HOW HEARTLAND BAPTIST BIBLE COLLEGE NEWS THOU ART! …

CompassionMade aDifference!

By Robert LewisThe good weather alonemade the long trip toCalifornia well worth the time, effort, andexpense. The beautiful weather however, wasnot the greatest blessing that God had in storefor those who attended the February 2003meeting of the Global Independent BaptistFellowship. The meeting was hosted by theLiberty Baptist Church of Newport Beach,California. Dwight Tomlinson is the pastor.Pastor Tomlinson and his friendly wife Gayle,quickly convinced the out of town guests that

they were indeed welcome. This was the firsttime Liberty Baptist Church has hosted sucha meeting. Every member with whom wecame in contact appeared to be excited abouthaving the GIBF in their church. The themeof the meeting was “Compassion Makes aDifference.” The music coordinator of thechurch, Danny Thomas, wrote a song entitled“Of Some Have Compassion” which he will-ingly made available, without charge, to thosewho requested it. The sheet music has thechords denoted to help even the least skilled

musician play the score. Allof the music chosen for themeeting had a traditionalgodliness about it. One hun-dred and fifteen pastors,missionaries, and evangel-ists registered at the meet-

ing. Each one was given a coffee cup, somegoodies, and a music CD which the churchhad produced. In addition to this, the churchset up an “Internet Café” so that out of townguests could easily and quickly access theiremail accounts. It worked very well and wasused by sever-al of the pas-tors. OnWednesdaymorning,PastorTomlinsontook the timefor each ofthirty-four missionaries or representatives ofministries to give a testimony. It was an unex-pected high-light of the meeting to getacquainted with them. Each night after the

HOWGREATTHOU ART!ByDr. DickWebster

“For the Lord is agreat God, and great King above all gods.”Psalm 95:3

There is no question, we serve a great God!He showed Himself great at the FebruaryFellowship Meeting in California, and LibertyBaptist Church and Pastor Tomlinson did agreat job hosting that meeting. On behalf ofthe GIBF, I want to thank this Church andPastor for the wonderful job they did. Thepreaching was again the highlight. Everymessage was right on target, and was used bythe Holy Spirit to reprove, correct and instruct

in righteousness. The most exciting part ofthis meeting, to me, was the progress of theGlobal Independent Baptist Missions (GIBM).We must keep missions in the forefront if wewant the world to know how great our God is.The GIB Missions is up and running. Wenow have one missionary and one evangelistwho have been accepted as GIB Missionaries.There is much more to do in order for ourmissions program to be all I believe Godwants it to be; but we are on the right road.Please pray for our endeavor; and if theLord leads you to begin supporting theMissions office monthly, it would be greatlyappreciated!

I believe God will meet with us again in Mayat Heartland Baptist Bible College. I trust youwill have the opportunity to make that trip toOklahoma City, and let God again showHimself great. We need to get involved in theMay offering for HBBC. Our great God willsupply the needs of our school as He alwayshas.

HEARTLAND BAPTISTBIBLE COLLEGE NEWS

PRESIDENT’SPERSPECTIVEby Sam Davison

By the time this col-umn is read, the MayG r a d u a t i o nFellowship will eitherbe in progress, or behistory. Heartland Baptist Bible College willjust be finishing or have finished her fifth yearin Oklahoma City. What a wonderful time ithas been.

Four years ago, Bro. Terry Randolph steppedout as the school’s president and I stepped in. Icannot say enough about the kind of help andencourager and counselor that Bro. Randolphhas been. With the move to Oklahoma City,geography alone gave us many new opportuni-ties, as we now enroll students from the heart-land of our country, and on to the east as well.Of course this means increased pastor involve-ment from across the country. We currentlyhave 240 monthly supporters, and hopefullythat number will increase as a result of theGraduation Fellowship week.

Since 1998, so much has changed. The 26-acrecampus we are on has so much potential. Withincreased enrollment and support, we can actu-ally conduct directors meetings and discuss fac-ulty and staff additions, building plans, andfuture progress, rather than just focus on sur-vival. What a blessing! Many of our directorsand former directors appreciate this fact morethan others

Volume 3, Issue 2 Publication of the Global Independent Baptist Fellowship. May 2003

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...men that had understanding of the times, to know what [they] ought to do... I Chr.12:32

...continued on page 3West Coast Choir at Liberty Baptist Church, Newport Beach, CA - Feb. 2003

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Lighthearted Announcements

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FROM THE EDITORby Rich Farinella

Certain eventsimpact us in personaland moving ways.The last GIBF meet-ing in NewportBeach, Californiawas that for my wifeand me. Theurgency and appealto “quit messin’around” and truly get in touch with the Lordfor our monumental needs pierced through thesessions to touch our hearts. The Lord anoint-ed messages like Bro. Fisher’s to impressupon us the lost art of biblical fasting. Thatalone for us was worth the time and expenseof the trip. Since then we have been the recip-ients of the fruit of personal fasting andprayer. The spiritual “spread” on the tablefrom all who preached and sang blessed thosewho were privileged to attend. It has beensaid that if you can go away from a meetinggaining one or two things you have learnedand can apply then it was well worth yourtime. I thank the Lord that I feel like thatmeeting was designed for me!

So What is the Difference?What makes the GIBF different than other cir-cles of Independent Baptists?

SpiritThere is an unusual quality and atmospheresurrounding the meetings that one can onlyexperience in the hubbub of fellowship. Whatare the distinguishing characteristics that paint

the GIBF in unique colors? The aspects ofspirit, doctrine, and growth must be consid-ered. The air of the meetings can be attributedto the disposition of the preachers that markthe fiber of this fellowship - men whose aspi-rations match the Lord’s heart as closely asany people around.

DoctrineThe GIBF Articles of Faith identify the doc-trines we hold dear. Three uncommon aspectsof the Articles of Faith could be noted in thefollowing:

1.) Bible Version Articulation Many wide-ly held articles of faith will lavish the adjec-tive modifiers upon the doctrines of the canonand inspiration of Scripture. But without asolid foundation of the biblical doctrine ofpreservation, our doctrine of inspiration loosesvalidity and becomes a tiger without teeth orclaws. Although we heartily agree that “asoriginally written” the Scriptures were withouterror, it would be pointless to contend for asupernatural inspiration, an inerrant, infallibleWord of God in it’s original form then only tosee it lost to the bungling of men in history.The ignored doctrine of preservation is estab-lished under article # I. as excerpted as fol-lows: (Note – these are only extracted fromthe full statements along with the supportingScriptures found in the entire document athttp://www.gibf.org.)

I. OF THE SCRIPTURES …

We believe the Authorized (KingJames) Version Old and NewTestaments are the Word of God keptintact for English-speaking peoples byway of God’s divine providence andwork of preservation…

C. By “providentially preserved” wemean that God through the ages has,in His divine providence, preservedthe very words that He inspired; thatthe Hebrew Old Testament text, asfound in the Traditional MasoreticText, and the Greek New Testamenttext as found in the Textus Receptus,are indeed the products of God’s prov-idential preservation, and are togetherthe complete, preserved, inerrantWord of God.

2.) Baptist Distinctives manifest under arti-cles # XVIII and XIX concerning the churchand it’s ordinances. Positions are articulatedclearly, as can be seen:

XIX. OF BAPTISM AND THELORD’S TABLE

We believe baptism is the immersionin water of a believer… ; that bap-tism is requisite to the place and privi-leges of a church membership and tothe Lord’s Table in which, aftersolemn self-examination, and by theuse of unleavened bread and the fruitof the vine, the members only of agiven Baptist church are to commem-orate together the sacrificial love ofChrist.

3.) Personal and Ecclesiastical Separation.(I say, why stop when you’re on a roll?!)

XVII. OF SEPARATION

We believe one distinguishing mark ofbiblical Christianity is a separationfrom worldly conduct, interests,philosophies, and unions; that separa-tion from the worldly unto the godlyshould be maintained in two primaryrealms: the personal and the ecclesias-tical; that personal separation is thebeliever’s responsibility to live cir-cumspectly: denying ungodliness andworldly lusts, living soberly, right-eously, and godly in this presentworld; and that ecclesiastical separa-tion is a vigilant adherence to holinessin all matters related to the church.

While there is enough leeway for individualpreachers to fill in the blanks as they deemapplicable, there is an acknowledgment thatseparation is taught in the Bible. Nowadaysyou would think that every verse relating toseparation or the abstaining from evil or it’sappearance is written in undecipherable hiero-glyphics!

