includes words such as try my best, church, believe in God, Sunday school, teach, or give, chances are that you still haven’t come to grips with the simple truth that salvation is by faith alone.
Let me ask the question another way. What are you trusting in to get you into heaven? Is it Christ plus something? Or can you say with confidence that your hope and your trust are in Christ and Christ alone?
Stanley, C. F. (1990). Eternal security : Can you be sure?. Nashville: Oliver-Nelson Books.

LADIES NIGHT OUT!!! TUESDAY - 8/31

2010-08-20T15:00:00.022-05:00

Hey Everyone,
Trying to plan a movie night for those that would like to do it. I will be out of town next week & can't do it then. What about Tuesday August 31 to go see Eat Pray Love? Can any of you do it then?
We can plan a meal at Panera Bread if we have enough to make it. I will not be in class on Sunday, so someone please promote it for me at that time.
Looking forward to it.
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Kim Morrow - 310-3594

IMPORTANT UPDATE

PLEASE note that we are changing our dinner from Panera Bread to Rafferty's @ 6:30 PM!!! Pass the word!! Bring a friend or anyone who wants a GIRL"S NIGHT OUT!!!!
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . Brenda

LET'S GO TO LUNCH!!!

2010-08-07T13:24:00.015-05:00

Sunday, August 22nd

The Fontanel Farm & Mansion
4224 Whites Creek Pike

After Worship Service we will all meet there.
Hope to see everyone. We miss all of our in-service members who are out teaching, so make sure you are there so we can catch up with all of you. Several have already eaten at The Fontanel and suggested we give it a try!!! They have a nice website if you want to check it out. (see below)
Spread the word! Hope everyone has had great summer and looking forward to the cool days of fall!!!

In HIS service - Love, Brenda

CLICK ON PHOTO AND GO TO WEBSITE

THE END AND THE BEGINING

2010-08-06T20:19:00.025-05:00

Jill Thompson's blog, "The Lunch Room" is closing its doors for good. She decided it was in her best interest to reduce her number of irons in the fire. She states, "I hope you'll switch your feeds over to Brooks on Books and support the new me as loyally as you have the old one". "I appreciate your support over the past 4+ years". "I hope, without being presumptuous, that you'll stay with me for however long the next phase of my writing life goes on". "I think you'll find that the two of us have a lot in common". "As always, read a book. It's good for you".

. . . . .love, Jill aka "Jennifer Brooks"

SUPPORT HER EFFORTS AND TAKE A COUPLE OF MINUTES TO CHECK THIS OUT.

BROOKS ON BOOKS, HAS REPLACED THE LUNCH ROOM ON OUR

"SITES OF INTEREST" YOU CAN CLICK ANYTIME ON THE LINK THERE OR JUST CLICK ON JILL'S PHOTO IN THIS ARTICLE

SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON

2010-08-03T19:18:00.006-05:00

Our Sunday School lesson for the week of August 8th, is by Dr. Charles Stanley and is called "Landmine of Jealousy". Please click on the "Weekly Study" button on the right or just click on his photo and watch the video of Dr. Stanley on this very topic. It will appear above our Study Scriptures for the same lesson.

....In HIS Service...love, Joe and Brenda

WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

2010-07-11T15:19:00.013-05:00

Wednesday, July the 21st is the anniversary of classmates:

. .Rick and Beverly Davis

>CLICK ON PHOTO>

GOD SAVED YOU BECAUSE HE LOVES YOU

2010-07-11T15:13:00.006-05:00

The sole reason that God sent His Son, Jesus, to this world to die for your sins and mine was because He loved us. God forgives us, grants us eternal life, and gives us the gift of His Holy Spirit out of His immeasurable love and grace. There is no other reason. Many people seem to believe that God saves a man or woman because of the person’s good works or service. Nothing could be farther from the truth. There isn’t any amount or any type of service that can earn salvation. The apostle Paul made this very clear when he wrote to the Ephesians: “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast” (Eph. 2:8–9). Even the faith by which we believe God forgives us and saves us is a gift of God that flows from His love!

Stanley, C. F. (1997). Developing a Servant's Heart (electronic ed.). Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson.

THE AUTHORITY OF CHRIST

2010-07-08T22:24:00.002-05:00

Since “Christ is the Head of every man,” He is uniquely the Head of the church as its Savior and Lord, having redeemed and bought it with His own blood. But in His divine authority Christ is Head of every human being, believer and nonbeliever alike. “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth,” Jesus declared (Matt. 28:18). Those who willingly submit to His authority are the church, and those who rebel against His authority are the world.

