Preparing For Revival...

Through the week we've been looking at areas of a Christian's life and hopefully evaluating and asking God to search our hearts and to reveal His forgiveness, holiness and plans for us in these areas.  The last few are as follows:
*click on the verse to read it*

FORGIVENESS:  (Colossians 3:12-12)
a.  Do I seek to resolve conflict in relationships as soon as possible?
b. Am I quick to forgive those who wrong or hurt me?

EVANGELISM:  (Luke 24:47-48)
a.  Do I have a burden for lost souls?
b.  Do I consistently witness for Christ?

PRAYER:  ( I Timothy 2:1)
a.  Am I faithful in praying for the needs of others?
b.  Do I pray specifically, fervently and faithfully for revival in my life, my church and our nation?

Prepare For Revival Day 5

To be revived is a blessing which can only he enjoyed by those who have some degree of life. Those who have no spiritual life are not, and cannot be, in the strictest sense of the term subjects of a revival... A true revival is to be looked for in the Church of God - Charles Spurgeon

MOTIVES: (Matthew 10:28, Acts 5:29
a.  Am I more concerned with what God thinks about my life than what others think?
b.  Would I pray, read my Bible, give and serve as much if nobody but God ever noticed?
c.  Am I more concerned about pleasing God than I am about being accepted and appreciated by others?

MORAL PURITY:  Ephesians 5:3-4
a.  Do I keep my mind free from books, magazines or entertainment that could stimulate fantasizing or thoughts that are not morally pure?
b.  Are my conversations and behavior pure and above reproach?

Church Softball League Info...

Church Softball is about to get going!!  This is the last call for any interested players.  Please let Staten M. know by Sunday May 10 if you are playing. The player fee this year is $35.00 per player and there will be a $300.00 team fee which will be divided up by number of players.  Games will begin the week of May 24.

Practices are going on now, next one will be Thursday at 7:30 PM.  There will also be a short meeting Sunday immediately following the morning service.  If you have any questions or need more information, please see Staten M. or Lowell L. 

Preparing For Revival Day 4

When may a revival be expected? When the wickedness of the wicked grieves and distresses the Christian.

Billy Sunday

 

SACRIFICE:  (Phillipians 3,7-8)

a. Am I willing to sacrifice whatever is necessary to see God move in my life and church (time, convenience, comfort, reputation, pleasure and so on)?

b.  Is my life characterized by genuine sacrifice for the cause of Christ?

 

SPIRIT CONTROL:  (Galatians 5:22-25, Ephesians 5:18-21)

a.  Am I allowing Jesus to be Lord of every area of my life?

b.  Am I allowing the Holy Spirit to "fill" (control) my life each day?

c.  Is there consistent evidence of the "fruit of the Spirit" being produced in my life?

 

FIRST LOVE:  (Phillipians 1:21, 23)

a.  Am I as much in love with Jesus as I have ever been?

b.  Am I devoted to Jesus, filled with His joy and peace and making Him the continual object of my affection?

Preparing For Revival Day 3...

Have you noticed how much praying for revival has been going on of late - and how little revival has resulted? I believe the problem is that we have been trying to substitute praying for obeying, and it simply will not work. To pray for revival while ignoring the plain precept laid down in Scripture is to waste a lot of words and get nothing for our trouble. Prayer will become effective when we stop using it as a substitute for obedience.

A.W. Tozer

 

CLEAR CONSCIENCE:  (Acts 24:16)

a. Do I consistently seek forgiveness from those I wrong or offend?

b.  Is my conscience clear with every person?  (Can I honestly say, "There is no one I have ever wronged or offended in any way and not gone back to that person and sought his forgiveness and made it right"?)

 

PRIORITIES:  (Matthew 6:33)

a.  Does my schedule reveal that God is first in my life?

b.  Does my checkbook reveal that God is first in my life?

VALUES: (Colossians 3:12)

a.  Do I love what God loves and hate what God hates?
b.  Do I value highly the things that please God (for example:  giving, witnessing to lost souls, studying His Word, praying)?

Preparing For Revival Day 2

Oh! men and brethren, what would this heart feel if I could but believe that there were some among you who would go home and pray for a revival ­ men whose faith is large enough, and their love fiery enough to lead them from this moment to exercise unceasing intercessions that God would appear among us and do wondrous things here, as in the times of former generations.

