| January 7, 2004 | NEW YEAR CHALLENGES!! |
| January 14, 2004 | HONOR TO WHOM HONOR |
| January 21, 2004 | MORE ON RENEWING MY PASSION FOR GOD |
| January 28, 2004 | GOD CAN PUT THE LETTERS TOGETHER |
| February 4, 2004 | A SEMI-OPEN LETTER TO THE TEACHER OF MY CHILDREN |
| February 11, 2004 | GOD'S PROVIDENTIAL CARE |
| February 18, 2004 | THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST |
| February 25, 2004 | MARRIAGE AS GOD DESIGNED IT |
| March 3, 2004 | MORE ON THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST |
| March 10, 2004 | LADS AND LEADERETTES NATIONAL CONVENTION |
| March 17, 2004 | THE STATE OF THE CONGREGATION |
| March 24, 2004 | CARING AND SHARING.... THE CARE GROUP WAY |
| March 31, 2004 | PRAYER IN CHRISTIAN WORSHIP |
| April 7, 2004 | CARE GROUP PROGRAM UNDER WAY |
| April 14, 2004 | WALKING WITH GOD |
| April 28, 2004 | SUMMER SERIES: "WALKING WITH GOD" |
| May 13, 2004 | LET GO AND LET GOD |
| May 26, 2004 | EXCITING EVENTS PLANNED |
| June 2, 2004 | THE POWER OF THE TOWEL |
| June 9, 2004 | ON THINGS WE NEED TO PRAY FOR |
| June 23, 2004 | VBS 2004 A GREAT SUCCESS |
| June 30, 2004 | BLESSED IS THE NATION WHOSE GOD IS THE LORD (Psalms 33:12) |
| July 7, 2004 | JESUS IS LORD |
| July 14, 2004 | Hiding From God |
| July 21, 2004 | GLORIFYING GOD THROUGH BENEVOLENCE |
| July 28, 2004 | IT'S NOT TOO LATE TO CHANGE |
| August 4, 2004 | THE JOY OF CHRISTIAN SERVICE |
| August 11, 2004 | IS YOUR RELIGION RELEVANT? |
| August 18, 2004 | BROAD STREET CHURCH OF CHRIST 1884 - 2004 |
| September 15, 2004 | ELDERS PRESENT RECORD BUDGET |
| September 22, 2004 | MARRIAGE AND FAMILY SEMINAR |
| September 29, 2004 | THE DIFFERENCE MAKES A DIFFERENCE |
| October 6, 2004 | SEEKING THE OLD PATHS |
| October 13, 2004 | Hope |
| November 4, 2004 | God Bless America |
| November 10, 2004 | Lads' and Leaderettes' Convention |
| November 23, 2004 | On Reasons To Be Thankful |
As we are blessed with a new opportunity to serve God with a new year ahead (almost as if it were with a blank canvas to start over with) there are many challenges ahead. By "blank canvas" I'm not referring to sin being wiped out that we have not repented of for indeed we must repent if we want God to make that canvas clean. I am, however, referring to a fresh start, a renewed interest. New years tend to bring new commitments. The Elders and I have so many dreams for what this church can become, and it's far past time that we roll up our sleeves and go to work. The past has been but a prologue of the great things that can be when the people have a mind to work. The many great works that have been done and are being done only convince me the more of how just much more we can accomplish.
In the next few weeks we will be unveiling our all new organization of the church for evangelistic and brother's keeper programs. Additionally, we are attempting to get the leadership training program off the ground for our boys and girls in Lads and Leaderettes. The next two months will be very busy in both of these directions. I firmly believe that we can be setting up and teaching home Bible studies that lead the lost to Christ. I firmly believe that we can lead many back to the Lord who have fallen away, and we can strengthen many who are weak and spasmodic about their participation.
I also firmly believe that we can grow in the grace of giving so that yet other outreaches can be adopted without the fear of inadequate funds. We can recruit, train, and put into service additional teachers who will help share the load in our classrooms. We most certainly can improve on the percentage of church members who take advantage of the classes that are offered. There is indeed much to do, and we have a new canvas to start filling.
Additionally, there were 68 members who were here 47 or more of the Sunday mornings, and 31 were here 47 or more Sunday nights. We recognize readily that job conflicts, travel, and sickness may have caused very dedicated Christians to not fall into this category and we do not minimize at all your importance to the work of Broad Street. We merely wanted to salute those who were fortunate enough to not have these interferences and set a wonderful example for us. I hope you take this with the spirit with which I intended it. God bless our efforts in 2004!!!
. . . . Terry Broome
Printed in the Broad Street Banner, Volume XIX, Number 1, January 7, 2004.
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Actually this title only suggests the recognition I want to give to a giant of a man in this congregation for his work's sake. Then I want to print as the lead feature one of his own writings. Bro. Charles Cobb has been a Gospel Preacher for the most part of his life, beginning at a very tender age in the Shoals area after being baptized at the age of 12 years. He began his ministry at age 16 for the Stony Point Church of Christ near Florence. He recently celebrated his 84th birthday. Read the poem his daughter has lovingly written and is posted on our bulletin board. His preaching spanned at least 67 years, over half of which was right here at Broad Street and Larkinsville. He has preached thousands of radio sermons in addition to the pulpit works and writings of various sorts including the Tennessee Valley Christian. His health is poor, but he is still faithful in attendance at Broad Street. Please read his words very carefully . . . . Terry Broome
Jesus said, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4). There is no higher standard than that here given by the Savior of the world- "...by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God."
Our society has lost sight of the divine standard by which men are to live. We can see this manifested in the home, school, and religious institutions of the land. The wisdom of men has been exalted above the wisdom of God (See Isaiah 55:8,9; I Corinthians 1:20,21). Because of this attitude our society has reached the low level of seeking to live and work by that which is inferior and self-destructive. Where there is no standard, a society finds itself in total chaos. Without respect for and submission to the way of God, man is groveling in the mire of divergent opinions which are bred and then discarded as the finite minds of men are blown about by the winds of change. Stability is sought, but not found, in the thoughts of men without God.
Centuries have come and gone and histories have been written, but we have refused to learn from those experiences. "Our Way" has been given top billing, and God's way has been discarded to languish in the dust. Humanism, idolatry, and infidelity rule in the minds of men who have forsaken God, or who have never acknowledged Him.
What real standard of life and moral conduct is certified by humanism or promoted by idolatry or encouraged by infidelity? Is a dog, sheep, or hog not as well off as those who stand in defiance or unbelief of God's perfect standard? If not, why not?
Quality does not trickle uphill. Quality comes from having a perfect standard, tried and true, that sets our goals and establishes our priorities. We cannot expect to drink pure water from a mud hole.
"Let God be true..." (Romans 3:4). He is the source of all good, of all right. His will should be the foundation of all our endeavors in living in a society properly motivated and controlled.
Rejection of the divine standard leads only to eventual destruction. God's way is our protection in an evil world.
Printed in the Broad Street Banner, Volume XIX, Number 2, January 14, 2004.
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In our study this past Lord's Day, we spoke of the difference between a command to love and the cultivation of deep and abiding love for God. It's one thing for someone to tell me that I ought to love God, or in fact that I must love God. It's another matter to help me learn how to grow in my ability to love God. After preaching the sermon on "Renewing My Passion For God," several people suggested things that had enhanced their love.
One comment reminded me of the dating days when I feasted on every line of Kathy's letters when we spent several months apart in summer work. Reading and meditating on the thoughts she had written made me feel closer to her. This particular member of the church suggested that the deeper she got into her study about God and about His dealings with man, the more she was drawn to a love for Him. If our reader has not developed the habit of going to the Bible to read God's "love" letters to man, one misses the unraveling of a great mystery of all times-- "How could God love me so when I am so unlovely?" In Romans 5:6-8, the apostle Paul suggests, "For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." As we suggested in our lesson, David the Psalmist King of Israel had discovered a great love for the law of the Lord. Reread Psalms 119 and note the numerous verses in which he accents the great passion he felt for every word from God. You want to have more passion for God? Try getting to know Him better.
Another comment I received had to do with coming to know the love of God by experiencing the joy of giving to othe" rs. Now this has to be taken in a proper context because there are many people that give great sums of money and participate in great benevolent relief efforts who do not even believe in God. The difference lies in whether or not we are doing what we do as an expression of our faith in God. Jesus said in Matthew 10:42, "And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward." When we see the joy in someone else's face whom we have helped and discover the joy that is similar to what Jesus felt when He gave His very all, a warm glow comes alive within us. You want to learn to love? Try giving yourself away.
And don't forget the power of song, James 5:13: "Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms." Some years ago I felt that the song had gone out of my heart. I used to sing hymns as I drove down America's highways, and I loved to sing them in the shower. Sometimes our experiences can dull the sound of the song of joy in our heart. Again, the Psalmist had learned this precious benefit of pouring out his heart to God, not only in prayer as we are invited from Scripture to do, but also in song. His Psalms were his songs to God. They touched the very inner fiber of his being. Don't lose the song in your heart. Come to think of it, it was that way when I was falling in love as well. I sang all the time. Music from our hearts is a special gift by God to allow the soul to express itself far deeper than we often know how with mere conversation. I was so happy when the song came back into my heart.
May we learn to love God more dearly. (Psa 51:10,12) "Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. . . . Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit."
(Psa 63:1,3) "O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is. . . Because thy lovingkindness is better than life..."
. . . . Terry Broome
Printed in the Broad Street Banner, Volume XIX, Number 3, January 21, 2004.
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A little shepherd boy was watching his sheep one Sunday morning. As he heard the bells ringing for the people to come to the church, he watched them and began to think that he too would like to communicate with God. But what can I say? He thought. He had never learned a prayer. So on bended knee, he began to recite the alphabet - "A.... B...... C...... D," and so on until he reached Z, and then repeated his "prayer" several times.
