Serving & Inviting Your One

Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Philippians 2:4

We have spent the past 30 days praying for our ONES (people around us who are not believers). During March I am challenging you to take two more steps: SERVING & INVITING YOUR ONE

 SERVING YOUR ONE

 Once you’ve identified your ONE, let them know you care through acts of service:

• Take them out for a cup of coffee.

• Write a note of encouragement.

• Hand out notes of encouragement to those who serve you at grocery stores, restaurants, letting them know they are prayed for and loved by Jesus.

• Send a text asking how you can pray for them.

• Drop off a gift card for your ONE at their door and leave them a hand-written note explaining why you did it.

• Type up a note saying you’re offering to help your neighbors in any way they need. Leave it on neighbors’ mailboxes or on their doors. Offer to do yard work, run errands, etc. Ask for prayer requests. Put contact information on the note.

• Take cookies or another goodie to your neighbor and take time to get to know them.

Any time the Lord puts your ONE on your mind, take the time to pray for them, then send them a text or them to let them know you have been praying for them and ask how they are doing.

 INVITING YOUR ONE

Invite your ONE to hear the gospel proclaimed and talk with them afterwards about it. We are planning four Sundays with this in mind.  Sunday, March 21 will begin a new sermon series titled, “What is the Good News?”  Each Sunday the gospel will be clearly explained as we study evangelistic sermons preached by the apostles in the book of Acts:

• March 21: Who is the Lord? Acts 2:14-41

• March 28: History Repeated? Acts 3:11-4:12

• April 4: Are You Persuaded? Acts 26:4-29

• April 11: Is Religion Enough? Acts 17:22-34

Even If your ONE cannot attend in person, share the live stream video link and then follow up with them afterwards.

May the Lord build his church!

For His Glory,

 Pastor Thomas

The Word of His Grace

And now I commend you to God and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified. Acts 20:32

THE WORD OF HIS GRACE

If you are following the daily Bible reading plan we are utilizing for our Wednesday discipling, and I hope you are, then you know we are currently reading through Acts.  Join us Wednesday night at 6:30 in the worship center as we learn to grow as disciples utilizing God’s word.

This morning’s reading was in Acts 20, Paul’s farewell message to the elders of the church of Ephesus. In verse 32, there is a remarkable statement about the power of God’s grace in Scripture. These men were learning the disappointing news that they were seeing Paul for the last time this side of heaven. There would be no further visits from their spiritual older brother. Paul commends, or entrusts, these men to God’s ever-capable, all-wise hands. What is more, he entrusts them to “the word of his grace”. While there were threats on the horizon, these elders had all the provision they needed in God and in his word. The Scriptures are at their heart the revelation of God’s grace! This grace is the root of salvation and sanctification. A few verses earlier, Paul describes the gospel as, “the gospel of the grace of God” (vs. 25). If they would abide in God and pay attention to this word of his grace, then they would have all they needed for the countless responsibilities that lay ahead of them.

Are you treasuring God and the word of his grace today?  Have you spent time reading, studying, and reflecting on the grace-packed Scriptures today? If so, you can be confident God is using this to prepare you for today, tomorrow, and eternity. Take up and read.

For His Glory,

Pastor Thomas

Help for the Aftershock

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

HELP FOR THE AFTERSHOCK

We were shocked and deeply saddened yesterday to learn of the death of a beloved member of our church. The news of someone loosing their life, whether by accident or intent, brings a range of emotions. When it was one we all know and love, it is all the more heart wrenching. You may feel confusion, anger, betrayal, guilt, responsibility, and fear. How do we come to terms with this?  How does knowing God make a difference in how we grieve?

Everyone wrestles with the question “why?” This side of heaven, this question can never be completely explained. There is no quick answer and easy solution. God does not offer for us platitudes and pat answers. He gives us something much better.  In response to our sorrow, emotions, and unanswered questions, he gives us himself. In life’s broken, dark experiences we find that the promises and presence of God our Savior are real. In the midst of darkness, God calls us to live a life where faith and love still shine.

God is not naïve to the realities of what has happened.  He is not naïve to our struggle with grief and pain. It is in the middle of these that our faith and trust in God grows. Read again the promises from Isaiah 41:10 (above).  Why should we fear not?  Because God is with us.  Why should we not be dismayed? Because God is ours. How will our ever-present God strengthen, help, and uphold us? By his holy, just, powerful, glorious right hand!  God speaks these words to you, “I am with you.”  He is the only one who can reassure your heart.

PRACTICAL STRATEGIES GOING FORWARD

• Cling to Jesus. God has come in the person of Jesus Christ and entered into the difficulties, sufferings, sins, and disappointments of this life. Jesus bore your weaknesses. He was tempted as you are. He triumphed. Now he comes near to you with promises of mercy and goodness. “He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? “(Rom. 8:32). Nothing can separate you from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.  

• Pray to your Father. Our heavenly Father is near and delights when you pour your heart out to him. Complaint, lament, mourning, and desperation are all emotions expressed in the Psalms. It is safe to be honest with your Father.  (For starters, see Psalm 6, 10, 22, 38, 42, 43, 130.)

