Category: Just for Youth

AMERICA’S “GREAT AWAKENING” REVIVALS
by: John Chamberlain

In the history of revivals, the First and Second Great Awakening stand out. The sincere preaching of the first Great Awakening was due in part as a response to a spiritual coldness that had settled in the New World (America) after the original settlers began to die out. Their children were less pious. Many were positively lost! They wanted the benefit of church membership without being “born again.” Feel-good pastors developed the Half-Way Covenant where they accepted into their churches members with no profession of salvation through Jesus Christ. They hoped that these “members” would eventually want to trust Christ. Against this evil practice, God used Jonathan Edwards and George Whitefield to begin a true revival of the Gospel which was called The Great Awakening. One of the benefits of this revival was the preaching of freedom and liberty in Christ. The Great Awakening paved the way for the liberation of the 13 Colonies in the American Revolution.

Re-viv-al is the beginning of spiritual life anew. You would think that a momentous political event like the American Revolution would keep religious fervor at work for generations, but alas, all too soon, the preaching of Edwards was forgotten. Note therefore, revivals of faith are needed often.

The late J. Edwin Orr tells of the sorry spiritual condition of the nation in the late 1700’s. “In the wake of the American Revolution there was a moral slump. Drunkenness became epidemic. Profanity was of the most shocking kind. Women were afraid to go out at night. Bank robberies were a daily occurrence. Chief Justice of the United States, John Marshall, wrote to a bishop that the church ‘was too far gone ever to be redeemed.’”

The atheist Voltaire said, “Christianity will be forgotten in thirty years.” Religious colleges such as Princeton and Harvard had only a few that would even claim to be Christians! Students from Dartmouth stole a Bible out of a church and burned it in public.

Historian Kenneth Latourette wrote, “It seemed as if Christianity were about to be ushered out of the affairs of men.” What changed this sad state of affairs? A heaven-sent revival–The Second Great Awakening–came about when the people of God began to pray for it. Do it again, Lord! America needs it! Are you earnestly praying?

John Chamberlain
Pastor
Faith Baptist Church
Cynthiana, KY

THE WAR WITHIN US
by: Tim Forgy

Young person, do you ever feel like you just can’t seem to eliminate the desires that draw you toward sin and destruction? Don’t you hate it when you realize that you have just done or said something that was displeasing to God, and you knew better? Well, as frustrating as that is to you, (if you are doing your best to follow God’s will for your life) you are in good company. The great apostle Paul experienced the exact same conflict – knowing the right thing to do, but finding himself doing the wrong thing; wanting to do the right thing, but often behaving the wrong way. In Romans 7, Paul gives us the tongue-twisting account of the battle between right and wrong that he constantly faced within himself. In verses 14 – 25, he is very clear that the flesh is sinful, “…in my flesh dwelleth no good thing…,” and he was ever at war against the desires of the flesh in order to fulfill the desires of his mind, which longed for godliness.

Perhaps that is a relief to you, knowing that you are not the only one who faces a struggle between right and wrong. Better still, in 2 Timothy 4:8, Paul lets us know of his rewards awaiting him in Heaven, “Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day…” How did Paul go from doing wrong when he meant to do right, to getting a “crown of righteousness”? I think he shares the secret in verse 7, that he will be awarded such an honor: “I have fought a good fight…”

Undoubtedly, one area where Paul could say that he “fought a good fight” was in the war that raged within his members. He never gave up, and he never gave in to the desires of his flesh — hence the WAR that was in his members. When his flesh wanted to do the wrong thing, Paul fought back to do the right thing. It wasn’t that the Christian life was an easy, effortless victory for Paul, it’s that he fought; and when he fought, he began to win. How about YOU, young person? Is there a war in your members, or do you just let the flesh do whatever it feels like doing without any resistance whatsoever? Have you given up in the fight against the flesh and just decided to go along with whatever you feel like doing or saying? Guess what kind of crown God reserves in Heaven for quitters? Yes, probably an invisible crown made out of nothing that can be see. There ought to be a war inside of you.

When your flesh wants to do wrong, fight a good fight!

When your flesh longs to lust for things it should not yet have, fight a good fight!

When your eyes wander to look at things they shouldn’t, fight a good fight!

When your tongue longs to criticize and humiliate others, fight a good fight!

When your mouth is about to speak cruel, belittling words, fight a good fight!

When your lips like to wound others without cause or care, fight a good fight!

When your low self-esteem causes you to attack the successes of others, fight a good fight!

When your insecurities cause you to feel jealous of someone else, fight a good fight!

When your personality conflict with another person causes you to want to ignore or mistreat them, fight a good fight!

When your need to be accepted by others causes you to forsake the rules and principles you have been taught, fight a good fight!

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When the need of your flesh to be “popular” tempts you to avoid certain people who do not elevate your “status,” fight a good fight!

Teenager, do not give in to the flesh without a fight! There is no shame in the war that rages within your members and your struggle to do right. Shame belongs to those who have given up – those who have no war inside. That struggle says you are trying, not dying. That struggle says you are going on, not giving up. That struggle is a badge of honor, not a mark of shame.