All in all, much of what is contained withinthese articles of faith is common to most gooddocuments out there. These noted above arejust some of the issues that give definition tothis piece, and distinguishing characteristics ofthe fellowship that has adopted it.

GrowthAnother major difference in the existence ofthe GIBF could be noted in the method ofexpansion. The growth of the organization isvery different than current (for lack of betterterms) high-powered induction techniques.The Scriptural contrast of the regimes of Sauland David illustrate nicely, accurately. Saul’scompelling the draft of strong, notable menfor his army was very different than the natu-ral polarization of diamond-in-the rough out-casts who came to be known as David’smighty men… Look at the opposite approach-es – Israel was warned that Saul would“…take your sons, and appoint them for him-self, for his chariots, and to be his horsemen”- 1 Sam 8:11. “…When Saul saw any strongman, or any valiant man, he took him untohim. - 1 Sam 14:52. Compare that withDavid’s spontaneous rise to power. - 1 Sam22:1-2 David therefore departed thence, andescaped to the cave Adullam: and when hisbrethren and all his father’s house heard it,they went down thither to him. 2 And everyone that was in distress, and every one thatwas in debt, and every one that was discon-tented, gathered themselves unto him; and hebecame a captain over them: and there werewith him about four hundred men. 1 Chr 12:1Now these are they that came to David …andthey were among the mighty men, helpers ofthe war. 1 Chr 12:20-22 As he went toZiklag, there fell to him of Manasseh, Adnah,and Jozabad,… …for they were all mightymen of valour, and were captains in the host.22 For at that time day by day there came toDavid to help him, until it was a great host, like the host of God. The results were evident;a great force.

Rich Farinella, Editor

Published quarterly by the Global Independent Baptist Fellowship

Please address all correspondence to:Baptist TimesP.O. Box 570

Woodinville, Washington 98072

e-mail correspondence: [email protected]

The Baptist Times is dedicated to facili-tate the GIBF by providing information,edification and exhortation for independ-ent Baptist pastors, missionaries and fulltime workers. We encourage pertinentinformation, photos, articles, etc. worthyof publication. Please include permissionto publish. Understand that we reserve theright to edit material for publication.Information contained within should notnecessarily be interpreted as endorsementby the fellowship.

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Compassion Made a Difference!continued from page 1...

services the church offered a delicious mealto the entire crowd. This meal was preparedand served in the fellowship hall “buffet”style. Brother Tomlinson announced that EricJohnson, one of his staff men, had theanswers to all of our questions and he surelydid. In fact, all of the staff members wereextremely hospitable, as well as, the manymembers who offered a sacrifice of time andenergy to the Lord for this meeting. Morethan a casual reference was made to thetheme of the meeting by each of thespeakers. (Tapes of the meeting can be pur-chased from Liberty Baptist Church, 1000Bison Avenue, Newport beach, CA 92660.)Each sermon was truly moving as evidencedby the use of the altar in every service. Wewere challenged to be compassionate, to fastand pray, to stand fast, to fight the good fight,and to love one another. It was a spiritualsmorgasbord, filled with meaty dishes. Thespecial music carried powerful, yet sensitive,messages. There were also choir specials andmusic from some small groups of singerswhich could be categorized the same way.The business meeting on Wednesday after-

noon proved that a great deal of work hasgone into “gearing up” to help church

planters and missionaries.Dick Webster, the Moderatorof the GIBF, provided the ini-tial tools necessary to help themissionaries without being afinancial burden to them. Hehas incorporated theGIBMissions in the state ofTexas, and has already pro-

cured an insurance provider for missionaries.The address of Global Independent BaptistMissions is 602 Manco Road, Lewisville,Texas, 75067. The email address is: [email protected] The websiteis:http://www.gibmissions.com/. BrotherWebster has developed a simple method ofhandling the funds with a minimum of paper-work and no infringement on the integrity or

authority of the sending churches. No moneywas raised at the meeting, a fact which willchange as our comfort level grows with ourstated objectives and projects. It was agreedupon that there should be an additional threemen on the GIB Missions Board besides theofficers of the GIBF. They will be chosen at alater date. Brother Webster kept the businessmeeting short. However, it was somewhatprotracted by the fact that time was given toexplain to the group the mechanics of theGIBF website. Brother Eric Johnson was kindenough to go on-lineon the big screen inorder that we allcould see the stepsnecessary to get fulluse of the website.There was a harbortour, but it was evi-dent that the peoplewho came to this

PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVEcontinued from page 1...

who were not a part of the last days of PacificCoast Baptist Bible College in California, andthe early days of HBBC.

But one thing has not changed. What has notchanged is that we need the same participationand involvement of pastors and churches toreach goals of progress as were needed whenthe goal was survival. When the goal was sur-vival, the pastors and churches involved madesacrifices and labored hard to achieve the goal.To make goals of progress, we cannot coast ina neutral posture. Decline will be the result.

If you have already participated, in a meaning-ful way, by the Lord’s leading in the specialMay Offering, thank you and praise God. Iffor some reason when you read these lines, youwere not able to attend the GraduationFellowship Meeting, or you were not preparedto participate in the $600,000 goal, please con-sider having a part. With any enrollmentincrease in the fall, and with new supportingchurches, we are getting closer to taking furthersteps as we strive for excellence in every area.

No, it is not just about money! Not at all!Money doesn’t buy Heartland’s greatest asset,which is the spirit and heart of the student body.But a sound and healthy financial position iscertainly a part of progress. Faculty, staff,property, facilities . . . these all require money.

Finally, if you were unable to attend theGraduation Fellowship Meeting, as a supporteror prospective supporter of HBBC, if you wishto receive a financial report, please let us knowat the school office; or feel free to callExecutive Vice President Jeff Copes, any of ourdirectors, or me, as we are happy to answerquestions. We are convinced even greater daysare ahead for Heartland Baptist Bible College.

Sam DavisonPastor, Southwest Baptist ChurchPresident, Heartland Baptist Bible College

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FROM THE EDITORcontinued from page 2...

We are seeing a resemblance in the develop-ment of the GIBF. There is a daily interest,growth and natural addition as men fromevery region, who nostalgically long for betterdays gone by, hear about the movement ofGod. While a human compilation can be seenin other circles, let us be grateful for what theLord is doing in our midst.

In This IssueRead about the Heartland GraduationFellowship Week, which by publication timeshould be in full swing. The theme is a fit-ting, “Ask for the Old Paths”. Appeals aremade from Heartland President, Sam Davisonand GIBF Moderator, Dick Webster to cometo Heartland in May. The schedule of themeeting appears on page 4. Bro. MarioMonette and the fine folks of Eglise BibliqueBaptiste in St. Hubert, Quebec, Canada areplanning a wonderful meeting in September.You’ll want to set your travel and accommo-dations soon for the best deals. Bro.Monette’s article will divulge a bit of the spiritof the coming meeting.

The second Baptist Times Literary Awardselection is on page 8. Along with correspon-dence and happenings around the fellowshipyou’ll read about a group of men that I ampersonally thankful for, the Baptist Timesreview board. These are men that the editorleans upon for insight, counsel and advice inthe publication of the Times.

Hope to see you at the “Ask for the OldPaths” Meeting in Oklahoma City! Be pre-pared to both give and get a blessing.

Great MissionsConferencein Kalispell,MontanaBy Dan Lydick

Commitments of $68,000 were collected aftera great week of preaching and challenges forworld-wide missions. The key-note preacherwas Bro. Mario Monette, Pastor of EgliseBiblique Baptiste in St. Hubert, Quebec.

His preaching hit right tothe soul, sparking revival.The missionaries repre-sented were Bro. EdButler (Philippines); Bro.James Mendiola (Guam);Bro. Matt Winkler(Uganda); and Bro. JohnCook (Canada). Many of

our people made GREAT steps of faith. A fewtestimonies afterwards certainly spoke of theLord’s blessing such steps of faith. One manwent to work the next day and had an unex-pected bonus of $1,900, another single ladywent to work the next day and had a raise.And one elderly couple who had moved herefrom New York got right with God and beginto tithe and give to missions. Though theyhadn’t even joined yet they had just sold ahouse back in New York and their tithe thatSunday was $17,900.00 (A-men!)

Home Missions ConferencesBro. Chuck Bonner advertises various homemissions conferences throughout the nation.He is asking Independent Baptists who hosthome missions conferences to send theinformation to his web site at:www.selahbaptist.org and he will list yourconference.

