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R E D E F I N E DF B C S TA R KV I L L E S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5
G AT H E RI n t e n t i o n a l Ta i l g a t i n g
P. 6
G OI n t e r n a t i o n a l F r i e n d s
G ro u p
P.1 6
G R OWD - G ro u p C o n n e c t
P. 8
CONTENTS
W H O A M I ?F i n d i n g O u r Tr u e I d e n t i t y I n C h r i s t
G R OWD - G ro u p C o n n e c t
8MINISTRY STAFFC H I P S T E V E N S S E N I O R PA S TO R | [email protected]
C L I F TO N C U R T I SA S S O C . PA S TO R O F PA S TO R A L C A R E & FAC I L I T Y A D M I N .
TO M J E N K I N S A S S O C . PA S TO R O F M U S I C & M E D I A | [email protected]
J A S O N D U R A N A S S O C . PA S TO R O F FA M I LY M I N I S T R Y & D I S C I P L E S H I P
N AT H A N TAY LO R U N I V E R S I T Y & M I S S I O N S M I N I S T E R | [email protected]
N E I L T U L LO S YO U T H M I N I S T E R | [email protected]
L E A H F R A N C E S E ATO N DIRECTOR OF CHILDRENS MINISTRY | [email protected]
C H A R I T Y G WA LT N E Y DIRECTOR OF PRESCHOOL MINISTRY | [email protected]
B O B BY D ’A L E S S A N D R O DIRECTOR OF MEDIA & TECHNICAL ARTS MINISTRY
4 First Word from Chip Stevens
FEATURES5 MINISTRY SPOTLIGHT: Advance
6 GATHER: Intentional Tailgating
14 GIVE: Bereavement Ministry
18 Spotlight: David Peebles
OUR CHURCH FAMILY20 Parents Page/Upcoming Events
21 Calendar
G OI n t e r n a t i o n a l F r i e n d s G ro u p
16
4 S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5 | I s s u e 9
ho Am I? Ever asked that question? I think most of us have.
Many are on a continual search for identity. The problem
is—we often look for identity in the wrong places—money,
relationships, careers, and even in the accomplishments of
our children. It’s really important that, as Christians, we
know who we are. The good news is we can know who we really are—God’s
Word tells us.
I’m really excited about our Fall study entitled, Who Am I? On Sunday
evenings, beginning Sunday, September 13, from 5:00-6:00 pm, we’ll look at
Paul’s letter of Ephesians to find out who God says we are. Understanding our
identity in Christ can save us a whole lot of heartache and help us really live out
God’s purpose for our lives. Eric Geiger, in his book, Identity, writes: “The end
result of understanding your identity is not looking in the mirror and telling
yourself how awesome you are. Nor is the end result of understanding your
identity merely a happier you. Your new identity is ultimately not about you.
Your identity is from God and results in God being glorified. The end result
of understanding your identity is that Christ is praised. The end result of
understanding who you are in Christ is that you will honor and glorify God” (p.
16). Want to learn who you really are? Join us for this 7-week study beginning
Sept. 13, at 5:00 pm in the Warehouse Outreach Center. There will be activities
for preschoolers and children while we meet. Hope to see you there!
I hope you enjoy this month’s edition of Redefined. There are some great
articles highlighting some ministries and opportunities for you to grow in
your faith. There’s also a great article to help you think “outside the box” when
tailgating. Hope you enjoy!
Thank you for allowing us to GATHER, GROW, GIVE, and GO with you!
FIRST WORDFROM CHIP STEVENS
F B C S TA R K V I L L E . C O M 5
Imagine yourself in a room with a dozen or more 7th graders. Sound like a nightmare? Breaking into a cold sweat? Thankfully, we have youth leaders who can not wait to meet with their 7th graders each week. Seventh graders are still childlike in many ways. They still have a sense of wonderment. They still hold on to a sense of innocence. In the same room you also have another dozen or more high school seniors. They can feel the transition into adulthood that is coming. They are ready to move on to what is next. They have been driving for years, have later curfews and will be living away from mom and dad in just a few months.
Now imagine speaking to both groups and every age in between on the same topic at the same time. Sure, some principles are true whether you are twelve or eighteen, but talking about dating, resisting temptations, decision making, etc. is vastly different for someone who is just entering adolescence than it is for someone who is old enough to drive, vote and serve in the military. That’s the dilemma that we often face in youth ministry.
There’s great value in having this variety of ages together on Wednesday nights. It teaches teens how to care for others, gives leadership opportunities for high school students and provides our jr. high with some folks who are just a few years older than them to see how to live out their faith. On Sunday mornings our groups are divided by grade and gender, but we still feel the need to spend extended time with each grade to speak to issues that are unique to each stage of development.
We have created a new event called Advance to address specific topics for each grade. We are calling them Advances rather than a retreat because we want these events to help teens move forward in their relational and spiritual development. At each Advance we will spend most of a Sunday diving deep into topics that teen’s face at that particular stage of development. Our schedule for this school year is as follows:
Each Advance is scheduled from noon until 6:00 pm except for the 12th grade which is from 4:00 - 8:30 pm.
If you are a parent of a teen and want more information about Advances or to stay up to date with youth events along with helpful parenting information please join our Youth Parents group on The City.
B Y N E I L T U L LO S
NEIL TULLOS serves as our Youth Minster. You can connect with him on Twitter @neiltullos or on The City.
