en Passion Driven...Purpose Defined...People Directed! http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com © Copyright 2000 - 2009Church Community Builder. All Rights Reserved. http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9&article_id=20 gabcjustin@att.net A graduate of Atlanta Christian College, Justin holds his degree in Philosophy of Music Ministry with a minor in piano performance. In addition to his fourteen years of full time ministry, Justin also is in high demand as a studio musician and a session player throughout the southeast United States. Justin has recorded, produced, or performed with a number of musicians including Jim Cole, Allen Levi, Casting Crowns, and Candi Pearson-Shelton. He is also known for his ability to produce, play, and arrange for many different types of instruments. Justin's passion is to teach people how to creatively worship God with their whole life and being. He is happily and gratefully married to Jenna. Mon, 5 Jan 2009 14:39:11 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9&article_id=587 gabcdaniel@att.net Daniel experienced the call of God on his life to work, reach, and disciple children while on a missions trip in high school. After completing high school he went on to fulfill the call God placed on his life by attending Southeastern University. While preparing for ministry at Southeastern, Daniel had the opportunity to serve in several great churches in the Lakeland, FL area. After college Daniel returned home to serve God at a church plant in Phenix City. Daniel is married to the former Abby Wells and they have three girls Mayson, Micah, and Colby. Abby adds a lot not only to Daniel's personal life but also to his ministry. Abby is a 2nd grade teacher and gives Daniel insight in all areas within the Children's Ministry at Golden Acres. Daniel recently graduated with a Master's Degree in Organizational Leadership from Beacon University. Daniel believes God has called him to reach lost children and teach them how to be life long followers of God. Mon, 5 Jan 2009 14:10:43 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=25 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=25&article_id=31 9:00 AM Bible Fellowship GroupsAdult 1 - Koinonia - Adults (20's & 30's) LifeBibleStudy - Brad Newman - Annex BAdult 4 - FONDUE - Young Couples LifeBibleStudy - Josh Laney- Youth RoomAdult 5 - Military Families - Couples, Spouses, and Singles - all ages LifeBibleStudy - David and Melissa Boyer - Room 208 - begins 2/1/09Adult 6 - Senior Adults (50's, 60's, & 70's) Quarterly Lifeway Curriculum - Linda Griffin - Room 114Adult 12 - POTLUCK - Adults All Ages LifeBibleStudy - Steve Kash - Annex A Adult 13 - JOY Class - Special Needs Adults - Sylvia Frith - Room 206Adult 18 - Newlyweds - Young and Middle Aged Adults - Flint and Lee Sharpe - Room 115Adult 19 - College & Career - Craig and Jennifer Howard - Annex C Youth - Co-ed Youth Bible Study (grades 7 & 8) - Jonathan Taylor - Room 214Youth - Co-ed Youth Bible Study (grades 9 -12) - Jessica Taylor - Annex D 10:30 AM Bible Fellowship GroupsAdult 3 - ALIVE - Adults All Ages (mostly 30's & 40's) Quarterly Lifeway Curriculum - Terry Oakes - Annex BAdult 7 -Senior Adults Quarterly Lifeway Curriculum - John Riddle - Annex AAdult 8 - Senior Adults Quarterly Lifeway Curriculum - Dean Oakes - Room 218/219Adult 9 - Senior Adults Quarterly Lifeway Curriculum - W.H. Thompson - Room 114Adult 11 - Senior Adult Women Quarterly Lifeway Curriculum - Judy Woods - Room 115Adult 16 - Young Adults (Mid 20's & 30's) LifeBibleStudy - Rob Bankston - Annex D Mon, 5 Jan 2009 13:47:23 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=721 Be Magnified - click to download Mon, 5 Jan 2009 11:25:59 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=559 Mon, 5 Jan 2009 11:14:14 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=688 Hear past messages via podcast. Click here for corresponding sermon notesClick here for sermon podcasts Mon, 5 Jan 2009 11:13:09 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=157 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=157&article_id=359 SHEPHERD PASTOR WELCOME & FELLOWSHIP - Please join us in the Gym for a dessert and coffee fellowship immediately after the 6 PM service on Sunday, January 4th where you can meet and welcome our new Shepherd Pastor, Gary Millraney and his wife, Niki and their two daughters, Lindsey and Anna Kate. As the Shepherd Pastor, Gary will be responsible for planning, coordinating, directing and evaluating the counseling responsibilities and counseling education ministry of the church. We are asking everyone who plans to attend to bring their favorite dessert to the gym before church to share with everyone at the fellowship. BUSINESS MEETING - We will have a Business Meeting on Sunday, January 4th after the 6 PM service to vote on our proposed budget for 2009. NEW MEMBER CLASS & LUNCHEON - If you recently joined Golden Acres or are considering joining, we ask that you attend a 1 ½ hour New Membership Class & Luncheon. Our next class will be Sunday, January 11th immediately after the 10:30 AM service. You may RSVP for the class by signing up on our website at www.gabc-pc.org, by calling the church office at 298-3381, or by signing up at the Sign-Up Center in the hallway by Wednesday, January 7th. UPCOMING MEN'S EVENTS: • NEW MEN'S GAU CLASS - "The Man I Want To Be" by Neal Jeffrey - beginning Sunday, January 25th in Annex D at 5 PM - led by David Boyer - If you are interested in this class, please sign up at the Sign-Up Center in the hallway. For more info. contact David Boyer at 804-731-9615. • MEN'S CONFERENCE - 17th Annual Men's Conference, "Temptation Island" with Pastor Johnny Hunt at Woodstock Baptist Church, Woodstock, GA - February 6th-7th - 3 powerful messages from Pastor Hunt and sessions covering topics on leadership, marriage, discipleship, parenting, and many others. If you would like to attend this event, please sign up at the Sign-Up Center in the hallway. Cost is $55.00 for hotel payable to GABC. Please turn in to David Boyer no later than January 25th. Please register online for the conference and the steak dinner (sign-up for the 5:15 PM dinner) at www.johnnyhuntmensconferences.com. For more info. contact David Boyer at 804-731-9615. "CREATION vs. EVOLUTION" - 2-Day CONFERENCE with Dr. Ricky Cummings - Sunday, January 11th from 5-7 PM and Monday, January 12th from 6-8 PM. "What If" and "10 Out of 10 Die" EVANGELISTIC TRACTS - We now have evangelistic tracts available for you to purchase at the Welcome Center for $5.00 per pack of 100. These tracts are personalized with Golden Acres phone # and website. "LADIES TUESDAY MORNING BIBLE STUDY - "Epicenter" by Joel Rosenberg - begins Tuesday, January 6th from 9:30-11:30 AM in Annex A - Ladies, don't miss this 16-week study on end times prophecy. For more info. contact Melanie Johnson at 334-297-0087. "BRING IT HOME 2009" FATHER/SON BASEBALL CAMP - Glenwood School - January 10th - $10.00 per person - Cost includes camp, t-shirt and lunch. Please go to our website at www.gabc-pc.org for registration and details. JOINT EVENING WORSHIP SERVICE - with Golden Acres, Lakewood, and Summerville Baptist Churches on January 18th at 6 PM at Lakewood Baptist. We will not have our regular activities at Golden Acres on this day. SUNDAY SCHOOL CONFERENCE - All BFG leaders are encouraged to attend a Sunday School Conference at Lakewood Baptist Church on Friday, January 23rd from 6:30-9:00 PM and Saturday, January 24th from 8:30 AM-12:00 noon. This includes all adult and children's teachers. The speaker will be Allan Taylor, Sr. Education Pastor of First Baptist Church, Woodstock, GA. The cost of $10.00 per person will be covered by Golden Acres if you sign up by Sunday, January 18th. Light refreshments will be served. Please sign up at the Sign-Up Center in the hallway if you will be attending. "CLERGY COLLAR" COMEDY TOUR - with Lee McBride and Joe Phillips - Saturday, January 24th at 7 PM - Golden Acres Baptist Church - Free admission - Love offering taken in support of Golden Acres Baptist Church Africa Mission trip. Free childcare for 7 yrs. and under. YOUTH WINTER RETREAT - Youth or parents of youth, please see Jonathan for Information Packets concerning Winter Retreat. LADIES' AEROBICS CLASS - on Monday and Wednesday mornings in the Gym from 9:30-10:30 AM. The class is $2.00 per class per person. Childcare is provided. GRIEFSHARE is a special weekly seminar and support group for people who are grieving the death of someone close to them. Golden Acres is offering GriefShare on Wednesday evenings from 6:15-7:30 in Room 218/219. The class is being led by Emily and Chris Field. UPWARD DEVOTIONS - If you would be interested in doing a devotion at halftime of any UPWARD games, please contact Craig Howard at 706-329-7190 or craighoward@ctvea.net . Devotions could include a simple 5-6 minute devotion, a testimony, a Bible story, or a breakdown of a passage of Scripture. This would be done in front of the parents and spectators in the Gym. DIVORCE CARE - DivorceCare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk along side of you through one of life's most difficult experiences. Don't go through separation or divorce alone. Golden Acres will begin the next 13-week session of DivorceCare on Wednesday, January 7th at 6:30 PM in Room 212/213. The class will be facilitated by Jason Dennis. If you are interested in attending these classes, please sign up at the Sign-Up Center in the hallway or call the church office at 334-298-3381. ITEMS FOR THE HOMELESS - The Youth are collecting the following items for the homeless: blankets (fleece blankets or throws), sleeping bags, sweatshirts, jackets, toboggans, gloves, and thermal underwear. If you would like to donate, please bring your blankets to the Youth Center. For more info. see Jessica Taylor. RECENTLY BAPTIZED? - If you have recently been baptized, you may pick up your baptism packet at the Welcome Center. This packet includes your certificate, a DVD of the service, and pictures of your baptism on CD. OPPORTUNITY TO SERVE IN CHILDREN'S MINISTRY - If you are interested in serving in the Children's Ministry, please contact Daniel Cook at 334-298-3381, ext. 207. DEACONS OF THE WEEK - The deacons for the week of December 28th - January 4th are Wayne Tice and Owen Veasey. The deacons for the week of January 4th - January 11th are Craig Howard, Jeff Bowman, and David Boyer. The staff contact is Ray Cummings at (706) 615-6152. Sat, 3 Jan 2009 12:13:33 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=187 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=187&article_id=713 The HIS-Story of Christmas The Perfect Christmas! (3 of 4) Galatians 4:4-5 (NKJV) 4 But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, 5 to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. 