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California War Protesters

ONE SOLDIER OF THEFAITH STILL STANDSBy T.J. Smith

As a Pastor I often look to those who havefought the fight and kept the faith. After 40years of pastoring I still call the man I surren-dered to the ministry under. His name isRichard Lee Gosnell.

Although time has left him with Parkinson’sdisease and he no longer can pastor, he is stillthere to give me wise counseland encourage me to continueon to serve the Lord.

Richard Lee Gosnell was bornJanuary 9th, 1925 inCarlinville, Illinois. His fami-ly moved to Roswell, NewMexico in 1927. There heattended school and was savedat 9 years of age.

In December 1943 he enlisted in the U.S.Marine Corp. In September 1944 he wasshipped into Pacific combat. He served onImo Jima against the Japanese and later didoccupational service in Japan, helping cleanup the Adam bomb mess. He served his coun-try by helping rescue American P.O.W. sol-diers out of caves.

On January 16, 1944 he married his faithfulwife Mildred E. Taylor, who still labors by hisside for the Lord.

After he was discharged from the Marines heworked for 12 years as farmer of a 64 sectionlivestock ranch north of Roswell. They faith-fully drove the 66 miles one way to church atTabernacle Baptist Church in Roswell, andlater surrendered to the ministry underHoward Ingram.

After attending the B.B.C. in Springfield in1958 he came to Albany, Oregon. He then pas-tored Grace Baptist Temple in Lebanon,Oregon. I surrendered to the ministry underhim in Lebanon, Oregon, and later came toAlbany and gleaned from fruit he left there,starting Harvest Baptist Church of Albany. Hepastored for over 30 years in Washington,Oregon and Idaho, pastoring the Bible BaptistChurch in Jerome, Idaho twice. He faced his biggest battle of all when hishealth forced him to resign the church inJerome. He is currently a faithful laborerthere. After retiring he did janitorial work atthe church so that people who came to thechurch would know that someone cared. As Iwatched him one Saturday for hours, washingoff the sidewalk and curbs, all the while hishand shaking. He said to me, “Well, at least Ican still do this.” (Thou great man of Valor.)

He has continued to encourage pastors thathave followed his pastorates, and not one timehave I ever heard him criticize a succeedingpastor. I still call him every week or two andask “How’s my Pastor doing?” Even though Iknow physically he’s having a bad day, heencourages me and says “I love you, keep upthe good work.” (Oh. thou mighty man ofValor).

During his years of pastoring there werecountless people saved and several surren-dered to fulltime service. He served on theBoard of Directors of Pacific Coast BaptistBible College for a number of years and washonored with a Doctorate Degree atP.C.B.B.C. While he was forced to step asidefrom pastoring in 1991 due to Parkinson’s dis-ease he still has a lot of preacher in his soul.He continues to say to his preachers, “Hang inthere, don’t dip your colors, and preach theWord straight.” I say, “Oh, thou great man ofValor!” I think not only do I owe the Lordfaithfulness to preach the Word, but, also men

like Bro. Richard Gosnell who blazed the pathfor so many over the years. When some ofthese great men of God have to stop pastoringdue to health, may we remember they have agreat deal of knowledge and experience that isstill very valuable to the work of the Lord.

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Compassion Made a Difference!continued from page 3...

meeting, came for the meeting, and not forthe activities which accompanied it.

If you were taking the pulse of the GIBF, youwould have to admit that at each nationalmeeting, the heartbeat is getting more pro-nounced (There has been over one hundredadditions to [email protected] inthe six weeks prior to the meeting alone). Asusual, we experienced warm hearted agree-ment in the matters that were brought to thefloor. The next meeting of the GIBF will beon campus during the Graduation Fellowshipat Heartland Baptist Bible College inOklahoma City,May 1, 2003.Then in Septemberof 2003, the GIBFwill meet withPastor MarioMonette and hisexciting churchfamily nearMontreal, Quebec,Canada. These meetings will inspire you ifyou desire to fellowship with others who are“on the same page.” All we can say is Praisethe Lord for bringing together such a groupof people who want to encourage and edifyone another as they “. . . ask for the oldpaths.”

“Ask for the Old Paths.”May Graduation Fellowship Meeting at Heartland Baptist Bible College May 13 – 15, 2003

This May marks the fifth year of the college being in Oklahoma. It is amazing to see how God has blessed in these five years!Enrollment has grown from 134 in the fall of 1998 to 404 this past fall. All buildings have been renovated, two new dorms have been

built and one dorm is currently under construction. Attempts to purchase three additional acres of property are well underway.We praise the Lord for these blessings. This May’s meeting has the potential to be historic as we focus on the theme

“Ask for the Old Paths.” We believe the eleven preachers are earnestly seeking God’s will and direction on their messages.Pray for this meeting and join us as we, “Ask for the Old Paths.”

2003 Graduation Fellowship Meeting PreachersTuesday - May 13th9:00 a.m. Richard Worsham - Bible Department Chairman, HBBC

Ted Patterson - Jacksonville Baptist Temple, Jacksonville, ARWayne Hardy - Bible Baptist Church, Stillwater, OK

7:00 p.m. Dave McCracken - Evangelist, Southwest Baptist Church, Oklahoma City, OK

Wednesday - May 14th9:00 a.m. Dan Tidd - Lighthouse Baptist Church, Indianapolis, IN

Sam Davison - Southwest Baptist Church, Oklahoma City, OKMay Offering

7:00 p.m. John Bishop - Evangelist/Camp Director, Triple S Ranch, Rosebud, AR

Thursday - May 15th9:00 a.m. Dan Wolvin - North Columbus Baptist Church, Columbus, OH

Dwight Tomlinson - Liberty Baptist Church, Newport Beach, CARick DeMato - Liberty Baptist Church, Helena, MT

Commencement Service7:00 p.m. J.C. Joiner - New Testament Baptist Church, Tucson, AZ

Afternoon Sessions

Tuesday - 2:00 p.m.G.I.B.F. Business MeetingBaptist Ladies of Faith (Ladies e-group meeting)

Wednesday - 2:00 p.m.Friends of Heartland Meeting (All men are welcome)

Heartland Helpmeets (Ladies’ meeting sponsored by marriedstudent’s wives – all ladies are welcome)

Thursday - 2:00 p.m.Alumni Luncheon (on campus)

Friday – 9:00 a.m.Annual Golf Tournament (location TBA)

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MAKE FULLPROOF OF THYMINISTRY - IITimothy 4:5 By Mario Monette

2 Timothy 4:1 I chargethee therefore beforeGod, and the Lord JesusChrist, who shall judgethe quick and the dead at his appearing andhis kingdom; 2 Preach the word; be instant inseason, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhortwith all longsuffering and doctrine. 3 For thetime will come when they will not enduresound doctrine; but after their own lusts shallthey heap to themselves teachers, having itch-ing ears; 4 And they shall turn away theirears from the truth, and shall be turned untofables. 5 But watch thou in all things,endure afflictions, do the work of an evangel-ist, make full proof of thy ministry.

What a charge from Paul who did the job andnow encourages a young preacher to makesure he doesn’t cut corners or accommodatepeople. He encourages Timothy to continue togive them what they need, not what they want.Paul tells Timothy how he needs to watch inall things, not just those he is more comfort-able with, but in everything there is to watchfor. He charges him to endure afflictions,because they will come if he does what he istold. He needs to keep starting churches andhe needs to make full proof of his ministry,not only to men, but more importantly to theLord, since He is the judge of all.

Jesus is building His church. He is not build-ing our churches. We are stewards and over-seers, not owners, nor for our own benefit. Sowe need to continually keep in mind who weserve, what we do, knowing that we’ll soongive account.

It is easy to slip back to neglect the things wedon’t like to do, like confronting people withtheir sins. But we were commanded to teachthem to observe, not just teach. To reproveand rebuke is not pleasant for anyone inauthority, but this is why we are here. It’smuch more pleasant to exhort, but not suffi-cient many times. Discipline is not fun foranyone, but necessary for everyone.

Jesus’ last words to the churches reflect theexpectations He has for those whom He hascalled to take the oversight of His flocks untilhe comes to take them. These messages arefor us pastors, and constitute Jesus’ reproof,rebuke and exhortation for all pastors of allages, if you’ll read carefully.

The word angel refers to messengers fromGod as well as ministers appointed for thesafety and well being of the believer. Theword bishop refers to an overseer and ruler.The word pastor denotes a watchman andfeeder of sheep. The word elder refers to therelationship, wisdom, and responsibility of thepastoral office. Different words are used forthe same office to help us understand all ofour responsibilities to those put under ourcare.