• Connect with People. Don’t try to handle this alone, be part of your church family. Draw together more tightly. Gather with those who have been affected.  Talk with one another.  Don’t avoid talking about this tragedy. Grieve together. Pray together.  Be the church for one another.

• Trust in God’s Mercy. A question that is often asked is, “Can someone go to heaven if they take their life?” This is where we must be reassured that salvation is a gift of God’s merciful grace. Eternal life is nether merited by one’s deeds nor forfeited by one’s sins. On the cross, Jesus paid for all the sins of all those who would ever believe upon him for salvation. The love of God for his children is unquenchable and indestructible. God never lets go of his sheep. He will hold us fast.

 NEED TO TALK?

We all need the help of one anther to walk through this. This is not a time for isolation, but for talking to a spouse or good friend.  I welcome the opportunity to talk with anyone who would like more personal pastoral counseling during this difficult time. Simply reach out to me: thomas@crestviewbaptist.org 

For His Glory,

Pastor Thomas

(Article adapted from the booklet, Grieving a Suicide: Help for the Aftershock by David Powlison, 2010 New Growth Press.)

Do You Study?

"Great are the works of the LORD, studied by all who delight in them." Psalm 111:2

DO YOU STUDY?

The word "study" may bring to mind memories of pouring over books, class notes, and study guides as you crammed for final exams. Notice in Psalm 111:2 (above) that studying the works of the Lord is an act of worship. The passage is clear - all who delight in the Lord's great works will study them. If you enjoy the Lord and delight in knowing him, you should hunger to know what he has done. As your knowledge about his acts grows, your joy and wonder in him are enlarged!

Where do we go to study these great works of the Lord? The Scriptures. These are the record of God's great works. Have you studied God's works today?

Church, we have homework.

For His Glory,

Pastor Thomas

Who's Your One in 2021?

"The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest." Luke 10:2

WHO'S YOUR ONE IN 2021?

Church, we don’t merely need another method for evangelism. We need a white-hot passion to see people who are far from God experience the new life He offers through Jesus Christ.

Every Crestview member is being challenged to identify ONE unbeliever in your life for whom you will pray, serve, and share this year. ONE specific person. My prayer is that God will use us as his instruments in the salvation of many souls in 2021. Join me in asking that we see many new disciples baptized in the coming months. Who's your ONE?

Not sure how to answer the question, “Who’s your ONE?” yet? Here are a few suggestions to help.

• Family: Who could love your family members more than you do?

• Close friends: Who do you want to tell when you have news (good or bad)?

• Neighbor: Who lives right next door to you?

• Coworkers: Who works across from you, or who do you run into in the break room?

• Cashier or server: Who are the people you see at your regular shopping and dining spots?

• Classmate: Who do you see in class, the library or lab?

• Teammate: Who plays in the same league as you?

• Online friend: With whom do you engage on social media?

• Fellow parent: Who are the parents of your child’s friends?

• Workout buddy: With whom do you go to the gym or run?

This Sunday we will be our commitment Sunday. We will be posting our ONE's names on a display board as a tangible reminder and encouragement. If you are not able to gather in-person this Sunday, email your name and your ONE's name and we will be sure it is posted: info@crestviewbaptist.org

Monday, February 1, we will launch a 30-Day focus on praying for our ONES. Prayer guides will be available Sunday or can be downloaded here: 30-DAY PRAYER GUIDE

For His Glory,

Pastor Thomas

Gospel Project For Kids

“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6

GOSPEL PROJECT FOR KIDS

As parents, it is our responsibility to train and raise our children in the fear and admonish of the Lord and all His glorious ways. Parenting is one of the most eternally significant things we as humans have the privilege and responsibility to do. Each day I have the opportunity to be the father to my daughter, Eden, I increasingly feel the weight of this duty.

Not only do I have the responsibility of being a father, but as the Families Minister, I also have the great privilege of seeking out good resources for young families to incorporate into the daily discipleship of their children and family worship throughout the week.

The resource I want to draw your attention to is the LifeWay Kids App. Through this app, you have access to all the Gospel Project materials we would normally use during the equipping course hour on Sunday mornings in the Elementary Kids’ Class. There are lesson videos, memory verse games and puzzles, digital coloring sheets, big picture flashcards, and so much more! This is a wonderful tool to incorporate into your week to engage your children with the Gospel or to use as an “at home Sunday School” if you are watching from home on Sundays.

To get set up, simply download the LifeWay Kids App from your AppStore/Play Store, create an account, and download the current quarter’s curriculum from the lifeway in-app store. At times the download is $.99, but it is currently free for the winter quarter. Even at $.99, this is money well spent for the material you’ll receive. Once you’ve downloaded the curriculum, click through and familiarize yourself with the features and capabilities, and start teaching your kids the gospel project at home! I pray this is a useful and effective tool for the daily discipleship of your children.

Grace to you,

Cole Barnes, Worship and Families

How are you growing as a disciple of Christ? (Daily Bible Reading Plan)

We are called to be progressing as disciples in every season of life. Our COVID world may be challenging in many ways but it should not stop your forward progress as a disciple of Jesus. In fact, every trial and hardship is designed by God to strengthen your appreciation of Him and grow in faith. So, how are you growing as a disciple?