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MacArthur, J. (1997, c1994). Different by design. Includes indexes. Wheaton, Ill.: Victor Books.

TENNESSEE BAPTIST CONVENTION

2010-07-06T19:04:00.000-05:00

Please check out the new Listing on "Sites of Interest"

Lower right of main page. I wish we had thought of this earlier, but the credit goes to Bro. Ken Coleman for such a nice addition to our Class Website. You can also just double click on the TBC logo and go straight to their site. Joe and Brenda both recommend checking it out as soon as you have time.

THE PURSUIT OF TRUE HAPPINESS WILL LEAD YOU ULTIMATELY TO JESUS CHRIST

2010-07-05T18:53:00.000-05:00

The fifth chapter of Matthew records the words of Jesus regarding happiness. He was an extremely happy man, and His inner joy no doubt came partly from relationships. He had a group of friends who loved Him, and He was endowed with the ability to speak and to heal. If you have a ministry, you know what great joy can be derived from it. Yet over time, the ministry of Jesus Christ shrank. Fewer people followed Him, until the night of the Last Supper when there were just His twelve disciples close by. Knowing that He was about to die and witness the desertion of even His closest friends, Jesus still was able to tell them, “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full” (John 15:11).
Jesus, with everything about to come undone, was still able to tell His disciples that He wanted them to be joyful. Can you imagine a man about to die the most terrible of deaths talking of His joy and gladness? Either He must have been insane, or He had an incredible resource of happiness about which our world knows very little. The verses in Matthew chapter five explain His joy, and His words can change our lives. It may not immediately change the way you outwardly live, but it will help you find the inner peace and happiness that makes it possible to find joy in the midst of trial.
When the business in which you have invested your life savings fails, you can still find joy. When the child in whom you have invested your life turns south instead of north, there will still be gladness. When people begin to reject you and turn against you, you can still find happiness in Him. As we work through this study, may each of us discover the joy of knowing the Lord, having our sins forgiven, and being confident that He has a plan for our lives, and heaven is on the agenda. May we find happiness as we look to the words of Jesus Christ in the Beatitudes.

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Jeremiah, D. (1996). How to be happy according to jesus : Study guide (14). Nashville, Tenn.: Thomas Nelson Publishers.

CLASS VISITOR SUNDAY 7/4

2010-07-04T18:21:00.002-05:00

Emmalee Hummel

(Burgess Granddaughter)

FORGIVENESS : 2 LIES AND 3 TRUTHS

2010-06-07T19:25:00.006-05:00

There are two lies about forgiveness in marriage that couples fall into on a regular basis.

Lie #1) If I forgive, it will communicate what they did was okay.
Lie #2) If I forgive, then they will get away with the wrongs they have done.

Both statements are lies that the enemy uses to drive a wedge between a married couple. The truth is that forgiveness does not remove all the results of sin and also does not remove all the painful emotions. To forgive someone is not based on how you feel. If I made the choice to get out of bed this morning solely on how I felt, I would have bed sores.
Three Truths about forgiveness:

Truth #1) Forgiveness does not remove all the results of sin.
Truth #2) Forgiveness does not remove all of my painful emotions.
Truth #3) Forgiveness is a commitment to accept the person in spite of what he or she has done.

What if we were intentional in teaching couples that the climate of the home should be forgiveness and that we should strive daily in righting relationships? When you think about it, forgiveness is not an occasional event. It's a lifestyle. Forgiveness is the key reflection of the gospel in our home while joy is the key ingredient of the home. You can't have joy without forgiveness.

THIS IS A SAMPLE FROM OUR "SITES OF INTEREST", MARK SATTERFIELD - ON MARRIAGE AND FAMILY. CHECK IT OUT WHEN YOU HAVE TIME. CLICK ON IT THERE OR BELOW.
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http://blogs.lifeway.com/blog/marriage-family/

NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER

2010-05-03T17:18:00.001-05:00

WITH DEEPEST SYMPATHY

2010-04-20T21:42:00.000-05:00

Bill Loviza's mother, Emily Herring Pierce Loviza passed away Monday April 19th. Class Members are requested to bring food if available to Phillips-Robinson Funeral Home Wednesday April 21 @ 5 P.M.