When your flesh enjoys the beat and rhythm of worldly music, fight a good fight!

When your desire for adventure entices you to play video games that are in no way useful, helpful, or godly – in fact are worthless, destructive, and satanic – fight a good fight!

When your thirst for entertainment tempts you to watch shows or movies that will excite your flesh but destroy your soul, fight a good fight!

When your hormones, your need for attention or your insecurities tell you it’s time to “fall in love,” fight a good fight and wait on the Lord!

When your desire for affection from the opposite gender leads you to betray who you are and lower your standards, fight the good fight and stay true to God and to yourself!

When your burdens cause you to seek pity and sympathy, fight a good fight and stay joyful!

When your flesh longs to complain, fight a good fight and praise God!

Your tongue may want to talk back to your parents, but fight a good fight to honor them!

Your members may want to exaggerate or make up “abuses” done to you by authority, but fight a good fight and take ownership of your poor behavior!

Your flesh may want to quit and give it all up, but fight a good fight and keep going!

Your body may be weary, but fight on with perseverance!

Your mind may be exhausted, but fight on with faithfulness!

Your patience may be almost out, but fight on with longsuffering!

Teenager, do NOT go along with your feelings and what you may want to do – what the Devil wants you to do – fight! Learn the right, and then do the right. Get a picture in your mind of who and what God wants you to be, and then fight to be that person!

When your flesh screams for attention, fight for humility!

When your members want to be seen and admired, fight for modesty!

When your flesh wants to touch that which is forbidden, fight for purity!

When your members want to talk about anything that is inappropriate, fight for wholesome words!

When your members want to dwell on carnal lusts, fight for holiness!

When your members want to look, act, and live like the world, fight for godliness!

When your members want to rule, fight to serve instead!

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Success does not come in following your flesh, but fighting it. Christianity does not give in to temptation, true Christianity fights it. Victory does not come from surrendering, it comes from fighting!

Mediocre people meander along wherever the flesh leads them. Conquerors fight the flesh. They fight to stay pure, to stay holy, to stay humble, to stay loyal, obedient, faithful, respectful, kind, and joyful. They fight to work hard, to serve others, to honor those in authority, to discipline themselves, to be a soul winner, an encourager, a good friend, and a godly example.

It doesn’t matter how strong the pull of the flesh is…FIGHT!

It doesn’t matter how tough the battle is…FIGHT!

It doesn’t matter how strong your feelings are…FIGHT!

It doesn’t matter how young you are…FIGHT!

It doesn’t matter how popular you are…FIGHT!

What matters is that you keep fighting. Get something inside of you that says, “I will NOT give up or give in to my flesh. I will fight!”

Fighting gets the blood flowing, the body temperature up, the senses alert, and the heart pumping. Fighting gets you excited. It gives you enthusiasm. It makes you feel alive. Fighting strengthens the body, sharpens the mind, and energizes the spirit. Fighting gets God’s attention, His approval, and His assistance.

Giving in, on the other hand, dulls the senses, weakens the body, deadens the mind, and crushes the spirit. Giving in causes a sour attitude. It steals your joy. It even causes you to criticize those who are still fighting.

The fighter is better than the spectator, better than the critic, the bystander, or the heckler. Even if the fighter is getting beat, at least he’s fighting!

Young person, FIGHT! Sin may win, and you may do that which you would not, but at least let your members know that they were in a battle. Keep fighting, and you will start winning, and winning feels great! There is no victory without a battle. Don’t be a Christian who has no war in their members – who has lost their fight. Don’t be influenced by the quitters – FIGHT! It is then that you will join Paul in receiving your “crown of righteousness” which the Lord shall give you one day. KEEP FIGHTING!

Tim Forgy
Youth Pastor
Longview Baptist Temple
Longview, TX

TAKE WITH YOU WORDS
by: Dr. Gary Mann

Hosea 14:1-4
“0 Israel, return unto the LORD thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity. Take with you words, and turn to the LORD: say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously: so will we render the calves of our lips. Asshur shall not save us; we will not ride upon horses: neither will we say any more to the work of our hands, Ye are our gods: for in thee the fatherless findeth mercy. I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely: for mine anger is turned away from him.”

In this set of verses from Hosea, Israel had sinned, as they had done many times before, and God in His infinite mercy and grace wanted them to return to Him. The nation had committed spiritual adultery in serving other gods, and God Who is not only merciful but also is a God of just judgment had turned His back on them. Yet, He wanted them to turn back to Him, and He even told them what they needed to do. He told them to, “Take with you words…”

I feel that we are not only a people who do not pray, but we are also a people who go through the motions of prayer at times, and then still expect God to do something. I find it sad at times when I watch people during a church invitation. Folks go forward, kneel, and then almost like clockwork, everyone gets off their knees at the same time and makes their way back to their seat. It is like when that first person gets up it is a signal for everyone else to stand. The saddest thing about that is, and I have been guilty of it myself, we do not pray, we do not talk with God.