A man passing by heard the boy's voice, and stopping to look through the bushes, saw the child kneeling with folded hands and closed eyes, saying, "J.... K.... L.... M....." He interrupted the boy by asking, "What are you doing, my little friend?" The boy replied, "I was praying, Sir." Surprised, the man said, "But why are you reciting the alphabet?"
The boy explained, "I don't know any prayers, Sir. But I want God to take care of me and help me to care for the sheep. So, I thought if I said all I knew, He could put the letters together and spell all that I want to say and should say." The man smiled and said, "Bless your heart, You're right, God will!" Then he went on to church, knowing he had already heard the finest sermon he could possibly hear that day.
Remember that Jesus told us to have faith like a child. When we go to God in prayer, we mustn't worry whether we know the right things to say. God can put the thoughts and feelings together and send the answer that we need------even when we don't know what we need. Friends, the Bible assures us that even though we don't understand it, God is mindful of us. David said in Psalms 8, verses 4 and 5: "What is man that thou are mindful of him" and yet he concludes that God is mindful and has "crowned him with glory and honour."
I may not know what to say to God. I may not have my problems figured out. I may not know what I need to be asking God for, but thank the Lord that he knows the alphabet of my scrambled thoughts and hurts, and thank the Lord he can put the words together and answer my needs. I know down deep in my heart that in times like these, we have an anchor of hope for our prayers: "Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil;" (Hebrews 6:19). Remember this great Christian hymn:
In times like these, you need an anchor.
In times like these you need a savior.
Be very sure ... Be very sure ...
Your anchor holds, and grips the solid rock.
This rock is Jesus, yes He's the one,
This rock is Jesus, the only one.
Be very sure ... Be very sure....
Your anchor holds, and grips the solid rock.
. . . . Terry Broome
Printed in the Broad Street Banner, Volume XIX, Number 4, January 28, 2004.
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Insert document here and change NAME, title, date, etc
. . . . Terry Broome
Printed in the Broad Street Banner, Volume XIX, Number 5, February 4, 2004.
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How often I've wanted to be able to define how God works in His Providence to our good. I know that He does and yet I cannot know all His ways. In fact, Paul declares that His ways are past finding out: "O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!" (Rom 11:33 KJV)
It's impossible to explain to a grieving faithful Christian parent how that their child died and yet another one's child was spared. Yet it doesn't keep me from praying to God for each one of them. I most certainly praise and thank God for the one who is delivered, but I cannot on the reverse side blame God if the other is taken. We are comforted by the realization that God is very much alive and attuned to our requests. We use a term for His watchful provision for us, "Providence," or "God's Providential Care."
In His Providence He brought about many marvels throughout Bible history and delivered certain ones from death's door who were to be vessels of glory such as King David and the Apostle Paul. It's easy for us to just pass that off as a different time period when God worked with men through different means. Indeed, He did use the miraculous element - sometimes without man's involvement, and sometimes through the hands of endowed men. Man's ability to perform signs, wonders, and divers miracles did cease in New Testament times as taught in 1 Corinthians Chapter 13, but God didn't lose His ability to care for us.
There is a related thought which opens up even more conviction that God works in our lives. We can't define how God does it (some have thought through guardian angels - which is not clearly defined in the Bible). Certainly He can use many other means beyond our comprehension, but in 1 Cor 10:13, Paul writes: "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it." I don't know to what extent and by what means God will affect circumstances to make a way to escape as the text indicates, but I do know it happens!!! And that Paul wanted us to be comforted by that real hope.
One could write books about this subject and still not adequately define God's methods and involvements in our lives. Suffice it to say that the Bible affirms that He is involved. This does not mean that He makes my choices for me or miraculously makes me take certain paths. I praise Him for every good thing that happens in my life, and I plead with those who have had bad experiences to draw near to God even as men like the Apostle Paul did rather than blame Him.
. . . . Terry Broome
Printed in the Broad Street Banner, Volume XIX, Number 6, February 11, 2004.
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Now why should we be surprised that the media and many in the world are trying to turn the crucifixion of Christ into a political issue of Anti-Semitism? We've become a society so worried about "political correctness" that we can't call homosexuality a sin or perversion without being called homophobic, and we can't speak of the crucifixion now without being accused of hating Jews. I'm amazed that the movie industry was able to produce "Schindler's List," a 1993 movie that graphically portrays the horrible truth that Hitler's Germany massacred six million Jews. There appears to be a need to rewrite history so that no one did anything to anyone, and if we claim they did we're racist.
I don't hate Germans, nor do we have a right to blame Germans of our generation for something that a mad-man led a past generation to do -- nor Japanese for that matter, nor Southerners, nor whites. I also don't hate Americans who pushed Indians right out of their homeland, and I hope that Indians don't hate us for it. I don't hate Catholics, and yet history is very clear that some of their leaders in centuries gone by did horrible things to those who opposed them. I don't hate Jews, nor do I believe the Bible (whether read or visualized on the big screen) will cause people to hate them. It should cause us to hate the sin that nailed Him to that tree, and the sin that caused all of the atrocities that man heaps upon one another.
Oh, well, there are more pressing issues at stake here than the right of a film maker to make a movie. The Bible makes it very clear that God laid on Jesus' shoulders the sins of the whole world (Isaiah 53: 4-6; 2 Corinthians 5:21). I crucified Christ. We all crucified Christ, for our sins were the cause of His death. Of course, Mr. Gibson has also made that very clear. We cannot deny the real history that "He came to his own and his own received him not" (John 1:11). Nor can we deny that the unbelieving Jews both historically and Biblically, crucified Him. Not all Jews did this for many received Him. Nonetheless, He was crucified. Would the world have us pretend it never happened? The truth is that the world does not want this story told because it will generate believers in the Christ of the Scriptures. Nor do they want the Bible record read and believed and thus they do all that they can to discredit it's accuracy.
What is at stake here is that the forces of liberalism want to discredit the Biblical record . To them it's something a later generation made up about the Christ in order to create a "myth" of a super-personality to rally around. Nothing we write or say will make some doubters into believers because they've closed their eyes and ears and hearts so they cannot be converted. We cannot allow their skepticism or their sneers to weaken the boldness of our confession. The words of Matthew 10:32, 33 may take on a whole new meaning and importance to us in the face of such radical rejection by so many of the inspired Biblical record: "Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven."
I pray that God will use this opportunity to cause many to see the passion of the suffering Savior and come to obey Him. Will you receive Him today?
..... Terry Broome
Printed in the Broad Street Banner, Volume XIX, Number 7, February 18, 2004.
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What is at stake in Massachusetts, and in San Francisco, and is now thrust upon all of us, is whether or not a nation can totally disregard both natural and Spiritual law and redefine marriage to suit the perversions of the most liberal minority in our nation - advocates of the "Gay Agenda." Of course they can! The government can do anything the people are willing to let it do - unless of course the government is a dictatorship and then the people don't even have a voice. Now don't go and quote me as saying more than I just said. The government can indeed do as it pleases, but that doesn't mean that it will please God, nor that it will be blessed by God.
While I don't want to get involved in the political side of whether the President's proposal of a constitutional amendment is appropriate, I do feel that God-fearing people simply must speak up for what is natural and right and in the best interest of our nation and our families. We're told we cannot legislate morality. What are we doing when we prohibit, by law, one person from taking the life by murder of another person? We are admitting that there are some natural and moral laws that must be legislated because they are a sin against mankind. Our children deserve the preservation of such a law that is basic to the existence of society. The family unit is in danger of being brutally destroyed and a subsequent generation will suffer for it.
To pretend that two same-sex individuals can constitute a married couple is to defy the authority of God to call "marriage" what He alone had the right to call it. As one writer put it, From the beginning God made them Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve. God officiated at the very first "wedding ceremony" and made sacred that which man has sought to desecrate through divorce for centuries, and now through the perversion of same-sex behavior. "And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.. . . . And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field; but for Adam there was not found an help meet for him. And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh." (Gen 2:18 , 20-24 KJV).
The Apostle Paul makes it very clear that any other arrangement was a denial of the natural as well as spiritual law of God for mankind: "Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompense of their error which was meet. And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;" (Rom 1:24-28 KJV).
If a segment of society wants to abuse themselves in this manner, so be it, but don't dignify it by giving it an honorable name like "marriage." Call it what it is, SIN and ABOMINATION!
..... Terry Broome
Printed in the Broad Street Banner, Volume XIX, Number 8, February 25, 2004.
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In an article entitled "The Real Jesus," U. S. News and World Report, March 8, 2004, two co-authors who we are not interested in naming have begun on page 38 a total assassination of the Christ of the Scriptures, painting rather the picture of what they consider to be "The Real Jesus." Their underlying thesis is that Jesus was a Jewish reformer who wanted to make a break with his Jewish identity. They took exception to Mel Gibson's statement, "You know, critics who have a problem with me don't really have a problem with me and this film. They have a problem with the four Gospels." Their way of playing this down was to claim that "Christians, Jews, even the unchurched- have long had a problem with the way Jesus' life and teachings have been represented and interpreted...And little wonder, given that there are few other religions in which the claims of historical and theological truth are more confusingly mixed." (p. 40). They proceed to imply that the fact that Jesus was a Jew instead of a Christian undermines Christian faith. Their conclusion concerning the film is that "Gibson has helped to perpetuate some of the same misunderstandings that have plagued Christian-Jewish relations for nearly 2,000 years." (p. 46). Obviously they believe that the Gospel writers did too.