NEW CLASS MEMBERS

2010-04-18T13:38:00.004-05:00

Please Welcome our newest Class Members:

Chuck and Tina Hicks

CLASS PRAYER REQUEST

2010-04-14T15:14:00.004-05:00

From Kim Morrow: Kenny's sister, Denise Morrow, has been in the hospital in Memphis (Delta Medical Center) since March 24. We just saw her a week before and she was doing great, however, something happened and her medicine level got messed up and for the last week of the hospitalization she has not done well. She is severely depressed right now. Thanks, Kenny & Kim Morrow

HE IS NOT HERE, BUT HE HAS RISEN

2010-04-04T05:00:00.006-05:00

But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they came to the tomb bringing the spices which they had prepared. And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men suddenly stood near them in dazzling clothing; and as the women were terrified and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, “Why do you seek the living One among the dead? “He is not here, but He has risen. Remember how He spoke to you while He was still in Galilee, saying that "the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.” And they remembered His words, and returned from the tomb and reported all these things to the eleven and to all the rest.
LUKE 24:1-9

CRUCIFIXION MORNING

2010-04-02T09:00:00.012-05:00

As soon as it was day, the elders of the people, both chief priests and scribes, came together and led Him into their council, saying, “If You are the Christ, tell us.” But He said to them, “If I tell you, you will by no means believe. And if I also ask you, you will by no means answer Me or let Me go. Hereafter the Son of Man will sit on the right hand of the power of God.” Then they all said, “Are You then the Son of God?” So He said to them, “You rightly say that I am.” And they said, “What further testimony do we need? For we have heard it ourselves from His own mouth.” LUKE 22:66–71

When they came to the place called The Skull, there they crucified Him and the criminals, one on the right and the other on the left.
But Jesus was saying, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.” And they cast lots, dividing up His garments among themselves. And the people stood by, looking on. And even the rulers were sneering at Him, saying, “He saved others; let Him save Himself if this is the Christ of God, His Chosen One.” The soldiers also mocked Him, coming up to Him, offering Him sour wine, and saying, “If You are the King of the Jews, save yourself!” Now there was also an inscription above Him, “THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.” LUKE 23:33-38
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CLICK ON PHOTOS TO ENLARGE

THE FLOWERING CROSS

2010-03-28T18:52:00.005-05:00

This is an especially striking and beautiful way to symbolize the new life that emerges from the death of Good Friday. Before the Easter Sunday service, the spikes and black drape are removed and the cross is covered with real flowers and the top draped in white. There are various ways to do this. At Grace we choose to use a chicken wire mesh over the cross and have each member place flowers on the cross as they arrive at church on Easter morning.

YOUTH FUND RAISER

2010-03-25T17:51:00.004-05:00

This Sunday 3/28 after Church, is the Youth Fund Raiser Dessert Auction. This proved last time to be a great money-maker and a lot of fun as well. Mike Suggs will be this years auctioneer and the youth will provide and serve a spaghetti dinner to each in attendance. Please remember to bring your best dessert if possible, if not your second best will be almost as good. A chocolate pie sold for $100.00 last time. Is it possible that your dessert can break that record?

JESUS UNDERSTANDS

2010-03-20T21:56:00.006-05:00

Jesus understands every weakness of ours, because he was tempted in every way that we are. But he did not sin! So whenever we are in need, we should come bravely before the throne of our merciful God. There we will be treated with undeserved kindness, and we will find help. (Heb. 4:15–16 cev)

dear God

2010-03-14T18:07:00.014-05:00

This book written by our Pastor, features letters to God written by eight - year old Tyler Doherty, who suffers from cancer, as well as from others in Tyler's life who write letters to God
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Each letter is followed by words from the Bible and a short reflection on the meaning behind the letter.
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Although Tyler's cancer finally takes him home to heaven, the influence of his letters to God activity spread to his classmates, his neighborhood and beyond as many others learn to share their deepest needs by writing their prayers as letters to god.
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Perhaps reading this book will encourage you to write your own letters to God.

(Click on Book)

CLASS VISITORS

2010-03-14T16:50:00.006-05:00

Today our class was blessed with 2 visitors.

Chuck and Tina Hicks

BUCKETS OF HOPE WORKSHOP

2010-03-10T20:58:00.021-06:00

Wednesday afternoon a large number of Grace members demonstrated their love for the Lord's work by showing up for a Buckets of Hope Workshop. There were only 55 plastic buckets available to pack because all the local retailers that sell them were out of stock. There is enough food to load 110 buckets. So we wait until the backorders come in. The final cut-off date for shipping is March 19th.