I remember the church I was saved in and the altar calls we had there. It was an old-fashioned Baptist church, and when the invitation was given or when the people gathered at the beginning of the service to pray, there was some real praying going on. Many people would pray out loud, and pretty soon some dear saint of God was weeping for her lost family member and another one would shout with joy. It was something to be a part of, and things got done there. Today, it is not so, and then we wonder why we do not see revival in America.

I have preached many messages on prayer and have taught on some of the hinderances to prayer. The Bible is very clear as to some reasons why we do not get our prayers answered. Sin in our lives will stop our prayers. Psalm 66:18 says, “If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me:” In James 4:3 we see another reason why we do not get our prayers answered, “Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.” John 15:7 clearly states that our personal relationship with Him and His Word helps us in getting out prayers answered. “If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.” And while there are times when we just do not know what to say because of the tremendous burden on our heart, thankfully the Holy Spirit will help us as we see in Romans 8:26 where it states, “Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.” I would have to say that many times we do not get our prayers answered because we did not have that little talk with Jesus! We did not take words with us.

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Words are very important. I have written many different pamphlets, booklets and other information, but they would be nothing without words. Instrumental music is great, but music with uplifting words, such as those found in our hymn books, lift the soul toward God. Can you imagine calling someone on your phone and when they answer you do not talk to them, you just sit there and say nothing! When we go soul winning, we use words to communicate the Gospel to the people. Words, and their correct use are vital to good communications.

God told the nation of Israel that He wanted them to come back to Him. He said, “Take with you words, and turn to the LORD:” Then, an amazing thing happened, He even told them what to say! One preacher in history wrote a very powerful book on prayer and in it said that, “Prayer was asking, and the answer to prayer is receiving!”

When Moses went to God on behalf of the people of Israel in Deuteronomy 9:26 it says, “I prayed therefore unto the LORD, and said (he used words), 0 Lord GOD, destroy not thy people and thine inheritance, which thou hast redeemed through thy greatness, which thou hast brought forth out of Egypt with a mighty hand.” In Matthew 26:39 when Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane it says, “And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying (He used words), 0 my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.” Again in Luke 11:1-2, when Jesus was asked to teach them to pray He said, “And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples. And he said unto them, When ye pray, say (You get the point now I trust), Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth.”

There are many reasons to pray, but when you do pray, use words and say something to God. At times when I am at the altar, I will pray and form the words with my mouth without using my vocal chords to help me concentrate on what I am talking about with the Lord. Take with you words!

I pastored a church that I started for 13 years in Ohio. One day a dear lady who was not able to get out of her house to come to church asked me a question. She had some people in her family who did not live with her who thought it was silly for her to pray out loud when no one was there. She asked me what I thought she should do. I told her just to keep praying to God for He loves to hear our voices. It is time that we take with us words!

Dr. Gary Mann
Evangelist
Longview Baptist Temple
Longview, TX

SERVING GOD IN THE SHADOW OF DEATH
by: Bill Davis

“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner; but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God, who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began, But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. For the which cause I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto hi against that day.” 2 Timothy 1:7-12

Let me first say that God should get all the glory from anything we are able to do for Him! I was born in 1966, six weeks premature, 3lb. 15oz. and stayed in the hospital for a month. We moved to a couple southern states so that my parents could try to work out some differences. We ended up is St. Petersburg, Florida. It was there in St. Petersburg that I encountered bus workers from Metropolitan Baptist Church. I went to an Independent Baptist church for the first time as a ten year old bus kid. In about eight months our family moved back to North Carolina as my parents were on the brink of divorce. Eight years have passed; I am now 18 years old. I was invited to Riverside Independent Baptist Church in Durham, NC by a dear friend, Russell Iglehart. I got saved just a few weeks later when a friend, Judy Wright died from injuries sustained in a car wreck. Just after salvation, I started going soul winning and wanted to serve God any way that I could. I cut the grass, cleaned bathrooms and asked our Pastor, “Is there anything you need me to do?” In my heart there was a great desire to be part of a bus ministry; as a ten year old boy it made a great impact on my life while my parents were preparing for a divorce.

I visited Fellowship Baptist Church in Durham, NC in 1989. My life as I knew it was about to change. My wife and I of just two years were quickly drawn to Pastor Finley and the people of Fellowship Baptist Church. We loved serving God! I became a bus captain and loved every moment of the work God had for us. Three years after joining our church, in 1992 we had a two night revival with Dr. Jack Hyles. I was in awe as he preached and I said, “Wow!!!” God had begun to deal with me about full-time service but I kept saying no. On June 6, 1994, during a tent revival at Trinity Baptist Church in Mocksville, NC; Dr Jack Hyles and Dr. Bob Gray from Texas were preaching up a storm literally, as a terrible thunderstorm was over us. I knew that night I was going to have to make a decision concerning the matter of full-time service. I could not eat or sleep the rest of the week. Five days later Pastor Finley and I were to meet so I could get advice on my future. I decided that God was calling and I must answer.