Charles Spurgeon

Things We Can Do To Prepare For Revival In Our Lives:

HUMILITY:  (Isaiah 57:15)

a.  Am I quick to recognize and agree with God in confession when I have sinned?
b.  Am I quick to admit to others when I am wrong?

c. Do I rejoice when others are praised and recognized and my accommlishments go unnoticed by people?

OBEDIENCE:  (I Samuel 15:22, Hebrews 13:17)

a.  Do I consistently obey what I know God wants me to do?
b.  Do I consistently obey the human authorities God has placed over my life?

PURE HEART:  (I John 1:9)

a.  Do I confess my sin by name?

b.  Do I keep "short sin accounts" with God (confess and forsakes as He convicts)?

c.  Am I willing to give up all sin for God?

Preparing For Revival

Revival is a renewed conviction of sin and repentance, followed by an intense desire to live in obedience to God. It is giving up one's will to God in deep humility. - Charles Finney


Revival awakens in our hearts an increased awareness of the presence of God, a new love for God, a new hatred for sin, and a hunger for His Word. - Del Fehsenfeld Jr.


Revival, no matter how great or small in its ultimate scope, always begins with individual believers whose hearts are desperate for God, and who are willing to pay the price to meet Him. - Del Fehsenfeld Jr 

Revival services will begin May 2 (next Sunday).  Revival is not planned, worked up or created.  It is a soveign work of God in the hearts of His people who desire the work of the Lord in their lives and church.   This week our church is praying for revival and opening our hearts for the Lord to do the work He alone can do.  Each day this week there will be posted here some things we can do to prepare for revival in our hearts.  This sheet was passed out Sunday morning and it is our hope and desire that you will follow along each day as we prepare for revival.

GENUINE SALVATION:  (I Corinthians 5:17)
a.  Was there a time in my life when I genuinely repented of (was aware of and turned away from) my sin?
b.  Was there a time in my life when I placed all my trust in Jesus Christ alone to save me?
c. Was there ever a time in my life when I completely surrendered to Jesus Christ as the Master and Lord of my life?

GOD"S WORD:  (Psalm 119:97, 140)
a.  Do I love to read and meditate on the Word of God?
b.  Are my personal devotions consistent and meaningful?
c.  Do I apply God's Word to my everyday life?

Children's Camp

Sandy Shores...

Great Fellowship:

Those are some of the things that go on during Camp Sonrise.  Of course this is a also a time for kids to deepen their faith, grow in God's Word and participate in a musical that enables them to use their voices and talents for the Lord. Swimming, recreation and great fun are also included!

Camp Sonrise will be June 21-24 this year and now is the time to register.  Forms are available at the church.  The camp is open to children who have finished 2nd - 6th grades. 

Revival with James Croft

May 2-5 is the date for our revival services with Rev. James Croft.  You are encouraged to be in prayer for the revival as well as praying for and inviting others to come.  The next prayer meeting will be Saturday night at the church beginning at 7:00 PM. 

We are also seeking willing workers for our nursery ages 4 and under so that the parents of our young children can come and hear the Word of God.  If you are able to help in the nursery, please see Bro. Dave.

If you would like more information about Rev.Croft and his ministry you may visit him at his website James Croft.

Widows Spring Luncheon

On Sunday, April 25 there will be a Spring Widows Luncheon for widows.  This luncheon will be hosted by our WMU and is an opportunity to let our widows know that they are loved and appreciated.

If you would like to show your support for our widows, perhaps a small card or token of appreciation would be something you would like to do. Pray about how you can be a blessing to our widows.

More Pictures..

Here are some of our youth enjoying a great time of bowling and fellowship…

Activities This Week

Coming up this week are activities for all to be involved in. 

Tonight there will be a cottage prayer meeting at the home of Frances and Bessie at 7:00 PM.  During the next two weeks, we will be in prayer for the upcoming revival May 2-5.  Other meetings will be posted soon and were shared through the church bulletin. 

Tomorrow night (Tuesday) there will be an association wide mens meeting with dinner beginning at 6:30 PM at Wellborn Baptist.  The menu will be fried catfish and all the trimmings followed by a guest speaker to challenge and encourage men in their walk as spiritual leaders in the home, church and community.  Men, if you would like to ride in the church van, be at the church and ready to leave at 6:00 PM. All men and boys are welcome!

