“I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called (Eph. 4:1).Never forget, God knew you when He called you. I think He sees things in us that we ourselves have never noticed. How many have said, “Lord, I can’t…”? “Oh, sorry,” the Lord says, “I must have made a mistake.”
Gideon is a good example of many of those whom God has called into ministry. While many lack modern levels of spiritual education, aside from a lifelong course in the school of hard knocks, perhaps having been called into the ministry later in life, they find themselves striving to be discerning when it comes to the truths of Scripture. I believe that God’s Word is written in a form that can be understood by anyone who seeks to know the truth. Once, while taking a course at Central Baptist College under the late James Coker, he began speaking in a language he said was typical in a master’s or doctoral classroom. But he said, “What good would it do you if I were to teach or preach in that fashion?”
I had a man tell me he was on a search committee at his church, and they were asking for resumes. I asked what the committee was looking for. Well, he mentioned several things, but one was that they must have a degree. After all, he said, we members paid the price and we expect our pastor to do so. Most have no idea what a tremendous investment a minister makes. Without a doubt, training of any kind helps an individual in their day-to-day walk with God, but except the Spirit be present, little will come of it.
In the early church, Paul was educated — Peter was not, yet they both were powerful servants of Christ. Most desire a formal education for personal growth and knowledge, which is honorable. To be the best they can be for Christ and His church. What I want us to be careful about is not to judge a book by its cover. The Apostle Paul, while being intellectual, gave this answer: “For I determined not to know anything among you, save Jesus Christ, and Him crucified” (I Cor. 2:2).
To all who have felt the call of God on your life to preach the gospel, begin serving Him where you are. Gain knowledge whenever possible, but be ready at all times, both in season and out of season. In other words, don’t let the standards of this world dictate your actions. “By searching the scriptures, for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me” (John 5:39). We can attempt to be true to His calling. “And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power” (I Cor. 2:4). May we long for the approval of God and not that of men.
From Our Missionaries
Ebenezer, West Little Rock: Ruben Isturiz writes, “I want to share a quick summary of our recent Thanksgiving Service at Ebenezer this past Sunday. It was a truly uplifting service, full of singing, testimonies of gratitude and a powerful message based on God’s Word that challenged us to seek contentment in all circumstances.
“After the service, we enjoyed a traditional seasonal meal and had excellent attendance, including several visitors. We planned this event in advance of the holiday because, based on previous experience, many of our parishioners often travel around the official Thanksgiving date. As Thanksgiving approaches, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to God for the support and prayers of every church that backs us in our missionary work. I would especially like to thank our mother church, Chenal Valley Baptist Church in Little Rock, for always maintaining a relationship of love and mutual respect. Above all, we give thanks to God, who continually adds to the church. To God be the glory!”
Faith Chapel, Flippin: Johnny Shew writes, “We had a great week at Faith Chapel! Our numbers were back up a little, with several returning visitors, and we had a great time of worship!
“The weather this past week has been absolutely beautiful. We have been busy painting in the classroom addition. It is coming along great, and we are a little over halfway done. The floor contractor is scheduled next, followed by the cabinet installation, plumbing fixtures and then doors and trim. In other words, all we lack is finishing up! Praise God! This has been a long and amazing process, and we couldn’t have done it without all your help! Many have contributed in so many ways. We thank you for your support and prayers.”
Faith Journey, Benton: Bryan Clay writes, “As we enter this season of Thanksgiving, we want to express our gratitude to all our statewide BMA churches and to the BMA Missions Office for your support, encouragement and faithful prayers. Your partnership strengthens every missionary and mission work across our state, and it is a true blessing to know that we are surrounded by such a loving and committed family of believers.
“Our attendance continues to be strong, and we are excited to see several new guests returning week after week. Many have been staying after services to fellowship, visit, and build relationships. It is a joy to watch God grow His church—not only in numbers, but also in the depth of its relationships. We are seeing God work in families right before our eyes.
“Our Faith Journey family remains committed to putting our faith into action throughout the community. This week, I had a conversation with a local city representative about practical ways we can serve and get involved in meeting real needs in our area. We are eager for these opportunities and continue being a light for Christ in our city and surrounding areas.”
Misión Gracia Soberana (Sovereign Grace), NWA:Roberto Marcelletti writes, “Greetings, sisters and brothers in Christ. The program ‘A Hand for Christmas’ was a success. On Monday, we met to decorate our church for the season. On Monday, Wednesday and Saturday morning, we had a Colombian breakfast made by my wife, a delicious cup of chocolate with bread, to continue decorating the sanctuary and our fellowship room. On Sunday, after the service, we continued the decoration.
“We held our usual small group in Rogers, where a new couple who joined our church a month ago, Juan Pablo and Claudia, shared their desire to begin discipleship. They are also excited to start a new small group in Bentonville, which would be our third group, alongside those in Springdale and Rogers.
“I ask you to continue to pray for the formation of teachers and leaders for our church.”
Epic Life, Pea Ridge: Jake McCandless writes, “Synergy! That’s what multiple groups on a mission can do. The energy of one group revitalizes the other. It’s the same principle that makes church planting so important. We saw it this week. The launch of our Bella Vista group ignited something. We had one of our best weeks in total group attendance. Woodbridge was busting at the seams and nearly went all night! For the second consecutive week, the Bella Vista group had a first-time visitor. We had our collective gathering this week in Room 161 and have another planned for next Sunday.
