Sunday, September 21, 2008

Sunday School

Our Bible Study Attendance was the highest "on campus" total in at least 3 years. We have a dedicated group of teachers who are doing a good job.

On Tuesday Night, there is a meeting with Dionne Williams (the Church Growth Consultant) our S.S. Director, the Nominating Committee, the Deacon Chairman, and me. This is one of the first meetings to help "kick-off" our involvement in the Church Growth Plan through the Mississippi Baptist Convention.

Morning Worship

The Children's Choir sang at the beginning of the service and they really blew us away. They were so energetic and the "Cuteness Factor" was off the scale. The sanctuary was electric. The song was along the lines of "Don't wiggle out of God's will." One of the deacons even used the word wiggle in his offertory prayer. They really had an impact.

The Sanctuary Choir sang a medley of songs focused on expressing gratitude. As always, they did a superb job.

My sermon was entitled "He Gives More Grace" based on James 4:1-10. The sermon outline was simple, but this passage contains some powerful truths.

He Gives More Grace
James 4:1-10

I. The Source of Conflict (1-5)
A. Desire for Pleasure (1-2c)
B. Disregard for Prayer (2d-3)
C. Disdain for Purity (4-5)

II. The Source of Comfort (6-10)
A. The Grace of God in Response to Humility (6)
B. The Greatness of God in Response to Submission (7)
C. The Goodness of God in Response to Repentance (8-10)

Evening Worship and Activities

The choir continues to practice the Patriotic Musical they will present on Nov. 9, 2008 in honor of Veterans Day. The Students met with Boo, FBC Student Minister, for a discipleship group at 5 PM. The children continue Bible Drill and Children's Choir on Sunday Nights.

My Sermon last night was based on James 4:11-17.

"If the Lord wills..."

I. Slander (11-12): Don't play God.
II. Speculation (13-14): Don't bank on the future.
A. The future is uncertain (13)
B. The future is unknown (14a)
C. The future is unsure (14b)
III. Sovereignty: Don't ignore the providence of God.
IV. Sin: Don't ignore God's will for you.

Church Council

We had a productive time of planning for the remainder of the year. I'm excited about our upcoming Revival Services and other activities. Also, we are planning to have a Men's Breakfast on Sunday, Nov. 9. We will host and recognize the Veterans in our community. We'll unveil the special guest speaker a little later. This is going to be good.