A true believer in the Christ of the Scriptures cannot sit quietly while a "respected" magazine purports to give us the corrective "curriculum." The authors claim to have discovered from "scholars" a "corrective curriculum," (p.42) which tries to put the politics of ancient Palestine at odds with the Biblical narrative. They have convinced themselves that since Pontius Pilate was such a mad-man he would not have sided with the "innocence" of Christ but rather would have seen him as a threat to Caesar and would have been the first to eradicate him as such a threat. Ah, but The Scripture affirms that Jesus was no threat to Caesar's throne, and Pilate was convinced of it. The "corrective curriculum" fails to take into account that four historians in the first century (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) wrote an account of these matters during the very time and space in which people were alive who could have discounted such a "fairy tale" if indeed it was a "fairy tale."
The real historians certified it was as it was written. It took centuries for this so-called "corrective curriculum" to be developed as an attempt to explain away the deity of Christ. Such advocates infer that a doctrine of blood atonement was developed more as a matter of convenience to spread a movement. They illustrate by telling us that the concept of the Crucifixion of Christ atoning for our sins which was written about in the 11th century by a bishop St. Anselm had political motivation. They claim that St. Anselm was a friend of Pope Urban II, who called for the First Crusade. Critics say "It was a time of plagues, of savage war, of millennial fever....The notion of Christ's sacrifice was a way of coping with a very violent and brutal world, and it's a way of making sense of it. Crusaders are promised a life in heaven if they die on the Crusades. Enroute to liberate the Holy Land, however, the soldiers stopped in Rhineland where they left up to a third of northern Europe's Jews dead." How interesting! The strategy: confuse Christians by telling them that subsequent generations fabricated a "theology" to justify actions such as the Crusades! Blame the so-called "distorted" view of the crucifixion of Christ for all the hate of the Jewish people in the world.
Well, such is the hate that the world has for the concept of blood atonement for the sins of mankind, and the contempt they hold for the Biblical narrative. It's intriguing that Jesus never claimed to come to destroy the Law of Moses but to fulfill it's very purpose of being. He was a devoted follower of the Law and claimed that not one jot or tittle of it was to pass away until all was fulfilled. (See Matthew 5:17-19). The First Century eyewitnesses to the teachings and crucifixion of Christ were willing to go to their deaths at the mouths of lions, and on Roman crosses, rather than to renounce their confidence in that "which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life" (I John 1:1). They certified that He died for the sins of the whole world, including His beloved Jewish ancestry, and "as many as received him, to them gave he the power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name" (John 1: 12).
..... Terry Broome
Printed in the Broad Street Banner, Volume XIX, Number 9, March 3, 2004.
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We're just weeks away now from time to attend the Lads to Leaders and Leaderettes National Convention at Opryland Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee. This is a first-time experience for Broad Street, and comes on the heels of completing our first "in-class" studies in the L/L curriculum.
We're blessed with good teachers and the initial quarter of studies got off the ground with a minimum of bumps and bruises. I think the students are already showing signs of warming up to the program and many will be involved in service projects, and specialty preparation for leadership in the local church for the next few years of their youth term at Broad Street.
They need this trip to convention to whet their appetites on personal growth and achievement as they will see it demonstrated by thousands of boys and girls. I'm convinced that they will come home motivated to want to be very active in many of the 26 general categories of growth and development that will be accented at convention. Public speaking is only the tip of the iceberg. There are 6 categories of Art Says It; 3 categories of Group Banners; Puppets as well as Advanced Puppeteering; 2 categories of Scrapbook; then Bible Bowl -- written test high scores and oral rounds; Bible Reading (5 levels of Advanced for older students plus oral rounds for the younger children); 4 levels of merit in Centurion of Scriptures (memorizing 100 verses); 3 levels of achievement in Good Samaritan projects that are recognized; Debate for the older and eager achievers; 6 divisions of Mass Media - Editorials, Audio Presentations, Video Presentations, Storyline (Bible drama), Web Page, Group Web Page; Under Music Composition there are 7 categories in which students may enter their song writing entries; Prevent Disaster Posters and Written Tests; The Parade of Winners to recognize students who have read the entire Old or New Testament in a given year plus entered in at least two convention events; A special recognition to servant achievers called the Jonathan Bourland Award; a category of Bartimaeus events for those with learning or physical disabilities that make participation more difficult; Men's and Women's Song Leading divisions and Winners' Circle divisions; Men's and Women's Speech divisions and Winners' Circle divisions.
There will be somewhere above 9500 attending in Nashville and another 4000 in Atlanta the same weekend. We are thankful to have a first-time group of 52 attending. Some will go up on Thursday evening after school and work; others will come up on Friday after the younger school grades finish state-wide testing.
We will have a meeting of all students and adults attending convention, plus parents, to set up final travel arrangements and share needed information, trip guidelines, financial accounting, and many other pieces of important information.
..... Terry Broome
Convention Dates: April 8-11
Printed in the Broad Street Banner, Volume XIX, Number 10, March 10, 2004.
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It's an exciting time to be a part of the Broad Street congregation. With the emergence this year of our involvement with Lads to Leaders and Leaderettes training program, and with the unveiling this week of an all-new program of congregational development, we are being presented with a great opportunity to see the church grow. We hope to be able to meet the needs of each sector of this church family, and provide a base of work from which tremendous growth can result. No one should get lost in the "shuffle."
The Elders sponsored a retreat for Elders-Deacons-Preacher (the second annual) a couple of weeks ago which I believe has pumped new life into each of us. The spirit of that meeting was very encouraging, and supportive of the direction we are charting. Our deacons were able to evaluate things they've witnessed that meant a lot to them in the past year and to stress things they would like to see happen. It was a thrilling experience to hear them describe their reactions to the work our young adults are doing together; the many-faceted youth work; the friendliness and openness of the congregation to one another; and their own excitement about the forthcoming programs.
This congregation is full of workers. Our benevolent-clothing program (now relocated to the facility behind our youth center across the street) has involved a number of volunteers in hundreds of hours of hard work, and is fully functional once again. The pantry work is widely supported by families who bring bags of groceries to meet the needs of many Jackson County families weekly. Our card ministries are actually hard to keep up with, from Ladies classes, to Classics, to Elders' meetings, to private mailings by scores of Christians, we hear often of just how much these expressions mean to the recipients.
Our teachers are diligent in their efforts in regular Bible classes, Sunday night classes, Vacation Bible School, Lads to Leaders and Leaderettes. The congregation is offering a broad base of Biblical instruction. Our mission teams work often in preparation for campaigns in Belize and in Romania. A group will be leaving in just a couple of weeks for the next effort in Belize.
Can we do better? Of course we can. We should never be satisfied until every member of this congregation has been drawn by God's grace, your love, your teaching, and your visitation to be what Jesus would have us to be. We can improve in our attendance patterns, in our stewardship of material possessions, in saving the lost, in making everyone feel a part of the family. We can improve in the diligence with which family units support the youth program. We can improve in the area of hungering for knowledge of the Bible and dedication to being faithful to His Word. Our worship services are uplifting, but each one of us can get more out of them if we commit ourselves to putting more into the spiritual atmosphere of our worship.
We are family - The Family of God. We should never be satisfied until every family member knows they are loved and received and nurtured by the part that each one of us supplies to this relationship. Sunday is the "unveiling" of what we've been working on for months now. I look forward to seeing you then.
..... Terry Broome
Printed in the Broad Street Banner, Volume XIX, Number 11, March 17, 2004.
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Christianity is "Other-Person-Centered." We must always be searching for ways in which we can fulfill our "One Another" relationships. God's design that we be a family, members of a body, along with His many other images of what a church relationship is all about suggest to us that this work is most important and one we cannot afford to turn away from.
In John 13:34-35, Jesus suggests that our relationship to one another is a bold testimony of our discipleship: "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another." He's not here suggesting that the only thing required to become a disciple or to be one continuously is just love. That would exclude many other things He taught about each of these aspects of Christianity. He is, however, underscoring that the true strength of His newly established church (family) would be directly proportional to the way we can band together and the feelings that we can maintain for one another. This "oneness" would demonstrate to the world that we are followers of Jesus.
Dear friends, this involves so many day by day involvements that we are to maintain with one another. For example, we are to: "prefer one another" (Romans 12:10); "edify one another" (Romans 14:19); "be kind to one another" (Ephesians 4:32); "bear one another's burdens" (Galatians 6:2); "submit to one another" (Ephesians5:21); "comfort one another" (I Thess. 4:18); "be hospitable to one another without grumbling" (I Pet 4:9 NKJV); "forgive one another" (Col. 3:16); "fellowship one with another" (1 John 1:7); "pray for one another" (James 5:16); "have the same care for one another" (1 Cor 12:14). The list goes on in Scripture drawing us into a unit and a unity as the Family of God!
It's easy to love some who we've allowed ourselves to get to know better, and certainly it's easy to love those who love us back, but it's a bit harder to have this "same care for one another" if we haven't come to know them and find qualities most lovable. Also, as in any family, there are some who need special attention at special times so that they feel loved and secure. Good parents are particularly tuned in to this need and learn how to spend that one on one time with each child, and with each other. Such a tragedy it would be for one of our children to grow up and leave home feeling that they were never loved as the other children!
Just as we spend time insuring that this does not happen, even so God's family must take time for meeting these same kinds of needs. I'm sure there are many wonderful ways this can be done. At Broad Street through the years, a lot of love has been cultivated. Beginning April 4 we will be searching for new ways to express that love through the use of our Care Groups. Every member of this church is priceless to God, and must be to each one of us! Every member needs a support group to stay in tune with their hearts, their lives, their needs. Every member has a place.
..... Terry Broome
Printed in the Broad Street Banner, Volume XIX, Number 12, March 24, 2004.