PRO’NOUN, n. [L. pronomen; pro, for, andnomen, name.]In grammar, a word used instead of a noun orname, to prevent the repetition of it. The per-sonal pronouns in English are: I, thou, he, she,we, ye and they. The last is used for the nameof things, as well as for that of persons.(Webster 1828)

Thou, thee, and thy are in the 2nd person sin-gular.

Ye, you, and your are in the 2nd person plural.

In the KJV, one needs to make the distinctionbetween those pronouns in order to makeproper application of whom the pronoun reallyrefers to, and then rightly divide God’s Word.

Revelation 2:1 Unto the angel (pastor) of thechurch of Ephesus write; These things saith hethat holdeth the seven stars (seven angels orpastors of those seven churches - 1:20) in hisright hand, who walketh in the midst of theseven golden candlesticks; (seven churches -1:20) 2 I know thy works, and thy labour,and thy patience, and how thou canst not bearthem which are evil: and thou hast tried themwhich say they are apostles, and are not, andhast found them liars: 3 And hast borne, andhast patience, and for my name’s sake hastlaboured, and hast not fainted. 4Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee,because thou hast left thy first love. 5Remember therefore from whence thou artfallen, and repent, and do the first works; orelse I will come unto thee quickly, and willremove thy candlestick (church) out of hisplace, except thou repent. 6 But this thouhast, that thou hatest the deeds of theNicolaitans, which I also hate. 7 He that hathan ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith untothe churches; To him that overcometh will Igive to eat of the tree of life, which is in themidst of the paradise of God.

It is obvious in this text that Jesus is talking tothe pastor of Ephesus to let him know that inspite of his work, labour, patience, intoleranceto evil men, discernment of liars, endurance,patience, hard work and consistency He is dis-pleased with him. The pastor has fallen in oneimportant area. The area is important enoughfor Jesus to say that He will remove the pas-tor’s church (candlestick 1:20) from his place,if he doesn’t repent. Jesus rebukes this angel(pastor), not the church, for leaving (not los-ing) his first love, which was an act of hiswill, not his negligence. We are not told whatleaving his first love meant. Jesus had toldPeter that the natural result of Peter’s love forHim ought to bring him to feed His lambs andHis sheep. Sheep will always prefer freshgrass to dry hay. It requires more to search forfresh grass. It is tempting to take someone’sold hay and try to make it look fresh to thesheep, but sheep are not all that ignorant. So,if this pastor of the church in Ephesus does notrepent, Jesus will remove his church and hewill find himself without a church.

He (singular) that hath an ear, let him hearwhat the Spirit saith unto the churches (plu-ral). In other words, this message of Jesusapplies to that pastor, but it could apply also to

another pastor of another church somewhereelse, as the Spirit, not Jesus, continues tospeak for Him to the churches, that have suchpastors or angels. Jesus already presented himthe solution, by telling him that he holds theseven pastors in His right hand (control, secu-rity etc.), and walks in the midst of the sevengolden churches. They are gold to Him and Hewalks in their midst (protection, awarenessetc.)

8 And unto the angel (pastor) of the church inSmyrna write; These things saith the first andthe last, which was dead, and is alive; 9 Iknow thy works, and tribulation, and poverty,(but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemyof them which say they are Jews, and are not,but are the synagogue of Satan. 10 Fearnone of those things which thou shalt suffer:behold, the devil shall cast some of you (someof the church people) into prison, that ye(plural, church people) may be tried; and ye(church people) shall have tribulation tendays: be thou (their pastor will die) faithfulunto death, and I will give thee (to the pastor,not to the church) a crown of life. 11 He thathath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saithunto the churches; He that overcometh shallnot be hurt of the second death.

To this pastor, Jesus says not to fear becauseHe Himself has been dead and now is alive.Don’t fear, pastor of Smyrna, the things whichthou shalt suffer. The devil will cast somechurch members in prison, he’ll try the churchfor about ten days, and kill the pastor. ButJesus promises him a reward for it, if heremains faithful unto death.

12 And to the angel (pastor) of the church inPergamos write; These things saith he whichhath the sharp sword with two edges; 13 Iknow thy works, and where thou dwellest,even where Satan’s seat is: and thou holdestfast my name, and hast not denied my faith,even in those days wherein Antipas was myfaithful martyr, who was slain among you(among the church people), where Satandwelleth. 14 But I have a few things againstthee (the pastor not the church), becausethou hast there them (plural) that hold thedoctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to casta stumblingblock before the children of Israel,to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to com-mit fornication. 15 So hast thou also themthat hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans,which thing I hate. 16 Repent; or else I willcome unto thee quickly, and will fight againstthem (those who hold the doctrine ofBalaam and of the Nicolaitans) with thesword of my mouth. 17 He that hath an ear,let him hear what the Spirit saith unto thechurches; To him that overcometh will I giveto eat of the hidden manna, and will give hima white stone, and in the stone a new namewritten, which no man knoweth saving he thatreceiveth it.

Again Jesus addresses this pastor by present-ing the solution to his problem along with theway the sin will be judged if not corrected –with the sword. The solution is for him to usethe sword, and fight to get rid of the wrongdoctrine in the church. Jesus says,

...continued on page 6

CHURCH LISTINGAlabama

• Evangelism Missions, Inc.Dr. Braxton Baker P.O. Drawer 550Thorsby, AL 35171(205) 646-0808

California• Lancaster Baptist ChurchPastor Paul Chappell4020 E. Lancaster Blvd.Lancaster, CA 93535(661) 946-4663

Conneticut• Grace Bible Baptist ChurchPastor David G. Davis85 Prospect StreetVernon, CT 06066(860) 872-3831

Florida• Bridging the Gaps - Prison PrevensionRon RichardsonP.O. Box 677385Orlando, FL 32867(407) 737-7336

Indiana• Cornerstone Baptist ChurchDonald Mitchell, Pastor10701 E. 56th St.Indianapolis, IN 46235-8848(317) 823-6891

• Lighthouse Baptist ChurchPastor Daniel W. Tidd16950 East Raymond St. Indianapolis, IN 46239(317) 359-4275

Kansas• Grace Baptist ChurchDr. Rex Fuller, Pastor101 D StreetWashington, KS 66968(785) 427-3284

• Shawnee Mission Baptist TemplePastor Kevin L. Metsinger12230 West 75th StreetShawnee, KS 66216(913) 631-5149

Kentucky• Grace Baptist ChurchPastor Lawrence Richardson735 Lenin RdMadisonville, KY 42431(270) 322-3381

• Maranatha Baptist ChurchPastor Ricky A. Clark152 Stateline Rd.Oak Grove, KY 42262(270) 439-6055

Mississippi• Lighthouse Baptist ChurchPastor Wallace Strawn111 Pierce Town Road Fulton, MS 38843(662) 862-2964

Nebraska• Fellowship Baptist ChurchPastor Merv Goodrick1515 W. South St. Lincoln, NE 68522(402) 477-7541

• Lighthouse Bible Baptist ChurchPastor Rick Franklin3902 Howard BlvdColumbus, NE 68601(402) 562-8815

• Midlands Bible Baptist ChurchPastor David H. Lydick2407 Chandler Rd. E.Bellevue, NE 62005(402) 731-5932

New Mexico• Highland Baptist ChurchPastor Aaron Denson300 E. Wolfcamp Dr.Hobbs, New Mexico 88240(505) 392-8226

North Carolina• Fellowship Baptist ChurchPastor Steve Triplett11416 Albemarle RoadCharlotte, NC 28227(704) 545-9668

Ohio• Cleveland Baptist ChurchPastor Kevin Folger4431 Tiedemen Rd.Cleveland, Ohio 44144(216) 671-2822

Oklahoma• Bible Baptist ChurchPastor Warren Brown3786 N. PorterNorman, OK 73071(405) 321-2613

• Bible Baptist ChurchPastor Bob Weger1712 SW “C” AvenueLawton, OK 73501(580) 357-1304

•Eastland Baptist ChurchDr. Dave Hardy1835 South 129th East AvenueTulsa, OK 74108(918) 437-4707

• Jenks Baptist ChurchPastor Paul FosterP.O. Box 1106Jenks, OK 74037(918) 693-4605

• Victory Baptist TemplePastor Leonard Sissons8627 East Main StreetMidwest City, OK 73110(405) 737-2624

Oregon• Harvest Baptist ChurchPastor T.J. Smith2660 Marion S.E.Albany, OR 97321(541) 967-0577