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For almost one year I worked on staff with my pastor, Dr. Rick Finley. It was a great joy to serve him and such wonderful people. We packed up in August 1995 and headed to Hyles-Anderson for Bible College. We arrived in Crown Point, Indiana and right away began to get involved at First Baptist Church of Hammond. School started in September and all was going well. In just a matter of days, both of my grandfather’s passed away. Two weeks later my wife was diagnosed with cancer for the second time and then in 1996 as a twenty nine year old man, I suffered a heart attack while at work in Chicago, Illinois. I was taken to Cook County Hospital there in Chicago, on a cold Friday night in January. As I lay there in the hospital bed from about midnight until seven o’clock the next morning, my prayers were that God would allow me to serve Him until I go to Heaven. I prayed that prayer over and over, knowing all the time that I could be on my way to Heaven that night.  I had told God that I would graduate and serve him or die trying to, and I almost did. I was moved from Cook County Hospital in Chicago to Munster Community Hospital in Munster, Indiana. Dr. Jack Hyles and Mrs. JoJo Moffitt had contacted the head of cardiology, Dr. Giragos, who was a member of First Baptist Church about my situation and he was able to get me transferred to his care. I had an angiogram and was prepared for surgery if needed; angioplasty was going to be the first course of action if at all possible. After a few more days in the Hospital I went home. After recovering and getting right back to school, I graduated in three years, (1998) very focused and ready to start our new ministry.

In 2002 after starting our church and working well over one hundred hours a week for two years, my heart quit. I ended up in Duke Hospital for a week and a half. After a couple of procedures and another angiogram, I was told that I had a somewhat rare heart condition that would require a heart transplant one day. In 2004 another heart attack would come and I prayed just like I did in 1996 for God to allow me to serve him until I go to Heaven!  It has been four years now since the last heart attack and I have spent many days in the hospital as well as thousands of dollars on medical bills.

I want remind you of something that my dear friend Dr. Ron Talley tells me often, “GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME!!!!” There are some days I can hardly get out of bed. I feel as if today could be the day and although I may die today, I refuse to live poor mouthing God or complaining about my health. I count every day a blessing and thank God for it. Mrs. Marlene Evans would say, “I think I’ll live until I die”, what a great statement! I am thankful for having a dad who taught me not to quit. He is a survivor and lives by a motto “when the going gets tough the tough get going.”  I am thankful for my Pastor, Dr. Rick Finley who has not quit but continues through adversity. The next time you are ready to quit serving God in the shadow of death remember what the Apostle Paul said to Timothy, “But watch thou in all things, ENDURE AFFLICTIONS, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith”.

In 2008 we have compromise all around us. People quit over nothing, and most people forget the fact that we will stand before almighty God one day. Please let me give you some points that help me when I want to quit.

1. I must remember those who have invested and sacrificed for me, my parents, my preachers, my teachers and most important my Saviour Jesus Christ. He went to Calvary-crucified, most would have quit.
2. To whom much is given much is required: Jesus invested by giving His life, now He would like some return on His investment. I lived 18 years for the Devil. I want to serve God until I see Him.
3. When you feel like quitting on God regularly read the crucifixion story in Matthew 27 & Mark 15.
   

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4. Someone is counting on you. If you quit, no matter how hard it is, who will quit with you, a preacher boy, a husband, a wife, your son or daughter? Be like Gideon passing Jordan (Judges 8:4) “faint yet pursuing.”
5. Don’t lose hope in people, keep on soul winning, keep on giving time and talents and tithes, keep on running the buses, “and let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” Luke 10:2 tells us that “the harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest that he would send forth laborers into His harvest.”

While in the shadow of death, count everyday a blessing no matter what comes your way, keep on giving the Gospel, keep on serving God, Keep on loving people and keep your eyes on the SON!

Pastor Bill Davis
Cornerstone Baptist Church
Greensboro, NC

DAILY EXERCISE FOR CHRISTIAN LEADERS
by: Lonnie Mattingly

When I exercise consistently I feel better, I think better and I seem to have a better frame of reference. When I fail to exercise regularly, I find myself becoming sluggish, lazy and and not focused.

2 Corinthians 4:16 says, “For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.”

 

 

As you personally review your daily walk with God, use the check list below to help you stay on track. Occasionally evaluate your practice of each of the items and think of ways you can improve. Be aware of the fact that you will fall behind… Don’t let the Devil discourage you or defeat you. Get up and try again and again and again. Proverbs 24:16 says, “For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief.” Your daily time with God will be a great source of renewal.

1. Daily bear your cross. Luke 9:23 says, “And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.”

2. Daily reading of the word of God. Nehemiah 8:18 says, “Also day by day, from the first day unto the last day, he read in the book of the law of God. And they kept the feast seven days; and on the eighth day was a solemn assembly, according unto the manner.”

3. Daily prayer to the Lord. Psalm 86:3 says, “Be merciful unto me, O Lord: for I cry unto thee daily.”

4. Daily praising of the Lord. Psalm 72:15 says, “And he shall live, and to him shall be given of the gold of Sheba: prayer also shall be made for him continually; and daily shall he be praised.”

5. Daily exhortation of one another. Hebrews 3:13 says, “But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.”

When I teach, preach or write, I always try to put a handle on the thoughts so that folks can take something with them. I challenge you to meditate on each point above and make your personal applications as to how you can be more consistent. May the dear Lord Jesus Christ bless you in your daily exercise. May there be a measurable growth in your availability to God and your soul-winning outreach for Him.