1. The Perfect Time Galatians 4:4 (NLT) 4 But when the right time came, God sent his Son, born of a woman, subject to the law. Notes: ____________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ 2. The Perfect Truth Galatians 4:5 (NLT) 5 God sent him to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that he could adopt us as his very own children. Notes: ____________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ 3. The Perfect Town Micah 5:2 (NIV) "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times." Ralph W. Sockman "The hinge of history is on the door of a Bethlehem stable." Genesis 35:19-20 (NKJV) 19 So Rachel died and was buried on the way to Ephrath (that is, Bethlehem). 20 And Jacob set a pillar on her grave, which is the pillar of Rachel's grave to this day. Ruth 1:2 (NKJV) 2 The name of the man was Elimelech, the name of his wife was Naomi, and the names of his two sons were Mahlon and Chilion — Ephrathites of Bethlehem, Judah. And they went to the country of Moab and remained there. Ruth 4:11 (NKJV) 11 And all the people who were at the gate, and the elders, said, "We are witnesses. The Lord make the woman who is coming to your house like Rachel and Leah, the two who built the house of Israel; and may you prosper in Ephrathah and be famous in Bethlehem. 1 Samuel 17:12 (NKJV) 12 Now David was the son of that Ephrathite of Bethlehem Judah, whose name was Jesse, and who had eight sons. And the man was old, advanced in years, in the days of Saul. Micah 5:2 (NIV) "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times." • Bethlehem Ephrathah o Bethlehem means "house of bread." John 6:51 (NKJV) I am the living bread which came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread that I shall give is My flesh, which I shall give for the life of the world." o Ephrathah means "to be fruitful." John 15:8 (NKJV) By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples. John 4:13-14 (NKJV) 13 Jesus answered and said to her, "Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, 14 but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life." Notes: ____________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ Mon, 22 Dec 2008 05:27:29 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=187 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=187&article_id=710 How do you Know the Bible is the Word of God?! - Part 3 (Notes for these message taken from Josh McDowell's "A Ready Defense" - pages 34-41.)Who Decided what to Accept into the Bible? The word canon comes from the root word reed (English word cane; Hebrew form ganeh and Greek Kanon). The reed was used as a measuring rod and eventually meant "standard." Old Testament Canon The Jewish sacrificial system was ended by the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple in A.D. 70. Even though the Old Testament canon was settled in the Jewish mind long before that year, there was a need for something more definitive. The Jews were scattered, and they needed to determine which books were the authoritative Word of God because of the many extra-scriptural writings and decentralization. The Jews became a people of one Book and it was this Book that kept them together. The following is the breakdown of the Jewish Old Testament canon: The Law (Torah) The Writings (Kethubhim or Hagiographa) 1. Genesis A. The Poetical Books 2. Exodus 1. Psalms 3. Leviticus 2. Proverbs 4. Numbers 3. Job 5. Deuteronomy B. Five Rolls (Megilloth) The Prophets (Nebhim) 1. Song of Songs A. Former Prophets 2. Ruth 1. Joshua 3. Lamentations 2. Judges 4. Esther 3. Samuel 5. Ecclesiastes 4. Kings C. Historical Books B. Latter Prophets 1. Daniel 1. Isaiah 2. Ezra-Nehemiah 2. Jeremiah 3. Chronicles 3. Ezekiel 4. The Twelve Christ's Witness to the Old Testament Canon Luke 24:44 (NKJV) 44 Then He said to them, "These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me." Luke 11:51 (NKJV) 51 from the blood of Abel to the blood of Zechariah who perished between the altar and the temple. Yes, I say to you, it shall be required of this generation. Extra-Biblical writers' testimonies The earliest record of a three-fold division of the Old Testament is in the prologue of the book Ecclesiastes (ca 130 B.C.). The prologue, written by the author's grandson, calls it: "The Law, and the Prophets and the other books of the fathers." Josephus, the Jewish history (end of the first century A.D.) writes: How firmly we have been given credit to those books of our nation is evident by what we do: for during so many ages as have already passed, no one has been so bold as either to add anything to them, to take anything from them, or to make any change in them: but it becomes natural to all Jews, immediately and from their very birth, to esteem those books to contain divine doctrines, and to persist in them, and, if occasion be, willingly to die for them. For it is no new thing for our captives, many of them in number, and frequently in time, to be seen to endure racks and death of all kinds upon the theatres, that they may not be obliged to say one word against our laws, and the records that contain them. (Josephus Flavius, Josephus' Complete Works. page 609.) Babylonian Talmud, Tractate "Sanhedrin" VII-VIII, page 24. "After the latter prophets Haggai, Zechariah, [and] Malachi, the Holy Spirit departed from Israel."The New Testament Witness to the Old Testament as Sacred Scripture Matthew 21:42 (NKJV) 42 Jesus said to them, "Have you never read in the Scriptures: 'The stone which the builders rejected Has become the chief cornerstone. This was the Lord's doing, And it is marvelous in our eyes'? Matthew 22:29 (NKJV) 29 Jesus answered and said to them, "You are mistaken, not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God. Matthew 26:56 (NKJV) 56 But all this was done that the Scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled." John 5:39 (NKJV) 9 You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me. (See also John 7:38; 10:35; Acts 17:2, 11; 18:28, Romans 1:2; 4:3; 9:17; 10:11; 11:12; 15:4; 16:26, 1 Cor. 15:3-4; Galatians 3:8; 3:22; 4:30; 1 Timothy 5:18; 2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20, 21; 3:16)The Council of Jamnia When the destruction of the city and Temple was imminent, a great rabbi belonging to the school of Hillel in the Pharisaic party - Yochanan ben Zakkai by name - obtained permission from the Romans to reconstitute the Sanhedrin on a purely spiritual basis at Jabneh or Jamnia, between Joppa and Azotus (Ashod). Some of the discussions which went on at Jamnia were handed down by oral transmission and ultimately recorded in the rabbinical writings. Among their debates they considered whether canonical recognition should be accorded to the books of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, the Song of Songs and Esther. Objections have been raised against these books on various grounds; Esther, for example, did not contain the name of God, and Ecclesiastes was none too easy to square with contemporary orthodoxy. But the upshot of the Jamnia debates was the firm acknowledgement of all these books as Holy Scripture. (F.F. Bruce, The Books and the Parchments. page 97.) It is, indeed, doubtful how far it is correct to speak of the Council of Jamnia. We know of discussions that took place there amongst the Rabbis, but we know of no formal or binding decisions that were made, and it is probable that the discussions were informal, though nonetheless helping to crystallize and to fix more firmly the Jewish tradition. (H. H. Rowley. The Growth of the Old Testament. Page 170.) New Testament Canon 2 Peter 3:15-16 (NKJV) 15 and consider that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation - as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given to him, has written to you, 16 as also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which untaught and unstable people twist to their own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures. "The content of the canon was determined by general usage, not by authoritarian pronouncement." (Donald Guthrie, Canon of Scripture.) F. F. Bruce states that when at last a church council - the Synod of Hippo in A.D. 393 - listed the twenty-seven books of the New Testament, it did not confer upon them any authority which they did not already possess, but simply recorded their previously established canonicity. (The ruling of the Synod of Hippo was repromulgated four years later by the Third Synod of Carthage.) (F.F. Bruce, The Books and the Parchments. page 113.) Geisler and Nix conclude, "Canonicity is determined or fixed authoritatively by God; it is merely discovered by man." (Giesler and Nix, A General Introduction to the Bible. page 221.) Tests of a Book for Inclusion in the Canon 1. Is it authoritative - did it come from the hand of God? 2. Is it prophetic - was it written by a man of God? 3. Is it authentic? 