You may already have your own plan for daily Bible reading. If so - great! If not, then I want to give you the loving challenge to make the most of this season. Whether or not you are currently participating in our Wednesday night discipling gathering, I'm encouraging you pick-up and participate in the daily Bible reading plan and journaling we are doing. This is a wonderful way to grow together as a church family.

Attached you will find the DAILY BIBLE READING PLAN we are following. (For those who use the ESV Bible app or ESV Study Bible website, this is the "Digging Deep Into the Bible" 1 year plan if you want to take advantage of digital resources.) We are following the Gospels and Epistles track but feel free to add any of the other three tracks if you'd like more reading. We are currently reading through the Gospel of Luke.

Each day read the assigned portion and journal your observations. Attached instructions for daily journal entries.

Even if you cannot meet with us currently on Wednesday nights, by keeping up with this reading plan you will be sharing the experience, growing in God's word, and will be ready to jump into discipling groups when you are able to attend on Wednesdays.

I pray this is a blessing and encouragement to you!

For His Glory,

Pastor Thomas


DAILY BIBLE READING PLAN

JOURNALING INSTRUCTIONS

What About Lord's Supper This Sunday?

So then, my brothers, when you come together to eat, wait for one another – if anyone is hungry, let him eat at home…1 Corinthians 11:33-34a

WHAT ABOUT LORD’S SUPPER THIS SUNDAY?

When we meet this Sunday for Gathered Worship, we plan to eat the Lord’s Supper as Christ’s assembled church. This is one of the believer’s high privileges of being united to Christ and a member of his church. Because a portion of you may be planning to watch from home, I think it is wise for a bit of pastoral counsel about how to approach the supper this Sunday.

I am aware of churches who have encouraged the practice of “virtual Lord’s Supper” in which families prepare and eat their own bread and juice at home as they watch a live stream of the service. I and our elders do not encourage you to do this. While well-intentioned, this kind of “virtual Lord’s Supper” is a practice that takes “virtual church” too far. Watching a live stream is a temporary aid but is not a replacement for the gathering of the local church family.  A “virtual Lord’s Supper” does not seem to be wise because it is at odds in several ways with Scripture’s instructions in 1 Corinthians 11:17-34.  

In this passage, Paul meticulously corrects several errors in the church’s understanding and practice of the supper:

1. He is clear that the supper is for the gathered church and not to be eaten independently: “One goes ahead with his own meal…do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God…” (vss. 21-22).

2. He urges them to eat as the assembled church at a time and location that maximizes participation: “So then, my brothers, when you come together to eat, wait for one another” (vs. 33).

3. He makes a distinction between the location of the gathered church and the family home: “…when you come together to eat, wait for one another – if anyone is hungry, let him eat at home” (vs. 33)

In light this, it is our practice as a church to eat the Lord’s Supper in Gathered Worship on Sundays, as we will this week. Join us if you are able. If you are unable to attend, due to COVID concerns or other physical limitations, we understand and will miss you. For most of you, such an absence is short-term and temporary.  So, as you watch from home, I pray the Spirit will minister to you during this challenging season and that the live stream will be an aid to this. I also pray that your desire to, “Do this in remembrance of me” (vs. 25), will draw you back to regularly assembling with your church as soon as you are able.

MODIFIED GATHERING PLANS FOR JANUARY

As a reminder, we are pausing our small group gatherings for the remainder of January. This is our current ministry schedule:

• Sunday 10:30 AM Gathered Worship: Our Sunday gathering takes place in-person and via live stream as normal.  There are no equipping courses, nursery, or community group gatherings. Children sit with their parents during the service.  

• Wednesday 6:30 PM Discipling: We meet as one group in the worship center for Discipling. We are studying the Gospel of Luke and praying together. There is no nursery, kids, or student ministries, but families are welcome to participate together in the worship center. This gathering is not be available by live stream.

 For His Glory,

 Pastor Thomas

Trials Abound

Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. James 1:12

TRIALS ABOUND

Theses past several weeks have been challenging days for our church family. Accidents, sickness, and death have been unusually prevalent. I want to remind you of the Lord’s presence with each of you and of his love for our church particularly. Trials like we are currently experiencing are reminders that as long as we are living in this present evil age we are under the ever-present groaning of the curse of sin. The good news is that for all who trust in Jesus Christ, all this is all temporary. The indwelling presence of the Spirit gives us peace and endurance. So, remain steadfast and endure every trial with hope in the accomplished work of our Savior. The best is yet to come!

MODIFIED GATHERING PLANS FOR JANUARY

As announced yesterday, due to the rise of COVID cases and the need for families to stay safe, we are pausing our small group gatherings for the remainder of January. Here is what this means:

• Sundays 10:30 AM Gathered Worship: Our Sunday gathering will take place in-person and via live stream as normal.  There will be no equipping courses, nursery, or community group gatherings. Children should sit with their parents during the service.  

• Wednesdays 6:30 PM Discipling: For all who would like to gather mid-week, there will be a gathering in the worship center where we will continue our normal focus on discipling. We will be going through the Gospel of Luke and praying together. There will be no nursery, kids, or student ministries, but families are welcome to participate together in the worship center. This gathering will not be available by live stream.