Lonnie Mattingly
http://lonniemattingly.com

GO TO NOW
by: Steve Hobbins

A few years ago, when my oldest daughter Jaclyn was a high school sophomore, I asked her to name the kind of guy that she would like to marry one day. She named about four different guys that we both knew. They all had come from our youth group, or one like it, and they all seemed like excellent choices. But then I asked her if she realized that all the guys that she named were adults or had at least already graduated from high school. I understand that she was not saying that she wanted to marry those particular guys, but just wanted to marry someone like them. While I was pleased with her choices, I wanted her to realize that those kind of guys are interested in girls (usually girls close to their own age) that had been preparing themselves from the time they were her age for the day when they would need to be ready to handle a romantic relationship. In other words, I wanted her to realize at least two things. First, she needed to know that she did not name guys her age, because, just like her, the guys her age were still in the process of building themselves to become the kind of person to whom a godly young adult would be attracted. Second, I wanted her to realize that she needed to start purposely making choices that would lead her to become the kind of woman whom she needed to be several years later when she was ready to begin a romantic relationship.

This is the exact same principle that James addressed in James 4:13-14. He gives the command, “Go to now…” In other words, James was telling us that we needed to give attention to where we are in life right now. Let me explain.

When you look at your heroes, don’t try to be what they are. Try to be what they were when they were your age. “Go to now.” Certainly, we may have heroes that were not the kind of person as a teenager that you should model, but when that is the case, you should try to be what they wish they were or should have been when they were your age.

In another conversation with Jaclyn, when she was in Jr. High, she said to me, “Dad, I love how you treat mom. I want my husband to treat me that way when I get married.” Humbled by such a comment, I told her, “I have not always treated mom like I should. It has taken me several years to learn to treat mom the right way. Just remember not to compare your future marriage of 2 or 3 years to the marriage that mom and I have after 15 years. Don’t look at the cars we drive now or the house or furniture that we have now; look at us when we started.” Jaclyn looked at me with all the admiration and profound maturity of a Jr. Higher and said, “Dad, that is really good advice.” I couldn’t help but smile. Essentially I, like James, was telling her, “Go to now.”

I would tell you the same thing about your heroes. Where should you start? Well, first of all…

1. Do what they did.

Ask yourself the obvious question, “What did they do when they were my age?” By answering this question, this will give you the answer to what you should do first. Many young people want to become like their hero. They want the results that their hero has, but they have forgotten the principle of paying the price first. In order to pay the price, you have to “go to now.” You need to be the kind of teenager you ought to be, and in so doing you are laying the foundation for becoming the kind of young adult you need to be. You are not setting out to be the adult that you need to be; rather, becoming the adult you need to be is merely a byproduct of following the path that began as a teenager of walking with God and serving the Lord.

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If your hero has a great marriage, then right now, even though you cannot have a great marriage as a teenager, you should still be in the process of becoming the kind of person who can one day have a great marriage. If your hero is a great parent, then right now you should be putting into your life the traits that can one day make you a great parent. We could say the same about countless other scenarios.

Not only should you be doing what they did, but also you should …

2. Follow whom they followed.

The people that are your heroes became the great men and women they are by following the right people. In fact, since your heroes are probably a bit older than you, the people that they followed may no longer be alive. Though you may not be able to follow the exact same people that they followed, you can still follow the exact same kind of people that they followed.  Again, that is something that you can do right now.

3. Learn from the mistakes that they made when they were the age that you are right now.

You will never have a hero who did not make mistakes and who did not learn from those mistakes. Proverbs 24:16 says, “For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again:…” While it is wise to learn from your mistakes, it is even wiser to learn from the mistakes of others. Obviously you should not duplicate the mistakes that your heroes made. Learn from them.

I’m sure that there are many other ways to “go to now” and work on becoming like your heroes, but I hope these three thoughts have been a help.

For a complete study on how to learn from your heroes, I highly recommend Dr. Jack Hyles’ book, “Fundamentalism In My Lifetime,” particularly Chapter 2 “How I learned from the great men.”

Steve Hobbins
Pastor
Lewis Ave. Baptist Church
Temperance, MI
http://pastorhobbins.wordpress.com

WHY DO WE HAVE A PUBLIC INVITATION
by: Keith Phemister

I was talking to a man in a church whom I pastored, and while we were talking he made a statement that took me aback. Basically, he said that in our Baptist Churches we do a lot of things that are not biblical. “For instance,” he said, “we have invitations and nowhere in the Bible does it say for a church to have an invitation.” If it isn’t biblical, then I will not move during the invitation.

 

Well, since we are on the subject, where in the Bible does it say we should have pews? Offertories? Organs? Pianos? How about Ushers? May I just say that because the Bible is silent on an issue does not mean it is wrong! In fact, just because the Bible does not address the issue of a public invitation does not mean that we are wrong in conducting an invitation. I would even go further and put that notion on the defensive. How about this – If it is not in the Bible, then why don’t you show me where it violates Biblical principles?