4. Is it dynamic - did it come with the life-transforming power of God? 5. Was it received, collected, read and used - was it accepted by the people of God? The "Apocrypha" and "Pseudepigrapha" Apocrypha: The term, used from the Greek word apokruphos, meaning "hidden or concealed." The Apocrypha consists of the books that were added to the Old Testament by the Roman Catholic church but that Protestants say are not canonical. Pseudepigrapha: The name comes from a Greek word meaning "false writings." The term pseudonymous, meaning "false name," is used also for these works since they falsely claim to be written by true prophets or apostles. Why are these writings not Canonical? Unger Bible Dictionary gives reasons for the exclusion of these writings: 1. "They abound in historical and geographical inaccuracies and anachronisms." 2. "They teach doctrines which are false and foster practices which are at variance with inspired Scripture." 3. They resort to literary types and display an artificiality of subject matter and styling out of keeping with inspired Scripture. 4. They lack the distinctive elements which give genuine Scripture their divine character, such as prophetic and poetic and religious feeling."Historical Testimony of their Exclusion (Geisler and Nix, A General Introduction to the Bible, page 173.) 1. Philo, Alexandrian Jewish philosopher (20 B.C. - A.D. 40), quoted the Old Testament prolifically and even recognized the threefold division, but he never quoted from the Apocrypha as inspired. 2. Josephus (A.D. 30-100), Jewish historian, explicitly excludes the Apocrypha and does not quote these books as Scripture. 3. Jesus and the New Testament writers never once quote the Apocrypha although there are hundreds of quotes and references to almost all of the canonical books of the Old Testament. 4. The Jewish scholars of Jamnia (A.D. 90) did not recognize the Apocrypha. 5. No canon or council of the Christian church for the first four centuries recognized the Apocrypha as inspired. 6. Many of the great fathers of the early church spoke out against the Apocrypha. For example, Origen, Cyril of Jerusalem, Athanasius. 7. Not until A.D. 1546, in a polemical action at the Counter Reformation Council of Trent, did the Apocryphal books receive full canonical status by the Roman Catholic Church. Mon, 22 Dec 2008 05:27:29 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=187 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=187&article_id=709 How do you Know the Bible is the Word of God?! - Part 2Can the Bible's Teachings on Science Prove that it is Divinely Inspired?o Heaven and earth will pass away. Psalms 102:25-26 (NKJV) 25 Of old You laid the foundation of the earth, And the heavens are the work of Your hands. 26 They will perish, but You will endure; Yes, they will all grow old like a garment; Like a cloak You will change them, And they will be changed. Isaiah 51:6 (NKJV) 6 Lift up your eyes to the heavens, And look on the earth beneath. For the heavens will vanish away like smoke, The earth will grow old like a garment, And those who dwell in it will die in like manner; But My salvation will be forever, And My righteousness will not be abolished. Matthew 24:35 (NKJV) 35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away. "It is fascinating to find such accurate scientific descriptions of the universe. Prior to the twentieth century, the notion that the universe is "wearing out" or "passing away" was foreign to the minds of most scientist and philosophers. Such scientific foreknowledge could not have been derived from observation or intuition. When the Bible was being penned there was no observable evidence that the universe was wearing out. In fact, the consensus of the world's scientist and philosophers was that it was not decaying." (Mark Eastman and Chuck Missler, The Creator Beyond Time and Space, page 26-27.)o The Stars cannot be numbered. Jeremiah 33:22 (NKJV) 22 As the host of heaven cannot be numbered, nor the sand of the sea measured, so will I multiply the descendants of David My servant and the Levites who minister to Me.'" o The Sun follows a circular path through the universe. Psalm 19:6 (NKJV) 6 Its rising is from one end of heaven, And its circuit to the other end; And there is nothing hidden from its heat. o The earth is round and rests on nothing. Isaiah 40:22 (NKJV) 22 It is He who sits above the circle of the earth, And its inhabitants are like grasshoppers, Who stretches out the heavens like a curtain, And spreads them out like a tent to dwell in. Job 26:7 (NKJV) 7 He stretches out the north over empty space; He hangs the earth on nothing. o The oceans have predictable paths and currents. Psalms 8:8 (NKJV) 8 The birds of the air, And the fish of the sea That pass through the paths of the seas. o The Bible correctly depicts the earth's hydrologic cycle. Job 36:27-28 (NKJV) 27 For He draws up drops of water, Which distill as rain from the mist, 28 Which the clouds drop down And pour abundantly on man. o The Bible correctly depicts the jet-stream. Ecclesiastes 1:6-7 (NKJV) 6 The wind goes toward the south, And turns around to the north; The wind whirls about continually, And comes again on its circuit. 7 All the rivers run into the sea, Yet the sea is not full; To the place from which the rivers come, There they return again. o The Bible also is accurate in the field of medicine. Genesis 17:12 (NKJV) 12 He who is eight days old among you shall be circumcised, every male child in your generations, he who is born in your house or bought with money from any foreigner who is not your descendant. To argue that the evidences for biblical inspiration are the result of a myriad of lucky guesses requires an enormous measure of faith. Such an assertion requires an enormous measure of faith. Such an assertion requires us to believe that ancient fishermen, tent makers, shepherds, kinds and paupers, who were separated by 1500 years on three different continents, could consistently, and without error, describe the nature of the universe, planet Earth and its life forms, in a way that is fully consistent with twentieth-century science. It requires us to believe that those same men wrote history in advance - all of this without the guidance of One with supernatural "inside information." (Eastman and Missler, The Creator Beyond Time and Space, page 156.) Mon, 22 Dec 2008 05:26:55 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=187 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=187&article_id=712 The HIS-Story of Christmas Have a Mary Christmas! (2 of 4) Luke 10:38-42 (NKJV) 38 Now it happened as they went that He entered a certain village; and a certain woman named Martha welcomed Him into her house. 39 And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus' feet and heard His word. 40 But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, "Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore tell her to help me." 41 And Jesus answered and said to her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. 42 But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her." To have a Mary Christmas, we must . . . 1. L__________ from Jesus. Luke 10:41-42 (NKJV) Martha (Distracted) Mary (Devoted) 1. Got in God’s Face (“Don’t You care?”) 1. Got at God’s Feet 2. She labored on her feet. 2. She listened on her knees. 3. Trying to Impress God 3. Seeks to be Pleasing to God 2. L__________ for Jesus. Psalms 63:1-8 (NIV) 1 O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water. 2 I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory. 3 Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. 4 I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands. 5 My soul will be satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you. 6 On my bed I remember you; I think of you through the watches of the night. 7 Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings. 8 My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me. 3. have a genuine L__________ for Jesus. John 12:1-8 (NKJV) 1 Then, six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus was who had been dead, whom He had raised from the dead. 2 There they made Him a supper; and Martha served, but Lazarus was one of those who sat at the table with Him. 3 Then Mary took a pound of very costly oil of spikenard, anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped His feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the oil. 4 But one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, who would betray Him, said, 5 "Why was this fragrant oil not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?" 6 This he said, not that he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and had the money box; and he used to take what was put in it. 7 But Jesus said, "Let her alone; she has kept this for the day of My burial. 8 For the poor you have with you always, but Me you do not have always." • Real love always gives its best. • Real love is never measured out. • Real love never misses an opportunity. Mon, 22 Dec 2008 05:26:32 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=187 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=187&article_id=711 How do you Know the Bible is the Word of God?! - Part 4 (Notes for this message taken from Josh McDowell's "A Ready Defense" - pages 43-55.)Is the Bible Reliable? I believe that the historical reliability of the Scriptures should be tested by the same criteria used on all historical documents. Military historian C. Sanders lists and explains the basic principles of historiography: (1) the bibliographical test; (2) the internal evidence test; (3) the external evidence test. Bibliographical Test for the Reliability of the New Testament The bibliographical text is an examination of the textual transmission by which documents reach us. In other words, since we do not have the original documents, how reliable are the copies we have in regard to the number of manuscripts (MSS) and the time interval between the original and existing copies. F.E. Peters states that "on the basis of manuscript tradition alone, the works that made up the Christians' New Testament were the most frequently copied and widely circulated books of antiquity." (F.E. Peters. The Harvest of Hellenism. page 50.)o Manuscript Evidence of the New Testament There are now more than 5,300 known Greek manuscripts of the New Testament. Add over 10,000 Latin Vulgate and at least 9,300 other early versions and we have more than 24,000 