Bro. Andre' conducted a prayer service over the 55
that were packed and ready for shipping.

CLICK ON PHOTOS TO ENLARGE

PRAYER: YOUR OWN LETTER TO GOD

2010-03-07T21:05:00.043-06:00

When was the last time you wrote to your Father?

Prayer is powerful! It can be both rewarding and challenging. Many people simply don't understand the reason for prayer or just don't know how to go about it. God does nothing but in answer to prayer. There’s no telling how much the world has changed as the result of the silent prayers of Christians throughout history. God’s hand moves when people pray. Through prayer, God greatly multiplies our efforts. This book was inspired by the motion picture, Letters to God and was written by our own Dr. Andre' Dugger. If improving the quality of your prayer time is important to you, there is no better way than having your pastor tutor you in your own home. Its easy to imagine him speaking directly to you as you read his words. If you don't feel confident in your prayers, if you often find yourself at a loss for words, or if you feel uncomfortable asking questions about prayer, then you need this book. If your prayer life is great but you love Andre's sermons because you connect with the language in his presentations, you need this book also! Plus how often do you have the author available afterward to answer any questions that arise during the read? Before writing your first letter to God there is one question you may have never considered until now.
.........."CAN YOU DANCE IN A LETTER?"
In closing, I would like to offer one last bit of advise - "ask for an autographed edition".

(Click on Book)

Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews

2010-03-07T15:36:00.012-06:00

An Epitaph for All to Read

“You would have no power over me unless it had been given you from above” (Jn. 19:11). In the moment of His final sacrifice on the Cross, Christ had above His head the epitaph in Hebrew, the language by which God revealed Himself to man: Yeshua haNotzri, Melech haYehudim. It was also in Latin, the language of the Roman Empire, representing authority: Iesus Nazarenus Rex Iudaeorum. Finally, it was in Greek, the international language of commerce, representing universality: Iesous ho Nazoraios ho basileus ton Ioudaion. In English: “Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews” (Jn. 19:19). Thus our Father in heaven chose this epitaph in the three languages of the Church instituted by His Son, representing revelation, authority, and universality.

LOVE AND MARRIAGE

2010-02-28T13:58:00.007-06:00

Three Experts, Two Topics, One Day

Three of today’s top Christian marriage counselors help you discover the two key ingredients in any biblical marriage — empathy and love—and improve your marriage in just one day! You and your spouse will enjoy strong, biblical teaching; powerful worship and each other. It’s convenient, affordable, Grace will pay half and provide babysitting if needed. ($45.00 per couple)

SATURDAY MARCH 6, 2010
LIFEWAY—NASHVILLE

GREAT NEWS UPDATE

Grace Baptist had the largest number of people in attendance of all the churches invited.

THANKS FROM BILL RAGAN

2010-02-24T16:16:00.002-06:00

Click on the card and read the wonderful comments from Bill Ragan regarding our class visit on Valentine's Day.

REMEMBER TO CLICK ON THE CARDS TO ENLARGE THE PRINT.

CLASS MISSION WAS NO VALENTINE CELEBRATION

2010-02-14T15:03:00.033-06:00

After church Sunday 2/14 several class members fulfilled our latest class project. Our mission was to bless two of our church's elder members with home visits. It was a HUGH success, with us walking away with the biggest blessing of all. Bill Ragan and Chester Lafever lovingly opened their homes and hearts to us. They were happy to see us and excited that we cared enough to visit them on Valentine's Day. They kept our attention by sharing stories and photos from their past. They loved their cards, cookies, fruit baskets, and "winter survival kits".
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The fellowship and gifts we shared including the prayers we lifted up were not in celebration of Valentine's Day, because Our Mission was to stand in their living rooms - before God as Adults 4 Christ Bearing Gifts of Love - in honor of His Son and our Savior, Jesus Christ.
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Special thanks to Rob Darnell for the great suggestion and to Kim Morrow for a great job with all the arrangements.
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...In His Service................love, Joe and Brenda

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!

2010-02-13T10:39:00.015-06:00

Jesus doesn't give me roses,

For all the world to see.

But instead he gives eternal life,

Thats good enough for me.

HAITI MISSION PROJECT

2010-02-11T16:17:00.023-06:00

IMAGINE IF YOU CAN... YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN WITHOUT ANY FOOD OR WATER AND NO WAY TO GET ANY ON YOUR OWN. THIS IS AN OPPORTUNITY FOR CHRISTIANS TO WITNESS TO THE WORLD. WE CAN'T LOOK THE OTHER WAY AND CLAIM TO BE FOLLOWERS OF CHRIST. BUCKETS OF HOPE ELIMINATES ALL OF OUR EXCUSES, BECAUSE NOW DOING OUR PART TO HELP THE PEOPLE IN HAITI HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER!