Don't forget about Wednesday night service which has ministries for the entire family.  There are mission classes for children, youth and the adults meet together to hear God's Word and spend time in prayer.  You are encouraged to make mid week service a part of your weekly schedule.

Mother's Day - May 9

Mother's Day is May 9 and we have some special plans to honor our mothers on this day. Beginning at 8:30 AM our men have graciously offered to cook breakfast for our moms.  Ladies, plan to come to church at 8:30 and enjoy a wonderful breakfast and time to celebrate the joys of motherhood. 

The men have also offered to let their wives help them dress for the day!  Yes, ladies, you are encouraged to pick out your favorite apron and your husband will wear it as he serves the breakfast that morning! 

In the morning service, there will be a special Parent/Child dedication time. This is a beautiful time to celebrate the gift of children and commit to follow the Lord in raising the child in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.  If anyone has a child that has not been through a time of dedication, please let Bro. Dave know. 

Prayer For Revival

Revival begins in each individual heart with the purpose to seek God and His ways. It begins in the heart that is humble and acknowledges our need for the Lord.  In the life of a Christian, our hearts may become dry, parched and the soil of our hearts may become hardened.  Revival is a life giving spring of living water that floods our souls with refreshement and renewed passion for the Lord and springs forth from us.  May we desire to be fruitful and flourishing.  May we seek for revival.

Throughout this month there will be times of prayer set aside for our church to seek the Lord.  This Saturday night at 7:00 PM will be the first prayer meeting.  All are welcome and encouraged to come spend time in prayer. 

Other dates are:
April 24 - 7:00 PM at the church
April 30 - 7:00 PM at the home of Rex and Dianne M.

Sow for yourselves righteousness;  Reap in mercy;  Break up your fallow ground,

For it is time to seek the LORD,  Till He comes and rains righteousness on you. Hosea 10:12

True Love Waits..

What a great group of teens we have at Antioch.  They went through a True Love Waits study a while back and this is the day they received completion certificates.  Way to go youth!  Your church is very proud of you. 

Special thanks to our leaders for the love and training they put into our youth as we seek to point them in a direction to prosper and keep them in the Lord.  May they always grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord.

 

When Do We Need Revival?

When is revival needed among God's people? 

When they have their left first love. God's people need to be revived when they find themselves going through the motions, having "a form of godliness but denying its power" (2nd Timothy 3:5). God's people need revival when they are wallowing in sin, perhaps regretting their sins, but unwilling to thoroughly repent of them. God's people need revival when they are neglecting their relationship with Christ. Revival is needed when we are low on zeal and have grown lukewarm.

In order to experience spiritual revival, we need to check the condition of our heart spiritually as well. Regular spiritual checkups will help us to better determine how healthy we are in our relationship with God. A great verse to use for your regular check up would be Mark 12:30-31. Compare your love for God and your love for others to your love for yourself and you have a clear picture of where you are spiritually. 

Revival – The process of restoring someone to a renewed state of fellowship with God.

Truth for Life!
Revival always starts in the hearts of individual Christians (Psalm 85:6).
When we truly love God, it will be evidenced in a heart of ministry (Mark 10:45).
We do not find ourselves “all of a sudden” far from God in deep sin. It happens over time with little decisions of disobedience to God. (Matthew 24:12).
No matter how long someone has been saved, Christians need daily inspection in their walk with Christ (Psalm 139:23).
Our pride will keep us from admitting to our sin and then dealing with it God’s way. (Proverbs 28:13).

Various Photos

Here is a variety of photos from our Youth True Love Waits ceremony and a 5th Sunday Night Sing…

Easter Weekend

Easter weekend was filled with activities from the Children’s Easter activity, to sunrise service to the wonderful Easter Cantata presented by our choir.  Here is a look at some of these events.

View Full Album

What Is Revival?

We have announced the revival services which will be held May 2-5 with Rev. James Croft. We are excited about having Rev .Croft come, but it is our hope to seek true revival which comes from the Lord alone.  In the next few weeks we will be sharing and praying for true revival to come to our lives, church, community and nation.

WHAT IS REVIVAL?

First of all, revival isn’t getting an evangelist to come in, and do a series of meetings to stir the people up. We have developed an understanding in the church today of “holding a revival.”  You can’t hold a revival. All you can do is participate in one that God is throwing.