• 7th Grade - February 21 Topic: purity
• 8th Grade - November 15 Topic: identity
• 9th Grade - March 20 Topic: making wise decisions
• 10th Grade - September 20 Topic: freedom & responsibility
• 11th Grade - April 10 Topic: servant leadership
• 12th Grade - October 18 College preparation
6 S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5 | I s s u e 9
INTENTIONAL TAILGATING
GATHERF B C S TA R KV I L L E
B Y M A R K YO U N G
"God never wastes
anything he does in our l ives ,
but purposes everyth ing for h is
much bigger, g lor ious purpose
in the wor ld—to br ing Glory to
h is Name through Jesus Chr ist .
Therefore, even in our ta i lgat ing
on Saturdays , we should be
mindful of what God is doing
and seek to jo in h im in h is
eternal work ."
ootball season is finally upon us. It is the time of year when Saturday morning feels like Christmas morning every single week. Saturdays during the Fall are unique and special days spent with family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, and complete strangers;
all rallying together to watch, cheer on, and celebrate the bulldogs … or whoever your team might be.
So, load up the grill. Grab the football. Pack the lawn chairs. Don’t forget the TV and the Satellite dish. And do not leave the house without your cowbell. It’s time to tailgate!
Since tailgating is such a large and important part of our weekends here in Starkville, we shouldn’t waste the event. As believers in Christ, we should never waste anything that we do. God has given us purpose in everything that we do, whether we recognize it or not. God never wastes anything He does in our lives, but purposes everything for His much bigger and more glorious plan in the world—to bring Glory to His Name through Jesus Christ. Therefore, even in our tailgating on Saturdays, we should be mindful of what God is doing and seek to join Him in His eternal work.
F B C S TA R K V I L L E . C O M 7
“If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.”
-Colossians 3:1-3
Tailgating is not an end in itself. For God, it is a means to a much bigger purpose, an eternal purpose—to bring glory to the Name of Jesus Christ.
Therefore, we need to be intentional in our tailgating. We need to be intentional to shine brightly for Christ in order to bring glory to His Name.
“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”
-1 Corinthians 10:31
This supreme command to glorify God in all we do should cause us to ask, “What are some practical ways we can be intentional to glorify Christ in our tailgating this season?” Two ways: Serve intentionally and seek intentional conversations.
SERVE INTENTIONALLY
“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” –Mark 10:45
You are never more like Christ than when you are serving others. He is the greatest model of service. King Jesus humbled himself, served us, and laid down His life for us. We must now joyfully serve in order to exemplify Christ.
There are lots of ways we can serve others while tailgating. Ask how you can help those who are hosting the tailgate. Call them a couple of days in advance and ask, “What can I bring to eat or drink? Do you need me to bring the coffee? How can I help you set up? Do you need to use my truck to haul any equipment or chairs?” You could even volunteer by going a day in advance to reserve the spot for your tailgate—which is a very important task.
If you are hosting a tailgate, be the most serving host possible. Lead by having everything all set up when others arrive. Tell people, “Don’t worry about getting up; I’ll grab you a coke.” If there are not enough places to sit (because there are often more people than
chairs), give up your seat so that others can sit and enjoy their time watching the other SEC games on TV.
These small examples have purpose. They are meant to demonstrate the love of Christ to others in very practical ways.
“…but though love serve one another.” –Galatians 5:13
SEEK INTENTIONAL CONVERSATIONS
“But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called ‘today,’ that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.” –Hebrews 3:13
Tailgating involves hours of relaxing together, laughing, and making conversation with friends, family, and maybe people you just met when you arrived at the tailgate. We should use our conversation to exhort, or encourage, one another. Go out of your way to lift someone up with your words. Hebrews tells us that encouragement can actually keep us, as believers, from falling into sin because it keeps our focus and mindset on Jesus.
Don’t just have surface level conversation. Dig a little deeper. Ask about what is going on in the lives of the people at your tailgate. Ask them, “What is something God is teaching you in your life?” Ask how you can pray for them. Encourage your brothers and sisters in Christ to continue to press on to be more like Christ. If someone is not a believer, be bold and share the gospel with that person—even if he or she has heard it before. There is power in the Name of Jesus. Invite them to come to church with you on Sunday.
God may use your tailgating conversation to bring someone to saving faith in Christ.
Don’t waste your tailgate. Serve intentionally. Seek out intentional conversation. And may all the glory be to our Great God. Enjoy the Season and Go Dawgs!
MARK YOUNG serves as our Family and Youth Associate. You can connect with him on Twitter @MPYoung17 or on The City.
Mark & Renee Young, Amanda & Neil Tullos,and Leah Frances & Jonathan Eaton
8 S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5 | I s s u e 9
GROWF B C S TA R KV I L L E
B Y C O U R T N E Y D U E I T T
D-GROUP CONNECT
s part of the mission statement at FBC Starkville, our church staff has committed to helping members grow in their relationships with Christ, and one unique opportunity
that has been extended to us is the chance to join a D-Group. I got to talk with Jason Duran, our new Family and Discipleship Minister, about D-Groups and their importance to us, as individuals, but also the impact that they can have on our entire church body, as a whole.
First of all, the D in D-Group stands for Discipleship, and that is exactly what Jason talked about when he defined the concept for me, but the origin of discipleship doesn’t come from Jason. Rather, it comes from Jesus who commands His followers in Matthew 28:19 to “make disciples,” so this is something that all believers are expected, by the Lord, to be committed to, and “being involved in a D-Group is one way we as a church body are making disciples,” according to Jason. More specifically, a D-Group consists of three to five individuals who are interested in growing in their relationships with
F B C S TA R K V I L L E . C O M 9
COURTNEY DUEITT is an instructor in the English Department at MSU and a newlywed who is happy to have found a wonderful church home and family at FBC Starkville. You can connect with her on The City.