A SHEET WILL BE ATTACHED TO OUR CLASS NEWSLETTER THIS WEEK CONTAINING A LIST OF SUPPLIES AND PRICES.

BRO. ANDRE RECOMMENDS CASH DONATIONS TO ENABLE VOLUME BUYING.

YOU CAN GIVE THROUGH OUR SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS OR DURING THE CHURCH SERVICE. DEADLINE IS THURSDAY MARCH 11TH.

THE CHURCH NEEDS OUR HELP WEDNESDAY MARCH 10TH AROUND MEAL TIME TO ASSEMBLE THE BUCKETS.

CONTACT PAUL OR BETTY VAWTER FOR ADDITIONAL DETAILS.

. .. . . . . . . . . . In His Service...love, Joe and Brenda

PRAYER CHANGES THE WORLD

2010-02-09T21:35:00.005-06:00

There’s no telling how much the world has changed as the result of the silent prayers of Christians throughout history. Prayer is powerful! John Wesley recognized that power when he said: Give me 100 preachers who fear nothing but sin and desire nothing but God, and I care not a straw whether they be clergy or laymen, such alone will shake the gates of hell and set up the kingdom of Heaven on earth. God does nothing but in answer to prayer. God’s hand moves when people and pastors pray together. Through prayer, God makes the impossible, possible.
Through prayer, God greatly multiplies our efforts.

GOD'S THOUGHTS

2010-02-03T17:47:00.005-06:00

God’s thoughts are not our thoughts, nor are they even like ours. We’re thinking, Preserve the body; he’s thinking, Save the soul. We dream of a pay raise. He dreams of raising the dead. We avoid pain and seek peace. God uses pain to bring peace. “I’m going to live before I die,” we resolve. “Die so you can live,” he instructs. We love what rusts. He loves what endures. We rejoice at our successes. He rejoices at our confessions. We show our children the Nike star with the million-dollar smile and say, “Be like Mike.” God points to the crucified carpenter with bloody lips and a torn side and says, “Be like Christ.”

VISITATION PROJECT UPDATE

2010-01-30T13:43:00.012-06:00

The class visitation project and lunch planned for Sunday 1/31 has been cancelled due to bad weather/road conditions. A new date in February will be determined soon.

...Stay warm and Be safe......Love, Brenda and Joe

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

2010-01-29T15:26:00.008-06:00

CHERYL THOMPSON /

BOB BURGESS

Both have a birthday on Tuesday - February 2nd.

RECENT CLASS VISITORS

2010-01-29T15:06:00.009-06:00

Last Sunday 1/24 we were blessed with several visitors.

Johnny and Renee Boronda / Louise Keeler

were back again!

Darrell and Lori Bell

from the Dowlen's Class next door joined us also.

We were happy to see

"California Phil" Keathley

again in our company, he has bought a house in Greenbrier and will be moving here in April.

A FAITH THAT OBEYS

2010-01-26T21:01:00.003-06:00

Throughout the centuries Satan has continually tried to confuse and mislead men and women, even believers, about the relationship of faith and works. He will attempt to convince people that they can be saved by doing good works. If that ploy is effective, those individuals will not be genuinely saved. And Satan will seek to persuade Chris-tians to accept one of two extremes—good works are necessary to maintain salvation (legalism), or, because salvation is through faith, good works are unnecessary (license). Throughout Scripture, however, the Holy Spirit makes it clear that people are saved only by grace through faith; and when they are saved, good works will always verify their profession of faith.

ROOM IN THE INN 2010

2010-01-18T17:30:00.000-06:00

Members of Adults 4 Christ stepped up again Monday night as it was our turn to work Room in the Inn. We provided Enough Meat Loaf, Green Beans, Mashed Potatoes, and Rolls to feed everyone in attendance with our guests coming back for seconds and a 3rd round for at least 1 gentleman. We staffed the serving line and carried the plates out to the tables. Our Members helped with the cleanup after the dinner was over. Cleaning off and storing tables, cleaning counter tops, washing dishes, sweeping floors, and taking out trash. I'm sure for the women it seemed no different than a normal night at home. Thank you Grace Baptist for allowing us this wonderful mission opportunity and Thanks to our Class Members whose efforts are never short of amazing... love , Joe and Brenda

HAVING A BAD DAY?