Rhode Island• Blackstone Valley Baptist ChurchPastor Randy Lewis40 Pine Swamp RoadCumberland, RI 02864(401) 766-8024 www.ultranet.com/~BVBC/

South Carolina• Southside Baptist ChurchDr. Kenneth Walters1229 South Anderson RoadRock Hill, SC 29730(803) 324-0627

Texas• Twin Cities Baptist TempleDr. Charles Trull, Pastor216 Wake Village Rd.Wake Village, TX 75501(903) 838-8228

Utah• Faith Baptist ChurchPastor Chuck Beickel2430 N. Fairfeild Rd.Layton, UT 84041(801) 771-4652

Virginia• Landmark Baptist ChurchPastors Jim Sumpter, Don Sumpter4000 Creighton RoadRichmond, VA 23223(804) 643-7711

Washington• Allen Creek Baptist ChurchPastor Monte Roe8727 60th Ave N.E.Marysville, WA 98270(425) 422-9295

• Bible Baptist ChurchPastor Charles Bonner20 Tibbling Rd.Selah, WA 98942(509) 697-8897

• Bible Baptist ChurchDr. Marvin McKenzie12307 Canyon Rd. E.Puyallup, WA 98373(253) 535-3165

• Lakewood Baptist TemplePastor Dennis Fountain10650 Military Road, SW, Suite 1Lakewood, WA 98498(253) 584-2500

• Woodin Valley Baptist ChurchPastor Rich Farinella5400 228th St. SEWoodinville, WA 98021(425) 481-1075

Canada• L’Eglise Biblique BaptistePastor Robert Stevens4815 Rue GaspelRock Forest, Quebec J1N 2G2(819) 564-1278

To advertise your church in the listing,please send your information, along with a$60.00 per year contribution to: BaptistTimes- Church Listing, PO Box 570,Woodinville, WA 98072.

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MAKE FULL PROOF OF THYMINISTRY - II Timothy 4:5continued from page 5...

“Thou hast them”, not me, they are not mine.However, the pastor obviously keeps themthere, perhaps to boost his membership or hisattendance. The Lord tells that pastor to takecare of the situation or He will have to do itHimself, and it would mean that this pastorhad not been able to overcome the problem.The pastor is slack or too lenient with falsedoctrine.

18 And unto the angel (pastor) of the churchin Thyatira write; These things saith the Sonof God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame offire, and his feet are like fine brass; 19 I knowthy works, and charity, and service, and faith,and thy patience, and thy works; and the lastto be more than the first. 20 NotwithstandingI have a few things against thee (the pastoragain, not the church), because thou suffer-est that woman Jezebel, which calleth herselfa prophetess, to teach and to seduce my ser-vants (Jesus claims these now as His) tocommit fornication, and to eat things sacri-ficed unto idols. 21 And I gave her space torepent of her fornication; and she repented

not. 22 Behold, I will cast her into a bed, andthem that commit adultery with her into greattribulation, except they(those that commitadultery with that woman) repent of theirdeeds. 23 And I will kill her children withdeath; and all the churches shall know that Iam he which searcheth the reins and hearts:and I will give unto every one of you (churchpeople of all the churches) according to yourworks. 24 But unto you (don’t forget, it’s aplural pronoun, it is not to the pastor but tothe people of all churches) I say, and untothe rest (all those that have not this doc-trine) in Thyatira, as many as have not thisdoctrine, and which have not known thedepths of Satan, as they speak; I will put uponyou (people of all the churches) none otherburden. 25 But that which ye (people of allthe churches) have already hold fast till Icome. 26 And he (anyone) that overcometh,and keepeth my works unto the end, to himwill I give power over the nations: 27 And he(the overcomer and faithful) shall rule them(nations) with a rod of iron; as the vessels of apotter shall they (that have the doctrine orhave not known the depths of Satan) be bro-ken to shivers: even as I received of myFather. 28 And I will give him the morningstar. 29 He that hath an ear, let him hearwhat the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Jesus compliments this pastor for many goodworks, even stating his last works are betterthan his first. But Jesus sees what this pastoris allowing in the church and He doesn’t likeit because a woman is affecting several of Hisservants. This woman, in the Old Testament,despised the man of God and would use herpower, influence and deceit to attain herobjectives. She had her own agenda and theking let her do what she wanted. Well, itseems to be the case with this pastor also,because he suffered her to teach and to seduceThe Lord’s servants. Merely one person caus-ing such influence in the church is unaccept-able to Jesus. The pastor is probably likeAhab, afraid to take a stand. So, judgementwill come (the feet of brass), and it will cer-tainly cause more damage then if the pastorwould have done his job. Jesus doesn’t tellthis pastor, “Repent or else.” He does notpromise him anything but rather tells the restof the church individuals and folks of otherchurches in the same condition, “That he thatovercometh, and keepeth” His works unto theend, to him will He give power over thenations.

Jesus is mostlikely very unhappy with this pastor becauseHe doesn’t refer to him again after the rebukebut goes on to let all churches know how Hewill handle the situation. I think that Christ is

...continued on page 7

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done with him. There is no delay mentionedhere, but a judgement is coming on thatchurch.

MAKE FULL PROOF OF THYMINISTRY - II Timothy 4:5continued from page 6...

3:1 And unto the angel (pastor) of the churchin Sardis write; These things saith he that haththe seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; Iknow thy works, that thou hast a name thatthou livest, and art dead. 2 Be watchful, andstrengthen the things which remain, that areready to die: for I have not found thy worksperfect before God. 3 Remember thereforehow thou hast received and heard, and holdfast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt notwatch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thoushalt not know what hour I will come uponthee. 4 Thou hast a few names even inSardis which have not defiled their garments;and they (those that have not defiled theirgarments) shall walk with me in white:for they are worthy. 5 He that overcometh,the same shall be clothed in white raiment;and I will not blot out his name out of thebook of life, but I will confess his name beforemy Father, and before his angels.6 He that hath an ear, let him hear what theSpirit saith unto the churches.To this pastor, Jesus recognizes nothing note-worthy, but tells him of his deficient spiritualcondition. The pastor has not been watchfuland he has a weak ministry, one that is dying.This church consists of many professingbelievers, but only a few real possessors. Hisworks were not found perfect before God, butmaybe before the brethren they were accept-able! The point here is that he has receivedand heard, but he let these things slip to apoint to where he doesn’t have much to workwith anymore. He needs to hold fast to thefew good ones he’s got left and repent, mean-ing watch, because he has not been watchingfor a while and he’s got many unsaved folksprofessing to know Christ. Could he haveoverlooked repentance for growth?Overcoming is the way. Overcoming the temp-tation to compromise or let down our guard.Problems seem to be more from within thanfrom without. Be watchful and strengthen Hesays, I have the seven Spirits of God and theseven stars (pastors). All power is given untome, go ye therefore.

7 And to the angel (pastor) of the church inPhiladelphia write; These things saith he thatis holy, he that is true, he that hath the key ofDavid, he that openeth, and no man shutteth;and shutteth, and no man openeth; 8 I knowthy works: behold, I have set before thee anopen door, and no man can shut it: for thouhast a little strength, and hast kept my word,and hast not denied my name. 9 Behold, Iwill make them of the synagogue of Satan,which say they are Jews, and are not, but dolie; behold, I will make them to come andworship before thy feet, and to know that Ihave loved thee. 10 Because thou hast keptthe word of my patience, I also will keep theefrom the hour of temptation, which shall comeupon all the world, to try them that dwellupon the earth.11 Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast

which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.12 Him that overcometh will I make a pillarin the temple of my God, and he shall go nomore out: and I will write upon him the nameof my God, and the name of the city of myGod, which is new Jerusalem, which comethdown out of heaven from my God: and I willwrite upon him my new name. 13 He thathath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saithunto the churches.

Among the messages to the seven pastors ofthe seven churches and to all other pastors ofall times after that, this is probably the mostencouraging since Jesus doesn’t bring anyrebuke to this one. Jesus will make those thatare of the synagogue of Satan come to wor-ship at his feet and to know how that He lovedhim because, in spite of his little strength, hehas kept the word of His patience. It is obvi-ously important to Jesus for us not to fall inthe present world, but to fight it with the Wordof God. Jesus promises this pastor, and alllike him, protection from the hour of tempta-tion that is to come on the entire world. He isalso promised his crown, if he holds fast whathe has. Him that overcometh, like this pastor,will be made a pillar in the temple of God andJesus will write many wonderful names onhim, because He is not ashamed of those thathold on to the word of His patience withoutcompromise and keep themselves, along withthe church put under their care, pure fromfalse doctrine and practices. He may have littlestrength, but he has been watching carefully tonot allow false professors and teachers in hischurch. Numbers didn’t seem to be his onlymotivation.