We expect many will choose to remain home in an abundance of caution and we fully understand this. For those who stay home, please be diligent to watch the Sunday live stream and remain in communication with one another.  If you are remaining home, our elders and deacons would like to know this.  Please let us know your plans by email: thomas@crestviewbaptist.org.

As a reminder, if you or anyone in your family is feeling ill or has been exposed to COVID, please stay home until everyone is well again.

WAYNE BROWN CELEBRATION SERVICE

The celebration service for Wayne Brown is Saturday, January 9, at 2:00 PM at the Brown’s home. There will also be a live stream available for any who are unable to attend.  Follow this link for more information: Celebration Service

 For His Glory,

 Pastor Thomas

God the Son Incarnate

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. Luke 2:11

GOD THE SON INCARNATE

These last two Sundays we have considered the monumental significance of the life of Jesus.  In what is the doctrinal summit of 1 Timothy, Paul pens a 6-line hymn.  Using only 26 words he profoundly summarizes the significance of the incarnation of God the Son: “He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory” (1 Tim. 3:16).  These words are worth our lingering reflection. As we celebrate Christmas this week, I pray we will freshly treasure Jesus the Savior.

CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT SERVICE

Thursday evening at 5:00 PM we will be the Christmas Eve Candlelight Service. You may join us in-person or watch via the live stream.  The family-friendly service will be about 45 minutes long.

UPDATE: A MESSAGE OF HOPE FOR OUR NEIGHBORS

This past Sunday was the second week of our outreach.  Many heard the message of Hope Received! Over 9,000 viewed the promo this past week on social media. The Hope page on the website had 70 additional visits this week – so almost 400 over three weeks. Sunday had 3 first-time guests and several others returned for a second time. Streaming views also remained high again this week. 

If you invited someone to visit or watch the service, this week is the time to follow up with them. Did they watch?  What are their thoughts?  Is Jesus their hope? For any who missed the live events, the Hope page of the website is going to remain active for the next couple of weeks and has the recordings of each of the Sunday services.

INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS OFFERING

It is not too late to participate in the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering for International Missions. We have given just over $3,000 to date.

For His Glory,

Pastor Thomas

Update: A Message of Hope for our Neighbors

Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. Romans 5:2

UPDATE: A MESSAGE OF HOPE FOR OUR NEIGHBORS

Please continue praying for neighbors and friends who are hearing the message of hope through Jesus Christ!  We are seeing responses to our invitations in several ways. Over 3,600 viewed our promo on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. 115 people clicked the promo to visit the Hope web page.  This page has had 300 visits over the last two weeks. We do not have statistics on The Story short film but can reasonably estimate 50-100 views.

Many heard the message of HOPE REVEALED this past Sunday! Though attendance Sunday was lower than past weeks (83 in-person), we had 9 first-time guests! We saw streaming views go up almost 100%. 37 devices viewed the service live (our normal average is 20). The service has been viewed a total of 63 times on YouTube.  Additionally, just this morning, we had a neighbor from Spring Valley Circle come to the church office inquiring about our ministry. He said he had received an invitation on his door last Saturday!

That is all wonderful and we are not done!  This Sunday the focus is HOPE RECEIVED. Continue inviting and sharing the gospel with friends, family, and neighbors this week. Have you invited your One to join us Sunday or watch the live stream?  A new social media promo campaign will begin this Thursday.  Please like and share these posts when you see them. The reach and influence of our church is exponential when we leverage our social media platforms for the spread of the gospel!  Finally, continue praying that the Lord to use our efforts and for the lives of many to be transformed by the gospel of grace.  

INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS OFFERING:  GIVE THIS SUNDAY

This Sunday plan to bring your gifts for the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering for International Missions. Think of this as a special Christmas gift bringing the greatest news to those around the world who have yet to hear, “Unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Give in-person, on-line, or by mail.  Our church goal is $10,000.  What will the Lord do among us?

LET’S BE VIGILANT WITH OUR GATHERING GUIDELINES

We are in time of year when annual sickness is typically on the rise.  Add to it this year an increasing number of COVID cases in our area, and we have the need to be extra vigilant. Thank you to all who have erred on the safe side and remained home when you were unsure about your health. Remember, if you are feeling ill, for any reason, please stay home as a way of caring for one another. When you are well, then we are happy to worship with you!  When on campus please follow our GATHERING GUIDELINES. These guidelines have been serving us well and we need everyone’s participation.    

For His Glory,

Pastor Thomas

Reaching Far and Near

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations… Matthew 28:19

 INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS OFFERING (LOTTIE MOON CHRISTMAS OFFERING)

We have just finished a week of prayer for international missions.  You have been praying for the spread of the gospel to people groups across the planet. As you have prayed, I trust the Lord has freshly reminded you of the joyful responsibility to support our missionaries who are serving around the world. During the Christmas season each year our church, along with thousands more, receives a special offering – the Lottie Moon Offering for International Missions.  100% of this offering goes to support international gospel work in some of the hardest, darkest, least reached places in the world.

This year I have set Crestview’s giving target at $10,000. This is ambitious – but it reflects the priority of the task of reaching the world. In my time here, we have never given this much to this offering.  In 2019 we gave $6,200. In 2018 we gave $5,700. The previous years the offering was around $3,000 annually. The Lord has blessed our church and our members in MANY ways this year. On Sunday, December 20, bring your gifts or give on-online, and let’s see what God does.