Charles G. Finney was held as the pioneer of the “public invitation.” For the first time in his preaching career at Evans Mill, New York, in 1825, Finney conducted an invitation and asked anyone who would like to give his heart to God to come forward and take the front seat. On his first attempt Finney was successful. Now Finney was not a Baptist. He was a Presbyterian. I say that because of the belief I have that what he did was biblical because it stood based on biblical principles.

The reason for conducting an invitation can rest in the need for recognizing the saved so that the next step can be easily pushed. How can we really know who to baptize as part of the “Great Commission” if there is not an identification of the saved? A person does not need to be saved in a church building. There are numerous instances of people in the Bible being saved in places other than the church.

If you look in Acts 2, Peter is preaching the very first sermon after our Lord’s Ascension. These Jews were pricked in their heart at the preaching of God’s Word, and demanded, “What must we do?” Folks who are under conviction should be told by the preacher what to do. An invitation is the answer to meet the need. The answer in this case was: Repent and be baptized! I have a simple question to ask all of us. How did they know who to baptize that day unless they identified themselves? The Bible says that about 3,000 were baptized. Before baptism, there was salvation. Identification was necessary. Therein lies a very good reason for an invitation. Whenever there is preaching, real Bible preaching – there rests a demand for a decision. I have always been taught that preaching is teaching with authority, persuading with the intent to make a decision. We have gotten away from Biblical preaching and become teachers exclusively with the intent to not “run off the crowd.”

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The Biblical principle of an invitation is evident in the Old Testament as well as the New. In Exodus 32:19-29, Moses came back from the mount, only to find the people having made the golden calf. There was ungodly music and the people were found naked. Exodus 32:26 says, “Then Moses stood in the gate of the camp, and said, Who is on the LORD’S side? let him come unto me. And all the sons of Levi gathered themselves together unto him.” Would that not be an invitation to the people of God? Absolutely!

Other Old Testament examples of invitations would be found in Deuteronomy 30:15-19, Joshua 24:15 and 1 Kings 18:17-21. There is ample biblical principle for an invitation.

The simple truth of the matter is that preaching demands a decision. There is a difference between preaching and teaching. In our church, I desire a balance amongst our people. I want them to get the fire and zeal that preaching gives, but I also want them to get the knowledge that teaching brings. We need to also be aware that biblical preaching will include teaching. When I think of preaching, I think of 2 Timothy 4:2 that says, “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” Doctrine means teaching. Biblical preaching involves reproving, rebuking, and exhorting. What does that mean?  Here it is broken down for us.

1. Reprove – to charge with a fault, to excite a sense of guilt
2. Rebuke – to restrain, to calm, to check
3. Exhort – to call for, to encourage to obey

So, in conclusion, we see a preacher is to identify sin, present the need to change, and finally urge one to make a decision. No wonder our Lord said, “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” We are to press them for a decision. One of the most critical points in presenting the Gospel is what is called, “Drawing the Net.” For the soul winner it is the invitation. It is the time after preaching where we invite the sinner to “receive the Lord Jesus Christ as personal Saviour.”

We must not bow to the liberal’s way of doing things. The neo-evangelical crowd, emergent church philosophy or even the seeker sensitive agenda must never cloud our minds. Just stay with the old paths. We must stay the course and have an invitation. Confrontational soul winning is blasted by the liberals in the same way that invitations are blasted. All because we are pressing the appeal to make a decision! 2 Corinthians 6:2 “…now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”

The same people who claim that the invitation is unbiblical are much of the same crowd who are consumed with pride.  Pride will keep one from going to the altar to do business with God.

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In no way, shape or form do I believe one must go down an aisle to be saved. It is belief that saves, not walking an aisle. Sadly, there may be some who think that walking an aisle is what saves them. Confession does not save. Confession is for man. When we confess Christ, we show man our belief and God is glorified. Romans 10:10 states, “For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness (God sees it) and with the mouth confession is made (man sees it) unto salvation.” Nowhere in the Bible does it say that confession is necessary for salvation. When Paul addressed the Jew in Romans 10, he said to them that confessing Christ was essential to note salvation from man’s point of view. To the Jew, confessing that Christ was Lord and not a man, would mean a loss of friends, respect, position and even life (witness Stephen and the Apostles). Even Paul himself persecuted those Jews who had confessed Christ (Acts 9:1).

Yes, according to biblical principles, a public invitation is desired and needed. We will continue to give an invitation as long as we continue to preach. May God give us strength and wisdom to continue to carry on what we have been taught and not waver.

Keith Phemister
Pastor
Faith Baptist Church
Nashua, NH

FALLEN HEROES
HOW TO DEAL WITH DISAPPOINTMENT FROM LEADERSHIP
by: Tim Trieber

As children, we all had role models, those whom we regarded as larger-than-life heroes. We watched their lives with wide-eyed wonder and emulated their mannerisms, eagerly waiting for the day when we could one day walk in their shoes. If you grew up in the late 80’s or early 90’s as I did, you may recall that nearly every boy had aspirations to “be like Mike.” For others, the true champions were parents, older siblings, pastors, teachers, coaches, politicians, and athletes, to name a few.