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To too many people, prayer is saved primarily for use as one of the "acts" of worship and for special offerings before eating our food. Some fail to do either. Too long has skepticism clouded our faith in prayer. To the Christian, prayer must become far more a "way of life" than merely a step in satisfying a requirement of Christian worship. Robert Milligan wrote more than a century ago, "It is, therefore, a most benevolent and gracious provision of the Scheme of Redemption that God permits, invites, and encourages his children to pray; to pray always, to pray every-where, and for all things that are necessary to their present and eternal well-being." (The Scheme Of Redemption, p. 367).
I am so thankful that the Father of mercies has invited us to... "come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:16). Prayer should become to a faithful child of God a natural impulse, the most logical "first thing we think of in good times as well as in bad." When something exciting happens, many of us have a reaction, "I can't wait until I tell ...... about it." We generally thrill to share the good news with others, and in most cases we don't hesitate to share the heartaches as well. Our goal should be to develop the "habit of prayer" to the extent that we just can't wait to "tell God about it." Of course He already knows, but how does that detract from our desire or need to talk to Him about it. That's what prayer is for.
Our word "prayer" covers a wide spectrum of communications with God from petitions (requests or entreaties) supplications, intercession, to thanksgiving and praise. In humble prayer, the mind turns in upon itself and our conscience is awakened. We there see ourselves for all our inadequacies in light of Heaven. It might be easy to lie to others, but it's hard to lie when one is talking directly with God. In prayer one is able to be truthfully open up to God acknowledging our weaknesses, our needs, our hurts, our appreciation. In such a state of mind, we are compelled to be humble, to repent of our sins, to forgive our enemies, to sympathize with the afflicted, to adore our Creator, to love our redeemer (Milligan, p. 370).
Milligan suggests that "In no other religious exercise are we brought so near to God; in no other can he be so familiar with the Creator of our bodies and the Father and Preserver of our spirits (p. 371). As we become attached to those we associate muchly with, even so we grow attached to God through our frequent association with Him in prayer.
The disciples on one occasion asked the Lord to teach them to pray: "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" (Luke 11:1). We should spend time reading the prayers of Jesus, and men like Paul who fills much of his texts with his prayers for the brethren. The words are spiritual. They honor the Lord. They express the earnest feelings and needs in both their hearts. When Jesus gave the disciples a model prayer He did not give them a "ritual" that's to be repeated at special events or as a replacement to genuine heartfelt petitions. Rather, He shared with them ways in which God is appropriately honored, and in which needs of all kinds are expressed, for ourselves and for others. May prayer fill our hearts and our Spiritual service to God.
..... Terry Broome
Printed in the Broad Street Banner, Volume XIX, Number 13, March 31, 2004.
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This past week marked the beginning of our new congregational development program called Care Groups. Teams 1 and 2 were scheduled for this first week, each being made up of 27 families. Team 1 reported that at least 20 adults had come by for the brief "touching base" meeting Sunday morning after services. The program will proceed weekly with 2 teams each week who are to have some opportunity for fellowship, work assignments, and visitation efforts. There are 8 teams total involving 221 families. I want to encourage each of you to make the choice to participate. We're convinced that everyone needs to feel that they "belong" to the family and that they know they are loved.
A brief recap of our goals and objectives are:
1. Provide a base of fellowship and involvement where each family fits in a particular group and where they can identify themselves with specific Christians to form strong bonds within the church;
2. Provide a weekly accounting of all absentees broken down by Care Group Divisions;
3. Provide the structure for a two-fold visitation outreach: within the church, and non-Christians;
4. Minister to one another within our groups in cases of illness, death, spiritual weakness and special needs;
5. Monthly meetings for each group in homes or in the multi-purpose room, or some other meeting place chosen by the team for a variety of activity choices: meals, devotionals and prayer sessions, singing, study, planning sessions;
6. Promote involvement in special projects: field trips, picnics, special work projects, sports and family days, etc., card ministry, "brothers' keeper" outlook for one another;
7. Visit newcomers and prospects, set up studies as often as possible;
8. Strengthen every member by having others attending to their needs and giving them special attention;
9. Involve new converts and new members immediately.
There is something in the Care Group program for everyone. Not only will we all be on the receiving end of a great blessing in our mutual involvement, but we'll have the opportunity to be a blessing to others - some who may need our encouragement very badly.
..... Terry Broome
Printed in the Broad Street Banner, Volume XIX, Number 14, April 7, 2004.
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What a marvelous concept that a person can walk with God and be so blessed by God! Enoch, just 7 generations removed from Adam, must have been a marvelous personality to know because of His decision to live close to God and walk with God. The blessing he enjoyed of being taken by God, apparently without the death process, may not be one that you and I share identically with Enoch unless the Lord should return during our life span; but it serves as a reminder to us that God does take care of all those who make the right choice to walk with Him.
This theme will be carefully developed through 12 exciting weeks of our Wednesday Summer Series beginning June 9 and running through September 1. We'll trace our walk with God through the pages of the Bible as we examine: The marvelous Personality of God; His scheme for redeeming man. Then we'll turn to look at how walking with God helps us through the valley of despair, through divers temptations, and even through the valley of the shadow of death. We'll walk with Abraham through the eyes of faith who "Against hope believed in hope" (Romans 4:18) in God whom he could not see; and we'll share with Joseph the feeling we sometimes have of being the only one who chooses to walk with God. We will climax our journey through the eyes of Peter who through his walk with God was able to keep his sights set on eternity and "look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness" (II Peter 3:13).
When I was a young boy, I suppose most children knew one of the "big peoples'" songs better than most of the others because they sang it so boisterously as I recall. I can still envision little 5 year-olds singing it, almost off key, but so inspiringly. Our young people today may not know it quite as well as churches have a wider variety of songs and might sing that one less often. We should stay familiar with its message.
"Trust And Obey" When we walk with the Lord In the light of His Word, What a glory He sheds on our way! While we do His good will, He abides with us still, And with all who will trust and obey. Trust and obey, For there's no other way To be happy in Jesus, But to trust and obey.
..... Terry Broome
Printed in the Broad Street Banner, Volume XIX, Number 15, April 14, 2004.
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("And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him" Genesis 5:24)
June 9 - "Enoch Walked With God" (Gen 5: 24) - James Long, Lake Hills, Chattanooga, TN
June 16 - "Walking With God Through Trials and Tribulations" (I Peter 1:5-7; James 1:12) - Ken Tyler, Arab, AL
June 23 - "Walking With God Through His Eternal Purpose and Plan" (Eph. 3: 10) - Tim Rice, Gurley, AL
June 30 - "Walking With God In The Unity Of The Spirit" (Eph. 4:1-4) - Don Blackwell, Duluth, GA
July 7 - "Walking With God Through The Valley of Despair" (Job 1:20-21) - Forrest Chapman, Hiawassee, GA
July 14 - SINGING AND DEVOTIONAL NIGHT
July 21 - "Walking With God Through the Valley of the Shadow of Death" (Psalms 23:4) - Brian Jarrett, Jackson Heights, Florence AL
July 28 - "Walking With God When We Can't See The End of The Road" (Romans 4:18-24) - Billy Ringold, Clarksburg, TN
August 4 - "If We Walk With God, Who Can Be Against Us?" (Romans 8:31-39) - Dan Cottrell, Franklin, TN
August 11 - "Walking With God Even If No One Else Does" (Genesis 37:23-24) - Stan Dean, Killen, AL
August 18 - "Walking With God in My Love For The Brotherhood" (I Peter 2:17) - Bill Irby, Hobbs St., Athens, AL
August 25 - "Walking With God Through The Pages of The Bible" (Exodus 3:13,14) - Charles Curtis, Corinth, MS
September 1 - "Walking With God With Our Sights Set On Eternity" (I Pet. 1:3-5,9; 2 Pet.3:11-12) - Jerry Jenkins, Roebuck Parkway, Birmingham, AL
..... Terry Broome
Printed in the Broad Street Banner, Volume XIX, Number 17, April 28, 2004.
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When I was a very small boy, I think seven years old, I climbed a tree so high that I got scared and could not get down. I'm sure if I looked at that same tree today it would not have been so very tall at all, but to a seven-year-old everything seems bigger than life. I remember crying for my dad to come help me, which he always did when I called, and still does when any of his 5 children call. He instructed me to swing down on the branch and turn loose and he would catch me. Gulp!!! But with his reassurance that he could do it, I took the plunge. What a relief it was to feel those strong hands grab me and safely set me down on the ground. It was hard to turn loose, but letting go meant being rescued.
Another time I was at an old swimming hole which was reputed as "having no bottom." That's one of those descriptions that can't be true but surely adds a lot of excitement to meeting the challenge of swimming there. Only problem, I couldn't swim at seven years old. When I fell in over my head with eyes wide open I could see the nearly clear water all around me and fill myself sinking helplessly. I didn't have a clue how to begin my way back up. Still sinking, suddenly I felt something grab my floating hair and I began to rise. Dad had seen me go in and had come in behind me. I was lifted by his strong grasp right up to safety. Had I fought back and resisted, I might well not be here writing this thought today.
I've learned over and over in my few years that there are times when we simply have to turn loose and trust others. My natural instinct is to try and do it by myself. Years of experience tell me to turn loose, let go and let God take control of my life. Whether I'm in the face of conflict or fighting discouragement within, the Psalmist's words remind me to lean on the mighty hand of God. "Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance" (Psalms 42:5).
Psa 46:1-3, 9-11 "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. . . . .He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth; he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder; he burneth the chariot in the fire. Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth. The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah."
I find it impossible to sing hymns such as "How Great Thou Art," "My God And I," "Unto Thee O Lord," "As The Deer," "It Is Well With My Soul," without being stirred to a greater love and appreciation for a loving and Heavenly Father who will be there for me no matter what life serves. Friend, he'll be there for you to if you will commit your life to the Lord Jesus Christ. What a blessing you miss if you try to do it alone!