14 And unto the angel (pastor) of the churchof the Laodiceans write; These things saith theAmen, the faithful and true witness, the begin-ning of the creation of God; 15 I know thyworks, that thou art neither cold nor hot: Iwould thou wert cold or hot. 16 So thenbecause thou art lukewarm, and neither coldnor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. 17Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increasedwith goods, and have need of nothing; andknowest not that thou art wretched, and miser-able, and poor, and blind, and naked: 18 Icounsel thee to buy of me gold tried in thefire, that thou mayest be rich; and white rai-ment, that thou mayest be clothed, and thatthe shame of thy nakedness do not appear;and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thoumayest see. 19 As many as I love, I rebukeand chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: ifany man hear my voice, and open the door, Iwill come in to him, and will sup with him,and he with me. 21 To him that overcomethwill I grant to sit with me in my throne, evenas I also overcame, and am set down with myFather in his throne. 22 He that hath an ear,let him hear what the Spirit saith unto thechurches.

This pastor had become a real success in hisown eyes along with his peers. Perhaps thiswas because he was increased with goods, heseemed to have been blessed of God withmany things. He probably had nice buildings,good Sunday morning attendance, good offer-

ings, many ministries and programs and prob-ably thought that he had it made, but Jesuswas not at all impressed with his testimony.He probably didn’t accept the Amen to God’sword, but would overlook certain irritants inthe scriptures, to a generation that had itchingears, so that he would not lose his people tosomeone else. Jesus is a true and faithful wit-ness, but this pastor wasn’t. He preferred tostay in a safe and comfortable zone. He does-n’t care for the church like Jesus cares for it.He is blind. He doesn’t see what is going on.He seems satisfied with an appearance of suc-cess but he is naked. Many pastors todayoverlook the lack of commitment and faithful-ness from their people. It seems acceptablefor them to rob the Lord of His tithes andofferings, to miss church to serve Mammon, tohave just a small percentage of the member-ship involved in any of the church activitiesand how many other things that the Bibledirects against but we accept so we can keepour people happy. Our Lord wanted to preachto as many as He could, but to those whowanted to be His disciples, He always made itclear that they had to make a choice beforethey would follow Him. Today we strive forprofessions of faith and try to appeal to themto be baptized, to come faithfully to all servic-es, to be generous in their giving, to have apart in some ministry. We certainly need to betolerant and patient with people. Many ofthese angels had that testimony from the Lord,but when someone has been there for a whileand understand the doctrine but won’t obey, Ithink that is where the Lord sees lukewarm-ness. True salvation still changes peoplebecause they receive a Spirit that teaches themand makes them totally anew.

To realize that Jesus was at the door of Hisown church, hoping to be heard by anyone issad. We may think that we have good successif we look at what is around us today, but whatis that success if we compare ourselves withthe early churches? Do we measure up toChrist’s expectations in the scriptures?

We must not forget that we live in periloustimes, described by a form of godliness but nopower.

These messages of Jesus and the Spirit to thechurches are as much for us pastors today,because they were meant to be passed out toall churches through the ages, since churchesall have pastors. We need to have ears to hear,and that is why we need also to be preachedto, because we are poor judges of ourselves.The Spirit can open my eyes and my earsthrough the preaching of godly men.

Are we missing something in our individualministries? Could this next meeting be thetime for Jesus Christ to reveal it to us? If youare open for the Lord to rebuke, reprove orexhort you, to make you able to make fullproof of your ministry to Him, then you needto make time to be in preachers meetings.

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THE PASTOR’S WIFEcontinued from page 10...

When the news came, that the cancer hadreturned, and the thing that had haunted me allyear was then a reality, it was to my altar thatI fled. There in His presence, I knew that Hecould make all things right.

There, still today, He comes to me. In thedark still of the night, a cool breeze caressesmy face and I breathe deeply of the night airand gaze longingly at the stars. Many times amist will wet my cheeks and sometimes asteady patter of rain, but never has the weatherprevented the sweetness of the moments Ispend there with Him.

I come there weary many times, with my heartheavy and burdened, and leave there singing -

“And when the battles over, we shall wear acrown!” No medicine could lift the heavinessof my heart, as does the sweet Holy Spirit.No pain can scream loud enough to dim Hisvoice when He says, “Peace be still”.

Yes, this illness may take my strength. Itstreatment may rob me of my hair and myyouth. It may consume my body and steal mybreath away at times. But it can never rob meof my greatest treasure - my Pearl of GreatPrice. The one possession worth forsaking allof life’s pleasures and trading all that theworld has to offer to obtain. This Treasurefound in this earthen vessel can never be lost!It is sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise andheld within the grasp of Almighty God!

“For who shall separate us from the love ofGod?…”

In the times that we face the “fiery trials” oflife, it is a temptation to give into despair, butI want you to know, that in these times, thereis a unique kind of grace to be found in theLord – if we look for it. A grace so sweet, sounexpectedly wonderful, it can make even themost desperate of circumstances worthwhile.In all of my life, my fellowship with mySaviour has never been quit so intense, HisSpirit, never so brilliant and His love, nevermade quite so clear in my heart. And thesewonderful gifts that He has given me duringthis time, have been received in that littleplace, nestled beneath the evergreens, on a lit-tle wooden altar, where He calls me aside.Perhaps there’s a place where God longs tomeet with you... a place beside your bed, in acloset, or on a mountain top. Wherever it is,don’t miss your opportunity to enter His pres-ence – for there we can find peace in anystorm.

Literary Award

The Baptist Times Literary Award this yeargoes to Amanda Hollinger. The award isoffered to the selected junior or senior whosubmits an article of 900 words or less per-taining to Baptist distinctives, doctrine or his-tory. The selected winner has his/her articlepublished in the Times and is awarded a $200honorarium.

The Heart ofthe Martyr

By Amanda JayneHollinger

The slanting rays ofthe afternoon sunshine,pouring through thestone arches, lay inlong golden bands upon the courtyard of theMunich prison. Conrad Schaider, the old mas-ter of St.Peter’s school in Munich, steppedfrom the bright light into the cool shade of thecell passage, blinking his eyes to adjust to thedimness of the walkway. The guard beckonedwith his hand for Schaider to follow andtogether the two made their way down thedank corridor to the cell of George Wagner.The guard who was walking silently aheadcarrying a lighted taper, stopped suddenlybefore a massive door and turning a key in thelock swung it open to allow Schaider to pro-ceed inside. Over by the far wall, in a filthyand polluted pallet lay the figure of GeorgeWagner, Schaider’s student and friend of manyyears. Wagner looked up and upon seeingSchaider, a broad smile lit his sunken face andhe greeted him with a weak gesture of hishand. The signs of torture were evident uponthe broken body of the man; the rack had liter-ally stretched his limbs so grotesquely thatwere he to recant his beliefs and leave theprison, he would never be the same again.

“Ah! Conrad, the Lord is good to send you

here, it has been so long and yet it seems as ifit were only yesterday that you were attempt-ing to teach me my Latin alphabet” exclaimedWagner feebly, “But tell me what brings youhere to this despicable place, surely you arenot setting up residence here?”“George, how can you be so jovial, whendeath awaits you, care you not for your wifeand son? You must forget all this foolish non-sense concerning baptism and ask forgivenessof the church! What does it matter when oneis baptized, or that priests cannot forgive sins?Has not the torture and the thought of deathbrought you to your senses?” cried Wagner With warm tears running down his face,George replied, “Friend, how can I deny myLord and Savior for a few moments of stolenmoments of happiness on earth, what will itcount for eternity? The Lord, the God of theuniverse, gave his life that this wicked andwretched man might live, the least I can do isto be faithful to Him. We are commanded inthe book of Luke to hate family, friends and totake up the cross and follow Him. This is whatI must do and nothing or no one, no not evenmy sweet wife can deter me.”

Nothing was able to daunt George Schaiderfrom his faith or beliefs in God. On February8, 1527, after months of inhumane torture andstarvation, he was burned at the stake inMunich, Switzerland. As he was thrown intothe flames that momentous day, the last wordsfrom his lips were, “Jesus, Jesus”. He criedthese words bearing witness of the truth and ofJesus Christ.