Jesus. The basis for the makeup of the groups comes from the book Growing Up: How to be a Disciple Who Makes Disciples by Robby Gallaty, and each newly formed D-Group will begin their year together by going through this text. Each group should meet once a week for a year. The idea is that after a year of meeting together, each individual member will be able to go out and lead a new group of three to four people who haven’t previously been involved in a D-Group.
Jason also talked about the importance of the D-Group and the benefits that it offers believers. Most importantly, anyone can, and should, join a D-Group regardless of your age or your comfort level of sharing around other people—remember it’s only three or four others, which will provide an intimate environment for going deeper in your discussions of God’s word and your personal struggles. In fact, encouragement is one of the biggest benefits to the Christ-follower who is plugged into a D-Group. I also spoke with Megan Grice who had a very successful and meaningful experience this past year in her own D-Group. She told me that she joined because she “desperately needed accountability and encouragement,” and this experience did not disappoint! Megan says, “It’s an awesome process to grow alongside other believers, and I can see that happening in all four of our lives…their encouragement and accountability are awesome, and I’m so thankful for them. Checking in with them weekly [and] gaining new friends” have been some of the highlights of Megan’s time with her group. Speaking from personal experience, it is a truly refreshing feeling to know that there is a small group of individuals that I can share my heart with who will love me and pray for me, and who I can trust with any and everything going on in my life, from the struggles to the victories. D-Groups offer that to each participant, and these groups really facilitate a relationship and an experience that cannot be recreated in other areas of the church such as Community Groups or even smaller Bible studies.
I hope, by now, that you are encouraged to find and join a D-Group for the upcoming church year. The best place to start is to
talk with your Community Group to find out if anyone in your class is starting a new D-Group that you could be a part of. Also, as a part of our Sunday morning worship services on September 13, we will focus on D-Groups and how to get involved. There will be cards available for everyone to fill out, and on the cards, you will either indicate that you are already part of a newly formed group, or you can request to be connected with a group. You can also contact Jason by email at [email protected] with any further questions.
Joining a small, intimate group of people that you may not know very well can be intimidating, but it can also be revolutionary and life altering as far as your faith is concerned. Through her D-Group, Megan was encouraged and challenged to step out in faith and to begin a new D-Group. She said, “This past summer, I started a D-Group with two girls who were about to start college. Chip said at the end of last semester, ‘Often, we know God’s will for our lives, but we ‘pray about it’ because we don’t actually want to do it.’ Because of this and the encouragement of my D-Group, at the beginning of the summer, I asked the two girls if they wanted to start a D-Group. This is definitely something I would have been too scared to do before being involved in a D-Group.” I hope that Megan’s story challenges you as it has challenged me, and I hope that you will take the first step in growing in your faith through this unique opportunity by finding a D-Group, and then I hope that each of us will be inspired and empowered by God through our groups to go further and do more for the kingdom than we ever thought possible!
Megan Grice serves in Stark Kids on Wednesday Night.
10 S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5 | I s s u e 9
JASON DURAN
Recently, I was standing in a check out line and when I went to swipe my debit card to pay for my stuff, I glanced out of the corner of my eye and thought to myself, "Is the person next to me watching me enter my PIN number?"
In recent years, we have become more and more concerned about protecting our personal information— our identity. For me, this fear has even grown stronger after having one of my accounts compromised this past summer.
In today's world, the reality of someone stealing our identity is very common, and it is something we fight to protect at all costs.
There are companies that exist now to protect us from getting our identity stolen. I think it’s strange that we will work so hard to protect what we believe to be our identity, which consists of our personal numbers, passwords, debit cards and other documents.
But do these things really make up our identity?What about the areas of our lives that we use to identify
ourselves: our careers, wealth, social status, material possessions (or lack thereof), personal appearance, and circumstances. Do these things make up our identity?
Lots of people really struggle with identity. The Bible tells us that, as Christians, we are to find our identity in Christ. Your life is
F B C S TA R K V I L L E . C O M 11
worth way more than what others think or say about you. You are more than a number. When your identity is found in Christ, your identity is way more valuable than a career.
At one time or another, we will all struggle with this because of sin. We look at other people and it seems like everybody has it better than we do. We all want to feel loved, to feel secure, and to be appreciated. The problem is that we look for all these things in the wrong places. We put pressure on loved ones to give us these things, and the reality is, eventually our loved ones will let us down.
To find our identity in Christ, we need to know what Christ has provided for us. Most people see their faith as a ticket to heaven, but Christ has purchased so much more for us than that. We need to learn what Christ’s gift of salvation has really given us. Christ has given us our true identity regardless of outside circumstances, job status, or family relationships.
When our identity is found in Christ, no one can ever take it away from us. We can walk out into the world with a new confidence—knowing who we are in Christ!
Here are three people who have found their identity in Christ.
CORNERSTONEBY MATTHEW EVANS
Who or what defines my identity? So many struggles in my life have stemmed from this one question. What is it? My friends? Sports? Religion? Girlfriend? Family?