..... Terry Broome
Printed in the Broad Street Banner, Volume XIX, Number 19, May 13, 2004.
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Our members should know very well by now that our Vacation Bible School is set for June 21-25. We have great VBS at Broad Street. The reasons are many, but they all center around the workers and the message. A very talented crew puts together creative and exciting activities that involved over 200 people last year in the largest VBS anyone could remember here. We anticipate an even larger one this year and already have put out pre-registration forms for members and visitors alike. Be sure to get those turned in right away.
The Fall Festival and VBS Reunion on October 30 brings many of these same students and their parents back to the auditorium and multi-purpose room for just what the name suggests - a reunion of friends, songs and skits from VBS, and an evening of fun and games for the children to follow. Last year we capped it off on Sunday with our "Friends and Family Day" at worship services. This year something very special is in the making!
One Hundred and twenty years ago this year, back in 1884, James A. Harding (Co-Founder of Nashville Bible School which became David Lipscomb College) and J. W. Shepherd, Kentucky preacher and editor of several of the Gospel Advocate Commentary volumes, each came to Scottsboro to hold revivals in the establishing of a congregation of God's people in this city. We are the beneficiaries of the faith and vision of local residents who worked diligently to bring the Gospel to this city. Now, 120 years later, we want to pause and look back, but only that we might see more clearly from whence we have come and to affirm where we are going. THE PAST IS BUT PROLOGUE!
On Sunday morning following the VBS Reunion and Fall Festival, October 30 and 31 of this year, Lord willing we will celebrate the 120 years history of this great congregation. We are inviting all former members to join us that day for worship and a wonderful lunch to follow and a second service immediately to follow. To all our readers, if you were ever a part of this great work, or related to someone who was, or just a dear friend of the Broad Street family - even if you don't know us and just want to help celebrate a wonderful day - please mark your calendars and plan now to join us for The 120th Anniversary and Homecoming of Broad Street Church of Christ. We'd love to hear from you ahead of time. Your letters of memories and even photos from days gone by would be most helpful. Mark them carefully for identification purposes with name and address.
Another exciting event that requires some forethought and planning will be our "Marriage and Family" weekend with Donnie Hilliard of Faulkner University, and director of the Cloverdale Center For Family Strength. Please reserve the weekend of November 6 and 7 for Saturday morning and Sunday sessions that may change our lives for the better and for eternity. Lord willing, great things are in store as we move through 2004!
..... Terry Broome
Printed in the Broad Street Banner, Volume XIX, Number 21, May 26, 2004.
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The glory of the Gospel lies in Jesus Christ. He makes it a glorious Gospel! The glory of Jesus is the cross and the love that placed him there. He loved his disciples even to the end. This love was so thorough that the Son of God was willing to empty Himself of His former state of glory as Paul discusses in Philippians chapter two. It was also this love that gave Christ the ability to wash the disciples feet.
It seems that the more natural tendency in this life is to let other people take the initiative to serve us instead of our being the first to serve. Jesus was constantly teaching the disciples to be different from the world. He wanted these men to have the frame of mind that if something needs to be done, do it instead of waiting to see if someone else will take care of it. We must be self-starters and have a volunteer spirit. That coupled with a good dose of humility can make for a great servant of the Lord Jesus Christ.
In John Chapter 13 we read of the occasion of the band of disciples joining Jesus in the upper room to observe the Passover Feast in what we now call the Last Supper. Had they been in Peter's home there would have been no doubt as to who the host was, but on this occasion they were on neutral turf, Thirteen weary pilgrims made their way to this moment, twelve of whom had not learned yet that greatness comes from being willing to serve others. They had already squabbled a bit over who was the greatest in the Kingdom (Mark 9:33-34). They had proud minds, but still dirty feet. To them perhaps playing host and washing the other disciples' feet would declare them the least, and the others the greater. Perhaps they were merely thoughtless and didn't give the subject due consideration. The culture of the day sheds some doubt on that option, but it is possible. What we do know is that these twelve men were in the presence of the Lord Jesus, and not one of them took on himself the role of "servant."
We need to learn that Jesus wants a "servant" church more than a "success driven" church. "But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted" (Matthew 23:11-12). Jesus was not diminished in esteem by his willingness to wash feet. He actually demonstrated Himself the better man for it. The disciples would need this special quality if a "servant" church was going to succeed. We still need the very same mind of Christ (Philippians 2:5-9).
Oh, some of us serve all right, but we pick and choose who we will serve. Many times we will serve if we believe the ones we serve actually deserve it. Yet Jesus washed the feet of a man who would betray Him another who would deny Him. In fact, not one man in the group deserved to be served, but He washed their feet anyway. Our service to God will not always result in their serving God, but we serve because it brings glory to God. Sometimes it also causes some to turn from the world to serve God as well. Lord, make me a servant.
..... Terry Broome
Printed in the Broad Street Banner, Volume XIX, Number 22, June 2, 2004.
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We all recognize the need to pray to God, and to pray often. I hear some marvelous expressions of love for God and concern for our fellow man at our times of prayer in the worship hour and in special meetings. We pray fervently for our sick friends, for world peace, for safety, for our children, and so many wonderful things that we should pray about to our "giving" God. "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him" (James 1:5).
Please continue to pray for all these things, and consider adding these thoughts to your prayers. Ask God to Help Us. . . . :
1. Put the Fire Back in Our Souls: "Then I said, I will not make mention of him, nor speak any more in his name. But his word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay" (Jeremiah 20:9). As Christians we must create a desire and willingness to serve. God wants a serving and an evangelistic church.
2. Put Faith Back In Our Savior: "I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins" (John 8:24). We must not place our faith in our programs or one another, but in Christ. Programs fail; people let us down, but Christ will never fail us.
3. Put The Fault and Blame Back In Ourselves And Not In Excuses: "Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death" (James 1:13-15). Just like Adam of old it's easier to blame someone else instead of admitting our own weaknesses. Comedian Flip Wilson used to say, "The Devil made me do it." Remember though, I didn't have to let him.
4. Put The Fun Back Into Our Service: "Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice" (Philippians 4:4). Sharing the Lord and His message with others can bring great joy into our hearts. So can Christian fellowship. Unless you've tried it, you possibly can't imagine the joy you'll find in serving others and seeing the good it does in their lives.
These are merely illustrations of other things we might pray about which will broaden the scope of our praying and of our spirituality. We must remember, however, that God doesn't force these changes in our attitude upon us. We must be willing to allow such changes to take place. We must "grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (II Peter 3:18).
..... Terry Broome
Printed in the Broad Street Banner, Volume XIX, Number 23, June 9, 2004.
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The Lord planned that the spread of Christianity was to be done through teaching the Word and through living it that others might see. A major focus of the New Testament was on finding or creating an opportunity to tell others about Jesus and His saving grace. Along with this was the teaching that would help people to be more like Jesus in day to day experiences. We must find a way to show a new generation the importance of being like Jesus, loving like Jesus, living like Jesus.
Many opportunities are available for us to do just that. Certainly we must start with where we live and who we are. Our neighbors need to see in us a transformed life so that they can be drawn to want this way of living. Jesus instructed the disciples to let their lights shine so others could see their good works and glorify God. They need to see our choices of good over evil, righteousness over unrighteousness; and they need to see the consistency of our living so that our profession matches our conduct.
Then we must find ways of getting the message to a lost and dying world. Frankly, we're outnumbered, but so then was the Lord. We must be about our Father's business regardless of the odds. There are means the world has at its disposal we are not free to use. We are the church and as such we are not able to change our worship services into Rock concerts to draw a crowd. Worship is worship and not a performance. We are, however, blessed with the privilege to conduct many activities outside of worship in a Christ-like manner that can help draw others attention to seeking the Savior. Jesus did this himself, both out of compassion for the poor, and out of a desire to teach them a better way of life. He fed the masses so He could continue teaching and save the masses.
Vacation Bible School along with scores of other outreaches are means by which we attempt to awaken our friends around us to the need for a relationship with Jesus. Broad Street congregation has good VBS's. I cannot say enough for the volunteer spirit and second mile servant attitudes of scores of adults and teens who amass countless hundreds of man hours before VBS ever starts in preparing for the children. This results in good VBS's. So far this year we've had 188 on Monday, 219 on Tuesday, and 212 on Wednesday. Most of these numbers are children and teens. Much learning opportunity is going on. Dear Lord, please help us to follow up on these new opportunities and reach moms and dads as well with your precious Good News. Care Group leaders and team members roll up your sleeves. We have a work to do.
..... Terry Broome
Printed in the Broad Street Banner, Volume XIX, Number 25, June 23, 2004.
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We cannot deny that the rich natural resources of the land we are blessed with have helped to make America a great nation. The oil, the ore, the timber, the water, the soil and climate, all have combined to nourish a civilization that would eventually spread from "SEA TO SHINING SEA." It should not be thought, however, that it was merely natural surroundings that carved this great nation out of the rock quarry of time. Many nations have come and gone throughout the annals of history which had natural resource. Many still do, but fail to use them to come to greatness.
Some have said that America's people have made her great. Lyman Abott once said: "A nation is made great, not by its fruitful acres, but by the men who cultivate them: not by its great forests, but by the men who use them.... America was a great land when Columbus discovered it: Americans have made of it a great nation." And so they have! They have pioneered a continent, subdued the elements, and molded a nation out of people from all over the world. But can it be said that our people are just basically more resourceful than those of the rest of the world?
It would seem that the spirit of our people and our free enterprise system have combined to deliver a flood of massproduced goods to the consumer at relatively low cost. American economic genius has also helped to produce millions of jobs? Yet, history is demonstrating that other nations can be just as efficient.