manuscript copies of portions of the New Testament in existence. No other document of antiquity even begins to approach such numbers and attestation. In comparison, the Iliad by Homer is second with only 643 manuscripts that still survive. The first complete preserved text of Homer dates from the 13th Century. (Charles Leach. Our Bible: How We Got It. page 145.) Sir Frederic G. Kenyon, who was the director and principal librarian of the British Museum, and second to none in authority for issuing statements about MSS, says, Besides number, the manuscripts of the New Testament differ from those of classical authors, and this time the difference is clear again. In no other case is the interval of time between composition of the book and the date of the earliest existing manuscripts so short as in that of the New Testament. The books of the New Testament were written in the latter part of the first century; the earliest existing manuscript (trifling scraps excepted) are of the fourth century - say from 250-300 years later. This may sound a considerable interval, but it is nothing to that which parts most of the classical authors from their earliest manuscripts. We believe that we have in all essentials an accurate text of seven existing plays of Sophocles; yet the earliest substantial manuscript upon which it was based was written more than 1400 years after the poet's death. (Kenyon, Handbook to the Textual Criticism of the New Testament. page 80). The interval then between the dates of original composition and the earliest extant evidence becomes so small as to be in fact negligible, and the last foundation for any doubt that the Scriptures have come down to us substantially as they were written has now been removed. Both the authenticity and the general integrity of the books of the New Testament may be regarded as finally established. (Kenyon, The Bible and Archaeology. page 288.) FF. Bruce also comments, "There is no body of ancient literature in the world which enjoys such a wealth of good textual attestation as the New Testament." (Bruce, The Books and the Parchments. page 178.) Author When Written Earliest Copy Time Span # of Copies Catullus 54 B.C. A.D. 1550 1,600 years 3 Plato (Tetralogies) 427-347 B.C. A.D. 900 1,200 years 7 Pliny the Younger (History) A.D. 61-113 A.D. 850 750 years 7 Thucydides (History) 460-400 B.C. A.D. 900 1,300 years 8 Herodotus (History) 480-425 B.C. A.D. 900 1,300 years 8 Euripides 480-406 B.C. A.D. 1100 1,500 years 9 Caesar 100-44 B.C. A.D. 900 1,000 years 10 Aristophanes 450-385 B.C. A.D. 900 1,200 years 10 Tacitus (Annals) A.D. 100 A.D. 1100 1,000 years 20 Aristotle 384-322 B.C. A.D. 1100 1,400 years 49 Sophocles 496-406 B.C. A.D. 1000 1,400 years 193 Demosthenes 383-322 B.C. A.D. 1100 1,300 years 200 Homer (Iliad) 900 B.C. 400 B.C. 500 years 643 New Testament A.D. 40-100 A.D. 125 25 years over 24,000 Greenlee states, Since scholars accept as generally trustworthy the writings of the ancient classics even though the earliest MSS were written so long after the original writings and the number of extant MSS is in many instances so small, it is clear that the reliability of the text of the New Testament is likewise assured. (Greenlee, Introduction to New Testament Textual Criticism. page 16.) Geisler and Nix make a comparison by stating: Next to the New Testament, there are more extant manuscripts of the Iliad (643) than any other book. Both it and the Bible were considered ‘sacred," and both underwent textual changes and criticism of their Greek manuscripts. . . . Only 40 lines (or 400 words) of the New Testament are in doubt whereas 764 lines of the Iliad are questioned. This five percent textual corruption compares with one-half of one percent of similar emendations in the New Testament. (Geisler and Nix, A General Introduction of the Bible. page 366-367.)o Manuscript Preservation While collectively there are thousands of copies of individual biblical books, and while each of the manuscripts copies differ, as one would expect, the differences are generally minor. For example, Dr. Ron Rhodes supplies the following New Testament Illustration: Manuscript 1: Jesus Christ is the Redeemer of the whole worl. Manuscript 2: Christ Jesus is the Redeemer of the whole world. Manuscript 3: Jesus Christ s the Redeemer of the whole world. Manuscript 4: Jesus Christ is th Redeemer of the whle world. Manuscript 5: Jesus Christ is the Redeemer of the whole wrld. The textual variations do not endanger doctrine as emphasized by Sir Frederic Kenyon. One word of warning . . . must be emphasized in conclusion. No fundamental doctrine of the Christian faith rest on a disputed reading . . . It cannot be too strongly asserted that in substance the text of the Bible is certain . . . The number of manuscripts of the New Testament, of early translations from it, and of quotations from it in the oldest writers of the Church, is so large that it is practically certain that the true reading of every doubtful passage is preserved in some one or other of these ancient authorities. This can be said of no other book in the world. Scholars are satisfied that they possess substantially the true text of the principle Greek and Roman writers whose works have come down to us, of Sophocles, of Thucydides, of Cicero, or Virgil; yet our knowledge of their writings depends on a mere handful of manuscripts, whereas the manuscripts of the New Testament are counted by hundreds, and even thousands. (Kenyon, Our Bible and Ancient Manuscripts. page 23.) Gleason Archer also shows that errors in transmission of the text do not affect God's revelation. A careful study of the different readings of the various earliest manuscripts reveals that none of them affects a single doctrine of Scripture. (Archer, A Survey of the Old Testament. page 25.) Kenyon concludes in "The Story of the Bible", page 113: It is reassuring at the end to find that the general result of all these discoveries of the authenticity of the Scriptures, [is] our conviction that we have in our hands, in substantial integrity, the veritable Word of God. o Manuscript Reliability supported by Various Versions "The earliest versions of the New Testament were prepared by missionaries to assist in the propagation of the Christian faith among peoples whose native tongue was Syriac, Latin, or Coptic." (Metzger, The Text of the New Testament. page 67.) Syriac and Latin versions (translations) of the New Testament were made around A.D. 150. This brings us back very near to the time of the originals. There are more than 15,000 existing copies of various versions. o Manuscript Reliability supported by Early Church Fathers Sir David Dalrymple was once asked, "Suppose that the New Testament had been destroyed, and every copy of it lost by the end of the third century, could it have been collected again from the writings of the Fathers of the second and third centuries?" After a great deal of investigation, Dalrymple concluded: "That question roused my curiosity, and as I possessed all the existing works of the Fathers of the second and third centuries, I commenced to search, and up to this time I have found the entire New Testament, except eleven verses." (Leach, Our Bible: How We Got It. page 35-36.) Bibliographical Test for the Reliability of the Old Testament In the case of the Old Testament we do not have the abundance of close MS authority as in the New Testament. Until the recent discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls, the oldest complete extant Hebrew MS was around A.D. 900. This made a time gap of 1,300 years (the Hebrew Old Testament was completed about 400 B.C.). At first sight, it would appear that the Old Testament is no more reliable than other ancient literature. With the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls, however, a number of Old Testament manuscripts have been found which scholars date before the time of Christ. When the facts are known and compared, there is an overwhelming abundance of reasons for believing that the MSS we possess are trustworthy. We shall see, as Sir Frederic Kenyon put it, that "the Christian can take the whole Bible in his hand and say without fear or hesitation that he holds in it the true Word of God, handed down without essential loss from generation to generation throughout the centuries." (Kenyon, Our Bible and the Ancient Manuscripts. page 23.)o The Talmudists (A.D. 100-500) The Talmudists had quite an intricate system for transcribing synagogue scrolls. When the Talmudists finished transcribing a MS they were so convinced they had an exact duplicate that they would give the new copy equal authority. The same extreme care which was devoted to the transcription of manuscripts is also at the bottom of the disappearance of the earlier copies. When a manuscript had been copied with the exactitude prescribed by the Talmud, and have been duly verified, it was accepted as authentic and regarded as being of equal value with any other copy. If all were equally correct, age gave no advantage to a manuscript; on the contrary, age was a positive disadvantage, since a manuscript was liable to become defaced or damaged in the lapse of time. A damaged or imperfect copy was at once condemned as unfit for use. (Kenyon, Our Bible and the Ancient Manuscripts. page 43.)o The Massoretic Period (A.D. 500-900) The Massoretes (from Massora, "Tradition") were well disciplined, and they treated the text "with the greatest imaginable reverence, and devised a complicated system of safeguards against scribal slips." (Bruce, The Books and the Parchments. page 117.) Besides recording varieties of reading, tradition, or conjecture, the Massoretes undertook a number of calculations which do not enter into the ordinary sphere of textual criticism. They numbered the verses, words, and letters of every book. They calculated the middle word and the middle letter of each. They enumerated verses which contained all the letters of the alphabet, or a certain number of them; and so on. These trivialities, as we may rightly consider them, had yet the affect of securing