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Written by Dr. Mark Hearn
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Have you ever heard the phrase “seeing is believing?” Many people demand tangible evidence in order to verify something as factual. In these days of increasing skepticism, accepting something at “face value” is just no longer the norm.
Therefore, the church ought to be prepared to “show” our faith and not just “share” our faith. James, the half brother of Jesus, said, “What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith, but does not have works? Can his faith save him?” (James 2:14) Faith that doesn’t work is like a burned out light bulb, useless to perform its purpose.
During the months of September and October, we at FBCD are going to concentrate on putting our faith into action. This initiative is called a “Servant’s Heart.” My prayer is that every member will discover the reason that God created you … to serve others.
One of the first ways you can get involved in this process is to take the spiritual gifts inventory that is linked to our church web page. Then, come prepared to hear how God will want to use you for kingdom purposes. Imagine hundreds of adults and youth invested in serving others in Duluth. We can make a difference! We will make a difference.
Blessings!
Bro. Mark
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Written by Mark Hearn
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Thursday, 12 August 2010 17:13 |
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As I write this; we are experiencing our second week of “Training Camp” at First Baptist Church. Just as NFL teams have gathered in training camps to prepare for the upcoming football season, FBCD is planning strategically for a successful year. My sermon series, “Training Camp” involves three strategy sessions; Loving God, Loving People, and Serving Others.
We express our love for God by gathering to worship Him “in truth and in Spirit.” This summer has brought increased crowds to worship services at FBCD, with a high attendance of over 900 on Vacation Bible School Sunday.
The second strategy is “Loving People.” Our church expresses love for people by connecting and discipling. In the past five months, we have baptized over 25 people at FBCD. This is a direct result of obeying Christ’s command to “make disciples.”
The final strategy is to “Serve Others.” William Booth, the founder of the Salvation Army, was unable to attend a speaking engagement. The organizers of the event asked if General Booth would send a word via Western Union to address the group. Booth agreed to the arrangement and wired his speech for the occasion. On the day of the event, the moderator apologized for the absence of General Booth and then proceeded to open the Western Union telegram and read … “Others.” That was the word, the one word, the only word, the most important word from General Booth. Ministry will take place when we think of “others.”
The strategy is clear. The players are being recruited. The time is now! Let’s have a great season.
Your Player/Coach,
Bro. Mark
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FBCD Goes to Training Camp |
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Written by Mark Hearn
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Thursday, 29 July 2010 00:00 |
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I heard some church members debating about their favorite “season.” One said she liked spring when all the flowers are in bloom. Another chose summer because of the long days and great weather. The third chose fall alluding to the grandeur of the turning colors of the foliage. The final participant chose winter claiming nothing is as majestic as a blanket of snow. The four asked me to weigh in on their conversation. So I exclaimed “my favorite season is FOOTBALL SEASON!”
There is nothing better than Friday night at a High School game OR Saturday afternoon at a College game OR Sunday afternoon watching the NFL. However, before the first game can take place, the teams must gather and prepare for the grueling season ahead. These long days of preparation are called “training camp.” The purpose of training camp is to solidify strategies and team building to maximize the opportunity for success. Many times these camps involve taking players back to the basics of the game in order to build upon the core values of the team.
To get ready for my favorite season of the year, I am leading a “FBCD Training Camp.” On Sundays, August 8th, 15th, and 22nd, I am going back to the basics to prepare our church for a successful year. Many times you may have heard our church mission is, “Love God, Love People, Serve Others.” During these 3 weeks, I will diagram how these 3 biblical purposes should not only be embraced, but embodied in all we do at FBCD.
Buckle your chin strap. It’s time to get ready for a great season!
Your Player/Coach,
Bro. Mark
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