My story starts from early childhood. My parents faithfully showed me the Gospel daily, and I started going to every church service nine months before I was ever born. I grew up going to Bible Drills, RA’s, Vacation Bible School, and any other special event for kids. I definitely knew all the right answers, and I could even recite numerous Bible verses that had been stuffed into my mind. Sadly, the truths of the Scripture I was memorizing took more time to reach my heart. Throughout elementary school and junior high, I wanted to be the best in everything. I became obsessed with being perfect, and anything short of perfection was a total failure. This dangerous mindset led to multiple idols forming in my life. I realized that I was actually smart. I did anything and everything to be the smartest in my class. I also realized that I was talented in sports, especially baseball and football. Soon, I was devoting every ounce of my life to being the smartest and most athletic. I wanted to be Mr. Everything.
Then high school came. I have never struggled with identity like I did during my high school years. I was a leader in my youth group in my hometown of Forest, MS. Everyone in the community thought of me as a “great guy,” and numerous adults “wanted their sons to grow up to be Matthew Evans.” I had no idea why, but I was surely enjoying the attention. My desires to be the smartest and most athletic multiplied out of pride. My identity was found in being the valedictorian and winning a state championship. These two achievements were my only goals in high school. The funny thing is that I succeeded in both of my goals. I became the smartest. I became the most athletic. Yet, I still felt as if there was something more. I knew that my identity was supposed to be in Christ and Him alone; however, I totally ignored the Holy Spirit’s pull inside my heart to rest in Christ’s identity. I desired to play sports in college, so the decision of where to play took over my life. I wanted to find the place that I could excel academically and athletically. God soon took hold of my spiraling identity during my senior year of high school. While playing football, I tore multiple ligaments in my left knee that required two surgeries. My recruitment process came to a halt, and my athletic career was basically over. I was devastated to say the least. Meanwhile, I was dating a girl at the time, and she was definitely a major part of my identity. Academics, athletics, and my relationship with my girlfriend were my identity. By the time my freshman year of college ended, my athletic career, relationship with that girlfriend, and prestigious college dreams were all over. My hope was found in things of this world, and they failed me epically. I was upset with God. Why would He ever do this to me?
During my freshman year at East Central Community College, I met my now best friend, Andrew Hanna. He invited me to his Bible study, and he began to disciple me. This was the first time
Matthew Evans
12 S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5 | I s s u e 9
that someone had truly discipled me in my life. I began to grow a thirst for the Word of God. I was rediscovering verses that I had memorized as a child. Soon, I realized that my identity was way off. I was struggling with guilt because I knew that my identity in the past years did not match what I was reading in His Word. I finally embraced the Gospel, and I found my identity in Jesus. Nothing of this world would ever satisfy me as my Lord Jesus Christ does. I found that Christ was my perfection so I don’t have to be perfect. The Bible says in 1 Peter 1:15, “but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct.” I found that Christ is my holiness. He got on my cross and absorbed the condemnation that I deserved. Not only this, but He gave me His righteousness! “For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” (2 Corinthians 5:21) I am now seen as holy to God my Father! Praise God that He altered my life, my plans, and my desires to be His life, His plans, and His desires. He alone is my one true identity. Now my joy in being found in Christ is wrapped up in these lyrics to Cornerstone by Hillsong:
“When He shall come with trumpet sound, Oh, may I then in Him be found. Dressed in His righteousness alone, faultless stand before the throne.”
MY SOURCEBY SHANNON STREET BARRETT
My name is Shannon Street Barrett and I grew up in a strong Christian family in the delta town of Greenville, MS. I was taught the Word of God, and I knew that Jesus had a plan for me. Looking back to my time in college, my discipline for staying in the Word and going to church became a struggle and I no longer found my identity in Jesus. I came to MSU for my first two years of college then transferred to Ole Miss for Pharmacy School. Pharmacy
seemed like a great choice for me. I enjoyed science and was looking for a field I could help people and have an impact, but also have flexible options such as working while being able to raise a family.
Once I finished pharmacy school, I did a residency in Corinth for a year followed by a short time in Amory then finally to Walgreens in Jackson, MS. At the time, Jackson seemed like a logical place for a young professional and I had several friends there, but many were married and at totally different stages in their lives. I lived in Jackson for a couple of years and, looking from the outside in, I seemed to have it made. I had a great job, bought a house and a car, all by the age of 25. However, on the inside, I was struggling. I had no joy. I tried to get back into church, but working every other weekend and every other week until 10pm made it hard to get connected to a community of believers.
After about 2 years of going through the monotony of life and feeling frustrated and having many lonely days, I finally cried out to the Lord “to show me my errors, my hidden faults”. (Ps. 19:12) I asked him simply to help me. I had reached a point where I knew I had jumped off the path the Lord had for me. Within a couple of weeks, I got a call at work from a college friend, Buz Bennett, whom I had not spoken with for about 3 years. He told me the pharmacist at Mississippi State was retiring and I needed to apply for the job. I kindly told him I was not interested in moving back to Starkville while being single. I really felt that would be the last place I would “find my husband”. Again, I was trying to stay in control of my situation. I liked my job. I had only made two payments on my new house and thought it was probably not the best thing for me. After two more calls from Buz and two calls from the pharmacist that was retiring (Peyton Passons), I thought maybe God was trying to tell me something. It is so obvious now looking back to see the Lord moving on my behalf, but I remember calling my dad and asking what I should do. As usual, he wisely instructed me to go interview and see what they had to say. I remember praying, “Lord, if this is what you want me to do, please make this clear to me.” Before I got home from the interview, I had a message on my answering machine offering me the job, and if you know MSU that is extremely fast. I also had someone that very week interested in buying my house for more than what I had paid two months before. The doors were flying open and I quickly realized the Lord wanted me in Starkville.