The blood of Baptist martyrs runs like a scar-let thread down through the history of theworld. Men and women have been persecutedand condemned to death because of the standthey took against the Catholic Church andother likeminded religions concerning baptismand doctrinal issues. Baptism does not save aperson, nor will it ever. The only way to heav-en is through trusting Jesus Christ as one’sLord and Savior. Our Baptist forefathersbelieved this with all their hearts and wereready to die for it. They were willing to giveup everything to follow Jesus. Were it not forthe sacrifices of devout men and women ofGod, where would Baptist churches be today?

They kept things intact and never failed tohold true. The Baptist movement has impactedthe entire world, and has brought many to thesaving knowledge of Jesus Christ. AdoniramJudson, the first missionary to Burma, had aprofound influence on the Burmese people.Through his faithfulness and testimony, manyothers have given their lives to reaching othercountries with the gospel. It is imperative thatBaptists hold true to their faith and not com-promise on any issue. To compromise on oneissue would lead to another issue and then toanother. It would repeat itself and then wherewould the Baptist movement be in fifty years?It would be a waste of our Baptist forefather’sblood if we were to give in now when theworld is in such turmoil. They were not onlykeeping the faith, but they were keepingsomething else - a heritage - a heritage for thepeople that would come behind them. Our her-itage and faith are things that we can holddear, and when the world is crashing aroundus, we will have our faith in God. Althoughwe may never become martyrs for our beliefs,the question is, “Will we have the heart of amartyr?” Will we have the fortitude to standwhen everyone is against us? Will we be will-ing to forsake everything and everyone that isvaluable to us and stay true to the Lord? Luke14:26-27 says, “If any man come to me, andhate not his father, and mother, and wife, andchildren and brethren and sisters, yea and hisown life also, he cannot be my disciple. Andwhosoever doth not bear his cross, and comeafter me, cannot be my disciple.”You ask what is the heart of a martyr? It isthis: one who is willing to take a firm standfor what they believe, one who is willing togive up all hope of earthly gain and relation-ships for that of a heavenly gain and a rela-tionship with our Saviour Jesus Christ. This isthe true martyr’s heart!

Amanda Hollinger is from Cody, Wyoming,a junior at West Coast Baptist College inLancaster, California majoring in secondaryeducation.

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Make Full Proof of thy Ministry 2 Tim. 4:5GIBF Conference • September 15,16,17 • Montreal Canada

Hosted By Bro. & Mrs. Monette and the

South Metropolitain Bible Baptist Church3395 Boul. Mountainview, Saint-Hubert, Quebec, Canada, J3Y5N4Tel: 1-888-445-6659 • Fax: 1-888-445-6659

Conference Schedule

Monday, September 15th7:00 pm Dave Hardy, Tulsa, OK

*Meal provided after service

Tuesday, September 16th7:30 am Full breakfast

9:00 am Dan Smith, Liverpool, NY

Rolando C. Lariosa, Muntinlupa, Phillipines

Terry L. Randolph, Phoenix, AZ

7:00 pm Doug Fisher, San Diego, CA*Meal provided after service

Wednesday, September, 18th7:30 am Full Breakfast

9:00 am Jean Deragon, Granby, Canada

J.D. Moses, Bhadravathi, India

Dr. Art Wilson, Springfield, MO

7:00 Sam Davison, Oklahoma City, OK*Meal provided after service

ACCOMODATIONS

Quality Inn & Suites (prefered location)6680, Boul. Taschereau, Brossard (exit 8 off 10 Est)(450) 671-7213GIBF Special rate of $80.00 Can. for 2 people,$10.00 each add person, continental breakfast.(about $60.00 US)

Gouverneur Hotel2405, Lle Charon, Longueuil (15 minutes from church)1-888-910-1111GIBF Special rate of $120.00 Can. for 2 people,$20.00 each add person.(about $90.00 US)

Comfort Inn7863, Boul. Taschereau, Brossard (exit 8 off 10 Est)(450) 678-9352rate of $85.00 Can. $2.99 for continental breakfast(about $65.00 US)

DIRECTIONS

Dorval InternationalAirport(45 minutesfrom church)

From MontrealAirport (YUL Dorval)(30 minutes drive toMotel area)

Follow 20 Est (east)until you cross PontChamplain BridgeGo Straight ahead on 10 Est (east)Exit 8 is the motel & restaurant area

To the Church (10 minutes)Exit 11 off 10 Est (east)Exit 115 off 30 Est and up the ramp to stop lightTurn right on Boul. Cousineau to the next stop lightTurn right on Boul MountainviewGo a few blocks, church is on the left hand side.

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Excitement With NewConverts!By Rick Stone

A brief history ofMaranatha Baptist Churchof Indianapolis, IN.

After beginning in thegarage of our home inFebruary 2000 we moved into a small,privately owned community building. Theowner also had a building adjacent to the com-munity center that we were able to use sporad-ically over the course of a year. then, sold bothbuildings and we were forced to moved ratherhurriedly.We saw 35 people saved there between July2001 and 2002. We baptized in a wateringtrough.

We were praying and looking for a betterplace, a more permanent place, to worship.

Again, it is a wonderful story to tell, but skip-ping details, the Lord made it possible for usto purchase this 20,000 sq. ft. existing churchplant near downtown Indianapolis. We have anincredible opportunity to reach thousandshere.

We celebrated three years since the beginningof the church just this past Sunday in spite ofthe second weekend in a row of record snow-falls that basically shut down the city. Andyet, we baptized two adults that were saved onvisitation .

The work began in our garage , but we wereable to purchase the building 6 months ago. Ithas been quite exciting and exhausting. TheLord has added 33 people to our churchthrough salvation since that time. A house fullof baby Christians creates a lot of excitementand joy, but it is also very demanding. Babiestake a lot of attention. I couldn’t be happier!

Please pray for us as we are still a missionchurch and are feverishly teaching and train-ing these new converts in discipleship andstewardship.

Praying for the brotherhood and greatly appre-ciate the men involved.

Pastor Rick StoneMaranatha Baptist Church1242 W. Ray StreetIndianapolis, IN. 46221317-916-8757

Baptist Times Review Board

The men who make up this board are part ofthe behind the scenes laborers vital to any suc-cessful endeavor. The editor calls upon themto advise concerning issues and troubleshoottexts prior to the physical publication of thepaper. Too many times they have been calledupon to give their counsel within insufficientdeadlines. But, they have all contributed theirconstructive observations joyfully. DaveHardy, Bob Stevens, Frank Wood and thenewest addition to the board, Dave Lydick arepictured above. Dan Smith,pictured separately, wasn’table to make the Californiameeting. These men werechosen for their varied person-alities, perspectives and placesof service.

While recognizing behind the scenes support,an acknowledgement must be given to a fewothers. Since the Baptist Times has no officeemployees and no separate facilities, it has tobe produced out of the offices of Woodin

Valley Baptist Church. Therefore, often theeditor has relied upon the aid of church per-sonnel in completing articles, computer facili-tation and postal services. Staff members,Tim Shellenberger and Randy Donahoo, havecheerfully agreed to help whenever called

upon. Theservices ofPrecisionPress, theprinting com-pany hired toprint andmass mail thefinishedproduct, are

well worth the investment. Their quality workis evident to the readership. And finally, ofcourse, the greatest help, encouragement andsounding board afforded the editor is in hiswife, Kathy Farinella, whose input, articlesand assistance has made up more of the impe-tus of the Times than anyone really knows. Itis obvious that in the future paid assistancewill become necessary, but for the time being,the editor is grateful for the Lord’s blessingsin providing the key collaboration needed toserve the Lord in this capacity.

SWEET FELLOWSHIP

FROM THE MAILBAG

Hi Brother Rich,I just signed in on our web site. It’s verygood! Thanks for allowing me to participatein submitting articles to our news organ. Inoticed all the typos; ugh! I’m going to makea concerted effort to get set up to send you thematerial in a format you can use digitally andnot have to key it in. That’s a burden youought not to have to mess with.

God bless you and those you love.

Your friend,Jerry Scheidbach

Bro. Jerry, It was a privilege to include yourarticle. Sorry for missing typos in the lastissue. I frankly had much too much on myplate in the last couple of months. I didn’t getto my office here in about four weeks... everyday at a Seattle hospital or some doctorsoffices. (I am becoming grateful that I am nota medical doctor!) Well, I signed off on thefinal proof without really checking anything -and voila! - A sixth graders mess.Ha! Will be looking forward to seeing morematerial.