Crestview has 170 members, representing 85 family units. If each family were to give $125 we would exceed the $10,000 goal.  Each family is different, and we are not called to equal giving.  We are, though, called to proportional giving.  Give as the Lord inspires and enables you.  The resources are in our bank accounts. Will we joyfully release them back to the Lord for kingdom use?

Someone has said, “The light that burns farthest burns brightest at home.” This is true – especially as it reflects the great commission heart of a church.  The more prayerful, generous, and faithful we are to the instruction of Jesus to make disciples of all nations, the stronger our walk and witness will be for Christ here at home.

A MESSAGE OF HOPE FOR OUR NEIGHBORS

Our effort to share the gospel in our city is in high swing!  Saturday we handed out 300 invitations in the Beatty Hills neighborhood. Sunday you took home with you invitations for your neighbors and friends. Have you passed them out yet?  The social media promotion is underway on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.  Thousands in a 5 mile radius of our church campus will see information about A Message of Hope.  Please spread the word by sharing on your social media accounts as well.

What should you be doing this week? 

• Praying:  Pray for many to hear the gospel and come to saving faith. Pray the gospel to be clearly presented. Pray for us all to be faithful, courageous, and bold to invite.

• Inviting: Invite friends and family who do not know Christ to come with you to gathered worship these next two Sundays.

• Sharing: Make sharing the gospel with your One a priority in these upcoming days. Share and repost social media links and email announcements. 

• Showing Up: Come prepared to glorify the Lord together! A Spirit-filled church is a powerful testimony to the truth of the gospel. Make attendance these next two Sundays a priority for you and your family. Be prepared to serve the church – whatever may be needed.  We expect to need to maximize fellowship hall seating.

For His Glory,

Pastor Thomas

Abounding in Thanksgiving

Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught abounding in thanksgiving. Colossians 2:6

ABOUNDING IN THANKSGIVING

Of all people in the world, those who are in Christ have the most reasons to abound with thanksgiving. Humility should distinguish us because we appreciate the depth of our sin and depravity. Apart from the grace and mercy of the Lord, we would be without faith, lost, and separated from God. Were it not for the life, death, resurrection, and reign of Jesus, we would have no hope of justification on the great and final day of judgment! Had the Lord not mercifully chosen, called, and granted us pardon based on the atoning work of the Son, we would be hopeless. Yet, grace abounds! So too, may our thanksgiving abound!

A MESSAGE OF HOPE FOR OUR NEIGHBORS

Please begin praying for a gospel outreach we will be making as a church family in the upcoming weeks. Our elders and Engage Griffin mission team have designed a way for every Crestview member to spread the gospel to our friends, family, and "ones" during December. This strategy will have several synergistic prongs of involvement:

• Gathered worship December 13 & 20. These two services are the focal point. They will feature the proclamation of the gospel from 1 Timothy 3:16 with two sermons, “Hope Revealed” and “Hope Received”. These are Sundays for every member to make a special effort to bring non-believing friends and family to these in-person services. These will be excellent times to invite your "one" to join us.

• Live-streaming on December 13 & 20. For those unable to attend in person due to COVID, we will feature the opportunity for those outside our church to watch these services from home. If your "one" lives in another location, you can invite them to watch and then follow up with them afterwards.

• Website: We will soon drop a new feature onto the Crestview website called: A Message of Hope for our Neighbors. On this page will feature several short videos explaining the gospel and highlight how to watch the Sunday services.

• Social media: In December we will promote on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. We encourage everyone to share and re-post these messages to your friends on social media. The wide reach of our church family in this way is exponential.

• Invitation packets: We will be preparing invitation packets for you to deliver to your friends and neighbors inviting them to attend in person or watch from home. On Saturday, December 5, at 11 AM you are invited to pray together and then go out distributing invitations around our church campus. On Sunday, December 6 invitation packets will be available for all members to take to deliver to neighbors, coworkers, and friends.

We can leverage our digital tools to make initial contact and share the gospel through screens across our community and world. While we know this is not a substitute for the assembling of the church, we hope this is a way we can reach those who would otherwise not attend one of these gatherings. Please begin praying for this outreach and look for ways to personally take advantage of this to share the gospel with others.

For His Glory,

Pastor Thomas

Explaning Why Baptism is Requried for Church Membership

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. Matthew 28:19-20

Why must someone be baptized as a believer in order to join a local church, such as Crestview? Because church membership is a public affirmation of someone’s public profession of faith in Christ. Jesus has appointed baptism as the way his followers publicly profess their faith in him. A church cannot affirm the profession of someone who has not yet made that profession. No doubt, there are many important and legitimate ways believers should be public with their faith, but baptism tops the list.  Baptism is where faith goes public.

Baptism is how you publicly identify yourself with Jesus and with his people (Acts 2:38-41). It is how you visibly signify that you are united to Christ in his death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:2-4) It is how you become identified before the church and the world as one who belongs to the Triune God (Matthew 28:19). It is a command of Jesus, and therefore, a matter of obedience that expresses submission to Christ’s Lordship (Matthew 28:19-20).