Certainly America has proven to be a very generous nation. Our people have been able and willing to feed at least some of the hungry abroad, and continues to be one of the most generous nations in history. Through the decades she has opened her heart to the poor of the world. She has given generously to every nation, even her enemies, in time of emergency.
No, America did not just happen by chance. All of these blessings point back to her foundations, and to the providential hand of God. The great spiritual heritage that built America unfolded by remarkable design. So also did American democracy, the U.S. Constitution and, along with these, the great freedoms they ensure. In the words of Thomas Jefferson, "Can the liberties of a nation be secure, when we have removed the conviction that these liberties are the GIFT OF GOD?" America is great because God has blessed her to be great. As we celebrate Independence Day, we should soberly remember that the blessing of the Lord is not upon those who are workers of unrighteousness.
Our higher court system and their assumed power to legalize immorality through attempts to legalize samesex marriage and abortion at any stage coupled with a public craze for every sensual pleasure imaginable may prove to be our downfall. Join me and spend time this Fourth of July and every day praying for a return to the righteousness that exalts a nation, and for a turn from the sin that is a reproach to any people (Proverbs 14:34)
..... Terry Broome
Printed in the Broad Street Banner, Volume XIX, Number 26, June 30, 2004.
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This title was given to Jesus at birth, Luke 2:11 "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord." It's a title He shares with the Father who throughout the Old and New Testament is described as "Lord." Word searches produce some 7836 entries of this title, nearly all referring to Jehovah or Christ. That alone is overwhelming. The "lordship" of God the Father and His Son is a matter of great importance for us to recognize. In fact John in the Revelation (17:14) elevates Jesus eternally in our minds as "Lord of lords, and King of kings" - "These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful, "
We're acknowledging much about Christ when we declare that He is "the Lord." We're indicating that He has authority or power. The word Kurios, translated "lord," so signifies this from the Greek. The title was and is used in the common sense of one who is in an elevated position, and is a term used to show respect for that position. Sarah acknowledged Abraham in a very special way according to I Peter 3: 6, "Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord. whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement."
He is the one to whom many of us voluntarily surrender ourselves, and thus some refer to Jesus as "the Lord of my life." He must occupy this position for any who are in a rightful relationship with Him. Anything less would be too little. As one of our hymns declares, "Jesu's must be the Lord of all, Or He'll not be your Lord at all." Because of His Majesty and Oneness with God, there will come a time when all others who now resist Him as "Lord" will be compelled to surrender: "Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" (Phil 2:9-11).
There is so much about Jesus' personality, His nature, His compassion, His relationship to His body the church that draws us to want to bow and yield to His will. In John 20:28, Thomas did that which I believe most of us would do in His presence, "And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God." Will you allow Jesus to be the Lord to whom you surrender your life today?
..... Terry Broome
Printed in the Broad Street Banner, Volume XIX, Number 27, July 7, 2004.
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Just like Jimmy, a lot of people are hiding, not only from parents and police, but from God. And there is nothing funny about hiding from the ONE who loves us most and the ONE we need the most. Adam tried to hide from God in the Garden of Eden because he was ashamed of what he had done, and of the consequence of what he had done. Now Adam knew that he was naked so he hid himself. But friends, God cannot be hidden from. David said in Psa 139:7-17:
"Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me. If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me. Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee. For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother's womb. I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them. How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, 0 God! how great is the sum of them! "
Furthermore, We Should Not Want To Hide From God. Paul speaks of God who made the heavens and the earth, and declares "For in Him we live and move and have our being. " (Acts 17:28). In Psalms 63:1-7 David declares: ...0 God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is; To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary. Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name. My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips: When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches. Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice. "
..... Terry Broome
In spite of the discomforts, we must learn the joy of giving and ministering to others. We are to be a benevolent, caring, and compassionate people to the glory of God. We need to recognize the importance of showing the Christ-like quality of doing good deeds for others. Paul instructed young Timothy to charge the rich not to rely on their riches, nor to be highminded, but "...that they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate" (I Timothy 6:18).
The benevolent spirit begins with the Lord just as love does. John tells us that "We love because He first loved us" (1 John 4:10,11,19). Equally so, we are to give after the fashion of and in the same spirit of Christ who "went about doing good..."(Acts 10:38). He loved so much that he laid down his life for us (Romans 5:6-8). The nature of Jesus was to help the weak, the oppressed, the poor. We learn from him how to treat our fellow man.
We are touched by his compassion as evidenced in passages such as Matthew 9:36, "But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd." Matthew 14:14, "And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick."
The inspired apostle John instructs us in I John 3:16-18, "Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth."
I'm very thankful to be a part of a benevolent brotherhood. In recent years it has often been the case that our trucks filled with tons of food, water, clothing, and health items are among the first to roll into areas of devastation. I'm remembering the work done all the way back in the 60's when hurricanes Hilda and Betsy wiped out much of the Louisiana cost. I remember vividly the response to South Carolina and Miami-area needs after Hugo and Andrew demolished tens of thousands of acres of forests, business, and residential areas.
It was true in Poland over a decade ago when the Lord's church received official government recognition as our convoys of tractor trailers poured in the relief needed. Our people have been all over Central America following earthquakes, floods, and other natural disasters, and even some political disasters where people were left totally impoverished. Today we continue to send relief as special needs arise locally with food, clothing, and burn out relief, and we're actively involved in benevolent outreach to Romania and Belize.
The beauty of it all is that God receives the glory that He deserves when we reach out as a disciple in the name of the Lord, (see Matthew 5:16).
..... Terry Broome
On the other hand, we've had individuals respond to the Gospel invitation who have made the following explanation for their decision late in life to come to Jesus and change their life to live for Him: "I've been living in sin for thirty years and that's long enough." Indeed it is, and what a contrast in attitudes between one who seems so helpless to make a change in direction, and the one who sees a compulsion to give the rest of his life to the Lord.
The Apostle Peter and the Holy Spirit were convinced that it's not too late to make those needed changes in our lives. Satan would have us believe the lie that we're helpless victims of sinful habits. It doesn't have to be so:
I Peter 4:1-4 "Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries: Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you;"
It's true that peer pressure has a lot to do with our reluctance to change life-styles. Some refuse to become Christians because of their friends and the company they keep, or that they might have to quit keeping if they obey the Gospel. Others attempt to keep that same company after obeying the Gospel and are drawn away from the new found hope in Christ. Peter warned us that they might "think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot" and speak evil of you. Okay, so let's not make waves. Stay in the rut we've found ourselves in. No indeed! Peter says "For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles."
Admittedly it might take a tremendous amount of will-power to change masters of our life, but with God's help it can be done. His powerful and life-changing Word coupled with a desire in our hearts to make the change can result in being "crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me" (Galatians 2:20).
..... Terry Broome
It's an honor to be called upon to serve God's people in any capacity: Psalms 84:10 "For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness."
Peter actually treats ministering (from diakoneo) and stewarship (from oikonomos -- steward, servant, manager for someone else) as a gift: 1 Peter 4:10-11 "As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen."
The word "gift" "charisma" refers to special abilities we have spiritually by the grace of God, whether of non-miraculous qualifications or of the miraculous faculty. The context here is non miraculous as it is in Romans 12:6-8 "Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity (sincerity); he that ruleth, with diligence; he that showeth mercy, with cheerfulness."
One of the characteristics which every Christian should cultivate is that of spontaneous participation in some phases of the services in the kingdom of God. There is great joy in serving others, and honor is bestowed on certain individuals in the Bible who were servants: Matthew 4:11, "Ministering angels;" Matthew 8:15, Peter's mother-in-law; Matthew 20:28 concerning our Lord's ministry; John 12:2 of Martha's serving supper; Acts 6:2 of the Apostles not leaving the Word of God to serve tables so special servants were appointed; 1 Timothy 4:6, Timothy was to be a good "minister" of Christ.
We all have different abilities, talents, gifts from God that should be channeled to helping others. We sing: "Is your life a channel of blessing? Is the love of God flowing through you?" and we end it with the chorus: "Make me a channel of blessing today, Make me a channel of blessing, I pray. My life possessing; My service blessing; Make me a channel of blessing today."
..... Terry Broome
Religion is loosely defined as one's devotion to God or, for those in the world, to "gods." The expression of religion can be either vain or pure as per the teaching of James 1:26-27, "If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain. Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world."
From the text above, real religion is an applied religion. It takes on relevance to our manner of living and makes a difference in who we are. It takes much thought, feeling and prayer to attain to the level of pure religion described therein. Notice, however, that real religion isn't about goose pimples, tears, euphoria, but about relevant, practical issues (self-discipline, purity, and benevolence). One may feel many wonderful emotions as a result of a relevant religion for God equipped us with the ability to feel emotions, but emotional religion is not relevant if it is not transforming. Religion changes lives!
These verses would be similar in thought to the stirring reminder in 2 Timothy 3:1-5, "This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers . . . . Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away."
Furthermore, these practical or relevant changes in our lives, coupled with our expressions of devotion and praise in worship, are to be "before God and the Father" (James 1: 27). The fact that we do these things "before God and the Father," and do them from the heart and not as a mere ritual, separates such expressions from mere humanism where man is his own God, and the source of all that is good.
When Jesus becomes the focus of our lives our acts of worship take on relevance and significance to us, and our service becomes a natural outgrowth of this religion. Otherwise we make a mere ritual out of the observance instead of a truly religious expression of devotion to God. It is, however, a vain gesture if it doesn't transform; if it isn't relevant to where we live.
The Expression of Devotion Coupled with the Transformed Life, Makes Our Religion Relevant.