2010-01-06T20:05:00.000-06:00

He was on the Cross—the Lamb of God who took away the sin of the world.
And He was presenting Himself—the Great High Priest offering His life for mankind’s greatest need: forgiveness for sin and release from its bondage.
The first words of this Lamb-Priest are tender in the face of His hate-filled antagonists, and they are timeless and love-filled as they reach to you and me today. But they are also teaching words for us who would be taught how to live through a bad day, and our first lesson is this: To live through a bad day, begin by forgiving everyone who seems to be trying to ruin your life.

CLASSMATE ANNIVERSARY

2010-01-06T20:00:00.004-06:00

Tim and Jill Thompson celebrate their anniversary this week on Thursday January 7th

click on ring to enlarge>>>

2010-01-04T18:01:00.004-06:00

There is nothing, no circumstance, no trouble, no testing that can ever touch me until, first of all, it has come past God and past Christ, right through to me. If it has come that far, it has come with a great purpose.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alan Redpath

JESUS TALKING ABOUT THE HOLY SPIRIT

2010-01-02T09:32:00.004-06:00

On the last and most important day of the festival, Jesus stood up and shouted, “If you are thirsty, come to me and drink! Have faith in me, and you will have life-giving water flowing from deep inside you, just as the Scriptures say.” …John 7:37-39a

CHRISTIAN NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION

2009-12-26T19:27:00.004-06:00

What sort of New Year’s resolution should a Christian make? Here are some suggestions:
(1) Pray to the Lord for wisdom (James 1:5) in regards to what resolutions, if any, He would have you make;
(2) Pray for wisdom as to how to fulfill the goals God gives you;
(3) Rely on God’s strength to help you;
(4) Find an accountability partner who will help you and encourage you;
(5) Don’t become discouraged with occasional failures; instead allow them to motivate you further;
(6) Don’t become proud or vain, but give God the glory. Psalm 37:5-6,

“Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.”

...A SAVIOR IS BORN

2009-12-24T19:35:00.002-06:00

Mary gave birth to her first-born son. She dressed him in baby clothes and laid him on a bed of hay, because there was no room for them in the inn. That night in the fields near Bethlehem some shepherds were guarding their sheep. All at once an angel came down to them from the Lord, and the brightness of the Lord’s glory flashed around them. The shepherds were frightened. But the angel said, “Don’t be afraid! I have good news for you … a Savior was born.” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Luke 2:7-11a

BRENDA'S COOKBOOK

2009-12-01T21:12:00.006-06:00

Click on button marked,"BRENDA'S COOKBOOK" on the right, under PRAYER LIST. Check out the recipes your classmates already have posted. You can send in your recipes right there online or see Brenda for a printed form to fill out and turn back in. Get your best recipe on the web for everyone to enjoy!

COMMON MEN, UNCOMMON CALLING

2009-12-01T21:11:00.007-06:00

For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Corinthians 1:26–29

CLASS VISITORS - 12/13

2009-12-01T21:11:00.001-06:00

We were blessed with 3 visitors to our class today.

Johnny and Renee Boronda

Louise Keeler

YOU ARE CHANGEABLE AND TWEAKABLE

2009-12-01T20:59:00.002-06:00

God loves you just the way you are, but he refuses to leave you that way. He wants you to be just like Jesus.
Isn’t that good news? You are changeable. You aren’t stuck with today’s personality. You aren’t condemned to grumpy-dom. You are tweakable.
God will change you. And he will change you to be just like Jesus. Jesus felt no guilt; God wants you to feel no guilt. Jesus had no bad habits; God wants the same for you. Jesus had no anxiety about death; you needn’t either. God’s desire, his plan, his ultimate goal is to make you into the image of God.
My prayer for you is that you feel the Master’s touch—as he touches your heart, alters your outlook, and transforms you, inside-out.
Remember, he wants you to be just like Jesus.
—Max Lucado

CHRISTMAS CARD

2009-12-01T20:58:00.000-06:00

The American Civil Liberties Union (A.C.L.U.) is working very hard to get rid of the CHRISTMAS part of this holiday. We should all send them a nice, CHRISTIAN card to brighten up their dark, sad, little world. Make sure it says "MERRY CHRISTMAS" on it, but don't be rude or crude.

Here's the address. It will be the best .44 cents you'll spend this Christmas.

ACLU

125 Broad St.

18th Floor

New York, NY 10004