minute attention to the precise transmission of the text; and they are but an excessive manifestation of a respect for the Sacred Scriptures which in itself deserves nothing but praise. The Massoretes were indeed anxious that not one jot nor tittle, not one smallest letter nor one tiny part of a letter of the Law should pass away or be lost. (Kenyon, Our Bible and the Ancient Manuscripts. page 38.) The Witness of the Dead Sea Scrolls to the Reliability of the Hebrew Scriptures. The oldest complete Hebrew MSS we possessed were from A.D. 900 on. How could we be sure of their accurate transmission since the time of Christ in A.D. 32? Thanks to archeology and the Dead Sea Scrolls, we now know. One of the scrolls found was a complete MS of the Hebrew text of Isaiah. It is dated by paleographers around 125 B.C. This MS is more than 1,000 years older than any MS we previously possessed. Even though the two copies of Isaiah discovered in Qumran Cave 1 near the Dead Sea in 1947 were a thousand years earlier than the oldest dated manuscripts previously known (A.D. 980), they proved to be word for word identical with our standard Hebrew Bible in more than 95 percent of the text. The 5 percent variation consisted chiefly of obvious slips of the pen and variations in spelling. Even those Dead Sea fragments of Deuteronomy and Samuel which point to a different manuscript family from that which underlies our Hebrew text do not indicate any differences in doctrine or teaching. They do not affect the message of revelation in the slightest. (Archer, A Survey of the Old Testament. page 25). Mon, 22 Dec 2008 05:25:31 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=187 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=187&article_id=720 Galatians 4:4-5 (NKJV) 4 But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, 5 to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. 1. The Perfect Time Galatians 4:4 (NLT) 4 But when the right time came, God sent his Son, born of a woman, subject to the law. 2. The Perfect Truth Galatians 4:5 (NLT) 5 God sent him to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that he could adopt us as his very own children. 3. The Perfect Town Micah 5:2 (NIV) "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times." Ralph W. Sockman "The hinge of history is on the door of a Bethlehem stable." Genesis 35:19-20 (NKJV) 19 So Rachel died and was buried on the way to Ephrath (that is, Bethlehem). 20 And Jacob set a pillar on her grave, which is the pillar of Rachel's grave to this day. Ruth 1:2 (NKJV) 2 The name of the man was Elimelech, the name of his wife was Naomi, and the names of his two sons were Mahlon and Chilion - Ephrathites of Bethlehem, Judah. And they went to the country of Moab and remained there. Ruth 4:11 (NKJV) 11 And all the people who were at the gate, and the elders, said, "We are witnesses. The Lord make the woman who is coming to your house like Rachel and Leah, the two who built the house of Israel; and may you prosper in Ephrathah and be famous in Bethlehem. 1 Samuel 17:12 (NKJV)12 Now David was the son of that Ephrathite of Bethlehem Judah, whose name was Jesse, and who had eight sons. And the man was old, advanced in years, in the days of Saul. Micah 5:2 (NIV) "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times."Bethlehem Ephrathah o Bethlehem means "house of bread." John 6:51 (NKJV) I am the living bread which came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread that I shall give is My flesh, which I shall give for the life of the world." o Ephrathah means "to be fruitful." John 15:8 (NKJV) By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples. John 4:13-14 (NKJV) 13 Jesus answered and said to her, "Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, 14 but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life." Mon, 22 Dec 2008 05:24:47 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=187 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=187&article_id=705 How do you Know the Bible is the Word of God?! - Part 1The Uniqueness of the Bible. Here is a book written:o Over a 1500 year span.o Over 40 generations.o By over 40 authors from every walk of life including kings, peasants, philosophers, fishermen, poets, statesmen, scholars, etc.§ Moses, a political leader, trained in the universities of Egypt§ Peter, a fisherman§ Amos, a herdsman§ Joshua, a military general§ Nehemiah, a cupbearer§ Daniel, a prime minister§ Luke, a doctor§ Solomon, a king§ Matthew, a tax collector§ Paul, a rabbi. o In different places.§ Moses in the wilderness§ Jeremiah in a dungeon§ Daniel on a hillside and in a palace§ Paul inside prison walls§ Luke while traveling§ John on the isle of Patmos§ Others in the rigors of a military campaigno At different times.§ David in times of war§ Solomon in times of peaceo On three continents.§ Asia, Africa, and Europeo In three languages. § Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek I have examined whether this God has not left some sign of Himself. I see many contradictory religions, and consequently all false save one. Each wants to be believed on its own authority, and threatens unbelievers. I do not therefore believe them. Every one can say this; every one can call himself a prophet. But I see that Christian religion wherein prophecies are fulfilled; and that is what every one cannot do. Blaise PascalOne of the strongest evidences of the divine inspiration of the Bible is the testimony of fulfilled prophecy. 2 Peter 1:19-21 (NIV) 19 And we have the word of the prophets made more certain, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. 20 Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation. 21 For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. Luke 24:25 (NIV) 25 He said to them, "How foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Luke 24:44 (NIV) 44 He said to them, "This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms." If one man alone had made a book of predictions about Jesus Christ, as to the time and the manner, and Jesus Christ had come in conformity to these prophecies, this fact would have infinite weight. But there is much more here. Here is a succession of men during 4000 years, who, consequently and without variation, come, one after another, to foretell of the same event. Blaise Pascal Considered by itself, Messianic prophecy alone is proof that the Bible is the Word of God. Micah 5:2 (NIV) 2 "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times." Psalm 22:16-18 (NIV) 16 Dogs have surrounded me; a band of evil men has encircled me, they have pierced my hands and my feet. 17 I can count all my bones; people stare and gloat over me. 18 They divide my garments among them and cast lots for my clothing. _____________________________________________________________________ Fullfillment of Messianic Prophecy Prophecy Stated Fulfilled 1. He would be born of a virgin. Isaiah 7:14 Matthew 1:23 2. He would live in Nazareth of Galilee. Isaiah 9:1-2 Matthew 2:23; 4:15 3. He would occasion the massacre of Bethlehem's children. Jeremiah 31:15 Matthew 2:18 4. He would be anointed by the Holy Spirit. Isaiah 11:2 Matthew 3:16-17 5. He would be heralded by the Lord's special messenger, John the Baptist. Isaiah 40:3 Malachi 3:1 Matthew 3:1-3 6. His mission would include the Gentiles but He would be rejected by the Jews. Isaiah 42:1-3, 6 Psalm 118:22 Matthew 12:18-21 1 Peter 2:7 7. His ministry would include miracles. Isaiah 35:2-6; 61:1-2 Mt. 9:35 Luke 4:16-21 8. He would be the Shepherd struck with the sword, resulting in the sheep being scattered. Zechariah 13:7 Matthew 26:31, 56 Mark 14:27, 49-50 9. He would be betrayed by a friend for 30 pieces of silver. Zechariah 11:12-13 Matthew 27:9-10 10. He would die a humiliating death. Psalm 22 & Isaiah 53 Matthew 27:32-50 11. He would be rejected. Isaiah 53:3 John 1:10-11; 7:5, 48 12. He would be silent before His accusers. Isaiah 53:7 Matthew 27:12-18 13. He would be mocked. Psalm 22:7-8 Matthew 27:31 14. His hands and feet would be pierced. Psalm 22:16 Luke 23:33 15. He would be crucified with thieves. Isaiah 53:12 Matthew 27:38 16. He would pray for His persecutors. Isaiah 53:12 Luke 23:43 17. His side would be pierced. Zechariah 12:10 John 19:34 18. He would be buried in a rich man's tomb. Isaiah 53:9 Matthew 27:57-60 19. Those who guarded Him would cast lots for His garments. Psalm 22:18 John 19:23-24 20. He would be given vinegar and gall to drink. Psalm 69:21 Matthew 27:34 21. He would rise from the dead. Psalm 16:10 Mark 16:6 & Acts 2:31 22. He would be hated without a cause. Psalm 69:4 & Isaiah 49:7 John 7:48; 15:25 23. He would be rejected by the rulers. Psalm 118:22 Matthew 21:42 John 7:48 24. He would ascend into heaven. Psalm 68:18 Acts 1:9 25. He would sit down at Gods' right hand, and in the future He will be presented with dominion over all people, nations, and men of every language. Psalm 110:1 Daniel 7:13-14 Hebrews 1:1 Revelation 11:15 There is also evidence for the Divine Inspiration of the Bible from other striking Prophecies. Josiah in the Book of Kings 1 Kings 13:2 (NIV) 2 He cried out against the altar by the word of the Lord: "O altar, altar! This is what the Lord says: 'A son named Josiah will be born to the house of David. On you he will sacrifice the priests of the high places who now make offerings here, and human bones will be burned on you.'" First Kings predicts King Josiah by name and lineage 300 years before he was even born. The Babylonian Captivity in the Book of Isaiah Isaiah 39:5-7 (NIV) 5 Then Isaiah said to Hezekiah, "Hear the word of the Lord Almighty: 6 The time will surely come when everything in your palace, and all that your fathers have stored up until this day, will be carried off to Babylon. Nothing will be left, says the Lord. 7 And some of your descendants, your own flesh and blood who will be born to you, will be taken away, and they will become eunuchs in the palace of the king of Babylon." The book of Isaiah (written 700-680 B.C.) was indisputably in existence before the Babylonian captivity of the