..... Terry Broome
Very few congregations with Restoration History background can lay claim to the experience we share at Broad Street this year - 120 years of continuous existence as a congregation. The weekend of October 30 and 31 have been designated as a time for special celebration of this history with our Saturday Fall VBS Reunion and Sunday Homecoming activities. To all of our members, former members, friends far and near we want to invite you to come share with us in a day of glorifying God for the great good He has brought upon us through out the entirety of this congregation's existence.
In preparation for this special occasion, we're interested in collecting as many of your anecdotes and favorite memories of days gone by; special photographs and news articles that could be placed on display. We'd like either copies of or donated originals to go in a permanent scrapbook of the church's history. And we need names and addresses of former members who've moved elsewhere. We want to reach them all and invite them back for the 120th Year Homecoming activities. Please see Ron Harville or Charlene Cobb or direct these to the church office.
The first congregation of the church was started in Scottsboro in 1884 by Dr. Jack Rorex, a dentist who was one of the earlier members of the Stevenson Church of Christ. Dr. Rorex made an appeal through the Gospel Advocate for a minister to come and conduct a gospel meeting. James A. Harding, co-founder of David Lipscomb College, answered the appeal; and in January of 1884, the first service was held. Eight to ten persons were baptized.
In the latter part of 1884, J. W. Sheppard, of Kentucky, conducted a second meeting. In 1886 the first building was erected just off the square on Peachtree Street. James A. Harding was the first minister. In 1950 a new building was erected on the corner of Broad and Charlotte. A minister's house was constructed adjacent to the building on Broad Street. In September of 1968, an annex was added. The minister's house, which was located beside the church building, was moved to the location at 406 East Charlotte Avenue to make room for the annex This house was sold in 2002. In April of 1979, the renovation of the building was completed. Expansion and improvement to our parking lot and accommodations for handicapped access and parking were part of the1994 remodeling.
1884!! That's the year the first sky-scraper in America was built in Chicago (10 stories tall); The first roller coaster was used (at Coney Island, NY); J. H. Kellogg patented flaked cereal; Grover Cleveland was elected President of the United States; the Washington Monument was completed; the Statue of Liberty was given to the United States by France; and Liberty in Christ began to be preached according to the New Testament pattern in Scottsboro, Alabama.
..... Terry Broome
On Sunday, August 29, our elders shared with the congregation during our morning service the plan of work for the Broad Street congregation that we are currently involved in. Communication with the church family is very important and I am so proud that our elders wanted to stand before the church and map out all the many works that we're involved in. Additionally, it's important for us as members to see that the money we give to the Lord is given through the church and the Elders are God's Stewards over these matters. Their role is one of serious responsibility in being managers over that which has been given to expand the work for the Lord. They do take that role seriously and I salute these men for being such good managers.
It bewilders me having worked for several congregations over these past 36 years, that our elders are able to accomplish as much as they do with the funds that are placed at their disposal by the church through the contribution. Some members made the comment that they didn't realize just how much it takes to run a congregation financially. These elders know how to get the greatest return on each dollar we give.
Over the past two years we've seen our offerings increase consistently by some $600 per week. We've also seen our commitments to the support of missions, benevolence, local outreaches increase at a much greater pace than this. To our surprise, we've learned that we are actually expending $6,475 per week in such great works. All along the church has been maintaining right at $5,500 per week in offerings. Obviously, these works need to go on, and obviously they cannot if we do not rise up to this new level of giving we've been challenged to consider.
At this point I struggle to be sure that our teaching concerning stewardship is with the right focus. We are not in the fund raising business. Giving was never intended to be about goals and budgets. It was designed by God as an expression of our love to Him - as an expression of worship! 2 Corinthians 8:7-8 - "Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also. I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love." Please note that the context of this and the next chapter that follows was that of giving liberally as one purposes in their heart unto the Lord.
I say this to point out that any eldership has a stewardship over that which is committed to their trust. They must answer to God as good stewards who are required to be faithful. They can only manage that which is entrusted to them. If we don't give it they can't manage it. On the other hand, we as individuals have control over that which God has given us to determine what we will do for the Lord. This too is a stewardship. We are caretakers of God's many gifts toward us individually. The elders can run a church on $5,000 per week or on $30,000 per week. It's our love for God and our stewardship over what He's given us that should cause us to be liberal, generous, and to give to God out of a heart overflowing with love and gratitude. The joy of the gift is magnified when we then are able to see the wonderful fruits of that gift in the combined efforts of evangelism, benevolence, education, edification, that the elders apply these gifts towards. I know the church will rise up to this need and surpass it as we examine our hearts, and the blessings God has bestowed upon us. See you in worship this Lord's Day!!!
..... Terry Broome
We are so happy to announce a two-day seminar at Broad Street exactly one week after our 120th Anniversary Homecoming services on the theme of "Marriage and Family." Mark these dates: November 6 and 7 for 5 sessions with Dr. Donnie Hilliard of Montgomery, Alabama.
Dr. Hilliard is Head of the Department of Family Studies at Faulkner University in Montgomery, AL, and has served for the past several years as one of the ministers for the University Church of Christ in Montgomery. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, he is the Director of Cloverdale Center for Family Strengths at the university, Co-founder of the Youth Workers Enrichment Conference and Editor of "Our Families" magazine.
He and Dr. Nick Stinnett and Nancy Stinnett, co-authored the book and accompanying study guide entitled Magnificent Marriage. This text is being widely used within congregations as a part of their teenage and adult curriculum. In this work the authors reveal the results of a 25-year study identifying six characteristics common to every happy marriage. Dr. Hilliard will share these results during our two-day seminar.
Additionally he has written numerous publications including "Preventing Marriage Problems," "Training the Home Team," "Qualities of Successful Father/Child Relationships," and "Creating A Family Legacy."
Hilliard married the former Sherry McFarlin in 1979. They have 2 children, David Ray, and Sarah Ann. Dr. Hilliard will speak at three sessions at Broad Street on Saturday, November 6, and at the Bible Study and Worship hours on Sunday the 7th. Please reserve this weekend to be a part of a special series at Broad Street.
| Saturday, November 6: | 9:00 - 9:30 | Registration and Refreshments |
| 9:30 - 10:15 | "God's Blueprint for the Home" | |
| 10:20 - 11:05 | "Making Your Marriage Magnificent" | |
| 11:10 - 12:00 | "How To Affair-Proof Your Marriage" | |
| Sunday, November 7: | 9:00 - 9:45 | "Preparation For Marriage" (Combined Bible class for adults and teens) |
| 10:00 a. m. | "Getting My Family To Heaven" |
..... Terry Broome
I continue to be in shock and horror as I read reports from around the country as to the changes that are underway within congregations of the Lord's church. There are disturbing trends within the church to discount sacred Truths as "mere tradition," and to conform to the mind sets of a secular world. The secular world has influenced many preachers, elders, and churches to redefine concepts for which we do not have a right to redefine.
I have watched the "women's movement" within the church for many years with some concern as I learned of more and more women asserting their "rights" of equality in leadership in the church. We hear of more and more congregations that are adopting a policy that the ladies can take every leading role in the church short of the pulpit and the eldership. These will no doubt be next! Just this week I've read of one minister's wife in a congregation that calls itself a church of Christ in a northern state who shares the pulpit responsibilities with her husband and is on staff.
It would be tragic for us to sit on the sidelines and say nothing about this departure from the Biblical pattern. Our young adults and boys and girls must be taught so they not fall into these traps. Inspired writers made it very clear that the role of men and women in the church was different, as in fact it was to be in the home (Eph. 5:23-25). This is not chauvinism or an "iddish" for male superiority, but merely a desire to honor God's Word.
Years passing, culture changes, and human desires do not explain away the Apostle Paul's writings, as well as those of Peter concerning the God defined role differences. Paul instructs in I Timothy 2:8-15 - "I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works. Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. For Adam was first formed, then Eve. And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression. Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety."
Some have written Paul's words off as tied to a culture of the day and thus they believe the ban in I Corinthians 14:34-35 was lifted when cultural changes made it possible. "Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church." Significantly, Paul doesn't tie his discussion in I Timothy 2:8-15 to culture, but to creation, and to the Will of God.
Peter's comments in I Peter 3:1-8 are likewise not set in First Century culture, but in ageless relationships that were illustrated by Sarah's respect for her husband Abraham.
For centuries, God's Truths have stood out as distinctive and Different from the world view on all spiritual matters. We must be diligent students of the Bible, and we must make certain that we do not allow these changing times to pressure us into assuming that the DIFFERENCE doesn't make any DIFFERENCE any more. Our interest in doing what God authorizes may set us apart from other religions. It certainly will set us apart from the world. And now it seems that it will set us apart from some even from among our own selves who are bent on changing the structure of the church and the method of interpreting the Bible.
..... Terry Broome
Contrary to what some have thought, there is a real hunger and appreciation today for "the old paths." I received a refreshing email from a friend who had read a recent article I wrote in which we discussed religious changes and affirmed that these "differences really make a difference" if they alter what God had to say on a particular matter. My friend grasped the significance of having Bible authority for what we do and honoring that authority once we have it. The comment made to me was, "One day I would like to be a part of a congregation that holds firm to this belief. . . Continuing to do what God authorizes will set you apart from other religions. And it is good. Too many religions have conformed to the ways of the world." My friend is not a member of the Church of Christ as we know it, but her spirit is precisely the spirit that drives us to "search the scriptures" as did the Bereans of Acts 17:11. It is the spirit that the prophets signified that God's people must have.
Jeremiah called upon Judah and Jerusalem with this same spirit in Jeremiah 6:16, "Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein."
Distinctive doctrinal sermons, based on informed Biblical studies, and presented plainly in a loving spirit (Eph. 4:15) provoke widespread interest. Young people are often the first ones who manifest zeal and excitement at such preaching. Many of them want to know how to discuss Bible questions with their friends. Quite often in Bible classes they are eager to know why things are done the way we do them, and if this is what the Bible really teaches. Many of them can offer Biblical reasons for the "oneness" of the Lord's church.