 

In reality, however, the pedestal can be a delusive place. When these “heroes” or other leaders fall from it, we are left at times with unanswered questions:

• How could this have happened?
• Why did they do that?
• What do I do now?

How we respond to this disappointment is crucial. Though we might feel hurt and perhaps disillusioned for a time, we must not allow others’ missteps to hinder our own journey. Here are a few thoughts on how we may continue living the Christian life, even when it seems to have come to a standstill.

1. Remember people are only human, and humans make mistakes.

Someone once said, “The best of men are, at best, just men.” Let us avoid elevating others to a place where they may seem exempt from sin and temptations. “Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are…” (James 5:17) “And saying, Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you…” (Acts 14:15)

2. Our focus and example must be Jesus Christ.

The greatest Hero we should have in our lives is our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. May we say that He is our Example! He is the One Whom we strive to be like! His Word is our Supreme Authority! I thank God for people who have invested in my life, and I believe that they are worthy of honor; but only one Man died on a cross for me. Only one Man purchased my salvation. Christ’s image is what we should be striving to be conformed to.

3. Take heed to our own lives.

When people make mistakes, I am always challenged to examine my own heart and life. Far greater Christians have succumbed to the attacks of the wicked one. I realize that, if the best are capable of falling, then I may be more susceptible. “Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.” (1 Corinthians 10:12)

4. Do not rejoice when another falls.

I feel absolutely no joy when a brother or sister in Christ has erred. My heart breaks when I hear of Christians who have fallen. We may not always agree with another’s position in certain areas, but we “are one body in Christ.” We ought not to delight in tragedies.

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5. Pray for one another.

The consequences of sin always hurt others. Homes are broken, relationships are severed, futures are destroyed, and tears are shed. The spiritual Christian seizes this opportunity to pray for those that have been affected by these situations. “…pray one for another…” (James 5:16)

Christians face real and constant opposition from the world, the flesh, and the Devil. We well know that these enemies are seeking to devour and destroy our lives. Therefore, it is vitally important that we “put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.”

The truth of the matter is that, at one point or another, all of us have been or will be affected by the poor choices of others. Do not lose the faith, but keep on for Jesus Christ. There is a world of nearly 7 billion people who are hurting, and most of them are lost and on their way to an eternity in Hell. We cannot quit because others have hurt us. We cannot lie down and live in discouragement the rest of our lives. If dreams have been shattered, hopes crushed, and tears shed, let me say that Jesus Christ can take whatever hurt you have and carry that burden with you.

Preacher, keep preaching.

Soul winner, keep soul winning.

Pastor, keep loving your people.

Youth pastor, keep investing in the next generation.

Parents, keep training your children.

Let us do all we can to reach the world with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. You may have been hurt or disappointed by the actions of an earthly “hero,” but we may rest in the promises and goodness of a heavenly One Who is “the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.”

Tim Trieber
North Valley Baptist Church
Youth Pastor
Santa Clara, CA

SURVIVING IN A SPLIT HOME
by: Tim Forgy

Living in a split home often creates situations that defy anyone to survive, much less thrive and flourish. Step moms, step dads, step siblings, new personalities, separate houses, different rules, divided loyalties – these are some of the unique challenges that many children face today as a result of desertion, divorce, death, or even the incarceration of a parent. How is it possible to successfully navigate the minefield of a home that seems, just as you figure out how to get through the field without setting off any explosives, the pattern of the mines gets shifted around on you and BOOM! you’re lying on your back wondering what happened this time?

It’s not possible to guide you step-by-step around each mine, but maybe we can look at a principle or two and a few practical tips that will help you figure out where the explosives are buried and help you avoid setting them off. Wouldn’t it be great if you were a SURVIVOR of a split home, and not just another wounded casualty who couldn’t make it through?!

Things work out best for those who make the best of the way things work out.

“Hey! Wait a minute! Don’t put pressure on ME to succeed! I didn’t create the minefield. It’s not my fault this happened.” I hear you…and you’re right. You didn’t wish for the home situation you are in, but you ARE in it. There’s no sense in denying your reality or fantasizing to escape your reality. The only rational approach to survival is to face your situation and deal with it as it is, not as you wish it would be. You’ve got to get over the self-pity attitude that will trap you in the prison of failure and unhappiness. (And by the way, anger is just an aggressive form of self-pity, so don’t think you’ve risen above feeling sorry for yourself if you are angry at your situation.)

The facts are what they are. If you are in a split home, then you must make the most of it if you want to survive. Stop wishing things could be like they were or like you want them to be. God will walk you through your situation, and bring you through with grace and joy if you will (A) acknowledge your reality, and (B) acknowledge Him. (Proverbs 3:5-6) What a fantastic promise from God that “He will direct your paths…” even through the minefield of a split home.

Dealing with divided parents:

Ok, if you’re still reading, I’m assuming you are mature enough, or at least curious enough, to want to know how to survive in a split home. Let’s look at how we should relate to the authority in the home first. Depending on your situation, you may be dealing with a single parent, divided parents, or step-parents. Whatever your specific situation, don’t forget the very first principle we discussed: “Things work out best for those who make the best of the way things work out.” Working to make the best of your situation always brings a better result and smoother relationships than whining and complaining and pouting about it.