Jews, which began in 605 B.C. Yet in Isaiah 39, we find the Babylonian captivity itself predicted. Mon, 22 Dec 2008 05:24:47 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=15 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=15&article_id=719 In January we will begin a new study called "Soul Revolution" based off of the book by John Burke. We will dive deep into Gods word with the hopes of realizing how imperfect students can become all God intended them to be. Fri, 19 Dec 2008 07:33:12 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=15 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=15&article_id=287 This isnt your great grandmaw's Sunday School class. Student Impact is designed to disciple and instill in the hearts of students a passion and desire to see lives changed through their faith and their example. Jesus called us to be a living example of Him. We teach practical and biblical ways that students can relate to and use when they walk outside of the church doors. We hope that your curiousity will lead you to check us out on Sunday mornings. Fri, 19 Dec 2008 07:28:51 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=15 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=15&article_id=286 Man, we sure are glad that you are checking us out. Our Student Ministry is made up of three distinct areas: Middle School, High School, & College. Our Middle School & High School meet each week at 6:30 pm upstairs in the Student Center. Our College Students meet every sunday morning at 9:00 for a relaxed small group setting. All of our student ministries routinely take spiritual growth retreats to the mountains or the beach. During the summer we focus our attention on missions and how we as a student ministry can fullfill the Great Commission. Throughout the year we have special events and short trips planned that you can attend. If you want, you can check us out at: (http://www.myspace.com/commongroundsm.) If you want to be challenged to grow in your faith we hope that you will visit us soon. COMMON GROUND STUDENT MINISTRY EXISTS TO: • REACH non-believing students to accept Jesus as their Savior • CONNECT them with other Christians • GROW them in their faith • CHALLENGE them to DISCOVER their ministry • HONOR God with their life.We are raising the standards of students while becoming hungry and thirsty for more of JESUS Fri, 19 Dec 2008 07:28:20 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=15 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=15&article_id=500 Our DT class is a time where students can get up close and personal with God. We use this time on a Sunday evening to address some of the difficult situations that Students who are in Jr. high and Sr. high have to face everyday. God tells us that He will never leave us or forsake us, with that being the foundation, we teach students through video illustrations, age appropriate curriculum, and most importantly, God's word. If your looking for a place to prepare yourself spiritually and ask questions.... this is it. We look forward to seeing you on Sunday evenings at 5:00p.m. in the Student Center. Fri, 19 Dec 2008 07:25:50 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=15 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=15&article_id=526 SUNDAY Student Impact (Sunday School) - 9:15 a.m. College - 9:00 a.m.Show Choir - 4:00 p.m.Student Discipleship Training- 5:00 p.m.WEDNESDAY Common Ground SM - 6:30 p.m. Fri, 19 Dec 2008 07:21:53 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=714 Join us as Coach Mark Fuller will teach pitching, hitting, base running, and fielding skills and drills to prepare us for the upcoming season and to help us become better coaches and players. Coach Fuller is a former college coach, professional baseball player, and current co-owner/baseball director of The Sports Academy in Opelika, AL. The camp will take place at Glenwood School, January 10, 2009, starting at 9:30. The schedule is as followed:9:30 am - Morning Registration10-11:30 - Morning Camp (Coach Pitch ages 5-8)11-11:30 - Afternoon Registration11:30-1:00 - Lunch catered by Carol Argo (everyone registered for either camp)1:30-3:00 - Afternoon Camp (Little League ages 9-12) If you would like to sign-up and pay online click HERE! Tue, 16 Dec 2008 13:26:37 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=165 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=165&article_id=718 Week 3 12/19/20086:00 P.M.Bobcats V LakersTimberwolves V Sparks 7:10 P.M.Hornets V Pacers 8:15 P.M.Nuggets V Timberwolves 12/20/2008 9:00 A.M.K-5 BoysK-5 Boys 10:10 A.M.Aces V HuskiesGolden Bears V Cyclones 11:20 A.M.Greenwave V Tigers 12:30 P.M.Lady Sooners V Lady HoosiersLady Yellow Jackets V Lady Orangemen 1:40 P.M.Lady Golden Hurricanes V Lady Hoosiers 2:50 P.M.Lady Spartans V Lady Seminoles Week 4 1/8/20096:00 P.M.K-5 BoysK-5 Boys 7:10 P.M.Pacers V Timberwolves 8:15 P.M.Hornets V Nuggets 1/9/20096:00 P.M.Cyclones V AcesTigers V Golden bears 7:10 P.M.Huskies V Greenwave 8:15 P.M.Timberwolves V LakersSparks V Bobcats 1/10/2009 9:00 A.M.Lady Yellow Jackets V Lady HoosiersLady Sooners V Lady orangemen 10:10 A.M.Lady Seminoles V Lady Golden Hurricanes 11:20 A.M.Lady Spartans V Lady Hoosiers Week 5 1/16/20096:00 P.M.Lady Yellow Jackets V Lady SoonersLady Orangemen V Lady Hoosiers 7:10 P.M.Lady Golden Hurricanes V Lady Spartans 8:15 P.M.Lady Hoosiers V Lady Seminoles 1/17/2009 9:00 A.M.K-5 BoysK-5 Boys 10:10 A.M.Aces V Golden BearsGreenwave V Cyclones 11:20 A.M.Huskies V Tigers 12:30 P.M.Timberwolves V Hornets 1:40 P.M.Bobcats V TimberwolvesLakers V Bobcats 2:50 P.M.Nuggets V Pacers Week 6 1/23/20096:00 P.M.K-5 BoysK-5 Boys 7:10 P.M.Timberwolves V Nuggets 8:15 P.M.Pacers V Hornets 1/24/2009 9:00 A.M.Lady Orangemen V Lady Yellow JacketsLady Hoosiers V Lady Sooners 10:10 A.M.Huskies V CyclonesTigers V Aces 11:20 A.M.Greenwave V Golden Bears 12:30 P.M.Lady Hoosiers V Lady Golden Hurricanes 1:40 P.M.Sparks V TimberwolvesLakers V Bobcats 2:50 P.M.Lady Seminoles V lady Spartans Week 7 1/26/20096:00 P.M.K-5 BoysK-5 Boys 7:10 P.M.Nuggets V Hornets 8:15 P.M.Timberwolves V Pacers 1/27/20096:00 P.M.Lady Hoosiers V Lady Yellow JacketsLady Orangemen V Lady Sooners 7:10 P.M.Lady Hoosiers V Lady Spartans 8:15 P.M.Lady Golden Hurricanes V Lady Seminoles 1/29/20096:00 P.M.Tigers V CyclonesHuskies V Golden Bears 7:10 P.M.Greenwave V Aces 8:15 P.M.Sparks V TimberwolvesLakers V Bobcats Week 8 1/30/20096:00 P.M.Lady Hoosiers V Lady OrangemenLady Sooners V Lady Yellow Jackets 7:10 P.M.Lady Spartans V Lady Golden Hurricanes 8:15 P.M.Lady Seminoles V Lady Hoosiers 1/31/2009 9:00 A.M.K-5 BoysK-5 Boys 10:10 A.M.Greenwave V Tigers 11:20 A.M.Aces V HuskiesCyclones V Golden Bears 12:30 P.M.Hornets V Timberwolves 1:40 P.M.Sparks V LakersTimberwolves V Bobcats 2:50 P.M.Pacers V Nuggets Tue, 16 Dec 2008 11:05:34 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=563 If you are interested in becoming a part of the Golden Acres family, please make plans to attend one of our 1-1/2 hour classes. The next New Member's Class and Luncheon is January 11th immediately following the 10:30 AM service in the Gym. To sign-up for the next available class, please click here and fill out the form and you will be contacted by one of our staff with a confirmation. In this class, we will discuss the following: salvation, sacraments, our statements, and the GABC strategy. Here at GABC, we take membership seriously and we want to make sure all potential members know exactly what they are committing to. Tue, 16 Dec 2008 08:10:49 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=703 If you have received one of these two tracts and want to know how to put your trust in God and be forgiven of your sins click HERE! Tue, 16 Dec 2008 08:10:49 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=22 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=22&article_id=461 CURRENT GAU CLASSES OFFERED YOUTH (Grades 7-12) - Sunday / 5:00 PM / Youth Center - led by David Downey - This is a time for students 7th grade - 12th grade to fellowship and dive deeper into their relationship with God. WOMENS Sunday GAU STUDY - The Women's Study will start back in the Winter Quarter. - This is just women coming together to share their victories & struggles. Each week it consists of a devotion led by different women, followed by a discussion time and prayer for each other. This is truly a refreshing time for women. "A SURVEY OF BIBLE DOCTRINE" by Charles Ryrie - Sunday / 5:00 PM / Room 115 - led by Roosevelt Oakes BFG LEADERSHIP TRAINING CLASS ("Lessons on Leadership") - Sunday / 5 PM / Room 114 - led by Bro. Ray Cummings - This class is for all current Bible Fellowship Leaders and anyone considering teaching a class. MEN'S 6-WEEK STUDY - "The Man I Want To Be" by Neal Jeffrey - Sunday / 5:00 PM / Annex D - led by David Boyer - begins Sunday, January 11th AWANA - Sunday / 5-7 PM / - Awana is a Bible focused children's ministry providing. Awana's goal is to equip children and families with the Gospel of Christ and to train them to serve Him. Each week Awana has a special theme and throughout the year they will special events. S.W.A.T. Team - Do you have a passion for lost souls? Join the S.W.A.T. Team (Servants Witnessing and Testifying). If you would like to be a part of a group who goes out to witness in our community, join us on Wednesday nights at 6:30 PM and Sunday afternoons from 4-6 PM. We meet in Room 116. WEEKDAY BIBLE STUDIES & CLASSES LADIE'S STUDY - "The Organic God" - by Margaret Feinberg- Tuesdays / 9:30-11:30 AM / Annex A - led by Cam Dowling - begins Tuesday, November 18th - Childcare is provided. The next Ladies' study after "The Organic God" will begin Tuesday, January 6th. It is a 16-week study on end times prophecy entitled "Epicenter" by Joel Rosenberg. If you are interested in this 16-week study, please sign up at the Sign-Up Center in the hallway across from the church office. For more info. contact Melanie Johnson at 334-297-0087. GRIEFSHARE - is a special weekly seminar and support group for people who are grieving the death of someone close to them. - Wednesdays / 6:15-7:30 PM / Room 218/219. DIVORCE CARE (13 week study) - For the help and healing of the pain of separation and divorce. - Wednesdays / 6:30 PM / Room 212 / led by Jason Dennis - begins on January 7th. FINANCIAL PEACE UNIVERSITY - What would the people of God do for the Kingdom of God if they were DEBT FREE? Financial Peace University is a 13-week Biblically-based accountability curriculum that teaches you how to make the right decisions with your money. Golden Acres. Contact the church office for dates on the next Financial Peace University. For more info. visit http://www.daveramsey.com. Fri, 12 Dec 2008 11:28:47 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=168 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=168&article_id=708 How do you Know the Bible is the Word of God?! - Part 2Can the Bible's Teachings on Science Prove that it is Divinely Inspired?o Heaven and earth will pass away. Psalms 102:25-26 (NKJV) 25 Of old You laid the foundation of the earth, And the heavens are the work of Your hands. 