For it to be true revival, it must be a sovereign work of God. That means we can’t schedule it in advance. Only God can accomplish it, and that in His timing, and in His way.

Revival really isn’t for the lost, but for the saved. We tend to think of revival as getting the lost into the church. But, that’s not what it’s all about. When revival is happening, the lost will come into the church. However, the reason they will come is because of the changed hearts of God’s people. That will draw them. That will show them their need for salvation. Once the Holy Spirit cleans up the Body of Christ, then He will start drawing the unsaved in that in His timing, and in His way..

 "If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land."  II Chronicles 7:14

Church Funnies

Faithful ~ Dedicated ~ Committed

Faithful ~ Dedicated ~ Committed

These were the three simple yet powerful words on a local church sign.  These traits are the core and bond that holds together our churches.  Without them, the church lacks power and the ability to minister to others. 

May we each seek to do our part to be Faithful - Dedicated and Committed.

Faithful:

Most believers would like to enrich their spiritual life but aren't sure how to do so. If you put forth a little effort, faith can grow on its own, gradually encompassing more and more of your life.

1. Understand that the word "faith" means steadfastness and entails a belief in a certain truth. To remain steadfast, you must be consistent in your efforts and involvement in your church. To act in faith requires assent on your part to recognize that this faith is founded in love.

2.  Remain strong in the face of trials; these are tests of your faith. God requires you to use your free will to show Him that you believe in Him. You show your faith actively by conquering your weaknesses and holding fast to God throughout the troubles in your life. In turn, you strengthen your will and learn to be grateful for the help found in God's grace.

 3.  Ask God's forgiveness when you fail. You must never be afraid of God. By sending His only Son as a sacrifice He has shown His infinite mercy and love for you. When you repent of your sins and ask for God's help He will willingly give you whatever you need. Remember your weakness and return to church faithfully for words of encouragement and advice.

4.  Become actively involved in church activities. You'll find that, whatever your talents, there will be some way you can be of service to the church and its members. When you actively participate in your church it will become like a second family and the fellowship you find will keep you close to the source: God.

 5.  Avoid those who weaken your resolve. The world is full of temptations, and peer pressure can be strong. Remember that God will never test you beyond your ability to overcome temptations and you can take refuge in your church. As you become more faithful to the church you'll find friendships that will offer enjoyable companionship away from the secularism of the world.

 6.  Read your Bible faithfully. There is no end to the wisdom and relief found between the covers of this book. No matter what troubles threaten your peace of mind you'll find comfort and solutions that will bring you again to the welcoming arms of the church.

Taken from How To Stay Faithful to Church

This Week...

What a wonderful Easter weekend this was filled with activities for the children on Saturday and a beautiful Easter sunrise service Sunday, followed by great fellowship and a powerful Easter cantata presented by the Antioch choir.  What a glorious way to celebrate our Living Lord!

Just a few reminders of some upcoming events this week:

Tuesday at 7:00 there will be a meeting for anyone interested in going on the Association wide - mission trip July 16-23.  The trip will be to minister in Kentucky and at this meeting information will be shared about the trip.  The meeting will be held at the Association office.

Wednesday at 6:00 PM will be the monthly Family Meal.  Everyone is invited and encouraged to come out and enjoy a meal and great fellowship together, followed by ministries for the entire family. 

Please remember those in our church family who are ill and have various needs.  Remember also to let those that you see during the week know that they are loved and missed. 

Happy Easter

"He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you. And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word. And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him. Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me."
-- Matthew 28: 6-10 KJV

Mission Trip 2010

The Suwannee Baptist Association is in the planning process of the 2010 mission trip which will be to Williamsburg-Corbin, Kentucky.  There will be an introductory meeting at the association office Tuesday April 6 to share plans and begin to sign up workers.  The meeting will be at 7:00 PM.  Anyone interested in going on the mission trip or seeking more information is encouraged to attend.

Coupon Seminar

Ladies, are you interested in saving money on your food budget?   A special guest will be coming to present a coupon seminar on May 6 at Wellborn Baptist.  Through the use of Power Point presentations and sharing web sites to receive coupons, you will learn how to organize them and stack them for maximum savings.  Learn coupon lingo such as  BOGO and what stores allow you to use competitors coupons.  Bring your coupons in for a coupon swap.  Come, learn and save!