I had a great job, but the Lord did not lead me to that job – I had decided that was what I needed to do without consulting him. In fact, he had not been in many of my decisions over those years. I know now there is nothing like being in the job that God designed for you. He has shown me that I was trying to be my source for all those years, like in Jeremiah 17:5-6, “a person whose heart trusted in man for strength whose heart had turned from God, who does not see prosperity and lives in a dessert place.” All those things describe my life for about 4-5 years, but now my trust and identity is found in the Lord and HE alone is my source of joy, peace, and he removes my
Shannon Street Barrett and her family.
F B C S TA R K V I L L E . C O M 13
worry. I can say the Lord literally picked me up out of Jackson, out of despair, and moved me to Starkville.
Is every day of my life easy now? Of course not. I do still get down and frustrated some days and wonder why the Lord wants me here. However, I can always step back, out of the whirlwind of life, and “feed on his faithfulness” (Ps 92:2), remembering that he loves me, cares for me, and that I need to show this same love to others.
REDEEMED SONBY ALEX HAMMOND
Growing up, I think I spent more time at church than I did at home. Mom was a Sunday School teacher and Dad was a deacon at our small church in Collierville, Tennessee. I was in that church pew every Sunday, did children’s choir, and went on mission trips. I was among the best in Bible Drill. I was a good kid. I didn’t steal things. I didn’t talk back to adults. I excelled in school. By every outward indication, Alex Hammond was just a perfect boy.
You couldn’t be more wrong.My obedient exterior belied a child struggling with rage and
pride. The youngest of four, I suffered from classic Youngest Child
JASON DURAN serves as our Associate Pastor of Family Ministries and Discipleship. You can connect with him on The City or on twitter @jason_duran.
If you’re struggling with your own identity crisis, be sure to attend our Sunday Night Study this Fall, titled Who Am I? Pastor Chip will be teaching from Ephesians, studying what it means to have our true identity in Christ. This study will be held in the Warehouse Outreach Center at 5:00 pm beginning September 13.
Syndrome; I wanted things my way and I wanted it now. I thought I was smarter than you and more spiritual than you. I quite vividly remember asking my Sunday School teacher in 2nd grade who the most spiritually mature kid in the room was, just so that he’d say me [to his credit and my disappointment, he avoided answering the question].
I don’t mean to mislead—my parents did everything right. I was disciplined well. I knew all the right answers at church. The truth is, however, that no matter how hard my parents worked, they could not fix my heart. I had built up an identity as what I call a “modern-day Pharisee.” Of course, to compare myself to those religious scholars of old is quite the insult to them. They have my spirituality beat by miles. They knew more church terms and could quote more Scripture than I probably ever will. I refer to myself in that way, however, because it accurately describes how I viewed myself: aloof, better, holier than thou.
Then Jesus happened.I don’t remember what my pastor preached on. I don’t remember
the music. All I remember is realizing that my personal standard of holiness was utterly inadequate. I thought about how my righteousness was but filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6). I remembered Jesus’ fury toward my spiritual predecessors in Matthew 23:27-28 where He called them “whitewashed tombs” – sparkling and gleaming on the outside but full of death and decay on the inside. That was me. I looked perfect, but I was lifeless. What could I do in light of such truth?
Praise God that my story doesn’t end there. (Ephesians 2:4-7) The Lord God Himself interrupted my life story. He pursued me and rescued me and adopted me. He changed my life. Do I still struggle with pride? Absolutely. But my frame of reference is changing. I am no longer my own standard; I am free from that burden. I rejoice to claim Christ and Christ alone as my hope and salvation. My identity is no longer that of someone trying to be perfect but one who rests in the perfect, completed work of Another.
My name is Alex Hammond, redeemed son and heir of the Most High God. I’d love to tell you about Him. He saved my life.
Alex Hammond
14 S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5 | I s s u e 9
GIVEF B C S TA R KV I L L E
B Y DA R L A G R I F F I N
F B C S TA R K V I L L E . C O M 15
willing spirit is the qualification to serve those in need.
Such a spirit was moving through members of the church in 2004, which resulted in the birth of a new opportunity for FBC Starkville to bless others: the Bereavement Ministry. For those experiencing the loss of a loved one, this
ministry provides a time of fellowship at the church complete with a meal.
Often, a grieving family wishes to host their entire family in the Starkville area but may not have an adequate space available at their home. The Bereavement Ministry gives the family an opportunity to provide a time of fellowship by preparing the type of meal desired. It also takes care of the room preparation and the necessary clean up afterwards, alleviating the need for the family to worry about such details.
Once Diane Hall, the leader of the Bereavement Ministry, has been notified of the loss by the church office, she will contact a member of the family in order to ensure the ministry honors the desires of the family and to obtain an idea of the expected attendance. Sometimes when asked if they would like FBC Starkville to do this for them, a family may decide they do not wish to be provided this service.
Most often the church’s Applegate Building is used, but sometimes other areas of the church are requested for use. Diane notifies the church to let them know how many tables will be needed for the event. Table setup and room decorations provided by the ministry include silk floral arrangements and table linens as well as plastic ware wrapped in napkins. Members of the ministry will sometimes provide fresh cut flower arrangements or even their own personal table decorations as led by the Lord. Once the family has arrived, a blessing is asked, and the meal is served buffet style.
Diane says, “It is a very gratifying ministry to those who serve and very appreciated by the ones served.” She, along with some of the other ministry members, has been a part of this effort since its inception in 2004. She said she had observed ladies setting up tables for this type of event in February 2004 while at another church when volunteering with a Red Cross pancake breakfast fundraiser, and she asked about it. When telling her husband about it later, she learned the Senior Adult Committee was also discussing ideas of ways to provide frozen casseroles to grieving families. Others in her Sunday School class also said they had seen similar activities at other churches. Then Diane talked to Clifton Curtis, the associate pastor, and he encouraged her to see what she could do with it.