26 They will perish, but You will endure; Yes, they will all grow old like a garment; Like a cloak You will change them, And they will be changed. Isaiah 51:6 (NKJV) 6 Lift up your eyes to the heavens, And look on the earth beneath. For the heavens will vanish away like smoke, The earth will grow old like a garment, And those who dwell in it will die in like manner; But My salvation will be forever, And My righteousness will not be abolished. Matthew 24:35 (NKJV) 35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away. "It is fascinating to find such accurate scientific descriptions of the universe. Prior to the twentieth century, the notion that the universe is "wearing out" or "passing away" was foreign to the minds of most scientist and philosophers. Such scientific foreknowledge could not have been derived from observation or intuition. When the Bible was being penned there was no observable evidence that the universe was wearing out. In fact, the consensus of the world's scientist and philosophers was that it was not decaying." (Mark Eastman and Chuck Missler, The Creator Beyond Time and Space, page 26-27.)o The Stars cannot be numbered. Jeremiah 33:22 (NKJV) 22 As the host of heaven cannot be numbered, nor the sand of the sea measured, so will I multiply the descendants of David My servant and the Levites who minister to Me.'" o The Sun follows a circular path through the universe. Psalm 19:6 (NKJV) 6 Its rising is from one end of heaven, And its circuit to the other end; And there is nothing hidden from its heat. o The earth is round and rests on nothing. Isaiah 40:22 (NKJV) 22 It is He who sits above the circle of the earth, And its inhabitants are like grasshoppers, Who stretches out the heavens like a curtain, And spreads them out like a tent to dwell in. Job 26:7 (NKJV) 7 He stretches out the north over empty space; He hangs the earth on nothing. o The oceans have predictable paths and currents. Psalms 8:8 (NKJV) 8 The birds of the air, And the fish of the sea That pass through the paths of the seas. o The Bible correctly depicts the earth's hydrologic cycle. Job 36:27-28 (NKJV) 27 For He draws up drops of water, Which distill as rain from the mist, 28 Which the clouds drop down And pour abundantly on man. o The Bible correctly depicts the jet-stream. Ecclesiastes 1:6-7 (NKJV) 6 The wind goes toward the south, And turns around to the north; The wind whirls about continually, And comes again on its circuit. 7 All the rivers run into the sea, Yet the sea is not full; To the place from which the rivers come, There they return again. o The Bible also is accurate in the field of medicine. Genesis 17:12 (NKJV) 12 He who is eight days old among you shall be circumcised, every male child in your generations, he who is born in your house or bought with money from any foreigner who is not your descendant. To argue that the evidences for biblical inspiration are the result of a myriad of lucky guesses requires an enormous measure of faith. Such an assertion requires an enormous measure of faith. Such an assertion requires us to believe that ancient fishermen, tent makers, shepherds, kinds and paupers, who were separated by 1500 years on three different continents, could consistently, and without error, describe the nature of the universe, planet Earth and its life forms, in a way that is fully consistent with twentieth-century science. It requires us to believe that those same men wrote history in advance - all of this without the guidance of One with supernatural "inside information." (Eastman and Missler, The Creator Beyond Time and Space, page 156.) Tue, 25 Nov 2008 12:31:17 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=186 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=186&article_id=704 The Bible says that the God of the Universe became a man (Jesus Christ), and suffered and died on the cross for your sins and mine so that we could be set free. Then he rose again from the dead and defeated death! It's as simple as this-we broke the Law, and Jesus paid our fine. "God demonstrated His own love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8) "Christ redeemed us from the curse of the Law, being made a curse for us." (Galatians 3:13) Do you see God's great love for you? Do you see your need for His forgiveness? Do what He commands and "Repent...that your sins may be wiped out and times of refreshing may come from the Lord." (Acts 3:19) You must turn away from sin and turn to God. Desire to have NOTHING to do with sin, and surrender your life to the One who can save you. Jesus died to set you free, and then he rose from death to be your Lord. Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through me." If you will confess and forsake your sins (repent) and trust in Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord, God will forgive you and you'll pass from death to life. If you are not sure how to pray, read Psalm 51and make it your prayer. What does it mean to "put your faith in Jesus Christ?" It means to personally trust in Jesus the same way you'd trust in a parachute if you had to jump 25,000 feet out of an airplane. You wouldn't just "believe" in the parachute; you would put it on! In the same way, the Bible says, "Put on the Lord Jesus Christ..." and you will be saved. There are millions of people who "believe" Jesus exists . . . but they have not put on the Savior-there's a BIG difference. And the difference will be obvious when you "jump" through the door of death. Today, with all your heart-turn away from sin, and surrender your life to Jesus Christ. Please don't put it off till later. You may die today and then it will be too late. You may not yet have all the answers to your questions, but better to put on the parachute first and then ask questions, then to pass through the door unprepared, grasping for the parachute when it's too late. You can pray something like this-"Dear God, today I turn from all my sins (name them), and I put my trust in Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. Please forgive me, and grant me your gift of everlasting life. Amen." There is nothing magic about these words-it is the attitude of your heart that God cares about. God will transform you from the inside out. You will think and feel differently as you learn to trust and obey Him. God will give you new strength to live right and love Him above all else. Read your Bible daily and obey His Word. You can trust God-He loves you and will always be faithful. Mon, 17 Nov 2008 13:14:12 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=19 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=19&article_id=701 Wednesday Night from 6:30-7:30 This class is for children ages 3, 4, and 5 years old. The children are provided with a time for crafts, games, and exciting stories about Jesus. Mon, 10 Nov 2008 12:17:52 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=19 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=19&article_id=497 MERGE is Golden Acres ministry program for 5th and 6th grade boys and girls. MERGE is all about supporting, equipping, and leading pre-teens through these changing times. It is our desire to keep up with the needs and demands of an ever changing culture so that the truth of Christ can be communicated in a relevant way. We are also preparing these kids for their transition into the youth group. This exciting minstry will be held on Wednesday Nights @ 6:30 Annex D. Mon, 10 Nov 2008 12:17:29 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=19 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=19&article_id=702 Awana takes place on Sunday night August through May from 5:00 - 7:00 pm. Awana stands for Approved Workmen Are Not Ashamed. This program is offered for children 3 years of age through the 6th grade. The children will participate in game time, book time, and counsel time. Children work through books learning Bible verses and how to become all God has called them to be. Mon, 10 Nov 2008 12:17:18 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=19 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=19&article_id=475 Sunday mornings at 10:30 am K-3 - K-5 Led by Amy Davis Drop off and pick up your preschooler in the Wee Worship hallway. When you arrive stop by a check-in station so we can sign your child in and get you a security sticker. This is ensure the safety of your child during and at the end of Wee Worship. Preschoolers attending a BFG at 9 am will be provided at snack in their classroom while waiting for Wee Worship to begin. This program is designed with your preschooler in mind. Interactive, high energy, music and packed with Bible stories. Your youngster is gonna love it! Mon, 10 Nov 2008 12:16:32 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=19 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=19&article_id=476 Every Wednesday night at 6:30 pm Girls grades 1-4 learn about missions around the world through crafts, stories and sometimes a yummy treat! Weekly prayer calendars help the girls