Baptism is how a new believer shows up on the church’s radar screen as a Christian. Baptism is like a jersey that shows you are now playing for Jesus’s team. Because of this purpose which Jesus has assigned to baptism, a church may publicly identify itself only with those who have publicly identified with Jesus in baptism.

Baptism is a wordless vow, a symbolic promise to follow Christ in the fellowship of his church. The Lord’s Supper is another wordless vow, in which you repeatedly own Christ as your Savior and his people as your people. On one level church membership is ongoing admission to the Lord’s Supper. No one can renew his vow to Christ who has not first made that vow in the form appointed by Christ. No one can be identified with the body of Christ who has not first identified with Christ and his body. Baptism necessarily precedes the Lord’s Supper like entering the front door necessarily precedes sitting down at the family meal.

What about infant baptism, or for that matter, any baptism that might have taken place prior to being converted? If baptism is where the faith of a disciple of Jesus goes public, then any baptism that took place prior to conversion, regardless of the person’s age, is not baptism. Those who have been “baptized” prior to their salvation need to be baptized – for the first time – as believers. The first baptism was not baptism at all, and a believer who has not yet been baptized needs to obey Christ’s first command in order to enter his church.

We saw a wonderful example this past Sunday. I cannot help but wonder if there may be others in a similar situation? Obedience to Christ is never wrong. It may be humbling, but it is never wrong. I also wonder if there are new believers, who have been saved recently, who need to go public with their faith? The water is in the pool. Contact me if you need to be baptized (thomas@crestviewbaptist.org).

For His Glory,

Pastor Thomas

(Article adapted from Going Public: Why Baptism is Required for Church Membership, Bobby Jamieson, B&H Publishing group, 227)

The Meek

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS OF BELIEVERS

This is the third in an occasional series of articles reflecting on the Beatitudes in Matthew 5:3-12. What kind of people are we to be? What attitudes should mark those who have been truly born again? Jesus calls each of the beatitudes “blessed.”  To be blessed like this is to be in a state of joyful well-being with God.

Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. Matthew 5:5

 THE MEEK

Believers are to be meek.  They are to be characterized by gentleness, humility, and consideration toward others. Jesus possessed this attribute: “Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle (or meek; same Greek word as Matthew 5:5) and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Mat. 11:29). Possessing meekness does not equate to weakness or lack of resolve. Meekness toward others comes from an awareness of God, living with a deep trust in Him, and willingness to put others before oneself. Peter urges believing wives to model meekness in their homes: “Let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle (or meek) and quiet spirit, which in God's sight is very precious” (1 Pe. 3:4).  Meekness is to be a distinguishing fruit in the lives of disciples of Jesus.

SHALL INHERIT THE EARTH

This is true in at least two ways. First, only those who are meek will be content in the Lord’s providence and provision. Human sinful nature is drawn to consumerism, materialism, and personal power. Christ sets us free from these misplaced aspirations. Therefore, Paul could describe the Christian life as “having nothing, yet possessing everything” (2 Cor. 6:10).  Second, this promise will be fulfilled in a way we can barely imagine. After the return of Jesus, God’s people will dwell with him forever in the new earth (Isa. 65, Rev. 21). When we receive the inheritance of the newly recreated earth, we will rejoice that we did not squander this life trying to gain the whole world and forfeit our souls (Mk. 8:36).

HOW ABOUT YOU?

Is meekness a characteristic of your life? What would you family and friends say? Are you fertilizing your soul with contentment in God?  Like the prodigal son are you demanding your inheritance now, or are you meek while waiting for that which is exponentially better?

For His Glory,

Pastor Thomas

We Confess the Supremacy of Jesus Christ

Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of godliness: He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.
1 Timothy 3:16

WE CONFESS THE SUPREMACY OF JESUS CHRIST

What an uplifting gathering we enjoyed yesterday! My soul was warmed as we read 1 Timothy 3:16 as I considered the straightforward confession of the deity, supremacy, and glory of the Lord. Jesus is the true expression of godliness.  We who believe upon Jesus confess these very same truths about him and follow in his footsteps. May this confession be upon our lips this week.  Consider setting this verse to memory and reflecting upon it throughout this week.  

MEMBERS MEETING: SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27

The elders have called a Members Meeting for Sunday, September 27, following gathered worship. Two items of business will be taken up.  First, we will review a tentative plan to return to a regular Sunday/Wednesday ministry schedule.  Second, we will consider membership for any who have completed the membership process and are desiring to join. Expect the conference to last 30 minutes (or less). We will meet in the worship center. No lunch will be served.

Throughout the summer we have been gathering on Sundays for gathered worship and for community groups. Due to the COVID pandemic we have not offered on campus Equipping Courses, Nursery, Kids Ministry, or Wednesday evening discipleship. During this meeting on September 27 we will review a careful, flexible, responsible strategy developed by staff, elders, deacons, and kids leaders to restart these portions of our ministry during the month of October.  The plan considers social distancing requirements, guidelines for the safety of children and nursery workers, and cleaning protocols.

Candidly, the most challenging aspect of the plan may be the re-assembly of a team of members who are able and willing to joyfully minister to children. I am confident some are excited to make gospel-centered, God-glorifying investments in the next generation. Please pray that the Spirit will stir within our church those who have gifts, desire, and time to devote to serving children and their families.  Please be prayerfully considering whether you might be ready to join a 6-week rotation in the nursery or ready to make a 6-month commitment to be a teacher in our kids ministry on Sundays or Wednesdays.