BEREAVEMENT MINISTRY
DARLA GRIFFIN works as a training coordinator at a state agency. She and her husband Jerry feel very blessed to be a part of the church family of FBC Starkville. You can connect with her on The City.
She wondered how in the world she should proceed and said it just came to her from the Lord. She would go to certain Sunday School classes—those which would have the most ladies who not only might be able and interested in serving but who would also have the most time to offer. Every one of the classes was receptive to the idea, and sign-up sheets were made available for those who wished to serve. The first event was held the next month with 68 people in attendance.
Most members of the Bereavement Ministry currently serve only on a rotational basis. Each member who serves at the event makes a minimum of a five hour commitment on the day of the event, receiving food, setting up tables, setting out paper products, and preparing the drinks, as well as cleaning up after the event. Other members may only drop off a food item at the church. A member who has a particular gift for making certain foods, such as homemade rolls, spinach casserole, etc., is often called on for these. Although the food is usually donated by those wishing to serve, some items such as chicken tenders and tea, are purchased by the ministry.
A complete meal consists of one item of each category: sliced meat, vegetable, bread, dessert, and drinks, as well as a casserole or two if a big family is expected. Often a group of two or three people is asked to go in together to provide the meat. If there is a big family expected to be served, the chicken tenders are also provided.
Currently, there are seven groups who serve and donate to this ministry. Others are also available on a substitute basis. Each group has a designated contact person for Diane. This contact person helps ensure the services requested are rotated among that individual’s group. After making out a suggested menu, Diane calls the contact person to request the food or service needed from the group and specifies the date and time it is needed. In order to not overburden any of the ministry members, Diane keeps a journal of each event, writing up a brief accounting. She itemizes the type of meal served, the number of people attending, which group brought what, and anything else special that was done.
This ministry gives helping hands to those in distress. If you’re interested in learning more about this ministry and how you might be a part of it, questions can be directed to the church office at 662-232-5633 or to Diane Hall at 662-323-4910.
16 S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5 | I s s u e 9
h, no!” Paulette, a young Egyptian woman sobbed. “I have believed wrongly all these years!”
Planting seeds is the mission of the International Friends Group and the Friendship House, yet sometimes, dramatic results, like that of Paulette, demonstrate the mighty work
that God does. We’ll get back to Paulette later in this article…In the late 1960s, Mary Ruth Beattie and Billie Lane Hood began
the ministry that became the International Friends Group of First Baptist WMU. Many internationals gathered right here in Starkville as their spouses studied or taught at Mississippi State University. Often they did not speak English or have transportation. The WMU group started a “one-on-one” ministry. Each American woman was assigned one international who was taught conversational English, taken to the grocery store and doctor appointments; real friendships developed. Almost none of the internationals were believers.
Along the way, the Friendship House became a reality, and the program grew. Subsidized by the Golden Triangle Baptist Association, the Friendship House employs one paid director (Tracey Nash at present) and is staffed by volunteers, some of whom belong to this WMU group. Tracey says, “The needs are urgent, because the internationals are only here for a short time. We need Christian women who exhibit boldness in their faith with a good dose of sensitivity.” The WMU group echoes that sentiment.
Today, most internationals drive or use the local bus system. Childcare is provided for two hours (9-11 am) Monday through Thursday. Conversational English and more advanced classes are taught, and Tracey leads a Bible study once a week. Special events occur most months during the regular school year and are facilitated by our WMU group. For instance, in September there is a welcome party for internationals that includes greetings from representatives of the Greater Starkville Partnership and Development and the International Services office on campus. Each October the ladies tour a local spot such as Wildlife Refuge or the county museum. In
GOF B C S TA R KV I L L E
B Y L I N DA S C A R B R O U G H
November, there is a Thanksgiving meal at our church building, and the ladies take home with them recipes of all the prepared dishes. Charity Gwaltney also leads a tour of the church buildings.
During the Christmas season, the group meets in one of the American homes where the ladies learn why believers celebrate the birth of Jesus. In February, the internationals learn about Valentine’s Day and the love of Jesus. In April, the ladies learn about Easter and more of the gospel message. Everyone brings food for a potluck, and the food from around the globe provides a festive atmosphere.
THE NEEDS OF THE FRIENDSHIP HOUSE ARE GREAT:
1. The first and most important need of all is prayer. Pray that these international women would see Jesus in the hearts of their American friends. Every believer can pray; the response is the Holy Spirit’s amazing responsibility.
2. There is an immediate need for a female Christian childcare volunteer during the hours of 9-11 am on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Friendship House. Many of the ladies must bring their young children when they come to their classes.
3. There is also a need for teachers of English for small classes. No degree is required, just a servant’s heart.
4. One-on-one conversational partners for one hour a week, at a time and place convenient for the American and the international are also needed. No degree is required, and you do not have to speak any other language.
5. Household items such as furniture, cookware, small appliances, linens, and children’s toys are also in demand. In just a few days, there will be a “garage giveaway” at the Friendship House. However, you may call the Friendship House any time during the year if you have a piece of furniture to share, and Tracey will let you know if there is a
F B C S TA R K V I L L E . C O M 17
need. There is room at the FH for small items storage year round.