understand the importance of lifting our missionaries up in prayer. Take home reminders allow children to write or email real missionary kids! Mon, 10 Nov 2008 12:13:20 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=19 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=19&article_id=477 Every Wednesday night at 6:30 pm Boys grades 1-4 Teaching character and values through outdoor activities, sports and object lessons. Mon, 10 Nov 2008 12:13:20 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=165 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=165&article_id=460 Sign up for Upward basketball and cheerleading today! You can do this by clicking on the Upward link on the front page of the GABC web site. The registration fee for Upward is $85.00 per child. This fee covers your child's jersery, shorts, cheerleading outfit, and end of the year award. Please take note of the following dates for evaluation.Practices begin - Monday, November 3First Game - Friday, December 5 Mon, 10 Nov 2008 11:53:57 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=620 Mon, 22 Sep 2008 13:13:20 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=18 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=18&article_id=699 To read a devotion for today please click below: Daily Devotion Thu, 11 Sep 2008 09:52:19 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=166 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=166&article_id=464 Gospel for Asia Laughing Child International Christian Plug Baptist News North American Mission Board International Mission Board Focus on the Family Thu, 4 Sep 2008 11:14:25 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=180 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=180&article_id=619 We are excited to announce the ability for you to pay your tithes and contributions electronically. While we do not encourage the use of credit cards and incurring debt, we realize that many in today's society are becoming more reliant on "plastic" and paying their bills electronically with debit cards. By clicking the below link, you are taken to a secure payment processing site maintained by SimpleGive, a company that focuses on electronic giving for non-profit organizations and churches. Transactions and data are secure and reliable - all data is encrypted from the your computer to the bank and locked down from intruders. Currently you may specifiy that your giving go into:General Tithes and OfferingBYND (Building Fund) In the near future, we will have the ability for you to pay for retreats, conferences, UPWARD basketball and other events. As well as having the ability to make a one-time payment, you can also setup recurring payments. For example, if you get paid monthly, you can set up a donation to be made on the date you specify and the schedule that you specify...say, the 1st of every month. We will hold short demo/training classes in the near future. If you would like more information...please check back soon for scheduling or watch the weekly announcements.Tithe Online Tue, 24 Jun 2008 22:16:36 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9&article_id=366 gabc_rec@bellsouth.net Tracy Kash came to Golden Acres in March of 2002. She became the Administrative Assistant in May of 2005. Tracy takes care of a very busy church office and congregation. She assists the ministerial staff in their administrative responsibilities and takes care of the church database, membership & baptism pictures, contributions, and general administrative responsibilities of the church. Tracy is married to Steve Kash and has two children, Jenna and Cameron Wed, 21 May 2008 13:58:03 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=9&article_id=17 gabc_ray@bellsouth.net He and his wife Amanda, and sons, Carter and Camron, joined the Golden Acres family in September, 2003. Under his spiritual leadership the church has grown tremendously and the entire worship experience has evolved into a blended setting where people of all ages are truly fed and walk away knowing they've sensed the presence of the Lord. Having played college baseball and spent his first years in Student Ministry, Bro. Ray loves and works well with people of all ages and walks of life. His real passion is soul-winning and discipling people to a deeper relationship with Christ. He received his Bachelor of Science Degree - Chemistry Major, Double Minor in Math and Biology from William Carey College, and Master of Divinity with Languages Degree and Doctor of Ministry with specialization in Church Growth and Evangelism from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary Wed, 7 May 2008 09:03:34 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=117 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=117&article_id=355 Here at GABC, we believe in prayer! You can have your prayer request added to our family prayer list by:Writing your request on the list at our Welcome Center.Turn in your request on the Family Prayer List from your Bible Fellowship Group.Call the church office (334-298-3381) Write your request on a visitors card and place it in the offering plate.Submit your prayer request on the Prayer Request Form on the website.E-mail your request to Gina Harper at gabcym@bellsouth.net. Tue, 22 Apr 2008 11:01:18 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=117 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=117&article_id=376 Our prayer chain is made up of Prayer Warriors willing to answer the call to pray for special needs when emergencies arise. The purpose of the prayer chain is to receive prayer requests by or on behalf of anyone in our church family who has an emergency situation or serious concern or knows of a special prayer need. Prayer chain Prayer Warriors pray continuously and faithfully for prayer requests and keep all requests in strict confidence. To activate the prayer chain, call Sarah McLaney at (334) 749-7209 or email her at samclaney@aol.com. Tue, 22 Apr 2008 10:59:47 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=117 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=117&article_id=356 The Upper Room is located behind the choir loft in the Sanctuary. This beautiful room is filled with a peaceful spirit that invites the prayers of individuals and prayer partners. We also have the Upper Room Prayer Ministry during Sunday Worship Services. Volunteers meet on a rotating basis to pray for Brother Ray, those involved in leading worship, and for the Holy Spirit to move throughout the congregation. There is an atmosphere of faith and expectation of what the Lord is going to do. If you are interested in volunteering to pray during worship call Dave Fussell at (334) 298-8733. Tue, 22 Apr 2008 10:59:11 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=117 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=117&article_id=375 There are many opportunities in our church to pray with other Prayer Warriors. Currently a Women's group meets on Tuesdays at 10 AM. If you are interested in starting a group or being a part of an existing group call Judy Wood at (334) 297-1140. Tue, 22 Apr 2008 10:56:56 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=171 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=171&article_id=503 Find help and healing for the hurt of separation and divorce DivorceCare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences. Don’t go through separation or divorce alone. DivorceCare seminars and support groups are led by people who understand what you are going through and want to help. You’ll gain access to valuable DivorceCare resources to help you deal with the pain of the past and look forward to rebuilding your life. Divorce Care is led by Jason Dennis and meets on Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. in Room 213 - The next 13-week study will begin on July 23rd. Tue, 22 Apr 2008 10:49:06 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=138 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=138&article_id=541 Leadership Summits are held on the following dates after the Sunday, 6:00 PM service. All Ministry Team members meet with their Ministry Team leaders in their assigned rooms. February 17th April 20th June 8th August 17th October 19th December 7th Tue, 22 Apr 2008 09:16:59 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=31 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=31&article_id=482 For schedules for the Phenix City League Men's Softball teams please click the link below. Schedules For the schedule for Monday Night Co-ed please click the link below. And then click on the tab titled MCOED CH. Schedule Fri, 18 Apr 2008 09:28:22 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=175 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=175&article_id=560 To read today's devotion please click the link below. BYND Devotional Guide Thu, 17 Apr 2008 07:19:07 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=167 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=167&article_id=472 People Directed is our weekly outreach and visitation ministry. People Directed happens every Wednesday night begining at 6:30 and Sunday afternoon from 4:00-6:00 PM. Outreach Groups are groups that leave the church and go out and minister in many different ways. Our Outreach Groups have done everything from work at homeless shelters to prayer walk neighborhoods. Fri, 14 Mar 2008 07:54:21 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=133 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=133&article_id=273 Journey 30+ Singles meet every Sunday morning at 10:30 am in the shopping mall, room C. For more information e-mail Gina Harper at 334-298-3381, ext. 203. Tue, 26 Feb 2008 11:14:30 MST http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=19 http://gabc-pc.ccbchurch.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=19&article_id=400 KidStuf is offered on Sunday mornings at 10:30 for children grades 1-6. KidStuf teaches Christian virtues through interactive teaching, games, songs, puppets and drama. Tue, 26 Feb 2008 10:58:41 MST