Bro. Rich Farinella

Dear Sir,

Is it possible to received a copy of the BaptistTimes? I have perused your web sight withgreat interest. If possible please mail a copy tothefollowing:Pastor Duane B. JohnsonGlenwood, IAThank youAll because of Calvary,Duane B. Johnson

Bro. Johnson, Sorry for the delayed response. Thanks for

the interest in the Times. I will be glad toplace you on the mailing list. I will need toknow the name of the church you pastor and ifthe included address is the place you want thepublication to come. Thanks.

Rich Farinella, EditorGlobal Baptist Times

Would you please look up and see if our sub-scription is up. I think it should be or veryclose.

Please let me know and if it is I will send inthis next week.

Lawrence RichardsonGrace Baptist ChurchMadisonville,KY

Bro. Richardson, Thanks for submitting the$15 for the individual subscription, but, as apastor, missionary or evangelist, your sub-scription is paid for by those who regularlysupport the Baptist Times. Of course, if youwould like to help defray the cost, any month-ly support or one time offering would begreatly appreciated!

Bro. Rich Farinella, Editor

Bro. Farinella,

My name is Alfred E. Maese and I would liketo be placed on your mailing list to receive theGlobal Baptist Times. I am the pastor of theBible Baptist Church of Yuma, AZ. I am anIndependent Baptist both in name, practice,and methodology.

Bible Baptist ChurchYuma, AZ

Dear BrotherI would like to subscribe to the “BaptistTimes”, please let me know , by e-mail, what Imust do to receive one. Thanking you inadvance.....

Pastor Vic RiveraChrist Independent

Baptist ChurchPhiladelphia,PA

Dear Bro. Rivera,Forgive me if I have not responded to

you till now. I’ve been having enormous e-mail problems. I seemed to have lost much ofthe mail that was directed to me.

As far as your request, you are now onthe mailing list for the Baptist Times and youwill be getting the following issues. Thanksfor your interest.

Bro. Rich Farinella, Editor

G L O B A L

BAPTIST TIMES

11

SOUL WINNINGCONFERENCE AT SELAH

The Bible Baptist Church of Selah,Washington, pastored by Charles Bonner,hosted a “Soul Winning” Conference onMarch 18-19-20th. They started Sunday,March 16th with a revival meeting and wentinto a “Soul Winning Conference” (by design)on Tuesday evening. The theme was“Encouraging preachers.” Last year, over 800Baptist Churches closed their doors andapproximately 150 Baptist preachers droppedout of the ministry. Preachers and churchesneed encouragement.

The main speaker was Evangelist LarryClayton, of Cleveland, Ohio. God used Bro.Clayton mightily. The services began Tuesdayat 7 p.m. with two preachers; Bro. Claytonand Darren Robinsonfrom Fallen, Nevada.Wednesday andThursday’s sessionsbegan at 9 a.m. andwent until noon. Thefirst afternoon sessionon Wednesday, pastorBonner taught on “Overcoming

Discouragement In The Ministry.” OnThursday after lunch, Bro. Clayton sharedsome helpful - practical things for preachers,as we gleaned from his 50 years of experiencein the ministry. Bro. Clayton also answeredquestions from the preachers. The session washelpful and practical.The Spirit of God was in each of these meet-ings. The altars were filled at each altar callwith our church folks as well as thepreachers. A church member, from a visitingIndependent Baptist Church was saved onTuesday and shared her testimony onThursday evening at the services.The church house was filled each night as weheard two different preachers preach. Specialmusic was provided by Yakima Bible BaptistChurch, Templo Baptista, Connie Robinsonand others. Thursday evening many folksshared testimonies of how the Lord worked intheir hearts to be a better soul winner and tohave a desire to win more souls. Each mes-sage, was pertinent, much needed and justwhat each of us needed. The Spirit of God wasin this meeting.

We had several displays of very helpful mate-rials for preachers & churches, includingmuch free items that preachers could take

home; items that would be beneficial helps inthe ministry. The men & ladies of our churchwent “all out” for this conference. The foodwas superb: breakfast was ham & eggs; grits;biscuits & gravy, cereal, pancakes, fruit etc.We dined in the evenings on Turkey dinnerwith all the trimmings; fried chicken, salmonsteaks etc. etc. Lunch was also great, no onewent away hungry unless they wanted to.Washington apples were also on hand.

Many of our folks opened up their homes topreachers and their families (that cuts preach-ers expenses). Some of the folks at BibleBaptist Church took off work in order to workand serve at this “Soul Winning Conference.”Special motel rates were also obtained wherepreachers could stay in a nice motel for “bar-gain prices.” There was also much preplan-ning well before hand.

Preachers traveled from Illinois, Louisiana,Ohio, S.Dakota, Utah and other states as wellas Washington State. Next years conferencewill be March 8-9-10 2004, in Selah, if theLord tarries His coming. Please spread theword and try to attend. For further informa-tion, call us at 509-697-8895 or check our website at www.selahbaptist.org.

G L O B A L

BAPTIST TIMES

P.O. Box 570, Woodinville, WA 98072

12

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KIRKLAND, WA

PERMITNO. 120

May2003 IS

SUE

THE PASTOR’S WIFE

The AltaBy Kathy Farinella

As many of youknow, I’ve had anunexpected reoccur-rence, of a seriousnature, of the cancerthat I wrote aboutin previous articles.It was a potentially devastating experiencehad it not been for the preparations God hadmade in my life in the initial days of my firstdiagnosis.

Last year, one evening after church, I camehome early alone, leaving my children to fel-lowship with their friends and my husband todeal with his pastoral duties. It was just daysafter I had learned that I had cancer and thenews was weighing heavy on our church, myfamily and my own heart as well. I was con-cerned that day mostly with helping ourchurch, especially our newly saved, to copewith this turn of events in a positive way, reas-suring them that I was confident that the Lordwould uphold me and my family for what evermight lie ahead. That evening, as I pulled intothe driveway, I felt as if the weight of theworld was on my shoulders and I just neededto “see” the Lords face, more than anything atthat moment, to ease my burden.

It has been my preference for years to prayoutside, in the evening, somewhere privatewhere I can pour my heart out to the Lord,

without fear of being overheard. There’s justsomething about coming into His presencewhile beholding the beauty of the night skyand the stillness of the world around me. Wehad recently moved into the house we nowoccupy, which has a very small yard that myhusband refers to as a “postage stamp”.Previously we had lived on the church proper-ty, where our assistant, Bro. Tim Shellenbergerand his lovely wife Christy, reside now. Whileliving on the church property it had been ourprivilege to watch the church grow up and bebuilt around us. During these times I hadloved to go and pray where I envisioned thechurch altar to be eventually, or among thegreat evergreens that grow in abundancebetween the dense ferns and rich undergrowthon the beautiful landscape of the church prop-erty.

That night, as I got out of my car, I foundmyself wandering around in our little yard,crying profusely, and telling the Lord that Ineeded Him right then. And then He spoke tomy heart as clear as I have ever known Hisvoice before. He said; “Come over here,Kathy.”

I immediately stopped the tears and listenedintently for His lovely voice again. “Overhere?” I questioned, as He led me around tothe side of the house.

The place I found myself was there at our lit-tle side yard that connected to the neighbor’sback yard just beside his tall wooden fence.The neighbor had planted tall evergreen bush-es or trees, closely together on his side of thefence to insure privacy for his property and

family. If I enclosed the fence on our side itwould provide a beautiful and private place tomeet with the Lord, there surrounded by theneighbor’s trees and those of ours as well. Allexcept for the fact that the ground was slopingand tended to be wet from the constant rainfall in the winter months of this greatNorthwest country.

Then the Lord spoke to my heart again.“Build me an altar,” He said, “and I’ll meetwith you here.”

“Yes, Lord,” I answered.

I called a man, Mr. Gil McNeal, who used toattend our church, who I knew could buildthings and hired him to enclose the fence andbuild the altar. It was a strange request, but inthe end he asked to not be charged for hislabor in the building of the little deck-typeplatform that would be the altar.

And so, throughout the year, with all of itsjoys and trials, it has been my privilege toretreat to this little place and to meet therewith the Lord of glory, the Creator of heavenand earth and all that is therein. Sometimes Iwould cry to the Lord there, and sometimes, Iwould simply talk to Him. Many times I willsing to Him and often, I just listen.

(Attention pastor’s wives: Any articles thatyou could send our way for this column wouldbe greatly appreciated. Please e-mail them [email protected] or by mail on disk toP.O. Box 570, Woodinville, WA. 98072.A photo of yourself would also be nice.Thanks for your participation! - Kathy)

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