Single Parent

If life has left you in a single-parent home, you face some challenges that, if overcome, will cause you to grow and mature quickly in many areas. Parenting can be a stressful job in the best of situations, but one parent trying to fill both roles could stress even the wisest and most patient human who ever lived. Try to understand that they are carrying a load that you cannot even begin to understand. I understand that you also are carrying a heavy burden, but you are going to have to grow up, get over yourself, and cut your mom or dad some slack!

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A single parent faces financial uncertainty, emotional stress, peer pressure, and the constant feelings of being inadequate to fill two roles. It would be in your best interest NOT to be another source of stress for your parent. They are carrying a double load. It’s time for you to grow up and step up and start helping to carry some of that load instead of complaining that they are not doing it well enough! Help remove some of the stress by repeating these words as often as you are asked to do something – “Yes, Ma’am” or “Yes Sir.” Look for ways to ease the burden instead of adding to the burden. Sacrifice some of your own rights and pick up some more of the responsibility that has to be carried. If you will defuse the stress of any one person carrying too much of the load, you can avoid the destruction that could come from a “pressure” explosion.

Divided Parents

Whether you live with one parent and occasionally see your other parent, or you have some form of split living arrangement, interacting with both parents separately provides some unique challenges. Divided loyalty is a very common pitfall you will need to avoid. Choosing a favorite parent and measuring the other parent against that standard is unfair and ungodly. Most often, the favorite parent is the one who lets the children do as they please without setting any boundaries. Keep in mind that good pet owners don’t let their dogs roam free, and good parents don’t let their children walk through life without any restraint. Regardless of the reason, don’t play one parent off the other, and don’t mistreat one parent to punish them. Obey Bible principles in both houses, and you will strengthen your relationship with God and your ability to stand for right.

It is not necessary to have a favorite parent in this situation. You may feel that one of your parents is the reason for the split – don’t fall into the trap of judging what you are not wise enough to discern. Love both of your parents equally and treat them with equal respect. The beauty of love is that you can give all the love you have to one parent, then still have more than enough love to give to the other parent. Follow these steps and you will avoid the explosion of hurt feelings and resentment.

Step Parents

A step parent brings another set of unique challenges to face. It is very easy to take out your anger, your hurt, your sadness, your bitterness, or even your guilt on a step parent. They are an easy target simply because they are going to make enough mistakes trying to find their place in the home and in your life, that you will have no end to the list of reasons you can use to justify using them as a target for your negative feelings. Let me give you several quick helps for dealing with a step parent:

• Give them time to get to know you.
• Move toward them — show some interest in getting to know them and letting them get to know you. Don’t make them work to love you, make it easy.
• Don’t be easily hurt or offended by them. Step parents are in a tough spot—trying to be your friend while having to be your boss, while you often want them to be neither. Understand that they are doing the best they can, and are probably not intentionally trying to ruin your life or make you hate them.
• Be happy that your other parent is happy. Don’t resent that they have filled an empty spot in their life, while your emptiness remains unfilled. Be happy for them. Hey, go ahead and live unselfishly for a change – it’ll do you good!
• Submit to both of the authorities in the home as if they have been placed in your life by God – they were! Submitting to a step parent that you don’t feel you should have to obey is just like submitting to God. Refusing to submit to a step parent is the same as refusing to submit to God. (Tough, but true.)
• Be a peacemaker in the home. There will be plenty of natural conflict in a step-parent situation. Look for ways to sow peace.

Dealing with step parents requires you to look past your own feelings and behave in a mature, selfless manner – much like Jesus must have done. If you learn to do that well, you will avoid the constant explosions that selfish living brings about.

Step siblings

Many of the tips for dealing with step parents also apply to dealing with step siblings. Here are a few others that may help you:

• Do not be jealous of them.
• Have an open mind when they join your family (or you join theirs).
• Be friendly. If you want a good relationship, a little friendliness and good manners go a long way.
• Be kind.
• Don’t make it a competition in any way. Find your place in the home, accept it, and make the most of it. You are an important part of the family. Don’t feel either inferior or superior.

Your feelings

If you are in a split home, then you are probably struggling with several emotions that you cannot seem to control sometimes or simply cannot make sense of. Anger, resentment, guilt, depression, uncertainty, abandonment, jealousy, and any number of other emotions may burden you down. Let me encourage you to do two things to help you with your emotions.

First, talk to God about them. No one can comfort and strengthen like God can.

Next, talk to a wise, godly counselor about them. Your mom or dad would be a great person to go to for advice. If for some reason, you don’t feel you can go to them, go to a wise, godly counselor who can help you navigate your feelings.

One principle to help you in this area is “never let your feelings control you; YOU control your feelings.” I understand that your feelings may be overwhelming you right now, but your goal should be to get to the point where your feelings do not have power over you. That is not only possible, but it is necessary in order for you to not just survive, but to thrive, in a split home.  What an opportunity you have for God to prove that He can help you through any situation! Other people have flourished and succeeded in the same situation you are in…will YOU?

Tim Forgy
Youth Pastor
Longview Baptist Temple
Longview, TX