Studies have shown for several years that growing churches are those which take a strong doctrinal stance. The old-line liberal denominations which refuse to take a strong stand on issues have been losing membership for some time. Why should we repeat their failures? I am often amazed at how boldly some television evangelists proclaim their messages without fear of "running people off" who might disagree with them. I'm afraid that more and more of our preachers have their hands tied from fear of displeasing the crowd. Sarcasm and a bitter spirit have no place in the pulpit, but loving, strong affirmations of what the Lord requires of us are a "must." Paul admonished Timothy: "Preach the word" (II Tim. 4:2). He proceeds to warn Timothy of those who would not "endure the sound doctrine."
The prophet Jeremiah noted that "the prophets prophesy falsely," but he said the real tragedy was that "my people love to have it so" (Jeremiah 5:31). Isaiah was sent to a rebellious people whose plaintive plea was: "Prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits" (Isaiah 30:10).
The warnings of the apostle to the Galatians cannot be overlooked. He said, "But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed" (Galatians 1:8). Let us return to an emphasis upon a "thus saith the Lord." May the word of God ring out from the pulpits and classrooms of every congregation. If we stand for God's Truths and know that for which we stand, we may thereby be "rooted and grounded in love," and we will be no longer "children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;" (Ephesians 3:17; 4:14). Our feet will be planted upon the solid rock of God's Sacred Truths.
..... Terry Broome
It's a simple word but a very encompassing thought arrives from it. "Hope." Years ago I learned a big difference exists between "just wishing" and "real hope." I used to wish I would get all sorts of expensive things for Christmas, but I knew there wasn't much reason to hope for those things as they were out of my family's financial reach. Kids still do that don't they? In spite of our spending more on Christmas than we ever imagined we would, we still can't produce everything on the "wish list." Hope gets us down to reality where we have some strong and reasonable expectation of receiving a thing.
That, my friends, is what is so wonderful about the religion of the New Testament. It overflows with the abundance of hope. God's message to mankind is that there are realities just beyond the vale of death that we are entitled by His grace to hope for. Even in this life there are things we can hope for which those outside of Christ have no more than just wishful thinking about. Like a little street urchin, they can see through the glass a family gathered at the table feasting on food and love for each other. Yet the urchin has no hope of sharing in that joy, unless!!! Unless the parents within that home reach out and make that child a part of the family! And that is what God has done for those of us who are in Christ Jesus.
You see, being a child of God makes one an heir. As an heir, the benefits of sonship are real and present. Those who are not children of God can wish that their name would appear on the family roster all they want, but wishing doesn't make it so. The marvel is that they have not been abandoned in this state of hopelessness and wishful thinking. God has given them a reason for hope and it is that they can be born into the family of God and immediately receive the birthright.
There was a people at another time who had no hope. They were the Gentiles to whom God had not given the opportunity to be in His family (Ephesians 2:12). In that state we are told that they were "without hope." The text continues, however, "But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ" (Eph. 2:13). God brought them in - included them.
This marvelous truth makes becoming a Christian the most meaningful transition we'll make in this life - from death to life; darkness to light; despair to hope!! The realization of this hope makes all the difference in the world in the choices we make. "Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure" (I John 3:2-3).
We must call upon all our friends and all those we don't even know, and share with them the words of hope that in Christ Jesus we can have everlasting life. I call upon you who may be outside this family of God of which I speak. Jesus said," Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God" (John 3:3). "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned" (Mark 16:16).
..... Terry Broome
I am so thankful this morning that enough people opened their eyes and saw and didn't like what was going on in the values and social-moral areas of American life. There were many areas of concern in the Presidential election from national security and the fight against terrorism, to the economy. Certainly those issues are large, and certainly they rightfully affected many voters. But there was an element within this election that needed talking about, and the people have spoken. They are not ready to give up on America, and many do understand that personal righteousness is essential to securing the favor of a righteous God. According to surveys, moral values played a significant role in the outcome of the election. They need to play a more significant role in the shaping of our nation's future.
We praise God today that He has heard our cry for help. I was so thankful that so many states voted resoundingly to define marriage as God authored it from the beginning. The gay-marriage advocates suffered a significant blow in the states being asked to vote on the marriage issue. The mandate was clear. Marriage is what God designed it to be. Perversions of the marriage law must not be forced upon us by liberal judges who disregard the will of the people and who disregard the sacred concept of marriage as defined by God. The battle is far from over, and Christians must be emboldened to speak out on such moral issues. We must not stand idly by while a liberal court or a liberal segment of society trashes the sacred landmarks.
We are a nation that slaughters babies by the millions because a humanistic society and a liberal court thinks that a woman's right of choice outweighs the sacredness of fetal life itself. The woman who is not raped exercised her choice when she chose the road that led to conception in the first place. To justify wholesale abortion merely because there are special cases involving rape, incest, and life threatening pregnancies is a stigma to our society. While some special circumstances deserve to be dealt with, they should be dealt with separately from a wholesale license to use abortion as a birth control alternative.
We do not need leadership in our country that cannot be exemplary as role models of the very highest of values. When the U. S. News and World Report indicated that alcohol and mixed drinks would be brought back into the White House if one of the candidates won the election, my heart was heavy. It was sad enough watching the news report of his drinking beer and watching a baseball game. While drinking alcoholic beverages is accepted by a large segment of our society, it does not reflect the values that role model leadership should demonstrate.
It's time for God's people to turn back to prayer and to personal righteousness ourselves as a means of shaping the future for our boys and girls. We need God's blessing in this great undertaking, and thus we must pray, pray often, pray fervently. Then we must consistently live the kind of life we pray about. The church, the country, the home, all will be strengthened by restoring righteousness to the land.
..... Terry Broome
It's time to get registration forms filled out so we can complete registration on the L/L web site for the 2005 Convention. As in the past, we are in need of plenty of adult participation both as coaches, chaperones, and event judges. Adults please check that you are using the form marked for adults, and be sure to indicate areas you will help with for judging events.
Students also check that you have the right form, and mark the events you will participate in. Last year we went as observers, but now that we actually have the program in motion, I want to encourage each one of you to enter at least one event. All of you who are 6th grade and under can easily do the Bible Reading. Advanced Bible Reading takes longer and since the deadline is January 10, it would be an event you should plan to start soon after the March Convention preparing for the 2006 Convention. The same is true for Mass Media events. Of course there are many other events to choose from as well.
Our Bible Bowl teams have already been studying, and the scrapbook crew members are getting organized. We will offer coaching help to prepare our students to do their very best in categories such as speech, song leading, Bible reading, puppets. If any of you want to study the book and take the Prevent Disaster test I will need to get you a manual right away as the test will be between January 26 and February 7, as is the Bible Bowl written exam.
Registration Forms Are Due Back To Jim or Terry By November 28.
National Convention Dates: March 25 - 27, 2005
Yes, that is Easter Weekend, but activities are over very early that Sunday morning and one can arrive back in Scottsboro easily by 1:00 P. M. For those who need to be back sooner, I will be returning in time for our morning worship service here. The convention has been on Easter weekend since it's beginning and families have made the adjustment. I hope our families will begin to include this as a regular part of your family tradition.
2005 CONVENTION THEME:
MARK16:15, "...GO INTO ALL THE WORLD AND PREACH THE GOSPEL TO ALL CREATION."
BIBLE BOWL BOOK: "MARK"
DEADLINES FOR PRE-CONVENTION EVENTS: JANUARY 10, 2005
TESTING DATES FOR BIBLE BOWL AND PREVENT DISASTER WRITTEN: JANUARY 26 - FEBRUARY 7, 2005.
..... Terry Broome
The Thanksgiving table was set. The turkey was a golden brown. Dressing and gravy, cranberry sauce, creamed corn, and all the traditional trimmings were set before the unlikely guests for this Thanksgiving meal. They were all residents of a boarding house, and none of them was there with a family member. This year they would be observing Thanksgiving without their children or grandchildren. In fact it had been this way for most of them for several years now.
The small band of residents joined hands and before they prayed each described a special reason to be thankful. One thanked God for each friend who shared the boarding house with him. One thanked God for the special gift of Jesus Christ. Each one offered a reason to be thankful, including the elderly lady who expressed her gratitude for two perfectly good teeth, one in her upper jaw and the other in perfect alignment on the lower jaw. She was so grateful they matched so she could chew that delicious turkey.
It was while he was in Prison that the Apostle Paul taught and wrote one of the most powerful texts in the Scriptures regarding the thankful spirit: Philippians 4:4-9 "Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you."
It's difficult to be thankful "in" everything because some of our "life situations" cloud out our memories of reasons to still be thankful. Certainly one is not being commanded to be thankful for everything that occurs in life, but rather to have a thankful spirit even in the worse of situations. There are still other things one can find to be thankful for.
These tenants in the boarding house no longer had family and no doubt longed for the days when they felt the warmth and comfort of family love. Their circumstance was at best lonely, yet they each took time to focus on a reason for rejoicing and thanksgiving.
I could learn from these folks, and I must learn from the Apostle Paul. Life doesn't always serve what we think we deserve. May we have the help of God and of one another this Thanksgiving season to adopt the attitude of gratitude. Take the time to tell others around you of things in your life you are grateful for. Most of all, take time to tell God in prayer. "Father, in Heaven, we have so much from your hands of which we are not deserving. You have been so good to us. Help us to share your goodness with one another." May you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving season, and may we all learn to be more appreciative day by day.
..... Terry Broome
Printed in the Broad Street Banner, Volume XIX, Number 47, November 23, 2004.
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