The Lord gifts his body for ministry. I am looking forward to seeing how this all materializes!

 For His Glory,

 Pastor Thomas

How To Listen To A Sermon

I hope to come to you soon, but I am writing these things to you so that, if I delay, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of the truth. 1 Timothy 3:14-15

BEHAVE AS GOD’S HOUSEHOLD: NEW SERIES IN 1 TIMOTHY

This Sunday we begin the study of a new book on Sunday mornings – 1 Timothy. I will be preaching verse-by-verse through this first letter of the Pastoral Epistles. Under the inspiration of the Spirit, Paul penned a practical letter reminding Timothy and the church in Ephesus about how the church was to behave. As God’s Word, the letter is filled with truth that is pertinent for us today. Please pray for our church as we plunge into this new series and come as Spirit-filled listeners this Sunday.

HOW TO LISTEN TO A SERMON

A lot is at stake every Sunday when God’s word is read and explained. God uses the preaching of his Word to bring the dead to life and cause immature believers to grow toward maturity.  Still, let us admit, there are times it can be challenging to listen.  Here are 5 ways you can be prepared to listen this Sunday:

1.     Be prepared to listen. Arrive on Sunday with prayerful excitement about what the Lord will do. During the preceding days pray regularly for your pastor as he studies.  Pray for your church, for non-believers, and for yourself. Bring your Bible so you can track along with the passage. Many are helped by taking notes, so you may want to bring a pen and journal. Get a good night’s sleep and eat a good breakfast, no one can listen if you are tired and hungry.

2.     Listen actively. During the sermon put your phone away and focus on the preacher and on your Bible. I recommend using a physical Bible, rather than an app on your phone. A paper Bible has no distracting notifications, the screen does not time out, and it requires no battery. Throughout the entire sermon keep your Bible open and follow along with the development of the message. Encourage the preacher with a friendly facial expression and eye contact. Nod in agreement and encourage him with “That’s right” and “Amen.”

3.     Listen with affections. The sermon is the high point of the gathered worship of the church. Your mind and heart must participate if worship is to be in “spirit and in truth”. As the sermon points you to the Lord, allow your affections to soar with awe, thanksgiving, and wonder.  When emotions of lament, conviction, and brokenness arise do not ignore them. They are God’s gift to you.

4.     Listen critically. Pay attention to the content of the sermon to verity it is rooted in the Bible and rightly setting forth sound doctrine (like the Bereans in Acts 17:11). Query the text. Is the sermon on point with the Scripture?  If it is, then such sermons may not be safely ignored. Accept faithful preaching as a message from the Lord.

5.     Listen to apply. Pay attention to ways the Holy Spirit use the sermon to pinpoint aspects of your life that need attention. The preacher may bring some helpful points of suggested application, but ultimately each person is responsible for listening and applying to their unique circumstances. Be doers of the word, and not hearers only (James 1:22).

In his second letter to his younger ministry partner, Paul charged Timothy with the immense importance of preaching the Word of God. May we approach the sermon this, and every, Sunday as Spirit-filled listeners:

Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths. 2 Timothy 4:2-4

For His Glory,

Pastor Thomas

Local Churches, Cooperating Together

I hope to see you in passing as I go to Spain, and to be helped on my journey there by you, once I have enjoyed your company for a while. At present, however, I am going to Jerusalem bringing aid to the saints. For Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to make some contribution for the poor among the saints at Jerusalem. Romans 15:24-26

LOCAL CHURCHES, COOPERATING TOGETHER

God reveals in Scripture many examples of churches partnering together for the sake of the gospel. One case is cited above from Romans.  Paul had collected an offering from churches around the Mediterranean region for the relief of believers in Jerusalem.  Also, he was preparing the church at Rome to support him in his travel to take the gospel to Spain. There are many other examples of such cooperation across the New Testament. It glorifies the Lord and honors his universal church when we appreciate ministry beyond what is happening in our own backyard. Partnering with other churches (and networks of churches) widens and extends our gospel-eyesight. We become aware of what God is doing in other regions and needs that we can work together to meet. This past Sunday we were reminded of our own partnership with Jason Lee and Clarkston International Bible Church. We are working in cooperation to spread the gospel among the nations living in Atlanta! Consider going to Clarkson on Saturday, October 3, to take part in Serve Day (email cole@crestviebaptist.org for more info and to register).

THE FLINT RIVER BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

Another avenue of cooperation for Crestview is our local association of like-minded churches called the Flint River Baptist Association (FRBA).  The FRBA is composed of about 50 churches in the greater Spalding County region. It exists “to facilitate and connect churches to partner and serving and fulfilling the Great Commission.” Over the last year, Dr. Frank Nuckolls, association mission strategist, has been leading the FRBA through a renewal of its vision and reorganization its mission focus. I am enthusiastic about the direction things are going.

There are a couple of ways for you to keep up with the FRBA. One way is to visit the WEBSITE and read the monthly newsletter, THE FORECASTER.  Another way is to attend the annual meeting.

