Volunteers needed for CrossoverMarch 28, 2017 by Tobin Perry, NAMB | |
The goal of this year’s Crossover is to “Engage Phoenix with the Gospel” through a partnership with Harvest America. NAMB and Arizona Southern Baptist Convention leaders are praying for more ... READ MORE |
Alabama lawmaker wants to nix marriage licensesMarch 28, 2017 by Kiley Crossland, WORLD News Service | |
Alabama is considering a law that would abolish marriage licenses in the state. The proposed bill amends Alabama law to remove any requirement that couples have marriage ceremonies or ... READ MORE |
Assisted suicide bills faring poorly in 2017March 28, 2017 by David Roach, Baptist Press | |
Bills that would legalize assisted suicide have failed to advance in eight of 24 states considering them this year, with pro-life victories in Hawaii and New Mexico drawing media focus. READ MORE |
Friends, foes debate Gorsuch; Democrats plan to filibusterMarch 27, 2017 by Tom Strode, Baptist Press | |
Proponents and opponents voiced their opinions of U.S. Supreme Court nominee Neil Gorsuch on the final day of his hearing. Sen. Charles Schumer said he would vote against Gorsuch ... READ MORE |
OTHER BR NEWS |
SWBTS launches Center for Early Christian Studies
COLUMN: Calling out the called
Princeton Seminary reverses decision to honor Tim Keller
Student sues school over girl in boys' locker room
Canada harvesting organs of euthanasia patients
K. Allan Blume BR Editor | Getting ready for Easter? Most churches are both focused and busy during the spring season. Our special annual resurrection celebration opens the door to reach our community in unique ways. The window of receptivity is rarely wide open, but it is more open at Easter and Christmas than any other time of the year. There are several reasons why we should not ignore this opportunity. First, the average secular-minded person does not realize that we celebrate the resurrection every week. We worship on Sunday because it is the first day of the week – the day Jesus rose from the grave. We often call it "the Lord’s day." Since most people believe we only recognize the resurrection annually, they are willing to "pay their dues" to show respect for this Christian tradition. They are open. Second, many are willing to do something "religious" a few times a year. Maybe they want to soothe their consciences. Maybe they want to honor a family tradition. Maybe they believe salvation is by works, and it makes them feel like they have scored a few points with God. But at least they are open. Third, although some do not attend church regularly, they have a history of church involvement. There was a time when you saw them in the church building regularly. Something happened. Maybe they were hurt, or offended by church action or the actions of church leaders. Maybe they burned out. Maybe they experienced an embarrassing personal failure. You don’t see them often, but right now they are open. If these doors – and many others – are open, what should we do? How will we reach out to those who are searching, no matter what their motive might be? Is your church fellowship doing something different, something unique, this Easter? Do you have a sunrise service? Do you plan additional worship services? Please share your story with me. I would like to let others know what you are doing to celebrate the resurrection. Have a great week and a powerful "Lord’s day." |