Reason One For Not Going To Texas

Last night, Russell and I got the opportunity to preach the gospel on the campus of West Virginia University. There were probably fifty people present to honor the life of Jason Simmons. I never had the opportunity to meet Jason, but according to a host of friends, he truly made an impact on a lot of people. It was a privilege to be a part of a candle light service to honor Jason's life.

I told those gathered last night many times we wonder why bad things happen to good people. The answer is not so simple, but what I told them was that God understands the future when we can not understand. He knows our pain, our hurts, and our sufferings. The only way we can find hope in the midst of our grief is to turn to Jesus Christ. I read John 14:1-6, Romans 8:18, and 1Thessalonians 4:13-18.

I am thankful for God allowing me this opportunity to minister to the people of Morgantown!

After One Week Of Going Deep

Last Sunday, I preached about the Biblical Basis of Baptism. I truly felt like the message flowed, and the people were engaged in what I was saying. I talked about the need for people who have accepted Christ as their Savior to follow Christ in baptism.

This past year we had two baptisms. Although, we rejoice in the two precious people that were saved and baptized, I am disappointed that our church did not baptize more people.

One of the reasons we did not baptize more people is because Russell and I did not address the people enough about this important doctrine. Now, we know that baptism doesn't save anyone, but what we do know is that it is very important if we want to grow in our relationship with Christ and the discipleship process! Not only that, but it is a prerequisite to church membership.

In the Bible, baptism was always done by immersion, and it always happened after a faith decision. I am excited that one person responded to the call to be baptized. On January 28, 2007, Diane will follow Christ in baptism!

Burning The Midnight Oil

Russell started a new series last week entitled Y. Y-Grow! was the first of four messages in the Y Series.

Today, my message was Y-Jesus! I dealt with three reasons to follow Jesus. I was up past 2:00 a.m. this morning honing the message. Here are the reasons to become a fully developing follower of Jesus Christ.

1. Because you can trust Him!

2. Because He is coming again.

3. Because He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.