ANNUAL MEETING: SEPTEMBER 27

This year’s annual meeting of the Association is Sunday, September 27, at 6:00 PM, in the worship center of Oak Hill Baptist Church in Williamson. You will hear about our cooperative ministry, vision, goals, and updates on what our mission dollars are accomplishing. We will enjoy worship in song by Oak Hill’s worship team, hear an encouraging address by Dr. Nuckolls, and a missions sermon from Ken Adams, pastor of Crossroads Church in Newnan. I want to encourage you to mark your calendar and plan to attend. Every so often someone will ask me, “Why don’t our churches ever get together for a large worship service?” The answer is: We do!  This is it - you are invited.   

GIVING UPDATE

Last week I wrote asking you to generously supply the church ministry budget in the hope of creating a surplus of $11,000 by September 30. This will allow the breezeway project to begin. In only one week you are already responding! Giving to the budget this past week totaled $8,278, which should generate several thousand dollars of surplus as we close the books on August. Additionally, we had special gifts to the campus renovation fund totaling $5,500!  This is an exciting start, and we still have one month to go! Continue to pray and give as the Lord enables. If we have generous hearts, perhaps the Lord will provide what is needed for the breezeway and more!

For His Glory,

Pastor Thomas

Campus Renovations

Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7

CAMPUS RENOVATIONS

The Lord has blessed Crestview with a large, highly visible church campus. It is a tool that aids us in accomplishing the mission of our Lord. One of the realities of having a church campus is that buildings must be maintained and occasionally updated to remain clean, safe, modern ministry tools. This past Sunday, I spoke briefly about campus renovations that we are hoping to make soon. I want to recap things here and encourage your generosity.

THE BREEZEWAY PROJECT

Our next project is the breezeway that connects the main building to the education building. It will be replaced with an open air, covered walkway. The new wider walkway will provide protection from rain as well as easy, safe access to the playground. The facility planning team has been meeting with contractors and receiving bids. The current balance in the Campus Renovation Fund is $46,000.  Another $8,000-$10,000 is needed to start this project. We are ready to start as soon as funds are in hand.

FUTURE PROJECTS

The next project will be a remodel of the worship center. We are considering the development of a large new entry foyer and a covered car drop-off on the south side of the main building. This will be followed by a remodel of nurseries and the balance of the first floor of the main building.

FUNDING PLAN

In 2019 the church approved the Campus Renovations Funding Plan featured in the graphic below. This plan focuses upon debt-free funding that does not divert giving away from the regular ministry budget of the church. Generous giving to the church ministry budget will supply our day-to-day ministry needs and result in a surplus that will go toward campus renovation and additional missions. Our church does not have a separate “building program” to fund campus renovations.  Surplus from giving to the church ministry budget is our “building program.”

THE GOAL: $11,000 SURPLUS BY SEPTEMBER 30

The end of September marks the next opportunity to evaluate the surplus. Our elders, facilities team, and finance team are asking you to prayerfully consider generous gifts to the church ministry budget through the end of September. A surplus of $11,000 would provide what is needed for the breezeway and an additional $1,000 for missions.  If we have generous hearts, perhaps the Lord will provide what is needed for the breezeway and more!

If you are already supporting the church ministry budget and want to make a special gift directly to the campus renovation, designated gifts are welcome. Contact Gayle Kelley in the church office if you have any questions.

Let us pray, give, and anticipate what the Lord will do!

For His Glory,

Pastor Thomas

Preview of the Coming Weeks

I want to make you aware of exciting things happening over the next several weeks. Please begin planning now to be present and praying that all will glorify the Lord:

 SUNDAY, AUGUST 23

Jesus has promised that the church he builds is invincible. Despite this promise, in some hearts, the pandemic may have dampened enthusiasm for making disciples. At a minimum, COVID has upended familiar schedules, locations, and programs for evangelism and discipleship. This Sunday, I hope to bring a reassuring message from Matthew 16:13-20 reminding us that Jesus is always faithful to build his church. You will have the opportunity to witness the reality of this promise as Amanda Barnes publicly professes her faith through believer’s baptism. After the service, there will be a brief information and training meeting for all who serve on our Hospitality Team.  This team oversees greeting, set-up, and clean-up each time our church gathers. Any members interested in helping should attend.

 SUNDAY, AUGUST 30

Jason Lee will be with us preaching and updating us about our mission partnership serving the refugee community in Clarkston, Georgia. He is an elder with Clarkston International Bible Church and the director of The Acts 17 Initiative.   

 SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6

Annually, toward the end of summer, I preach a biographical sermon applying Hebrews 13:7, “Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.” Past messages have featured Adoniram Judson, Lottie Moon, George Liele, John Newton, and others (listen to past messages here). This year I have chosen to focus upon the 18th-century missionary to the American Indians, David Brainerd. He was only active in mission work a handful of years before dying at the relatively young age of 29. Though his life was brief, his influence upon word missions was not. If you are finding it hard to make disciples amid hard times, you will discover Brainerd to be an inspiration.  

 SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13

With the arrival of autumn, and hopefully some cooler weather, we will begin a new expositional sermon series, “Behave as God’s Household.” We will study verse-by-verse through the New Testament book of 1 Timothy. We will see how the gospel leads to practical, visible changes in the lives of those who believe it.

For His Glory,
Pastor Thomas