6. If you would like to help stretch the budget for the Friendship House, you can send a check to the Golden Triangle Baptist Association (560 Willowbrook Road, Columbus, MS 39703) and designate it “for Friendship House.” This money could be used for bilingual Bibles, for example.
Now, back to the true story of Paulette (not her real name), an Egyptian Muslim lady who regularly attended the Friendship House when she lived in Starkville. During Bible study one day, Tracey told the story of Abraham (he is the foundation for other “faiths,” so Paulette knew about him already). The Holy Spirit stirred an immediate understanding in Paulette’s heart, and that is when she interrupted the study with her sobs. This was an international who needed an expensive bilingual Bible, and she eagerly participated in one-on-one Bible study with Tracey and soon became a believer. Tracey is in touch with her still, and her faith in the living God is strong.
Another memorable connection was made with the father of a student attending MSU from Sri Lanka who was a Buddhist. He came to the Friendship House on occasion and gladly accepted an American woman’s invitation to accompany her family to church. He enjoyed attending a local Baptist church every Sunday for four months before returning to his native country. On their first skype conversation, he told the woman, “I miss going to your church.” She encouraged him to attend a Baptist church in his own home town.
A few years ago one of the American ladies led a small group in conversational English. A warm friendship quickly developed between the teacher and an international named Lynn (not her real name) from China. Lynn invited her teacher to her apartment for a meal. She was very interested in the gospel but not yet a believer. The two started having their own Bible study over breakfast on a regular basis. One day, the teacher, knowing that Lynn would be returning to China in a short time, felt an urgent need to pray for Lynn and
LINDA SCARBROUGH is a graduate of William
Carey College and became a MSU bulldog when she
married her husband Tom in 1999. She loves hand-
quilting, reading, gardening, writing, and antiquing.
You can connect with her on The City.
asked God to show Lynn clearly the need for a Savior. She also asked for clarity if she was to have a part in this. Later that morning, the two ladies met, and an opportunity quickly presented itself. The teacher asked Lynn, “Would you like to pray to receive Jesus into your heart right now?” After a long silence, a smile burst across Lynn’s face, and she said, “Yes! Yes, I would!” And she did! Today, her husband is a believer, and Lynn prays for and witnesses to her sister and her parents. Lynn lives in Florida now. My community group is privileged to pray for her regarding specific concerns because the teacher and Lynn continue to keep in touch by phone and through social media.
Has the Holy Spirit given you a little nudge (that’s what I call it) while reading these stories and learning more about the Friendship House and the WMU group who helps to serve and love internationals? Perhaps in light of Pastor Chip’s Vision sermon, you have been looking for a way to “be the church.” Maybe you’ve thought recently that it’s about time for you to get back into WMU.
These internationals are THE WORLD AT OUR DOOR! No passport or seminary training is needed. “Plead with the Lord of the harvest to send out more laborers to help you, for the harvest is so plentiful and the workers so few,” reads Luke 10:2.
You may visit the Friendship House to observe any time. Tracey’s number is 323-2126 and the Friendship House’s number is 323-8555 (must leave message). The WMU group activities for internationals are on each second Tuesday from 9:00-11:00 am. Along with Barbara Blankenship, the WMU group leader is Betty Henson at 323-5457. It’s up to you now!
WOMEN’S MISSION GROUPS
• Monday, September 14 | Houston Mission Group | 2:00 pm
• Monday, September 14 | Reed Mission Group | 6:30 pm
For more information please contact the church at 662.323.5633.
18 S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5 | I s s u e 9
s a youngster, David Peebles accidently pushed his hand through a storm glass door and sliced through the upper part of his ring fingertip. Rushing to the ER, the doctor took a look at it and said, “Let’s just clip it off.” The doctor avowed that little David would be fine without
his fingertip. David’s mom had other ideas. She demanded that the doctor sew it back on and then promptly passed out. The doctor sewed.
A few years later, at the age of 59, David is playing clarinet in our FBC Orchestra. Some may not know, but it’s important to have all of your fingers and especially the finger pads to play clarinet. The mechanism of the instrument is such that the pads of the fingers are used to close air holes in the body of the instrument to produce various tones. If you’ve seen marching bands in very cold weather wearing gloves, you can rest assured that the clarinet players all have
SPOTLIGHTF B C S TA R KV I L L E
B Y TO M J E N K I N S
F B C S TA R K V I L L E . C O M 19
DR. TOM JENKINS serves as Associate Pastor of Music and Media. You can connect with him on Twit-ter @DrTJenkins or on The City.
little holes trimmed from the gloves in the area of the finger pads. Some just cut the end of the glove fingers completely off.
David always had a love for music. He began clarinet in a school band program in Schenectady, NY, and played through some of his college years at Colorado State in Fort Collins, CO. He even did a stint with the Denver City Wide Band. Soon, though, music and the clarinet took a backseat to his other love: science. He finished degrees including his post doctorate work at Athens, GA, with the USDA and moved to MSU where he is known as Dr. Edgar (David) Peebles III, Professor of Poultry Science. He will complete twenty-eight years of service at MSU this December as well as twenty-one years of marriage to his wife Carol. They celebrate their anniversary on Dec. 17th. Carol has recently retired from her position with the Starkville Public School District and is currently listing home projects for David to finish.
It was in the fourth grade when David was first introduced to the clarinet. In the same year, he was also introduced to the Lord through his profession of faith at a Word of Life summer camp in the Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York. What a beautiful place to meet Jesus! Through the years, David’s family moved quite often. There was some family discord and dysfunction, and David grew up rather shy and aloof with only a few relationships. There wasn’t much stability with so many transitions. It’s hard to make friends when you might move the next year.
As David reflects on his life, he brings Isaiah 40:29-31 into the conversation. He says, “This verse has been a comfort to me. It tells of the power of God, that you can overcome. You can be a victor through Him and you can soar above your problems. In the long run, through all different tests, the Lord is with us, He’s there all the time. He makes us stronger and we are able to relate to others in the same situation.”
Yes, David has a love for science and chickens. We appreciate a good Chic-fil-A sandwich (Thank you David!), but we also appreciate David’s contribution to our weekly worship through the clarinet. He says, "Participation in music expands your gifts and widens your character. I tend to be very shy, but it’s getting better!" Our shy and aloof poultry professor recently played a solo offertory for us! David likens playing his clarinet as a way to worship; that it’s pleasing to the Lord. “It’s a different mindset; music works to stimulate your mind in a different way. It’s a method to express your feelings.” David is inspired by the thought of King David as he danced and sang before the Lord and the Ark of the Covenant in total praise. Maybe we’ll get our David to do some choreography along with the clarinet – he can be our Pied Piper, calling us all to worship!
He g ives st rength to the weary
and increases the power of the weak .
Even youths grow t i red and weary,
and young men stumble and fa l l ;
but those who hope in the LORD
wi l l renew the i r st rength .
They wi l l soar on wings l ike eagles ;
they wi l l run and not grow weary,
they wi l l walk and not be fa int .
- I sa iah 40:29-31
20 S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5 | I s s u e 9
YOUTH
ADVANCE FOR 10TH GRADERS
SEPTEMBER 20 | 12:00-6:00 PM | $10Helping teenagers reach their full potential.
HIGH SCHOOL RETREAT October 30-November 1Lake Forest Ranch |Cost: $90Register at fbcstarkville.com.
2016 SPRING BREAK MISSION TRIP
TO PUERTO RICO
INTEREST MEETINGS:September 9 7:00 pm - September 13 6:00 pm
Sunday school with their child where they will get to see first-hand what goes on inside a Preschool Sunday school room.
KIDS
BIBLE DRILL INTEREST MEETINGSEPTEMBER 20 | 4:00 PM CHILDREN’S BUILDING 215If you are the parent of a 4th - 6th grader who would like to join Bible Drill for the first time, please join us for an interest meeting. Make sure you and your children are there!
CHILDREN'S CHURCHSEPTEMBER 27 | 8:30 & 11:00 AM2nd Floor Children's Building
PARENTS PAGE
UPCOMING EVENTSORPHAN CARE SUPPORT GROUPMONDAY, SEPTEMBER 216:00-7:00 PM | 2ND FLR. CHLD. BLG.
MOPSBEGINS FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11
9:00-11 :00 AM | 2ND FLR. CHLD. BLD
This group is specifically designed for
Moms who have a child from babies
through kindergarten age. There is a cost
of $24.95 and there will be a childcare
fee. Sign up at fbcstarkville.com.
SUNDAY NIGHT STUDYWHO AM I?SEPTEMBER 13 - OCTOBER 255:00 PM | WAREHOUSE O.C.
SPECIAL CALLED BUSINESS MEETINGSUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 | 4:30 PMWAREHOUSE OUTREACH CENTER
Budget presentation and Deacon
Selection Committee nominations.
THE COMMONS FOR MOM & DADWEDNESDAYS | 5:45-7:00 PMEveryone is invited to join us in the Commons for coffee while your children attend Stark kids, Preschool M3: Music, Missions, & More, and youth activities.
PRESCHOOL
PRESCHOOL SUNDAY MORNING OPEN HOUSEFOR PRESCHOOLERS AND THEIR PARENTS
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 | 9:45 AMParents, attend preschool Sunday school with your preschoolers. The fun begins in the Preschool “Big Room” with breakfast refreshments at 9:45 am. We will have a time of fun, and overview of Preschool Ministry, as well as an introduction to Gospel Project. Then, parents will be invited to attend Preschool
COMMUNITY GROUPATTENDANCE FOR AUGUST
AUGUST 2 | 815
AUGUST 9 | 1083
AUGUST 16 | 1202
AUGUST 23 | 1119
AUGUST 30 | 1153
LUNCH BREAK MENUS
SEPTEMBER 9Baked potato and salad bar
SEPTEMBER 16Catfish
SEPTEMBER 23Hamburger steak and gravy, Green beans,
Mashed potatoes, Rolls,
green salad, & dessert
SEPTEMBER 30Jambalaya, Salad bar
Garlic bread , and Dessert
WEDNESDAY ADULT DISCIPLESHIP GROUPS
• LADIES | 6:00 PM | RAY BLD. 206
A Study by Jen Wilkin, Sermon on
the Mount is open to all women.
• MEN | 6:00 PM | RAY BLD. 203
A Study by Colt McCoy and Matt
Carter, The Real Win A Man’s Quest for
Authentic Success is open to all men.
• THE COMMONS FOR MOM & DAD
Everyone is invited to join us in the
Commons for coffee while your children
attend Stark kids, Preschool M3: Music,
Missions, & More, and youth activities.
WOMEN’S MISSION GROUPS
• Monday, September 14 Houston Mission Group | 2:00 pm
• Monday, September 14 Reed Mission Group | 6:30 pm
For more information please contact the church at 662.323.5633.
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P E R I O D I C A L S
106 East Lampkin St. Starkville, MS 39759
FBCSTARKVILLE .com | 662. 323. 5633
FBCSTARKVILLE
@FBCSTARKVILLE
@FBCSTARKVILLE
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